Note.—A sharp, rolling “kr-r-r-r-r.” (Chapman.)

Nest.—Supposed to be in hollow trees, where they lay from three to five

white eggs (1.31 × 1.06).

Range.—Formerly the southern states, but now confined to the interior of

Florida and, possibly, Indian Territory.

[Illustration: ]

GROOVE-BILLED ANI

384. Crotophaga sulcirostris. 14½ inches

Anis are fairly abundant in southern Texas along the Rio Grande. Like all

the members of the family of Cuckoos, their nesting habits are very

irregular; ofttimes a number of them will unite and form one large nest

in a bush, in which all deposit their eggs. The eggs are bluish-green,

covered with a white chalky deposit (1.25 × .95).

ROAD-RUNNER

385. Geococcyx californianus. 23 inches

In the southwestern portions of our country, from Texas and Kansas west

to the Pacific, these curious birds are commonly found. They are locally

known as “Ground Cuckoos,” “Snake-killers,” “Chaparral Cocks.” They are

very fond of lizards and small snakes, which form a large part of their

fare. They are very fleet runners, but fly only indifferently well. Their

four to ten white eggs are laid on frail nests of twigs, in bushes.

[Illustration: ]

MANGROVE CUCKOO

386. Coccyzus minor. 13 inches.

These buff-breasted Cuckoos are natives of Cuba and Central America,

being found in southern Florida only during the summer. The habits of all

the American Cuckoos are practically identical and their notes or songs

can only be distinguished from one another by long familiarity.

YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO

387. Coccyzus americanus. 12¼ inches

This species is the most abundant in the southern part of its range,

while the Black-bill is the most common in the North. Notice that the

lower mandible is yellowish, that the wings are largely rufous, and that

the outer tail feathers are black, with broad white tips, these points

readily distinguishing this species from the next. The eggs of this

species are large and paler colored than the next (1.20 × .90). They

breed from the Gulf to southern Canada and winter in Central America.

[Illustration: ]

BLACK-BILLED CUCKOO

388. Coccyzus erythropthalmus. 11¾ inches

Cuckoos are of quiet and retiring habits, but on account of their

mournful notes are often regarded with awe by the superstitious. They are

one of our most valuable birds, for they consume quantities of the fuzzy

Tent Caterpillars, that are so destructive.

Their short, rounded wings and long, broad tails give them a silent,

gliding flight that often enables them to escape unnoticed.

Note.—A low guttural croak, “cow,” “cow,” etc., repeated a great many

times and sometimes varied with “cow-uh,” also repeated many times.

Nest.—Flat, shabby platforms of twigs placed at low elevations in

thickets or on the lower branches of trees. The four greenish-blue eggs

are 1.15 × .85.

Range.—United States and southern Canada, east of the Rockies. Arrives in

May and leaves in September for northern South America.

[Illustration: ]

BELTED KINGFISHER

390. Ceryle aleyon. 13 inches

The male has the breast band and sides blue-gray, like the back, while

the female has chestnut-colored sides and breast band in addition to a

gray band.

Kingfishers may be found about ponds, lakes, rivers, the seaside or small

creeks; anywhere that small fish may be obtained. Their food is entirely

of fish that they catch by diving for, from their perches on dead

branches, or by hovering over the water until the fish are in proper

positions and then plunging after them.

Note.—A very loud, harsh rattle, easily heard half a mile away on a

clear, quiet day.

Nest.—At the end of a two or three foot tunnel in a sand bank. The tunnel

terminates in an enlarged chamber where the five to eight glossy white

eggs (1.35 × 1.05) are laid upon the sand.

Range.—Whole of North America north to the Arctic regions. Winters from

southern United States southward.

[Illustration: ]

TEXAS KINGFISHER

391. Ceryle americana septentrionalis. 8 inches

The adult male of this species has a rufous breast band, while the female

has only a greenish one.

The Texan Green Kingfisher is the smallest member of the family found

within our borders. You will notice that all Kingfishers have the two

outer toes on each foot joined together for about two thirds of their

length. This has been brought about through their habit of excavating in

sand banks for nesting sites. It is quite probable that at some future

distant period the three forward toes may be connected for their whole

length, so as to give them a still more perfect shovel.

Note.—A rattling cry, more shrill than that of the Belted Kingfisher.

Nest.—The four to six glossy white eggs are laid on the sand at the end

of a horizontal burrow in a bank, the end being enlarged into a chamber

sufficiently large to allow the parent bird to turn about.

Range.—Southwestern border of the United States, from southern Texas to

Arizona.

[Illustration: ]

IVORY-BILLED WOODPECKER

392. Campephilus principalis. 20 inches

Male with a scarlet crest, female with a black one.

These are the largest and most rare of the Woodpeckers found within our

borders. Their decline in numbers is due, to a certain extent, to the

killing of them because of their size and beauty, but chiefly on account

of cutting off of a great deal of the heavy timber where they nest. They

are very powerful birds and often scale the bark off the greater portion

of a tree in search for insects and grubs, while they will bore into the

heart of a living tree to make their home.

Note.—A shrill two-syllabled shriek or whistle.

Nest.—In holes of large trees in impenetrable swamps. On the chips at the

bottom of the cavity, they lay from three to six glossy, pure white eggs

(1.45 × 1.00).

Range.—Formerly the South Atlantic States and west to Texas and Indian

Territory, but now confined to a few isolated portions of Florida and,

possibly, Indian Territory.

[Illustration: ]

HAIRY WOODPECKER

393. Dryobates villosus. 9 inches

In summer these Woodpeckers are found in heavy woods, where they breed,

but in Winter they are often seen on trees about houses, even in the

larger cities, hunting in all the crevices of the bark in the hope of

locating the larva of some insect. They usually are more shy than the

Downy, from which they can readily be distinguished by their much larger

size.

Note.—A sharp whistled “peenk.”

Nest.—In holes in trees in deep woods; three to six glossy white eggs

(59. × .70).

Range.—Eastern U. S. from Canada to North Carolina.

Sub-Species.—393a. Northern Hairy Woodpecker (leucomelas), British

America and Alaska; larger, 393b. Southern Hairy Woodpecker (audubonii),

South Atlantic and Gulf States; smaller. The difference between these

birds is small and chiefly in size, although the southern bird often has

fewer white marks on the wing coverts. Other sub-species are found west

of the Rockies.

[Illustration: ]

SOUTHERN DOWNY WOODPECKER

394. Dryobates pubescens. 6 inches

The male has a red nuchal patch while the female has none. Downies are

one of the commonest of our Woodpeckers and are usually tame, allowing a

very close approach before flying. They remain in orchards and open woods

throughout the summer, and in winter often come to the windows in places

where they are fed, as many people are in the habit of doing now. Their

food, as does that of nearly all the Woodpeckers, consists entirely of

insects, grubs and larvæ.

Note.—A sharp “peenk” or a rapid series of the same note, usually not as

loud as that of the Hairy Woodpecker.

Nest.—In holes in trees in orchards or woods; the four to six white eggs

being laid on the bare wood; size .75 × .60.

Range.—South Atlantic and Gulf States.

Sub-Species.—Northern Downy Woodpecker (medianus) North America east of

the Rockies and north of the Carolinas. This variety is slightly larger

than the southern, others are found west of the Rockies.

[Illustration: ]

RED-COCKADED WOODPECKER

395. Dryobates borealis. 8¼ inches

Male with a small patch of scarlet on both sides of the head; female

without. The actions and habits are very similar to those of the Downy.

The birds can readily be identified at a distance by the cross-barring of

white on the back. Their notes are harsher than those of the Downy and

have more of the nasal quality, like those of the nuthatches.

Range.—Southeastern United States, west to Texas and north to Virginia.

TEXAN WOODPECKER

396. Dryobates scalaris bairdi. 7¼ inches

On account of its numerous cross-bars, this species is often known as the

Ladder-backed Woodpecker. They are quite similar to the Nuttall

Woodpecker that is found on the Pacific Coast, but differ in having the

underparts brownish-white instead of white, and the outer tail feathers

heavily barred. They are found from Texas to southeastern California and

north to Colorado.

[Illustration: ]

ARCTIC THREE-TOED WOODPECKER

400. Picoides arcticus. 9.5 inches

Back glossy black, without any white. Only three toes, two in front and

one behind. This is the most common of the two species found within the

United States. They breed from the northern edge of the Union north to

the limit of trees.

AMERICAN THREE-TOED WOODPECKER

401. Picoides americanus. 8¾ inches

Back barred with white; outer tail feathers barred with black; yellow

crown patch on male mixed with white. Except on some of the higher

mountain ranges these birds appear in the United States only during

winter. They are very hardy and commence nesting before snow leaves.

Note.—A shrill, loud, nasal shriek, sometimes repeated.

Nest.—In holes of trees as is usual with Woodpeckers. The white eggs

measure .95 × .70.

[Illustration: ]

YELLOW-BELLIED SAPSUCKER

402. Sphyrapicus varius. 8½ inches

Male with a scarlet crown and throat; female with a scarlet crown and

white throat; young with the head and neck mottled gray and white, with a

few scarlet feathers.

This species has gained some ill-repute because of its supposed habit of

boring through the bark of trees in order to get at the sap, and thus

killing the trees. However, I very much doubt if they do any appreciable

damage in this manner. I have watched a great many of them in the spring

and fall and have clearly seen that they were feeding upon insects in the

same way as the Downy.

Note.—A loud whining “whee,” and other harsh calls similar to the scream

of a Blue Jay.

Nest.—In holes in trees, at heights from the ground varying from eight to

fifty feet. Late in May they lay from four to seven white eggs (.85 ×

.60).

Range.—U. S. east of the Rockies, breeding from Virginia and Missouri to

Hudson Bay, and wintering in southern U. S.

[Illustration: ]

PILEATED WOODPECKER

405. Phlœotomus pileatus. 17 inches

Male with a scarlet crown and crest, and a red moustache or mark

extending back from the bill; female with scarlet crest but a blackish

forehead and no moustache.

Next to the Ivory-bills, these are the largest of our Woodpeckers. Like

that species it is very destructive to trees in its search for food.

While engaged in this pursuit, they often drill large holes several

inches into sound wood to reach the object of their search. Like all the

Woodpeckers, they delight in playing tattoos on dry, resonant limbs with

their bills.

Note.—A whistled “cuk,” “cuk,” “cuk,” slowly repeated many times, also a

“wick-up” repeated several times.

Nest.—In large cavities in trees, in which they lay four to six white

eggs (1.30 × 1.00).

Range.—Southern United States. The Northern Pileated Woodpecker

(abietocola) is locally found in temperate N. A.

[Illustration: ]

RED-HEADED WOODPECKER

406. Melanerpes erytrocephalus. 9¾ inches

Adults with entire head and breast red; young with a gray head and back,

streaked with darker.

This very handsome species is common and very well known in the Middle

and Central States. They are the ruffians of the family, very noisy and

quarrelsome. One of their worst traits is the devouring of the eggs and

young of other birds. To partially offset this, they also eat insects and

grubs and a great deal of fruit.

Note.—A loud, whining “charr,” “charr,” besides numerous other calls and

imitations.

Nest.—Holes in trees in woods, orchards, or along roadsides and also in

fence posts or telegraph poles. In May and June they lay four to six

glossy white eggs (1.00 × .75).

Range.—United States east of the Rockies, breeding from the Gulf to New

York and Minnesota. Winters in southern United States.

[Illustration: ]

RED-BELLIED WOODPECKER

409. Centurus carolinus. 9½ inches

Male with whole top of head and back of neck red; female with forehead

and hind head red but crown gray. Both sexes have the centre of the belly

reddish, and have red eyes.

Like the Red-heads, these birds are noisy, but they have few of the bad

qualities of the others. Besides the regular Woodpecker fare, they get a

great many ants and beetles from the ground and fruit and acorns from the

trees. They are also said to be fond of orange juice. In most of their

range they are regarded as rather shy and retiring birds.

Note.—A sharp, resonant “cha,” “cha,” “cha,” repeated.

Nest.—In holes bored usually in live trees and at any height from the

ground. Their five or six eggs are glossy white (1.00 × .75).

Range.—United States east of the Plains, breeding from Florida and Texas

to southern Pennsylvania and Minnesota. Winters along the Gulf coast;

occasionally strays to Massachusetts.

[Illustration: ]

FLICKER

412. Colaptes auratus. 13 inches

Male with a black moustache mark; female without, although young females

in the first plumage show some black.

These birds are very often known as “Golden-winged Woodpeckers,”

“High-holes” and about a hundred other names in different localities.

Flickers are found commonly in woods, orchards, or trees by the roadside;

on pleasant days their rapidly uttered, rolling whistle may be heard at

all hours of the day.

Note.—A rapidly repeated whistle, “cuk,” “cuk,” “cuk”; an emphatic

“quit-u,” “quit-u,” and several others of a similar nature.

Nest.—A cavity in a tree, at any distance from the ground. The white eggs

usually vary in number from five to ten, but they have been known to lay

as many as seventy-one, where an egg was taken from the nest each day.

Range.—South Atlantic States. The Northern Flicker (luteus) is found in

North America east of the Rocky Mountains.

[Illustration: ]

RED-SHAFTED FLICKER

413. Colaptes cafer collaris. 13 inches

Crown brown and throat gray, these colors being just reversed from those

of the common Flicker.

The male is distinguished by a red moustache mark, which the female

lacks. The typical male Red-shafted Flicker lacks the red crescent on the

back of the head, but it is often present on individuals, as there are

numerous hybrids between this species and the preceding. Flickers are

more terrestrial in their habits than are any others of the family; their

food consists largely of ants which they get from the ground.

Note.—Same as those of the last; both species often utter a purring

whistle when they are startled from the ground.

Nest.—The nesting habits are identical with those of the last and the

eggs cannot be distinguished.

Range.—From the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific.

[Illustration: ]

CHUCK-WILL’S-WIDOW

416. Antrostomus carolinensis. 12 inches

Male with the end half of the outer tail feathers white, and the edge of

the outer vanes rusty; female with no white ends to the feathers. Birds

of this family have small bills, but extremely large mouths adapted to

catching night-flying moths and other insects. They remain sleeping

during the day, either perched lengthwise on a limb or concealed beside a

stump or rock on the ground, their colors harmonizing with the

surroundings in either case. They fly, of their own accord, only at dusk

or in the early morning. This species, which is much the largest of our

Goatsuckers, is known to, at times, devour small birds, as such have been

found in their stomachs.

Note.—A loudly whistled and repeated “chuck-will’s-widow.”

Nest.—None, the two eggs being laid on the ground or dead leaves in

underbrush. Eggs white, blotched with gray and lavender (1.40 × 1.00).

Range.—South Atlantic and Gulf States, breeding north to Virginia and

Missouri, west to Texas.

[Illustration: ]

WHIP-POOR-WILL

417. Antrostomus vociferus. 9¾ inches

Male with broad white tips to outer tail feathers; female with narrow

buffy tips. These birds are often confounded with the Nighthawk, but are

very easily distinguished by the long bristles from the base of bill, the

black chin, the chestnut and black barred wing feathers and the rounded

tail. Whip-poor-wills are more nocturnal than Nighthawks and on moonlight

nights continue the whistled repetition of their name throughout the

night. They capture and devour a great many of the large-bodied moths

that are found in the woods, but are never seen flying over cities like

Nighthawks.

Note.—An emphatically whistled repetition of “whip-poor-will,”

“whip-poor-will.”

Nest.—In June they lay two grayish or creamy white eggs (1.15 × .85),

mottled with pale brown, gray and lilac. These are deposited on the

ground in woods.

Range.—East of the Plains, breeding from the Gulf to Manitoba and New

Brunswick. Winters south of the United States.

[Illustration: ]

POOR-WILL

418. Phalænoptilus nuttalli. 7½ inches

The female of this beautiful little Night-jar differs from the male only

in having narrow buffy tips to the outer tail feathers instead of broad

white ones. Like all the members of this family these birds are dusk

fliers, remaining at rest on the ground in daylight. Their frosted gray

plumage harmonizes so perfectly with their surroundings that it is almost

impossible to see them. Their eggs are nearly immaculate, but usually

show traces of the lavender blotches that mark others of the family.

Their call is a mournful “poor-will-ee.” They are found from the Plains

to the Pacific, but are not common east of the Rockies.

MERRILL PARAQUE

419. Nyctidromus albicollis merrilli. 13 inches

As usual with birds of this family, sexual difference in the plumage

occurs chiefly on the tips of the outer tail feathers. These birds are

common in the Lower Rio Grande Valley in Texas. Their eggs differ from

any of the preceding in having a salmon-colored ground.

[Illustration: ]

NIGHTHAWK

420. Chordeiles virginianus. 10 inches

Male with white throat and white band across tail; female with rusty

throat and no white on tail. Notice that the Nighthawk has a forked tail

and white band across the wings, thus being readily distinguished at a

distance from the Whip-poor-will.

Note.—A loud nasal “peent.”

Nest.—None, the two mottled gray and white eggs being laid on bare rocks

in pastures, on the ground or underbrush, or on gravel roofs in cities;

size 1.20 × .85.

Range.—United States east of the Plains, breeding from Florida to

Labrador; winters south of United States. Three sub-species occur: 420a.

Western Nighthawk (henryi), west of the Plains; 420b. Florida Nighthawk

(chapmani); 420c. Sennett Nighthawk (sennetti), a pale race found on the

Plains north to Saskatchewan.

TEXAN NIGHTHAWK

421. Chordeiles acutipennis texensis

This species is found in southern Texas and New Mexico. It differs from

the last in having the primaries spotted with rusty, like those of the

whip-poor-will.

[Illustration: ]

CHIMNEY SWIFT

423. Chætura pelagica. 5½ inches

Unused chimneys of old dwellings make favorite roosting and nesting

places for these smoke-colored birds. They originally dwelt in hollow

trees until the advent of man furnished more convenient places, although

we would scarcely consider the soot-lined brick surface as good as a

clean hollow tree. Spines on the end of each tail feather enable them to

hang to their upright walls, and to slowly hitch their way to the outer

world. Throughout the day numbers of them are scouring the air for their

fare of insects, but as night approaches, they return to the chimney.

Note.—A continuous and not unmusical twittering uttered while on the wing

and also within the depths of the chimney.

Nest.—Made of small twigs or sticks glued to the sides of a chimney and

each other by the bird’s saliva. The three to five white eggs are long

and narrow (.75 × .50).

Range.—N. A. east to the Plains, breeding from Florida to Labrador;

winters south of U. S.

[Illustration: ]

WHITE-THROATED SWIFT

425. Aeronautes melanoleucus. 6½ inches

This beautiful swift is one of the most graceful of winged creatures. Its

flight is extremely rapid and its evolutions remarkable. They nest in

communities, thousands of them often congregating about the tops of

inaccessible cliffs, in the crevices of which they make their homes. No

bird has a more appropriate generic name than this species—“aeronautes,”

meaning sailor of the air; he is a sailor of the air and a complete

master of the art.

Note.—Loud, shrill twittering, uttered chiefly while on the wing.

Nest.—Placed at the end of burrows in earthy cliffs or as far back as

possible between crevices in rocks; usually in inaccessible places and as

high as possible from the ground. It is a saucer-shaped structure made of

vegetable materials cemented together with saliva, and lined with

feathers. The four white eggs measure .87 × .52.

Range.—From the eastern foothills of the Rockies to the Pacific; north to

Montana and northern California.

[Illustration: ]

RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD

428. Archilochus colubris. 3½ inches

This little gem is the only one of the family found within the territory

included in this book. Owners of flower gardens have the best

opportunities to study these winged jewels, on their many trips to and

fro for honey, or the insects that are also attracted thereby. With

whirring wings, they remain suspended before a blossom, then—buzz—and

they are examining the next, with bill lost within the sweet depths.

Their temper is all out of proportion to their size, for they will dash

at an intruder about their moss-covered home as though they would pierce

him like a bullet. Their angry twitters and squeaks are amusing and

surprising, as are their excitable actions.

Nest.—A most beautiful creation of plant fibres and cobwebs adorned with

lichens and resembling a little tuft of moss upon the bough on which it

is placed. In June two tiny white eggs are laid (.50 × .35).

Range.—N. A. east of the Rockies, breeding from the Gulf north to

Labrador and Hudson Bay; winters south of U. S.

[Illustration: ]

SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHER

443. Muscivora forficata. 14½ inches

This pretty creature is the most graceful in appearance of the Flycatcher

family, if not of the whole order of perching birds. In the southwest it

is frequently known as the “Texan Bird of Paradise.” Its habits are very

much like those of the Kingbird; as it gracefully swings through the air

in pursuit of insects, it frequently opens and shuts its scissor-like

tail. They are usually found in open country or on the borders of

woodland. They rarely alight on the ground, for their long tails make

them walk very awkwardly, but when they are a-wing they are the

embodiment of grace.

Note.—A shrill “tzip,” “tzip,” similar to notes of Kingbirds.

Nest.—Quite large; built of all kinds of trash, such as twigs, grasses,

paper, rags, string, etc.; placed in any kind of a tree or bush and at

any height. The four or five creamy white eggs are spotted with brown

(.90 × .67).

Range.—Breeds from Texas north to Kansas; winters south of U. S.

[Illustration: ]

KINGBIRD

444. Tyrannus tyrannus. 8½ inches.

Adults with a concealed orange crown patch; young with none. From the

time of their arrival in May until they leave us in August, Kingbirds are

much in evidence in farmyards and orchards. They are one of the most

noisy birds, always quarreling about something, and usually coming off

victorious in whatever they may undertake. Crows are objects of hatred to

them, and they always drive them from the neighborhood, vigorously

dashing upon and picking them from above and often following them for a

great distance. They have their favorite perches from which they watch

for insects, usually a dead branch, a fence post, or a tall stalk in the

field.

Note.—A series of shrill, harsh sounds like “thsee,” “thsee.”

Nest.—Of sticks, rootlets, grass, string, etc., placed in orchard trees

or open woods at any height. Four or five creamy white eggs, specked and

spotted with reddish brown (.95 × .70).

Range.—Breeds from the Gulf to southern Canada.

[Illustration: ]

GRAY KINGBIRD

445. Tyrannus dominicensis. 9 inches

Differs from the common Kingbird in being larger and gray above; has

black ear coverts, and no white tip to tail.

Like the last species, these are very noisy and pugnacious, and rule

their domains with the hand of a tyrant. After they have mated they

quarrel very little among themselves, and often several may use the same

lookout twig from which to dash after passing flies or moths.

Note.—A rapidly repeated, shrill shriek: “pe-che-ri,” “pe-che-ri.”

Nest.—Rather more shabbily built but of the same materials as those used

by our common Kingbird. Placed in all kinds of trees, but more often in

mangroves, where they are commonly found. Three to five pinkish-white

eggs, profusely blotched with brown (1.00 × .72).

Range.—West Indies and Florida, Georgia and South Carolina. Winters in

the West Indies and Central America.

[Illustration: ]

ARKANSAS KINGBIRD

447. Tyrannus verticalis. 9 inches

These tyrant flycatchers are abundant west of the Mississippi, where they

are often, and perhaps more aptly, known as the Western Kingbirds. If

possible, they are even more noisy and pugnacious than the eastern

species. They have a great variety of notes, all rather unpleasant to the

ear. Their food, like that of the other Kingbirds, consists of moths,

butterflies, ants, grasshoppers, crickets, etc., etc., most of which they

catch on the wing.

Note.—A shrill, metallic squeak; a low twittering and a harsh, discordant

scream, all impossible to print.

Nest.—Quite large and clumsily made of paper, rags, twigs, rootlets, and

grasses, placed in all sorts of locations, frequently in eave troughs or

above windows. The eggs are creamy white, spotted with brown (.95 × .65).

Range.—Western United States, breeding from Texas to Manitoba and west to

the Pacific; winters south of U. S.

[Illustration: ]

DERBY FLYCATCHER

449. Pitangus sulphuratus derbianus. 10½ inches

This imposing flycatcher is the largest of the family that is found in

North America. As usual with members of the family it is of a quarrelsome

disposition, but hardly so much so as either the common or Arkansas

Kingbirds. Their large, heavy bodies render them considerably less active

than the smaller members of the family. On account of the size of the

head and bill, they are often known as Bull-headed Flycatchers.

Note.—Very varied, but similar in character to those of the eastern

Kingbird.

Nest.—It is said to build its nest at low elevations in trees or in

thorny bushes—a large structure of twigs and rubbish with an entrance on

the side. The three to five eggs have a cream-colored ground and are

prominently specked about the large end with brown (1.15 × .82).

Range.—A Mexican species that is fairly common in the Lower Rio Grande

Valley of Texas.

[Illustration: ]

CRESTED FLYCATCHER

452. Myiarchus crinitus. 9 inches

These large flycatchers are very noisy in the mating season, but their

notes are rather more musical than those of the Kingbirds. They appear to

be of a quarrelsome disposition, for rarely will more than one pair be

found in a single piece of woods. They also frequently chase smaller

birds, but never attack larger ones, as do the Kingbirds. They have a

queer habit of placing a piece of snakeskin in the hole in which their

nest is located, for what purpose, unless to scare away intruders, is not

known, but it seems to be a universal practice.

Note.—A clear whistle, “wit-whit,” “wit-whit,” repeated several times.

This is the most common call; they have many others less musical.

Nest.—Of straw, etc., in holes of dead limbs. Eggs four to six in number;

buffy white, streaked and blotched with brown.

Range.—Eastern N. A. from the Plains to the Atlantic, breeding north to

southern Canada.

[Illustration: ]

PHŒBE

456. Sayornis phœbe. 7 inches

A Phœbe is always associated, in my mind, with old bridges and bubbling

brooks. Nearly every bridge which is at all adapted for the purpose has

its Phœbe home beneath it, to which the same pair of birds will return

year after year, sometimes building a new nest, sometimes repairing the

old. They seem to be of a nervous temperament, for, as they sit upon

their usual lookout perch, their tails are continually twitching as

though in anticipation of the insects that are sure to pass sooner or

later.

Note.—A jerky, emphatic “phœ-be,” with the accent on the second syllable,

and still further accented by a vigorous flirt of the tail.

Nest.—Of mud, grasses, and moss, plastered to the sides of beams or logs

under bridges, culverts, or barns. In May or June four or five white eggs

are laid (.75 × .55).

Range.—N. A. east of the Rockies, north to southern Canada; winters in

southern U. S. and southward.

[Illustration: ]

OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER

459. Nuttallornis borealis. 7½ inches

These birds can scarcely be called common any where, but single pairs of

them may be found, in their breeding range, in suitable pieces of

woodland. I have always found them in dead pine swamps, where the trees

were covered with hanging moss, making it very difficult to locate their

small nests. Their peculiar, loud, clear whistle can be heard for a long

distance and serves as a guide-board to their location.

Note.—A loud, clear whistle, “whip-wheeu,” the first syllable short and

sharp, the last long and drawn out into a plaintive ending.

Nest.—A small structure for the size of the bird, made of twigs and

mosses firmly anchored to horizontal limbs or forks. Three to five eggs

are laid; a rich creamy ground, spotted about the large end with brown

and lavender (.85 × .65).

Range.—N. A., breeding from the latitude of Massachusetts, and farther

south in mountainous regions, north to Labrador and Alaska.

[Illustration: ]

WOOD PEWEE

461. Myiochanes virens. 6½ inches

In life, the Pewee can best be distinguished from the larger Phœbe, with

which it is often confounded, by its sad, plaintive “pe-ah-wee,”

“pee-wee” which is strikingly different from the brusque call of the

Phœbe. Pewees are also found more in high, dry woods where they build

their little moss-covered homes on horizontal boughs at quite a height

from the ground. Like the other flycatchers they always perch on dead

twigs, where their view is as little obstructed as possible.

Note.—A clear, plaintive whistle, “pe-ah-whee,” “pee-wee.”

Nest.—One of the most exquisite of bird creations, composed of plant

fibres quilted together and ornamented with rock lichens; situated at

varying heights on horizontal limbs, preferably oak or chestnut, and

sometimes in apple trees in orchards. Eggs creamy white, specked with

brown (.80 × .55).

Range.—U. S. from the Plains to the Atlantic and north to Manitoba and

New Brunswick; winters in Central America.

[Illustration: ]

YELLOW-BELLIED FLYCATCHER

463. Empidonax flaviventris. 5½ inches

These strange little Flycatchers are found in swamps such as those

usually frequented by Olive-sided Flycatchers and Parula Warblers. They

are one of the few of the family to nest on the ground or very close to

it. Their homes are made in the moss-covered mounds or stumps found in

these swamps.

Range.—N. A. east of the Plains north to Labrador, breeding from northern

U. S. northward.

GREEN-CRESTED OR ACADIAN FLYCATCHER

465. Empidonax virescens. 5½ inches

This bird is very similar to the last, but the lower mandible is light,

and the throat and belly white. Their favorite resorts are shady woods

not far from water. Here they nest in the outer branches of bushes or

trees at heights of from four to twenty feet from the ground. The nests

are shallow and composed of twigs and moss. Eggs creamy with brown spots.

Range.—U. S. east of Plains, breeding from the Gulf to New England and

Manitoba; winters in the Tropics.

[Illustration: ]

ALDER FLYCATCHER

466a. Empidonas trailli alnorum. 6 inches

This species is very similar to, but larger, than the well-known Least

Flycatcher or Chebec. They are found in swampy pastures or around the

edges of ponds or lakes, where they nest in low bushes.

Range.—U. S. east of the Mississippi, breeding from New York to New

Brunswick.

LEAST FLYCATCHER

467. Empidonax minimus. 5½ inches

Smaller than the last and with the tail slightly forked. Common

everywhere in orchards, swamps, or along roadsides. They are very often

known by the name of “Chebec,” because their notes resemble that word.

Their nests are placed in upright forks of any kind of trees or bushes;

they are made of plant fibres and grasses closely felted together. The

eggs range from three to five in number and are creamy white, without

markings; size .65 × .50.

Range.—N. A. east of the Rockies, breeding from middle U. S. north to New

Brunswick and Manitoba.

[Illustration: ]

VERMILION FLYCATCHER

471. Pyrocephalus rubinus mexicanus. 6 inches

Female with only a slight tinge of pink, where the male is brilliant

vermilion.

This is the most gorgeously plumed species of the American Flycatchers.

It has all the active traits of the family and, to those who are only

accustomed to the demure gray plumage of most eastern species, the first

sight of this one as he dashes after an insect is a sight never to be

forgotten.

Note.—During the mating season the male often gives a twittering song

while poised in the air, accompanying it by loud snapping of the

mandibles.

Nest.—Saddled on limbs of trees at low elevations from the ground;

composed of small twigs and vegetable fibres closely felted together and

often adorned on the outside with lichens similar to the nests of the

Wood Pewee. The four eggs are of a creamy-buff color with bold spots of

brown and lilac, in a wreath around the large end (.73 × .54).

Range.—Mexican border of the United States, from Texas to Arizona.

[Illustration: ]

HORNED LARK

474. Otocoris alpestris. 7¾ inches

This variety, which is larger than its sub-species, is only found in the

U. S. in winter, but several of the sub-species are residents in our

limits. During the mating season they have a sweet song that is uttered

on the wing, like that of the Bobolink.

Note.—Alarm note and call a whistled “tseet,” “tseet”; song a low, sweet,

and continued warble.

Nest.—A hollow in the ground lined with grass; placed in fields and

usually partially concealed by an overhanging sod or stone. The three to

five eggs have a grayish ground color and are profusely specked and

blotched with gray and brownish. (.85 × .60).

Range.—Breeds in Labrador and about Hudson Bay; south in winter to South

Carolina and Illinois.

Sub-Species.—474b. Prairie Horned Lark (praticola). A paler form usually

with the line over the eye white, found in the Mississippi Valley. 474c.

Desert Horned Lark (leucolæma). Paler and less distinctly streaked above

than the Prairie; found west of the Mississippi and north to Alberta.

[Illustration: ]

AMERICAN MAGPIE

475. Pica pica hudsonia. 20 inches

This handsome member of the Crow family is sure to attract the attention

of all who may see him. He is very pert in all his actions, both in trees

and on the ground, and is always ready for mischief. In a high wind their

long tail often makes traveling a laborious operation for them, and at

such times they usually remain quite quiet. They are very impudent and

always on the lookout for something to steal; they are also very noisy

and forever scolding and chattering among themselves.

Note.—A loud, harsh “cack,” “cack,” and an endless variety of whistles

and imitations.

Nest.—A large, globular heap of sticks placed in bushes or trees from

four to fifty feet from the ground. The entrance to the nest is on one

side and the interior is made of grass and mud. The four to six eggs are

white, thickly specked with yellowish brown (1.25 × .90).

Range.—Western North America, east to the Plains and north to Alaska;

resident.

[Illustration: ]

BLUE JAY

477. Cyanocitta cristata. 11½ inches

These are one of the best known and most beautiful birds that we have,

but, unfortunately, they have a very bad reputation. They often rob other

birds of their eggs and young as well as food and nesting material. They

are very active birds and are always engaged in gathering food, usually

acorns or other nuts, and hiding them away for future use.

Note.—A two-syllabled whistle or a harsh, discordant scream. Besides

these two common notes they make an endless variety of sounds mimicking

other birds.

Nest.—Of twigs and sticks in bushes or low trees, preferably young pines.

The four eggs are pale greenish blue specked with brown (1.10 × .80).

Range.—N. A. east of the Rockies from the Gulf to Labrador, resident in

the U. S. The Florida Blue Jay (florincola) is smaller and has less white

on wings and tail.

[Illustration: ]

FLORIDA JAY

479. Aphelocoma cyanea. 11½ inches

This Jay is locally distributed chiefly in the southern parts of Florida,

being found principally in scrub oaks. Like the Blue Jay, their food

consists of animal matter and some seeds, berries, and acorns. Their

habits are very similar to those of the northern bird and their calls

resemble those of our bird, too. They are rather slow in flight and pass

a great deal of their time upon the ground.

Note.—A “jay,” “jay,” similar to that of the Blue Jay, and a great

variety of other calls.

Nest.—In the latter part of March and in April they build their flat

nests of twigs, usually in bushes or scrub oaks, and lay three or four

greenish-blue eggs, with brown spots; size 1.05 × .80.

Range.—Middle and southern portions of Florida chiefly along the coasts.

[Illustration: ]

GREEN JAY

483. Xanthoura luxuosa glaucescens. 12 inches

These Jays are very beautiful, and we are sorry to have to admit that,

like all the other members of the family, they are merciless in their

treatment of smaller birds. During the summer their diet consists of raw

eggs with young birds “on the side,” or vice versa; later they live upon

nuts, berries, insects; in fact, anything that is edible.

Note.—Practically unlimited, being imitations of those of most of the

birds in the vicinity.

Nest.—Not easily found, as it is usually concealed in dense thickets. The

nests are like those of other Jays, loosely made of twigs and lined with

black rootlets. The four eggs that are laid in May have a grayish ground

color and are thickly spotted with several shades of brown and lilac.

They measure 1.05 × .80.

Range.—Fairly common in the Lower Rio Grande Valley in southern Texas.

[Illustration: ]

CANADA JAY

484. Perisoreus canadensis. 11½ inches

These birds are well known to hunters, trappers, and campers in the

northern woods. They are great friends, especially of the lumbermen, as

some of the pranks that they play serve to enliven an otherwise tedious

day. They seem to be devoid of fear and enter camp and carry off

everything, edible or not, that they can get hold of. They are called by

guides and lumbermen by various names, such as Whiskey Jack, Moose Bird,

etc.

Note.—A harsh “ca-ca-ca,” and various other sounds.

Nest.—Usually in coniferous trees at low elevations; made of twigs, moss,

and feathers. The three or four eggs are gray, specked and spotted with

darker (1.15 × .80). They nest early, usually before the snow begins to

leave the ground and often when the mercury is below zero.

Range.—Eastern North America from northern United States northward. 484c.

Labrador Jay (nigricapillus), which is found in Labrador, has the black

on the hind head deeper and extending forward around the eye.

[Illustration: ]

NORTHERN RAVEN

486a. Corvus corax principalis. 25 inches

The habits of all the ravens and crows are identical and are too well

known to need mention. They are all very destructive to young birds and

eggs. The Raven can be known by its large size, its very large bill, and

lanceolate feathers on the throat. They are found in the mountains from

Georgia and on the coast from Maine northward.

WHITE-NECKED RAVEN

487. Corvus cryptoleucus. 18½ inches

This species has the bases of the feathers on the back of the neck white.

Found in southwestern United States.

AMERICAN CROW

488. Corvus brachyrhynchos. 19 inches

The common Crow of North America, replaced in Florida by the very similar

Florida Crow (pascuus).

FISH CROW

490. Corvus ossifragus. 16 inches

This small species is found on the Atlantic Coast north to Massachusetts.

[Illustration: ]

CLARKE NUTCRACKER

491. Nucifraga columbiana. 12½ inches

Clarke Crows are found abundantly in all coniferous forest on the higher

mountains in their range. They are very peculiar birds, having some of

the traits of Woodpeckers, but more of those of the Jays.

They are very active, very noisy, and very inquisitive, sharing with the

Rocky Mountain Jay the names of “Camp Robber,” “Moose Bird,” etc. They

are great travellers and may, one season, be absent where they were

abundant the preceding one.

Notes.—Various calls and imitations like those of all others of the Jay

family.

Nest.—Of sticks, at high elevations on horizontal boughs of coniferous

trees. The four eggs have a pale greenish-gray ground, thickly sprinkled

with darker (1.25 × .92).

Range.—Mountains of western North America, casually east to Kansas.

[Illustration: ]

STARLING

493. Sturnus vulgaris. 8½ inches

Plumage metallic green and purple, heavily spotted above and below with

buffy or white.

These European birds were introduced into New York a number of years ago,

and are now common there and spreading to other localities in Connecticut

and about New York City. They live about the streets and in the parks,

building their nests in crevices of buildings and especially in the

framework of the elevated railroads of the city, and less often in trees.

They lay from four to six pale-blue, unspotted eggs (1.15 × .85). How

they will affect other bird life, in case they eventually become common

throughout the country, is a matter of conjecture, but from what I have

seen of them they are quarrelsome and are masters of the English Sparrow,

and may continue their domineering tactics to the extent of driving more

of our song birds from the cities.

[Illustration: ]

BOBOLINK

494. Dolichonyx oryzivorus. 7¼ inches

Bobolinks are to be found in rich grass meadows, from whence their sweet,

wild music is often borne to us by the breeze. While his mate is feeding

in the grass or attending to their domestic affairs, Mr. Bobolink is

usually to be found perched on the tip of a tree, weed stalk, or even on

a tall blade of grass, if no other spot of vantage is available, singing

while he stands guard to see that no enemies approach. He is a good

watchman and it is a difficult matter to flush his mate from the nest,

for she leaves at his first warning.

Song.—A wild, sweet, rippling repetition of his name with many additional

trills and notes. Alarm note a harsh “chah” like that of the Blackbird.

Nest.—Of grasses in a hollow on the ground, in meadows. They lay four to

six eggs with a white ground color, heavily spotted, clouded and blotched

with brown (.85 × .62).

Range.—N. A. east of the Rockies, breeding from New Jersey and Kansas

north to Manitoba and New Brunswick; winters in South America.

[Illustration: ]

COWBIRD

495. Molothrus ater. 7¾ inches

Male glossy greenish black, with a brown head; female and young, dull

gray.

Groups of these birds are often seen walking sedately about among the

cows in the pasture, hence their name. They are the only birds that we

have that neither make a nest of their own nor care for their young. The

female slyly deposits her egg in the nest of a smaller bird when the

owner is absent, leaving further care of it to its new owner. Warblers,

Sparrows and Vireos seem to be most imposed upon in this manner.

Notes.—A low “chack,” and by the male a liquid, wiry squeak accompanied

by a spreading of the wings and tail.

Range.—U. S., chiefly east of the Rockies, breeding from the Gulf to

Manitoba and New Brunswick; winters in southern U. S. A sub-species, the

Dwarf Cowbird (obscurus), is found in southwestern United States; it is

slightly smaller.

[Illustration: ]

YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRD

497. Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus. 10 inches

Male black, with head and breast bright yellow; female more brownish and

with head paler and mixed with brown.

These handsome birds are common locally on the prairies, frequenting

sloughs and extensive marshes and borders of lakes. They are very

sociable birds and breed in large colonies, sometimes composed of

thousands of birds.

Notes.—A harsh “chack,” and what is intended for a song, consisting of

numerous, queer-sounding squeaks, they being produced during seemingly

painful contortions of the singer.

Nest.—Of rushes woven around upright canes over water, in ponds and

sloughs. The nest is placed at from four inches to two feet from the

water and is quite deep inside. The four to six eggs are grayish,

profusely specked with pale brown (1.00 × .70).

Range.—U. S., chiefly west of the Mississippi, north to British Columbia

and Hudson Bay; winters on southwestern border of the U. S.

[Illustration: ]

RED-WINGED BLACKBIRD

498. Agelaius phœniceus. 9½ inches

Male black, with scarlet and buff shoulders; female brownish black above

and streaked below. Nearly all our ponds or wet meadows have their pair

or colony of Blackbirds.

Note.—A harsh “cack”; a pleasing liquid song, “conk-err-ee,” given with

much bowing and spreading of the wings and tail.

Nest.—Usually at low elevations in bushes, in swamps or around the edges

of ponds or frequently on the ground or on hummocks in wet pastures. The

nest is made of woven grasses and rushes, and is usually partially

suspended from the rim when placed in bushes. The three to five eggs are

bluish white, scrawled, chiefly around the large end, with blackish (1.00

× .70).

Range.—East of the Rockies, breeding north to Manitoba and New Brunswick;

winters in southern U. S.

Sub-Species.—498b. Bahaman Redwing (bryanti). 498c. Florida Redwing

(floridanus).

[Illustration: ]

MEADOWLARK

501. Sturnella magna. 10¾ inches

Meadowlarks are familiar friends of the hillside and meadow; their clear

fife-like whistle is often heard, while they are perched on a fence-post

or tree-top, as well as their sputtering alarm note when they fly up

before us as we cross the field.

Song.—A clear, flute-like “tseeu-tseeer,” and a rapid sputtering alarm

note.

Nest.—Of grasses, on the ground in fields, usually partially arched over.

Three to five white eggs specked with brown (1.10 × .80).

Range.—N. A. east of the Plains and north to southern Canada; winters

from Massachusetts and Illinois southward.

Sub-Species.—501.1. Western Meadowlark (neglecta). This race has the

yellow on the throat extended on the sides; its song is much more

brilliant and varied than the eastern bird. It is found from the Plains

to the Pacific. 501c. Florida Meadowlark (argutula) is smaller and darker

than the common.

[Illustration: ]

AUDUBON ORIOLE

503. Icterus melanocephalus audubonii. 9½ inches

Within the United States, these large Orioles are found only in southern

Texas. They are not uncommon there and are resident. Their notes are

loud, mellow whistles like those of the other Orioles. Their nests are

semi-pensile and usually placed in mesquite trees not more than ten or

fifteen feet from the ground.

SCOTT ORIOLE

504. Icterus parisorum. 8 inches

These beautiful birds are found in southwestern United States, from

California to western Texas.

They are said to sing more freely than other members of the family, but

the song, while loud and clear, is of short duration. Their nests, which

are semi-pensile, are often placed in giant yucca trees, or in vines that

are suspended from cacti. The three or four eggs are pale blue, scrawled

and spotted with black and lavender (.95 × .65).

[Illustration: ]

HOODED ORIOLE

505. Icterus cucullatus sennetti. 8 inches

This very brilliantly plumaged Oriole is, perhaps, the most abundant of

the family in southern Texas. It is not as shy a bird as the two

preceding species and is more often found in the neighborhood of houses.

With the exception of a few kinds of fruits, their food consists almost

entirely of insects; all the Orioles are regarded as among our most

beneficial birds.

Notes.—A harsher and more grating whistle than that of most of the

Orioles.

Nest.—Usually in bunches of hanging moss, being made by hollowing out and

matting the moss together and lining it with finer wiry moss. Others are

placed in yucca trees, such nests being made of the fiber of the tree.

Eggs dull white, scrawled about the large end with black and lavender

(.85 × .60).

Range.—Found only in southern Texas. A sub-species (nelsoni) is found in

New Mexico, Arizona and southern California.

[Illustration: ]

ORCHARD ORIOLE

506. Icterus spurius. 7¼ inches

Male chestnut and black; female dull yellowish and gray; young male,

second year, like female, but with black face and throat. These Orioles

are usually found in open country and, as their name suggests, have a

preference for orchards. They are also found abundantly in shrubbery

along streams and roadsides. They feed chiefly upon worms, caterpillars,

beetles, grasshoppers, etc., and are one of the most beneficial birds

that we have.

Song.—A rich, loud and rapid warble, cheery and pleasing but impossible

to describe; a chattering note of alarm.

Nest.—A beautiful basket of grasses woven into a deeply cupped ball and

situated in forks of trees or bushes; often they are made of green

grasses. Four to six white eggs, specked, scrawled and spotted with black

and brown (.80 × .55).

Range.—U. S. east of the Plains, breeding from the Gulf to Massachusetts

and Michigan; winters in Central America.

[Illustration: ]

BALTIMORE ORIOLE

507. Icterus galbula. 7½ inches

Male orange and black; female dull yellowish and gray.

They are sociable birds and seem to like the company of mankind, for

their nests are, from choice, built as near as possible to houses, often

being where they can be reached from windows. As they use a great deal of

string in the construction of their nests, children often get amusement

by placing bright-colored pieces of yarn where the birds will get them,

and watch them weave them into their homes.

Song.—A clear, querulous, varied whistle or warble; call, a plaintive

whistle.

Nest.—A pensile structure, often hanging eight or ten inches below the

supporting rim, and swaying to and fro with every breeze. They lay five

or six white eggs, curiously scrawled with blackish brown (.90 × .60).

Range.—N. A. east of the Rockies and breeding north to New Brunswick and

Manitoba. Winters in Central America.

[Illustration: ]

RUSTY BLACKBIRD

510. Euphagus carolinus. 9½ inches

Male glossy black, female grayish; both sexes in winter with most of the

head and breast feathers tipped with rusty. In the United States we know

these birds chiefly as emigrants; but a few of them remain to breed in

the Northern parts. Their songs are rather squeaky efforts, but still not

unmusical. These birds are found east of the Rockies.

BREWER BLACKBIRD

510. Euphagus cyaneocephalus. 10 inches

Male with a glossy purplish head and greenish black body; female grayish

brown. This is the Western representative of the preceding; it is most

abundant west of the Rockies, but is also found on the Plains. Its

distribution is not so northerly and it nests commonly in its United

States range. Their eggs are whitish, very profusely spotted and blotched

with various shades of brown (1. × .75).

[Illustration: ]

PURPLE GRACKLE

511. Quiscalus quiscula. 12 inches

Male with purple head and greenish back; female brownish gray. All the

Grackles are very similar in appearance, the colors varying with

different individuals of the same species. Their habits are alike, too,

and I consider them one of the most destructive of our birds.

Note.—A harsh “tchack,” and a squeaky song.

Nest.—Of sticks and twigs, usually in pines in the North and bushes in

the South. Four eggs, pale bluish gray with black scrawls (1.10 × .80).

Range.—Eastern U. S., breeding north to Mass.

Sub-Species.—511a. Florida Grackle (aglæus), slightly smaller. 511b.

Bronzed Grackle (æneus), with a purple head and usually a brassy back.

Eastern U. S., breeding north to Labrador and Manitoba.

BOAT-TAILED GRACKLE

513. Megaquiscalus major. 15 inches

Similar in color to the last but much larger, and having the same habits.

Eggs also larger (1.25 × .95). Southeastern U. S. The Great-tailed

Grackle (macrourus), found in Texas, is still larger.

[Illustration: ]

EVENING GROSBEAK

514. Hesperiphona vespertina. 8 inches

Female paler and with white on upper tail coverts. As would be judged

from the large bills that these birds have, their food consists almost

entirely of seeds, with occasionally a few berries and perhaps insects.

In certain localities they are not uncommon, but, except in winter, they

are rare anywhere in the U. S., and east of the Mississippi they can only

be regarded as accidental even in winter. They have been taken several

times in Massachusetts. In winter they usually travel about in small

bands, visiting localities where the food supply is the most abundant.

Song.—A clear, Robin-like whistle; call, a short whistle.

Nest.—A flat structure of twigs and rootlets placed at low elevations in

trees or bushes. Four eggs, greenish white, spotted with brown (.90 ×

.65).

Range.—Breeds in mountains of western British America and northwestern U.

S. South and east in winter to the Mississippi and rarely farther.

[Illustration: ]

PINE GROSBEAK

515. Pinicola enucleator leucura. 8½ inches

Male rosy red; female gray and yellowish.

These pretty birds visit us every winter, coming from Canada and northern

New England, where they are found in summer. They are very fearless birds

and might almost be regarded as stupid; when they are feeding you can

easily approach within a few feet of them, and they have often been

caught in butterfly nets. They may, at times, be found in any kind of

trees or woods, but they show a preference for small growth pines, where

they feed upon the seeds and upon seeds of weeds that project above the

snow.

Song.—A low sweet warble; call, a clear, repeated whistle.

Nest.—In coniferous trees, of twigs, rootlets and strips of bark; eggs

three to four in number, greenish blue spotted with brown and lilac (1.00

× .70).

Range.—Breeds in eastern British America and northern New England;

winters south to New York and Ohio. Several sub-species are found west of

the Rockies.

[Illustration: ]

PURPLE FINCH

517. Carpodacus purpureus. 6¼ inches

Male dull rosy red; female streaked brownish gray.

These beautiful songsters are common in the northern tier of states and

in Canada. In spring the males are usually seen on, or heard from, tree

tops in orchards or parks, giving forth their glad carols. They are

especially musical in spring when the snow is just leaving the ground and

the air is bracing. After family cares come upon them, they are quite

silent, the male only occasionally indulging in a burst of song.

Song.—A loud, long-continued and very sweet warble; call, a querulous

whistle.

Nest.—Of strips of bark, twigs, rootlets and grasses, placed at any

height in evergreens or orchard trees. The eggs resemble, somewhat, large

specimens of those of the Chipping Sparrow. They are three or four in

number and are greenish blue with strong blackish specks (.85 × .65).

Range.—N. A. east of the Rockies, breeding from Pennsylvania and Illinois

northward; winters throughout the United States.

[Illustration: ]

AMERICAN CROSSBILL

521. Loxia curvirostra minor. 6 inches

These curious creatures appear in flocks on the outskirts of our cities

every winter, where they will be found almost exclusively in coniferous

trees. They cling to the cones, upon which they are feeding, in every

conceivable attitude, and a shower of seeds and broken cones rattling

through the branches below shows that they are busily working. They are

very eccentric birds and the whole flock often takes flight, without

apparent cause, only to circle about again to the same trees. The

flute-like whistle that they utter when in flight sounds quite pleasing

when coming from all the individuals in the flock.

Song.—A low twittering; call, a short, flute-like whistle.

Nest.—In coniferous trees, of spruce twigs, shreds of bark and some moss

or grass. The three or four eggs are greenish white spotted with brown

(.75 × .55).

Range.—Breeds from northern New England northward and westward, and south

in mountains to Georgia; winters in the northern half of the U. S.

[Illustration: ]

WHITE-WINGED CROSSBILL

522. Loxia leucoptera. 6 inches

Male, rosy; female, with yellowish.

This species seems to be of a more roving disposition, and even more

eccentric than the last. They are not nearly as common and are usually

seen in smaller flocks; occasionally one or two individuals of this

species will be found with a flock of the American Crossbills, but they

usually keep by themselves. While they may be seen in a certain locality

one season, they may be absent for several seasons after, for some reason

or other. They feed upon the seeds of pine cones, prying the cones open

with their peculiar bills.

Notes.—Do not differ appreciably from those of the last.

Nest.—The nesting habits of this species are like those of the last, but

the eggs differ in being slightly larger and in having the markings of a

more blotchy character (.80 × .55).

Range.—Breeds from the northern parts of the northern tier of states

northward. Winters in the northern half of the U. S.

[Illustration: ]

GRAY-CROWNED LEUCOSTICTE

524. Leucosticte tephrocotis. 6½ inches

Female similar to, but duller colored than, the male.

All the members of this genus are western and northern, this one only

being found east of the Rockies and then only in winter, when it

occasionally is found east of the Mississippi. They wander about in rocky

mountainous regions, feeding upon seeds and berries. They are very

restless and stop in a place but a short time before flying swiftly away,

in a compact flock, to another feeding ground.

Note.—An alarm note of a short, quick whistle.

Nest.—Built on the ground, usually beside a rock or in a crevice;

composed of weeds and grass, lined with finer grass. They lay three or

four unmarked white eggs in June.

Range.—Western U. S., breeding in the higher mountain ranges; in winter

sometimes wandering east to the Mississippi.

[Illustration: ]

REDPOLL

528. Acanthis linaria. 5¼ inches

Male with a rosy breast; female without.

In winter these northern birds may be found in flocks gathering seeds

from weeds by the roadside and stone walls. Their actions greatly

resemble those of our Goldfinch, but their flight is more rapid.

Song.—Strong, sweet and canary-like.

Nest.—At low elevations in bushes or trees; eggs three to five, pale

greenish blue with brown specks.

Range.—Breeds in the extreme north; winters south to northern U. S.

Sub-Species.—528a. Holboell Redpoll (holboelli), slightly larger. 528b.

Greater Redpoll (rostrata), larger and darker.

GREENLAND REDPOLL

527. Acanthis hornemannii. 6 inches

A larger and much whiter species found in Greenland and migrating to

Labrador in winter. 527b. Hoary Redpoll (exilipes), smaller and darker,

but still lighter than the Redpoll; winters south to Massachusetts.

[Illustration: ]

AMERICAN GOLDFINCH

529. Astragalinus tristis. 5¼ inches

These beautiful little creatures are often known as Thistle-birds and

Wild Canaries, the former name because they are often seen on thistles,

from the down of which their nests are largely made, and the latter name

because of the sweet canary-like song. Their flight is a peculiar series

of undulations accompanied by an intermittent twitter. They are very

sociable and breed usually in communities as well as travel in flocks in

the winter. Their food is chiefly of seeds and they often come to gardens

in fall and winter to partake of sunflower seeds, these flowers often

being raised for the sole purpose of furnishing food for the finches in

the winter.

Song.—Sweet, prolonged and canary-like; call, a musical “tcheer,” and a

twittering in flight.

Nest.—Of thistledown, plant fibres and grasses, in forks of bushes, most

often willows or alders near water. Four or five unmarked, pale bluish

eggs.

Range.—N. A. east of the Rockies; breeds from Virginia and Missouri north

to Labrador; winters in U. S.

[Illustration: ]

WESTERN GOLDFINCH

530. Astragalinus psaltria. 4¼ inches

Cap, wings and tail black; sides of head and back greenish. Female much

duller and with no black in the crown. These little Goldfinches are very

abundant throughout the West. Their flight is undulatory like that of the

preceding, and all their habits are very similar. They spend the winter

in bands, roving about the country, feeding on weed seeds; in summer they

repair, either in small bands or by single pairs, to the edges of swamps

or woodland near water, where they construct their compact homes in the

forks of bushes. Their eggs are pale blue like those of the American

Goldfinch, but of course are much smaller (.62 × .45). They are laid in

May or June, or even earlier in the western portions of their range.

Song.—Sweet and musical, almost like that of the last species.

Range.—Western United States from the Plains to the Pacific, being

abundant west of the Rocky Mountains.

[Illustration: ]

PINE FINCH OR SISKIN

533. Spinus pinus. 5 inches

These are also northern birds, being found in the U. S., with the

exception of the extreme northern parts, only in winter and early spring.

Their habits are just like those of the Goldfinches, for which species

they are often mistaken, as the latter are dull-colored in winter. Their

song and call-notes are like those of the Goldfinch, but have a slight

nasal twang that will identify them at a distance, after becoming

accustomed to it. They are often seen hanging head downward from the ends

of branches as they feed upon the seeds or buds and when thus engaged

they are very tame.

Song.—Quite similar to that of the Goldfinch.

Nest.—In coniferous trees at any elevation from the ground. They are made

of rootlets and grasses, lined with pine needles and hair; the three to

five eggs are greenish white, specked with reddish brown (.65 × .45).

Range.—North America, breeding northward from the northern boundary of

the U. S. and farther south in mountain ranges; winters throughout the U.

S.

[Illustration: ]

SNOWFLAKE

534. Plectrophenax nivalis. 7 inches

Adults in summer black and white; in winter, washed with brownish.

When winter storms sweep across our land, these birds blow in like true

snowflakes, settling down upon hillsides and feeding upon seeds from the

weed stalks that are sure to be found above the snow somewhere. They are

usually found in large flocks, and are very restless, starting up, as one

bird, at the slightest noise, or continually wheeling about from one hill

to another, of their own accord.

Song.—A low twittering while feeding and a short whistle when in flight.

Nest.—Of grass and moss lined with feathers and sunk in the sphagnum moss

with which much of Arctic America is covered. Three to five eggs, pale

greenish white, specked with brown. Size .90 × .65.

Range.—Breeds from Labrador and Hudson Bay northward; winters in northern

United States.

[Illustration: ]

LAPLAND LONGSPUR

536. Calcarius lapponicus. 6¼ inches

Male in summer with black crown and throat and chestnut nape; female

similar but duller; winter plumage, with feathers of head and neck tipped

with grayish so as to conceal the bright markings.

As indicated by its name, this is a Northern species, which spends the

cold months in northern U. S., traveling in flocks and resting and

feeding on side hills, often with Snowflakes, or on lower ground with

Horned Larks.

Song.—A sweet trill or warble, frequently given while in flight; call, a

sharp chip.

Nest.—Of mosses, grasses and feathers placed on the ground in tussocks or

on grassy hummocks. In June and July they lay from four to six eggs

having a grayish ground color, which is nearly obscured by the numerous

blotches of brown and lavender (.80 × .60).

Range.—Breeds from Labrador northward and winters south to South Carolina

and Texas. A sub-species is found in the West.

[Illustration: ]

SMITH LONGSPUR

537. Calcarius pictus. 6½ inches

Male in summer with the underparts buffy and sides of head marked with

black; female, and male in winter, much duller with all bright markings

covered with a brownish-gray wash.

Like the last species, these are Arctic birds found in winter, on the

plains and prairies of middle U. S. They are rarely found within our

limits when in their beautiful spring plumage. They are most always found

in company with the following species feeding upon seeds, buds and small

berries.

Song.—A sweet warble rarely heard in the United States; a clear

“cheer-up” constantly uttered while on the wing.

Nest.—Of grasses, weeds and moss, lined with feathers; located on the

ground in similar locations to those of the last species. The four or

five eggs are similar to those of the last but lighter (.80 × .60).

Range.—Breeds about Hudson Bay and northward; winters in middle United

States.

[Illustration: ]

CHESTNUT-COLLARED LONGSPUR

538. Calcarius ornatus. 6¼ inches

Male in summer with a black breast and crown, and chestnut nape; female,

and male in winter, much duller and with all bright markings covered with

grayish.

Unlike the preceding Longspurs, these are constant residents in the

greater part of the Western Plains, in some localities being classed as

one of the most abundant birds. They have a short, sweet song that, in

springtime, is frequently given as the bird mounts into the air after the

fashion of the Horned Larks. They commonly feed about ploughed fields,

along the edges of which they build their nests.

Song.—A short, sweet trill; alarm note a sharp chip, and call note a more

musical chirp.

Nest.—Of fine grasses, placed on the ground in open prairies or along the

edges of cultivated fields, often being concealed beside a tussock; their

four or five eggs are clay color marked with reddish brown and lavender

(.75 × .55).

Range.—Breeds in the Great Plains from Kansas and Colorado north to

Manitoba; winters south to Mexico.

[Illustration: ]

M’COWN LONGSPUR

539. Rhynchophanes mccownii. 6 inches

Male with a black crown and patch on breast, and chestnut shoulders;

female, and male in winter, dull colored with all bright markings

obscured by brownish gray.

These are also common birds on the plains of middle U. S., but perhaps

not so much so as the last species, with which species they are often

found breeding. These finches show their close relationship to the famous

Skylark of Europe by frequently indulging in the same practice of soaring

aloft and descending on set wings, rapturously uttering their sweet song.

Song.—A shrill, twittering warble; call, a musical chirp.

Nest.—A neat cup of grasses in a hollow in the ground on prairies or in

fields. Their four to six eggs are dull whitish clouded with brownish,

the marking not being as distinct as in those of the last species (.75 ×

.55).

Range.—Breeds on the Great Plains from Kansas north to Saskatchewan;

winters south to Mexico.

[Illustration: ]

ENGLISH SPARROW

*** Passer domesticus. 6¼ inches

These street urchins were introduced into our country from Europe about

1850, and have since multiplied and spread out so that they now are found

in all parts of our land from the Atlantic to the Pacific. Heretofore

they have confined themselves chiefly in the immediate vicinity of the

larger cities and towns, but it is now noted with alarm that they are

apparently spreading out into the surrounding country. They are very

hardy creatures, able to stand our most rigorous winters. They are

fighters and bullies from the time they leave the egg, and few of our

native birds will attempt to live in the neighborhood with them.

Notes.—A harsh, discordant sound, which they commence early in the

morning and continue until night.

Nest.—Of straw and rubbish piled behind blinds, in the tops of electric

lights or crevices of buildings, and sometimes large, unsightly heaps of

straw in trees. They raise three or four broods a year and in all

seasons; five to seven whitish eggs scratched with black.

Range.—Whole of U. S. and southern Canada.

[Illustration: ]

VESPER SPARROW

540. Poœcetes gramineus. 6 inches

The chestnut shoulders and white outer tail feathers distinguish this

from any other of our Sparrows.

The name Vesper Sparrow is given this bird because of its habit of tuning

up along toward evening; it is perhaps more often known as the

“Bay-winged Sparrow” or “Grass Finch.”

They are found chiefly in dry pastures or along dusty roadsides, where

they start from the ground in front of us, their white tail feathers

showing prominently as they fly, so that there will be no mistake as to

their identity.

Song.—A clear, ascending series of whistles, given from a fence post or

bush top; call, a sharp chirp.

Nest.—Of grasses in weedy fields or pastures; four or five whitish eggs

marked and blotched with brownish (.80 × .60).

Range.—Eastern N. A. from Virginia to southern Canada; winters in

southern U. S. The similar Western Vesper Sparrow (confinis) is found

from the Plains to the Pacific coast ranges.

[Illustration: ]

IPSWICH SPARROW

541. Passerculus princeps. 6¼ inches

This species is larger and paler colored, but very similar to the more

common and better known Savannah Sparrow. Its habits are the same. It

breeds on Sable Island, Nova Scotia, and winters along the Atlantic coast

to Virginia.

SAVANNAH SPARROW

542a. Passerculus sandwichensis savanna. 5½ inches

Breast and sides streaked with brownish, and yellow before the eye and

also on bend of wing.

These finches are very abundant in eastern U. S. during migrations and a

few remain in the northern parts through the summer.

Song.—A weak trill or twitter; a short chip.

Nest.—Of grasses in hollows in the ground and concealed by grass or

weeds. The four grayish eggs are spotted with brown (.75 × .55).

Range.—Winters in southern U. S.; breeds from northern U. S. northward.

542b. Western Savannah Sparrow (alaudinus) is found from the Plains west

to the coast ranges. It is slightly paler.

[Illustration: ]

BAIRD SPARROW

545. Ammodramus bairdi. 5¾ inches

Crown and nape brownish yellow streaked with black; underparts white,

streaked on the throat, breast and sides with blackish; tail slightly

forked and the feathers pointed.

In summer the western plains and prairie ring with the tinkling songs of

these little Sparrows; they are especially abundant in Dakota and

Montana.

GRASSHOPPER SPARROW

546. Ammodramus savannarum australis. 5½ inches

Crown blackish with a central buffy stripe; nape brown and gray; sides of

head, breast and flanks, buffy without streaks.

Song.—A weak, insect-like “zee-e-e-e-e.”

Nest.—A grass-lined hollow in a field, with the top arched over so as to

keep off the sun and conceal the eggs. In June four or five white,

brown-specked eggs are laid (.75 × .55).

Range.—U. S. east of the Rockies; winters in southern U. S.

546b. Florida Grasshopper Sparrow (floridanus), a darker race found on

the plains of interior Florida.

[Illustration: ]

HENSLOW SPARROW

547. Passerherbulus henslowii. 5 inches

Crown and nape greenish, streaked with black; breast and sides buffy,

streaked with black; tail feathers narrow and pointed.

This species is of a more southern distribution than the last, being

rarely found in New England, but quite common in favorable localities

south of Virginia.

LECONTE SPARROW

548. Passerherbulus lecontei. 5 inches

Hind head chestnut and gray; sides of head, throat, breast and flanks a

rich buff color.

Song.—A grasshopper-like squeaking.

Nest.—Of grasses in hollows of the ground on prairies; eggs greenish

white thickly specked with brownish (.65 × .50).

Range.—Breeds in the Great Plains from Dakota to Manitoba, and winters

southeastward to the South Atlantic and Gulf States.

[Illustration: ]

SHARP-TAILED SPARROW

549. Passerherbulus caudacutus. 5¾ inches

Back of head greenish; sides of head, breast, and flanks buff with black

streaks; tail feathers sharp.

Salt marshes along the seacoast or along streams emptying into the ocean

are the dwelling-places of these finches. They creep about like mice in

the salt grass, now running across an open space, now threading their way

through the upright stalks.

Song.—A rather weak, squeaky trill.

Nest.—Of seaweed and marsh grass, attached to the grass stalks several

inches above ground and often covered by a mass of dry seaweed. Eggs

greenish white specked with brown (.78 × .56).

Range.—Atlantic coast of the U. S.

NELSON SPARROW

549a. Passerherbulus nelsoni. 5½ inches

Similar to the last but brighter colored and not streaked below. In the

Mississippi Valley north to Manitoba. 549a. Acadian Sharp-tailed Sparrow

(sub-virgatus), Atlantic coast, breeding from Maine to New Brunswick.

[Illustration: ]

SEASIDE SPARROW

550. Passerherbulus maritimus. 6 inches

Yellow spot before the eye. General plumage above grayish green with no

black markings. All the habits of the Seaside Sparrows are precisely like

those of the Sharp-tailed Sparrows. The nests and eggs are

indistinguishable and are often found in the same marshes.

Sub-Species.—550a. Scott Seaside Sparrow (peninsulæ), slightly smaller

and with the back marked with black and brownish green; South Atlantic

coast. 550b. Texas Seaside Sparrow (sennetti), greener above than No.

550; coast of Texas. 550c. Fisher Seaside Sparrow (fisheri), darker above

than scotti and with the breast and sides heavily washed with rusty and

streaked with black; coast of Louisiana. 550d. Macgillivray Seaside

Sparrow (macgillivrayii), coast of South Carolina.

DUSKY SEASIDE SPARROW

551. Passerherbulus nigrescens. 6 inches

Darkest of the Seaside Sparrows. Found only in marshes at head of Indian

River, Florida.

[Illustration: ]

LARK SPARROW

552. Chondestes grammacus. 6¼ inches

These handsome Sparrows are very abundant in the Mississippi Valley;

their favorite resorts are fields, pastures, and prairie lands, or along

dusty roadsides. Their song is one of the sweetest of any of the

Sparrows, and is freely given throughout the summer.

Song.—A hurried gush of silvery tremulous notes.

Nest.—Sometimes in bushes but usually on the ground; of grasses arranged

in a hollow to form a little cup, and usually concealed under a tuft of

grass or bunch of clover. The birds usually run some distance from the

nest before flying, so that they are quite hard to find. They lay three

to five eggs, white, specked and scrawled sparingly with blackish (.80 ×

.60), wholly different from those of any other Sparrow.

Range.—Mississippi Valley, breeding from Texas to Manitoba; winters in

southern U. S. and Mexico.

Sub-Species.—552a. Western Lark Sparrow (strigatus) is slightly paler and

less heavily marked; found from the Plains to the Pacific.

[Illustration: ]

HARRIS SPARROW

553. Zonotrichia querula. 7½ inches

Adults in summer with the crown face, and throat black; in winter with

the black areas mottled with gray.

This species is one of the largest of the Sparrows. It is found

abundantly on the prairies during migrations, but about nesting time they

all seem to disappear and no one has, as yet, been able to locate their

exact breeding range. It is supposed to be among some of the foothills of

North Dakota and northward through Manitoba and Saskatchewan, as they

have been found during the summer in all these localities. Nests supposed

to belong to this species have been found, but they lack positive

identification.

Song.—A series of musical, piping whistles.

Nest.—Supposed to be of grass and bark, a few inches above the ground in

weed stalks or small shrubs; eggs whitish, thickly spotted with brown

(.95 × .65).

Range.—Interior U. S. from Texas (in winter) north through the Plains and

Mississippi to Manitoba.

[Illustration: ]

WHITE-CROWNED SPARROW

554. Zonotrichia leucophrys. 7 inches

Adults with a white crown bordered by black, the black covering the lores

or space before the eye (the sub-species found west of the Rockies have

the lores white).

We know these birds in the U. S., except in mountain ranges or in the

extreme northern parts, only as migrants, they then being found in brushy

woodlots or along roadsides. In the north they are found in deeply wooded

ravines and on side hills. While with us they rarely if ever sing, but in

their summer home they have a clear tinkling song like that of the

White-throated Sparrow, with which we see them associated here.

Song.—A clear, sweet, piping “see-dee-dee-dee-de-e”; call note, a sharp

chip.

Nest.—Usually on the ground under patches of brush or bushes. The four or

five eggs are whitish profusely spotted with brown (.90 × .63).

Range.—N. A., breeding from northern U. S. northward and in high ranges

south to Mexico.

[Illustration: ]

WHITE-THROATED SPARROW

558. Zonotrichia albicollis. 6¾ inches

In thick underbrush we hear these birds scratching about among the

leaves; occasionally one of them will hop up on a twig and give his clear

peabody song, or, hearing or seeing you, give a sharp chirp and dash out

of sight again. They are birds of the ground, always busy and always

happy. I think that without any exception, they are the handsomest of our

Sparrows, their colors are so rich and harmonize and blend together so

well.

Song.—A high-pitched, very clear and sweet whistle, “pea-bo-dy-bird.”

Call and note of alarm, a metallic chirp.

Nest.—Usually on the ground on the borders of woods or in swamps; of

grass and leaves, similar to, but larger than, that of the Song Sparrow.

Four or five eggs, pale greenish blue, thickly spotted with brown (.85 ×

.63).

Range.—N. A. east of the Rockies, breeding from northern U. S. to

Labrador and Hudson Ray; winters in the southern half of U. S.

[Illustration: ]

TREE SPARROW

559. Spizella monticola. 6¼ inches

A blackish-brown spot in middle of breast; crown reddish brown with no

black about the head; back and wings with considerable brown.

These Sparrows are summer residents of the Arctic region, passing the

winter in the northern half of the U. S. They bear considerable

resemblance to our common Chipping Sparrow, but are larger and have

characteristic markings as noted above. They appear in the U. S. in

October and many of them pass the winter in the fields and gardens in our

northern states.

Note.—A musical chirp; song, strong, sweet, and musical and ending in a

low warble.

Nest.—Usually on the ground, but sometimes at low elevations in bushes.

Eggs pale greenish blue with brown specks over the whole surface, thus

being very different from those of the Chipping Sparrow (.80 × .60).

Range.—N. A. east of the Plains, breeding in Labrador and about Hudson

Bay; winters in northern half of the U. S. A sub-species, 559a. Western

Tree Sparrow (ochracea) is paler; it is found from the Plains to the

Pacific, breeding in the north.

[Illustration: ]

CHIPPING SPARROW

560. Spizella passerina. 5¼ inches

Crown chestnut; forehead black; line through the eye black.

One of the commonest and most useful of our Sparrows, frequenting

orchards, yards, and bushy pastures. They are not at all timid and

frequently nest in vines, covering porches or the side of the house,

provided that English Sparrows are not too plenty. They eat great

quantities of insects and worms, and some seeds, feeding their young

wholly upon the former.

Song.—A very rapidly chanted chip, chip, chip, chip, continued for

several seconds; call, a sharp chip.

Nest.—A small cup-shaped structure of rootlets, lined with horsehair;

placed in bushes, trees, or vines; eggs three to five, bluish green,

specked, chiefly around the large end, with blackish brown (.65 × .50).

Range.—N. A. east of the Plains, breeding from the Gulf of Mexico north

to Newfoundland and Hudson Bay; winters in the Gulf States. A sub-species

is found west of the Rockies.

[Illustration: ]

CLAY-COLORED SPARROW

561. Spizella pallida. 5½ inches

No reddish brown in the plumage; crown largely black, with a whitish

stripe in centre. The habits of these birds are the same as those of the

Chippy; they are abundant on the Plains north to Saskatchewan and breed

south to the northern portion of the United States. They spend the winter

in Mexico. Their nests and eggs cannot be distinguished from those of the

preceding except, perhaps, by the fact that the nest has more grass than

hair.

BREWER SPARROW

562. Spizella breweri. 5½ inches

Like the last species, the general tone of plumage of this is gray. It

differs, though, in having the crown finely streaked with blackish. It is

a more western species than the last and is rarely found east of the

Rockies. It ranges from British Columbia southward into Mexico.

[Illustration: ]

FIELD SPARROW

563. Spizella pusilla. 5½ inches

Bill pinkish brown; crown and ear covert brown with no black markings;

back reddish brown and breast and sides washed with brown.

You will find these birds in dry pastures, stubble fields, and side

hills. The hotter and dryer a place is, the better they seem to like it.

They are often the only birds that will be found nesting on tracts of

land recently burned over, upon which the sun beats down with stifling

heat.

Song.—A series of shrill piping whistles on an ascending scale and

terminating in a little trill, “swee-see-see-se-e-e.”

Nest.—A frail structure of grasses and weeds, lined with finer grasses;

placed either on the ground or in bushes, briars or weed patches; four or

five whitish eggs marked with reddish brown (.68 × .50).

Range.—Breeds from the Gulf States north to southern Canada; winters in

southern United States.

Sub-Species.—563a. Western Field Sparrow (arenacea), a paler race found

on the Great Plains.

[Illustration: ]

WHITE-WINGED JUNCO

566. Junco aikeni. 6½ inches

Slightly larger than the common eastern Junco, and with two white bars on

the wing and more white on the tail.

This species cannot be regarded as common anywhere, even locally, and in

most sections of its range it is rare. There are no peculiarities in its

habits, and I believe that its nests and eggs have not, as yet, been

discovered.

Range.—Breeds in Wyoming and the Dakotas and winters in Colorado and

eastward to Kansas.

[Illustration: ]

SLATE-COLORED JUNCO

567. Junco hyemalis. 6¼ inches

These are one of our most common winter birds, easily recognized, while

perching or on the ground, by the white or pinkish bill, and when flying

by the white outer tail feathers and the gray and white plumage. They are

very common about houses as well as on the edges of woods and in pine

groves, being very tame and coming into the dooryard to feed upon crumbs

or chaff which is often thrown out for them.

Song.—A sweet simple trill, which has a beautiful effect when given by a

whole flock in unison.

Nest.—Of grasses, on the ground, usually beside a stone, in a bunch of

weeds or under a small shrub, where it is well concealed. The three or

four eggs are whitish, sprinkled with reddish brown (.75 × .55).

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding from the northern parts of the northern

tier of states northward; winters south to the Gulf.

Sub-Species.—567e. Carolina Junco (carolinensis), found in the

Alleghanies from Virginia to Georgia; there are several races found west

of the Rockies.

[Illustration: ]

BLACK-THROATED SPARROW

573. Amphispiza bilineata. 5½ inches

These little Sparrows are entirely unlike any other North American

species. They are found in the southwestern deserts, where they are not

uncommon in certain localities, being found in mesquite or chaparral

brush.

Note.—An ordinary Sparrow chip; song, a rich metallic

“zip-zip-zip-zee-zee-zee,” the first three ascending, the second three

notes descending.

Nest.—In bushes or cacti at low elevations; eggs plain bluish white (.70

× .50).

Range.—From Texas north to Kansas in summer. A paler sub-species, the

Desert Sparrow (deserticola), is found westward to southern California.

SAGE SPARROW

574.1 Amphispiza nevadensis. 6¼ inches

These birds are found in arid regions, frequenting the sage brush that is

found in the Great Basin region, from western Texas to California.

[Illustration: ]

PINE-WOODS SPARROW

575. Peucæa æstivalis. 5¾ inches

Upper parts streaked with black; back chestnut and gray; under parts

buffy white; tail rounded.

These dull-colored birds are abundant on some of the southern pine

barrens. Their habits are similar to those of the Henslow Sparrow; they

are quite shy and it is almost impossible to make one show itself above

the grass, through which it runs and dodges with great swiftness. If it

is surprised into taking wing it goes but a few feet, then drops out of

sight again.

Note.—A metallic chip; song, similar to that of the Field Sparrow, but

reversed; that is, with the trill first.

Nest.—Of grasses, on the ground, under shrubs or in tufts of grass; not

usually arched as those of Bachman Sparrow seem to always be; four or

five pure white eggs (.72 × .60).

Range.—Georgia and Florida. 575a. Bachman Sparrow (bachmannii) is

brighter above but has fewer black streaks; found in the South Atlantic

and Gulf States and north to Indiana.

[Illustration: ]

SONG SPARROW

581. Melospiza melodia. 6¼ inches

This is probably the best known, most abundant, and most widely

distributed (in its numerous sub-species) of all our birds. They are

quite hardy and many of them winter in the northern states, but the

majority go farther south, returning to their summer homes about the

first of March. They may be found anywhere where there are bushes, vines,

or hedges, and often about houses, even in large cities.

Song.—Very pleasing and musical, strongly resembling brilliant measures

from that of the Canary.

Nest.—Of grass, either on the ground or in bushes; three to five

bluish-white eggs, profusely spotted with brown (.80 × .58).

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding from Virginia and Missouri north to

southern Canada. Winters from Massachusetts and Ohio southward. Many

local races are found west of the Rockies, but only one east of there.

581j. Dakota Song Sparrow (juddi) is found in the vicinity of Turtle

Mountains, North Dakota; it is said to be lighter above and brighter

below.

[Illustration: ]

LINCOLN SPARROW

583. Melospiza lincolnii. 5¾ inches

Upper parts extensively brown and black, breast and sides bright buff

with fine black streaks.

These finches are quite abundant in the West, especially during

migrations, but are rather uncommon in the eastern states. Their habits

are similar in some respects to both those of the Song Sparrow and of the

Grasshopper Sparrow. They are very lively at all times and in the mating

season quite pugnacious. They sit for minutes at a time upon the top of a

bush pouring forth their melody, and they have one of the most brilliant

songs of any of the family.

Song.—Loud, clear, and gurgling, after the style of the House Wren; call,

a metallic chirp.

Nest.—Of grass, on the ground, in tufts of grass or under small shrubs;

eggs pale greenish white, heavily marked with chestnut (.80 × .58).

Range.—N. A., breeding from northern U. S. to Labrador and Alaska;

winters in southern half of U. S.

[Illustration: ]

SWAMP SPARROW

584. Melospiza georgiana. 5¾ inches

Forehead black; crown chestnut with a gray median stripe; whole upper

parts very dark; under parts grayish with brown sides.

A very quiet and unobtrusive species that dwells, as its name implies,

chiefly in swamps. They creep about under the rank weeds and underbrush

like so many mice; they are especially fond of the soft mires where

walking is so difficult for human beings; they patter around on the soft

mud with evident enjoyment, occasionally walking across an open space of

water on what floating débris they may find available.

Song.—A feeble chant; call, a sharp metallic cheep.

Nest.—Of grasses, on the ground in damp places; four or five eggs, having

a pale greenish-blue color heavily blotched and clouded with shades of

brown (.80 × .55).

Range.—N. A. east of the Plains, breeding from New Jersey and Missouri

north to Labrador and Hudson Bay; winters in southern half of the U. S.

[Illustration: ]

FOX SPARROW

585. Passerella iliaca. 7¼ inches

Above bright reddish brown and gray; rump and tail wholly reddish brown,

and spots on the breast and sides of the same color.

In winter we find these large sparrows in quiet swamps and open woods,

where they scratch about among the fallen leaves, after the manner of

domestic fowls; they will scratch energetically for a few seconds, then

pause to see what they have uncovered. They have a short but loud and

joyful song, with which they greet you on clear frosty mornings, and the

effect is very beautiful when a large flock of them are singing in

chorus.

Song.—A loud, clear, and melodious carol; call, a soft chip.

Nest.—Of grass and moss, lined with fine grass and feathers; four or five

pale bluish-green eggs, spotted with reddish brown and chestnut (.90 ×

.65).

Range.—N. A. east of the Rockies, breeding from New Brunswick and

Manitoba northward; winters in the southern states.

[Illustration: ]

TOWHEE OR CHEWINK

587. Pipilo erythrophthalmus. 8 inches

A bird of swamps, brushy pastures, and open woodlands. They are ground

birds and usually found scratching among the leaves; the male, with his

black, white and brown clothes, makes a conspicuous object, while the

female, with her brown and white dress, harmonizes with the leaves so

that it is difficult to see her. While his mate is sitting on her nest,

the male will frequently sit in a tree top and persistently sing for many

minutes at a time.

Song.—Loud and clear, “tow-hee-e-e” or “see-tow-hee-e-e,” with the last

notes tremulous; call, a sharp “cherink.”

Nest.—Usually on the ground, but rarely in bushes; of strips of bark,

grass, and leaves; eggs white with reddish-brown dots over the whole

surface (.90 × .70).

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding from the Gulf States to southern Canada;

winters in southern U. S.

Sub-Species.—587a. White-eyed Towhee (alleni) has white eyes instead of

red and less white on the tail; found on the South Atlantic coast.

[Illustration: ]

GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE

592.1 Oreospiza chlorura. 7 inches

These are characteristic birds of the Western mountains. They are typical

brush birds, satisfied in living a life of security in their own way, and

rarely appear above the surface of the thick shrubbery except to mount to

a conspicuous twig, pour forth their sweet melodies, and then retreat

again.

Note.—A loud chip; a soft, mewing note; song, finch-like, musical but

rather simple.