38 CLASS AVES. 



• 



Such is the mode of life of these birds in the more southern 

 provinces of France. But in the more northern, as Nor- 

 mandy, for instance, some of them always remain near habi- 

 tations, if there be hedges of green trees, &c., where they can 

 nestle. In tlie woods they prefer the thickest bushes ; they 

 are so little wild that they will make their nests in an 

 orangery if they can enter, and will even hatch in an aviary, 

 if it be furnished with tufted shrubs. 



This is one of the earliest of the sedentary birds to announce 

 the return of spring, and commence its amorous music. 

 From the earliest days of March, the male and female are 

 observed to be engaged in composing the cradle of their 

 young. They usually place the nest at a moderate elevation, 

 but always in a secret situation. It is formed with a con- 

 siderable quantity of moss, especially at the base and sides, 

 and it is furnished within with wool, horse-hair, and feathers, 

 softly arranged. On this bed the female deposits four or 

 five eggs, of a handsome clear blue, without spot ; the male 

 remains in the neighbourhood, and cheers his companion by 

 his song, at such moments as he does not relieve her from the 

 cares of incubation. The young are born, covered with down ; 

 and do not abandon the nest until they are well feathered. 

 When taken from the nest, they are easily reared ; and when 

 caught in nets in their youth, are tamed without difficulty. 

 The mother does not abandon her eggs, although they may 

 be touched, and she shows much attachment for the young ; 

 she understands how to lead the enemy astray which seeks 

 for their destruction. Like the partridge before a dog, she 

 throws herself before a cat when it approaches, and hovers on 

 the ground from place to place, until it is sufficiently remote. 

 The cuckow, according to Latham, frequently lays in the 

 nest of this bird. 



This species is found in all parts of Europe, but more fre- 

 quently in northern climates. It is easily taken in snares of 

 every description. 



