Nest.—Either on the ground or in bushes near the ground. Made of grasses

the same as that of any of the sparrows. Eggs pale bluish gray, thickly

speckled with reddish brown. The nests are built in very thickly tangled

underbrush and are difficult to locate.

Range.—Western United States, from the eastern base of the Rockies west

to the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevadas.

[Illustration: ]

CARDINAL

593. Cardinalis cardinalis. 9 inches

Noble in carriage, beautiful of plumage, amiable in disposition and

excellent singers are some of the qualifications of these large-billed

birds. They are southern birds, rarely seen in northern U. S. unless in

cages, for large numbers of them are trapped for this purpose, a practice

that is being stopped as rapidly as possible by enforcing the laws which

protect them. They are hardy birds, often passing the winter in the

northern parts of their range when the ground is covered with snow. They

frequent gardens, plantations, and open woods, where they glean their

food of seeds, berries, fruit, and insects.

Song.—A loud, clear, and lively warble; call, a low chip.

Nest.—A frail structure of twigs, in thickets or bushes; eggs greenish

blue with reddish-brown spots (1.00 × .73).

Range.—Resident and breeding from the Gulf to New York and Iowa. 593.

Florida Cardinal (floridanus) is supposed to be slightly smaller and

brighter.

[Illustration: ]

TEXAN CARDINAL; PYRRHULOXIA

594a. Pyrrhuloxia sinuata texana. 8½ inches

Notice that the bill of this species is very stout and short, more like

that of a parrot. The crest is also composed of fewer feathers than that

of the Cardinal. It is only in the highest of plumages that the red on

the underparts is continuous from bill to tail; usually it is broken into

patches. The female is much duller in color than the male, but always has

a strong tinge of rose color. They frequent more open and exposed

positions than do Cardinals and are more shy in their disposition.

Nest.—Shabby platforms of twigs and grasses placed at low elevations in

thickets. The three or four eggs are whitish, specked with dark brown,

most profusely at the large end (.90 × .70).

Range.—Abundant in the Lower Rio Grande Valley in southern Texas.

[Illustration: ]

ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK

595. Zamelodia ludoviciana. 8 inches

Male, black and white with rose breast and under wing coverts; female

resembling a large striped Sparrow in color.

The centre of abundance of these beautiful creatures is in the northern

half of eastern U. S. In beauty and song he fully atones for what we

Northerners lose because of the southerly distribution of the Cardinal.

We find them in swamps, small patches of woods, and, sometimes, in

orchards. They are rather quiet birds, that is they do not move about

much, but they can easily be found by their song.

Song.—A rich, full, whistling carol, almost without exception immediately

preceded with a sharp chip. Call, a deep-toned chirp.

Nest.—A loose, frail cradle of twigs at low elevations in trees or

thickets; eggs bluish green spotted with brown (1.00 × .75).

Range.—U. S. east of the Rockies, breeding in the northern half and in

southern Canada; winters in Central America.

[Illustration: ]

BLUE GROSBEAK

597. Guiraca cærulea. 7 inches

Male, deep blue with chestnut shoulders; female, grayish brown above and

grayish white below.

Open woods, small groves, and roadsides are the locations in which these

birds will be apt to be found. In some places they are fairly common, but

nowhere abundant. Their habits are very similar to those of the

Rose-breasted Grosbeak.

Song.—A rapid varied warble, similar to but louder and stronger than that

of the Indigo Bunting.

Nest.—Of twigs, weeds, and grasses, lined with fine rootlets; placed in

thickets, bushes, or low trees; four or five plain bluish-white eggs (.85

× .62).

Range.—Eastern U. S., breeding from the Gulf to Maryland and Illinois;

winters south of U. S.

Sub-Species.—597a. Western Blue Grosbeak (lazula). Male of a brighter

shade of blue than the eastern; found from the Mississippi to the

Pacific, breeding north to Kansas, Colorado, and northern California.

[Illustration: ]

INDIGO BUNTING

598. Passerina cyanea. 5½ inches

Male, indigo blue; female, brownish but usually with a faint indication

of blue on the wings or tail.

A jolly summer songster, dwelling with us from the latter part of May

until September. You will meet with these Buntings along roadsides lined

with scrubby trees or bushes, or in pastures or along the edges of

swamps. The male usually has some favorite perch upon which he spends a

large portion of his time singing; it is nearly always the top of a tall

bush or tree.

Song.—A sprightly little warble with many canary-like notes. Call, a

sharp chip.

Nest.—Of grasses at low elevations in shrubs or bushes; eggs four or five

in number, very pale bluish white (.75 × .52).

Range.—U. S. east of the Rockies, and most abundant east of the

Mississippi; breeds north to Manitoba and New Brunswick; winters in

Central America.

[Illustration: ]

LAZULI BUNTING

599. Passerina amœna. 5½ inches

This species replaces the preceding one west of the Plains. While the

plumage of the males is entirely distinctive, that of the females is

often confusing. The present species has quite a conspicuous band of

rusty buff across the breast and lacks any sign of stripes on the sides,

such as show faintly on the last species. Its habits are just like those

of the Indigo and it frequents the same kind of territory.

Nest.—Built in a bush or on the lower branches of trees, only a few feet

from the ground. The eggs are very pale bluish white (.75 × .58).

Range.—Western United States from the Great Plains to the Pacific coast;

north along the coast to British Columbia; south in winter to Mexico.

[Illustration: ]

VARIED BUNTING

600. Passerina versicolor. 5½ inches

This beautiful species is less common than any others of the genus and

has a very restricted range in the United States. The plumage of the male

birds varies a great deal; that shown in the accompanying illustration is

from a brightly colored specimen. They will average duller than this.

These birds frequent thickets or brush-studded pasture land. Their song

is described as weaker than that of the Indigo Bunting, but having much

of the same character.

Nest.—Built of grasses, bark and fine rootlets; a cup-shaped structure

placed in forks of bushes, usually in tangled thickets. The three or four

eggs cannot be distinguished from those of the last species.

Range.—The Lower Rio Grande Valley in southern Texas. A sub-species

(pulchra) is also found in Lower California and southern Arizona.

[Illustration: ]

PAINTED BUNTING

601. Passerina ciris. 5½ inches

Male, vari-colored; female, greenish gray.

Without any exception, these are the most gaudily plumaged North American

birds, but their colors have a harshness of contrast that renders them

far less pleasing to the eye than many others of our birds. They are

often caged, but in confinement soon lose the natural brilliancy of their

plumage. Like the Indigo Bunting, they are found in thickets and hedges;

their habits seem to be precisely like those of the last species.

Song.—Similar to that of the Indigo but lacking the brilliancy of that of

the latter bird.

Nest.—Of grasses, leaves, strips of bark and rootlets, compactly

compressed and woven together, situated at low elevations in thickets and

low bushes; eggs whitish, specked and blotched with reddish brown (.78 ×

.58).

Range.—Southeastern U. S., breeding from the Gulf north to Virginia, Ohio

and Kansas; winters in Central America.

[Illustration: ]

MORELLET SEED-EATER

602. Sporophila morelleti sharpei. 4½ inches

The male of this interesting little species requires at least three years

in which to obtain the perfect plumage as shown in our illustration. The

majority of birds seen will be in intermediate stages of plumage between

that of the adult female and this one. These little fellows are usually

found in thickets or patches of briars and are quite tame.

Note.—During the breeding season the male has a sprightly song similar to

that of the Indigo Bunting.

Nest.—The nests are made of fine grass and placed in bushes or young

trees. The eggs are bluish green spotted rather evenly with brown (.65 ×

.48).

Range.—Southeastern Texas and southward into Mexico.

[Illustration: ]

DICKCISSEL

604. Spiza americana. 6¼ inches

Male beautifully blended with yellow, white and gray, and with a black

throat patch and brown shoulders; female duller.

In the middle portions of the U. S. these birds, or Black-throated

Buntings, as they are commonly called, are very numerous, frequenting

dry, bushy fields or prairies. They are very persistent songsters,

although their song is weak and has little melody. In July and August,

when many birds are silent, they continue their plaintive chant even on

the most sultry days.

Song.—A simple chanting “chip, chip, che-che-che.”

Nest.—Either on the ground, in bushes or thistles, or in trees; of weeds,

grasses, rootlets, corn husks, etc.; eggs four or five in number, plain

bluish white and hardly distinguishable from those of the Bluebird; size

.80 × .60.

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

northern U. S.; rare in the Atlantic States north to Connecticut.

[Illustration: ]

LARK BUNTING

605. Calamospiza melanocorys. 7 inches

Male, black and white; female, brown and gray.

This species is often known as the White-winged Blackbird, not because it

bears any resemblance to any of the Blackbirds, nor because any of the

habits are the same, but simply because of its plumage. They are very

gregarious and usually fly in flocks even in nesting time.

They seem to be very methodical and well trained; if one of a flock takes

wing, the entire flock rises simultaneously and in a very compact body

they fly until some leader chooses the next stopping place, when they as

suddenly alight. They have the habit of Skylarks in mounting into the air

while singing and then descending on set wings.

Song.—A very lively, sweetly modulated warble.

Nest.—On the ground, usually under a tuft of grass or small bush; four or

five eggs of a bluish color (.85 × .65), brighter than those of the

Dickcissel.

Range.—Western U. S., most abundant from Kansas to Colorado and north to

Assiniboia.

[Illustration: ]

SCARLET TANAGER

608. Piranga erythromelas. 7½ inches

Male, scarlet and black; female, greenish yellow and blackish.

These beautiful birds are found in open woods, but they often come out in

fields, parks, orchards and sometimes in yards when feeding; one of the

prettiest sights that I ever saw was of about a dozen of these birds

tripping along the furrows of a ploughed field, where they were feeding

on insects. Besides berries and seeds, they live upon quantities of

insects, frequently catching them on the wing in true Flycatcher style.

Song.—Resembling that of the Robin, but harsher, less varied and higher

pitched. Call, a sharp chip or “chip-churr.”

Nest.—Loosely made of twigs and rootlets, on lower branches of trees;

eggs four, pale bluish green, spotted with brown (.95 × .65).

Range.—Breeds in the northern parts of the U. S. from the Atlantic to the

Plains; winters in the tropics, whence it arrives about May 15.

[Illustration: ]

SUMMER TANAGER

610. Piranga rubra. 7½ inches

Male, rosy red; female, greenish yellow.

These Tanagers have a more southerly distribution than the Scarlet

variety, but are found in the same kind of territory. In its localities

it is rather more abundant and less retiring than is the latter bird in

the north, and more often dwells in public parks. This bird is often

called the Redbird and in localities where both the Scarlet Tanager and

this species are found, they are frequently known by the same name, as

their habits and notes are similar.

Song.—Similar to that of the Scarlet Tanager but said to be sweeter and

clearer, and to more nearly resemble that of the Robin.

Nest.—On the outer horizontal limbs of trees in open woods or groves;

nest of twigs and rootlets; eggs bluish green, spotted with brown (.95 ×

.65).

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

and Kansas; winters in Central America. A subspecies is found west of the

Rockies.

[Illustration: ]

PURPLE MARTIN

611. Progne subis. 7¾ inches

Male, blue black; female, dull black and grayish.

These large, jolly Swallows are commonly seen about cities and towns

within their range. Originally they dwelt in hollow trees, and some do

yet, but the majority have recognized the superiority of man’s dwelling

and now live in houses built especially for them or in cornices of houses

or barns. It is no uncommon sight to see a handsome gabled structure of

many rooms, perched upon a twelve-foot pole, on the lawns of many wealthy

residents; others less bountifully supplied with this world’s goods use

plain soap boxes for the same purpose, and the Martins seem to like the

one as well as the other.

Song.—A strong, varied grating warble or twitter, more forcible than

melodious.

Nest.—Of straw, paper, rags, etc., in bird houses, gables or hollow

trees; eggs dull white (.98 × .72).

Range.—N. A., breeding from the Gulf to New Brunswick and Saskatchewan;

winters in northern South America.

[Illustration: ]

CLIFF SWALLOW

612. Petrochelidon lunifrons. 5½ inches

Adults similar in plumage but the female slightly paler. Easily

distinguished from the Barn Swallow by the square tail and light buffy

forehead and rump.

This is what is commonly called the Eave Swallow in the East, because of

its habit of plastering its nests on the outside of barns or other

buildings, up under the eaves. In the West they usually resort to cliffs

where, sometimes, large sections of the face will be completely covered

with the little mud flasks; often colonies of several thousand will build

their nests together.

Song.—A continuous twitter, uttered while on the wing or at rest.

Nest.—A flask or gourd-shaped structure of mud, lined with straw and

feathers, attached under the eaves to the outside of buildings or on the

faces of cliffs; five to seven eggs are laid; white dotted and spotted

with reddish brown (.80 × .55).

Range.—N. A., breeding from the Gulf to Greenland and Alaska; winters in

the Tropics.

[Illustration: ]

BARN SWALLOW

613. Hirundo erythrogastra. 7½ inches

Female duller plumaged and with a less deeply forked tail than the male.

Forehead and throat chestnut and entire under parts buffy; tail deeply

forked and with a white spot on the inner web of each feather except the

central pair.

This is the most graceful and beautiful of all our swallows, and is the

most common about farmhouses, the inside beams and rafters of which they

appropriate for their own use. They delight in skimming over the rolling

meadows or the surface of ponds, now rising with the wind, now swooping

downward with the speed of an arrow.

Song.—A continuous, rapid twitter.

Nest.—A bowl-shaped structure made up of pellets of mud cemented together

with the birds’ saliva, and lined with feathers; attached to rafters in

barns, the opening being at the top and not at the side as in the last;

eggs exactly like those of the last.

Range.—N. A., breeding north to the limit of trees; winters in northern

South America.

[Illustration: ]

TREE SWALLOW

614. Iridoprocne bicolor. 6 inches

Male, steely blue or greenish above; female, duller and often plain gray

above, but both sexes always entirely white below.

These Swallows are also abundant about farmyards; except when they are

skimming over ponds, they are almost always scouring the air above

buildings or fields, at higher elevations than the Barn Swallows. When

weary they roost on dead twigs or telephone wires, hundreds often being

seen in rows on the latter. Like the Martins, these birds frequently nest

in bird boxes, but usually not more than one or two pairs in a single

house.

Notes.—A twittering like that of the other Swallows.

Nest.—Of grass, lined with feathers, in hollow trees on the border of

water or in orchards, or in bird boxes erected for their use; eggs white

(.75 × .52).

Range.—Breeds in the northern half of the U. S. and northward to Labrador

and Alaska; winters in southern U. S. and southward.

[Illustration: ]

BANK SWALLOW

616. Riparia riparia. 5¼ inches

These are the smallest of our Swallows; this species can be

distinguished, even at a distance, by the conspicuous band across the

breast, showing in bold relief against the lighter throat. They are found

throughout North America, breeding from the middle of the U. S. north to

the Arctic regions.

They nest in colonies in holes in banks, laying the four to seven white

eggs on a grass nest in an enlarged chamber at the end of the tunnel.

ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOW

617. Stelgidopteryx serripennis. 5½ inches

In this species the throat is gray as well as the breast. The outer vane

of the outer primary is stiff and bristly, thus giving the species its

name. These birds breed from the Gulf north to Massachusetts and

Washington, in banks or in crevices of stone bridges. The eggs cannot

with certainty be distinguished from those of the Bank Swallow. They

measure .75 × .52.

[Illustration: ]

BOHEMIAN WAXWING

618. Bombycilla garrula. 8 inches

Larger and grayer than our common Cedar Waxwing and with yellow and white

on the wing; it is a northern species and is only casually found in

eastern U. S. They nest within the Arctic Circle and only a few of their

nests have ever been found. In winter they are found in flocks, roving

restlessly about the country, often appearing where least expected and

utterly deserting other places where they are usually found.

Nest.—Of small twigs and moss, lined with feathers, usually placed at low

elevations in spruce or coniferous trees; eggs dull bluish white specked

sparingly with black (1.00 × .70), similar to those of the Cedar Waxwing

but larger.

Range.—Northern parts of the Northern Hemisphere, breeding within the

Arctic Circle and wintering casually south to Massachusetts,

Pennsylvania, Kansas and California.

[Illustration: ]

CEDAR WAXWING

619. Bombycilla cedrorum. 7 inches

Plumage very soft colored with a general brownish tone, shading to gray

on the rump. The Waxwings are named from the curious wax-like appendages

attached to the tips of the secondaries, and rarely to the tail feathers.

They are very sociable and usually feed in flocks. They live chiefly upon

fruit and are especially fond of cherries, for which reason they are very

often known as Cherry-birds. They are very tame and allow any one to

almost touch them while they are feeding or sitting upon their nests.

Note.—An insignificant lisping hiss.

Nest.—A substantial structure of twigs, mosses, twine, etc., lined with

fine grasses; placed in cedar trees or, when near habitations, usually in

orchard trees; the four or five eggs are dull bluish white specked with

black (.85 × .60).

Range.—N. A., breeding from Virginia, Missouri and northern California

north to Labrador and southern Alaska; winters throughout the United

States.

[Illustration: ]

NORTHERN SHRIKE

621. Lanius borealis. 10 inches

This shrike is larger than any of the species found in summer in the

United States and has the breast quite distinctly barred.

Shrikes are cruel, rapacious and carnivorous birds, feeding upon insects,

grasshoppers, lizards and small birds. As they have passerine feet, the

same as all our small birds, they are unable to hold their prey between

the feet while tearing it to pieces, so they impale it upon thorns or the

barbs of a wire fence so they may tear it to shreds with their hooked

bill.

Song.—Loud snatches consisting of various whistles and imitations

suggesting that of a Catbird.

Nest.—They breed chiefly north of the U. S., placing their rude, bulky

structures of twigs and weeds in thorny trees or hedges; their four to

six eggs are grayish white with spots of light brown and darker gray

(1.08 × .80).

Range.—N. A., breeding chiefly in the northern parts of Canada; winters

south to Pennsylvania, Kansas and California.

[Illustration: ]

LOGGERHEAD SHRIKE

622. Lanius ludovicianus. 9 inches

Pure white below and with the markings above, intense black instead of

the brownish or grayish black of the last species. Although smaller,

these Shrikes have the same destructive habits of the northern species.

All the Shrikes do considerable good to mankind, for they eat quantities

of grasshoppers and mice, and probably resort to their diet of small

birds when other food is unusually scarce. It cannot be denied that they

are cruel, for they often kill more than they can eat and leave it

impaled on thorns to decay.

Song.—Of harsh, discordant whistles.

Nest.—In scrubby hedges and thickets; of twigs, weeds, leaves, etc.; eggs

four to seven in number, grayish white, spotted with shades of brown and

gray.

Range.—Eastern U. S., breeding from the Gulf to southern New England and

Manitoba; winters in southern states.

Sub-Species.—622a. White-rumped Shrike (excubitorides), paler and with a

white rump; found from the Plains to the Pacific in the U. S.

[Illustration: ]

RED-EYED VIREO

624. Vireosylva olivacea. 6 inches

Crown slaty gray with a black border; white stripe above eye; eye reddish

brown.

Throughout the United States this is one of the most abundant of the

family. All through the spring and summer months their warble is heard

from woodland and roadside, often becoming so monotonous as to be

irritating. Oftentimes during the spring migrations of Warblers, Vireos

are so numerous and singing so lustily that it is impossible to hear or

distinguish the songs of any of the smaller birds.

Song.—Delivered in parts with intermission of a few seconds between, from

morning until night; a short varied warble; call, a petulant mew.

Nest.—A basket woven of strips of bark and fibres, and often with pieces

of newspaper worked in, lined with fine grass; eggs white with a few

blackish-brown specks on the large end (.85 × .55).

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

Manitoba; winters in Central America.

[Illustration: ]

PHILADELPHIA VIREO

626. Vireosylva philadelphica. 5 inches

This is one of the least common of the eastern Vireos, although it is

more common than most people know; its song is not distinctive and it

keeps high up in trees, so it is not usually noticed. Their nests are

swung from branches at high altitudes and are seldom found.

WARBLING VIREO

627. Vireosylva gilva. 5 inches

Above olive-green; crown grayer but with no black border. These are among

the most common of the Vireos and may be found even in the hearts of

large cities, swinging their pretty little nests high up in shade trees.

Their song is after the style of that of the Purple Finch, very different

from that of the Red-eye. The eggs are white with a few brown specks on

the large end. These birds breed throughout the U. S. and southern

Canada.

[Illustration: ]

YELLOW-THROATED VIREO

628. Lanivireo flavifrons. 5¾ inches

Upper parts greenish; throat, breast and line over eye yellow; two

prominent whitish wing bars.

A handsome Vireo found in localities such as are frequented by the

Red-eyed species. Nowhere do they appear to be as abundant as that

species, however; they are more abundant than many suppose, but the

difficulty of clearly seeing the yellow breast when they are feeding in

the tree tops, combined with the similarity of their songs, usually

caused them to be passed by without inspection.

Song.—Similar to that of the Red-eye, but louder and more nasal, less

varied and not uttered as often.

Nest.—A pensile structure of strips of bark, grasses, etc., with the

outside often ornamented with lichens; three to five eggs with a creamy

or rosy-white tint, specked, more profusely than those of the Red-eye,

with reddish brown (.82 × .60).

Range.—Eastern U. S., breeding from the Gulf to southern Canada; winters

in Central America.

[Illustration: ]

BLUE-HEADED VIREO

629. Lanivere solitarius. 5¾ inches

Crown and sides of head bluish slate; lores, eye-ring and underparts

white; back and flanks greenish yellow; two whitish wing bars.

This species, to my eye, is the prettiest of the Vireos, all the colors

being in just the right proportion and blending and harmonizing

perfectly. They are solitary, in that they are usually found in deep

woods, glens or ravines, and seldom is more than one pair found in a

single woods.

Song.—Similar to that of the Yellow-throated Vireo but longer and more

varied.

Nest.—A handsome, finely woven basket, with the outside covered with

spider webs and often with lichens; eggs pale creamy white with chestnut

specks.

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding from the Gulf to New Brunswick and

Manitoba; winters south of the United States.

Sub-Species.—629c. Mountain Solitary Vireo (alticola), head darker and

back less greenish; Alleghanies from North Carolina to Georgia.

[Illustration: ]

BLACK-CAPPED VIREO

630. Vireo atricapillus. 4½ inches

Male, with crown and sides of head glossy black, lores and eye-ring

white; female, duller colored.

This strange and comparatively rare Vireo frequents brushwood on the

prairies of Kansas, Indian Territory and central and western Texas. Their

habits in all respects resemble those of the more common Vireos or

Greenlets as they are otherwise called.

Notes.—Similar to those of the White-eyed Vireo.

Nest.—Suspended as usual from forked branches at low elevations; made of

fibres and bark strips closely woven together with spider webs. The four

eggs are pure white, unmarked (.70 × .52).

Range.—Breeds from central and western Texas north to southern Kansas;

winters in Mexico.

[Illustration: ]

WHITE-EYED VIREO

631. Vireo griseus. 5 inches

This species shows a partiality for low, swampy places, covered with

briars or tangled thickets of blackberry vines. Their habits are entirely

different from any of the preceding Vireos. They do not seem to sing as

they eat, but feed in silence, then, the task ended, mount to the tops of

the brush and indulge in an endless variety of calls and whistles.

Song.—A great variety of clear whistles and squeaky notes.

Nest.—A bulky structure of strips of bark, leaves, paper, etc., either

placed in the branches or partially suspended in a fork; eggs white with

minute brown specks (.75 × .55).

Range.—Eastern United States, breeding from the Gulf to Massachusetts and

Manitoba; winters in Mexico.

Sub-Species.—631a. Key West Vireo (maynardi), southern Florida. 631b.

Bermuda White-eyed Vireo (bermudianus), resident in the Bermudas. 631c.

Small White-eyed Vireo (micrus); southeastern Texas.

[Illustration: ]

BLACK AND WHITE WARBLER

636. Mniotilta varia. 5¼ inches

Male, heavily streaked with black below; female, with only a few streaks

on the sides.

These Warblers are usually known as Black and White Creepers because of

their habit of creeping along the limbs and branches of trees. They are

abundant in northern United States, being found in open woods, swamps and

often in parks, gleaning insects and grubs from crevices in the bark.

Song.—A weak, thin, wiry “tsee, tsee, tsee.”

Nest.—Of grasses and strips of bark on the ground at the foot of a stump

or tree trunk or beside a rock; they lay four or five eggs, white with a

wreath of reddish brown around the large end (.65 × .55).

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding from Virginia and Louisiana north to

Labrador and Hudson Bay; winters in northern South America.

[Illustration: ]

PROTHONOTARY WARBLER

637. Protonotaria citrea. 5¼ inches

Whole head and underparts intense yellow, almost orange on the head of

the male; tail with white spots near the tip; female, duller.

A common species in the interior, found in bushy swamps and the willows

around the borders of pools and lakes; they are found in the latter

localities with Tree Swallows and often Chickadees all nesting in holes

in hollow stubs along the bank, they being one of the few members of this

family to make use of such locations for their nests.

Song.—A loud, ringing “tweet, tweet, tweet.”

Nest.—In hollow stubs near or over water, the cavity of the stump being

partially filled with moss, leaves and grasses hollowed on the top to

receive the four to six creamy-white eggs which are heavily spotted over

the entire surface with reddish brown (.72 × .55).

Range.—Eastern U. S., breeding from the Gulf north to Virginia, Illinois

and Minnesota; winters in Central America.

[Illustration: ]

SWAINSON WARBLER

638. Helinaia swainsonii. 5 inches

Upper parts brownish; underparts whitish; a white superciliary stripe and

a brown stripe through the eye.

Some of the habits of this species are similar to those of the last but

they are even more aquatic; they like swamps or stagnant pools thickly

grown with rushes and tangled underbrush; unless cognizant of their

habits, one would never look for a Warbler in the places frequented by

these birds in company with Least Bitterns and Marsh Wrens. Until within

a few years these were regarded as rare birds but are now found to be not

uncommon in certain of the South Atlantic states, notably Georgia.

Song.—A series of descending, loud, clear whistles with a ventriloquial

effect.

Nest.—Quite large structures consisting mostly of leaves with strips of

bark, roots and pine needles. The four or five eggs are plain white,

being the only eggs of American Warblers that are unmarked.

Range.—Southeastern U. S. from Georgia to Louisiana and north to North

Carolina and Missouri.

[Illustration: ]

WORM-EATING WARBLER

639. Helmitheros vermivorus. 5½ inches

Crown buffy with two black stripes; back, wings and tail olive green with

no white markings; below buffy white.

These birds are very unsuspicious and easy to approach; they spend the

greater portion of their time on or near the ground; they are very fond

of spiders and find quantities by overturning bits of bark and leaves.

They also glean part of their living from the underside of the foliage

much as do the Vireos. They are met with in open woods and brush-grown

pastures.

Song.—A weak, rapid chipping.

Nest.—On the ground in depressions under logs, stones or bushes; of

leaves and grass, lined with fine grass or hair; eggs four or five in

number, white, spotted principally around the large end with brownish

(.70 × .55).

Range.—Eastern U. S., breeding from the Gulf north to Connecticut, Ohio

and Iowa; winters in Central America.

[Illustration: ]

BACHMAN WARBLER

640. Vermivora bachmani. 4¼ inches

Male, with a yellow forehead, shoulders and underparts; black cap and

breast patch; female, duller and with less black.

This species was first discovered by Dr. John Bachman near Charleston, S.

C.

Song.—An insignificant warble or twitter, similar to the song of the

Parula.

Nest.—In low bushes or briers, one to three feet above ground. Made of

fine grasses and leaf skeletons, lined with black fibres. Found breeding

by Widmann in Missouri, by Embody in Kentucky and by Wayne in South

Carolina. Eggs four in number; pure white (.63 × .48).

Range.—Southeastern U. S., north to North Carolina and west to Missouri.

Rare and local in distribution.

[Illustration: ]

BLUE-WINGED WARBLER

641. Vermivora pinus. 4¾ inches

Crown and underparts yellow; a narrow black line through the eyes; two

broad whitish wing bars.

A common bird of the southeastern states and north to Connecticut,

frequenting open woods, thickets and gardens. They are ground birds,

spending most of their time on the ground or in low bushes which they

clean of the insects which are destructive.

Song.—A loud, rapid chirrup, similar to that of the Grasshopper Sparrow

but loud and distinct.

Nest.—Of leaves and strips of bark, lined with fine grasses; on the

ground in clumps of weeds or blackberry vines; eggs white, sparingly

spotted around the large end with rufous (65. × .50).

Range.—Eastern U. S., breeding north to southern Connecticut and

Wisconsin; winters in the tropics.

Hybrids.—Lawrence Warbler, which is a hybrid between this species and the

next; it has the general plumage of this species with the black ear

patches and throat of the Golden-winged Warbler. It is found chiefly in

southwestern Connecticut and New York.

[Illustration: ]

GOLDEN-WINGED WARBLER

642. Vermivora chrysoptera. 5 inches

Crown and two large wing bars yellow; throat and ear patches black; rest

of plumage gray and white; female with less black.

The distribution of this beautiful Warbler is about the same as that of

the last, with which it seems to have many habits in common. It seems to

prefer low ridges and side hills covered with small bushes.

Song.—A buzzing “zwee-ze-ze.”

Nest.—Of leaves, rootlets, strips of bark and grass; located on the

ground among clumps of weeds, usually in moist places; eggs white with

brown specks (.62 × .48).

Range.—Eastern U. S., breeding north to Connecticut and Michigan; winters

in Central America.

Hybrid.—Brewster Warbler is a hybrid between this species and the last.

It resembles the Golden-winged Warbler without the black, but with a

yellow patch on the breast and the black line of the Blue-wing through

the eye.

[Illustration: ]

NASHVILLE WARBLER

645. Vermivora rubricapilla. 4¾ inches

Male with a brown crown patch; female duller colored and with no crown

patch. Dry side hills covered with young trees are favorite resorts

for the Warblers. They conceal their nests on the ground under tufts

of dead grass or overhanging stones. They are often rather shy and

hard to sight, but you can usually hear their song, a lazy sounding

“ker-chip-chip-chip-cherr-wee-e-e,” ending in a short trill. These birds

breed in the northern half of the U. S. and southern Canada, wintering in

Central America. A sub-species is found on the Pacific Coast.

ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER

646. Vermivora celata. 5 inches

This species is fairly common in the Mississippi Valley but is rare in

New England. Its habits are much like those of the last species and it is

often mistaken for that bird. These birds breed only north of the U. S.

and winter in Mexico. A sub-species, the Lutescent Warblers, nests from

California to Alaska.

[Illustration: ]

TENNESSEE WARBLER

647. Vermivora peregrina. 5 inches

Male, with a gray head and greenish back; female, with the top of the

head the same color as the back.

A dull-colored bird that, with the exception of the bill, bears a strong

resemblance to some of the Vireos. Like many others of our birds, this

one has received an inappropriate name, because the first specimen was

shot on the banks of the Cumberland River, while the bird is no more

abundant in Tennessee than in other states during migration.

Song.—A simple ditty similar to that of the Chipping Sparrow.

Nest.—Either on the ground or at low elevations in bushes; of grasses and

fibres lined with hair; eggs white, sparsely specked with reddish brown

(.62 × .45).

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding from the northern parts of the northern

tier of states northward to the limit of trees; winters in Central and

South America.

[Illustration: ]

PARULA WARBLER

648. Compsothlypis americana. 4½ inches

In the summer Parulas are found in wet swamps where the ground is covered

with a carpeting of moss which only partially keeps your feet from the

water below; the dead trees are covered with a growth of long, drooping

moss; the ends of this moss are turned up and formed into a neat cradle

within which the eggs are laid.

Song.—A little lisping trill.

Range.—Breeds in the southern half of the U. S. The Northern Parula

(usnea), No. 648a, breeds in the northern half of the U. S. and southern

Canada; it is brighter colored than the southern form. Both varieties

winter from the Gulf States southward.

SENNETT WARBLER

649. Compsothlypis pitiayumi nigrilora. 4½ inches

A smaller similar bird from southern Texas. Note the black ear patches

and lack of black on breast.

[Illustration: ]

CAPE MAY WARBLER

650. Dendroica tigrina. 5 inches

Male, with a chestnut wash on the ears and throat; female, duller and

with little or no chestnut.

In the greater part of eastern North America, Cape May Warblers are

regarded as rare birds; they appear to migrate in compact bodies, not

spreading out over the country as do most of the others; consequently

they may be very common in restricted areas while lacking entirely in

others. I have never met with but two specimens in Massachusetts. While

passing through the United States you may meet with them in open woods,

parks or in shade trees along the streets of cities.

Song.—A thin, high-pitched whistle repeated several times.

Nest.—Of small cedar twigs lined with horse hair, placed within a few

feet of the ground in small cedar trees; eggs white spotted with brown

(.68 × .50).

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding in eastern Canada and, rarely, northern

New England; winters south of the U. S.

[Illustration: ]

YELLOW WARBLER

652. Dendroica æstiva. 5 inches

Male, with chestnut streaks on the sides; female, duller and without the

streaks.

An abundant bird everywhere in woodland, park, orchard or garden and one

of the most vivacious of the family. Arrives in the north soon after May

first and is seen flitting about like a gleam of sunshine snatching

insects from the foliage or darting after them in the air. Often known as

the Summer Yellow-bird. It frequently nests in garden or orchard trees,

where it is a most welcome tenant.

Song.—A sharp, vigorous “che-wee, che-wee, che-wee.”

Nest.—A beautiful and compact structure of vegetable or plant fibres

firmly quilted together, and fastened to upright forks of bushes or trees

at low elevations. Willows along creeks, ponds or rivers are favorite

resorts.

Range.—N. A., breeding from the Gulf to Labrador and Alaska; winters in

Central America.

[Illustration: ]

BLACK-THROATED BLUE WARBLER

654. Dendroica cærulescens. 5¼ inches

Male, grayish blue above and with a black face, throat, breast and sides;

female, grayish olive above, whitish below. Both sexes always have a

white patch or speck at the base of the primaries.

You will find these birds in damp woods or swamps, or less often in parks

or open woods. They are usually seen at low elevations in scrubby

underbrush. Their notes are very peculiar and will draw attention to them

anywhere.

Song.—A deep grating whistle with a sharply rising inflection,

“zee-zee-zwee.”

Nest.—In deep, swampy woods, especially common in laurel; of grapevine

bark and rootlets lined with fine black roots and hair; the four eggs are

white or buffy white with reddish brown spots and blotches.

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding from Connecticut (sparingly) and Michigan

north to Labrador and Hudson Bay; winters in Central America. 654a.

Cairns Warbler (cairnsi) is said to be darker on the back; found in the

southern Alleghanies.

[Illustration: ]

MYRTLE WARBLER

655. Dendroica coronata. 5½ inches

Yellow patches on crown, sides and rump; outer tail feathers with large

white spots; female duller and browner.

During migrations these pretty birds are very abundant in the United

States. They usually travel in large flocks so that a small piece of

woodland is literally flooded with them when they pause in the flight to

feed upon insects or small berries. They are often known as Yellow-rumped

Warblers.

Song.—A clear, broken trill or warble.

Nest.—Usually in coniferous trees, though sometimes in others, and at low

elevations; of plant fibres and grasses; the four or five eggs are white,

spotted and blotched with reddish brown (.70 × .54).

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding from northern New England and Minnesota

northward; winters south of the U. S.

[Illustration: ]

MAGNOLIA WARBLER

657. Dendroica magnolia. 5 inches.

Male, with black ear patch, back, and necklace; female, with the black

replaced with grayish; both sexes have a yellow rump and white spots

midway of the tail feathers.

One of the prettiest of the Warblers and one of the least timid. I have

often had one or more of these birds follow me the whole length of a

piece of woods apparently out of curiosity, coming down to the nearest

twigs within arms’ reach of me. Birch woods are their favorites during

migrations, although a few of them will be found almost anywhere.

Song.—A short, rapidly uttered warble.

Nest.—Usually in coniferous trees, far out on the longer branches, where

they are often difficult to get at, of rootlets lined with fine black

rootlets and hair; four or five white eggs with small spots of chestnut

around the large end (.60 × .48).

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding from Massachusetts and Michigan northward;

winters south of the U. S.

[Illustration: ]

CERULEAN WARBLER

658. Dendroica cærulea. 5 inches

Above grayish blue with black streaks, below white with a bluish breast

band and streaks on the sides; female washed with greenish above and

yellowish below; both have white patches near the ends of the tail

feathers.

These dainty little Warblers are not abundant anywhere, but seem to be

most so in the central states. They are birds of the tree tops, rarely

coming down so that they can be distinctly seen. They may be more common

than supposed, for so small a body at such heights can readily be

overlooked.

Song.—A little warbling trill, “zee-zee-ze-ee-eep.”

Nest.—In the higher outer branches of large trees usually in deep woods;

compactly made of dry grasses and cobwebs, adorned with a few lichens;

eggs white specked at the large end with brownish (.65 × .50).

Range.—Interior portions of the U. S., breeding north to Michigan and

Minnesota; east to western New York and, rarely, southern New England;

winters in northern South America.

[Illustration: ]

CHESTNUT-SIDED WARBLER

659. Dendroica pennsylvanica. 5 inches

Yellow crown, black line through eye and on side of throat and broad

chestnut stripe on sides; female, paler and with less chestnut; young

greenish yellow above and with no chestnut.

Nearly every swamp or bush-covered pasture within their range shelters

one or more pairs of these Warblers. While they sometimes feed in the

tree tops, they are birds of the lower foliage and are usually seen in

low bushes.

Song.—Similar to that of the Yellow Warbler but more choppy.

Nest.—In low bushes or weeds, and often in sweet fern or briars; similar

to that of the Yellow Warbler but coarser, being made more with grasses

than with fibres, situated in upright forks or attached to several weed

stalks; eggs white, specked around the large end with reddish brown (.68

× .50).

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding from New Jersey and Ohio north to Manitoba

and New Brunswick; winters south of U. S.

[Illustration: ]

BAY-BREASTED WARBLER

660. Dendroica castanea. 5½ inches

Male, with crown, throat and sides rich chestnut; female, paler; young

and adults in winter, greenish above, streaked with black and with a

trace of chestnut on the flanks.

These Warblers are only locally abundant during migrations, while in

eastern New England they are rare. They are active insect hunters,

darting rapidly about the tree tops or, less often, in brush; their

habits most nearly resemble those of the Chestnut-sided Warbler.

Song.—A low, liquid warble.

Nest.—At low elevations in trees in swampy woods; compact, cup-shaped

structures made of fine shreds of bark, rootlets and grass; eggs bluish

white, finely specked around the large end with reddish brown (.70 ×

.50).

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding from the northern edge of the U. S.

northward; winters south of the U. S.

[Illustration: ]

BLACKBURNIAN WARBLER

662. Dendroica fusca. 5¼ inches

Male, black above with large white patch on wing, and bases of outer tail

feathers white; throat and breast intense orange; female duller and with

the orange replaced by dull yellow.

Without exception, this is the most exquisite of the whole family; it is

the most eagerly sought bird by bird lovers, in the spring. Some years

they are very abundant, while others few are seen, their routes of

migration evidently varying. They arrive about the time that apple trees

are in bloom, and are frequently seen among the blossoms, dashing after

insects.

Song.—A high-pitched lisping “zwe-zwe-zwe-see-ee-ee,” ending in a thin,

wiry tone, almost a hiss; it is very distinct from the song of any other

bird.

Nest.—In coniferous trees at any height from the ground; of shreds of

bark, fine cedar twigs, rootlets, etc.; eggs greenish white blotched with

brown.

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding from Massachusetts (rarely) and Minnesota

northward; winters in Central America.

[Illustration: ]

BLACK-POLL WARBLER

661. Dendroica striata. 5½ inches

Whole crown black; female, without black cap, greenish gray above

streaked with black; young paler than the female.

These birds are one of the latest of the migrants to arrive, reaching

northern United States about the last of May, but coming in such numbers

that they are found everywhere. While their plumage somewhat resembles

that of the Black and White Warbler, their habits are entirely different.

Song.—A high-pitched, hissing whistle similar to that of the Black and

White Warbler but uttered more deliberately and with an instant’s pause

between each note.

Nest.—At low elevations in thick coniferous trees; made of slender twigs,

rootlets and lichens, lined with hair or feathers; eggs whitish, thickly

spotted with brown (.75 × .52).

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding from northern New England, Minnesota and

Wyoming north to the Arctic regions; winters south of the United States.

[Illustration: ]

YELLOW-THROATED WARBLER

663. Dendroica dominica. 5¼ inches

Throat, breast and line from eye to bill yellow.

This species has habits very similar to those of the Black and White

Creeper, being often seen creeping around the trunks or over the branches

of trees with almost as much facility as the Nuthatches. They are

southern birds and are only rarely or accidentally found in the northern

half of the U. S., and they are one of the few members of the family that

winter in the southern parts of our country.

Song.—Loud and similar to that of the Indigo Bunting, but shorter.

Nest.—Usually high up in pines and often concealed in tufts of moss; made

of fine twigs and strips of bark, held together with cobwebs and Spanish

moss; eggs greenish white, spotted with various shades of brown.

Range.—Southeastern U. S., breeding north to Virginia; winters in the

West Indies. 663a. Sycamore Warbler (albilora) is like the

Yellow-throated, but is white before the eye; found in the Mississippi

Valley north to Illinois and Iowa; winters in Mexico.

[Illustration: ]

GOLDEN-CHEEKED WARBLER

666. Dendroica chrysoparia. 4¾ inches

In some plumages these birds may be confused with the Black-throated

Green. Notice that the adult male has a short median line of yellow on

the crown, otherwise the top of head and entire back are intense black.

Young birds, which bear the closest resemblance to the next species, can

be distinguished because their underparts are white, those of the

Black-throated green being tinged with yellow.

These rare Warblers have a very restricted distribution, but are said to

be not uncommon within their range.

Notes.—Song with the usual Warbler quality, but entirely distinctive:

“sweah-sweah-swee-e-e.”

Nest.—Of strips of bark, usually located in juniper trees six to twenty

feet above ground. Eggs white, splashed about the large end with reddish

brown (.65 × .50).

Range.—Central Texas southward into Mexico.

[Illustration: ]

BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLER

667. Dendroica virens. 5 inches

Throat black; two wing bars and outer tail feathers white; female with

little black on the throat.

A common bird in pine groves in northern United States, or during

migrations in birch woods. I have found them most abundant on side hills

covered with low-growth pines. They seem to be very nervous and are

greatly excited if you appear near their nests. They often have the habit

of building several nests, whether with the deliberate intent to deceive

or whether because the first was not satisfactory as to location is not

known.

Song.—Entirely different from that of any other bird; a rather harsh

“zee” repeated six times, with the fourth and fifth syllables lower.

Nest.—Of rootlets and fine grasses, lined with hair; placed high up in

pine trees; eggs white with fine brown specks around the large end (.60 ×

.50).

Range.—Eastern North America, breeding from southern New England and

Illinois north to Nova Scotia and Hudson Bay; winters in Central America.

[Illustration: ]

KIRTLAND WARBLER

670. Dendroica kirtlandi. 5½ inches

Above bluish gray streaked with black; underparts pale yellow streaked on

the side with black.

This is one of the rarest of American Warblers, and until 1903 but little

was known of their habits or range; in that year they were discovered

nesting in Oscoda County, Michigan. They were found near the banks of a

river in Jack pines, building on the ground and remaining in the

underbrush near it.

Song.—Loud and clear and said to resemble that of the Maryland

Yellow-throat.

Nest.—In depressions in the ground at the foot of pine trees and probably

also under bushes; made of strips of bark and vegetable fibres; eggs

white, wreathed about the large end with brown (.72 × .56).

Range.—Breeds in Michigan and migrates southeast through Ohio, Missouri,

Tennessee, Virginia, the Carolinas and Florida to the Bahamas.

[Illustration: ]

PINE WARBLER

671. Dendroica vigorsi. 5½ inches

Greenish yellow above, brighter below; two white wing bars and white

spots on outer tail feathers; female, duller and grayer.

Found only in tracts of coniferous trees, except during migrations, when

they are often in company with other kinds of Warblers. They like dry

hillsides covered with scrub pines and are often quite abundant in such

localities. They are rather quiet in their manners, creeping about among

the tree tops like Black and White Warblers and occasionally giving their

clear little trill.

Song.—Nearest like that of the Chipping Sparrow, but easily

distinguishable; a long, clear trill.

Nest.—A small, compact structure of black rootlets lined with hair;

placed in the extreme tops of scrub pines, where it is very difficult to

see them; eggs white specked with reddish brown (.62 × .50).

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding from the Gulf north to southern Canada;

winters in southern U. S.

[Illustration: ]

PALM WARBLER

672. Dendroica palmarum. 5¼ inches

No wing bars, but white spots on the outer tail feathers; crown, cheeks

and streaks on the sides chestnut.

During migrations you will find these Warblers along roadsides, in open

woods and scrubby pastures. They are of a very nervous temperament and,

when at rest or when walking, are continually flirting their tail, a

habit which none of the Warblers, except the Water-thrush, seem to have.

They are one of the earliest of the family to appear in the spring,

reaching northern United States in April.

Song.—A short trill; an ordinary Warbler chirp.

Nest.—On the ground under shrubs, or sunken in moss; made of fine

grasses, bark and moss; the four eggs are creamy white with reddish-brown

spots.

Range.—Interior of N. A., breeding in the interior of British America;

winters in southern U. S. 672a. Yellow Palm Warbler (hypochrysea) is

brighter yellow below; it is found in eastern N. A., breeding north of

Nova Scotia; winters along the Gulf.

[Illustration: ]

PRAIRIE WARBLER

673. Dendroica discolor. 4¾ inches

Above greenish with chestnut spots on the back; below yellow with black

markings; female paler.

These are very locally distributed birds and will often be found breeding

abundantly in a small patch of brush-covered pasture, while many others

apparently just as well suited for their purposes will be shunned by

them. They are very active, flitting rapidly from one bush to another,

the male occasionally mounting to a bush top to hurriedly deliver his

song, then diving out of sight below the foliage.

Song.—An energetic, rather harsh “zee-zee-zee-ee” on an ascending scale.

Nest.—A neat cup of grasses and vegetable fibres, lined with black

rootlets or horsehair; located in low shrubs or bushes from one to two

feet above ground; eggs whitish with blackish-brown specks about the

large end (.65 × .48).

Range.—Eastern U. S., breeding from the Gulf to Massachusetts and

southern Michigan; winters in the West Indies.

[Illustration: ]

OVEN-BIRD

674. Seiurus aurocapillus. 6 inches

Crown orange brown bordered by black; no white in wings or tail.

This bird is found in open woods, where it builds its arched nest on the

ground among the leaves or pine needles. It is the peculiar oven-like

construction of their nests that gives them their name. They are

essentially ground birds, only mounting to the lower branches of trees to

sing or when scolding an intruder.

Song.—A peculiar ascending song resembling the word teacher, repeated

five or six times and gathering strength and volume with each syllable;

call, a sharp chip.

Nest.—Of leaves, strips of bark and grass arched over the top so as to

leave a very small opening; placed on the ground in woods; four to six

white eggs spotted with reddish brown (.78 × .58).

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding in the northern half of the U. S. and

north to Labrador; winters chiefly south of U. S.

[Illustration: ]

WATER-THRUSH

675. Seiurus noveboracensis. 6 inches

This species always has a yellowish tinge to the underparts and the

stripes beneath are narrow, but prominent. These Warblers are found

in tangled underbrush near water. They have a habit of continually

flirting their tails, thus giving them the local name of Water-Wagtail.

Their call is a sharp metallic “chink”; their song a loud, liquid

“quit-quit-quit-que-quewe-u.” Breeds from the northern edge of the U. S.

northward; winters south of U. S.

LOUISIANA WATER-THRUSH

676. Seiurus motacilla. 6¼ inches

Larger, grayer above and whiter below than the preceding; stripes fewer

and broader. This is a more southern species and breeds from the Gulf to

Connecticut and southern Minnesota. Its notes are wild and ringing, like

those of the last. They build their nests under the roots of trees or

under the edges of overhanging banks. The eggs are creamy white, boldly

blotched with brown.

[Illustration: ]

KENTUCKY WARBLER

677. Oporornis formosa. 5½ inches

Crown and ear coverts black, underparts and line over eye yellow; no

white in the plumage.

These birds are found in about such localities as are frequented by

Oven-birds, but with a preference for woods which are low and damp. They

are locally common in some of the southern and central states. They are

active gleaners of the underbrush, keeping well within the depths of

tangled thickets. Like the Maryland Yellow-throat, which has similar

habits to those of this bird, they are quite inquisitive and frequently

come close to you to investigate or to scold.

Song.—A loud, musical, Wren-like warble.

Nest.—A bulky structure of leaves, bark and grasses, lined with black

rootlets or horsehair; placed on the ground in bunches of weeds or at the

foot of a small bush; the four or five eggs are quite heavily speckled,

chiefly at the large end, with reddish brown.

Range.—Eastern U. S., breeding from the Gulf north to New York and

southern Michigan; winters in northern South America.

[Illustration: ]

CONNECTICUT WARBLER

678. Oporornis agilis. 5½ inches

Male with a bluish slate-colored head; eye ring white and completely

encircling the eye; female with a saffron-colored head.

In the United States we find this Warbler only in spring and fall

migrations. They appear to be much more rare in the spring than in the

fall; while I have seen perhaps a hundred in the fall I have never seen

but one in spring. They frequent wild tangled thickets, such as you often

find Maryland Yellow-throats in. As they do most of their feeding upon

the ground and remain in the depths of the thickets, they are rarely seen

unless attention is drawn to them.

Song.—Somewhat like that of the Maryland Yellow-throat; call, a sharp,

metallic “peenk.”

Nest.—In thickets or clumps of briars, either on the ground or just above

it; made of strips of bark and skeletons of leaves lined with hair; eggs

whitish sparingly specked at the large end with brown (.75 × .56).

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding north of the U. S.; winters in northern

South America.

[Illustration: ]

MOURNING WARBLER

679. Oporornis Philadelphia. 5½ inches

Similar to the last, but with no eye ring and with a black patch on the

breast.

These birds are found in swamps and thickets, as well as among the bushes

and weeds along walls, fences and the edges of woods. Their habits are

like those of the Maryland Yellow-throats, they being found on or near

the ground, scratching about among the leaves or gleaning insects from

the foliage of the low shrubbery. They appear to be the most abundant in

the middle states and northward.

Song.—Similar to the liquid song of the Water-Thrush; call, a sharp

“peenk,” like that of the last.

Nest.—On or near the ground in thickets or tangled vines; made of fine

bark strips and fibres, lined with hair; eggs white specked with reddish

brown (.71 × .54).

Range.—Eastern U. S., breeding from northern New England, Ohio and

Michigan north to southern Canada; winters south of the U. S.

[Illustration: ]

MARYLAND YELLOW-THROAT

681. Geothlypis trichas. 5¼ inches

One of our most common birds in swamps and also in shrubbery along

roadsides or walls. They are very inquisitive, and their bright eyes will

peek at you from behind some leaf or shrub as long as you are in sight.

Song.—A lively “witchity-witchity-witch”; call, a deep chip; also a

rattling note of alarm.

Nest.—Of grapevine and grasses, located in clumps of weeds on or nearly

touching the ground; eggs white with brown specks (.70 × .50).

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding from the Gulf to New Jersey.

Sub-Species.—681a. Western Yellow-throat (occidentalis), said to be

brighter; found chiefly west of the Rockies, but east to the Plains.

681b. Florida Yellow-throat (ignota), South Atlantic and Gulf coasts.

68ld. Northern Yellow-throat (brachidactyla), slightly larger and deeper

colored; found in northeastern U. S. and southeastern Canada, west to

Dakota and south through the Mississippi Valley to the Gulf.

[Illustration: ]

YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT

683. Icteria virens. 7½ inches

Breast yellow, lores black, line over the eye and underparts white; no

white on wings or tail.

Dry side hills and ravines covered with thick underbrush are the places

to look for Chats. Usually if they are present they will make themselves

heard long before you see them. They are one of the most odd birds both

in action and song. They are mimics of the highest order and can make any

kind of whistle or squawk, but all their vocal efforts seem to require a

great deal of flirting of the tail and twisting of the head. They even

jerk their tail up and down while flying, this making them appear

extremely ludicrous.

Song.—A varied medley of whistles and calls.

Nest.—Near the ground in tangled thickets; of grass, weeds, etc.; eggs

whitish plentifully specked with reddish brown (.90 × .70).

Range.—Eastern U. S., breeding north to Massachusetts and southern

Minnesota; winters in Central America. 683a. Long-tailed Chat

(longicauda) is found in the U. S. from the Plains to the Pacific.

[Illustration: ]

HOODED WARBLER

684. Wilsonia citrina. 5½ inches

Male with yellow forehead and cheeks, the rest of the head and throat

being black; female much duller with little or no black; both sexes have

white spots on the outer tail feathers, but no bars on the wings.

This is one of the liveliest of the family, being very active in catching

insects on the wing like a true Flycatcher; because of this habit all the

members of this genus are often called Fly-catching Warblers. They also

have a habit of often spreading and folding the tail as they flit through

the underbrush that they frequent.

Song.—A clear, liquid series of whistles; call, a sharp “chip.”

Nest.—Within a few inches of the ground in low underbrush or vines; made

of leaves, bark, etc., held firmly together with cobwebs; the four or

five eggs are white, profusely spotted with reddish brown.

Range.—Eastern U. S., breeding from the Gulf to southern Connecticut and

Michigan; winters south of the U. S.

[Illustration: ]

WILSON WARBLER

685. Wilsonia pusilla. 5 inches

Male, with black crown patch; female, with the crown greenish like the

back.

These little fly-catching Warblers are abundant in the United States

during migrations, being found in woods or swamps, and very often in

apple trees when they are in bloom. They fly about among the outer

branches snatching insects from the foliage or blossoms, and often

dashing out to catch one that is flying by. Their natural quickness is

intensified by their very attractive plumage which harmonizes perfectly

with green leaves.

Song.—A simple and rather weak trill.

Nest.—Of leaves and bark, imbedded in the ground under bushes on the

edges of swamps or woods; eggs white, specked with reddish brown (.60 ×

48).

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding from the northern edge of the U. S.

northward; winters in Central America. Two subspecies are found west of

the Rockies.

[Illustration: ]

CANADIAN WARBLER

686. Wilsonia canadensis. 5½ inches

Male, with a necklace of black spots, white eye ring and lores; female,

and young, with only a slight indication of the necklace.

These Warblers travel northward in company with many other kinds, always

keeping in the underbrush near the ground, except when they come out into

orchards and parks. Like the two last, they are very lively, rarely

remaining still for more than a few seconds, before they must dash after

some tempting morsel that is flying by.

Song.—A loud liquid warble, most nearly resembling that of the

Water-Thrush; call, a sharp, querulous chip.

Nest.—Of rootlets and strips of bark, under roots of trees or shrubs or

at the foot of stumps in the moss; the four eggs are white with a wreath

of chestnut spots around the large end (.68 × .50).

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding from Massachusetts and Michigan northward;

winters in northern South America.

[Illustration: ]

AMERICAN REDSTART

687. Setophaga ruticilla. 5½ inches

Male, black, orange and white; female, grayish, yellow and white; it

requires two or three years to attain the black plumage of the male, in

the intermediate stages they are sometimes strangely mottled.

In the northeastern half of the United States, these are one of the

commonest and most active of the species. Both the males and females seem

to be proud of their handsome plumage and are continually spreading and

closing their tails. They are equally happy whether in the tree tops or

near the ground, and are as often found in the one place as the other.

Song.—“Che-wee, che-wee, che-wee,” very similar to that of the Yellow

Warbler and also the Chestnut-sided Warbler.

Nest.—Of plant fibres and grasses in forks of bushes or trees, usually at

greater heights than those of the Yellow Warbler; eggs whitish specked

with brown.

Range.—N. A., rare west of the Rockies, breeding from North Carolina and

Missouri northward; winters south of the U. S.

[Illustration: ]

AMERICAN PIPIT; TITLARK

697. Anthus rubescens. 6½ inches

These are Arctic birds that spend the winter months in the United States.

We find them in flocks along roadsides or in fields, feeding upon weed

seeds. They are shy and take wing readily, uttering sharp whistles as

they wheel about in the air. They are always restless and stay in a place

but a short time. They nest on the ground in northern Canada. Eggs

grayish, profusely specked with brown.

SPRAGUE PIPIT

700. Anthus spraguei. 6¼ inches

Upper parts streaked with buff and blackish; below pale buffy with black

markings. These birds are found on the Plains from the Dakotas to Hudson

Bay in summer, migrating to Mexico in winter. They resemble the European

Skylark in their habit of soaring to a great height while singing. Their

song is very melodious, resembling that of the Bobolink. Their nests are

depressions in the ground, lined with grasses. Eggs grayish, finely

specked with purplish gray (.87 × .67).

[Illustration: ]

SAGE THRASHER

702. Oreoscoptes montanus. 8¾ inches

This species is often known as the Mountain Mockingbird because of the

brilliance of its song, a very varied performance, long continued and

mocking that of many other species. They inhabit sage-brush regions and

are partial to the lower portions of the country, although frequently met

in open mountains. They are not shy and can readily be located by their

voices.

Nest.—In bushes, especially the sage and cactus; a loose structure made

of bark strips, small twigs and coarse grasses, lined with fine rootlets.

The three or four eggs have a rich greenish-blue ground, spotted with

bright reddish brown (.95 × .70).

Range.—Sage-brush regions of western United States from the Plains to the

Pacific; winters in Mexico and Lower California.

[Illustration: ]

MOCKINGBIRD

703. Mimus polyglottos. 10½ inches

General colors, gray and white; bases of primaries and outer tail

feathers with white.

This is the great vocalist of the south, and by many is considered to be

the most versatile singer in America. It is found in gardens, pastures

and open woods. All its habits are similar to our Catbird, and like that

species, it is given to imitating the notes of other birds.

Song.—An indescribable medley, sometimes very sweet and pleasing, at

others, harsh and unmusical.

Nest.—Usually built in impenetrable thickets or hedges, or again in more

open situation in the garden; made of twigs and rootlets, lined with

black rootlets; the four or five eggs are bluish green with blotches of

reddish brown (95 × .70).

Range.—Southern U. S., breeding north to New Jersey (and casually

farther) and Ohio; winters in the South Atlantic and Gulf states. 703a.

Western Mockingbird (leucopterus) is found in southwestern U. S., north

to Indian Territory and California.

[Illustration: ]

CATBIRD

704. Dumetella carolinensis. 9 inches

General color dark gray with a black cap and chestnut under tail coverts.

This is one of the most common birds throughout the United States, being

found equally abundantly in gardens, swamps and scrubby pastures. They

are very persistent songsters and have a large repertoire of notes, as

well as being able to imitate those of many other birds. They delight in

spending an hour or more at a time, perched in a bush or tree top,

singing, and apparently making their song up as they go along, for it is

an indescribable medley interspersed with various mews and cat calls.

Song.—A medley like that of the Mockingbird; sometimes pleasing,

sometimes not.

Nest.—In hedges or thickets; made of twigs, rootlets and grass, lined

with fine black roots; the four eggs are plain greenish blue (.95 × .70).

Range.—N. A., breeding from the Gulf to New Brunswick and Hudson Bay;

rare west of the Rockies; winters from the Gulf States southward.

[Illustration: ]

BROWN THRASHER

705. Toxostoma rufum. 11½ inches

Above bright reddish brown; below white with black spots.

Taken as a whole I think that the song of this Thrasher is the most

musical and pleasing of any that I have ever heard. It has a similarity

to that of the Catbird, but is rounder, fuller and has none of the

grating qualities of the song of that species. They apparently have a

song of their own and do not deign to copy that of others. They are one

of the most useful and desirable birds that we have.

Song.—A bright and cheerful carol, often long continued, but always clear

and sweet; call, a clear whistled “wheuu.”

Nest.—Of twigs and rootlets, in hedges, thickets or thorn bushes; the

four or five eggs are bluish white with numerous fine dots or reddish

brown over the entire surface (1.08 × .80).

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding from the Gulf to southern Canada; winters

in the southern half of the U. S.

[Illustration: ]

CACTUS WREN

713. Heleodytes brunneicapillus. 8½ inches

Cactus groves are the favorite resorts of these large Wrens. Often a bed

of cactus not more than thirty feet square will contain the homes of half

a dozen pairs of them. Like all the members of the family, they are very

sprightly and have violent tempers, scolding any one or anything that

incurs their displeasure.

Nest.—Their nests are placed in cactus or other thorny shrubs; they are

very large, purse-shaped affairs with an entrance on the side; they are

made of little thorny twigs and grasses woven together, and the interior

is warmly lined with feathers. The four or five eggs are creamy white,

finely sprinkled with reddish brown (.95 × .65). Two or three broods are

often raised in a season.

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

Texas to California.

[Illustration: ]

ROCK WREN

715. Salpinctes obsoletus. 5¾ inches

Upper parts stone color, specked with black; rump brownish; underparts

whitish with indistinct streaks on the throat.

A common bird on the dry, rocky foothills of the Rockies and westward.

They are well named, for their favorite places are among the rocks, where

they are always busily engaged in hunting insects or spiders in the

crevices. Owing to their colors and their habits of slinking away behind

the rocks they are quite difficult to see, but their sweet song is always

heard if any of the birds are in the vicinity.

Song.—Very sweet and varied, almost canary-like, but impossible to

describe; call, a harsh grating note.

Nest.—Of sticks, weeds, grasses, etc., concealed in crevices among the

rocks; the five or six eggs are white, sparingly specked with reddish

brown (.72 × .54).

Range.—Western U. S. from the western border of the Plains to the

Pacific, north to Dakota and British Columbia; winters from southwestern

U. S. southward.

[Illustration: ]

CAROLINA WREN

718. Thryothorus ludovicianus. 5½ inches

Above rusty brown and below washed with the same, the throat and line

over the eye being white.

Like all the Wrens, this one commonly sits or flits about in the brush,

with the tail erect over the body; only when singing it is held downward.

Their flight is usually only for a short distance, accomplished by rapid

wing beats and with a jerking motion of the tail.

Song.—Loud and tinkling, and utterly impossible to describe.

Nest.—In brush heaps, holes in trees, bird boxes or bushes; made of

weeds, grass and any trash that they may pick up; eggs, five to seven in

number, white, specked with reddish brown (.74 × .60).

Range.—Eastern U. S., breeding from the Gulf north to Connecticut and

Illinois; resident. 718a. Florida Wren (miamensis) is found in southern

Florida. 718b. Lomita Wren (lomitensis), found in southern Texas.

[Illustration: ]

BEWICK WREN

719. Thryomanes bewickii. 5 inches

Above dark brown; below and line over eye whitish; tail blackish with the

outer feathers barred with white.

Like all the Wrens, these seem to be very restless and are continually

creeping about in brush heaps or along stone walls, fences or over fallen

trees or stumps. They are locally abundant in interior United States, in

some sections entirely replacing the House Wren.

Song.—A sweet chant of liquid melodious notes.

Nest.—In any location that happens to take the bird’s fancy, such as

holes in trees, bird boxes, in barns, sheds, etc.; made of straw, grass

and trash; eggs white profusely specked with reddish brown.

Range.—Mississippi Valley and the Plains north to South Dakota; east to

the Alleghanies and casually to the South Atlantic States. 719c. Texas

Bewick Wren (crythus) is found from Texas north to Indian Territory.

[Illustration: ]

HOUSE WREN

721. Troglodytes ædon. 4¾ inches

Above brownish with tail and wings barred; below dull grayish, barred on

the flanks with brown.

These are bold, sociable and confiding birds, seeming to prefer men’s

society, building their nests in bird boxes that are erected for them, or

in the most unexpected situations about buildings. They are one of the

most beneficial birds that can be attracted to one’s yard, feeding wholly

upon insects.

Song.—Loud, clear and bubbling over with enthusiasm.

Nest.—Of grass or weeds, stuffed into any crevice that takes their fancy,

frequently in bird boxes and holes in orchard trees; eggs white, so

minutely and thickly dotted with pinkish brown as to nearly conceal the

ground color (.64 × .52).

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding north to Maine and Manitoba; winters along

the Gulf coast. 721b. Western House Wren (aztecus) is found from the

Plains to the Pacific Coast ranges.

[Illustration: ]

WINTER WREN

722. Nannus hiemalis. 4 inches

Above bright cinnamon, below paler; sides, wings and tail heavily barred

with black.

This is the shortest and most stoutly built Wren that we have. They look

very pert with their little stubby tail erect over their back. In most of

the United States we only see them in the winter, and they are

associated, in my mind, with brush heaps in woods and gardens. They will

hide in a small pile of brush, running from side to side, so that it is

almost impossible to make them leave it.

Song.—A rippling flow of melody, not as loud, but more musical than that

of the House Wren.

Nest.—In brush heaps, tin cans, hollow stumps or crevices in unoccupied

buildings; made of piles of grass, weeds, etc., lined with feathers; eggs

white, sparingly specked with reddish brown (.65 × .50).

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding from the northern edge of the U. S.

northward; winters from its breeding range to the Gulf.

[Illustration: ]

SHORT-BILLED MARSH WREN

724. Cistothorus stellaris. 5¼ inches

This species can readily be distinguished from the next, as the whole

crown is streaked with black and white, whereas that of the Long-bill is

uniformly colored. Both species are marsh birds, at home among the reeds,

to which they attach their globular woven nests, with the little entrance

in the side. The eggs of this species are pure white. It is found in

eastern N. A. from the Gulf to southern Canada.

LONG-BILLED MARSH WREN

725. Telmatodytes palustris. 5¼ inches

The bill of this species is .5 inch or more in length; that of the last

is .4 inch or less. This species is by far the most abundant. Its eggs

are so profusely dotted with dark brown as to appear a chocolate color.

Breeds from the Gulf to Massachusetts and Manitoba.

[Illustration: ]

BROWN CREEPER

726. Certhia familiaris americana. 5½ inches

Tail feathers stiffened and pointed; rump rusty.

These odd birds are fairly common throughout the United States in winter.

They will be found in woods always climbing up tree trunks, carefully

investigating every crevice in the bark for larvæ or grubs. When they

reach the top of one tree, they drop to the foot of the next and continue

the operation. They are very tame, not seeming to comprehend that danger

can befall them, for they will allow any one to approach very closely, so

that they have been caught under a hat.

Song.—A very faint trill; call, a weak “tseep,” hardly noticeable unless

very near them.

Nest.—Of twigs, moss and bark, behind loose bark on dead trees or stumps,

usually not high above the ground; eggs white, specked with reddish

brown.

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding from northern New England and Minnesota

northward; winters throughout the U. S.

[Illustration: ]

WHITE-BREASTED NUTHATCH

727. Sitta carolinensis. 6 inches

Male with the crown bluish black; female with the crown gray; both sexes

with chestnut under tail coverts.

These birds seem to be the very opposite of the Brown Creepers. Their

tails are short and square, and nearly always pointed toward the zenith,

for Nuthatches usually clamber among the branches and down the tree

trunks, head first.

Note.—A nasal “yank-yank,” and a repeated “ya-ya,” all on the same tone.

Nest.—In cavities of hollow limbs and trunks of trees at any elevation

from the ground; the cavity is filled with leaves and usually lined with

feathers; eggs white, spotted with reddish brown (.75 × .55).

Range.—Eastern United States, breeding from the Gulf to southern Canada;

resident in most of its range. 727b. Florida White-breasted Nuthatch

(atkinsi) is slightly smaller; other races are found west of the Rockies.

[Illustration: ]

RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH

728. Sitta canadensis. 4½ inches

These birds have the same habits as the larger Nuthatch, but are often

found in flocks, while the White-breasted are usually in pairs and in the

fall accompanied by their young. In the winter we usually find them in

coniferous trees, where we can locate them by their nasal calls or by the

shower of bark that they pry from the tree in their quest for grubs.

Song.—A nasal “yank-yank,” like that of the last, but not so loud, and

usually repeated more times.

Nest.—In hollow stumps and limbs, the area about the opening nearly

always being coated with fir balsam, for what purpose is not known; the

cavity is lined with grasses and feathers; they lay from four to seven

white eggs, which are very thickly spotted with reddish brown (.60 ×

.50).

Range.—N. A., breeding from the northern parts of the northern tier of

states, northward; winters south nearly to the Gulf and southern

California.

[Illustration: ]

BROWN-HEADED NUTHATCH

729. Sitta pusilla. 4¼ inches

Crown brownish with a white patch on the nape.

These diminutive Nuthatches are found in the southern states. Their

general habits do not appear to differ from those of other members of the

family. They nest very early, commencing to excavate their holes in

January and having complete sets of eggs as early as the middle of

February.

They usually are found in small flocks and at night they will often be

seen flying to the top of a pine where they sleep, all huddled together.

Note.—A continued twittering “nya-nya.”

Nest.—In cavities of dead limbs or stumps, sometimes only a few inches

from the ground, and again as high as fifty feet; they lay five or six

eggs, white with numerous spots of reddish brown (.62 × .49).

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

[Illustration: ]

TUFTED TITMOUSE

731. Bæolophus bicolor. 6 inches

Head crested, forehead black, flanks brownish. The habits of this large

Titmouse are almost identical with those of Chickadees. They swing from

the ends of twigs in all manner of positions and creep about trunks,

peering in crevices of the bark for insects. They are common in the

southern states, breeding from the Gulf to New York and Illinois; they

are resident in the southern portion of their range. Their eggs are laid

in soft nests of down and feathers in hollow stumps. Their notes are

loud, clear whistles.

BLACK-CRESTED TITMOUSE

732. Bæolophus atricristatus. 6 inches

Crest black, forehead white, flanks rusty. The habits of this species are

just like those of the very similar preceding one. The birds are very

tame, especially so during the nesting season, when they will allow

themselves to be lifted from the nest by hand. They are found in southern

and western Texas.

[Illustration: ]

BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEE

735. Penthestes atricapillus. 5¼ inches

The Chickadees are one of the most popular birds that we have, owing to

their uniform good nature even in the coldest weather, and their

confiding disposition. They are common about farms, and even on the

outskirts of large cities they will come to feasts prepared for them on

the window sill.

Notes.—A clear “phe-be”; a “chick-a-dee-dee-dee” or “dee-dee-dee,” and

several scolding or chuckling notes.

Nest.—In hollow stumps at any elevation from the ground but usually near

the ground, and most often in birch stubs; eggs white, sparingly specked

with reddish brown.

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding in the northern half of the U. S. and

northward; resident.

736. Carolina Chickadee (Parus carolinensis) is similar to the last but

smaller and with no white edges to the wing feathers; length 4½ inches;

found in southeastern U. S., breeding north to Virginia and Ohio.

[Illustration: ]

HUDSONIAN CHICKADEE

740. Penthestes hudsonicus. 5 inches

Crown and back brownish.

The habits of this little northerner are like those of the bird that we

know so well; if anything they are even more tame than our bird,

especially in the vicinity of lumbermen’s camps. They are only met with

along our northern border or casually farther south; I have seen one

individual in company with other Chickadees in Massachusetts.

Song.—Not distinguishable from that of our Chickadee, but uttered more

incessantly.

Nest.—In cavities of stumps, trees, posts or telephone poles, the cavity

being lined with grass, feathers and fur; the six or seven eggs are white

sprinkled with brown (.60 × .46).

Range.—Resident in Canada and the northern border of the U. S.

[Illustration: ]

VERDIN; YELLOW-HEADED TIT

746. Auriparus flaviceps. 4¼ inches

Adult male with the head and throat yellow, usually with some concealed

orange brown on the forehead; lesser wing-coverts reddish brown. The

female is colored very similarly, but is much duller. These are among the

smallest of N. A. birds; they are even smaller than their length would

indicate, for their bodies are slender. The birds are usually found in

high dry portions of the country where cacti and thorny bushes

predominate.

Nest.—Their nests are remarkable structures for so diminutive birds;

flask-shaped, the outside being a mass of thorny twigs and stems

interwoven; this is lined with feathers and the entrance is a small

circular hole near the top. The eggs are bluish white specked around the

large end with reddish brown.

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

and Lower California.

[Illustration: ]

GOLDEN-CROWNED KINGLET

748. Regulus satrapa. 4 inches

Male with crown orange and yellow, bordered with black; female with

yellow crown.

Although very small, these birds are very rugged and endure the severe

storm and low temperatures of our northern states apparently with little

concern, for they always seem to be happy. They are always busily engaged

among the underbrush of side hills and along the banks of brooks, hunting

for the scanty fare that awaits them.

Song.—A few weak chips, chirps and trills.

Nest.—A large ball of soft green mosses and feathers, suspended from the

small twigs in the tops of coniferous trees; it is neatly hollowed out

for the reception of the six to nine eggs that are laid; eggs creamy

white, minutely but profusely specked with brown (.56 × .44).

Range.—N. A., breeding from Northern U. S. northward and farther south in

mountain ranges; winters throughout the U. S.

[Illustration: ]

RUBY-CROWNED KINGLET

749. Regulus calendula. 4¼ inches

Male with a concealed patch of red on the crown; female with no red.

Like the last, these are chiefly winter visitants in the United States

and they do not remain with us in the coldest weather, but pass on to the

southern half of our country. They are nearly always met with in pine or

other coniferous trees, being very abundant in spring in open pine woods

and parks.

Song.—A clear warble, surprisingly loud and varied for so small a bird;

call, a grating chatter.

Nest.—A ball of moss, grass and feathers, deeply cupped, like that of the

last; partially suspended among the small twigs in the tops of coniferous

trees; eggs white more sparingly marked than those of the last (.55 ×

.43).

Range.—N. A., breeding northward from the northern boundary of the U. S.

and farther south in mountains; winters in the southern half of the U. S.

[Illustration: ]

BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHER

751. Polioptila cærulea. 4½ inches

Forehead black; tail black with white edges and tips to the outer ones.

Their food is chiefly insects, which they are very expert in catching,

taking them on the wing with great celerity. Their movements are all very

rapid, flitting from one part of a tree to another, but usually among the

upper branches. Their nests are among the most beautiful of bird

architecture, even surpassing that of the Hummingbird.

Song.—Sweet, but very faint.

Nest.—Situated on horizontal limbs of trees at medium heights; made of

plant fibres, woolly substances and cobwebs, adorned with handsome

lichens; the walls are very high and thick, the bird sitting so low

inside that only her tail is visible; the four or five eggs are bluish

white specked with reddish brown (.56 × .44).

Range.—Eastern U. S., breeding north to New Jersey and Illinois.

[Illustration: ]

WOOD THRUSH

755. Hylocichla mustelina. 8 inches

Reddish brown above, brightest on the head; below white heavily spotted

with black.

These large Thrushes are locally abundant in swamps and moist woodland.

They are one of our best songsters, their tones being very rich and

flute-like, and, like most of the Thrushes, their songs are most often

heard along toward night.

Song.—Very clear and flute-like, containing many notes of the scale;

often two or more birds answer back and forth from different parts of the

woods; calls, a sharp “quit, quit,” and a liquid “quirt.”

Nest.—Either in forks or on horizontal boughs of bushes or trees, usually

not more than ten feet from the ground; made of grass, weeds, leaves and

some mud; the three or four eggs are bluish green (1.02 × .75)

Range.—Eastern U. S., breeding from Virginia and Missouri north to Maine,

Ontario and Minnesota; winters south of the U. S.

[Illustration: ]

WILSON THRUSH OR VEERY

756. Hylocichla fuscescens. 7½ inches

Entire upper parts a uniform reddish brown; below soiled white with a few

faint marks on the breast.

This species is more abundant than the last. It is found in swamps and

also in dry open woods, they being especially numerous where ferns grow

luxuriantly.

Song.—Very peculiar and not nearly as melodious as that of

the Wood Thrush, but still attractive; a slightly descending

“too-whe-u-whe-u-whe-u”; call, a clear “whee-you.”

Nest.—On the ground among the leaves, on hummocks, or in tangled masses

of briars; made of strips of bark and leaves; eggs greenish blue, darker

and smaller than those of the Wood Thrush (.88 × .65).

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding in the northern half of the United States

and southern Canada; winters in Central America. 756a. Willow Thrush

(salicicola) is more olive above; it is found in the Rockies and eastward

to the Mississippi River.

[Illustration: ]

GRAY-CHEEKED THRUSH

757. Hylocichla aliciæ. 7½ inches

Quite similar to the following but with the eye ring white and the sides

of head and breast much paler.

Breeds in northern Canada and migrates through the eastern states to

Central America. 757a. Bicknell Thrush (bicknelli) is similar to the

Gray-cheeked but smaller. It breeds in Nova Scotia.

OLIVE-BACKED THRUSH

758a. Hylocichla ustulata swainsonii. 7¼ inches

Upper parts woolly olive gray, with no brownish tinge; eye ring, sides of

head and breast distinctly buff; breast spotted with blackish.

Song.—Quite similar to that of the Veery.

Nest.—Composed of leaves, grass and strips of bark, located in bushes or

small trees near the ground; the four eggs are greenish blue spotted with

reddish brown (.90 × .65).

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding from northern U. S. to New Brunswick and

Manitoba.

[Illustration: ]

HERMIT THRUSH

759b. Hylocichla guttata pallasii. 6¾ inches

Tail reddish brown, much brighter than the back and head; breast quite

heavily spotted with black.

During its migrations it rarely sings, but in its summer home it is

regarded as a remarkable musician. Its song has the sweetness and purity

of tone of that of the Wood Thrush, and is, perhaps, more varied, but it

is not nearly as powerful, and has a ventriloquial effect. I watched one

that was perched on a dead stump, about twenty feet from me, for several

minutes with a pair of glasses before I could make sure that he was the

author of the song I heard, for it sounded as though coming from across

the next field.

Nest.—Similar to that of the Wilson Thrush and like that, placed on the

ground or very near it; the eggs are plain greenish blue (.85 × .65).

Range.—Breeds from northern U. S. northward, and farther south in

mountains; winters in the Gulf States.

[Illustration: ]

AMERICAN ROBIN

761. Planesticus migratorius. 10 inches

Male with a black head and bright reddish-brown breast; female with a

gray head and much paler breast; young intermediate between the two and

with a reddish-brown breast spotted with black.

These well-known birds are very abundant in the northern half of the

United States, being found most commonly about farms and dwellings in the

country, and also in cities if they are not persecuted too severely by

English Sparrows.

Song.—A loud cheery carol, “cheerily-cheerup, cheerily-cheerup,” often

long continued.

Nest.—A coarse but substantial structure of mud and grass, placed on

horizontal boughs or in forks at any height, or in any odd place about

dwellings; the four or five eggs are bluish green (1.15 × .80).

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding from the middle of the U. S. northward;

winters throughout the U. S. 761b. Southern Robin (achrustera) is a paler

form found in the Carolinas and Georgia.

[Illustration: ]

GREENLAND WHEATEAR

765a. Saxicola œnanthe leucorrhoa. 6 inches

The Wheatear is a European bird, but this sub-species is found in

Greenland and occasionally in Labrador.

Their habits are about the same as those of the Bluebird. They feed upon

insects, larvæ, fruits, berries and some seeds. They are essentially

ground birds and are usually found in rocky country.

Nest.—Their nests are made of grasses, hair or any rubbish obtainable,

and are hidden in the innermost recesses of crevices among rocks, in

deserted Bank Swallow nests or even in rabbit burrows.

The four to six eggs are pale greenish blue, a little brighter in shade

than those of the Bluebird. They measure .94 × .60

[Illustration: ]

BLUEBIRD

766. Sialia sialis. 7 inches

These beautiful, gentle and well-known birds spend the winter in the

southern parts of the United States and north to the snow line; some more

hardy than the rest are found throughout the winter in southern New

England.

Call.—A short sweet warble; song, a continued warbling.

Nest.—In holes in trees, particularly in orchards, in bird boxes or

crannies about the buildings. The bottom of the cavity is lined with

grasses for the reception of the four or five pale bluish eggs, which

measure .84 × .62.

Range.—Eastern United States, breeding from the Gulf to New Brunswick and

Manitoba; winters chiefly in the southern parts of the United States.

766a. Azure Bluebird (azurea) is found in the mountains of eastern Mexico

and north casually to southern Arizona. It is paler both above and below

than our eastern bird.

FIELD KEY FOR IDENTIFICATION OF EASTERN LAND BIRDS BY CONSPICUOUS

MARKINGS

We have added this key at the request of many of our readers for a color

scheme for identification. It includes all the birds that have markings

of sufficient prominence to be readily noticed in the field.