BIRDS OF PREY. 



25 



the European continent, as those found in the more northerly latitudes greatly exceed in size those 

 of Southern Europe. We cannot do better than lay before our readers the description of the habits 

 of this bird as given by Audubon. Near the border of some large stream, " this ruthless tyrant may 

 be seen perched in an erect attitude on the highest summit of the tallest tree, from whence his 

 glistening but stern eye looks down upon the scene beneath. He listens attentively to every sound, 



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r *>j 



^J^^dm 



e^ -^ ; ^\*!* f 



THE SEA EAGLE (Haliaetos albicilla). 



glancing now and then around, lest even the light tread of the fawn should pass unheard. His mate 

 is perched on the opposite bank of the river, and, should all be silent, warns him by a cry to remain 

 patient. At this well-known call the male partly opens his broad wings, inclines his body a little 

 downwards, and answers to her voice in tones not unlike the laugh of a maniac ; the next moment he 

 resumes his erect attitude, and all is again silent. Ducks of many species, the Teal, the Widgeon, 

 the Mallard, and others, are seen passing and following the course of the current ; but the Eagle heeds 

 them not, they are at this time beneath his attention. The next moment, however, the wild trumpet- 

 voi,. n. — 43 



