THE FIELD PIPIT.
Anthus campestris, Bechstein; La Spipolette, Buffon; Die Brachpieper, Bechstein.
In figure it is more slender than the sky-lark; the plumage resembles that of the crested lark, and the form that of the titlark. Its length is six inches and a half. The beak is strong and long, the line above the eyes distinctly marked, the breast yellowish white, with but few rays or lines. In summer it frequents marshy woods, in autumn the edges of the fields, high roads, and meadows, where it may be easily caught with the night-net. Its only known song is its constant cry “tsirru” and “datsida” while revolving in the air. It departs in September and returns in April. Its food is the same as that of the titlark; it also requires the same treatment when in confinement if it should be wished to keep it, but it has no qualities to make this desirable.
THE SHORE LARK.
Alauda alpestris, Linnæus; Alouette Haussecol noir, ou Alouette de Virginie, Buffon; Die Berglerche, Bechstein.
This species is seven inches long, rather stronger than the field pipit, and has the same plumage on the upper part of the body; but the throat is light yellow, as well as the rest of the under part of the neck, over which and the top of the breast passes a black band, which in the lower part is shaped like a horse-shoe. The beak, feet, and claws, are black.
SHORE LARK.