MISSEL THRESH . — Tardus viscivorus. 
Ihe Missel Thrush is one of the largest and handsomest of the species. 
It is one of our resident birds, and on account of its great size, its combative 
nature, its brightly feathered breast, its rich voice, and sociable habits, is one of 
the best known of the British birds. About the beginning of April the Missel 
Thrush sets about its nest, and in general builds a large, weighty edifice, that can 
be seen through the leafless bushes from a great distance. Sometimes, however, 
the nest is concealed with the greatest care, and I cannot but think that in the 
latter case it is the work of some old bird, who has learnt caution through bitter 
experience. 
Ihe materials of which the nest is composed are the most varied that 
can be imagined. Every substance that can be woven into a nest is pressed into 
the service. Moss, hay, straw, dead leaves, and grasses, are among the ruling 
substances that are employed for the purpose, and the bird often adds manu- 
faetured products, such as scraps of rag, paper, string, or shavings. 
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