STONECHAT. 269 
Tur SronecHat, a migratory species over the greater 
part of the European Continent, where it is uot observed 
to remain during the winter, is a constant resident in this 
country,—or at least it may be said, that only a portion 
of those produced during the breeding season leave us 
in autumn, and return again about the end of March in 
the spring following. Many remain, and may be seen 
through the winter months on most of our dry commons 
and heaths which are partially covered with patches of 
furze or low brushwood. Should the weather prove very 
severe, they leave these exposed districts, and frequent 
for a time more sheltered situations. In the spring and 
early part of summer this lively little bird may be 
seen flitting from bush to bush, restless and noisy,—from 
which latter habit the common names of Stonechatter and 
Stoneclink originate,—almost always perching on the most 
elevated part of a stone or bush, and seldom remaining 
long in one spot. From such prominent positions they 
may be seen darting off with rapid motion to capture a 
passing insect, and Flycatcher like, returning to their 
former station. Their song, which is also occasionally 
uttered while on the wing, is short, but pleasing ; and they 
may be frequently heard to imitate the notes of other 
small birds. They are often to be seen on the ground in 
search of worms, which, with various insects, are their 
most common objects of request as articles of food. 
The Stonechat begins to build early in April: the nest 
is rather large for the size of the bird, and is usually 
placed on or near the ground at the base of some low 
bush; the outside of a specimen now before me is con- 
structed of moss and strong grass, lined with fine bents, 
hairs, and a few small feathers. The female lays five or 
six egos, about the middle or during the third week of 
