THE TUFTED TITMOUSE. 17

devouring the brain. They are of a quar-
relsome disposition, and often attack
larger birds, when defending their young.
Their voice is harsh, and their flesh
scarcely any better than that of the crow.
The Tufted Titmouse is the most beauti-
ful of the tribe. It is six inches and a
half long; crested; dark bluish-ash color ;
beneath, whitish; front, black. It is
sometimes called the Peto, on account of
its singular call, “ peto, peto.” The Tit-
mouse may be made very familiar in a
cage. It is fed on hemp-seed, cherry
stones, apple-pippins, and hickory nuts.