BUtDS. 161 
days . Cicero wrote a long poem in praise of the 
Halcyon. 
167. The Kingfisher preys on the smaller kinds 
of fish. It will sit for a long time perched on some 
dry bough that hangs over a stream, and, when it 
observes a fish, it will dart down upon it with the 
greatest velocity and surest aim. 
THE CROSSBILL. 
168. The Crossbill is about the size of the lark. 
Its general colour is reddish, mixed with brown or 
green upon the upper parts. It is distinguished by 
the peculiar formation of its bill, the extremities of 
the upper and under parts crossing each other. 
169. This bird is found in northern latitudes, prin- 
cipally in Europe. It feeds upon the seeds contained 
in pine cones, which it extracts with great dex- 
terity. 
YVhat does the Kingfisher feed upon ? 
Describe the Crossbill. Where is it found ? What does it feed 
upon? 
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