74 FAMILIAR WILD BIRDS. 



Its name is no doubt owing- to the partiality evinced 

 by it for rocky and hilly places, but it by no means con- 

 fines itself to these localities, and is very frequently to be 

 met with in spots of quite a different character. It would 

 seem to be especially partial to low, flat, shingly or marshy 

 flats that are now and then covered by the sea; and in these 

 place the bird may be commonly observed diligently seek- 

 ing for the small marine insects which form a favourite 

 item in its diet. 



The Rock Pipit is generally to be found in the imme- 

 diate vicinity of several more of its own species, although 

 they do not congregate in flocks. When disturbed it 

 seldom flies to any great distance, but contents itself with 

 a short flitting to a more secure spot in the immediate 

 neighbourhood, uttering an uneasy " cheep " of alarm and 

 distrust. 



Its food consists of marine insects, worms, and probably 

 some sorts of seeds. The song is not of a very elaborate 

 character, and consists of the single note " cheep " re- 

 peated more or less according to circumstances. In the 

 summer time the bird undoubtedly indulges occasionally in 

 a more prolonged effort at harmony, but not sufficiently to 

 warrant the title of songster ; there is, however, a cheeri- 

 ness in his voice that is always acceptable. 



The Rock Pipit commences nesting usually about the end 

 of April or the beginning of May, and as a rule selects some 

 place close to the sea-shore. The nest is placed sometimes 

 on the ground, and sometimes in a hole in the rocks or 

 banks, but almost always in some place protected by some 

 projection or eminence. Dry grass, stalks of sea or water 

 plants, and fine fibres are used in building the nest, which 

 in most cases is lined with wool, fine mess, or hair. The 



