Cassell's book of birds; vol. 3Brehm, Alfred Edmund
Science
Cassell's book of birds; vol. 3
Brehm, Alfred Edmund
Birds
The nests, which are most numerous in June, are placed in a great variety
of situations; that described by Mr. Gosse was "principally composed of
silk-cotton, very closely pressed, mixed with the still more glossy cotton
of an asclepias, particularly round the edge, the seeds remaining attached
to some of the filaments. On the outside the whole structure is quite
covered with spiders' webs, crossed and recrossed in every direction, and
made to adhere by some viscous substance, evidently applied after the
web was placed, probably saliva. Little bits of pale green lichen and
fragments of thin laminated bark are stuck here and there on the outside,
by means of the webs having been passed over them. The whole forms a very
compact cup, one inch and three-quarters deep without, and one inch deep
within, the sides about a quarter of an inch thick, the inner margin a
little overarching, so as to narrow the opening; the total diameter at
the top one inch and a half. The eggs are of a long oval form and pure
white, save that when fresh the contents produce a reddish tinge, from
the thinness of the shell. The above are the usual form, dimensions,
and materials of the nest. Variations, however, often occur from local
causes: thus, in one from a rocky situation only moss is used, and the
base is prolonged to a point; one now before me is wholly composed of pure
silk-cotton, bound profusely with the finest web, undistinguishable except
on the closest examination, not a fragment of lichen mars the beautiful
uniformity of its appearance; others are studded all over with lichens,
and have a peculiar rustic prettiness. Insects constitute the principal
food of this species, which obtains them from the flower-cups, and also
catches them whilst on the wing."
* * * * *
The WOOD-NYMPHS (_Lampornis_) possess a straight or moderately-curved
beak, which is broad at its base and incised at its extremity; the long
toes are armed with short, high, and very decidedly-hooked claws; the
wings are slender, and the tail broad, rounded or slightly incised at its
extremity. The sexes vary considerably in their coloration.
THE MANGO HUMMING BIRD.
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