GREAT TIT. 359 
Somer of the various species of the genus Parus, or the 
Titmice, as they have been very generally called, are 
remarkable for the beauty of the colours of their plumage, 
and the well-defined character of the markings; these 
birds also attract attention from their vivacity and in- 
cessant activity. They are indefatigable in their search 
for food ; and being fearless in disposition, may be readily 
observed climbing the trunks of trees, or by the aid of 
their strong toes, and hooked claws hanging suspended 
from the under surface of branches, while examining every 
cavity, leaf, or bud, that is likely to afford shelter to any 
of their numerous insect prey. These birds exhibit several 
peculiarities common to different groups of the dentirostral 
division. The Great Tit, so called, and placed first in 
the series, because the largest in size, will frequently kill 
small birds, accomplishing his purpose by repeated blows 
of his hard and sharp beak on the skull of the victim, and 
afterwards picking out and eating the bras. Though 
more truly a feeder on insects, the Great’ Tit, unlike 
insectivorous birds in general, does not migrate, but re- 
mains all the year in the same district, apparently un- 
affected by the very different temperature of Italy as com- 
pared with Russia, and the species is known to be con- 
stantly resident in both countries. 
In England the Great Tit is seldom seen on bleak open 
ground, but inhabits woods, the vicinity of gardens, or other 
enclosed and sheltered situations in summer, where it occa- 
sionally feeds on small seeds. In winter it approaches 
nearer the habitations of men, and may be seen in hard 
weather closely examining the thatch of old buildings in 
search of the many small flies that harbour there. As 
the Great Tit is an early breeder, the lively chirping 
notes of the male are heard early in February; sometimes 
