I wouldn't let them put my picture last in the book as they did my
cousin's picture in March "BIRDS." I told them I would screech if they
did.
You don't see me as often as you do the Blue-bird, Robin, Thrush and
most other birds, but it is because you don't look for me. Like all
other owls I keep quiet during the day, but when night comes on, then my
day begins. I would just as soon do as the other birds--be busy during
the day and sleep during the night--but really I can't. The sun is too
bright for my eyes and at night I can see very well. You must have your
folks tell you why this is.
I like to make my nest in a hollow orchard tree, or in a thick
evergreen. Sometimes I make it in a hay loft. Boys and girls who live in
the country know what a hay loft is.
People who know me like to have me around, for I catch a good many mice,
and rats that kill small chickens. All night long I fly about so quietly
that you could not hear me. I search woods, fields, meadows, orchards,
and even around houses and barns to get food for my baby owls and their
mamma. Baby owls are queer children. They never get enough to eat, it
seems. They are quiet all day, but just as soon as the sun sets and
twilight gathers, you should see what a wide awake family a nest full of
hungry little screech owls can be.
Did you ever hear your mamma say when she couldn't get baby to sleep at
night, that he is like a little owl? You know now what she means. I
think I hear my little folks calling for me so I'll be off. Good night
to you, and good morning for me.
[Illustration: From col. F. M. Woodruff.
ORCHARD ORIOLE.
4/5 Life-size.]