When ducks and geese flit to and fro restlessly, or are unusually sportive, and frequently wash themselves in ponds and pools, rain may be expected. When fowls congregate outside the hen-house instead of going to roost, wet weather is at hand. When guinea-fowls clamour rain may be expected. Peacocks crying in shrill notes prophesy high winds and rain. A severe winter is indicated by the early appearance of woodcock.
Fair weather is at hand when many quails are heard in the evening.
When rooks fly high, storm winds are following. When thrushes sing at sunset fair weather will follow. When three or four magpies fly together and utter harsh cries very windy weather may be expected. Pigeons always wash much before rain, and return home slowly. Larks flying high and singing long predict fine, warm weather.