Page:Natural History, Birds.djvu/40

Rh nest. This contained four young, which were brought up at the same time with many pigeons. The nests containing the latter were on every side, but the Owls never attempted to molest either the parents or their young. As may be conjectured, the Owl's nest was frequently inspected during the progress of the young birds; on the shelf beside them, never less than six, and often fifteen mice and young rats (no birds were ever seen;) have been observed; and this was the number they had left after the night's repast. The parent Owls, when undisturbed, remained all day in the pigeon loft."

The food of the Owl is generally swallowed whole; and the bones and hair, and other indigestible parts are afterwards rejected through the throat, pressed into hard and dry pellets. In places where a pair of Owls have long been accustomed to resort, these castings accumulate in vast heaps.

Like others of this Family, the White Owl is remarkable for the harshness of its voice. During flight it will occasionally utter frightful screams. Mr. Yarrell says that it does not generally hoot; but Sir William Jardine, who shot one in the act of hooting, asserts, that at night, when not alarmed, hooting is its general cry. It also snores and hisses, and when annoyed, snaps its beak loudly.

The White Owl lays five or six eggs, but not all at once, for she lays after some young are already hatched; so that young birds, advanced eggs and fresh-laid eggs may be frequently found in the same nest. The eggs are as large as those of a hen, of a rounded form and pure white.