The Sparrow and Division of Labour

Abstract

THE following curious fact may possibly interest your ornithological readers:—Last year and the year previous two pairs of swallows made their nests and successfully reared their broods under the eaves of my house. Within the past fortnight a brace of astute London sparrows have apparently recognised the principle of division of labour as applicable to their requirements in the art of nest-building. They have selected the largest and most substantial of the swallows' nests referred to; and, after devoting a day or two, on starting on their enterprise, to the enlargement of the entrance hole, which was probably too narrow for them, have constructed their bed within of bits of grass and feathers in the usual fashion. They are now enjoying their honeymoon in their new quarters.