THE MISSEL THRUSH. 



TURDUS VISCIVORUS, Ray. 



This is the largest species of Thrush ; measuring 

 eleven inches in length, and weighing near five 

 ounces. It is by no means plentiful in England, 

 observes Montagu, and seems to be less so in 

 winter. Bewick says it begins to sing early, often 

 on the turn of the year, in blowing stormy weather ; 

 whence in some places it is called the Storm Cock. 

 It likewise bears the appellations of Throstle Cock, 

 Screech or Skrietch Thrush, Holm Thrush. 



Montagu says the song is much louder and very 

 superior to that of the Thrush f Tardus musicus ) : 

 frequently, perched upon the uppermost branch of 

 a tall tree, it sings while the female is making her 

 nest, and during incubation ; but becomes silent 

 as soon as the young are hatched, and is no more 

 heard till the following year. Mr. Knapp seems to 

 entertain a very different opinion of its vocal pow- 

 ers. He observes, "The approach of a sleety snow- 

 storm, following a deceitful gleam in spring, is 

 always announced by the loud untuneful voice of 

 the Missel Thrush, as it takes its stand on some 

 tall tree, like an enchanter calling up a gale. It 

 seems to have no song, no voice, but this harsh 

 predictive note ; and that in great measure ceases 



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