;o8 



CASSELL'S BOOK OF BIRDS. 



cipally frequent fir and pine forests, remaining almost throughout the entire year in their native 

 woods, only leaving their shelter for a short time in the spring and autumn. During the winter they 

 associate freely with other species, and in their company ily about in search of food. The song ot 

 the male is chirping and insignificant, and during the breeding season is accompanied by a great 

 variety of gesticulation, and a constant display of the crest that adorns his head. The nests are 





THE LONG-TAILED TITMOUSE {Orites caudatus). 



always placed in holes of trees, such as have a narrow entrance being preferred, and are situated at 

 various heights from the ground, in some instances in the deserted dwellings of other birds or of 

 squirrels ; the exterior is formed of bits of moss, or some similar material* and lined with hair or wool 

 of various kinds. The eggs, eight to ten in number, are small and delicate, and of snowy white, 

 spotted with rust-red ; both parents brood, and the young are hatched within a fortnight, and are 

 reared on small caterpillars. As soon as they are able to support themselves, the old pair at once 

 make preparations for a second family. 



Although rare in Great Britain, this species is abundant in all the northern regions of Europe, 

 frequenting places where juniper trees are plentiful ; it is common in Germany and the Alpine 

 districts, and is scarce in Holland. 



