THE ROBIN. 



547 



the observation of enemies. This species belongs to India and the 

 islands of the Indian Ocean, and is unknown in Europe. 



Among other well-known species we may mention the Garden 

 AYarbler (Carruca koriensis, fielhj), known also as the White- 

 throat, Greater Pretty chaps, and other pet names ; also the Black- 

 cap {Sylvia atricapi.Ua), both of which abound near dwelling- 

 houses surrounded by gardens. 



The EoBiN, or E,edbreast (Fig. 248), is too familiar a friend 



Fig. 249. — Wrens (Regular cristaUcs, Temm.). 



to require description. It is lively, pert, pugnacious, cheerful, 

 and a universal favourite. In April the Eobin betakes itself 

 to the woods and thickets, where it rears its brood. On the 

 approach of winter it returns to civilised life, when, as M. Figuier 

 informs us, it constitutes excellent game ! ISTo doubt it is edible ; 

 but where is the consumer of such to be found ? jSTot in the 

 British Islands, we hope. 



The Wrexs {Motacilla) are the smallest of European birds. 



N X 2 



