182 BIRDS' NESTS. 



CHAPTER XII. 



EGGS BLUE OB GREEN, SPOTTED. 



RAVEN. Corvus Cor ax. 

 PLATE XIV. FIG. 2. 



LIKE most other large birds building early 

 in the season, when there is no friendly foliage 

 to conceal their labours, the Raven usually 

 places its nest, where, however exposed it may 

 be to the gaze of the passer-by, it is most 

 difficult of access. In a forked branch of some 

 lofty tree, or in the niche of a precipitous cliff', 

 the raven builds a substantial structure of 

 sticks and roots, lined with wool and hair. 

 Though not generally noted for its amiability, 

 or in fact for any other good qualities, the 

 raven displays a strong attachment for home. 

 When it has once taken possession of a 



