CHAPTER XLVI. 



The Willow Wren. 



Motacilla accredula, Lin. 



Description and Character. — This bird, which is also known 

 as the Yellow Wren, is larger than the Common Wren, and of a 

 different colour. It is a charming little creature, easily domesti- 

 cated, and can be rendered so tame as to follow its owner about 

 the room, eat from his hand, and exhibit other signs of attach- 

 ment. It has a pleasant song, and makes an interesting addition 

 to any collection of cage or aviary birds. 



An adult bird is 4Jin. long, the tail measuring If in. The beak 

 is thin and pointed ; the upper mandible is brown, and the lower 

 yellow. The eyes are brown. The upper parts of the body are 

 pale olive green. The wings and tail are dark brown, edged with 

 yellowish green. A streak of pale yellow passes over the eyes. 

 The cheeks are indistinct yellow, and there is a reddish grey 

 spot near the ear. The whole of the under parts is pale yellow, 

 the throat and breast being spotted with brighter yellow. The 

 legs are light willow or pale yellowish flesh colour. 



Habits and Breeding. — The Willow Wren is a migratory 

 bird, arriving in this country in April, and leaving again in 

 September, or early in October. It inhabits the greater part of 

 Europe, and frequents marshy ground, and all places where 

 willows grow. It makes its nest in hollows on dry banks, 

 often in holes at the roots of trees, and also at the sides 

 of streams and pools, beneath a bush. The nest is round, but 

 otherwise not unlike that of the Common Wren. It is formed 

 with moss, and lined with wool, hair, and feathers. The hen 



