144 
NATURAL HISTORY. 
the first stone he can find. Perhaps this may he ac- 
counted for from his habit of plundering every kind 
of early fruit ; and his mewing and bold-faced fa- 
miliarity may beget contempt. 
104. But certain it is, there is no just cause for 
his universal persecution, for he seems to place con- 
fidence in man, and is by no means so mischievous 
as many of those birds which are universally admired 
and protected by every one. 
THE MOCKING BIRD. 
105. The Mocking Bird inhabits a considerable 
part of both North and South America, and he is 
much more commonly found in the southern than 
in the northern part of the United States. 
106. In extent of vocal powers, this bird stands 
unrivalled by all the feathered songsters in the 
world. His voice is full, strong, and musical ; and 
he derives his name from his faculty of imitating the 
song of other birds. 
Is this estimation just ? 
What countries does the Mocking Bird inhabit ? What is said 
of his vocal powers ? 
