BIRD GUIDE

LAND BIRDS EAST OF THE ROCKIES

[17]

CAROLINA PAROQUET

382. Conuropsis carolinensis. 12½ inches

Adults have the fore part of the head orange, while young birds have the head entirely green, with only a trifle orange on the forehead.

With the exception of the Thick-Billed Parrot, which is very rarely found in southern Arizona, these are the only members of the Parrot family in the United States. They were once abundant throughout the southern states, but are now nearly extinct. They are found in heavily timbered regions, usually along the banks of streams, where they feed upon seeds and berries.

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

Nest.—Supposed to be in hollow trees, where they lay from three to five white eggs (1.31 × 1.06).

Range.—Formerly the southern states, but now confined to the interior of Florida and, possibly, Indian Territory.

[18]

GROOVE-BILLED ANI

384. Crotophaga sulcirostris. 14½ inches

Anis are fairly abundant in southern Texas along the Rio Grande. Like all the members of the family of Cuckoos, their nesting habits are very irregular; ofttimes a number of them will unite and form one large nest in a bush, in which all deposit their eggs. The eggs are bluish-green, covered with a white chalky deposit (1.25 × .95).

ROAD-RUNNER

385. Geococcyx californianus. 23 inches

In the southwestern portions of our country, from Texas and Kansas west to the Pacific, these curious birds are commonly found. They are locally known as “Ground Cuckoos,” “Snake-killers,” “Chaparral Cocks.” They are very fond of lizards and small snakes, which form a large part of their fare. They are very fleet runners, but fly only indifferently well. Their four to ten white eggs are laid on frail nests of twigs, in bushes.

[19]

MANGROVE CUCKOO

386. Coccyzus minor. 13 inches.

These buff-breasted Cuckoos are natives of Cuba and Central America, being found in southern Florida only during the summer. The habits of all the American Cuckoos are practically identical and their notes or songs can only be distinguished from one another by long familiarity.

YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO

387. Coccyzus americanus. 12¼ inches

This species is the most abundant in the southern part of its range, while the Black-bill is the most common in the North. Notice that the lower mandible is yellowish, that the wings are largely rufous, and that the outer tail feathers are black, with broad white tips, these points readily distinguishing this species from the next. The eggs of this species are large and paler colored than the next (1.20 × .90). They breed from the Gulf to southern Canada and winter in Central America.

[20]

BLACK-BILLED CUCKOO

388. Coccyzus erythropthalmus. 11¾ inches

Cuckoos are of quiet and retiring habits, but on account of their mournful notes are often regarded with awe by the superstitious. They are one of our most valuable birds, for they consume quantities of the fuzzy Tent Caterpillars, that are so destructive.

Their short, rounded wings and long, broad tails give them a silent, gliding flight that often enables them to escape unnoticed.

Note.—A low guttural croak, “cow,” “cow,” etc., repeated a great many times and sometimes varied with “cow-uh,” also repeated many times.

Nest.—Flat, shabby platforms of twigs placed at low elevations in thickets or on the lower branches of trees. The four greenish-blue eggs are 1.15 × .85.

Range.—United States and southern Canada, east of the Rockies. Arrives in May and leaves in September for northern South America.

[21]

BELTED KINGFISHER

390. Ceryle aleyon. 13 inches

The male has the breast band and sides blue-gray, like the back, while the female has chestnut-colored sides and breast band in addition to a gray band.

Kingfishers may be found about ponds, lakes, rivers, the seaside or small creeks; anywhere that small fish may be obtained. Their food is entirely of fish that they catch by diving for, from their perches on dead branches, or by hovering over the water until the fish are in proper positions and then plunging after them.

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

Nest.—At the end of a two or three foot tunnel in a sand bank. The tunnel terminates in an enlarged chamber where the five to eight glossy white eggs (1.35 × 1.05) are laid upon the sand.

Range.—Whole of North America north to the Arctic regions. Winters from southern United States southward.

[22]

TEXAS KINGFISHER

391. Ceryle americana septentrionalis. 8 inches

The adult male of this species has a rufous breast band, while the female has only a greenish one.

The Texan Green Kingfisher is the smallest member of the family found within our borders. You will notice that all Kingfishers have the two outer toes on each foot joined together for about two thirds of their length. This has been brought about through their habit of excavating in sand banks for nesting sites. It is quite probable that at some future distant period the three forward toes may be connected for their whole length, so as to give them a still more perfect shovel.

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

Nest.—The four to six glossy white eggs are laid on the sand at the end of a horizontal burrow in a bank, the end being enlarged into a chamber sufficiently large to allow the parent bird to turn about.

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

[23]

IVORY-BILLED WOODPECKER

392. Campephilus principalis. 20 inches

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

These are the largest and most rare of the Woodpeckers found within our borders. Their decline in numbers is due, to a certain extent, to the killing of them because of their size and beauty, but chiefly on account of cutting off of a great deal of the heavy timber where they nest. They are very powerful birds and often scale the bark off the greater portion of a tree in search for insects and grubs, while they will bore into the heart of a living tree to make their home.

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

Nest.—In holes of large trees in impenetrable swamps. On the chips at the bottom of the cavity, they lay from three to six glossy, pure white eggs (1.45 × 1.00).

Range.—Formerly the South Atlantic States and west to Texas and Indian Territory, but now confined to a few isolated portions of Florida and, possibly, Indian Territory.

[24]

HAIRY WOODPECKER

393. Dryobates villosus. 9 inches

In summer these Woodpeckers are found in heavy woods, where they breed, but in Winter they are often seen on trees about houses, even in the larger cities, hunting in all the crevices of the bark in the hope of locating the larva of some insect. They usually are more shy than the Downy, from which they can readily be distinguished by their much larger size.

Note.—A sharp whistled “peenk.”

Nest.—In holes in trees in deep woods; three to six glossy white eggs (59. × .70).

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

Sub-Species.—393a. Northern Hairy Woodpecker (leucomelas), British America and Alaska; larger, 393b. Southern Hairy Woodpecker (audubonii), South Atlantic and Gulf States; smaller. The difference between these birds is small and chiefly in size, although the southern bird often has fewer white marks on the wing coverts. Other sub-species are found west of the Rockies.

[25]

SOUTHERN DOWNY WOODPECKER

394. Dryobates pubescens. 6 inches

The male has a red nuchal patch while the female has none. Downies are one of the commonest of our Woodpeckers and are usually tame, allowing a very close approach before flying. They remain in orchards and open woods throughout the summer, and in winter often come to the windows in places where they are fed, as many people are in the habit of doing now. Their food, as does that of nearly all the Woodpeckers, consists entirely of insects, grubs and larvæ.

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

Nest.—In holes in trees in orchards or woods; the four to six white eggs being laid on the bare wood; size .75 × .60.

Range.—South Atlantic and Gulf States.

Sub-Species.—Northern Downy Woodpecker (medianus) North America east of the Rockies and north of the Carolinas. This variety is slightly larger than the southern, others are found west of the Rockies.

[26]

RED-COCKADED WOODPECKER

395. Dryobates borealis. 8¼ inches

Male with a small patch of scarlet on both sides of the head; female without. The actions and habits are very similar to those of the Downy. The birds can readily be identified at a distance by the cross-barring of white on the back. Their notes are harsher than those of the Downy and have more of the nasal quality, like those of the nuthatches.

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

TEXAN WOODPECKER

396. Dryobates scalaris bairdi. 7¼ inches

On account of its numerous cross-bars, this species is often known as the Ladder-backed Woodpecker. They are quite similar to the Nuttall Woodpecker that is found on the Pacific Coast, but differ in having the underparts brownish-white instead of white, and the outer tail feathers heavily barred. They are found from Texas to southeastern California and north to Colorado.

[27]

ARCTIC THREE-TOED WOODPECKER

400. Picoides arcticus. 9.5 inches

Back glossy black, without any white. Only three toes, two in front and one behind. This is the most common of the two species found within the United States. They breed from the northern edge of the Union north to the limit of trees.

AMERICAN THREE-TOED WOODPECKER

401. Picoides americanus. 8¾ inches

Back barred with white; outer tail feathers barred with black; yellow crown patch on male mixed with white. Except on some of the higher mountain ranges these birds appear in the United States only during winter. They are very hardy and commence nesting before snow leaves.

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

Nest.—In holes of trees as is usual with Woodpeckers. The white eggs measure .95 × .70.

[28]

YELLOW-BELLIED SAPSUCKER

402. Sphyrapicus varius. 8½ inches

Male with a scarlet crown and throat; female with a scarlet crown and white throat; young with the head and neck mottled gray and white, with a few scarlet feathers.

This species has gained some ill-repute because of its supposed habit of boring through the bark of trees in order to get at the sap, and thus killing the trees. However, I very much doubt if they do any appreciable damage in this manner. I have watched a great many of them in the spring and fall and have clearly seen that they were feeding upon insects in the same way as the Downy.

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

Nest.—In holes in trees, at heights from the ground varying from eight to fifty feet. Late in May they lay from four to seven white eggs (.85 × .60).

Range.—U. S. east of the Rockies, breeding from Virginia and Missouri to Hudson Bay, and wintering in southern U. S.

[29]

PILEATED WOODPECKER

405. Phlœotomus pileatus. 17 inches

Male with a scarlet crown and crest, and a red moustache or mark extending back from the bill; female with scarlet crest but a blackish forehead and no moustache.

Next to the Ivory-bills, these are the largest of our Woodpeckers. Like that species it is very destructive to trees in its search for food. While engaged in this pursuit, they often drill large holes several inches into sound wood to reach the object of their search. Like all the Woodpeckers, they delight in playing tattoos on dry, resonant limbs with their bills.

Note.—A whistled “cuk,” “cuk,” “cuk,” slowly repeated many times, also a “wick-up” repeated several times.

Nest.—In large cavities in trees, in which they lay four to six white eggs (1.30 × 1.00).

Range.—Southern United States. The Northern Pileated Woodpecker (abietocola) is locally found in temperate N. A.

[30]

RED-HEADED WOODPECKER

406. Melanerpes erytrocephalus. 9¾ inches

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

This very handsome species is common and very well known in the Middle and Central States. They are the ruffians of the family, very noisy and quarrelsome. One of their worst traits is the devouring of the eggs and young of other birds. To partially offset this, they also eat insects and grubs and a great deal of fruit.

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

Nest.—Holes in trees in woods, orchards, or along roadsides and also in fence posts or telegraph poles. In May and June they lay four to six glossy white eggs (1.00 × .75).

Range.—United States east of the Rockies, breeding from the Gulf to New York and Minnesota. Winters in southern United States.

[31]

RED-BELLIED WOODPECKER

409. Centurus carolinus. 9½ inches

Male with whole top of head and back of neck red; female with forehead and hind head red but crown gray. Both sexes have the centre of the belly reddish, and have red eyes.

Like the Red-heads, these birds are noisy, but they have few of the bad qualities of the others. Besides the regular Woodpecker fare, they get a great many ants and beetles from the ground and fruit and acorns from the trees. They are also said to be fond of orange juice. In most of their range they are regarded as rather shy and retiring birds.

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

Nest.—In holes bored usually in live trees and at any height from the ground. Their five or six eggs are glossy white (1.00 × .75).

Range.—United States east of the Plains, breeding from Florida and Texas to southern Pennsylvania and Minnesota. Winters along the Gulf coast; occasionally strays to Massachusetts.

[32]

FLICKER

412. Colaptes auratus. 13 inches

Male with a black moustache mark; female without, although young females in the first plumage show some black.

These birds are very often known as “Golden-winged Woodpeckers,” “High-holes” and about a hundred other names in different localities. Flickers are found commonly in woods, orchards, or trees by the roadside; on pleasant days their rapidly uttered, rolling whistle may be heard at all hours of the day.

Note.—A rapidly repeated whistle, “cuk,” “cuk,” “cuk”; an emphatic “quit-u,” “quit-u,” and several others of a similar nature.

Nest.—A cavity in a tree, at any distance from the ground. The white eggs usually vary in number from five to ten, but they have been known to lay as many as seventy-one, where an egg was taken from the nest each day.

Range.—South Atlantic States. The Northern Flicker (luteus) is found in North America east of the Rocky Mountains.

[33]

RED-SHAFTED FLICKER

413. Colaptes cafer collaris. 13 inches

Crown brown and throat gray, these colors being just reversed from those of the common Flicker.

The male is distinguished by a red moustache mark, which the female lacks. The typical male Red-shafted Flicker lacks the red crescent on the back of the head, but it is often present on individuals, as there are numerous hybrids between this species and the preceding. Flickers are more terrestrial in their habits than are any others of the family; their food consists largely of ants which they get from the ground.

Note.—Same as those of the last; both species often utter a purring whistle when they are startled from the ground.

Nest.—The nesting habits are identical with those of the last and the eggs cannot be distinguished.

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

[34]

CHUCK-WILL’S-WIDOW

416. Antrostomus carolinensis. 12 inches

Male with the end half of the outer tail feathers white, and the edge of the outer vanes rusty; female with no white ends to the feathers. Birds of this family have small bills, but extremely large mouths adapted to catching night-flying moths and other insects. They remain sleeping during the day, either perched lengthwise on a limb or concealed beside a stump or rock on the ground, their colors harmonizing with the surroundings in either case. They fly, of their own accord, only at dusk or in the early morning. This species, which is much the largest of our Goatsuckers, is known to, at times, devour small birds, as such have been found in their stomachs.

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

Nest.—None, the two eggs being laid on the ground or dead leaves in underbrush. Eggs white, blotched with gray and lavender (1.40 × 1.00).

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

[35]

WHIP-POOR-WILL

417. Antrostomus vociferus. 9¾ inches

Male with broad white tips to outer tail feathers; female with narrow buffy tips. These birds are often confounded with the Nighthawk, but are very easily distinguished by the long bristles from the base of bill, the black chin, the chestnut and black barred wing feathers and the rounded tail. Whip-poor-wills are more nocturnal than Nighthawks and on moonlight nights continue the whistled repetition of their name throughout the night. They capture and devour a great many of the large-bodied moths that are found in the woods, but are never seen flying over cities like Nighthawks.

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

Nest.—In June they lay two grayish or creamy white eggs (1.15 × .85), mottled with pale brown, gray and lilac. These are deposited on the ground in woods.

Range.—East of the Plains, breeding from the Gulf to Manitoba and New Brunswick. Winters south of the United States.

[36]

POOR-WILL

418. Phalænoptilus nuttalli. 7½ inches

The female of this beautiful little Night-jar differs from the male only in having narrow buffy tips to the outer tail feathers instead of broad white ones. Like all the members of this family these birds are dusk fliers, remaining at rest on the ground in daylight. Their frosted gray plumage harmonizes so perfectly with their surroundings that it is almost impossible to see them. Their eggs are nearly immaculate, but usually show traces of the lavender blotches that mark others of the family. Their call is a mournful “poor-will-ee.” They are found from the Plains to the Pacific, but are not common east of the Rockies.

MERRILL PARAQUE

419. Nyctidromus albicollis merrilli. 13 inches

As usual with birds of this family, sexual difference in the plumage occurs chiefly on the tips of the outer tail feathers. These birds are common in the Lower Rio Grande Valley in Texas. Their eggs differ from any of the preceding in having a salmon-colored ground.

[37]

NIGHTHAWK

420. Chordeiles virginianus. 10 inches

Male with white throat and white band across tail; female with rusty throat and no white on tail. Notice that the Nighthawk has a forked tail and white band across the wings, thus being readily distinguished at a distance from the Whip-poor-will.

Note.—A loud nasal “peent.”

Nest.—None, the two mottled gray and white eggs being laid on bare rocks in pastures, on the ground or underbrush, or on gravel roofs in cities; size 1.20 × .85.

Range.—United States east of the Plains, breeding from Florida to Labrador; winters south of United States. Three sub-species occur: 420a. Western Nighthawk (henryi), west of the Plains; 420b. Florida Nighthawk (chapmani); 420c. Sennett Nighthawk (sennetti), a pale race found on the Plains north to Saskatchewan.

TEXAN NIGHTHAWK

421. Chordeiles acutipennis texensis

This species is found in southern Texas and New Mexico. It differs from the last in having the primaries spotted with rusty, like those of the whip-poor-will.

[38]

CHIMNEY SWIFT

423. Chætura pelagica. 5½ inches

Unused chimneys of old dwellings make favorite roosting and nesting places for these smoke-colored birds. They originally dwelt in hollow trees until the advent of man furnished more convenient places, although we would scarcely consider the soot-lined brick surface as good as a clean hollow tree. Spines on the end of each tail feather enable them to hang to their upright walls, and to slowly hitch their way to the outer world. Throughout the day numbers of them are scouring the air for their fare of insects, but as night approaches, they return to the chimney.

Note.—A continuous and not unmusical twittering uttered while on the wing and also within the depths of the chimney.

Nest.—Made of small twigs or sticks glued to the sides of a chimney and each other by the bird’s saliva. The three to five white eggs are long and narrow (.75 × .50).

Range.—N. A. east to the Plains, breeding from Florida to Labrador; winters south of U. S.

[39]

WHITE-THROATED SWIFT

425. Aeronautes melanoleucus. 6½ inches

This beautiful swift is one of the most graceful of winged creatures. Its flight is extremely rapid and its evolutions remarkable. They nest in communities, thousands of them often congregating about the tops of inaccessible cliffs, in the crevices of which they make their homes. No bird has a more appropriate generic name than this species—“aeronautes,” meaning sailor of the air; he is a sailor of the air and a complete master of the art.

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

Nest.—Placed at the end of burrows in earthy cliffs or as far back as possible between crevices in rocks; usually in inaccessible places and as high as possible from the ground. It is a saucer-shaped structure made of vegetable materials cemented together with saliva, and lined with feathers. The four white eggs measure .87 × .52.

Range.—From the eastern foothills of the Rockies to the Pacific; north to Montana and northern California.

[40]

RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD

428. Archilochus colubris. 3½ inches

This little gem is the only one of the family found within the territory included in this book. Owners of flower gardens have the best opportunities to study these winged jewels, on their many trips to and fro for honey, or the insects that are also attracted thereby. With whirring wings, they remain suspended before a blossom, then—buzz—and they are examining the next, with bill lost within the sweet depths. Their temper is all out of proportion to their size, for they will dash at an intruder about their moss-covered home as though they would pierce him like a bullet. Their angry twitters and squeaks are amusing and surprising, as are their excitable actions.

Nest.—A most beautiful creation of plant fibres and cobwebs adorned with lichens and resembling a little tuft of moss upon the bough on which it is placed. In June two tiny white eggs are laid (.50 × .35).

Range.—N. A. east of the Rockies, breeding from the Gulf north to Labrador and Hudson Bay; winters south of U. S.

[41]

SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHER

443. Muscivora forficata. 14½ inches

This pretty creature is the most graceful in appearance of the Flycatcher family, if not of the whole order of perching birds. In the southwest it is frequently known as the “Texan Bird of Paradise.” Its habits are very much like those of the Kingbird; as it gracefully swings through the air in pursuit of insects, it frequently opens and shuts its scissor-like tail. They are usually found in open country or on the borders of woodland. They rarely alight on the ground, for their long tails make them walk very awkwardly, but when they are a-wing they are the embodiment of grace.

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

Nest.—Quite large; built of all kinds of trash, such as twigs, grasses, paper, rags, string, etc.; placed in any kind of a tree or bush and at any height. The four or five creamy white eggs are spotted with brown (.90 × .67).

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

[42]

KINGBIRD

444. Tyrannus tyrannus. 8½ inches.

Adults with a concealed orange crown patch; young with none. From the time of their arrival in May until they leave us in August, Kingbirds are much in evidence in farmyards and orchards. They are one of the most noisy birds, always quarreling about something, and usually coming off victorious in whatever they may undertake. Crows are objects of hatred to them, and they always drive them from the neighborhood, vigorously dashing upon and picking them from above and often following them for a great distance. They have their favorite perches from which they watch for insects, usually a dead branch, a fence post, or a tall stalk in the field.

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

Nest.—Of sticks, rootlets, grass, string, etc., placed in orchard trees or open woods at any height. Four or five creamy white eggs, specked and spotted with reddish brown (.95 × .70).

Range.—Breeds from the Gulf to southern Canada.

[43]

GRAY KINGBIRD

445. Tyrannus dominicensis. 9 inches

Differs from the common Kingbird in being larger and gray above; has black ear coverts, and no white tip to tail.

Like the last species, these are very noisy and pugnacious, and rule their domains with the hand of a tyrant. After they have mated they quarrel very little among themselves, and often several may use the same lookout twig from which to dash after passing flies or moths.

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

Nest.—Rather more shabbily built but of the same materials as those used by our common Kingbird. Placed in all kinds of trees, but more often in mangroves, where they are commonly found. Three to five pinkish-white eggs, profusely blotched with brown (1.00 × .72).

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

[44]

ARKANSAS KINGBIRD

447. Tyrannus verticalis. 9 inches

These tyrant flycatchers are abundant west of the Mississippi, where they are often, and perhaps more aptly, known as the Western Kingbirds. If possible, they are even more noisy and pugnacious than the eastern species. They have a great variety of notes, all rather unpleasant to the ear. Their food, like that of the other Kingbirds, consists of moths, butterflies, ants, grasshoppers, crickets, etc., etc., most of which they catch on the wing.

Note.—A shrill, metallic squeak; a low twittering and a harsh, discordant scream, all impossible to print.

Nest.—Quite large and clumsily made of paper, rags, twigs, rootlets, and grasses, placed in all sorts of locations, frequently in eave troughs or above windows. The eggs are creamy white, spotted with brown (.95 × .65).

Range.—Western United States, breeding from Texas to Manitoba and west to the Pacific; winters south of U. S.

[45]

DERBY FLYCATCHER

449. Pitangus sulphuratus derbianus. 10½ inches

This imposing flycatcher is the largest of the family that is found in North America. As usual with members of the family it is of a quarrelsome disposition, but hardly so much so as either the common or Arkansas Kingbirds. Their large, heavy bodies render them considerably less active than the smaller members of the family. On account of the size of the head and bill, they are often known as Bull-headed Flycatchers.

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

Nest.—It is said to build its nest at low elevations in trees or in thorny bushes—a large structure of twigs and rubbish with an entrance on the side. The three to five eggs have a cream-colored ground and are prominently specked about the large end with brown (1.15 × .82).

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

[46]

CRESTED FLYCATCHER

452. Myiarchus crinitus. 9 inches

These large flycatchers are very noisy in the mating season, but their notes are rather more musical than those of the Kingbirds. They appear to be of a quarrelsome disposition, for rarely will more than one pair be found in a single piece of woods. They also frequently chase smaller birds, but never attack larger ones, as do the Kingbirds. They have a queer habit of placing a piece of snakeskin in the hole in which their nest is located, for what purpose, unless to scare away intruders, is not known, but it seems to be a universal practice.

Note.—A clear whistle, “wit-whit,” “wit-whit,” repeated several times. This is the most common call; they have many others less musical.

Nest.—Of straw, etc., in holes of dead limbs. Eggs four to six in number; buffy white, streaked and blotched with brown.

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

[47]

PHŒBE

456. Sayornis phœbe. 7 inches

A Phœbe is always associated, in my mind, with old bridges and bubbling brooks. Nearly every bridge which is at all adapted for the purpose has its Phœbe home beneath it, to which the same pair of birds will return year after year, sometimes building a new nest, sometimes repairing the old. They seem to be of a nervous temperament, for, as they sit upon their usual lookout perch, their tails are continually twitching as though in anticipation of the insects that are sure to pass sooner or later.

Note.—A jerky, emphatic “phœ-be,” with the accent on the second syllable, and still further accented by a vigorous flirt of the tail.

Nest.—Of mud, grasses, and moss, plastered to the sides of beams or logs under bridges, culverts, or barns. In May or June four or five white eggs are laid (.75 × .55).

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

[48]

OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER

459. Nuttallornis borealis. 7½ inches

These birds can scarcely be called common any where, but single pairs of them may be found, in their breeding range, in suitable pieces of woodland. I have always found them in dead pine swamps, where the trees were covered with hanging moss, making it very difficult to locate their small nests. Their peculiar, loud, clear whistle can be heard for a long distance and serves as a guide-board to their location.

Note.—A loud, clear whistle, “whip-wheeu,” the first syllable short and sharp, the last long and drawn out into a plaintive ending.

Nest.—A small structure for the size of the bird, made of twigs and mosses firmly anchored to horizontal limbs or forks. Three to five eggs are laid; a rich creamy ground, spotted about the large end with brown and lavender (.85 × .65).

Range.—N. A., breeding from the latitude of Massachusetts, and farther south in mountainous regions, north to Labrador and Alaska.

[49]

WOOD PEWEE

461. Myiochanes virens. 6½ inches

In life, the Pewee can best be distinguished from the larger Phœbe, with which it is often confounded, by its sad, plaintive “pe-ah-wee,” “pee-wee” which is strikingly different from the brusque call of the Phœbe. Pewees are also found more in high, dry woods where they build their little moss-covered homes on horizontal boughs at quite a height from the ground. Like the other flycatchers they always perch on dead twigs, where their view is as little obstructed as possible.

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

Nest.—One of the most exquisite of bird creations, composed of plant fibres quilted together and ornamented with rock lichens; situated at varying heights on horizontal limbs, preferably oak or chestnut, and sometimes in apple trees in orchards. Eggs creamy white, specked with brown (.80 × .55).

Range.—U. S. from the Plains to the Atlantic and north to Manitoba and New Brunswick; winters in Central America.

[50]

YELLOW-BELLIED FLYCATCHER

463. Empidonax flaviventris. 5½ inches

These strange little Flycatchers are found in swamps such as those usually frequented by Olive-sided Flycatchers and Parula Warblers. They are one of the few of the family to nest on the ground or very close to it. Their homes are made in the moss-covered mounds or stumps found in these swamps.

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

GREEN-CRESTED OR ACADIAN FLYCATCHER

465. Empidonax virescens. 5½ inches

This bird is very similar to the last, but the lower mandible is light, and the throat and belly white. Their favorite resorts are shady woods not far from water. Here they nest in the outer branches of bushes or trees at heights of from four to twenty feet from the ground. The nests are shallow and composed of twigs and moss. Eggs creamy with brown spots.

Range.—U. S. east of Plains, breeding from the Gulf to New England and Manitoba; winters in the Tropics.

[51]

ALDER FLYCATCHER

466a. Empidonas trailli alnorum. 6 inches

This species is very similar to, but larger, than the well-known Least Flycatcher or Chebec. They are found in swampy pastures or around the edges of ponds or lakes, where they nest in low bushes.

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

LEAST FLYCATCHER

467. Empidonax minimus. 5½ inches

Smaller than the last and with the tail slightly forked. Common everywhere in orchards, swamps, or along roadsides. They are very often known by the name of “Chebec,” because their notes resemble that word. Their nests are placed in upright forks of any kind of trees or bushes; they are made of plant fibres and grasses closely felted together. The eggs range from three to five in number and are creamy white, without markings; size .65 × .50.

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

[52]

VERMILION FLYCATCHER

471. Pyrocephalus rubinus mexicanus. 6 inches

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

This is the most gorgeously plumed species of the American Flycatchers. It has all the active traits of the family and, to those who are only accustomed to the demure gray plumage of most eastern species, the first sight of this one as he dashes after an insect is a sight never to be forgotten.

Note.—During the mating season the male often gives a twittering song while poised in the air, accompanying it by loud snapping of the mandibles.

Nest.—Saddled on limbs of trees at low elevations from the ground; composed of small twigs and vegetable fibres closely felted together and often adorned on the outside with lichens similar to the nests of the Wood Pewee. The four eggs are of a creamy-buff color with bold spots of brown and lilac, in a wreath around the large end (.73 × .54).

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

[53]

HORNED LARK

474. Otocoris alpestris. 7¾ inches

This variety, which is larger than its sub-species, is only found in the U. S. in winter, but several of the sub-species are residents in our limits. During the mating season they have a sweet song that is uttered on the wing, like that of the Bobolink.

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

Nest.—A hollow in the ground lined with grass; placed in fields and usually partially concealed by an overhanging sod or stone. The three to five eggs have a grayish ground color and are profusely specked and blotched with gray and brownish. (.85 × .60).

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

Sub-Species.—474b. Prairie Horned Lark (praticola). A paler form usually with the line over the eye white, found in the Mississippi Valley. 474c. Desert Horned Lark (leucolæma). Paler and less distinctly streaked above than the Prairie; found west of the Mississippi and north to Alberta.

[54]

AMERICAN MAGPIE

475. Pica pica hudsonia. 20 inches

This handsome member of the Crow family is sure to attract the attention of all who may see him. He is very pert in all his actions, both in trees and on the ground, and is always ready for mischief. In a high wind their long tail often makes traveling a laborious operation for them, and at such times they usually remain quite quiet. They are very impudent and always on the lookout for something to steal; they are also very noisy and forever scolding and chattering among themselves.

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

Nest.—A large, globular heap of sticks placed in bushes or trees from four to fifty feet from the ground. The entrance to the nest is on one side and the interior is made of grass and mud. The four to six eggs are white, thickly specked with yellowish brown (1.25 × .90).

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

[55]

BLUE JAY

477. Cyanocitta cristata. 11½ inches

These are one of the best known and most beautiful birds that we have, but, unfortunately, they have a very bad reputation. They often rob other birds of their eggs and young as well as food and nesting material. They are very active birds and are always engaged in gathering food, usually acorns or other nuts, and hiding them away for future use.

Note.—A two-syllabled whistle or a harsh, discordant scream. Besides these two common notes they make an endless variety of sounds mimicking other birds.

Nest.—Of twigs and sticks in bushes or low trees, preferably young pines. The four eggs are pale greenish blue specked with brown (1.10 × .80).

Range.—N. A. east of the Rockies from the Gulf to Labrador, resident in the U. S. The Florida Blue Jay (florincola) is smaller and has less white on wings and tail.

[56]

FLORIDA JAY

479. Aphelocoma cyanea. 11½ inches

This Jay is locally distributed chiefly in the southern parts of Florida, being found principally in scrub oaks. Like the Blue Jay, their food consists of animal matter and some seeds, berries, and acorns. Their habits are very similar to those of the northern bird and their calls resemble those of our bird, too. They are rather slow in flight and pass a great deal of their time upon the ground.

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

Nest.—In the latter part of March and in April they build their flat nests of twigs, usually in bushes or scrub oaks, and lay three or four greenish-blue eggs, with brown spots; size 1.05 × .80.

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

[57]

GREEN JAY

483. Xanthoura luxuosa glaucescens. 12 inches

These Jays are very beautiful, and we are sorry to have to admit that, like all the other members of the family, they are merciless in their treatment of smaller birds. During the summer their diet consists of raw eggs with young birds “on the side,” or vice versa; later they live upon nuts, berries, insects; in fact, anything that is edible.

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

Nest.—Not easily found, as it is usually concealed in dense thickets. The nests are like those of other Jays, loosely made of twigs and lined with black rootlets. The four eggs that are laid in May have a grayish ground color and are thickly spotted with several shades of brown and lilac. They measure 1.05 × .80.

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

[58]

CANADA JAY

484. Perisoreus canadensis. 11½ inches

These birds are well known to hunters, trappers, and campers in the northern woods. They are great friends, especially of the lumbermen, as some of the pranks that they play serve to enliven an otherwise tedious day. They seem to be devoid of fear and enter camp and carry off everything, edible or not, that they can get hold of. They are called by guides and lumbermen by various names, such as Whiskey Jack, Moose Bird, etc.

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

Nest.—Usually in coniferous trees at low elevations; made of twigs, moss, and feathers. The three or four eggs are gray, specked and spotted with darker (1.15 × .80). They nest early, usually before the snow begins to leave the ground and often when the mercury is below zero.

Range.—Eastern North America from northern United States northward. 484c. Labrador Jay (nigricapillus), which is found in Labrador, has the black on the hind head deeper and extending forward around the eye.

[59]

NORTHERN RAVEN

486a. Corvus corax principalis. 25 inches

The habits of all the ravens and crows are identical and are too well known to need mention. They are all very destructive to young birds and eggs. The Raven can be known by its large size, its very large bill, and lanceolate feathers on the throat. They are found in the mountains from Georgia and on the coast from Maine northward.

WHITE-NECKED RAVEN

487. Corvus cryptoleucus. 18½ inches

This species has the bases of the feathers on the back of the neck white. Found in southwestern United States.

AMERICAN CROW

488. Corvus brachyrhynchos. 19 inches

The common Crow of North America, replaced in Florida by the very similar Florida Crow (pascuus).

FISH CROW

490. Corvus ossifragus. 16 inches

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

[60]

CLARKE NUTCRACKER

491. Nucifraga columbiana. 12½ inches

Clarke Crows are found abundantly in all coniferous forest on the higher mountains in their range. They are very peculiar birds, having some of the traits of Woodpeckers, but more of those of the Jays.

They are very active, very noisy, and very inquisitive, sharing with the Rocky Mountain Jay the names of “Camp Robber,” “Moose Bird,” etc. They are great travellers and may, one season, be absent where they were abundant the preceding one.

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

Nest.—Of sticks, at high elevations on horizontal boughs of coniferous trees. The four eggs have a pale greenish-gray ground, thickly sprinkled with darker (1.25 × .92).

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

[61]

STARLING

493. Sturnus vulgaris. 8½ inches

Plumage metallic green and purple, heavily spotted above and below with buffy or white.

These European birds were introduced into New York a number of years ago, and are now common there and spreading to other localities in Connecticut and about New York City. They live about the streets and in the parks, building their nests in crevices of buildings and especially in the framework of the elevated railroads of the city, and less often in trees. They lay from four to six pale-blue, unspotted eggs (1.15 × .85). How they will affect other bird life, in case they eventually become common throughout the country, is a matter of conjecture, but from what I have seen of them they are quarrelsome and are masters of the English Sparrow, and may continue their domineering tactics to the extent of driving more of our song birds from the cities.

[62]

BOBOLINK

494. Dolichonyx oryzivorus. 7¼ inches

Bobolinks are to be found in rich grass meadows, from whence their sweet, wild music is often borne to us by the breeze. While his mate is feeding in the grass or attending to their domestic affairs, Mr. Bobolink is usually to be found perched on the tip of a tree, weed stalk, or even on a tall blade of grass, if no other spot of vantage is available, singing while he stands guard to see that no enemies approach. He is a good watchman and it is a difficult matter to flush his mate from the nest, for she leaves at his first warning.

Song.—A wild, sweet, rippling repetition of his name with many additional trills and notes. Alarm note a harsh “chah” like that of the Blackbird.

Nest.—Of grasses in a hollow on the ground, in meadows. They lay four to six eggs with a white ground color, heavily spotted, clouded and blotched with brown (.85 × .62).

Range.—N. A. east of the Rockies, breeding from New Jersey and Kansas north to Manitoba and New Brunswick; winters in South America.

[63]

COWBIRD

495. Molothrus ater. 7¾ inches

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

Groups of these birds are often seen walking sedately about among the cows in the pasture, hence their name. They are the only birds that we have that neither make a nest of their own nor care for their young. The female slyly deposits her egg in the nest of a smaller bird when the owner is absent, leaving further care of it to its new owner. Warblers, Sparrows and Vireos seem to be most imposed upon in this manner.

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

Range.—U. S., chiefly east of the Rockies, breeding from the Gulf to Manitoba and New Brunswick; winters in southern U. S. A sub-species, the Dwarf Cowbird (obscurus), is found in southwestern United States; it is slightly smaller.

[64]

YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRD

497. Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus. 10 inches

Male black, with head and breast bright yellow; female more brownish and with head paler and mixed with brown.

These handsome birds are common locally on the prairies, frequenting sloughs and extensive marshes and borders of lakes. They are very sociable birds and breed in large colonies, sometimes composed of thousands of birds.

Notes.—A harsh “chack,” and what is intended for a song, consisting of numerous, queer-sounding squeaks, they being produced during seemingly painful contortions of the singer.

Nest.—Of rushes woven around upright canes over water, in ponds and sloughs. The nest is placed at from four inches to two feet from the water and is quite deep inside. The four to six eggs are grayish, profusely specked with pale brown (1.00 × .70).

Range.—U. S., chiefly west of the Mississippi, north to British Columbia and Hudson Bay; winters on southwestern border of the U. S.

[65]

RED-WINGED BLACKBIRD

498. Agelaius phœniceus. 9½ inches

Male black, with scarlet and buff shoulders; female brownish black above and streaked below. Nearly all our ponds or wet meadows have their pair or colony of Blackbirds.

Note.—A harsh “cack”; a pleasing liquid song, “conk-err-ee,” given with much bowing and spreading of the wings and tail.

Nest.—Usually at low elevations in bushes, in swamps or around the edges of ponds or frequently on the ground or on hummocks in wet pastures. The nest is made of woven grasses and rushes, and is usually partially suspended from the rim when placed in bushes. The three to five eggs are bluish white, scrawled, chiefly around the large end, with blackish (1.00 × .70).

Range.—East of the Rockies, breeding north to Manitoba and New Brunswick; winters in southern U. S.

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

[66]

MEADOWLARK

501. Sturnella magna. 10¾ inches

Meadowlarks are familiar friends of the hillside and meadow; their clear fife-like whistle is often heard, while they are perched on a fence-post or tree-top, as well as their sputtering alarm note when they fly up before us as we cross the field.

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

Nest.—Of grasses, on the ground in fields, usually partially arched over. Three to five white eggs specked with brown (1.10 × .80).

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

Sub-Species.—501.1. Western Meadowlark (neglecta). This race has the yellow on the throat extended on the sides; its song is much more brilliant and varied than the eastern bird. It is found from the Plains to the Pacific. 501c. Florida Meadowlark (argutula) is smaller and darker than the common.

[67]

AUDUBON ORIOLE

503. Icterus melanocephalus audubonii. 9½ inches

Within the United States, these large Orioles are found only in southern Texas. They are not uncommon there and are resident. Their notes are loud, mellow whistles like those of the other Orioles. Their nests are semi-pensile and usually placed in mesquite trees not more than ten or fifteen feet from the ground.

SCOTT ORIOLE

504. Icterus parisorum. 8 inches

These beautiful birds are found in southwestern United States, from California to western Texas.

They are said to sing more freely than other members of the family, but the song, while loud and clear, is of short duration. Their nests, which are semi-pensile, are often placed in giant yucca trees, or in vines that are suspended from cacti. The three or four eggs are pale blue, scrawled and spotted with black and lavender (.95 × .65).

[68]

HOODED ORIOLE

505. Icterus cucullatus sennetti. 8 inches

This very brilliantly plumaged Oriole is, perhaps, the most abundant of the family in southern Texas. It is not as shy a bird as the two preceding species and is more often found in the neighborhood of houses.

With the exception of a few kinds of fruits, their food consists almost entirely of insects; all the Orioles are regarded as among our most beneficial birds.

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

Nest.—Usually in bunches of hanging moss, being made by hollowing out and matting the moss together and lining it with finer wiry moss. Others are placed in yucca trees, such nests being made of the fiber of the tree. Eggs dull white, scrawled about the large end with black and lavender (.85 × .60).

Range.—Found only in southern Texas. A sub-species (nelsoni) is found in New Mexico, Arizona and southern California.

[69]

ORCHARD ORIOLE

506. Icterus spurius. 7¼ inches

Male chestnut and black; female dull yellowish and gray; young male, second year, like female, but with black face and throat. These Orioles are usually found in open country and, as their name suggests, have a preference for orchards. They are also found abundantly in shrubbery along streams and roadsides. They feed chiefly upon worms, caterpillars, beetles, grasshoppers, etc., and are one of the most beneficial birds that we have.

Song.—A rich, loud and rapid warble, cheery and pleasing but impossible to describe; a chattering note of alarm.

Nest.—A beautiful basket of grasses woven into a deeply cupped ball and situated in forks of trees or bushes; often they are made of green grasses. Four to six white eggs, specked, scrawled and spotted with black and brown (.80 × .55).

Range.—U. S. east of the Plains, breeding from the Gulf to Massachusetts and Michigan; winters in Central America.

[70]

BALTIMORE ORIOLE

507. Icterus galbula. 7½ inches

Male orange and black; female dull yellowish and gray.

They are sociable birds and seem to like the company of mankind, for their nests are, from choice, built as near as possible to houses, often being where they can be reached from windows. As they use a great deal of string in the construction of their nests, children often get amusement by placing bright-colored pieces of yarn where the birds will get them, and watch them weave them into their homes.

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

Nest.—A pensile structure, often hanging eight or ten inches below the supporting rim, and swaying to and fro with every breeze. They lay five or six white eggs, curiously scrawled with blackish brown (.90 × .60).

Range.—N. A. east of the Rockies and breeding north to New Brunswick and Manitoba. Winters in Central America.

[71]

RUSTY BLACKBIRD

510. Euphagus carolinus. 9½ inches

Male glossy black, female grayish; both sexes in winter with most of the head and breast feathers tipped with rusty. In the United States we know these birds chiefly as emigrants; but a few of them remain to breed in the Northern parts. Their songs are rather squeaky efforts, but still not unmusical. These birds are found east of the Rockies.

BREWER BLACKBIRD

510. Euphagus cyaneocephalus. 10 inches

Male with a glossy purplish head and greenish black body; female grayish brown. This is the Western representative of the preceding; it is most abundant west of the Rockies, but is also found on the Plains. Its distribution is not so northerly and it nests commonly in its United States range. Their eggs are whitish, very profusely spotted and blotched with various shades of brown (1. × .75).

[72]

PURPLE GRACKLE

511. Quiscalus quiscula. 12 inches

Male with purple head and greenish back; female brownish gray. All the Grackles are very similar in appearance, the colors varying with different individuals of the same species. Their habits are alike, too, and I consider them one of the most destructive of our birds.

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

Nest.—Of sticks and twigs, usually in pines in the North and bushes in the South. Four eggs, pale bluish gray with black scrawls (1.10 × .80).

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

Sub-Species.—511a. Florida Grackle (aglæus), slightly smaller. 511b. Bronzed Grackle (æneus), with a purple head and usually a brassy back. Eastern U. S., breeding north to Labrador and Manitoba.

BOAT-TAILED GRACKLE

513. Megaquiscalus major. 15 inches

Similar in color to the last but much larger, and having the same habits. Eggs also larger (1.25 × .95). Southeastern U. S. The Great-tailed Grackle (macrourus), found in Texas, is still larger.

[73]

EVENING GROSBEAK

514. Hesperiphona vespertina. 8 inches

Female paler and with white on upper tail coverts. As would be judged from the large bills that these birds have, their food consists almost entirely of seeds, with occasionally a few berries and perhaps insects. In certain localities they are not uncommon, but, except in winter, they are rare anywhere in the U. S., and east of the Mississippi they can only be regarded as accidental even in winter. They have been taken several times in Massachusetts. In winter they usually travel about in small bands, visiting localities where the food supply is the most abundant.

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

Nest.—A flat structure of twigs and rootlets placed at low elevations in trees or bushes. Four eggs, greenish white, spotted with brown (.90 × .65).

Range.—Breeds in mountains of western British America and northwestern U. S. South and east in winter to the Mississippi and rarely farther.

[74]

PINE GROSBEAK

515. Pinicola enucleator leucura. 8½ inches

Male rosy red; female gray and yellowish.

These pretty birds visit us every winter, coming from Canada and northern New England, where they are found in summer. They are very fearless birds and might almost be regarded as stupid; when they are feeding you can easily approach within a few feet of them, and they have often been caught in butterfly nets. They may, at times, be found in any kind of trees or woods, but they show a preference for small growth pines, where they feed upon the seeds and upon seeds of weeds that project above the snow.

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

Nest.—In coniferous trees, of twigs, rootlets and strips of bark; eggs three to four in number, greenish blue spotted with brown and lilac (1.00 × .70).

Range.—Breeds in eastern British America and northern New England; winters south to New York and Ohio. Several sub-species are found west of the Rockies.

[75]

PURPLE FINCH

517. Carpodacus purpureus. 6¼ inches

Male dull rosy red; female streaked brownish gray.

These beautiful songsters are common in the northern tier of states and in Canada. In spring the males are usually seen on, or heard from, tree tops in orchards or parks, giving forth their glad carols. They are especially musical in spring when the snow is just leaving the ground and the air is bracing. After family cares come upon them, they are quite silent, the male only occasionally indulging in a burst of song.

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

Nest.—Of strips of bark, twigs, rootlets and grasses, placed at any height in evergreens or orchard trees. The eggs resemble, somewhat, large specimens of those of the Chipping Sparrow. They are three or four in number and are greenish blue with strong blackish specks (.85 × .65).

Range.—N. A. east of the Rockies, breeding from Pennsylvania and Illinois northward; winters throughout the United States.

[76]

AMERICAN CROSSBILL

521. Loxia curvirostra minor. 6 inches

These curious creatures appear in flocks on the outskirts of our cities every winter, where they will be found almost exclusively in coniferous trees. They cling to the cones, upon which they are feeding, in every conceivable attitude, and a shower of seeds and broken cones rattling through the branches below shows that they are busily working. They are very eccentric birds and the whole flock often takes flight, without apparent cause, only to circle about again to the same trees. The flute-like whistle that they utter when in flight sounds quite pleasing when coming from all the individuals in the flock.

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

Nest.—In coniferous trees, of spruce twigs, shreds of bark and some moss or grass. The three or four eggs are greenish white spotted with brown (.75 × .55).

Range.—Breeds from northern New England northward and westward, and south in mountains to Georgia; winters in the northern half of the U. S.

[77]

WHITE-WINGED CROSSBILL

522. Loxia leucoptera. 6 inches

Male, rosy; female, with yellowish.

This species seems to be of a more roving disposition, and even more eccentric than the last. They are not nearly as common and are usually seen in smaller flocks; occasionally one or two individuals of this species will be found with a flock of the American Crossbills, but they usually keep by themselves. While they may be seen in a certain locality one season, they may be absent for several seasons after, for some reason or other. They feed upon the seeds of pine cones, prying the cones open with their peculiar bills.

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

Nest.—The nesting habits of this species are like those of the last, but the eggs differ in being slightly larger and in having the markings of a more blotchy character (.80 × .55).

Range.—Breeds from the northern parts of the northern tier of states northward. Winters in the northern half of the U. S.

[78]

GRAY-CROWNED LEUCOSTICTE

524. Leucosticte tephrocotis. 6½ inches

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

All the members of this genus are western and northern, this one only being found east of the Rockies and then only in winter, when it occasionally is found east of the Mississippi. They wander about in rocky mountainous regions, feeding upon seeds and berries. They are very restless and stop in a place but a short time before flying swiftly away, in a compact flock, to another feeding ground.

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

Nest.—Built on the ground, usually beside a rock or in a crevice; composed of weeds and grass, lined with finer grass. They lay three or four unmarked white eggs in June.

Range.—Western U. S., breeding in the higher mountain ranges; in winter sometimes wandering east to the Mississippi.

[79]

REDPOLL

528. Acanthis linaria. 5¼ inches

Male with a rosy breast; female without.

In winter these northern birds may be found in flocks gathering seeds from weeds by the roadside and stone walls. Their actions greatly resemble those of our Goldfinch, but their flight is more rapid.

Song.—Strong, sweet and canary-like.

Nest.—At low elevations in bushes or trees; eggs three to five, pale greenish blue with brown specks.

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

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

GREENLAND REDPOLL

527. Acanthis hornemannii. 6 inches

A larger and much whiter species found in Greenland and migrating to Labrador in winter. 527b. Hoary Redpoll (exilipes), smaller and darker, but still lighter than the Redpoll; winters south to Massachusetts.

[80]

AMERICAN GOLDFINCH

529. Astragalinus tristis. 5¼ inches

These beautiful little creatures are often known as Thistle-birds and Wild Canaries, the former name because they are often seen on thistles, from the down of which their nests are largely made, and the latter name because of the sweet canary-like song. Their flight is a peculiar series of undulations accompanied by an intermittent twitter. They are very sociable and breed usually in communities as well as travel in flocks in the winter. Their food is chiefly of seeds and they often come to gardens in fall and winter to partake of sunflower seeds, these flowers often being raised for the sole purpose of furnishing food for the finches in the winter.

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

Nest.—Of thistledown, plant fibres and grasses, in forks of bushes, most often willows or alders near water. Four or five unmarked, pale bluish eggs.

Range.—N. A. east of the Rockies; breeds from Virginia and Missouri north to Labrador; winters in U. S.

[81]

WESTERN GOLDFINCH

530. Astragalinus psaltria. 4¼ inches

Cap, wings and tail black; sides of head and back greenish. Female much duller and with no black in the crown. These little Goldfinches are very abundant throughout the West. Their flight is undulatory like that of the preceding, and all their habits are very similar. They spend the winter in bands, roving about the country, feeding on weed seeds; in summer they repair, either in small bands or by single pairs, to the edges of swamps or woodland near water, where they construct their compact homes in the forks of bushes. Their eggs are pale blue like those of the American Goldfinch, but of course are much smaller (.62 × .45). They are laid in May or June, or even earlier in the western portions of their range.

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

Range.—Western United States from the Plains to the Pacific, being abundant west of the Rocky Mountains.

[82]

PINE FINCH OR SISKIN

533. Spinus pinus. 5 inches

These are also northern birds, being found in the U. S., with the exception of the extreme northern parts, only in winter and early spring. Their habits are just like those of the Goldfinches, for which species they are often mistaken, as the latter are dull-colored in winter. Their song and call-notes are like those of the Goldfinch, but have a slight nasal twang that will identify them at a distance, after becoming accustomed to it. They are often seen hanging head downward from the ends of branches as they feed upon the seeds or buds and when thus engaged they are very tame.

Song.—Quite similar to that of the Goldfinch.

Nest.—In coniferous trees at any elevation from the ground. They are made of rootlets and grasses, lined with pine needles and hair; the three to five eggs are greenish white, specked with reddish brown (.65 × .45).

Range.—North America, breeding northward from the northern boundary of the U. S. and farther south in mountain ranges; winters throughout the U. S.

[83]

SNOWFLAKE

534. Plectrophenax nivalis. 7 inches

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

When winter storms sweep across our land, these birds blow in like true snowflakes, settling down upon hillsides and feeding upon seeds from the weed stalks that are sure to be found above the snow somewhere. They are usually found in large flocks, and are very restless, starting up, as one bird, at the slightest noise, or continually wheeling about from one hill to another, of their own accord.

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

Nest.—Of grass and moss lined with feathers and sunk in the sphagnum moss with which much of Arctic America is covered. Three to five eggs, pale greenish white, specked with brown. Size .90 × .65.

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

[84]

LAPLAND LONGSPUR

536. Calcarius lapponicus. 6¼ inches

Male in summer with black crown and throat and chestnut nape; female similar but duller; winter plumage, with feathers of head and neck tipped with grayish so as to conceal the bright markings.

As indicated by its name, this is a Northern species, which spends the cold months in northern U. S., traveling in flocks and resting and feeding on side hills, often with Snowflakes, or on lower ground with Horned Larks.

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

Nest.—Of mosses, grasses and feathers placed on the ground in tussocks or on grassy hummocks. In June and July they lay from four to six eggs having a grayish ground color, which is nearly obscured by the numerous blotches of brown and lavender (.80 × .60).

Range.—Breeds from Labrador northward and winters south to South Carolina and Texas. A sub-species is found in the West.

[85]

SMITH LONGSPUR

537. Calcarius pictus. 6½ inches

Male in summer with the underparts buffy and sides of head marked with black; female, and male in winter, much duller with all bright markings covered with a brownish-gray wash.

Like the last species, these are Arctic birds found in winter, on the plains and prairies of middle U. S. They are rarely found within our limits when in their beautiful spring plumage. They are most always found in company with the following species feeding upon seeds, buds and small berries.

Song.—A sweet warble rarely heard in the United States; a clear “cheer-up” constantly uttered while on the wing.

Nest.—Of grasses, weeds and moss, lined with feathers; located on the ground in similar locations to those of the last species. The four or five eggs are similar to those of the last but lighter (.80 × .60).

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

[86]

CHESTNUT-COLLARED LONGSPUR

538. Calcarius ornatus. 6¼ inches

Male in summer with a black breast and crown, and chestnut nape; female, and male in winter, much duller and with all bright markings covered with grayish.

Unlike the preceding Longspurs, these are constant residents in the greater part of the Western Plains, in some localities being classed as one of the most abundant birds. They have a short, sweet song that, in springtime, is frequently given as the bird mounts into the air after the fashion of the Horned Larks. They commonly feed about ploughed fields, along the edges of which they build their nests.

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

Nest.—Of fine grasses, placed on the ground in open prairies or along the edges of cultivated fields, often being concealed beside a tussock; their four or five eggs are clay color marked with reddish brown and lavender (.75 × .55).

Range.—Breeds in the Great Plains from Kansas and Colorado north to Manitoba; winters south to Mexico.

[87]

M’COWN LONGSPUR

539. Rhynchophanes mccownii. 6 inches

Male with a black crown and patch on breast, and chestnut shoulders; female, and male in winter, dull colored with all bright markings obscured by brownish gray.

These are also common birds on the plains of middle U. S., but perhaps not so much so as the last species, with which species they are often found breeding. These finches show their close relationship to the famous Skylark of Europe by frequently indulging in the same practice of soaring aloft and descending on set wings, rapturously uttering their sweet song.

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

Nest.—A neat cup of grasses in a hollow in the ground on prairies or in fields. Their four to six eggs are dull whitish clouded with brownish, the marking not being as distinct as in those of the last species (.75 × .55).

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

[88]

ENGLISH SPARROW

*** Passer domesticus. 6¼ inches

These street urchins were introduced into our country from Europe about 1850, and have since multiplied and spread out so that they now are found in all parts of our land from the Atlantic to the Pacific. Heretofore they have confined themselves chiefly in the immediate vicinity of the larger cities and towns, but it is now noted with alarm that they are apparently spreading out into the surrounding country. They are very hardy creatures, able to stand our most rigorous winters. They are fighters and bullies from the time they leave the egg, and few of our native birds will attempt to live in the neighborhood with them.

Notes.—A harsh, discordant sound, which they commence early in the morning and continue until night.

Nest.—Of straw and rubbish piled behind blinds, in the tops of electric lights or crevices of buildings, and sometimes large, unsightly heaps of straw in trees. They raise three or four broods a year and in all seasons; five to seven whitish eggs scratched with black.

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

[89]

VESPER SPARROW

540. Poœcetes gramineus. 6 inches

The chestnut shoulders and white outer tail feathers distinguish this from any other of our Sparrows.

The name Vesper Sparrow is given this bird because of its habit of tuning up along toward evening; it is perhaps more often known as the “Bay-winged Sparrow” or “Grass Finch.”

They are found chiefly in dry pastures or along dusty roadsides, where they start from the ground in front of us, their white tail feathers showing prominently as they fly, so that there will be no mistake as to their identity.

Song.—A clear, ascending series of whistles, given from a fence post or bush top; call, a sharp chirp.

Nest.—Of grasses in weedy fields or pastures; four or five whitish eggs marked and blotched with brownish (.80 × .60).

Range.—Eastern N. A. from Virginia to southern Canada; winters in southern U. S. The similar Western Vesper Sparrow (confinis) is found from the Plains to the Pacific coast ranges.

[90]

IPSWICH SPARROW

541. Passerculus princeps. 6¼ inches

This species is larger and paler colored, but very similar to the more common and better known Savannah Sparrow. Its habits are the same. It breeds on Sable Island, Nova Scotia, and winters along the Atlantic coast to Virginia.

SAVANNAH SPARROW

542a. Passerculus sandwichensis savanna. 5½ inches

Breast and sides streaked with brownish, and yellow before the eye and also on bend of wing.

These finches are very abundant in eastern U. S. during migrations and a few remain in the northern parts through the summer.

Song.—A weak trill or twitter; a short chip.

Nest.—Of grasses in hollows in the ground and concealed by grass or weeds. The four grayish eggs are spotted with brown (.75 × .55).

Range.—Winters in southern U. S.; breeds from northern U. S. northward. 542b. Western Savannah Sparrow (alaudinus) is found from the Plains west to the coast ranges. It is slightly paler.

[91]

BAIRD SPARROW

545. Ammodramus bairdi. 5¾ inches

Crown and nape brownish yellow streaked with black; underparts white, streaked on the throat, breast and sides with blackish; tail slightly forked and the feathers pointed.

In summer the western plains and prairie ring with the tinkling songs of these little Sparrows; they are especially abundant in Dakota and Montana.

GRASSHOPPER SPARROW

546. Ammodramus savannarum australis. 5½ inches

Crown blackish with a central buffy stripe; nape brown and gray; sides of head, breast and flanks, buffy without streaks.

Song.—A weak, insect-like “zee-e-e-e-e.”

Nest.—A grass-lined hollow in a field, with the top arched over so as to keep off the sun and conceal the eggs. In June four or five white, brown-specked eggs are laid (.75 × .55).

Range.—U. S. east of the Rockies; winters in southern U. S.

546b. Florida Grasshopper Sparrow (floridanus), a darker race found on the plains of interior Florida.

[92]

HENSLOW SPARROW

547. Passerherbulus henslowii. 5 inches

Crown and nape greenish, streaked with black; breast and sides buffy, streaked with black; tail feathers narrow and pointed.

This species is of a more southern distribution than the last, being rarely found in New England, but quite common in favorable localities south of Virginia.

LECONTE SPARROW

548. Passerherbulus lecontei. 5 inches

Hind head chestnut and gray; sides of head, throat, breast and flanks a rich buff color.

Song.—A grasshopper-like squeaking.

Nest.—Of grasses in hollows of the ground on prairies; eggs greenish white thickly specked with brownish (.65 × .50).

Range.—Breeds in the Great Plains from Dakota to Manitoba, and winters southeastward to the South Atlantic and Gulf States.

[93]

SHARP-TAILED SPARROW

549. Passerherbulus caudacutus. 5¾ inches

Back of head greenish; sides of head, breast, and flanks buff with black streaks; tail feathers sharp.

Salt marshes along the seacoast or along streams emptying into the ocean are the dwelling-places of these finches. They creep about like mice in the salt grass, now running across an open space, now threading their way through the upright stalks.

Song.—A rather weak, squeaky trill.

Nest.—Of seaweed and marsh grass, attached to the grass stalks several inches above ground and often covered by a mass of dry seaweed. Eggs greenish white specked with brown (.78 × .56).

Range.—Atlantic coast of the U. S.

NELSON SPARROW

549a. Passerherbulus nelsoni. 5½ inches

Similar to the last but brighter colored and not streaked below. In the Mississippi Valley north to Manitoba. 549a. Acadian Sharp-tailed Sparrow (sub-virgatus), Atlantic coast, breeding from Maine to New Brunswick.

[94]

SEASIDE SPARROW

550. Passerherbulus maritimus. 6 inches

Yellow spot before the eye. General plumage above grayish green with no black markings. All the habits of the Seaside Sparrows are precisely like those of the Sharp-tailed Sparrows. The nests and eggs are indistinguishable and are often found in the same marshes.

Sub-Species.—550a. Scott Seaside Sparrow (peninsulæ), slightly smaller and with the back marked with black and brownish green; South Atlantic coast. 550b. Texas Seaside Sparrow (sennetti), greener above than No. 550; coast of Texas. 550c. Fisher Seaside Sparrow (fisheri), darker above than scotti and with the breast and sides heavily washed with rusty and streaked with black; coast of Louisiana. 550d. Macgillivray Seaside Sparrow (macgillivrayii), coast of South Carolina.

DUSKY SEASIDE SPARROW

551. Passerherbulus nigrescens. 6 inches

Darkest of the Seaside Sparrows. Found only in marshes at head of Indian River, Florida.

[95]

LARK SPARROW

552. Chondestes grammacus. 6¼ inches

These handsome Sparrows are very abundant in the Mississippi Valley; their favorite resorts are fields, pastures, and prairie lands, or along dusty roadsides. Their song is one of the sweetest of any of the Sparrows, and is freely given throughout the summer.

Song.—A hurried gush of silvery tremulous notes.

Nest.—Sometimes in bushes but usually on the ground; of grasses arranged in a hollow to form a little cup, and usually concealed under a tuft of grass or bunch of clover. The birds usually run some distance from the nest before flying, so that they are quite hard to find. They lay three to five eggs, white, specked and scrawled sparingly with blackish (.80 × .60), wholly different from those of any other Sparrow.

Range.—Mississippi Valley, breeding from Texas to Manitoba; winters in southern U. S. and Mexico.

Sub-Species.—552a. Western Lark Sparrow (strigatus) is slightly paler and less heavily marked; found from the Plains to the Pacific.

[96]

HARRIS SPARROW

553. Zonotrichia querula. 7½ inches

Adults in summer with the crown face, and throat black; in winter with the black areas mottled with gray.

This species is one of the largest of the Sparrows. It is found abundantly on the prairies during migrations, but about nesting time they all seem to disappear and no one has, as yet, been able to locate their exact breeding range. It is supposed to be among some of the foothills of North Dakota and northward through Manitoba and Saskatchewan, as they have been found during the summer in all these localities. Nests supposed to belong to this species have been found, but they lack positive identification.

Song.—A series of musical, piping whistles.

Nest.—Supposed to be of grass and bark, a few inches above the ground in weed stalks or small shrubs; eggs whitish, thickly spotted with brown (.95 × .65).

Range.—Interior U. S. from Texas (in winter) north through the Plains and Mississippi to Manitoba.

[97]

WHITE-CROWNED SPARROW

554. Zonotrichia leucophrys. 7 inches

Adults with a white crown bordered by black, the black covering the lores or space before the eye (the sub-species found west of the Rockies have the lores white).

We know these birds in the U. S., except in mountain ranges or in the extreme northern parts, only as migrants, they then being found in brushy woodlots or along roadsides. In the north they are found in deeply wooded ravines and on side hills. While with us they rarely if ever sing, but in their summer home they have a clear tinkling song like that of the White-throated Sparrow, with which we see them associated here.

Song.—A clear, sweet, piping “see-dee-dee-dee-de-e”; call note, a sharp chip.

Nest.—Usually on the ground under patches of brush or bushes. The four or five eggs are whitish profusely spotted with brown (.90 × .63).

Range.—N. A., breeding from northern U. S. northward and in high ranges south to Mexico.

[98]

WHITE-THROATED SPARROW

558. Zonotrichia albicollis. 6¾ inches

In thick underbrush we hear these birds scratching about among the leaves; occasionally one of them will hop up on a twig and give his clear peabody song, or, hearing or seeing you, give a sharp chirp and dash out of sight again. They are birds of the ground, always busy and always happy. I think that without any exception, they are the handsomest of our Sparrows, their colors are so rich and harmonize and blend together so well.

Song.—A high-pitched, very clear and sweet whistle, “pea-bo-dy-bird.” Call and note of alarm, a metallic chirp.

Nest.—Usually on the ground on the borders of woods or in swamps; of grass and leaves, similar to, but larger than, that of the Song Sparrow. Four or five eggs, pale greenish blue, thickly spotted with brown (.85 × .63).

Range.—N. A. east of the Rockies, breeding from northern U. S. to Labrador and Hudson Ray; winters in the southern half of U. S.

[99]

TREE SPARROW

559. Spizella monticola. 6¼ inches

A blackish-brown spot in middle of breast; crown reddish brown with no black about the head; back and wings with considerable brown.

These Sparrows are summer residents of the Arctic region, passing the winter in the northern half of the U. S. They bear considerable resemblance to our common Chipping Sparrow, but are larger and have characteristic markings as noted above. They appear in the U. S. in October and many of them pass the winter in the fields and gardens in our northern states.

Note.—A musical chirp; song, strong, sweet, and musical and ending in a low warble.

Nest.—Usually on the ground, but sometimes at low elevations in bushes. Eggs pale greenish blue with brown specks over the whole surface, thus being very different from those of the Chipping Sparrow (.80 × .60).

Range.—N. A. east of the Plains, breeding in Labrador and about Hudson Bay; winters in northern half of the U. S. A sub-species, 559a. Western Tree Sparrow (ochracea) is paler; it is found from the Plains to the Pacific, breeding in the north.

[100]

CHIPPING SPARROW

560. Spizella passerina. 5¼ inches

Crown chestnut; forehead black; line through the eye black.

One of the commonest and most useful of our Sparrows, frequenting orchards, yards, and bushy pastures. They are not at all timid and frequently nest in vines, covering porches or the side of the house, provided that English Sparrows are not too plenty. They eat great quantities of insects and worms, and some seeds, feeding their young wholly upon the former.

Song.—A very rapidly chanted chip, chip, chip, chip, continued for several seconds; call, a sharp chip.

Nest.—A small cup-shaped structure of rootlets, lined with horsehair; placed in bushes, trees, or vines; eggs three to five, bluish green, specked, chiefly around the large end, with blackish brown (.65 × .50).

Range.—N. A. east of the Plains, breeding from the Gulf of Mexico north to Newfoundland and Hudson Bay; winters in the Gulf States. A sub-species is found west of the Rockies.

[101]

CLAY-COLORED SPARROW

561. Spizella pallida. 5½ inches

No reddish brown in the plumage; crown largely black, with a whitish stripe in centre. The habits of these birds are the same as those of the Chippy; they are abundant on the Plains north to Saskatchewan and breed south to the northern portion of the United States. They spend the winter in Mexico. Their nests and eggs cannot be distinguished from those of the preceding except, perhaps, by the fact that the nest has more grass than hair.

BREWER SPARROW

562. Spizella breweri. 5½ inches

Like the last species, the general tone of plumage of this is gray. It differs, though, in having the crown finely streaked with blackish. It is a more western species than the last and is rarely found east of the Rockies. It ranges from British Columbia southward into Mexico.

[102]

FIELD SPARROW

563. Spizella pusilla. 5½ inches

Bill pinkish brown; crown and ear covert brown with no black markings; back reddish brown and breast and sides washed with brown.

You will find these birds in dry pastures, stubble fields, and side hills. The hotter and dryer a place is, the better they seem to like it. They are often the only birds that will be found nesting on tracts of land recently burned over, upon which the sun beats down with stifling heat.

Song.—A series of shrill piping whistles on an ascending scale and terminating in a little trill, “swee-see-see-se-e-e.”

Nest.—A frail structure of grasses and weeds, lined with finer grasses; placed either on the ground or in bushes, briars or weed patches; four or five whitish eggs marked with reddish brown (.68 × .50).

Range.—Breeds from the Gulf States north to southern Canada; winters in southern United States.

Sub-Species.—563a. Western Field Sparrow (arenacea), a paler race found on the Great Plains.

[103]

WHITE-WINGED JUNCO

566. Junco aikeni. 6½ inches

Slightly larger than the common eastern Junco, and with two white bars on the wing and more white on the tail.

This species cannot be regarded as common anywhere, even locally, and in most sections of its range it is rare. There are no peculiarities in its habits, and I believe that its nests and eggs have not, as yet, been discovered.

Range.—Breeds in Wyoming and the Dakotas and winters in Colorado and eastward to Kansas.

[104]

SLATE-COLORED JUNCO

567. Junco hyemalis. 6¼ inches

These are one of our most common winter birds, easily recognized, while perching or on the ground, by the white or pinkish bill, and when flying by the white outer tail feathers and the gray and white plumage. They are very common about houses as well as on the edges of woods and in pine groves, being very tame and coming into the dooryard to feed upon crumbs or chaff which is often thrown out for them.

Song.—A sweet simple trill, which has a beautiful effect when given by a whole flock in unison.

Nest.—Of grasses, on the ground, usually beside a stone, in a bunch of weeds or under a small shrub, where it is well concealed. The three or four eggs are whitish, sprinkled with reddish brown (.75 × .55).

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding from the northern parts of the northern tier of states northward; winters south to the Gulf.

Sub-Species.—567e. Carolina Junco (carolinensis), found in the Alleghanies from Virginia to Georgia; there are several races found west of the Rockies.

[105]

BLACK-THROATED SPARROW

573. Amphispiza bilineata. 5½ inches

These little Sparrows are entirely unlike any other North American species. They are found in the southwestern deserts, where they are not uncommon in certain localities, being found in mesquite or chaparral brush.

Note.—An ordinary Sparrow chip; song, a rich metallic “zip-zip-zip-zee-zee-zee,” the first three ascending, the second three notes descending.

Nest.—In bushes or cacti at low elevations; eggs plain bluish white (.70 × .50).

Range.—From Texas north to Kansas in summer. A paler sub-species, the Desert Sparrow (deserticola), is found westward to southern California.

SAGE SPARROW

574.1 Amphispiza nevadensis. 6¼ inches

These birds are found in arid regions, frequenting the sage brush that is found in the Great Basin region, from western Texas to California.

[106]

PINE-WOODS SPARROW

575. Peucæa æstivalis. 5¾ inches

Upper parts streaked with black; back chestnut and gray; under parts buffy white; tail rounded.

These dull-colored birds are abundant on some of the southern pine barrens. Their habits are similar to those of the Henslow Sparrow; they are quite shy and it is almost impossible to make one show itself above the grass, through which it runs and dodges with great swiftness. If it is surprised into taking wing it goes but a few feet, then drops out of sight again.

Note.—A metallic chip; song, similar to that of the Field Sparrow, but reversed; that is, with the trill first.

Nest.—Of grasses, on the ground, under shrubs or in tufts of grass; not usually arched as those of Bachman Sparrow seem to always be; four or five pure white eggs (.72 × .60).

Range.—Georgia and Florida. 575a. Bachman Sparrow (bachmannii) is brighter above but has fewer black streaks; found in the South Atlantic and Gulf States and north to Indiana.

[107]

SONG SPARROW

581. Melospiza melodia. 6¼ inches

This is probably the best known, most abundant, and most widely distributed (in its numerous sub-species) of all our birds. They are quite hardy and many of them winter in the northern states, but the majority go farther south, returning to their summer homes about the first of March. They may be found anywhere where there are bushes, vines, or hedges, and often about houses, even in large cities.

Song.—Very pleasing and musical, strongly resembling brilliant measures from that of the Canary.

Nest.—Of grass, either on the ground or in bushes; three to five bluish-white eggs, profusely spotted with brown (.80 × .58).

Range.—Eastern N. A., breeding from Virginia and Missouri north to southern Canada. Winters from Massachusetts and Ohio southward. Many local races are found west of the Rockies, but only one east of there. 581j. Dakota Song Sparrow (juddi) is found in the vicinity of Turtle Mountains, North Dakota; it is said to be lighter above and brighter below.

[108]

LINCOLN SPARROW

583. Melospiza lincolnii. 5¾ inches

Upper parts extensively brown and black, breast and sides bright buff with fine black streaks.

These finches are quite abundant in the West, especially during migrations, but are rather uncommon in the eastern states. Their habits are similar in some respects to both those of the Song Sparrow and of the Grasshopper Sparrow. They are very lively at all times and in the mating season quite pugnacious. They sit for minutes at a time upon the top of a bush pouring forth their melody, and they have one of the most brilliant songs of any of the family.

Song.—Loud, clear, and gurgling, after the style of the House Wren; call, a metallic chirp.

Nest.—Of grass, on the ground, in tufts of grass or under small shrubs; eggs pale greenish white, heavily marked with chestnut (.80 × .58).

Range.—N. A., breeding from northern U. S. to Labrador and Alaska; winters in southern half of U. S.

[109]

SWAMP SPARROW

584. Melospiza georgiana. 5¾ inches

Forehead black; crown chestnut with a gray median stripe; whole upper parts very dark; under parts grayish with brown sides.

A very quiet and unobtrusive species that dwells, as its name implies, chiefly in swamps. They creep about under the rank weeds and underbrush like so many mice; they are especially fond of the soft mires where walking is so difficult for human beings; they patter around on the soft mud with evident enjoyment, occasionally walking across an open space of water on what floating débris they may find available.

Song.—A feeble chant; call, a sharp metallic cheep.

Nest.—Of grasses, on the ground in damp places; four or five eggs, having a pale greenish-blue color heavily blotched and clouded with shades of brown (.80 × .55).

Range.—N. A. east of the Plains, breeding from New Jersey and Missouri north to Labrador and Hudson Bay; winters in southern half of the U. S.

[110]

FOX SPARROW

585. Passerella iliaca. 7¼ inches

Above bright reddish brown and gray; rump and tail wholly reddish brown, and spots on the breast and sides of the same color.

In winter we find these large sparrows in quiet swamps and open woods, where they scratch about among the fallen leaves, after the manner of domestic fowls; they will scratch energetically for a few seconds, then pause to see what they have uncovered. They have a short but loud and joyful song, with which they greet you on clear frosty mornings, and the effect is very beautiful when a large flock of them are singing in chorus.

Song.—A loud, clear, and melodious carol; call, a soft chip.

Nest.—Of grass and moss, lined with fine grass and feathers; four or five pale bluish-green eggs, spotted with reddish brown and chestnut (.90 × .65).

Range.—N. A. east of the Rockies, breeding from New Brunswick and Manitoba northward; winters in the southern states.

[111]

TOWHEE OR CHEWINK

587. Pipilo erythrophthalmus. 8 inches

A bird of swamps, brushy pastures, and open woodlands. They are ground birds and usually found scratching among the leaves; the male, with his black, white and brown clothes, makes a conspicuous object, while the female, with her brown and white dress, harmonizes with the leaves so that it is difficult to see her. While his mate is sitting on her nest, the male will frequently sit in a tree top and persistently sing for many minutes at a time.

Song.—Loud and clear, “tow-hee-e-e” or “see-tow-hee-e-e,” with the last notes tremulous; call, a sharp “cherink.”

Nest.—Usually on the ground, but rarely in bushes; of strips of bark, grass, and leaves; eggs white with reddish-brown dots over the whole surface (.90 × .70).

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

Sub-Species.—587a. White-eyed Towhee (alleni) has white eyes instead of red and less white on the tail; found on the South Atlantic coast.

[112]

GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE

592.1 Oreospiza chlorura. 7 inches

These are characteristic birds of the Western mountains. They are typical brush birds, satisfied in living a life of security in their own way, and rarely appear above the surface of the thick shrubbery except to mount to a conspicuous twig, pour forth their sweet melodies, and then retreat again.

Note.—A loud chip; a soft, mewing note; song, finch-like, musical but rather simple.

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.

[113]

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.

[114]

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.

[115]

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.

[116]

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.

[117]

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.

[118]

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).