120 FAMILIAR WILD BIRDS. 



may account for its southern name of "Yaffle. 1 " This 

 song is uttered in an abrupt manner, and, when heard 

 in the quiet seclusion of a park, surrounded by noble 

 old " monarchs of the wood/' it has a peculiarly startling 

 effect. 



The feet of the Woodpecker are especially adapted 

 for climbing ; they are strong, dark-coloured, and the toes 

 are roughened beneath, whilst the claws are strong and 

 much hooked. The arrangement of the toes is also 

 peculiar, as there are two in front and two behind. 



If obtained when young, this bird will live well in 

 an aviary or large cage. It is perhaps not advisable to 

 place it in an ordinary aviary, as its size and habits may 

 frighten the smaller birds. If a separate one, or one 

 inhabited by Tits or a Nuthatch, be available, the peculiar 

 habits, song or " laugh/' and the peculiar tongue which 

 has the appearance of a streak of white silk or molten 

 silver of the Woodpecker, will amply repay all trouble. 



