THE REDBREAST. 



Sylvia rubecula, Lath. 



The Redbreast, or Robin, as he is occasionally 

 denominated, is familiar with us from childhood. 

 Before we can read we learn to repeat the fabled 

 story of poor Cock Robin's death and burial. In 

 all countries he is a favourite, and has what may be 

 called a pet name. The inhabitants of Bornholm 

 call him " Tommi-Liden ;" the Norwegians, " Peter 

 Ronsmed ;" the Germans, " Thomas Gierdet ;" and 

 in England he is called by the more familiar appel- 

 lation of " Bob." Wordsworth thus poetically 

 addresses the Redbreast : — 



Art thou the bird whom man loves best, 

 The pious bird with the scai'let breast, 



Our little English Robin ; 

 The bird that comes about our doors 

 When autumn winds are sobbing ? 

 Art thou the Peter of Norway boors? 



Their Thomas in Finland 



And Russia far inland ? 

 The bird who by some name or other 

 All men who know thee call thee brother, 

 The darling of children and men ? — 



The melodious notes of this little favourite are well 

 known. Its song is sweet and well supported, and 

 is continued almost throughout the year. During 

 spring the Redbreast haunts the wood, the grove, 



