It has been observed that martins usually
build to a north-east or north-west aspect, that the heat of the sun
may not crack and destroy their nests: but instances are also
remembered where they bred for many years in vast abundance in
an hot stifled inn-yard, against a wall facing to the south.
Birds in general are wise in their choice of situation: but in this
neighbourhood every summer is seen a strong proof to the contrary
at an house without eaves in an exposed district, where some
martins build year by year in the corners of the windows. But, as
the corners of these windows (which face to the south-east and
south-west) are too shallow, the nests are washed down every hard
rain; and yet these birds drudge on to no purpose from summer to
summer, without changing their aspect or house. It is a piteous
sight to see them labouring when half their nest is washed away
and bringing dirt .... 'generis lapsi sarcire ruinas.' Thus is instinct a
most wonderful unequal faculty; in some instances so much above
reason, in other respects so far below it! Martins love to frequent
towns, especially if there are great lakes and rivers at hand; nay,
they even affect the close air of London.
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