32 FAMILIAR WILD BIRDS. 



birds from returning to their well-beloved trees ; neither 

 do their numbers appear to decrease or increase. If not 

 shot, and their numbers become excessive, they leave for 

 a .new colony. 



Rooks are extremely wary, and when in the fields, 

 invariably set one or two birds upon a tree or an eminence 

 to act as sentinels ; upon the approach of danger, a 

 warning note is given, which is perfectly understood, 

 and, if the danger increases, is followed by the flight of 

 all. Many are the local traditions with regard to the 

 peculiar habits of Rooks : when the flock scatters whilst 

 flying high, it is deemed to be prognostic of rain. 



As with most birds, erratic specimens have been taken 

 of abnormal plumage. White Rooks have been frequently 

 observed and taken, as also pied specimens ; and, less 

 frequently, cream-coloured birds have been noted amongst 

 their sable companions. 



The voice of the Rook consists of one note, which is a 

 croak resembling the word te craaw/' though sometimes 

 when flying high in flocks this sound is repeated more 

 softly and rapidly. 



