The SYRIAN NUTHATCH (_Sitta Syriaca_) is somewhat larger than the species
above described, from which it also differs in its mode of life and
habits. The upper parts of the body are greyish blue, and the under side
partially of a yellowish shade; the throat, a large portion of the breast,
and the centre of the belly are white; the tail is grey, spotted with
yellowish brown on the inner web of the exterior feathers.
This species, which is somewhat larger than the bird last described, is
commonly met with in Greece, and is also found in Syria, and on the lofty
mountains between Bosnia and Dalmatia. Everywhere it exclusively frequents
rocky heights, ascending and descending the most precipitous declivities
with the utmost facility. It never enters forests, but occasionally seeks
shelter in detached clumps of trees. Insects, seeds, and berries afford it
the means of existence, and when in quest of these it displays activity
and cleverness fully equalling its congeners.
The strange, penetrating cry of the Syrian Nuthatch closely resembles a
burst of shrill laughter. Muhle tells us that the nest is constructed in
a nook in some rock, so situated that it is warmed by the rays of the
sun, either in the morning or at noon. The nest itself is about eleven
inches long, and carefully formed of clay; the entrance passage sometimes
terminates in a cavity, warmly lined with different kinds of hair. The
exterior wall, according to Muhle, is frequently decorated with the wings
of some species of beetles. The eggs, usually eight or nine in number,
have a white shell, spotted with red, and are laid about May. The female
is so devoted to her young that she may be taken by hand while engaged in
the duty of incubation.
* * * * *
The CREEPERS (_Sittella_) inhabit New Holland, and are distinguishable
from the members of the group above described by their awl-shaped beak,
which is much compressed at its sides, and notched at the extremity of the
upper mandible. The second and third quills in the wing are the longest,
and extend as far as the end of the short even tail. As regards their
general habits, these birds closely resemble the other members of their
family; the nests, however, are entirely different, both as to position
and structure.