CHAP. 94.—THE METHOD OF MAKING BIRDLIME.
Birdlime is made of the berries of the mistletoe, which are
gathered at harvest, and while in an unripe state; for if the
rainy season comes on, though they increase in size, the viscous
juice is apt to lose its virtues. They are then dried, [Note] and
when brought to a state of perfect aridity, are first pounded,
and then put in water, in which they are left to rot for twelve
days; this being, in fact, the only thing that finds improve-
ment in decay. After this, they are again beaten in running
water with a mallet, and after losing the outer coat there is
only the viscous inner pulp remaining. This substance is
birdlime; and after it has been thinned by the addition of
walnut oil, it is found particularly useful for catching birds,
it being quite sufficient if they only touch it with the wings.