THE GOLDFINCH. 



519 



Sparrows on tlie corn-fields, and to demonstrate tliat they should be 

 exterminated bj^ the farmer. But it is now generally agreed that 

 the Sparrow is a benefactor, and belongs to the list of useful 

 birds. Have we not seen in the Palatinate that after the Sparrow 

 was proscribed and exterminated, the inhabitants were under the 

 necessity of reimporting them in order to arrest the ravages of 

 insects, which, in consequence of this bird's absence, had multiplied 

 in a frightful manner ? 



The Goldfinch {Carduelis elegans, Yarrell), Fig. 229, is at the 

 same time the most gentle and peaceful of birds, and one of the 

 prettiest of European races. It has the back brown, the face red, 



Fig. 229.— Goldfinches (FringiUa 



Fig. 2yD.— Linnets {FringiUa 

 tiiwta, Penn.). 



carduelis, Liiin.). 



with a bright yellow spot upon each cheek ; its voice is full, sweet, 

 and harmonious ; it is exceedingly docile, easilj' tamed and raised 

 as a cage-bird ; in the aviary it soon becomes familiar, testiA'ing 

 great attachment to those who take charge of it ; it readily learns 

 to sing and go through various exercises, such as drawing up 

 the vessel containing its food and drink, firing a miniature cannon, 

 and other similar tricks. 



The Ltnnf.ts {Linota cannahina, Yarrell), Fig. 230, have con- 



