INCREASE OF SMALL BIRDS 



109 



nating their enemies, they now abound, devastating our fruit- 

 gardens, but amply repaying all the mischief they do by enliven- 

 ing every glade and grove with their joyous songs. This 

 year (1846) the thrushes and blackbirds were in full voice in 

 January, owing to the mildness of the winter ; and I knew of a 

 thrush who was sitting on eggs during the most severe storm 

 of snow that we have had the whole season. 



