660 
BIRD-LIFE. 
from the Finches by the shape of the beak, as also by 
difference of habits. All the Buntings are pretty, strong 
birds, and either occasionally or permanently, frequent 
woods, bushes, gardens, and farm-yards; they are common 
in most localities, and are only partially migratory. The 
males are distinguished from the females by their more 
brilliant plumage: the colouring, however, of both sexes 
is exceptionably soft and delicate. Buntings live either 
in pairs or in flocks, and most species are gifted with a 
very simple and monotonous song. The gait is hopping 
and walking, and the flight is in undulating lines. Their 
food consists of different sorts of seeds and insects. The 
nests of these birds are mostly of simple construction, 
placed on the ground, and usually contain five eggs, 
which are scribbled over with lines almost resembling 
writing. All Buntings become excessively fat where food 
is abundant, and are excellent eating; a fact of which the 
ancients were well aware. 
The Yellow-hammer is found throughout Europe, 
especially in central latitudes. In Germany it is common 
everywhere. During the winter it frequents the villages, 
and in the summer it is found in every kind of wood and 
coppice, though more usually nearer their borders than 
their centres. From autumn to pairing time they go 
in flocks, shifting their quarters from one place to another. 
As soon as the weather has become settled the Yellow- 
hammer turns his attention to the business of breeding, 
when his short song may be heard without intermission. 
In spite of his sociability he is ever ready to fight and 
squabble with those of his own species, though showing 
the greatest goodwill towards other birds, with whom he 
has but little in common, especially the Thrush. Although 
apparently of a sluggish nature he is ever in motion, 
