194 
CROWS AND ROOKS. 
Assemblage of Herons. 
practice with these birds to collect, if Keynard shows himself ; 
hut as they did not appear to he hovering over any parti- 
cular spot, as if a concealed enemy was lurking near, we 
inclined to the opinion, that some private concerns of their 
own had brought them together. The chattering was 
incessant, and when disturbed, and under the necessity of 
heating a retreat, they flew nearly in the same direction, 
as if disposed to adjourn their meeting to a more retired 
spot, than with a view to break it up. 
A singular habit, somewhat similar, little known or 
noticed, though uncommon, prevails also among Starlings. 
If carefully watched, they may he seen occasionally to alight 
in a regular circular form. A numerous flock was once 
seen to divide itself into two companies, each forming a dis- 
tinct circle. If undisturbed, they will remain a considerable 
