TEE WRYNECK. 71 



the Cuckoo, having many of the attributes of either, as it 

 is decidedly non-gregarious, being almost invariably found 

 singly, or at most in pairs. 



The nest is built in various places, inasmuch as it will 

 sometimes be found in the deserted hole of a Woodpecker, 

 whilst at others the bird will choose a hole in an old 

 decayed tree, often beside a country road, though generally 

 in a more wooded locality. This nest is composed of 

 moss, wool, hair, and grass-stalks, laid upon a foundation 

 of decayed wood. The eggs are eight or nine in number, 

 but have varied from five to twelve, and are of a pure 

 shining white. The same nesting-place is resorted to 

 several years, as the birds seem to be very much attached 

 to their familiar haunts. The young are fed principally 

 upon ants and their eggs, with a few caterpillars and 

 such-like insects. 



In connection with the snake-like appearance under 

 some circumstances, especially if wounded, it may be 

 added that the Wryneck will even hiss as it writhes and 

 twists its neck. Indeed, so peculiarly snake-like is its 

 appearance at such a time, that many have been deterred 

 from taking it into the hand, so much did the bird 

 resemble that much-abhorred reptile. The young, too, 

 have the peculiar power of the adults, and will hiss if 

 disturbed in the nest. These various circumstances make 

 up one of the most singular instances of what is called 

 " protective mimicry " in the animal world. 



Although generally living in unfrequented positions, 

 the Wryneck is not a shy bird, but if approached will 

 show a certain amount of disregard for the observer, not 

 flying away if disturbed, but contenting itself with simply 

 running along the branch. 



