COMMON CUCKOO. 
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distributed, being found in districts of almost 
every character. In choosing the nest for the 
reception of its eggs, it has been remarked, that 
those of insectivorous birds chiefly have been 
selected ; at the same time, some of the Fringil- 
lidae are also recorded, and in the south'* the 
variety of species, whose nests are thus used, are 
much greater ; for, in the north of England, and 
in Scotland, where the skirts of a high pasture or 
muirland are chiefly frequented, the Common 
Pipit, Anthus pratensis, is almost invariably 
resorted to. The borders of a county, such as we 
have mentioned, interspersed with natural wood 
and brush, is a favourite resort for the Cuckoo, 
and he may be seen flying low over the ground 
or bushes, uttering at the same time his call, and 
occasionally resting on some twig or eminence, 
still calling and swinging himself round with out- 
spread tail, as if to attract attention. It is also 
remarkable, that he is almost always attended by 
some of the Pipits, commonly called the “ Tit- 
ling,” who flutter around, or follow after in his 
flight with noisy notes, impelled by some instinc- 
tive feeling, either to attract observation, or of 
distrust at his appearance in their vicinity. The 
young bird we see endowed with a remarkable 
feeling to get rid of its companions in the nest, 
which is continued, it is said, for twelve days, if 
after which time it has been unsuccessful in its 
efforts, it remains quiet and at peace with its 
neighbours. In its form, it is also said to be 
provided with a peculiar depression between the 
