34 The Blackbird. 

middle out, leaving only the shell, be the apple ever 
so sour; at this season it will also feed on haws and 
holly-berries, It is a shy bird, and difficult of access, 
being more timid, than suspicious of danger, and when 
on the wing, if disturbed from a hedgerow, flies close 
to the ground. In the spring of the year it cannot 
bear the sight of an owl, stoat, or cat, and if either of 
these be near its nest, it will use a volley of notes 
peculiar to itself, which is always sounded when it is 
frightened. On such an occasion as this, the Blackbird 
is very courageous, and will place itself between the 
enemy and its offspring, dashing in its face with a wild 
flight and cry of alarm, generally causing the intruder 
to beat a retreat. These birds are often kept in a cage, 
and will learn a tune from a flute very correctly. Their 
vocal powers are perhaps better-when educated than 
in a wild state, as cultivation does away with the 
natural breakings out of noisy tones. 

