Woodpecker 
ag a, mt ZR 
see 
lac: is a fairly common bird in most parts 
of the country, and its curious laughing 
cry may often be heard as one wanders through the wood- 
land. But it is comparatively seldom seen, owing partly 
to its sharp eyesight, and partly to its shy disposition. It 
must not be regarded as mischievous to trees, although it 
often chips out quite large holes in their trunks. For it never 
attacks a healthy tree. Those on which it exercises its 
chisel-like beak are invariably diseased, and already tenanted 
by insect destroyers; and by devouring these, and cutting 
away the decaying wood in which they dwell, the bird is 
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