FLY-CATCHER. 



213 



(Muscicapa atricapitta)^ is so rare as to be seldom 

 seen; the other, however, known by the name of 

 the Beam-bird, is common enough, building very 

 frequently upon the ends of beams, or rafters in 

 garden-houses, from whence it probably takes its 

 name. They act the part of Hawks amongst flies, 

 feeding on them alone, and always on the look out. 

 In summer time, it is very interesting to watch a 

 Beam-bird perched on some prominent twig, com- 

 manding a view all round. In an instant it may be 

 seen to dart, like a little shot, upon a fly passing 

 often^at so great a distance, that it would quite 



Tne Paradis Fly-Catcher. 



