106 The Tree Pipit. 
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This bird, among others of the Pipit kind, has been 
classed as a Titlark, but now it forms a distinct species, 
differing from the Lark tribe in the slightness of its 
beak and the make of its feet; the lark soars, when 
singing, much higher than a Pipit. There are several 
kinds of Pipits, but the one most noticeable is the one 
here chosen. It may be easily distinguished from any 
other bird by its flight when singing; for, when pfe- 
paring its song, it leaves the bush or tree where it is 
perched, beginning its notes there, and rising to no 
sreat height, generally returning to the naked bough 
from which it sprang, or to another chosen place close 
by, in a curved direction, singing the whole time, 
with its tail spread, and allowing its legs gradually to 
drop as it descends, for the purpose of alighting, which 
it does in a very easy manner. These charms are not 
very long, but are often repeated, especially if its mate 
has her nest near; perhaps I should not err in saying 
from every minute and a half to two minutes the little 
song is performed in the way described. ~ When on 
the ground, in search of food, its progress is accom- 
plished by repeated short runs, and it is often dis- 
