?8o 



CASSKl.I.S liOOK OF BIRDS. 



of the Canaries in very large numbers, and in the Balearic Isles it is one of the commonest birds ; 

 we have ourselves met with it during the winter in all parts of North-eastern Africa and in Soudan. 

 Jerdon also msntions it as frequenting some parts of India. It is a remarkable fact that though this 

 species is so numerous in the Balearic Isles, it is comparatively rarely seen in Spain, except during its 

 migrations. In most parts of Europe it usually arrives in April and leaves for warmer regions at the 

 end of August ; in fine weather the flocks journey by day, but if the season be unfavourable they 

 pursue their course principally during the night. In its movements and habits the Fallow-land Pipit 

 much resembles both the Larks and Wagtails. It runs upon the ground with extraordinary rapidity, 

 usually preferring the furrows of ploughed fields or dry ditches, when in search of food, and 



THE fallow-land pipit (Agrodroma campcstris). 



frequently pauses in its labours to perch upon a stone or clod, and survey surrounding objects; while 

 thus quietly resting, the body is held erect and the tail lowered, but when the bird is excited, the tail 

 is agitated after the manner of a Wagtail. When in flight the wings rapidly open and close, the 

 undulatory course thus produced being diversified by a slow hovering motion, or by a direct descent 

 towards the earth, with pinions completely closed. Such of these birds as inhabit, Europe are 

 extremely shy, but those occupying the Canary and Balearic Isles boldly approach the houses, and 

 evidently prefer to be in the immediate neighbourhood of man. The song of the Fallow-land Pipits 

 is extremely simple and monotonous. During the breeding season each pair takes possession of a 

 certain spot, from whence they drive off every intruder, and the male at once commences a series of 

 vocal exercises for the entertainment of his mate ; these he carols forth as he soars in the air. The 

 nest, which consists of moss, earth, and dry leaves, lined with softer materials, is built upon the 

 ground. The first eggs are laid about the end of May, and in July the nestlings are fully fledged. 



" The Stone Pipit (Agrodroma campestris)" says Jerdon, " is found in suitable places in India. 

 I have found it most abundant in the Deccan, at Mhoa, in Central India, and on the Eastern 



