FAIRY MARTINS . — Ilirundo 'Ariel. 
The Fairy Martin lives in Australia, and is very remarkable for the curious 
nest which it builds. 
The nest of the Fairy Martin has a very close resemblance to a common oil 
flask, and reminds the observer of the flask-shaped nests which are constructed 
by the pensile oriole and similar birds, although made of harder material. The 
Fairy Martin builds its curious house of mud and clay, which it kneads 
thoroughly in its beak before bringing it to the spot where it will be required. 
Six or seven birds work at each nest, one remaining in the interior enacting the 
part of chief architect, while others act as hodsmen, and bring material as fast as 
it is required. Except on wet days, this bird only works in the evening and 
early morning, as the heat of mid-day seems to dry the mud so rapidly that it 
cannot be rightly kneaded together. The mouths, or “ spouts ” of these nests 
vary from eight to ten inches in length, and point indifferently in all directions. 
The diameter ' of the widest portion of the nest is very variable, and ranges be- 
tween four and seven inches. 
The exterior of the nest is as rough as that of the common swallow of England, 
but the interior is comparatively smooth, and is lined with feathers and fine grass. 
The eggs are generally four or five in number, and the bird rears two broods in 
the course of the year. 
