_Polioptila cærulea cærulea. Case 4. Fig. 69_
A slender, gray mite with a comparatively long
tail of which the central feathers are black, the
outer ones white. L. 4-1/2.
_Range._ Nests from the Gulf States to southern
Wisconsin and southern New Jersey; winters from
the Gulf States southward.
Washington, rather common S.R., Mch. 30-Nov. 23.
N. Ohio, common S.R., Apl. 20-Sept. 15. Glen
Ellyn, not common S.R., Apl. 22-Aug. 20; possibly
later. SE. Minn., rare S.R.
In color, form, proportions and voice, the Gnatcatcher may properly be
called 'dainty.' His slightly explosive call-note _tin-ng_, is louder
than his exquisitely finished, varied, miniature song. The nest is
almost as fine in workmanship as a Hummer's. The 4-5 white, thickly
speckled eggs, are laid in April and early May.