OUR HOME BIRDS. 
179 
as much in depth. It is not easily seen, being cov- 
ered with lichens of the same style and color as those 
on the branch where it is fastened ; and it is remark- 
able that these lichens are never turned the wrong 
way, but are placed on the nest just as they grew on 
the branches. These lichens are glued on with the 
saliva of the bird ; and within this are thick matted 
layers of the fine wings of various flying seeds, closely 
laid together ; and, lastly, the downy substance of the 
mullein and stalks of the common fern line the whole. 
The bottom of the nest goes around the stem of the 
branch, to which it closely adheres, and when seen 
from below it looks like a mossy knot of the tree. 
“ The little mother-bird builds the nest, while her 
partner supplies her with the necessary materials. 
Two exquisite little eggs, like round pearls and about 
the size of a pea, are jealously guarded by the small 
proprietors, who dart around with a humming sound 
if any one approaches their residence, often within a 
few inches of the intruder. 
“ ‘ The flight of the humming-bird from flower to 
flower greatly resembles that of a bee, but is so much 
more rapid that the latter appears a mere loiterer to 
him. He poises himself on wing while he thrusts his 
long, slender, tubular tongue into the flowers in search 
of food. He sometimes enters a room by the window, 
examines the bouquets of flowers, and passes out by 
