122 BRITISH BIRDS. 
moll fpotted with white ; the legs pale yellow ; 
the claws large, iharp, and much bent, the back 
claw very flrong ; when extended, the foot mea- 
fures one inch and three quarters. 
This, like the Woodpecker, frequents woods, 
and is a fhy and folitary bird ; the female lays her 
eggs in holes of trees, frequently in thofe which 
have been deferted by the Woodpecker. During 
the time of incubation Hie is affiduoufly attended 
by the male, who fupplies her with food ; fhe is 
eafily driven from her neft, but on being dilturbed 
hiffes like a fnake. The Nuthatch feeds on cater? 
pillars, beetles, and various kinds of infers ; it 
likewife eats nuts, and is very expert in cracking 
them fo as to come at the contents ; having placed 
a nut fall in a chink, it takes its hand a little a - 
bove, and ftriking it with all its force, breaks the 
ihell and catches up the kernel. Like the Wood- 
pecker, it moves up and down the trunks of trees 
with great facility in fearch of food. It does not; 
migrate, but in the winter approaches nearer inha- 
bited places, and is fometimes feen in orchards and 
gardens. The young ones are efteemed very good 
eating. 
