The Goldfinch, 95 
wanting water, with its seed: this is one among the 
many clever things done by this bird. It is very 
affectionate, and soon becomes very much attached to 
its owner if kindness is shown to it. 
When we see a number of Goldfinches together in 
the autumn, we need no greater proof to assure us 
the land is covered with weeds, such as thistles, bur- 
dock, or groundsel, for there cannot be a truer sign 
that a crop of these things is not far off. These birds 
do a great amount of good by feeding upon the seeds 
of these noxious weeds, and it is a pleasing sight to 
witness them spreading their golden wings to steady 
themselves on the frequently-giving-way down of 
thistles, and to see in full sunlight the brilliant plu- 
mage of these restless hunters, and hear their pretty 
twitterings, as if having an enjoyable conversation over 
Picitmcale, heir mest is constructed in a very neat 
and compact way, and while building, both male and 
female go in search of materials together. When one 
has found a piece of moss, or anything else that is 
suited to its fancy, it takes to its wings, followed by 
its mate, to the place where the chosen Spot is, she 
nest is composed externally of moss, roots, hay, and 
lichen, and lined with wool, feathers, and hair, and is 
