eS 
Go 
Lhe Blackcap. I 

fesemiblesp tiie male, except on the top of the head, 
which is dull rust-colour instead of black, Eggs 
ereyish-white, speckled with dark grey and brown. © 
This bird may be considered next to the nightingale 
for its sweet song, and may be easily distinguished 
from any other birds, as the full deep tones of a joy- 
ous heart are poured forth in a wild and sweet strain, 
as he sits near the intended spot for building, or 
perhaps not far from the nest, where his mate is well 
contented. This flute-like song is more like the 
_ warble of the redbreast in the changes of notes, only 
softer and more musical, giving at the same time a 
refined tone. 
Many people who have a good show of raspberries 
in their garden know this bird is very partial to that 
particular spot, and that it does not enjoy the fruit all 
fo tkself, suit seems to think as there is enough and to 
spare, it need not shun the approach of the owner. 
At this time of year the young families of Blackcaps 
go about and find good quarters with the parent 
birds, regaling themselves most delightfully on the 
fruit above mentioned, and shaded from the heat of 
