MIGRATION. 
385 
Wild Geese, Wild Ducks, Cranes, and others, during 
their journey; if, however, their numbers are not exces¬ 
sive, they then often fly in a straight line. 
All large birds do not assume a definite form or figure 
in their migratory flight. Storks, whose flight is excep¬ 
tionally beautiful, break the monotony of the journey by 
different changes. After flying together for several miles, 
perhaps, they all of a sudden, one and all, commence one 
of those splendid aerial ballets which show their masterly 
powers on the wing. They do not, however, lose sight of 
their purpose amid this recreation, but manage with each 
successive sweep to advance rapidly, and soon vanish 
from the view of the spectator. A large flock of these 
birds in the act of migrating affords a most charming 
spectacle. Birds of prey, when in large bands, behave in 
a similar manner when on the passage. 
The conduct of Rooks and Jackdaws while migrating is 
very singular. They generally fly at a great elevation, 
and straight forward. Suddenly a member of the crowd 
dashes down several hundred feet with closed wings as 
if shot; one after another they follow suit, and in less 
than a minute the whole company are flying at a height 
of not more than a hundred feet from the ground. The 
flock now proceed on their journey, gradually rising again 
to their former altitude, when the sport begins afresh. 
In addition to this, every bird of prey they meet with on 
their way is mobbed and driven off. All these amuse¬ 
ments are, however, always carried on in the direction of 
their migration. 
Small birds travel in whirling and in confused flocks, 
so much so as to leave considerable open spaces between 
the different batches. With a flight of Swallows one 
little fellow is always seen some fifteen or twenty paces in 
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