MAGPIES. 



507 



Crows {Corvus) are universally diffused over the globe. The 

 'RaYen {Corvus corax), Fig. 216, and the Carrion Crow (Corms 

 corone), are sedentary birds, and never voluntarily abandon 

 the place they have elected for their home. The Hooded Crow 

 {Corms corone), the Rook {Corvus frugilegus), and the Jackdaw 

 {Corvus monedula), are migratory in their habits, only visiting 



Fig. 216. — The Raven {Corvus corax^ Lesson), 



the countries of Southern Europe on the approach of winter. 

 The Royston Crow (^Corvus cornix) inhabits the lofty mountain 

 regions of Europe, descending into the plains during winter. 

 Finally, the Senegal Crow (C. senegalensis, Temm.) is exclu- 

 sively confined to Africa. 



The Magpies are distinguished from the Crows by their 

 shorter wings, longer tail, and by their variegated plumage ; 

 but for this difference, they greatly resemble the previously 

 described in appearance and habits. Like the Crows, they are 

 omnivorous, but they generally avoid dead prey ; they have the 

 same desire, whether in the wild or domestic state, to store away 

 provisions and hide glittering objects. Their instinctive habit of 

 appropriating all sorts of plunder is one of the causes of their 

 popularity. Every one has heard the true story on which the 

 drama of The Maid and the Magpie is founded — how Ninette 

 was accused and pronounced guilty of robbing her master, and 



