150 The Wren. 


to twig very rapidly, which gives it the appearance of 
fast creeping or running, and, when disturbed, it flies 
in a short direct manner to the next bush,’or to — 
another part of the hedge somie little distance from 
the spot from whence it started, uttering its call-note, 
“Chip, chip,” on its alighting. In the spring it fre- 
quents woods, where its roundelay is poured forth 
within the hearing of several more of its kind, which 
take up the song, making the woods resound with 
their notes, which are of a high tone, and are repeated 
in rapid succession; it sings in spring, autumn, and 
winter, but the spring song is the loudest and longest. 
These birds build several nests in April or May, all of 
which are unfurnished except the one decided upon for 
the progeny; some are placed in very conspicuous 
places, while others are concealed ; the one chosen for 
the purpose of incubation is lined. The building so” 
many. nests is peculiar to the Wren, as if it wished to 
be doing something, and at the same time not know- 
ing exactly how it shall like its home till it sees the 
walls of its house built. The nest is oval, with a 
small opening in front, and is made outside of dried 
