114 
NATURAL HISTORY 
JACKDAW. 
In the general appearance and habits 
of the Jackdaw, there is something very 
amusing, particularly when rendered tame. 
His pertness and loquacity are greater than 
those of most others of his tribe. He is 
docile, but thievish; and so voracious that 
he will frequently seizo and carry away 
much more than he can possibly consume. 
In a wild state, these birds collect in flocks, 
feed principally on worms, insects, grain, 
and seeds ; and build their nests in ancient 
castles, high rocks, towers, cliffs, and all 
desolate and ruinous places-— the females 
laying five or six eggs, which are smaller 
and paler than those of the crow. These 
birds are considerably smaller than the rook. 
Their plumage is black, except the hind 
part of the head, which is of a grey colour. 
