THE EUROPEAN DIPPER. 
69 
tions. The nest is generally constructed under 
some brow or overhanging rocks, or among the 
matted roots of a tree ; at other times under 
some fall, which is projected over a space hollow, 
and comparatively dry within, or beneath the 
dam or weir which serves to turn off the water to 
supply machinery ; and we have once or twice 
observed it under the very sluice of the mill- 
wheel. In the latter situations the parent bird 
dashes through the face of the rushing waters 
when about to enter the nest, and seems to enjoy 
the act, entering and retreating again two or 
three times before commencing her seat. The 
nest is built chiefly of the common mosses, lined 
on the bottom with dried leaves. It is of a 
circular form, with an entrance hole on the one 
side, and seen exteriorly is very similar to the 
structure of that of the common wren. Where it 
is placed in a situation resting on some narrow 
ledge, but entirely free above, the building is 
made completely round ; but where the impend- 
ing brow or rock may form the top, it is used as 
a part, the front only being filled up with moss. 
Mr Thomson has mentioned one instance, where 
tile “ domed structure ” was dispensed with ; but 
though this may occasionally happen, the general 
character of the structure will be found to be 
supplied in a manner instinctively either one way 
or another. In like manner the circumstance of 
the bird perching on the willows around, as 
mentioned by the same author, was unusual ; it is 
not their general habit even in glens fringed with 
