This bird is about the same size, and closely allied to the Nightingale, although placed by naturalists in a different genera. It does not require that care and attention, nor the variety of food which the Nightingale does; and by many the notes of the Black Cap are thought fully equal, and by some superior, to the Nightingale. We have never had the pleasure of keeping this bird. Until within a few years it was was very rare in Scotland; it is now more common, and is more equally distributed through England. Formerly, it was only found in particular districts. In Germany it is named the Monk, from its black cap.* The notes of this bird are similar to the Nightingale; it also sings in the night. The female sings in strains, it is said, resembling the song of the Robin Red Breast.

Food

It is recommended to feed this bird the same as the Robin Red Breast; and I have no doubt it might be kept well on the same food as the American Mocking Bird. It eats of wild berries freely.

Characteristics Of The Sexes

The male of this bird has the upper parts of a bluish gray, the top and back of the head, down as far as the eyes, jet black; the lower parts are of grayish white. The female has head (where black on the male,) of a yellowish brown, the under parts are of a brownish white.

Location

The range of this species seems to be fully as extensive as the other preserved specimens, having been sent from Japan and Java.+ It is found in Norway and Lapland, in the Azores, and in Madeira. In Europe it is migratory.

* Bechstein.

+ Naturalist's Library.