BRITISH BIRDS, 
17 
is rather broad and flatted at the base, straight, and a 
little deflected at the tip, where it is very slightly 
notched. The nostrils (like those of the Starlings) are 
guarded above by a prominent rim, and the upper 
mandible is elevated nearly on a line with the brow 
and crown of the head. The whole upper plumage is 
brown, with the scapulars, quills, greater coverts and 
tail distinctly edged with pale rusty brown, the last 
somewhat forked. The chin and the throat are dingy 
white, and mottled down the fore part of the neck with 
dull brown ; the under parts are also of a dull brown, 
but streaked with white from below the breast to the 
vent: the legs and toes are larger and stronger than 
those of any of the Thrushes, and are of a yellow brown. 
Latham says, 44 this bird is frequent in France, Italy, 
the Isles of the Mediterranean and of the Archipelago, 
and other parts ; where it is not only esteemed for its 
song, but held in veneration by most people, so as to 
think it almost sacrilege to take the nest, or kill the 
bird.” They are said to frequent mountainous and 
rocky places, and to be always seen alone, except in 
the breeding season.* Their food consists chiefly of 
insects and berries. The young are easily brought up, 
and besides their sweet natural wild song, they may be 
taught to whistle tunes, and articulate words. 
* Many kinds of birds, which at other times are seen only singly, or 
in pairs, are known to assemble together in great numbers in certain 
seasons, probably on the business of conferring together, of the route they 
may have to take, and the districts they are destined to occupy. 
