ATTN i am Le Smithsonian Institution ibrartes Alexander Wetmore 194 6 StthSecretary 1 Om eh me wages ai vy on Wai TEU a coogi wit ok uacedy | even ev ee HV heeae# ‘ re | \ Bus fk 4 s. Het OF THE BIRDS OF MARYLAND GIVING DATES OF THE ~~ ARRIVAL, DEPARTURE AND NESTING PERIODS OF OUR REGULAR BIRDS; ALSO ‘INCLUDING STRAGGLERS AND SUCH OTHERS AS NO DOUBT OCCUR BUT ARE NOT RECORDED. BY F. C. KIRK WOOD. REPRINTED FROM THE TRANSACTIONS OF THE MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. BALTIMORE 1895 Bi: DEUTSCH LITHOGRAPHING & PRINTING CO. BALTIMORE. 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 241 A LIST OF THE BIRDS OF MARYLAND. By F, C. KIRKWOOD. The following list of the Birds of Maryland is the result of a promise made to the late Prof. Geo. L. Smith shortly before his untimely death. It includes all our regular birds and is specially intended to give the time of their arrival and depar- ture and also their nesting periods. It also includes such stragglers as I have been able to find record of, and such as no doubt occur, but have not been recorded within our limits, our state being very deficient in ornithological lists. It is compiled from the author’s field work from January 1, 1881, to date, combined with which is that of the following gentlemen who kindly gave me the use of their collections and note books, and to whom I now extend thanks : Wn. H. Fisher, Baltimore City. Arthur Resler, se at W.N. Wholey, “ i A. T. Hoen, ee we Geo. H. Gray, ‘ P. T. Blogg, ee o J. Hall Pleasants, Jr., Baltimore City. J. E. Tylor, Easton, Md. H. W. Stabler, Jr., Sandy Springs, Md. The late Edgar A. Small, Hagerstown, Md. Robt. Shriver, Cumberland, Md. I have also to accord my thanks to others mentioned in the text and to Mr. Robt. Ridgway, of Washington, and especially to Mr. Chas. W. Richmond, of Washington, who has kindly given his time to an ample review of the manuscript and added many important notes, giving items from the District of Columbia and surrounding country. The large majority of my own observations during the last six years have been made in Dulaney’s Valley, Baltimore County, and during the last four years I have spent two weeks 242 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 each spring observing our nesting birds. In 1892 and 1893, on the waters between Chestertown and Eastern Bay ; in 1894, on Sinepuxent and Chincoteague Bays, between the Delaware and Virginia lines, and in 1895, at Vale Summit on Dan’s Mountain, in Allegany County. Flying visits have been made by myself and others to various other points within the state. I have omitted the word “shot” in a great many cases, but unless it is expressly stated that the bird was only seen, the specimen has been secured; this of course not applying to such birds as are easily identified on the wing. In compiling the number of a “set” of eggs, the majority of notes are my own; these include all nests with a completed complement of eggs, whether collected or not, and also such nests as held young birds from which none had flown. In some of our commoner species the number is quite large, and shows the variation in a “set” much better than the usual “four or five, sometimes three or six.” ” a good many of our birds nest twice and some three times; but except in one I have omitted mention of “second nestines: gs; or two cases I could not identify the same pair of birds, and as nests in all stages, from “started to build” to “birds ready to fly,’ can be found any day in the height of the season for most of our commoner species, I only give extreme nesting dates, preferring such as record eggs where possible. A list of the works and publications to which I have made reference is appended. The nomenclature followed, as also the number given, is that of the American Ornithologists Union. The index kindly prepared by Mr. W. H. Fisher includes all our local names, each bird being referred to under its A. O. U. number. * * * * * * Maryland is situated between the parallels of 37° 53’ and 39° 44’ northern latitude and the meridians of 75° 04’ and 79° 33/ western longitude. Mason and Dixon’s line separates it from ~ es See ee — eee ee 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 243 Pennsylvania and Delaware, and it is separated from Virginia by a line drawn from the Atlantic Ocean to the western bank of the Potomac River and low water line on the Virginia shore, this being the southern border of Maryland from the source down. From the source of the Potomac a line runs north to Mason and Dixon’s line. The gross area of the state is 12,210 square miles: 9680 land; 1203, the Maryland part of the Chesapeake ; 93, Assateague Bay ; and 1054, smaller estuaries and rivers. The three leading topographical regions of the eastern por- tion of the United States, viz., the Coastal Plain, the Pied- mont Plateau, and the Apalachian region are all typically represented within the limits of the state. The Coastal Plain, or tide-water Maryland, forms the eastern portion, lying south of aline drawn from Wilmington to Washington, through Baltimore. This is closely outlined by the track of the Penn- sylvania Railroad ; it covers about 5000 square miles. The Eastern Shore, except in the extreme north, does not reach at any point 100 feet in elevation, while most of it is below 25 feet. It is deeply cut up by tide-water rivers and bays. This also describes the tract known as the “Necks”? between Balti- more and Havre de Grace. ‘The temperature is much modified by the surrounding water, the southern portion having a mean annual temperature of 58°; but the greater part lies between 56° and 54°; the northern part averaging 52°. Southern Maryland or the Western Shore is different, considerable of it reaches 100 feet, and in places as much as 180 feet. The mean annual temperature seldom exceeds that of Baltimore, which is 55.6°, by more than 2°. The Piedmont Plateau, or Central Maryland, extends from the Coastal Plain to the Catoctin Mountain, and has an area of about 2500 square miles; it is broken by low, undulating hills, which gradually increase in elevation to the westward. Along the eastern margin, heights exceeding 400 feet are frequently reached, and at Catonsville 525 feet, while at Parr’s Ridge, in Carroll County, it rises above 850 feet. At Frederick City, 244 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 the elevation of the valley is about 250 feet above tide. The mean annual temperature ranges from 50° to 55°. The Apalachian region, or Western Maryland, consists of a series of parallel mountain ridges with deep valleys between them, cut at nearly right angles by the Potomac River. The Catoctin Ridge reaches 1800 feet, and the Blue Ridge, at Qui- rauk, 2400; while at Middletown and Hagerstown the eleva- tion is 500. The mountains proper begin at North Mountain, and reach in a number of cases 3000 feet and over; while the valleys near the Potomac haye an elevation of 500 feet rapidly ascending ; the river at Cumberland being about 600 feet. The mean average temperature ranges from 50° to 53°. In the above mentioned areas, the Coastal Plain and the Piedmont Plateau are ornithologically within what is usually considered as the Carolina faunal area, as shown by the nesting of the Cardinal, Carolina Wren, Tufted Tit, ete. It will be found to be fairly divided into two sub-faunal regions. In the lower, or Coastal Plain, will be found the Mockingbird, Fish Hawk and Fish Crow, breeding in numbers. In the southern part of Maryland will be found traces of a still more southern faunal area, the Louisiana, distinguished by the presence of the Brown-headed Nuthatch. The eastern part of the Apalachian region is also included in the Carolina faunal area. The Alleghanian fauna covers the mountain region from North Mountain westward, it also appears an the higher parts of the Blue Ridge. This faunal region is the breeding range of the Chestnut-sided Warbler, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Wilson’s Thrush, ete. As this section has never been fully investigated by ornithologists, there remains the possibility, as suggested by Mr. C. W. Richmond, that the Snowbird (Junco hyemalis) may yet be found breeding in some of the hemlock tracts still standing; this would give a tinge of a more northern faunal area, the Canadian. A circle drawn round Baltimore City, with its centre at Baltimore and Charles streets, and a 15-mile radius, will take in over one-half of Baltimore County, and parts of Anne 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 245 Arundel and Howard Counties, a small portion of the Chesa- peake Bay, and Patapsco, Back, Middle and Gunpowder Rivers. In this circle a great diversity of country is found. The part of Anne Arundel included is nearly level and low lying, as is also the “Necks” of Baltimore County. On these necks and also along as far as Havre-de-Grace, are located the famous ducking clubs of the Chesapeake. The water is brackish, or salty, rising and falling with the tide. The timber is prin- cipally short leafed pine. The other part of Baltimore and Howard Counties is more or less hilly, rising in places to over 700 feet. The water courses are swift running streams in more or less deep cuts, some eyen in rocky gorges. These steep banks and most of the uneven land is heavily wooded with oaks, chestnut, beech, etc. (pines only appearing in small isolated patches), while the level ground is under a high state of culti- vation. All observations to which a locality is not given are within this circle; in special cases within this circle, and in all outside it, the exact location is given. The section usually worked .by Messrs. A. T. Hoen, W. N. Wholey, and myself, extends from Waverly, in the northern part of Baltimore City, to Towson, and so through Dulaney’s Valley, across the lower half of Long Green Valley to the Harford pike and back to Baltimore; Mr. J. Hall Pleasants working within it around Towson. Waverly has an elevation of 200 feet and Towson 500. The lowest point in Dulaney’s Valley is the level of Loch Raven, 170 feet. The ridge between Dulaney’s and Long Green Valleys reaches 560 feet. Long Green Valley is all above 250 feet. The Gunpowder River crosses this area in a zigzag course, at nearly right angles, its banks, except in Dulaney’s Valley, being precipitous. Four miles of it consti- tutes Loch Raven. Mr. Wm. H. Fisher’s usual basis of observation is from Mount Washington to Lutherville, including Lake Roland on Jones Falls (230 feet above tide), and the Green Spring Valley, which, starting at 260 feet, near Sherwood, gradually ascends as 246 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 it goes westward. The country north and south of this valley is very uneven and high (560 feet in some places). Messrs. G. H. Gray and P. T. Blogg, working to the west of the city, have quite a different country, most of their observations being made in the rocky, heavily timbered gorge of Gwynn’s Falls, between Calverton and Powhattan. The bed of the falls at Calverton has an elevation of 80 feet, and at Powhatan dam of 320 feet, the country on both sides ranging from 300 to 500 feet. Mr. A. Resler takes another field, collecting a good deal on Patapsco marsh, just south of the city, also “down the necks,” and near Botterill Post-Office, in Howard County, 14 miles from Baltimore. Order PYGOPODES—Divine Birps. Family Popiciprn—Grebes. Colymbus holbeellii (2). Holbcell’s Grebe. “Not uncommon on the Potomac in winter” (A. C., 110), this species has been taken in Lancaster County, Pa., and at other points in Pennsylvania and New Jersey (Birds E. Pa. and N. J., 38), so I presume it occurs all over tide water Maryland. On February 25, 1894, I watched one for about an hour at Lake Roland where it was swimming around in a hole in the ice, which otherwise covered the lake. Later, when we threw stones at it, it would neither fly nor dive, so we left it. Colymbus auritus (3). Horned Grebe. Fairly common in tide-water Maryland during migrations, a number winter with us. Noted from October 7 (76, Resler) at Back River, to April 23 (90, Resler), at the same place, April 25, at Washington, D. C. (Richmond). Inland, a young male, shot at New Market, Carroll County, by Dr. H. H. Hop- kins, was presented in the flesh on February 21, ’81, to the Maryland Academy of Sciences. A pair, male and female, were taken at Hagerstown on April 16, 783 (Small), and Mr. Robert Shriver has secured specimens at Cumberland. a | 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 24 Podilymbus podiceps (6), Pied-billed Grebe. Common from September 1 (’93) to March 31 (88, Res- ler), a few stay with us to breed, but, as far as I know, the nest has not been found in Maryland. Specimens have been taken on April 28 (93) and July 31 (’75, Resler), at Back River. At Hagerstown, in June (’80, Small), and near Westminster, early in September (’80, Fisher) nine, possibly a family, were taken in one day from a mill pond. At Wash- ington, common from August 25 to May (Richmond). Family URrNnATORID#—Loons. Urinator imber (7). Loon. Fairly common during winter on ocean front, Chesapeake Bay, and larger waters of Maryland. In New Jersey it is given as arriving October 3 (Birds E. Pa. and N. J., 39), but I have only spring dates ranging from March 9 (’91, Fisher), at Legoe’s Point, to June 17 (’93, J. F. Hargreaves), when a very noisy pair were on the Gunpowder River, near the Pennsylvania Railroad bridge. Mr. W.S. Walker, of Chestertown, writes me that it is “one of the last birds to leave Chester River.” At Washington, from September to April 25 (Richmond). Audubon says (vii, 284): “the Loon breeds in various parts of the United States from Maryland to Maine. I have ascertained that it nestles in the former of these states on the Susquehanna River.” Not known to nest here now. Urinator lumme (11). Red-throated Loon. Occasionally taken on our waters during winter. On February 16, 1878, the late A. Wolle presented the Maryland Academy of Sciences with shells taken from the stomach of one of these birds, presumably captured near Baltimore. “Not uncommon on the (Potomac) River during the winter months” (A.C., 110). “In the spring of 1882 one was caught in a gill net in the Potomac River, a few miles below Washington, and is now in the possession of Mr. O. N. Bryan, of Marshall 248 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 Hall, Md.” (H. M. Smith and W. Palmer, Auk, v, 147). One shot on Chester River was sent to the Smithsonian for idendi- fication by Hiram Brown, Pomona, Md. (Smith. Report, 1885, 192), “and I also learn from Dr. A. K. Fisher of another, cap- tured on the Potomac, near Fort Washington, October 20, 1889” (Birds Vas., 41). Family ALcripz—Auks, Murres, and Puffins. Cepphus grylle (27). Black Guillemot. South in winter to New Jersey (Manual, 16). Audubon says (vil, 273), “during severe winters, I have seen the Black Guillemot playing over the water as far south as the shores of Maryland. Such excursions, however, are of rare occurence.” Alca torda (32). Razor-billed Auk. “Winter visitant on the New Jersey coast; one specimen was secured by Dr. W. L. Abbott as far south as Cape May” (Birds E. Pa. and N. J., 41). ‘‘Capt. Chas. H. Crumb in- forms me that three have been taken near Cobb’s Island, two in 1884 and one in 1887, one of which is now in my possession” (Birds Vas., 4), and several more were taken during the winter of 1892-93 (Capt. Crumb in letter to Wm. H. Fisher). Alle alle (34). Dovekie. “Reoular winter visitant along the New Jersey coast, varying in abundance from year to year”. (Birds E. Pa. and N.J., 41). On December 9, 1877, one was caught alive on the sea beach near Ocean City, Md., and sent to the Maryland Academy of Sciences by Mr. Robert Henry, of Berlin, Md. Capt. Crumb has taken two at Cobb’s Island. Order LONGIPEN N ES—LoneG-wInGEp SWIMMERS. Family STERCORARIID2—Jaegers and Skuas. Stercorarius pomarinus (36). Pomarine Jaeger. Winters on the Atlantic coast from Long Island southward. 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 249 Stercorarius parasiticus (37). Parasitic Jaeger. Winters along the Atlantic coast from the middle states southward. Stercorarius longicaudus (38). Long-tailed Jaeger. Migrates south along the Atlantic coast to the Gulf of Mex- ico and West Indies. No doubt all three of the Jaegers occur off our coast, but we have no record of them. Family LArtma—Gulls and Terns. Rissa tridactyla (40). Kittiwake. “ Very rare winter visitant on the New Jersey coast” (Birds EK. Pa. and N. J., 42). ‘ About ten years ago the late Henry B. Graves, of Berk’s County, mounted a young Kittiwake which had been captured near Lancaster City, in midwinter,” and “Dr. A. C. Treichler, of Elizabethtown, mentions the species as a straggler in Lancaster County, Pa.” (Birds -Pa., 17). “Captain Crumb reports this species as a rare and irregular winter visitant at Cobb’s Island, but he has never taken a spec- imen ” (Birds Vas., 41). Larus leucopterus (43). Iceland Gull (°?). On November 23, 1893, I saw a pure white gull in the in- ner harbor of Baltimore City. It came within fifty feet of me at times, as I watched it for fully half an hour. In reply toa description of this bird, which I sent to Mr. Robert Ridgway, he writes : “The gull which you think may be the young of L. leucopterus, is undoubtedly what American ornithologists here consider and describe as the young of that species. There is a question, however, whether it is not in reality the young of LI. kumlieni. There are no present means of settling the question, there being no specimens of undoubted young of L. leucopterus in any American collection so far as I know.” 250 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 Larus marinus (47). Great Black-backed Gull. “Rare winter visitant along the New Jersey coast, a few, however, probably occur every year” (Birds E. Pa. and N. J., 43). ‘Has been taken (including the adult) at Cobb’s Island, where on the authority of Capt. Crumb it is not common, though seen every winter” (Birds Vas., 41) ; “south coastwise in winter to Florida” (Key, p. 743). On January 27, 1895, at Holly Point, I saw one of these birds circling over the mouth of Gunpowder River, but it kept considerably out of range. Larus argentatus smithsonianus (51a). American Herring Gull. In Baltimore harbor this species is a common winter resident, common over the Basin at Light and Pratt streets, where they live on the refuse. During the latter part of September I could not find any, but quite a number were at hand on October 5, (94). On May 1, (95), a number were observed, and on May 6, (95), two were in Canton Hollow. They also occur on all our waters, but not in numbers as they appear in our harbor. ‘Common in winter at Washington” (Richmond). Larus delawarensis (54). Ring-billed Gull. At Washington “seen over the river during the winter months, more frequently than the Herring Gull” (A. C., 108). ‘Winters abundantly on the coast of the Middle States, I saw it continually during two winters over the harbor of Baltimore where it flies among the shipping, with Bonaparte’s Gulls and several kinds of terns” (Birds N. W., 638). However the above may have been when Dr. Coues was at Fort McHenry, I have been unable to substantiate the state- ment, a stray tern being of very unusual occurrence above the Fort, while Bonaparte’s Gull, as a rule, keeps below it. My only spring notes are of two near Holly Point over Gunpowder River on March 25 (’94), and a few in the lower harbor on March 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 251 29 (95), but in fall they are noted near Fort McHenry from September 26 (’94) to November 6 (’94). Mr. Ridgway writes me: “As to Larus delawarensis wintering near Baltimore, it may occasionally do so, but not in any con- siderable numbers. Here, on the Potomac, it is not considered a winter resident, though it migrates northward very early in spring,” and Mr. C. W. Richmond writes: ‘Not a winter visitant at Washington, it was common during March until the 30th, 1890. Noted from February to April 5, and again in October and November.” Larus atricilla (58). Laughing Gull. Common migrant from April 28 (94, Wholey) to May 22 (95), and from September 29 (’94) to October 12 (94). A few may spend the summer with us, two pairs being noted at Patapsco Marsh on July 3 (’93, Blogg). “One of the most abundant gulls at Cobb’s Island, where numbers commence to breed about the 20th of June” (Birds Vas., 41). I have been told they breed at Chincoteague Island, and from the fact that I saw a few flying north in the morning and south in the evening over Chincoteague Bay, in Maryland, I presume they do, though a search of ten days (June 5 to 14, ’94) failed to locate a breeding site on the ocean front of Maryland, and I also failed during two seasons (’92 and ’93) to locate a breeding site on the Chesapeake, though frequently told of them by the fishermen, and frequently seeing paired birds. Larus philadelphia (60). Bonaparte’s Gull. A tolerably common migrant, noted from March 24 (94, Fisher) to May 17 (95), and from October 5 (’94) to November 9(792, Resler) ; a few may also winter with us (Birds N.W., 638). While this species may come up the harbor with the Herring Gulls, I do not think it ever comes beyond the broad water at Broadway Ferry. At Washington they are given as ‘compara- tively common in August and September” (A. C., 108). 252 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 Gelochelidon nilotica (63). Gull-billed Tern. “Rare visitant along the New Jersey coast, where it is reported to have bred formerly (‘As late as 1886, according to Mr. H. G. Parker’ [O. and O., 1886, p. 138]).” (Birds E. Pa. and N. J., 44.) On May 19, 20, 21, 1892, Mr. W. H. Fisher noted this species at Cobb’s Island, Va., where, Mr. H. B. Bailey says, ‘ca few pairs were seen, but they had not commenced to breed during my visit, May 25 to 29, 1875. They nest here sparingly, however, as I had a set of their eggs sent me which were laid the last of June” (Auk, i, 24-28), and, May 14 to 28, 1894, they “‘seem to be rapidly diminishing in numbers, being far less numerous than I observed them on two previous trips in 1891 and 1892, when I was collecting in vicinity of Smith’s Island, Va.” (E. J. Brown, Auk, xi, 259). Casual at Wash- ington (Richmond). Sterna tschegrava (64). Caspian Tern. Rare migrant along the Atlantic coast. On July 4, 1880, Mr. Robert Ridgway found two nests with two eggs in each, they were at opposite ends of Cobb’s Island, and about ten miles apart (B. N. O.C., v, 221—-22-23). “Capt. Crumb has found three sets of eggs in July” (Birds Vas., p. 42). “Hon. J. J. Libhart, in his ornithological report, published in the history of Lancaster County, records the capture of two of these birds on the Susquehanna at Marietta, Pa., on Septem- ber 21, 1847” (Birds Pa., 19). Sterna maxima (65). Royal Tern. “They have always been found breeding on a small sand bar off Cobb’s Island, but it was washed away during the winter of 1874-75, and although the birds were flying about (May 25-29, 75), they had not chosen any spot on which to breed; but they undoubtedly did so later” (H. B. Bailey, Auk, i, 24—28),. 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 253 On July 4, 1880, Mr. Robert Ridgway saw an immense colony there (B. N. O. C., v, 221-22-23), and “Captain Crumb has found eggs in the latter part of June” (Birds Vas., 42). “Rare straggler on the New Jersey coast during summer” (Birds E. Pa. and N. J., 45). Sterna forsteri (69). Forster’s Tern. “Tt is the commonest tern in winter and during the migra- tions in the harbor of Baltimore” (Birds N. W., 679). On March 4, 1893, during a severe snow storm, I saw several terns flying over the channel off Sparrow’s Point, which I be- lieve were of this species, but they did not come close enough to be positively identified. They have been taken near Washington, D.C., and have been found quite abundant over the lower Potomac by Mr. P. L. Jouy (Field and Forrest, vii, 29). On the evening of June 5, 1894, at North Beach, about ten miles south of Ocean City, Md., I saw some boys who had gathered about 200 “Striker” eggs, and were proceeding to cook same for their supper; they had also shot a number of birds which, on examination, I found to be all Forster’s Terns. Next day, June 6, 1894, I visited a marshy island with probably 2000 terns over it, and as far as I could observe all were jorster?. Here I noted 12 nests with 3 eggs, 19 with 2 and 41 with 1; how many without eggs*lam unable to say. On June 7 I visited two other much smaller “tumps” about three miles distant ; about 200 birds here, on one there were 7 nests with 1 egg each, and on the other 7 with 1, and 1 with 2; this was evidently where the boys had been, as innumerable nests were empty. On June 10 I again visited all three of these “tumps” and on the larger one noted 7 nests with 3 eggs, 7 with 2, and 19 with 1, the number of unoccupied nests being greater than before. On the smaller “tumps” I saw respectively 1 of 2, and 6 of 1; and 3 of 2 and 4 of 1; and more unoc- cupied nests. Here the birds were much fewer than before, while at the largest “tump” there appeared to be more than 254 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 on the 6th. These nesting places had been visited by other parties between my visits. Sterna hirundo (70). Common Tern. “In North America chiefly confined to the Eastern Provin- ces, breeding variously throughout its range” (A. O. U.). Ap- parently migratory, three specimens were taken on May 6 (’76, Resler) out of a number seen at Patapsco marsh ; and on May 17 (’93), one was shot at the same place. On September 1 (’93, A. Wolle), four were shot out of about fifteen at Gun- powder marsh, these I examined. Sometimes common, but an irregular migrant at Washington (Richmond). Sterna paradisza (71). Arctic Tern. Breeding from Massachusettes northward, this species comes south in winter along the Atlantic coast at least as far as Vir- ginia. Sterna dougalli (72). Roseate Tern. This southern species, going regularly north in summer to Maine, “ doubtless breeds” at Cobb’s Island (H. B. Bailey, Auk, i, 24-28), and is a “rare straggler on the New Jersey coast during summer ; formerly it is reported to have bred in consid- erable numbers” (Birds E. P. and N. J:, 47). Sterna antillarum (74). Least Tern. A summer resident in restricted localities, this species is usu- ally seen during migrations. On June 13, (’94), I visited a nesting colony at the juncture of Miles River with Eastern Bay, where, on a small island, I found four sets of three; twelve of two, and eight single eggs. how many other nesting hollows it is impossible to say, as they are so slight they show no signs of a nest until an egg is deposited. During the fall of 1895, this species was noted at Lake Roland on August 19 and 20, and September 3 and 4 (Fisher). 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 255 Sterna fuliginosa (75). Sooty Tern. North to the Carolinas and casually to New England ; “there isa specimen from Baltimore in the National Museum at Washington, obtained from the late Mr. A. Wolle (Robert Ridgway). “Dr. A. C. Treichler mentions it as a straggler in the neigh- borhood of Elizabethtown, Lancaster Co., Pa.” (Birds Pa., 23). Hydrochelidon nigra surinamensis (77). Black Tern. While this species is locally common over the whole of North America, I can find but few records for the vicinity of Maryland. At Washington, it is given as “less numerous than the Least Tern, found at same seasons” (A.C., 109) “ Not un- common in the early fall at Cobb’s Island, Va. It has been seen there in the breeding seasou, but is not known to breed ” (Birds Vas., 43). “Transient, occurring on the New Jersey coast, but much less abundantly than formerly. Mr. Scott states that it arrived at Long Branch in 1879, about June 11, and soon became common ; although it remained all summer, it was not known to breed (B. N. O. C., ’79)” (Birds E. Pa. and N. J., 48). The Smithsonian acknowledged “Skin of short-tailed Tern, from Potomac River, Thos. Marron” (Smith. Rep. 1891, 793). On May 17, 1893, Alex. Wolle shot one on Patapsco marsh, and on August 25, 1898, Richard Cantter shot another near Upper Marlborough ; both of these I examined in the flesh. Family Ryncnuopip2—Skimmers. Rynchops nigra (80). Black Skimmer. This strictly maritime bird of our southern coast goes regu- larly north to New Jersey, where it is recorded from June 10 until September 25 (Birds E. Pa. and N. J., 48). On June 19, 1880, a specimen was presented to the Maryland Academy of Sciences, presumably taken near Baltimore. “Individuals were once seen by ourselves on the Potomac, 256 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 some distance below Washington, September 8, 1858” (A. C., 109). At Cobb’s Island, Va., from May 25 to 29, 1875, they were found in flocks of 20 or 30, as they do not breed until the last of June (H. B. Bailey, Auk, i, 28), and just before dusk on May 20, 1891, four were seen there (Fisher). | “Common at Smith’s Island, Va., where we got three on May 15, 1894, but they had not begun to breed by the 26th when we left” (C. W. Richmond). Order TUBINARES—TuBE-NosED SWIMMERS. Family PROCELLARIID#—Shearwaters and Petrels. Puffinus major (89). Greater Shearwater. “Atlantic coast generally. A rare straggler to the New Jersey coast ” (Birds E. Pa. and N. J., 49). Puffinus auduboni (92). Audubon’s Shearwater. Atlantic coast from New Jersey southward, breeds in the Bermudas and Bahamas (A. O. U.). Puffinus stricklandi (94). Sooty Shearwater. North Atlantic, south to the Carolinas, breeding far north, No doubt all three occur off our ocean front, but as there are no observers there, their presence with that of other of our ocean birds has not been recorded. Oceanodroma leucorhoa (106). Leach’s Petrel. On June 11, 1895, while fishing on Little Gull Bank, about three miles out from Ocean City, a pair of these birds came and circled round our boat for a few minutes. I have also noted them further out, off our Maryland coast, on several occasions during the month of August, when they followed the vessel generally in company with Wilson’s Petrel. Occasionally heavy easterly gales drive them inland; at Washington, D. C., “one of several shot in August, 1842, is 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 257 now in the National Museum, also another taken near the Navy Yard Bridge, on June 5, 1891, by Wm. Bayley. Wm. Palmer has two; one was shot from a bunch of three or four on August 29, 1893, the other was captured alive in a house on Capitol Hill a few days later” (Richmond). Oceanites oceanicus (109). Wilson’s Petrel. I have been greatly interested in watching these birds as they flew round the vessel, on several sea trips I have made. Under date of August 20, 1884, I find the following: “Cleared the capes last night at 11.30 P. M., and this morning we have the petrels, which stay with us all day, the Maryland shore being in sight. One is partly albino, having a white breast, belly and back, separated from the usual white by a sooty line.” The only inland record I can find is ‘one taken many years ago and presented to the Smithsonian” (A. C., 110). “ This was shot on the Potomac River about 1859” (Richmond). Order STEGANOPODES—TotrPaALMATE SWIMMERS. Family Sutma—Gannets. Sula bassana (117). Gannet Occasionally taken on the Chesapeake, three specimens so recorded have been presented to the Maryland Academy of Sciences, where two of them are at present, the other, now in the Johns Hopkins University, taken many years ago at Chester- town, was presented by Mr. Colin Stam(sen?) through Mr. J.J. Thomsen. On April 21, 1894, one was taken in Rock Hall Cove and forwarded alive to the Academy by Dr. A. P. Sharp. Mr. John Murdock presented a mounted specimen on June 6, 1892, referring to which he writes me: “ The bird I presented to the Maryland Academy of Sciences was killed a short time previ- ously in the lower part of the Chesapeake Bay, near Mobjack Bay ; I have never seen them above that point ; generally they go in pairs.” 258 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 “T found the remains of one on Smith’s Island, Va., in May, 1894. It had been dead about a month, possibly more” (Richmond). Family ANHINGIDa—Darters. Anhinga anhinga (118). Anhinga. In the old collection of the Maryland Academy of Sciences was a mounted specimen of the Anhinga, which Prof. Uhler says, came from the Pocomoke River, but owing to the vicissi- tudes through which the Academy has passed, I have been unable to find the record of its acquisition. Family PHALAcRocoRACID&—Cormorants. Phalacrocorax carbo (119). Cormorant. Audubon says, “it is rarely seen further south than the extreme limits of Maryland, but from Chesapeake Bay east- ward it becomes more plentiful” (vii, 418). A specimen may occasionally visit us with the following species, as it goes casually south as far as the Carolinas (A. O. U.). Phalacrocorax dilophus (120). Double-crested Cormorant, Regular, but not a common winter visitant near Baltimore. Further down the Chesapeake, and on Chincoteague and Sine- puxent Bays, it is more numerous. Under date of April 13, 1893, Mr. Wm. 8. Walker, of Chestertown, writes me: ‘The only Cor- morant I ever had in hand, I killed some five or six years ago at Hail Creek, at the mouth of Chester River. I have since that time seen one or more of the birds sitting on buoys in the bay between here and Baltimore.” The specimen mentioned was in the old collection of the Maryland Academy of Sciences. At Ocean City single birds flew northward on June 8 and 10, ’94. “One was detected in the District of Columbia many years ago” (A. C., 108). Mr. Geo. W. Duvall sent a specimen from Annapolis to the Smithsonian (Smith. Rep., ’72, 57). 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 259 Family PELECANID#—Pelicans. Pelecanus erythrorhynchos (125). American White Pelican. Rare straggler. ‘There appear to be three well authenti- eated instances of the capture of this bird in our vicinity. 1. Near Alexandria, Va., April, 1864, by C. Drexler, and pre- sented to the Smithsonian. 2. Opposite Washington, on the Virginia bank of the Potomac, fall of 1864; shot by John Ferguson, and seen and identified by several persons who have communicated the fact to us. 3. Near Alexandria, Va., Octo- ber, 1878, killed by John Haxhurst, and seen by a gentleman connected with the National Museum” (H. M. Smith and Wm. Palmer, Auk, v, 147). ‘A stray Pelican at Oakland, Md., by Sportsman,” is recorded (Auk, iv, 345). Pelecanus fuscus (126). Brown Pelican. Exclusively maritime, “from Tropical America to the Caro- linas” (A.O.U.). Captain Crumb noted them at Cobb’s Island, in the fall of 1881 (Birds Vas., 44), and “Turnbull records one specimen shot off Sandy Hook in 1837, in summer ” (Birds K. Pa. and N. J., 52). In the old collection of the Academy was a specimen from the lower Potomac (Uhler). Order ANSERES—LAMELLIROSTRAL SWIMMERS. Family Anatip2—Ducks, Geese, and Swans. Merganser americanus (129). American Merganser. This, the largest of the “fishermen,” is a winter resident, from Sept. 29, (’94), to March 29, 93 Resler); common on our larger waters. On March 24 (’95) I watched a bunch of eight for quite a while on the Gunpowder Falls; they were diving in the swift running stream, just above the dead water of Loch Raven. Mr. Shriver says, “something of a rarity at Cumberland, but I have seen a number of them years ago; none lately.” “Tn the ornothological report of the late Judge Libhart, pub- lished about twelve or fifteen years ago in the history of Lan- 260 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 caster county, the Goosander, also the Red-breasted and Hooded Mergansers are all mentioned as breeding in Lancaster County.” (Birds Pa. 32). Merganser serrator (130). Red-breasted Merganser. From the number brought to market, this is the most com- mon “fisherman” shot on the Chesapeake and its tributaries during the gunning season. Possibly it also stays here to breed, as Mr. W. N. Wholey shot a female on July 8, 1892, at Egging Beach Island, near Ocean City. It was in good condition and not crippled in any way, but the breast feathers were so few and so worn that there can be no doubt of its having nested. Two others flushed at the shot but were not sccured. Loch Raven (Chas. E. Dukehart). Lophodytes cucullatus (131). Hooded Merganser. Common on the arms of the Chesapeake during gunning sea- son ; this species is also to be found generally dispersed over the state, even on small waters. Several flocks were seen on the Potomac, about two miles below Knoxville, on November 5 (93, Fisher). Loch Raven (Dukehart). It probably breeds, for on June 7 (94) I noted one at Whit- tington’s Point, near Ocean City, and Dr. Warren says: “I have an adult female, taken June 23, 1890, in Chester Co., Pa., where this Merganser is seldom seen in summer” (Birds Pa., 345). Anas boschas (132). Mallard. Common winter resident, from October 7 (793) to April 14 (94, Fisher), Mr. W.S. Walker, of Chestertown, says: “the first ducks to arrive here are the ‘flat fowl,’ that is those feed- ing on the flats of the Bay shore, they are Black Ducks, Mal- lards, Graybacks and Sprigtails.”” A number have been shot on Loch Rayen (Dukehart), and on November 4 (’98, Fisher) they were very numerous on the Potomac between Knox- ville and Brunswick. Under “County news,” on April 13, 1894, the Sun paper says: “Gunners in Alleghany county 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 261 are having a fine time, as the streams are covered with Mal- lards.” On April 5, 1895, a pair were shot at Cumberland (Zacharia Laney). Anas obscura (133). Black Duck. Common in tidewater Maryland during the gunning season, quite a number remain during summer and breed. Numerous in the vicinity of Baltimore from August 28 (’938, Fisher), to May 6 (93, Gray). I observed this species in 1894, at Ocean City, as follows: On June 5 a pair; on the 6th a pair; on the 7th 3, 2, 3, 1, 3, and also a pair with small young on Chin- cateague Bay about two miles from shore, where it was so rough I could not count the young. On.the 10th my man at last succeeded in finding a nest, but it only held the two half shells of an egg’, one inside the other. At Loch Raven, on April 7, (95), 1 watched 20 birds for some time, they were feeding in shallow water like tame ducks, and while they kept in aclose bunch, were mated, each pair distinctly keeping together. Anas strepera (135). Gadwall. While a few no doubt winter with us, the species seems to be fairly numerous in November, and again in April; though it is rather difficult to get statistics, our market gunners classing this and the females of three or four other species as ‘ gray ducks,” and our amateurs as “trash ducks.” On November 22-3, 1894, about 20 were shot at Spry’s Island. At Washington, D. C., they are given as common from September to April (Richmond). From the Sun I take the following: “Williamsport, Md. April 9, 1895. Wild ducks are plentiful along the Poto- mac, above this place. From the old Sharpless warehouse up to Big Pool, flocks of Gray Mallards abound. ‘These, the sportsmen say, are rare, and it is unusual to see so many of them along the river.” 262 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 Anas penelope (136). Widgeon. This Old World species is given as “rare or casual along the Atlantic coast of North America” (Key, 694). Several specimens have been taken within our state. One found in market, at Washington by Mr. C. Drexler, in the spring of 1863, shot near Alexandria, Va., is now in the Na- tional Museum (A. C., 103-4). On July 11, 1890, an adult male was found in Washington Market, New York. It “had been shipped from Baltimore and doubtless was shot on the Chesapeake Bay,” and is now in the American Museum of Nat- ural History, N. Y. (Edgar A. Mearns, Auk. viii, 204). ‘On the property of the Carroll’s Island Club, Baltimore County, Mr. Wm. Carpenter, on February 25, 1890, killed one of this species from a bunch of Baldpates. This bird has been mounted and is at present in my care” (L. S. Foster, Auk, viii, 283). At a stated meeting of the Maryland Academy of Sciences, held April 5, 1880, Mr. Arthur Resler referred to a specimen of the European Baldpate which he had examined at the taxi- dermist store of A. Wolle, where it had been sent to be mount- ed. It was shot on the Atlantic coast of Maryland (Minutes of Maryland Academy of Sciences, 1880, 280). Dr. Wm. H. Poplar has a specimen in his house at Havre- de-Grace. He told me that he shot that ‘‘Red-headed Baldpate” in November, 1881, and considered it a cross between a Red- head and a Baldpate. Anas americana (137). Baldpate. Common during winter, this species, as with nearly all of our ducks, is most numerous during fall and spring flights. On September 23 (’93, Fisher) several bunches were noted at Sparrows’ Point, and the last Baldpate was shot at Grace’s Quarter on April 8 (86, Ducking Record). Inland, a male was taken in October ’88, at Ridgley’s Dam in Dulaney’s Valley (Fisher). On November 4, ’93, several bunches were on the Potomac, near Brunswick (Fisher), and it has been taken at Cumberland (Shriver). | 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 263 On October 3, ’89, I witnessed a remarkable instance of the well-known sailing power of a dead duck, if shot in the heart with its wings spread. Fishing near Maxwell’s Point, my atten- tion was taken by several shots on Saltpeter Creek, and looking in that direction I noticed a duck coming down the wind, which was blowing fresh from a few points N. of W. Asit got closer I noticed it was sailing, wings and neck at full stretch; when first seen it was well up and over the land, but gradually descending, it struck the water with a splash about one-quarter mile from our boat and near the centre of the river, or about two-and-a- half miles from where it was shot, the neck being about a mile across and Gunpowder River about three miles wide at this point. Anas crecca (138). European Teal. One shot on the Potomac River, near Washington, in April, 1888, was presented to the National Museum (Auk, iii, 139). It was an “adult male, shot by Henry Marshall, of Laurel, Md.” (Smith. Report, ’86, 154). Anas carolinensis (139). Green-winged Teal. Common during spring and fali migrations, a number stay in tidewater Maryland during mild winters. It is not so nu- merous as the following species, with which it arrives and departs. Mr. W. S. Walker, of Chestertown, writes me: ‘¢ Among the last to leave Chester River is the Teal, or Partridge Duck, a little brown duck.” Anas discors (140). Blue-winged Teal. Usually seen with, or in the same places as the last men- tioned, and during the same time of year. A bunch of 15 were noted in Bear Creek, on August 20 (93, Fisher). The latest date is May 7 (’90, Resler), when one was taken on Patapsco Marsh. On September 17, 93, I saw a bunch of 10 on Loch Raven, in Dulaney’s Valley. They were standing at edge of water, 264 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 and allowed me to walk up opposite them. After observing them through a field glass for some time, I flushed them witha stone and they flew up stream a short distance. Following them in full view, I again got opposite and sat down, they ap- peared quite tame, and although my dogs paddled round in the water near them, they did not fly until I again threw a stone among them ; evidently they had just arrived from the north and were tired out. At Hagerstown, during April (’80, Small), and at Cumber- land (Shriver). Spatula clypeata (142). Shoveler. (Quite a number of “ Broadbills” are shot during our gun- ning season, but they cannot be said to be common. I have no characteristic dates. A pair were taken at Gunpowder River, on March 27, (95, Resler). Not uncommon at Washington during winter (Richmond) ; at Cumberland (Shriver). Dafila acuta (143). Pintail. Common during fall and spring flights, I believe some stay with us during mild winters. Mr. N. 8. Bogle, of Eastern Neck Island, writes me, that “a flock of 15 Sprigtails arrived in Chester River, on September 13 (’95), these were the first ducks.” They are noted from that on to October 28 (93). On March 4 (’94, Fisher), about 20 were ina bunch on Bird River, and several were taken on Choptank River on April 7 (94). Loch Raven (Dukehart). Aix sponsa (144). Wood Duck. ; Sparingly resident, this species is numerous in spring and fall. While usually seen “ down the necks,” single birds or pairs are often flushed from pools on very small runs, the principal attraction apparently being oak woods. Some years ago, in May, on Hog Creek, a female and eight young were observed (Fisher), and Mr. P. A. Bowen, writing from Aquasco, Prince George’s County says, “resident, there are now in this neigh- 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 265 borhood three birds, hatched in confinement from eggs taken from a hollow tree.” Resident but not common, at Washington (Richmond) ; Hagerstown (Small) ; Cumberland (Shriver). Aythya americana (146). Redhead. Common during winter in tidewater Maryland. They arrive earlier, but the first date I have is October 3 (’89), when an enormous number of ducks were “bedded” on -Gunpowder River, below Maxwell’s Point, quite a large number of them being Redheads. As late as May 2 (’95, Tylor), about 150 were on Gunpowder, near Magnolia, in five or six small bunches. Inland, they are numerously recorded. About 10 years ago 500 or 600 stopped for a few days on Lake Roland (Fisher) ; on March 29 (’91), several small bunches were on Loch Raven (Wholey), anda number have been taken in Dulaney’s Valley (Dukehurt). On November 4 (95), a few were on the Potomac near Knoxville (Fisher), and they are given as occasional at Cumberland (Shriver). Aythya vallisneria (147). Canvasback. Still a common winter resident of tidewater Maryland, though most numerous during fall and spring flights. On October 3, 1889, quite a large number where with the Redheads, Blackheads, etc., bedded on Gunpowder River, and they have been taken at Grace’s Quarter from October 21 (80) to April 4 (86, Ducking Record), but no doubt some remain later. Aythya marila nearctica (148). American Scaup Duck. Common on the Chesapeake and its numerous arms during winter. On October 3, 1889, a number were with the other ducks on Gunpowder River, and on March 25, 1894, I watched a most affectionate pair, male and female, for some time at Cedar Point. It also occurs inland, about 200 were on Lake Roland October 29 (’92, Fisher). Dr. Owings, of Ellicott 266 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 City, shot one on his ice-pond in November, 1893. Loch Raven (Dukehart); Harpers Ferry, a bunch of six, November 6 (93, Fisher) ; Cumberland (Shriver). Aythya affinis (149). Lesser Scaup Duck. Arriving and departing with the former species, this is much the more numerous, and both with the following, are generally classed together by gunners. At Grace’s Quarter, “Blackheads” are recorded as being shot from October 3 (’89) to April 8 (786) and, as with all other ducks, the “ Blackheads” are most numerous during the fall and spring flights. On April 2 (90, Richmond) one was taken near Washington. On April 5 (’95) one was taken at Cumberland (Zacharia Laney). Aythya collaris (150). Ring-necked Duck. Not very numerous. JI presume it arrives with the other “Blackheads.” All the notes I have range between March 8 (’94), when one was shot at Bush River by Mr. Melville Wilson, who called it a “Creek Blackhead,” and April 4 (91, Wholey), when one was shot in the open river below Fort McHenry. Glaucionetta clangula americana (151). American Golden- eye. Common in tidewater Maryland, from October to April, I have not any extreme dates. Mr. Dukehart has frequently shot them at Loch Raven and they have been taken at Hagerstown on December 28, 1879, and April 15, 1883 (Small). Glaucionetta islandica (152). Barrow’s Golden-eye. This northern species coming south in winter to New York, has in one recorded instance straggled as far south as Maryland. “A female shot on the Potomac River, opposite Washington, Noy. 22, 1889, by C. Herbert; is now in the collection of J. D. Figgens” (C. W. Richmond, Auk, viii, 112). QI 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 267 Charitonetta albeola (153). Bufflehead. Common in winter, arriving the latter part of September, one was at Patapsco marsh on May 7 (’90, Resler). On February 15, 1895, just after the blizzard, one came up the harbor into the upper basin and stayed round off Bowley’s wharf for a long time. Inland, it has been taken at Sandy Springs in April (Stabler); a pair were seen near Harper’s Fer- ry on October 10 (’93 Fisher), and they have been shot at Cum- berland (Shriver). Clangula hyemalis (154). Old Squaw. Common in winter on the Chesapeake ; I noted one at Fort McHenry on October 27, (94), and they remain with us until latein April. On March 4, 1895, there were several hundred in the mouth of Chester River on broad water, nearly all in pairs, but occasionally a few males were in a bunch by themselves. As the steamboat was running before a terrific snow squall, we got quite close before they flushed. Often they dived and on coming up appeared to be flying before they emerged. On the 6th it was blowing a gentle breeze, and although they were ex- tremely numerous, we did not get close to any. Loch Rayen (Dukenhart). Camptolaimus labradorius (156). Labrador Duck. Now extinct, they were apparently quite numerous in Au- dubon’s time, for he says (vi, 329): “The range of this species along the shores does not extend further southward than Ches- apeake Bay, where I have seen some near the influx of the St. James River. I havealso met with several in the Baltimore market.” Somateria dresseri (160). American Hider. “Winters southward to Delaware” (Chapman, 117). “In the old collection of the Maryland Academy of Sciences was a specimen from Maryland, collected at Pamunkey Neck, below Marshall Hall, by Mr. Chapman” (P. R. Uhler). bo o> ©) TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 Somateria spectabilis (162). King Eider. “South casually to New Jersey, in winter” (Manual, 110). A young bird of this species was obtained at Cobb’s Island, Va., by Captain C. H. Crumb, on December 19, 1899” (Birds Vas., 48). Oidemia americana (163). American Scoter. Common during fall and spring flights, on ocean front and broad waters of tidewater Maryland, a few may winter. On November 4, (’94) four spent the evening in the basin, and on No- vember 17 (’77), Major Hill presented a specimenin the flesh to the Maryland Academy of Sciences. On March 8 (94), one was in Saltpeter Creek, and they were numerous on open water. Late in April, and early in June they are reported as being . fairly numerous at Havre de Grace. During Christmas week (’90) they were fairly common at Kastville, Northampton County, Va. (Ridgley Duvall, Jr.). Oidemia deglandi (165). White-winged Scoter. Fairly common on the Chesapeake during spring and fall, this species may winter with us. On September 12 (’94), four were noted in Chester River by Mr. E. Speddin of the tug- boat Chicago, and on November 6 (’94), a pair were shot down the Necks, which I saw in market the next day. On March 6 (93), I saw three in a bunch off Love Point lighthouse, at the mouth of Chester River, they did not flush until the steamboat was close to them, in marked contrast to the South Southerlies; on May 12 (94, Fisher), 3 were at the mouth of the Patapsco. Oidemia perspicillata (166). Surf Scoter. Arriving and departing with the others, I can give no char- acteristic dates. The three being as a rule classed as “tar-pots” or ‘bay muscoveys”’ and not being considered good for anything are seldom shot. 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 269 “Common winter resident off the New Jersey coast from October to late in April. Apparently the most abundant spe- cies of Scoter” (Birds E. P. and N. J., 59). Erismatura rubida (167). Ruddy Duck. Common during spring and fall. I have no winter dates, though possibly it remains with us. A bunch of 4 or 5 was seen in Baltimore harbor close to the Pennsylvania Railroad pier, at the foot of Caroline street, early in the morning of Sep- tember 25 (94) by Mr. E. Speddin, of the tugboat Chicago, and they were numerous until November 14 (’94, Patapsco Marsh). On March 8 (’94), between two and three hundred were bedded off Grace’s Quarter, and on June 9 (’94), a bunch of six were still off Ocean City. Fairly common on fresh water, this species has been taken as follows: On October 29, 792, two at Lake Roland (Fisher), and three from a bunch of five at Powhatan Dam (Gray). Sev- eral have been shot at Loch Rayen (Dukehart), and on No- vember 5, 93, a pair were on the Potomac near Knoxville (F isher). Chen hyperborea nivialis (169a). Greater Snow Goose. ‘Along the Atlantic coast it may be considered rare” (Birds N. W., 549). On April 26, 80, Mr. Mitchell, of Cecil Co., presented a specimen to the Maryland Academy of Sciences ; at Legoe’s Point one was noted on March 10, ’90, and early in October, ’90, two flew over the bridge at Sparrows’ Point, about 40 feet up (Fisher). _Anser albifrons gambeli (171a). American White-fronted Goose. Rare straggler. One shot on the Potomac in 1856 was bought in the Washington market for the Smithsonian (Smith. Rept., 756, 68). On Nov. 12,92, a young male was shot at Grace’s Quarter, Baltimore County, by Mr. Charles D. Fisher, and by him pre- 270 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 sented to the Maryland Academy of Sciences. It was flying alone and came in to decoy’s answering the usual goose call. Branta canadensis (172). Canada Goose. Common winter resident. On October 4 (94), four were seen sitting on a log at Spry’s Island, by George B, Fowler, and on the 20th (’94), they were “exceedingly numerous in Day’s Hollow on Gunpowder River; when they flew up it sounded like thunder; a few days later they had all left” (Edw. A. Robinson). They remain with us during winter in rather more limited numbers, and are again numerous in early spring, the latest record being April 10 (’90, Resler). Inland, they are liable to be found anywhere in the state during spring and fall flights. On November 5 and 6 (93, Fisher), quite a number were on the Potomac between Knox- ville and Brunswick, and on April 15, 16 and 17, (83, Small), the reservoir at Hagerstown “fairly swarmed with them.” In New Jersey “some linger as late as May 12” (Birds E. Pa. and N. J., 60). Branta canadensis hutchinsii (172a). Hutchin’s Goose. ‘South in winter through United States, chiefly west of the Alleghanies” (Manual, 117). “A goose, from its small dimen- sions and 16 tail feathers apparently referable to this sub-spe- cies, was taken at Cobb’s Island, in the winter of 1888-89 by Capt. Crumb ” (Birds Vas., p. 49). Branta bernicla (173). Brant. Arriving and departing at about the same time as the com- mon goose, this species is not so abundant. Most numerous during spring and fall migrations, quite a number as a rule winter with us, but I have no characteristic dates. Branta nigricans (174). Black Brant. “Very rarely straggling to the Atlantic coast”? (Manual, 118), this species has been taken on the New Jersey coast (Birds 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 7A | E. Pa. and N. J., 60) and “Capt. Crumb informs me that it is usual for one or two to be obtained at Cobb’s Island nearly every winter” (Birds Vas., 49). Olor columbianus (180). Whistling Swan. Common winter resident on the broad waters of tidewater Maryland, and during spring and fall flights liable to be seen anywhere in the state. On September 26 (’93), one was shot on the Potomac near Weverton, by John Leopold. On November 4 (93, Fisher), several bunches were at the same place, while on April 15, 16 and 17, (’83), two were on the reservoir at Hagerstown (Small). While swans are more or less difficult to shoot, they often “bed” on broad water out of range in large numbers. On January 20, 94, I counted 82 standing on ice at the mouth of Gunpowder River, and a week later 194 on the water at the same place, where I am told they at times appear in greater numbers. ‘ Olor buccinator (181). Trumpeter Swan. Casual on the Atlantic coast. “In Turnbull’s list (Birds E. Pa.) this species is included on the authority of reliable sportsmen who have shot it on the Chesapeake Bay” (Birds N. W., 545). In the Oologist, Vol. vi, 15-16, is quite an interesting arti- cle on the taking of one from a bunch of 12 or 15 on Slaughter Beach Marsh, Del., by Mr. G. L. Stevens, of Lincoln, Del., on November 9 (’89), at which time they were flying southward. Order HERODIONES.—Henrons, Srorks, [pisEs, Etc. Family, [srpipa—Ibises. Guara alba (184). White Ibis. Regularly north to the Carolinas in summer and casually to Long Island; two have been recorded from New Jersey and one from Pennsylvania (Birds E, Pa. and N. J., 61). 272 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 Plegadis autumnalis (186). Glossy Ibis. “Warmer parts of the Eastern Hemisphere, also more south- ern portions of the Eastern United States” (Manual, 124). “At very irregular periods in the spring, small flocks have been seen on the coast of the Middle States, and on the Eastern Shore of Maryland and Virginia,” and one taken near Baltimore, and two in the District of Columbia in 1817 are mentioned (Water Birds of N. A., i, 95-6). Storks. Tantalus loculator (188). Wood Ibis. Family Cicontip@ Regularly “north to the Carolinas, casually to Pennsylvania and New Jersey” (Key, 653). “The late Judge Libhart, in his ornithological report of Lancaster Co., Pa., says: “TI ob- tained a fine specimen of this species shot from a troop of 10, by Mr. M, Ely, on the Susquehanna, in July 1862,” and “ Dr. A. C. Treichler, of Elizabethtown, has specimens in his collec- tion which were shot in Lancaster Co. in the early part of July, 1883, shortly after severe storms” (Birds Pa., 53). “OnJuly 2 1893, Mr. Fred. Zoller brought me 2 females, adult and young ; they were killed on the flats a short distance from the Washing- ton monument, and on the Maryland side of the Potomac” (EH. M. Hasbrouck, Auk, x, 92). Two were taken near Bloomery, Hampshire Co., W. Va., by Dr. A. Wall (American Field, Kx, 82). Mr. Robert Shriver, of Cumberland, writes me: “About 30 years ago I shot a Wood Ibis. This was the only specimen I ever saw ; it was first seen by myself near the Potomac River bank, but before it was captured a dozen hunters were after it and it evaded them for several days. I always valued this specimen highly and am sorry it has gone ‘the way of all flesh.’”’ On October 15, 1898, Mr. Jacob F. Saylor described a bird to me taken during “wheat harvest” at the bend of the Gun- powder Falls in Dulaney’s Valley, Baltimore Co.; from his de- scription, and later corroboration by Mr. Dukehart, I am satis- fied it can be no other than this species. 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 273 Family ARDEID#£—Bitterns and Herons. Botaurus lentiginosus (190). American Bittern. Fairly common during spring and fall, a few spend the summer with us and possibly breed. It may also stay over winter during mild seasons. From March 25 (’98, Gray) they are numerously noted until May 5 (’93, Resler), and in fall from September 1 (91, Tylor), when one was taken at Tuck- ahoe Creek until October 10 (’94), when one was caught alive by Mr. Jacob Kirkwood early in the morning in front of No. 103 Elliott street in Baltimore City. This he kindly kept in a box until I examined it. It was an ordinary sized dark plumaged male. Mr. J. E. Tylor supplies me with the following items: “ Between the 20th and 30th of August, 1891, I killed a male Bittern in the Adkin’s woods, one mile south of Easton, and mounted same. On the first day of September, 1891, Dr. E. R. Trippe, of Easton, in company with A. G. Pascault, of the same town, shot a male Bittern in Tuckahoe Creek, five miles below Hillsboro; this I also mounted. On July 14, 1894, on Hog Creek, Gunpowder River, I flushed one from the marsh, but did not secure it.” “Mr. William H. Buller, residing at Marietta, Lancaster County, Pa., in a letter dated July 29, 1889, addressed to me, writes as follows: ‘I am inclined to believe that the American Bittern breeds in the vicinity of Schock’s Mills, a few miles west of Marietta; while I have never found its nest, or seen its young, yet I have so frequently seen the bird in that vicinity during the summer, that I think it probable that it breeds there’”’ (Birds Pa., 55). Dr. Coues, speaking of the District of Columbia, says: “Resident and rather common” (A. C., 100), and “T have pro- cured it in January at Washington” (Birds N. W. 529). “Rather common from August to April at Washington” (Richmond), 274 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 Ardella exilis (191). Least Bittern. Common during summer, this little bird is seldom seen except by those who look for it, and owing to the marshes in which it lives, not always to be found by those who do. On May 12 (’94, Wholey), six were noted in Patapsco _ Marsh, but that they are here earlier is shown by nests contain- ing 5, 3 and 1 eggs, respectively, which were noted at the same place on May 17 (93, A. Wolle), and in the last week of Sep- tember, 1894, one was brought to A. Wolle, who kept it alive for some time in his shop window. The latest date for eggs is July 8 (92), when four nearly fresh were collected at Sparrow’s Point. It also possibly occurs more or less regularly on inland swamps. In May, 1893, one was caught alive in Dulaney’s Valley by Mr. Dukehart. Ardea herodias (194). Great Blue Heron. Between March 30 (’93, Gray) and November 19 (90, Resler) this species is noted with more or less regularity, but so far I have been unable to find a “heronry” in Maryland. In winter it has been observed at Back River on December 7 and 21 (’92, Resler). Noted at Hagerstown (Small), and Cumberland (Shriver). Ardea egretta (196). American Egret. Irregular during late summer and early fall, this species has been noted from July 5 (82), when one was at Gunpowder Falls a short distance below the Belair Road, to September 1 (93 A.Wolle), when one was at Gunpowder Marsh; on September 23 (94, Tylor) two were at Ocean City. In Dulaney’s Valley, one out of a flock of 9 was shot by Mr. Thos. Peerse in front of his house, and another was taken by Mr. Dukehart in the fall of 1893. Possibly sone may nest in Maryland, as “Mr. Wm. Palmer has known this species to nest in Arlington Cemetery, Va.” (C. W. Richmond, Auk, v, 19), and ‘up to 1877 they bred 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 275 near Townsend’s Inlet, N. J. (Scott, B. N. O. C., ’79), and a few may still breed in the state’ (Birds E. Pa. and N. J., 63). Ardea candidissima (197). Snowy Heron. Not as numerousas its larger relative, it probably visits us about the same time of year. On August 3 (’89, Resler), one of 6 was shot at Middle River, and on August 7 (’80, Resler), another at Back River. On August 10 (88, Tylor), one at Choptank River, and later in same month another near Greensboro. On August 25 (’93), one near Marlboro, by Richard Cantler. At Washington it is given as “not uncommon about the marshes of the Potomac towards the end of summer and early fall” (A. C., 98). In 1886 they were breeding at Seven Mile Beach, N. J. (H. G. Parker, O. and O., iii, 138). Ardea tricolor ruficollis (199). Louisiana Heron. “ Warmer portions of Eastern North America; north, casually to New Jersey” (Manual, 131). “Turnbull states that it has occasionally been taken on the New Jersey coast, but we can find no records of recent captures” (Birds EK. Pa. and N. J., 64). “T have in my possession a skin of an immature bird taken sey- eral years ago at Cobb’s Island, and undetstand from Captain Crumb that he has heard of 2 others that have been seen or taken ’’ (Birds Vas., 50). “A printed record (I cannot give reference) says one was preserved in the Maryland Academy of Sciences that was shot in Maryland” (Richmond). Mr. Uhler has very distinct recol- lections of the reception of this specimen, but cannot recall particulars ; it occurred in 1868 or ’69. Ardea ccerulea (200). Little Blue Heron. Rare straggler from the south; I know of but one specimen taken near Baltimore, this was shot at Day’s Marsh, on October 7, 1892 (Fisher). Others no doubt have been taken and possi- bly some in the white plumage have been noted under Snowy 276 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 Heron. At Washington, it is given as “rare and only casual towards the end of summer ”’ (A. C., 99), and “although usually rare, it is sometimes extremely abundant, a flock of about 150 frequenting the shores of the Potomac during August 1875” (P. L. Jouy, Field and Forest, iii, 51). Ardea virescens (201). Green Heron. Common summer resident, arriving the last of March, a nest ] a) d ready for eggs was found April 15 (’91), and as late as Octo- ber 12 (’89, Resler), one was taken at Back River. Ihave found ») d eggs in the nest from April 22 (’81), to June 12 (94); sets are 4 of 3, 13 of 4, and 8 of 5. On several occasions, in different parts of the state, I have come across “ heronries” of this species, the number of nests ranging from 6 to 17, but single nests ma fo) ro) ) iB vy be found scattered everywhere, usually near marshy land, or water. Nycticorax nycticorax nzevius (202). Black-crowned Night Heron. Locally common, otherwise rare, from April 1 (’98, Gray) to October 17 (94, Resler). Only a few miles from Baltimore city a colony has nested Yor several years of which Mr. G. H. Gray, supplied the following: ‘More than 6 years ago infor- mation of the approximate breeding site was received. It was not until April 16, 1892, however, that it was found, when about 30 nests were in various stages of completeness. They were in slender black oaks, near the top, andabout 50 feet from the ground. On April 30 the majority contained eggs. 2 had 5; 3 had 4, 10 or 12 had 8; the others 2 or 1. On June 24, many of the young were perched about the limbs of the nest trees while others were still on the nests. On March 25, 1895, none had arrived, but on April 1, seven were seen. On May 6, nests with eggs were found in a clump of small scrub pines ad- joining the oaks, which they had vacated. A few days previous to our visit a severe wind storm had shaken these pines and the 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 47 ground was strewn with broken egg shells. One nest however, had 5 eggs and they ranged down to 1 or more; while 2 nests were not yet completed. I measured the height of 11 nests and found they ranged from 36 to 49 feet from the ground. On June 9 they were nearly all back in the oaks occupying the old nests where they had birds just hatched, the few in the pines containing birds 10 or 12 days old. Among the oaks the shells of three eggs were found under 30 nests, the other 6 had 1 or 2, but possibly a few eggs were not yet hatched. The night of July 30 was spent in this heronry, but asthe moon set early nothing could be seen. Each nest however, seemed to be visited by the parents about once every hour and the noise the young made was something wonderful. “Owing to changes they did not nest here in 1894, but they were found in 1895 located about a mile off, as the crow flies, again in black oaks, the nests being from 42 to 48 feet up. On May 5 a few nests showed eggs, 4 and 5 being noted, while on May 11, 35 were noted with 4 fresh, one with 4 nearly fresh ; one with 5 nearly hatched, one with 4 young and a rotten egg, one with 8 and another with one fresh egg.” “Wm. Palmer has known this species to nest in Arlington Cemetery” (C. W. Richmond, Auk, y, 20). “ Occasional in winter ”’ (Richmond). Nycticorax vialaceus (203). Yellow-crowned Night Heron. A few have been taken in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, where it is regarded as a “very rare straggler from the south” (Birds E. Pa. and N. J., 65). «Rare summer visitant in the coast region ; I have examined a young bird that was taken at Cobb’s Island, and think that another bird has been taken there” (Birds Vas., 51). Order PALUDICOL/Z.—CraneEs, Rats, Ec. Family Gruip#2—Cranes. Grus mexicana (206). Sandhill Crane. “Rare or irregular in the east”? (Key, 667). ‘A specimen of this bird has been procured in the District of Columbia. We 278 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 doubt, however, that the bird has been seen here alive for the past quarter of a century, and it might properly be retired from the active list” (A. C., 100). Family RaLitip#—Rails, Gallinules and Coots. Rallus elegans (208). King Rail. Fairly common summer resident of our fresh and brackish marshes. At Patapseo Marsh they have been taken from May 17 (’93) to October 6 (76, Resler), while on October 13 (94) I saw a small box of mixed game from Cumberland opened, among others it contained one King Rail. At Tolchester, on May 30 (’91, Fisher), a nest containing 6 fresh eges was found, and on June 15 (’91, Fisher), another with 10 fresh eggs at the some place. Possibly some may winter during open seasons ; vide—“ Two King Sora were brought to Fredericksburg, Va., on Saturday (Jan. 28, 93), by Mr. Geo. Newton, of Stafford, and presented to Capt. M. B. Rowe. The appearance of these birds at this season is said to be quite remarkable, as they generally leave on the first appearance of frost” (Va. item in the Sun paper). Stafford is about 6 miles from the Potomac. In January, 1895, Mr. Scoggins received two King Rail “from the Rappahannock.” Rallus longirostris crepitans (211). Clapper Rail. Possibly resident in southern Maryland except when driven out by severe frost; this species, where not persecuted by pot hunters is fairly numerous on salt water marshes during summer. On May 17 (’93), 3 were shot on Patapsco Marsh, one, a female, contained a large number of eggs in the ovary, some quite large, and one in the ovaduct already spotted and ready for extrusion. Noted at Hagerstown in October, ’79 (Small). Rallus virginianus (212). Virginia Rail. Common during migration, a few remain during summer. On July 8 (’92, Wholey) a specimen was taken at Sandy Point, near 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 279 Ocean City, and at Washington it has been “seen during the breeding season and undoubtedly breeds” (C. W. Richmond, Auk, v, 20). Mr. Stone’s remarks apply equally well to Maryland, he says: “Summer resident in fresh marshes, bogs and swamps along the coast, though apparently not in the true salt marshes except in migrations not very abundant inland, but rather plen- tiful along the New Jersey coast ; arrives May 1st and remains until October 25, or occasionally later” (Birds E. Pa. and N. J., 66). On March 20, ’95, in market I saw one with a bunch of Wilson’s Snipe; they were perfectly fresh and may have been shot near Baltimore, but I could not ascertain locality. Porzana carolina (214). Sora. While this species migrates north regularly in spring, it is seldom noted, as the gunners are not then on the marshes, but during August, September and October, they are slaughtered by thousands on the marshes of tidewater Maryland. On August 25 (’94, Fisher) they were abundant on Day’s Marsh, they remain so until the first frost; this of course makes their going further south a variable date. Other dates are few, so they are given in full. On November 18 (90, Fisher) one was shot in Somerset County. Single birds were taken on December 26 (90) and January 22 (95), at the mud hole back of “Sonny” Barranger’s in Canton, by Mr. Jas. Holton, and on April 3 (’93) one was shot in a marsh a short distance north of Chincoteague Island, and consequently near the south- ern Maryland line, by Dr. R. H. P. Ellis, of Baltimore city. On July 25, ’93, four birds were flushed from a small piece of cattail, by Mr. Geo. Todd, close to his house on North Point. This seems to point to their possible breeding here in limited numbers. It is given as breeding in Chester and Lancas- ter Counties, Pa. (Birds Pa., 71), and at Washington it has been “seen during the breeding season and undoubtedly breeds” (C. W. Richmond, Auk, vy, 20). Under date of May 25, 795, Mr. 280 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 Richmond says: “I doubt very much now whether it ever breeds here, but it is common in August. Birds have been shot here, one on November 8, ’78, by Peter Burger, one on November 9, °78, by S. F. Baird, and one in March, ’75.” Inland, several were shot during the fall of ’93, in Dulaney’s Valley (Dukehart); at Hagerstown, in October,’79, and Septem- ber, ’80 (Small); at “Cumberland during all of April (not seen after May 1, as shooting stopped then), and from August to October 15, 94” (Zacharia Laney). Porzana noveboracensis (215). Yellow Rail. “ Eastern North America, not abundant, very secretive” (Key, 674), and as thebird is smallit is no wonder it is not often seen ; possibly it may yet be found tobreed with us. On April 27, 793, one was shot on Patapsco Marsh by Richard Cantler, this I saw. On May 18, ’89, at Hog Creek Marsh, Harford County, one was flushed twice but not secured, by Mr. W. H. Fisher, and on October 20, 794, one was presented to me in the flesh; it was received with a mixed lot of birds, in a box sent from Back River Neck by a market gunner. “In the collection of the National Museum are two Yellow Rails, both of which were taken on the marshes of the Potomac River near Washington, the first by T. E. Clark, October 4, ’79, the second by A. 8. Skinner, March 28, ’84” (H. M. Smith and Wm. Palmer, Auk, v, 147). Porzana jamaicensis (216). Black Rail. “Not often found in the United States, being one of our rarest birds” (Key, p. 674). One secured at Piscataway, Maryland, was presented to the Smithsonian Institute by John Dowell, of Washington, D.C., (Smith. Report, ’84, 145). “One seen in the District of Columbia during September, ’61, but not secured. One taken 2 or 3 years ago is now in the Smithso- nian ” (A. C., 101). Several are recorded from Pennsylvania and New Jersey, (Birds E. Pa. and N. J., 67). 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 281 Ionornis martinica (218). Purple Gallinule. “South Atlantic and Gulf States, resident, north casually to New England” (Key, 676). Capt. Crumb has one mounted that came ashore on Cobb’s Island during a storm in May 791, and was captured in the light house yard (Letter to W. H. Fisher). It has also been taken in York County, Pa. (Birds Pa., Pp (2). “One was seen in Centre market (Washington, D. C.) on August 24, 89 by Geo. Marshall. I visited the market, (Golden’s stand) to see about it. The man in charge remem- bered the ‘purple bird,’ but thought it had been sold, he said it came from ‘down the Potomac somewhere’” (Richmond). Gallinula galeata (219). Florida Gallinule. Possibly a regular, though rare, migrant. At Stemmer’s Run, Baltimore Co., one was taken on May 8, (’89, Resler). At Wasington, ‘‘on April 19, 792, Mr. Fred Zeller brought me a Florida Gallinule; while the species has been taken here before, this is the first specimen existing in collections. A few days later, about the 22d, Mr. J. D. Figgins secured a specimen from Frederick, Md., and on August 12, ’92, Mr. Zeller brought me a young male” (KE. M. Hasbrouck, Auk, x, 92). “ Regular transient, but not very common, most of the spec- imens secured in Pennsylvania and New Jersey have been taken on the Delaware and Susquehanna Rivers. Occurs May 1-10, and September 8 to October 20” (Birds EK. Pa. and N. J., 68). Fulica americana (221). American Coot. Common migrant, noted from March 14 (’93, Fisher), at Gun- powder Marsh, to May 7 (’93), when a bunch of 5 were on the broad water of Chester River, and again from September 20 (79, Resler), at Back River, to November 3 (91, Resler), at Patapsco Marsh. A number have been shot at Loch Raven (Dukehart). At Hagerstown, on April 16, ’83, there was a remarkable flight of 282 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 these birds, hundreds being killed; they were also noted during September and October, ’79, and October, ’81 (Small). Order LIMICOLA‘—Snore Birps. Family PHALAROPODID.2—Phalaropes.. Crymophilus fulicarius (222). Red Phalarope. “A species of cireumpolar distribution during summer” (Key, 614). “South in winter to Middle States” (Manual, 144). “A young bird taken on the Eastern Branch of the Potomac near Washington, D. C., by Mr. F. 8. Webster, on October 17, ’85, is now in the National Museum” (Smith. Report, ’87, 603). Phalaropus lobatus (223). Northern Phalarope. Circumpolar, like the last species, but coming much further south in winter. Under date of May 28, ’95, Mr. C. W. Rich- mond writes me from Washington, “one was taken here in September, 91, by Mr. Thomas Marron off Navy Yard bridge; the specimen is now in the National Museum.” Family RecurvrrosTrRipzA—Stilts. Himantopus mexicanus (226). Black-necked Stilt. Uncommon on the Atlantic coast from Florida to Maine; now rare, it may yet occur on the ocean front of Maryland. “ For- merly it bred regularly in Cape May County, N. J., and on Egg Island, Delaware Bay (Turnbull, ’69). We know of no recent captures of this species” (Birds EK. Pa. and N. J., 70). Family ScoLopacip#—Snipes, Sandpipers, ete. Scolopax rusticola (227). European Woodcock. Straggling from Europe, this species has been taken quite close to Maryland, but as far as I know not within the state. “Tn the early part of November, ’86, Mr. D. N. McFarland, 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 283 of West Chester, Pa., killed a large female in the ‘barrens’ of East Nottingham Township, Chester County, Pa.” (Birds Pa., 78), and Dr. Coues reports one being shot in Loudoun County, Va., in 775 (Forest and Stream, vi, 180). Philohela minor (228). American Woodcock. Resident, except when frozen out, and fairly common in spite of the June and July gunners who slaughter many birds before they are much more than half grown, and leave others still younger parentless. Nesting dates range from March 30 (’80), when four slightly incubated eggs were found by Mr. W. L. Amoss near Falls- town, Harford County, to July 4 (95), when a nest, also with four eggs, was found (all sets I know of are four). At Cumberland, where they are not found in winter, the first was shot on March 28, some years ago, and the last on December 12, ’94 (Zacharia Laney). Gallinago delicata (230). Wilson’s Snipe. Common during migrations. On February 24, ’95, I flushed one from a warm spring in Dulaney’s Valley, and on March 9 (95, Henninghouse) they were numerous at Gunpowder Marsh, where they were still numerous on April 22 (92, Pleasants), the last spring date being April 29 (94), in Dulaney’s Valley, though at Washington they are noted until May 5 (Richmond). In the fall I have them noted from September 20 (798), at Patapsco Marsh, to December 11 (94), Bush River. There is every possibility that more or less remain with us during mild winters. The following note on this species breeding in Maryland is taken from Lewis’ American Sportsman, (1885 edition, p. 244). “Jn the month of May, 1846, while wandering in com- pany with Mr. E. Lewis over his extensive estate in Maryland, we sprang a Wilson’s Snipe from the midst of an oat field, and being surprised as well as attracted by its singular manceuvres, 284 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 we made search for its nest which we soon found with four eggs in it. The situation selected for incubation could not have been better chosen in any portion of the country, as it was on a rising piece of ground, with a southern exposure, protected in the rear by a large wood, and at the foot of the high ground was a considerable extent of low marsh meadow watered by a never-failing stream, along the border of which the anxious parent at any time could obtain a bountiful supply of food.” Mr. Zacharia Laney, of Cumberland, informs me that he has taken this species from February 28 to the last of the gunning season, April 30; how much later they stay he does not know, but some years ago while exercising a pair of young dogs in June, they flushed a pair from a marshy slew. Macrorhamphus griseus (231). Dowitcher. Common during migration in tidewater Maryland during April and May, and from early in August to the first touch of cold weather; a specimen in the collection of Mr. A Resler was taken at Back River as early as March 6 (75). Inland, Mr. Dukehart has secured a number in both spring and fall in Du- laney’s Valley. Macrorhamphus scolopaceus (232). Long-billed Dowitcher. Of this western species ‘seven were killed from a flock on the Anacostia River, D. C., in April, 1884, by a gunner who sold them in the market for Jack Snipe. One similar to the others was secured and mounted by one of the writers and has been’ identified by Mr. Ridgway as the western species” (Hugh M. Smith and Wm. Palmer, Auk, vy, 147). Micropalama himantopus (233). Stilt Sandpiper. Casual migrant on the Atlantic coast, one was “ taken on the Patuxent River, Md.,September 8,’85, by Mr. H. W. Henshaw. This capture was made beyond the regular District of Columbia 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 285 boundary, but was, however, included in what has been tacitly regarded as its faunal and floral limit”) (Hugh M. Smith, Auk, ii, 139). Tringa canutus (234). Knot. Common migrant, given on the New Jersey coast from May 15 to June 1, and from August 15 to September 15 (Birds KE. Pa. and N. J., 73). On Cobb’s Island 19 were shot on May 20 (91, Fisher), and from May 14 to 28 (94), they were “quite numerous occurring in large flocks. On May 25 hun- dreds of these birds were seen feeding along the extensive mud flats on the outer sea beach” (K. J. Brown, Auk, xi, 259). On August 19, 95, quite a number were shot a few miles south of Ocean City on the beach (Janon Fisher). Tringa maculata (239). Pectoral Sandpiper. “ United States chiefly during migrations, when observed in wet grassy meadows, muddy ponds, flats, ete.” (Key, 626). ‘Rare in spring, not uncommon from September 25 to November” GAO. 96.) Near Washington, ‘on April 22, ’88, two were shot by W. F. Roberts ; several were taken on August 3 (about ’89); at St. George’s Island, Md., several were seen on September 3 and 11, 94; and one was shot October 22, 60” (Richmond). “Regular migrant on the New Jersey coast in April, and from the middle of August to the first of October; occasional in the interior” (Birds E. Pa. and N. J., 73). Tringa fuscicollis (240). White-rumped Sandpiper. “Transient on the New Jersey coast, but not very common, associating with the Least Sandpiper, and arriving and departing with it ” (Birds E. Pa. and N. J., 73). “K. J. Brown has two or three skins taken in May, between the 15th and 24th, 94, at Smith’s Island, Va,” (Richmond). 286 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 Tringa bairdii (241). Baird’s Sandpiper. Migrant, “rare on the Atlantic coast, common in the interior ” (Key, 626). “ One was shot by R.S. Matthews, near Four Mile Run, Va., on September 3, ’94, and Wm. Palmer shot a second specimen on September 25, ’94, at the same place” (Richmond). Tringa minutilla (242). Least Sandpiper. Common migrant all through May, and again from August 2 (’92), [in New Jersey, Stone says July 15] to November 3 (94), when four were shot at Back River. Numerous along the shores of tidewater Maryland, bunches of “Peeps” may be found along all our rivers, streams, runs, ice ponds, etc., where- ever there is wet mud. Tringa alpina pacifica (243a). Red-backed Sandpiper. Common during migrations in tidewater Maryland; this species has also been noted on our larger inland waters; possibly some remain during mild winters in southern Maryland. On September 3 (’93), one was at Loch Raven, and on the 17th, two. On March 13 (’92, Wholey) four were at Waverley, while on May 24 (93), I shot two out of a bunch of four on Hail Point, Kent County, at the mouth of Chester River. Ereunetes pusillus (246). Semipalmated Sandpiper. Common during migrations, but not as numerous as T. minu- tilla, with flocks of which it is generally found, arriving and departing at the same time. Near Washington, D. C., recorded from August 15 (94) to October 26 (’87), and again in May (Richmond). Ereunetes occidentalis (247). Western Sandpiper. “During the last week of August, 1885, I found the western bird quite as common as the eastern at Piney Point, St. Mary’s County, Md., on the Potomac River. If anything, the former was the most numerous, for, of the 18 specimens of 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 287 Ereunetes preserved, 14 were identified by Mr. Ridgway as occi- dentales, and these too were taken at random from a lot of about 25 dead birds” (Hugh M. Smith, Auk, xi, 385). Several were shot at Virginia Beach, on September 6 and 7, 1884, by Messrs. Henry Seebohm and C. W. Beckham (Auk, xi, 101). Two have been taken in New Jersey: one on September 14, ’80, the other on May 17, ’92 (Birds FE. Pa. and N. J., 75). Calidris arenaria (248). Sanderling. Abundant coastwise during migrations; several were seen and one shot at Cobb’s Island on May 20 (91, Fisher), and one was taken at Ocean City on September 23 (’94, Tylor). “Near Washington one was taken on September 23, ’94, by Wm. Palmer; another in ’74, and one on October 24, ’85, at Gravelly Run” (Richmond). “ Abundant transient on the New Jersey coast, keeping pretty much to the beach, April 18 to June 1, September 14 to October 15. Some also are said to remain through the winter. Dr. W. L. Abbott secured one specimen in the spring migration as late as June 13. Occasional on the lower Delaware” (Birds E. iBasangN./J.,:75). Limosa fedoa (249). Marbled Godwit. This species “does not appear to go far along the Atlantic coast northward” (Key, 655). Rather rare transient on the New Jersey coast, where it seems to have been more plentiful formerly ; occurs in May, and again from the last week of July to September 15. Dr. Warren states that a few have been captured in recent years in Lancaster, Philadelphia and Dela- ware Counties” (Birds E. Pa. and N. J., 75). Limosa hzemastica (251). Hudsonian Godwit. “ Much less abundant in the United States than the preceding, and appears to range chiefly along the Atlantic coast” (Birds N. W., 494). ‘On May 16, 786, I shot a Hudsonian Godwit at 288 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 West River, Md., in a grass field adjoining the village of Hales- ville” (J. Murray Ellzey, Forrest and Stream, xxvii., 264). Totanus melanoleucus (254). Greater Yellow-legs. Common migrant, but not so numerous as the following spe- cies. On March 26 (’75, Resler) one was taken at Patapsco Marsh, and on June 7 (’94) one at Ocean City. In fall, Mr. Stone gives them as early as July 15 in New Jersey (Birds E. Pa. and N. J.), and Mr. Richmond at Washington from July 25, but my earliest note is a flock of 35 in Dulaney’s Valley on August 12 (94), while as late as November 4 (’938), I received one from Patapsco Neck (probably shot about the 2nd or 3rd), and another from Cumberland, also probably shot at the same time. Totanus flavipes (255). Yellow-legs. More numerous than the former, in the spring from March 15 (’95), at Havre de Grace, to May 17 (93, Wholey), at Patapsco Marsh, and again from August 12 (94), at Loch Ra- ven, to September 5 (’93, J. H. Fisher, Jr.), at Spring Gardens. At Washington, September 11 (94, Wm. Palmer and R. S$. Matthews). Totanus solitarius (256). Solitary Sandpiper. A regular but not abundant migrant, generally found singly or in pairs in spring, and in small flocks in fall. Noted from April 25 to May 380 (91, Gray), and from August 13 (98, Gray) to October 12 (’89, Resler). This species is a rare summer resident, though its nest has not yet been recorded in Maryland. On July 14, ’93, one was in company with a Killdeer in the bed of Gwynn’s Falls, at Cal- verton (Gray and Blogg). “Occasionally one is seen during the breeding season” at Sandy Springs (Stabler). “ In Maryland and Virginia. I have shot birds in August so young as to leave no doubt in my mind that they were bred in the vicinity” (Birds N. W., 499). 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 289 At Washington, D. C., it is recorded as follows: “April 26 (91) one seen, May 16 (’88) one seen, July 20 (’90) one noted, July 28 (’89), two seen, August 8 (94, Wm. Palmer) one seen, August 11 (’89) one seen, and on August 21 (’94 E. J. Brown), several seen and shot ’”’ (Richmond). “Dr. Treichler, of Lancaster County (Pa.), mentions it as an irregular breeder; he has found young about half grown in the Conowingo meadows early in July” (Birds Pa., 91). On May 23, 93, I came across one feeding in an ice pond with but little water; I was within 20 feet and watched it through a field glass. It waded with a dainty step, sometimes having perceptibly to pull its feet out of the mud, and once when it got in deeper water swam a few feet with a hurried stroke. Small insects on or in the water, on bottom, on weed stems or on bank it swallowed at once. ‘Tiny tadpoles it worked a second between mandibles and dipped a couple of times in water, apparently to get them head first. One large one it immediately ran ashore with and hammered it on the ground for some little time before swallowing it. In wading it sometimes had the water up to its breast and belly. Generally not more than the bill was immersed, but often the head, occasionally the neck, and once half of the body. Symphemia semipalmata (258). Willet. While not as numerous as it used to be, this species is not uncommon on our ocean front, where it still breeds in limited numbers. At Chincoteague Bay, I noted one on June 5 (94); another on the next day, and three on the 7th at the same place ; and Mr. C. W. Dirickson, of Berlin, says: “On their way north in spring afew stop and stay with us all summer. They lay their eggs in very much the same place as the terns, and in fact you can sometimes find both nesting very close together.” I am informed that they breed in large numbers on Chincoteague . Island, and also on Mockhorn and Smith’s Islands, Va. “A few still breed on the New Jersey coast” (Birds E. Pa. and N. J., 76-77). 290 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 On August 19 (93, Janon Fisher) a number were shot a few miles down the beach from Ocean City. On August 27, 798, a bunch of about 30 were on the flats opposite the Navy Yard, Washington, D. C. (B. A. Bean, Forest and Stream, xhi, 230). On November 3, ’94, I saw a single bird in the Balti- more market, still quite fresh, which had been shot “down the necks,” possibly one or two days before. Pavoncella pugnax (260). Ruff. On September 3, ’94, a bird of this species was shot at Four Mile Run by Wm. Palmer (Richmond). ‘This European species has occasionally been taken on the coast of New England and the Middle States (for references see Key, 641). Bartramia longicauda (261). Bartramian Sandpiper. Common during migrations and fairly represented in summer. In Dulaney’s Valley they were first noted on April 21 (’94, Fisher), the migratory birds leaving about the middle of May; they are noted again from August 11 (95) to September 8 (95). This year (’95) two pair spent the summer in the north end of the valley, and about a mile apart. These I visited weekly; up to July 14 both birds of each pair would allow of quite close approach, one, presumably the female, often circling round within 50 feet. ‘They gave every sign of nesting, but it was not until early in August that the young were seen flying with the parents. On August 8 two young birds were shot. These birds were flying in two bunches of 4 and 6 until September 1. On July 3 (’95) one, evidently lost, was flying round calling over an electric light in Baltimore City at 11.50 P. M. “On July 27 (’89) one was shot at Laurel by Geo. Marshall. First recorded at Washington on April 6 (92); few stop on their passage, but they are commonly heard while migrating at night” (Richmond). ‘A summer resident, rare at that season”’ (A. C., 83). 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 291 Actitis macularia (263). Spotted Sandpiper. Common summer resident from April 8 (98, Gray) to Oct. 18 (94). Numerous all through the state wherever there is water; they regularly spend the summer at Druid Hill Lake, and a few years ago I frequently observed a pair on Jones Falls opposite Union Station, where no doubt they had a nest. On May 30 (91, J. H. Fisher, Jr.), a nest was found at Tolchester, containing four nearly hatched eggs, and on July 21 (95), four young were still being led by the parents. On July 21 (95), I watched one for some time; the speed with which it ran after a fly, with sudden doubles, was remark- able ; every once in a while it stopped to scratch the back of its head, finally it thought a wash would do that head good, so flying to a shallow part of the run, it squatted down in the water and began to duck its head under, scratching the back of its head on both sides with the nail of the long middle toe, until it got every feather raised and quite wet. The balance of the body received no attention. Hopping on a stone it dried its head by rubbing it against its sides several times and then flew away. This head washing lasted nine minutes. Numenius longirostris (264). Long-billed Curlew. Breeding on the Atlantic coast as far north as North Carolina, and casually north to New England, this species is “a straggler on the New Jersey coast, occurring generally in May and Septem- ber” (Birds E. Pa. and N. J., 78). On May 28 (93), two were on Hail Point, Kent County. On August 19 (’95, Janon Fisher), quite a number were shot a few miles south of Ocean City, and during September (98, G. A. Rasch), they were un- usually plentiful at Cobb’s Island. Numenius hudsonicus (265). Hudsonian Curlew. Migratory through the United States. One day in August, 1881, W. H. Fisher shot three about eight miles below Ocean City, Md. On May 19 (791), he saw a good many at New 292 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 Marsh, Cobb’s Island, but they would not decoy, and two days later he saw quite a number at Smith’s Island. Given as ‘common transient along the New Jersey coast, occurring May 1 to June 1, and July 15 to September 15” (Birds E. Pa. and N. J., 78). On May 10 (’95), five and one Curlew flew over Baltimore City, presumably they were of this species. Numenius borealis (266). Eskimo Curlew. Migrating through United States. Captain Crumb calls this species a rare and irregular migrant at Cobb’s Island (Birds Vas., 57). “Rare transient on the coast, appearing in May and again in September, according to Turnbull” (Birds E. Pa. and WN. 'J.,.'78). Family CHaraApRip«a—Plovers. Charadrius squatarola (270). Black-bélled Plover. “Migratory in United States, preferably coastwise, common, but less so than dominicus” (Key, 598). Three were noted at Waverly on May 12 (’94, Wholey), and one in Dulaney’s Valley the next day. On May 19 (’91, Fisher) three were shot at Cobb’s Island, Va., and next day two more from numerous flocks observed. Given as common on the New Jersey coast from April 30 to May 22, and from latter part of July to September 15. Dr. W. L. Abbott has taken specimens on June 3 and November 7 (Birds E. Pa. and N. J., 78-79). Charadrius dominicus (272). American Golden Plover. In New Jersey “very erratic transient, rarely seen in spring, but at irregular intervals occurring in large flocks in the fall” (Birds E. Pa. and N.J., 79). At Washington, “rare and irrevular migrant” (Richmond); at Cumberland (Shriver). fo} D ] ee 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 293 fEgialitis vocifera (273). Killdeer. Common in summer all over the state; this species is very numerous during migrations in tidewater Maryland, where during mild winters more or less may winter. In Dulaney’s Valley this species is a common bird from March 10 (’95) to December 2 (’94), while at Powhatan Dam it was noted as early as February 25 (93, Gray). The set of eggs is, as far as I know, four. Fresh eggs were noted May 28 (’92), one hatched and three pipped, on June 5 (’91), and young still with the parents on July 23 (’93). On and after July 14 (95), they are usually to be found in flocks, 53 on one occasion being counted in a close bunch. fEgialitis semipalmata (274). Semipalmated Plover. Common migrant appearing on ocean front, sand beaches of Chesapeake Bay and mud flats of our larger inland waters from early in May to the 29 (’80, Resler), when one was taken at Patapsco Marsh. Returning late in July, and remaining until September 22 (94, Tylor), when five were taken at Ocean City. On August 12 (94) and 29 (93, Fisher), they were numerous along Loch Rayen. fEgialitis meloda (277). Piping Plover. On June 5 (’94), one feeding in the wash of the waves a few miles from Ocean City was noted and three days later, one back where the sand and marsh grass meet, gave unmistakable evidence of having either eggs or small young, but neither could be found. Given from April 15 to May 15, and in September and October as a transient, a few breeding, and also wintering on the New Jersey coast (Birds E. Pa. and N. J., 79-80). Capt. Crumb states that it has nested at Cobb’s Island. 294 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 fEgialitis meloda circumcincta (277a). Belted Piping Plover. This western species is occasional on the Atlantic coast. On May 3, ’84, a specimen, now in the National Museum, was obtained on the shore of the Potomac opposite Washington, near the Long Bridge (H. M. Smith and Wm. Palmer, Auk, v, 147). fEgialitis wilsonia (280). Wilson’s Plover. Common during summer along the Atlantic coast as far north as Virginia. At Cobb’s Island, Va., Mr. H. B. Bailey found it a comparatively common bird, May 25-29, ’75 (Auk, i, 26), and they were found breeding there on May 20, ’91 (Fisher). “Rare straggler on the New Jersey coast, where it probably bred a few years ago” (Birds E. Pa. and N. J., 80). Family APHRIZzID“2—Turnstones. Arenaria interpres (283). Turnstone. Common migrant on our ocean front during May, August and September. Apparently irregular on the Chesapeake, they have been taken as far up the Potomac as Washington, D. C. “Three Turnstones in the National Museum were taken in the District of Columbia by Mr. C. Drexler in 1860 (?). In June, 782, Mr. J. A. Moore killed a bird at Jones: Point, Va., near Washington. In May, ’81, Mr. O. N. Bryan secured one, and saw another at Marshall Hall, Md., and we know of the occurrence of three others on the Potomae River within the past three years” (H. M. Smith and Wm. Palmer, Auk, v, 147-148). Family Hamaropoprpa—Oystercatchers. Heematopus palliatus (286). American Oystercatcher. Common on the coast of the Southern States during summer. At Cobb’s Island they were found breeding, and eggs were taken during June, ’88 (Theo. W. Richards, Oologist, vii, 186), 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 295 and on May 20, ’91, several pairs were observed there (Fisher). On June 5, *91, one was noted flying south at North Beach, a few miles south of Ocean City, Md. “Very rare straggler on New Jersey coast” (Birds E. Pa. and N. J., 81). Order GALLIN AE—Gatuinaceous Brrps. Family TETRAONIDA—Grouse, Bob-whites, etc. Colinus virginianus (289). Bob-white. Common, resident; May 2 (’93) is the earliest date I have heard the well-known call of ‘Bob-white,” this is generally stopped by the early part of September ; it has, however, been heard as late as October 23 (88, Wholey). Their equally well- known whistle and the faint “click-click” of the covey may be heard at any time. Usually the call is given from the top of the fence, but I have heard it repeatedly given by birds in trees. The nest is seldom found except during harvest when numbers are uncovered. Sets are one each of 8, 12, 14, 18 and 22, and 2 of 10. A nest with eggs was found as late as September 1 (’95). A covey of 7 or 8 holding together rather late was flushed near Magnolia on May 4 (’93, Fisher). Coturnix communis—European Quail. In the fall of 79, Messrs. Poultney, Trimble & Co. imported about 200 birds from Italy. ‘These Mr. Charles D, Fisher turned loose on his place at Ruxton, but never saw anything of them afterwards, The following spring about 1000 were imported, and Mr. Kleibacker tells me there were several eggs in the boxes when they arrived. Quite a number were turned out on the ‘‘ Dundee Shore,’’ where occasionally one or two were seen during the summer, but early in fall they entirely disappeared. Messrs. Charles B. Rogers and Geo, Brown also liberated a number in Green Spring Valley, where at least one pair nested. Mr. Rogers writing me under date of January 27, 93, says: ‘* There were several pairs of the birds on our property. I remember that a nest was found near our blacksmith shop, it was on the ground in a cluster of weeds, and if I remember correctly had 13 eggs in it. Nothing however was ever seen or heard of the Quail after the first winter.” Mr. Isaac Slingluff writing in reference to the 296 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 above, says: ‘‘The nest was found close to the bank of Shoemaker’s Run. I think there were 12 or 13 eggs in it, 4 of which did not hatch,” One of these is now in the possession of Mr. Jesse Slingluff. Mr. E. W. Hasbrouck, of Washington, writes me, ‘‘In February, °95, I saw a bunch of European Quail exposed for sale on the street ; they were said to have been killed near Opequan Creek, but I could get no further information.” Bonasa umbellus (300). Ruffed Grouse. Common, resident. On May 2 (’94, Fisher), a nest with 10 fresh eggs was found. During July a covey of young, about as large as partridge, were seen near Ellicott City by Mr. Basil Sollers, and on June 10, 795, at Vale Summit, I came across a pair with 8 or 10 young about the same size. Tympanuchus americanus (305). Prairie Hen. Early in the winter of ’85 or °86, Col. Edw. Wilkins got 12 or 15 birds from the west and kept them until spring when he turned them loose in his orchard, on the Chester River, about four miles below Chestertown, Kent County ; a few days later two or three were seen and then they disappeared. On Eastern Neck Island, Mr, Spencer Wicks shot one in the fall, and Mr. Newton Bogle several times saw another dusting itself in the road in the front of his house. Possibly these were some of Col. Wilkins birds. ‘‘Mr. Ridgway records the killing of a Prairie Hen on the Virginia side of the Potomac, near Washington, March 17, ’85 (Forest and Stream, xxiv, 204 and 248). It has been suggested that it was a descendant of birds, liberated previously at Snow Hill, Maryland” (Birds Vas., 59). Family PHastAnipai—Pheasants, ete. Phasianus colchicus. Huropean Pheasant. Col. W. F. Mason McCarty tells me that some years ago a number were liberated on the grounds of the Woodmount Gunning Club in Washington County. They are now fairly numerous, and this colony may be considered as established. Occasionally birds wander off, and have been shot quite a distance away from the preserve. Meleagris gallopavo (310). Wild Turkey. Mr. Robert Shriver writing from Cumberland, says, “ Indig- enous here, about as abundant as ever, they seem to be less 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 297 numerous some seasons, owing probably to severity of weather or excessive hunting.” Mr. Wm. H. Fisher supplies the following: “Mr. J. R, Ridgley tells me that on his farm in Howard County, about 10 miles from Ellicott City, some years ago he was listening for squirrels and became conscious of a wild turkey, when too late to secure it.” He also says “that now (’93) there are a few near his farm in a tract called Beaver Dam Woods.” Mr. Harden, of Georgetown, shot two in the winter of 781-82, between Georgetown and Tennallytown (A. C., ’92). “ While at Weverton on September 26, 793, John Leopold told me that about the first of the month a flock of at least 10 were seen, and that now a flock of seven young, with two adults, is on the other (Virginia) side of the river. Occasionally he has seen turkeys fly across the river, and once one gaye out and fell into the water” (Fisher). Order COLUMBA(—PIcrEons Aanp DOVES. Family CoLumpip2—Pigeons and Doves. Ectopistes migratorius (315). Passenger Pigeon. Originally occurring in large numbers, but only occasionally seen of late years. On August 27, 793, I flushed a pair from a fence in the upper end of Dulaney’s Valley and further down a single bird from a tree top. These birds I watched for some time through a field glass, but none of their actions differed from those of doves. Mr. Wm. H. Fisher supplies the follow- ing: ‘For about 10 days, in October ’78, flocks of Wild Pigeons flew over our house at Mount Washington between 7 and 7.30 A. M.; 6 to 10 flocks of from 5 to 20 birds each day. In September, ’88, I shot one near Bradshaw, and in September, ’89, another in Dulaney’s Valley; this last was flying with a flock of Doves. Mr. J. R. Ridgley tells me that he saw a flock of 50 or 60 about 8 miles from Ellicott City on September 17,793. Clarence Cottman says he saw a flock of about 40 pass near the 298 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 head of Lake Roland and fly up Green Spring Valley on Sep- tember 19, 793.” Dr. Coues, speaking of the District of Columbia, says: “YT once killed a specimen so newly from the nest as to cause me to believe that it had been hatched in the vicinity” (Birds NSA) So): They were once very common at Cumberland, but of late years have become very rare (Shriver). At Vale Summit I was told that the last flight occurred there on the evening of New Years day ’77, when the sky was black with them and large numbers were killed. Zenaidura macroura (316). Mourning Dove. Common, resident. The usual set of 2 eggs is recorded from April 1 (’82, Small), at Hagerstown, to August 17 (’93, Stabler) at Sandy Springs; near Baltimore, from April 9 (’93) to August 13 (90, Resler), The nest is usually placed on a fork, or among twigs on a horizontal branch, where it is flat and shallow, but I found one built in the fork of a split cedar 14 inches from bottom to top. I have also found a number in old nests (Robin, Purple Grackle, Cardinal, etc.), also on fence rails and one on top of a stump. Dr. Warren cites several on the ground (Birds Pa., 114). During fall they unite into bunches and flocks, these are recorded from August 3 (95) to April 3 (93); asa rule they do not range above 25, but I have seen about 50, and Mr. Wm. H. Fisher saw one of at least 200 on August 26, 793. Columbigallina passerina terrestris (820). Ground Dove. Common in the Southern States; “its usual range is limited by the Carolinas, but I have a record of the capture of a specimen many years ago at Washington” (A. C., 91. Birds N. W., 390). Another specimen shot by Mr. Thos. Marron on Oct. 14, 88, , at Broad Creek, Md., is now in the National Museum (Smith. Report, ’89, 117, 858 and 801). One was taken in Lancaster County, Pa., in’44 (Birds E. Pa. and N. J., 80). 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 299 Order RAPTORES—Birrps or PREY. Family CATHARTID American Vultures. Cathartes aura (325). Turkey Vulture. Resident, common. 14 sets of 2 eggs are recorded from April 19 ?82, W. L. Amoss, Fallston) to May 30 (’91, Stabler, Sandy Springs). I have several times heard of 3 eggs, but never could verify the statement. The eggs, nest there is none, are placed in hollow prostrate logs, hollow stumps, under rocks, stones, or bushes, and in one case under the worn side of an old straw stack. Given as resident at Hagerstown (Small), but only as casual at Cumberland (Shriver); at Vale Summit I only saw 3 in 10 days (June 5 to 14, 795). While usually not noticed by other birds, I saw a crow chase one on May 8,92, and a Fish Hawk chase another on May 30,793. Catharista atrata (326). Black Vulture. “North, regularly to North Carolina, irregularly or casually to Maine, New York, etc.” (Manual, 222). ‘Rarely breeds North of 36°” (Bendire, 165). “On March 30, ’95, at Ken- sin¢gton, Md., Mr. J. D. Figgins saw 4 birds which he supposed were of this species. He had neyer seen the Black Vulture in life, but was familiar with the other large birds known to occur here and from his description of the actions of the birds, I have no doubt they were really of this species” (Richmond). Family FALCONID Elanoides forficatus (327). Swallow-tailed Kite. Falcons, Hawks, Eagles, ete. “On the Atlantic coast its natural limits appear to be the lower portions of Virginia, but it has more than once occurred in the Middle States” (Birds N. W., 352). On April 5, 793, I examined a mounted specimen; on inquiry I was told it had been shot by Mr. W. T. Levering, Jr., on Maidens Choice Lane, close to Kenwood Station, near Catonsville, Baltimore County, late in the summer (late July or early August) of ’89. 300 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 While in Queen Anne County (May ’92) my boatman several times mentioned a “white Hawk with a split tail” which he had observed occasionally, but he could not tell how often or at what time of year. Mr. A. P. Bowen writes me that it is occasionally seen in Prince George’s County. Circus hudsonius (331). Marsh Hawk. Common resident in tide-water Maryland, this species is common in the uplands from August 4 (’95) to May 2 (91, Gray), and on June 29 (’92, Gray) one was seen near Powhatan. Mr. L. D. Willis, of Church Creek, Dorchester County, informs me that on a salt marsh of the Blackwater River, about 10 miles south of Cambridge, he found a nest of the Marsh Hawk containing 6 fresh eggs on June 2, °95. Next day the female was shot and an egg ready for extension was found in the ova- duct. The nest, a slight affair of dry reeds and grass, was placed on a slight elevation about 60 yards back from the open water and entirely surrounded by thick reeds. Accipiter velox (332). Sharp-shinned Hawk. Common resident, but not very numerous in summer. On May 20 (91, Blogg) a set of 4 eggs was taken, and on May 29 (92, Fisher) another of 5. At Sandy Springs on May 16, 791, two fresh eggs, and 15 days later a set of 5 (Stabler). For two years in succession this terror of the poultry yard nested close to our house, but as far as I could learn the chickens were not molested. In ’84 the young had left the nest and were being fed round the house on June 8, 15 and 22. In ’85 I spent May 31 and June 7 watching the young being fed. They were in a natural cavity of a chestnut tree in full view of the house and not 100 feet away from it. The entrance was a small rotted-out branch hole about 4 inches in diameter and about 40 feet from the ground. By means of a field glass I saw that the young were being fed on grasshoppers. On the approach of a parent they made a great noise, and as this could 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES, 301 easily he heard all over the house, the feeding was continuous from “the dawn’s early light,” until it was too dark to see the birds come and go. The nest of this species is usually placed in the twigs of a cedar or pine. Accipiter cooperi (333). Cooper’s Hawk. Resident, but at all times less numerous than velox. The nest is built early in April, and the birds stay around it a long time before the eggs are laid. On April 29 (91, Stabler) a set of eggs was taken at Sandy Springs, and on June 20 (88, Resler), two birds, at most a week old, were in a nest in Howard County. Sets are 1 of 2, 2 of 3 and 2 of 5. Accipiter atricapillus (334). American Goshawk. Maryland appears to be the southern limit of this species in winter, but it is not taken here often. In ’68, Dr. J. Lee McComas, of Cumberland, sent two, shot in Maryland, to the Smithsonian (Smith. Report, ’68, 57), and another sent to Dr. A. K. Fisher, was taken in a steel trap by Mr. Leizear, of Sandy Springs, on December 27 (’87, Stabler). Buteo borealis (337). Red-tailed Hawk. Resident, common, but not often seen in summer. ‘Two slightly incubated eggs were taken on March 25 (’94, Hoen), and three birds just hatched were seen on May 7 (’93), while two birds apparently just out of the nest were trying to follow their parents on July 5 (’94). Sets are 1 of 1; 5 of 2; 2 of 3 and 1 of 4. Outside the breeding season they are more or less gregarious, at times being seen in quite large flocks. Buteo lineatus (399). Red-shouldered Hawk. Inside the limits of Baltimore City this is the most numerous hawk at any time of the year, but in Baltimore County borealis far outnumbers it. On March 20 (’93) two sets of fresh eggs 302 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 were taken (a ring of snow was round each nest, and it was two feet deep on the ground); while on May 6 (’?94, Wholey) a set nearly incubated was collected, and on May 31 (’91) a second set was taken. Sets are 5 of 2; 4 of 3, and 4 of 4. Outside the breeding season, this species, like borealis may sometimes be seen in flocks, more often in bunches of 38 or 4 to 10, but generally singly or in pairs. Buteo latissimus (343). Broad-winged Hawk. Resident, but not common. On April 27 (91) a set of | three eggs was taken; on May 19 (’92, Blogg) a set of two, and on May 23 (92, J. H. Fisher, Jr.) a set of three nearly incubated. At Sandy Springs, a set of three was taken April 9(’91); one of three in May (’92); one of two on May 15 (92), and another of two on May 22 (’92, Stabler). The three Buteos are the hawks usually shot by our farmers, because they are large, fly slow, and are called ‘ hen-hawks,”’ while the much smaller, swift flying, Falcos and Accipiters, that may at times take chickens, escape. Archibuteo lagopus sancti-johannis (347a). American Rough-legged Hawk. “‘Along the Delaware, below Philadelphia, it is still found in considerable numbers from Noyember to the end of March”’ (Birds E. Pa. and N. J., 87). It does not appear to be numerous in Maryland. On January 24, ’92, in Dulaney’s Valley, one sitting on a tree allowed me to drive slowly past within twenty feet of it. Dr. M. G. Ellzey says this species was very numerous in Howard County during the winter and spring of 787-88 (Forest and Stream, xxxii, 212). At Sandy Springs one was shot by Mr. Leizear on March 17, 788 (Stabler). One was seen on the Virginia side of the Potomac, opposite Washington, on December 29, 79, by Mr. H. W. Henshaw (A. C., 88-9), and it has been taken in the District of Columbia (L. M. McCormick, Auk, i, 397). —— 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 303 Aquila chrysaétos (349). Golden Eagle. An irregular winter visitant. On June 30, ’83, a mounted specimen was presented to the Maryland Academy of Sciences, by Dr. Murdoch ; it was shot at Back River, and had five toes instead of four. On November 28, ’94, one was shot at Otter Creek, Harford County; this specimen I had mounted. Four were secured in Maryland, near Washington (see Smith. Reports, goanaos (69,503,775, 73; -91,,793). On December 8, 787, one was shot at Gaithersburg (Fisher’s Hawks and Owls, 97). One in the First National Bank of Cumberland was shot by Mr. Robert Shriver about 30 years ago. ‘Until about 1856, for many years a pair is said to have nested in the southern part of Lancaster County on a lofty jutting cliff over the Sus- quehanna River” (M. W. Raub, Auk, ix, 200). Halizetus leucocephalus (352). Bald Eagle. Resident, and generally dispersed along the shores of the Chesapeake Bay and other larger waters of Maryland, being fairly common. At Loch Raven it is no unusual sight to see one or more, and Dr. Wilson, of Glenarm, tells me that about 40 years ago there was a nest used year after year within half a mile of his house. I have only found the nest “down the necks’? and on the Eastern Shore; but they breed all along the Potomac as far up as Hancock. On March 8 (’94) three eges nearly fresh were taken; on March 27 (95), two nearly fresh ; on March 29 (’93), two about two-thirds incubated ; on April 15 (’93), two birds, five or six weeks old, and on June 2 (92), two birds about ready to leave the nest. On February 26 (93), two eggs were collected at Mount Vernon by E. M. Has- brouck. The nest being used for years, sometimes attains con- siderable size, eight feet across the top and seven feet high, is the largest one I have measured. In confinement at Toledo, Ohio, two eggs were laid, in- cubation commenced on March 26, ’86, and one bird was hatched on April 26; on March 18, ’88, she again started to incubate 304 TRANSACTIONS OF THE - [1895 two eggs; one bird was hatched on April 22, and another the next day (Henry Hulce, Forest and Stream, xxvi,327 and xxx, 289). Falco peregrinus anatum (356). Duck Hawk. “Universally, but irregularly distributed in North America, scarcely to be considered common anywhere, breeds as far south as Virginia at least, usually im mountainous regions” (Key, 536). “ Nests sparingly from 35° north” (Bendire, 292). On March 5 (’87, Fisher), one was seen at Grace’s Quarter, but it kept out of range. On December 10, ’94, one was brought alive to Baltimore by a countryman, and lived for about four months in the window of No. 208 E. Baltimore street. “Mr. W. T. Roberts got a female on November 16, ’79, at Potomae Landing, near Washington’ (Richmond). “Mr. Jouy states that the Duck Hawk has been known to breed at Harper’s Ferry” (A. C., 87). In reference to this, Mr. W. H. Fisher had a conversation with a resident of Harper’s Ferry on October 10, 93. He was not acquainted with the “ Duck Hawk,” but stated that the “Rock Hawk” nested on the face of the Mary- land Heights, and that the site of the nest could be easily located by the “ white-wash ” after the young were hatched. This species is reported as regularly breeding along the Sus- quehanna in Lancaster and York Counties, Pa. In the latter county a set of four slightly incubated eggs was taken on April 7, 780, by Mr. Geo. Miller (Birds Pa., 137). Falco columbarius (357). Pigeon Hawk. “Whole of North America, breeding chiefly north of the United States” (Manual, 250). “Doubtless breeds in the mountainous portions of some of the Southern States” (Ben- dire, 299). I have but few notes on this powerful little hawk. On April 19, *92, one was shot at Washington, that had been feed- ing on a Sparrow-hawk (Fisher’s Hawks and Owls, 113). On April 26, *98, one was shot near Bay View by A. Wolle, | / | | 1895 MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 305 it had been feeding on a Snow-bird. On April 30, ’93, in Dulaney’s Valley two birds swished close past me making for a small scrubby thorn bush, round which they went several times; finally one darted into its centre, the other kept round once more and lit on top. I then saw that they were a Catbird and a Pigeon Hawk, the hawk seeing me flew, but the Catbird remained apparently thoroughly exhausted. On October 30, 792, I surprised one feeding on a dove. A not uncommon migrant at Washington (Richmond). “Mr. F. L. Washburn, of Johns Hopkins University, has reported to the Agricultural Department that he observed several pairs, apparently breeding at Harper’s Ferry, April 12, ’87” (Birds Vas., 62). Falco sparverius (360). American Sparrow Hawk. Resident, common, but most numerous during the migrations of small bird. Hence, on March 18 (93, Wholey and Gray) about 75 were seen in Dulaney’s Valley. During summer they are not often seen except in the locality of the nest. Dates for eggs range from April 17 (95, Henninghouse) to May 28 (93), and a second set was taken June 24 (94). On August 4 (’95) flying young were still being fed by the parents. Sets are 9 of 4 and 6 of 5. Pandion haliaétus carolinensis (364). American Osprey. Common summer resident on all our larger waters, extremely numerous on the arms of the Chesapeake. On March 11 (93, Blogg) five were seen at Fulton Avenue. On the Eastern Shore it is maintained that they always arrive on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17. Dr. Sharp’s attention was called to this, and he reported that the first bird arrived at Rock Hall on March 14, 95. Late in September most have gone south, but they have , been noted later, the last on November 8 (92, Blogg). On April 3 (95) they were patching up old nests at the mouth of Gunpowder, and on April 24 (94, Tylor) sets of fresh egos were collected in Talbot County, where on August 306 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 19 (’83) I noted a number of nests with young still in them. Sets are 4 of 1, 9 of 2, 19 of 3, and 3 of 4. Inland, this bird is seen more or less regularly at Loch Raven, and one was seen as far up the Gunpowder as Cockeys- ville on April 17, ’94 (Fisher). Several were over the Potomac, at Brunswick, on September 26, ’93 (Fisher). Family Stricip#—Barn Owls. Strix pratincola (365). American Barn Owl. “Not abundant north of the Carolinas” (Birds N. W., 300). “At Washington, where the Barn Owl is by no means rare, they begin nesting from the last week in April to about May 10” (Bendire, 327). ‘The National Museum collection contains two eggs of this bird taken from the Smithsonian towers, one in June, ’61, the other June 1, ’65” (C. W. Richmond, Auk, v, 20). On June 28, 90, seven half-grown young were found in this tower (Fisher’s Hawks and Owls, 136). ‘On December 8, 93, a young bird that had but recently left its nest was caught, probably hatched some time in October. On February 27, 795, another of about the same age was picked up ina bush in the Smithsonian grounds. This was certainly not over two months old, and must have been hatched in the latter part of December, if not early in January ; certainly a most unusual time of the year for this owl to breed in this latitude” (C. E. Bendire, Auk, xii, 180-81). Occasionally one is secured anywhere in tidewater Maryland, and they seemed to be more numerous than usual during the spring of 93. On April 6 one was shot at the Old Marine Hospital ; on the 20th, a male at Aberdeen, Harford County ; -on the 22nd, another male on Patapsco.Neck, and on July 27th a female and five downy young were taken alive near the Old Marine Hospital, by A. Wolle. 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 307 Family Busontip#—Horned Owls, Hoot Owls, etc. Asio wilsonianus (366). American Long-eared Owl. Nocturnal in its habits ; this species is resident, but as far as I know not common, though a locality may yet be found where it is numerous. On April 22 (93, Gray and Blogg), a set of six eggs, nearly hatched, was collected near Randalstown, from an old crow’s nest about 20 feet up a small pine. “Common resident at Washington” (Richmond); “at Hagers- town one was shot in January” (’79 Small). Asio accipitrinus (367). Short-eared Owl. “Tt is more than likely that it breeds, occasionally at least, in suitable localities along the borders of the extensive marshes of the sea coast of the southern Atlantic States; by far the greater number, however, breed north of the United States” (Bendire, 332). ‘Decidedly the commonest owl about Wash- ington, especially in winter” (Birds N. W., 307), where it has been taken in November, January, March and April, and at Sandy Springs it has been taken in December, January, Feb- ruary and March (Fisher’s Hawks and Owls, 148-9). On April 1 (92, Fisher) one was taken at Ruxton. On October 22 (’92, Gray), one at Pikesville; on November 8 (’90, Pleasants), one at Towson, and on December 2 (’98, R. C. Watters), one in Dor- chester County. Syrnium nebulosum (368). Barred Owl. Resident, numerous “down the necks,” otherwise, fairly com- mon round Baltimore. March 16 (’95, Fisher), one fresh egg, and May 5 (’94, Fisher), two young birds, four or five days old, are extreme nesting dates. Sets are 2 of 1, 4 of 2,and 1 of 3. Nyctala acadica (372). Saw-whet Owl. While by no means common in winter, a number have been recorded. On November 13 (92, Blogg) one flew into a brightly lighted room in the city. On December 23 (75, 308 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 Resler) one was taken alive, and on March 4 (94, Tyler and Fisher) another was taken alive at Bird River. ‘The records of the Maryland Academy of Sciences show one presented on May 15 (’79), possibly a mounted specimen. Quite a number are recorded from the District of Columbia and adjoining portions of Maryland. FF. W. Webster notes eight obtained early in October in different years (Auk, iv, 161). One taken on November 1 (’78) ; one on February 12 (’59), and one on March 12 (’89) (C. W. Richmond, Auk, vi, 189). One on December 12 (’90); three on January 4 (791), and one taken alive in the Smithsonian on February 4 or 5 (91) (E. M. Has- brouck, Auk, vili, 313); one on November 1 (’89) (Fisher’s Hawks and Owls, 162), and another at Ivy City, on December 3 (89) (W. A. Merritt, Oologist, vill, 313). Megascops asio (373). Screech Owl. Common resident and generally dispersed, but more often heard than seen. I have heard them all through winter at Waverly, Baltimore City, where on January 16, ’92, at. 7.30 P. M. one was “laughing” as merrily as in June, though there was 6 inches of snow on the ground. Nesting dates range from April 4 (92), 4 fresh eggs, to June 4 (’93), 3 birds just hatched, while on July 24 (93) young nearly grown were still being fed by the parents. Sets are 2 of 2, 5 of 3, 9 of 4, and 3 of 5. As far as I know the gray and red phases of plumage are about equal round Baltimore. Bubo virginianus (375). Great Horned Owl. Common resident, but most numerous in heavily wooded sections of the state, especially in tidewater Maryland. - On February 11 (94, Tylor) two fresh eggs were taken on the Virginia side of the Potomac, near Alexandria. On February 25 (95, Tylor), two eggs, one-third inculated, at Magnolia. On April 2 (’93), one bird about 2 weeks old at Bush River, and on April 12 (93, A. Wolle), 2 eggs “down the necks.” 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 309 In Dulaney’s Valley on March 10 (’95) a nest was found with an egg about to hatch and a young bird not 24 hours old, and on April 24 (’92) two young birds just out of the nest were captured alive. Sets are 1 of 1, 8 of 2, 1 of 3, and early in April ’91 four birds just out of the nest and sitting together on a limb were seen in Talbot County, two of these were captured and raised in confinement (T'ylor). Nyctea nyctea (376). Snowy Owl. More or less numerous in Maryland during severe winters, this species.cannot at any time be called common. Quite a number are on record from all over the state, but I cannot get exact dates. Order PSITTACI—Parnrots, ETc. Family Psrrracipa Parrots and Paroquets. Conurus carolinensis (382). Carolina Paroquet. Originally well known in tidewater Maryland, the only occurrence for many years is recorded as follows: “In Sep- tember, 65, while gunning for Sora on the Potomac River, Mr. Ed. Derrick fired into a flock of strange birds flying overhead, killing several which proved to be Carolina Paroquets. He had one mounted and kept the specimen in his house for a number of years. Other parties on the marsh at the same time shot numbers of the birds” (H. M. Smith, and Wm. Palmer, Auk, v, 148). Order COCCYGES—Cuckoos, KINGFISHERS, ETC. Family CucuLipz—Cuckoos, ete. Coccyzus americanus (387). Yellow-billed Cuckoo. Common summer resident, but more often heard than seen. Extreme dates are April 28 (’88, Resler) and October 14 (’91, Resler). Nests with eggs have been found from June 7 (’93, 310 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 Fisher) to August 23 (91). As far as I have been definitely able to note sets, they are 6 of 2, 3 of 3, and 2 of 4. I have found nests with all the eggs in the same state of incubation and others with various stages, from large young birds to eggs in different stages of incubation. At Vale Summit they were fairly common, on June 9 (’95) a nest contained 2 fresh eggs. Coccyzus erythrophthalmus (388). Black-billed Cuckoo. A common migrant and rare summer resident. May 8 (89, Resler) and May 21 (’93, Wholey) seem extremes of the spring movement, and August 4 (’95) to October 3 (793, Wholey) cover the fall. On September 28 792, (Wholey) ‘they were the most numerous birds seen in the woods.” On July 7, 93, (Gray) a nest with one young bird and 3 nearly incubated eggs was found at Calverton, while further out the Franklin Road, in an overgrown corner, two broods were raised the same year. At Washington it is noted as “rare from May 2 to the middle of October” (Richmond). At Hagerstown, noted in July, August and September (’80), and from May 11 to September (’81, Small). At Vale Summit, on June 14, ’95, I found the nest, containing 2 eggs about one-half incubated, of the only pair there. Family ALCEDINID#—Kingfishers. Ceryle alcyon (390). Belted Kingfisher. Abundant during spring, summer and fall; a number winter in tidewater Maryland during mild seasons, only leaving when frozen out. The nest tunnel, in a bank, preferably but not always over water, is remarkably close to 4 inches in diameter and usually about 5 feet long, though I have seen two of not quite 2 feet and one of over 10. As a rule they go straight in but occasionally they make a bend. The nesting hole at the end is rounded in the shape of a flattened sphere and averages 16 inches across by 8 inches high. In this, the first egg is laid on the bare ground, but by the time the eggs hatch about a quart 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 311 of loose fish scales and bones have accumulated. May 9 (’92, Blogg), 5 fresh eggs, and May 31 (’92), one fresh egg, are extreme dates; full sets are 3 of 6, and 6 of 7. Order PICI—WooppeckKErs, ETC. Family Prcrp2— Woodpeckers. Campephilus principalis (392). Ivory-billed Woodpecker. However the distribution of this species may have been, it is now very restricted. Audubon says (iv, 124): “On the Atlantic coast North Carolina may be taken as the limit of its distribution, although now and then an individual of this species may be occasionally seen in Maryland.” Dryobates villosus (393). Hairy Woodpecker. Resident, but not common, and, as it is usually found in heavy timber, appears much rarer than it really is. On June 2 (94, Fisher) a very noisy pair evidently had a nest, but it was not found owing to lack of time. Young of the year were noted on July 10 (92) and on August 20 (’93). On May 8 (’95, H. C. Oberholzer) a pair were feeding young near the Great Falls of the Potomac, on the Maryland side. Dryobates pubescens (394). Downy Woodpecker. Common resident. Nests with eggs have been noted from May 4 (91) to May 22 (’93); the set being 5. On June 8 (’84) young were nearly ready to leave the nest, and on July 4 (’93) young not long out of the nest were seen. Dryobates borealis (395). Red-cockaded Woodpecker. “Pine swamps and barrens of South Atlantic and Gulf States, north to Pennsylvania” (Key, 481); “irregularly north to New Jersey” (Manual, 283). Dr. Ezra Meichner in his Catalogue of Chester County Birds, published in 1863, writes, “accidental, very rare” (Birds Pa., 167). 312 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 Sphyrapicus varius (402). Yellow-bellied Sapsucker. Common during migrations, September 27 (’79, Resler) to October 26 (94), and again from March 12 (’92, Gray) to May 2 (’93, Fisher). No doubt this species winters in southern Maryland, as specimens have been taken near Baltimore on November 8 (’84, Resler); November 12 (92, Gray); Novem- ber 26 (93); December 6 (’93, J. H. Fisher, Jr.); December | 24 (92, Blogg), and January 1 (92, Resler). At Washington, “J. D. Figgens got one on January 14, ’88; one was shot February 15, about ’59, and one was seen about the middle of January, 794” (Richmond). At Hagerstown they were noted during January and Decem- ber, ’79; January, February, March, October, November and December, ’80, and from January right along to July, and also in October, ’81 (Small). On July 6,’95, (Tylor) adults feed- ing young were noted at Deer Park. Ceophlceus pileatus (405). Pileated Woodpecker. Fairly common in the heavily wooded parts of Maryland. Early in June ’95 a nest was found by Mr. L. D. Willis near Church Creek, Dorchester County. It contained 3 eggs; 2 nearly hatched, tke other rotten. It measured 2 feet 2 inches deep by 8 inches in diameter, the entrance was 54 inches across and 20 feet from the ground, ina rotten stub. November 17 to 22, ’94 (Fisher), quite a number were seen in Somerset County, and one was observed to enter a hole in a stub. “Mr. Palmer has 3 specimens bought in market (Washing- ton) on the 9th of January, ’79, which had been shot in Mary- land, near the District line” (A. C., 81-2). ‘Said to be not rare at Johnson’s Gully, Maryland, near Marshall Hall, and about 14 miles from Washington. Must be quite common in Virginia, as a market gunner brought me nine at one time. He would not disclose the locality, but said it was in Virginia” (Richmond). Quite a number are exposed for sale in our Baltimore markets each winter, but they are all said to come 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 313 from Pennsylvania. On November 7, ’91, I saw one that had been shot in Carroll County. “The Indian hen used to be common round Cumberland, but is now very rare”’ (Z. Laney). Melanerpes erythrocephalus (406). Red-headed Woodpecker. This very erratic species, common one year in a certain locality and the next entirely absent or only in limited numbers, is resident, migratory or anything else, apparently at its own sweet will. During the severe winter of ’92-3 Mr. W. N. Wholey and I had 8 or 10 birds that we went out regularly to see. They were resident in localities about one-half mile apart and stayed all winter; one was very noisy, the others were silent. The following winter none remained. May 3 (’91) and June 19 (92) are extremes for eggs. Sets are 3 of 5, 1 of 4, and 1 of 3. As a rule they dig their own holes, telegraph poles being often used, but on May 3, 791, I found three fresh eggs in a hollow log leaning against a fence. The entrance was 15 inches from top to bottom and 4 inches across, while the cavity only went down 6 inches. At Washington “not very common and local. It usually spends the winter in smaller numbers, or else keeps more secluded ” (Richmond). Melanerpes carolinus (409). Red-bellied Woodpecker. This southern species is not common around Baltimore. Occasionally noted from August 3 (’87, Resler) to May 16 (91, Blogg). ‘Rather common near Laurel, where it is a perma- nent resident”? (Richmond), At Washington it is given as “a permanent resident, rare” (A. C., 83); “very rare, Mr. Hen- shaw saw an individual about the last of May, 87” (C. W. Richmond, Auk, v, 21). In Queen Anne’s County they were quite numerous on March 4 and 5, ’93, though there was 12 inches of snow on the ground, and the thermometer went down to 8° during the intervening night. 314 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 At Princess Anne, Somerset County, they were rather com- mon from November 13 to 22 (’94, Fisher), and Mr. E. G. Polk writing from there, says: ‘They stay here all summer, at least until after cherries are ripe, as I have shot a number out of the trees, where they were stealing cherries.”’ , Colaptes auratus (412). Flicker. Common resident, more numerous during migrations. April 28 (94, Tylor), in Talbot County, and May 12 (’95), near Bal- timore, to June 23 (’93), are extremes for eggs. Sets are 1 of 2,3 of 5, 4 of 6, 2 of 7, dot 8, 1 of 9. lor 10,-andmigonmmlse Flickers usually dig their own holes, but they will nest in natural cavities and various other places; if undisturbed, using - the same site for years. Order MACROCHIRES—GoarsuckeErs, Swirts, HUMMING- BIRDS, ETC. Family Caprimuteip2—Nighthawks, Whip-poor-wills, ete. Antrostomus carolinensis (416). Chuck-will’s-widow. North, regularly in summer to North Carolina; in a letter to Wm. H. Fisher, Capt. Crumb says he has taken this species at Cobb’s Island, Va. At Odenton, Anne Arundel County, upon two occasions in July, Prof. P. R. Uhler has observed single birds of this species, their size making them quite conspicuous among the Whip-poor-wills which were quite numerous there. Antrostomus vociferus (417). Whip-poor-will. Locally common during summer, it was first heard April 9 (93, Wholey), and on April 27 (’93, Fisher) they were com- mon, remaining so until] September 20 (’91), the last being noted September 28 (’94). At Washington, “to October” (Rich- mond). On May 5 (’94, Tylor) one fresh egg was found, and on June 10 (’91, Fisher) one young bird a few days old. 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 315 Chordeiles virginianus (420). Nighthawk. About equally numerous and just as local as the Whip-poor- will, from April 29 (93, J. H. Fisher, Jr.) to October 15 (92, Blogg). At Washington, April 20 (Richmond). In fall, large flocks migrating are noted from August 29 (’94) to September 25 (92, Wholey). Nesting on the bare ground, this species has discovered an excellent substitute in the flat roofs of the houses of Baltimore City, where a large number breed. On June 8, ’91, one young bird a few days old was seen within stone’s throw of the City Hall, and on July 31, ’94, two young birds were flying after their parents. Family Micropopip2—Swifts. Chetura pelagica (423). Chimney Swift. Common summer resident from April 16 (’91) to October 4 (93); extreme dates are March 30 (’95, Blogg) and October 17 (88, Resler); at Hagerstown, April 6 to October 16 (’80, Small); at Cumberland, April 5 (95, Z. Laney). On May 15 (’92) a pair were seen mating, but they were not noticed breaking twigs until June 3 (’94); eggs were in nests on June 19 (’81), and young birds fell down the chimney on August 27 (93). Sets are 2 of 5. Family TrocHiLip#—Hummingbirds. Trochilus colubris (428). Ruby-throated Hummingbird. Common summer resident; first noted at Washington on April 28 (Richmond) and numerous around Baltimore from May 1 (’92, Resler) to September 25 (’92); the latest date is October 3 (’88, Resler), when one was perched on a telegraph wire in the city, and (90, Wholey) when one was taken. ‘The usual set of two eggs is noted from June 2 (’98, J. H. Fisher, Jr.) to July 10 (92, Blogg). 316 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 Order PASSERES—PERCHINGBPIRDS. Family TyRANNIDE F lycatchers. Milvulus forficatus (443). Scissor-tailed Flycatcher. “A Milvulus probably M. forficatus is given in the original edition as having been obtained by Mr. C. Drexler, on May 6, 781. We have never been satisfied of the accuracy of the in- formation, even supposing veracity on the part of our in- formant, and in our remarks on Mr. Jouy’s list, we spoke as if inclined to drop the species from the list; but we have no more authority for doing so than for retaining it, so we make no alteration in a record which, unfortunately, must always remain dubious” (A. C., 75-6). One “‘was sent to the Smithsonian Institute by Mr. R. B. Taylor, of Norfolk, Va.,... shot on January 2, ’82 in his door yard in that city” (Robert Ridgway, Auk, viii, 59). Under date of May 5, ’93, Capt. Crumb states that he has secured a specimen at Cobb’s Island. Tyrannus tyrannus (444). Kingbird. Common summer resident from April 14 (’95), to September 15 (93, Gray). OnSeptember 23, 91, I saw a single bird 2 miles north of Martinsburg, W. Va.,and at Hagerstown they are noted from April 13 (’83) to October (’79, Small). During migrations they appear in flocks, sometimes over 100 being together, these have been noted from April 30 (’93) to May 3 (7938, Fisher), and from August 4 (’95) to September 7(’94). Extreme dates for eggs are May 31 (’93) and July 17 (792). On August 12 (94), young were still being fed. Setsare1 of 1, 1 of 2, 13 of 3, and 3 of 4. Tyrannus verticalis (447). Arkansas Kingbird. ‘‘This is a western species added to the list in ’77, by Mr. Jouy, who found it in the flesh in market September 30, ’74. In point of fact, it was not actually got in the District, but in some adjoining portion of Maryland. There is no doubt about 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 317 the bird, as the specimen is preserved in the United States National Museum. (Smith. Report, ’74—5, 32. Jouy’s Catalogue, Wii orand. Wy” CA, Cc, 776); Myiarchus crinitus (452). Crested Flycatcher. Common summer resident from April 29 (93, Gray), to Sep- tember 2 (93, Gray) ; extreme dates are April 27 (’93, Gray), and September 21 (94). Eggs are recorded from June 6 (91), to July 9 (93). Sets are 1 of 3, 1 of 4, 4 of 5, and 2 of 6. Sayornis phcebe (456). Phebe. Common from March 18 (’94) to October 17 (’94), quite a num- ber of single birds have been observed during the remainder of the year. This year (’95), however, they have been absert; a few were observed between March 31 and May 13, after which none were seen until September 15. Extreme nesting dates are April 8 (94), a nest ready for eggs and July 8 (94), eggs nearly hatched. Sets are 3 of 3, 10 of 4,13 of 5, and 1 of 6. At Hagerstown, under date of January 26, ’82, Small says: “Has probably been with us all winter, was seen December 8 and 26, and January 18, 19, 20 and 21.” Contopus borealis (459). Olive-sided Flycatcher. Rare migrant. ‘The claim of this species to a place in our list (of the District of Columbia) rests upon Mr. Ridgway’s obser- vation near Fall’s Church, Va., where several birds were noticed in September,’81. Further west in Virginia, the species cannot be considered very rare, individuals having been observed for 3 or 4 successive summers by one of the authors, and Dr. A. K. Fisher has taken a specimenin the Bull Run mountains” (H. M. Smith and Wm. Palmer, Auk, v, 148). “ Judge Libhart states that this species (probably 15 or 20 years ago) was found as a breeder in Lancaster County, where, however, in recent years it has been observed by Dr. Treichler only as a rare spring and fall migrant’ (Birds Pa., 194). 318 TRANSACTIONS OF THE (1895 Contopus virens (461). Wood Pewee. Common summer resident ; first noted on April 25 (’85, Res- ler), when one was taken, and numerous on May 8 (94). A number were noted October 15 (’93), and two days later (’83, Resler) one was taken. Nesting dates range from June 8 (’92, Blogg), a set of fresh eggs to September 12 (92, Wholey) young birds not able to fly far. Sets are 1 of 1,5 of 2, and 7 of 3. Empidonax flaviventris (463). Yellow-bellied Flycatcher. Migrant, not common. Spring notes are few. On May 14 (95), a male was taken and 4 days later another, 3 days after which 5 were seen (Wholey). On May 16 (’83), and 19 (’93), single birds were taken (Resler). During fall they are fre- quently recorded between August 31 (’93, Gray) and October 6 (94). At Washington, a “spring and fall migrant arrives first week in May and we have seen it in the fall until the third week in September. One shot July 28,” (A. C., 78) “migrant during whole of May, and August and September” (Richmond). “Tolerably common migrant near Washington, generally in the scrub pines” (Dr. A. K. Fisher, Birds Vas., 67). This last observation may account for its not being more frequently noted near Baltimore, as but a small percentage of our local observa- tions have been made among the pines. Empidonax virescens (465). Acadian Flycatcher. First noted on April 30 (93, Wholey), and common from May 11 (’94,) to August 24 (’94 and ’95,) the last was recorded on September 11 (94). On May 31 (’91,) a nest was ready for eggs and on July 30 (’93, Fisher), one contained eggs ready to hatch. Sets are 28 of 3, and 1 of 4. Empidonax traillii alnorum (622a), Traill’s Flycatcher. Rare migrant. On May 5, ’93 (Resler), one was taken at Back River, and on May 11, 98, (Wholey) another at Waverly. “One 1895] MARYLAND ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 319 was taken by the writer on May 13, ’88, at the Potomac River, Alexander County, Va.; another by Mr. Ridgway on May 18,’88, at Laurel, Maryland, and a third by myself on May 19, ’88, in Virginia, opposite Georgetown. Several others were subse- quently seen and observed” (Wm. Palmer, Auk, vi, 71), ‘This has always been regarded as the rarest of the flycatcher’s ; very few having been taken up to the present year (’92). On and about May 18 for several days they were quite common and a number were taken” (KE. M. Hasbrouck, Auk, x,’93). “Com- mon at times, I saw several on May 23,’91. Wm. Palmer shot one on May 10, ’94, and another on August 27, ’89, and I shot one on September 17, ’90” (Richmond). Empidonax minimus (467). Least Flycatcher. Rare migrant, specimens have been taken on April 29 (93, Gray), on April 30 and May 7 (’92, Pleasants), on September 11 and 25 (’93, Gray), and September 28 (92, Resler). At Wash- ington, “common from April 25 to May 25 and from August 28 to September 25” (Richmond). On Dan’s mountain, June 5 to 14, ’95, three or four pairs were mating in a grove of heavy timber. Family ALAUDID&—Larks. Otocoris alpestris (474). Horned Lark. Irregularly abundant in flocks, which are sometimes quite large, from November 10 (’94, Gray), to March 19 (92, Gray) ; they are most numerous in tidewater Maryland. At Washington, from the first of November to April (A. C., 41). Otocoris alpestris praticola (474d). Prairie Horned Lark. This sub-species appearing in company with alpestris can only be identified by close comparison with a series of specimens. One, of several shot at Powhatan, on February 25 (’93, Gray), was pronounced of this sub-species by Mr. Ridgway. 320 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1895 “Two in the collection of Wm. Palmer have been identified by Mr. Henshaw as belonging to this race; they were taken in February, ’81, and were in company with numbers of Otocoris al- pestris. On February 16, ’88, eighteen specimens of this variety were taken by Wm. Palmer, near Washington, from a flock of 50 or 60 birds that had been noted in the vicinity throughout the winter. About half a dozen other specimens have recently been obtained by various collectors” (H. M. Smith and Wm. Palmer, Auk, v, 148). Family Corvip#—Crows, Jays, ete. Cyanocitta cristata (477). Blue Jay. Common resident. A pair were mating on April 13 (793), and eggs were collected, 5 on May 13 (’82) and 4 on May 30 (94, Tylor). Corvus corax principalis (486). Raven. Now rare in Maryland, but, without doubt, may be credited to our ocean front and also to the mountains of Western Mary- land. During Christmas week ’92, about 20 were seen at Bayard, W. Va., but they could not be approached within rifle range. On December 6, ’93, several were seen at the same place (J. H. Fisher, Jr.). Bayard is within 5 miles of the Potomac. During July, ’80, Ravens were found on Cobbs, Boone and Mockhorn Islands (Robert Ridgway, Auk, vi, 118). Recorded from Franklin, Somerset and York Counties, Pa., (Birds Pa., 202). One was taken at Hagerstown in October, ’80 (Small). Corvus americanus (488). American Crow. An abundant resident ; scattered over the country in summer, and gathering into large “roosts” in winter. They had started roosting on October 21 (’94), and were using it in numbers from November 4 (’94) to March 24 (’95), but I only saw a few on March 31.