60 TREATISE ON 



among furze, (in Scotland called wliins ;) or, if an 

 old edifice is near their solitary haunts, they, like 

 the starling, will breed there in some hole amongst 

 the ruins. From its nest being difficult to find, 

 and from its being so rare a bird, it is seldom seen 

 in a cage ; but, by the true amateur of song-birds, 

 it is highly prized ; for, though its song resembles 

 that of the throstle's, its notes, in all their quali- 

 ties, much excel those of the song-thrush. Colonel 

 Montagu says, " It is described as being common 

 in France, Italy, and in the islands of the Me- 

 diterranean and Archipelago; that it frequents 

 mountainous and rocky places, and, like the stare, 

 it prepares its nest in old ruined edifices, church- 

 towers, and other similar places, and lays five or 

 six eggs." But two nests are never found near 

 the same place. 



The young are easily brought up, and repay the 

 trouble by their sweet native song. They may also 

 be taught to whistle, and articulate words, when 

 confined. This species sings as well by candle- 

 light as by day, Its food is principally insects, 

 grapes, and other fruits. It is observed to change 

 its abode with the seasons, coming into those parts 

 where it usually breeds, in April, and departing in 

 August, 



