BIRD′LIME

Syn. Vis′cus , L.; Glu , Fr.; Vogelleim , Ger. Prep. The middle bark of the holly (gathered in June or July) is boiled for 6 to 8 hours in water, or until it becomes quite soft and tender; the water is then drained off, and it is placed in a heap, in a pit underground (commonly on layers of fern), and covered with stones. Here it is left to ferment for 2 or 3 weeks, and watered, if nece ary, until it a umes a mucilaginous state. It is next pounded in a mortar until reduced to a uniform ma , which is then well kneaded with the hands in running water, until all the refuse matter is worked out. It is, lastly, placed in an earthen ve el, and covered with a little water; in which state it may be preserved from season to season. In about a week it is fit for use. Prop. Greenish coloured: very gluey, stringy, and tenacious; when air-dried, brittle and pulverisable, but capable of gradually a uming its previous viscosity when moistened. Uses. To cover twigs to catch birds, and other small animals. It is said to be discutient, but is now never employed in medicine. Obs. Birdlime may also be made from mistletoe berries, the young shoots of the elder, the bark of the wayfaring-tree, and some other vegetables, by a similar proce to that above described. Should any of it stick to the hands it may be removed by means of a little oil of turpentine. A kind of factitious birdlime is made by boiling linseed oil either with, or without, a little yellow resin, until it forms a viscid, stringy paste when cold. This is chiefly used, spread on paper or cloth, to catch insects. See Fly-papers , .