582 
BIRD-LIFE. 
singular way the bird has of opening its tremendous 
mouth when caught, and spitting like a cat. The com¬ 
moner name, Goatsucker, it has also probably obtained 
from the size of its gape; and it is big enough, in all 
conscience, to lead to the idea that it sucks the teats of 
goats. Lastly, this bird is looked upon by the super¬ 
stitious as a witch-spirit whenever it is seen. That the 
poor little creature can succeed in sucking any mammal 
is an accusation so absurd in itself as scarcely to need 
contradiction. 
Besides man, the Goatsucker has many enemies 
Goshawks, Sparrowhawks, foxes, Martins, and cats; and 
cats often manage to catch it asleep, and still more 
frequently destroy the young birds. Having told you 
what it feeds on, I have proved it to be a useful bird, and 
on this account I trust that my earnest prayer for the 
Goatsucker’s protection will not remain unanswered. 
