A NEW ORNITHOLOGICAL FACT

Western Star, Issue 857, 5 July 1884, Page 2 (Supplement)

A NEW ORNITHOLOGICAL FACT

A correspondent, dating from Follett Lodge, Topshana, writes to the Standard : I can vouch for the accuracy of the following narrative, which exhibits a new trait in bird nature interesting to the psycboe volutionist as well as to the general public. The late Dr. Spence, editor of the Evangelical Magazine, allowed his kindly nature to be at one time much engaged in the contemplation and protection of a pet Robin. This friendly if not pugnacious songster has been accustomed to visit his friend daily about meal times, and having eaten with them, to reward his hosts with a little post-prandial music before again taking flight. On one of these incursions he introduced another bright eyed intruder, who gradually became as confiding a visitor as auy lover of birds could wish. Attracted by this pair’s frequent visit to the cornice, Dr. Spence mounted a pair of steps, and there, snugly ensconsed, discovered the foundations of a nest this enterprising couple were projecting. The window was now left constantly open, and after a short time the nest was finished, and four little mottled eggs deposited, while the clear intelligent eyes of the sitting bird might generally be seen gazing fearlessly at the occupants of the apartment. After about a fortnight had elapsed the male Robin entered one day as usual, and flying to the nest| immediately began a series,'of shrill cries, flying round and round the room in its excitement, but finally settling upon the top of the pier glass carolled forth a song. Fearing that some giant spider had invaded the little home, an examination was made, and there in their helpless nudity lay four little birds, about whose arrival into this world their father had shown such animated glee. But now was the serious occurrence. After a day or two the parents of these little hopefuls introduced a third robin, who proceeded immediately to assist the other two in their parental duties, even to instructing the little ones in their first infantile flight. Whether this was some unfortunate, widowed by thoughtless boys of mate and nest, or whether it was an initiation of some youthful Robin into the mysteries of baby feeding, the proper alternation of vegetable and animal food (for the pugnacious Robin is no vegetarian) and the necessary restraint to be imposed upon the eager little appetites, has not been mine to know. I have, however, conversed with those who actually witnessed this little life scene, and I would respectfully suggest that a systematic gentle study of the inner life of those beings who breathe with us the common air may reveal natural depths of knowledge of which the scientist in his merciless but barren search for the principle that directs the being can never dream.