72 NATURE STUDY NOTES 
* 
FOOD—Insects of all kinds; also caterpillars 
and grubs. 
NEST—Similar to that of the Tom-tit; usually 
somewhat difficult of access in hawthorn hedge, 
but sometimes in gorse or other low bushes.' 
September to January. 4, 5 or 6 eggs. (See pp. 
43, 4(5.) 
HABITS—Shy bird, hiding in hedge or bush 
except when feeding. Seldom takes a long flight, 
usually flying short distance only from its “cover.” 
Hops and shuffles its wings—the latter being one 
of its distinctive habits. Occasionally sings at 
night-time in the bush or shrub country, even when 
the night is moonless. It has not been seen further 
north than the Waikato. 
THE WOOD PIGEON 
GENERAL The New Zealand Pigeon is a much 
aigei bird than the imported tame pigeon, and has 
much grander plumage. Its flight is more laboured 
and noisier. 
DESCRIPTION— Head, bright green with yel¬ 
lowish tinge. Upper parts, dark purple and greyish 
green. Under parts, white from breast to tail. 
Legs, bright red. 
FOOD—Chiefly berries of native trees, especially 
those of karaka, titoki, puriri, miro, fuchsia and 
pigeonwood. Also nectar from tree flowers—also 
soft leaves in winter. 
REST January or February. Amongst dense 
foliage of a tree or in scrub on the side of a cliff. 
(See pp. 43, 46.) 
