228 BIRDS OF THE WORLD 



make most interesting and affectionate pets, exhibit- 

 ing remarkable intelligence. A curious characteristic 

 habit is the stealing and secreting of small bright 

 objects that attract their attention, about which they 

 are usually so cunning that it is difficult to detect them 

 in their thefts. 



The best known species in this country is the com- 

 mon American Crow, found abundantly throughout 

 North America, and too familiar to require more than 

 brief mention. The plumage is black over the whole 

 body, with purplish reflections, and the female is 

 somewhat duller than the male. The nest is built of 

 sticks, plastered with clay, and lined with feathers and 

 other soft materials. Both male and female take 

 turns in brooding the eggs, and are untiring in their 

 devotion to their young. In the fall, Crows gather in 

 enormous flocks, chattering and "cawing," and 

 making a terrific din. 



The European species that most nearly corresponds 

 to the preceding is the Carrion Crow, a slightly larger 

 form, common in western Europe, and so called from 

 its fondness for carrion. Unlike the American Crow, 

 this bird is seldom seen in flocks, being much more 

 solitary in habit. Its voice also is quite different. 



The Fish Crow, closely resembling the Common 

 Crow, but smaller, is found in large numbers in our 

 Southern States. As the name implies, this bird 

 feeds largely on fish, and is usually found along the 

 coast or not far inland. It is especially common in 

 Florida, and at places along the Indian River every 

 post and tree is occupied by individuals, who keep up 



