210 
OMNIVOROUS BIRDS. 
The Crow is a constant and troublesomely abundant 
resident in most of the settled districts of North America. 
They only retire into the forests in the breeding season, 
which takes place from March to May. At this time they 
are dispersed through the woods in pairs, and roost in the 
neighbourhood of the spot which they have selected for 
their nest; and the conjugal union, once formed, continues 
for life. They are now very noisy and vigilant against any 
intrusion on their purpose, and at times appear influenced 
by mutual jealousy, but never proceed to any violence. 
The tree they select is generally lofty, and preference 
seems often given to some dark and concealing ever- 
green. The nest is formed externally of small twigs, 
coarsely interlaced together, plastered and matted with 
earth, moss, and long horse-hair, and thickly and carefully 
lined with large quantities of the last material, wool, or 
the finest fibres of roots, so as to form a very comfortable 
bed for the helpless and naked young. The eggs are 4 to 6, 
of a pale and dirty green, marked with numerous blotches 
and streaks of blackish brown or olive. 
The male at this season is extremely watchful, recon- 
noitring the neighbourhood, and giving an alarm as any 
person happens to approach towards their nest, when both 
retire to a distance till the intruder disappears ; and in 
order the better to conceal their helpless brood, they re- 
main uncommonly silent, until these are in a situation to 
follow them on the wing. The male also carries food to 
his mate while confined to her eggs, and at times relieves 
her by sitting in her absence. In Europe, when the 
Raven, the Buzzard, or the Kestril makes his appear- 
ance, the pair join instantly in the attack, and sometimes, 
by dint of furious blows, destroy their enemy ; yet the 
Butcher-bird, more alert and courageous, not only resists, 
but often vanquishes the Crows, and carries off their 
