THE URBAN BIRD.
It has been explained why the black-headed gulls came to London. They were driven by the unusually hard winter of 1895 and so acquired the habit. Doubtless the explanation is sound ; but there must be other reasons ; for the gulls are not alone in this unnatural preference. A large number of other birds have found out the towns : starlings, duck, carrion crows and owls are some of the species ; and in regard to star- lings, the massing of great congregations or " murmurations " in London and in other big towns is tolerably new. Perhaps Spectator correspondents who have helped to date the arrival of the gulls will help also to date the starlings' change of habit. When were the ledges of St. Paul's, of St. Martin's Church, of the British Museum and National Gallery, or the trees by the Savoy Chapel, first occupied by 'multitudes ? The starling is, of course, a famous mimic ; and though I do not think his arrival in London was an imitation of the gulls', he has copied some of their ways. I have watchA them picking up scraps off the flowing waters of the Thames with awkward success. Their short wings and heavy bodies arc ill-fitted for the job, but are good enough if the temptation, and therefore the intention, are strong. A very surprising addition to the birds of London is reported by the Chancellor of the Exchequer, who saw that loveliest of our small birds, 'a grey wagtail, in St. James's Park. The species is, I think, multiplying near London.
W. BrAcii Tuoarss, -
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