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“SOCIETY OF NATURAL HISTORY,
E
CONTENTS.
Amr. I. A Report on the e Reptiles of Massachusetts. By D.
UMPHREYS STORER,
td II. A Report on the Birds of Massachusetts. By the
Reo. W
ev. W. B. E
IH. Descriptions of Four New sae of Fishes. By
ARED :
a Vi A Further Enumeration of som e New Scis m Li-
| chenes. By EDWARD Pock giras, J a Lis B.,
VII. Es af Minerals from New Holland. By Francis
ALGER, ;
Vill. Descriptions o T Eleven New p Species of New England
Shells. B. Apa
IX. Description 7 Tellina tenta; "Say, and of Helix ser-
: lo es, Montagu, Rem arks Marine
Massachusetts: By C. EUN
X. Descriptions: TA ege hd the =, “River and its
ribu
ari p P. Kin M: D.
XI. A Monograph, fi us Helices i nhabiting tie United
Binney, M. D. nued,
XII. argie A Two. New e pan i ittis
J. G. Anruony
XIII. Monograph of the Specie of Pupa [o in the
Uni € States, with Figures. By Aveustus A,
Gov
T s
AIV. A Monograph A ihe Helices inhabiting the Uni ited
os BINNE s ontinued, -
XVI. Attempt to — some of the Hepatic ’ Mosses of
L ssach a pose pe we
Bons LL,
Pace
n TM
332
338
394
E
405
of t the. Fishes af the Ohio River and its
‘Tributaries. By P. Kierra de, M. D.
Results. of an | Examination. of the Shells of Massa-
oe Distribution.
ch their |
E Avcvsrvs A. orc FJ
pom — — By y-Laws of tie Society, - oor
Oc s of the Societ DUUM DR ee a
ERES IO SAC ee
Index, à - -
BOSTON
JOURNAL OF NATURAL HISTORY.
*
Vor. III. JANUARY, 1840. No. :1-58.
ART. 7. REPORT ON THE REPTILES OF MASSACHU-
SETTS. By D. Humpureys Storer, M.
" INTRODUCTION.
Tur qu MT paper was prepared at the same time, and
presented, with the ** Report on the Fishes of the State,"
to the Chairman of the Zoological Commissioners. It is
very far from being satisfactory to myself; and gladly
would I have delayed its publication until further research
had made it more complete. But being expected to give
an account of my labors at an appointed time, I had no
alternative left me, save to collect and present my descrip-
tions, written oftentimes unavoidably with great haste and
brevity.
The Catalogue of our Reptiles contained in Professor
Hitchcock’s Survey, prepared by Dr. Smith, of Sutton,
contains most of our species, and was evidently drawn up
with care; but as he has given no descriptions by which
| we ma judge of his accuracy, I have felt at liberty, when
cies has been catalogued which clearly should not be,
or r Which the best herpetologists in our country, well ac-
VOL. IIL.—NO. I-II. 1 s
sa
2 ^ Storer on the
quainted with the reptiles of New England, have never
4
seen in our latitude, to omit it.
Thus we find catalogued the “ Testudo scabra.” This
error may have been produced by Say’s incorrectly includ-
-ing this species in a paper “ On the fresh water and land
Tortoises of the United States,’ published in the fourth
volume of the Journal of the Academy of Natural Sci-
ences. The species he considered the “scabra,” is the
“ insculpta."
The “Testudo Pennsylvanica" is plainly confounded
with the **Sternothacrus odoratus," a widely-distributed
species.
The “ Coluber striatulus” of that catalogue, I have also
omitted; not merely because I have not met with it my-
self, but because my friend Dr. Pickering, an accomplished
naturalist, thoroughly versed in the herpetology of New
England, assures me, he not only never met with it here,
but never heard of its having been found here, it being
strictly a southern species.
The ** Rana clamata" I have also erased, because no
one of my scientific friends has ever met with it; and Dr.
Holbrook, who well knows the species, and has visited this
portion of the country repeatedly of late years, to collect
materials for his | great work, says, in his third volume, this
species ‘‘ is found in the low countries of Carolina and
Georgia; farther north than this, I have never seen it.”
* . . uh
The “Salamandra cinerea" is omitted, because Dr.
Green, who first described it, as well as the ** erythronota,”
considers them both one species.
The “ Salamandra tigrina” and “ longicauda” may per-
haps both be found here; but knowing no one who
ever seen them in this State, I wrote to Dr. Emmons, u
whose authority they were given in that catalogue, Aae
formation; he writes me, that he thinks he has seen a
i specimen of each, but adds: **I will not take the responsi-
*
bí
:
1
|
|
:
j
j
28
ex
*
=
ee a ee, ee
N Reptiles of Massachusetts. 3
bility of giving these two species as citizens of the Bay
‘State. I have not studied them carefully enough to be
authority.” i:
Having erased the above mentioned species, and intro-
duced three Tortoises, two Colubers, one Heterodon, one
Rana, one Hylodes, four Salamanders, and one Scincus,
which were not noticed in the catalogue referred to, the
Herpetology of our State, as. far as I have been able to
learn, is composed of fourteen genera and thirty-nine spe-
cies. More extended investigation will undoubtedly ascer-
tain the existence here of new species, as well as of many
which have been already described by naturalists.
ORDER I.
CHELONIA.
Emys. Brogniart.
Generic characters. Shell depressed, solid ; ster-
num broad, solid, immovable, firmly joined to the
shell, consisting of twelve plates, and four supple-
mental ones ; extremities palmated, anterior with
_ five nails, postair with four; head of ordinary
size ; tail long.
wi E. guttata. Schneider.
+> Shaw’s Gen. Zoology, vol. iii. pt. 1. p. 47, et fig.
E. Ann. Lyc. Nat. Hist. N. Y. vol. iii. p. 117.
A + Harlan's Med. and Phys. Res. p. 151. E
—— Dum. et Bibron, Hist. Nat. des Rept. tom. ii. p. 295. A
N. A. Herp. vol. MN 25, et fig. à
A Storer on the F -*
This, our most common species of tortoise, is
found in small streams and clear water throughout
the State, oftentimes in great numbers ; a very con-
cise description only is therefore offered :
`- The upper shell is black, sprinkled over its whole
surface with more or less distant, roundish, bright |
yellow spots. In some specimens, eight or ten
quite small spots may be seen crowded upon a sin-
gle plate; while in others, several of the plates,
a
rem
NU
particularly those on the dorsum, exhibit but one
spot each, brighter colored and larger than those just — .
referred to. |
The sternal plates are yellowish, with large black
blotches, or black with yellowish blotches, or uni-
formly black. Sometimes the plates of the sternum |
are perfectly smooth, at other times marked with
concentric strie. The top of the head, and upper
part of the legs, black with yellow spots. :
It feeds upon insects, worms and frogs. |
E. picta. Schneider. The painted Tortoise.
Shaw's Gen. Zoology, vol. iii. pt. 1. p. 45, et fig.
Ann. Lyc. Nat. Hist. N. Y. vol. iii. p. 115. E
Harl. Med. and Phys. Res. p. 151. *
Dum. et Bibr. Hist. Nat. des Rept. tom. ii, p. 297.
N. A. Herpet. vol. ii. p. 19, et fig.
Next to the “ guttata,” this is the most generally :
distributed species. It is usually found with the
preceding, and is a very easily recognised species.
A specimen five inches in length, serves for the
following description : r
M suec doni uie ILU BIZ Eis
*
A . Reptiles of Massachusetts. 5
Body, above, compressed ; upper shell, greenish
brown, with the edges of the dorsal and lateral plates
margined with yellow. A very narrow yellow dorsal
line passes from the anterior to the posterior mar-
ginal plate; the marginal plates are darker colored
‘than the other plates of the upper shell, having in
their centre a bright red blotch, which is much larger
upon the inferior side ; and over this blotch, one or
two red markings, which are concentric upon the
plates not attached to the sternum, and nearly
straight upon the four plates which are thus at-
tached; the red color predominates upon the under
side of the marginal plates.
First dorsal plate quadrangular: second and fourth,
hexagonal; third, quadrangular ; fifth, heptagonal.
Sternal plates yellow, with a triangular ribbon
upon the anterior portion, and a straight one upon
the middle and posterior portions, of a brighter tint.
Back of the head, dark brown; directly back of
the eyes, a broad yellow band; a narrower band of
the same color runs also back, from the middle of
the eye. From the tip of the snout, a narrow yel-
low line runs to each eye; from the side of the
mouth also, two lines pass to the middle of the eye,
" and two from the lower edge of the jaw. From the
extremity of the lower jaw, two larger bands run
backwards; the first passes slightly down, then out-
wardly to the angle of the lower jaw, whence it is
continued by a broad bright yellow band ; within
this, from the middle of the lower jaw, a narrower
band of the same color passes back parallel with
this ; and from the tip of the chin a band runs down
.
6 Storer on the
a short distance, and then bifurcates into broader 1
bands. These yellow lines upon the head become 1
red upon the neck, and are continued on to the ]
shoulders of this color. 'Two large yellow spots |
upon the occiput. Eyes small; pupils, a deep black; —
irides golden; a dark line running through their Í
centre. Fore legs black, a red band passing along j
their centres; and the commencement of a second,
on a line with the base of the previous one; pha-
langes marked with red lines. Hind feet, dark
brown, above; beneath, lighter, with a red band on
each side. Tail of moderate length, with two nar-
row longitudinal yellow bands uniting at the poste-
rior extremity ; beneath, marked by the narrow red — ;
lines of the legs continued, which unite at the pos-
terior portion, forming a single red band. i
Its food is the same as that of the previous species.
E. insculpta. Le Conte. The wood Tortoise.
Ann. Lyc. N. Y. vol. iii. p. 112,
Harlan's Med. aud Phys. Res. p. 159.
Dum. et Bibr. Hist. Nat. des Rept. tom. ii. p. 251.
Specimens of this, our most beautiful tortoise, I
have received from Walpole, Concord, Amherst and -
Andover, and learn that it is not uncommon in the |
ponds of several other portions of the State. This _
species wanders a great distance from, and remains
a long time out of the water; and being oftentimes
found in woods and pastures, has received the com-
mon name of wood tortoise. Its usual length is from
six to eight inches. The upper shell is composed of
Sea gee UT
I Reptiles of Massachusetts. | 7
five dorsal, eight lateral, and twenty-five marginal
plates; these plates are of a greenish brown color,
strongly marked with concentric and radiating strie.
A dorsal ridge is formed by the convex portion of
the superior plates. Sternum composed of twelve
yellow plates, having upon their posterior lateral
margins, a large black spot. All the under portion
of the legs, neck and tail, is red.
Young specimens exhibit a very rough upper shell,
produced by the prolongations of the posterior angles
of the plates.
This species was erroneously considered by Say,
as synonymous with the * scabra," Lin.; and as
such, he catalogued it in the 4th Vol. J. A. N. S.
E
STERNOTHAERUS. Bell.
Generic characters. Head subquadrangular, pyr-
amidal, covered in front with a single plate; warts
on the chin; marginal plates, twenty-three ; ster-
num cruciform, bivalve, anterior valve only move-
able; supplemental plates contiguous, placed on the
.Sterno-costal suture; anterior extremity with five
nails, posterior with four.
S. odoratus. The mud Tortoise.
Ann. Lyc. Nat. Hist. N. Y. vol. iii. p. 122,
aig Harl. Med. and Phys. Res. p. 156.
Dum. et Bibr. Hist. Nat. des Rept. tom. ii. p. 358.
N. A. Herpet. v. iii. p. 29, et fig.
Shell oblong, convex, somewhat carinated on the :
8 Storer on the
dorsal ridge; of a brownish color, irregularly
blotched with darker spots.
The first vertebral plate is triangular, the next
three hexagonal, the last pentagonal. There are
four lateral plates; the first of which is quadran-
gular, the remainder are pentagonal. The marginal
plates, twenty-three in number, are small, generally
elongated, forming a margin; the posterior plates
largest, and appearing as if they were a continuation
of the last vertebral plate.
Sternum small, composed of nine yellowish brown
plates; it is divided into three portions by two liga-
mentous hinges; the anterior, composed of three
plates, is quite moveable upon the second division ;
the third portion, of four plates, the posterior of
which are emarginated, and have their posterior an-
gles acute, although united to the second division of
the sternum, consisting of the two.large abdominal
plates, by a similar hinge with the first, is scarcely
moveable.
Head pointed, flattened above; snout, truncated.
Eyes moderate in size; pupils black, irides golden.
Nostrils, large at the extremity of the snout. Top
of the head nearly black. A narrow yellow line
passes from the tip of the snout backwards over each
eye, and is lost upon the neck ; a second line of the
same color, larger and much brighter, is continued
backward beneath the eyes to the neck. A broad
yellow band is also observed upon each side of the
chin, exhibiting a striking contrast with the dark
brown color of the jaws. Skin of the neck, throat
and legs, ash colored. Neck, covered with granula-
*
Reptiles of Massachusetts. 9
tions. Several yellowish warts or cirrhi upon the
throat. Legs and feet slightly granulated; upon
the anterior legs, three large scaly plates; at the
base of the feet several smaller scales of a similar
character; these scales do not exist upon the fore
legs, although they do upon the feet. Toes palmated ;
fore feet with five toes, and five claws; posterior,
five toed, with four claws. Tail short, with several
rows of pointed warts.
The specimen from which I have drawn the
above description, is three inches and a half long,
one inch and a half high. Of six specimens lying
before me, five do not vary aline in length. The
sixth, which is considerably younger, is less than
three inches in length; has a more marked dorsal
ridge than either of the others, and the blotches are
more numerous.
This species has a very disgusting odor, and is
hence sometimes called stink-pot.
It is found burying itself in the mud in ditches
and small ponds, frequently covered with a thick
coat of foreign matter, from which circumstance it
has received the common name of mud tortoise.
A single specimen of this species was found in
Fresh Pond, in Cambridge, by J. W. Randall, M. D. ;
one specimen was taken at Amherst, and several at
Falmouth, by Professor C. B. Adams; and Mr. Eras-
tus H. Clap brought me one from Walpole.
W VOL. IIL—-NO. I-II. 2
10 Storer on the
Emysaurvus. Dumeril.
Generic characters. Head large, covered with
small plates ; snout short; jaws hooked ; two warts
beneath the chin; sternum immoveable, cruciform,
composed of ten plates; three sterno-costal plates ;
Sore feet with five claws, hind feet with four ; tail
long, surmounted with a scaly crest.
E. serpentina. Lin. The snake Tortoise.
Shaw's Zoology, vol. iii. pt. 1. P- 72, et fig.
Ann, Lyc. N. Y. vol. iii. p. 128.
Dum. et Bibr. Hist. Nat. des Rept. vol. ii. p 350.
This is the largest tortoise found within the bor-
ders of our State; sometimes weighing from 15 to
20 pounds. It is exceedingly powerful and vora-
cious, feeding upon fishes and frogs; and the farmers
Sometimes complain of its depredations among their
chickens and ducklings. From its habit of snapping
suddenly at almost every thing offered it, it is gen-
erally known by the name of the “snapping tor-
toise,” in New England, while its crested tail, resem-
bling the Crocodilus lucius, gives it the distinction at
the South, of “alligator tortoise.” It is usually
found in filthy water, and is occasionally met with
at considerable distance from any pond or pool,
dragging itself leisurely along.
The flesh of this species is often used as food,
and when made into a soup is considered by many -
as quite a delicacy. 'The oil obtained from this
species is carefully preserved in many portions of
Reptiles of Massachusetts. 11
the interior of the State, for its supposed virtues in
bruises, sprains, &c. when externally applied.
The upper shell is of a dark brown color, oval,
compressed above, composed of five vertebral, eight
lateral, and twenty-five marginal plates, which are
marked by radiating and concentric stris. A dorsal
ridge is produced by the prominent posterior angles
of the vertebral plates; the projections of the poste-
rior superior angles of the lateral plates also form, in
some specimens, indistinct carine. The anterior
marginal plates are narrow and oblong; the fifth,
sixth and seventh are much wider, while the poste-
rior three plates are marked with strong, concentric
strie, and the posterior angles form strong spinous
points. The sternum is yellow, narrow, lozenge-
shaped, composed of ten plates, and united to the
marginal plates by a long narrow plate, having two
smaller plates at its outer extremity. The head is
very large, scaly above ; eyes large; jaws powerful,
hooked ; beneath the chin, two warts; neck above,
covered with warts or small fleshy cirrhi; beneath,
granulated. The legs are large and strong ; the fore
legs are armed above with large scales, feet with
five claws; hind legs with large scales beneath,
feet with four claws. ‘Tail, two thirds the length.
of the body; round at its base, compressed at the
sides, tapering to a point; armed above by a ridge
of strong pointed spines, diminishing towards the
posterior extremity.
The largest living specimen 1 have seen, was taken
at Marshfield ; its dimensions were as follows: En-
tire length, 44 inches, viz. length of the shell, 18
*
*
ad
12 Storer on the
inches; length of the head and neck, when extend-
ed, 11 inches; length of the tail, 15 inches. Width
of the shell, 15 inches; width across the head, 4
inches. bo
uet uMALI a e Didean Bae enfe
Cistupa. Fleming.
Generic characters. Shell gibbous, strong ; mar-
ginal-plates, twenty-five; sternum oval, covered with
twelve plates, bivalve, both valvas moveable on the
same aris, and joined to each other and to the shell
by ligamento-elastic tissue ; anterior extremities with
Jive, posterior with Jour nails.
C. Carolina. Edwards. The Box Tortoise.
Shaw’s Gen. Zoology, vol. iii. pt. 1. p. 36, et fig.
Ann. Lyc. N. Y. vol. iii. p. 124.
Harlan's Med. and Phys. Res. p. 149.
Dum. et Bibr. Hist. Nat. des Rept. tom. ii. p. 210.
Bell, monog. Test.
I have received living specimens of this species
through the kindness of friends from Barnstable,
Amherst, New Bedford, Holmes Hole, and Walpole ;
and although at neither of these places is it common,
yet their distances from each other shows that it is
pretty widely distributed throughout the State. This
is a land Species, being found in dry and arid situ-
ations, and it can live but a short time in the water.
From the circumstance of the sternum being divided
into two portions, the anterior of which is moveable,
enabling the animal, when disturbed, to encase itself
entirely within its shell, the Species is generally
Reptiles of Massachusetts. 13
known under the name of “bos tortoise.” Several
varieties have been made by naturalists dependent
upon the difference of their markings.
A beautiful living specimen before me exhibits the
following characteristics :
Length of the specimen, six inches. Shell, round,
gibbous, carinated. Sternum bivalvular. The plates
of the upper shell are of a dark brown color, sculp-
tured with radiating and concentric strie, and cov-
ered over their entire surface with bright yellow
spots, varying in their size, form, and manner of
distribution, frequently confluent. A great portion
of each marginal plate is occupied by a yellow blotch.
The first and fifth vertebral plates, are pentagonal ;
the second, third and fourth are hexagonal. Of the
lateral plates, the posterior are the smaller. The
` sharp edges of the seventh, eighth, ninth and tenth
marginal plates, which are the largest, project out-
wardly, forming a keel. The sternum is divided un-
equally, the anterior portion the smaller; it is of a
very dark brown color, with dull yellow blotches.
The anterior plates of the sternum are triangular ;
the middle, oblong ; the posterior, triangular. These
plates likewise exhibit concentric strie. Head, above,
black, reticulated with yellow ; the upper jaw of a
dull white color, with black lines passing from the
eye to its margin. Throat white, with dark spots ;
flesh on the sides of the neck of a dull horn color,
varied with red and brown. The upper jaw has a
large hook-like process at its extremity ; the lower
jaw, a sharp point. Pupil of the eye, black ; irides
red. The fore legs are covered with large scales of |
14 | Storer on the
an orange color, tipped with dark brown; posterior
legs of an uniform dark brown color.
The principal food of this species is insects.
C. Blandingii. Holbrook. Blanding’s Cistuda.
N. A. Herpetol. vol. iii. p. 35 et fig.
By the kindness of Mr. Edward Appleton I have
received from Haverhill a fine living specimen of this
rare species. It presents the following appearance :
Length of the specimen, 74 inches; breadth of the
shell, 5 inches; length of the sternum, 7 inches ;
height 3 inches. Shell oblong, rounded, slightly
flattened above. The plates of the upper shell are
black, covered with numerous bright yellow circular
and oblong spots or blotches, irregularly distributed.
The first vertebral plate is pentagonal; the second
and third are hexagonal; the fourth is heptagonal ;
the fifth is octagonal. Of the lateral plates, the an-
terior and posterior are quadrilateral, the third and
fourth, pentagonal. The marginal plates are twenty-
five in number ; the nuchal plate is very small, about
a line in width, and less than half an inch long ;
the first, third, fourth, sixth, eighth, tenth, and
twelfth plates are quadrilateral; the second, fifth,
seventh, ninth, and eleventh, pentagonal; the edge
of these marginal plates is sharp and entire. The
sternum is composed of two valves, the posterior of
which, the larger, is oblong, rounded before, emar-
ginate behind; both valves are moveable, and, when
closed, they shut the animal entirely, with the excep-
|
|
Reptiles of Massackusetts. 15
tion of his toes. The sternal plates, twelve in num-
ber, are yellow, with large quadrangular dark spots,
occupying nearly one half of each plate; the plates
are marked with concentric stris.
The head is nearly black, with yellowish spots.
The upper jaw is of a dark brown color, with trans-
verse yellowish lines; the lower jaw is of a bright
yellow. The anterior extremities are protected by
large imbricated scales in front, with smaller ones
beneath, and granulations behind; there are five
fingers, which are palmated, with nails. The pos-
terior extremities are larger than the anterior, of the
same color, and, like them, having scales and granu-
lations ; these extremities are flattened upon the leg
and foot, with 5 toes; the posterior only destitute of
a nail. 'Tail cylindrical, gradually tapering to a
point. E
In regard to this species, Dr. Holbrook, in the
third volume of his Herpetology, which is just pub-
lished, observes: ‘“ The sole locality that can at this |
moment be assigned to the Emys Blandingii, is the
prairies in the state of Tllinois and the territory of
Wisconsin, where they are said to be abundant.
The only specimen I have seen came from Fox
river, à tributary of the Illinois."
.SSprHanmaris. Merrem.
Generic characters. Body covered by a leathery
skin, tubercular in the young, perfectly smooth in
the adult. Feet without nails.
x
16 Storer on the
S. coriacea. Lin. The leather Tortoise.
Plate IV.
Pennant's British Zoology, vol. iii. p. 7, et fig.
Shaw's Gen. Zoology, vol. iii. p. 77, et fig.
Phil. Trans. vol. lxi. pt. 1. p. 271, et fig.
Dum et Bibr. Hist Nat. des Rept. t. ii. p. 561.
The only specimen I have heard of as having been
seen on the coast of the United States, was taken
asleep on the surface of the water in Massachusetts
Bay, in the year 1824, and being brought to Boston,
was purchased by Mr. Greenwood, of the New
England Museum, of the captors, for two hundred
dollars, and placed in this institution, where it still
remains. The naturalist may judge of the great
rarity of this species from the following observations
by Dumeril and Bibron, in their * Erpétologie gén-
érale ou Histoire Naturelle complete des Reptiles ;"
“ This species is very rare; it inhabits the Medi-
terranean, and the Atlantic ocean. Rondelet speaks
of a “ Sphargis luth,” five cubits long, which was
taken at Frontignon: Amoreux described another,
which was captured in the harbor of Cette ; and in
1729 a third was taken at the mouth of the Loire,
which was described by Delafout in the “ Mém-
oires de P Académie des Sciences.” Borlase has
given a bad figure of a “ Sphargis luth," which
was taken in 1756 upon the coast of Cornwall, in
England."
The specimen in the New England Museum
presents the following characters: Entire length
eighty-five inches; widest part, fourteen inches ;
ama EASES DLE. Se el Se LIA aa le iso ur rad cam t Ae SLA NS
4
Reptiles of Massachusetts. 17
back of the head, thirty-four inches; greatest depth
fourteen inches. The body is covered above, by
a dark brown shield, fifty-seven inches in length, of
a firm leathery texture, which is divided into fur-
rows by seven longitudinal elevated ridges ; all these
ridges are noduled, resembling the vertebral column ;
the dorsal ridge runs the whole length of the shell ;
those on the side, next the dorsum, commence one
inch and a half further forwards than the dorsal
ridge, and within sixteen inches of the posterior
extremity of the shell curve upwards towards the
dorsal ridge, but are not so perceptible after curving,
and reach the upper ridge, six inches anterior to the
extremity of the shell. ‘The second lateral ridge
commences about seven inches back of the preced-
ing, and, at the posterior extremity, curves up like
that; the abdominal margin makes the third lateral
ridge. The posterior extremity of the shell is trun-
cated, and is two and a half inches wide.
Length of the head and neck, sixteen inches; of
the head, nine and a half inches; width of the head
nine inches; width of the neck, thirteen inches.
Diameter of the eye, large. Nostrils just back of
the tip of the snout. A large notch in the middle
of the upper jaw, which receives the projections of
the lower jaw, when the mouth is closed; on the
sides of this median emargination of the upper jaw
are two others, one on each side. Upon the mid-
dle and posterior portion of the roof of the mouth,
strong spinous processes.
A portion of the «esophagus of this specimen
belongs to the cabinet of the Boston Society of
VOL. III.—NO. III. 3
18 ! Storer on the
Natural History ; it is compactly armed with long
firm very sharp spines.
Anterior extremities, thirty-five inches long, round-
ed at the origin, compressed in the middle, taper-
ing to a rounded EE in their widest por-
tion, ten inches across.
Posterior extremities, sixteen pie ue in length ;
for about half their length, nine inches wide, trun-
cated posteriorly, and, as well as the anterior ex-
tremities, bordered upon their posterior margin by
a deep fleshy fringe or border.
Length of the tail, thirteen inches ; eight inches
wide at the base, tapering to a point.
Body beneath, covered by a less firm envelope, of
a lighter color.
I am indebted to my friend Dr. Wyman for the
accompanying plate of this species.
Reptiles of Massachusetts. 19
ORDER II.
SAURIA.
a
FAMILY.
SCINCOIDEA.
Scincus. Daudin.
Generic characters. Head oblong, pointed, covered
with plates; jaws furnished with closely set teeth ;
two rows of teeth on the palate; tongue fleshy,
slightly extensible, emarginate ; tympanum appa-
rent ; neck as large as the head ; body elongated ;
tail conical; the whole body and tail covered with
small imbricated scales; extremities with free and
unginculated toes. zs
S. fasciatus. Lin. The blue-tailed Lizard.
Shaw’s Gen. Zoology, vol. iii. pt. 1. p. 241.
Harlan’s Med. and Physic Res. p. 138.
N. A. Herpet. vol. iii. p. 45, et fig.
The only specimen of this beautiful species I have
known to be found in New England, was captured
in Barre, by Dr. Joseph N. Bates of that place, and
kindly loaned me to identify and describe. He took
it, he writes me, “in a mud hole ; it evaded my
attempts to capture it for some time on account of
its agility and cunning, and when captured made
much resistance with jaws, claws, &c.”
Length of the specimen five inches; elongated,
»
20 Storer on the
covered above with longitudinal rows of imbricated
scales; color above, a deep shining black, with five
longitudinal deep golden yellow lines; abdomen,
of alight yellow color ; tail, a deep sky blue, blended
with yellow and black lines, whith run longitudi-
nally along the back.
A yellow line, conitviending fover each nostril,
passes obliquely backwards, and, approaching each
other, they unite at the distance of rather more than
a quarter of an inch back of their origin, forming
a dorsal line, which, continued the whole length
of the body, is lost upon the tail; on each side of
this dorsal line, runs another, which arises at the
superior anterior angle of the eye, and terminates
like the preceding ; beneath this, is still another,
commencing at the snout, interrupted only by the
meatus of the ear, and continued, like the others,
upon the tail. These yellow lines give the back
the appearance of being divided into yellow and
black longitudinal lines. Head, half an inch long ;
one quarter of an inch wide; with large plates
above. Eyes, small. External meatus of the ear,
vertical, large. Anterior feet short, with five toes,
each armed with a sharp nail. Posterior extremi-
ties, large; second toe very much elongated, and
all the toes, like those of the fore feet, nailed.
Extremities above, of a brown color, having à
longitudinal yellowish white line running along their
posterior portion to the toes.
The ventis transverse, situated just back of the
interior of the thighs. Tail longer than the body,
its posterior portion a deep blue.
The species feeds upon insects.
Reptiles of Massachusetts. 21
Li
ORDER Ill.
——OPHIDIA.
» £
FAMILY.
&
SERPENTIA.
; COLUBER. Lan:
Generic characters. Body long; cylindrical and
tapering ; head oblong, covered above with smooth
polygonal plates; above covered with rhomboidal
scales, imbricate, reticulated, or carinated, or smooth ;
abdomen with transverse plates ; beneath the tail,
with double plates ; anus transverse, simple; jaws
furnished with sharp teeth; without poisonous fangs.
Some species oviparous, others ovo-viviparous.
C. sirtalis. Lin. The striped Snake.
Shaw’s Gen. Zoology, vol. iii. pt. 2. p. 535.
Harlan's Med. and Phys. Res. p. 16.
rd
This pretty species, generally known as the striped
snake, is our most common snake. ‘The usual length
is about two feet ; occasionally it is met with two
feet and a half long. The upper part of the body
is of a dark olive brown color. A narrow yellow
band extends from the occiput to the extremity of
the tail; on each side of this, joining the abdominal
; M
* a '
22 Storer on the
plates, is a somewhat broader parallel band of the
same color. 'The brown color of the back is varie-
gated with black blotches, which are much more
strongly marked in the smaller specimens ; in the
larger specimens, they are hardly discernible, unless
the scales be slightly separated by the observer.
Abdomen greenish ; its upper portion towards the
sides, lighter; the posterior edge of the abdominal
- scales, at their union with those of the sides, marked
with a black spot; at the distance of one or two
lines within this spot, towards the centre of the
abdomen, another spot is observed, which in young
specimens is equally dark with the former, but duller
in old specimens. Scales oblong, strongly carinated ;
smaller upon the back of the head and the upper
anterior portion of the body, than farther back.
Scales of the yellow lateral lines, larger than those
of the olive colored back. The scales that are
shortest, least carinated, and at the same time the
largest, are in a single row between the abdomen
and the lateral line referred to. Head flattened,
. having upon its top ten plates ; one at the snout, two
pairs behind this, three between the eyes, and two,
larger than either of the preceding, upon the occiput.
Pupil of the eye, black; iris, reddish. Upper jaw
margined.on each side by seven plates, besides that
at the tip; the fifth, situated directly beneath the
posterior angle of the eye, the largest. Lower jaw
bordered by ten plates on each side. 'T'wo pairs of
plates upon the throat, very much elongated. Small
teeth in the jaws and upon the palatine bones.
The bright yellow color, which renders this a
Reptiles of Massachusetts. 23
beautiful species when alive, changes to a dull green-
ish yellow after being immersed in spirits; in this
state, it appears to have been described by Herpe-
tologists. When the scaly cuticle is removed, the
dorsal line beneath is found to be white ; and the
sides of the back are of a deep blue color, with two
rows of black, nearly circular blotches. Sometimes
the line on the back is a greenish white, while the
lateral bands are yellow. Upon the occipital plates —
of one of my specimens are two small yellow spots
towards their middle at their interior edges. ‘The
brightness of the lateral lines disappears at the anus ;
beyond, the color is greenish, and this is gradually
lost towards the tail.
Linnsus describes his species as having 150 ab-
dominal plates, and 114 caudal scales ; Shaw copies
this in his “General Zoology.” Harlan makes 150.
plates, and 60 caudal scales. One specimen before
me, has 154 plates, and 75 scales; a second speci-
men has 146 plates, and 63 scales.
This species feeds upon frogs and toads, and is
frequently found enormously distended by having
swallowed one of a very large size.
C. ordinatus. Lin. The little brown Snake.
Shaw's Gen. Zoology, vol. iii. pt. 2. p. 497.
Harlan's Med. and Phys. Res. p. 113.
This is also quite a common species with us,
growing to the length of two feet. The color above,
is a browish ash, with a broad, lighter ash-colored
é
Là
Sh
24 Storer on the
longitudinal band upon the dorsal ridge, running
the whole length of the animal; on each side of
this dorsal band, a row of small dark brown spots.
Body beneath, fawn-colored; of a darker tint upon
the sides. A row of very minute black dots upon
the outer edge of the abdominal plates. Scales
small, carinated; a row of scales larger than the
rest, upon the sides, joining the abdominal plates.
Head very small, flattened above; with ten scales
upon its top, the two upon the occiput, and that
directly in the middle of the top of the head, the
largest, and black; the others are quite small, and
of the color of the back; these scales are arranged
as follows: Two triangular ones upon the occiput ;
a third, hexagonal in its form, in front of them ; its
posterior portion, between the anterior inner por-
tion of the former, making the top of the head;
on each side of this, protecting the top of the eye,
a small oblong scale, rounded upon its outer edge;
in front of these, immediately back of the eye,
two pairs of quadrangular scales; the posterior, lar-
ger. A single large scale forms the snout. Besides
these scales, three are seen in front of the eye, on
the side of the head; and quite a large scale back
of the posterior ang of the eye, separated from
it by two very minute scales only. Upon the mar-
gin of the upper jaw, fourteen scales; upon the
edge of the lower jaw, twelve, besides the tip. An
oblique black band passes downwards across the
angle of the jaws, and a transverse one back of |
the — erosses the neck on epu in some
=
Reptiles of Massachusetts. 25
specimens, all the scales upon the upper jaw are
edged with black.
Sometimes the spots on the sides of the abdomen
are very distinctly seen; in others, as in several
specimens lying before me while I write, they are
scarcely observable.
When preserved in spirit, the longitudinal dorsal
line becomes lighter colored, ‘and the abdomen -
changes to a yellowish green color. i
The abdominal plates are 128 ; the caudal scales
62 and 64.
In tlie stomach of this species, I have found frag-
E em of insects.
* i *
C. vernalis. Dekay. The green Snake.
Harlan's Med. and Phys. Res. p. 124.
One of our most beautiful species, this snake is
generally well known. A fine living specimen be-
fore me, twenty-one inches in length, exhibits the
following characters :
-Above, of a beautiful grass green color; beneath,
a yellowish white. Length of the head, half an
inch ; greatest width of the head, a quarter of an
| inch; head flattened above; ten plates upon the top
i . of the head; one at the snout; two pairs imme-
3 S | diately back of this ; three plates between the eyes ;
- two large plates upon the occiput. Upper jaw bor-
| dered by fourteen scales. Nostrils circular, just back
* of the posterior lateral angle of the mane: Pupil of
$
VOL. kgo. ir a 4 :
E : ? ,
ud
T
or
26 Storer on the
` the eye, black; iris cupreous. Scales rhomboidal,
smooth, not carinated. Tail six inches in length,
gradually tapering to the point.
Four specimens vary in their plates and scales as
follows :
One specimen has 137 — 85 caudal scales.
A second E 4132 0-54 e
A third [14 138 tc 81 [41 a“
A fourth a 197 f 84. * j
Like the preceding species, this feeds upon insects.
C. punctatus. Lin. The ringed Snake.
Shaw's Gen. Zoology, vol. iii. pt. 9. p. 553. *
Harlan's Med. and Phys. Res. p. 117. D d
N. A. Herp. vol. ii. p. 115, et fig.
This pretty species is less common than either of
the preceding, being usually found concealed beneath
the bark of decaying trees. 'The specimen before
me is fourteen inches in length ; the body is elon-
gated, with smooth scales. Color above, of an uni-
form bluish brown ; beneath, of a reddish yellows
with a fbagtiidinal: row of black spots u
side of the abdomen, where’ „the abdominal plates
and lateral scales unite; a third row of similar spots
runs longitudinally alongithe: middle of the abdomen,
as far as the vent, beyond which they are not visible.
Ten plates upon thafjep ! of the head ; ; sixteen plates,
beside that at the tip, border the upper jaw; and
fourteen, margin the lower. Head half an inch long, _ 1
one quarter of an inch wide j flatte: ned a
lighter colored than the body. Nostrils large. wee
~ vp.
|
|
Reptiles of Massachusetts. 2T
of moderate size; pupils black, irides grayish. A
broad yellowish white band crosses the occiput. Tail,
three inches in length, tapering to a point. The
abdominal plates are 156, and the caudal scales 56.
A second specimen exhibits 156 plates, and 62
scales.
C. constrictor. Lin. The common black Snake.
Shaw’s Gen. Zoology, vol. iii. pt. 2. p. 464.
Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p. 112.
In some parts of the State, this is not an uncom-
mon species, frequently growing to the length of six
E A fine specimen, fifty-one inches in length,
serves for the following description: Length of the
head, one and a half inches; greatest width of the
head, half an inch. Body, above, almost black;
beneath, slate-colored ; neck, margin of the jaws,
and snout, yellow. Plates upon the top of the head,
very large ; that at the snout, convex, projecting,
yellow, bordered with black at its upper and lateral
margins; the first pair of plates, nearly quadrangu-
*
lar; the second, pentagonal; of the three between
the eyes, the middle, which is largest, is hexagonal ;
. plates, two pairs of smaller plates
anterior to th minal plates. The whole back
ps Ta
a we ;
28 Storer on the *.
covered with large rhomboidal smooth scales. Body
somewhat compressed at the anterior extremity ;
cylindrical at the posterior, gradually tapering to the
tail, from which it more suddenly becomes smaller,
and terminates in a point. Length of the tail,
eleven inches. *
E "The abdominal plates are 184; the caudal scales,
: & à ERS à
This species is generally met with in wild and
unfrequented places; it is avoided as venomous by
many, although perfectly harmless. It feeds upon
the /oad, and several species of frogs; oftentimes it
catches small birds. Mr. Erastus H. Clap informs
me that he saw one that had swallowed a common
sized specimen of the Robin, “ Turdus migratori- .
us,” entire ; it is said also to prey upon the different
species of meadow mice.
C. amaenus. Say. The red Snake.
Journal Acad. Nat. Sciences, vol. iv. p. 237.
Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p. 118.
m
È Te + E *
A single specimen of this species has been re-
ceived from Professor Adams, who found it at Am-
herst. This specimen being preserved in spirits,
and its natural character somewhat affected thereby,
I avail myself of the very accurate description of
Say: $
“ Body above, reddish brown ; beneath, vivid red;
head not larger than the neck, obtusely rounded be-
fore ; terminal plate curving .à little on the top of
iu
Ei
*
)
Reptiles of Massachusetts. 29
the head, so as to be nearly horizontal above ; first
pair of plates rather short, breadth decidedly more
than double the length; second pair rather large,
oblique, posterior outer angle reaching the eyes;
central plate convex, rounded ; subtri-angular, wide
before and angulated on the anterior middle, poste- -
rior angle acute; posterior plates a little convex, ee
With a single scale between their tips; eyes with .
one scale behind, one before twice as long as the
posterior one, small plate above the eye less than half
the length of the central plate, and not twice as
large as the posterior eye plate; teeth minute;
scales smooth, polished, somewhat opalescent, slight-
ly convex, rounded at the tip; tail less than one
seventh the whole length ; tip rather abrupt, conic,
solid, acute.
Plates, 124; scales, 25. Total length, ten inches
and three tenths; tail, one inch and two fifths. :
Var. a. dark slate color above.
_A pretty and perfectly harmless serpent. The
contrast of color between the lively red, sometimes
rosaceous, of the inferior surface of the body, and the
brown, more or less deep, of the superior surface, ap: A
very striking ; the abrupt termination of the tail and
the narrow head, are also distinguishing traits. It
is found beneath stones and prostrate logs, but not
very frequently. = +
My specimen is seven inches long; tail, one inch ;
abdominal plates, 136 ; caudal scales, 32
30 Storer on the
C. eximius. Dekay. The chicken Snake.
Harlan's Med. and Phys. Res. p. 123.
i
T
This not very uncommon species, is known by
the names of house snake; thunder and lightning
snake; chicken snake; milk adder; and chequered
adder. It is one of our largest species, measuring
sometimes five feet or more in length; and is a beau-
tiful snake. A specimen thirty-four inches in length,
furnishes the following description: Body elongated,
varying very little, in its circumference anterior to
the tail, but back of the vent, rapidly terminating
in a point; all the upper portion of the body cov-
ered with smooth rhomboidal scales. Body, above,
of a dark brown color, with numerous transverse
white bands, which become confluent on the sides ;
the brown portions of the back. between these trans-
verse bands, irregular in their form, and margined
with black; blotches of a similar color with the
back, along the sides. Abdomen yellowish, varie-
gated with quadrangular black spots. Circumference
of the head less than that of the body; length of
the head, one inch; width across the head, half an
inch. The plate at the snout large, with a well
marked emargination beneath; the first pair of
plates moderate in size, quadrangular ; the second
pair of plates also quadrangular, and much larger ;
the central plate on the top of ‘the head, large, pen-
tagonal; those upon the sides of this, irregularly
quadrangular ; occipital plates very large. Fourteen
plates margin the upper jaw; sixteen plates edge the
Reptiles of Massachusetts. 31
lower ; these plates on the jaws are yellow, mar-
gined with black. Eyes moderate in size; from
their posterior angle, a black band passes obliquely
backwards. Upon the neck, seven longitudinal plates,
between the chin and the abdominal plates; the an-
terior three, largest; the second, larger than any.
Length of the tail, four inches.
The abdominal plates are 207 5 caudal scales, ‘48.
This species feeds upon toads and frogs.
C. sipedon. Lin. The water Adder.
; Shaw’s Gen. Zoology, vol. iii. pt. 2. p. 496.
Pen Harlan's Med. and Phys. Res. p. 114.
$
Large numbers of this species are found in mowing
meadows which are overflowed a part of the season ;
it is frequently killed at Cambridge, four feet and
more in length; its body being the size of a man's
wrist. By many it is avoided, as being poisonous in
its bite. The body is large; its circumference less-
ening but little, anterior to the vent ; rapidly tapering
posterior to the vent; of an uniform dark brown
color above ; reddish upon the sides ; abdomen yel-
lowish white, mottled with dark brown; beneath
the tail, nearly black. Whole upper part of the
body covered with rows of elongated, strongly cari-
nated scales; these carine, more obvious upon the
posterior extremity; nothing peculiar in the arrange-
ment of the plates upon the head; the ten plates
upon the top of the head, of moderate size ; sixteen
plates upon the upper jaw ; eighteen plates upon the
^. lowerjaw. Eyes pompes, Nostrils of moderate: v
32 Storer on the
size.
The abdominal plates are 139; - caudal scales 72.
In a young individual lying before me, seventeen -
inches in length, with the same number of abdominal
plates and caudal scales with the above described
specimen, the back is crossed transversely by a
large number of yellow bands, and the scales on the |
tail are so strongly keeled, as to produce well marked E
. grooves between the rows of scales.
|. "This species feeds upon frogs.
C. saurita. Lin. The riband Snake. |
Shaw's Gen. Zoology, vol. iii. pt. 2. p. 532.
Harlan's Med. and Phys. Res. p. 115.
This beautiful little snake is not very common ;
it resembles somewhat the sirtalis, but it is smaller,
lighter colored, and much more graceful in its figure
and proportions. Its form is very slender, tapering
to an acute point. Above, dark brown, with three
longitudinal stripes of a greenish white color, which
are very distinet as far as the vent, back of which
they are insensibly effaced; both sides of the dorsal
line, and the upper edge of the lateral lines, margined
with black. Whole length of the specimen before
me, ten inches; length of the tail, three and a half
inches. The scales upon the top of the head are
moderate in size; fourteen upon the upper jaw,
twenty upon the lower jaw. Eyes rather large:
The abdominal plates are 162; caudal scales 112.
Reptiles of Massachusetts. 33
Y A
id ELM o
spite aaa. Nobis. an spotted-necked
J : "g nake. pes
This EL. species, which I suppose to be unde-
scribed, was received from Professor Adams, who
found it at Amherst. It was sent me in spirits,
and therefore it is probable that its colors had some-
what changed. Its length is ten inches and a half ;
length of the head, less than half an inch; width
across the head, two lines. Body elongated, covered
with longitudinal rows of pentagonal scales, con-
nected, and at their posterior extremity, slightly fis-
sured. All the upper portion of the body, a light
ash or gray color. An indistinct band of a lighter
color passes longitudinally down the back; this is
' margined on each side with a row of dark colored,
almost black scales; on each side of the body, a
row of larger scales than those upon the back, unite
the back with the abdominal plates; these scales
are black, with a longitudinal delicate white line
passing through their centres. Abdomen yellowish
white, with black or fuliginous markings upon the
outer edge of the plates, appearing upon the anterior
plates like black dots. Circumference of the neck
less than the remainder of the body; body largest
just anterior to the vent; back of the vent it
rapidly approaches a point. The five anterior plates
upon the head, viz. that at the snout, and the two
pairs immediately posterior to this, yellow; the
other plates the color of the — variegated with
VOL. III.—NO. I-II.
a d
34 Storer on the ;
d
white. 'T'welve plates upon t
jaw, besides that at the chin. Three large white
irregularly formed blotches, directly back of the oc-
cipital plates; one above, and one on each side of
the first.
There are 124 abdominal plates, and 38 caudal
scales.
Inasmuch as the “ punctatus” sometimes exhibits
merely a spot upon the occiput, instead of a circular
band, the superficial observer might think that, and
the species I have just described, as identical ; a lit-
tle attention will show the marked differences be-
tween them.
HetTeErRopon. Palisot de Beauvais.
Generic characters. Plates and scales as on the
Colubri; the rostral plate a trihedral pyramid,
with a ridge above, and pointed at the tip ; posterior
maxillary teeth largest.
H. platirhinos. Latreille.
Daud. Hist. Nat. des Rept. tom. vii. p. 153.
Harl. Med. and Phys. Res. p. 190.
N. H. Herpetol. vol. ii. P. 97, et fig.
I have never seen a specimen of this animal ; but
Dr. Holbrook assures me he possesses an individual
which was captured at Medfield. His description
therefore is here introduced: ‘The head is large,
flat, triangular, broad behind, with the snout pointed
upper jaw, besides
that at the snout; fourteen plates margin the lower |.
Reptiles of Massachusetts. 35
and elongated at the tip; it is covered with scales
on the posterior part, and with plates on the anterior
and on the vertex. The vertical plate is regularly
pentagonal, with its broadest point directed forwards.
The superior orbital are quadilateral, elongated, and
broadest posteriorly, with their outer margins pro-
jecting over the eye, which gives a sinister look to
the animal. The occipital plates are rhomboidal.
The frontal are quadrilateral, with their anterior in-
ferior angles very much prolonged ; the anterior fron-
tal are triangular, with their bases directed inwards, — .
and their apices rounded, and turned to the nostrils.
Between these frontals, so as to prevent them coming
in contact with each other, is a narrow elongated
azygos plate, reaching from the posterior frontal to
the rostral plate, with a ridge on its upper surface,
continuous with that of the rostral plate. The rostral
plate is triangular, with its basis below and the
apex very pointed above, and recurved, with a strong
carina or ridge on the upper surface. The nostril
plates are two on each side; the anterior quadri-
lateral, lunated on the posterior margin, with its an-
terior and inferior angle greatly prolonged; the pos-
terior is narrow, and concave in front to complete
the nostril. There are twelve orbital plates, the
superior of which have been already described.
Besides these there are three anterior orbital plates,
which are quadrilateral, the largest being above ;
the inferior orbital are five, and the posterior orbital
three in number, all of which are quadrilateral.
The upper jaw has six lateral plates, quadrilateral,
and increasing in size to the sixth, which is largest.
36 Storer on the à;
The nostrils are very large, near the snout, and
lateral. The eyes are large, the pupils dark, the —
iris light gray. The neck is nearly the size of the -
head when he is quiet, but when roused or irritated
he flattens it to more than twice its ordinary breadth.
The body is elongated, thick, rounded above, but
flattened at the abdomen, covered with scales strongly
carinated above, the three inferior lateral rows being
ecarinate, and with plates below. The tail is long,
narrow, and terminating in a point, with scales or
bifid plates on its under surface.
Color. The head above is dusky, with a light
band between the orbits; behind the occiput is a
dark spot; a dark band begins at the back of each
nostril, which increases in size as it descends, and
forms a large blotch on the side of the neck. The
body is olive-brown, or sometimes brownish yellow,
and marked with a triple series of black or dark gray
spots; those of the vertical series being subquadrate
and elongated transversely ; the spots of the lateral
rows are rounded, and many of them correspond
with those of the vertebral line, while others alter-
nate with them. Sometimes the spots of the lateral
and vertebral lines are confluent, so as to give the
` appearance of bands.
Dimensions. Length of the head, 14 inches;
breadth of the head, whén not disturbed, 1 inch ;
length of the body, 27 inches; length of the tail,
5 inches; circumference of the body, 44 inches.
In the individual here described, there were one
hundred and forty-four abdominal plates entire, and
two bifid plates near the vent ; and forty-two pair of
subcaudal scales."
necat cereum eoe
»
| å . Reptiles. of Massackusetts. 37
" si
gm
>
ie 4 A $
. . QOmomarus. Lin.
- Generic characters. Head large, triangular,
rounded in front, covered with plates anteriorly ;
vertex and occiput with scales; a deep pit between
the eye and nostril ; upper jaw armed with poison-
ous fangs; body elongated, thick; tail short and
thick, terminating in a rattle, which is a corneous
production of the epidermis ; plates on the abdomen,
and under the tail.
C. durissus. Kalm. The banded Rattle Snake.
Turton’s Linneus, vol. i. p. 672.
Shaw’s Gen. Zoology, vol. iii. pt. 2. p. 317, et fig.
Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p. 132.
N. A. Herpetol. vol. iii. p. 81.
This species, which is generally known in New
England as the rattle snake, is extensively distrib-
uted throughout the State. Two fine specimens,
taken at Douglas the last summer, gave me an oppor-
tunity for minute observation. One of them meas-
ured three feet and one inch in length, and was five
inches in circumference ; the other was three feet
long. From the former, I drew up the following
notes :
Upper part of the body, of a yellowish brown
color, with rhomboidal black spots continued along
the back, margined with bright yellow ; upon each
side of these rhombs a black band is continued to
the sides of the body, where it terminates in an ir-
regularly quadrate black spot; tail black. Body,
38 Storer on the
beneath, yellow, with fuliginous dots and blotches
distributed irregularly over its surface. Scales on
the back elongated, carinated ; scales upon the sides
larger, caring less prominent. Length of the head,
one inch and a half; width of the head, one inch.
Top of the head, flattened; scales upon the top,
small; on the sides of the head, large, pentagonal ;
on the edges of the jaws, quadrangular. Snout,
terminated by one large plate; a quadrangular plate
on each side of this; directly back of these, a smaller
one, in which are the circular nostrils, situated ob-
liquely, pointing forwards. Directly above the two
lateral plates, two others are situated; the first,
meeting the snout anteriorly, and the second, extend-
ing some distance beyond the nostrils behind. At
the anterior angle of the eye, a large plate, separated
from the nostrils by two quite small plates, at the
anterior inferior angle of which, is the aperture for
the poison. A large plate over the eyes. Two
plates much larger than the others, upon the throat.
The rattle is composed of six corneous portions.
The other specimen has eleven rattles. The abdo-
minal plates are 170; caudal plates, 24.
Although the poison of this species is very viru-
lent, an accident is seldom known to occur; proving
its unwillingness to be the aggressor, and that the
fangs are used only as weapons of defence, after
sufficient warning has been. given of its presence, by
the rattles.
The general impression that a rattle is added an-
nually is incorrect. Dr. Holbrook observes, “ It is
now certain that rattle snakes have been known to
——
P. Reptiles of Massachusetts. 39
# i
gain more than one rattle in a year, and to lose in
proportion, the exact number being regulated no
doubt by the state of the animal as to health, nour-
ishment, liberty, &c. I have known two rattles
added in one year, and Dr. Backman has observed
four produced in the same length of time."
The power of fascination attributed to this genus,
is too absurd to require our serious consideration.
40 Storer on the
ORDER IV.
BATRACHIA.
Rana. Lin.
Generic characters. Body covered with a smooth
skin; upper jaw furnished with a row of minute
teeth ; another interrupted row in the middle of the
palate; no post-tympanal glands ; posterior estrem-
ities long, and in general fully palmated ; fingers
four ; toes five in number.
R. pipiens. Lin. The Bull-frog.
Shaw’s Gen. Zoology, vol. iii. pt. 1. p. 106, et fig.
Harlan's Med. and Phys. Res. p. 101.
N. A. Herpetol. vol. iii. p. 81, et fig.
This is by far our largest species of frog; it in-
habits ponds, ditehes, and pools of stagnant water,
but is not common in this portion of the State.
A specimen lying before me, twelve inches in
length, serves for my description. Greatest width
nearly three inches. Color above, a light green,
with sparse dusky spots upon the back ; head green.
Sides of the body, brownish ; beneath, white ; throat
yellow. Legs, more or less barred with dull trans-
verse bars. Fore legs, including toes, three inches
- in length; above, of a dull greenish brown color,
Reptiles of Massachusetts. Al
with indistinct brownish transverse bands; beneath,
white ; four toed, that next the outer, the largest,
each with three small tubercles at the joints of the
phalanges. Posterior extremities, seven and a half
inches long, of a similar color with the anterior ex-
tremities; the upper anterior half of the thighs
barred with brown bands; the upper posterior por-
tion, greenish brown, with an intermixture of a duller
brown color, with small white spots or blotches ;
legs with four transverse brown bands; indistinct
bands on the feet; five toed, that next the outer,
much the largest, being two and a half inches in
length ; toes palmated ; and tubercled like the toes
of the anterior feet; at the base of the little toe, is a
prominent projecting carina along the edge of the
phalangeal ridge of the largest toe; a row of yellow
dots run to the second phalanx.
Length of the head, one inch and a half ; width
across the tympanum, two inches. Eyes promi-
nent, large; pupils black ; irides greenish yellow ;
' distance between the eyes, three lines. Snout ob-
tuse and yellowish, as well as the margin of the
upper jaw. Nostrils about a line ‘in length, situ-
ated obliquely, half way between the tip of the
snout and the eye, appearing like two small black
points. 'T'ympanum half an inch in diameter, plane,
looking like a large scale fastened to the head;
just within its outer margin, a brownish circular
ring; within this ring, greenish. Mouth large;
numerous small sharp teeth in the upper jaw.
Tongue large, fleshy.
VOL. Ill.—NO. I—II.
idt ee
49 Storer on the
In the stomch of this specimen, taken in Muddy
Pond, Roxbury, I found five specimens of the
« Helix albolabris? with the contained animal;
one only was perfect, the others being more or less
digested ; this specimen measured one inch in its
greatest diameter, and was five lines in height.
This species usually feeds upon frogs and in-
sects, and the farmers assert that it sometimes robs
them of their chickens.
R. fontinalis. Leconte. The Yellow throated
green Frog.
Ann. Lyc. N. Y. vol. i. p. 282.
Harlan's Med. and Phys. Res. p. 103.
N. A. Herpet. vol. iii. p. 85, et fig.
This species appears very early in the spring, and
continues extensively distributed throughout the
season. It may be at once recognised by its green-
ish color, and yellow throat. Length of the speci-
men before me, three inches ; length of the poste-
rior extremities, four inches and a half. Head and
upper part of the anterior portion of the body, of
a brilliant green color; posterior portion of the
body slightly maculated, greenish, mixed with
brown ; sides granulated, brown ; mottled with irreg-
ularly formed and distributed black blotches, beneath
the throat, yellowish ; abdomen white. Head one
ineh long; snout blunted and yellowish at the
extremity. Eyes very prominent; pupils black;
irides metallic, encircled by a brilliant golden ring.
Nostrils nearer to the eyes than to the mouth.
Reptiles of Massachusetts. 43
Gape of the mouth large, upper jaw with many
minute teeth. 'Tympanum plane, circular, rust col-
ored; four lines in diameter. From the posterior
angle of the eye acuticular fold extends just over
the tympanum, along the edge of the back on each
side, to the posterior part of the body.
Anterior feet fawn colored above, with several
indistinct transverse brownish bands ; a dark colored
band along the posterior edge of the leg, extending
on to the sole of the foot. Feet four toed.
Posterior extremities of a darker brown color
than the anterior; thighs with indistinct bars upon
their outer portions; buttocks covered over their
whole surface with irregularly distributed black
blotches; beneath, a dull white; legs and feet,
same sole as the extremities of the —— Feet
five toed. |
R. halecina. Kalm. The Leopard Frog.
Shaw's Gen. Zoology, vol. iii. p. 105.
Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, vol. v. p. 337.
» N. A. Herpet. vol. i. p. 89, et fig.
This most beautiful species, called by Kalm the
shad frog, from its appearing in Pennsylvania in the
spring of the year, with the shed, is better known
in this state as the leopard frog, from its ocellated
appearance. It is exceedingly well marked, and
considered by alla very pretty animal.
The upper part of the back, and external side of
the limbs, brassy, with a metallic lustre. Upper sur-
face of the body, marked with large distinct irregu-
44 . Storer on the
lar spots or blotches which have a brownish centre,
a black circumference blending with each other,
and a bright green halo; generally there are two
longitudinal rows of these blotches, which are con- '
tinued the whole length of the body ; sometimes
these spots are very regular, at other times, a third
row may be seen, or the two will have become con-
fluent at their inner sides, or the spots in the same
row will have united with each other. Throat and
abdomen white. Eyes prominent; pupils black ;
irides golden. On each side of the back, an elevated
bronze colored ridge passes from the eyes to near the
extremity of the body. A similar, but smaller ridge
runs from the anterior angle of the eye to the snout.
On the outer side of the thighs, legs and tarsus, the `
blotches are long, irregular, but arranged transversely,
having the appearance of bands. Buttocks and pos-
terior surface of the thighs granulated and mottled
with black. Upper surface of the body finely corru-
gated with several irregular cuticular folds, arranged
longitudinally on the back. Throat and belly smooth.
Feet palmated; the fourth toe much larger than the
others. All the fingers and toes, with tubercles on
the inner surface of the joints. 'The body of this
species seldom exceeds four inches in length.
This frog is generally found in damp places, a
short distance from water; although, being a great
leaper and hence enabled to reach its wonted situa-
tions with ease, it is occasionally met with at consid-
erable distance from any pond or brook.
|
1
|
i
Retiles pof Massachusetts. 45
R. palustris. Leconte. The Pickerel Frog.
Ann. Lyc. N. Y. vol. i. p. 982.
Harlan's Med. and Phys. Res. p. 105.
N. A. Herpet. vol. i. p. 93.
Although Leconte applied the specific name of
“ palustris? to this quite common species, on ac-
count of its being found near salt marshes, it is as
frequently, in this vicinity at least, met with about
the margins of fresh water brooks and ponds, as in
any other situations. It is a prettily marked species,
but much less brilliant in its colors than the pre-
ceding.
The largest specimen I have met with, measured
three inches in length ; and the posterior extremities
were four inches and a half long. Color above,
cinereous ; abdomen white ; interior of the limbs and
lower part of the flanks, yellow. Upon the back,
two longitudinal rows of dark brown spots, which
are generally square, sometimes nearly circular ; in
some specimens, these become confluent and produce
an elongated band; in the same specimens, both
square and circular spots may occasionally be ob-
served. Between the back and sides, a broad yel-
lowish brown band is seen, commencing at the eyes,
and extending the length of the body. Two rows
of smaller spots of a similar appearance with those
on the back and sides. Snout, pointed. Eyes
rather prominent ; pupils, black ; irides, golden.
Tympanum, small, color of the back ; a dark colored
line extends from the snout to the eyes, a roundish
46 3 Storer on the
spot on the upper and inner side of each orbit, one
on the top of the head, and a smaller one below each
nostril. Thighs, legs, and tarsus, striped transversely
with broad dark bands or oblong spots; arms irreg-
ularly spotted. Back, smooth; flanks slightly tuber-
culated ; buttocks, granulated; fleshy tubercles on
the lower surface of the toes at the joints.
R. sylvatica. Leconte. The Wood Frog.
Lyc. Nat. Hist. N. Y. vol. i. p. 282.
N. A. Herpet. vol. i. p. 95, et fig.
This beautiful species is not often met with, in-
habiting as it does damp and thick woods; occasion-
ally it is seen at a great distance from any water,
and is very difficult to be taken on account of its
agility in leaping. It is rather smaller than the
** palustris,” and presents the following characters:
above, of a reddish brown color, resembling a dried
dead leaf; sides, variegated with green and yellow;
abdomen, white ; under part of the arms and posterior
extremities, lighter colored than the back. Snout,
blunted. Eyes, prominent; pupils, black; irides,
golden. A broad black band, narrow at its origin,
wider at its posterior portion, extends from the snout
to the shoulder: this band passes through the centre
of the eye, including within it, the tympanum ; mar-
gining the lower edge of this band, is a deep yel-
low line running its whole extent. Extremities
above, rather lighter than the back ; the anterior ex-
tremities are seldom banded; the posterior extrem-
overeat) ree
:
:
|
1
1
Reptiles of Massachusetts. AT
ities, crossed by transverse dark colored bands. An-
terior extremities, four toed ; posterior, five toed.
Like the three preceding species, this frog feeds
principally upon insects.
Hyropzs. Fitzinger.
Generic characters. Mouth furnished with a
tongue, teeth in the superior maxillary and pala-
tine bones ; tympanum, visible ; extremities slender,
tips of the fingers and toes terminating in slightly
developed tubercles. |
H. Pickeringii. Pickering’s Hylodes.
N. A. Herpet. vol. iii.
Rev. John L. Russell, of Salem, showed me the
only specimen of this species I have ever seen,
which was captured by Dr. Nichols, in Danvers.
Having no opportunity to describe it myself, I ex-
tract the following account from the pages of the
“ Journal of the Essex County Natural History Soci-
ety."
* Above, fawn color, changeable to dark cinere-
ous ; marked with two transverse narrow black lines,
forming a cross, and an irregular narrow line on each
side, producing, with the other lines, a general
rhomboidal configuration ; a large triangular spot on
the back of the head, formed by the junction of
lines proceeding from the centre of the irides; a
spot at the insertion of the fore legs; a pale yel-
lowish line margined with black, bounds the back
48 w^ Storer on the
part of the fore and hind legs; an irregular spot on
the extremity of the rump; beneath, granulated on
"the abdomen, legs and thighs; a character also per- — |
‘ceptible in some degree, on the upper surface. Head
rather obtuse; lower lip whitish; throat, clavicle,
and auricles, minutely spotted with black: dots;
irides golden copper. When resting on a dark sub-
stance, it changes at pleasure to a dark ashen hue,
the lines becoming black and prominent, and „the
spots on the head and rump very perceptible, as also
the transverse bars on the upper surface of the legs.
Length of the body from the snout, to the vent, one
inch; of hinder thighs and legs, each half an inch ;
of tarsus and toes, seven tenths of an inch; of the
largest toe, four tenths of an inch. Whole length
of the fore legs, half an inch."
» xd.
Hya. Laurenti.
Generic characters. Body in general elongated ;
upper jaw and palate furnished with teeth ; tym-
panum apparent; no post tympanal glands; fin-
. gers long, and with the toes terminating in rounded
viscous pellets. » i |
H. versicolor. Le Conte. The common Tree Toad.
Ann. Lyc. N. Y. vol. i. p. 281.
Harlan's Med. and Phys. Res. p. 109.
_ As the tree toad, this species is commonly known
throughout New England, from the cireumstance of
its being more generally found upon trees than in
+
NE Reptiles of Massachusetts. 49
$i Um .
l any other situation ; its color conceals it admirably,
and it often eludes a careful search on account of its
similarity to the object upon which it may be
ing. A specimen two inches in length, exhibits the
following appearances. Above, of a light ash color,
with a brownish cruciform marking between the
shoulders, and smaller irregularly formed blotches
distributed over various parts of the back ; beneath,
white, granulated, with a yellowish tint at the pos-
terior portion of the sides. Head, broad; snout,
| . blunt. Eyes, large; pupils, black ; irides, golden.
Extremities ash colored above. Anterior extremities
with a small number of brown markings; beneath,
white and brownish ; four fingers free, terminating
in pellets. Posterior extremities transversely barred ;
beneath, granulated, yellowish white, becoming yel-
low near the abdomen and upon the legs; five toes,
terminating, like the fingers, in pellets.
> An acrid secretion protects the skin of this species
from its enemies. Its principal food is insects.
H. squirella. Bosc. The little peeping Hyla.
Ann, Lye. N. Y, vol. i. p. 279. ^
Harlan's Med, and Phys. Res. p. 107.
dare
A
N. A. Herpet. vol i. p. 105. :
The only specimen I have seen of this species was
in a dried state; its colors were destroyed and its
proportions much changed from life. I have there-. :
fore no hesitation in copying the description and E
observations of my friend, Dr. Holbrook, as published
VOL. III.—NO. I—II. j.
50 | FI Storer on the
5e
in the first volume of his “ North American Herpe-
tology :”
— “ Characters. Body olive green above, marked
with dark brown blotches irregularly disposed; a
transverse dusky band between the orbits; whitish
beneath and granulated; head short, with a white
line extending along the upper lip to the shoulders.
Description. 'The head is short, with a dark band
between the orbits, the line from each orbit being
directed backwards so as to meet at an angle ; the
snout is obtuse, with an indistinct dark band extend-
ing from the nostrils to the eyes, below which isa
white line along the margin of the upper lip, reach-
ing to the shoulder; the lower jaw is almost white ;
the nostrils are placed near the extremity of the
snout; the eyes are prominent; the pupils black ;
the irides golden; the tympanum is bronzed and
surrounded by an indistinct circle of dark brown.
'The skin is smooth ; the body short and depressed
while living; the back is olive green, with irregular
blotches of darker olive ; the flanks are gray. The
inferior surface of the body is granulated, greenish
white in front, with a few dark spots at the throat ;
the posterior part of the abdomen is darker. The
extremities are olive green above, with occa-
) of brown, and flesh colored beneath; the
angers are four i in number, distinet, and each termi-
mati ng in a viscous pellet. The posterior extremities
€ long, green above, obscurely blended with dark
x brown, and flesh colored beneath, tinged with yellow
exfeiiidiy ; ; the lower surface of the thigh is granu-
-
a ) ei
Reptiles of Massachusetts. 5i
. E
P
lated; the toes are five in number, and semi-pal-
mated. MEC
Dimensions. Length of the body and head, 1
1-4 inches ; of the thigh, 4-5ths of an inch ; of the
leg, 4-5ths of an inch; of the tarsus and toes,
9-10ths of an inch.
Geographical distribution. Its most northern
limit must be considered as lat. 34°; we have no
evidence of its being found farther north. It
abounds in South Carolina, Georgia and Florida ;
how far west of these States it may exist cannot at
present be determined.
Habits. This animal is found on trees, often
seeking shelter under the bark of such as are decay-
ing ; it frequently chooses old logs for its place of
hybernation. In fine weather and after showers,
it climbs even the highest trees in search of insects.
General remarks. The colors of this animal are
even more changeable than in any species with
which I am acquainted. I have seen it pass in a
few moments from a light green, unspotted and
as intense as that of Hyla lateralis, to ash color,
and to a dull brown with darker spots; the spots
also at times taking on different tints from the gene-
ral surface. The markings, too, vary ex dingly
in different individuals, white line on : i e uppe
lip and the band betwe the orbits alone present-
ing some constancy. Daudin remarks that the leg —
is “shorter than the thigh ;" we have found them 4 NE.
nearly equal in length, and this character is by no
~ means so conspicuous as in H. versicolor.
Daudin first described this animal, and gave a
=~
e
> aj e
á
52 : - Storer on the
figure at from a drawing furnished him by Bosc.
Leconte has given the latest and most detailed ac-
count of it, establishing three principal varieties,
in one of which the spots, as well as the yellow
on the thighs, disappear altogether."
The specimen I possess was captured in Roxbury.
Buro. Laurenti.
Generic characters. Head, short; jaws without
teeth ; tympanum visible ; behind the ear is a large
glandular tumour, having visible pores ; body short,
thick, swollen, covered. with warts or papillae ; pos-
terior extremities but slightly elongated.
B. Americanus. The common Toad.
Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p. 109.
N. A. Herpetol. vol. i. p. 75.
This very common species is beginning to be
looked upon by the horticulturalist in the light of a
benefactor, and by many is carefully preserved on
their grounds for the benefits it affords them by
feeding upon noxious insects. 7 ;
A fine specimen, three inches in length, furnishes
= the following description: Greatest width, two
em
+
1
2
e a
NC
9-7;
inches. Body, bro mottled with black
TO blotches ; its whole upper surface covered with
- prominent tubercles; those upon the back, larger;
beneath, granulated, yellowish, sprinkled with black
spots. Head large ; superciliary ridges prominent ;
tympanum small, light colored, with an irregular
Los T
T * E AX. *
E
Reptiles of Massachusetts. 53
^
darker colored black marking within its circumfer-
ence. Mouth, large. Post tympanal glands large,
equal in length to the distance between them. Eyes
large; pupils black; irides beautifully reticulated
with black and golden; eyelids tuberculated. Be-
tween the eyes, on the top of the head, a yellowish
white line commences, which terminates at the pos-
terior extremity of the body.
The extremities above, of the same color as the
back; beneath, the color of the abdomen. A few
small dark colored blotches upon the anterior extrem-
ities ; larger spots, sometimes transverse, upon the
posterior. Fingers four in number, short, free. Toes
five in number, semipalmated ; the second, much the
longest; a large tubercle beneath, resembles some-
what a sixth toe.
Satamanpra. Brogniart.
Generic characters. Body elongated ; tail long ;
extremities four; fingers four; toes five; no tym-
panum; numerous small teeth in the jaws and
palate ; tongue as in frogs ; no sternum ; ribs rudi-
mental ; pelvis suspended by ligaments. —
a
S. erythronota. Green. The red-bac ed Sala-
miller: F-
Journal Acad. Nat. Sciences, vol. i. p. 356.
Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p. 95.
N. A. Herpet. vol. iii. p. 113, et fig.
This beautiful and quite common species presents
the following characters: My description is drawn
nS Storer on the
Ee
up frota a specimen between three and four inches
in length. Tail rather shorter than the body, cylin-
drical, gradually tapering to a sharp point. On the
upper part of the body, a broad band of a reddish
brown color, sprinkled with brown spots, extending
from the snout to the extremity of the tail, being
less marked however upon the latter. Beneath,
cinereous; much darker upon the sides. Throat
whitish, having a distinct fold. Upper part of the
head and tail, and also the sides of the body, present-
ing, under the microscope, a beautiful metallic lus-
tre. Head wider than the body, three lines in length,
one line and a half in width. Eyes very promi-
nent; pupils black ; irides metallic-colored. Ante-
rior feet with four toes ; posterior, five toed.
This species is very agile ; walking rapidly when
undisturbed, and running by sudden and irregular
jerks when taken. I kept specimens alive several
. weeks by allowing them dead leaves, which were ^
constantly kept moistened. From correspondents, I à
have received them from Cambridge, Roxbury, Mil-
ton and Amherst, at which places they were found
under stones and decayed wood. :
S. symmetrica, Harlan. The symmetrical Sal- i
f$ | er. :
Journal Acad. Nat. Sciences, vol. v. p. 158.
N. A. Herpetol. ni ii. p. 59, et fig.
The fine speciineas T me of this species;
were found at Amherst, under decaying wood and
‘leaves, by Professor Adams.
Í
(
|
l
1
i
»
Reptiles of Massachusetts. — 55
Length, three inches; tail, the length of the
body, circular at the base, compressed towards the
extremity. Whole upper part of the body, of a sal-
mon brown color; on each side of the spine, from
three to seven small ocellated spots of a beautiful
vermillion color, surrounded by a black areola; skin
above, covered with innumerable very minute tuber-
cles, scarcely discernible without a glass, giving it a
rough appearance. Beneath, of a golden orange
color, sprinkled with minute black points, from the
tip of the chin to the very extremity of the tail.
Head three lines long, two wide, flattened; two
longitudinal very obvious ridges, the length of the
head, between the eyes. Eyes, not very prominent,
of a deep black color, with a bright golden iris.
Snout, obtuse. Anterior feet, with four toes; pos-
terior, five toed.
In young specimens, the whole back is soared
with minute black dots, and the sides have fewer
ocellated spots than in the adult. The largest speci-
men in my possession, has seven ocellated spots on
each side; in different specimens, these spots vary
in number ; but in all the specimens I have seen,
an equal number exists on each side of the spine,
in the same specimen.
The motions of this species are much less. rapid
than those of the “erythronota.” Tt casts its skin
in June. In the stomach of this species are found
spiders, and detached portions of insects.
Dr. Holbrook has received this species from Flor-
ida; and J. W. Randall, M. D. of this city, brought
me specimens from Hallowell, Maine.
Se*
* is ÀJ
S...
LES
56 ' Storer on the
* +g
S. fasciata. Green. The banded Salamander.
Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, vol. i. p. 350. : |
Harlan's Med. and Phys. Res. p. 94. 33
N. A. Herpet, vol. iii. p. 103, et fig. ^
The beautiful living specimen, from which my
description is made, was found by Professor Hitch-
cock, at Monson, and kindly transmitted to me.
Its length is five inches; léngth of the tail equal
to that of the body; oval at its anterior portion,
slightly compressed in its middle, and pointed at its
posterior extremity. Upper part of the body, of a
light clay or ash color, with transverse dark brown
bands extending from the head to the extremity of
the tail. Whole under portion of M i body, of a
dark slate color.
Width of the head, equal to one half its length.
Eyes prominent; pupils, black; irides, color of the
abdomen. Snout, rounded. Anterior feet, four toed ; T
posterior, five toed.
Some of the bands in my specimen are confluent. |
This is the only individual I have seen, and there- _ |
fore think it must be a rare species with us. i
S. venenosa. Barton. The violet-colored Sala-
mander.
Daud. Hist. Nat. des Rept. t. viii. p. 229.
Trans. of Amer. Phil. Soc. vol, vi. et fig.
Harlan's Med. and Phys. Res, p. 93.
N. A. Herpetol. vol. iii. p. 105, et fig.
= Dr. Barton’s account of this, our earliest described
Salamander, which is exceedingly interesting, is con-
B E
Reptiles of Massachusetts. 57
* ps
tained in the “ Transactions of the American Philo-
sophical Society.” His specimen. was six inches and
eight tenths of an inch in length. It grows to a
larger size even than this.
The specimen upon my table, is five inches in
length ; tail, two and a half inches long, cylindrical
at the base, compressed towards the extremity. All
the upper part of the body, of a dark purple color.
On each side of the dorsal line, a longitudinal row
of oval, circular and oblong spots of a bright yellow
color, varying in size; these spots commence on the
back part of the head, and are continued towards the
extremity of the tail, where they become single.
Smaller spots of the same color on the legs and feet,
and above A of the eyes. Beneath, the body is
of a lighter color, with a great number of very mi-
nute white dots. Length of the head, two thirds of
an inch; width across, half an inch. Eyes, of a
deep black color, and very prominent. A strongly
marked cuticular fold around the throat.
The above described specimen was found in Rox-
bury.
In another individual, found by Professor Adams,
at New Bedford, three inches in length, a row of
small yellow spots, resembling a broken line, par-
tially encircles the eyes; in this specimen, the ab-
domen is destitute of the small white points so per-
ceptible in the preceding specimen, but its sides are
covered with them.
A specimen of this species was brought me from
Kennebec county, Maine, by J. W. Randall, M. D. Baa
8 .
VOL. III. — NO, I—II.
a
58 Storer on the
e
S. salmonea. Nobis. The salmon-colored Sala-
mander.
N. A. Herpetol. vol. iii. p. 101, et fig.
The specimen described by me in Holbrook’s
* American Herpetology,” was found by Dr. Binney,
in Vermont: but as Dr. Holbrook says an individual
of this species has been “ found in the neighborhood
of Danvers, Massach) ges I can have no hesita-
tion in admitting it in this report.
Length, six and a half inches; length of the tail,
two and a half inches; compressed, carinated above,
gradually tapering to a point. Whole upper part of
the body, head, tail and legs, of a yellowish brown
color; the sides of the head, neck, body, tail and
legs, of a salmon eclor. 'The entire surface of all
the upper portion, as well as sides, spotted with ir-
regular grayish markings, which are more obvious
on the lighter colored sides. Beneath, the head and
body white; light salmon color beneath the tail.
Head, one inch in length; width of the head,
back of the eyes, four lines; snout, very obtuse;
nostrils, rather small; a strongly marked cuticular
fold upon the neck. Eyes, remote, and very promi-
nent; pupils, deep black, with a metallic, copper-
colored iris; from the edge of the upper lip, just
exterior to the nostrils, arises a salmon-colored line
about a fourth of a line in width, which runs back
to the inner angle of the eye, and passing up over
. the ye loses itself upon the middle of the back part.
: 4 iis species was found upon moist land. It lived
MMC rper UN ee ee ENE E a oe aa
Reptiles of Massachusetts. 59
a year in confinement, and appeared perfectly
healthy, eating voraciously of flies.
S. dorsalis. Harlan. The many spotted Sala-
mander.
Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, vol. vi. p. 101.
Harl. Med. and Phys. Res. p. 99
N. A. Herpet. vol. ii. p. 57, et ba
From Roxbury and Andi 1 have received
numerous specimens of this species by the aid of
Professor Adams, and. my brother-in-law Dr.
Brewer. An individual three inches and three lines
in length, exhibits the following characters. Tail
ratherlonger than the body. Body, above, dark
olive, and granulated as in the “symmetrica ;"
lighter on the sides. All the upper part of the
body, together with the feet, to the extremities of
the toes and tail, sprinkled with innumerable black
points. Beneath the body, the legs, and tail, of a
sulphur color, darker under the tail, and tinged with
olive; similar black points with those above, are
spread over the surface beneath, which in some
specimens are much larger than in the ‘“ symme-
trica.” Eyes prominent; pupils and irides similar to
those of the “ symmetrica.” Tail very much com-
pressed in its whole length, carinated above and
beneath. Vent very prominent. Anterior feet with
four toes; posterior five toed. Ocellated spots of
a similar color with those on the “ symmetrica" but
smaller, are arranged on each side of the spin E
fü
60 Storer on the
these spots vary in number on the two sides; thus,
of the eight living specimens before me, of nearly
the same size, but three have five of these spots
on each side; the others have three and four and
six and seven on one side, with five on the other;
and one specimen has nine on one side, eleven on
the other, with a single line with one similar spot
beneath this line on the side, and stil another
beneath, on the edge of the yellow abdomen.
All the specimens I have seen were taken in
brooks. In the stomachs of several individuals,
were found fragments of the genera “ Lymnea,”
and “ Physa.” I have kept these animals for months,
they seeming to thrive very well by a daily supply
of fresh water, and a sufficient quantity of flies
which they seize by a sudden spring, and swallow
by several continued efforts. This species casts its
exuvie in June, and the new cuticle | is in all res-
pects similar to the former.
= in the “Journal of the Academy of Natural
Sciences,” Harlan describes a salamander which he
calls “dorsalis,” some of the specific characters of
which, are “a whitish dorsal line extending from
the occiput over the tail; a row of whitish colored
oblong spots on each side of the dorsa! line ; beneath,
freckled with black dots."
Not meeting with any description which agreed
with the species I have just described, two years
since I read an account of it before this soci-
ety under the name of “S. millepunctata.”
My friend, Dr. Holbrook, while examining, with
me, the last season, the reptiles belonging to
LE rr E e MEE ee
Reptiles of Massachusetts. 61
the Society, assured me he had seen the speci-
men in Philadelphia, originally described by Har-
lan, and that it was the same species that I
had supposed new. How Harlan could have
made such a description as he has from this
species, it is difficult to imagine. He must
have described a specimen preserved in spirits,
else he could not have seen “a row of whitish
colored oblong spots on each side of the dorsal
line;?" but even alcohol could not produce “a
whitish dorsal line," where no defined line existed,
of any color, in life. Dr. Holbrook's second volume
of his “ North American. Herpetology,” containing
a description of the * S. dorsalis," has, within a
few months, issued from the press. Were I governed
by his description, which makes no mention of the
innumerable black dots above, which cover its en-
tire upper a well as under surface in every indi-
vidual of whatever age I have met with; or his
plate, which corresponds with it, I might be in-
duced to disbelieve the identity of our species; but
preferring to think the omission may have been.
accidental, I would yield my doubts to the convic-
tion of that distinguished herpetologist.
i
:1
S. picta. Harlan. The painted Salamander.
Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, vol. v. p. 136.
Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p. 98.
I have never met with this species ; but Dr. Pick-
ering, of Philadelphia, informed me, some time since,
62 Storer on the
that a specimen belonged to the cabinet of the
* Academy of Natural Sciences," which was found
in a well at Ipswich in this State; I therefore ex-
tract from the Journal of the Academy, Harlan's
description of the species :
“ Body blackish or dark slate color above, yellow-
ish or light orange color beneath ; skin beneath the
neck, folded; head large; legs strong; tail com-
pressed at its inferior portion nearly the length — —
of the body.
~ Dimensions. Total length nearly four inches;
body rather more than two inches ; tail less than two
inches; length of the head six tenths; breadth five
|
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tenths; length of the hind legs six tenths; of the
fore legs four tenths.
Description. Head large, rather flat; occiput
broad, slightly protuberant ; snout obtuse, rounded
anteriorly ; rietus of the mouth wide, extending
posteriorly to the eyes; anterior borders of the lips
slightly undulating ; skin of the throat folded, so as |
to form a collar nearly surrounding the neck; |
body above, blackish ; a longitudinal furrow extend- |
ing from the occiput along the back to the base of — —
the tail; inferior portion of the body: obsoletely
punctured with dark spots, more visible on the
sides; legs short, strong, and thick, externally of
the color of the back; internally of the color of
the belly; tail subquadrangular for the first two
thirds; the remainder or inferior portion abruptly
compressed, pointed, with the superior and inferior
borders carinate.”’
Tore ——Éá a UNION CERES
w
96 —
o y
A .
Reptiles of Massachusetts. 63
S. glutinosa. Green. The blue spotted Sala-
mander.
Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, vol. i. E 357.
Harlan's Med. and Phys. Res. p. 94.
The only specimen I have seen, was sent me
from Andover by Mr. Alonzo Gray. It continued
alive for several weeks, and presented the follow-
ing characters : ;
Length, six inches. Whole upper part of the
body, of a very dark brown thickly sprinkled with
distinct light blue spots. Sides appearing quite
light colored, from the blue spots having become
confluent. Abdomen lighter colored than the back,
exhibiting the spots more numerous and distinct
than the back. Head, three quarters of an inch
long; nearly half an inch wide, flat ned
Eyes very prominent ; of a deep black >O] T,
separated from each other. Nostrils itl
Legs, color of the body, and spotted like it. An-
terior feet, four toed ; posterior, five toed, and un-
usually long. Tail, length of the body; much
compressed throughout its whole extent, save the
extremities, the anterior of which is circular, the
posterior pointed.
S. maculata. Green. The brown spotted Sala-
mander.
Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, vol. i. p. 350.
Harlan's Med, and Phys. Res. p. 96.
PU. i Ren Lu e E É;
64 Storer on the
The only specimen of this species I have seen
was brought me by John W. Randall, M. D., of this
city, who found it in a pond in Groton. This is
quite a young specimen, being only an inch and a
- half long, and having the branchiæ still attached ;
and as its colors have somewhat changed in the
alcohol, I extract Green’s description from the Jour-
nal of the Philadelphia Academy. | * Length, four
or five inches; tail about as long as the body, taper-
ing, slightly compressed, and pointed ; snout round-
ed; back whitish, sprinkled with irregular, reddish
DLE spots; beneath white; anterior feet, four toed,
posterior feet five toed.
Norr. Individuals of this species vary much in
size, and in the number of spots. I have one about
three inches long, with the tail more compressed and
obtuse, than the above."
All the Salamanders here described, feed upon in-
sects, which they devour in very large numbers, and
hence their utility cannot be questioned.
Mr. Peabody on the Birds of Massachusetts. 65
ART. II. — 4 REPORT ON THE BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS
MADE TO THE LEGISLATURE IN THE SESSION OF 1838-9.
By Rev. W. B. O. PrAsopny, Springfield, Mass.
^ INTRODUCTION.
Tue history and habits of our birds are not yet fully
understood, and notwithstanding all which has been done,
many experiments and observations would be necessary to
ascertain them more satisfactorily, and accomplish all the
objects of a survey. It will, moreover, be obvious, that,
were I so situated as to be able to make them, it could not
be done without employing in it several successive years.
I therefore communicate such information as I have, trust-
ing that our present. knowledge will soon be extended by
the active and intelligent observers, who are engaged in
this delightful study. —
One object proposed is, to enumerate the birds of Mas-
sachusetts; another, to give what information we possess
respecting their habits, particularly such as cultivators are
interested to know. As Nuttall's valuable Manual is ac-
cessible to most readers, I have thought it better to refer
to him for descriptions of the appearance of our birds, than
to swell this report by repeating them. For the same
reason, I shall follow his arrangement, subjoining to my
account of each bird all I can learn respecting its services
and depredations; that the husbandman and horticulturist
may determine which it is his interest to protect, and
which he has a right to destroy; or rather, whether it is
not the part of wisdom to encourage and protect them all.
With respect to the first of these objects, it would be A
easy to give the names of those which remain with us.
VOL. III.—NO. I—II.
66 | Mr. Peabody on the
throughout the year, or of those which come to us in their
regular annual migrations. But beside these, there are
some which make their appearance at uncertain intervals,
and it is not always easy to determine whether they
. Should or should not be numbered with our birds. "There
are others also, which have been found apparently wander-
ing from their usual ways, but which, having come to us
once or twice, may do so again. The proper course
seemed to be, to give the names of all which have ever
been seen here, leaving it to future observation to deter-
mine whether our State is their resting-place or their home.
In explanation of the difficulty alluded to, I may mention
one or two facts which were communicated to me by Dr.
Thomas M. Brewer of Boston, whose unwearied and suc-
cessful researches will soon extend our knowledge of this
subject much beyond its present bounds; and to whom, in
connection with some other gentlemen, whose names will
appear in the course of the report, I am happy to ac-
knowledge my great obligations. He informs me, for ex-
ample, that a Purpte GALLINULE, Gallinula martinica, was
shot in Stoneham on the 27th of November, 1837. i
is a bird belonging to tropical America, and usually passes
its winters near the Gulf of Mexico; and yet, when taken,
instead of appearing exhausted, like a lost wanderer from ,
its usual haunts, it was in good flesh, and evidently had
been lately feeding. Mr. Cabot also states that a FLORIDA
GALLINULE, G. galeata, was shot in Fresh Pond several
years ago. This last incident is not wholly unprecedented,
the same bird having been found near Albany, in the state
of New York. The visit of the beautiful Purple Galli-
nule, is, I believe, entirely without example. But I can no
more regard them as our birds, because they have been
thus found once or twice within our borders, than I can
regard the Stormy Petrel as a land bird, from the circum-
stance of having met with it in Springfield, seventy miles
[
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Birds of Massachusetts. 67
from the sea. I learn also from Dr. Brewer, that three
specimens of the Lrrrue Corporat, Falco temerarius, were
lately killed in Stoneham and brought to the Boston market.
This is a bird discovered by Audubon, and so rare, that
even Nuttall professed to know nothing of it from personal
observation, The same gentleman has also obtained in
Boston harbor, the Pomarine Jacer, Larus pomarinus, à
bird so rare, that the indefatigable Audubon himself never
encountered it within the limits of the United States.
It is well known that some birds, for obvious or unknown
reasons, change their favorite resorts, at times withdrawing
from places where they have been common, and appear-
ing in other places where they have not been seen before.
Of this singular migration, the Curr SwALLOW, Hirun-
do fulva, is a remarkable example. It is well known that
the Chimney swallow came from the wilderness in the
same manner; but in that case, the reason was manifest;
it was because, in cities and villages, chimnies are always
to be had, while trees, hollow from the top, are not com-
mon, even in our ancient woods. No similar reason can
be given for the movement of the Cliff Swallow, which
has emigrated to us with a quarter of a century, and is
now the most common of the tribe in some parts of the
State. The earliest information I have of its appearance
in New England is from Chief Justice Shaw, who tells me
that he found it at the White Mountains, in the summer
of 1816. In the case of birds rarely or lately found among
us, I can only offer what information I am able to obtain,
and must leave it to the reader to judge for himself, whe-
ther they come as accidental wanderers, as spies to explore
the country, or as pioneers to take possession and estab-
lish a permanent home.
With respect to the second object of the survey, that of
giving information which may be useful to cultivators of
the soil, I am fully persuaded from my examination of the
68 Mr. Peabody on the
subject, that there are no birds which it is our interest
to destroy. There are some which are occasionally
troublesome in our fields and gardens; but, do what we
will, we cannot prevent their depredations; if we shoot
them, we only gratify our revengeful feeling, since new
reinforcements stand ready to supply the place of every
one that falls. And this is not the only thing to be
regarded. In every instance of our removing a present
inconvenience, we are opening a door for the entrance of
much greater evils. But without any systematic dis-
cussion of this point, I shall introduce remarks as they
suggest themselves, in the course of the report, showing
where we are indebted to any birds for services, and
where we suffer from their depredations; leaving the reader
to balance the one against the other, and to judge for him-
self whether the course of mercy or revenge is the best for
him to pursue.
Having made these remarks in explanation of the plan
which I propose to follow, I proceed to give the names
of such residents and visiters in our State as I have been
able to ascertain. There may be some passed over ; and
if so, I hope that those who have not favored me with
the results of their observations, will aid in accomplish-
ing the objects of the survey, by giving the information
they may possess, to the public, in some other form.
DIEUSM.UF FREY.
Tur Jrn-rancow, Falco Islandicus, a bold and
graceful bird, is seldom found wandering far from
the icy latitudes in which it dwells, and it is in only
the depth of winter, that it is ever seen as far south
s,
rid
Birds of Massachusetts. 69
as Massachusetts; but we have Nuttall's high au-
thority for saying that a pair is occasionally seen
within our borders. In the days of falconry, this
fine bird was employed for striking the larger prey,
which it did by out-soaring and pouncing upon
them with great rapidity and power. ‘There is
much variety in its markings, and some specimens
are found to be nearly white; which is believed to
be an indication of age, its whiteness increasing
with years.
Tue American SPAnROoWHAWE, Falco sparverius,
a beautiful little falcon, which is said to be rare in
the maritime parts of our State, is not at all uncom-
mon in the inland villages, where it comes fearlessly
into cultivated enclosures, and pursues its prey with-
out regard to those who pass by. The blue jays have
a bitter aversion to it, probably, because it interferes
with their own piratical expeditions. Whenever it
appears, they follow it with loud and abusive lan-
guage, mocking its cry with ridiculous exactness,
till the hawk, who, in general, seems rather enter-
tained with the exhibition, at last, stunned with
their noise, and provoked at their impudence, seizes
the foremost of their number; without, however,
putting a stop to their persecutions.
This bird is partial to the southern climates :
some few remain in New York during the winter,
but the ordinary cold of New England at that season
is too severe. Still, it is seen here in cold weather,
perched on some tree or stake which commands an
open view, where it watches for mice or any smaller
70 Mr. Peabody on the
game, not being particular, and caring more for the
quantity than the quality of its food. “It is easily
tamed, and would be an amusing companion, were
it not for its taste for chickens; the hen, no longer
hen-hearted in defence of her young, gives battle
to the little hawk and destroys him. I believe that
the nest of this bird has not been found in our
State. s
The Picton Hawx, Falco columbarius, is rare in
the western part of the state, and Nuttall had the
impression that it was not seen in New England;
but Dr. Brewer informs me that he has often found
it in the vicinity of Boston. It is migratory in its
habits, and, when in pursuit of its prey, cares not
whither it goes. It siezes the robin, the wild pigeon,
and even the gold-winged woodpecker, on the land ;
and on the water, it pursues much larger birds,
which can escape from it only by diving. It has
been known to attack birds in cages, in the very
heart of cities; and so indifferent is it to danger,
that it does not even shun the presence of man, the
common object of dread. When wounded, it throws
itself on its back as the hunter approaches, and
with angry screams, prepares to defend itself to the
last. Where the pigeon hawk raises its young i$
not certainly known. It is not seen in the United
States, except in early autumn and winter; in the
Spring and summer, it is probably in the northern
regions; but at other seasons it travels to the most
southern boundaries of our country.
i
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Birds of Massachusetts. 71
The Lrrrue Corporat, Falco temerarius, is so
rare a bird that when Nuttall’s work was published,
the only specimen known, was the one discovered
in Pennsylvania, and described by Audubon, twenty
years before. In a spirit of somewhat doubtful
compliment, he named it after Napoleon, I believe
from some supposed personal resemblance to that
great human bird of prey. Nothing is yet known
respecting its habits, nor the place and the manner
in which it rears its young; but the singular fact
just mentioned, that three specimens of a bird so
uncommon were obtained at the same time in a
single village, seems to indicate that the species will
be more common. This would be no unheard of
thing on the part of hawks, which sometimes ap-
pear and remain in considerable numbers, where none
had been found for years, if ever before.
The GorpeN Eacir, Falco fulvus, a fierce and
angry bird, loves the wildness of desert and moun-
tainous regions, where it neither seeks nor fears the
presence of man. As such tracts are not wanting in
Massachusetts, it sometimes comes within our bounds;
but it delights more in ridges as desolate as the White
Mountains of New Hampshire. It is not common
anywhere, and is hardly ever seen in the more level
and cultivated parts of the country. In pace and
swiftness of flight it is inferior to some other birds,
but it exceeds them all in the power of its brilliant
eye; which enables it to aim, with unerring precision,
atits destined prey. Its flight, if not so rapid as that
b
2:
xa^
B Mr. Peabody on the
of other eagles, is exceedingly majestic and graceful,
and answers to the fine description, 1
* Sailing with supreme dominion,
Through the azure depths of air.”
The nest of the golden eagle has been found on
the Hudson, but never, I believe, within the limits
of our state. Perhaps it may be found hereafter on
Graylock or some of our western mountains. They
build, of course, where they can find abundance of
their usual food, such as fawns, young racoons, rab-
bits, and wild turkeys; but they are indifferent to
climate, enduring the utmost severity of winter, and
moving with ease and unconcern in the face of the
most violent storms. The golden eagle would be
the acknowledged head of its family, were. it not
for the giant discovered by Audubon. The ring
tailed eagle of Wilson is now well known to be the
young of the present species.
The Wasuineton Eacenr, Falco Washingtonia-
nus, was discovered by Audubon, and happily named
by him in honor of the man, who is still the absolute
sovereign of all hearts in this country, and will con-
tinue to rule over it, for ages, by his memory and
example. It was known before our great ornitholo- :
gist recognised it as a new species, and was supposed
to be one of the familiar kinds ; but from the circum-
stance of its building on a cliff, and procuring its
food by diving instead of robbing the fish-hawk, it
was obviously different from the brown eagle, as the
bald eagle, in his immature state, is often called.
It was not till two ` years after he first saw it, that
|
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Birds of Massachusetts. ra
Audubon was able to obtain a specimen, when he
found that his conjectures were correct, and that it
was neither the brown or sca eagle, as Wilson calls
the young of the white-headed, not knowing that it
was an immature bird ; nor was it the true sea eagle,
Falco albicilla, which it more resembles. From the
latter it is distinguished by its greater size, and by
the greater length of the tail, which in F. albicilla
does not extend beyond the folded wings.
The favorite residence of this bird is in the rocky
solitudes near the great lakes, where it is seen flying
in broad circles near the land or the surface of the
water: when about to dive, it descends in spiral
rounds, keeping its eye upon the fish, and comes very
near it before it makes its plunge; when rising, it
flies low, to a considerable distance, and then de-
vours its victim at leisure. When the severity of
winter closes the water and abridges its means of
subsistence, it sometimes wanders into New England,
and in January and February, the coldest months in
our year, it is occasionally seen within our bounds.
The WnurrengApED or Bar» Eacrz, Falco leuco-
cephalus, is the most familiarly known of all the
eagles. Against the remonstrances of Franklin, it
was adopted as the emblem of our country, an honor
to which it was entitled, if not by its character, at
least by residence, since it is found in every part of
the Union, leaving the colder latitudes to the sterner
and hardier of the race. It manifests a preference
for the warmer parts of the couDiry, but all who live
VOL. I.—NO. I-II. 140.
74 Mr. Peabody on the
near our lakes and larger rivers or the shores of the
sea, are acquainted with its towering flight and its
solemn cry, which, impressive as it is, in the midst
of desolation, is nevertheless, like that of all other
eagles, so harsh and discordant as to leave without
excuse the excise officers of Bristol, in England, who
detained a couple which Colonel Montague had im-
ported, under the act which imposed a duty on sing-
ing birds. |
The manner in which this eagle subsists, though
not creditable to its morals, is strongly illustrative of
its power; and as power and oppression are apt to be
united in human beings, we cannot wonder that the
same alliance should exist in birds. It stands perch-
ed on some tree, from which it commands a wide
view over the waters, where it waits in gigantic
repose, its wings lifted, as if keeping time with the
heaving sea. It seems to look with calm unconcern
on the numberless birds that are sporting or gather-
ing food upon the waves ; but all the while its bright
eye is fixed upon the industrious fish-hawk, which,
unconscious of danger, is quietly gathering food for
his young. The moment he reappears from his
plunges, whitening the sea with foam, the eagle
launches forth from his resting place, pursues him
with force and rapidity even greater than his own;
and when, after whecling in broad circles and trying
every art and effort to escape, the hawk is compelled,
as a last resource, to let fall his prey, the eagle bal-
ances a moment, as if to make sure its aim, then
shoots down like an arrow, and secures its prey be-
fore it touches the wave. ‘These exhibitions excite
Birds of Massachusetts. 75
much sympathy for the injured party in those who
witness them ; and it is to be hoped, that it was no
prophetic discernment which selected this eagle,
beautiful as it is, to represent the character of our
Union. ; fee.
Sometimes the fish-hawks, when they can endure
their injuries no longer, combine their forces, and
compel the eagle to retreat from the shore. In that
case, it makes havoc among other birds, or when
those resources fail, it sometimes carries away lambs
from the neighboring farms. It is said that it has
made an attempt to carry off children, and there is
no doubt that it has sufficient strength and courage.
Sometimes it robs the sportsman of the birds which
he has shot ; it seems to understand the use of the
gun, and to know that, when once discharged, it is
harmless till loaded again. It is commonly very
difficult for a person thus armed to approach this
eagle, for, audacious as it is, it does not rashly expose
itself to danger. It is shot by approaching it under
the cover of a tree, or after a snow-storm, when, for
a time, it seems to lose much of the power of its eye.
The white plumage of the head, from which this
eagle derives its name, is not fully developed till the
fourth, and sometimes not till the fifth or sixth year
of its age. This is the case when the bird is in
confinement ; perhaps when at liberty, it may attain
its full beauty at an earlier age. In other respects,
this eagle is mature within a year from the time of
its biith.
The Frzsu-mawk, Falco halietus, which is so
nr
iud
r
76 Mr. Peabody on the
often a victim to the rapacity of the eagle just des-
cribed, is an interesting and harmless bird, which
confines itself industriously to its employment of
fishing, never attacking other birds nor land ani-
mals, though it has great strength of flight and of
talons, and though it sometimes arrives in the spring, |
when the bays and ponds are frozen and its food is
difficult to be procured. It has no controversy with
any bird except the eagle, and that warfare must
be regarded as defensive; no single hawk is able to
encounter the enemy, but, by joining their forces,
they become too strong to be resisted.
The fish-hawk is on excellent terms with the
fishermen, though they are of the same trade. Its
coming’ announces the arrival of the shoals of fish
that crowd our rivers in the spring. Perhaps its
exemption from persecution may be owing also to
its well known gentleness of disposition. Unlike
other birds of prey, the fish-hawks are social and
friendly to each other. They come to us in flocks
of eight or ten, who build near each other, and rear
their young in perfect harmony, and this spirit of
hospitality and kindness is extended to other birds
that seem to have no claim upon them. The crow
blackbirds are permitted to shelter in the inter-
Stices of their nests, which are huge constructions,
made of a cartload of heavy materials firmly matted
together. 'The notion that the fish-hawk protects
the domestic poultry from other hawks is without
foundation, since it never interferes with the pur-
suits of any bird whatever; It is well, however,
that the impression should exist, for if not wcll
i
ty
*
e —ÀÓ— mrs
Birds of Massachusetts. 77
founded, it serves the cause of humanity and saves
the fish-hawk from destruction.
These birds come upon the coast of Massachusetts
at the last of March or the beginning of April, keep-
ing time with the alewives, on which they feed.
For some reason or other, they seldom breed here.
The first appearance of frost, is the signal for them
to retreat to warmer climates. They are not un-
common in the interior of the country near our lakes
and large rivers. In winter, they are sometimes
seen near New Orleans; but this is not by any
means the extent of their migrations, and these
probably are individuals which have not strength to
accompany the rest.
The American Gosnawx, Falco palumbarius, for-
merly supposed, on the authority of Bonaparte, to be
different from the European, is now generally admit-,
ted to be the same. It is not common in Massa-
chusetts, nor in any part of the United States; but
it sometimes follows the flocks of ducks in their
migration, and destroys considerable numbers. It is
an active and restless bird, seldom seen off the wing,
except when devouring its prey, and is so fleet in
its motions that, in Maine, it will dash down at the
farmer's door and carry off chickens so rapidly that
it is hardly possible to shoot the robber. In the
western country, it follows the immense flocks of
pigeons, and selects its prey from among them, not-
withstanding tho swiftness of their flight. Audubon
saw one of them give chase to a flock of grakles,
from which he seized four or five in succession,
ridge, and then through an inner partition of.
E
78 " F, Mr. Peabody on the
letting them drop into the water below ; after killing
a sufficient number, he picked them up one after
another and carried them to the shore. This bird is "
so savage and voracious, tliat it has been known to
eat the young of its own species, when destitute ri
other food. #
The American Brown, or SLATE COLORED Hawk,
Falco fuscus, is now known to be the same with
F. velor, and F. Pennsylvanicus, which Wilson
described as distinct species, though not without
suspicions that they might turn out to be the same
with others formerly known. It is not common in
New England, but is said to abound in the thinly
settled parts of the southern states, where it often
makes great havoc among the domestic poultry,
which it seizes and carries off in the very sight
of the farmer. We learn from Nuttall, that one of
them, in pursuit of his prey, burst through the glass
of the green-house in the Botanic garden at Cam-
re, his wing feathers being to by the glass, 4
he was arrested in the attempt Tie through ——
a third. Wilson speaks of the slate-colored hawk Tu
as found in the Atlantic states. generally ; but its —
numbers anywhere must be small. Its nest was
found by Audubon, in one instance, in a hole in a
rock, in others, built with sticks on trees.
Cooprn's Hawx, Falco Cooperii, was named by
Bonaparte, i in I onor of Mr. William Cooper of New
York. It is added to the list of our birds, on the
Pr ag
Birds of Massachusetts. 79
authority of Mr. Samuel Cabot, Jr., who obtained a
single specimen in Cambridge. The circumstance
that so little is known of this fine bird, after all the
t researches of eminent ornithologists, shows what a
broad field of the science is yet untrodden, and
makes it a subject of congratulation, that so much
-~ zeal and intelligence are now engaged in the study.
The food of this hawk consists principally of birds ;
which, of various sizes, from the ruffed grous to the
sparrow, are laid under contribution. In the south-
ern states, they are said, like the preceding species,
to be troublesome in consequence of their depreda-
) tions upon the poultry.
The Rovcn-LEccEp Farcow, Falco lagopus, and
F'alco Sancti Johannis, were supposed to be two dis-
tinct species, till Audubon showed that these, and
at me ages ; a mistake easily made, oro of
g] bon received : i
sat perched on stakes and trees, or flew about pur-
suing their prey ; but. the dark colored birds were
— . much more shy than the light ones, a difference
| kc which he ascribed to their greater age. Falco niger,
| in his opinion, is ‘the old rough-legged falcon.
These birds are found in the neighborhood of
swamps and marshes, where they watch for moles,
mice and frogs, and occasionally encounter a wound-
ed bird. heir appearance is heavy and inanimate,
suiting well with the dreary places where they
Re i
d Their. RE T alike, and all their attitudes, as me T
Falco niger of Wilson, were names of the same bird —
zc
i des
N.
| E
80 Mr. Peabody on the
reside ; but as they are supposed to resemble the
owls in their vision, perhaps they make up, by activi-
ty at night, for their sluggish listlessness by day.
Their home is in the north, where they doubtless
rear their young ; but their habits in this respect are
very little known; itis only in winter, when their -
food fails, that they come into our State, and some- —
times procced to the south as far as Maryland.
The SHORT-WINGED Buzzard, Falco buteoides, is
found in this State; more abundantly at the ap-
proach of winter than at any other season. In New
York, it is said to commit depredations on the poul-
try ; but here, it is not thought to have activity and
courage enough for an enterprising and suceessful
robber. It remains inactive on the margins of
_ swamps and meadows; making a hoarse cry at in-
“tervals, to which its mate replies. But if not re-
ifieriinbie. Mir spirit; x p some good traits of char-
A e: feed the apenas till | they are :
ET hier respect, we know iting Seon observation ;
they do not breed in this State, though Pennant
says that they remain in New York through the
year, and build in the beginning y May.
The Rep-rartep Hawk, Falco borealis, is more
certainly known as a destroyer of poultry. Though
shy at other seasons, in winter they approach the
farm, sweeping near the ground and snatching à
wandering hen or chicken. But, like the crow;
Xa
*
Birds of M assachusets 81 *
they seem to have an intuitive perception of the use
and reach of the gun, and if they see a person armed,
they give a scream of disgust, and sail away far be- 4
yond his reach. As farmers give them the name of :
hen-hawks, and treat them accordingly, they are
compelled to exert much caution in their distant
intercourse with man. They are able to do this — ; E
successfully, by means of their rapid and powerful f
flight; they can float high over a whole plantation, ;*
without a single flapping of their wings; all the
while they make a mournful cry, as if wholly intent i
upon their own sorrows, but they are in reality z
keeping sharp watch on every thing that moves be- |
low; should they see an animal, they alight, take :
deliberate aim, and shoot down like an arrow to
secure it. They will sometimes, as if in the mere M
enjoyment of this power, soar upwards till they are P =.
lost in the clear blue sky. These birds rear their wet j e a
young in Massachusetts, building in dee ag
they may escape persecution. ‘The fran
their nest is made of sticks, p nishe wit
and coarse grass. The eggs are of a dull w
blotched with black and brown. The young are
fed with squirrels, rabbits, and various other food.
As soon as the young are able to take care of them-
selves, the old birds dissolve their partnership, and
treat each other as perfect strangers.
The Brack Warrior, Falco Harlanii, was first ——
discovered by Audubon in Louisiana. He at first
supposed it to be the black hawk of Wilson, but
on examination it proved to be a new species, al-
VOL. IIIL.—NO. I-H. —
jg
PS +
82 Mr. Peabody on the P
—
lied to the preceding, but superior to it in every
thing but size. It is considerably smaller, and,
though not able to contend with its enemy, the
red-tail, escapes by its superior fleetness. It seldom
preys on animals, but subsists on poultry, partridges
and other birds. Nuttall informs us that these birds
are occasionally seen in Massachusetts ; and, though -
it is not known that any one has been taken, the
observation of such a naturalist is not to be disre-
garded. Of the nest and habits of this bird, at the
breeding season, nothing is ye known.
The RED-SHOULDERED Bra Falco lineatus. lt
has been a subject of discussion whether this is a
species distinct from the Winter falcon, Falco hiem-
alis ; Audubon, in his first volume, maintained that
they were different, and said that the winter falcon
was much more common than the former. I have
since understood that he has found reason to change
his opinion ; and if it be true that they are the
same, F. lineatus, the name of the supposed adult,
one that should. be preferred. In a list kindly
furnished me by Dr. Brewer, it is set down as breed-
ing in our State.
The Hrs-nanRIER OR Marsu Hawk, Falco cyan-
eus, though found here in considerable numbers, is
not of any great importance, either as a friend or an
enemy of man. In the southern states, though not
common, it is in high estimation for its services in
Wltióying the small birds, while they are engaged
in plundering the fields; but in the northern states,
it generally confines itself to marshes, where it
|
|
ie
a "1
". Birds of Massachusetts. 83.
E 3
*
skims along the ground in search of mice and frogs, "
which are its main dependence for food, sometimes -
carrying on its labors in the twilight or the moon-
light. In the winter, it extends its migration from
Hudson's Bay to the southern limits of the United
States. Audubon found it at Labrador, on the one
hand, and at Texas on the other.
The Meruin, Z'alco «salon, of which a specimen
was obtained by Dr. Richardson at Carlton House,
in the fur countries, is at present but little known
in America. It is the same with the English merlin,
which was formerly used in falconry, being valued
for its strength and spirit, though inferior in size.
The female could kill a partridge at a single pounce,
but the male contents himself with humbler game.
Nuttall assures us that this bird is occasionally seen
in the vicinity of Boston.
In the list of birds of prey, I have not. included
the Gerar-roorep Hawk, Falco peregrinus, not
having ascertained that any one has been taken
here; but as they are growing numerous in other
places, where they have been rare, and are now
found in states not distant, subsequent observations
will probably include them in the number of our
birds. . ^
‘
The Hawk Own, Strix funerea, is so much like
the former class of birds of prey, in its appearance,
that, at a short distance, one could hardly determine
whether it is a hawk or an owl. It is a native of
the Arctic regions; in the fur countries it is well
A
| e ^
. 84 Mr. Peabody on the
known, from its practice of following the hunter
and snatching up the game when it falls. Little is
known about it here, since it is but seldom that it
wanders into New England.
The Snowy Owr, Striz nyctea, is more common
in Massachusetts than in most other states of the
Union. It makes its appearance at the approach of
winter; its large size and snowy plumage are well
suited to resist the climate, in the icy solitudes where
it dwells, and nothing but the difficulty of procuring
a subsistence, drives it from its favorite home.
-—
There, it delights in the stern solitude of a night -
which lasts for half the year, and its dismal cries,
resembling those of a man screaming in agony, are
said to increase the dreariness even of that fearfully
desolate scene. When it is compelled to wander in
search of food, it is quite abundant in Canada ; often
found in the most northern states, and occasionally
seen as far south as Florida. It frequents the banks
of streams, sailing slowly over the surface, or takes
its station on a rock, watching for its prey ; and the
moment a fish appears, it secures it by a sudden
grasp of its claw. Its food, however, is various, con-
sisting of rabbits, grouse, ducks, and mice; it is
probably the pursuit of rats and mice which brings
it near the abodes of men, where it would not be
caught by accident, since it has power to see both
by night and by day.
Audubon believes that he has reason for asserting
that the yellowish whiteness which makes the plu-
mage of this owl so rich and beautiful, is not ac-
kv t QE i AS a i s AI hI i tip a Uf PAESE RD AGBS Dirt QA
Birds of Massachusetts. 85
quired till after a certain age. He has shot many
which were of an uniform light brown; these he
fornerly thought were of a different species; but
now he considers them the young of the snowy owl.
This bird is said to breed in the northern parts of
the state of Maine, but there is, as yet, no sure au-
thority for the assertion. Their nests are not found
in Labrador nor Newfoundland ; probably they are
to be sought for in the highest latitudes, since the
snowy owl comes to us like a herald of the in
storms, and spends the rest of the year in his Arctic
home. 5
The Rep Own, Strix asio, is a permanent resident,
and rears its young in Massachusetts; appearing
more common in winter, not because it migrated in
the milder season, but, its supplies in the forest
failing, it comes to barns and houses in search of
food. During the day, it finds shelter in unfrequent-
ed places, and when seen, appears drowsy and list-
less, as if more than half asleep. It has good reason
for preferring solitude at such times ; for the smaller
birds, which it persecutes by night, know that they
have the advantage by day, and do not scruple to ©
follow up their revenge. Sometimes they proceed |
from words to blows, and the owl, having the worst
of the battle, is compelled to seek safety in a random
flight. It is known by the name of the little
screech owl, from the ery which it makes in the
early part of the night.
In connexion with the history of this bird, Audu-
bon asks the question, why it is that the owls
W
86 Mr. Peabody on the
T
living in the milder climates, should be thus defec-
tive in their power of vision, while the natives
. of Arctic regions can see both by night and day,
when the sun or moon shines bright on the snow.
Without referring to the structure of the eye, it is
obviously a reason of this difference, that, if those
birds had not the double power, in latitudes where
the days and nights are unequal, they would be
able to see for half the year, and would be blind
forthe other; and thus, when the days are long,
must perish for want of food; whereas, to those
which live where the hours of sunshine are not
many, even at the summer solstice, it is no hardship
_ to be compelled to take rest by day.
Nuttall kept one of these owls in confinement,
to observe its habits. In the day, it retreated to
a dark closet ; but as night came on, it grew rest--
less, gliding along the room in perfect silence, 4
power which the owls owe to the delicate plumage
of their wings. Sometimes it would cling to the
wainscot, and turn its head almost round, resembling
a spectre with its bright glaring eyes. In all the
_ Owls, the globe of the eye is immoveably fixed in
dts Socket, by an elastic cartilaginous case, in the
; form of a truncated cone. On removing the out-
Wal membrane which covers this case, it is found
to consist of .many parts, placed like the staves
of a cask, overlapping a little at the narrow end,
u^
and capable apparently of being enlarged or con- .
ract
tracted. The eye being thus fixed, the owl, in
order to see any object, is obliged to turn its head,
and has the power to move i it round, aiios in a
imus circle. — we
M
ry
t
Pm PRI mmn Prts pcm m gungen ugue E
Birds of Massachusetts. 87
© The red owl rears its young in Massachusetts ; it
lays from four to six eggs, in a hollow tree, with a
lining of hay or leaves. As soon as the young are
hatched, it makes liberal provision of food for them.
It is the small birds which suffer on these occasions,
and it is in revenge for this carnage, that they pur-
sue the owl with so much detestation.
The Great HonNED or Cat Own, Strix Virgin- |
iana, is well known, though not much to his advan-
tage, in consequence of his depredations on the do-
mestic poultry. Being one of the largest and strong-
est of his tribe, more than two feet in length and
four in extent, with energy and courage in propor-
tion, he is capable of making great destruction in
solitary farm yards, especially when he adds to his
powers of mischief, a caution and cunning, in which
even the cat does not exceed him. This, however,
is one of those evils which lessen as the population
increases, so that in our state, though most villagers
are acquainted with the bird, there is not much
complaint made of his depredations.
The flight of this owl is easy and graceful: when
it discerns its prey, it falls upon it so swiftly that -
escape is impossible. Hardly anything comes anjap
to its voracious appetite, but it prefers the larg
gallinaceous birds, and. delights particularly in:
fish that chance may throw upon the shore. Its cries
are loud and shrill, sometimes resembling the bark-
ing of a dog; at other times, they are compared to
the last gurglings of a murdered man striving in
vain to call for oF When wounded, it. resists with
. Tee
um i x
»
E
Ld
d
88 Mr. Peabody on the
great fierceness, striking with its bill and claws, its
large eyes opening and shutting in quick succes-
sion, and its feathers rising so as to double its ap-
parent size.
The great horned owl is one of those which rear
their young in Massachusetts, The nest is generally
in the fork of a tree, made of twigs, and lined with
leaves and a few feathers. The eggs are from three
to six in number ; the color, white. The male re-
lieves the female in sitting. The young remain in
the nest till they are fully fledged , and acquire the
full plumage of the old birds in the succeeding
spring.
The CrwEREoUS Own, Siris cinerea, or Great
Grey Owl, as he is commonly called, is very often _
found in Maine, but seldom in Massachusetts. Sev-
eral years since, Ohne was taken on a woodpile in
Marblehead, and lived some months after its capture.
But such visits are accidental, and its home is at
Hudson’s Bay and Labrador, where it is found
throughout the year.
in search of. rats 4nd mice, wh o ether wi with
moles and field-mice, ant its MER, eundi for
food. It is soMetiMes mistaken for the young of the
great-horned Owl, à species which it resembles in
everything but size, so that they are easily con-
founded by untaught observers. It is like it in
1
ffs
Hye Pee
Birds of Massachusetts. 89
courage also, and, when wounded, makes a fierce
and angry resistance, which it is difficult to over-
come.
The Sgonr-kARED Owr, Strix brachyotus, is an-
other of those wanderers which occasionally leave
their northern home to visit us. It feeds almost
entirely on mice, and can be brought into view
sometimes, by imitating the low squeak of its prey.
They are attracted also by the light of fires, and,
either in blindness or ferocity, have been known to
attack the men near them. They are remarkable for
spirit, and, though small, not exceeding thirteen
inches in length, it is almost dangerous to approach
them. In their intercourse with each other, they are
more social than most other birds of prey. Bewick
says, that in England, more than two dozen have
been seen engaged in the same field, destroying
mice, in company. In this work of extermination
they are eminently serviceable to the farmer; but,
like many other birds, they have reason to complain
. that man is slow to discover, and still slower to
acknowledge his obligation.
The BaRRED: Own, Strix nebulosa, is found in
ie other states of the Union, and though
it inhabits the ‘northern regions, abounds most in the
southern parts of our country. Their food is various,
consisting of rabbits, grouse, squirrels, rats and mice,
and, beside what they obtain in the field and forest,
they levy large contributions on the domestic poul-
VOL. III.—NO. I—II.
an
T *
tO
90 — Mr. Peabody on the
try. They are not destitute of sight by day, but
they move doubtfully, as if uncertain of the character
of the objects near them ; in the night, they are quick
and active, and if domesticated for the purpose, are
said to make excellent mousers. So delicate is their
plumage and so noiseless their motion, that we are
told by Audubon, he was aware that one was flying
directly over his head, only by its shadow cast by
the moonlight on the ground; though it was only
a few yards distant and flying fast, he could not
hear the least. rustling of its wings. Their cry is
loud and discordant, resembling a forced burst of
laughter, and makes a strange contrast with the soli-
tude and silence of the night.
The barred owl is often offered for sale in the -
New Orleans market, and by some is considered pal-
atable food. Audubon says that the snowy owl is ;
good eating, but they are so catlike in their habits, -
that, before they could meet with much favor, on
the table, a considerable been of prejudice must
be overcome.
The AcapraN or LrrTLE Own, Strit Ucadica, is
found in Massachusetts, but lives so retired, by day;
that it is not generally known. Iti is’ a beautiful and
animated bird, with a note singularly discordant,
resembling the filing of a saw. Widubsr one day,
walking near his: saw-mill, heard this sound pro-
ceeding from it, and finding the door locked, went to
the miller’s house, to ascertain who was engaged
in filing the saw. There he ascertained that th
little owl which had a nest hard by was the author
E E.
mg
eem
$
|
l
|
'
Birds of Massachusetts. | 91
of these unmusical sounds. This bird is probably -
the saw-whetter, which is heard so often by those
who visit the White Mountains. Its common cry
at night resembles the dull sound of a whistle.
This bird is solitary in its habits, confining itself
to the evergreen forests by day. When disturbed, it
flies timidly, and takes advantage of the first shelter
it reaches, where it may be caught by one who uses
sufficient caution in his approach. At evening it be-
comes lively, flying round with wonderful swiftness
in search of mice, beetles, moths a d grasshoppers.
It sometimes manifests a desire to see the world.
Some have been taken in the heart of our cities ;
in Cincinnati, one was caught on the edge of a cra-
dle in which a child lay asleep.
* The Ancric, or Wurre-Hornep Own, Striz arctica,
is a rare and beautiful bird, of which a single speci-
men was obtained by Dr. Richardson, in his expedi-
tion, shot with an arrow, by an Indian boy. Nuttall
says, that a specimen was once seen, for two or three
days, in Cambridge, and from descriptions which I
have received, of a bird resembling the snowy owl,
with horns, I am persuaded that it will turn out to
be a more frequent visiter than is now supposed.
ndn s re Strix aa is a small
species, and so entirely a bird of night, that when
seen abroad by day, it is unable to escape, and may
be caught by the hand. It feeds on mice and
beetles, and is found in all the forests of the fur
countries, where: its melancholy note, repeated at
Ve
F
Ti-
d *
92 Mr. Peabody on the
Eia . i , ij
ntervals, like minute guns, awakens the superstitious
feeling of some of the Indians, who call it the bird
of death. It is on the high authority of Audubon,
who, as Dr. Brewer tells me, has found this owl
here, that it is added to the present list.
In an economical point of view, the birds of prey,
just enumerated, are of no great importance. The
hawks, and some of the owls, are powerful birds,
and, as the depredations of the latter are carried on
by night, they might be very destructive to the
poultry, if their numbers were greater. But in so
extensive a country, most of them can secure food
without trusting themselves in the vicinity of man.
For this reason, the great proportion of them do not
come near us; and those which do, are more likely
to render service by destroying field-mice and similar
animals, than to make themselves odious by plunder-
ing the farm. Instead, therefore, of waging a war
of extermination against them, it is our interest, if
not to encourage, at least to let them alone.
# ge
OMNIVOROUS BIRDS. _
à Before proceeding to describe the omnivorous birds,
Which come next in the proposed order, it may not
be amiss to make some remarks on the practice of
destroying them, which prevails to a great extent in
Our state. Sometimes it is deliberately done; by
those who wish to secure their orchards and gardens;
i
“it
E . ww
Ld
Birds of Massachusetts. UT. s
E
dde
and, in such cases, there is a right, no doubt, yee
vent aggressions, if possible. But far more are killed e
every year by wanton boys, who, without any reason
but their own pleasure, are permitted to indulge in a
cruel amusement, from which every man of sense
and feeling should carefully withhold his children.
Any one who can find sport in giving pain to animals,
needs to be taught the first principles of humanity ;
and, lightly as this matter is regarded, it is certain
that this thoughtless indulgence always depraves the
moral feeling more or less, and leads the forma-
tion of habits of idleness which are not easily broken
in after years. In a busy country like ours, there
are few, beyond the age of boy-hood, who have time
for play ; a civilized man is supposed to find his
enjoyments in his duties; and if he needs relaxa-
tion, he can find it without torturing animals, whose
right to happiness is as good as his own.
It is, however, in the light of utility, that this
subject can be most forcibly presented ; and it will
be seen, that, to exterminate birds which do a little
harm. occasionally, is to protect ourselves from a
. small evil at the expense of a greater; it is in fact
o5 securing the fruit by the sacrifice of the tree.
"There is no question that we are now suffering
severely in consequence of this folly. No kind of
cultivation is affected, to any considerable extent, by
the depredations of birds, and if it should be, means
may be devised to prevent them. Not so with the .
insects and their ravages ; the fate of the locust, the
apple, the pear, and many other trees, shows, that
if insects fasten themselves upon one of them, we
*
a à "<
94 Mr. Peabody on the
mušt give it up as lost, for all that we at present
know. Surely, then, of two evils we should submit
to the one which may possibly be prevented, rather
than invite and encourage one over which we have
no control.
A slight calculation will show what an amount
of service birds are able to render. Wilson makes
the computation, that each red-winged blackbird
devours on an average fifty grubs à day ; so thata
single pair, in four months, will consume more than
twelve thousand. Allowing that there are a million
pairs of these birds in New England, in summer,
which is but a moderate estimate, they would de-
stroy twelve thousand millions. Let any one com
sider what an immense injury that number of in-
sects would do, and this would be sufficiently strik-
ing to show how much we are indebted to the la
bors of these birds. But the computation may be
greatly extended, for many insects have young by
the hundred ; beside cutting off the existing de
stroyers, they are prevented from multiplying ; and
when we consider what myriads of birds there are;
constantly and efficiently engaged in this service, it
gives us an impression, beyond the power of calcu
lation to reach, of the astonishing manner in which |
the increase of insects is kept down, simply by
sparing the lives of their natural destroyers ; and
this, it must be remembered, is the only means of
preventing their increase and reducing their formida
ble numbers. No other remedy that man can apply
will reach the evil; this is the vocation of birds;
and if, for the sake of removing a small evil, we
E?
qe
sin ileal o
r: 7
Birds of Massachusetts. 95
will not permit then? to live and labor in it, we
must not complain when the natural consequences
come.
This is not mere speculation; we have experi-
ence to teach us on this subject. Kalm records,
that after some states had paid three pence a dozen
for the destruction of blackbirds, the consequence
was a total loss, in the year 1749, of all the grass
and grain, by means of insects which had flourished
under the protection of that law. The example of
our trees, just alluded to, is also a standing warning ;
for we see that new ones are adding to their num-
bers. The maple, perhaps the most valued of our
ornamental trees, is now marked out for destruction,
and in spite of all that we can do, will soon be
entirely lost. 'T'here is nothing to prevent this pro-
cess from going on; other trees will soon swell the
list of victims ; und when it is too late, we shall
lament that we have extended the evil, by protect-
ing our enemies and persecuting our friends. Every
cultivator, for his own sake, as well as the public
good, should endeavor to spread right views on this
subject, and to show that the wanton extermination
. of birds, is throwing difficulties in the way of
horticulture and farming, which no industry, science,
or skill can overcome.
The American SvanLING, Sturnus Ludovicianus,
better known by the name of meadow lark, is a
beautiful bird, and one of the most welcome messen-
gers of spring. Wilson thought it far superior to the
sky lark in sweetness of voice, though not equal to
96 Mr. Peabody on the
it in ‘compass and power. By others, its song is
underrated ; and the truth is that the notes of dif-
erent individuals vary from each other, some having
a wiery and lisping voice, while that of others is
eminently sweet.
The favorite haunts of this bird are meadows and
old fields. They can walk easily on trees, but pre-
fer the ground, where they employ themselves in
searching for insects and berries, almost always
associated in companies, though not very near each
other. If a gun be fired, great numbers will start
from different parts of the same field. They are al-
ways gentle and retiring, and never show any dispo-
sition to encroach upon the orchard or the garden.
In winter, they resort to the open woods, but in
the close, deep forests, they are never found. Some
of them ,are seen with us late in winter; but the
great body doubtless emigrate to the south, since
they are found at that season in the Floridas, in
great numbers, and some retire beyond the limits
of the Union.
In the pairing time, these birds select a tuft in the
field or meadow, and there construct their nest with
t . LI LI 94,
coarse grass, with a lining of the same material.
It is in the form of an oven, and is ingeniously
concealed by matting together the blades that sur-
round it. It is also provided with a retired avenue;
through which only one at a time can enter. The
eggs are white, blotched, and sprinkled with reddish
brown. These birds are very kind and friendly to
each other. While the female sits, the male pro-
Vides her with food and watches over her retreat.
Birds of Massachusetts. 97
When the young are hatched, toward the end of |
June, they both guard and provide for them with
affectionate care. The lark has few enemies except-
ing hawks and snakes and young sportsmen. "The
farmer brings no charge against him, and even chil-
dren spare the nest and the young.
The Batrimore ORIOLE, Icterus Baltimore, is per-
haps the most splendid of all our summer visiters,
and is admired, both for the richness of its plumage
and the full-hearted sweetness of its song. It is
known by various names; children call it the gold-
robin; it is often called the hang-bird, from the
peculiar nest which it suspends from the tree, and
some give it the poetical name of fire-bird, from its
glancing through the foliage like a flame of fire.
Most birds of this family remain in tropical climates,
where they need an inaccessible nest to secure them
from serpents, monkeys, and other artful foes, and
when they come to us, they retain the same habit,
though exposed to no such dangers. ‘They are not,
however, without that prophetic instinct which is so
remarkable in many birds. When they build in the
south, they make their nest from the light moss,
which allows the air to pass freely through it, and,
as if aware of the heat which is to come, complete it
without a lining ; while in the cool and variable cli-
mate of New England, they make their nests of soft
substances, closely woven, with a warm lining, and
hang it in a place where it shall have tho early heat
of the sun. í
VOL. III.—NO. I-III 13
98 Mr. Peabody on the t,
The construction of this nest is a singular pro-
cess of art. The male takes a string, stolen per-
haps from a window, and with his bill and claws
ties one end to a drooping twig of an elm or some
orchard tree. Having secured this, he proceeds to
fasten the other end, in the same manner, to another
twig drooping parallel with the former, a few inches
distant, letting it fall between the two twigs like a
swing. The female then comes and fastens another
string so as to cross the former, and to keep the
twigs in their place as a circular frame-work for
the nest. Having thus determined its depth and
circumference, they proceed to weave a coarse cloth,
with such materials as they can find, forming a
pouch, impenetrable to the elements, in the bottom
of which they place the real nest, the whole fabric
being shaded, by the arbor of leaves above it, from
the rain and the heat of the sun. They take such
materials as come to hand ; skeins of silk and thread,
Which have been missed by housewives, have been
fornd at last, woven into the baltimore's nest. It is
difficult to understand how they can do this without
the aid of mechanic art; but Nuttall observed that
— one was constantly endeavoring to thrust his
bill between the closed fingers, in order to fore
them open ; which helps to explain the mauner in
Which they open interstices and insert threads in
the process of weaving. The female lays from four
to six eggs, of pale brown, dotted, spotted and lined
with dark brown. A day or two before the young
are able to leave the nest, they creep in and out,
and sometimes cling to the outside. After leaving
*
Birds of Massachusetts. 99
it, they are fed and protected by their parents for
several days. and then driven forth to try their own
fortunes in the world.
The motions of this bird are singularly animated
and graceful. They are often seen clinging by the
feet, like a rope-dancer, in order to reach some in-
sect from a branch beneath them. In the spring,
they feed almost entirely on insects, and it is evi-
dent, that, numerous and active as they are, their
services must be of great value. Nor can they be
accused of doing harm to any extent, natural as it
would seem for them to claim some reward for their
labors. They are often charged with plundering
the pea-vines in the garden; but Dr. Harris has
shown that they resort to them for the sake of the
grub of the pea-bug, which they draw out from its
shelter, and thus protect the vegetable which they
are said to destroy. But it is not necessary to
plead the cause of. this universal favorite ; he seems
to know the esteem in which he is held, and he
builds as readily in the elm that swings over the
city street, as on the tree that shades the cottage
door in the country.
"The Rrp-wixcep Buackeiro, Icterus pheniceus,
‘is well known in all parts of Massachusetts, and
though sometimes mischievous here as well as else-
where, is not disliked and persecuted, as he is in
many other states. On the contrary, the pleasant
associations of spring are awakened by his coming ;
some of his notes are agreeable to the ear, and his
bright red wing coverts, contrasted with his glossy
TUM
7 |
i
100 Mr. Peabody on the E
black plumage, make him a striking object in the
meadows where he resides. As soon as these birds
hear the voice of spring, they set out from the
southern states for the north, in small flocks, the
males singing an invitation for the females to follow.
They often reach us before the snows are gone, and
are seen laboring to collect worms, grubs and cater-
pillars, as they walk with a rapid and graceful step
over the meadows and fields. They often follow the
ploughman to collect the insects turned up by the
share, and move with easy confidence, knowing that
they may trust his good nature then, if at no other
time. In fact, they seem to know, that they can do
for us, in the way of exterminating these enemies of
all vegetation, what nothing else can ; and to take it
for granted, that man, who is blessed with reason,
will make some use of it and not deprive himself of
services which no other creature can render. This
calculation, like many others made on human wis-
dom, is often disappointed, and men and hawks com-
bine to reduce their numbers, but in vain.
The red-wings build their nests in marshes or wet
meadows, forming the exterior of coarse dried weeds;
lined with fine grass or hair, and sometimes secured
to the ground by such cordage as the place affords.
The eggs are from four to six, light blue, thinly
spotted with dusky. In August the young aro ready
to associate in flocks, and this is the time when they
are found in such countless numbers, feeding upon
the corn. Those who make war upon them, resem-
ble the traveller, who, annoyed by the chirping of |
grasshoppers, alighted from his horse to put them
Birds of Massachusetts. 101
to death. When fired upon, they only remove from
one part of the field to another; and as for scare-
crows, they seem to be rather entertained by such
exhibitions of human skill.
The Cow Buacxsirp, Icterus pecoris, is never nu-
merous, like the former, and is so much less inclined
to the corn-field than to the insects which are found
in it, that it cannot be regarded as an enemy of man.
But it is generally detested for other good and suf-
ficient reasons, that is, if we suppose the bird to be
a moral agent, and fully acquainted with the enor-
mity of its own proceedings. Inclined to perpetual
roving, and having a strong aversion to all domestic
cares, the cow-bird contrives to escape them by lav-
ing its eggs in the nests of other birds, making
them foundling hospitals for its own young. When
the owner of the nest returns, for the cow-bird takes
advantage of its absence, and when it finds the stran-
ger in its premises, it manifests much uneasiness and
agitation. Sometimes it throws it out, but as small
birds are the victims on those occasions, it often has
not strength for the effort. If that is the case, it
sometimes covers up the egg by making a new
floor to the nest. If unable to do either, it submits
patiently to the imposition. The cow-bird's egg is
always hatched first, and the young cow-bird some-
times stifles the lawful heirs by its superior size.
The parent bird, however, feeds it, and treats it with -
more kindness than could be expected under the
circumstances ; and the foundling, as if aware of his
obligation, conducts with decency and respect, mak-
102 Mr. Peabody on the ; ys
ing various ineffectual efforts to strike a tune, in ac-
knowledgment of the kindness of its benefactor.
These birds are named from their habit of follow-.
ing cattle, to which they are of service, by catching
the insects that molest them. They come with the
spring, and leave us in October, in company with
their cousins, the red-wings, with which they asso-
ciate very little while here, perhaps because they
are remarkable for that philoprogenitiveness in which
the cow-birds are so shamefully wanting.
The Rice Bontine, Icterus agripennis, which has
received its name from the wild-rice, on which it
feeds, is much better known among us by the name
of bob-o-link, a word resembling its notes, some of
which are wonderfully sweet. It is not among the
pioneers of spring, but whenever it arrives from the
south, it is warmly welcomed, and gives great ani-
mation to the meadows by its parti-colored dress, its
busy chatter, and its queer and lively motions. Here,
it does very little injury to the grain, though it is
said to be troublesome in the southern states. On
the contrary, it is incessantly employed in extermi-
nating crickets, grasshoppers, and ground-spiders,
creatures which are especially beholden to those
who make war on this beautiful bird. But it is
not nearly so much persecuted in New England 4s
in other parts of the country, where it is regarded
as delicious food and sent to the markets in greàt
numbers. How far to the south they go on their
return, is not certainly known; it is thought, that
many of ihem pass the winter in the West
islands.
Birds of Massachusetts. | 103
The nest of the rice-bird is always among the
grass or grain, and composed of coarse grass, lined
with that which is finer. The eggs are from four
to six, white, tinged with blue, and spotted with a
blackish color. As soon as the young are able to fly,
they all begin to gather in flocks, the males having
put off their summer uniform, and wearing the qua-
ker dress of the females and young. This is the
time for their depredations, and immense foraging
parties lay waste the fields of the middle and south-
ern states. For this purpose they fly by day,
whereas in their migration eastward, in the spring,
they fly only by night.
The Crow BrackBIRD, Quiscalus versicolor, is an
active and sociable bird, who warns us by his loud
clanking note, late in the spring, that he is once
more in our fields and gardens, apparently uncon-
scious that there can be any objection. He is one
of those creatures, concerning which it is difficult
to say whether they are friends or foes; sometimes
they are the one, sometimes the other, and it is
only by striking a balance between the service and
the injury, that we can determine how to regard
them. That the grakle pulls up corn for the sake
of the seed, is undeniable; but it is also true that it
devours immense numbers, of insects, grubs, and
caterpillars ; perhaps it may be possible to secure his
services and prevent his depredations ; and farmers
are how trying to accomplish this object by preparing
the seed before it is sown, in some solution which
shall make it less tempting to the crow blackbird.
104 Mr. Peabody on the 1
This bird returns from the south early in the
spring, and large numbers resort together to some
favorite tree, where they associate with each other
on the most friendly terms, and keep up a perpetual
chatter. They build also in communities, sometimes
in bushes, but most frequently in a large tree. The
nest is made of mud and coarse grass, with a lining
of fine grass and horse hair. The eggs are five or
six, green, blotched with dark olive. As soon as the
leaves fall, the young set out with their parents, in
vast collections, on their retuzn to the south, laying
the country under contribution as they go. No mat-
ter how much they are fired upon, they think it
better to be shot than to starve, and all the efforts
of the farmer cannot drive them from his fields. Au-
dubon says that the southern farmers soak their seed
in a solution of Glauber's salts, which is believed to
make it less palatable to the birds in the spring.
The Brack Onrorg, Quiscalus baritus, is seldom
seen in this vicinity, and probably rests here but
a little while, on its annual migration. One has
been obtained by Mr. Samuel Cabot, jr. in the neigh-
borhood of Boston. MP
^ uu
The Rusty Gratie, Quiscalus ferrugineus, 38
much more common than the former, in the western
part of the state. On their way to the north, they
are in haste, having an immense distance to travel ;
on their return, they are more deliberate, and are
seen in the field in large flocks, keeping company
with the cattle. Neither this nor the former rears its
young in this state.
|
|
|
|
|
-~ Birds of Massachusetts. 105
to ;
The American Crow, Corvus Americanus, perse-
cuted as it has been for years, still abounds in Mas-
sachusetts, as is testified by the scare crows and
other ornamental devices, that embellish our fields
in the spring. It is not to be supposed that the
sagacious crow mistakes for living beings these pro-
ductions of the statuary's art; but he easily under-
stands what they are meant for, and makes his dep-
redations in a less publie manner than he might oth-
erwise do. His suspicions are always awake, and
he exerts a caution, which has given rise to the
imagination that he can smell powder; but this,
though a common belief, implies a delicacy of sense
and a knowledge of cause and effect, quite beyond
the compass even of the crow. His bearing ina
domesticated state contrasts powerfully with his
shyness when wild; he becomes familiar and easy,
talks loudly and incessantly, steals and secretes
whatever he perceives is valued, opens the door by
treading on the latch, and plays a great variety of
tricks, some of them laughable, others very annoy-
ing. In his wild state, he exerts all this shrewd-
ness in the work of procuring a subsistence. His
artis so perfect, that he can, by inserting his bill
in the egg of the largest bird, carry it away from
the nest to be eaten at his leisure. In this manner,
he will bear away, one after another all the eggs
in the nest of a wild turkey. His cunning does not
arise from want of courage, for he may sometimes
be seen chasing a hawk or an eagle, which, pressed
VOL. II. —NO. I—IL 14 — 1
106 Mr. Peabody on the
by numbers, is compelled to sound a retreat. In
this way he often officiates as a guardian of the
domestic poultry. ;
The crow feeds on almost every thing eatable,
without choice or delicacy in the selection. It de-
vours fruits, vegetables, and seeds ; snakes, frogs,
and other reptiles are also to its taste; it does not
despise worms, grubs, and insects; and if hungry,
will eat the flesh of animals when so far decayed
that even an epieure would reject it. Farmers are
very bitter in their feeling toward the crow, but per-
haps they would be more moderate in their resent-
ment at his depredations, if they were aware, that
the cut-worm. has the benefit of all their efforts to
destroy the crow. Whether that voracious grub
will feel any gratitude for this protection, may be
doubted.
The crow selects the most retired places for its
nest, forming itof dry twigs interwoven with grass
and plastered with mud or clay, with a lining of
fibrous roots and feathers. The eggs are from four
to six, of a pale green, spotted and clouded with
olive or blackish brown. Both the male and female
Sit, and are remarkable for their attachment to their
young, as well as to each other. If any nest is ap-
proached, all the crows in the neighborhood gather
in crowds and express their disgust at the transac-
tion. As soon as the young are able to fly, the
parents introduce them into the community of crows;
_ and they remain in flocks till the spring. It is need-
less to say that they spend the winter here.
_ Birds of Massachusetts. 107
The Brue Jay, Corvus cristatus, one of the most
graceful and elegant of all the feathered race, is very
troublesome to other birds, which he persecutes by
stealing their eggs, and sometimes by destroying
their young ; but he can hardly be called a nuisance
by the farmer, since it is only in winter, that he
comes into enclosures in search of food, and then he
takes little, except what has accidentally fallen from
the corn-house or the barn. In the southern states,
his depredations are much greater, and the planters
soak their seed in a solution of arsenic, which proves
fatal to the robber. These birds are said to abound
at the south in winter; but if any really migrate
| from Massachusetts, it must be but a small propor-
| tion; since, if a handful of corn be anywhere thrown
upon the snow, it will be very soon surrounded with
| a busy and animated party ; and, bad as their repu-
tation is, no one can help admiring their beautiful
colors and lively motions. It is impossible to deny
‘that their reputation is deserved. One of them, in
Charleston, destroyed all the birds in an aviary. A
flying squirrel was once put into the cage of a blue
jay for one night, and on the following day, it was
found killed and partly eaten ; but, savage as he is,
his courage is not proof; many smaller birds will
drive him away from their nest; he, therefore, creeps
toit in their absence, and will thus steal round a
whole neighborhood daily, to devour the new-laid
eggs. He sometimes frightens away the smaller
birds, by imitating the sparrow-hawk's voice. In -
this power of mimicry he excels ; and when domes-
ticated, he counterfeits the mendi and voices of the
Es
103 Mr. Peabody on the
household so naturally as often to occasion much
perplexity and confusion.
The blue jay breeds generally in the United
States. Here it makes a coarse nest of twigs and
fibrous roots, on some forest or orchard tree. "The
eggs are four or five, of a dull olive, spotted with
brown.
The favorite food of the blue jay consists of
chestnuts, acorns and Indian corn. It always breaks
the corn; and for this purpose holds it between its
fect, and hammers it with its bill. But almost every
thing eatable, even potatoes, sometimes are included
in its bill of fare, and it should not be omitted, that
they render service by destroying insects and cater-
pillars in great numbers.
The Buacx-cap '"TrrwovsEe, Parus atricapillus,
is better known by the name of Chicadee, an imi-
tation of its note in winter, when it is exploring the
trees in all directions, to find insects and their gr bs
or eggs, which latter form its favorite food. By their
labors in this way they are of eminent service, pat
ticularly in keeping down the numbers of the can-
ker-worm, a pest which human ingenuity is wholly
unable to reach. When these are wanting, they
subsist on various seeds, holding them in the claws,
and picking them open with the bill. They ofien
come near houses also, in search of small bits of
meat, or the crumbs which are swept out at the
= door. They seem perfectly indifferent to the chang?
of seasons, moving about gaily in the severest day;
but they give the spring, when it returns, a Warm
Birds of Massachusetts. 109
and grateful welcome ; their plaintive whistle at that
time, resembling the words phe-be, with rising and
falling inflections, is one of the sweetest sounds
which announce the morning of the year.
The eggs of the chicadee are laid in holes in trees,
whick they sometimes excavate with their bills,
without the formality of preparing a nest. They are
from six to twelve in number, white, with specks of
brown red. The young, as soon as fledged, resemble
the parents, and associate with them, in a cheerful
party, running over trees in all directions, so ne-
times hanging with the head downward, and leaving
no crevice unexplored where insects may possibly
harbor.
The Hunson’s B:x Tirmovuse, Parus Hudsonicus,
which has been hitherto u k-own in Massachusetts,
has been found by S. Eliot Greene, Esq. near his
house in Brookline.
-. "The CEDAR BIRD, Bombycilla Carolinensis, is well
known, o: as some would say, notorious, and not so
generally welcome as one might suppose, who re-
garded only the silken delicacy of its plumage, and
the insatiable appetite with which it gathers cater-
pillars, beetles and cankerworms from the trees.
The reason is, that in the season of fruit, they repay
themselves by eating cherries, pears, and other luxu-
ries with so much relish and so little discretion,
that they have been known to gorge themselves
to death. When they alight upon a tree, they are
so crowded together that many may be killed by a
single shot. They immediately spread themselves
"d
110 Mr. Peabody on the
over the branches, picking the fruit faster than
their mouths will hold it; and not suspending
their labor for an instant, except to invite other
flocks that may be passing over, to descend and
share it with them. 1f the horticulturist, who sees
the results of his labor disappearing, undertakes to
prevent it, he only wastes his powder; that some of
their number are shot, is a matter of unconcern to
the survivors; he may gratify his revenge, but the
scene of plunder will go on before his eyes; and he
can only console himself with the reflection, that,
in proportion to the appetite with which they de-
vour his fruit, is the energy, with which, at other
seasons, they take his part against enemies which he
himself cannot reach. The truth seems to be, that,
till fruit becomes more common, as it doubtless will
be, these depredations will continue to be vexatious
and discouraging; and the better way will be, to
accept them as an intimation, to provide enough
$$.
for ourselves and the cedar-birds too.
There are some things curious and unexplained
in the habits of this bird. They may not unfre-
quently be seen sitting in a row ; when one who has
found a favorite morsel, hands it to his next neigh-
bor, he, instead of eating it, passes it on, and thus
it goes round, each one declining it with a Parisian
nod of his tall cap that is perfectly irresistible.
What this ceremonious display may mean, it is nof
so easy to tell. They have also a habit, when
wounded, of remaining still and stiff, as if dead,
and will suffer a person to take them up in his hand;
without the least effort to resist or get away.
Birds of Massachusetts. 111
They generally build, in the orchard, a carelessly
constructed nest, of coarse grass lined with fine.
The eggs are about four, of a purplish white, mark-
ed with black spots, larger toward the great end.
The young are fed at first on insects, and after-
wards on fruit. The parental affection of the old
birds is not exemplary, since, if the nest is approach-
ed, their impulse is to take particular care of them-
selves. Gentleness, however, is the uniform charac-
teristic of this bird. It comes to us in the begin-
ning of April, and remains till late, being a north-
ern bird, and capable of enduring cold.
The Waxen Cuatrerer, Bombycilla garrula, is
a bird hitherto supposed to be unknown in Massa-
chusetts; but I learn from Dr. Brewer, that an indi-
vidual of this species was pursued in this State by
the younger Mr. Audubon, who is familiar with
birds of all descriptions. It must therefore be set
down as a visiter in our State, though probably
accidental.
J— INSECTIVOROUS BIRDS.
The Great Amertcan Surie, Lanius septen-
trionalis, is commonly called the Butcher bird, from
its habit of destroying other birds. It pursues them
with a vigor from which they cannot escape, and
strikes at them, even when kept in cages and under
the protection of man. _ There have been many cases
*
de x
12
1 Mr. Peabody on the
in which it has thus risked its own life and liberty
in order to secure its prey. But Wilson was of opin-
ion, that grasshoppers and other insects were its main
dependence for food, and that it was only when
pressed with hunger, that it preyed on other birds.
Still, it has the habit of imitating the notes of other
birds, particularly such as indicate anxiety and dis-
tress, and it does it apparently for the purpose of
bringing the companions of the supposed sufferers
within its reach. !
All who have paid any attention to this bird, have
remarked its curious habit of impaling on thorns the
insects it has caught, and there leaving them to de-
cay. This practice of gathering what he does not
want, and keeping it till it can be of no use to him,
is regarded as an unaccountable mystery in a bird,
while in man, the same proceeding is considered
natural and wise. It canhardly be meant as a decoy,
for, as just stated, it has the power of attracting —
other birds by false appeals to their sympathy; and -
does not need to take this trouble. It may some- -
times be heard sending out these false alarms, and —
when the poor birds collect, in anxiety to learn what
the matter is, it darts at one of them, and fills the
air with the cries of a real victim. =,
Though the feet of this bird are small, the claws
are sharp, and can inflict a severe wound. Its flight
is bold and strong, and on this it depends for secur-
ing its prey. It is seldom, if ever, seen walking on
the ground. At the approach of spring, most of them
leave us, though some are said to pass the summer
in the forests of New England.
Birds of Massachusetts. 113
The Americ Y Grey Sume, Lanius ercubitroi-
des, is said by Nuttall to be seen in winter in the
vicinity of Boston.
The Kiwe-s1RD, Muscicapa tyrannus, is with us
from the middle of May to September. All this time
he labors diligently in our gardens, destroying beetles,
crickets, grasshoppers, and cankerworms, without
claiming any reward. In fact, he seems to take the
whole farm under his protection, and if a hawk
ventures near, he attacks him with so much fury,
flying over him and plunging on his head and back,
that the hawk, and even the eagle, is glad to leave
the field. The only instance in which he is sup-
posed to do mischief, is in catching the bees as they
are engaged among the flowers. This, however, is
not common enough to be a subject of complaint or
revenge. The king-bird fears no enemy except the
purple martin, which has the advantage in its supe-
i - riority of flight ; thus on many occasions, they com-
bine their forces to repel any intruder upon their
bounds.
The king-bird’s nest is constructed of coarse stalks
of grass, with flakes of wool, tow, or down, woven in
between, and lined with fibrous roots and horse hair.
The eggs are from four to six in number, blush-color,
spotted with brown. They are very affectionate
| „toward their young. I once observed a pair build-
| ing on a decaying tree, apparently unaware that all
| the branches of the tree were dead, except the one
which contained their nest. When the young were
VOL. III.—NO. 1.—11. 15
14
1 Mr. Peabody on the
hatehed, the weather became intensely hot, and the
nest was entirely open to the sun. In order to shield
their offspring, the old birds stood, by turns, on the
side, with their wings spread so as to overshadow
them. The position was evidently constrained and
painful; they panted with the effort and the heat;
but they did not grow weary of it till the weather
relented, and the protection was no longer needed by
the young. 1f a cat appears in the vicinity of their
nest, the king-birds attack her so violently that she -
is glad to retreat, though somewhat ashamed to yield
to such a little foe.
The GnaEAT-cRESTED Frrcaronrn, Muscicapa eri-
nita, is spoken of by Nuttall, as nearly unknown in
New England. It is probably more common in
other parts of the State than in the vicinity of Bos-
ton; though I learn from Dr. Brewer, that Mr.
Cabot, who is familiar with the bird, has seen it in
Cambridge. Professor Emmons assures me that it —
breeds in Berkshire. It is doubtless one of our birds, — —
but not numerous enough at present to be of much
importance. It is difficult to say why its reach of
migration should be less than that of other birds of
its tribe, which do not equal it in hardihood and
power of flight, nor can any natural cause be im-
agined which should prevent its going farther to the
north than our southern border. Tts food, consisting.
of insects, grapes, and berries, such as those of th
poke-weed, can be found any where. It was Lin
bly some accidental preference in the beginning;
afterwards continued from habit, which confines this.
species to the southern parts of New England.
é d
i 4
E d EE d
UE S P e
S ana
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Birds of Massachusetts. 115
The Pewir Fuycatcuer, Muscicapa atra. com-
monly known by the name of phebe, is a familiar
and welcome bird; not valued for its beauty or its
song, in both which respects it is deficient, but held
in general esteem, because it reposes confidence in
man. [ts favorite resorts are bridges and barns, and
similar frequented places. It prefers the vicinity of
water, but this is not indispensable ; it cares rather
for a good hunting ground for insects, and as these
are most abundant in the places just mentioned, the
phoebe generally selects them. There it sits on some
roof or post, singing its song, such as it is, occasion-
ally suspending it to dart after a passing fly. As
these birds are active and successful in this pursuit,
the domestic cattle are not a little benefited by their
labors.
The phebe returns from its winter quarters in
the beginning of April At first it resorts to the
woods, but soon comes into the village to select a
place for its nest. 1t is remarkable for its local at-
tachment, and will return to the same place, year
after year, even when it has been disturbed repeat-
edly in its possession. It builds under bridges, in
caves, or the sides of wells, under the eaves of
buildings, or in barns, making the nest sometimes
on the top of a beam and sometimes attaching it to
the side. The eggs are about five, of a pure white.
As the nest and the young are so little concealed
from. observation, they are often destroyed by boys,
taking early lessons in inhumanity, and their parents
little suspect how much such practices can do to
brutalize the character and moral feeling. Audubon
*
116 Mr. Peabody on the
gives a very interesting account of a pair, which be-
came so familiar with his presence, and so well satis-
fied of his good intentions, that they made no objec-
tion to his going up to their nest and handling the
young. He tied threads round the legs of some ; but,
not having any particular need of garters, they or
the old ones, always contrived to remove them. He
then made use of silver thread, which they could not
displace, and the next year found that some of those
thus distinguished, had returned to the same spot.
After an absence of two years, he revisited the spot,
and found that one of the birds knew him, while
the other was distrustful and shy. On inquiry, it
appeared that a boy had killed the female and her
young, and that the old male had brought home 4
second wife, who knew nothing of him as a friend
of the family, while her husband remembered him
well. Before the country was settled, the phebe,
no doubt, built its nest on the rocky banks of
streams; but finding an advantage in acquaintance — —
with man, it has left its old haunts, when better can
be found.
The Otive-sipep Fry-carcueR, Muscicapa Coo-
perii, is described by Nuttall, who first discovered
and gave it a name. He says that it is doubtless
the same with the M. borealis of Richardson, though
he became acquainted with it before the publication ::
of the * Northern Zoology." The nest of this bird
-is said to resemble that of the king-bird, and the E
eggs, those of the wood pewee. Aud ubon confirms i
dtm fact that this bird is found in Massachusetts, but
Lm
y
Birds of Massachusetts. 117
the line of its migration he has not been able to
ascertain. He considers it as a new comer into the
country.
The Woop Prewer, Muscicapa virens, is a very
common summer bird, and may be regarded as very
useful, since, though solitary in its tastes and habits,
and preferring the shelter of the woods, it is very
often found in orchards and fields. It resorts to the
most shaded parts, not from any fear or distrust of —
man, but because, having the power of seeing in the
obscure twilight, it does not love the glare of day.
It arrives in Massachusetts in the middle of May,
and may then be seen perched on low stakes or
branches, occasionally darting after insects, which it
secures with a snap of the bill. Its song, heard in
the dusk of evening, is pleasant, and harmonizes
with the calmness of the hour.
The nest of the wood pewee is generally built on
a horizontal branch, somewhat after the manner of
the humming bird's, and coated over with moss, so
as hardly to be distinguishable from the bark. The
eggs are three or four, of a yellowish white, spotted
with lilac and brown. In autumn, when the young
are full grown, the parents bring them into our vil-
lages, and even our cities, and teach them to pro-
cure their food. They sweep so near the surface of
goas, as to snatch the insects floating on the water ;
etimes they chase them from the top of the
= est tree. Before the leaves are fallen, they are
: ‘gone: to their winter home.
E
118 Mr. Peabody on the
The Smat PEewxeEg, Muscicapa Acadica, is a very
common summer bird, which comes to us from the
far south, toward the close of April, and returns in
September. Like the former species, it prefers re-
tired and shaded places, where it sits quietly on a
low branch, waiting for insects to come near. When
they appear, it takes a sweep and secures them, and
then returns to its station. Its note is sharp and not
pleasant; but the bird is fearless and familiar, not
removing from one who passes by, till he comes
almost within reach. Like all the rest of this tribe,
itis eminently useful in destroying flies, moths, and
various other insects, which are troublesome to man
and beast ; on this account, they all should be treated
with encouragement and regard. à;
The nest of the small pewee is sometimes on
horizontal branches, sometimes in the upright forks
of a tree. It is composed of dry grass woven with
wood, down, and other soft materials, cemented
together with the saliva of the bird. The eggs are
five, of unspotted white. While the young need
support and protection, they remain with their pa
rents; but afterwards, they separate into different
parties, to migrate to their winter quarters.
The American Repsrart, Muscicapa ruticilla, is :
a very beautiful bird. It is not rare, but is seldom TA
i
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Birds of Massachusetts. 119
colors; sometimes it starts up to catch an insect
flying over; then it may be seen balancing itself in
the air, looking sharply into a bunch of leaves. It
flies with the mouth open, and its success is known
by the snapping of its bill. When it tries to seize a
wasp, the insect presents its sting in so formidable
a manner, that the redstart dares not catch it, and
moves after some less dangerous prey.
In the cold weather in June, 1832, when so many
birds were found lying dead, in all parts of the coun-
try, one of these birds came, for several days in suc-
cession, up tomy study window, and there employed
himself in catching insects, within a few feet of the
place where I was writing. He frequently watched
me, but finding that I did not trouble him, he dis-
missed his reserve and seemed to be on familiar
terms. When the weather changed, he disappeared,
and I never saw one in the same place again.
The nest is generally on a low bush or tree, and
appears as if hanging by the twigs. It is composed
of various materials, fastened together with saliva.
The eggs are a soft white, sprinkled with yellow-
ish brown. The parents are anxiously watchful for
the safety of their young. These birds come to us
in May, and, at the last of September, retire beyond
on nes of the Union.
| B eres Fiycatcuer, Muscicapa mi-
sa p first discovered by Audubon. Lit-
t known concerning it, though ornithologists
E
ver informs me that it has been fou
en acquainted with it for a cone Me ‘
g
120 Mr. Peabody on the
Ipswich, and that he picked up one of them, evi-
dently just dead, on the step of his door in Brookline.
The Brue crey Frycarcugn, Muscicapa cerulea,
which was formerly thought to proceed no farther to
the north than New York, is, I am told by the same
gentleman, found in Massachusetts, and as far as the
Canada line. Professor Emmons tells me that in
Berkshire, the preceding species is common, but
that he has never met with this.
T'RAILUs Fiycarcuer, Muscicapa Traillii, a bird
discovered by Audubon, and named by him in com-
pliment to Dr. Traill of Liverpool, is also found in
our State. A specimen was obtained by Mr. Samuel
Cabot, Jr. in the neighborhood of Boston. ' It has.
probably been seen and mistaken for the small pe-
wee, which it so much resembles, that some orni-
thologists regard them as the same. The difference
in the size and markings is trifling; but the tail,
which in the former is even, is slightly emarginate
in this. Nuttall, however, describes the tail of M.
Acadica as decidedly emarginate, and not, as Audu-
bon says, even, and slightly rounded.
The Green sLAck-caP Fiycatcuer, Muscicapa
Wilsonii, is enumerated among the birds of Massa- -
chusetts, on the authority of Audubon. It is very —
rare in this State, though common enough in Maw
P
The Canapa Frycarcuer, Muscicapa Canadew
sis, which, like the preceding, is often classed a)
|
|
l
Birds of Massachusetts. 121
L
the warblers, is not now uncommon in this State,
however it may have been in former years.
The Yzrrow-sREAsTED Icrerta, Icteria viridis,
certainly makes occasional visits here, though it is
generally described as not passing the bounds of our
adjoining states. Professor Emmons assures me that
he has found it in Berkshire. Their ordinary migra-
tion does not extend so far, but in the middle states
they abound.
The YzrrLow-rHRoarED Vireo, Vireo flavifrons,
is one of a beautiful family of singers, some of which
are quite familiar, and highly valued for the sweet-
ness of their song. This is not the most musical
of their number, but its note is pleasant, resembling
that of the red-eye. It prefers the solitude of the
forest to the society of man, and there employs itself
in exploring the branches of the largest trees, in
search of its insect food; passing over each with
short hops, examining every leaf and bud, in order
to be sure that nothing is left undetected. There it
may be found from May to September, when it
retreats to the warmest parts of America.
Its nest, like that of other vireos, is suspended
from the branch of a tree, being attached to the
twigs with slender strings, mixed with the threads
$ of _Caterpillars and fine blades of grass, cemented
ith the. saliva of the bird. 'The whole is covered
Breen moss, attached by threads of silk, and
resembles the foliage in color so much as to deceive,
VOL. L. n. —No. il. 16 =,
m MS
F1 2d d
122 Mr. Peabody on the
or rather to elude the eye. The eggs, four or five in
number, are white, spotted with black, When the
young are hatched, it conducts them into orchards
and gardens, in search of berries for food.
The Wuirte-ryrep Virgo, Vireo Noveboracensis,
comes to us in April, and passes the summer in our
State, where it appears to be much more abundant
than the former, because it is more retired. Its song
and its motions are energetic and animated ; it passes
from twig to twig in quick Succession, glancing Up
and down so quickly, that nothing can escape it,
sometimes swallowing an insect, then stopping t0
drink a dew-drop that hangs upon the leaves. Its
song is spirited and emphatie, with considerable Và-
riety of expression, and more powerful than could be
expected from so smalla bird, This bird suspends
its nest, like the former, but not high in the air; it
is generally hung from the branch of a brier of à
vine, and composed of bits of hornets’ nests, news
papers, or grass woven in with twigs, with a lining
of root-fibres. The eggs are four or five, white,
with a few brown spots tOward the larger end.
any one approaches the nest, the Vireo scolds with
great heat and passion, At other times, it seems
quite indifferent to his presence, and looks at him
with perfect composure, at the distance of a few feet.
The WansLiNG Vireo, Vireo gilvus, is a charming
singer, and so unwearied in its various and anim
warble, that it is one of the chief attractions of 8
summer day. Its notes, So mellow and flowi?S .
Birds of Massachusetts. 123
cannot be mistaken for those of any other bird; nei-
ther is any one who hears it at a loss to trace it to
the performer, who never retires to the forest, and
seems to delight in the society of man. At the same
time his note is unambitious, and gives the listener
the impression that it was not intended to be heard,
but was simply an unconscious outpouring of the
harmony and happiness of his breast. In this unpre-
tending manner, he differs from most other birds of
Sweet note, which appear as if fully aware of their
powers, and desirous to display them.
The nest of the warbler is suspended high in the
air, formed of blades of grass disposed in a circular
form, with bits of hornets’ nests, corn husks, or old
apple blossoms, inserted between, and kept in place
by threads of caterpillars’ silk ; the lining is of fine
grass, pressed into the proper form with great care.
The eggs are four or five, white, spotted with reddish
black at the larger end. These birds remain with us
from May to October, when they leave us reluctantly
for the tropical regions. They are not, like the red-
eye, seen in Florida in the winter.
The Rep-ryep Vireo, Vireo olivaceus, is, perhaps,
more common than the former; not equal to the
warbler in its song, which is rather broken and in-
terrupted, than easy and flowing ; but, nevertheless,
. ls expressive and sweet, resembling that of the robin,
though not so clear and strong. From May to
August it sings all day, without ceasing, never op-
_ Pressed by the severest heat ; at every short suspen-
Sion of its song, it moves up and down the branches,
124 -~ Mr. Peabody on the
searching every bud and blossom, and peeping under i
the leaves. The cloudy weather, which is so de-
pressing to most birds, has no effect upon the red-
eye; he sings as cheerfully in the dark afternoon as
in the brightness of the rising sun, seeming to hold
a perpetual festival, and quenching his thirst with
the drops of dew.
The nest of the red-eye is suspended at various
elevations, but never so high above the ground as
that of the warbler. It is more particular in lining it
than in building. The materials of the nest are mis-
cellaneous ; the lining is of fibrous roots, pine leaves,
and strings of the bark of vines, disposed in beautiful
order. Init are three or four eggs, white, with spots
of brown at the larger end. The red-eye is an at-
tentive parent, and, for this reason perhaps, the
cow-bird often chooses it as the nurse of its young:
The eyes of the young birds are brown, and do not
become red till the following spring. A species al-
luded to in Audubon's description of the red-eye, as
resembling it, but quite distinct, and which he prom-
ises to describe in his fourth volume, is, as Dt
Brewer informs me, sometimes seen in our State.
The Mocxine-z1rv, Turdus polyglottus, is rarely
seen in Massachusetts. The brown thrush is some-
times mistaken for it by careless observers, and that
fine bird, though not an imitator, at least to any great
extent, has a depth, sweetness and variety of song,
which even the far-famed mocking-bird cannot eX
ceed
SS ee
ha
. Birds of Massachusetts. 125
The Brown Tarussa or Turasuer, Turdus ru-
fus, must be regarded as the finest of our singing
birds. It is also very common, though not as famil-
iar as some others. From the time of its arrival,
about the first of May, it may be seen, on the high
twig of some tall tree, pouring out its soul in a full .
and flowing strain, not changeful and capricious, like
that of the mocking-bird, but uniformly eloquent and
sweet. It may be fancy, but the song seems more
in harmony with the season than any other, and
more resembling what we imagine of the voice of
spring.
In point of strength and intelligence, the brown
thrasher is superior to all the birds of its class. It
bids defiance to large and powerful birds of prey ; if
a cat or a dog come near its nest, it attacks and
chases him away ; and the snakes which are tempt-
ed to rifle its nest, which is generally on or near the
ground, are beaten in such a manner that they are
glad to make an early retreat. These birds have
many contests among themselves, but if the least
alarm is given, they suspend hostilities at once, and
join in hearty alliance against the common foe. As
to its intelligence, it appears at once in those which
are domesticated. Mr. Bartram observed that one
which he reared from the nest, if he found that
crusts of bread, which were given him as food, were
too rough for him to swallow, would take them to
his water-dish and soak them. He was also fond of
Wasps, but before he swallowed them, would exam-
ine to see if they had a sting; and if so, would
carefully remove the poison before he ventured to
126 Mr. Peabody on the
eat them. The food of the brown thrasher consists
of insects, worms, berries, and fruits of all descrip-
tions. ‘They are sometimes accused of pulling up
the new corn, but this is so seldom done, that it is
doubtless accidental, and the grub, instead of the
corn, is the object which it aims to secure.
The nest is built on the ground, or a few feet
above it, with small twigs and dry leaves, strips of
bark and root fibres. The eggs are of a buff color.
thickly sprinkled with dots of brown. Both the
male and female sit, but the time of the former is
very much occupied in keeping guard against the
approach of enemies, which he resists, if it is possi-
ble, and if not, attempts to soften to compassion by
his plaintive cries. If any one plunders the nest,
both parents follow him with alternate imprecations
and appeals to his feeling. After the breeding sea-
son, they are generally silent, and are found in gar-
dens in great numbers, where they employ them-
selves till October, when they retreat to the southern
states.
The Caremo, Turdus felivor, is strangely perse-
cuted, though he deserves good treatment on account
of his services, which are great ; and also on account
of his song, which is fine and sweet when he feels
secure; but this is not often; for he seems fully
aware that a bad name has been given him ; and his
catlike mew is an expression of his anxious fears.
Beside his own wild snatches of melody, he gives
many broken imitations of other birds, but never
seems sufliciently easy in his mind to finish the
VIT *
NS
S54 95.
*
Birds of Massachusetts. 127
strain he has begun. Latham says, that in a do-
mesticated state, the catbird has been taught to
imitate the strains of instrumental music ; and that
he will counterfeit the cry of young chickens iu
distress, so as completely to deceive the parent hen.
His attempts to mock the notes of other birds can be
easily detected in listening to his song, and blended
in with his own original strains, form an anthem so
singular, that no one who has the least portion of
taste or fancy, can hear it without delight.
The catbird remains with us from May to October,
constantly employed in picking off wasps, worms,
grubs, and various insects, and, at the season of
fruit, it ventures to claim some little reward for its
labors; not so much however, as would have been
consumed by the wasps alone, which it has de-
stroyed. It seems surprising, considering how they
are treated, and how sensitive they appear to be,
that they have not long ago deserted us. But the
nervous anxiety which they betray in their voice
and motions, is not really owing to anxiety for them-
selves, so much as to aífection for their young.
They are quite discriminating in their apprehen-
sions ; the sight of a dog does not disturb them, but
a cat throws them into a fever of dread; and while
they are wretched the moment an idle boy enters
the garden, they will permit some men to handle
the eggs in their nest.
The nest is in a-bush or a vine, composed of
twigs, strips of bark, old grass and dry leaves, with
a lining of root fibres. ‘The eggs are four or five,
of a deep green. It is not easy to make them give
128 Mr. Peabody oni the
up their nest ; if it is carried away, they will follow
it, and retake possession as if nothing had happened.
In eases where the young of other birds have been
put into their nests, the female has thrown them out `
to make room for her own ; but the male, observing
their distress, has taken compassion on the orphans,
and fed them as his own. Surely, this is not a
creature at which it is wise for man to cast the
first, nor indeed to cast any stone.
The American Rosin, Turdus migratorius, is not
the earliest, but is certainly the most welcome mes-
senger of spring; and the confidence which he
places in us is seldom disappointed, except by boys
taking their first lessons in cruelty, in which they
afterwards become masters. His note is hearty and
joyous, sometimes very musical, but always associ-
ated with spring-blossoms and early fruit so insepa-
rably, that his song reminds every one of something
which he loves to remember. His familiarity is his
greatest charm ; and he often disarms bad intentions,
by alighting near us with a look and manner which
seem to say, that, bad as men are, he does not think
they mean to injure him. He is greatly respected by
children on account of the name which he bears;
they mistake him for the redbreast, which is said
to have displayed so much humanity to the children
in the wood; but, though our robin is not often
called to such benevolent exertions, there is nO
doubt, that in any similar case of distress, it would
show itself as kind and thoughtful as the other.
The robin well deserves the name of migratory;
|
i
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Birds of Massachusetts. 129
though some remain with us in ordinary winters,
retreating from the cold into the depth of evergreen
woods. 'lhey spread themselves over the whole
continent; they are found in all the fur countries,
and almost all places where man has ever been.
They are never stationary, except when rearing their
young ; for we sometimes find that in the summer,
_ they will leave a place where they have abounded,
“and for days together not one of them can be found.
Their movements are irregular, depending probably
on the supply of food which they find in different
parts of the country. They migrate in large flocks,
flying high and far without resting ; sometimes, if
the weather is fine, they continue their course by
night.
The nest of the robin is found in various situ-
ations, most commonly in an orchard tree. It is
composed ‘of dry leaves, grass and moss, connected
together by mud; the lining is of fine grass, some-
times in part of feathers. The eggs are from four
to six, of bluish green. It is not necessary to be
particular in these matters, the nests being almost
always made near human dwellings, and often with- -
in the reach of man. It is supposed that it chooses
these resorts in order to escape from the cuckoo,
which sucks its eggs wherever it dares venture ;
but the robin soon forms a strong local attachment,
and often returns in successive years, not only to
the same spot, but the same nest which it has occu-
pied before. One has been known to build in the
stern timbers of an unfinished vessel in New Hamp-
VOL. IIL— NO. I—II, 17
130 Mr. Peabody on the
shire. They are very affectionate to their young,
and if an accident happens to one of them, the
whole neighborhood of robins is in alarm.
The robin is easily domesticated, and soon be-
comes very fond of its owner. It shows a taste
and talent for imitation also, which does not appear
in its wild state. It will not only mock the notes
of other birds, but will imitate tunes which it has
often heard. In this state it has been known to
live for nearly twenty years.
The Woon 'Tunusu, Turdus mustelinus, is à
retiring bird, but not so solitary as it is sometimes
represented. Tt is most partial to shaded glens, where
it sings toward the close of day. Its note is very
remarkable ; with notes of no great variety, but clear,
flowing and silvery as a sweet-toned bell; of all the
voices of summer there is none so thrilling, particu-
larly when heard as the shades of night are falling,
and in scenes of deep repose. Each bird seems to
have some favorite resort of his own. It is gener-
ally in some deep hollow, overhung by large trees
festooned with vines, where the sunbeams at mid-
day can hardly reach the ground. Here it delights
to sing ; and no one can hear it without having his
mind calmed by the spirit-like melody, and the har-
monious quiet of the scene.
This bird is a constant resident in Louisiana, but
whether, or how far it goes beyond the limits of the
United States, is not known. It comes to us in
April, performing its migrations in the woods, and
seldom appearing in the open country. Its nest is
Birds of Massachusetts. 131
built in shrubs or low trees, saddled on the branch,
and composed of grass and leaves held together by
mud, with a lining of root-fibres. The eggs, four
or five in number, are of a greenish blue. The
young come out from retirement into gardens, and
are even known to visit the outskirts of the city.
They are easily raised in confinement, and sing
nearly as well as when free.
-On alighting on a branch, the wood thrush gives
its tail a jerk two or three times with a peculiar
chuckle. It walks and hops on the branches, occa-
sionally bending down to look round it. It often de-
scends to the ground, and scratches in search of
worms and beetles, but the least alarm sends it back
to the tree. It never commits depredations of any
kind whatever. These birds are never seen in
flocks ; they pair in the breeding season, but at all
other times are found single and apart from each
other. They do not leave New England till quite
late in the fall.
The Hermit Tarussa, Turdus minor, is described
by Audubon and Wilson as destitute of song, while
Nuttall represents it as hardly inferior to the nightin-
gale in the power and sweetness of its voice. There
are some other points of difference in their several
descriptions. Audubon says that the bill is dark
brown, yellowish toward the base of the lower man-
dible. Nuttall says that it is black above and flesh
colored below. Audubon says that the tail is even,
while Wilson and Nuttall speak of it as forked.
These and some other discrepancies I am unable to
132 Mr. Peabody on the
reconcile, from want of acquaintance with the bird.
Nuttall however sets it down as passing the summer
in our woods.
Wirsow's Turussa, Turdus Wilsonii, is described
by Nuttall as a common bird, resembling the wood
thrush in its voice and song. He describes its nest
as usually made in a low bush, not much above the
ground, and depending for security on its resem-
blance to the foliage where it is built. No earth is
employed in its construction. The eggs are four or
five, of an emerald green. This and the preceding
species are not yet sufficiently known.
The New Yonx Turvusn, Turdus Noveboracensis,
which, according to Nuttall, hardly ever comes here
except in autumn, arrives, as Dr. Brewer assures Ine,
in the spring, and rears its young in our State. Its
nest and eggs have been found in Roxbury.
The GorpEN-cRowwEp 'Tunusu, Turdus auroca-
pillus, is a very timid and retiring bird, which re-
mains with us from May till September. It is not
distinguished by any power of song, though it has 4
succession of simple notes which sound pleasantly,
In its quiet and solitary home. It sits and runs 0n
the ground like the lark, and the moment it is dis-
covered, eseapes from observation in the deepest
shade of the woods. d
This bird is better known by its curious nest than
by its aspect or its song. It is built on the ground,
among dry leaves or decayed moss. It is neatly co-
Birds of Mussachusetts. 133
structed with grass, inside and out, and is arched
over with a large patch of the same material, over-
spread with twigs and leaves, so as to resemble the
rest of the ground. An entrance is left at the side,
which is generally toward the sun. The eggs, from
four to six in number, are white, spotted with brown
toward the larger end. If the female be discovered
on her nest, she creeps swiftly and silently away.
If she sees the intruder looking for the nest, she
flutters, pretends lameness, and generally succeeds in
drawing off his attention; but she suffers much from
snakes and other animals, which are not easily
deceived, and cannot be resisted. These birds live
on insects, particularly such as they find upon the
ground.
The Yretiow-crownep WARBLER, Sylvia corona-
ta, sometimes called the myrtle bird, is quite com-
mon here for two or three weeks in May, and after
an absence of more than three months, it reappears
on its way to its winter home. While here, they
are very social among themselves, and come fear-
lessly about our houses, entirely unsuspicious of
danger, collecting the insects on which they feed.
They breed in the northern regions. In autumn,
they return with a less brilliant dress than in spring,
which may be either a decided change in plumage,
or possibly only the result of wear and travel. 'T'heir
song, as well as some of their habits, bears a strong
resemblance to that of the summer yellow-bird.
Audubon found the young in Labrador ; but the only
nest he has ever seen, was presented to him in Nova
134 Mr. Peabody on the
Scotia. It is very much like that of the bird just
mentioned, lined with thistle-down, hair, and feath-
ers, and containing four rose-colored eggs, dotted
with reddish brown, around, but not upon, the larger
end.
The Yettow Reprotr WansLEn, Sylvia pete-
chia, comes to us, like the former, after passing the
winter in the southern states.. Here it is a rare spe-
cies. Audubon found the birds abundant at Labra-
dor, but sought for their nests in vain.
The Summer Yetiow-sirv, Sylvia aestiva, is a
beautiful summer resident, and a favorite in all parts
of New England. Its delicious warble, though it
has no great variety, is one of the sweetest sounds
heard at the window on a summer day. They prob-
ably spend the winter beyond the limits of the Union.
Early in May they return, and are seen in all direc-
tions, darting through the foliage in search of insects,
their golden yellow dress richly contrasted with the
fresh and tender green. The male comes a little
earlier than the female, as if to explore the way:
They soon begin to construct their nest, which is
generally near our dwellings, and sometimes within
reach. They make use of hemp, flax, and cotton,
Soft grass, and hair; but they are not particular in
their chcice of materials. The eggs are four or five;
of a dull white, speckled with brown toward the
larger end. This bird is very much annoyed by the
cow-bird. Sometimes, when it finds the strange egg:
it buries it by making a new lining to its nest; but
Birds of Massachusetts. 135
if this be impracticable, it feeds and protects the
foundling with as much kindness as its own young.
In its migrations, this little bird travels by night.
The 'Srorre» WansLEn, Sylvia maculosa, is a
beautiful bird, which passes through the State in
May, on its way to the north, where it rears its young.
Here they are always rare; but in Maine they are
sometimes exceedingly common, being detained
there, waiting till the season is sufficiently advanced
to permit them to go farther. This bird excels in
song as well as in beauty of plumage ; its motions are
graceful, and, when on the ground, it holds its wings
drooping, as if to display their markings to advan-
tage. They pass but a few days with us, and, on
their return, do not visit us ; they probably, in return-
ing, avoid the coast, and make their way along the
course of the great western rivers.
The Brack-rHRoATED Green WARBLER, Sylvia
virens, is not common in Massachusetts. It comes
from the south in May, and may be seen searching
the blossoms of the apple tree for food, so intent upon
its employment as to pay no regard to the presence
of any observer. Sometimes the chipping-sparrow,
delighted to find a bird weaker than itself, puts on
airs of state, and orders the little warbler away from
the tree. A few spend the summer in the northern
states. Their nests are not easily discovered, but
Nuttall met with one in a juniper, on the Blue Hills
in Milton. It was made with strips of bark, horse-
hair, and feathers, and contained four eggs, inclining
x
136 Mr. Peabody on the
to flesh-color, dotted with purple together with large
spots of brown. There was no other nest of the
kind near it, These birds are seen roving in the
forests, on their way to the south, in October.
The Buacxpurnian WanBLER, Sylvia Blackbur-
niae, is sometimes seen in this State, and, whenever
it appears, its elegant colors attract attention. In
the list furnished me by Dr. Brewer, it is marked as
breeding in this State. Its nest, however, is not often
seen. Audubon received one from Professor Mac-
Culloch, of Nova Scotia; it was composed exter-
nally of different textures, and lined with silky fibres
and thin delicate strips of fine bark, over which lay
a thick bed of feathers and horsehair. The eggs
were white, with red spots toward the larger end.
It was found in a small fork of a tree near a brook,
five or six feet from the ground. It is seldom that
this bird appears here, except in May and Septem-
ber, on its annual migration and return.
The ORANGE-THROATED WARBLER, Sylvia auricol-
lis, is another rare and transient species, which makes
us a passing call, on its way to Canada.
The Cuestnut-sipep Warsier, Sylvia icteroce
phala, passes through this State on its way to t
north. In 1837, they were quite common near Con-
necticut river. Audubon professed himself ignorant
of their breeding places; but Mr. James Eliot Cabot
has succeeded in finding a nest in Brookline, in 0%
State.
e
er
Birds of Massachusetts. 137
The Bay-sreastep WazsLER, Sylvia castanea,
comes to us about the middle of May, and remains
a few days. In its appearance and manners it
Strongly resembles the preceding. While here, it is
busily engaged in searching for insects, along the
hedges and in the highest trees. Where it goes
when it leaves us, is not yet distinctly known.
Audubon says that he has often seen them in Loui-
siana, in the month of June, which would indicate,
that, unlike the warblers in general, they remain and
breed in the southern states. But if it is so, their
nest has not yet been found.
The Buack-pote WansLEn, Sylvia striata, is not
uncommon in the latter part of May, when it is seen
in the orchards in pursuit of cankerworms and other
food. Its note is a low clinking sound, that can
hardly be called a song. Audubon was fortunate
enough to find its nest at Labrador. It was built on
a fir tree, about three feet from the ground. There is
something curious in the manner in which this and
other warblers, in their migration, skip over some
parts of the country.
The Pine Warster, Sylvia pinus, is a summer
resident in the State, but not much known, because
it resides in deep, evergreen forests, where it explores
the bark and buds of trees in search of the insects :
which infest them. Nuttall describes a nest of this
species, which he found at Mount Auburn, on á tree,
forty feet above the ground. The eggs were white,
VOL. III.—NO. I-II. 18
oe
i
23
138 Mr. Peabody on the
with a very pale tinge of green, and thickly sprinkled
with pale brown. In summer, their food consists
of insects, and their eggs and larvae; in autumn,
when the young accompany their parents, they come
into gardens and groves. One which Nuttall domes-
ticated, fed on flies and worms that were offered
him, without the least timidity; and was so tame
and familiar as to be in danger of being trodden un-
der feet.
The Avrumyan WanmeLER, Sylvia autumnalis, is
not at present known to rear its young in Massachu-
setts, but it cannot go far for that purpose, since it
is found in our forests, attended with its family, as
early as the month of July. Early in the season;
they are seen darting through the woods in search
of flies. One which Nuttall obtained, by its flying
in at an open window, soon pursued the house-flies,
as if nothing had happened, and became so sociable
that it would eat from his hand. In the autumn, it
may be seen turning over the fallen leaves, or search-
ing the chinks of fences and the rough bark of trees.
Its nest has been found in Pennsylvania, and also
near Lake Champlain.
The HrzwLock Warsuer, Sylvia parus, differs $0
little from the pine, that Nuttall is inclined to regard
. them as the same species; but Audubon, who pro
cured many specimens, together with a nest and
young, pronounces them distinct, and it is on his
high authority that this is set down among the birds
of our State. :
EH " -
T
ix T
,
" $
—
Birds of Massachusetts. 139
The Prae WansrER, Sylvia discolor, is a small
and quiet, but fearless bird, which comes to us about
the middle of May. Nuttall found one of their nests
at Mount Auburn, in a low barberry bush, formed
very much like the nest of the yellow-bird. The
proprietor eyed him with much curiosity, but with-
out any appearance of fear, and when he approached
the nest, the female kept her station. There is con-
siderable difference in the accounts given by him
and Audubon, of the nest and the song of this bird.
The latter describes the nest as covered with li-
chens, like that of the humming-bird. The one
found at Mount Auburn did not answer at all to his
description.
The Panri-coLonED WARBLER, Sylvia Americana,
is not common, but several specimens have been ob-
tained by Mr. Samuel Cabot, Jr., and as its song has
been heard here as late as the close of May, there
seems reason to believe that it sometimes breeds in
the State. It comes in May and returns in October,
on its way to its winter home in the West Indies.
Few of the warblers are more beautiful than this.
The Brack-rHRoATED BLUE WARBLER, Sylvia
Canadensis, is a wayfaring and unfrequent visiter,
which appears in April, on its way to the north,
and returns late in the fall. It is not known where
it rears its young. Its winter quarters are in the
West Indian Islands. The Pine Swamp Warbler,
Sylvia sphagnosa, is now believed to be the young
of this species.
way
uos
*
140 Mr. Peabody on the
The ManyxLAND Yrrrow-rHnoaT, Sylvia trichas,.
is one of our most common birds, found among the
alders of almost every brook, from the beginning of
May till the leaves fall. It is quiet, humble, and
never ambitious to be seen ; still it shows no distrust
nor fear of those who visit its retreats in shady hol-
lows, except when they go so near the nest as to
create apprehensions for its young. Its song is
simple, pleasant, and suited to the places where it
resides.
These birds commence building their nest in May.
It is in thickets, on or near the ground, among dry
leaves, brush or withered grass, which may protect
it from observation. It is made of dry sedge grass
and leaves, with a lining of fine bent grass. The
eggs are about five, of a soft white, with specks,
blotches, and sometimes lines of brown, chiefly
toward the larger end. At the close of July the male
ceases to sing, and the old and young rove about in
parties till the season warns them to depart.
The Movrnine Warster, Sylvia Philadelphia;
is a rare species, but Dr. Brewer assures me that he
has seen it here in summer. Very little is known
of its habits, and I believe, nothing whatever of its
nest. Sylvia agilis is now believed to be the yours
of this bird. Prince Bonaparte believed that the
mourning warbler would turn out to be an accidental
variety of the species just described. It is said, how”
ever, to be quite different in its song.
The WinLow Wren, Sylvia trochilus, is the same
» ET
EM
Birds of Massachusetts. 141
which, in England, is called the hay-bird. Nuttall
says that it visits us in October, when it feeds on
flies and other insects, and often is seen rising with
a low and pleasant song from the tops of trees. It
is named from its attachment to the willow.
The Worm-catinc WansLEn, Sylvia vermivora,
arrives from the south late in the spring, and retreats
early, before the northern storms. It was not known
to breed in this State till a nest was discovered in
Cambridge by Mr. Rotch, who gave a specimen of
the eges to Dr. Brewer. That gentleman, it is to
be hoped, will hereafter find time to supply the de-
fect of information on this part of the subject, to
which very little attention has been paid.
The Gotpen-wincep WARBLER, Sylvia chrysop-
tera, which Nuttall thought was never seen in this
State, is ascertained to be one of our visiters by Mr.
James Eliot Cabot, who shot one of them in Cam-
bridge.
The NasnviuuLe WansLEn, Sylvia rubricapilla, is
placed among our birds by Mr. Samuel Cabot, Jr.,
who obtained a specimen in Brookline. Audubon
states that three or four, found in Louisiana and Ken-
tucky, are all that he ever saw.
Swainson’s Warsier, Sylvia Swainsonii, has
been found by Mr. Cabot, within the limits of our
State.
The Oraner-cotorep Warsier, Sylvia celata,
probably passes through the State on its way to the
*
142 Mr. Peabody on the
eastern parts of Maine and the British Provinces,
where it builds and rears its young; but it is not
ascertained that any one has yet been discovered here.
Roscor’s Yetiow-rHroat, Sylvia Roscoe, so much
resembles the Maryland Yellow-throat, that Audu-
bon, the discoverer, at first thought it only an acci-
dental variety of that species. Nuttall says that it
is seen in Massachusetts at the close of summer, and
his impression is that it breeds here.
Before leaving the subject of warblers, I may be
permitted to say how much we are under obligation
to them; not asa plea in their behalf, since their
diminutive size protects them. They are too small
to be valued for food, or to afford the requisite de-
gree of excitement to the sportsman. We are told
by travellers, that the scenery of Spain seems life-
less and heavy, from the want of singing birds ;
ours, on the contrary, is animated with the voices
and lighted up with the plumage of these little
birds, most of which are as beautiful in colors as they
are sweet in their song. From a circumstance men-
tioned by Audubon, one can easily estimate the im-
portance of their services. He says that he found
more than fifty insects in the crops of only two 0
them. Millions remain in the United States through-
out the summer, and those which pass through the
country, arrive precisely at the season when insects
are springing into life and action ; so that the visit of
two or three weeks, which they make with us at
that time, is as valuable to us as ten times the same
amount of labor at any other part of the year.
P. B
i .
Birds of Massachusetts. 143
The Rusy-crownep Wren, Regulus .calendulus,
is a beautiful little bird, often seen here late in the
autumn, on its return from the northern regions.
How far they go, and what are their habits at that
season, no one has yet been able to inform us. Au-
dubon had no doubt of its breeding in Labrador, but
he did not succeed in finding its nest, neither has
it been found by any of the arctic expeditions.
Wilson met with them in Pennsylvania, in the
summer, but they are not seen in Massachusetts till
the autumn, when they associate with the titmouse,
and move round in busy silence, wholly intent on
the work of gathering food. At the north, their
song is equal to that of the canary, in richness,
variety and power. They are not uncommon in the
western parts of the State.
The Frery-crownep Wren, Regulus tricolor, has
been obtained by Dr. Brewer, in the vicinity of
Boston. It rears its young in Labrador, and is seen
here on its return in October, when it collects its
food, consisting of the larve and eggs of insects,
without regarding the presence of any observer. It
is said, that on striking the branch on which they
are perched, these little birds will fall dead, as the
Canada jays are often killed by their enemies, the
hunters.
The Hovuse-Wren, Troglodytes aedon, is a sum-
mer resident in the State. It is a spirited, restless,
wayward little bird, which treats the human race
with great familiarity. It seems to expect that
144 Mr. Peabody on the
lodgings shall be provided for it; but if this is
not done, it will build under the eaves of houses or
in barns. Nothing in the vicinity of human dwell-
ings troubles it but the appearance of a cat, which
throws it into a vociferous passion, which does not
subside till the hated enemy retires. It remains
with us from April to September, and adds much
to the attractions of summer by its animated and
often brilliant song, which, like that of the vireos, is
heard in the heat of day, when other birds are at
rest. It has many quarrels with other birds, and,
small as it is, maintains its rights, and perhaps
something more. In the war of words it has no
equal; and some other birds seem as if they gave
up to it, not from fear or conscience, but merely to
escape its perpetual and abusive din.
The nest of the house-wren is formed with an
outwork of twigs interlaced with care and skill. Be-
hind this barricade is the true nest, made with grass
and lined with feathers. The eggs, from six to nine,
are of flesh color, inclining to red. The young, soon
after they are fledged, seem to have all the playful
activity of the older birds. It is rather singular,
that these birds should bear the name of Troglodytes,
signifying dwellers in caves, when they are 80 Te
markable for constructiveness, that the male often
amuses himself, while the female is sitting, with
building another nest, which he has no thought of
ever using.
The Fmarsu-warkeR Marsh Wren, Trog lod ytes
brevirostris, is a summer visiter, not uncommon, but
e
Birds of Massachusetts. 145
S
not known as a distinct species, till it was described
by the unwearied Nuttall. It should have borne his
name ; but that will be so identified with the science
as to need no such commemoration. It is known to
boys by its song, chip-a-day-day, which is so often
heard in the meadows. He describes its nest as
made of sedge, bent from the top of a grassy tuft,
and forming a spherical arbor, with an entrance on
the side. He remarks, that in a nest containing
seven eggs, three of them were larger than the rest,
and were fresh, while the other four were far ad-
vanced toward hatching. From this he inferred that
two different birds had laid in the same nest. There
seems no great need of crowding thus, since the
male employs himself in building nests, a great part
of which are neither wanted nor used. This species, -
which has been confounded with the following, re-
mains with us from May till September.
The Sarr-warkR Marsan Wren, Troglodytes
palustris, is found on marshes and the borders of
rivers near the sea, but is not so common as the pre-
ceding. This bird is quick and active in its motions,
and in its song resembles the last described. The
nest is formed of wet rushes twisted into each other,
and filled in with mud, in the shape of a cocoa-nut,
with an opening in the side. The eggs are from six
to eight, of a color approaching to mahogany. Nut-
tall thought that this bird hardly ever came nearer
than New York; but Dr. Storer has found its nest
and eggs at Barnstable, in our State.
VOL. IIIL.—NO. 1-1.
146 Mr.&Peabody on the
The Winter Wren, Troglodytes hiemalis, is in-
serted in the list of our birds, on the authority of
Audubon. It abounds in Maine, in summer, but in
this State it must be always rare. iar
The Woop Wren, Troglodytes Americana, is à
new species, discovered by the same distinguished
ornithologist, who says that it is found in Massachu-
setts, though he cannot speak with certainty of its
summer haunts, nor of the extent of its migrations.
The Brue Breo, Sialia Wilsonii, is a delightful
messenger of spring, whose early appearance makes
us ask, “ Hast thou a star to guide thy path ?” since
he comes before the fetters of Orion are unbound, oF
the sweet influences of Pleiades have begun to fall.
He is said to resemble the English redbreast so much
in form and habits, as well as the tinge on his breast,
that he was called.the blue-robin, by the first set
tlers of this country. The first indication of spring
brings the blue-bird, and his sweet, but rather timid
and tremulous note seems expressive of uncertainty, |
whether the season will permit him to remain. He
is often driven back by a relapse, as happened in
January of the last year, when he came on one oF
two fine mornings, but was soon compelled to retreat. -
Every body loves the blue-bird, and some make ita
practice to encourage him by providing lodgings for
him, which he readily occupies, and where he ma?
ifests a freedom from uneasiness, which he cannot
feel where his nest is more exposed. It certainly
is wise to encourage him; for almost all his time
-e
Birds of Massachusetts. 147
is spent in catching beetles, grasshoppers, spiders,
and grubs, for which we have seen him descending
in fields, and open grounds. The wire-worm is an-
other of their luxuries, which are all of a kind that
man can easily spare. When they eat berries, it is
not those of the garden, but the sumach and wild
cherry.
Unless the hospitality of man provides the blue-
bird with lodgings, he resorts to hollow trees, where
he shelters himself from the elements, and there, or
in a house made for the purpose, the pair construct
their nest; it is a short and easy process, for nothing
is required but a lining of hay and feathers. The
eggs are from four to six, of a pale blue. "Two
broods, and sometimes more, are raised in the season,
and, while the female sits on the second set of eggs,
the male takes charge of the young. In defence of
his family he is very courageous ; he has been known
to attack a hen with chickens, who came too near
his abode, and put her to a hasty flight.
During winter, the blue-birds abound in the south-
ern states, and particularly in the Floridas, which,
however, they leave as early as possible. But they
do not go very far to the north. In Maine they are
not common, and in Labrador not one was seen by
Audubon’s party. Towards autumn, their song is
no longer heard, except one complaining note, in
which they seem to lament the necessity of leaving
their home. To the last moment they linger, and
it is not till the trumpet of the storm indicates that
the hosts of winter are upon them, that they will
consent to bid us farewell.
148 . Mr. Peabody on the
The Brown Larx, Anthus spinoletta, is one of
those birds which arrive from the north, without
much to indicate whence they came or whither they
are going. They are common in fields in the coun-
try, and are said to be equally so along the borders
of rivers and the Atlantic shores. They fly in loose
scattered flocks, giving out a feeble note, run rapidly
on the ground, and when they take wing, generally
move high and far before they alight. Some of
them spend the winter in Pennsylvania, and they
abound at that season in the southern states. Those
which pass through our State in the autumn, are all
young ; nothing is known of the old birds, though
Labrador is one of the places where they rear thet
young. |
GRANIVOROUS, OR PASSERINE BIRDS.
The Snor: Larg, Alauda alpestris, is a pretty
bird, which comes to us from the north at the ap-
proach of winter, and, if the season closes early, is
seen herein October, on its way to the middle states.
If the season is mild, they sometimes remain here,
and those which proceed, seldom go farther south
than Maryland. While here, they fly high, in loose
scattered flocks, and have a single note, resembling
that of the sky-lark of England. Their food seems
„to consist of seeds and the larvæ of insects, which
they find on the ground, or on fences where they
sometimes alight, though they never perch on?
Birds of Massachusetts. 149
tree. They pass the night on the earth, in small
parties, near tufts of dry grass. When they are
alarmed, all take wing, and, after flying round for a
short time, return to the same place again.
- Audubon describes the nest of this bird, which he
found in the moss at Labrador, and tells us that the
song of the male at that season is very sweet.
The Snow Buntine, Emberiza nivalis. As soon
as winter reigns, “sole monarch of the inverted
year,” these birds come, riding on the snow-storms, ~
and are seen in parties sweeping over the desolate
country. Sometimes they alight on trees, some-
times on fences, and are even familiar enough to
take their station at times upon the roofs of houses.
Till they are persecuted for the sake of their flesh,
they are disposed to be on the best possible terms
with man; but as they are considered the harbingers
of very severe weather, they meet but a cold wel-
come. Their flight is swift, and well sustained ;
they seem to enjoy the fierce and angry winds; but
careless of cold as they are, and apparently well
protected, they are sometimes so chilled as to be
unable to escape from those who pursue them. In
Labrador, where they are called White Birds, they
feed on seeds and insects, but while here, they must
depend for their subsistence almost entirely on seeds.
For this purpose they often alight on trees, but are
seldom seen in the woods. Like the larks, they live
much on the ground.
The summer dress of the snow bunting is pure
white and black; but they are not seen with this
150 Mr. Peabody on the
plumage here. Their appearance here is various;
but generally they are white and rusty brown. In
the summer they are said to sing sweetly, but their
strains are wasted on the desert air. Some h
been known to rear their young in the White Monit
tains of New Hampshire. :
The Brack-rHROATED Buntixne, Emberiza Amer-
icana, is found in high meadows near the salt water
marshes, from the middle of May till the last of Au-
gust, when it returns to the south, and spends the
winter in countries beyond the boundaries of the
Union. Early in summer, they feed on caterpillars
and insects, and are among the destroyers of. the
pernicious canker-worm. Their note is constantly
heard from every level field of grass or grain; they
often perch on some low tree, and there for a long
time breathe out their simple and unpretending song.
At these times, they may be approached without
taking wing; they seem to be friendly to man, t0
other birds, and to each other. In August they be
come silent, and not long after, leave us for the
south, going beyond the extremity of the Union.
The Scanner Tawacrm, Tanagra rubra, is 4
have |
splendid summer resident in this State. He is te.
tired in his habits, but not distrustful, and as he
often comes into enclosures, he is well known by his
rich and elegant plumage, and the sweet variety of
his song. His common note isa chip, chirr, repeated
at short intervals, in such a tone that it is very
difficult for the hearer to determine whence the
iil as
eer
Birds of Massachusetts. 151
sound proceeds. At other times he has a song,
which bears some resemblance to that of the red-
eye, excepting that it is more continuous and un-
broken. Were it not that the eye is charmed by the
beauty of his scarlet and glossy black, as it glows
against the foliage in the sun, his musical powers
would be more highly estimated. There is nothing
to be set off against these recommendations. He
cannot be accused of any kind of depredation. His
food consists of insects, and of these, he is particu-
larly fond of the wasp, one of our greatest fruit
destroyers. Sometimes he feeds on berries and
seeds, but they are not taken from the garden.
These birds arrive toward the last of May, and
immediately begin to build, generally on the large
bow of an oak, but sometimes on an orchard tree.
The nest is loosely put together. The eggs are
three or four, bluish, spotted with purple and
brown. They are very affectionate toward their
young. If any one approaches the nest, the female
is in great distress. As soon as they require food,
the male supplies it, and so anxious is he for their
welfare, that he has been known to follow one of
them for half a mile, and as he could not release it,
to feed it through the wires of its cage, and roost in
the same tree by night. At the beginning of Au-
gust, the male assumes the green and yellow dress
of the female, and in company with their young,
they set off for their winter quarters.
The Inpieo Bp, Tringilla cyanea, is a spirited
and beautiful summer resident, well known in every
* t
152 Mr. Peabody on the
garden, where, from the tops of trees, from roofs,
and chimneys and lightning rods, we hear his sweet
lisping song, which at first is exceedingly pent
but at length wearies the ear by its perpetual rt
tion throughout the summer day. The rich b
which gives this bird its name, belongs exclusively a
the male; the female and the young wear plau
flaxen fedis The young males of the first year
have a little blue in their buff-colored plumage; this
increases as the bird grows, and it is not till the third
` year that it acquires the azure with green reflections,
at
tot ^
» which makes the mature bird so ornamental to the —
village scenery. It is sometimes difficult | et
mine whether it is blue of green, so rapi dl d yes it
change in different lights, as it glances i in tie Be 1
The nest of the indigo-bird is usually in a low
bush, sometimes in vines; in the former case, it is
suspended between two twigs. 'The outside is com-
posed of coarse grass and withered leaves ; the lining
is of grass and hair. ` The eggs are greenish white
and unspotted, according to Nuttall; Wilson says;
blue, with a purple blotch at the eii end ; Audu-
bon says, “with a blotch or two of purple.” Asto
these singular discrepancies, I have already remarked,
that this part of the subject is greatly in want of at-
tention.
The Wurrr-crownep Sparrow, Fringilla leuco-
phrys, is one of the finest of this family of birds. It
is seen here but very rarely, on its way to the north
in the spring. Audubon describes its nest, which
he found in Labrador, and speaks of its notes as very
plaintive and sweet.
— mA n
Birds of Massachusetts. 153
The Wurrg-rugoaTED Sparrow, Fringilla Penn-
sylvanica, is much more abundant than the last. It
attraets attention by its size and beauty, and still
more by its song, which, though unvaried in tone,
and slowly and solemnly uttered, is nevertheless, as
heard in May mornings, one of the most delightful
melodies of spring. It is not known in what manner
it performs its migrations; the first news we have of
its coming is from its own plaintive note, heard from
the borders of the fields. The sparrows move in
companies, and frequent hedges and thickets, where
they Roe apon the ground and scratch for seeds.
On an: r as
alarm, they plunge into the deepest shade ;
but w or der from uneasiness, they ascend to the
highest branches and open their plaintive and em-
phatie strain. In the warmer days, they resort more
to the borders of woods, but the thicket is always
their favorite home. They appear to have no great
dread of the presence of man; but the hawks are
very destructive to them, and the sparrows seem
aware of their danger, and desirous to keep as much
as possible out of their sight and reach. In New
Hampshire their note is interpreted into a warning,
that the time to sow wheat is come. Their stay
does not exceed two weeks; and, when they leave
us, they go to the far north. Dr. Richardson found
their nests on the banks of the Great Bear Lake.
The Bás-wmgxb Fincu, Fringilla graminea, is a
bird, plain in appearance, but pleasant and unpre-
tending in its song, which is constantly heard in
VOL. III.—NO. I.—H. 20
E.
154 Mr. Peabody on the
fields and dry pastures; they run on the ground, in
the manner of larks, in search. of the seeds and in-
sects which compose their food. To the grass-bird,
as it is called, we are indebted for some of the -
est music of our spring ; their song begins very ealy
in the morning, and continues after sunset, but they -
are generally silent in the heat of the day. They
come early in April, and the best of their song is
heard till the summer opens, when their note be-
comes more monotonous for the season. Some of
them spend the winter in Pennsylvania, but most
of them go farther to the south to escape the cold.
The nest is built in the grass, partly sunk in the
ground. It is formed of leaves and dry grass, well
lined with horse-hair. The eggs, four or five in num-
ber, are flesh-colored white, with spots of reddish
brown. When the female is disturbed, she pretends
lameness, and practises various arts to withdraw at-
He
_ tention from her young.
- "The Ameicvous Sparrow, Fringilla ambigua, of
which a single specimen was obtained by Nuttall,
was, he says, a young bird, and may undergo some
changes in its markings. Audubon suggests that it
may turn out to be the white-crowned sparrow in
ts winter plumage. The size is different ; but the
Lodi must be left for future observations to decide.
The Sone Srannow, Fringilla melodia, is a well
known bird, very common in all parts of New Eng-
land, and richly deserves its name. It comes in
company with the blue-bird, and though it has n9
. cond to the beauty of its friend, exceeds it in
Birds of Massachusetts. 155
the sweetness of its song. This cheerful and pleasant
note is heard, in the near vicinity of human dwell-
ings, from trees, stakes, and fences, and if it were
not one “ofthe most familiar sounds of summer,
would be universally admired. This bird is common .
in Louisiana, in winter, and comes to the north
before the snows have left the ground. From the
time of its arrival, we hear its unwearied note at all
hours of the day, growing louder and more animated
as the spring advances. It frequents fields and
meadows, which afford the insects which it is active
in destroying. It also enjoys the vicinity of water,
in which it is fond of bathing. It has been known
to swim to some distance when disabled from flying.
The song-sparrows build sometimes in a bush,
and sometimes on the ground. They have been
known to resort to a hollow tree. The nest is usu-
ally made of dried grass, with a lining of hair.
The eggs are greenish white, speckled or spotted
with umber, chiefly toward the larger end. Audubon
inquires, why it is, that they never use the same
nest twice, when they raise two or three broods in -
a season, and always keep it so scrupulously clean ?
The obvious reply is, that a bird so neat and indus-
trious, is the very one most likely to take the trouble.
of building a new nest; while a bird more slovenly
and indolent, would re-occupy its old abode, from
the same aversion to labor which induced it to leave
it neglected.
The Savannan Sparrow, Fringilla Savanna, is
rare, compared with the preceding, and is most com-
156 Mr. Peabody on the
mon near the sea. Its song is animated, though far
inferior to that of the song-sparrow. Though it is
very hardy, it proceeds to the south in winter and
returns in April, when it resorts to fields and open
plains. Audubon says, that it breeds in all places,
from Maryland to Labrador. If so, the nest probably -
can be found here, though it may be easily mistaken
for that of the species last described.
The Syow-sirv, Fringilla hiemalis, commonly
called the blue snow-bird, to distinguish it from the
snow-bunting, a bird much less common than this,
comes to us just in advance of the wintry desolation,
an infallible sign that the dreary season is at hand;
dreary to us, it would be proper to say; for this
little traveller, though it retreats before it, evidently
has no fear of its coldand snow. It is almost always
seen here in company with the tree-sparrows. After
doing all they can to pick up a subsistence from the
frozen ground, they come round our houses to gather
crumbs, or any morsels of provision that may have
_ been cast out from the door; and if a handful of
meal is thrown to them, they receive it with great
delight. Afterremaining with us as long as possible;
in the heart of the winter, they are compelled to
remove; but with the first glimpse of spring they
EENES resorting to. d or to the edges of the
wood, and roosting in hay-stacks, when the nights
are severely cold. ey are only summer residents
in the fur countries, and never abound there. Wil
son tells us that they sometimes breed in the Alle-
ghany mountains.
&
Birds of Massachusetts. 157
The YrrLow-sHovuLpERED Sparrow, Fringilla
savannarum, comes from Mexico and the West-
India islands, where it passes the winter. It pays us
a passing visit, when it attracts some attention by its
song ; but it soon hurries on to some other breeding-
place. "While here, it prefers the neighborhood of
the sea, where it explores newly ploughed fields in
search of insects and seeds. It never retires to the
Woods.
The Trer-SParrow, Fringilla Canadensis, ar-
rives from the north at the approach of winter, and
remains here during most of that season. It is called
the snow-bird, by many, and is often seen in com-
pany with the blue snow-bird. When the deep
shows cut off their resources for food, they come
together into our yards and under our windows, and
generally succeed in obtaining some small charity
from man. Early in spring they prepare for their
return, but delay it on various pretexts; till, a day
or two before their departure, they recover their
voices, and sing sweetly from the trees of the or-
chard. Audubon did not find them at Labrador;
but he met with their nests in Nova Scotia, and
his impression is, that they breed in thé northern
parts of Maine. The tree-sparrows are easily distin- —
guished from others, by the spot in the centre of the
breast.
The Curppine Sparrow, Fringilla socialis, is our
most common bird, and so well known as hardly to
need a description. It is found alike in the city
158 Mr. Peabody on the
and the village, in the field and the garden, in the
forest and at the house-door. After passing the win-
ter in the southern states, it returns early in the
spring. It has no pretension to song, though, when
it first returns, it keeps a continuous jingling sound,
unlike the chipping note to which it owes its name.
At the close of summer, the old and young birds
search for seeds in the fields in large flocks, col-
lected in preparation for their flight. The first snow
fall is their signal for disappearing.
This little sparrow, in order to escape from worse
enemies, places its nest under the care of man. It
builds in the sides of walks, the corners of piazzas,
or some spót equally open to observation ; and s0
strong is it confidence, that, if the nest is torn down,
it regards it as an accident, and builds in the same
place again. It adopts these sheltered situations,
with a view, no doubt, to escape from cuckoos,
which would steal all its eggs if they were exposed
in the woods.
The Fiery Sparrow, Fringilla pusilla, resem-
bles the species last described, but is brighter in
color and has a longer tail. With us, after the first
of April, it is found in open fields and pastures,
where it lives on insects and seeds. The song i$
peculiar and likely to attract attention, not so much
from its sweetness, as its canary-like trill. Its nest
is built on the ground, after the fashion of most
other sparrows, and made of hay, with a lining of
fine grass or horse-hair. The eggs are so thickly
sprinkled with rusty brown as to appear almot
„RE a i
ae d
poesia nelle m
Birds of Massachusetts. 159
wholly of that color. It usually raises two broods in
a season.
The Swame Sparrow, Fringilla palustris, is
rather common, after the middle of April, in the
swamps and marshes, from which it takes its name.
Wilson speaks of it as destitute of song. This is a
mistake ; its strain, though not equal to that of some
others of the tribe, is lively and pleasant. It is
distinguished by its passion for the vicinity of water,
where it continually forces through brush and thick-
ets, till its tail is worn almost away.
The nest of the swamp sparrow is made on the
ground in swamps, with the coarse grass which
grows there. 'The eggs are four or five, of a dull
white, spotted with reddish brown. The old birds
express great anxiety for their young, but apparently
without much reason, for they have a wonderful
alacrity at hiding in the grassy places where they
dwell.
The Sgmanr-ramuegp Finca, Fringilla caudacuta,
is added, at the suggestion of Dr. Brewer, on the au-
thority of Nuttall.
The Seasive Finca, Fringilla maritima, is found
along the borders of the ocean, and in the sea isl-
ands; it visits the interior only when driven by
easterly storms. It runs in search of marine insects
and small shell-fish, like a sandpiper, on the edge of
the strand. Like the swamp sparrow, it has feet
and legs of great strength, and suited to its way of
life. These finches build on those parts of the
160 Mr. Peabody on the
marshes which are above the flow of the tides. 'The
nest is of grass; the eggs are dusky white, speckled
with brown.
The American Gotprincu, Fringilla tristis, well
known by its beautiful yellow plumage and jet black
wings, can hardly be said to return in the spring,
since many of them do not leave us in winter, though,
as they roam about in their dusky dresses, with their
complaining note, there is little about them to re-
mind us of the gay musicians of the spring. They
are often seen when the ground is covered, gath-
ering a living from the tall stalks of weeds that rise
above the snow. For some time they will be miss-
ing, and then they rove about without any fixed
direction, and apparently never much troubled by
the want of food. When the warm gales begin t0
blow, the males resume their colored dress, the fe-
males among birds not being permitted to share that-
fatal gift of beauty, that might attract attention to ,
their nest. 'The social habits of these pretty birds
give double interest to their song, since all join in
harmony, sometimes plaintive and low, then gay and
loud, as they enjoy the sunshine together. They
are fond of bathing and pluming themselves in com-
pany ; in fact, they always associate together on the.
most friendly terms. In our gardens they collect the
seeds of lettuce, but thistle down is their favorite
food, and they cannot be justly charged with doing
any injury whatever.
They make use of thistle down, with other soft
and delicate substances, to build their nests. They
EU A
AM uu as
Sis,
Birds of Massachusetts. 161
are placed on trees or tall bushes, and constructed
externally of dry leaves and other rubbish, with a
lining of fine grass, hair or down. Audubon speaks
of its nest as covered with lichens, glued on with
saliva; the nests here have no such disguise. He
also speaks of the eggs, which are from four to six
in number, as white, tinged with bluish, and speckled
with reddish brown. Here, the eggs are white.
A year or two since, I saw one, in a large flock
of goldfinches, which was distinguished from the
rest by plumage partly flaxen and partly white. At
a little distance it appeared like a snow white bird.
The Pine Finca, Fringilla pinus, comes occa-
sionally from the north in winter, and sometimes
proceeds as far as’ the southern extremity of the
Union ; .but the first approach of spring drives them
back to their northern home. In the state of Maine
they abound in the cold season, and are sometimes,
though not regularly, seen here. Their flight resem-
bles that of the goldfinch, with rising and falling
inflections, and their note is said to be similar and
equally sweet. Where they rear their young has not
yet been discovered.
The Lesser Reprore, Fringilla linaria, is an
occasional visiter in winter. Flocks have been seen
as far south as Philadelphia; but they come at un-
certain, and generally distant intervals, and very lit-
tle is known concerning either their habits or their
song.
VOL. III.—NO, I—II. 21
e "i f
162 Mr. Peabody on the
The Fox-cotorep Sparrow, Fringilla iliaca, is,
perhaps, the finest of this family of birds. It is large
and handsome ; generally larger than Nuttall’s meas-
urement, which is but six inches. When the eve-
ning sun falls on its cinnamon plumage, its appearance
is beautiful. It passes through Massachusetts on its
way to the south, soon after the fall of the leaf, and
returns early in the spring; it is then seen in gardens,
scratching the ground, in search of seeds and insects,
making no sound except alow call occasionally to its
companions. It waits till the weather grows mild
enough for its journey, and as soon as it determines
to go, perches on the high branches of trees and
sings an air, easy, flowing, clear and incomparably
sweet. They rear their young in the British Prov-
inces and other northern regions.
The Grovunp Rosin, Fringilla erythropthalma, is
an exceedingly common bird, found on the borders
of forests and woodland roads, where it scratches
among the dry leaves for worms and insects, $0 €N-
tirely absorbed in its employment that any one can
approach within a few feet of it without its taking
any alarm. While thus engaged, it often utters the
loud call from which it is named the pee-wink, and
sometimes the tow-wee bunting. But at times i
sings with much more pretension, and, perched -
the high branch of an oak, warbles a loud, clear, and
very agreeable song. It leaves us for the south 12
October, and returns in April, the males coming first
as if to make the necessary preparations. In auium?
Birds of Massachusetts. 163
the case is reversed, and the females lead in the
migration. There is sometimes a fortnight between.
Wilson praises the address with which the ground-
robin conceals the place of its nest; but it seems
to depend almost entirely on its resemblance to the
ground about it, to secure it from unfriendly observ-
ers. ]t is sunk a little below the surface, some-
times under the shelter of a small bush, and is made
of such materials as come most readily to hand,
such as strips of bark and withered grass, with a
lining either of fine grass or the fallen leaves of a
pine. The eggs are four or five, of a soft white,
spotted with reddish brown. The old birds are
very anxious for the safety of their young, and
practise the usual arts to draw the intruder from
their nest. ] j
The CARDINAL Grospeax, Fringilla cardinalis,
cannot be considered as one of our birds, though
its occasional visits require its insertion in our list.
It is seen, but only at irregular intervals, in the vil-
lages on Connecticut river. Wherever the celebrat-
ed red-bird appears, it attracts attention, not only
by its splendid plumage, but its bold and beautiful
song.
The RosE-BREASTED GrosBEAK, Fringilla Ludo-
viciana, supplies the place of the cardinal, rivalling
that fine bird in beauty and surpassing itin song.
It is difficult to determine at what time its visits to
us are paid. It is seen here sometimes before the
snow has left the ground, and is met with at in-
164 — Mr. Peabody on the
tervening periods till midsummer; as this is the
time for incubation, it must rear its young in some
places not distant, certainly, if not within our bounds.
At the latter part of the summer, our gardens are
frequented by the young in great numbers, and
bitter complaints are made, with or without reason,
of their depredations on the peas. Near the sea-
shore they are much less common than in the in-
terior; in some years, it is rare in all parts of the
State.
This bird migrates to the south early in autumn,
and on its way, is seen in many parts of the Union;
the nest is found in New York and Pennsylvania,
and regions farther north, but in Labrador, Audubon
did not find a single bird. The note of this grosbeak
is striking, particularly when heard, as it often may
be, in the silence of the night. It may be seen stand-
ing, with its wings lifted, as if to display the crimson
lining, before it begins its song. ‘The young are
three years in obtaining their plumage. ‘Till then,
they resemble the female, except that the red begins
early to show its traces on the breast. The descrip-
tions usually given of the bird, dò not agree
specimens that are often found, with stripes of white
on the head and over the eye. The tail, pn
being forked, is very slightly emarginate, if at
The food of this grosbeak consists of insects, boris
and seeds.
The Brvr Gnossrak, Fringilla cerulea, is not at
present known as one of our birds; but a gentleman,
whose authority is unquestionable, is confident
Birds of Massachusetts. 165
he has seen more than one in this State. It will,
without much doubt, be numbered with our occa-
sional visiters, by future observers.
The Purre Finca, Fringilla purpurea, is not
an uncommon bird in thisand more northern regions.
Some of them pass the breeding season here; the
greater number keep on toward the British provinces,
where they spend the summer, and return to the
south about the time when the leaves fall. At that
season their food consists of insects and berries;
when these cannot be had, they eat the seeds and
sometimes the buds of trees.
The crimson linnet, as it is sometimes called, has
a rich and varied warble, clear as the softest tones of
a flute. It sings not easily and unconsciously, like
the sweet vireo, which it resembles, but more with
the air of a performer, and as if it knew that some
one was standing still to listen. It runs through
various changes, with great rapidity and skill, and
seems to challenge all the feathered tribes, to rival
its admirable song.
General Dearborn was the first to discover the nest
of this bird in Massachusetts. It was built on the
low branch of a balsam fir, with the outside covered
with lichens. Mr. Cabot and Dr. Brewer have also
found them ; but the number of those that remain
with us at that season, must be small.
The Pine GaossEAk, Pyrrhula enucleator, is an
inhabitant of cold regions, and comes to us at irregu-
lar intervals, either in winter or when that season is
nigh. Professor Emmons tells me that they were
166 Mr. Peabody on the
x ; &
common near Williamstown, in the autumn of 1836,
which was unusually gloomy and cold. They are
, splendid birds, but so great strangers here, that they
= hardly merit a description.
MT Lr oe ;
— The Common Crosser, Loria curvirostra, be-
longs to northern regions, and comes to us during the
= winter, in search of food. It delights in the seeds
of evergreens, and makes use of its singular bill to
extract them, holding the cones in its claw, like the
parrot, while it forces the seed vessels open. At the
south itis in the habit of tearing apples to pieces,
for the sake of extracting the seeds. Wilson says,
that in deep snows, it is familiar at the cabin of the
hunter; when disturbed, it flies only to the roof and
soon descends to the ground, to feed as before. When
better food is wanting, it sometimes relieves the sen-
sation of hunger by swallowing bits of clay. When
engaged in eating, it may be seen standing on one
foot and feeding itself with the other. It sometimes
employs its bill to aid itself in the act of climbing.
Audubon has not succeeded in finding the nest of
this bird, but he has explained the difference of
markings as connected with its particular age.
M
The WHITE-WINGED CrossgiLu, Loria leucoptera,
visits us, like the former, in the winter season. It
is more common perhaps than the other, but still is
rare. ]t comes in large flocks, and then is not seen
forseveral years. In form and habits it resembles
the other; but is a much handsomer bird. It i$
known by its colors, black and crimson, and by the
White bands upon the wings.
Birds of Massachusetts. 167
ZY:GODASC TJ LI.
The YrrLow-si.LED Cuckoo, Coccyzus America-
nus, arrives from the south about the first of May,
and is by no means an uncommon bird. 1t is often
heard when it cannot be seen, uttering its loud,
coarse notes, in rapid succession, from the depth of
the woodland shade. There is a prevailing impres-
sion that the cuckoo's cry is the harbinger of rain,
from which it has derived its popular name of rain-
crow. This bird flies in silence, under the shadow
of the foliage, as if it were conscious of the discred-
itable manner in which its living is obtained, and
were not desirous to call the public attention to its
proceedings ; for when thus seen, it is passing from
the nest of one small bird to another, to suck the
new laid eggs. But this is not all its subsistence.
It devours many insects; among others the large
yellow cockchaffer, and thus does some good to man,
to atone for its injuries to its own race.
The cuckoo seldom follows the example of its for-
eign namesake, which lays its eggs in the nests of
other birds. In this country, that kind of knavery
is almost confined to the cow-bird. It builds for
itself a hasty and carelessly constructed nest. The
eggs, from two to four in number, are bluish green.
If they are disturbed, the female is apt to desert the
nest; but if the young are hatched, it is so devoted
and affectionate, that it will almost be taken in the
hand, rather than abandon its charge. The young
T EN à le Penta on the
Ps " "té od x the hairy eaterpillars, that are found on'
3 E apple trees; but it is well that they are not more
E. . numerous, since they might greatly diminish the
: numbers of other birds, whose services would be
a -The Brack-siLLED Cuckoo, Coccyzus Ev
thalmus, is often mistaken for the preceding, from
which it differs in some of its habits, beside arriving
later in the spring. It feeds on insects and birds’
eggs, like the other, but extends its bill of fare to
include the small shell-fish found in fresh waters
and the small frogs from wet grounds. For this rea-
son it is often found near the edge of water, or on
branches bending downward to the stream. ‘This
species is less timid than the other; its note is
equally unmusical.
These birds build their nests in the forest, resem-
bling those of the former species, being little more
than a flooring of twigs and moss, with a slight hol-
low in the centre to receive the eggs. These are
from three to five, of the same color with the
> but rather smaller.
The. GOLDEN-WINGED Wooprrckem, Picus aura-
tus, is a very common bird in our gardens, known
when flying at a distance, by the white on the lower -
part of the back, disclosed by the open wings; when
nearly examined, it is admired for the beauty of its
markings. It is driven from the northern states in
winter by the excessive cold, but in April it is with
us again, when its voice resembles a laugh, as if it
Ed ^
Birds of Massachusetts. 169 —
were rejoicing to be able to return. They are cheer- E
ful, animated birds, which do much to give life to
our scenery in spring. Their flight is strong and
well sustained; when passing from one tree to an- ->
other, they move in a straight line, till they come aM
near the spot where they mean to alight, when they i K
raise themselves a few feet and cling to the bark of
the tree by their claws and their tail, with a nod of
the head and a note, from which they are generally
called the ‘Flicker.’ They hop on the ground with
ease, in search of food, which consists of insects
and various kinds of fruit. In winter, they occasion-
ally supply themselves from the farmer’s corn. They
are a good deal persecuted by black snakes, which
steal their eggs and young; and also by hawks,
from which they escape by darting into a hole in
a tree, if any one is at hand, and if not, by alighting
on a trunk, and moving round it faster than the ene-
my can follow.
These birds are sometimes shot, but their practice
of eating ants and their larve gives a taste to their
flesh. Sometimes they are persecuted as fruit steal- -
ers, but most unwisely, for all the vroodpech
very efficient aids to the horticulturist. When e]
alight on a tree, they listen attentively, and AC
slightest movement of an insect under the bark. do
not escape them. They enlarge the hole by repeated
blows of their powerful bill; then striking in their
long, viscid tongues, with thor horny tip, they seize
the grub, and put a period to his mining.
They build in hollow dm. found, or made for
VOL. III.—NO. I=.
BPO ti - Mr. Peabody on the
the purpose, in trees; and such is the strength of
their bill, that they have been known to make exca-
vations a foot and a half deep, into the heart of the
hardest wood. Their blows may be heard at a great
distance, as loud as those of a hammer. ‘The eggs,
about six in number, and pure white, are deposited
on bits of the wood. Soon after the young are
hatched, they leave their den, and are fed on the
branches of the tree till they are able to fly.
The Pr.EATED Wooprrckrm, Picus pileatus, is à
large and powerful bird, not uncommon in the wood-
lands of Massachusetts, but seldom found in the
vicinity of large towns. It does not leave us in
winter,like the preceding, but remains throughout
the year in our wild forests; and almost every wood-
cutter can describe the rapid and angry manner in
which he strips the bark from a hemlock or spruce,
throwing it in long flakes around him. Should any
one pursue him, he keeps far out of his reach, laugh-
ing, as one would think from his loud cackle, at his
enemy’s vain endeavors. He never, under any CH-
€ ances, relents from his natural wildness. If
wounded, he makes fierce resistance to all attempts
to seize him; and if overpowered and carried cap-
tive, spends all his time in trying to escape from his
prison. This he can easily do, unless the materials
are very hard and strong ; and if he does not succeed;
he ean make an impression in an hour on the walls
of his house of bondage, which the carpenter cannot
repair in a day.
This bird excavates a gallery with its bill, for à
necat E DEG AVAL Je a S EI
Birds of Massachusetts. à ^E
nest, in which it lays five or six white eggs. Some-
times it saves itself this labor, by, making use of a
hollow tree. The young remain for a considerable
time with their parents, who feed them till their bills
are grown hard enough to procure a subsistence for
themselves. "This is not the case at first; for two Í-
or three months, the bill is so soft that it can be bent -
with the fingers, and it takes twice that time to
harden it for the rough uses to which it is to be ap-
plied. In the south, this bird is called the Log-cock ;
. and the Black Woodcock, in the middle states.
The Rep-neapep Woonprrckrn, Picus erythro-
cephalus, is a very elegant bird, and perhaps the
most common of this familiar race. When Wilson
first landed in this country, long before he devoted
himself to ornithology, as he was walking from New-
castle to Philadelphia, he shot one of these birds ;
its fine appearance and rich colors struck his imagi-
nation so much, that it had an influence in determin-
ing his mind to that pursuit for which he was after-
wards renowned. After spending the winter in the
south, this bird returns to us in May, after which it
is very common in the interior, though somewhat
rare in the eastern part of the State. It makes its
home in the woods, but spends most of its time in
gardens, particularly at the time when the best fruits
are ripe. It helps itself with the utmost freedom,
caring little for the rights or threats of the owner.
Fruit like apples, too large to be eaten on the spot,
it carries away, striking it with a jerk of the head,
and flying off with the apple sticking on its bill.
Su
172 * _Mr. Peabody on the
There is no secrecy or shyness in its depredations;
they are conducted with perfect good nature, and
with a confidence, fully expressed in its manner,
that the proprietor enjoys the appropriation as much
as they do. But there is another side to the account,
for they show great skill and industry in searching
the trees for grubs, which would be infinitely more
destructive to the tree, than the woodpecker to the
fruit.
They make their holes in decaying trees, where
the eggs, white, with reddish spots at the larger end,
are deposited without the ceremony of a lining.
The black snake is a great destroyer of the eggs and
the young. They show considerable local attach-
ment, and for years in succession, they resort to the
same tree.
The Rep-setump Wooprecgen, Picus Caroli-
nus, is said to be unknown in the eastern part of the
State. In the interior it is found, and Professor
Emmons tells me that he has shot the bird in the
season of incubation; others have taken them in
" ae autumn. They are found through the whole ex-
tent of the United States; but instead of frequent
ing the gardens, they choose the solitude of the
forests, preferring the hardy independence of the
woodlands, to the dangers which threaten them in
the vicinity of man. 'They have no objection to
the first approaches of civilization, and come freely
to the girdled trees wich surround the log but of
the borderer ; sometimes they pay a visit to his cor
field, when animal food is wanting, and their loud,
Birds of Massachusetts. 173
barking ery, is one of the most familiar sounds he
hears. They were doubtless common in Massa-
chusetts, some years ago; but as they gradually
withdraw before the settlements, they will disappear
as the forests are cut down ; a consummation, which
is quite as near at hand, as the friend of civilization
could desire. -
The YELLOW BELLIED WoopPEeckrn, Picus va-
rius, is found in summer, in most parts of the State,
but is not familiarly known, because, like the for-
mer, it keeps itself within the shade of the forest,
seldom suffering cither hunger or curiosity to bring
it near human habitations. lis notes, which are
loud and plaintive, differ from those of all others of
its tribe; but the bird is so shy and suspicious that
it is not easy to discover whence the sound pro-
ceeds. In its flight it seldom goes farther than
from one tree to another, and is hardly ever seen
upon the ground. Its food consists of grubs and
beetles. In the summer, it varies its fare with ber-
ries and grapes, which it frequently hangs, head
downwards, from the vine, to gather. When they |
migrate, they proceed by day in parties of half a
dozen, and at night take shelter all together in some
hole in a decaying tree. Sometimes on these occa-
sions, they have sharp conflicts with the Little Owl,
in which they generally prevail by perseverance and
force of numbers.
This woodpecker bores its hole in a sound tree,
the male and female laboring alternately ; and such
is the power of their bills, that an excavation is
174 Mr. Peabody on the
sometimes made to the depth of two feet, at the end
of which is the nest. 'l'he entrance is just large
enough to admit the bird, but it grows larger, and
becomes quite spacious at the farther end. The
eggs, from four to six in number, and white with a
slight blush, are laid on the fragments of wood. The
young remain in the hole till they are fully fledged.
The Harry Wooprrcxer, Picus villosus, is a
pretty bird, which comes so familiarly near oul
houses, that every one has seen it, intent upon its
labor, searching for grubs and insects, not only in `
trees, but in posts, rails, and all kinds of decaying
wood. Its call isa shrill whistle, and it makes 4
complaining sound as it explores the bark of the
trees. It is either very tame, or so absorbed in its
employment as not to regard the presence of an
observer. It builds in the branch of a tree; some-
times taking one which is already hollow, sometimes
scooping out an opening, which it does by beating
off fragments with its bill, and scraping them out
with its feet. The eggs, like those of others of the
race, are white. The female is known by its want-
ing the red cockade on the back of the head.
The Downy Wooprrckrm, Picus pubescens, *
small and very common species, is almost exactly
like the former in every thing but size. It is often
called the sap-sucker, from its practice of making
perforations in circles on the bark of trees. The
popular notion was, that this is done in order to
extract the juices of the tree; but it is now V
Birds of Massachusetts. 175
understood that the bird is in search of insects, and
that, so far from injuring the tree, its proceeding is
highly beneficial It is amusing to observe the
tenacious industry with which this little bird keeps
on in its labor, never leaving a spot till it has been
thoroughly explored. There could not be a more
signal instance of the manner in which ignorance
confounds friends and foes, than the case of this
poor bird, which, notwithstanding all its services, is
thus defamed and persecuted. In summer it is found
in the garden and the forest; in the winter, it may
be seen from the window, on the wood-pile or some
old fruit tree, which it relieves from many destroy-
ers. It is perfectly happy under all circumstances,
and seems to look at mankind, not with disgust and
wonder at their folly, but with cheerful confidence
that they will do it justice at last.
'The nest is made like that of the preceding spe-
cies, either in sound or hollow branches. The eggs,
commonly six in number, are white. The extensile
part of the tongue of this woodpecker, as well as of
the two last described, is cylindrical, while the ex-
tremity is linear, flat above, convex below, with the.
tip pointed and the edges serrated backward; so
that a grub, once impaled upon it, cannot easily be
withdrawn. `
The 'Turer-rorp WooprecrkerR, Picus tridacty-
lus, is found in Massachusetts, but much more
abundantly in Maine, and those northern regions in
which it resides. Dr. Brewer informs me, that a
woodpecker, answering to the description of this,
176 Mr. Peabody on the
was shot in Templeton, and that it breeds as near
the border as Keene in New Hampshire. 1t is distin-
guished by its yellow crown, and that peculiar for-
mation of the feet from which it derives its name.
In its voice and habits, it most resembles the yellow-
bellied ; its breeding habits are like those of all the
rest ; its motions, like those of the red-cockaded, are
petulant and restless, passing from one tree to anoth-
er, or to different parts of the same tree, without
taking time to examine any single spot. In the
middle of the day, it is silent, and goes to some soli-
tary place to rest. It is sometimes seen chasing in-
sects in the air, but never hurts them on the ground.
Its flight is swift, gliding and undulatory ; at every
gliding, it gives out a loud, shrill note. These birds
are more common in the northern states, in winter,
than at any other time ; because they are then driven
from their homes by the severity of the cold.
SLENDER BILLED BIRDS.
The Warre-sreastep NurHaTCH, Sitta Caroli-
nensis is seen in autumn and winter, not because it
migrates to us at that season, but because the sup-
plies of food in the forest fail, and it resorts to fields,
gardens, and the neighborhood of houses, in search
of insects, such as ants and spiders. At a distance;
it is easily mistaken for the downy woodpecker,
though more lively in its motions. It moves side-
Birds of Mussachusetts. 177
ways or head downwards, with great rapidity, stop-
ping every now and then to cast an inquiring look
at the observer. Its bill is strong and sharp, and
when it would open an acorn or chestnut, it holds it
in a crevice, and splits it with strokes of its bill.
lts tongue is capable of extension like the wood-
pecker's, so that it has great advantages for procur-
ing a subsistence ; but, if it were less favored, it
might contrive to live, since it is sometimes seen
hopping among the poultry on the ground.
These birds chisel out a perforation in a decay-
ing tree, in which to deposit the eggs. These are
five, dusky white, spotted with brown at the larger
end. The young are fed and taught to fly with
affectionate care. They are fond of roosting in their
own nest, and are believed to return to it year after
year. They are easily known by their cry, quank,
two or three times repeated, as they run over a tree.
The Rrp-srLLIED Nutuatcn, Sitta Canadensis,
is more common among us than the other. It is
not found farther south than Maryland, and becomes
more common as we proceed toward Maine, where
many of them are hardy enough to encounter the
severest winters. It is a very active and industrious
bird, always running over the branches of trees,
searching with sharp eyes, sometimes rapping with
its bill, and occasionally striking off a bit of moss or
bark, to dislodge the grub below ; the only time it
has for resting is at night, when, like others of the
tribe, it holds by its feet to the bark and sleeps,
VOL. RNO I.—II.
178 Mr. Peabody on the
head downwards. It seems almost indifferent ‘to
the presence of man, unless he comes near it with
obviously bad intentions. When it spends the win-
ter here, it often comes near our dwellings in search
of food. Its flight, when seen here, seldom extends
farther than from one tree to another; but it must
have great power to sustain itself on the wing, since
on one of his homeward voyages, Audubon saw one
come on board his vessel at the distance of three
hundred miles from the shore; it alighted on the
rigging, and began to search for food, but it had
fasted too long, and in the course of the might it
died.. : Ü
This species is partial to pine forests, where it
feeds on the seeds of the trees. Its nest is made in
dead stumps, not high above the ground. We have
at present no account of its breeding within the
limits of our State.
The Brack anp Wuire Creeper, Certhia varia,
comes from the south in April, and is seen running
nimbly round the trunks and large branches of trees,
in search of insects, particularly ants and their larvæ,
which are its favorite food. It is an unsuspicious
bird, always too much taken up with its own affairs
to pay much regard to an observer. It moves by
short successive hops, with great rapidity, and in all
directions with equal facility, with the head either
up or down. © ‘It has but a very short flight, from one
tree to another. Its notes are a ‘series of tweals;
rapidly pronounced, the last greatly prolonged.
Audubon says that at the south they breed in
Birds of Massachusetts. 179
holes in trees, but Nuttall found a nest in Roxbury,
on the ground, protected by a shelving rock, and
composed of coarse strips of the inner bark of the
hemlock, which overshaded the spot. The lining
was a thin layer of hair. 1t contained four young
birds, about a week old, which the parents fed in his
presence without fear. The eggs are white, marked
with brownish red spots at the larger end.
The Brown Creeper, Certhia familiaris, makes
its appearance at the approach of winter, not coming
from other regions, but only from the forest, where
it passes the milder season. Its bill is not powerful,
but it has the advantage of a rigid tail, on which it
rests while examining the bark of trees. Insects
are its chief dependence, though it sometimes eats
the seeds of the pine. With us it is not a common
bird, nor is it known to breed in our State.
The Hummine Birp, Trochilus colubris, is a beau-
tiful little visiter, that generally makes its appearance -
with the earliest blossoms; and almost always in
considerable numbers, though sometimes cold and
wet seasons destroy many of the young. Of man
it is very fearless, being often seen on flowering vines
that climb over windows, and sometimes taking
courage to enter apartments in which flowers are to
be found. Its bill is long, and the tongue capable
of extension. The bill is inserted into the urns of
flowers, and then, darting out its glutinous tongue,
it draws forth the insect from its fragrant home. Af-
ter feeding, the bird settles on a bough and dresses
180 Mr. Peabody on the
its feathers, without caring who observes its motions.
It is a mistake to suppose that the honey of flowers
is its principal support; it is rather its luxury than’
its means of subsistence ; without a supply of insecis,
it will perish, as those have found who have en-
deavored to keep it on honey and sugar. This deli-
cate little bird is easily reconciled to confinement,
but it is so very sensitive to cold, that a northern
winter will destroy it, however carefully it is guarded.
The nest of the humming bird is very ingeniously
constructed. It is generally placed on the large hor- ,
izontal branch of an apple tree, and covered with
moss so as to resemble the place where a limb has
been taken off and a circle of bark has risen round
the spot. As the female is green, birds of prey
might easily pass over it, without discovering the
nest below. Their nests are sometimes built in
small trees and shrubs. I have seen one on the
drooping limb of a peach tree, not more than three
feet from the ground, and this was carefully covered
with moss, though there was none upon the tree. If
any one goes up to the nest, the parent flies up to
him as an intimation that he is doing wrong, then
alights almost within the reach of his arm, and
watches his motions with composed attention. The
parents feed their young with affectionate care, till
they are able to fly, and for about a week after.
The young do not come to their full plumage till the
following spring.
|
Birds of Massachusetts. 181
HALCYONS.
The Beitep Kinerisuer, Alcedo alcyon, is found
in the neighborhood of fresh waters over all the
United States. He may generally be seen sitting on
some post or dead branch, near a solitary mill-dam,
quietly watching his prey in the element below. If
fish do not come near him, he sweeps along the
course of the stream with rapid flight, and occasion-
ally hovers over the water, as if watching some-
thing beneath. Having made sure of his aim, he
darts down, and seldom rises without his prey. If
scared from his retreat, he flies off with a grating
sound of displeasure, resembling the noise of a
watchman’s rattle. When the northern rivers are
frozen, the kingfisher resorts to the sea, where it
may occasionally be seen fishing as in fresh water.
The nest of this bird, it is well known, is made
in an excavation, scooped in the side of a bank over-
hanging a stream or mill pond. It extends to several
feet in length, with a larger chamber at the end.
The eggs, about six in number, white, are depos-
ited on some twigs, grass and feathers.
SWALLOW TRIBE.
The Purrre Martin, Hirundo purpurea, is more
intimate with man than any other native bird. So
great a favorite is he, that lodgings are provided for
182 Mr. Peabody on the
him, by the northern farmer, by the southern slave,
and even by the Indian, who puts up a calabash for
him at his cabin door; not wholly from benevo-
lence, but because the martin pays rent, by keeping
insects from the deer skins and venison, exposed in
the air to dry. i
"The martin spends the winter in the south, and
reappears in Louisiana in February, moving on de-
liberately in immense flocks, which divide into
smaller parties as they proceed. They have a rapid
flight, though not equal in that respect to the barn
swallow. They can drink and bathe on the wing,
without stopping for the purpose, by plunging hastily
in the stream and then shaking themselves to throw
off the water. They alight on the ground, and can
walk with ease, notwithstanding the shortness of
their legs, which is unfavorable to that kind of pro-
gression ; but flying is their favorite motion; and
in the air, they can make themselves formidable by
the rapidity of their movements, to an enemy far
superior in size. Even the eagle, if he comes in
sight of the martin's box, is compelled to retire in
disgrace.
The nest of the martin is made, toward the last of
April, of sticks, willow twigs, grasses, leaves, rags
and feathers. ‘The eggs are white, from four to six
in number. The male takes part in the work of in-
cubation, and is very attentive to his mate. If no
habitation is provided for them, they will dislodge
bluebirds from their box, and after depriving them
of their home, will add insult to injury, abusing them
on every occasion. If no other lodgings can be
\
Birds of Massachusetts. 183
found, they will resort to a woodpecker’s hole. But
they are not often driven to such extremities; the
industrious class of the community give them shelter
for the sake of their morning call, which is the
earliest that salutes the day. ‘Their notes are gen-
erally pleasing, though not in the least musical;
and the martin, aware of the estimation in which he
is held, flies carelessly through the street, poises
himself in the air to look into windows, hangs by
the eaves of houses, plays with the kite-string of the
children, or chases away the cat, who seems to be
prowling in search of his young. As his food con-
sists entirely of insects, his services are very useful.
There is a tradition, that they first came into New
England shortly before the revolutionary war, but
whether their history resembles that of the cliff
ees in papi gases or not, I am not able to de-
tormi
"The Bua nier Hirundo Americana, like
the preceding, is generally welcomed by the farmer,
who knows that these birds are of incalculable ser-
viee in protecting his cattle from the insects that
torment them almost to madness, and therefore is
wise enough to allow them a shelter among the
rafters of his barn. In April they return from the
south, and soon begin to build against the timbers,
with pellets of mud from the borders of some neigh-
boring stream, inlaid with slender grasses, which
serve to bind it together. The eggs are white,
spotted with reddish brown. When the young are
fledged, the parents use persuasion to induce them
184 | : Mr. Peabody on the
to come out from the nest, and try their first flight
in the barn. When they have gained a little con-
fidence, they go forth to some wall, fence or tree,
where the parents can feed them without trouble.
They soon become so expert in receiving food, that
the parent can feed the young one, while both are on
the wing. In fact, they seem in their element only
when flying, their movements being easy and grace-
ful, apparently without effort, and so rapid that no
bird can equal them in fleetness. Before the close
of summer, the barn swallows are seen in flocks,
constantly increasing in number, and alighting on
churches, barns or high trees, chattering gaily to
each other, as if some interesting plan were in view.
They are talking over the subject of their migra-
tion; and on some fair morning they set forth, fol-
iwing the course of streams or the sea beach, and
thus with very little delay, proceed beyond the limits
of the Union. The idea that these birds avoided the
severity of winter by plunging into the mud, is now
generally abandoned. No doubt many are found
occasionally, on draining mill-ponds, and under cir-
cumstances which it is not easy to explain ; but
no one pretends that one swallow has been reani-
mated after its submersion, nor is there anything
in the structure of the bird which authorizes us to
suppose that it can live beneath the water. Least
ofall should we expect any such proceeding from
a bird which can fly more than a mile a minute, and
in a day or two can reach those regions where the
flowers do not wither nor the leaves fall When
they return in the spring, the bank swallows,
kd
S.
Birds of Massachusetts. 185
which pass the winter in Florida, come first; the
white-bellied follows ; next, the purple martin; then,
the barn swallows ; and last, the chimney imis:
The probability is, that those which are latest in
returning, come from the most distant winter quar-
ters, and that the extent of their migration may be
determined by the date of their usual reappearance
in the spring.
The Curr Swatiow, Hirundo fulva, was hardly
known to naturalists till within a quarter of a century.
The first account of its habits was derived from
Long's expedition to the Rocky Mountains. Since
that time the whole body have commenced a great
system of emigration, moving gradually on towards
the Atlantie, till now it is become quite common in
many parts of New England. A peculiar sagacity
is manifested. b y this and the chimney swallow.
under eaves and cornices, where its nest is partially
sheltered from the rain. The first emigrants who
came, informed the rest of their discovery, and in-
duced the whole tribe to make a radical change in
some of the most important habits of their lives.
The nest is a large patch of clay mixed with sand,
having an entrance near the top, rounded, projecting,
and bent downward; the whole resembling a coarse
earthen retort, with the neck broken off, stuck and
flattened against the side of the building. The nest
has a lining of dry grass and straw, on which are
generally four eggs, white) with dusky spots. These
VOL. IIL—NO. II. — — 24
=
186 Mr. Peabody on the
birds defend their nest, when attacked, with great
spirit and resolution. They are not common as yet
in the eastern part of the State, but in the west they
begin to abound.
- The Wurre-srzLLIED Swannow, Hirundo bicolor,
is not so common in the western part of this State
as either of the two preceding. It differs from
them in never using mud in the construction of
its nest, whieh is made of dry grass and lined with
feathers. The eggs are four or five in number, of a
pure white. Other swallows are harmonious and
friendly to each other; but these are angry and
quarrelsome. In taking their food, they make a
snapping noise with the bill. This bird returns in
spring earlier than any of its tribe, except the sand
martin ; and though not particularly friendly to its
own kindred, it is on good terms with man, and
well disposed to accept the lodgings which he pro-
vides.
The Banx Swarnow, Hirundo riparia, is found |
wherever there is a sandy bank on the side of 2 pit
or river. "There it bores a hole with its bill, below
the upper edge of the bank. Having opened it s0
far as to insert its body, it scrapes the sand with the
feet, inclining the excavation upward, in order that
the waste earth may fall out readily below. The
depth varies, in different situations, from two feet to
five; the end is enlarged in the form of an oven, to
receive the nest. These birds are so gentle, indus-
trious, and friendly to each other, that. it is quite
Birds of Massachusetts. 187
interesting to see them engaged in their labor. They
often, unfortunately, are compelled to work in vain.
Idle boys destroy their tenement, or some improve-
ment destroys the bank ; but they are so hopeful and
persevering, that they will continue boring the earth,
even when the shovel, day after day, destroys the
results of their exertion.
The nest is formed with bits of dry grass and
feathers. The eggs of the first brood are from five
to seven, of a pure white. The young, as soon as
they are able, crawl to the entrance, where they
become a prey to crows and hawks, which lie in
wait to catch them, both at that time, and after
they have left the nest to perch in trees. In winter,
these birds resort to East Florida, where they are
seen by thousands. Audubon has discovered that
there is another species, nearly resembling this, and
often confounded with it. He has given it the name
of rough-winged swallow, H. serripennis. The bill
is longer, with the point of the upper mandible more
decurved. The tail is shorter and but slightly
emarginate. There are no feathers on the hinder
part of the tarsus, as in the common species, and the
wings extend half an inch beyond the tail.
The Cumney SwarLow, Cypselus pelasgius, is a
singular bird, which formerly, when the country was
unsettled, made its nest and place of resort in hollow
trees ; but having discovered that chimneys have an
. advantage over those wild tenements, and that a
great proportion of them are not in use in the sum-
mer, it has now become familiar with man, and
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LÀ ;
aw
, aboutids i in almost all the towns and villages of the
WE on As soon as they arrive in May, they select
nney for their encampment, where both sexes
“oi together at night; and if not disturbed in their
rendezvous, they return to it several years in suc-.
geen, Here they may be seen in the evening,
flying round ibid circles, till it grows dark; at
length, as one passes over it, he drops into it as if
dead. One after another, at intervals, follows his
T 3 example, whirring with their wings as they descend,
and making a sound like distant thunder. They
spend the night on the sides of the flue, clinging
with their claws and resting on their tails, all in
profound repose. At the first glimpse of daybreak,
all are in motion, and they pour out in a rushing
volume, as if the chimney were bursting out with
flames ; for a moment it trembles to its foundation ;
but the swallows disperse to their several cares, and
a
$ it is left deserted for the day.
T Each pair select a chimney in the neighborhood, *
E -= taking one which appears to be disused for the sea-
son. Their first process is to collect twigs, which _
they break off in an ingenious manner, grasping ——
them with their claws, and pushing the body sud- = —
- denly against them, by which the stick is separated. 5 Ba
from the branch, with the end in the swallow’s grasp.
These they glue to the side of the flue with their
saliva, to form the frame work of their nest, which — ;
is placed four or five feet from the top. In this
rude basket-work their eggs are laid, without the -
semblance of a lining. They are white, and from
four to six in number. In wet weather these nests
—— AI
fe
Ld i ME a
' *. ta wore we
* É. P
ù & E pE
; ] ae ae
Birds of Massachusetts. 189
are often dislodged, and come down with the young .
in them; sometimes the young fall out of the nest.
In either’ case, they scramble up the chimney and
support themselves with their claws and their tail,
till they are able to fly, in a place near the mouth of
the flue, where the parent can conveniently feed
them. Before the end of the summer they all dis-
appear, leaving us earlier than other swallows, be-
cause — have a git oon. to € pi
a Pie
The Vase food —M vedere
not often seen, because compelled, by its d cate
sense of vision, to retreat into the forests to escape
the blaze of day ; but every one knows its wild and
melancholy song, which, when. it first arrives, is
heard from the distant woods, but comes nearer as
the season advances, and at last is heard very near
the dwellings € of men. The s song of birds is always
expressive of happiness ; ‘but the complaining notes
of the whippoorwill seem to indicate suffering, and
create a sympathy in the hearer, which the case of
the bird does not call for; since, all this while, it is
collecting moths, beetles, ants and grasshoppers ; and,
instead of foreboding change and disaster, it is em-
ployed advantageously for us, and no doubt to its -
own satisfaction, in destroying insects that trouble
the repose of the cattle. The barn-yard affords it a
foraging ground, which it often visits ; sometimes it
takes its station on the step of the house door, not
chasing its prey on the wing, like the night hawk,
but waiting till insects pass by; when they appear, it
:
Oe,
'
1
=}
e t i *
190 ` Mr. Peabody on the oy
rises to snatch them, and then resumes its PD
and proceeds with its song.
"The nest of the whippoorwill, if it can be "ida to
have any, is a mere hollow place in the ground, in
some retired part of the woods. The eggs, bluish
white, with blotches of dark olive, are laid directly
on the ground. "The young are soon able to run
about, and. until they can fly, are sufficiently pro-
tected by their resemblance to the ground. This
bird is very susceptible of cold ; during the severe
season of 1832, many of them were found dead in
New England in the month of June. It would be
no subject of regret if they were more common in
Massachusetts, for their note is pleasant, heard in the
silence of evening, and their services in destroying
insects are not balanced by any injuries whatever.
The Nicar Hawk, Caprimulgus Virginianus,
notwithstanding its popular name, is much less prop-
erly called a bird of night than the former. It flies
in the day, even when the sun is shining, and retires
to rest before it is late in the evening, about at the
time when the whippoorwill begins his song. Its
wings are very large in proportion to its weight, and
its flight is firm and graceful; it sweeps in circles,
sometimes rising high in the air, then shooting sud-
denly downward, with a sharp squeak, which seems
to say that it has caught sight of its victim. In the
evening, it flies lower than by day, often striking
off wildly from its line of flight, doubtless to pursue
some insect which its sharp eye has discovered. It
TU - Birds of Massachusetts. 191
can hardly walk on the ground, nor even stand erect
without resting on its breast. When it grows dark,
it alights on the earth, or on fences, where it passes
the night, giving a squeak now and then, as if it
were still following its prey in dreams.
In May, the female deposits her muddy colored
and freckled eggs on the naked ground, without any
sort of preparation. The young, like those of the
preceding species, are sufficiently guarded, by the
resemblance of the down, which covers them, to the
ground, in which they nestle. The food of the
night hawk consists of insects, which it secures and
swallows while flying. It is strange that Wilson was
obliged to take so much pains to show that this and
the whippoorwill are different birds, when, beside
that one flies by day and the other by night, the
whippoorwill is so formed, that he can walk firmly
and fast, while the night hawk can hardly support
itself on the ground, and, when it perches, is obliged
to stand on the branch lengthwise, in order to lean
upon its breast. Beside this, the closed wings of the
former do not extend so far as the tail by two iuches,
while those of the night hawk are longer than the
tail. In the night hawk the tail is forked, while
that of the whippoorwill is rounded. It shows that
Wilson labored in a field which had been very little
exploted, and it is wonderful that he did not leave
more errors to be corrected, and deficiencies to be
supplied, by later observers.
š "E
iu Su uon.
4 e — A bus Sa
s E.
192 Mr. Peabody on the
PIGEON TRIBE.
The CAROLINA TusTLE Dove, Columba Caroli-
nensis, is common enough at the western part of
Massachusetts, where it is called the Mourning Dove,
from the plaintiveness of its call, which is often
heard in the woods. 'The sound seems expressive
of deep affliction, but the bird that makes it is very
happy, and quite unconscious of the interest which
he inspires. When these doves come to the north in
the spring, they disperse in small parties, and it is
not often that more than two are seen together.
They are generally met with in roads through the
forest, to which they resort in order to dust them-
selves and swallow gravel. 'T'hey are by no means .
shy, though unobtrusive in their manners; they are
sometimes seen among the domestic poultry, as they
80 to be fed at the farmer's door. Occasionally they
join the flocks of passenger pigeons, and are taken in
shares, together with their relations. Their food
consists of grain and small acorns, together with
poke, partridge, and dogwood berries, in their sea-
son. They are said to be easily tamed, and to raise
their young in confinement ; if so, they would re-
Ward attempts at domestication, since the flesh is
pronounced equal to that of the woodcock, by those
Who profess to be judges of such matters.
The Passencer Prerow, Columba migratoria, is
a hardy wayfarer, which cares very little for climate,
and is governed in its migrations, not by the desire
I
V
: E PE diim or to build its nest in a
2nd one, but | simply by the necessity of going
where food abounds, because no small supply will
satisfy the appetite of such immense numbers.
Having powers of vision equal to their power of
flight, they can easily take a survey of the country
over which they àre passing ; if they determine to
descend, they break the force of their motion by
repeated flappings of their wings, to keep themselves
from being injured by dashing upon the ground.
So swiftly do they move over an immense extent of
country, that they have been killed. near New York,
with their crops full of rice from South Carolina
plantations. In the Atlantic states, their numbers
are nothing compared to the countless multitudes
which assemble in the west, where, as they pass
over, the rush and roar seem like those of a tornado,
darkening all the sky. But their numbers, though
reduced from those of former times, are still consid-
erable, and as soon as it is known in a neighbor-
hood that the pigeons are flying over, it is the signal
for assembling all the arts and instruments of de-
struction. Many are shot with the gun; many are
taken with nets; and others are decoyed by pigeons
with their eyes blinded, which are stationed on a
roost, provided for the purpose; the roost being
shaken with a string, these pigeons open their wings
to balance themselves ; and the wayfarers, supposing
that they have just alighted, after examining the re-
gion, think it safe to come down and join them
without farther investigation.
VOL. III.—NO. I—II.
194 Mr. Peabody on the A A r
The accounts of the breeding places of the pigeons |
at the west are almost incredible. Some of them —
extend several miles, covering thousands of acres; ^x
the grass and underwood is all destroyed; the - z^ T
ground overspread with limbs, broken down with TEE
the weight of the birds clustering upon them, ÉL *
the trees killed as completely as if girdled with the © s
axe. When the young are fully grown, but have a,
not yet left the nest, a general invasion is made
upon the spot. Hawks and eagles snatch them
. from above; hogs devour the thousands that fall to í i
the ground ; the axe-men cut down the trees most xl
loaded with nests, and the crash of falling timber $
mingles with the thundering roar of the wings of |
ten thousand pigeons. One large tree, as it de- |
scends, often brings down several others, and two |
hundred squabs have been gathered by means of a
single fall. The multitudes of birds are continually
breaking down large branches with their weight, so
that it is dangerous to walk below.
There is some disagreement in the accounts given
of their breeding. Wilson maintained that there was
but a single young one in a nest ; while Audubon
asserts that there are two. The prodigious numbers
of the birds would seem to confirm the statement
of the latter. The young come to maturity in six
months. Every year they, at least, double their
numbers.
One office of the pigeon seems to be to protect the
oak forests. It is stated, on excellent authority,
that for some years after they have occupied a par-
ticular spot as their breeding place, the oaks, for
f $ Birds of Massachusetts. 195
many miles around, are remarkably free from the
_ green caterpillars, by which they are ^ i to be in-
fested.
ge
^ .GALLINACEOUS BIRDS.
The Win» Turkey, Meleagris gallopavo, was
formerly common in all parts of the United States,
but has gradually disappeared before the encroach-
ments of civilization, and is rare, except in the un-
settled regions of the west. It is still found occa-
sionally in our western mountains, and also on the
Holyoke range, where some are taken almost every
year. Its migrations, like those of the pigeon, are
irregular, having nothing to do with seasons, and are
governed wholly by the supply of food. This fine
bird is so uncommon in Massachusetts that it does
not seem necessary to describe it at large ; in a few
years it will doubtless leave us forever.
The American Quair, or Parrriper, Perdix Vir-
giniana, is quite common in Massachusetts, where
it bears the former name; in the southern and west;
ern states, it is always known by the name of
Partridge. It remains with us throughout the year,
and sometimes suffers so much from the deep snows,
that it may be seen in the sheds and near the houses
of our largest villages, in search of shelter and food.
A party will sometimes resist the cold by collecting
in a circle, pressing close, with their heads outward,
È
196 Mr. Peabody on the
borrowing warmth from each other; but in our
fiercest winter storms they sometimes perish under
the drifted snow.
The quail is a gentle bird, and fond of associating
with its own race, though not in large numbers. It
generally resorts to open fields in search of food,
such as grain, buck wheat and Indian corn. It
sometimes joins the parties of domestic fowls, and
scratches the ground after their example. Though
it is fond of grain, it requires something more for
its support ; and the demand of the young quails for
insects makes the chief difficulty in the way of its
domestication. The female prepares a nest of vari-
ous grasses, arranged in an oven-like form, under the
protection of a tuft, and partly sunk in the ground.
The eggs are from ten to eighteen, of a pure white
The male takes part in sitting, and as soon as the
young are hatched, they are able to leave the nest.
Wilson believed that the quail might be domesti-
cated. Its eggs have sometimes been hatched by the
common hen, and the chickens are sufficiently tame ;
but though kept through the season and the suc-
ceeding winter, they go away in the spring. Two
that were brought up by a hen, as soon as they Were
turned off, associated with the cows, going with
them to the pasture in the morning, returning at
night, and standing by them when they were milked,
waiting to share their lodgings in the barn. These,
however, contented as they appeared, deserted, like
all the rest, in the spring. This wildness might,
after a time, be overcome; but there would be
more difficulty in supplying all the food they require;
E
~
Birds of Massachusetts. 197
and after all it would be doubtful whether success
would repay the care and attention which it would
demand.
. The note of the quail is well known, being gen-
erally interpreted into the prediction, more wet, more
wet; the sounds are continued for a long time.
This note of the male is most frequent and loud in
the month of September. Sometimes there is an
introductory whistle preceding the clear and em-
phatie more wet, or bob white. 'This call may be
easily imitated so as to deceive the bird. When a
covey are about to take wing, they make a sound
resembling that of young chickens; when they sep-
arate, the parent assembles them by a plaintive and
expressive call.
The Rurrep Grous, Tetrao umbellus, is called
pheasant in the middle and western states, and
partridge in New England; a confusion of names
somewhat perplexing. These elegant birds gener-
ally keep themselves within the shelter of the woods,
and prefer those which grow on the sides of moun-
tains. There they can find their food at all seasons ;
it consists, in spring and autumn, of the buds of
various trees, the catkins of the alder and hazle,
and all the berries that the fields and forest afford.
In winter, they live on the buds of apple-trees, lau-
rels and azaleas, together with the berries of the
wintergreen, and the favorite partridge berry, which
they are able to rescue from the snow.
"The ruffed grous begins its drumming in April ;
the sound is heard most frequently at the beginning
198 Mr. Peabody on the
and at the close of day. It is produced by the male,
who beats his sides with such a rapid motion as to
make this sound resembling distant thunder, which
is heard at a prodigious distance in the woods. It
is said to be imitated by striking an inflated bladder
with a stick ; on hearing it, the male takes it for a
challenge, and as he comes forth to do battle with
his supposed rival, he falls an easy prey. The nest
is constructed in May. It is little more than a
handful of leaves, spread under a bush, or at the side
of a fallen log, and, unlike that of the quail, it has no
roof above. The eggs are from nine to fifteen,
brownish white. The young leave the nest as soon
as hatched, and are led by the mother with a cluck
like that of the hen. If the family are surprised,
the mother resorts to arts like those of the quail,
throwing herself on the ground, fluttering and beat-
ing with her wings, as if hardly able to move; and
while she thus draws off the attention' of the intru-
der, she calls to the young to disperse and hide
themselves. They do this so effectually that they
are seldom found, though they only creep among the
dry leaves, or remain perfectly still, trusting that
their resemblance to the earth will conceal them
from an unfriendly eye.
The old birds, when hard pressed by the hunter;
if there is snow on the ground, save themselves by
iving into it, and working their way out at some
distance from the place where they went in. Much
as they are pursued, they are still abundant in
New England, and the wildness of their habits will
save them from extermination so long as the forests
Birds of Massachusetts. i 199
are permitted to last. They are now cut down with
wanton profusion ; and as fast as they are cleared
away, birds of this description are driven to other
regions less infested by man.
The Pinnatep Grous, Tetrao cupido, was once
very common in New England, but, being more shy
than the preceding species, it has already been driven
from all but a very few places, where it is compara-
tively free from intrusion. Audubon says, that when
he first went to Kentucky, they were so abundant,
that they could hardly be given away ; now, hardly
one can be found in the state, and they are, in like
manner, fast disappearing from all the settled parts
of the west. In Massachusetts, laws have been en-
acted to preserve the heath-hen, as it is commonly
called ; but it is impossible to withstand the opera-
tion of the law of nature by legislative enactments,
and the same causes which have removed the
greater proportion will soon deprive us of all. 'The
better way is to try the experiment of domestica-
tion ; the bird is easily tamed, and breeds in confine-
ment. Some which Audubon kept for the purpose,
soon became familiar, and would eat from the hand
as readily as common fowls. Unfortunately, they
became so destructive to the vegetables of the gar-
den, that he was obliged to have them killed ; but
the experiment proceeded far enough to show, that
neither the natural wildness of the bird, nor the want
of proper food, would prevent their being reared by
any one who is willing to take the trouble.
The grous feeds on berries of various kinds, in
5." i
200 Mr. Peabody on the
ad their season, the acorns of dwarf oaks, and the buds
and leaves of trees. In summer, they pick whortle-
berries and cranberries, and sometimes venture into
a field to pick the leaves of clover. It is said, that,
sometimes in winter, when they are hard pressed
with hunger, they will feed on the buds of the pine.
They are also known, under those circumstances, to
join the domestic poultry.
The footing, for which these birds are remarkable,
is produced by means of the air bags at the side.
When these, resembling a small orange, are inflated,
the bird lowers its head, opens its bill, and sends
forth the air contained in these receptacles, in a suc-
cession of rolling notes, like those of a muffled drum.
In parts of the country where the birds are become
few and wild, this sound is seldom made after sun-
rise, and sometimes the battles of the rival males
are carried on in silence, and the scratching grounds
carefully concealed.
The nest is built in May, with dry leaves and
. grasses, interwoven, and is carefully placed amidst
^ . the tall grass of a large tuft, where it is not often
discovered. The eggs, from eight to twelve in num-
ber, resemble those of the preceding species, though
somewhat larger in size. - The female sits nearly
three weeks, and as soon as the young are hatched,
leads them away from the nest. When surprised,
they conceal themselves, like young partridges, and
one may search for them in vain, though perhaps he
is treading them under his feet. In autumn, the
different families associate together, sometimes in
r large parties. Their most dangerous enemies A
ae
at s
Birds of Massachusetts. g 901
are the hawk, the skunk, and the greatest of all
destroyers, man.
The only place where they are now found in Mas-
sachusetts, is in Martha's Vineyard, and one small
island near it; and there, though pains are taken to
protect them, they are said to diminish fast, the high
price which they command in the market, being a
strong temptation to shoot them. Cats, also, which
run wild in the island, do their part in the work of
extermination. 'The wonder is, that with all their
timidity, they have remained so long, but their pa-
tience and their attachment to their old haunts will
be wearied out, and other means must be found to
gratify the epicure's taste, and the sportsman's love
of pleasure. The order of nature supplies such
game, as a resource for the pioneers of civilization,
while the process of clearing the soil goes on; till
the earth is subdued, the deer, the birds, and the
fish, supply means of sustaining life. But when
agriculture, and the other arts of life, begin to be
pursued with profit and success, these resources cease
to be needed ; the habits of the hunter are inconsis-
tent with regular industry ; and as the game would
only serve to tempt men away from their cares and
duties, the forests and streams are deserted, and
their wild tenants go where there are other adven-
turers who need them. If the gallinaceous tribes
can be preserved, it is by domestication, not by law.
Experiments should be made for several years in
succession, and if these fail, we must make up our
minds to lose them.
e VOL. I11.—no. Lm 26
ae
i...
202 Mr. Peabody on the
WADING BIRDS.
The SanperLING, Calidris arenaria, is an au-
tumnal and winter visiter, which arrives from its
northern breeding places in August, and spreads
along the coast from Maine to Florida. "They are
seen in flocks, running in the face of the waves, and
uttering a plaintive whistle, as they gather the small
shell fish, insects, and other minute animals, with
which the beach abounds. This bird obtains much
of its subsistence by inserting its bill obliquely in
the sands; it does this with great activity, and when
the tide is going down, great numbers of the holes
which are made by this process, are seen upon the
wet beach. "They can run very fast upon the sands;
their flight is rapid, but they generally alight at no
great distance from the spot whence they started.
When they return to us in autumn, from the northern
regions, they are in good order for eating, and their
flesh is much esteemed.
"The Brack necxep Hinr, Himantopus nigricollis,
if known at all in Massachusetts, appears only as an
accidental visiter. Dr. Brewer tells me that a bird,
somewhat answering to the description of this, has
been seen occasionally near New Bedford, but pe has
never obtained a specimen. dá &
The dote aco rolas Hematopus pal-
liatus, is found along our whole Atlantic coast, but
more rarely in New England than in other parts of E
Birds of Massachusetts. 203
the country. It spends the winter in the south, and
returns to the north in spring. Its breeding places
extend from the middle states to Labrador, where
it was found breeding in July. Dr. Brewer informs
me that he has once found this bird in Massachu-
setts. We learn from Audubon, that he has never
found the Hematopus ostralegus, described by Wil-
son, in any part of this country, and, though he
does not say it is not to be found, it is more likely
that this species has been mistaken for it, than that
it should have escaped his searching observation.
This bird is exceedingly difficult to approach, flying
off the moment it perceives that any one is watching
it; so that it was only with a telescope that he could
observe its motions, as it probed the sand with its
bill, tore off the limpets by inserting its bill as a
wedge between the fish and the rock, or beat a shell
fish against the sand, for the purpose of breaking the
shell. These birds return to the south early in Oc-
tober.
The Gotpven Proven, Charadrius pluvialis, is a
common bird on our coast in spring and autumn,
when they return from their breeding places in the
north, and prolong their stay, till they are driven
. away by the approach of winter. "They live princi-
pally on such insects as are found in the viciniiy of
the sea; they are sometimes seen patting the earth
with then feet, to force out the worm from his bur-
row, but when grasshoppers are to be had, they ap-
pear to be the plover’s favorite food. They assem-
P» ble in such immense flocks, that on one occasion,
ae
aw
RI x
** at :
204 Mr. Peabody on the
when Audubon accompanied. some French gunners
from Néw Orleans to shoot thém, one man killed
sixty-three dozens in the course of the day. When
they are about taking their departure, they assemble
in large flocks in the morning, though they rest apart
from each other at night ;-and at such times, they
'are caught in great numbers in nets, which they
are driven into by creating a panic among them.
No difference can be detected between this and the
golden plover of Europe ; it is doubtless the same
with the bird so abundant in the Hebrides, and
found in most parts of the known world.
The. Pipine PLOVER, Charadrius. melodus, so
called from its pleasant, though plaintive note, is
found along our whole coast in summer. They
spend the winter on the shores of the southern
states. In the spring they proceed to the eastward in
pairs ; if they find a suitable breeding place on the
way, they alight and take possession, and as they
are soon joined by others, they soon form a consid-
erable party. In autumn, they move in flocks of
twenty or thirty, always keeping near the shore.
Its flight is strong and rapid, but it is more remark-
able for its swiftness in running, which is so great,
that it eludes the eye, and reposes quietly on the
sand, which it so much resembles that it has no fear.
of being detected. I have no information of its nest
having been found in our State, but it can hardly
be that it should breed so far on each side of us, and
yet pass us by. The piping plover is valued as
game, but the sportsman generally gives his attention
to birds of larger size.
Birds of Massachusetts. — 205
Wirsow's Prover, Charadrius Wilsonius, a spe-
cies resembling the preceding, and named in honor
of the great ornithologist, is a constant resident in
the southern states, but was supposed never to come
farther to the east than Long Island. Audubon
thought it strange that its‘range should be so lim-'
ited, compared with that of the piping plover. I
am, however, informed by Dr. Brewer, that Wilson's
plover was abundant at Nahant, in August of the
last year. It was probably some irregular movement,
which would not be repeated every year, since it is
hardly to be supposed that the bird should be often
in our limits, and yet buic fi the eye of so md
accurate observers.
The Kitprer Proven, Charadrius vociferus, is a
common bird, which spends the winter at the south,
but returns early in the spring, leaving the éoast : and
spreading over the inland country, where it is found
in open fields, and on the banks of streams, and
known by the name of kill-dee. It seems to have
great sagacity in suspecting danger. In the pre-
sence of horses, cows and sheep, it is perfectly indif-
ferent; but if a man or dog appears, it betrays ex-
treme uneasiness and distrust. When they move in
small flocks, they appoint one as sentinel, who stands
on tiptoe, watching all the objects around ; when
any thing appears, in the least suspicious, it sounds
the alarm, and the place is at once deserted.
The kildeer plover makes its nest on the ground
of a field, or the sand of the downs, sometimes lin-
ing it with grass, at others laying the eggs on
ft é
eg *
K Ye
Be
. 906 Mr. Peabody on the
the naked earth ; they are four in number, of a cream
color, blotched with black ; the young run about as
soon as they are hatched, and the parents are kept
in perpetual agitation by fears for their safety.
The food of the kildeer consists of grasshoppers,
crickets, snails and earth worms. They often strike
their bill into the ground, in search of their prey.
In the meadow, they pat the ground, to force out
the worms, and sometimes follow the ploughman,
to seize those which he has turned out from the
ground. 'They have a peculiar motion of the body,
when about to pick up their food, in order to bring
their bills to the earth to reach their prey. The
flesh of this plover is often eaten in the fall, but
at other seasons it is poor and ill flavored ; indeed,
there is hardly any time when it is worth the trou-
ble of shooting.
E.
The Semrpatmarep Prover, Charadrius semi-
palmatus, is not an uncommon bird, and is seen on
our coast in the spring, from the last of April till the
end of May ; then it goes to high northern latitudes
to spend the breeding season, at which time, Dr.
Richardson assures us, they abound in the arctic -
regions. As soon as the young have acquired
strength for the journey, they set out on their re-
turn, and early in August they again make their ap-
pearance on our shores. They feed on land as well
as marine insects, though they are generally seen
playing before the waves on the beach. They are
found in the markets of our cities at the close of
summer, and are well esteemed for food.
Birds of Massachusetts. 207
The Brack-sELLIED Piover, Charadrius Helvet-
icus, called sometimes the large Whistling Field
Plover, because of its attachment to newly-ploughed
fields, where it finds the insects and berries which
compose its food, is found over a large extent of
country, having breeding places from Pennsylvania
to the most distant northern regions known to civ-
ized man. It often chooses the field for the place
of its nest, which is carelessly made of dry grass,
and in which are laid four eggs, of cream color,
dashed with black. Nuttall says, that their nests are
of rare occurrence in New England, but does not
say whether he had ever found them. In the sum-
mer they feed on various berries, and are valued as
food. At the close of August, they go down with
their young to the borders of the sea, where they
live on such materials as the shores afford them.
They are called the beetle-headed plovers, and some-
times the kildeer, from their cry, in which they re-
semble that restless bird, as well as in their never-
resting suspicion. Toward the last of September
they collect in great flocks, preparatory to their
migration, but linger with us for a considerable
time before they go.
The Turnstone, Strepsilus interpres, derives its
popular name from the habit of turning over stones
with the bill and sometimes the breast, to find in-
sects and worms beneath them, a habit which they
are said to retain when in a domesticated state.
They arrive in the spring, and linger on the shores
till the summer, when they hurry away to the deso-
x 2
5^ XE.
*
208 Mr. Peabody on the
late coasts of the northern ocean, where they breed.
'They return in August, and, as the weather grows
cold, move off to the south, extending their migration
over a vast extent of country. The turnstone flies
with a loud twittering note, and runs with its wings
lowered, but not rapidly. ‘They do not collect in
great numbers, like the sandpipers, but are seen in
small parties of three or four. 'The bill resembles
that of the nuthatch, and is used with great skill
in collecting food. It is strong enough to break
the shells of many small shell fish ; from others, it
picks out the flesh like the oyster catcher.
The Great Brue Heron, Ardea herodias, is a
constant resident in Massachusetts, searching for its
prey, in winter, in springs and ponds, which are not
sealed up by the cold. It seems indifferent to cli-
mate, but is not found very far to the north, though
it is seen westward as far as the Rocky Mountains.
It isa shy and suspicious bird, with most penetra-
ting and far-reaching powers of vision, so that it is
extremely difficult to approach it, except in the depth
of the wood. Their principal food is fish ; but they
have an extensive bill of fare, embracing frogs, liz-
ards, meadow mice, young rats, snakes and birds. It
does not refuse insects when it can find nothing bet-
ter; but it prefers fish, and has been known to ex-
pose itself so much in order to secure it, as to plunder
a pond of its gold fish. It suffered the penalty of its
transgression, but not till it had eaten the last fish.
The amount which it will devour exceeds belief.
These birds have great strength and spirit, so as to
!
|
Birds of Massachusetts. 209
make it dangerous even for a man to encounter
them, since they seem to know the points most un-
guarded, and always aim at the eye. The blue her-
on breeds, under various circumstances, sometimes in
communities, sometimes apart; some nests are in
very tall trees, some lower, and others are on the
ground. The eggs are three, of a bluish white
color, and larger than those of a hen. The old ones
provide very liberally for the young till they are able
to shift for themselves, when they turn them adrift
without ceremony, and, from want of experience,
they often suffer for the want of food. They take
three years to reach maturity, and even after that
period they sometimes continue to grow.
The Great Warre Heron, Ardea egretta, is, ac-
cording to Audubon, sometimes seen as far eastward
as Massachusetts.
The Wurrr Heron, Ardea alba, is inserted on the
authority of Audubon, who, as Dr. Brewer informs
me, has ascertained that it is sometimes found in
this State. Its principal residence isin the southern
regions, and when it comes to the north, it is found
on the low marshy shores of rivers and broad
Swamps, where it is open to view, but contrives to
escape from injury by its watchful suspicion.
The Ssowv Heron, Ardea candidissima, is insert-
ed on the same great authority ; but it seldom comes
farther to the north than New York. It was said to
VOL. III.— NO. I-II.
210 Mr. Peabody on the
proceed as far as the gulf of St. Lawrence, but
Wilson was probably misled by his informer. They
come from the south in May, and in summer they
are seen along the coast from this State to the gulf
of Mexico. It is a fine looking bird, with animated
and graceful motions ; if wounded, it defends itself
vigorously, and sometimes inflicts a severe wound.
The fall of the leaf is the signal for its departure.
This heron is often exposed for sale in the southern
markets, and, in the early part of autumn, the flesh
is said to be good.
The Nicur Heron, Ardea nycticoraz, called the
Qua-bird from its peculiar call, is found in the south-
ern states throughout the year, but many of them
come to the north in spring, and their breeding
places extend as far eastward as Maine. One of
their breeding places is found in a marshy island
in Fresh pond, in Cambridge, where they continue
to resort, though exposed to much persecution.
Their sight by day is imperfect; but the sense of
hearing is so quick, that it is very difficult to ap
proach them. They have a strong and steady flight,
and seldom alight on the ground, without first rest-
ing on the neighboring trees to examine the spot.
On the ground it walks stooping, and is constantly
moving about in search of food, which consists of
frogs, tadpoles, water insects, and fish, which it wades
deep in the water to procure. When satiated, it re-
tires to a tree ora swamp, and there reposes on one
leg, but starts from its slumber on the least alarm.
When taken, it defends itself with its bill, but some-
L
Birds of Massachusetts. 211
times uses its claws with serious effect, making a
rough and angry sound, and constantly attempting to
escape. :
The nest is formed of sticks arranged on each
other so carelessly, that it is sometimes overset by
the young. The eggs are four in number, of a light
sea green. The young remain a long time in the
nest; as soon as they are able, they climb to the
tops of the trees, and there wait to be fed. Their
flesh is said to be as good as that of the pigeon.
They undergo three annual changes of plumage be-
fore they reach their mature state.
The American Birrern, Ardea minor, sometimes
called the Night Hen, from its nocturnal habits, is
a retired bird, which remains hidden in the reeds
and sedge throughout the day, never leaving its re-
treat, except in cases of alarm. It then flies off with
a hollow ery, and as its motions are heavy, it is ea-
sily brought down. They feed mostly in the night,
and it is in the dusk of morning and evening that
their booming note is usually heard. They breed in
the northern regions, where their nests are made in
swamps among the coarse grass; the eggs are four,
of a green color. They also breed in this State,
The Green Heron, Ardea virescens, is better
known than any other of the tribe, and, without any
reason, is heid in general contempt. He cares very
little, however, for the scorn or favor of man, and
neither seeks nor fears his society. He prefers the
solitude of swamps and marshes, where he can asso-
E
212 Mr. Peabody on the
ciate with birds of habits similar to his own, and
there seeks his subsistence from the waters or the
muddy shores. If fishes or frogs make their appear-
ance, for which he waits patiently, he seizes them
with great, adroitness ; dragonflies and other insects
also serve to help out his fare. When surprised, he
rises with a hollow scream, but flies only to a little
distance, as if considering just how far it is neces-
sary to go. The nest is made of twigs, and placed
on trees; the eggs four, of a pale blue. They some-
times breed apart, sometimes in company with each
other, and not unfrequently put themselves under
the protection of the larger herons. They come from
the south in April, and return in October, not in large
flocks, but in small family parties.
The Least Brrrern, Ardea ezilis, the smallest of
this class of birds, is so slender that it can pass be-
tween two books set an inch apart from each other,
without displacing them. From their habit of re-
tiring into extensive marshes, they are but seldom
. Seen, as they rise only in sudden alarm. At such
times, they fly slowly and timidly; but, like other
nocturnal birds, as the enemy comes on, their flight
grows confident and strong. Its food consists of
snails, tadpoles, field mice and moles, which it col-
lects, sometimes by day, but more frequently at
night; in the day, they sleep so soundly that they
are sometimes approached and caught in the hand.
Their nest is among coarse grasses, and either on the
ground or attached to the stalks a little way above
it. It is formed of dried weeds, and contains three
Birds of Massachusetts. 213
or four eggs, of a dull yellowish green. Though
they breed here, their nests are seldom found, and
no one has yet given an account of their migrations.
The Bay Iers, Ibis falcinellus, is a rare and acci-.
dental visiter, inserted on the authority of Nuttall,
who says that a single specimen is sometimes offered
for sale in the market at Boston.
The Lone-sintep Curtew, Numenius longiros- 3
tris, is seen in Massachusetts in the spring, on its
way to the north to breed; in August they return,
to spend the winter in warmer regions. Dr. Brewer
tells me that he has seen large flocks of them at Na-
hant, and they are offered for sale in the market in
Boston, at the close of the summer. The name cur-
lew, is an imitation of their cry of alarm, by coun-
terfeiting which, the fowler takes advantage of their
sympathy, and brings them within his fatal reach.
The Esquimaux Curtew, Numenius Hudsonicus,
passes the winter at the south, and returns in the
spring, on its way to the north, where it breeds ; but
in what place is not known. Audubon could not
find them at Labrador, nor learn that any had ever
been seen in that country. In August and Septem-
ber they return, and many of them are shot in
Boston harbor. They are found in pastures as well
as marshes, feeding on grasshoppers and berries, till
the time of their departure, when they assemble in
large flocks, preparatory to their migration.
214 _ Mr. Peabody on the
The Smart Esqumaux Curtew, Numenius borea-
lis, like the preceding, goes to the north in the spring,
Though they abounded at Labrador, Audubon found
none remaining to breed there; they also proceed be-
yond Hudson’s Bay ; but Dr. Richardson succeeded
in finding a nest at Point Lake, in the month of
June. At the close of summer, these birds arrive in
company with the preceding, and feed, like them,
in marshes and pastures. They are also valued as
t game. Though sufficiently common here, this bird
is hardly ever seen in the southern states, which it
must pass through or pass over in its annual flight.
Even Audubon, before he went to Labrador, had
never seen more than a single specimen, furnished
by Mr. Oakes, of this State.
The Curtnew SANDPIPER, Tringa subarquata, is
an exceedingly rare bird ; inserted here, because Au-
dubon tells us that of the few specimens which he
has ever seen, two were procured in Boston.
The RED-BACKED SaNDPIPER, Tringa alpina, is
called in England the Dunlin, in this country the
Red-back, or the Ox-bird. They make their way
to the north in the spring, where they go far within
the arctic circle. In September they return, and
are seen in company with other sand birds, running
gaily before the breaking waves.
Scuinz’s SANDPIPER, Tringa Schinzii, has been
found by Mr. Oakes in this State. Bonaparte says
ìt is common in autumn, on the coast of New Jer-
——————
Birds of Massachusetts. 215
sey. They resemble other sandpipers in their habits
and food, but even Audubon has never found them
breeding. ;
The Pecrorat SawpPreER, Tringa pectoralis, is
more abundant on the shores of Massachusetts Bay
than in any other part of the country. "They arrive
at the last of August, and remain till the fall of the
leaf, feeding on insects and a kind of seaweed.
Their northern breeding places are as yet entirely
unknown.
The Burr-sreastep SANDPIPER, Tringa rufes-
cens, is not uncommon in the Boston market, in
August and September, but so rare in other parts
of the country, that Wilson never saw it, and Audu-
bon first met with it in England. He received a
wing of this bird from Captain Ross, that was picked
up by a sailor on the Arctic expedition, and this is
all we know concerning it in the regions where it
must undoubtedly breed. Here it associates with
the preceding species, which it resembles in form,
though not in plumage, and feeds with it, on insects,
partieularly grasshoppers, which abound in the neigh-
borhood of the sea.
The Broap-situep SANDPIPER, Tringa platyrhin-
ea, is very rare in the United States, but I am ena-
bled to add it to our list, on the authority of Mr. S.
Cabot, Jr., who procured a specimen at Nahant, the
only one which, to my knowledge, has been found
in Massachusetts.
| 216 .. Mr. Peabody on the
The PunPLE Sanppirer, Tringa maritima, is
another of these wanderers, which abounds in au-
tumn, and is sold in the market at Boston, but is
less common in other parts of the United States.
They fly in flocks of eight or ten, avoiding sandy
beaches, and alighting on rocky shores; from which
peculiarity in their habits, they are sometimes called
rock snipes, by the fowlers. Audubon did not find
them breeding at Labrador, but Dr. Richardson says
that they breed abundantly on the shores of Hud-
son’s Bay.
The Lrrrue Sanppirer, Tringa pusilla, which
is, as Dr. Brewer informs us, the same with Wilson’s
Sandpiper, is known by the name of Peep, and is
found, in its season, on all the shores and in all
the markets of the Union. It goes to the north
to breed, like the rest of the tribe; but returns in
the early summer, in large flocks, roving from place
to place in search of food. Its bill is pointed and
flexible ; and in order to collect its fare of worms and
insects, the bill is inserted in the mud or wet sand,
after the manner of the woodcock. This bird leaves
us before the fall of the leaf, and passes the winter
in distant southern regions.
The Kxor, or Asm-coLonEp SawpPiPER, Trin-
ga cinerea, appears on our coast in May, on its way
to the north, whence it returns before the end of
summer, and is seen in large flocks, collecting small
shell fish along the strand, moving with great adroit-
ness under the edge of the waves. "The shell fish
Birds of Massachusetts. 217 5
are swallowed whole; but the birds grow fat upon
them. While thus employed the birds are easily
approached ; nor does the fate of those that are shot
strike any fear into the survivors.
The SEMIPA MATED SANDPIPER, Tringa semipal-
mata, is sometimes confounded with the peep, with
which it often associates; but is obviously distin-
guished from it by its half-webbed feet. This habit
of keeping company with other birds has prevented
accurate observation of its periods. Wilson says that
it arrives and departs with the sanderling, and asso-
ciates with the red back, though in flocks apart
from each other. They are found in the salt marshes.
near Boston, and are considered better eating than
any other of the small birds. |
The SEMIPALMATED SxiPE, T'ofanus semipalmatus,
is not common in Massachusetts, though it is found
near Boston, and occasionally breeds near New Bed-
ford. It is known by the name of Willet, a sound
resembling its usual cry. It is a shy and artful
bird, and not approached by the fowler without cun-
ning equal to its own. It makes its nest on the
ground in the marsh, constructing it with the coarse
grass which grows on the spot; it contains four
eggs, of a yellowish olive, blotched and speckled
with dark umber. In the autumn, the young are
known by their grey color, and are marked out by
the fowler as excellent game. "They come to us
before the end of April, and return before winter to
the southern states.
VOL. III.—NO. I—II. 28
EM
dk E.
218 . . Mr. Peabody on the
+
The Ter. Tate, Totanus vociferus, whose name
is given in consequence of its habit of sounding an
alarm to all birds within reach, whenever the fowler
is nigh, and thereby saving many ducks from the
fate that would otherwise await them. In Massa-
chusetts they are uncommon. Though they some-
times touch upon the capes in considerable numbers,
it seems only a stop for the purpose of resting in
their migration.
The Yettow Suanxs, T'otanus flavipes, is a com-
. mon summer resident in this State. Its breeding
>
place extends from the middle states to the high
northern regions; but common as’the young birds
are, the nest has not yet been found in our borders.
Its breeding place in Nova Scotia is found in the
grass on the edges of ponds and rivers. The bird
resides chiefly on flats and marshes, and is seldom
‘seen at any considerable distance from the sea.
Their food consists of small fish, aquatic insects and
worms. It is a shy bird, which often gives an
alarm to others that are less on their guard; but
they do not associate with other birds, though often
seen near them. When alarmed they run to some
distance before they fly; when they take wing,
they are known by their long yellow legs, stretched
out behind them to steer their flight. It has been
said, that when one was shot its companions would
gather round it; but, like other creatures, their sym-
pathy is principally vocal, and seldom indulged at
any risk to themselves.
me w*
Birds of Massachusetts. "^ 9294
The Sorrranv '"larrLER, T'otanus chloropygius,
is seen in Massachusetts in the autumn, on its way
from the north, where it breeds. Dr. Richardson
says that it makes no nest, but lays its eggs on the
naked beach, or the gravel. Itis very unsuspicious ;
and when it takes wing, returns to the same place
after a wheeling flight, and contents itself with oc-
easional glances at the observer. The solitary habits,
however, from which these birds derive their name,
protect them ; since their numbers are too small to
tempt the sportsman. When so wounded as to be
unable to fly, they take to the water to save them- -
selves by swimming and diving. Nuttall says that
two of these little birds frequented the fish pond
in the Botanic Garden at Cambridge, in search of
the insects which feed on the water lily ; these they
secured by stepping lightly and with expanded wings
over the leaves which rested on the water.
e z se
The ase Tattier, Totanus macularius, is
one of our most common birds from May to October.
From its note, it is called the Peet-weet, which is
its familiar name. It is seen about creeks and rivers,
flying in winding sweeps and sounding its clear
whistle. When the young are added to the com-
pany, they keep up a constant call to each other, so
that the whole region is eloquent with the sound.
They usually breed in meadows, in nests made of
the grass, slightly arranged for the purpose, with a
lining of hay. Sometimes they lay directly on the
ground. ‘The eggs are four, cream-colored, with
spots of brown. The female practises the same arts
»
.920 Mr. Peabody on the
with the quail, to secure her young, and they, when
alarmed, trust to their color, and remain motionless
on the ground.
Banrnaw's Tattuer, Totanus Bartramius, is a
bird first described by Wilson, who found it on the
banks of the Schuylkill, and named it in honor of
his friend. It is common on the sea coasts, but not
confined to them ; it extends into the country, where
it is called the upland plover, and is seen running
through the grass in search of insects ; grasshoppers
being its favorite food. Its breeding range extends
from the middle states to the fur countries ; to these
it returns in the month of May, when its nests are
made in various parts of the State. They keep in
small parties, and are always suspicious of danger;
when alarmed, they run fast, and make a sharp whis-
tle as they take wing to fly. Fearful as they are of
man, they are great friends to the cattle. They
commonly find food in such abundance, that they
grow very fat, and their flesh is considered a great
luxury.
The ManBLED Gopwir, Limosa fedoa, is a visiter
in this State in the spring and autumn, on its way
to and. from the north, where its breeding places are
but little known. In August they appear in large
numbers, and many are shot for the table, though
their stay is very short, and their habits are shy.
The fowler has little chance of success, except he
Tesorts to stratagem, or alarms and confuses them by
shooting one of the number; in which case they
Birds of Massachusetts. 221
hover round the fallen, with ema complaints of what
has been done.
The Hupsontan Gopwrr, Limosa Hudsonica, is
not common here, though it abounds in its northern
breeding places; so that the great proportion must
travel and return over land, or turn away to the
northwestern shores. Audubon never saw it, till he
found it in the Boston market, where it is called
the goose bird. Dr. Brewer tells me that he doubts
the existence of L. fedoa in America, and suspects
that the bird so called, will turn out to be the adult
of the present species.
The Rep-sreastep Snipe, Scolopaxr grisea, ar-
rives on our coast, from the south, in April, and
spends three or four weeks, never going far from the
shores, and frequenting the flats and sand bars, at
low water, in search of food; while so engaged,
they can be approached more easily in a boat than
on the shore, and as they often settle very near each
other, great numbers are shot down. Their breeding
places must extend from the northern shore of Lake
Superior to the coast of the Arctic Sea, but their
nest and eggs have not yet been described. In July,
they return with their families, and are considered a
great luxury for the table. They find abundance of
food, by inserting their bills in the ground and draw-
ing out the larvee of water insects, which are hidden
below. They also make use of some plants and
seeds ; and, like many other birds, swallow gravel
to aid in disposing of their food.
p
222 Mr. Peabody on the
The American Surpz, Scolopax Wilsonii, was first
shown by Wilson to be different from that of Eu-
rope, and is therefore honored with his celebrated
name. It is well known to sportsmen, who take
advantage of its local attachment, and by ascertain-
ing its favorite resorts, are able to shoot large num-
bers. They arrive early in the spring, from their
winter quarters in the south, and are found on mead-
ows and low grounds, when, at evening and early
in the morning, their peculiar murmur, which can-
not be described by words, is heard proceeding from
these birds, soaring high in the air. It does not
seem to be owing to the beating of the wings, as
one might suppose from the sound ; it is, no doubt,
a call of love, since, after the time of incubation
ceases, it is heard no more for the season. This
bird breeds in soft marshes, where man cannot easily
disturb it, laying its eggs in a hollow, loosely lined
with grass. They are four in number, of a yellow
olive, speckled with light and dark brown. The
young leave the nest as soon as hatched. Their bill
is, for some time, soft and easily bent; meantime
they feed on small insects, such as lie on the sur-
face of the wet soil; as they grow older, they learn,
like their parents, to strike the bill firmly into the
ground. When one of them alights, it listens to see
that all is safe, then strikes its bill into the ground
several times, in quick succession, till it is satisfied,
when it lies close till the evening. Their security
and defence generally consist in lying still. When
suddenly startled, they fly in a zigzag course, to
elude the aim of the fowler, and it is so difficult to
|
Birds of Massachusetts. 223
shoot them, that dui are most frequently caught in
snares. Their food consisting of insects, ground
worms, and juicy roots, they grow fat, and are in
great demand for the table. Many epicures are said
to eat the bird with all that is in it when killed,
making no selection; but, inasmuch as leeches are
part of its fare, and are not considered luxurious food
for man, it is as well to eat this game with more dis-
crimination, and less gastronomical taste.
The Amertcan Wooncock, Rusticola minor, is a
very common bird, but not often seen in the fields,
except by sportsmen, because of their nocturnal hab-
its, in which they exceed the snipe, hardly ever
flying in the day time, and travelling and feeding
almost exclusively by night. They remain in woods
and thickets till evening, when they proceed to the
broken soil in search of worms and insects, and leave
perforations made by their bills in the soft ground,
showing where they have been. They have such
delicacy of perception, by means of the bill, that
they make but little use of the eyes in feeding ;
they plunge their bills up to the nostrils, and suck
up their prey. The eyes of this bird are placed
high, and far back in the head, probably for the
purpose of seeing enemies at a distance, and watch-
ing their motions, without betraying the place where
it lies, by any movement on its own part.
"The woodcock returns from the south very early
in the spring, and soon after selects a breeding place
in the woods, where the nest is set on the ground,
and formed of dry grass and leaves. The eggs are
224 Mr. Peabody on the
four, of a yellowish clay color, and marked with
blotches of purple and dark brown. The young
leave the nest as soon as hatched, but three or four
weeks elapse, before they are able to fly. During
the time of incubation, the male rises in a spiral
flight, after the manner of the snipe, making a hur-
ried sound as he ascends, which increases as he de-
scends, when it becomes loud and sweet. When
he touches the ground, he makes a bleating sound,
with a forward movement of the body, and then
waits to see if his call is answered. T'he- woodcock,
unlike the snipe, which never fies through the
woods, often goes into the depth of the forest, and
turns over the dead leaves with its bill, like the
pigeon, in search of the insects that may lie below.
Toward the last of October, as their food begins
to fail, the woodcocks leave the interior, and move
toward the sea, in preparation for their migration to
the south. They take the journey in the evening,
not in flocks, but following each other, in close suc-
cession, so as to make almost an unbroken line.
They do not leave the coast, however, till winter
begins. From August till their departure, they are
m good order for the table, and are shot in great
numbers by those who are versed in this kind of
sporting. In Louisiana they are killed by men with
torches, which the birds stand gazing upon, till the
fowler knocks them down with a stick.
The Vireinian Ram, Rallus Virginianus, spends
the winter in the southern states, and returns to us
in May. It hides in swamps and marshes, in the
Birds of Massachusetts. 225
day time, and only ventures abroad at night ; but it
` feeds, both by night and day, on water insects, worms
and seeds. It is extremely swift in running, and
if pursued by a dog, will change its direction so
often, rising on its wings at times, that he soon loses
its track, as it escapes among the weeds. When on
the wing, it can be shot, as it flies low and heavily,
and only a short distance at a time. The nest is not
easily found, being generally placed in a tuft, in soft
meadows, where it is not easy for a man to go. 1t is
a little raised, by means of the stalks of grasses,
with a shallow cavity, lined with dry weeds, to con-
tain the eggs. These are from four to seven in num-
ber, of a dusky white, with specks of brown red
and pale purple, thickest toward the larger end. Dr.
Brewer succeeded in finding one of these nests in a
small meadow near Jamaica Plain, and within a few
yards of the Providence rail-road. |
The Sora Ratt, Rallus Carolinus, which was
formerly thought to follow the example of the swal-
low, and bury itself in the mud for the sake of pass-
ing the winter pleasantly, is a rare bird in Massa-
chusetts. Birds of passage, on their way to their
breeding places in the north, move on with very
little delay ; but on their return, having nothing but
the fear of winter to hasten their motions, they lin-
ger till their instinct warns them that the last
minute is come. It is, accordingly, in the autumn
only, that this bird has been seen in our State. The
same gentleman who ascertained that the former
VOL. III.—NO. 1H.
226 Mr. Peabody on the
species breeds here, suspects that the nests of the
other rails will hereafter be found; they have been
discovered on the borders of Lake Champlain and
the North River.
The Yrrrow-szEAsTED Ram, Rallus Novebora-
censis, is also rare here, and in most parts of the
United States. From May to September, it is found
on the shores of Hudson's Bay, where it breeds ; and
on its return to winter quarters, probably takes an
inland route, the greater proportion avoiding the
Atlantic states. From Audubon, we learn that only
a few, comparatively, go to the north ; the great
body remain in the extreme southern parts of the
United States throughout the year.
The Purre GarrrmNuLE, Gallinula Martinica,
and the Florida Gallinule, G. galeata, have already
been mentioned as rare and accidental visiters in
the State. :
LOBE-FOOTED BIRDS:
The CixEnREovs Coor, Fulica Americana, is found
in almost every part of North America, seeming to
have little choice of climate or temperature, and to
regulate its migrations by the scarcity or abun-
dance of food. They appear among us in early au-
tumn, and remain till November, when they leave
us for the south by night. Their food consists of
Birds of Massachusetts. 227
seeds, grasses, worms, snails and insects, together
with such small fish as they catch upon. the edges
of the water, to which they add a quanity of gravel
and coarse sand. They are not seen to dive, ex-
cept when wounded; then they make their way
under water to the grass or reeds, and then swim
for the nearest shore, where, notwithstanding the
awkward appearance of their legs and feet, they
walk with firmness, and run, if necessary, with
great expedition. They probably breed in the State
occasionally ; Nuttall mentions that a pair took up
their residence in Fresh pond in April, and in June
were seen accompanied by their young ; but their
nests and eggs have not been found in this, nor, I
believe, in any of the states of the Union.
The Rep PHALAROPE, PAiietopiis fulicarius,
visits us on its return from the north in autumn ; but
they are seldom seen in Massachusetts. Audubon
mentions that once, when sailing in a packet sixty
miles from Nantucket, the vessel encountered a bed
of seaweeds and froth, on which were hundreds
of red phalaropes, walking with as much ease and
confidence as if on shore.
The HxeznsongAN Puarnanorz, Phalaropus hyper-
boraeus, is, as its name implies, a northern bird,
seldom seen farther south than New York. Dr.
Brewer tells me that he has procured them here in
May, but they are more abundant toward the Bay
of Fundy. None are seen in the interior; and they
are found in the greatest numbers on the banks
228 Mr. Peabody on the
of seaweed, floating on the ocean, at great distances
from the shore.
Wirsow's Puavarore, Phalaropus Wilsonii, is a
= rare visiter, which, Dr. Brewer tells me, I may
insert on the authority of Audubon, who has found
it in various places along the eastern coast, from
Boston to New Jersey; but it is not sufficiently
common to have its history well understood.
The Crestep Gres, Podiceps cristatus, is a bird
which breeds in the fur countries, and is seen here
late in the season, on its return to the south ; but
while some proceed by the coast, more seem to fol-
low the course of the great rivers, since they are
seen in great numbers in the western states, flying at
all hours of the day. From their alertness in diving,
by which they often elude the aim of the fowler,
they are called Dippers; when pursued, they keep
only the bill above water; and Audubon says that
they are easily caught when in ponds, by hooks
placed on lines near the ground.
The Rep-necxep Gress, Podiceps rubricollis, is
found along the coast from New York to Maine,
in winter, In the fur countries, they are common
in the breeding season. Dr. Brewer tells me that he
has procured them here in the winter, which, unlike
the former, they spend in the eastern states.
The Horsen Grese, Podiceps cornutus, returns
from the north in October, when it is seen in Mas-
RR
Birds of Massachusetts. 229
sachusetts. Dr. Brewer classes it with those that
spend the winter here; but the greater proportion
must go on, since they are common at that season,
on the southern inlets and rivers. While here, they _
keep in the salt water, diving with great celerity, i
and soon becoming so familiar with the gun, as to —
hide under water whenever they hear it. Nuttall
mentions that the stomach of those which he has
opened has generally contained quantities of their
own feathers, plucked from the breast and swal-
lowed. Audubon says the stomach contains hair-
like substances rolled together like the pellets of
owls; particulars which require more explanation
than our present acquaintance with their habits
enables any naturalist to give.
The PrEp-sr;LED Gress, or Doscnick, Podiceps
Carolinensis, comes to us from the north early in
autumn, and remains till the approach of winter.
Those found here are generally young. Their food
consists of plants, seeds, water insects and small
fish, together with which they swallow gravel. In
the gizzards of some which Audubon examined, he
found collections like those just mentioned, which
consisted of the down of thistles and other plants,
which had been swallowed together with the seed.
These birds dive with great quickness, and use
their wings under water; they sink so gently as to
leave no ripple showing where they went down,
nothing but the small end of the bill remains above,
and this easily escapes observation, particularly among
230 — Mr. Peabody on the
the bulrushes, to which they resort when alarmed.
Nothing was known of their nests, till Audubon
found one near the banks of the Wabash river.
.. None have ever been found in this State.
WEB-FOOTED BIRDS.
The Cayenne Tern, Sterna Cayana, is common
at the south, where it breeds. Audubon also found
it breeding at Labrador ; so that, although none have
yet been seen here, they must pass by us, and will
probably be found to touch upon the coast of our
State.
The Common Tern, Sterna hirundo, is common
on our coast, where it bears the name of Mackerel
Gull, from its being supposed to announce the arrival
of that fish in its summer quarters. In May, they
prepare, if it can be called preparing, a nest on
some rocky islet or sand bar, where their eggs, are
laid, with only a little sand scraped up to keep them
in place; and in all pleasant days, are left to be
warmed by the sun, the female sitting only at night
and in foul weather. The eggs are of dull yellow-
ish olive, with dark brown specks and blotches.
The parents, though they appear so careless of their
domestic establishment, watch over it with anxious
vigilance, and are very bold in resisting intrusion.
They breed at Egg rock, near Nahant. When the
Birds of Massachusetts. 231
young are first hatched, they tear fish in pieces to
feed them; afterwards they drop the fish among
them, where it is seized by the strongest; but they. oo.
find other resources in the insects which they collect E ia
for themselves, rambling near the spot, but always — ag"
attending to the voice of the old bird, when it warns — -
them that danger is nigh. In winter they migrate
to warmer regions.
The RosrarE Tern, Sterna Dougalli, has re-
ceived its popular name from the color of the breast,
which, however, soon fades after death. Audubon
found them in great numbers, breeding, on the Keys
of Florida, and Nuttall procured one specimen at
Chelsea Beach. Its eastern visit was probably acci-
dental.
The SinvEeny Tern, Sterna minuta, the same
with the Lesser Tern of Wilson, comes to us in the.
spring, later than the preceding. It is not uncommon
on our shores, where it is seen dashing into the
water, like a little fish-hawk, to secure its prey, or
chasing insects over the pools and marshes. It some-
times goes into the interior, and has been found at a
great distance from the sea. They are generally
careless and unsuspicious, and pay little regard to an
observer.
Bonaparte’s GuLL, Larus Bonapartii, is seen
occasionally, early in autumn, on the coast of this
State, and its whistling is heard in the air, as it pro-
ceeds to the south or inland, to feed.
232 Mr. Peabody on the
The Kirtiwaxe Gur, Larus tridactylus, is com-
mon along the coast, from New York to Eastport,
| though never seen in the interior. Audubon found
itin great abundance on some of the islands in Bos-
"E EU
gir
E
ton harbor. In the air, its motions are light, bold
and graceful, sweeping in broad circles at an im-
mense height in the air, then stooping downwards to
rest upon the waves. It is so awkward on the
ground, that it can hardly walk; and it gathers its
food, even the shell-fish from the sands, while on
the wing.
The Common Gurt, Larus zonorhyncus, is quite
abundant on our coast, but it understands the danger
of too near approach to man, and keeps, as much
as possible, out of his reach. It floats gracefully
in the air, till something attracts its attention, when
it descends in a spiral curve, and seizing a fish,
flies off, alights, and swallows it at leisure. When
satisfied with food, they rest themselves by swim-
ming in parties on the waves, their white plumage
contrasting strongly with the deep green of the sea.
When spring has commenced, the gulls assemble in
flocks, on flats and beaches, and when paired, fly off
to their breeding places, which Audubon found in
great numbers in Labrador, and the eastern part of
Maine. Part of their food consists of shell-fish,
which, being unable otherwise to break the shell,
they are said to carry high into the air, and to let
fall on the rocks below.
The Sirvery GuLL, Larus fuscus, is found on
Birds of Massachusetts. 233
our coasts in winter, and is said to breed, both in the
northern regions, and in islands near South Caro-
lina.
The Herrine GurL, Larus argentatus, is, accord-
ing to Dr. Brewer, the most common species in the
State. Audubon found them breeding at an island
in the Bay of Fundy, where he was assured that,
formerly, all made their nests, like other seabirds,
on the ground ; but finding that they were often
disturbed by intrusive visiters, they had, many of
them, adopted the practice of building in trees, a
reach of sagacity one would hardly have expected
from such a quarter. "The younger ones still build
on the earth; but, while those which are hatched
below run about in a few days, those which are in
the trees, do not undertake to leave their nests till
they are able to fly. The same distinguished orni-
thologist saw one of these birds which had taken
avery hard shell-fish, carry it into the air and let
it fall without effect ; it tried the experiment again,
and yet a third time, when it succeeded; the gull,
after each failure, carrying it higher than before.
Much of their food consists of herrings, which they
catch by following the shoals ; they sometimes feed
on small birds, and suck all the eggs they can find.
The WurrE-wiscep Gurr, Larus leucopterus, is
inserted on the authority of Dr. Brewer, who has
obtained it near Boston. It is not found farther
south than New York. Its flight resembles that of
VOL. III.—NO. 1.—II. 30
234 Mr. Peabody on the
the preceding species, but it differs from it in size
‘and markings, as well as in its greater fearlessness of
man. It breeds in the high northern regions.
The Buack-Backep Guu, Larus marinus, is in-
serted on the authority of the gentleman just men-
tioned, who has found it in Boston harbor. It isa
large and powerful bird, and, though shy and timid
towards man, is very oppressive to other sea-birds.
It devours voraciously all sorts of food except vege-
tables, even in the last stages of decay, but young
birds and fish are its favorite food. The fish are
caught as it flies, and, if not too large, swallowed
without suspending its flight. It makes great con-
sternation among the sea-fowl, by sucking their eggs,
without regard to the remonstrances of the owners.
When young ducks are on the water, they seize
them, none except the eider having courage to re-
sist; they sometimes plunge after fish in a consider-
able depth of water, but have no facility in diving.
These birds, powerful as their flight is, do not go
very far to the north to breed, nor are their breed-
ing places found more toward the south than the
eastern extremity of Maine. They do not go into
the interior, except on the great lakes ; they appear
to rejoice in the storms of the ocean, having power
to force their way against the heaviest wind.
The Sxua Gurr, Lestris catarractes, called by
Linneus the cataract jager, from the manner in
which it darts down upon its prey, is a bird belong-
ing to high northern latitudes, but in the depth of
Birds of Massachusetts. 235
winter it comes as far south as Massachusetts. It is
astrong and daring bird, and though considerably
less in size than the preceding, readily attacks and
puts him to flight. If its nest is disturbed, it is
completely insensible to danger, and gives battle at
once, not only to all other animals, but even to man.
Having all the rapacious habits of the gulls, with
all this strength and courage, it is considered by
other birds as the pirate of the shores.
Ricuarpson’s JaaEn, Lestris Richardsonii, visits
the coast of Massachusetts and Maine, in the winter
season, when it is seen on the inland bays about
Boston, flying in pairs, or sitting on the water. Its
flight is firm and long continued, and it takes advan-
tage of it to pursue other sea-birds, and force them
to disgorge their prey. It breeds in the fur coun-
tries, but, respecting its habits at that season, very
little is known. Audubon has doubts whether it is
a distinct species from the one which follows.
The Arctic Jacer, Lestris parasiticus, inhabits.
the northern sea shores in summer, and in winter is
found in Florida. It resembles the preceding in its
habits of plundering other birds of the fruit of their
labors. By means of its long tail, it can suddenly
check its flight or change its direction, so that the
Victims of its oppression cannot escape its pursuit.
The Pomarine Jacer, Lestris pomarinus, is a
bird which Audubon never had the opportunity of
examining till he went to Labrador, but Dr. Brewer
236 Mr. Peabody on the
has obtained it in Massachusetts bay, and thus au-
thorized us to claim it as a visiter of the State. So
far as its habits are ascertained, they are like those
of other gulls, but its history is very imperfectly
known.
The Stormy Perret, Thalassidroma Wilsonii, is
found on almost all the Atlantic, and known to sea-
men, who look upon it with very little affection,
by the name of Mother Carey’s chicken. It fol-
lows the vessel in its course through the deep, not
caring whither it goes, and when the tempest rises,
seems so indifferent to its raging, or rather to enjoy
it so much, that the superstitious formerly believed
that this harmless bird had some agency in raising
the storms. It is called the Petrel, from its walking,
like the apostle Peter, on the surface of the water,
where it gathers any food that may be thrown from
the vessel which it pursues. After it grows dark, it
rests on the water for the night; but on the follow-
ing morning, easily overtakes the vessel that has left
it behind. In general it is rather silent, but at
times it makes a low sound, as if asking the seaman
to throw it out some food. It usually subsists on
resources supplied by its favorite element, the sea.
The Fonx-rAiLED PETREL, Thalassidroma Leachii,
was said by Bonaparte, to be uncommon on the Amer-
ican shores ; but Audubon declares that on the coast
of Massachusetts, this is much more abundant than
the other species. On approaching land, when re-
turning from Europe, he shot a number of those
Birds of Massachusetts. 237
that surrounded the vessel, and found among them
specimens of all the three. This is the most sus-
picious, never flying close to the vessel like the
others; it is not known to alight on the rigging,
and rests less frequently upon the water. But its
food is the same, consisting of such small fish and
crustacea as it can pick up from floating seaweed on
the water, or oily substances thrown from vessels
into the sea. These birds are able to bear consider-
able abstinence, but everything which they swallow,
seems to be turned to oil, and their flesh is rank and
unpleasant to the taste. They are found breeding:
in the fissures of rocks, above the reach of the spray,
while the preceding burrows in the sand on low
islands. 'Though this bird seems so bound to the
ocean, by all its habits and wants, I have had one
brought to me which was taken near Chicopee river
in Springfield, seventy miles from the shore.
The Furwan PETREL, Procellaria glacialis, has
been found by Audubon from Long Island to New-
foundland, but I do not know that any one has, as
yet, been taken within the State. This is the bird
so well known as the main dependence of the singu-
lar inhabitants of St. Kilda, one of the western isles
of Scotland.
The Snow Goose, Anser hyperboreus, breeds in
Arctie America, resorting to the sandy shores of lakes
and rivers. They are so cautious as to station one
of their number as a sentinel, to warn them of ap-
proaching danger. They return with their families
238 Mr. Peabody on the
in September, after which they are occasionally
seen in Massachusetts bay. They are very noisy,
and their note is distinguished from that of the
common wild goose, by its greater shrillness. Their
flesh is said to be better than that of the latter spe-
cies. As the cold grows severe, they leave us for
their winter quarters.
The Canapa Goose, Anser Canadensis, is well
known in Massachusetts, as one of the heralds of
spring. Their spring migration appears always de-
termined by the advance of the season, and the
melting of the snow, which discloses a supply of
grass and berries, uninjured by the frost, and ready
as a resource for food. Their arrival is most wel-
come in the fur countries, where the aborigines de- -
pend upon them for their subsistence in summer.
The hunter sets up stuffed birds as a decoy, and im-
itates their call; thus bringing them within his
reach, he destroys them in great numbers. But
while the great proportion go to the north to breed,
Audubon assures us, that many remain and breed ;
some, he says, in pools in the eastern parts of Maine
and Massachusetts, so that he thinks it entitled to be
set down as a permanent resident within the Union.
Farther north, they become more numerous, and in
Labrador, their nests abound in every marshy plain.
When the young have become large, and suf-
ficiently practised in flying, they prepare for their
return. On the first appearance of snow, the ganders
arrange the flocks in order of flight, the old males
in front, the females next, and the young after them,
Birds of Massachusetts. 239
the weakest behind ; and thus they set forth, some-
times with an extended front, sometimes in single
file, but generally in a sharp angle, with an old
gander at the head. When any one is fatigued, he
falls baek in the wake of another, who cleaves the
air before him ; the leader at times gives out a loud
ery of encouragement, or command, which is an-
swered from various parts of the line. 'They fly
with great strength and steadiness, at a great height
in the air, if they have far to go; but when doubt-
ful of the season, they fly lower, and are often be-
wildered in fogs and snow storms, so as to come to
the ground stupified, and to submit quietly to their
fate. ‘They are so much alive to changes of temper-
ature, that, when they are seen returning over their
line of march, it indicates that a change of weather
is nigh.
When they alight in some place where they intend
to pass the night, they crop the grass sidewise,
like the domestic goose, or pat the ground with both
feet to force the worms out of it. Sometimes they
alight in corn-fields, where they do considerable
damage; sometimes in the water, where they
plunge their heads to the bottom in seareh of food.
They always keep sentinels stationed, who, at the
approach of cattle, are silent; but if a bear, or pan-
ther, or worse than all, a man comes nigh, the alarm
is given, and all glide into the nearest water and
swim to a distance from the shore. Their sense of
hearing is wonderfully quick and discerning ; they
can at once distinguish a sound made by man.
The crossing of the breed of the wild with the
E
240 Mr. Peabody on the
tame goose, as in the case of the turkey, has been at-
tended with much advantage; the hybrid being
larger and more easily fattened, brings a higher
price than either of the species from which it is de-
scended. The difficulty in the way of keeping the
Canada goose, is, that it does not multiply as in the
wild state; but, though it requires time to effect a
considerable change in its habits, a persevering at-
tempt at domestication would cs ahi succeed. In
some cases, it has succeeded already ; but when
flocks are passing over, it answers their call, and
seems strongly tempted to return to the savage state.
The BanwacLE Goose, Anser leucopsis, is said by
the gunners on the coast, to be shot in this State.
Audubon never met with it. Nuttall speaks of it as
a straggler on our coast.
Horcuins’ Goose, Anser Hutchinsii, is inserted
on the same authority. They call it the Flight, or
Winter Goose.. It resembles the common wild goossy
except that it is less in size.
The Brant Goose, Anser bernicla, a bird well
known inour markets, breeds on the coasts of Hud-
son's Bay and the northern ocean, and spends the
winter in the southern states. Early in October,
they arrive in large numbers, some in order of
march, others in noisy confusion, and make little
more stay than is necessary for resting, after their
long flight. But flocks continue to follow each other
in long succession, and the gunners secure consid-
Birds of Massachusetts. 241
erable numbers. In spring they return, but their
stay is still shorter, and their flesh very uninviting ;
in winter it is more valued, but has a fishy taste at
best.
The Suoveter, Anas clypeata, which is consid-
ered one of the greatest luxuries of the table, belongs
to the northern part of the continent, but sometimes
visits our coast, and still more frequently our lakes
and rivers, in the declining year. Were it not for
the great bill, this would be a handsome bird. It
draws in the watery mud through the teeth of its
bill, which fit into each other, forming a sort of
sieve, by which it throws out the water, and retains
the worms, seeds, and insects for its food. It is
sometimes found in the Boston market, brought
from the ponds in the vicinity.
The Matuarp Duck, Anas boschas, is our. com-
mon duck in its wild state. It is common at the
south, but not so in Massachusetts, where it is very
rare, and beyond Portland it is not known. The
reason is, that this duck, instead of resorting to the
Seacoast, is partial to lakes and rivers. They are
most abundant in the western states, where many
of them remain, and breed. As they come from the
great lakes, they spread themselves over those re-
gions, resorting to meadows, swamps, and thick
beech woods. In the wild state, they are strongly
contrasted with the domesticated, in the spirit and
animation of their movements; their flight is won-
VOL. IIL.—NO. I-II.
242 Mr. Peabody on the
derfully swift and well sustained, while the wings
of the common duck hardly lift it from the ground.
The squatters of the Mississippi catch many of the
mallards when young, and they are sufficiently tame
by the end of the first year. The young of those
thus caught, are, for a year or two, superior to the
wild ones, but soon become like the common ducks
of the barnyard. The hybrids raised between the
Mallard and Muscovy, are said to be large, and afford
excellent eating.
The mallard has many of the properties of a noc-
turnal bird, feeding and travelling more by night
than by day. In the dark, their flight is distin-
guished by the whistling of their wings. They
generally arrange themselves in the wedge form to
go to any distance, and never alight on any spot till
they have wheeled several times round it, to ascer-
tain whether it is safe to take possession ; except
when under the command of an experienced leader;
who judges at once of the presence of danger, and
if he suspects none, strikes down without hesitation
upon the water. They then begin to bathe and
dress themselves, before they go to the shore for
food. After this ceremony is over, some explore the
mud for leeches, frogs, or lizards; others go into the
woods for beechnuts and acorns, moving round with
prodigious cackling. If they hear a sound, they
know whether it is made by animals or not; if it
is, they go on with their employment; but if it de-
notes that man is at hand, they glide into the water;
and put off to what they consider a safe distance
from the shore.
Birds of Massachusetts. 243
The food of the mallard consists of small fish,
snails, water insects and plants, in fact, hardly any-
thing seems to come amiss. It delights in nuts and
fruits, soon fattens on rice and other grain, and has
an appetite for food which any other bird would
regard as entirely uneatable. The young, when
raised, thrive on chopped fish. The mallard has the:
habit. of patting the ground with its feet to force
worms out of their burrows.
The Grey Duck or Gapwarr, Anas strepera, is an -
inhabitant of northern regions, and is believed to be
rare in the United States. Wilson found it in New
York and Kentucky, and some of the young birds
are seen at times in the vicinity of Boston.
The Pintat, Duck, Anas acuta, is very abundant
in some of the western states, but seldom seen on
the coast, and never farther eastward than Massa-
chusetts. It breeds in the fur countries, but on its
return, follows the coast of the great western rivers,
and is so much a stranger to the coast, that it must
be regarded as an inland bird. It arrives from the
north in autumn, in good condition, and resorts to
ponds and streams, where it feeds on tadpoles, leeches,
and beechnuts, should they happen to abound. It
is graceful in its motions on the water, and Audubon
says that its notes are soft and pleasant, not resem-
bling those of the mallard, to which they are often
compared.
The American WiperoN, Anas Americana, breeds
244 Mr. Peabody on the
in the fur countries, and, on its return, is found in
most parts of the Union. About Chesapeake Bay, it
isa companion rather than friend of the canvass-
back, which dives for the plants on which it feeds.
The widgeon, which likes the plant, but not the
diving, watches the moment of the canvass-back's
rising, and before its eyes are fairly opened, it
snatches the plant from its mouth and makes off
with it. 'The widgeon is found in the interior, as
well as on the coast; many spend the winter in the
` southern states.
The Dusxy Dvcx, Anas obscura, sometimes called
the black duck, is, as Dr. Brewer informs me, the
most common of all the species in the neighborhood
of Boston. They are met with on the coast, from
Florida to Labrador, but are not found in the high
northern regions. They frequent salt marshes as
well as jnland waters, and their food consists of small
shellfish and seeds. In the daytime, they are retired
and shy; but on the report of a gun, they rise in
great numbers and disperse in all directions. They
fly high in calm weather, and low when the wind
blows hard, when the gunners conceal themselves in
the grass and shoot them down. Their flesh is said
to be equal to that of the other ducks, when they
have been well fed, but it generally has something
of the flavor of its food. This bird breeds in this
State in fresh water marshes and on sea islands; the
eggs are eight or ten in number, resembling those
of the domestic duck. Great numbers, however,
proceed beyond our borders.
Birds of Massachusetts. 245
The Woop or Summer Duck, Anas sponsa, is a
most beautiful bird, which makes its home in Mas-
sachusetts, in quiet retreats near ponds and rivers,
where some of them spend the winter. They sel-
dom visit the coast, but prefer the fresh water,
their food consisting of grapes, beechnuts, acorns,
and such berries as are found in the vicinity of ponds
and streams. ‘They also eat tadpoles and water in-
sects, reaching their necks into the water to secure
them, after the manner of the mallard. On the
ground they run fast; they also move with firmness
on the larger branches of trees. They swim and
dive well, often stopping near the edge of the water,
with nothing except the bill above; but often, when
alarmed, they run into the depths of the wood.
Their sense of hearing is very delicate, and aids
them to escape from their various enemies. Their
flight is rapid and graceful; they move through the
trees and foliage as readily as the pigeon.
The wood ducks build in May, in the hollow
part of a branch or the deserted hole of a large
woodpecker, which they enter readily, though the
entrance seems much smaller than their bodies.
The eggs, which are from six to fifteen, of a yel-
lowish green, are laid on dry plants, and down
plucked from the parent’s breast, together with the
feathers of various other birds. As soon as the young
are hatched, if the nest is over the water, they spread
their little wings and feet, and drop into the stream ;
if not, the mother carries them carefully to the
water, in her bill; sometimes she lets them fall on
the dry leaves below, and then conducts them to
246 Mr. Peabody on the
their favorite element, where they soon learn to col-
lect flies, moschetoes, and other insects, for their
food. The experiment of domesticating this fine
bird has been tried with good success; and, after a
few years, they would doubtless give up all desire
to return to their wildness..
The Brur-wisaEpD Tear, Anas discors, returns
early in autumn from the north and west, where it
breeds. They are easily affected by the cold, and
the first frosts are a signal to them to escape to
warmer regions. They are found on our larger
rivers, but seldom visit the sea.
The Green-wincep Tran, Anas crecca, 1s more
common in the southern states than here. Audubon
did not find it in Newfoundland or Labrador ; but
there is reason to suppose that it breeds in the fur
countries, and near the great lakes; those which
are seen here, are said to be mostly females and
young birds, the males pursuing a different route,
and not appearing here till the spring. Being more
select in feeding than most other ducks, they furnish
an excellent article of food.
The Emer Duck, Fuligula mollissima, is well
known as the bird which covers its eggs with down
taken from its own breast. This is now become an
important article of commerce, and the hunters, not
satisfied with taking the down, carry away the eggs
also. The female then lays a smaller number of
eggs, and strips herself again to cover them. If the
Birds of Massachusetts. 247
nest is a second time robbed, the male bird supplies
his down to cover the last laying ; and thus it is,
that many in civilized life feather their nests, at the
expense of this plundered bird. Formerly they bred
in considerable numbers, from Boston eastward ; but
they generally go farther north for that purpose,
though in winter many of them are shot upon our
coast. Audubon, while in Boston, had twenty-one
specimens brought him, which two gunners had shot
in a single day. The same high authority says that
the eider would be domesticated with great ease, and
would be invaluable on account of its down, its
feathers, and its flesh for food.
The Kine Dvcx, Fuligula spectabilis, is an in-
habitant of the northern regions, living, generally,
and finding its food, out at sea. Covered with its
coat of down, it braves the severity of the arctic
season; but sometimes, in the depth of winter,
wanders into our borders. It is said, by old gunners,
that formerly they were not rare on our coast, and
that they used to breed in company with the eiders.
Now they are seldom found.
The Surr Duck, Fuligula perspicillata, breeds in
Labrador and the regions of Hudson's Bay, and is
seen, in spring, bending its course toward the north.
On their return, some remain here through the win-
ter; others extend their migrations as far as Florida.
They feed principally in the sea; and also resort to
shallows and beaches in search of small shell fish, for
248 Mr. Peabody on the
which they are constantly diving. Their flesh is
sometimes eaten, but is not recommended.
The Verver Duck, Fuligula fusca, breeds in
Labrador and the fur countries, and, after spending
some time about the lakes in those regions, returns
to the south, and reaches us in September. It isa
sea bird in all its habits; but Nuttall has seen it in
Fresh Pond, in Cambridge. After breeding near the
fresh water lakes, it leaves them for the rest of the
year, and prefers the shores, where its usual food,
shell-fish and other articles which form the subsist-
ence of sea-birds, always abounds. On the coast, it
is called the White-winged Coot; its flesh, though
no great luxury, is in considerable demand.
The American Scorer Dvcx, Fuligula America-
na, comes to us from the shores of Hudson's Bay,
and; while here, associates with the other sea ducks,
living on similar food. Early in November, it is
found in Boston market, and the flesh of the young
is considered good.
The Ruppy Duck, Fuligula rubida, breeds in the
small lakes of the fur countries, and returns to us in
October, proceeding as far south as the limits of
Florida. When it first arrives, the young are unsus-
picious, but the old are difficult to approach. The
females and young are seen in our ponds and about
tide waters, and many of them are sold in Boston,
under the name of Dun-Birds.
Birds of Massachusetts. 249
The Pre» Dock, Z'uligula Labradora, is thought,
by Nuttall, to belong to the western part of the
continent, and to be only found as a straggler on the
Atlantic shores. Ttis called the Sand-shoal Duck, by
the gunners of the middle states, from its resorting to
sand bars in search of food. It is rarely found in
this State, and only in winter or spring.
The Cawvass-sAck Duck, Fuligula valisneria,
so well known as a luxury of the table, never
abounds in Massachusetts; some are seen in winter
near Cohasset and Martha's Vineyard, and I learn
from Mr. Cabot, that it has been shot in Fresh Pond.
The great proportion, however, on returning from
the fur countries, where they breed, establish them-
selves on Chesapeake Bay and the neighboring wa-
ters, and thence extend to the south ; some having
been seen, in winter, as far as New Orleans. The
fresh water plant, valisneria, from which they are
named, is their favorite food ; it grows in long, nar-
row blades, with a white root, which is the part that
they eat; they swim about the shoals where it
grows, diving and tearing it up, not discouraged in
consequence of the losses which they suffer from
the dishonest arts of the widgeon. But where this
plant is not found, they feed on the eel-grass, as it
is called, which affords a subsistence to the canvass-
back, and other birds of a similar description.
Though these birds, when they first arrive, are
lean, in consequence of exhaustion, they are so dili-
gent in collecting food that they soon are in order
VOL. III.—NO. 1—II.
250 Mr. Peabody on the
for the table; and the gunner resorts to a thousand
arts to secure them, which is not easy, since they are
shy and watchful, and at night keep sentinels sta-
tioned to guard their slumbers. There seems to be
no reason why they should not be domesticated, if
those who make the attempt are sufficiently perse-
vering. Their subsistence would be easily provided
for, since they eat grain as readily as any other food.
"Fhe Rep-Hrapep Duck, Fuligula ferina, is the
companion of the canvass-back, feeding on the stems
of the same plant which the other gathers for the
sake of the root, and so much resembling it, that it
often has the honor of being substituted in the
market, and sold for a similar price. They breed
in the fur countries, and make their appearance
here in October. Dr. Brewer tells me, that he has
obtained these birds in our State. Mr. Rennie, in
his late edition of Montague’s British birds, says that
he has one of them in his possession, which, as
soon as it was caught, took to feeding on oats, and
is perfectly tame and healthy, at the end of a confine-
ment of three years.
The Scave Duck, Fuligula marila, is said to
breed in the fur countries, whence it returns at the
approach of the cold season, and is found on our
sea coast and the great western rivers. It is said
to derive its name from feeding on scaup, or broken
shell fish. Audubon says that he never found any
portion of testaceous mollusca in those-which he ex-
amined, though the birds might have found them in
Birds of Massachusetts. 251
abundance, had they desired them. They are com-
mon here in bays and fresh waters. They are easily
domesticated, but their flesh is of no value for food.
Audubon says that nothing but an epicure could
eat them with satisfaction.
The Rine-necxep Duck, Fuligula rufitorques, is
found in autumn and winter on our Atlantic coast
and our western waters. Its flesh is considered
equal to that of any other duck, in tenderness and
flavor. Dr. Richardson speaks of finding it in the
fur countries, but gives no account of its nest. On
its return from the north, it is spread over the whole
extent of the Union; but much more abundant in
some states than in others. Mr. Cabot obtained a
specimen in Fresh Pond, and thus enabled us to add
it to the list of Massachusetts birds.
The Gorpew Eye, Fuliguia clangula, is an in-
habitant of northern regions, which comes from the
fur countries, where it breeds, and remains till it
becomes difficult to obtain food. In the winter,
they are not uncommon in the United States, but
they return very early in the spring. While here,
they are silent, and the name of Brass-eyed Whistler,
which they sometimes bear, is given in consequence
of the sound made by their wings. They fly well,
but are so entirely made for the water, that they are
hardly able to walk on the ground. Like most other
birds of the class, they live partly on fish and in-
sects, and partly on vegetable food. As game, they
are considered good, though not of the first order.
252 Mr. Peabody on the
The Burrzr-HEApED or Spirtr Duck, Fuligule
albeola, was called, by the aborigines, by a name
answering to spirit, because of the wonderful quick-
ness with which it disappears at the twang of a
bow, or the flash of a gun. 1t breeds in the fur
countries, where it builds on hollow trees, in woods
near the water, a situation favorable to the young,
who move with difficulty on the ground. Inautumn
and winter they are found in almost all parts of the
United States, sometimes on the coast, but more
irequently on the inland waters. They are con-
stantly engaged in diving for their food, and, when
wounded with shot, disappear under water, so that it
is very difficult to find them. By the last of April,
most of them have returned to their northern home.
The Harteauin Deck, Fuligula histrionica, is a
northern bird, which was found by Captain Ross in
the highest latitudes which he visited. It is hardly
ever found south of Boston, and is uncommon here,
but I am assured by Dr. Brewer, that he has ob-
tained it in our State. Audubon found it breeding
along the coast of Labrador and Nova Scotia, where
the male and female are called the Lord and Lady,
probably in consequence of their beauty, and the or-
naments on their breast. It is difficult to obtain, being
anxiously watchful, and diving under water the mo-
ment it perceives the flash of the gun. Like other
birds of this class, it provides for its security by sta-
tioning sentinels to sound an alarm on the approach
of danger. The flesh is not much valued.
Birds of Massachusetts. 253
The Lone-ramen Dvcx, Fuligula glacialis, is a
resident in the north, where it associates with the
eider and other ducks, and lingers as long as the
cold leaves the waters open; but when the ice be-
gins to form upon the Arctic seas, it migrates toward
the south in search of food, and is then seen regular-
ly and abundantly on the shores of Massachusetts ;
the young sometimes resorting to the fresh waters,
while the old birds keep near the sea. "They are
lively and animated in their motions, and so noisy
in conversation, that they are sometimes called old
wives. They are expert in flying, diving and
swimming ; their food consists partly of the animal
and partly of the vegetable productions of the sea.
The caravans which pass along our coasts are large,
and their noise can be heard at a great distance, kept
up for hours in morning and evening, and also in
calm, foggy weather. This bird is elegant in its
appearance, but not held in much estimation as food.
Its down is said to be equal to that of the eider, but
the quantity is not so great.
The GoosaxpER, Mergus merganser, is found in
winter on the fresh lakes, rivers, and seacoast of
the United States. They are seen here in small
companies, continually diving in search of food. In
April most of them disappear, and do not return till
November. The extent of their breeding range is
not known ; but it is ascertained that some of the
young are reared in Pennsylvania, and yet it is evi-
dent, from their habits, that the Arctic regions must
be their more familiar home. Audubon describes
254 Mr. Peabody on the
the goosander as breeding in Massachusetts, and en-
titled to be set down as a constant resident within
our bounds.
The Rep-sreastep Mereanser, Mergus serrator,
is another resident in the north, which, when the
waters there are sealed with ice, comes to the United
States in search of food. Wilson speaks of it as
brought to the Philadelphia market, from the banks
of the Delaware, and as much more common than
the preceding in the United States. Like the former,
it has an extensive breeding range, its nests having
been found in the rank weeds on the borders of lakes,
in Maine and on Lake Michigan.
The Hoopen Mereanser, Mergus cucullatus, is
a northern bird, found at the utmost limits of the
fur countries, and one of the last to quit those deso-
late regions, when the frost makes it impossible for
them to remain, by cutting off their supplies of food.
In the winter, it ranges through the United States,
and is found on the ocean and the inland waters.
Some of them remain through the breeding season,
and resort to the lakes, making nests of withered
grass and feathers, on their grassy borders. These
appear to be their favorite resorts, and those which
frequent the seaside, do it from necessity rather
than from choice. They are expert divers, and
so quick in their motions, that they can take warn-
ing from the flash of the pan, in time to avoid the
shot of the gunner ; if they chance to be wounded,
they escape under water, so that it is useless to
Birds of Massachusetts. 255
pursue them. Mr. Cabot and others have found this
bird in our State.
The Cormorant, Phalacrocoraz carbo, is abundant
in winter on the islands near Boston and the coast
of Massachusetts, where most of them remain in
autumn, winter, and the early part of spring. Nut-
tall speaks of them as breeding on the islands,
near the mouth of the harbor. They are never
seen on fresh water, since they subsist entirely on
fishes taken from the sea. In taking them, these
birds are so expert, that a fish can hardly escape
them; they swim under water with great rapidity,
and almost always rise with their.prey in their
bill. Ifthe fish is very large, they beat it to pieces
on the shore; if they have caught it by the wrong
end, they toss it in the air, and catch it by the
head as it falls, so that the fins may present no
obstacle to its passing down the throat. When
thus employed, and when at rest, they are so con-
stantly on their guard, that it is very difficult to
approach them ; and if the gunner has succeeded
in wounding one, it is useless for him to pursue,
since both old and young sail under water, using
their wings to propel and their tails to steer them,
as in the air. But their safety is provided for, with-
out exertion on their part, since their flesh is so
poor, tough and fishy that, Audubon says, not even
epicures:can eat them.
The Dovsie-crestep Cormorant, Phalacrocoraz
dilophus, which was first described by Richardson,
256 Mr. Peabody on the
and has been considered extremely rare, has been
obtained by Dr. Brewer, in the vicinity of Boston.
They are found breeding on low islands at Labrador,
in great numbers, arriving as soon as the ice is dis-
solved from the water in the spring. They spend
the winter on the coast of the eastern states. At that
season, not many are seen farther east than the Bay
of Halifax. No fish comes amiss to their insatiable
appetites; of codlings particularly, they destroy im-
mense numbers, They differ from the Florida cor-
morant, described by Audubon, chiefly in their
superior size, and having more of the long feathers
behind the eye.
The Smac, Phalacrocorar graculus, is found in
most parts of the United States as far south as Flor-
ida, Where they breed in large associations. They
appear to make the bays and islands of the St. Law-
rence their northern bounds. In the high northern
regions they have not yet been encountered. They
live perpetually near the sea, never wandering in-
land like the common cormorant, which has been
seen on the Missouri river. They are expert divers,
and collect great quantities of fish. Near the mouth
of Boston harbor, they are found in thick and nu-
merous flocks, at the approach of winter.
The Ganser, Sula bassana, a bird known on
both sides of the Atlantic, is added to this list on the
authority of Dr. Brewer, who has obtained a speci-
men. In the summer, they are seen in vast num-
bers in the bay of St. Lawrence, where the Gannet
Birds of Massachusetts. 257
Rock, as it is called, a large rocky island, is en-
tirely whitened with the plumage of the females on
their nests, while the crowds hovering over and
around it, appear like a driving snow storm. While
thus engaged, they were easily approached, and were
not alarmed even at the discharge of a gun, the
meaning of which most sea-birds fully understand.
They are seen on our eastern coasts in the autumn,
and perhaps at other seasons of the year. They are
not observed to dive on any alarm, nor for the sake
of procuring food.
The Loon, or Great Nortuern Diver, Colymbus
glacialis, is not an uncommon bird. It spends the
breeding season in the fur countries, the British
provinces, and probably in the most northern part of
the states. On the approach of winter, they migrate,
to escape the severity of the winter, most of their
young going to the south; but some remaining in
the vicinity of Chesapeake Bay. They are shy
and watchful birds. They breed in the most retired
places which they can find, in rocky islets or the
borders of lakes; and as soon as the young are able
to travel, the parent conducts them to the sea. They
are active and unwearied in diving, and have the
power of swimming under water almost as fast as
they can fly in the air. In the day time they ap-
pear to dislike the bright sunshine, and are most
active and animated at the approach of night. ‘Their
call is loud and dismal, particularly disagreeable to
seamen, because it is thought to portend a storm ;
VOL. LNO: I.—H. 33 s
258 Mr. Peabody on the
it is so powerful that it can be distinetly heard,
when the bird is so distant as to be almost invisible
in the air. This bird is offe for sale in our mar-
kets; but its flesh is tough and unpalatable.
The Brack-rmgoarEp Diver, Colymbus arcticus,
is, as its name denotes, a northern bird, and is more
rare on our coast than the preceding; but I am as-
sured, on the authority of Audubon, that it is some-
times seen in our State.
The Rep-ruroatep Diver, Colymbus septentri-
onalis, is found on the coast of the United States in
autumn, winter, and, it may be said, in spring;
though they retire to the north before the snows
are gone. The old birds are rarely seen at the
south of Boston bay; but the young, more affected
by the cold, proceed as far as Maryland. Some of
them breed at the Bay of Fundy, but they abound
much more in Labrador, on the little lakes which
are common in that wild country. They are at all
times shy and watchful, alive to every danger, but
particularly uneasy at the sight of man. When he
appears, though at a great distance, they dive and
swim under water to the farther part of the lake, but
if he continues to approach, they rise from the water,
instead of diving again like the loon. Their notes,
uttered in rapid succession, are harsh and rather
loud. Dr. Richardson says that they cover their
eggs with down like the eider; but as this was not
the case with those seen at Labrador, they probably
Birds of Massachusetts. 250
vary their practice according to the climate where
they make their nests. nek
The Buacx anc ie Uria grylle, has been
seen, in severe winters, as far south as Maryland ;
but is uncommon even as far south as Massachusetts.
A specimen has been procured at Nahant, by Dr.
Brewer; but they do not abound this side of the
Bay of Fundy. At Labrador, they breed in large
numbers. They are sea-birds in the fullest sense
of the term, hardly ever going inland, except to
breed ; and they are so active and successful, in pro-
curing food, that they can remain and thrive, when
almost all other birds are driven, by the cold, from the
northern seas. Like many other sea fowl, they show
great sagacity in preparing a place for their nest. If
the fissure in the rocks where they make it, is dry,
they waste no labor upon it; but if it is likely that
any water may run there, in the time of rain or dis-
solving snow, they raise it with pebbles to a sufficient
height to keep their eggs from being injured. Is this
instinct, or is it reason? Or, rather, who will point
out the boundary that separates the two?
The Foorrsy Guitiemot, Uria troile, so called,
from its patience in submitting to evils which it can-
not help, is a hardy inhabitant of northern regions.
It is said to submit to be killed in the breeding sea-
son, without attempting to escape; but Audubon,
who knows more of their habits than any one else,
does not mention this cireumstance in his inter-
esting description. The folly of the guillemot seems
260 Mr. Peabody on the
to consist in its returning to the breeding places
where it is annually disturbed; but this appears
to be doné in despair of going beyond human reach ;
forit once bred in our bay. But it has for many
years abandoned it, and proceeds to the north in
company with the eiders, earlyin thespring. "Their
eggs afford luxurious food, and are collected in great
numbers by those who make it their employment,
to be sent to distant markets. They are so nume-
rous, that the sailors, who were sent by Audubon to
bring him two or three dozen, returned with twenty-
five hundred, which indicates an immense abun-
dance of the birds, since the eggs in each nest do
not exceed three. The white line that- encircles
the eye and extends back upon the head, is found
only in the old birds. Like the preceding species,
they swim under water almost as rapidly as they can
fly above.
The Lancer-siL.LED GuiLLEMoT, Uria Brunnichii,
is said, by Nuttall, to be occasionally found, in win-
ter, on the coast of the northern states, but I cannot
ascertain that any one has been taken in Massachu-
setts, except in a single instance ; Dr. Brewer found
one washed up on the beach, in April, 1836. This,
however, is sufficient to give it a place among our
birds. The specimen from which Audubon's illus-
tration was taken, was sent him from Eastport in
Maine. He found none on the coast of Labrador,
though the preceding species, with which this asso-
ciates, so greatly abounded. They had probably
gone farther into their aretic home.
Birds of Massachusetts. 261
The Lirrte Guittemot, Uria alie sometimes
called the Little Auk or Pigeon Diver, dwells far
within the arctic circle, and was found by Dr. Rich-
ardson at Melville Island. In hardiness and power
of enduring cold, no bird exceeds them ; in the depth
of winter, when the ice of the ocean is lifted and
broken by storms, they are seen crowding to the fis-
sures, to find a supply of food. They seem to
delight in tempests, which, by agitating the waters,
throw up in greater quantities the marine produc-
tions on which they depend for subsistence. In
Newfoundland they are called the Ice-bird, from
the presumption that, unless extreme cold were
approaching, they would not come so far from
home. Those that are found in this State are gene-
rally exhausted by their long flight; some have
quietly submitted to be taken by the hand. They
are not regular visitants, but occasional, solitary
wanderers.
The Puorriw, Mormon arcticus, commonly called
the sea parrot, has been found in severe winters as
far south as Savannah; but thisis unusual; its com-
mon range is from Long Island to the Bay of Fundy,
where many of them breed. Many more, however,
keep on to Labrador, where Audubon found flocks,
which covered the water to the extent of half an
acre. Those which proceed to that distance, leave
the states in April, and make their way along the
shore, never going far from the sea. They breed in
holes, which they make by burrowing three or four
feet in the ground, and feed their young with small
he
262 . Mr. Peabody on the
fish. ‘They are very social, and betray strong attach-
ment to each other ; when any one is shot, some one
alights by its side, swimming round it and stirring
it with its bill, as if urging it to fly or dive; and
when man, the only animal savage enough to torture
and kill for pleasure, lifts an oar, to knock it on the
head, it reluctantly leaves its friend, and disappears
under the water. The puffin flies firmly and swims
rapidly under water; it also dives to the bottom,
many fathoms deep, to find shell fish and other prey.
In his contests with the piratical raven, the puffin
grapples with his antagonist, and both fall into the
water, when the raven is drowned; but if he can
_ seize the puffin's neck, the victory inclines to the
other side.
The Razor-sittep Aux, Alca torda, occasionally
goes as far south as New York, in winter; but
farther south it is never seen. It is found from Bos-
ton eastward, arriving on the coast in November,
| and returning in April. While here, they are seen
hing far out at sea, and are thought to be able to
dive deeper than even the puffin, in search of their
food, which consists of shrimps, shell-fish, small -
fishes, and roe. They breed in the fissures of the
rocky shores of Labrador, sometimes depositing their
eggs where the water can run off without wetting
them ; but. if there is danger that the water will
Minis: the | eggs, they are laid on pebbles, which
are heaped by the bird, to let the moisture run below.
By
i,
The nests are very near each other ; it is remarkable, |
that in the fissures and caverns, ey sit flat upon
Birds of Massachusetts. 263
the egg like common birds; but in places more ex-
posed, keep an upright position, with their faces
toward the wind. In these places also they lay but
one egg, while in places more sheltered, there are
often two. The eggs are considered a great luxury ;
the flesh is said to be good to the taste, geomet dark
and uninviting to the eye.
In the foregoing list of our water birds, I have
given the names, with a short account of the habits
of all which reside with us or visit us, so far as I
have been able to ascertain them. Some, which
occasionally visit us, may be omitted ; and if not,
succeeding observations will doubtless make a differ-
ence in the list ; since the accident of a winter un-
usually severe, may bring some arctic birds farther
south than they have yet been seen ; and a similar -
cause may make us acquainted with some resi-
dents of the south, which have not yet entered
our bounds. The range of breeding and migra-
tion is thus at times contracted or extended ; but
the visits of a stranger, few and far between, are of
but little importance, and if our regular visitants
and permanent residents are set down and pro-
perly described, it is hoped that the purpose of the
survey will be answered.
It is more probable, on the other hand, thai some
birds which come to us regularly now, finding what
sort of welcome awaits them, will gradually with-
draw; for they are by no means slow to benefit
ae
ES
—— quiet of the northern wilderness, a home, which
r$
264 Mr. Peabody on the
by experience ; those which at first were tame and
familiar, are many of them growing cautious and
distrustful; the character of man stands in low
estimation among them; and as they know him
better, they go farther from his reach. Many birds
which formerly raised their young in our State, now
confine themselves to regions of greater security ;
the old gunners on our coast can give more than
one history of such desertion ; and in some cases,
the loss has been severe. ‘Thus, for example, the
wild goose is believed to have once raised its young
in the temperate climates of the United States. The
early settlers om the Ohio, testify that they for-
= merly abounded there at all seasons of the year ; +
it was common, within the memory of man, to find
the young birds on the ponds of Kentucky ; but,
like the deer and the grous, they have learned
that the world is wide, and now, they find, in the
LT E
TE
`
Au: the great Mioiouendéden of being out of hu-
rakja o on our coast; but now, they have mid
doned it; gaining nothing indeed by the exchange;
since there is reason to believe that when it bred `
in this climate, it was not compelled to cover its
a eggs with the: down which tempts so many adven-
E" e to sea ch for and rifle its nest.
to say, that these desertions ought à
j b be . In some few instances; the ex]
ment has feed tried; but it is found, as might 1
been foreseen, that no human enactment can sus-
Sie
e
À ey very desirable, that the e
Birds of Massachusetts. 265
pend the operation of a law of nature. ‘The statutes
on that subject are generally inefficient ; no one
cares to execute them ; the idlers in a community
are a privileged order, who pay little reverence to
the law, and the industrious, beside having other
employment than to note down their neighbors'
transgressions, cannot be persuaded that there is
any crime in shooting a wild bird, still less that the
act is harmless at one season of the year, and injuri-
ous at another. Nor is it by any means certain
that it would be des rable, even if it were possible, :
to prevent this extermination. It is better for the
civilized community that the process should go on.
"The epicure may lose an indulgence, and his case.
will doubtless excite all the commiseration which — -
it deserves ; but it will be public gain, without ques-
tion, to basa the field and forest offer no bounty to
idleness, tempting it away from the serious cares b.
of life, to engage in pleasures, which no one is the — *
ta in character, in habits, e in hese 6 for gp" »
j me stication, which has been NES 4 once or
‘twice in the preceding remarks, should be tried on
a large scale; and it might be well if some induce-
ment shohid be offered to tempt some competent
persons to engage in such an undertaking. d can-
not be despatched in a single season; it rould r- — E
quise time to determine on what ad am under. — —
cely t drive
st; and much more time would Š necessary te
VOL. Ill.—NO. 1.—II. 34 a
*
a
ai
2
ee
E » E”
*
266 Mr. Peabody on the Birds of Mass.
effect a permanent change in the habits of a wild
and wandering race, and to overcome that impulse,
which, in the season of migration, acts so power-
fully upon them, that some imprisoned birds with
their wings clipped, have been known to break from
their enclosures, and to set out on foot, for the
region of Hudson's Bay. In many cases, no doubt,
such attempts would succeed without difficulty ;
and in others, what could not be done by a short
experiment, might be accomplished by successive
and persevering trials; valuable accessions might
thus be made to the number of our domestic birds ;
many might come into general use, which now
only the sportsman and the epicure can enjoy, and
races of wild birds be preserved, which will other-
wise, in spite of all our game laws, soon disappear,
and be lost from our forests and shores.
WILLIAM B. O. PEABODY.
Dr. Storer's Supplement. 267
SUPPLEMENT
TO THE
ICHTHYOLOGICAL REPORT.
Sınce the report on the Fishes has passed through
the press, I have had an opportunity, by the polite-
ness of Mr. John S. Sleeper, Editor of the “ Mer-
cantile Journal,” of examining a specimen of the
“ Lophius piscatorius,” Sea-Devil; and as the ac-
count embodied in my report was extracted from
Yarrell’s “British Fishes,” I would present a de-
scription here from a recent specimen, that the
ichthyologist may judge for himself, as to my cor-
rectness in considering our fish the same as Hi
foreign species. ?
Length of the specimen before me, two feet sa
one inch; width across, in front of the pectorals,
one foot; length of the head, from the tip of the
= snout to the occiput, six inches. All the upper part
‘of the body is of a dark brown color, caused by very
minute irregular markings; body beneath, white.
Numerous fleshy cirrhi beneath the lower jaw, edging
it to the angles; beyond these, they are continued
. to the pectoral fins, and back of them, they are again
continued to the tail; these cirrhi are beneath the LR
jaw, nearly an inch in length; on the sides of the ©
_ body they are much smaller. The vertical gape of
the mouth, when expanded, is five inches; the dis-
ri
CIT
%
268 Dr. Storer's Supplement.
tance across, from angle to angle of the upper jaw,
eight inches; the tip of the lower jaw projects nearly
two inches in front of the upper. The intermaxil-
lary bones are capable of being protruded nearly an
inch beyond the maxillaries, and are armed with a
single row of small pointed teeth upon each side,
and two rows of much larger teeth in their centre ;
one of these rows upon the edge, the other, within
and beneath, very incurved ; upon the upper jaw, at
its tip, isa space of one and a half inches, destitute
of teeth ; on each side of this space, is one quite
large tooth, and a second, much smaller ; about half
an inch outside of these, a single row of eight or
ten teeth, the three or four first of which, are much
the largest. On each side of the pharynx, are three
rows of sharp incurved teeth, about a line in length,
resembling spines ; these rows are arranged directly
above each other, and are double. The lower jaw
has a single row of numerous, very sharp teeth,
some of them half an inch long; the tongue has a
broad, bony, triangular plate, upon each side, armed
with two rows of teeth on each side, which are
turned toward the throat. The distance from the
margin of the upper jaw to the eye, is equal to the
distance between the eyes. Several spines are ob-
servable upon the head ; two just back of the snout,
on each side; a bifurcated one over the middle of
the eye, and =R similar one at its posterior an-
gle; a small one in a line back of these, at the poste-
rior portion of the head. A spine pointing forward,
is situated at the angle of the jaws, and three straight
Spines are seen back of this. The eyes are neatly
M
Dr. Storer's Supplement. 269
circular, half an inch in diameter; the pupils, black ;
the irides, yellowish brown, with darker rays. One
inch back of the snout, are two elongated tentacula,
four inches long, of the firmness of bristles, with the
extremities free ; as the tentacula are lying down,
directly at their posterior extremities, is situated a
third, two inches in length, with about half of its
extent only naked; these tentacula are capable of
being elevated at the pleasure of the animal.
The first Dorsal is situated an inch and a half :
back of this third tentaculum ; it is composed of three
small rays, connected by a dark colored membrane.
The second Dorsal is two and a half inches back
of the first; it is composed of eleven rays ; this fin
is six inches long, three and a quarter inches high at
its commencement, and two inches high at its poste-
rior extremity. !
The Pectoral fins are three inches long ; quadrate ;
rather higher than long ; slightly digitated at their
extremities, and ciliated; width at the extremity,
when expanded, six inches ; composed of twenty-five
rays. ps
The Ventral fins, one inch long, two inches high ;
having five strongly marked digitations.
The Anal fin is five inches long; as high again at
its posterior extremity as at its anterior; it is com-
posed of nine rays.
The Caudal fin is two inches long, four and a
half inches high, and is composed of eight rays.
sd
Y
vido
E
s
d
en, hd] ee FP K
270 °° we — Supplement.
"n Squalus. Lin. (Selache. Cuv.) elephas. Le Sueur,
Sarna #rademy Natural Sciences, et fig.
Two or three weeks since, a large male shark was
harpooned in the harbor of Provincetown, and being
towed to Chelsea, was there exhibited. When I saw
i it, it waslying upon the beach, where it was entirely
exposed at low tide, and nearly, if not altogether
covered by water when the tide was high; the tide
.. wasflowing in, when I examined it, which compelled
me to make a more rapid survey than could have
been wished. It had been opened, and its viscera
were removed. The liver filled eight barrels, and
furnished six barrels of oil. The fish presented the
following appearances :
Its entire length was thirty feet three inches.
The whole upper part of the body, was of a dark.
slate color; lighter beneath. The skin was divided
into innumerable rugs, which were covered with
minute sharp points, often collected into groups, re-
sembling the discs of many of the “ Echini," upon
which are situated the spines by which they are
ornamented ; or, still more, the tubercles arranged
along the idm line of some of our. “Cotti,” caus-
ing the skin to be exceedingly rough. Head, small ;
perfectly smooth, for the most part, in front o of the
eyes, and covered with eircular and oblong mucous
pores, which keep this portion constantly lubricated. |
Snout, blunt. Nostrils, five inches in front of the
eyes, their lower portion upon the edge of the
upper lip. yes, very small ; diameter of the eye,
*
4 W
$
i E E:
e Pi
pe Fa — ari
, >.
three inches ; largest oncümibune of the sclerotic
coat, when removed from the socket, eight and a half
inches. Eyes very moveable in their orbits ; distance -
between the eyes, two feet; distance between the
tip of the jaws, as artificially raised, two feet ; this
vertical gap is undoubtedly as much again, a£ least,
in the living fish, which gives us an opening of four
feet. Mouth white, mottled with fuliginous. Jaws,
furnished with a great number of small, incurved,
pointed teeth. Six rows of these in the upper jaw,
and seven rows in the lower jaw ; the inner row in
this jaw, are hardly formed ; each of the rows in this
jaw, as I counted them in the mouth, contained one
hundred teeth, from the tip of the jaw to the angle
ofthe jaw, or two hundred, as counted from one
angle to the opposite one, or in a word, fourteen hun-
dred teeth in this jaw. The teeth are conical, sharp,
polished, with a sengible ridge upon each side, often
roughened, almost serrated ; the lower portion of the
tooth, striated ; one of the teeth in this jaw is bifid ;
the teeth at the angles of the jaws, short and more
compressed. "The teeth in the centre of the jaw, are
three lines high above the jaw, and their base, or
root, about the same length within the socket.
T'emporal oriodtgl foni, just back of the angle of
the jaw.
From the tip of the snout to the first branchia,
four feet nine inches. Five very large branchiæ,
nearly surrounding the head, as the animal was
lying ; by measurement, the first pair of branchiæ
were separated, on the neck, from each other, six
inches; L3 second pair were separated, at the same
$
Sec 1
vt Ww
rk t.
ke
Kale *
e
ed
Bi Sry pite i. D.
situation, ind Miche d third pair, one foot "e
inches; the fourth. jd; one foot nine inches; the, — .
Bfth pair, two feet three inches ; showing the first to
benut the largest. The first Dorsal fin is trian- -
gular : two feet ten inches long, four feet four
inches high, anteriorly, three feet posteriorly ; dis-
tance between the first and second dorsal, six feet;
second dorsal ten inches long, sixteen’ high anteri-
orly, thirteen posteriorly. Pectorals, falciform; one
foot nine inches long ; five anda half feet high;
$ distance between the pectoral and ventral, eight feet.
Length of the ventrals, one foot eleven inches; |
height, two feet nine inches; length of the clasp-
ers, three feet three inches; width at their base,
eight inches, from which they gradually pass toa -
point; they enclose a strong, bony spine. The
commencement of the analis directly opposite the
middle of the second dorsal; its length is eleven:
inches ; its height, fourteen inches ; across the ,top,
ten inches; distance between the anus ind” anal fin,
three and a half feet. Anterior to the caudal fin is
a lunated depression above and beneath the poste-
rior extremity of the fish ; at the base of the tail, a
carina upon each side, one foot eight inches long.
The caudal lobes, unequal ; the upper lobe, six feet
six inches in length, measured over its curve, hav-
ing at its extremity a small triangular lobe; the
lowerlobe, four feet two inches, measured in the
same way ; width of the extremity of the lower
lobe, six inches; width at the base, two feet two
inches; width of the extremity of the upper fluke,
or lobe, one inch ; width of the base, two feet three
Á E * f
E
<<
A
2
x.
. " 3
i Eo y a toe ~ SK
and : a half inches ; T a the re: depression to tho
ida of the fin, two feet eleven. inches. ý
_ Attached to the branchie, I found a single specit
. 'men of the e Cineras vittata.”
. Under the name of “ squalus elephas,” this shark
was admirably : described by Le Sueur, in the “ Jour-
nal of the Academy of Natural Sciences,” from a
specimen taken on the coast of New Jersey in
1822; and his figure, when it is remembered that
it was taken from a stuffed skin, is very accurate.
Among our Behe it is known as the bone
shark. D-H By
ie 1 es
è X £
V ART. II. — DESCRIPTIONS OF FOUR NEW SPECIES OF
FISHES. By Jaren P. KinTLAND, M. D.; first Assistant in the
Geological Board of Ohio, and Prof. of of the T. and Pract. y Med. in the
ap: College of. Ohio, at Cincinnati. Communicated em
SEC 2s
GASTEROSTEUS -depner sit. Vaesibie , ae
Plate II. fig. 1.
Head elongated; mouth small, armed with nu-
merous teeth. Lower lip projecting. Eyes large
and prominent. Nostrils midway between the up-
per lip and eyes. -
Body slightly compressed, scaleless. Back armed
with five or six falcated, moveable spines, each with
a decurrent membrane attached to its lower half
posteriorly. -
Dorsal fin 9 to 12 rayed, gradually sloping be-
hind to the back. Caudal fs circular, truncated
VOL. iNO Sts
MEA
Now Spe of Pha i E a)
è
t
a
xe
— | e .w-
e:
wee” 2: — fin, one spinous ray, and from 9 to
.19 soft rays. Ventral fin à spine. Pectoral fins
: oval, covering, when expanded, a circular, unserrated `
*.
+
PE. *
plate.
Color. Back, olive or black ; sides, faintly macu-
lated with olive ; a black or "v2 zone often ex-
tends along she: medial line. "Throat and abdomen
yellowish or white.
Length, one and a half inch.
ty
e iy me | 4 y k
d.
a '
Habitat. Common in ditches and muddy god K
in Trumbull Co. Ohio. -FA
>H
| OnsrRvATIONS. It is easily distinguished from all :
the other species of this genus by its size, color,
form of its plates, and number of dorsal spines. The
latter, as well as the number of rays in the dorsal
and anal fins, vary in different specimens; hence I
adopted the above specific name. e
ETHEOSTOMA VARIATA. Variegated Etheostome, or
Darter.
Plate IL. fig. 2.
Head conical, gibbous; orbits prominent; eyes
large; iris dark olive. Nostrils deep and large, an-
terior to the eyes. Operculum complex, gs
folded, terminating behind in a spine. — - il
Body cylindric, hardly compressed except at ‘the
tail; back gibbous; abdomen rectilinear; scales
rough, apparently hexagonal.
Pectoral fins large, elongated almost to the origin
of the anal fin. Ventral fins beneath the pectoral,
# i * é dá ie.
` - $
e I Nb Sys of Fishes. 275
&
falcated. vind fin a A Caudal fin fan-
shaped. Anterior dorsal spinous; 12 (T 2, Pos-
terior dorsal, soft, 13 rayed.
Colors gaudy. Anterior dorsal fin edged with
orange, and banded through its middle with indigo.
Post dorsal fuscous, touched with orange or vermil-
lion. Anal fin verdi ter. Body banded behind the
pectoral fins with seven or eight white zones, spotted
SU
with orange, the intervening spaces green ; an orange -
stripe beneath the pectoral fins, on the sides of the
abdomen. Back and head, olive and green.
_. Length, three inches. T
. Bear and Ohio. Like the other species of this genus
its place of retreat is beneath logs and stones. It -
prefers rapid and clear water.
/* OBSERVATIONS. - This i is one of the most brilliant
colored of the western fishes. It is frequently taken
by fishermen for bait, and preferred to the common
minnows. Rafinesque established a new genus for
the reception of a family of fishes very common in
the waters of Lake Erie and the Ohio river, but so
small in size as to attract little attention. The
habits of all the species are very similar. "They may
be seen, when the water is clear, moving slowly
along the sides of logs and stones; but if they are
disturbed, they will dart away with great rapidity.
Two of the largest species readily bite at a hook.
As there cannot be a more natural generic assem-
blage of fish than four of the species described by
the above named author, and the two I have noticed,
*
if e i i d
Habitat. Mahoning river, a walhi of Mes LA
L d
276 New Species of Fishes.
his arrangement will probably stand. One of his
Species, the E. calliura, is no other than the young
of the Cichla Ohioensis of Le Sueur. 'That fish
assumes a variety of appearances at different ages. .
Erurostoma wacunATA. Black Darter, or speckled
Hog-fish.
Plate II. fig. 3.
Head narrow, compressed ; nose acute ; operculum
scaly, double spined posteriorly ; jaws equal; mouth
small, longitudinal.
Body flattish, tapering gradually from the ventral -
fin to the caudal. 2
Dorsal fins, anterior, spinous, 10 rayed ; posterior,
soft, 13 rayed, connected with the anterior by an
intervening, decurrent membrane. Caudal fin, 22
rayed, circular, truncate posteriorly. Anal fin qua=
drangular, 1 spinous, 7 soft rays. Ventral fin, 1
spinous, 5 soft rays. Pectoral fins abbreviated, 14
rayed. l
Length, two and a half inches.
Color. Back and head, olive and black; sides
and abdomen, sea-green, with from twelve to twenty
carmine dots near the medial line.
Habitat. Mahoning river, in rapid water. Very
rare.
OssEeRvaTIONS. This species is readily distin-
guished by its flat, compressed body, peculiar color,
and especially its beautiful carmine maculations. It
exceeds in beauty the speckled trout.
New Species of Fishes. 277
HypARGIRA LIMI.
Plate II. fig. 4.
Head, conic-cylindrical, smooth; upper jaw
slightly recurved near the end; lower jaw more
prominent; mouth somewhat diagonal; operculum
with a membranous edge, extending to the origin of
the pectoral fin.
Body, uniformly cylindric, fusiform, slightly com-
pressed behind the dorsal and anal fins; destitute of
any prominent marking. Back, gibbous; abdomen,
rectilinear.
Dorsal fin quadrangular, otlónig, twice the length
of the anal fin, 13 rayed, each minutely dotted, or
lineated transversely. Caudal fin circular, diapha- 3
nous, 14 rayed, each ray transversely and minutely
lineated. Anal fim 10 rayed, situated beneath the
posterior half of the dorsal. Ventral fin small, acute,
extremity reaching the vent. Pectoral fins oval, ori-
gin oblique.
Scales rather large, sub-rhomboidal.
Color. Dark olive, irregularly waved with fus-
cous; abdomen free from the olive; an irregular
transverse black band on the body, near the base of
the caudal fin.
Length, from two to three inches.
Ossrrvations. I have met with this species only
in the heads of Yellow Creek, in the village of Po-
land, Trumbull Co., Ohio. It uniformly dwells in
soft mud, and is sometimes found in great numbers
in excavating springs and ditches. Like the other
members of this genus, it is very tenadis of life.
*
278 — New Species of Shells.
ART. IV.—DESCRIPTIONS OF THREE NEW SPECIES OF
SHELLS. By Jonn G. AxTHoNY. Communicated January and
July, 1839.
ANCULOTUS COSTATUS.
Plate III. fig. 1.
Shell subglobose, with a depressed convex spire;
body whorl ventricose, with about five coste revolv-
ing around it; color olivaceous ; aperture obovate ;
base regularly rounded ; purplish within.
Found on pebbly shores near the city of Cincin-
nati. -
3t
e
HELIX sTRIATELLA.
Plate III. fig. 2.
Shell remarkably thin, somewhat depressed; of a
very delicate horn color, transparent ; whorls four,
very finely striated transversely ; spire scarcely ele-
vated ; suture moderate ; aperture nearly round;
labrum not refiected nor thickened. Umbilicus not
remarkably large, in diameter not equal to the body
whorl ; transverse diameter one fifth of an inch.
Found abundantly near Cincinnati, in low bottom-
lands near the margins of running streams.
From “ Helix perspectiva," Say, which it most
nearly resembles, it may be readily distinguished by
em number of volutions, its exceedingly delicate
Strix, and its invariably smaller size. The color is
also much lighter, and its whole appearance far more
E > * 2 t
*
Native Nitrate of Soda. 279
delicate than the “perspectiva.” I have never
found it upon rotten wood, nor under the bark of
old logs, the common habitat of the “ perspectiva."
PALUDINA CINCINNATIENSIS.
Plate III. fig. 3.
Shell somewhat ventricose, subumbilicate, color
delicate green. Whorls four, smooth; spire entire
at the apex and prominent ; suture deeply impressed ;
aperture much dilated, approaching to orbicular,
nearly half the length of the shell; length one fifth
of an inch.
Found in the canal near Cincinnati, clinging to
small stones. am .
ARTICLE V.— NOTICE OF NATIVE NITRATE OF SODA, CON-
TAINING SULPHATE OF SODA, CHLORIDE OF SODIUM,
IODATE OF SODA, AND CHLORIODIDE OF SODIUM, from
the Province of Tarapaca, Pampa of Tamarugal, in South Peru; and of
ALGOROBA WOOD, from the buried forests beneath the end of
Tamarugal. By A. A. Haves, M. D. From a letter to M. Gay,
Cur urator of Mineralogy and Geology i in the Society.
In presenting these specimens for the Cabinet of
the Society, I wish to make the first publie an-
nouncement of the discovery of Iodate of Soda, as a
new mineral species.
The nitrate of soda, as the source from which the
refined nitrate of soda of commerce is obtained, is an
important and valuable salt, in an economical point
of view. In the province of Tarapaca, it occurs
mixed with more or less of the sulphate of soda
2 o a
y
280 Native Nitrate of. Soda.
and chloride of sodium, in large beds, exposed on
their upper surfaces freely to the air. "The whole
surface of the pampa is made up of saline matter,
mixed with sand composed of water worn shells and
detritus of trachytic rocks, presenting an area of
many square miles of variable depth. Below the
surface, in several places, is found the fossil wood,
the trees being entire, and generally inclined toward
the southwest. Numerous volcanoes exist in the
Andes, between which and the pampa a range of
low hills intervenes, marking apparently the border
of the surface, once covered by alake. These speci-
mens were obtained by Mr. John H. Blake, of Bos-
ton, to whom I am indebted for a description of the
locality, which will soon be published.
Roxbury Laboratory, 17th July, 1838,
EXTRACT FROM THE LETTER.
“The nitrate of soda contains a salt of chlorine and iodine
united. This is proved by moistening a few grains of the yel-
low part of a mass with water, and rubbing it on starch paper ;
if free iodine were present, a purple or blue color would be
produced. Weak sulphuric acid, added to the moistened mass,
gives it the power of thus altering the starch, and, as bromine
is not present, no other known body can produce that effect.
If such a mixture be distilled, chloride of iodine passes over
into the recipient. That iodate of soda is present, is proved by
the fact, that the saline matter, which is mixed with the nitrate
of chlorine, in a solution of starch in sulphuric acid. When
heated with carbon, it deflagrates feebly, and the residue, dis-
Solved in water, instantly renders a solution of starch in sul-
uric acid blue, if chlorine is present, Magnesia is always
n the specimens.”
BOSTON
" 2 Am an
LÀ
JOURNAL OF NATURAL HISTORY.
Vou TH 25 JULY, 1840. '. News.
*
ART. VI.— A FURTHE ExOREE ATION OF SOME NEW .
- ENGLAND LICHEN By Epwarp TockERMAN, JUN.,
. LL. B., a Member of the, soie. dissi before the aaua in
March, 1840.)
ArrtHoNIA. A genus Son by — in his
Lichenogr. Univ., and - adopted, to some extent, by
later writers. Sprengel, ‘however, refers all the
species to the genus Graphis, as arranged by him.
AgrHONIA, punctiformis, Ach. ‘Lich. Univ., Scheer. !
Lich. Helvet., Muhl, Catal., Torr. Catal., Hals. Syn.
View, Mass. Catal., is arii and well known
form, occurring on smooth bark, and much resem- .
bling, at sight, some of the minute Verrucarie.
This seems, in some respects, to differ from Opegra-
pha of Acharius, but the following it seems to me
much more difficult to separate from that genus.
A. radiata, 8. astroidea, Ach. l. ¢., Moug. & Nestl.!
. Stirp. crypt., Graphis stenocarpa, Spreng. part., Ope-
*
.grapha astroidea, e Meth., O. d [s p
à * See Vol. II. p. 945.
VOL. iti. Wi, Mi 36 P
*
: |
*
%
282 .. Lichenes of New England.
occurs on hard bark in Cambridge, and seems to be
noticed in several of our Catalogues. This genus
. will probably not remain separate from the next.
GRAPHIS curvula, Ehrh., Spreng. Syst., Opegra-
_ pha notha, Ach., Hals. 1. c. MP WEN bark, Cambridge
and Watertown. “Not included in the Mass. Catal.
The genus Graphis, to which this is here referred,
as arranged by Sprengel, l. c., consists of the Ope-
graphe of Persoon and Motive, together with the
afterwards separated Graphides of the latter, exelud--
ing some aberrant (mostly tropical) forms, which
have been arranged in. new genera by Meyer.
Sprengel cites Adanson as the author of this arrange-
ment, which may, TS probably we the right
of priority.
S ER gemmata, Ach., Hals. l. c., "Mass.
Catal. — Smooth bark, common in New E Bo
V. nitida, Schrad., Borr. in Hook., , Ach.
Lichenogr., Scher.! 1 c., Spreng. L. e., Mull. Le,
Pyrenula nitida, Ach. Syn. (cit. as y Moug. &
Nestl.! 1. c., Spheeria nitida, Weig. (cit. Hook.).—
.. Smooth bu very common in New England.
Somewhat resembling V. gemmata.
V. punctiformis, Ach., Spreng. 1. c., De Cand. Fl.
, Ft. ; Scher.! E ©, Hals. l c. BC bark, Cam-
Wiridize
y. epidermidis, Ach. Syn. (cit. Scher. h De Cand.
aire , Moug. & Nestl.!, Hook. Br. Fl, Hals. 1. c. —
1 t of Betula papyracea, &c., Maine. Referred to
t ie x. by Sprengel. | |
e
*-
T $ a
Lichenes of New England. . 983
V. cinerea; Pers., Hook. 1. e, V. stigmatella, Ach.,
Scheer. ! k e., Muhl. l. e., Torr. 1. c., Hals. 1. c., Pott
in Mass. Catal. it Geant bark, Cambridge.
V. enteroleuca, Spreng. l. c., Pyrenula aeoo
Spreng. in Hals. l. c., Port. in Mass. Catal., Thelo-
trema cinereum, Sirini in Hals. L we e
bark, very common throughout New. gland. This.
is apparently a true. Pyrenula, a. genus whieh i is now
regarded too near Verrucaria. vs
ENDOCARPON: MÀ Ach., Sekr: L Gy Hook.
l. c,— a. wmbilicatum, Scher.!l. c, E. miniatum,
Ach., Muhl. 1. c., Hals. l. c., Mass. Catal; ==
saith West Cambridge, Brooldlitie; nad Also
— = !, and elsewhere. ox
——, 6. complicatum, Schzer.! 1.
i. 9 E: cowie Ach., Hals. l. c. — Rocks n
er, and within reach - ren ; Spot P.
ea Lis ey, agquaticwm, Séhser.! 1.
e E. Weberi, Ach., Hals. le. , Port. ! 1. c. ++ On rocks
and stones under water, in issus and ponds, West
Cambridge, Medford, Plainfield, and elsewhere. The
remark in Lindley, (Nat. Syst. edit. 2. p. 427,) that
“no lichen is ever submersed,” is at variance with
the obvious habit of the var. y. of this species,
which ‘certainly cannot. be — from the E»
ndocarpa. -
VARIOLARIA. on genus is not allowed by Spren-
gel, who distributes the species between Porina, Ur-
ceolaria, and. Lecanora.
*
There. appears to be some .
*
E
a p
d x
dE:
284 Lichenes of New |
confusion in the synonymy of the common forms,
» owing, probably, to their considerable resemblance
to each othef. In mentioning the following species,
I have followed the met of the Methodus
of Acharius.
Y faginea, e iieit. Ach. ) Ach. Meth. De *
N Cand. ke Hook. l. c. — Bark, less common, perhaps;
than the S This is the V. amara of one of the
later works of Acharius, and of our authors, and is
sensibly distinguished from the other species allied
to it by the bitter flavor of the thallus. This is
caused by the presence of oxalic acid, detected in it
by Mr. Braconnot, in the proportion of 29.40f oxalic
acid, combined with 18 of lime, in 100 parts of the
lichen. (Hook. 1. c.)
`- V. discoidea, Pers. (eit Ach. ) Hook. I. c. — reco
and old rails, very common. < "
V. aspergilla, Ah. Lich. Univ., Hook. Lc. — Old
walls, rocks, and trees.
V. velata, Ach. Syn. (cit. Hook.), Hals... c., Mass.
Catal. — On trees, common in New England. The
apothecia greatly resemble the scutelle of a Leca-
nora, and the species (according to Hooker, l. c.) is
referred to that voom TA Turner and Borrer. -
=
ec
b Uio scruposa. ‘Since the publication of
. my former paper, I have observed this plant quite
common on old walls and in similar situations. Mr. ,
. . Russell has sent it from Chelmsford, where. he finds — ^
it abundant, on rocks. At the Cambridge station, it
occurred on the ground, in a sandy soil.
U. cinerea, Ach., — forma varians. — Alpine rocks,
w;
*
*
White Mountains. The thallus is of a rusty red,
and is copiously besprinkled with the small black
apothecia., The red color is probably o€casioned by
oxide of iron in the rock. The plant does not ap-
pear to differ in other characters of importance from
U.:cinerea. "Thallus distinctly areolated, but at the
same time continuous and regular. ý
_U. cinerea, Ach., — forma varians polygonia. Aja
pine rocks, White Mountains, with the last. Thallus
rusty red, often of a fine dark red, owing, as in the
last, to the presence of iron in the rock.- The thal-
lus is made up of areole, which are much 1 than
in the la$t, distinct, or aggregated, or someti con-
fluent. The apothecia minute, very irregulat, often
several in a single: areola. This appears to differ
considerably from the last, and both from our com-
mon U. cinerea; but the charaeters of —
in the plants from the White Mountains are so nearly
represented in European: specimens, arranged as vari-
eties of the above-cited species, that I can hardly
consider our plants distinct, even as varieties. The
most striking feature of these forms is, perhaps, their
color; in regard. to which, besides what has been
said above, we may call to mind Linnzus's pleasant
application of the poet, **Nimium ne crede colori ; ” à.
a of allowed ERN in —
uin. muscorum; "Bahs: tke c, Hook. l| e.,
Muhl. l. ci, Patellaria muscorum, De Cand. l. c., P.
sabuletorum, Spreng. l. c., Lecidea sabuletorum,
Ach., Torr. l ¢., Hals. l. c;, Lichen sabuletorum,
Flórke, L. muscorum, L. — Decayed mosses, Cam-
| of New England. e. "
| Lichenes of New. England.
bridge. Also in the lower regions of the White
" Mountains.
= L, geographica, Hook. l: c., Rhizocarpon geo
graphicum, De Cand. 1. c., Lecidea atro-virens, var.
geographica, Ach. Meth., Liehers geographicus, L.,
Ach. Prodr. — Alpine locis White Mountains, and -
Chin of Mansfield, Vt. An elegant species. -
L. pruinosa, Ach. Meth., Hook. 1. c., L: albo-
cerulescens, Ach. Syn., Muhl. l. ¢., Mass. Catal.,
Lichen pruinosus, Dicks. (cit. Hook. ): — On. rocks
and boulders, not confined to limestone. Plainfield,
Port.!, Waltham; Lexington, Medford, Manchester,
and Wes in this vicinity, not uncommon. In
the synonymy of this species, I have followed
Hooker, l.c., but itis proper to refer to De Cand.
Fl. Fr., whargiibme additional facts may be found.
-L. albo-atra, Borr: in Hook. 1. cC; L. corticola,
Ach. Syn. (cit. Hook. ), Muhl: 1. ¢., Hals. 1. c., Lich-
en corticola, E. Bot., Verrucaria abeatis Hoffn.
(eit. Hook.). — Old un West Cambridge.
L. anomala, Ach. Syn., Hook. l. c., Patel
anomala; Spreng. 1. c., Lecanora.anomala, Ach. Lich-
enogr., Parmelia itm Ach. Meth, Suppl. — Bark
of Juniperus Virginiana, Cambridge. Apothecia. re-
markable for a waxy lustre, especially apparent when
the plant is wet. I have some hesitation in regard to
our plant, which belongs to a rather doubtful group.
The Lecanora effusa of Muhlenberg’s . Catalogue
probably belongs to it, as Hooker unites this species
with Lecidea anomala. With this exception, I be-
lieve the species has not been ‘mentioned by Amer-
ican authors.
Lichenes of N. ew England,
L. varians, Muhl. 1. c., Eaton, E The. de- —
scription given by Eaton agrees so well with one-of
our common forms of Lecidea, that I have little ~
doubt our plant is the. L. varians of the above aus
thors. + My opinion has been strengthened by an
"examination of labelled specimens (not, however,
original) in the herbarium of Mr. Oakes. . The. spe-
cies is somewhat remarkable, and occurs commonly
on bark. canal &c.
besten ventosa, Ach. — Rocks in Essex Coun-
ty, Oakes!. This fine species is abundant on Alpine
rocks at the White Mountains, a station mentioned
in my former enumeration, but it is wholly new to
Massachusetts. - On the Chin of Mansfield, Xt: k
L. tartarea, Ach. Lichenogr., Hook. l. c., H is
c., Mass, Catal., Patellaria tartarea, De Cand. |. e.,
Kermani tartarea, Hoffm., Lichen tartareus, L. —
Rocks. Danvers, Oakes!, Brookline, Medford, '&e., .
not uncommon. "The cudbear of commerce.
Parmer perlata, Ach. Meth., Scher.! |. c.,
Moug. & Nestl. ! l. c., Spreng. 1. ¢., Hook. 1. c., Hals.
l; c., Lobaria perlata, De Cand. 1. c., Lichen perlatus, k
L., Ach. Prodr. — Rocks, trees, and rails, Cambridge;
Waltham, Lexington, Framingham, &c., common.
Also, Chelmsford, Mr. Russell. Not as yet observed
in fruit. Not in the Mass. Catalogue.
- Po pulverulenta, Ach. Syn. (cit. Hook.), Scheer. !
L-e., Spreng. l, c., Hook. l. c., Muhl. 1. ¢., Imbricaria
pulverulenta, De Cand. 1. c., Moug. & Nestl 14.0;
Lobaria pulverulenta, Hoffm; (cit. Cand.), ides
988 Lichenes of New England. +
pulverulentus, Schreb. ; & P. = Ach. Meth.,
cum Ic. (sec. Spreng. ), nec Hals. I. c., Mass. Catal. —
Bark of trees; Cambridge, and elsewhere ; a not un-
common and handsome species.. The P. venusta,
Ach., seems, by the cited, description and figure, to
be too nearly allied to this species, with which it is
united by, Sprengel. In P. pulverulenta, the bor-
der of the scutelle is described as either entire; Or
notched, or quite leafy.
P. speciosa, Ach. Meth., Scher.! 1. c., Spreng. l.
c., Hook. l.c., Muhl. 1. c. — Rocks in old woods,
Waltham, Medford : trunks of trees, not very general,
Cambridge, Watertown; New Ipswich, N. H. Spren-
- gives a habitat of this species in Boreal America,
„Muhlenberg enumerates it in his Catalogue. It
ps, especially. i in the finely fruited state (un-
known in Great Britain), in which I have almost —
always found it, the most beautiful of. our Parmelie.
Hooker describes the lobes of the thallus as powdery
at the extremities; but Acharius remarks, that. they
are sometimes naked: the latter is the most common
state in our plant. It would seem, from the descrip-
m tion given in Eaton’s Manual, of one or two species,
which are named as new species in Muhlenberg’s Cat-
alogue, that our plants (and especially the saxicoline
form) are very nearly allied to these; but I am unable,
at present, to ascertain this, by the necessary com-
parison of specimens. 'The’saxicoline plant belongs
o P. speciosa, unless it be found to differ sufficiently
to form a new species; but the other, which I havé
mentioned as growing on trees, may, I think, prove
distinct. Both, however, are nearly related to P.
speciosa. .
Lichenes of New England: 289 -
P. ulothriz, Achy Meth., Muhl. l. c., Hals. 1. e., *
Mass. Catal, Imbricaria ulothrix, De Cand. 1. c.,
Moug. & Nestl.!, Lichen ulothrix, Ach. Prodr., L.
ciliatus, Hoffm. (cit. Ach.). — Bark of trees, Cam-
bridge, Watertown, Medford, &c. *Ciliis scutella-
rum (sepe deficientibus et facile elabentibus) impri-
mis a Parmelia cycloselide differt, cui alias simil-
lima.” (Ach. Meth.) : There is, however, in the
descriptions, another character to separate these spe-
cies, — the mealy. warts on the margins of the lobes
and elsewhere on the upper surface of P. cycloselis.
These are very apparent in our New England form
of this species, but I have observed the same on P.
ulothrix. The latter is distinguished bya prn
able character, but it may possibly hereaft er be ‘Te
duced toa,variety of P. DE In this case, the
question might be entertained, whether Hoffmann's
name, above-cited, has not the rigt of * priority.
— P. Fahlunensis, Ach. Meth., Moug. & Nestl.! 1. ;
c., Spreng. 1. c., Hook. 1. c., Imbridittis Fahlunensis,
De Cand. l..c., f A Fahlunériis, Hoffm. (cit.
Cand.), sete Fahlunensis, L. 7 Ach. Prodr. — La
major, Scher.! l. c., rocks, Notch of the White
Mountains. — p. minor, Scher. ! l. e., rocks, with the
last. Somewhat resembling P. stygia, especially
the form g. P. Fahlunensis is a larger and wider-
lobed lichen, the extremities of the lobes not de-
curved as in P. stygia, the apothecia larger, and it -
occurs at a much less elevation. . Linnæus first de- -
tected our Plans about the mines of Fahlun, in
Sweden. -
P. dese, Ach. -Meth., Bobo ! lc. Moug. &
VOL. I. — NO. Hi. 3T
`‘
290 Lichenes of New England.
Nestl.! l. c., Hook. l. c., Imbricaria diatrypa, De
Cand. l. ¢., Lobaria terebrata, Hoffm. (cit. Cand.),
Lichen pertusus, Schrad. (cit. Ach:), L. diatrypus,
Ach. Prodr. — Rocks, in the Notch. of, the White
Mountains. , Presents every character of the Euro-
pean plant. Specimens in frnit did not occur. The
feature from which this species has derived its vari-
ous names, diatrypus, terebratus, pertusus;is an un-
common and remarkable one.. 'l'hese words intimate
not merely that the margins of the thallus are eri-
brose, irregularly perforated, as in Gyrophora erosa;
but that every where, “passim,” the thallus is marked
with regular holes, “Jaciniis parvis foraminibus: per-
tasis.” (Ach. Meg a 251.). This — is new
to our Flora.
Belonging to the same. group of Parmelize v which
includes P. diatrypa, and the species allied to it, is à
lichen, which, for want of specimens to compare
with, I am still unable to determine, though 1 have
had it several years in my collection: t presents
several very striking characters and is probably al-
ready described. The long, lax, linear lobes of the .
thallus, which are white above, and black, ragged,
_.and spongy beneath, and inflated at the apices, to-
gether with the large scutelle, at first goblet-shaped,
and becoming, when mature, very ample, will serve /
to point out the plant to other observers. I have
thought it agreed generally with such brief descrip- -
tions as I have seen of a remarkable species from our
Northwest Coast, — P. enteromorpha. 'The species
occurs abundantly on the White Mountains, in the
subalpine regions. T have also ‘observed it, more
Lichenes of New Englond. 291
sparingly, on the summits of the Chin of Mansfield,
and the Camel’s Rump, the two highest of the Green
Mountains, in Vermont. A. Van Diemen’s Land
lichen, from the herbarium of Professor Torrey,
seems also to belong to this species. Should our
plant prove to be. distinct, it may be called P. platy-
carpa.
P. colpodes, Ach. Meth., Muhl. l.c., Hals. 1. c.,
Spreng. l. c., Mass. Catal. — Trees, Essex Co.,
Oakes!, Plainfield, Porter!. Also Plymouth ; a some-
what rare spedigs. |
pien crocata, Ach., Hals. 1. c., Port. 1. c. sap
rocks and trees. Massachusetts, Hals., X eg
Port. ! I. c., Plainfield, Port.! in herb. . nostra.
Waltham and Manchester. Also in the No b "
White Mountains, and on wood from Maine. ' Ken-
nebunk, Me., Mr. Russell!.. The station given by
Halsey was foünded, on specimens from Dr. Porter.
"This lichen may prove.to be a more common species
in this country, than has been supposed. I have
generally met with it on shaded rocks in old woods,
and but once on trees; though Dr. Porter's speci-
mens are from the latter. The color varies from a
light lead-gray on the upper surface, and a very light
brown beneath, (the young plant,) to “a very dark
olive-green,” as Hooker describes it, above, and a.
rufous-brown benéath. Mr. Russell’s plant is rather
* slauco-fuscous,” as Acharius describes the species.
The Waltham plant and that from the White Moun-
tains are of a dark reddish-brown.
S. aurata, Ach. Meth., Port.!.in Eat. Man. Bot.,
292 | . "Lichenes of New England.
and in Mass. Catal., Platisma crocatum, Hoffm. (sec.
Ach.), Lichen auratus, Smith in Ach. Meth. — On a
boulder-stone in Western, Port. This rare and beau-
tiful lichen, of which I have abundant specimens
from its discoverer, is one. of the tropical forms of
Sticta. It has been found in the West Indies, by
Swartz ; in South America, in fruit, by Humboldt ;
and in St. Helena, according to Sprengel. I havea
Van Diemen’s Land. lichen, which probably belongs
to this species, from Professor Torrey’s ‘herbarium.
It is also said to occur in the South of France ; and
there is recorded a single doubtful English station,
though it would seem to be now ‘wholly unknown in
Great. Britain. The Massachusetts plant did not
occur in fruit; which is said by Hooker to be ex-
tremely rare.
S. scrobiculata, Ach. Syn., Spreng. 1. c., Hook. L
c., Hals. l. c., Mass. Catal., Lobaria scrobiculata, De
Cand. l. c., Pulinolá scttibidtlata: Ach. Meth., Lich-
en scrobieulatus, Scop., Ach. Prodr., & Pulmonaria
verrucosa, Hoffm., Lichen- verrucosus, Jacq. (fide
Cand.). — Rocks in old, shady woods ; Manchester,
and elsewhere. Also on trees, Maine. |
S. pulmonacea, Ach. — In fruit, a very luxuriant
specimen ; West Cambridge hills, Dr. Harris. A
somewhat rare state of the plant. Ihave observed
it ton the White Mountains. aimul
CoruEMA saturninum, Ach. . Dr. Porter sends
specimens from Shelburne, which are granulated on
the upper surface. . The plant occurs on the Waltham
hills, in Cambridge, and Watertown. Mr. Russell
has found it in Chelmsford.
+
Lichenes of New England. 293
C. tremelloides, Ach. Syn., Hook. 1. c., Muhl. 1. c.,
Torr. l. c., Hals. 1. c. — Rocks, Grand Monadnock
mountain, N. H.; Ragland, in Brookline, near Ham-
mond’s (or Richards's) Pond; Medford hills. Also
Manchester, and elsewhere, a not uncommon species,
and frequently occurring in fruit. Thallus, when
moist, of a dark green, and translucent; when dry,
of a light lead-color, and opaque. Besides C. pul-
chellum, I have six other New England Collemata,
undetermined ; two of which were received from
Dr. Porter. It is remarked by Hooker, that, in dry-
ing, these plants are necessarily much altered in
form, and from this, and their variable character,
there is considerable: difficulty in the determination
of the. xig ( Br. FI. in loc.)
Nipid dorili Ach. Lichenogr., Hook. L Ci,
Peltigera parilis, Spreng. l. c., Peltidea parilis, Ach.
Meth., Lichen parilis, Ach. rn E. Bot. t. 2360.
— Rocks; in the Notch of the White Mountains, in-
fertile. This is new to our Flora. ^
N.. bella: *thallo membranaceo utrinque glabro,
supra badio, subtus pallidiori, lobis convexis, abbrevi-
atis, rotundatis ; scutellis fuscis margine thallode inte-
gro.” Spreng. Peltigera bella, Spreng. l. c. — Trees,
sub-alpine region of the Chin of Mansfield, Vt. Thal-
lus membranaceous, glabrous; pelte small, exactly
orbicular. I have not had the opportunity to compare
our New England plant with authentic specimens of
Peltigera bella, — the former may prove to be
distinct.
N. aspera : thallo sahita glauco-fusco, "—
4
294 Lichenes of New England.
demum. granulato, subtus pubescenti fusco-nigro ad
ambitum pallidiori, lobis erectiusculis lacero-dentato-
crenatis; peltis nigro-castaneis margine lacero-fim-
briato. — Rocks; Ragland, in Brookline, Manchester
"woods, Medford hills, and Lexington. Also Chelms-
ford, Mr. Russell. This appears, by the description,
to be near Peltigera (Nephroma) Helvetica, of Spren-
gel, l. c., a species said by him to be found in Swit-
zerland, but not noticed in Scharer's Swiss Lichen-
ography.
GvnoPHona. Of the six New England species,
enumerated in my former paper, two were inserted
doubtfully. Further investigation has enabled me to
speak with confidence in regard to both of these. .
G. hirsuta, Ach. Meth., Moug. & Nestl.! 1. iy
Umbilicaria hirsuta, Hoffm., (cit. M. & N. ), De Cand.
l. c., Lichen hirsutus, Ach. Pr. — Rocks, in the Notch
_ of the White Mountains. Near G. vellea, from which
it is well distinguished by the characters given by
Acharius. Thallus of a whitish ash-color, somewhat
pulverulent ; fibres of the under surface long and
very distinct; trice hemispherical. The plant is
much smaller than G. vellea, and less rigid. In my
former paper, this was incorrectly considered a form
of G. vellea, G. spadochroa is another species allied
to G. vellea, which may occur, though I believe it
has not yet been found in this country. E ue
G. deusta, Ach. Meth. var. flocculosa, Ach., not of-
E. T. Enum. Lich. N. Eng., Lecidea deusta, Spreng.
l. c., Gyrophora ænea, y. Scher.! 1. c., Umbilicaria
flocculosa, Hoffm., Lichen floceulosus, Wulf., L. deus-
x
&
as Se
á
Don
Lichenes of New England. 295
tus, L. part. — Rocks; in the Notch of the White
Mountains. . A smoother variety occurred in the Alpine
regions of the Chin of Mansfield, Vt. In the place
above-cited, I expressed a doubt whether the plants
there called “G. deusta, Mass. Catal." (Acharius was
not referred to,) were not rather a form of some other
species. The name in question was communicated to
me, with specimens, by a botanical friend ; but I do.
not know that it is the G. deusta of the Mass. Catal.
The plants, I am satisfied, belong to G. Muhlenbergii,
and are far from the true G. deusta, above noticed.
G. erosa, Ach, E. T. Enum, lc. Given in the
cited Enumeration with a mark of doubt. I suc-
ceeded ‘the last year in obtaining good specimens.
The species. occurs; less commonly than some others,
on rocks in the alpine regions of the White Moun-
tains, and is undistinguishable in d respect from
the foreign plant. <
'G. proboscidea; Ach. = Alpine rocks on the Chin
of Mansfield, Vt. ‘This is the highest summit in
Vermont, and I did not find the species on any other
of the Vermont mountains. ‘It varies somewhat, as
at the White Mountains. The var. f. arctica did not
occur.
G. Muhlenbergii Ach. eh 4j Muhl. l. c., Hals.
L c, Hook. in Frankl. Voy. cum Ic, Lecidea’ Muhl-
enka; Spreng. l: co; & G. deusta, Port.! in herb.
' nostr; and E. 'T. Enum. l. c., not of Ach. — Rocks;
Blue Hills, Milton, very abundant and fine. iil
Co. Oakes.! Also Cambridge, Medford, Manchester,
Plainfield, Plymouth, White pene in the
Notch, and Grand Monadnock, N ;H.. There is
r
296 Lichenes of New England.
an interesting account of this lichen in .Hooker's
.* Appendix to Franklin's Voyage," above cited. It
is regarded by Gyrophorophagi the best species for
eating. . I have cited Sprengel for this plant, but the
reference seems to me to be hardly satisfactory ; I
shall endeavour to state my .doubts under the next
species. -The G. deusta of my Enumeration, is, as
above stated, only an immature, barren form of this
species. The plant occurs in this condition, not un--
commonly, on walls and rocks. :
G. Muhlenbergii, Ach. 8. alpina: minori, crassiori;
complicato. — Alpine rocks. Summits of the White -
Mountains. Chin of Mansfield, and Camel's Rump
Mountains, Vt. A true alpine form of the —
analogous to the var. 8. of G. proboscidea:
G. Pennsylvanica, Ach., E. T. Enum. |. c. I am
unable to reconcile Sprengel's. diagnosis of this spe-
cies with that of Acharius, or with the characters of
our plant. There is the same difficulty in regard to
G. Muhlenbergii as described by him, and, by other
authors.. These species resemble each other in many
points, and it is not, therefore, impossible that they
may have been by some accident misplaced and con-
founded. 'The G. Pennsylvanica of my Enumera-
tion is papulose o; ipper surface, and with cor-
responding lacu ; the under surface finely
and regularl like shagreen, without
ridges or re e apothecia are perfect
~ patellule, considerably concave, and distinctly mar-
4. ginated. Now this would seem to be the plant of
-+ Acharius. So important did he consider the charac- A
ter of the pat Wa io that he separated A a
we
E-
*-
EJ
h
*
ye
$
T LM
FETU 5
Lichenes of New England. 297
species from Gyrophora in the Methodus, and placed
it with the Lecidez. It seems also to be the G.
Pennsylvanica of American authors. But Sprengel's
plant is described as reticulate on the under surface,
and possessing apothecia * plerisque ' abortientibus
gyrosis," — true gyromata. My G. Muhlenbergii is
not so distinctly papulose as the former ; it is marked
on the under surface with. “ridges, lacerated, and
joining ends," and the granulation is interrupted and
often obliterated.. The apothecia commonly occur in
pits, or. depressions of the thallus; they are flattish,
heaped, and often very large; and always perfect
trice or gyromata. But the G. Muhlenbergii of
Sprengel is described as lacunose, and with urceolate
or very concave margined patellule ; a description,
which, if I am not in- rin these remarks, ap-
plies only to the former spec es.
G. hyperborea, Ach. Meth., Lecidea polymorpha,
z. Spreng. 1. c., Gyrophora ænea, y. hyperborea, Scher.!
l. c., Gyromium hyperboreum, Wahlenb. Fl. Lapp.,
Lichen hyperboreus, Ach. Prodr., L. superf. subtus
lacunata, L. Fl. Lapp. — Alpine rocks. . Rocky peaks
of the. White Mountains, abundant (subtus rufa).
Summits of the Chin of Mansfield, and the Camel’s
Rump, Vt. (subtus nigra). Very. different from any
of our common species, but ni to the next,
with which Schærer has unit
G. polyphylla, Hook. |. c., Leci
Spreng. 1. c., G. ænea, a. Scher. ! 1. (s n
polyphyllum, Wahlenb. 1. €., Gyrophora glabra, Ach. pa
* Meth., Lichen glaber, Ach. Prodr., Umbilicaria poly- — . "i
. phylla, Hoffm., Lichen u m s — Alpine
VOL. II. — NO. HL. — |
me
€ T E
x
298 Lichenes of New England.
rocks. White Mountains. Acharius distinguished
his Liehen glaber from the form which constituted
Linneus’s Lichen polyphyllus, making the latter a
variety of the former. They are not now kept sepa-
rate, and Hooker has restored to the species the name
given by-Linnzus. $
Crerrarta Islandica, Ach., E. T. Enum. l c. 1
found this, the last year, in fruit, abundantly, in the
alpine regions of the White Mountains. ,This is a
very rare state of the plant in temperate countries.
Our plant is smaller than the boreal form of the lich-
en, but it does not appear to‘ differ in any other re-
spect. This lichen seems to be very: generally dif-
fused, and may be regarded common: I am acquaint-
ed with the plant in the following stations: — White
Mountains; Chin of Mansfield, Camel’s Rump, and
other of the Green Mountains, Vt.; Lynn hills;
Newton hills ; and Ipswich, Cambridge, and Water-
town, in sandy fields. Also Hingham, Mr. Russell ;
New Haven, Conn., Nuttall; and. Adirondack Moun-
tains, New York, Mr. Madii. It is also enumerated
in the Catalogues of Muhlenberg, and Torrey, and
in the Flora of Michaux. . -
C. Ee Ach. var. y. crispa, Ach. Syn.,
Scher.! l. e. 'egions of the White Mountains
Summit of the Camel’s Rump, Vt. A delicate, crisp
ed, alpine form. —
C. cucullata, Ach., E. T. Enum. l.c. Imet with
this finely in fruit, the last season, on the White
~
Mountains ; a state of the plant very uncommon in |
this latitude. The species is characterized by Acha- —
e
Lichenes of New England. 299
rius, as having a “ sanguineo-fuscous” base. His va-
riety £: nipharga is said to have a purplish-violet base.
Our plant is variable in size, and habit of growth, and
also in the intensity of the colors. A tall form is
common, of a light-green above, and with a base more
or less sanguineo-fuscous, passing into violet. Anoth-
er form is smaller, very cespitose, and quite green,
with a dark violet, almost black, base. ' Both of these
occurred in fructifieation. I found this species also
on the .summits. of the Chin oí Mansfield, and the
Camel's Rump, Vt.
C. nivalis, Ach., E. T. Enum: l. c. "istam on
the alpine summit of the Chin of Mansfield, but. not
elsewhere in the- Vermont Mountains. © -
C. juniperina, Ach. g- pinastri, Ach. I found this
at the White Mountains on the small branches of
dwarf firs, upon which it is said to grow in Britain ;
but the plant occurred very luxuriantly on rocks,
just below the summit of the Nose of Mansfield, and
also on the Camel's Rump, Vt.
Growing on the small branches of trees, a Jittle
below the subalpine region of the White Mountains,
I have frequently gathered a Cetraria allied to the
last, but of a very different aspect. This also oc-
eurred in similar places on the Chin of Mansfield,
and the other highest peaks of the Green Mountains,
in Vt. It may be described as follows ; — thallo sub- :
coriaceo. expanso glabro virescenti, subtus dilute
eastaneo, margine ascendente crispo. Pelte not seen.
Should it prove to be new, which I somewhat doubt,
it may be called C. virescens. |
C. glauca, Ach. Meth., Scher. ! is €j Hook: 1. c.,
300 Lichenes of New England.
Hals. l. c, Mass. Catal. — Trees, in the northern
parts of New England, not uncommon ; as. yet in-
fertile.
Borrera furfuracea, Ach., Hals. l. c., E. T.
Enum. l. c. — Trunks of trees in old woods, not
very uncommon. Mr: Russell has made this plant
an objeet of some attention, and has favored me with
abundant specimens from Chelmsford. | I have never
seen it in fruit. There occurs in the subalpine re-
gions of the White Mountains, and I found the same
on the summits of one of the Green Mountains in
Vt., a smaller, more glabrous form of this: species,
which seems to bé near the variety called 8. ceratea.
I have also from Chelmsford another small: variety,
remarkably *' floecoso-furfuraceous ” above.
ConNiCULARIA. The two species of this genus al-
luded to in my former paper, as occurring on the
White Mountains, I have this year obtained in abun-
dance, and find, as I suspected, that they are identi-
cal with two European forms. :
C. aculeata, Ach. Meth., Schzr.! l.'c., Moug: &
Nestl.! 1. e., De Cand. 1. c.; Hook. 1. c., Coralloides
aculeatum, Hoffm. (cit. Wahlenb.), Lichen aculea-
tus, Ehrh., Ach. Prodr., Wahlenb. 1. c. — On the
ground; alpine regions of the White Mountains.
This handsome species occurred abundantly on the
dry soil, formed apparently by the recent disintegra- -
tion of the mica-slate, on the western descent of the
summit of Mt. Pleasant, and elsewhere, in similar
places. It was frequent in fruit. This (the fruit) is
Lichenes of New England. .301
well described by Hooker; but Acharius, when he
published the. Methodus, seems not to have met with
it in perfection, and his description is, therefore, in
this respect, incomplete ; while Wahlenberg omits to
notice it altogether.
C. bicolor, Ach. Meth., Scher.! 1. c., Moegi &
Nestl. ! 1. c., De Cand. l. c., Hook. l. c., Parmelia bi-
color, uin Hees, m ‘bicolor, Hoffm. (cit.
Spreng. ), Lichen bicolor, Ehrh., Ach. Prodr.— Among
mosses and other lichens, in the alpine regions of the
White Mountains. Hooker aptly compares this plant
to coarse horse-hair. The extremities of the black
thallus are pnma whence the name. Infertile.
SPHIEROPHORON fragile; Ach; E. T. Enum: koc.
I found this in fruit; abundantly, the last year, on the
White Mountains. S. coralloides still found barren.
S. compressum has not yet been discovered.
SrEREocavLOoN- paschale, Ach. .This seems to be
now regarded a variable plant, and a disposition is ap-
parent in late authors, to refer back to it, as the typ-
ical form of the genus, several of. Acharius's spe-
cies of Stereocaulon. This species is common with
us, but I have not elsewhere seen it so fine as in the
Notch of the White Mountains. A small variety,
which I have from the summit of Mt. Holyoke,
seems to deserve some notice. I have also collected
what I suppose to be the same with this on the
Medford hills. It is much dwarfed, growing in
quite close masses or clusters, is considerably granu-
lated at the extremities of the branches, and the
302 Lichenes of New England.
cephalodia are small and inconspicuous. . It would
seem to resemble S. botryosum, Ach., considered by
Borrer only “a dwarfish variety of S. paschale," but
does not so well agree with Scherer’s specimen of
that plant. I
S: glaucescens : thallo erecto, albescente, basi nu-
diusculo, ramis dichotomis, ramulis extremis granu-
losis; cephalodiis convexis, albo-glaucescentibus. —
Rocks; in the Notch of the White Mountains.
Cephalodia white-glaucescent.. The color of the’
apothecia, in the known» species of this genus, is
brown, of some shade or other, and I have seen nó
notice of any variation from this.of a kind so striking
as the présent: It does not appear to be accidental.
CLADONIA mibuliformis Hoffm. b. taurica, . E 71
Enum. l. c. — Highest summits of the. Adirondack .
Mountains, N. Y., Mr. Macrae. The species did not
occur on any of the Green Mountains, whose eleva-
tion is considerably less than that of the above. |
Patient topi Incocio, piale Oa vermicula-
ris, y. glebulosa, Scheer. ! l. c. — On the ground; with
«., and $., alpine regions of the White Mountains.
Well named by Scherer glebulosa ; i.e: cloddy.
C. gracilis, Hoffm. No less than thirteen varieties
or forms of this species are given and named in the
elaborate work of Scherer. The plant mentioned in
my previous paper may perhaps be regarded as the
typical form of the species with us. This is tall, deli-
cate, and of a light-green color; the cups rather
small, as well as the cephalodia. This occurred the
last season on the summit of the Camel's Rump, Vt-
Lichenes of New England. 303
Beside this, I have found two other forms, which,
though differing considerably in some respects from
the typical form of C. gracilis, an examination of
Schærer’s series of this species has led me to unite
with it. The first of these may be called, — var.
grandis: podetiis grandioribus fuscis sæpe squamo-
sis; cephalodiis magnis nigro-fuscis. — In the alpine
regions of the White Mountains ; aud in similar situ-
ations on the Chin of Mansfield, Vt. A conspicuous
and abundant alpine lichen, quite different in appear-
ance fromthe ordinary C. gracilis, but probably one
of the various forms of that species. The other
plant above mentioned, I have less difficulty in refer-
ring to one of the varieties indicated by Scherer. It.
appears to be the var. 7. macroceras, B. elongata,
Scher., identical. with Cenomyce ecmocyna, 7. ma-
croceras, B. elongata, of Ach. The character is inti-
mated by the names, and consists in the length and
size of the podetia ; and especially in the elongation
and furcation of the branches of the scyphiform ex-
tremities. .'l'his occurred on the White Mountains,
with the last, barren. |
^C. cornucopie, Hoffm., Spreng. 1. c., Scyphophorus
endiviefolius, Hook. 1. c., Cenomyce endiviefolia,
Ach. Lichenogr. and Syn., Hals. 1. c., Mass. Catal.,
Beomyces endiviefolius, Ach. Meth., Lichen endi-
viefolius, Dicks. Ach. Prodr, — Sands; in Cam-
bridge and Watertown; in fruit, abundant.
C. foliacea, Hoffm., Spreng. l. c., Seyphophorus
alcicornis, Hook. l. c., Cladonia alcicornis, Scher.!
l. e, Cenomyce alcicornis, Ach. Syn. Muhl, 1.
c., Hals. l. ¢., Lichen alcicornis, Lightf., C. fo-
304 Lichenes of New England.
liaceus, Huds. — Mossy rocks, Manchester, and
elsewhere. *'Senescens lichen," says Acharius,
“ omnino mutatur. Thallus fere evanescit et pro-
lificatione scyphorum atque podetiorum sub nova
forma exsurgit; quam distinguere debui, ne con-
fundatur cum speciebus sectionis subsequentis s. Cla-
doniis proprie sic dictis." In this state, the lichen
has all the appearance of the subulate-branched Cla-
doniz, the section which includes C. rangiferina, and
the species allied to it. ` It occurs also at Manchester
with the podetia very leafy, constituting the variety
phyllophora of authors. There is a good figure .of
this in Vaillant (Bot. Par. t. 21, f. 3; cit. Ach.).
C. digitata, Hoffm., Scher.! l. e., Spreng. Syst.,
Scyphophorus digitatus, Hook. l. c., Cenomyce digi- —
tata, Ach. Syn., Bæomyces digitatus, Ach. Meth. —
Subalpine regionsof thè White Mountains. The de-
scriptions of some of the books do not well accòrd
with this form of C. digitata ; though an examination
of Schærer’s specimens has led me to refer it, without
doubt, to that species. ' It appears to be very near the
variety named brachytes by Acharius. Lobes ofthe `
thallus very ample, larger than in any other of our
cup-bearing Cladoniz, of a fine green above, and be-
neath yellow at the base, becoming white at the
margins. "The podetia small, in comparison with the
size of the lobes of the thallus, and the scarlet joies!
lodia very minute. New to our Flora.
C. squamosa, Hoffm., Scher.! 1. c., Spreng. l. c-
Scyphophorus sparassus, Hook. |. c., Cenomyce spa-
rassa, Ach. Syn., Beomyces sparassus; Ach. Meth. —
Subalpine region of the White Mountains; and at
Lichenes of New England. 305
Manchester, Essex Co., Oakes! Several varieties
occur.
C. cariosa, Sheen, Id es ‘Spreng. leu Cenomyce
cariosa, Ach. Syn. (cit. Scher.), Muhl. 1l. c., Torr. 1.
c., Hals. l. c., Beomyces cariosus; Ach. Meth.. Lich-
en cariosus, Ach. Prodr. — Barren soils. A small
dwarfed form is common. ` Cambridge, &c.
Pycnoruenia. This genus was proposed by Du- -
four to include an anomalous lichen, which had been
originally referred by Acharius to a section of his ge-
nus Beomyces, and, when this.genus was divided; to. -
Cenomyce. Hoffmann and Sprengel have ‘retained
it among their Cladoniz,; but Hooker confirms the ar-
rangement of Dufour. “ There is something,” says
that learned author, “ in its habit so different from
the other Cladoniz, that I do not well see how it can
be united either with Cladonia - -or ey phophers. sd
(Br. EL II. 241.) .
P. Papillaria, Hook. 1. c., Cladonia Páplllria,
Hoffm., Spreng. l. c., Cenomyce. Papillaria, Ach.
‘Syn., Beomyces Papillaria, Ach. Meth., Lichen Pa-
pillaria, Ehrh., Ach. "Prodr.— On the ground ; (bar-
ren soil, recently formed by the disintegration of the
mica-slate; and composed very much of fi ents of
rock,) in the alpine regions of the White Moun-
tains. This is quite small; and I observed it only: o on
the peculiar soil above described.
P. scolecina : ^ thallo crusteformi, granulato-lobato;
podetiis cylindraceo-ventricosis, granulatis, simplici-
bus, albo-cinerascentibus ; cephalodiis terminalibus,
solitariis, rufo-fuscis." Ach. Beomyces scolecinus, Ach.
VOL. III. — NO. III. 39
306 Minerals from New Holland.
Meth. eum. Ic.— Upon old rails, Cambridge, and
elsewhere. Acharius placed this in the same section
of his genus Beomyces, which included the species
now constituting Pycnothelia. This still seems its
natural position, though it is much nearer the cup-
bearing Cladonie than P. Papillaria, and, I have
thought, may almost be said. to connect the latter
with the former, rti with the group which in-
cludes C. cariosa. E
The study of our lichens cannot " satisfactorily
pursued, until we have a complete synopsis of our
own species. ‘To this, however prospective it may
be, these pages are offered as some contribution.
That they may lead others, whose ability has been
shown already, to add their larger stores, is the wri-
ter’s hope.
ART. VIL — NOTICE OF MINERALS FROM NEW HOL-
LAND. By Fnaxeis ArcrR, a Member gie (Read
June 4th, enda
Fon mines of which I propose to oia a
the present occasion, I am indebted
idge, Esq., of Yarmouth, Mass., who
y permitted me to select. them: from à
collection ‘purchased by him several years since,
while on a visit to Caleutta, to which city they had
recently been brought, as “curiosities,” by a person
from the coast of New Holland. Their exact local-
ity it is not in the power of Mr. Eldridge to give me;
& circumstance to be regretted, as the information
Minerals from New Holland. 307
would give additional interest to the specimens, by di-
recting future discoverers to the spot where others of
still greater interest might probably be met with.
They comprise several species of the genus Kouphone-
spar, with varieties of rhombohedral and uncleavable
quartz of Professor Mohs. ‘Their uniform gangue is
amygdaloidal trap, to which they are attached in
geodes, or groups of implanted crystals, or in com-
pact nodules filling up the cavities of the rock.
This trap is exactly similar to that brought from
Ireland, the Hebrides, the Ferroe Islands, and, more
recently, from Nova Scotia. There are a few masses
of a more compact character among the collection,
giving evidence of the contiguous occurrence of gen-
uine basalt; thus offering a new object of interest,
which we hope will induce some enterprising natural-
ist to explore this region, now that the facilities of
communication with it have so much increased.
Less is known of its mineralogical productions than
of any other department of its natural history, though
the public has been favored with the journals of sev-
eral scientific expeditions to Australia. ‘These works
I have consulted with the view of yc ng t
and basalt in the interior, as well as upon the’ sea-
coast; but these rocks are spoken of only as afford-
Among
Eid a made a survey of the western coast of
308 Minerals from New Holland.
Australia, between thé years 1818 and 1822, were
agate, jasper, carnelian, green chalcedony, and helio-
trope, bearing with them portions of the trap rock,
but unaccompanied by any of the zeolites.* In de-
scribing the same class of rocks, Major Mitchell, the
author of a more recent and fuller journal of obser-
vations,t has enumerated the following. substances,
(in addition to the quartzose minerals referred to,)
forming large veins and masses in the trap; “decom-
posed feldspar,” “granular feldspar,” “crystals. of
glassy feldspar,” and “laminated feldspar.” As
these substances are not very common in secondary
or basaltic trap, I would respectfully suggest whether
it is not possible that the author may have mistaken
their true character, especially as he was obliged to
pass rapidly from place to place, and does not appear
to have collected specimens of them for subsequent
examination. By the unpractised eye, efflorescent
zeolite might be readily mistaken for decomposed
feldspar, and other species of zeolite or carbonate of
lime, confounded with the other varieties of feldspar.
We may think it highly probable; therefore, that, if
* See the Appendix to King’s narrative, drawn up by Dr. Fitton.
Analogous specimens are also described in the journal of M. Péron,
one of e imn in the French ae to New Holland, at
about the same
! Major TE Mitchell, the Surveyor-General of three expeditions,
into Eastern A Aus tralasia, Australia Felix, and New South ales,
fitted out under the direction of E British Admiralty. His narra
in two octavo volumes, with numerous plates and maps, published in
London, in 1699,1 in its detail ef incidents and discoveries, is one oe dh
The or
* has i even made known to us the existence of ihe sister of recent yol-
canoes and immense mountains of lava, in the interior of that vast
country.
Minerals from New Holland. 309
Major Mitchell had given the same attention to min-
erals, which. he has evidently bestowed upon other
branches of Natural History, many interesting sub-
stances, in this department, would have been brought
to light, and the mineralogical interest of his work !
greatly enhanced. It would appear, then, that none
of tlie Kouphone-spars have been described by either
of the writers whose observations have reached us,
and I am: not aware that any of a more recent, date
have appeared. . hey are, I believe, the first and only
collection of minerals which has been brought to this
country from New Holland; and certainly their
uncommon beauty, and the. perfection of their crys-
talline forms, demand for them some public record.
Apophyllite. (Pyramidal Kouphone-spar, M. )—
There are peculiarities in the secondary 1 modifications
of the crystals of this mineral, as well as in the gen-
eral — " the specimens, which evidently
- Fig. 2. Fig..3. . Fig. 4.
indicate their having come from localities quite dis-
tinct. In one, Mésotype épointée of Haüy, the pri-
T"
-= so deeply as entirely to: obliterate the 1
_ mary faces P, at both extremities of the crystals;
310 Minerals from New Holland.
mary square prism is in élongated eryMtale, replaced
on all the solid angles by triangular planes „and often
ninal pri-
thus tending to two four-sided pyramids having
square bases, as in Fig. 1. But, as the crystals are
usually implanted on the matrix in a vertical position,
they commonly present only one of the pyramids,
the apex being entire, or showing a portion (some-
times only visible by the microscope) of the summits
of the prism, as in Fig. 2: Sometimes one of the
faces of the pyramids is considerably extended at the
expense of the two adjoining ones.
The lateral edges from a to a, Fig. 1, are kaij
replaced, sometimes by a tangent plane, i inclining
equally upon the two adjacent lateral planes, but
most frequently by two planes, each of these being
again followed by another very narrow plane, leaving
scarcely any remaining portion of the primary faces ;
thus imparting to the crystals an oval or cylindrical
shape, and, in connexion with the low pyramids of
the summits, rather a barrel-shaped appearance.
Fig. 3 represents one of the crystals of occasional
occurrence with the bevelment of the edges, the de-
crement of the summit being complete and showing :
the whole of the lower pyramid, where it unites with
the matrix. Fig. 4 represents another of these crys-
tals with the additional planes. 'The dotted lines on
these figures are intended to show deep grooves, or
strie, which extend longitudinally along the faces of
the erystals, or parallel with their prismatic axes, an
probably indicate the faces of cleavage in this direc-
Minerals from New Holland. 311
tion. ing cleavage, however, is. obtained xit great
, as pu case with this mineral from other
rupted - cross fracture. There are also transverse
strie on some of the crystals parallel with the opposite
cleavage, appearing very rarely upon the aeuminating
faces.. The larger crystals, which are nearly of the
size of the last figure, are of a grayish white color, and
nearly opake ; the smaller are colorless and transparent.
These crystals are highly axotomous, the folia sepa-
rating with great readiness parallel to Pj and the
faces of this cleavage present a high pearly lustre,
though not superior to that of some of the faces of
crystallization in the same direction. Faces. M, M,
vitreous, some smooth and shining, others roughened
and dull. Faces a, a of the pyramids, with few ex-
ceptions, perfectly smooth and brilliant, pearly. The
proportion between the length and breadth of these
crystals is. variable; but, in the smaller, and most per-
fect ones, it is not less than four to one. ~
The other crystals of apophyllite alluded to, are of
` greater dimensions, measuring frequently an inch
through the vertical axis of the prism. "They are
derived from a square prism; scarcely distinguishable,
in the comparative length of the lateral and basal
edges of the crystal, from à cube, and present only
simple replácements on the solid angles, by perfectl y
smooth and brilliant planes of a high pearly lustre,
resembling specimens in the writer's collection from
Iceland.* . The lateral faces are frequently composed
"^ ie" in my possession (from Nova Scotia) several large and
transparent crystals of this mineral, of which several from one local-
a
ty
E
^
312. Minerals from New Holland.
of curved lamine ; and the mineral sometimes pre-
sents compound. varieties, consisting of lesser indi-
viduals, flattened or compressed, so as to show only
portions of their planes, or sections of smaller crystals,
which have been prevented, by their mutual contact,
from assuming their full and perfect proportions.
These are united by similar parts, so as to have their
similar faces in parallel position with each other.
The surfaces of several of the larger crystals are free
from. these. combinations, having bright, polished
planes, measurable by the common goniometer: | The
amygdaloid to which they are attached, abounds in
vesicular cavities, some of which are filled by green
earth and Ws nodules of chalcedony.
D Fr cad Heulandite. | (Hemi-prismatic
Fig. d. — . Kouphone-spar, M.) — The indi-
: , viduals of this species present the -
primary form, replaced on the ob-
tuse solid angles by very minute
I scalene, triangular planes, resem-
bling om bahjéined Fig. 5, and being usually of
nearly the same size. Color, pure white ; lustre of P,
pearly ; secondary planes a, f, vitreous; but the
faces M, T, possess a dull, waxy, or opalescent lus-
tre, which I have not before observed in the crystals
of this mineral, apparently, however, confined to the
surface; and the same faces are more or less curved
ity present replacements of iius planes upon the solid angles, as in
the case of Analcime ; a modification which I do not find mentioned
as having been before observed in the crystals of this species. I in-
tend, eerie time, to refer again to this beautiful mineral, in
connexi ith some other facts e while on a short bt to
Nova c during the last summer. :
r1 “ee
.* | ww
STU
Minerals from New Holland. 313
or hollowed, so as not to admit of measurement by
the goniometer. Some of these faces form a regular
uniform curve, inclining equally towards the ter-
minal. planes P, obliterating the small replacements
a, f, which are usually very distinct.
Stilbite. (granai Kouphone-spar, M. )—
The crystals “generally are not well defined, the
masses consisting of pure white, pearly folia, forming
sheafs or fasciculated groups, showing at their free
extremities, only imperfect crystalline faces of a low `
pyramid, inclining from the solid angles of the prism.
Some of these masses, composed entirely of the stil- .
bite, are of a globular form, presenting on fracture, a
radiation of fibres from a common, contre.
crystals of this mineral, were, a w x. in some
.Fig.6. ofthe vesicular cavities of the amygdaloid,
My exhibiting the primary prism, compressed ,
y,
into low, six-sided tables, the four replace-
ments at the summits of the prism being
narrowed down, so as to form regular bev-
NN eled edges upon the four corresponding
sides of the tables, producing a form nearly `
similar to Fig. 6, taken from the System of Mineral-
ogy by Beudant, Vol. IL., plate x. fig. 62.
Mesotype of Phillips. (Peritomous Kouphone-
spar of Haidinger.)— A nest of the crystals of this
mineral was met with in the form of small implanted
individuals, occupying the cavity of a mass of quartz
and chaleedony. They are in elongated rhombic
prisms, colorless, transparent, and of a glassy lustre ;
but a few of them have a silky, fibrous appearance,
VOL. III.—NO. HI.
314 Minerals from New. Holland.
similar to some of the specimens met with in the
more ancient lavas of Vesuvius. "They do not puo
groups of united, divergent crystals.
Rhombohedral Quartz. — I was so fortunate as to
find among this collection; besides several of the sub-
species of this mineral, two or three specimeris exhib-
iting the primary obtuse rhomboid in great perfec-
tion, and of considerable size; some of them measur-
ing half an inch across their planes. They present
highly polished surfaces, are transparent and color-
less; and it is evident, I think, that they cannot be
regarded as pseudomorphs of any other mineral, from -
the agreement in the value of their angles, as meas-
ured by the goniometer, with those of the obtuse
rhomboid established as the fundamental. form of
the species, as well as from the fact, that the crys-
tals are imbedded in cacholong, which now occupies
the interior of the geodes. If pseudomorphous, the
mineral of which they are imitative, must have been
removed, so as to admit of a subsequent infiltration
of the cacholong. It is more probable, that the
quartz and cacholong were formed at the same time,
thé latter affording a soft matrix in which the crys-
talline molecules could freely arrange themselves,
according to the laws which governed them.
Two other modifications of rhombohedral quartz
were met with among these specimens, of compara-
tively rare occurrence. In one, the primary rhom-
boid, by a very deep truncation of its lateral solid
angles, has given rise to long, six-sided prisms, ter-
minated by trihedral summits, there being no. trian-
gular replacements upon the upper edges of the
rhomboid, by which the usual six-sided pyramids are
Minerals from New Holland. 315
produced. See Fig. 7. On some of
the rhomboids, however, which do not
. present any portion of the faces parallel
with their axes, we may observe the
small triangular planes which finally
produce the six-sided pyramids. ‘The
terminal primary planes P, are smooth
al bright, while the elongate faces r, are curved and
roughened by transverse strie. Sometimes the usual
six-sided prisms, terminated by similar pyramids, have
their alternate lateral solid angles replaced by small
rhombic planes, inclining equally upon the sides of the
prism, producing the quartz rhombiféere of Haüy.
The sides are also striated parallel with their edges of
combination with the faces of the pyramids. This au-
thor ( Traité de Minéralogie, Tome Second, p. 413)de-
scribes these rhombs as existing only on the alternate
angles; but:in: the later works of Mohs, Beudant,
and others, they are figured also upon. the interme-
diate angles, being always represented as covering
but a very small portion of the: acuminating pyramids.
According to Phillips, the “ Bornholm Diamonds”’
afford the most perfect examples of this modification.
Green Chalcedony and:,Heliotrope. — This first-
mentioned mineral is of a deep serpentine green
color. It breaks with a conchoidal fracture, disclos-
ing, in the centre of the mass, blood red spots of jas-
per, and thus constitutés the heliotrope. There are
spots also of a lighter green, and bluish white chalce-
dony, interspersed with the deeper ground, which, if
polished, would render the specimens highly orna-
mental in vignes.
316 Minerals from New Holland.
Ribbon Agate and Moss Agate. — These two in-
teresting varieties appear in the same specimens.
The branching fibres or dendrites of the latter, of a
. brown or reddish-brown color, are imbedded in a
deep ground of transparent blue and white chalcedo-
ny,the white chalcedony appearing like a delicate
` cloud passing through the mass, while the former is
produced by parallel zigzag lines of a pure milk-
white chalcedony, alternating with narrow stripes of
the same blue ground, the parallelism forming a
beautiful border to the specimens, and enclosing the
curious moss-like ramifications which are character-
istic of this variety. In one specimen, the green
chalcedony has assumed the: branching form, and is
freely distributed through the same ground of blue
and white. If polished, these several varieties will
vie in beauty with the finest oriental specimens.
They are usually more or less accompanied by
masses of pure opake white chalcedony, and also by
a stalactical, botryoidal variety of several shades of
color, interspersed with quartz ee and attached
to portions of the trap:
_ Cacholong. — This variety bom thin crusts upon
the surfaces of the fragments of quartz, and fills the
space in which crystals of the latter have been
formed. . It presents the common characters of opaci-
ty and adhesiveness to the tongue. It also enters
into the composition of a coarse ribbon agate, and un-
der this form there are portions of the. mass that
resemble the onyx agate. .
Chlorophaite.— Small globular masses, soft, of a
greenish color, translucent when first broken; and
presenting a conchoidal fracture, occupy the vesicular
Minerals from New Holland. 317
cavities of the same amygdaloid which forms. the
gangue to the apophyllite before described. It is
sufficiently distinguished from chlorite or green earth,
and precisely resembles this mineral from Scotland.
The opinion of most mineralogists is, that this min-
eral is only a variety of some other species, or the
remains of some other, which has undergone decom-
position.. I am led to regard the latter opinion as the
true one in the present case, from the occurrence of
small granular concretions of what appears to be zeo-
lite in the centre of those masses which have not
entirely. disappeared ; though the infusibility of the
decomposed mi neral Vefobà the blowpipe would seem
to show that some of the ingredients of the zeolite
have passed away. Shepard regards the mineral as
decomposed mesotype. ` - :
In breaking some of the masses of quartz found in
this collection, I was struck with the singular opales-
cent and waxy appearance of a fibrous and radiated
mineral, which was at first supposed to be stilbite or
mesotype, and which forms veins and globular knots
within the quartz. Its characters before the blow-
pipe soon satisfied me that it could not be identical
with either of these species or with any other of the
Kouphone-spars; nor am I acquainted with any
other substance to which it bears any near resem-
blancé in its general characters. It may prove to be
a new species; but the absence of any regular crys-
talline faces in the specimens compels me, thus far,
to rely solely upon other peculiarities for the deter-
mination of its character. Of these, I have drawn
up a description, with which, however, I shall not
occupy your attention, unti] I am enabled to add.
318 Marine Shells of Massachusetts.
the results of ‘an analysis of the mineral now making
by my friend Mr. Hayes, whose accuracy in this
department of science is well known to the members
. of this Society, as well as to the friends of science.
— s
ART. VIII. — DESCRIPTIONS OF THIRTEEN NEW SPE,
CIES OF NEW ENGLAND SHELLS. By C. B. Apans,
Member of the Bost. Soc. Nat. Hist, Prof. Chem. and Nat. Hist.
-in Middlebury College, Vt.
Tue marine species of shells, which are sf iss
in the following article, have. been found only in
New Bedford and its edd vicinity. They are
rarely obtained, even by dredging. From their sta-
tion and their rarity, they have hitherto eluded obser-
vation. In my examination relating to them, I have
been much indebted to Mr. C. F. Shiverick, of New
Bedford, whose persevering and close observation, has
contemporaneously or subsequently to my own re-
. Searches, secured most of the specimens which have
been distributed. To the same gentleman I am also
indebted for the discovery of three of the fresh-water
species. To my friend, Dr. A. A. Gould, I am much
indebted, especially for the BERE of all the nouit
described. —
Prsenorón PLICATA.
Plate HT. Fig. 6.
E testà parva, crassa, rae a albido-fuscâ, stiis et pir
decussatà ; epidermide tenni; anfractibus sex; suturà valdé impres-
si; aperturà ovatà ; labro areuato, sinu -- cauda brevi; columel-
là acuta.
Marine Shells of Massachusetts. 319
' Shell small, thick, ovate-fusiform, cinereous brown
through (and light or dark brown beneath) the
epidermis ; epidermis membranous, thin, dull, cine-
reous; whorls six to seven, convex; suture deeply
impressed ; spire five-ninths of the length of the shell,
longitudinally and coarsely plicate below the first or
second whorls (which are smooth), decussated by
transverse small ribs or coarse strize ; body-whorl lar-
ger than the spire, sculptured as the upper whorls,
with 10 to 12 longitudinal ribs, extending to the ca-
nal, either continuous or alternating with those on
the penultimate whorl, with 13 to 15 transverse striæ
on the back of the body whorl, oblique on the canal,
very oblique on its left side ; aperture elongate-ovate,
the line of its length at an angle of about 30° with
the axis of the shell, four-ninths of the length of the
shell; Jabrum brown or: yellowish-brown internally,
sonnei talk arcuate, much thickened by the last plica-
tion, beneath which is a groove, reaching from the
sinus to the canal, and sharpening the edge; sinus a
little below the junction of the labrum with the last
whorl, rounded and broad at the bottom, occupying
one-fifth of the length of the labrum, in mature speci-
mens nearly as deepas broad ; canal short ; columel-
la somewhat excurved, acutely terminated ; labium
in its upper third arching over to meet the labrum ;
umbilicus wanting ; operculum unknown.
Average | size ; length, .5 inch; breadth, .25 inch ;
largest specimen, .52 inch by 21 inch.
Cabinets of the Bost. Soc. Nat. Hist., of Middlebu-
TY College; of Mr. C. F. > of New Bedford,
and die own.
320 Marine Shells of. Massachusetts.
Station. This species lives in mud below low-
water mark. !
Habitat. Harbour of New Bedford.
Remarks. During the summer. of 1839, two
dredging-machines -were. worked in the harbour of
New Bedford. This species was found in the mud -
thrown up , with several others rarely or never found
above low-water mark. Mr. Shiverick has found it
at Clark’s Cove, in Dartmouth. It resembles F'usus
harpularius, but the presence of a very distinct sinus,
as well as the coarseness of the revolving striae, read-
ily distinguishes it.
CERITHIUM TEREBRALE.
Plate HI. Fig. 7.
està parva, elongata, fuscá, sepe ioca, abs. duo-
"hs planulatis, cum quatuor elevatis lineis; spirà tevsi, conicå ;
suturå subimpresså ; aperturà ovata, aws
Syn. C. Emersonii, var. Pe
Shell small, elongated, brown, nena with a
white band, with rather slight incremental striae ;
whorls eleven or twelve, flattened; spire seven-
eighths of the length of the shell, bradi of its
bulk, its opposite sides: containing an angle of about
20°, conie, with four elevated, obtuse, revolving lines
. on each whorl, of which the first and second, and
third and fourth are equidistant ; the space between
the second and third is obviously less on the upper
whorls, but approaches to an equality with the other
Spaces, in the growth of the shell: the first three
ridges are equal, and the fourth small and depressed,
Marine Shells of Massachusetts. 321
. So as to lie almost wholly beneath the first of. the
succeeding whorl; the suture consequently appears
on the upper side of the first ridge, and is moderately
impressed ; spaces between the ridges crossed by
more or less elevated irregular lines, or coarse striæ
of growth ; last whorl on the upper half, sculptured
as the spiral whorls, with a fifth smaller revolving
line on the lower part ; aperture ovate, one-eighth of
the length of the shell, the line of its length making
an angle of about 25° with the axis of the shell; Za-
brum thin ; canal rather more than a third as Mos
as the RES ot turning to the left.
Length, .46 inch ; width, .13 inch.
Cabinet of Bost. Bos Nat. Hist., of Middlebury
College, of Mr, C. F. Shiverick, and my own.
Station. In soft mud, below low water mark.
Habitat. New Bedford and the vicinity.
Remarks. This species was at first regarded as a
variety of C. Emersonii, but the subsequent exami-
nation of numerous specimens has satisfied me that
the distinctive characters are constant. It differs
from that shell in having a large elevated ridge in
place of the carina on the upper part of the whorls,
and in having three equal ridges in the upper whorls
of the spire. "The entire want of granulations distin-
guishes it from the common type of that species. It
is distinguished from the Murer tubercularis of Mon-
tagu by the same character. The latter is said to
have but three revolving ridges, and is also of much
less size than our shell. A number of dead speci-
mens have been obtained by dredging, and Mr. Shiv-
erick has found a few in a fresh condition.
VOL. III. — NO. II. |
*
322 Marine Shells of Massachusetts.
JAMINIA PRODUCTA.
Plate III. Fig. 8.
J. testå parvà, albidå, cylindraced ; epidermide fuscá, nitidá, eroså ;
anfractibus octo ; suturà impress ; spirà productà, truncatá ; apertura
sub-ovatå, suprà contractà, infra latè rotundatà ; columella uniplicatà,
Shell small, moderately thick, ashy white beneath
the epidermis, conico-cylindric, with fine irregular
strie of growth; epidermis brown, smooth, closely
adhering, eroded chiefly in the incremental strie;
whorls eight or eight and a-half, ‘slightly convex;
suture very distinct, impressed ; spire about three-
fourths of the length of the shell, or slightly more,
truncated at tip; last whorl about one-third of the
bulk of the spire ; on two or three of the last whorls
may sometimes be seen an indistinct impressed re-
volving line, just below the suture, and also more
rarely on the middle and lower part of the whorls ;
aperture with its plane at an angle of about 16° with
the length of the shell, sub-ovate, contracted above,
broadly rounded below ; labrum rather thin, regular-
ly arched, but more so in the lower half; columella
with a single, rather obtuse plait; labium with a
slight lamina, which is often obsolete ; no wmbili-
cus ; operculum very small, thin, horny, nearly trans-
parent, sub-triangular, apex on one side.
Length, .25 inch ; greatest breadth, .07 inch. Of
the operculum ; length, .033 inch ; breadth, .025 inch.
Cabinets of Bost. Soc. Nat. Hist. ; of Middlebury
College; of Dr. A. A. Gould, of Boston; of Prof:
Hitchcock, of Amherst ; and my own.
Habitat. A cove on the east side of Fairhaven-
-
Marine Shells of Massachusetts. 323
It was found near high-water mark, on a beach of
fine gravel, but, as most of the shells were destitute
of the animal, it may be doubted whether this is
their proper station.
Rzwamxs. This species was discovered in Sep-
tember, 1839, in company with great numbers of the
Venus gemma, Totten, and many of the inia .
fusca, Nob. It has a striking resemblance to the
latter species, but is much more elongate, has two
more whorls, the body whorl is much less inflated,
and the suture is rather more deeply impressed.
" ToRNATELLA PUNCTO-STRIATA.
Plate HII. Fig. 9.
T. testà parva, mom n nitidà ; meer yendo sor o
suturà valdé impress ; anfractu ultimo supra levi, infra puncto-stri-
ato; apertura sub-ovatà ; umbilico parvo. é ie
Shell small, elliptic, white, glossy, not very thin ;
whorls five, convex ; suture deeply impressed ; spire
rapidly attenuated, sub-acutely tipped, four-ninths of
the length of the shell, smooth ; body-whorl more
than three-fourths of the shell, somewhat shouldered
above, smooth on the upper third, below with
impressed, parallel, punctate lines, five or six of them
distant on the middle, either equally or unequally
distant, and six to eight closely approximate on
the lower fourth; one line only appears above
the aperture, running near and at length into the
suture of the body-whorl ; aperture in the same
plane with the axis, the line of its length making
with the axis an angle of not more than 10°, five-
ninths of the length of the shell, sub-ovate, contract- -
* E
d
324 New Fresh- Water Shells.
ed above by the intrusion of the body-whorl, regular-
ly but narrowly rounded below ; labrum sharp,
prominent, with a short, abrupt curve above, then
straight to the middle, arched in the lower half ; col-
umella with an obtuse fold ; labium moderately re-
flected below ; umbilicus small, partly covered by
the ada labium. : |
Length, .16 inch ; breadth, .095 inch: of a large
specimen, length, .18 inch ; breadth, .1 inch.
Cabinets of the Bost. Soc. of Nat. Hist. ; of Mr. C.
F. Shiverick ; and my own. *
Station iid habitat ; the same with Pleurotoma
plicata.
Remarks. In 1838 I found two elec after à
violent storm, on the shore at New Bedford. Three
specimens were found with the preceding species,
and several have been obtained by Mr. Shiverick.
LIMNEA PALLIDA.
Plate III. Fig. 13.
L. testà itcr pallida ; anfractibus quinque; suturà im-
pressà ; spirà conicA, subacuta ; anfractü postremo producto ; apertura
superné acuta, e id ambition parvo.
Shell moderately elongate, ovate-fusiform, very
pale horn color, semi-transparent, not very thin, with
fine, irregular: strie of growth, without revolving
stria ; whorls about five and a half, moderately con-
vex; suture well impressed ; spire four-ninths of the
length of the shell, acutely conic, its opposite sides
containing an angle of about 45°, sub-acute at tip;
body-whorl not much enlarged, somewhat produced
below ; aperture five-ninths of the length of the
New Fresh-Water Nhells. 325
shell, sub-ovate acute above, angle of its plane with
the axis of the shell about 15°, of its length with
the axis about 10°; labrum not thickened internal-
ly ; fold of the dittila distinct, but not very large ;
umbilicus rather small.
` Length, .48 inch ; breadth, .22 inch. ’
Cabinets.of the Bost. Soc. Nat. Hist. ; ; of Middle-
bury College ; of Dr. A. A. Gould, of Bisoi of J.
G. Anthony, of Cincinnati; and my own.
Habitat and station. This species was found in
considerable numbers at Shoreham, Vt., on the shore
of Lake Champlain, clinging to rocks and stones.
Remarks. This species must resemble L. acuta,
Lea, of which, however, I have not seen a specimen.
That shell, in a very brief description, is said to be
delicate, smooth, and dark brown, while this is rath-
er strong, striate, and of avery pale horn color, in
living specimens, like the weathered shells of kin-
dred species. "The figure represents the columella of
the acuta as intruding upon the aperture, which is
not the case with this shell.
LIMNÆA UMBILICATA.
Plate III. Fig. 14.
L. testi fuscA, ovata, striis transversis tenuibus, volventibus tenuis-
simis; anfractibus quinque, convexis; spirå subacutà ; apertura ova-
tà, labro intus fusco-marginato, puniceo-albo submarginato ; columellà
lat? reflexA, obsoleté plicatà ; umbilico subamplo, baud profundo.
Shell rather strong, brown, ovate, with slight strice
of growth, and more slight numerous, irregular, re-
volving, impressed lines ; whorls five, convex ; suture
deeply impressed ; spire two-fifths of the length of
326 New Fresh- Water Shells.
the shell, conic, sub-acute at the apex, angle of its
opposite sides about 65°; body-whorl inflated, sub-
globular; aperture ovate, its plane, also the line of
its length, at angles of about 15? with the axis of the
shell, three-fifths as long as the shell; labrum thin,
inner margin dark brown, inner sub-margin thickened
with a light pink deposit ; columella strong, reflect-
ed and spread over an umbilicus, which is rather
large but not profound, and formed chiefly by the re-
flection of the columella ; fold of the latter inconspic-
uous. |
Length, .28 inch; breadth, .17 inch.
Cabinets of Bost. Soc. Nat. Hist.; of Middlebury
College ; of Mr. Shiverick ; and my own.
Habitat. New Bedford.
Remarks. For this species I am indebted to Mr.
Shiverick, who obtained numerous specimens. It re-
sembles L. caperatus, Say; but in Say’s species the
aperture is but one half the length, the revolving
lines are raised, more distinct, and numerous, the
umbilicus is rather less, and there is one more whorl.
PLANORBIS VIRENS.
Plate III. Fig. 15.
P. testà parva, viridi, striis transversis crebris, volventibus tenuissi-
mis; anfractibus quatuor; spirà haud prominente, vix concava ; an-
fractu ultimo magno, superné subplanulato, inferné subcarinato ;
apertura suborbiculari; labro superné prominente; umbilico sublato,
profundo.
Shell small, greenish horn color, with thick, obvi-
ous strie of growth, and very slight revolving lines,
with a green, rough epidermis; whorls four; suture
impressed ; spire not rising above the last whorl, but
———À
New Fresh- Water Shells. 327
scarcely falling below it; last whorl much larger
than the spire, flattened above, then abruptly curving
downwards, (in the young shell, at the upper third of
the last whorl, is a carina, which is gradually modi-
fied into the abrupt curvature, in the progress of
growth, ) subcarinate below, as are also the preceding
whorls ; aperture nearly orbicular, interrupted by the
last whorl in about one-fifth of its circumference, ad-
vancing above ; wmbilicus as broad as the last whorl,
rather deep, exhibiting all the volutions.
Height (of the last whorl), .09 inch; greatest
breadth, .23 inch; least breadth, .18 inch. .
Cabinets of the Bost. Soc. Nat. Hist. ; of Middle-
bury College ; of Mr. Shiverick; and my own.
Habitat. New Bedford. jr
Remarks. For this species I am indebted to Mr.
Shiverick. It differs from P. parvus, Say, in being
much less broadly and more deeply umbilicate be-
neath; it is also higher. P. parvus, also, in-
stead of being subcarinate on the lower side of the
whorls, is much flattened. P. concavus, Anthony,
MSS., resembles this species, but is more regularly
convex above and concave beneath.
PLANORBIS ELEVATUS.
- Plate Ill. Fig. 16.
P. testà. parvà, pallid, suprà elevatà, infra alté umbilicaté ; an-
fractibus quatuor; suturà valdé impressà; apertura subrotundata ;
labro supra prominente.
Shell horn color, finely striate ; whorls four, as
high as wide; last whorl well rounded, very indis-
tinctly carinate below ; inclination to the left about
328 New Fresh-Water Shells.
48° ; right side convex, flattened at the apex; left
side very deeply concave ; suture deeply impressed ;
aperture round-ovate, ludis with its upper: extending
much beyond its lower margin.
. Greatest breadth, .17 inch ; least breadth, .13 inch ;
height, .06 inch.
Cabinets of Bost. Soc. Nat. Hist.; of Middlebury
College ; of S. S. Haldeman, of Marietta, Pa.; of J:
G. Anthony, of Cincinnati ; and my own.
Habitat. This species was discovered in the sum-
mer of 1838, in a small spring in a rocky cavity,
in South Boston. Nearly a hundred specimens were .
obtained, and a much larger number were left. Vis-
iting the same spot a few days since, (July, 1840,) I
found. the spring filled up with stones to the top of
the water, and not a shell to be seen. Last summer
I obtained a specimen in Lake George, N. Y. Dr.
Wm. Prescott has found the species in Lynn.
Remarks. This species much resembles P. par-
vus, Say, and for some time I doubted whether it
were distinct. But the specimens uniformly differ
from that shell in having the spire elevated above
the plane of the last whorl, whereas in that species it
is concave, and consequently this species is much
more deeply umbilicated on the left side ; also, that
species is distinctly carinate on the middle of the last
whorl, but is reas tüdislinety carinate below the
middle, if at all.
f
New Fresh-Water Shells. 329
ANCYLUS FUSCUS.
Plate III. Fig. 17.
A. testa tenui, sub epidermide pellucida, subdepressá, ellipticá ; epi-
dermide fuscA, crassá, asperá, extra marginem prominente ; apice ob-
tusà, ad dextram, vix posterà.
Shell thin, transparent Sel the blend not
much elevated, elliptical, moderately curved at the
sides ; epidermis brown,. visible through the shell,
giving it the appearance of having the same color,
thick, rough, slightly extending beyond the margin
of the shell; apex obtuse, moderately prominent,
scarcely hahbed the middle, inclining © to the right, so
as to have only two-fifths of the width on that side. .
Length, 3l inch ; Nt. .22 inch ; height, .05
inch.
Cabinets of, Bost. Pes Nat. Hist. ; í ee Mr. Kinne
Prescott, of Andover; and my own.
Habitat and station. This species was found ad-
hering to stones, in a small rivulet, at Andover, by
Mr. Kinne, Prescott, to whom I am indebted for
many interesting species of t It has also been
found at Mansfield.
Remarks. This species is ah, distinguished by
its epidermis. The A. rivularis, Say, differs also in
being much more narrow, having its sides straight,
and its apex more acute, and A. tardus,* Say, i is
more elevated, and in both of these the apex does not
incline so far to the right as in our species. "The A.
lacustris, Drap., is more narrow; with an apex more ,
This s species, hitherto unknown in New England, occurs quite
Piles: in a rivulet in Middlebury, Vt. ý
VOL. III. — NO. Il. ; .
330 New Fresh-Woater Shells.
elevated and acute, and A. fluviatilis, Drap., has the
apex more prominent and nearer one extremity.
CycLAS ELEGANS.
Plate III. Fig. 11.
' C. testa bizonatá, subglobos’, rhombico-orbiculari, equilaterali, ele-
ganter et tenuissimé striatà ; natibus haud es umbonibus
tenuibus ; intis albido-cerulescente.
Shell sub-globular, rhombic-orbicular, equilateral,
finely and'elegantly striated, with a horny green epi-
dermis, with a straw-colored marginal zone, of varia-
ble width, and another of the same color, and usually
much narrower, and about equidistant between the
margin and the beak, but varying somewhat in posi-
tion; beaks not prominent, slightly undulate, central,
not decodes’ umbones very thin; within bluish
white ; lateral teeth strongly deldi, cardinal teeth
Bisdigretitery: The young shell has -— a marginal
zone, and is less inflated.
. Length, .43 inch; height, .36 inch ; width, .26
inch. ‘eh
Habitat and station. This species was discover-
ed by Mr. Kinne Prescott, in a swamp, in Wey-
bridge, Vt. This swamp nearly surrounds an old
Indian encampment, and is impassable. | A con-
siderable number of specimens Were obtained is
some difficulty and hazard. "The species has !
found at Burlington, TE C
. Cabinets of Bost. Soc. Nat. Hist. ; of Middlebury
College ; of Dr. A. A. Gould ; of Messrs. Kinne Pres-
cott and Luther H. Sheldon, of. Andover; and my ow?-
Remarks. This shell is remarkable for its d
ga
New Species of Pupa. . 331
polish and. for its inflation, which continues far over
the disk of the shell, and terminates very abruptly,
near the margin. The circumference very nearly
represents that of the C. calyculata, Drap., except
that it is less curved below.: That shell, however,
is flattish, and has prominent beaks. C. rhomboida,
Say, approaches. in form to this species, but is much
_ less inflated between the umbo and margin, has very
coarse striz, and is destitute of the paler zones, which
in this shell appear to be a constant character.
Pura BADIA.
Plate. III. Fig. 18.
P. testà parva, rubro-fuscà, cylindraced ; apice perobtusd ; anfracti-
bus septem, convexis; apertura, ——À unidentatà ; labro contrac-
to, subreflexo. -
Shell ‘small, reddish brown, TE (ar ob-
tusely tapering in the two upper whorls; whorls
seven, moderately convex, with a well impressed su-
ture; aperture orbicular, its plane nearly parallel
with the axis of the shell, less than one third of the
length of the shell, with the margin slightly reflect-
ed, and the sub-margin contracted, with a single
rather small tooth on the penultimate whorl; umbi-
licus moderate.
Length, .14 inch ;. breadth, .07 inch; b necis of
| the aperture, .045 inch.
Cabinet of the Bost. Soc. Nat. Hist.
Habitat. This species may not improperly be
reckoned among the shells of New England, having
been found within half a-mile of the Vermont line.
It was discovered at Crown Point, N. Y., by Prof.
George W. Benedict, of the University of Vermont.
bs
elevated; corselet Juddehi y depressed; margin reg- £,
^
2
TW
*5
332 Marine Shells of Massachusetts.
Remarks. This species is readily distinguished
by its dark mahogany color. The only native spe-
cies, which, to my knowledge, resembles this in
form, is P. armifera, Say, which, kis is white,
and has humerous teeth. *
t
ART. IX. — DESCRIPTION OF TELLINA TENTA, SAY, AND
.OF HELIX SERPULOIDES, MONTAGU, WITH REMARKS `
ON OTHER rapide — e MASSACHUSETTS.
By C. B..Apams, Mem f ihe Bos em Hist., Prof.
Chem. and Nat. Hist. in sic din e,
TELLINA TENTA.
Synonyme. Tellina tenta ; Bay, American e
chology, No. VIII. pl. 65, fig. 3.
T. testa tenui, albá, dextrorsim deflectà ; valvà sinistra valdé con-
vexà , epidermide tenui ; margine dorsali ostremé depressà, anteriüs
elevato; margine anteriori infra rotundato, posteriori subtruncato.
pa
Shell rather small, thin, white, widely gaping pos-
teriorly, with ERR incremental striæ, inequilater-
al, with the posterior portion two-thirds of the. length
and one-half of the superficies of the anterior portion ;
left valve very convex ; both valves much deflected
by the fold to the RG ; epidermis very thin, mem-
branous, dingy white ; beaks rather prominent ; lunule
ularly rounded anteriorly and below, or sometimes | Ed
sub-rectilinear below, sub-truncate ‘posteriorly ; shi w
internally white, dingy beneath the umbo, radiated —
with faint impressed lines ; hinge with lateral teeth,
and two erect, prominent, THO inferiorly diverging
cardinal teeth on the right valve, and on the left
” Erratum. In the title of Article VIIL., p. 318, for Thirteen read
Eleven.
pst ei
E. ab EE
Marine Shells of Massachusetts. 333
valve one erect, very prominent cardinal tooth ; ante-
rior muscular impression round-ovate, Doskiriól one
elongate ; pallial —— with avery large pos-
terior sinus.
Length, .62. inch ; pr 38 inch; width, .21
inch. Of some Lace valves in the cabinet of Mr.
Shiverick, length, :8 inch ; height, .45 inch.
Cabinets of Bost. Soc. Nat. Hist. ; of Middlebury
College; of Mr. Shiverick, of New Bedford ; and my
own.
Habitat and station. “This species ithabilé- soft
mud, in deep water, in harbours, and has been obtain-
ed only by dredging. It has been found in New
Bedford and Dartmouth harbours. inhabits " coast
of S. Carolina: Dr. Ravenel.
Remarks. A single living specimen was found in
the summer of 1838, and during the autumn of 1839
numerous single valves were found in mud dredged
in New Bedford harbour. Mr. Shiverick has also
found a living specimen.
The faint radiating lines of the interior sometimes
appear very indistinctly on the outside. T. intastri-_
ata, Say, differs in having the posterior margin
rounded, being without lateral teeth, and is of much
greater size (2.06 inches by 1.6 inch), while, among
$
s hundreds of single valves of this shell, none exceed-
=- ed the size given.* 5
* After writing the above Seman, Dr. Gould kindly favored me
with the loan of No. VIII. of Say’s “ American Conchology,” in whic
this species is described and hiik That Number is so rarely seen,
that a description in this Journal cannot be superfluous.
p
"
334 Marine Shells of Massachusetts.
Dinaricngas (?) SERPULOIDES.
des ; Parton, Conch. Dict. p. 228. Delphinoidea
serpuloides ; Brown's Plates, pl. 51, fig. 40, A1.
sta minima, sublevi ; anfractibus. rotundis, tribus; suturà am-
plà, valdé impressa ; aperturà orbiculari ; labro anticé “producto, te-
nui; 'umbilico profundo. ites.
Shell diaphanous, reddish brown or horn color,
smooth, not shining ; aper obtuse ; whorls a little
more than three ; body-whorl constituting about:
four-fifths of the shell; margins of the aperture thin,
simple, separate from the body-whorl; labrum ex-. —
tending forwards so far, that, if the plane of tlie aper-
ture were produced, the axis of the shell would fall
wholly within it ; umbilicus profound.
Length, .03 inch ; least breadth, .055 inch ; great-
est breadth, .07 inh.
Operculum horny, thin, lamellar, rige sub-
spiral, fitting ; lamine concentric ; diameter, .03 inch. .
Cabinets of Bost. Soc. Nat. Hist.; of Middlebury
College ; of George B. Emerson, Esq., Boston ; of
J. W. Mighels, M. D., Portland ; of J.. Ms Anthony,
Cincinnati ; and my own. à
June 7 th, 1838, this shell was found quite plenti-
fully at East Boston, in company with Turbo aculeus, —
Gould, and Jaminia exigua, Couth., clinging to
smooth stones, which were lying in the mud. near
low water mark. ‘This spot has since been covered
by the construction of Cunard Street. A few individ-
uals have been found elsewhere at East Boston. 1
> =
Marine Shells of Massachusetts. — 335
have a single specimen found at Lynn, by Dr. Wm.
Prescott, and have recently see 1 it, rarely occurring,
at Portland, with the same station as in this harbour,
and in company with Turbo x, al
This species is referred, with some hesitation, to
the genus Delphinula, on account of the following
generic characters : shell subdiscoidal, depressed,
broadly umbilicated ; spire slightly elevated ; whorls
rounded, separated by a broad and deep suture ; aper-
ture orbieular; margins perfectly continuous; oper-
culum horny, thin, concentric, subspiral, orbicular,
with concentric elements. The last whorl is also, as
in all the species of this genus, much larger than the
remainder of the shell. This species is, however,
thin, destitute of raised or impressed markings, has
the margins of the aperture thin, and is extremely
small. The characters, which thus separate it from
the other species of this genus, can scarcely be enti-
tled to generic rank, unless subsequent examination
should find a generic difference in the animal.
Although this species is well figured by Montagu,
and briefly described by this author and by Turton, I
have thought that a new description of a species,
which is the least of all our marine shells, not even
excepting 7'urbo aculeus, and whose generic place is
a matter of some uncertainty, would not be wholly
without interest.
Cerithium co pes mii Nob. Journ. of this Soc.,
Vol. IL. p. 284. This species is very nearly allied io
the Murex tubercularis of Montagu, but differs: in
several characters. The M. tubercularis has only
Pir
E +
Fx
336 Marine Shells of Massachusetts.
nine or ten whorls, and is-but a quarter of an inch
g; but our species has sixteen whorls, and is six
sof an inch in length. Montagu remarks in his
Supplement, that, as an invariable character, the M.
tubercularis has three series of tubercles of equal size
on each .volution. 'Turton’s description coincides
with this remark. But, in the C. E'mersonii, the
middle series does not appear at all until after- ten
volutions (the whole number in the English shell),
and is always much less than the outer two.
Since this species was deseribed, it has been found
in a bed of mud in the harbour of New Bedford.
None of these individuals were in a fresh condition,
and the majority of them had lost most of their color
and. gelatine. Six-tenths of an inch is a common
length. Mr. Shiverick has found, in New Bedford
and Dartmouth, a few specimens, one of which is .8
inch in length, and .17 inch in breadth.*
Cerithium nigrocinctum. Nob. Journ. of this
Soc., Vol. II. p. 286. Since this species was describ-
ed, it has been found in the harbour of New Bedford,
and in a cove on the east side of Fairhaven. It
should be remarked, that the color of the black sutu-
ral ridge is much more obvious, when exposure after
the death of the animal has rendered mie other parts
cinereous.
Cerithium Greenii. Nob. Journ. of this Soc., Vol.
* Dr. Jay, in the third edition of his Catalogue, mentions Minn
chusetts Bay as its habitat, but this is probably an nétror. I am not
aware that it has yet been found out of the harbour of New Bedford.
The reference to Adans., as the original describer, is obviously an er-
ror of the printer.
» *
T ss Shells of ee. 337..
II. p. 287. "This species has bán found in. consid».
erable numbers in the harbour of Dartmouth, dun
the past summer, (1840). It is much less in size
' any other spécies of this genus on our shores. When
young, the shell does not appear fusiform, and un- .
fortunately the figure was drawn from such a speci-
men. It has also been found in New Bedford har-
bour. ssh
Jaminia seminuda. Nob. Journ. of this Soc.,
Vol. II. p. 280. Of this species I have not been able
to obtain any more living individuals, but have found
it in considerable numbers in a bed of mud, in New
Bedford harbour. All the specimens were more or
less cretaceous from decay. Some - them —_
.22 inch in "— l
Janihia fusca. Nob. Pyramis fusca, Nob. m.
of this Soc., Vol. IL p. 282. At Fairhaven, in a cove
east of the town, this species is sometimes found
abundantly, in company with the Jaminia producta,
Nob. Many of the speciniens are larger than those
from which the description was written. Some are
.25 inch long, and .Í broad.
Dr. Gould has pointed out to me an obtuse fold on
the columella. In many individuals this fold cannot
be seen distinctly without removing a portion of the
labrum, and it therefore escaped observation. The
species should be referred to the genus Jaminia.
The several species, J. erigua, Couth., J. seminuda,
J. fusca, J. producta, and Acteon trifidus, Totten,
all evidently belong to the same genus. Unfortu-
nately, the only knowledge, which we have been
VOL. III. — NO. Il. 43
a
"D R i of thé Ohio
| ,
able to obtain of this genus, is from a series of figures *
“©. in the plates of Brown, who quotes eec for the
genus.
ka
ART X — — DESCRIPTIONS OF THE FISHES OF THE
ER AND ITS TRIBUTARIES. By Jaren P.
irse Professor of the Theory and Practice of Medicine in
the Medical College of Ohio, at Cibcinnadi. Commu nicated Sep-
"— 1839, and afterwards.*
*
T Cleveland, Sept. 20th, 1839.
To the Boston Society of Natural. History.
During my connexion with the Geological Board
of Ohio, in the capacity of Zoologist, I directed some
attention to the fishes of the Western waters. The
legislature of our state, changing its policy, discon-
tinued our operations before any of the members of
the Board had perfected his labors.
“In the report I was unexpectedly called upon to
make, I included a list of seventy-two species of
Fishes, as inhabiting the waters of the Ohio River
and Lake Erie, and their tributaries, within the
bounds of the State of Ohio.
Further investigations have enabled me to correct
* The Publishing Committee of the Society take great pleasure in
stating, that they have already received descriptions, accom mpanied
with plates, of fifty species of Western fishes. It is their intention to
publish all these, together with such others as Dr. Kirtland may be
enabled to furnish, in this work ; thus presenting a full Ichthyology |
of the Western waters. The descriptions will be published in BA F
order in which they have been received, as they are not yet comp |
This will at once explain, why all the different species are nol com- ;
. Mid meter Ibai spptuirito gemini i die oneal pug pem j
E T
and its Tribut ires.
that list, by expunging several that prove not to be
true species, and adding others that had escaped. pre-
vious observation.
I have prepared drawings má VAM, de of bent
one third of the number, and I take the liberty of
forwarding several of them to you, for your disposal
in such manner as you may deem proper. The ar-
rangement of my business i is such, that I am required
to spend the winters at Cincinnati, and the summers
in Cleveland, "This will. enable me to pursue. the
subject in future with great facility, | and I to
continue my efforts till I shall complete full descrip-
tions and delineations of all the fishes of the Western
waters. Tx respectfully yours,
Jarep P. ney :
Lvxitos. Raf. Ed. *
L. elongatus. Kirtland. The Red-tellied ‘Shiner
(of the Lake).
Luxzilus der Kirtland’s Report on the Zoology of. Ohio,
pp. 169, 192, !
Plate IV. Fig...
Head E upper jaw slightly recurved, fore-
head flat, lower jaw prominent, projecting. Eyes
large, irides silvery. Operculum terminating poste-
riorly in an acute angle.
Body long, slim, particularly elongated between
the caudal and dorsal fins ; oe slightly com-
pressed on its sides. .
Dorsal fin, high and narrow.
*
$4
»
` its, characteristics are as follows : — ^ Bod
2340 _ Fishes of the Ohio
Caudal fin, bifurcated and elongated. — .
Anal fin, posterior to the dorsal. Vent pósa
Lateral line, at its base is on a level with the eye,
. but rapidly curves down to the middle of the body
in an undulating manner. >
Color. Back a beautiful sky-blue, edged oki
| with a band of gilt; below this, is an’ interrupted
band of black, extending from the point of thé upper -
jaw to the tail, passing through the iris of the eye,
but broken by à carmine, or, in others, a vermilion
stripe, from the operculum, extending back upon the
. medial line one inch, and terminating above the end
of the ventral fin in an acute pamti! Sides p el
silvery.
Length, 4 iki The rays are, D. 8 ^ 9;
C. 20;
Hab. tributazieà of Lake Erie near Ore
and of the Mahoning in Trumbull County.. m
Observations. In the year 1820, Professits ES
finesque published, in Lexington, Kentucky, his
“Tehthyologia Ohiensis." As the circulation of this -
volume has been very limited, and it cannot readily
be procured, I have thought it advisable, whenever a
genus of Rafinesque’s is referred to, to give its char-
acters, that it may be recognised ; and shall, there-
fore, pursue this course throughout this communica-
tion, The genus Luxilus was established to re-
ceive several species which it was thought advisable
to separate from the genus Leuciscus BA":
gated, somewhat compressed, with rather la rge x
Vent posterior, or nearer to the tail. Head flat. zh
and its Tributaries. 84
and somewhat shielded. Mouth rather large, com-
monly with lips and equal jaws. Preopercule with
an angular suture. A small trapezoidal dorsal fin,
“nearer to the head ‘than to the. tail, opposite to the
abdominal fins, and without spines. Abdominal fins
with eight rays, and without. ilBodages. (Tail
forked in all the Ohio species.)
The _ species here described, was first pointed out
to me by an. old. fisherman at Cleveland. It is
readily distinguished from the Luxilus erythrogaster
of Raf, by its much greater length, the form of ue
fins, and its coloring. It is also more active in i
habits... The brillianey of its colors will fade; if cor
fined for a few days ina globe. of water.
è "a
L Rd
I have known these fishes to destroy. en
leaping from a globe of. water, placed for observa-
tion in my study; and ‘have not unfrequently seen
em throw themselves above the surfage of the
ow at four or five inches; apparently for mere Rage;
n dissimilis. - Kirtland: "The "pene Shiner.
Plate IV. Fig. 2 i iet
Head flat between ^a eyes. „Nost prominent,
fleshy, and projecting. Lower lip slightly fleshy,
recurved. yes large and prominent ; irides yellow.
Body slim, eylindric, elongated, gradually tapering
from the ventral to the caudal fins ; vent behind the
-centre of the body.
Dorsal and ventral fins opposite each other; the
r reaching . the vent.
TN " à Fe
S" Fishes of the Ohio :
wh,
Lateral line hardly edtved:
Color. Back brownish or olive, a belt of gilt ©
along the lateral line, with about twelve bluish dots,
which enlarge towards the tail; an ochrey band runs
along the back, which is faintly marked with darker
spots. Abdomehl white and silvery. Fins: nie, rays
` slightly marked with dark tints. -
Length A
Hab. Mahoning river and Lake Being: sc!
QM D. 80r 9; €, 20; A 7; V. 8; P.R
^ Observations. Two specimens were brought me
y an experienced fisherman, who informed me, that
they were never seen in the Mahoning -till the last
year. I have since.found several dead specimens |
upon the shore of Lake Erie, near Cleveland. It is
> questionable whether this fish should be placed pn
the genus Luzilus. It has the habits of that family,
and the position of the vent and the angular : utt f
of the- preoperculum would seem to refer it there
but the form and structure of its mouth would p
haps refer it to Rafinesque's genus Hypentelium;
to the genus Catostomus.
It readily bites at a hook, and is employed with
minnows to bait the hook on “ sett lines.” _
— .;:, , PmTrRoMvzow. Lin.
P. argenteus. Kirtland. The p en
-Petromyzon argenteus. Kiril. Rep. on the Zool ôf Ohio, pP.
"T 170, 197.
Plate IV. Fig. 3. i
. Head elongated, depressed before the eyes, slightly
convex above them. Eyes minute, pupils very 23
id ie *
Cs me *
> me. " :
79
and its Tributaries. 343.
È à ; " T
and black; irides silvery, not conspicuous. Mouth
oval, concave, with series of inflected teeth regularly ^ wá
radiated from the circular opening of the fauces, and n 2
a distinct line of teeth surrounding the lower fourth dia
of the same opening ; the inner teeth of the radiated
series the largest. Chin, a triangular depression.
Branchial openings seven, with a | gorrespendin '
black. dot above each; each ope larger than the
eye. EN.
Body cylindrical, pP An towards the back. "
Dorsal fin two fifths the length of the fish
pressed, but not interrupted above and anterior to
vent, then continuous as the caudal fin, and extend-
ing beneath the tail along its carinated edge, one
inch; its.caudal portion flattened and queers to-
wards the tip. v A
r. Back ash-gray ; sides and beneath, recy
aculated with irregular rows of black dots. .
E 11 inches ; widest diameter of the body.
ine-tenths of an inch.
E Big Miami.
Observations. 'This species is readily disting spiched,.
from the P. Americanus and the nigricans of Les.,
and the nigrum of Raf. My specimen was found
attached to the side of a large Ohio salmon (Lucio-
Perca Americana). This species is of a larger size `
in Lake Erie than in the river Ohio.
; de-
breit
*
A7 Fishes of the Ohio
$
tagd ^^ Semormus:. Raf.
S. biguttatus. Kirtland. The ‘Tavo-spottgd ch
Plate Y Fig. 1.
* Head /subquadrangular, upper surface’ flattish ; —
| upper lip prominent-and projecting ;- nostrils double,-
. equal distance between the eye and the point of the -
upper’ jaw ; eyes not- large, circular; irides : prem :
gill-covers smooth and iridescent. -
- Body fusiform, cylindrical ; scales large; medial
line suddenly curvés upwards near its base. -
_ Color. Body olive and bluish above the medial
line; sides and abdomen faintly cupreous. Fins
orange, ferruginous colored ; a black spot at the base -
of the caudal fin, but none in the dorsal. ` Body and
a Jins irregularly punctated with’small black dots, and
a larger vermilion dot behind each eyé. TUN.
* ^ Length 6 inches. [4 "m
rw Hab. Yellow Creek, a tributary of the Mahoning.
E. Observations. The elongated form of the head,
= A dots behind the eye, and the absence
n or black spot inthe dorsal fin, as wellas |
habits, distinguish it from the S. dorsalis
Eie, m die piel surface of. the head and superior jaw .
~~ studded with numerous spines, in the spring of the
A ar; these are deciduous, and fall off ud auc.
summer, leaving those surfaces smooth. _
"This species bites at the hook with as much en- -
: ergy and as | suddenly as the speckled trout, and hence —
the fishermen and — have oam him the name of —
ST. A and its Tributaries. 345
*
$ o genus Semotilus was established by Rafi-
‘ E
nesque, to include such of the Cyprinide as could not
be arranged in existing genera. The characters of
the genus are as follows. “Body elongated, some-
what compressed, with rather large scales. Vent
posterior, or nearer to the tail. Head flat above, and
somewhat shielded. Gill-cover double, scaleless ;
three. branchial rays. Mouth large and with lips.
Preoperculum angular. Dorsal fin posterior, opposite
to the vent, and behind the abdominal fins. Abdom-
inal fins with eight rays, and without append,
S. cephalus. ` Raf. The Hora: Chub.
Semotilus cephalus. Rafinesque’s Ichthyologia Ohiensis. p. 49.
Semotilus cephalus. Kirtl. — on the Zool. of —
p.169. | "
FOCUPIMN Y. Fig. Pe SER
« Diameter one fifth of the total length : ^ om:
back “brownish, lateral line raised upwards at the `
base : fins fulvous ; the pectorals reddish ; the caudal
pale at the end and unspotted ; the dorsal vik 9 rays,
and a large black n at the anterior base ; anal vi
9 rays. s
* Length from 6 to 8 inches. Not uncommon in srs
creeks of Kentucky, &c. Vulgar names, Chub, Big. a
mouth, and Big-head. It has really the largest head —
and mouth of this tribe. Iris reddish, iridescent. : a
Pectoral fins with 15 rays, trapezoidal and short ; E.
abdominal fins rounded, dorsal fin beginning over ;
them. Spot round. Tail with 20 du A
The foregoing is Rafinesque's description. It is
correct in every particu p mea few in-
VOL. II. -=No gi ;
538
E
346 Fishes of the Ohio *
stances, the base of the caudal fin is marked like the
“dorsal, with a round black or olive spot, as was the
case with the specimen from which the drawing was
made.. It is also difficult to say, whether the dorsal
.. has 9 or 10 rays.
A faint vermilion spit may sometimes be seen,
-near the edge of the gill-covers, but much more poste-
-riorly than on the biguttatus. The upper surface of -
the head and superior jaw is often ornamented with
prominent spines, varying in height and number in
different individuals.
Hab. Mahoning river.
Observation. -It is one of the most abundant spe-
cies in our waters, and bites readily at the hook.
*
. Erueostoma. Raf. _
E. caprodes. Raf. The common Hog-Fish.
Etheostoma caprodes. Raf. Ichth, Ohiens. P. 38.
Etheostoma digi Kirtl. Rep. on of Ohio. pp. 168,
1 A
elongate, obtuse ; upper e. lo rounded ; operele
"acute; lateral line quite straight ;
h of the length; tail forked, oli-
the base, and with a black dot.
'om ‘two to six inches.
ciliate, Mouth be-
P
and its Tributaries. 347
neath, small; upper jaw protruding, like a hog's
snout, the nostrils being on it. Eyes jutting, black ;
iris silvery. Sides of the head silvery, above fulvous;
preopercule simply arched. Branchial rays half visi-
ble. Fins hyalinous; dorsal 15 and 12, ending be-
fore the anal, which is very distant from the tail,
rays 2 and .10. Pectoral fins trapezoidal, 16. Tail,
» i
Observations. Prof. Rafinesque’s description off
this species, which we have copied above, is essen-
tially correct. In the specimens I have examined,
however, the fin rays were as Apllows. D. 15- 16 ;
6.17; RIE Y 1-87 A1
The color varies ting a ELTETE yellow to a ag d
deep green. The irides are golden-yellow, when ^os
first taken from the water, but soon fade to a silvery, Cape es L
and then a dusky color. This i is the largest species E
of the gen with which I am acquainted, some
specimens | ding six inches in length.. It is
abundant. ie M honing river, Where it is taken *
with hooks. "The genus Etheostoma i is thus charac-
Jody nearly cylindrical and scaly. Mouth E.
variable, with s nall teeth. Gill-cover double or
triple, unserrate, with a spine eR the opercule, and
7
348 Fishes of the Ohio ue
E. blennioides. Raf. The Blenny-like Hog-Fish.
Etheostoma blennioides. Raf, Icth. Ohiens. p.37. s
Etheostoma blennioides. Kirtl. Rep. on the Zool. of | Ohio, P 168.
Plate VL Fig. 1. j wo :
“ Body elongate, breadth one eighth of the length,
olivaceous, almost diaphanous, some brown spots on
pia. back, and some brown geminate transversal lines
aeross the lateral line, which is straight, but raised at
the base, Head small, snout rounded, mouth small
beneath, lower jaw shorter; opercule angular, spine |
acute ; scales ciliated, pectoral fins elongst, - also, j
and bilobed at the end.
“ A strange species, which has the appetite head,
. andspotsof many Blennies. Length two or three
inches, and slender. Seen in the Ohio, Wabash,
' Muskingüni, &c. Color pale, sometimes fulvous,
whitish beneath. Cheeks swelled and smooth; pre" —
opercule simple, arched ; opercule quite angular ; iris a
large and blackish ; pe roughened by the ciliation. 2 t
Dorsal fin 13 and 13, beginning above the middle of —.
the pectorals, and ending with the anal; one fai
longitudinal brown stripe on it. Tail 20 rays, with
many small transversal lines. Vent nae dial. An
fin 2 and 8. aA Ag 16 ob |
d de of rays. D. 15- 13 3t X E es A. s. y.
e Observations. is abundant in the Ma-
honing river. A popular error is eommon among the
— that it is the young of the Ohio salmon.
P
*
»
accurate, we extract from the Journal of dece Philadel-
with pointed lobes, the inferior of ap is the lar-
gest ; abdominal fin truncated. E
. . as long; the rays of the anal fin are very strong
` tiful orange color, which is deepest on the back, the
| with olden reflections ; 3 gédtorál ventral, and anal
aei o its wes c inches, and its t ipie
uds ae vee POSENT Ez. o aL
and its Tributaries. 349
Íts habits are like those of the other. members of the
family.-
Cxrosrowus. Le Sueur.
l Us. Le Sueur. The Mullet of the Lake.
| Onions poca Le Sueur. thin of the Academy of
Natural onion. Vol. I. p. 95 et seq.
Catostomus aureolus. Kirtl. sia on dé “Doak of Ohio. pp. *
192.
f
P Plate VI. P. 2.
"té Sueur S diseiipdioà of this species, whichis is very
phia Academy. EB C
** Anal fin long, pointed, and passing —
beyond the base of the caudal Jin, which is forked,
s m
Wenn
.** Body subeylindrie, elevated at MS e;
quadrangular, gibbous above the eye, almost'as. high
and large ; scales rhomboidal, equal ; body of a beau-
base of the scales dark red ; the sides are heightened
orange ; caudal fin of a deep car-
orsal fin is paler than the ‘rest ;
e is neatly straight, and commences in
a line wi eye. Length of individual described,
ness two inches and a
P718;
This beauti
kls- V. 9; A8; c. 18 rays.
‘spe jut aides near Buffalo, on
, T Ed
* E^ 3 dm |
350 Fishes of the Ohio 3
Observations. From the above description, we
should expect to find the colorings more brilliant than
any Ihave seen. Through inadvertence the eyes in
our figure are represented as circular, — they should
have been oblong, —as in all the other species of this
genus. 'This fish is common at Cleveland; but is
very little esteemed for food.
Pe CORVINA. Cuv.
C. oscula. Le Suéut- The White Poi Á res T
Ohio River. , d
jaar pie? Cuv. et Valene, Histoire Nat. d Poisons E
Li
Coin o Mie Richardson, Fauna Boreali-Americana. due
P.
PA oiled Le Sueur, Journ. Aia. Nat. Sciences. Vol. Il.
the Zool. of Ohio. pp. 168, T fae oe
n. Acad. Nat, Sciences. Vol. IL p..254. y i
-Amplodom grunniens. Raf. Ichth. Ohien& p. 24. n
. Plate VI. Fig. 3. 7 E
Le Biain s description of this species, we copy 5 /
entire. 2
E * S, oscula. Second dorsal long, elevated; equal
- tail short; neck prominent ; scales soft. 2
sat Bow sub-elliptic, compressed uci the back, ,
broader at the abdomen ; back rectilinear ; d
head much declining ; snout uL oon a little
prominent, with three small openings at the end;
— mouth very small, horizontal, having the superior
-— maxillaries and the inferior jaws concealed under the
inferior corners of the nostrils; teeth very small -
conie, the exterior series a little stronger, . those ef
w
+
* : é
and its Tributaries. 351
the throat rude, obtuse, placed upon a triangular base,
the strongest being inthe middle, and the weakest on
- the sides, and upon two bones separately placed at
the superior part of the throat; the eye is round,
placed near the end of the snout, and very near the
summit of the head ; 'preoperculum larger than the
operculum, with serratures hardly sensible, on the
preoperculum, the other pieces being destitute of
spines; dorsal fins sub-equal in height, the first
rounded anteriorly, and lower towards the three last
rays, all of which are strong and spinous, and imbri-
cated to lie close upon the back; the second. dorsal
is very high and equal in its length, sustained by
from twenty-nine to thirty soft and much.
rays, of which the-first is spinous ; he base of the
rays of this fin, and of the caudal; "are covered with
scales ; pectorals moderately pointed ; - thoracic fins
adorned with a g spinous ray ; anal moderate, of
seven divided ra and two spines, of which the first
ds very short, the second strong and very long; cau-
dal sub-truncated, wider than the abdomen ; scales
Wi oblique, shorter than broad, and slightly denticulated,
without being rough to the touch, crowded towards
the neck above the pectorals, larger upon the opercu-
la, the sides of the body, and upon the tail ; the color
of the head, snout, and caudal fin was, of a bluish
gray, drawing upon black upon the snout and above
the eyes, more gray towards the back and above the
pectorals ; all the other fins are of a lighter gray;
there were some red tints upon the cheeks, a yellow-
ish reflection u he scales of the back of the tail,
and of the opercula; the abdomen, beneath the throat
was white ; lateral line arcuated. è
x i -—
LUE Sede rM ME EAM
352 Fishes of the Ohio.
* Length sixteen inches, by about four inches and
, a half in depth.
5£B. 7; P: 19; D. 9. 30; T. 1:5; A. 2. 7; C. 18.55
“ This species inhabits Lake Eie. 2:
Observations.: After a careful examination, I am
convinced that the fish of the Lakes, which Le Sueur
designates as the S. oscula, and that of the Ohio, to
which he gives the name of S. grisea, are specifical- _
ly identical. It is true, that the former when full
grown, is poor in flesh, with a tough and thick skin,
-~ which renders it hardly eatable, while the latter is
*
always fat, tender, and delicious ; a difference, I be-
lieve, to be imputed solely to the character and qual-
ity of the waters in which they are found. All the
species of fish common to the waters of the Ohio and
to Lake Erie, are decidedly more tender, fat, and del-
icáte, with thinner skins, when found in the river
streams, than when taken in the Lake. "The varia-
tion in the number of rays in the fins of those from
the two localities, observed by Le Sueur, was probably
accidental ; for I find that it often can be detected in
several specimens taken i in the same locality. |
Our drawing was made from a small fish obtained
in the Cincinnati market. The first, short, spinous;
anal ray, should not have been omitted in " figure.
(To be continued.)
tea
Binney’s Monograph of the Helices. — 353
ART. XI. — A MONOGRAPH OF THE HELICES INHABIT-
ING THE UNITED ETATE By Amos Binney, M. D. (Con.
tinued from Vol. I. p. 4
11. HELIX PALLIATA.
Plate VII.
H. testA orbieulato-depressá, imperforatá,, castaneá, hirsutá ; anfrac-
tibus minuté striatis; aperturà angustà, trilobatà ; labro albo, latè
reflexo, dentibus duobus instructo; columellà dente unico, sub-arcua^
Synonyms AND REFERENCES.
Helix palliata, Say. Journ. A. N. S. Philad., Il, 152.
Helix obstrícta, Say. Ibid., IL. 154.
Helix deuotàta, Férussac. Hist. yc. Pl. xus., A.
Lamarck. : Anim. sans Vert.,. 2me . edit.,
Helix Carolinénsis, Lea. Trans. o Phil. Soc., Ax
Syl 108... Pi. xv., fig. 33.
Carocolla helicóides, Lea. Thid., INC 8, 1X. 169.
PL xv., fig. 34. »
Triodopsis scabra, Rafinesque.
DESCRIPTION.
Animal. Of a uniform blackish slate color, over
the whole upper surface; foot narrow, in length
double the diameter of the shell, and terminating in
an acute point; superior tentacule one-third of an
inch long; eyes not = from the gen-
eral color,
VOL. III. — NO. HL 45
354 Binney’s Monograph of the Helices
Shell. Depressed ; epidermis dark-brown or chest-
nut eolor, and rough with minute acute projections
and, stiff hairs ; whorls five, flattened above and
rounded below, with numerous very fine oblique
stris ; aperture three-lobed, much contracted by the
lip and teeth; Zip white, sometimes edged with
brown, widely reflected, with two projecting teeth
on the inner margin ; the one near its junction with
the body-whorl, acute and prominent, the other in
the base of the aperture, long, lamellar, and but lit-
tle prominent ; pillar-lip with a very prominent,
white, curved tootli, projecting nearly perpendicular-
ly from the shell, and forming: one boundary of the
aperture ; umbilicus covered with a white callus, the
continuation of the reflected lip ; base convex.
Greatest transverse diameter, nearly one inch.
GrocrapHicaL Distrisution. Inhabits all the
Northern and Western States, and the Atlantic States
as far south as South Carolina, and’ probably may be
found in every State of the Union, and in Canada;
It is most common in the Western ee where it
attains its greatest size.
Remarks, This is a remarkable piil
distinguished from every other by its rough, hairy
exterior, prominent falciform tooth on.the columella,
and contracted, trilobate aperture. As in all other
imperforate species with reflected lips, the umbilicus
remains open until the lip is completed, and of course
the young shells are destitute of the most. striking
characteristics as above described. It resembles H.
tridentata, Sav, in its upper surface so much, that,
when placed side by side, they might be considered
inhabiting the United States. 355
identical; but on the lower surface the resemblance
no longer holds, for, though the aperture is nearly the
same, the umbilicus of that species is never closed,
and it never attains the size of the present spe-
cies. Varieties of the type are caused by the ab-
sence of the upper or lower lip-tooth, or of both, the
want of the raised projections of the epidermis, and
of the transverse striæ, and by the great depression
of the spire in some individuals, which produces
a distinct angle or carina on the outer whorl. This
last. variation, which brings it within the genus
CanocóLLA of Lamarck; is found in other species,
especially in their immature state, and shows that
the distinctive characters of that genusa ve not to
be depended on.
A carinated variety, which was aaa br Mr. Say
as “ a variety with a very “prominent acute carina,
destitute of minute protuberances,” has been de-
scribed by Mr. Lea as CanocoLLA Aelicóides. The
same was figured by Férussae, Pl. 50, A. fig. 7. A
strongly carinated variety, with a single tooth on the
outer lip, and smooth epidermis, was described by
Mr. Say as H, obstricta. Another variety, having
the oblique striæ widely separated and very distinct,
and being at the same time carinated, has been de-
scribed by Mr. Lea as H. Carolinénsis. An exami-
nation of the specimens from which these descriptions
were made, has convinced me that they are only
varieties.
Mr. Say’s description was published in January,
1821, and the shell has been known in the United
States by the name of H. palliàta, since that time.
356 Binney’s Monograph of the Helices
In 1822, the name of H. denotita was applied to it
by Férussac. The editors of the new edition of La-
marck's Animaur ‘sans Vertébres, have chosen to
retain the latter name ; but, inasmuch as it is incon-
sistent with the rules of priority adopted by natural-
ists, and unjust to Mr. Say, it ought not to obtain. `
12. HELIX APPRESSA.
. Plate VIII.
H. testà orbiculato-depressi, imperforatà, Iuteo-corned ; anfractibus
obliqué striatis; apertura angustà; labro albo, sub-dentato, margine
reflexo ; columellà dente unico arcuato armata.
Sxxovrs AND Reverences.
T
Helix appréssa, Say. Journ. A. N. S. Philad., IL
154,
Helix linguifera, Frussac. Hist. des Moll. Pl.
XLIX., A. fig. 3
RINT An. sans Vert., 2d Mita Vill. 70.
Deshayes. Encye. Mitha Vers, M. 224.
DESCRIPTION.
Animal. Uniform blackish slate color, and resem-
bling in all respects the animal of Hexrx palliata. `
Sheil depre ; epidermis yellowish horn color;
whorls five, often donee Bat angulated, with fine dis-
tinct transverse strize ; aperture rather flattened, con-
tracted ; lip white, reflected, near the base appre
to the budy-sibót, and covering the umbilicus, with
one, or two, or without projecting teeth on its inner
edge; pillar-lip with an oblique, compressed, white
tooth; base convex’; wmbilical region slightly in*
dented.
- inhabiting the United States. 357
Greatest transverse — less than three-fourths
of an inch.
Grocrarmicar Disrriurion.. Inhabits all the
Western and Southwestern States. ;
Remarks. I consider this species not to be well
established. The’ description of. Mr. Say hardly
points out any difference between it and the preced-
ing, and accordingly varieties of H. pallidta are com-
monly seen in cabinets labelled as H. appréssa. Well
marked specimens of the two are very unlike, but
they approaeh each other by nice and hardly appre-
ciable shades of difference, until they at length seem
to blend into one. It is impossible to say how far
the charaeters of shells are modified by th: ccident
of their locality and other causes; but that they are
so to a considerable degree is certain, and it appears to
me that the differences between this and the preced-
ing species, are not greater than might be. produced
by the influence of external circumstances. "The
shell intended to be described is very common in the
Western and Southwestern States, is usually only
about half as large as H. palliàta, and considerably
more flattened in shape. It has a smooth and shining
epidermis; without the hirsute projections, and is fine-
ly striated. The lip is narrower and less broadly
expanded, the aperture much less contracted, and the
tooth on the pillar-lip less prominent and thick than
in that species. The teeth on the outer lip are some-
times entirely wanting, at other times very distinct;
sometimes the upper.and sometimes the lower one is
alone present. The smaller sized specimens resem-
ble considerably Hxrix inflecta, Sav, and it seems
| 358 Binney’s Monograph of the Helices
almost to form a connecting link between that spe-
cies and H. palliata. The larger specimens are hard-
ly inferior in size to individuals of the last-named
species, which they closely resemble. Large speci-
mens, without teeth on the outer lip, also resemble
the species which I have called Hxrix dentifera, but
that species never has the lip teeth, and is not. so
much depressed. A favorite place of resort of this
species is under flat stones about neglected quarries.
The first publication of a description of this shell
was by Mr. Say, in the _Place referred to, in 1821;
the next year a second appeared, by Lamarck, in the
first edition of his Animauz sans Vertébres, under
the name of Hxuix linguifera, reference being made
to Férussae's Histoire des Mollusques, which was
not then published. «Mr. Say's name Mone therefore
to be preferred.
13. HELIX INFLECTA.
|. Plate IX. fig. 1.
. testi orbiculato-depressà, imperforatà, corneo-lutescente, rarè
hirsutà ; anfractibus striatis, striis PONG = apertura angus-
tissimá, trilobatà ; labro albo, dentibus duobus cutis, inflectis, arma-
to; margine reflexo ; regione mite et Papet, dente albo, arcua-
to ad beignets affixo.
Synonyms AND REFERENCES.
Helix inflécta, Say. stis A. N,S. Philad., IL 153.
Helix clausa, Férussac. Hist. des. Moll. Pl. 34,
een figt-2 amd. 3; 2..- a
Deshayes. Encyc. Méth., Vers, IL. 230.
& MEAS,
"íi
inhabiting the United States. 359
»
Helix clausa, Lamarck. Anim. sans mN 2d edit.,
VIII, 114.
Triodopsis clausa, Rafinesque.
DESCRIPTION.
Animal. Dark bluish slate color, head and ten-
taculæ almost black; superior tentaculæ. long and
slender; foot narrow, in length more than twice the
diameter of the shell, terminating ‘in an acute angle.
Shell depressed ; epidermis brownish horn color,
sometimes with very fine, hair-like projections;
whorls five, with very minute transverse striw; su-
ture not much impressed ; aperture three-lobed, very
much contracted ; lip white, narrow, reflected, with
a deep groove or indentation behind the reflection,
contracting the opening so.that the outer edge of the
lip does. not project beyond the surface of the whorl ;
on the inner margin of the lip are two acute teeth,
with the points directed inwards, one near the base,
the other midway between that and the junction of
the lip with the body-whorl, with a circular sinus
between them, forming one of the lobes of the aper-
ture; pillar-lip with a long, areuated, white tooth ;
umbilicus covered, its place considerably impressed.
. Greatest transverse diameter, one-third of an inch ;
ordinary size, less.
Groanapnican Distristuion. Inhabits the. West-
ern States, on the borders of the Ohio and Mississippi
rivers; it was noticed by Mr. Say in Missouri, and
by others in North Carolina and Arkansas.
Remarks. This species is not likely to be mista-
ken for any other. It resembles a variety of Hexix
360 Binney’s Monograph of the Helices
tridentata, Say, from which it differs in having the
umbilicus closed, and the tooth on the pillat-lip long-
er. Large individuals resemble in general appear-
ance H. appressa, Say. The epidermis is sometimes
_ delicately hirsute, and the aperture of a rose color.
~The lip is occasionally destitute of one or both teeth.
The name Hzix inflecta, by which it is universally
known in the United States, and the description,
"were published in 1821, by Mr. Say, more than a
year before it was noticed by other naturalists, and
several years before any other description appeared. -
Lister’s om tab. 93. fig. 93, ~ mei
this shell. -
14. HELIX- MONODON. ' #
; Plate X. fig. 1.
H. testa convexiusculá, latè umbilicata, corneo-fuscescente, hispidu-
lå, tenuissimé striata; aperturà semilunatà; labro albo, marginé an-
sto, reflexo; dente unico, albo, longo, laminato, ad columellam :
oblique pris regione umbilicali i impress i
Synonyas AND. REFERENCES.
Helix mónodon, Rackett. Trans. Lin. Soc. Lond.,
XHL AB. PL Vig, fur. 2.2 »
Helix t Leti Ged. Ward. . Manuscript.
Bilson.
Animal.’ Yellowish brown, darker on the head,
neck, and tentacule. Foot narrow, cylindrical, one
and a half times as long as the diameter of the shell,
terminating in'a point. Superior tentacule onè
fourth of an inch long, eyes black. Some- c
als much darker than others. -
inhabiting the United States. 361
Shell.. Slightly convey; epidermis dark russet or
chestnut color, with numerous very minute, hairy
projections ; whorls five to six, narrow, diminishing
very. gradually in width, from the outer whorl to the
apex ; aperture flattened, contracted by a deep groove
behind the lip; Zip white, narrow, a little grooved on -
its face, reflected, extending on the base to, and
slightly contracting, the umbilicus, its outer edge not
projecting above the surface of the whorl ; umbilicus
open, deep, not exhibiting all the valutione, partially
covered by the extended lip; &ase rounded, very
much indented in the region of the umbilicus, with
‘a compressed elongated. white tooth at the we of
the: ‘aperture.
` Greatest transverse dikriet, t nearly one nei of an
ineh.
GEOGRAPHICAL pug ‘Jnbabits the. New
England States, in some. parts of which it is very
common, and the States north of the Ohio River. 1t
will probably be found in all the: Middle and Berti
western States.
. Remarks. This species has usually. been con-
founded with HELIX fratérna, Sav, to which it is
nearly allied ; but the differences are too striking to
allow of their being considered identical. It is large-
ly umbilicated, and the umbilicus is but very slightly
encroached upon by the reflected lip, which only ex-
tends to its edge. The umbilical region is deeply
indented. The size of this shell is usually nearly
twice as great as that of H. fratirna, though it is
sometimes much smaller.
In New Hampshire and Vermont, it is found in the
VOL. III. — NO. II. 46
Y 4
362 Binney’s Monograph of the Helices
forests with other species, but more commonly in
hill-side pastures, under flat stones, a situation where
other species rarely occur. Two individuals are
commonly found together. The hairy projections of
the epidermis are not distinct on young shells, but are
often wanting at every stage of growth. The ob-
lique striz are so fine as hardly to be visible, and in
some cases the shell appears to be glabrous. Very
beautiful specimens, about one-fourth of an inch in
diameter, with a dark, shining epidermis, oecur in
Ohio. They are more globular, and as the same
number of volutions are contained in half the space,
they appear to have a larger number of whorls than
the northern specimens ; but I do not see that they
differ, essentially, in any respect. Great disparity of
size is not uncommon in this genus. It is this varie-
ty which Dr. Ward has named Hetrx Leaii. Varia-
tions from the common form are rare. This species
might, by reason of its open umbilicus, be placed in
the next subdivision of the section ; but it is so near-
ly allied to the succeeding species, that it is thought
best not to separate them. Férussac has applied the
specific name mónodon to Hrix wnidentata, Drapar-
NauD; but as Rackett’s description appeared a year
bufon Férussac’s synopsis, the latter could not right-
fully appropriate this name, and it should be retained
for our speia to which it was first applied. `
_ inhabiting the United States. 363
15. HELIX FRATERNA.
Plate X. fig. 2.
testà convexiusculà imperforata, hispidulà, luteo- refiacenit, te-
nuissimé striata; aperturà angustà ; labro albo, margine angusto,
reflexo ; dente unico, compresso, albo, ad columellam adnato.
Synomyms AND REFERENCES. «
Helix fratérna, Say. Exped. to St. Peter’s River,
IL 257. Pil. xv., fig. 3.
Helix mónodon, Wood. Index Test. Sup. Pl. vir.,
DI
Helix convéxa, Deshayes. Encyc. Méth., Vers, II.
253. j a sais
Lamarck. Anim. sans Vert., 2d edit., VIII.
Férussac. Hist. des Moll. Pl. u., A. fig. 2.
DESCRIPTION.
Animal. Brownish, darker on the head, neck, and
tentaculæ ;, foot narrow, cylindrical, nearly twice as
long as the diameter of the shell, terminating acutely.
Eyes black. Some individuals are of a uniform
blackish color..
Shell. Slightly convex; epidermis light brown ;
whorls about five, narrow ; aperture contracted by a
deep groove behind the lip; lip white, narrow, re-
flected, extending to the centre of the base of the
shell, its outer edge not projecting beyond the surface
of the whorl; wmbilicus covered ; umbilical region
not much ieiinind ; ; pillar-lip with a narrow, elon-
gated, white tooth.
364 Binney's Monograph of the Helices y
o
Greatest transverse diameter, more than one fourth
of an inch.
GrocnaPHICAL Distrieution. Inhabits Pennsyl-
vania, the western parts of Virginia, and the States
north of the Ohio River, where it is common. It is
also found on the western sides of the Green Moun-
tains, in Vermont. Further observations will un-
doubtedly show that it inhabits some of the States
south of the Ohio.
_Remarxs. This bears a strong resemblance to the
preceding species; the chief difference in their struc-
ture seems to be, that while the whorls of that shell
revolve about its axis at such a distance as to leave a
considerable umbilical opening, they are in such near
approximation, in this species, as to leave but a small
perforation, which the narrow reflected lip is suffi-
ciently wide to cover. In other respects, there is
hardly an appreciable distinction ; but, as these differ-
ences appear to be constant and: uniform, there is a
propriety in keeping them separate. Mr. Say describ-
ed this species with Rackett's description of HzLix
mónodon before him, and considered it distinct. In
most cabinets at this time, the two species are con-
founded under the name of HeLIx fratérna. |
Occasionally, the umbilicus is not entirely covered.
À variety occurs in Illinois, which is only one-sixth
of an inch in diameter.
Lister's figure, tab. 93, gi 94, I have no doubt is
intended to represent this shell. Mr. Say’s descrip-
tion was published in 1824. Férussac’s “ Prodromus” `
had already appeared, giving the name of HELIX con-
véza to his species No. 101, but there was nothing to
a
x» inhabiting the United States. .365
m d student to identify it, and, when the figure
in Plate 50, A. appeared, several years later, Mr.
Say’s name was established. - Besides, Férussac gave
the same specific name to another shell. I think
that Mr. Say’s name ought to prevail.
16. HELIX HIRSUTA.
t Plate X. fig. 3.
H. testa globulosà, imperforatà, castaned, hirsuta ; ‘apertura angus-
tissima ; labro reflexo, margine interno fissurá diviso ; dente laminato,
elongato, ad columellam affixo
Synonyms AND ‘Rerenences.
Helix hirsita, Say. Journ. A. N. S. Phila k
17 ;. II. 161.
- Férussac. Hist. des Mot ph iy, Zz Mk
1 and 3.
Deshayes. nde Méth., t II. 953.
Lamarck, Anim. sans Vert., 2d edit, VIII.
Helix fratérna, Wood. Inder Test. a PI. viil.,
fig
Stenotrema convéxa, Rafinesque.
DESCRIPTION.
idm: Whitish, head and tentacule slate ler:
foot. slender, semi-transparent, length less than twice
the diameter of the shell, terminating acutely. Cav-
ity of thé tentacule apparent, when they are drawn
in, by two dark lines with a white space between. —
Shell: Sub-globose ; epidermis brownish, covered
366 Binney’s Monograph of the Helices
with numerous sharp, rigid hairs; whorls five,
rounded; suture distinct; aperture very narrow,
almost closed by an elongated, lamelliform tooth,
situated on tbe pillar-lip, and extending from the
centre of the base nearly to the junction of the lip
with the outer whorl; lip narrow, very much dè-
pressed, and reflected against the outer whorl, with
a deep cleft or fissure near the centre of the inner
margin; umbilieus wholly covered ; base convex.
Greatest transverse diameter nearly one half of an
inch ; ordinary size less than one fourth.
noon EM. DisrRmuTrON. Inhabits the Midate
and Western States, where it is common, and the
New England States more rarely. In Massachusetts
it is an uncommon shell.
Remarks. This is a very peculiar species. The
singular fissure on the inner edge of the lip distin-
guishes it from every other. It is almost globular.
There is sometimes a minute, tooth-like process on
the upper and inner part of the lip, which is visible
only on looking. into the aperture; and I have once
or twice noticed a white band on the body-whorl.
It is sometimes covered with a hairy) vesture on
every part, at other times it is quite smooth. The
reflection of the lip is sometimes so closely appressed
to the outer whorl as to appear to be absorbed into it.
. Wood has figured this and the preceding. species
in the supplement to his Index T'estaceologicus, but
. has caused great confusion by mistaking HELIX, fra-
lérna, Sax, for Hetrx ménodon, Rackgrr, and. the
present species for Henix fratérna, Say, which it
resembles only in size. Another shell was described
inhabiting the United States. 36T
under this name by the Abbé Brumati in his “ Ca-
talogo Sistematico," published in 1836 ; but it cannot
displace Mr. Say's species, which i been known
by his name thirteen years.
ii
17. HELIX SPINOSA.
Plate XI. fig. 2.
H. testa lenticulari, carinatà, tenui, imperforata ; epidermide casta-
nea hirsutiusculà ; spirà planulatà, subtus. convexà ; aperturà angus-
lissimà ; columella dente unico, longo, laminato armatà; labro in-
crassato, ad marginem superiorem angulato et subreflexo
"ipium AND’ REFERENCES.
Carocolla A Lea. Trans. Am. Phil. Soc,
N.S, IV. 104. PL Xv., fig. 35, Ah
DESCRIPTION.
Animal. Not yet observed.
Shell. Lenticular, with the upper surface much
flattened, strongly carinated ; epidermis dark chest-
nut color, with minute, projecting, hair-like process-
es; whorls six, of nearly uniform width, and de-
creasing very gradually from the aperture to the
spire; suture distinct, not impressed ; aperture very
narrow ; lip yellowish-white, thickened near its
junction with the body-whorl, angulated and slightly
reflected ; pillar-lip, with a long, yellowish, narrow,
projecting tooth, extending from the umbilical axis
to the angle of. the outer lip, and parallel with its
thickened edge; base convex, idis the umbilical
region slightly indented.
368 . Binney's Monograph of the Helices
_ Greatest transverse diameter rather more than half
an inch.
GrocnaPHicAL DisrRiBUTION. Noticed hitherto
only in the upper parts of Alabama and Tennessee,
pat ill probably be found in all the Southwestern
States.
Remarks. This is a beautiful and singular species.
Its form is very much flattened above, and it is
acutely carinated. The epidermis, in good speci-
mens, is chestnut-colored, and covered with minute
hairs; these are partially noticeable on the edge of
the ari and suggested to Mr. Lea the specific
name spinosa. The base is somewhat convex, and
is temarkable for the long, narrow tooth, which,
rising from an indentation of the umbilical axis, and
running parallel with, and closely approximating to
the lip, terminates near where the latter joins the
body-whorl. The aperture is merely a narrow space
left between this tooth and the lip, and is so small
that it appears hardly possible that the animal should
be able to pass through it. In some specimens there
is an indentation in the lip about midway of it
length, resembling slightly the cleft in the lip of
Helix hirsuta, Say. I am not able to asce tain
whether this be accidental or not. It does not ap
peat in Mr. Lea’s figure; — ,
The aspect. of the base of this shell somewhat
resembles that of Hexix hirsita, Say, but its superior
size and carinated edges at once prevent its being
considered the same. [t is indeed among the most
distinetly marked of our species, and cannot be mis-
taken for ni other. |
xi
*
"
inhabiting the United States. 709 ga *-
B. umbilicus open.
/ *** Aperture without teeth.
18. HELIX NUTTALLIANA. —— mes
Plate XII.
H. testà sub-conicà, subtus convexA, umbilicata, tenuiter striata ;
colore superné luted aut fused, subtus castaned; anfractibus septem,
fascia nigra aut castaned cinctis; apertura sibrotundt depremi
intus fasciata ; labro sub-reflexo ; ; columella le
_ Synonyms AND REFERENCES. : down "1
Helix Nuttalliana, tod Trans: Am. Phil. si VI.
88. 2: XXIL, fig- 74. i
SR ` Dascnreros. ; i
Animal. Not hhithesto noticed. .
Shell. Sub-conical ; poe light: iiiv or
brownish on the upper einai, with a black or chest-
nut-colored band revolving from the spire to. the
lip, the lower. surface dark chestnut; suture
nct, impressed ; whorls seven, rounded, spirally
com with minute, delicate lines, the stris of in-
crease very distinct; lip reflected below, simple
above; aperture ovate ; wmbilicus open; a little con-
tráted by the reflection of the lip; base flattened,
convex.
Greatest transverse diameter neatly c one and a half
inches. -
GEOGRAPHICAL Distrisution. Inhabits the Ore-
gon Territory from Fort Vancouver to the ocean,
VOL. III. —-NO. II. AT
bd 370 | Binney's Monograph of the Helices
where it was discovered by Mr. Nuttall during his
late expedition. :
Remarks. This beautiful species is unlike any
other North American Helix, being much more
brilliant in its coloring, and striking in its markings,
than is common to them. The upper surface, in
those specimens which ave come under my ob-
servation, is either light yellow, strongly contrasted
with a single a band, revolving on the ' middle of
the body-whorl and on the lower edge of the other
whorls, or a light chestnut with a black band.» The
lower surface or band is of a uniform dark chestnut
color. On some individuals there is a faint tracing
of intermediate bands, and it’ is probable that when
the shell becomes more common, it may be found
that there is considerable diversity of coloring and
marking. The lip varies from ashy-white to rufous.
The revolving band is generally obsolete on the four
whorls nearest the apex. The spire rises in à sub-
Conical form to the apex, each whorl gradually and
regularly diminishing from the body-whorl upwards.
The whorls are convex; the stris of growth regular
and fine, and very delicate: Crowded. impressed
lines revolve upon the whorls. The lip is distinctly
reflected at the base of the shell, but the reflection
diminishes towards its upper part, and becomes eñ-
tirely obsolete before it; joins the body-whorl. The
umbilicus is of inconsiderable diameter but deep, and
is. somewhat encroached. upon by the reflection of
the lip. l
- The name is a compliment to its discoverer.
(
inhabiting the United States. 371
^ 19, HELIX TOWNSENDIANA.
Plate KITT.
H. testå abicnikiecoa esk, cornea-luteà, rugosa, ner ; aper-
tura sub-rotundata ; labro albo, reflexo ; columella le
Synonyms AND RzrrRENCEs.
Helix a E Lea. dois; Am. Phil. ct
4 VL 9. PL XXIII. ae 80.
Description.
Animal. Not pot observed.
Shell. Obtusely convex; epidermis yellowish
horn-color, rough and corrugate on the body-whorl ;
suture distinct ; whorls five and a half, with minute
longitudinal stri», which can. . scarcely. be traced by
the eye, and coarse oblique ones ; body-whorl large
and voluminous ; s aperture - ‘somewhat: rounded ; lip
white, fully reflecta: at the base, and but partially so
towards its superior part; umbilicus open, deep, a
little contracted by' the reflection of the. lip; base
convex and turgid. :
Greatest transverse diameter one inch and three
eighths.
GEOGRAPHICAL ial cali, Inbábits the neigh-
bourhood of the Wahlamat, near its junction with
Columbia Sven whence it was brought by Mr.
Nuttall.
Remarks. The upper surface of this shell resem-
bles, in. general aspect, large and. coarse specimens of
. Hzuix. aibólabris, Say. The number and arrange-
372 Binney's Monograph of the Helices
ment of the whorls is the same, and the size cor- -
responds; but the epidermis is much more yellow,
and the delicate and beautiful oblique striz of that
species are replaced by rough corrugations. The
body-whorl is also decidedly larger and more volu-
minous. On the lower surface, the resemblance dis-
appears; the umbilicus being open and deep, the lip
much less reflected and not flattened, and the aper-
ture more roundéd. The greater capacity of the
body-whorl is also more apparent on the base.
It is named after Dr. Townsend, who sicco MEE y
Mr. Nuttall in his expedition to Oregon.
20. HELIX CONCAVA.
Plate XIV.
H. testà planulata, latè umbilicatà, albido-corneà ; énfiictibos quinis
ad basim rotundatis ; apertura sub-rotundatà, superné depressá ; oae
subtus reflexo, supra simplici ; columella brevi, callosà.
Synonyms AND REFERENCES. E
Helix c cóncava, . Say.. Journ. A. N. S. Phila, ti.
159.
Helix planiicbáides, FORMAM ; Prodr., No. p
Pl. uxxxu., fig. 4. |
Helix YeiicótVolülisn, Lea. Trans. Am. Phil. I2
ERST! Pl xxm, fe: 72...
Mesomphix planorbéides, Rafinesque. :
Description.
Animal. Upper surface greyish, idus e
base dirty-white, collar reddish-orange, posterior ex-
inhabiting the United States. 373
tremity slightly tinged with the same. Tentacule |
slender, cavities into which they are retracted visi-
ble, foot narrow, twice as long as the diameter of
the shell.
Shell. Depressed, very slightly convex on the
upper surface ; epidermis whitish horn-color, some-
times with a tinge of green, at other times with rusty-
yellow ; whorls five, above flattened, below rounded,
finely striate obliquely, the outer whorl spreading a.
little towards the aperture ; wabilicus wide, deep,
exhibiting all the volutions to the apex; aperture
rounded, somewhat flattened above, its edge fre-
quently tinged with reddish brown ; dip sub-reflected
at the base of the shell, simple above, and in some
. specimens considerably depressed near its junction
with the outer whorl ; columella with a thin callus,
the edge of which connects the upper and lower
extremes of the lip.
Greatest transverse diameter one inch and one
eighth. Common size half an inch.
GrocgaAPmicanL Distrisution. This species has
been noticed in. Vermont, Virginia, Georgia, Ohio,
Illinois, Missouri, and the Northwestern Territory,
and has been brought lately from. the shores of Co-
lumbia River, where it is said to be common. It may
therefore be considered to inhabit the whole —
of the United States.
REMARKS. | ` This shell, though frequently seen,
does not seem to be so numerous in our forests as
some other species. -It is peculiar for the elegant
rounded shape of the whorls, as seen on their lower
surface. It rarely varies from the common type, and
Ec
‘aph of the Helices .
for Pide species. The
n its. ape ty eral usi
Es destrowing them, that I have
ed. to keep them by themselves. This
rey ef et by inserting their narrow bodies, which
they have the power of elongating and protruding
i very far from their own shells, into the shells of
their vietims, and then feeding upon them at their
leisure. It burrows in the soil under decaying logs.
The first published description of this shell was
| a Mt, Say, in 1821, under the name of Hzrix cón-
cava. „Férussac noticed it (without description) in
een in his * Prodromus, No, 211," as Hex pla-
norbóides, and afterwards. gave a figure of it under
the same name. Mr. Say’s name, has. therefore the
right of priority, and is universally adopted in this
country. Férussac quotes Rafinesque for the specific
name in this case,.as well as in some others; but it
is not known when or where his descriptions were
published. In 1839, a second description, with a
figure, under the name of HELIX. Vancouvertnsis,
was ` published by Mr. Lea, from large indiyiduals
brought from Oregon Territory, on the supposition
that they belonged to a new species. After careful
examination, I am not able to. perceive any differ-
ence between the two except that of size. The
specific character on which Mr. Lea relies, Viz. the
“ remarkable ” depression of the upper part of the
lip, and the callus uniting the upper and lower tet
minations of the lip, are common in specimens. of
Hex cóncava. froni various parts of the United
States. Of ave "aside d iie |
me, taken without selection from a
three have the depression of the upper
lip, and all have the callus. therefore.
Mr. Lea's species to be identical with HELIx cóncav p
of Say. e on
21. HELIX PULCHELLA.
Plate IX. fig. 2.
; testà minut, orbiculato-depressà, umbilicatà, alba ; anfractibus |
quatuor; apertura circulari ; labro crasso, albo, margine reflexo.
i "ue AND REFERENCES.
Helix as Miller. Verm. Hist., No. 232, p.
ea Hist. &c., p. 112. aPE VIL,
figs. 30, 34.
Lamarck. | Anim. sans Vert., 9d edit., VL
76.
Férussac. Hist. des Moll., No. 173.
Helix pit Montagu. Test. Brit., No. 48, p.
Helix Mii Say. Journ. A. N. S. ‘Philad., L 123.
DESCRIPTION.
Animal. Whitish, semi-transparent.
Shell. Depressed, slightly. convex above, thin,
and transparent ; epidermis colorless ; whorls four,
very minutely striated, the last spreading at the
mouth like a trumpet; aperture orbicular, a little
dilated ; ip much thickened, white, reflected, mak-
oe, 2
5
thought by
— a
376 Binney’s Monograph of the Helices
ing nearly a continuous circle ; umbilicus large,
| eitis: all the volutions.
Extreme transverse diameter one tenth of an inch.
—GzosenaPHicanL Disrrisurion. Inhabits Vermont
and Massachusetts, is rather common in the neigh-
bourhood of Boston. It has also been noticed in
Ohio, and on the banks of the Missouri River as high
as Council Bluffs...
Remarks. This shell, described by Mr. Say as
Hzrix minita, is undoubtedly identical with HELIX .
pulchélla, Miuier ; for, although it is never supplied .
with raised striæ or parallel ribs on the outer whorl,
as is sometimes the case with that species, yet it
agrees with it precisely in all other particulars ; and
it is be observed, that this character. is by. ne
means constant in the foreign shell. Though very
minute, it is a beautiful species, and its form, which
is seen to most advantage by the aid of a magnifying
glass, resembles very much that of CycLosroma vól-
vulus. It is commonly found under stones.
Europe, but 1 am of opinion that it is a native
species. It does not seem possible, that so small an
animal, if naturalized near the sea-shore since the
arrival of Europeans, should have been able to pene-
trate to the remote points in the interior of the con-
tinent where it is now found. TR
inhabiting the United Sta
**** Aperture toothed.
$
. 92. HELIX PROFUNDA.
Plate xy,
H. testa orbiculato-depressa, latè umbilicata, luteo-cornea, lineis
fuscis cinctà ; anfractibus tenuiter striatis, striis confertis Messi
apertura orbiculari ; labro albo, ad basim sub-unidentato; margine r
flexo.
Synonyms AND REFERENCES.
Helix profünda, Say. . Journ. A. N. S. Philad., H.
s mM icc a
Say. American li a No. £ PL.
: '. XXXVII, fig. 3.
Helix Richàrdi, Lamarck. Anim. sans Vat, 2d
"edit, VILL. 40.
Férussac. Hist. des Moll. PI. vi, 3 lower —
figures
‘Deshayes. EL F Mith., Vers, II. 219.
gradu AR
Animal. Light biown, darker on the head, ied,
and tentacule,; and. pale on the posterior extremity ;
foot rather thick, in length less than twice the
diameter of the shell, terminating acutely.
Shell. Depressed, slightly convex; epidermis
yellowish horn-color, with reddish-brown revolving
lines and bands; whorls from five to six, obliquely
striated with delicate raised stri? ; suture distinct ;
aperture almost circular, a little contracted by the
lip; lip white, reflected, and flattened, with a slightly
VOL. III. — NO. III. 48
kn »
"s Monograph of the Helices
378
prominent callus or obtuse tooth on the inner edge
near the base; umbilicus rather large and profound,
exhibiting all the volutions to the apex; base convex, '
with the strie convergi
Greatest transverse
eighth, à
. GEoaRAPHICAL DisrRrBuTION. Inhabits the banks
of the Ohio, Mississippi, and Missouri rivers; has
been observed on the latter as high as Council Bluffs.
Found also in the western parts of Pennsylvania and
Virginia. : i
Remarks. This is one of our most remarkable
shells, by reason of its reddish-brown bands and
lines. There is usually one band on the upper side
of each whorl, wholly visible on the body-whorl and
partially concealed on the spire; while on the lower
part of the shell there are numerous fuscous lines.
‘In ‘some instances, the broad band is deficient;
others the lines, and occasionally the. rufous lea
extends over the whole shell, leaving only one or
two lighter lines. The superior and inferior ex-
tremities of the lip approach each other at their
_ junction with the body-whorl, leaving only a small
ó into the umbilicus. ——
ameter one inch.and one
E 2 u^
space of the whorl between them, and rendering the
‘aperture almost circular ; a thin whitish callus some-
times completes the union. I tooth is ve
in immature shells.
— Mr. Say’s “ description of this shell was 1s published
in the year 1821. Lamarck’s description of Hx
“Richardi did not appear until April, 1822, but he
‘quotes by anticipation Férussac, Hist. Nat. des Moll.,
Wo. 174; for the specific name, which, however, was
ù
s. "a i
e * 4 m
$
inhabiting the United -
not then published in shat work, but appeared in the
Tableau Systématique of that author, in the earlier
part of the same year. The name of profinda has
therefore the priority, nd. consequently must be
adopted." * P. |
23. HELIX SAYII. '
e ‘ *
Plate XVI.
H. testa orbiculato-depresst, tenui, luteo-corneà profunde umbili-
veni anfractibus tenuiter eiie striis ioc obliqui ; apertura ,
stè reflexo, ad i
otundatâ; labro albo, margine
m unid ; 5
kiah unico dente albo, exiguo, armata. :
BÉ 03 AND | Rorenentrs! be
Helix diodónta, Say. Repel St. Peers River,
= ‘IL. 257. PL. AE S
wee Sun Nobis. i
i
"P Éhishal Light admit: coitus smoky,
eyes black ; head and neck cylindrical, foot narrow,
terminating in an acute point; length about twice
the diameter of the shell.
Shell. Depressed, a little convex, thin; epide
light russet, shining ; whorls between five an
with numerous fine, oblique stri; aperture round d,
not dilated ; lip white, narrow, reflected, with a
slightly projecting tooth on the ` inner edge near the
umbilicus ; ; columella with, a sub-prominent white
tooth ; umbilicus open, deep, not wide, exhibiting
* Say, in * Asieniesd Conchology,” No. IV.
$
i: x : 1 E $ OM . i i
: * ës kid 2 w
380 Bones Monograph, of the Helices
all the volutions, slightly chtit by the reflected a
lip? base rounded, with, the strite; distinct, converg-.
ing into the umbilicus. ` x E ho *
Transverse diameter commonly less than one inc ; V
but there are specimens in the Philadelphia Mus LY
* from Mr. Hyde’s texan méasuring one inch and 2
three quarters. — — d
5 . *GEOGRAPHICAL Co — Inhabits all the Á
northern parts of the United States, from. Illinois to
Maine. Is rather common a the slopes of the Green ^
intains in Vermont. —
Remarks. "This - isa e species, with E
delicate, shining Ae ae It is. t likely to be fe '
taken for any other species excep i Ax profunda, = |
. Say, from which it is distinguished. by. its inferior
size and solidity, sits. narrow lip, and less circular
aperture, the absence of the brown lines arid ban
and the presence of the tooth on the pillar lip. It
varies in the greater or less depression of the spi
and is Sometimes destitute of the tooth on the. pillar
lip.
On the third abe of July, 1836, I discovered an
individual of this species in the act of laying its eggs
~in a damp place under alog. I transferred them,
the animal, to a tin box filled with wet moss.
"The eggs were not mue | more than half as large as
- those, of HeLIx albólabris, Sav; they were white,
adhering together very slightly” flaccid, and appar-
ently not | tirely filled with fluid. During the
A. succeeding n. t the number had increased to about
a “fifty, and in in a few hours they became full and dis-
tended. As the snail now began to devour the eggs
D IN LA " £ "
r be s
LS E a a A ol ? 4 ai "
d habiti £ the United States. i "m
& I was obliged to remove it. On the 29th of July a
_ the” eggs were d; ; the young snails had
` whorl et & half, the pes, AA was open, the en
| uenis were bluish-black, and the other parts
ti and” semi-transparent. They immediately:
an to feed, and made their first repast of the
pellicle of the eggs from which they had just
emerged. "They grew rapidly, and before the middle.
of October, when they went into winter quarters,
they had inereased their. bulk. four or five imes |
_ beyond its original measure LE
Mr. Say poured his.
U ‘TI. al r
ariii authors as applied kn species prm
Megerle. ‘It is necessary, therefore, to adopt a new-
ne. I propose that of Savr, in honor of Tomas
Say, the describer of the greater part of our land
shells. Í am aware that the use of proper names for
this il St has been só much ` abused, «that such an
known persons, to whom a ‘similar honor fas.
offered.
H
382 Binney's Monograph of the Helices
t
.24. HELIX TRIDEIMATA,
Plates XVII and XVIII.
H. testi depressi, profundé umbilicata, corneo- -rufescente ; anfrac-
tibus — striis distinctis, crebris, obliquis ; apertura conti
trilobatà labro albo, reflexo, dentibus duobus instructo ; columella
dente albo sub-arcuato arma ata.
E
x. Synonyms AND REFERENCES.
i
Helix tridentàta, Bay. Nich. Encyc., Am. Ed., IV.
3 Pi. ii , fiz. 1, very bad figure. `
Férussac. Hist. des Moll. Pl. vx, fig. 3.
Wood. Index Test. Sup. Pi. vu., fig. [^
Deshayes. Encyc. Méth., Vers; IL 213.
Lamarck. , Anim. sans Vert, 2d edit., "n
5.
Helix era Say. Journ. A. N. S. Philad., I. 119.
DESCRIPTIÓN. Ti 89 E
Animal. Dark. bluish slate-color, deeper on the
head, back, and tentacule ; length of superior ten-
tacule about.a quarter of an inch; foot narrow,
equal i in length to nearly twice the rni of the
ell, terminating in an acute angle.
^ Shell. Depressed, a little convex ; BA
russet-brown ; whorls four and a half to six, : crossed
obliquely by numerous acute, raised lines; aperture
trilobate, more or less contracted by a groove behind
-the lip ; lip white, reflected, its outer contour rounded,
_ furnished on its inner margin with two acute project
ing teeth ; pillar-lip with a white, projecting, slightly
inhabiting the United States. 383
curved tooth, placed obliquely in the aperture; um-
bilicus open, deep; base women strice converging
into the umbilicus.
Greatest transverse diameter three rem of an
inch ; common size less than half an inch.
Chiscii sea ‘Distrisution. — Inhabits all the
States. Common in forests in - interior, less fre-
quent near the sea-coast.
Remarks. "This common and well-marked shell
varies considerably in size. In the fertile sections
of the Western States it attains its largest diameter ; :
in Vermont it usually measures about. half an inch,
and on the sandy soil óf Florida only a fourth of an
inch in diameter. It varies also in the characters of
the lip and aperture. In specimens from the North-
eastern States the lip is usually narrow, but slightly
contracting the aperture, the teeth are but little
prominent, and the spire is flattened, comprising less
than five whorls. In those from the Western States
the lip is wider, the aperture more contracted, the
spire more prominent, and the whorls comprise more
than five volutions. But the most remarkable variety
is that which Say considered distinct enough to form
a séparate species, under the name of Herrx fallar.
In this, the spire is more elevated, and sometimes has
six full volutions. There is a deep groove behind the
lip contracting the aperture; the lip'is widely re-
flected and directed inwards, forming a basin-shaped
mouth ; the upper labial tooth is broader, ‘sometimes
bifid and even trifid, and very much inflected; the
columellar tooth extends quite to the base of the
shell, and unites with the extremity of the lip; the
384 Binney's Monograph of the Helices
aperture is nearly filled up by the teeth and the con-
traction of the lip. If this variety were to be seen
alone it would be adjudged to be a good species, and
is generally so considered. Having examined a
great number of every variety from numerous locali-
ties, I am convinced that they form but one species.
The animals do not differ in the least degree.
Hzuix fridentáta resembles Hexix palliata on its
Upper surface, as has been mentioned in the remarks
on that species, but differs from all others. The
situation in which I have most commonly found it
is under the layers cf wet and decaying leaves in
forests; it is also found under flat stones. I have
one specimen in which the direction of the whorls is
reversed. ^ T S ie. H
| The figure of Férussac referred. to represents à
very small shell, probably the southern . variety.
Lister’s figure, tab. 92, fig, 92, is. probably intended
for this shell. Plate XVII. of this work represents
the variety found.in the Western States ; plate X VIIL,
"fig. 1, that. from the Northeastern States ; fig. 2, the
small variety from Florida; fig. 3, the variety fallas
of Say. nih oki &
35. HELIX AURICULÁTA.
` Plate XIX. figs. 1,2.
H. testa depressá, subtus convexá, corneo-rufescente ; anfractibus
striatis, striis distinctis, crebris, elevatis ; apertura auriculatá, angus
tissima, contortuplicata, tingente, marginibus connexis; columellà
plicà reflexà in aperturam intrante; labro supra prominente, subtus.
ad basim appresso, interné bi-plicato ;, umbilico apertos © :
inhabiting the United. States. 385
Synonyms AND REFERENCES.
Polygyra auriculàta, Say. Nich. Encyc, Am. ed.,
Vol. IV. Journ. A. N. S. Philad., Y. 277.
Polygyra avàra, Say. Nich. Encyc., Am. edit., IV.
Journ. A. N. Na Philad., Y. 277.
Helix avàra, Férussac. Hist. ti Moll. Pl Z5
s fig. 2.
Helix auriculàta, Férussac. Hist. des Moll. Pl.
L., figs. 3, 4.
Lamarck. Anim. sans Vert., 2d edit., VIII.
Helix Sayii, Wood. Index Test. Sup. PUUWEL
Mes prd. c sem
DESCRIPTION.
- Animal. Longer than the ith of the shell,
acute behind, above granulated and blackish, beneath
and each side white.* — :
Shell. Depressed, very slightly convex above,
below convex; epidermis brownish horn-color ;
whorls more than five, a little rounded, crossed by
numerous distinct, equidistant, oblique stris, the
upper part of the last whorl near the mouth is sud-
denly reflected from the preceding whorl and turned
outwards, having a sharp carina on its inner edge,
the lower part is slightly reflected, but attached;
lip projecting in the upper part, somewhat reflected
. in the middle, and appressed to the whorl and in-
* Say, in Nichol ^. T. 3 lia, Americ edition, Vol. IV.
VOL. IH, — NO. m. A9
386 ^ Binney's Monograph of the Helices
dented below ; pillar-lip emarginate, strongly re-
flected and pressed upwards into the aperture in an
acute angle; aperture ear-shaped, throat very nar-
row, with a lamellar fold or tooth within above, and
another more external below, with a deep suleus
between them; umbilicus open, carinated and
grooved on the last whorl, exhibiting nearly two
volutions.
Greatest transverse diameter more th half an
inch.
GEOGRAPHICAL DISTRIBUTION. ' dhiii Georgia
and Florida, common near St. Augustine and at
various places on St. John’s River.
Remarks. This is one of several curious species,
which were discovered by Mr. Say in Florida, and
of which he formed the genus Poryeyra, so called
from the numerous whorls of some of them. "The
animal does not appear to differ from that of Herr;
and, as mere peculiarities in the shell are not recog-
nised as sufficient for the subdivision of genera, his
distinction has not obtained. Mr. Say gives a sep-
arate measurement of males and females, from which
it would seem that: he considered the animals to be
unisexual, a distinction which, if correct, would .
effectually separate it from Hetix, the animal of
which, in every ¢ase, combines both sexes, in the
sarne individual. I have had occasion to notice con-
siderable numbers 'of the animal of Poryevna septem-
vólva, Sav, but have not observed any fact which
would tend to confirm such an opinion. On the
contrary, it has appeared to me, that they were
analogous in all respects to the animals of the genus
ELIX. R on !
inhabiting the United States. 387
This shell is peculiar for the complicated form of
its aperture, which bears:a considerable resemblance
to the human ear. In mature individuals the lip is
very much projected, the folds within the aperture
are prominent, and the aperture greatly contracted.
The laminated folds within are marked by corre-
sponding depressions externally, behind the reflection
of the lip. At different periods of growth the aper-
ture differs very much.in appearance, and has led
naturalists into error. When the lip is just begin-
ning. to be formed, and as yet projects but little,
there are two projecting teeth on its inner edge
with a deep sulcus between dent; as these con-
appearance of lamellar folds, the lower one of which,
when viewed on a line perpendicular. to the base of
the shell, hides the other. 'The columellar fold, at
the same early period, appears more like an inde-
pendent tooth, to each extremity of which the lip is
connected. It is this variety which Mr. Say de-
scribed as a distinet species, under the name of Porx-
eyra avira. This opinion [I derive not so much
from his descriptions as from the examination of
original specimens, collected and labelled by him,
now in my possession. I also consider Hetax Fera-
siàna, Monicawp, (Mém: de la Soc. de Physique
et d' Hist. Nat. de Genève, VI. 538. Plow, fig. 2,)
to represent this shell. The specific. description of
this author would apply to several of our tridentate
Species, but the engraved figure represents: very
exactly a variety of this species with an immature
aperture. M. Férussac referred H. Texasiana to
388 Binney's Monograph of the Helices
the next species.* Plate XIX., fig. 1, represents
the mature shell; fig. 2, the young shell descHibed
by Say, as P. avara.
26. HELIX FATIGIATA.
. Plate XIX. fig. 3.
H. testa sub-planulatà, umbilicatà, Iuteo-corneá ; anfractibus striatis,
striis distinctis, crebris, elevatis; aperturà sub-orbiculari, contracta ;
labro albo, reflexo, intus iden tats’; ; columella plicd sub-acutà in
medio aperture projectà. ;
SYNONYMS AND REFERENCES.
Polygyra plicàta, Say. Journ. A. N. S. | Philad,
IL 161. Nich. Encyc., Am. edit., Vol. IV.
Polygyra fatigiàta, Say. Disseminator of Useful
Knowledge, 1829.
Polygyra Dorfeuillana, Lea. Trans. Am. Phil Soc.
VI. 107. Pl. xxxv., fig. 118
Polygyra Troostiana, Lea. Toidem, VL 107. Ex l
xxiv., fig. 119.
DESCRIPTION.
Animal. Not hitherto noticed. -
Shell. Plane above or a little convex ; <; epidermis
light russet ; whorls more than five, with numerous
raised, ilidnes equidistant striae; aperture shaped
like a horseshoe; lip equally reflected, regularly
arcuated, describing two thirds of a circle, with @
depression behind its reflection ; within the aperture,
* Bulletin ARTENE 2d Seet., p. 85.
inhabiting the United States. 389
on the outer side of the whorl, are two prominent
white teeth, the lower near the base conical, the
upper more compressed and placed farther within ;
columella with an oblique tooth or fold projecting
toward the centre of the aperture, and connected by
slightly-raised curved lines of callus with the supe-
rior and inferior extremities of the lip; base of the
shell showing about one and a half volutions of the
spire.
Greatest transverse diameter more than one third
of an inch.
GEOGRAPHICAL DISTRIBUTION. Found hitherto in
Illinois, Ohio, Alabama, Kentucky, and Tennessee. *
Though not common, it seems to be a Wily apes
species.
Remarks. This peculiar and interesting shell has
been hitherto rare in collections, and is therefore but
little known. Some specimens are entirely flat on
the upper surface, in some the strie of the whorls
are distinct on the upper and lower surfaces, in others
only on the upper, leaving the lower surface smooth.
The outer whorl is occasionally carinated. 'The
aperture is usually shaped like a horseshoe. ‘The
teeth within the aperture might escape notice if not
looked for. ‘The columellar tooth varies consider-
ably, being in ‘some thin and oblique, connected by
‘delicate lines of callus at either extremity with the
lip, in others larger and more prominent, with the
space between the two lines of callus more or less
filled up with testaceous matter. This species was
first described by Mr. Say, as Potyeyra plicáfa. A
variety differing in some slight particulars, but found
^
AF
Og
890 Binney’s Monograph of the Helices
at a point very remote from the first, was described
by him as Poryeyra fatigiata. Recently, Mr. Lea
has enlarged its synonomy by the addition of two
new specific names. The distinctions on which the
latter has founded his species, in this instance, are
not, I think, sufficient for that purpose ; if admitted
to be valid, they would lead to an infinite multipli-
cation of .species, and burthen the descriptive part of
Natural History with a mass of matter beyond, the
compass of any mind.
Having in my possession original specimens of
Potyeyra plicàta labelled by Mr. Say, and having
" through the politeness of Mr. Lea had the opportu-
nity. of examining the specimens from which he
made his descriptions of Poryevna Dorfeuillàna and
Troostiàòna, the opinion which I derived from his
descriptions and figures has been confirmed, and I
cannot doubt the specific identity of the three.
There is, however, much difficulty in identifying
specimens of Mr. Say's Potyeyre ; they vary much
in size at maturity, and the younger shells differ from
the older in a remarkable manner in the character of
the aperture. There is a small shell figured by
Férussae, Hist. Nat. des Moll., pl x, fig. 1, 89
Porxevna pástula, Say. Its general characters agree
with the species under consideration, but the aper
ture is kidney-shaped, the lip reflected, ` thickened
internally, and. divided by a deep cleft or sinus. It
is distinctly umbilicated, and the lip extends to the
edge of the umbilicus. The duplicature . of the colu-
mella terminates in an acute angle, and is connected
with either termination of the lip. 'T'he only recent
*
ET
inhabiting the United States. 391
specimen which Į have seen is an imperfect one in
the cabinet of Mr. Lea. It is impossible to decide
from a single specimen, whether it be the young of
the present species, which is probable, or is entitled
to be considered a distinct species. The original
specific name plicata being preoccupied in this genus,
I have I Mr. T s second name, fatigiata.
27. HELIX SEPTEMVOLVA.
Plate XIX. fig. 4.
H. testa orbiculari, planulata, umbilicatà, corned ; anfractibus nu-
merosis, obliqué et acuté striatis; aperturá ab axe remotá, sub-orbicu- *
lari, marginibus connexis; columellà unilamellatà; labro albido,
margine reflexo. : |
| Synonyms axo Rrrrnrxcrs, |
Polygyra septemvólva, Say. Journ. A. N. S. Phil,
I. 278. Nich. Encyc., Am. edit., Vol. IV.
Helix septemvólva, Férussac. - Hist. Nat. des Moll.
Pl. 11., fig. 6.
Wood. Index Test. Sup. Pl. vu, fe. 14.
Deshayes. Encye. Méth., Vers, 11. 208. —
Helix planórbula, Lamarck. Anim. sans Vert., 2d
edit., Il. 67.
DESCRIPTION.
Wididat, Brownish, tentacule darker, eyes Black;
foot narrow, thin, semi-transparent, receiving its
color in some degree from the substance on which
it is placed ; —_ less than twice the "Wm of
the shell.
Los
392 Binney's Monograph of the Helices
_ Shell. Discoidal, sub-carinated; epidermis cor-
neous ; whorls from less than six to more than eight,
narrow, compressed; diminishing very gradually in
width from the aperture to the apex, with raised,
acute, tranverse lines, which are nearly obsolete on
the base; lips- continuous round the aperture ; outer
lip reflected, with a groove behind the reflection,
regularly rounded so as to describe two thirds of a
circle; pillar-lip with an acute fold, or tooth, pro-
jecting towards the aperture; base showing from
two to four volutions in the same plane, with a
moderaté umbilicus, extending to the apex.
Greatest transverse diameter nearly five eighths of
an inch, commonly much less.
GrocenaPHICAL Distrisutron. Inhabits Georgia,
Florida, and Alabama. Very common on the. sea.
islands. I noticed immense numbers of them on a
small island in St. Joseph's Bay, Florida, under the
decaying leaves of. the palm tree, in conpany with
a species of HELICINA.
Remarks. The compressed, discoidal shape of
this shell, and its numerous narrow whorls revolving
round their axis in the same. plane, seem to distin-
guish it from other species. It varies in being occa
sionally a little convex, more or less carinate, and in
exhibiting a greater or less number of full volutions
on the base. I have seen specimens of this shell,
which were said to be brought from one of the West
India islands. It is very probable that this, as well
as other species, is common both to the peninsula
of Florida and the nearest islands of the Gulf of
Mexico.
inhabiting the United. States. 393
83, HELIX LABYRINTHICA.
Plate XXVI. fig. 1.
H. testa minutissimá, sub-conicd, apice obtuso, corneo-lutescente ;
anfractibus striatis, striis distinctis, obliquis; labro incrassato, sub-
reflexo; umbilico minimo, impresso; columellà dente laminato in
aperturam intrante,
Synonyms AND REFERENCEs.
Helix labyrinthica, Say. Journ. A. N. S. Philad.,
I. 124. Nich. Encyc., Am. edit., IV. —
Férussac. Hist. des Moll. Pl. xx., B. fig. 1.
DESCRIPTION.
Animal. Not hitherto observed. |
. Shell. "Very minute, conic, apex obtuse ; epider-
mis brownish horn-color ; whorls six, with conspicu-
ous, elevated, obtuse, equidistant, oblique lines; lip
thickened, somewhat. reflected ; columella with a
long, lamelliform, raised line or tooth, which appears
to revolve within the shell parallel to the suture, and
sometimes a second, nearer to the base, less conspicu-
ous, and terminating farther within the aperture;
base flat; umbilicus small, impressed.
Greatest transverse diameter one tenth of an inch.
GzocRaPHICAL Distrisution.. Inhabits a wide
range of territory ; was noticed by Mr. Say in, Mis-
souri; is found in Vermont, and also in Massachu-
setts. :
Remarks. This species is of about the same size
as HELIX rupéstris, Draparnaup, of Europe. It is
very remarkable for the raised parallel lamine which
VOL. III. — NO. HI. <
394 _ Descriptions of two
revolve within the shell, terminating abruptly on the
columella. Usually but one of them is apparent.
When both are visible, their parallel and curved lines
bear some resemblance to the track of a railroad.
The oblique striæ on the whorls are very conspicu-
ous. It varies much in the height of the spire, some
specimens being very much flattened, others witha
pointed apex ; usually the spire is high and rounded
at the apex. . The aperture is moderate, not dilated,
and often delicately roseate. Found in forests in
the interstices of decaying logs, and under the E^
of wet and decomposing leaves.
(To be continued.)
ART. XII. — DESCRIPTIONS OF TWO NEW SPECIES OF
ANCULOTUS. By J. G. Aytuony. (Read December 18th, 1839.)
i
\
ANCULOTUS. CARINA' TUS.
Pl. UL fig. 5. Cabinets of J. G. Anthonys Mrs.
-. Say, and Dr. J. P. Kirtland.
- Shell oblong, spire as long as the aperture ; volu-
tions four, convex; suture not remarkable ; body-
‘whorl angularly ventricose, color olivaceous; from
two to five elevated black carine, commencing at
the upper part of the aperture, traverse the body-.
whorl ; aperture within bluish-white and translu-
cent, the carin? being very apparent through: it
Extreme length, inch. Extreme breadth, } inch.
— For this: beautiful species of Anculótus I ami
debted to Mrs. Say, who found it at the Falls of the
Kanawha a few weeks since, and kindly presented
me with specimens of it for description.
*
new Species of y ow 395
The spire in young specimens is nearly pointed,
but in the adult is truncated, presenting rarely more
than three whorls; in some specimens a black band
passes round each whorl near its upper edge. The
operculum is striated in oblique curves.
ANCULO TUS KinTLANDIA NUS.
Pl. II. fig. 4. Cabinets of J. G. Mun Mrs.
Say, and Dr. J. P. ween
Shell turreted, with four convex whorls; spire
truncated, the truncation generally destroying one
of the volutions ; the body-whorl slightly ventricose ;
color dark-olive ; aperture sub-ovate ; base attenu-
ated, within eiii and banded. Length
i inch. Breadth, 4 inch.
Another species which I owe to the Mone of
Mrs. Say. It is found in the same situations with
A. carinütus ; it resembles very much a Mevanta, the
spire being quite as much elevated as in most of the
species of that genus; the young are wah beauti- .
- banded.
ART. XIII. — MONOGRAPH OF THE SPECIES OF PUPA
FOUND IN THE UNITED STATES ; WITH FIGURES. By
. Aveusrus A. Govrp, M. D. (Read November 3d, 1840.)
Having recently become interested in the exami-
nation of the American species of the genus Pura,
I have found very great confusion and uncertainty
prevailing in regard to them. The objects them-
396 Monograph of the Species of
selves are minute and difficult to examine ; the num-
ber of teeth, which is one of the most important
specific characters, varies at. different stages of ma-
turity ; and, what is still more unfortunate, Mr. Say,
who gave names to all the species which have been
hitherto described, gave us no figures in illustration
of his descriptions. These are the sources of con-
fusion, and hence I have received, from our best
conchologists, a single species under four of the six
names that Mr. Say applied to his different species.
It would be well, if, in writing descriptions, the
teeth were arranged as primary and secondary, in-
dicating by the primary those teeth which are always
present when there are any, and by secondary those
which are superadded in the progress of growth, or
at maturity. Such a division would be applicable
in regard to almost every species..
I have collected every specimen of Pura which I
could find in the cabinets of Boston, and have re-
ceived numbers from Pennsylvania, Maryland, and
Ohio, and I have carefully examined every individual.
By means of a stationary microscope of moderate
power, and by employing a convex lens in such a way
as to bring the rays of the sun to a focus within the
aperture of the shell, I have been enabled to ob-
fain a fair view of the deeply seated teeth. `
I have made out some of Mr. Say’s species with
certainty, and have become satisfied with regard to
others in my possession, that they were unknown to
im. Two or three of his species I have not yet
seen, or have failed to identify them. —
It is hoped that the accompanying figures may
Pupa found in the United States. 397
put an end to furtlier doubts as to the species which
they represent; and, by the aid of conchological
friends, I may hereafter be enabled to present figures
of the remaining un-illustrated species. I would es-
pecially request of those who have species not here
described, that they would favor me with the loan of
them, or send me descriptions or figures of them.
PUPA CORTICARIA.
Plate III. fig. 19. :
P. test, albidà, sub-cylindraced, obtusa ; anfractibus quinque ;
aperturà sub-orbiculari; labio dente unico prope angulum externum,
sub-dentato ad angulum internum ; labro reyoluto.
* Odostómia corticaria. Shell dextral, cylindrical,
obtuse at the apex; whorls five, nor perceptibly
wrinkled or striate. Aperture sub-orbicular, lip re-
flected; a single tooth on the pillar lip, near the
outer angle ; inner angle with ah angular projection
resembling a second tooth, sometimes Obsolete. .
“ Length about a tenth of an inch.
* Very common under the bark of trees near ‘the
earth, and resembles Turbo muscoérum of authors."
(Say, in Nicholson's Encyclop. v ed.), article
Conchology, pl. 1v., fig. 5.)
The shell, ‘tien fresh, is tritisjeréfii; and of. a
spermaceti-color; but it is usually found opaque
and chalky. All the specimens I have seen were
from Ohio. Mr. Earle, however, in his “Catalogue
of Massachusetts Land Shells,” enumerates this as a
native. The shell, which has hitherto borne this
name in the Society’s Cabinet, is Pura contracta.
398 . Monograph of the Species of
Mr. Say compares it with T. enuscórum, of Monta-
gu, not Linnzus, (P. wmbilicata, Drav.), to which it
does not bear a very strong resemblance. . He states -
it.to be very common under the bark of trees; but
it certainly is very rare in collections.
[
PUPA EXIGUA.
Plate III. fig. 20.
P. testa minutissimá, albida, oblongo- ovata, sub-acuminatà; an-
fractibus quinque convexis ; labio per-obliquo, prope MOM inter-
m dentato ; columellà sab dentatà ; labro revoluto
fs * Shell dsectenls tapari oblong, | with ‘minute
grooved lines; apex obtuse; whorls five; suture
deeply impressed ; labium bolone ti superior tooth
situate rather beneath the -middle of the lip, inferior
tooth small, placed on the columella ; labrum mpi
reflected, not flattened; umbilicus distinct.
“Length more than one twentieth of an inch.
“This is the smallest species I have seen.. Its apet-
ture resembles that of P..(Cary’chium) corticaria; but
the superior tooth of the labium of that shell is
situate much nearer to the: superior termination of
the labrum than the corresponding tooth, of, iat
diminutive species. It is probably a Cary carom.”
(Sax. Journ. Acad. Nat. Sc., Ml. 375.)
: Mr. Say found it near Philadelphia. Professor Adams
has obtained it near Middlebury, Vt., and it has been
collected in various regions in Ohio, by Dr. 1
Dr, Ward,- and Mr. J.-G. Anthony. A few speci-
mens have been found under moist boards in Cam-
bridge.
Pupa found in the United States. 399
It is remarkable for its minuteness, its tapering
form, and its very oblique, oval aperture: The simi-
larity between it and the “Turbo cary'chiwm, of Mon-
tagu (Test. Brit. 339. Suppl. pl. xxn., fig. 2.), which
is the Cary'chium minimum of Leach and Pfeiffer, is
almost perfect.
I
PUPA CONTRACTA.
Plate III. fig. 22.
P. testå alba, ventricoså, -obtash ; ; anfractibus quinque convexis ;
aperturà sub- triangulari, expansa ; labio ! dente magno excavato; labro
revoluto, sinuato ; dente altero in faucibus profundo,
* Shell dextral, short, subovate, white; apex ob-
tuse ; whorls five ; umbilicus distinct ; aperture irreg-
ularly orbicular, complete, thé lamina of the labium
being elevated above the surface of the preceding
whorl, and joining the extremities of the labia ; la-
bium with a large, elongated, prominent tooth, which
. is concave on the side towards the labrum ; labrum
bidentate; a large tooth or fold far within the throat,
caused by the fold of the umbilicus ; throat much
contracted by the large tooth " the labrum into the
form of a horseshoe.
. ** Total length less than one tenth of an i iehi
- “This is a short, wide species, sufficiently distinet
from others, and readily distinguished by the lamina
of the labrum being much elevated, and by the mag-
nitude of thé tooth of the labium. This species
probably belongs to the genus Carycuium.” (Say.
Journ. Acad. Nat. Se., VI. 374.)
Mr. Say found it in Virginia. It has since btéfod
400 Monograph of the Species of »
ME
to be a wide-spread species, and has been found in
all the northern range of States, wherever it has
been sought for. When fresh, it seems to be invested
with a glutinous pubescence, by which particles of
earth become entangled and partially conceal it.
PUPA ARMIFERA.
Plate III. fig. 10.
P. testà grised, cylindraceA, obtusd; anfractibus sex planulatis;
aperturà semiovali, dentibus quinque acm quorum unus meer
natus labio, unus ad columellam affixu
* Shell dextral, oblong-oval or somewhat mes
fusiform ; suture distinct; whorls six, obsoletely
wrinkled ; aperture longitudinally sub-ovate; exte-
rior lip reflected, but not flattened, interrupted above
by the penultimate whorl, and with five teeth, of
which the superior one and that which precedes the
basal one are smallest; labrum with an undulated
lamelliform tooth, its anterior extremity little ele-
vated, but elongated, so as almost.to join the superior
extremity. of the exterior lip.
" Length three twentieths of an inch.
“ Very distinct from P. corticária;in being a much
larger and proportionally more dilated shell, and,
with that species, seems to belong more properly to
the genus Cary'cuium of Müller and Férussac.” (Sax.
Journ. Acad. Nat. Sc., II. 162.)
Mr. Say found it in upper. Missouri. E" is very
abundant in Ohio, but I have not heard of any speci-
mens found on this side of the Alleghanies.
He notices, that sometimes one and sometimes the
e Pupa found in the United States. 401
two smallest teeth are wanting. Indeed I have found
only one specimen in which the little basal tooth is
present ; while there is very frequently an additional
tooth on the outer lip, posterior to the others. If we
except P. placida, a somewhat doubtful species, it is
the largest Pupa of the' United States, and.is not
likely to be confounded with any other.
PUPA PRÓCERA.
Plate IIL fig. 12.
P. testa cylindraceà, elongata, apice obtus&; anfractibus sex, con-
vexis, obliqué striatis ; apertura semi-ovali, dentibus sex armata, quo-
rum posterior emarginatus.
Shell elongated, ovate-cylindrical, obtuse at apex,
of a brownish horn-color; whorls six, convex, the
three anterior ones of nearly equal diameter, and the
three posterior ones forming a very obtuse apex ;
suture deep; aperture semi-oval, rather longer than
broad ; lip brown, somewhat incumbent at the middle
of the right side, unequally reflected, not flattened;
and curving at an abrupt angle before it joins the
preceding whorl; throat armed with five teeth ; one
on the middle of the transverse lip is compressed,
stretehing towards the junction of the outer lip, and
emarginate at the middle, sometimes even bicuspid ; a
conical one on the pillar a little below its junction
with the transverse lip, and sometimes there is a
small denticle at the base of this ; a smaller one at
the'anterior termination of the pillar; a small one,
often wanting or inconspicuous without a large mag-
nifier, about the middle of the outer lip; and the
VOL. III. — NO. II, 51
402 Monograph of the Species of
fifth, broad and considerably elevated, seen at the
very depth of the cavity of the aperture as we look
down into it, opposite to the tooth of the transverse
lip; umbilicus small and open.
Length y i, of an inch; breadth 1, of an inch.
"This very distinct species was sent to me by Pro-
fessor E. Foreman, of Baltimore, who seems to have
found it plentifully. It comes nearer to P. rupicola,
than to any of Mr. Say’s species.
PUPA MILIUM.
Plate III. fig. 23.
P. testà minutissimà, ovali, castaneà ; anfractibus quatuor convexis,
obliqué statis; apertura cordati, dentibus sex, compressis armata,
quorum duobus labio affixis.
. Shell minute, of a E a form, color 2
light-chestnut ; whorls four or somewhat more, ob-
viously wrinkled obliquely, rather convex; apex
bluntly rounded; suture deep; aperture half the
width of the last wha heart-shaped, the apex being
at the right posterior angle; the transverse margin is
nearly direct ; the outer lip is scolloped by an inden-
tation of the lip; the remainder of the margin is
regularly arcuated ; lip white, slightly everted ; throat
with six teeth, two of which are on the transverse
lip, equidistant ; one, with a tubercle at its base; is
on the middle of the columella, and nearly at right
angles with the preceding, and is the largest ; à fourth
is on the indenture of the outer lip, directed between
the two on the transverse lip; and two smaller ones
more retired within the shell, are equidistant between.
Pupa found in the United States. A03
the two last-mentioned ; umbilicus large and deep.
Length less than ṣẹ of an inch; breadth J, of an
inch. (^7 FAO 1 1
This is the most minute species I have yet seen ;
even more so than P. ertgwa. In size and outline
it may be compared with P. vértigo, Drar., ( Vértigo
pusilla of other authors) of Europe; but that isa
reversed shell. The teeth are all distinct, long, com-
pressed, and very sharp. I first discovered it at Oak
- Island, Chelsea, on a warm, damp day, jin November,
1839, crawling upon fallen leaves, in company with
Bulimus libricus. Professor Adams has since found
itin Vermont. It, doubtless, has a wide range, but
its minuteness renders it difficult to be detected. —
. PUPA SIMPLEX.
"© plate III. fig. 91.
P. testa minima, cylindraceá, obtusà, levi ; anfractibus sex, sub-
planulatis; aperturá orbiculari, edentula.
Shell minute, the two anterior thirds cylindrical,
surmounted by a rapidly formed, blunt apex; light
~ chestnut-colored. Whorls five, moderately convex,
separated by a well-impressed suture, quite smooth ;
aperture circular, excepting a slight encroachment
by the preceding whorl ; lip simple, sharp, slightly
everted on the left side, and partially hiding a small
umbilicus. No trace of a tooth has been detected.
Length ~, of an inch ; breadth +; of an inch.
The only locality where this has been found is
a small grove, a little northward of Fresh Pond, in
Cambridge. In this place numerous specimens have
404 Monograph on Pupa.
been found by myself and others, at every season
from May to November. They live amòng the de-
caying leaves, in company with Hxrix lineata, laby-
rinthica, chérsina, and indentàta. Having been
gathered in spring and autumn, we may safely sup-
pose some of them to have been adult ; yet none of
them exhibit any trace of a tooth. Its cireulàr aper-
ture readily distinguishes it from all our other species.
It is nearly identical, however, with P. edéntula,
Drar. gii nitida, F ÉRus. s)
PUPA BADIA.
Pupa bidia, Avams, p. 331, pl. IIL,. fig. 18, is-
almost precisely like P. marginata, Drap., BRARD.,
&c., the P. muscorum, Lam.. It belongs to the
genus Pu»rinrs, Leach. See Turton's Manual (ah 8
edit.), 196., pl. vır., fig. 79.
(To be continued.)
1
:
BOSTON
JOURNAL OF NATURAL HISTORY.
Vor. m NON BMBSE. 1840. Xat
ART. I. "T. MONOGRAPH. OF THE HELICES INHABIT-
ING THE UNITED ition By Amos Buvsex, M. D. (Con-
unuta froin 2 —
serio TI. ir SIMPLE:
€. — chased, or earl ns:
29. HELIX INTERNA.
Plate XXI. fig. 1.
H. testi convexo-depressi, imperforati, rufi; anfractibus oeto,
valde. striatis, striis elevatis, crebris, obliquis; aperturá transversali,
angustà ; labro simpliei, acuto, intus incrassato et bidentato; dentibus
sani; basi levigato; regione umbilicali impresså.
* The presence or absence of an umbilical opening is much less to
be depended on, as a distinctive character for the subdivision of this
genus, than: I pet it to be when I adopted it in the introdue-
VOL. IJI. — NO. IV. ‘ ss
406 Binney’s Monograph of the Helices
Synonyms AND REFERENCES.
Helix intérna, Say. Journ. A. N. S. Philad,
IL 155
Helix Pomum-Adami, DEN Cabinet of Natural
History.
DESCRIPTION.
Animal. Not hitherto observed. '
Shell. Depressed, slightly convex; epidermis
reddish-brown, shining ; whorls eight, with regular,
equidistant, elevated, oblique stri, separated by dis-
tinct grooves; suture deeply: impressed ; aperture
flattened, transverse, narrow ; lip thin,’ acute, thick-
ened internally ; within the aperture, on the outer
lip somewhat distant from the margin, are two
prominent, lamelliform, white teeth; base smooth,
polished ; umbilical region indented.
Greatest transverse diameter one fourth of an inch.
GeocrapuicaL Disrrisution. Inhabits ‘Ohio,
Missouri, and the western parts of Pennsylvania and
Virginia. It will probably be found in all the
Western States.
Remarks. This is a beautiful as + well as à a very
distinct species. Its uniform shining teddish brown
color is peculiar to it. Its numerous narrow whorls
increasing almost Wipereptibly. in width. from the
found a a I slicahd adopt the presence or absence. of teeth
ure. 1 include in this section those species in whieh the
umbilicus is wholly or nearly obsolete in its most mature and perfect
. state, although in a younger stage of growth it may be well n
inhabiting the United States. 407
apex outward, with their very prominent elevated
strie of increase, give it a considerable resemblance
on the upper surface to the Poryevnx of Say, but on
the base the similarity ceases. The aperture in-
cluding the teeth is very much like that of Hrix
gularis, Say, but is smaller in proportion to the size
of the shell, and the teeth are shorter and less lam-
ellar, while they are equally prominent. 'The
oblique striz, so distinct on the upper surface, cease
entirely at an obtuse carina on the upper part of the
outer whorl, leaving the base smooth. The base is
rather lighter in color than the upper surface, and is
indented in the centre. The umbilicus is nearly or
quite obsolete. The edge of the lip is brown. The
whole surface sometimes, and the base often, reflects
a metallic lustre.
The teeth within the. à pérpire are in general
formed of a single lamina or fold, but sometimes one
or both of them are bifid or even trifid. In some
specimens, I have observed a second pair of teeth,
throtigh the base of the shell, at the distance of three
fourths of a volution ` from the aperture, with indis-
tinct marks of a third set yet further removed.
These internal teeth (in this and in other species)
undoubtedly mark certain periods of increase. ‘The
growth seems to go on actively for a time by the
addition of new testaceous matter, indicated by the
oblique stri», and then alternates with a’ season of
repose, when thé teeth and aperture are formed and
used. It is quite likely that these periods are annual.
The teeth appear never to be entirely absorbed and
removed, although the aperture near which they
408 Binmeg'n Monograph Ren elices
were originally race is often. advanced very far
een them. »
i Mit .. 80. HELIX GULARIS. .
Plate XI. fig. 1.
H. testi convexd, sub-eleyatà, nitidà, imperforata, luteo-corneà ;
anfractibus septem, minut? striatis ; NC simplici, acuto, intus in-
erassato; apertura transversali, Bree duobus lamellatis interné
armata ; basi plano.
SYNONYMS AND REFERENCES. *
Helix gulàris, Say. Journ, Ay. Na Philad.,
II. 156.
- DESCRIPTION.
Animal.. Not hitherto noticed.
Shell. Sub-conical ; epidermis shining, pale yi
lowish horn-color; spire tending to a point; whorls
seven, very minute at the apex, increasing in diameter
sieis and gradually until they reach the aperture,
with very fine oblique striæ ; suture impressed and
distinct; aperture transverse, not much expanded;
lip simple, thin at its edge, within thickened ; base
flat, indented in the centre, near the aperture yellow-
ish-white and opake ; umbilicus small and rounded
in young shells, obsolete or diminished to a mere
perforation in older ones; within the aperture on the
outer lip are two lucis. elongated, nearly parallel
teeth, one near the base, the other more central.
Greatest transverse diameter. more than one fodit
of an inch.
GEOGRAPHICAL Disrumeriov. Inhabits Pennsyl-
vania, "--— irginlk; North olina, and Ala-
bama. It is said by Mr: Say to be found in Ohio.
Remarks. The identification of this and the next
described species has long been a desideratum, Speci-
mens of a small shell, with a small and rounded but
profound umbilicus, and with two internal teeth,
exist in almost every cabinet. In some particulars
they. resemble Heu gulàris, Say, i in others HELIX
suppréssa, Sax, and, as the resemblance preponderates
in fayor of one or the other, they are known by one
or the other name. They do not, however, agree
entirely with Mr. Say’s description of either, and
hence some conchologists have supposed that he
described from varieties only; but I have recently
examined a shell from Alabama, belonging to the
cabinet of Mr. Lea, which corresponds perfectly with
the description. It is much larger than the common `
specimens, being one fourth of an inch in diameter,
and differs. from. them in having the umbilicus en-
tirely closed. It has seven full whorls, which are
beautifully fine and distinct to the very nucleus,
"which is uncommonly small. I consider the umbili-
cated shells to be immature, or'not fully developed,
though an examination of a larger nümber may show
that the full grown shell is also umbilicated.
The present species resembles HeL1x suppréssa,
which is next described, for which it may be mis-
taken. It is distinguished from it by the following
differences. 1t has one more whorl; the spire is
more conieal; the nucleus of the shell is much
smaller, so that the first two whorls are finer and
more delicate; the base is not so convex, and there
are two teeth in the aperture.
g the United. E 409 .
*
410 Binney's Monograph of the Helices
It is the totality a the characters which make up
the species, for individuals differ considerably in the
height of the spire, the size of the umbilicus, and in
the degree of prominence of the teeth. One x is
occasionally wanting.
The deposition. of testaceous matter, ees
the shell at its aperture, occupies about one fourth of
the base through which it is seen. The character
of the lamellar folds within the aperture resembles
those of Hexix epístylum, Murter, in which species
they are large and prominent, although bese over-
looked in the —
31. HELIX SUPPRESSA.
Plate XI. fig: 3.
H. testa convexà sub- -depressá, mu ideae nitidà, luteo-cor-
neà; anfractibus sex, numerosé et minuté stri ; labro simplici,
dio, intus incrassato ; apertura transversàli, vea unico —
armata. j
SYNONYMS AND REFERENCES..
Helix suppréssa, Say. Disseminator of Useful
sss nie nd New fete oer Til. 1829.
Descnrezros.
dnd Not hitherto Goal. ;
Shell. Convex, depressed, pellucid ; -epidermis
polished, yellowish horn-color ; spire. flat; ‘whorls
six, with crowded minute obliquo strie ; suture im-
pressed, distinct ; aperture transverse, not expanded ;
v £y
inhabiting the United State. Wi
lip simple, thin at its edge, ` ened within ; base
. rather convex, near the aperture opake, yellowish
white ; umbilicus small, but rounded and distinct in
young shells, obsolete or hardly apparent in older
ones ; within the aperture on the outer lip is a single
lamelliform, elongated, oblique tooth.
Greatest transverse diameter nearly one fourth of
an inch.
GEOGRAPHICAL Fatri Inhabits Ohio and
Pennsylvania, and without doubt may be found in
other States.
Remarks. This shell does not correspond ex-
actly with Say’s description, but I think it is the
same that he described under the same name. Hav-
ing received from Dr. Ward, of Roscoe, Ohio, a suite
of them of different sizes, I notice that the *umbili-
cus small, orbicular, profound,” of Say, exists only
in young specimens, it being closed in the elder.
The indentation of the umbilical region is not nf
nt to me.
It resembles very much the preceding species, Es
has one whorl less, is more depressed, and its base is
more convex. The tooth in the aperture is some-
times so little prominent as to be hardly visible.
The strie of growth are fine and crowded, and seem
to be more nearly at right angles with the suture
than is usual in other species.
E] e $
"UR LE 3
4 9
p
T
412 Binney’s Monograph of the Helices
32. HELIX LIGERA.
Plate XX. fig. 1.
H. testà su b-globosa, perforata, nitidà, cornea ; anfractib us septem,
obliqué striatis; apertura lunato-rotundatá ; labro simplici, acuto; basi
prope — ram albo, interné incrassato.
- SYNONYMS AND REFERENCES.
Helix ligèra; Say. Journ. A. N. S. Philad., IL. 157.
Helix Rafinésquea, Férussac. Hist. Nat. des Moll,
Flin XA AME PRR e
Helix Wardiana,? Lea. Trans. Am. Phil. Soc.,
= N.S, VL 67. Pl. xxm. figs [
DESCRIPTION.
idikas ‘Uniform blackish intente over the
whole upper surface, paler on the posterior extremity
and base ; collar grayish-white ; foot narrow; exceed-
ing in length twice the tranverse diameter £i the
shell.
Shell. Sub-globose, epidermis veiam horn-
color, shining ;. whorls seven, finely and thickly -
striated transversely ; suture not much impressed ;
aperture semilunate, rounded ; lip thin, acute ; base
and side of the outer whorl. within the «aperture
thickened, and white ;.wmbilicus very minute, nearly
closed ; umbilical region impressed.
Greate transverse diameter five eighths of an
inch, usually much less.
,QEOGRAPHICAL DISTRIBUTION. Inhabits all the
Western States, where it is commi has been
noticed also in the Sortie T
_ inhabiting the United States. 413
Remarks. This species varies in the greater or
less prominence of the spire, which sometimes is
considerably depressed, and at other times rises into
a sub-conical shape. The apex is, however, always
obtuse, so that the young shells might be supposed
to belong to another species, so different are they
in shape from the mature shell. When fully grown,
there are seven whorls complete, but usually the
number does not: much exceed six. The epidermis
is commonly shining, and the oblique stri: are nu-
merous and distinct. The young shells are pellucid.
The base of the shell within the aperture is thick-
ened with a very white callus, which is seen from
without. ‘The umbilicus is very small, and some-
times quite closed. The lip, at its junction with the
base of the shell is slightly.reflected. Herıx War-
diàna of Lea, is undoubtedly the young of this species.
The distinction in the animal, noticed by Dr. Ward,
was afterwards ascertained by him not to exist.
Mr. Say’s name should be retained for this shell,
as his description was published several months
before Férussac’s name appeared, and several years
in advance of his figure. No other description than
Say’s has hitherto been published.
33. HELIX INTERTEXTA.
Plate XX. fig. 2.
s. sub-pyramidata, perforata, corned; anfractibus striatis,
atriis AEA tissimis impressis, volventibus, intertextis
anfra timo z albida, rufo-marginatá, cincto ; uw
pli intus incrassato. -
A14 — Binney’s Monograph of the Helices
Synonyms AND REFERENCES.
Helix intertéxta, Nobis.
DESCRIPTION.
Animal. Not hitherto observed.
Shell. Sub-pyramidal; epidermis yellari horn-
eolor; whorls six to seven, with numerous fine,
oblique striæ, and very minute spiral strize, intersect-
ing each other; outer whorl with a narrow, light-
colored band, and an ill-defined brownish band below
it; aperture. rounded, a little transverse ; lip thin,
somewhat thickened within by a deposition of testa-
ceous matter, slightly reflected at its junction with
the ‘base of the shell; wmbilicus small, sometimes
nearly obsolete; base whiter than the upper surface.
Greatest transverse diameter about three fourths of
an inch.
GEOGRAPHICAL DISTRIBUTION. It inhabits North
Carolina. I have seen numerous specimens from
Cabarrus County. It is also found in Ohio and
Pennsylvania. — . ; ;
Remarks. This ‘shell resembles some varieties of
Hzrix ligéra so nearly, that I hesitated some time
before I considered it distinct. The spire is less
high in a shell of the same size, has a smaller num-
ber of whorls, and is more pyramidal in shape, than
in that species. The diameter, in full-grown speci-
mens, is greater, and the base is flatter. ‘The epider-
mis is darker and less shining, the shell is thicker and
less pellucid, the deposit of testaceous matter within
*
|; $
has
inhabiting the United States. 415
the aperture is less. 'The size of the umbilicus and
the shape of the aperture are the same in both. But
the principal distinction consists in the spiral lines
which revolve on the whorl, intersecting the strie of
growth, but so minute as hardly to be perceptible to
the naked eye. The whitish, narrow band, shaded
below, with rufous apparent on the outer, and some-
times on the second whorl, generally aids in identify-
ing it, though it is sometimes wanting. Young
specimens are much more depressed than those of
H. ligéra, and are sometimes distinctly carinated.
The depression of the umbilical region is not so
evident in pee as in the ponding —
` $4, HELIX INDENTATA.
Plate. XXII, fig. 3.
H. testa depress convexiusculà, imperforata, tenuissimá, diaphand,
nitida ; ultimo anfractu lineis i impressis, distantibus, radiatis ornato ;
aj transversá ; labro simplici, acuto; basi indentato.-
Synonyms AND REFERENCES.
Helix indentata, Say. Journ. A, N. S. Philad.,
IL. 372
DESCRIPTION.
Animal. Bluish black upon the upper parts ;
margin and posterior extremity lighter.
Shell. Flattened, thin, pellueid ; epidermis high-
ly polished, corneous ; whorls rather more than four,
with regular, sub-equidistant, radiating, im
lines, which on the body-whorl extend to the base,
outer whorl expanding towards the aperture; aper-
=
h. s
A
aut
416 Binney's Monograph of the Helices
à ture rather large, transverse ; lip simple, very thin,
atits inferior extremity terminating at the centre of
the base of the shell; umbilicus none, but theu um-
bilieal region is Pond.
Greatest transverse diameter more than one ‘fit
of an inch. “tee
Gerocraruican. Disrrisution. —Inhabits. Massas
chusetts, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and bias an
is probably a wide-spread species.
Remarks. This shell is found in the same situa-
tions as Hexix arborea, Sax, and resembles it very
much, particularly on its upper surface. It may, be
distinguished from it by the outer whorl, which is
more spread towards the aperture, by the impressed
radiating lines, and by the want of an open umbili-
cus. The whorls in this species usually revolve in
such a manner as to leave no opening between them,
but there is an occasional specimen with a well-
formed umbilicus. ix ‘
€
35. HELIX CHERSINA. -
Plate XXVI. fig. 3.
H. testà minimA, sub-conicà, tenuissimá, pellucida, imperforatà ;
aperturá transversà; labro simplici, acuto; basi convexo. |
SYNONYMS AND REFERENCES.
«A chérsina, Say.. Journ. A. N. S. Philad., 1.
156. Exped. St. Peter’s River, Ul. 258-
DESCRIPTION.
Animal. : Not observed.
Nm... |
inhabiting the United States. 417
Shell. Minute, sub-conical, thin, pellucid; epi-
dermis smooth, shining, amber-colored ; whorls five ;
suture distinct; aperture transverse; lip ‘simple,
acute ; base convex. i
| Transverse diameter one tenth of an inch.
GrocrarHicaL Disrriutioy. Inhabits the sea- `
islands | of Georgia, the hill-sides of Vermont, the
western Territory, and the shores of Fresh
Pond near Boston.
Remarks. The above-named localities prove this
to be a widely-spread species. Its diminutive size
has probably prevented its.being observed in other
places. It offers but few varieties, and is easily
distinguished by its conical form, and thin, amber-
colored, transparent ‘shell: Sometimes the outer
whorl.is slightly carinated. It is found under, and
in the interstices of, wet decaying wood, wie —
— ar — leaves in the forests.
E HELI FULIGINOSA.
| Plate XXIV. ti
“HL testà orbicolato-depressá, umbilicatá, rufo-corneà ; anfractibus
levigatis, nitentibus ; aperturà expansá, sub-orbiculari ; umbilico pró-
fundo ; labro simplici, tenui, acuto.
Synonyms AND REFERENCES.
Helix baliginsies, Griffith, ined.
Helix lucubrata, Say. New iren Diboni»
nator. 1829.
Helix levigàta, Férussac, Hist. des Moll. PL.
LXXxIL, fig. 6, YI
418 Binney's Monograph of the Helices
DESCRIPTION.
Animal. Slate-color, rather darker on the head
and neck ; foot narrow, terminating acutely.
Shell. Depressed on the upper surface ; epidermis
dark, approaching to chestnut-color, shining and
smooth, with very minute, irregular, oblique striz
beneath it; whorls rather more than four, the last
very voluminous, and expanding transversely towards
the aperture ; suture very little impressed ; aperture
ample, sub-circular, within pearly or iridescent ; lip
simple, thin, brittle, with a light testaceous deposit
within ; umbilicus deep, not much expanded.
Greatest transverse diameter more than an inch. .
GEocRAPHICAL Disrrisution. Has been found in
nearly all the Southern, Middle, and Western States.
Mr. Say noticed it in Mexico.
Remarks. The color of this shell varies pale
light-greenish horn-color to a deep chestnut. The
umbilicus varies considerably in size, but it is always
distinct and profound. The surface, usually smooth
and shining, is occasionally finely and regularly
striated. The interior of the aperture exhibits, in
perfect specimens, a beautiful pearly lustre.
It is sometimes confounded with the next Pei
but it may always be distinguished from that by
attention to the following particulars. It is a much
larger shell, yet the number of whorls is constantly.
one less; the umbilicus is larger and deeper, the
aperture more circular, and the deposit of testaceous
matter within is less. The color of: the shell is
usually much darker. The only living animal of this
inhabiting the United. States. 419
species, which has come under my observation, had
a very peculiar conical protuberance on the superior
part of the extremity of the foot.
This shell, which has been long known in this
country by the name which I have adopted, was
indicated by name by Férussac, in his Tableau
Systématique, as HeLIx levigdta, without descrip-
tion or figure. Mr. Say’s description appeared in
the “New Harmony Disseminator of Useful Know-
ledge,” in 1829, but was almost unknown to natural-
ists until recently republished. Dr. Griffith’s name,
appended to specimens in the public cabinets of
Philadelphia several years before having in the mean
time obtained, it does not NEM to be proper to
substitute another.
37. HELIX INORNATA. | ut
Plate XXI. ag. 3.
. H. testa pdieskdo depen perforata, luteo-corneà, lerip ni- ni-
tens; anfractibus quinque; aperturà transversá intus incrassata ;
simplici tenui, acuto ; basi impresso.
Synonyms AND REFERENCES.
Helix inornàta, Say.. Journ, A. N. S. Philad.,
IL. 371.
DESCRIPTION.
Animal. Narrow, foot terminating acutely ; dark
slate-color, glands of the surface not prominent.
Shell. Depressed; epidermis yellowish horn-
color, smooth, shining, with very minute striæ, not
420 Binney's Monograph of the Helices
breaking the smoothness of the surface ; whorls five;
suture not much impressed; aperture transverse,
with a thick, white, testaceous deposit around its
whole inner surface a little distant from the margin;
lip thin; acute, fragile, its lower part reaching to the
centre of the base; wmbilicus small; base rather
flattened, indented in the centre.
Greatest transverse diameter less than three fourths
of an inch. ; okt
- GEOGRAPHICAL Distrisution. Inhabits the West-
ern States. pp a
Remarks. This shell resembles the preceding, ,
with which it is often confounded ; it is, however,
Oftener taken to be Heuix gläphyra of Say, by
the naturalists of the West, where the latter, being
an introduced species, (Hexrx cellària, MúLLER,)
common only near the sea shore in cellars and gar-
dens, is not found. Though resembling Hexrx fuli-
ginòsa in general appearance, it may be distinguished
by the number of whorls, which are five, but which
in that species, in specimens twice as large, but little
exceed four. Its aperture is much less circular, the
transverse diameter being considerably the greatest;
the umbilicus is smaller, being nearly closed and
more profound ; the volume of the last whorl is less
in proportion to the size of the shell; the base Js
flatter; the color lighter, and without the smoky
appearance of the former species. ;
w
inhabiting the United States, 421
38. HELIX CELLARIA.
H. està orbiculato-depresst, umbilicata, tenui, pellucida, nitidà,
supra pallidé cornea, subtus lacted ; — quinque ; labro sim-
plici, acuto; basi intus incrassato.
Synonyms AND REFERENCES.
Helix cellària, Müller. Verm. Hist., No. 230.
Helix nitida, Drap. Hist. des Moll., 117. Pl. viu.,
| Jigs. 23, 25.
Helix glaphyra, Say. Nich. Eneyc Am. edit., TV.
PET, A3
Helix cellaria, Deshyos Eneye. Méth., Vers, II.
214. :
Lamarck. Anim. sans Vert., 2d edit., VIIL
70.
- DESCRIPTION.
Animal. Upper surface light indigo blue, darkest
on the head, neck, and tentaculæ, collar greenish,
eyes black. Foot narrow and slender, not much
exceeding in length the diameter of the shell, ter-
minating acutely.
Shell. Very much ae. thin, fragile, pellu-
cid; epidermis light greenish horn-color, smooth,
highly polished ; whorls five, slightly rounded, with
minute and almost imperceptible, oblique stria ;
aperture not dilated, its transverse diameter the
greatest; umbilicus moderate, regularly rounded,
deep ; base rounded, a little thickened within, bluish-
white ; lip simple, acute.
VOL. III. — NO. IV.
^
492 . Binney's Monograph of the Helices
Greatest transverse diameter less than half an inch.
GrocRaPHiCAL Distrisution. Inhabits the North-
eastern and Middle States, in gardens; is common in
the city of Boston in damp cellars.
Remarks. This is the shell which was found by
Mr. Say in gardens, in the city of Philadelphia, and
by him described as Herix glaphyra. ‘Its restricted
habitat in cellars and gardens long since induced
me to suppose it might be an imported species, and
a recent opportunity of examining a considerable
number of specimens of Hxrix cellaria, MÜLLER,
brought from England, enables me to say, that it is
absolutely identical with that species. Shells of the
same size and growth from the European and Ameri-
can localities cannot be distinguished from each
other.
39. HELIX ARBOREA.
Plate XXII. fig. 1.
H. testa orbiculato-depressá, ténui, pellucida, nitidá, —
‘apertura sub-rotundatà ; labro simplici, acuto.
‘Synonyms AND REFERENCES. ;
Helix arborea, Say. Nich. Encyc., Am. je IV.
Pl. w., fig. 4
Férussac: Hist. Nat. des Moll. adc. di
219.
Description. |
Animal Head and tentacule blackish, üpper
parts bluish, posterior pe whitish, wan
Foot thin and narrow.
*
4*
inhabiting the United States, 423
Shell. Depressed, very slightly Mirror, thin, -
pellucid ; epidermis convex, shining; whorls about
four, with very minute, oblique strie, apparent when
viewed with a microscope; aperture somewhat
rounded ; lip thin, acute ; umbilical region indented ;
umbilicus moderate, well developed, round, and deep.
Transverse diameter commonly about one sixth of
an inch, sometimes attains one fourth of an inch.
GEOGRAPHICAL Distripution. Has been noticed
in nearly every part of the United States.
Remarks. This is a very common species, in-
habiting forests, cultivated fields, and gardens, A
situation of which it seems very fond is in the crevices
of wet, decaying wood. It resembles the preceding
species in shape, but is much smaller. It resembles
still more HELIX licida, Drar,, and Férussac - 'con-
sidered it to be only a variety of that species. A
comparison of the two shows distinctions which
must, 1 think, prevent their being considered identi-
eal. . Our shell is larger, and has its umbilicus more
developed in proportion to its size ; the immediate
circumference of the umbilicus is more impressed.
In shells of the two species of the same size, the
foreign one ‘has one more whorl. In their general
aspect the two are so unlike, that it is easier to
separate them than to describe their differences.
^ ^ 40. HELIX ELECTRINA.
Plate XXII. fig. 2
H. testà parva, depress, umbilicatà, tenui, — anfractibus
quatuor, striatis ; apasih rotundatá, labro simplici. -
E
424 Binney's Monograph of the Helices
Synonyms AND REFERENCES.
Helix eléctrina, Gould. Mollusca of Massachusetts,
(Unpublished. )
DESCRIPTION.
Animal. Not noticed.
Shell. Small, depressed, thin, fragile ; epidermis
amber-colored, wrinkled, shining ; whorls four, -the
last rapidly enlarging towards the mouth ; aperture
rounded; lip simple, its edge rather thickened, not
acute ; wmbilicus small, but well marked and con-
stant.
Greatest transverse diameter more than one s eighth
of an inch. :
GEOGRAPHICAL Disrrisution. Found hitherto -
on the shores of Fresh Pond, near Boston.
Remarks. For the following remarks I am in-
debted to Dr. Gould. “ In size, the depressed-conical
Shape of the upper surface, the number of whorls,
and the rapid enlargement of the largest ‘whorl, this
shell corresponds with Heurx indentata. It differs
in its darker, smoky horn-color, its constant umbili-
cus, its rather thick and shining lip, and in its whitish :
wrinkles, which, instead of being remote, are crowded.
From Heurx arborea it differs in having one whorl
less, the last one rapidly dilating, its apex not being
depressed, its thinner structure and more glossy sur
face, and in its somewhat smaller umbilicus. In
Hrrix arbórea the lip has a flexuous curve, but is
nearly a direct section of the whorl in this. Though
n of the same size and general appearance, the three
Lo á
EY
inhabiting the United States. 425
may be readily separated when mingled. Indeed its
claims as a distinct species are not very obvious
without viewing the three together. It is found
abundantly under fragments of wood in damp places
near the water's edge; in company with HELIX chér-
sina and Pura modésta. 1 have never seen it in
company with either HErix indentata or HELIX ar-
bórea, and it seems to differ from them widely in
habit, in thus preferring the vicinity and even en-
croachment of water."
4l. aktii MULTIDENTATA.
; _ Plate XXII. fig. 5.
H. testi minima, orbiculato-depressà, umbilicata, tenuissimá, pellu-
cidà, nitidà, supra planulatà ; anfractibus sex obliqué et minuté stria-
tis; apertura semi-lunatà, angustà ; labro simplici, acuto; umbilico
parvo.
du Ainii AND » Rrrrarwors
Helix multidentàta, Nobis. s
DESCRIPTION.
ail Dirab thread-like.
Shell. Depressed, sub-planulate above, very nibh
pellucid ; epidermis smooth; shining; whorls six,
very narrow, revolving in the same plane, and not
enlarging towards the aperture, with minute, raised,
oblique stris ; suture distinct ; aperture semi-lunate,
narrow ; lip acute ; umbilicus very small, rounded,
not RETS any of the volutions; base convex,
indented around the umbilicus. Two rows of very
L
426 Binney's Monograph of the Helices
minute white teeth, radiating from the umbilicus,
are seen through the shell, within the base of the
. last whorl.
Greatest transverse diameter one eighth of an inch.
GroenaPHicAL Distrisution. Noticed hitherto
only in Vermont, on the eastern slopes of the Green
Mountains.
Remarks. "This species, now described for the
first time, possesses characters so marked, that it is
not likely to be mistaken for any other. The nu-
merous narrow whorls visible on its upper and plane
surface, while only one is seen. below, together with
its minute, round umbilieus, and narrow aperture,
would sufficiently distinguish it; but there is another
character still móre peculiar. There are two rows of
very minute, delicate, white teeth on the lower side
of the interior of the last whorl, radiating from the
centre. One row is usually so near the aperture as
to be seen within it with the aid of a microscope, the
other is more or less remote; each row contains five
or six distinct teeth. Both of them are visible through
the shell. 'T'he transparency of the shell is so great,
that frequently the sutures of. the upper surface can
be seen through it when viewed on the base.. With
the living animal within, the shell has a roseate tinge.
42. HELIX SOLITARIA.
Plate XXIII.
iL testa orbiculato-convexá, latè umbilicatÀ, corneo mías
fasciis fuscis aut rufis cincta ; — —; labro simplici d
unicolore.
inhabiting the United States. 427
Synonyms AND Rerenencrs
Helix ngiti Say. Journ. A. N. S. Philad.,
II. 157.
DESCRIPTION.
Animal. Dirty white, with a rufous tinge; ru-
fous spots on the head and neck, lighter ones along
the margin. 'l'entacule dark; foot short, potter
extremity rounded.
Shell. Very convex, thick, apex obtuse; epider-
mis dark corneous, with brown, or rufous
bands, of which there are usually two on the body-
whorl ; whorls six, striated and rounded, the last
whorl aio a considerable part of the. volume of
the shell ; suture distinetly impressed ; aperture am-
ple, HT space between the two extremities of
the lip small, with a thin callus, within bluish white,
showing the bands; umbilicus large and deep, ex-
hibiting all the séldtións ; base destitute of bands.
Greatest transverse diameter more than one inch
and a quarter.
iw.
-GgocRaPHICAL DisrnriBUTION. Inhabits the West- .
ern States north of the Ohio river. It was noticed
by Mr. Say in lower Missouri.
Remarks. This is a thick and coarse shell when
fully grown: It is distinguished by its deep and
ample umbilicus, and the dark rufous bands on its
whorls. ‘The spire varies considerably in the degree
of its elevation, but the apex is always obtuse. The
same specific name was applied by Poiret* to a
* cs Prodrome 4 cr “11 a t] ua + +, emt » &c
UIUC OCS q ? T
428 Binney's Monograph of the Helices
French species, but, Draparnaud's name for the same
shell (H. conóidea) having universally obtained, the
d pnt name can be retained for our —
43. HELIX ALTERNATA.
Plate XXV.
teatà orbignlato-depressá ; laté et profondé cmbiliestà; Ais
Media. obliquis, crebris, scabrá ; albido et rufo alterné coloratà; ob-
scuré fasciatà ; apertura circulari ; labro tenui, acuto.
Synonyms AND REFERENCES. |
Helix alternàta, Say. Nich. Encyc., Am. edit., IV.
PU 3., fig. 9.
Férussac. Hist. des Moll. Pl. LXXIX., Jet,
8, 9, 10.
Deshayes. Encyc. Méth, Vers, I1: 253. 3
Helix seabra, Lamarck. Anim. | sans Vert., 2d edit.,
Lister. T.70., fig. 69.
DESCRIPTION.
Animal. Head and tentaculæ light slate-color,
back brown, remainder of upper surface brownish-
orange, eyes black, base of foot greyish-white, collar
saffron. Superior tentacule one third of an inch
long, blackish. at the extremities. Foot not much
exceeding in length the diameter of the shell, and
terminating in a broad, obtuse, and flat extremity.
A light marginal line runs along the edge of the foot
from the head to the posterior part, those of the two
sides meeting in an acute angle.
4
inhabiting the United States. ` 429 .
Shell. Flattened-convex ; epidermis variegated,
with rufous bars, and spots arranged obliquely across
the whorls; whorls in full-grown individuals six,
striated obliquely with raised, acute, equidistant;
curved lines, which give a roughness to the surface ;
aperture viewed perpendicular to its plane nearly
circular; //p simple, thin, brittle, within shining,
sometimes pearly ; umbilicus large and deep, exhibit-
ing all the volutions ; base paler than the upper sur-
face, with a colored band more or less perfect, the
colored bars where they exist narrow, and converg-
ing into the umbilicus.
Greatest: transverse diameter about one ineh.
. GEOGRAPHICAL. DISTRIBUTION. Inhabits the North-
eastern and Middle- States, . and the Western States
from the eastern end of Lake Superior to Arkansas.
It will. -probably be found to exist in the whole terri-
tory of the United States.
Rrewanks. In New England this is 2 pm phe
most common of the genus. It abounds in the
forests, and is not uncommon in the open country in
- moist situations, where it can find shelter under logs
and stumps. It seems to be more gregarious than
other species ; at any rate numbers are more frequently
.found in the same retreat. It does not. bear a change
from a moist to a dry situation so well as many other
species. _ In captivity it remains buried a great part
of the. time under the moist earth, with the body
half protruded. If removed to the surface, it with-
draws within the shell, protects its orifice by three
or four coverings, and soon dies unless supplied with
moisture.
VOL. III. — NO. IV. ~ o9
T» de
n i
E.
A = * $
y S
i
ai
430 Binney's Monograph of the Helices
The foot of the animal is smaller, and the tenta-
cula shorter, than in either of the other species pos-
. sessing so large a shell ; it is also flatter and. thinner,
^ "The collar is deeply tinged with the coloring matter
which ornaments the shell, and which is sometimes.
secreted in such profusion, as to give a saffron tinge
to the trace which it leaves on objects over which it
crawls. It is distributed over the animal, and ar»
ranged'in minute points, which are most thickly
clustered on the anand and on the sino tuber-
cles of the surface.
The shell varies in "ei more. or n desee
and having the strie more or less rough. In the
young shell the margin is carinated, especially at its
ction with the second whorl. On many indis
viduals there is a distinct, uncolored- line on the
centre of the outer whorl, dividing the rufous bands
of the superior surface from one on the lower surface. -
This species was described by Mr. Say, in 1818,
as HeLix alterndta, In 1822, Lamarck gave it the ©
specific name of scdbra, a name pre-occupied by &
species of Chemnitz. Say’s. name has the priority
and is adopted in this country, as it should be else-
where. viet $71
E
^44. HELIX PERSPECTIVA. -
Plate XXI. fig. 4.
a...
H. testà parvà, orbieulato-depressi, sub-discoided, lat vind
rufescente ; anfractibus convexiusculis, seabris, stris - ,
elevatis, distinctis; aperturà sub-rótundatà, depressá ;
` acuto.
‘inhabiting the United States. — 431
Synonyms AND REFERENCEŚ.
Helix perspectiva, Say. Journ. A. N. S. Philad., :
Nich. Encyc., Am. edit., ÍV.
Férussac. Hist. des Moll. Pl. uxxix., Sig. 7.
Lamarck, Anim. sans Vert., 2d edit., VII.
i 0 5 ‘teeta
Helix parvula, ? Deshayes. Encyc. Méth., Vers,
| . 217. Y vien colt a
Description. i bon. di
"Animal. Head T tentacula bluish black ; mar-
gin and posterior part of foot white. Foot transpar-
ent, narrow, less in length than twice = E .
of the shell, terminating acutely. ^ -
Shell. Very much depressed, almost discoidal ;
epidermis reddish brown, immaculate ; whorls six,
with numerous, elevated, strongly marked, transverse
. striae ; suture deeply impressed ; umbilicus very much
expanded, cup-shaped, exhibiting all the volutions ;
aperture rounded, depressed ; lip simple, thin.
Greatest transverse diameter three eighths of an
inch.
GzocnarHicAL Disrrisurion, Inhabits the West-
ern States, and was noticed by Mr. Say in the North-
western Territory. It is commonly supposed to exist
in Massachusetts and other New England States, but,
so far as my own observation extends, it is replaced
in those States by Hzrix striatélla, the next described
species, which it very much resembles. .
. Remarks. This is a common shell in those parts
of the countrys which it inhabits. In Ohio it is
sae ants 21 e Re
pean > da os
* *
se
* i
en Sr
^
432 ` Binney’s Monograph of the Helices
particularly abundant, vast numbers of them being
sometimes found under the bark of a single decaying
tree. The striz of increase on the upper surface are
remarkably prominent, and almost angular, and serve
. to distinguish it from every other species; on the
lower surface they are very distinct, but less promi- .
nent, and the direction of their curve is the reverse
of that above; they converge into the umbilicus.
It varies considerably in size, and young shells are -
' often carinated. In mature individuals there is a
single sub-prominent tooth on the base of the shell
within the aperture. It resembles HELIX rotundata,
MUtter, but is destitute of the alternate. markings of
at species. There cannot be a doubt that Hexix
la, DesHayes, is identical with this shell, as his :
description will not apply to any other than this and
the following species, and the angulated character
of the stri sufficiently point to this.
There is à Hxrrx described under the same id.
name by Waaxzn, in S pix's T'estacea of Brazil; but,
-as this did not appear until ten years after Mr. Say’s
publication, a new name must be adopted for the
Brazilian species.
. 45 HELIX STRIATELLA..
Plate XXL fig.5..
H. testa parva, orbieulato-depressà, tenui, latè umbilicata, corned ;
=n convexis, obliqué. et minuté striatis; asit:
undatà ; labro tenui, aiuto, sa oon d M
— AND REFERENCES.
Helix striatélla, Anthony. Bost. Journ. Nat. His,
III. 27 M
E:
a
inhabiting the United States. 433
DESCRIPTION’
Animal. Not hitherto observed.
Shell. Depressed-convex, thin ; epidermis light
horn-color; whorls less than four, with numerous,
delicate, oblique strie; suture distinct, not much
impressed ; umbilicus large, showing all the volu-
tions; aperture rounded, transverse ; lip thin, acute.
Greatest transverse diameter less than one fourth
of an inch.
GEOGRAPHICAL Osten Inhabits the West-
ern States, is common in Ohio, and particularly
abundant near Cincinnati, “in low Dottor M
near the margins of running streams." It is also
abundant in Massachusetts, near own, and in Ver
mont. bid I
REMARKS. - This species —— a very uen re-
semblance in general aspect to Heux perspectiva,
Sax, with the immature shells of which it is very
commonly ; confounded. It needs some attention to `
separate the two; but, when the present species. is
once noticed, it sioe fail to be considered very dis-4*
tinct. Its discriminative characters, as compared with
the preceding species, are as follows. 'The mature
shell is smaller, and has generally rather less, and
never more, than four whorls, and in shells of the
same size the number of volutions is less. It is
thinner and more delicate; its color is light p: its
Strie of increase are more numerous, more
much finer, and less prominent; its suture is dos
-deeply impressed ; its spire is more convex; and its
umbilicus less expanded. The character of the
*
434 Binney's Monograph of the Helices |
aperture is the same in both. The lustre of the
epidermis = a of satin.
46. HELIX LAME TURE: $
a XXI. fg. 2.
_ —H. testa parva, orbiculato-depressi, umbilicatá, tenui, albidà ; an-
fractibus quatuor, convexis, obliqué et minutissimé .striatis ; apertura 3
sub-circulari, tendi: acuto,
Synonyms AND Rerenences.
Helix limatula, Ward. ined.
Descntrrion.
— Animal.. Not observed. |
Shell. Small, convex-depressed ; sedi ilt
immaculate ; suture ; distinctly impressed ; whorls —
more than four ex, with very fine, oblique;
parallel striæ, high become obsolete on the base ;
"aperture sub-circular, slightly modified by the penul- -
c3 whorl ; Zip thin, acute ; umbilicus, € and
» eep, not extiiihing all the violütislia: 2
Greatest: ‘transverse diameter about one Me of an
nch.
| GER Disrmmorrow. Has been rout in
many places in Ohio and in Indiana. It probably
inhabits all the low’ grounds "dai on the Ohio
and its tributaries.
Remarks. This shell resembles in a conis
. degree the preceding, particularly when the epide: |
t that species has become bleached, but may be
' | ~_ from it on comparison. Its is
; 997.
?
"i
m * Á
$ E P
ë
inhabiting the United States. 435
dermis is lighter, being nearly white ; it is smaller, yet
has one more whorl ; it is less x, and the whorls
are less prominent ; the n are finer
and more delicate, and their direction is more nearly
at right angles with the suture; the aperture is more
nearly a direct section of the whorl ; the body-whorl
is more rounded on the base; the umbilicus js less
, spread or cup-shaped, and, though deep, does not ex- .
~*~ hibit all the volutions. The nucleus of the shell or
-~ the original whorls, which exist when the animal
-= leavesits egg, are much more minute and delicate.*
47. HELIX MINUSCULA. ,
Plate XXII. fig. 4.
sta arate orbieulato-depressi, uibbilieatl; albidà; anfractibus
quatuor, convexis 5 apertu tora cir plici, acuto. — — -
didi Synonyms AND da
Helix miniacul, AT
~ Description.
Animal. ! Not observed.
* For this species and description I am indebted to the kindness or t
my late friend, C. J. Wa ia M. D., of Roscoe, octon County,
Ohio, who has passed away from among us since this paper was
begun. Dr. Ward' was —À to most of the naturalists of the United
States, and was distinguished for his uniformly liberal intercourse with k
eod He seemed to possess no exclusive or selfish feelin, in mat- ^
A. science, but was always. ready to impart his stores of knowl- E
his assistance, and his time, to those who were engaged in i
pursuits similar to his own. His loss will be deeply regretted by his,
numerous correspondents, as well as by his personal friends. He died -
at his residence in — last, after a very shortillpess, ^
LI i " j co "
N : ‘ [AE oe pr?
&- ^W : v D
ty M * *»
*
snak
de
436 Binneys Monograph of the Helices
Shell. Minute, depressed-convex ; epidermis whit-
ish ; whorls four, convex; suture very distinetly
itigirensed.; aperture nearly circular; lip thin, acute ;
umbilicus large, not spread, and oxiibillilf not more
than two volutions ; base rounded on the body-whorl.
Greatest transverse diameter less than one dium
of an inch.
GreocnRaPHIiCAL Disrrisution. Found in Ohio,
on the margins of streams, under chips or sticks in
damp, shaded. situations, or under the bark of de- -
caying stumps near the surface of the waters. Pro- -
fessor C. B. Adams has lately found it in Vermont.
Remarks. This minute shell is but little larger
than HeLrx pulchélla, which it resembles somewhat
on its upper surface. It also bears some resemblance
to small specimens of the preceding species. lt has
four full whorls, with deep sutures; is handsomely
rounded ; has a circular aperture, and a large umbili-
cus, which exhibits about two volutions. Its strie of
increase are too minute to be visible by the eye. 1
- do not know any species with which it is likely €9
be pontounded
; 48. HELIX LINEATA. —
Plate XXII. fig. 6.
H. wem —— — planulatà, subtus concava, corneo-viti-
descente ; anfra ; lineis parallelis, volventibus, sub-eleva-
tis; sabio lato, expanso; labro i vedi ; faucibus dentibus binis
Sxvoxvs AND REFERENCES.
Helix lineàta, Saj. Journ. A. N. S. Philuds k 18;
* 4 a
A ^» d
*
O the United States. 437
—— Férussac. Hist. Nat. des Moll. Pl. vxxix.,
fig. 1.
. DESCRIPTION.
Animal. Whitish, transparent, thread-like.
Shell. - Discoidal ; epidermis greenish ; whorls
about four, visible on the base of the shell as well as
above, with numerous, equidistant, parallel, raised
lines revolving upon them ; suture much impressed ;
aperture semilunate, narrow, not expanding; lip
thin; wmbilicus wide, forming a concave depression
of the base, each volution visible to the apex ; within
the aperture, on the external circumference, are
placed two pairs of minute, conical, white teeth, the
first pair in sight when losing into the — the
other more remote. —
Greatest transverse diameter one eighth of an inch,
usually less. —
GEOGRAPHICAL. DISTRIBUTION. Inhabits the New
England States and — Common in vër-
mont. .-
Remarks. This eae shell is distinguished 5
its discoidal form, greenish color, the fine revolving
lines upon its whorls, and the singular teeth which
are placed in the interior of the outer whorl. ‘These
teeth are arranged in pairs on the external side of the
parietes of the cavity, one of each pair being on the
superior and one on the inferior part of the whorl.
They are prominent, white, and conical, and may be
discovered through the semi-transparent shell. One
pair is so near the aperture as easily to be seen on
looking into it ; the other — nearly one half a
VOL. III. — NO. IV.
LI
438 Lichenes of New England.
volution from the lip, and is of course invisible ex-
cept through the shell. At least one pair will be :
found to exist in every specimen, when carefully
sought for; in one instance I noticed a ipo” "
still further within the whorl.
I have hitherto noticed this species under the bark, |
or in a the ts: of wet and poat wood:
ART. II.— FURTHER NOTICES OF SOME NEW ENGLAND .
LICHENES. By EpwanRp Tuckerman, Jr., LL. 5 a Member
of the Society. (Read March 17th, 1841.)
Beses an enumeration of a few species, which,
though not rare, I have not previously noticed, this
paper contains descriptions of one or two lichens that
appear to be new, from the New Hampshire moun:
tains. And, it having been suggested that a com-
pendious view of the systematic arrangements of the
Lichenes, with some brief notices of the uses of these
plants, would not improperly form a part of the arti-
cle, I have attempted some account of these topics,
at the end.
Verruca ria compésita, Schwein. in Hals. Syn
View Lich. N. Y. p. 9., (cum Ic.) — Trees ; common.
A remarkable species, and agreeing in every
with the description cited. The thallus is polished,
and of a yellowish brown; the apothecia nearly ,as
large as those of V. gemmata, mostly imme
occurring in clusters of two to twelve and more. `
t
Li
a
Aes
Lichenes of New England. 439
"T'ugrorREMA lepadinum, Ach. Meth. p. 132., Li-
chenogr. p. 312. (cum Ic.) Schar.! Lich. Helvet.,
Moug. & Nestl.! Stirp.. Crypt., Wallr. Fl. Crypt.
Germ., Hook.! Br. Fl, Antrocarpum inclusum,
Spreng. Syst., Endocarpon inclusum, Wahlenb. F],
Suec., Volvaria truncigena, De Cand. Fl. Fr., Lichen
lepadinus, Ach. Prodr. L. inclusus, Sm. Eng. Bot. 8.,
n. 89. (cum Ic.)— Old trunks. Our plant agrees
with the above-cited specimen from Hooker, in the
herbarium of Mr. Greene, and also with the other
foreign specimens, This species is mentioned in Mr.
Halsey's * View," as common; but with a mark of
doubt, and an intimation that his lichen is * probably
new." The plant of my list seems to be very rare,
and I suppose, is not the same with that of Halsey.
Lrcipg'A incána, Hook. 1, c., Patellaria incana,
Spreng. l. c., Lepraria incana, Ach. Meth. p. 4., Li-
chenogr. p. 665., Moug. & Nestl.! I. c., Wahlenb. FI.
Lapp., Muhl. 1. c. Torr. l. c., Lichen incanus, Schreb.,
Byssus ineana, L.— Moist rocks in mountain forests.
At the Floom, in Lincoln, N. H., plentiful. The
discovery of perfect patellule on this plant in Britain, .
caused its removal from the Leprarem. It is of a
remarkable byssus-like habit, and I have seen no
lichen resembling it, unless it be Parmelia lanugino-
sa; which has however a rigid thallus, the surface
only being like our plant. Specimens occurred at
the above station, in regard to which I am unable to
determine whether they are fragments of Parmelia,
inerusted with our Lecidea, or the Lecidea itself in
its mature state. In the latter case the plant is a
440 Lichenes of New England.
Parmelia, and the form called Lecidea incana, the
young state. No authors, that I have seen, appear to
suggest any affinity between Parmelia lanuginosa
and Lecidea incana, and I therefore leave this ques-
tion for further consideration.
L. Oedéri, Ach. Meth. p. 49., Hook. 1. c., Mass.
Catal, (with a qu.) — Rocks; White Mountains;
frequent. The synonymy of this plant indicates
considerable difference of opinion among authors.
Sprengel considers it a variety of L. atro-alba, colored
by the iron of the rocks on which it grows. This
_ view, as to the color, was taken in the former of
these papers, where the plant was referred to Urceo-
laria. According to Hooker, Scherer, in one of his
works, pronounced the species *a true Urceolaria.”
Scherer quotes * Ach. MSS. 1818,” for the name ~
Gyalecta Oederiana. It is made a variety of his
Patellaria confluens by Wallroth. I still think itbe —
longs to the Acharian genus Urceolaria: but it ap- -
pears to be the Lecidea Oederi of our authorities. .
There are many species which, in the language of
Turner and Borrer, “ place difficulties apparently in-
superable, in the way of a — E
of the Lichens.”
L. iemadóphila, Ach. Meth. p. 58., Lichenogr. p.
191, Scher.! 1. c., Moug. & Nestl.! 1c., Hook
Br. FL, Muhl. Catal., Torr. Catal., Patellaria jemado-
phila, Wallr. 1. e. , P. eruginosa, Spreng. 1. c., Lichen
lemadophila, Ehrh. (cit. auctt.) L. seruginosus, Scop.
Carniol., Ach. Prodr. — Decayed trunks; mountains
of New England, very frequent. Much resembling
Bæomyces roseus, with which it was confounded by
Lichenes of New England. 441
Linnæus, and to which genus it was url in the
Flora of De Candolle.
| L. polytropa, Ach. Meth. p. 72., Hook. l. c., Patel-
laria polytropa, Hoffm., (cit. aati: ) Saig lc,
Wallr. 1. c., Lecidea Ehrhartiana, 6. polytropa, Ach.,
Lichenogr. p. 192., Scher.! 1. c., Moug. & Nestl. !
l: c., Hals. l. c., Lichen polytropus, Ehrh., Ach.
Prodr. — & Lecidea Ehrhartiana, Lichen Ehrharti-
anus, Ach., Hals, cxt. que.— Rocks; Franconia
Mountains. The form, with smaller patellule, which
is the L. Ehrhartiana of authors, is united by Spren-
gel with this species. It occurs on wood, (and also
“common on rocks,” Hals.) and is enumerated in the
Mass. Mee i r
Lean curtis ne aai p. 390., Sahar: T
l. c., Moug. & Nestl.! 1. c., Hook. 1. c., Parmétia a ceri-
na, Ach. Meth., Wallr. 1. c., Patellaria cerina, Hoffm.
(cit. Cand.) De Cand. 1. c., Lichen cerinus, Hedw.,
Ach. Prodr.— Trees, not uncommon. The line be-
tween this, and other species allied to it, and some
species of Lecidea, is hardly perceptible. Meyer and
Sprengel consider this plant one of the forms of Par-
melia parietina, in the young state. Wallroth is
much excited by this arrangement: “ nec sieut," he
says, ^ Sprengelius ez fonte spurco vix vero ad Na-
ture mentem perhibuit, Parmeliæ parietinze subscri-
benda." . (1. c. p. 472.)
Sevama nt sazicola, Hook. ! l. c., Lecanora saxico-
la, Ach. Lichenogr. p. 431., Schier.! 1. c., Parmelia
saxicola, Ach. Meth. p. 191., Spreng. l. c., Wallr. 1. c.,
442 Lichenes of New England.
Placodium ochroleucum, De Cand. l. c., Moug. &
Nestl.! 1. c., Lichen saxicola, Pollich, Ach. Prodr. —
Tombstones in the (Old) Cambridge burying-ground,
A pretty species. Specimen v.s. ex Hook. in herb.
Greene.
S. élegans, Hook; l. c., Lecanora elegans, Aelii
Lichenogr. p. 435., Scher. ! 1. c., Hals. 1. c.; Parmelia
elegans, Ach. Meth. p. 193., Wallr. 1. c., Lichen:ele- -
gans, Link, Ach. Prodr.— With the last; and on
pebbles, Cambridge Common.
PanwELIA Halseyana: thallo substellato pallide
flavo-virescente nigro-punctato, subtus albo fusces-
cente fibrilloso, laciniis angustis imbricatis ad cen-
trum rugosis concretis ; scutellis badiis margine inte- :
gro. Mountain rocks. — Notch of the White, Moun-
tains, abundant. Alpine rocks on the Franconia
Mountains ; and the higher peaks of the Green
Mountains, Vt. I have ventured to name this in
honor of the learned author of the * Synoptical View
of New York Lichens.” The lichen resembles P.
conspersa, and P, centrifuga, the latter of which I am
only acquainted with through the descriptions. - It is
distinguished from the former. by its different habit,
and the color of the under surface; and from the
latter by the presence of the little black apophyses |
on the upper surface, which are also observable on
P. conspersa. The color is much. brighter than; in
P. conspersa, and the plant is handsomer.
~P. aleurites, Ach. Meth. p. 208., Ach. Lichenogr
p. 484., Moug. & Nestl.! L c., Spreng. 1. c., Wallr.
lci, Hook.!l c, Hals. l c., Mass. Catal., Lichen
Lichenes of New England. 443
aleurites, Ach. Prodr., Lichen diffusus, Dicks. — Old
rails; Cambridge, and elsewhere, not very uncom-
mon
|. P. erinita, Ach. Syn. (cit. Hals.) Muhl. 1. c., ‘Torr.
l.c., Hals: l. c., Mass. Catal. (with a qu.) — Trunks,
and stones. Acharian woods, Cambridge ; and else-
where, not uncommon. One of the largest and finest
forms of the genus. Our plant is probably that no-
ticed by the above authors, and it is peculiar to the
North American Flora. Muhlenberg notes it “N. S$.”
in his catalogue, from which we may infer that it
was one of those which he discovered and sent to
Acharius. The apothecia seem to be wholly unno-
ticed, both in the brief description of Halsey, and in
the longer one given in Eaton's * Manual.” These
commonly occur at the Cambridge station of our
plant, and are well worthy of notice. They become
very large, rufous, with margins irregularly lacerated,
and beset with the same coral-like branched apophy-
ses, which form so remarkable a feature (distinguish-
ing also several other allied American species, ) of the
upper surface of the thallus. 'These apothecia are
near the margin, and sub-pedicelled, and much re-
semble those of P. perforata, with which spoori our
Pait, in habit, generally agrees.
- P. stellàris, p. aipólia, P.aipolia, Ach. Meth. p. 209.,
Lichenogr. p. 477., Scher.! 1. c., Muhl. 1. c., Mass.
Catal., P. homochroa, $. platyphyllina, Wallr. 1. c.,
Lichen aipolius, Ach. Prodr. — Trees and old rails,
Cambridge, and elsewhere, common. Sprengel does
not allow this even the rank of a variety. Our plant
seems to agree with Scherer’s specimens, and to
444 Lichenes of New England.
differ from P. stellaris in the characters denoted "
Acharius.
-Prxricers polydactyla, Hoffm. (cit. Scher.) De
Cand. l. c., Scher.! 1. c., Spreng. l. c., Wallr. l.c.,
Peltidea polydactyla, Ach. Meth. p. 286., Lichenogr.
p. 519., Moug. & Nestl. ! 1. c., Hook, 1. c., Muhl.1.e,
bin polydactylus, Ach. Pads — On the ground ;
. mountain forests. About the White Mountains, and.
the Franconia Mountains, common. The character
to which this species owes its name is quite marked
in my. plants, which also differ from the other species
in the habit of the thallus.
: P. ruféscens, Hoffm., Spreng. 1. c., E. T. Enum:
Lich. N. Eng., & P. spuria, Ejusd. fani Cam-
bridge, Ipswich, and elsewhere. Sprengel and Wall-
roth consider P. spuria not distinct from P. rufescens..
Hooker's remarks seem also in favor-of this view,
though he keeps the two species separate. — .-
P. aphthósa, Hoffm. (cit. Scher.) De Cand. 1. €;
Scher.! 1. c., Spreng. 1..c., Wallr. 1l. ¢., Peltidea
aphthosa, Ach. Meth. p. 287., Lichenogr. p. 516.,
Moug. & Nestl.! 1. c., Hook. 1. c., Muhl: 1 cy Torr:
l. c., Hals. 1. c., Mass. Catal. — On the ground ; -
tain woods, angen the northern parts of ?
. England. The largest and handsomest of our e
cies.
GynRÓPHORA epadockroa, Ach. Meth. p. 108; Li-
chenogr. 229. 673., Moug. & Nestl.! 1. c Graphis
vellea, à. discolor, Wallr. 1. c., Lecidea hirsuta, part.
Spreng. l c. Umbilicaria denne; B. spadochroa, —
Lichenes of New England. 445
Schær.! 1. c., Gyrophora vellea, 8. spadochroa, Ach.
Syn. (cit. Wallr.), Gyromium velleum £. spadochro-
um, Wahlenb. Fl. Suec., Gyrophora hirsuta 5. spa-
dochroa, Floerke, (cit. Wallr.) Lichen spadochrous,
Ach. Prodr. — Alpine Rocks ; Franconia Mountains.
The original Lichen velleus was a. plant of Lapland.
. Acharius had seen but a single Lapland specimen
when he wrote the descriptions of this and the allied
species in. the “ Lichenographia.” In the Addenda
to the * Lichenographia,” he says that «he has re-
ceived very large specimens of G. spadochroa from
North America; which, he thinks, may be what others
had called G. vellea. Our plant is smaller than what
is commonly taken for G. vellea, and appears -
distinct: It occurred without — T
. CETRA RIA PRESE thallo aibciirieinó expanso
glabro viridi-flavescente, subtus fatis castaneo, la-
ciniis plani t elevatis nigro-
ciliatis demum pulverulentis ; ; peltis rufo-fuscis mar-
gine integro. C. virescens, E. T. Further Enum.
Lich. N. Eng. — On trees; mountain woods. White
Mountains. Franconia Mountains. Green Moun-
tains in Vt. ' Also Plainfield, Porter!. A description
of this apparently new species from imperfect speci-
mens, was given in my former article in this volume,
and the specific name virescens proposed. ‘There
being already a C. viridis of Schweinitz, and the ex- -
amination of better specimens having made it neces-
sary to alter considerably my description, I now ded-
icate the species to my excellent friend William
Oakes, Esq., of Ipswich ; to —-— it is the least
57
VOL. III. — NO. IV.
446 Lichenes of New England.
that we can say, New England still looks for her
FLORA.
_C. lacunosa, ` Ach. Meth. p. 295 (cum "ye Li-
chenogr. p. 508., Muhl. 1. c., Hals. 1. c., Mass. Catal.
Lichen cavernosus, Menzies, (cit. Ach.)— Old rails
and trees; throughout New England. iri
setts, Greene !.
C. ciliàris, Ach. Lichenogr. p. 508., Muhl. in Ach.
l. c., Ejusd. Catal. 1. c.; Hals. 1. c., "n Catal., Par-
melia Muhlenbergii, ibirita: l; rici rails and
trees, common. A small form, apparently the young
plant, which I have gathered in the subalpine region
of the White Mountains, and have also received from
Dr. Porter, resembles very much C. sepincola, an
European species, but so far as I have observed, is
always distinguishable from that’ species, by the
presence, more or less, of cilim. It may be added,
that this form here referred to, occurred, in both in-
stances, as is common with a similar form of C. sep-
incola in Europe, (of which specimen v. s. ex Hook-
er, in herb. Greene,) in company with C. just
B. pinastri. - Besides the character of ciliation, this
species differs, says Acharius, from the foreign one,
in being, as is evident, in the comparison of w
mens; “multo major atque solidior." -
anana inp ilo Ach, Lichenogr- Je: 60,
Shaw. ! l. ¢., Hook. 1. c., Muhl. 1..¢., Hals. |. ¢
Mass. Catal., Parmelia scopulorum; a. ee
Wallr. 1. ¢., P. polymorpha, Ach. Meth. . 265.
Spreng. l. c., Lichen polymorphus, Ach. Prodr. p
Walls and stones, not uncomuión. Essex co. Quit
Lichenes of New England. 447
Also Plainfield, Dr. Porter!. Chelmsford, Mr. Rus-
sell. A more delicate form, resembling the var.
tenuis, Ach., Scheer. !, is common on fences.
R. fastigiáta, dui Lichenogr. p. 603., Moug. &
Nestl. ! 1. c., Hook. 1. c. ; Muhl. |. c., "Torr... c., Hals.
l. c., Mass. Catal., Partndlis Fomin a. faatig ii
Wallr. 1.6; Piryéoia fastigiata, De Cand. 1. c., Par-
melia fastigiata, Ach. Meth. p. 260., Spreng. l. c.,
Lichen fastigiatus, Pers. Ach. Prodr. — Trees and
fences; very common. Generally distinguishable by
its deligito habit, and large sub-terminal apothecia.
R. frazinea, Ach. Lichenogr. p- 602., Scher. ! 1. c.,
Hook. !1. c., Muhl. 1. ciy Torr. 1. c., Hals. l. c., Mass.
Catal., Physcia. fraxinea, De Cand. 1. $5. Mich. EL
Bor. ind Moug. & Nestl. ! l. c., Parmelia fraxinea,
Ach. Meth. p. 258, Spreng. 1. c., "Wallr. l. c., Lichen
fraxineus, L. , Walt. F1. Carol., Fis eei Trees;
common. A more rugose habit of thallus, and differ-
ently situated apothecia distinguish this species from
the preceding.
R. farinàcea, Ach. Lichenogr. p. 606., Scheer. !
l. c., Moug. & Nestl. ! 1. c., Hook. 1. c., Pailin ca-
lyca 8. chraumatica, Wallr. le. x hyacla farinacea,
De Cand. 1. c., Parmelia farinacea, Ach. Meth. p. 263,
Spreng. l. c., Lichen farinaceus, L., Ach. Prodr. —
Rocks and trees; White Mountains ; very Eos
in the Notch, Our plant agrees ith the cited speci-
men from Hooker in Mr. Greene’s herbarium, and
also with the other foreign specimens. It is very
distinguishable, by its delicate habit, and numerous
soredia.
448 Lichenes of New England.
CLADÓNIA uncial var. reticulata, Russell! in
Essex Journ. Nat. Hist. — Hingham, Russell ! 1. c.
Also in'the Alpine regions of the White Mountains,
and the Franconia Mountains. My. Alpine lichens
are considered by Mr. Russell identical with his curi-
ous variety. It seems very different from any of -
European forms, given by Scherer.
4 C. filifórmis, Schær. !; Scyphophorus filiformis,
Hook. 1. c., Patellaria macilenta, Wallr. 1. c., Clado-
nia polydactyla, Spreng. l. c., C. macilenta, Hoffm.
(cit. Wallr. ), Cenomyce macilenta, Fries, (cit: Wallr.),
C. bacillaris, Ach. Syn. (cit. Wallr. ), Moug: & Nestl.!
l. c., Muhl. l. ci, Hals. 1. c., Mass. Catal. Bæomyces
tikcilátildo Wahlenb. 1. c., B. bacillaris, Ach. Meth.
p. 329., Lichen eens Ehrh. (cit. Wallr.), L.
-flifoFniis, Huds., Ach. Prodr. — Alpine region of: the —
White Mouii.
These are all the lichens, out of a pretty large
_ collection, excluding some very common nad ar
known species, which it was not necessary
any reference to, that I have been ‘able to dete
And these I should not have véntured to bring ` ‘before
this Society, but for the assistance of two foreign
works of great imp nce to the study of these
cherer, of Swiss lichens, and the
“ Stirpes Cryptogame”
| former belonging to
of Mougeot and Nest
the collections of the Uni iv
ly lent me by Mr. Greene. 2 Pie little doubt in
regard to the correctness of the greater part of the
references of our lichens to established species, given
Lichenes of New England. 449
in these papers.* But the path is by no means a
smooth one, and the errors that may be found to
occur, will, I hope, meet with due consideration. To
William Oakes, and B. D. Greene, Esquires, I owe
the unrestricted use of the collections of Lichens in
their extensive herbaria ; that of the latter gentle-
man containing many species from Hooker. To
Dr. Porter, of Plainfield, who has pursued, for many
years, the study of the Cryptogamous Orders, I have
been long indebted, not only for several very rare
lichens, but for numerous authentic specimens of the
‘More’common forms. From. other of our Cryptoga-
mists the writer has received interesting species, and
particularly from Mr. Russell, of Chelmsford, the
author of several excellent papers on these and other
allied plants, an and our President, George B. Emerson,
Esq. 'To Dr. Harris, in common with every student
of Natural History at Cambridge, my obligations
have been constant. And I have received from Pro-
fessor Torrey; Mr. Greene, and Mr. A. White of the
British Museum, numerous lichens of New Holland
and Yan Diemen's Land, some of which are interest-
ing for comparison with our — with which the
former generally seem to
_ In accordance with the intimation at the beginniay
of the paper, a few brief remarks on The- Syste-
aaner t varieties, have been enumerated
; e and is exclusive of the common
species, Lecidea parasema, Lecanora subfusca, Parmelia masa, &c.,
which have not been mentioned in his list.
e 3 ^d ; Au
P" thins
227
450 — ^ Lichenes of New England.
matic Arrangements of the Lichens, together with
some Hints on their Uses, from. such -sources as I
have been able to avail myself of, are added. -
4 de. dim did as much for this, as for every eiat
branch of botany. He arranged the known species,
to which he added very many, in natural groups, and
of the: whole, constituted his genus Lichen: | This
scheme is so. simple, that every botanist in the Lin-
wan age was acquainted with these plants, and
there is hardly.one of the excellent Floras of that
age, which does not include them. In Ko ud
“Enumeratio Lichenum” of G, F. Hoffman appeé
This was the first of a series of works, by the sam
author, which introduced the ayaportant : changes
which have since been made in the sys
rangement of the lichens. He is the first, so far
1 have been able to find; who proposed o erect Lin-
neus's groups into genera, and he described many
species, for which Scherer, Sprengel, and other conti-
nental writers have given him credit in their works.
Nearly all his writings had appeared before Acharius
had published any thing. . But Hoffman had soon, in
the latter Swedish botanist, a laborious competitor,
who before long occupied almost the whole field.
The * Prodromus Lichenographia Suecice,” of
Erik Acharius, was published at Linkioping in Swe-
den, in 1798, and was the first of the works of this
author, who has long been the common authority of i
lichenists in Great Britain and this country. In the
« Prodromus," Acharius distributes the Lichenes in
+ three large groups called Families, — the Crustacei,
is a Re ny
‘Lichenes of New England. * A51
Foliacei, and Chulescentes. These are. subdivided
into twenty-two Tribes, to which Tribes substantive
names, as of Genera, are given. Still the Linnean
genus Lichen is retained, and each species is. n med
as of this genus, with the addition in each case of a
synonym, in which the generic character of the group
called a Tribe, is supposed. Thus, Tribe 23, is Cla-
donia ; the first species is Lichen uncialis ; the syno-
nym, placed side by side with the vulgar name, is
Cladonia uncialis. , None of these synonymous names,
and none of these Tribes, could be available in their
present condition, or until they were regularly set
. forth in another work. And Acharius always cites
his * Prodromus," as a Linnean system, without re-
2 rd to the improved arrangements, which, as has
hown, were only hinted at in it. Somie of the
ese Tribes, he afterwards applied to
others he does not appear to have made
n
genera, but
further use of. Some of these latter have, however, |
been adopted in other books, as Physcia, Imbricaria,
&c.; which may be found in the French Flora of
La Marck and: De Candolle, and various works after
this standard, but not in later authors.: To look a mo-
ment at the Tribes of the “ Prodromus," we find in
the Tribe Patellaria, all the lichens which constitute
the later genera Lecidea and Lecanora. "The former
of these names, which is adopted from Hoffman, has
priority to those of Acharius, and Hoffman's arrange-
ment is restored by Sprengel, Wallroth, and other
later writers, with various modifications. The Tribes
Beomyces and ‘Cladonia, afterwards confounded
by Acharius and finally again separated, are here
the
is
452 Lichenes of New England.
reckoned distinct, and placed, as by Hooker, far apart
from. each other. The Cladonie are arranged in
three Tribes, which, in his subsequent works, Acha-
rius reduced to one genus, Cenomyce; this last ar-
rangement being, however, anticipated by the genus
Cladonia of Hoffman. The Gyrophore we find con-
stituting the Tribe Umbilicaria, which name also is
adopted from Hoffman, and has priority of the former.
: The next work of Acharius was the “ Methodus,”
which was published at Stockholm, in 1803, and
was meant to include all the known species. In
this, the ground was firmly taken that the Lichenes |
ought to be regarded as constituting. an Order, rather
than a Genus: — “ potius. Familiam vel. Ordinem
Cryptogamie Classis quam Genus solum constituere."
&
(prem. p. 5.) The necessity of this change is as- ewe
serted both on the ground of conformity with nature,
and also on that of the immense number of species
which must be included in the Linnwan genus.
The characters of the Genera are taken from those
regular and most highly organized parts called apo-
thecia; their position, constitution, and figure being
ls regarded. The groups of species are ac-
cordant, to à great extent, with those of the Lin-
nsan arrangement, which may be called obviously
natural. ‘There are, however, defects incident to the
nature of a system, which are also perceptible in -
that of Acharius ; some of the arrangements being
probably | eei and many species appearing to be
paradoxical, upon whose right place authors seem.
hever to have been able to agree. It does not require
. any great attainments in the new. method of the
»
Lichenes of New England. 453
Schools, to perceive the defects of the Systems.
These defects may be apparent enough to us, though
as yet our knowledge may be limited to the truth
which our system has taught us, and we may never
have been out to learn of Her who knows nothing of
paradoxes and half-truths, who is silent and works
without words. 1 cannot think that the remark of
Sir James Smith, himself one of the most illustrious
of systematists, — that the arrangements of Acharius
“will most likely form the foundation of all. that
can in future be done on the subject," will not re-
quire to be greatly qualified. 'The arduous labors of
the continental lichenists have not been in vain, and
that these labors will be of account, in all attempts at
reaching the true natural arrangement of the Li-
chenes, can hardly be doubted. And such works as
Sir William Hooker's, on British lichens, though it
be still of the school of Acharius, and perhaps sug-
gests more changes than it makes, may well be men-
tioned in proof of this. Still the “ Methodus” is a
work, which no student of these plants ean use
without becoming attached to it. 'T'he style is sim-
ple, and there are places which may even be called
Linnean, and there is very little Greek-Latin. Some
of the generic names have been noticed by natural-
ists for their beauty. And the observations on the
Species, so much shortened in the. succeeding works
of our author, abound with matter of usefulness to
the lichenist. There are three main divisions of
this work, under which the species are arranged in
twenty-three genera. The genus Lecidea is separat-
ed from the Lecanore, which last, with a number
VOL. III. — NO. IV. 58
454 Lichenes of New England.
of other groups, afterwards considered to be genera,
are united with Parmelia.
The * Methodus ? was followed, in 1810, by the
“ Lichenographia Universalis," which was published |
at Gottingen, in 696 pages, 4to. This great work is
remarkable for its minuteness of division. In the
introductory dissertation, on the parts and the propa-
gation of lichens, some very important views are
proposed, with respect to their fructification, and
their carpomorphous organs. The number of species
and varieties is greatly augmented in the “ Licheno-
graphia,” and some new genera constituted, as Le-
canora, Ramalina, Borrera, and others. For some.
further remarks on this work, I would refer to the
excellent article ^ Licuen,” in the “Edinburgh En-
cyclopedia.” The last separate work of Acharius is
the “Synopsis,” which appeared in 1914, 8vo. I
have not seen this, but from the citations of other
authors, it would seem that several new genera are
published in it, and many new species. After the
publication of the “ Synopsis," our author contrib-
uted several Memoirs to the “Transactions of the
Royal Society of Stockholm,” and: particularly one
on the genus Calicium, which he distributes in sev-
eral genera ; but these papers are unfortunately writ-
ten in Swedish.
I have attempted the foregoing view of the writ-
ings of Acharius, because they have been so long
the manuals of British and American botanists in the
study of the Lichenes. This, however, has not been
the case generally, on the continent, where many
other arrangements have been proposed. —
Lichenes of New England. 455
berg's arrangement of the lichens of his Lapland
Flora may be regarded as a sketch of a new method.
He retains the Linnean genus Lichen, as one of. the
genera of the Order. Fries, Eschweiler, Meyer,
Agardh, and Chevalier, are mentioned by Hooker, as
having proposed new methods. Sprengel has given
an admirable arrangement in his “ Systema.” And
Wallroth, a German botanist, is the author of the
Cryptogamic part of the German Flora of Bluff and
Fingerhuth, in which he has made a new arrange-
ment of the lichens of that Flora. This is appar-
ently a work of great labor, but it is written in a
dialect that it requires some study to master, and the
terms now and then remind us of the humorous com-
plaint of Professor Schultes, in Sir James Smith's
“Correspondence.” The class is arranged in three
Orders, under which the species are distributed in
thirteen genera. In some respects the arrangement
resembles that of Sprengel. I will quote this author’s
curious view of an important part of the Economy
of Lichenes : — “ Propagatio primaria eaque rarior
speirematica veluti pseudo-cotyledonaris ex speirema-
tibus sive primitus in cymatiorum rudimenta eblaste-
matica deliquescentibus sive producendo in fila bys-
soidea nigrescentia radiantia (hypothema) excurrenti-
bus periblastesin raro primitus cymatia informantibus
secundaria eaque adsueta veluti gemmacea ex holo-
gonidiis emersis fætis iisque a periblastesi l. sæpius
loci injuria deliquescentibus monstraque asyntheta
hologonimica et mesogonimica ex globulis microsco-
picis viviparis erustam pulverulentam effusam nunc
viridem nunc flavam versicolorem composita menti-
456 Lichenes of New England.
entibus s.ex his itidem in chraumata s. initia peri-
blastetica sensim abeuntibus." (l. c. p. 286.)
In Great Britain, Hooker, Turner and Borrer, and
Greville, have left entire the principal parts of the
system of Acharius, upon which they have founded
all their arrangement. 'The part of Sir William
Hooker's “ British Flora ” which includes the lichens,
is as valuable to a student of these plants in this
country as in England. The arrangement in Natu-
ral Families, and the admirable descriptions, princi-
pally distinguish this work. The scaly Lecidez and
Lecanore of Acharius, are made a distinct family,
and constituted as three Genera. Cladonia is also
divided into three genera, which form the family
Cladoniex. Borrer, it is said, refers Endocarpon to
Verrucaria, and admits Lecanora with difficulty as
distinct from Parmelia. But the British lichenists
may properly be considered of the school of Achari-
us, to which also belong those of our own botanists -
who have illustrated the Lichenes. In the earlier
American Floras and Catalogues a few lichens are
enumerated. Gronovius describes several, and his
list was somewhat enlarged by Forster, and Walter.
The last botanist, found, it would. seem, Cetraria
nivalis, and this was the only authority for the spe-
cies, as à member of the United States Flora, till its
recent discovery on the New England mountains.
Twenty-one species, some of which are published
as new, are given by Michaux, in his Flora. - ‘But the
catalogue of Muhlenberg, in his Catal. Pl. Amer.
Septent. 1818, which comprises 184 species, 18 of
which are given as new, is the first work of impor-
2 "iced Dia ba tyes i ARE ATE CE
ERA
Lichenes of New England. 457
tance that appeared in this country, and though prob-
ably it ean hardly be otherwise than incomplete,
when the extent of the region of country is consid-
ered, and certainly is deficient in our New England
Alpine lichens, yet I believe no other lichenist has
made so large an enumeration, or indicated so many
new species. Some of these last are described by
Acharius in his * Synopsis,” (cited by Halsey,) and
of many Sprengel has given descriptions. And they
may also be found described in.the sixth edition of
Eaton's * Manual." Muhlenberg's “ Catalogue ” was
followed in 1819, by that of Professor Torrey, in his
“Catalogue of the Plants of New York." In this
enumeration, —— species are given, with their com-
mon stations. In 1823, Mr. Halsey's very valuable
* Synoptical View of the Lichens of New York ”
was published in the * Annals of the Lyceum." In
this work, which must be regarded as the most com-
plete view of the species of a particular district
which has been given by any of our writers, more
than 170 species are enumerated, 9 of which are
given as new. Brief characters are added, and the
common stations. Professor Hitchcock's ‘ Catalogue
of the Plants of Massachusetts," appended to his ** Ge-
ologieal Report," contains 116 species, including a
number from Dr. Porter. And the invaluable works
of Sir William Hooker, on the “Flora of Boreal
America," contain, besides a general survey of the
. lichens of that region, and descriptions of new spe-
cies, many remarks illustrative of the economy and
the uses of these plants.
But this very imperfect sketch of some of the sys-
458 Lichenes of New England.
k #
tematic arrangements of the Lichenes, which have
been proposed by authors, has been extended, per-
haps, too far already ; and I pass to the next topic,
which is suggested by the last clause of the forego-
ing sentence, — the Uses of the Lichenes. This is
an object of far more importance and interest than
will readily be supposed by those who have not paid
attention to it. But my opportunities of consulting
the numerous learned works upon it, have been so
very few, that, in the.following remarks, I hope only
to be able to apply some of the discoveries of Euro-
pean naturalists to our own Flora, as containing the
same plants upon whieh the experiments abroad were
made. And I would again refer to the excellent
view of this subject in the already-cited article of
the “ Edinburgh Encyclopedia," of which article I
am compelled to avail myself freely, in what follows.
The gradual formation of soil, both by the disinte- '
gration of the rocks on which many groups of species
grow, and also by the decay of their own bodies, has
been often traced to the Lichenes. And no botanist
can visit one of our old forests, without observing
manifest and striking proofs of their slow but sure
powers of destruction. This is their destiny, and it
requires little thought to understand in some degree -
its end. But the higher orders of creation have
found in these plants uses so important, and man
himself has turned them to account so profitably, that
perhaps we may not limit the purposes of their be-
ing to a simple design, however constant and uni- .
versal this be found. I have had my room overrun
with young spiders, which the warmth brought out
Lichenes of New England. 459
of their winter-quarters in the large Parmelie and
Sticte.* And Linneus says of Cladonia rangiferina,
the Rein-deer moss, that “huic Licheni innititur
economia et salus totius Lapponie,” — the very
existence of Lapland ; because, he continues, on this
lichen their herds of deer are sustained throughout
their whole winter. (Fl. Suec. in loc. ) In his Lap-
land Tour, Linneus mentions that Cladonia uncialis,
and the filamentous lichens, are also used for rein-
deer fodder. ` It is stated that one of the last group,
a species of Usnea, has been collected in Virginia for
the winter food of sheep and cows. "The Rein-deer
moss is also stored as provender for black cattle in
the North of -Europe ; and Cetraria Islandica is col-
lected in other countries to fatten cattle. + The rein-
deer, which exist in Iceland in a wild state, are also
said by Hooker to feed on the Cetraria Islandica, pre
ferring, as may be supposed, this lichen to the more
abundant but less nourishing Rein-deer moss.
Many lichens have been found edible by man ; and
the use of Cetraria Islandica is universally known.t
It is possible that the nutritious part of the Gyropho-
ræ, various species of which constitute the Rock-
Tripe, or “ T'ripe de Roche,” of boreal countries,
may be very similar to the starchy matter which
* At this season, I have observed with my glass, on many of the
tree lichens, very minute Acari, some of them beautiful, and resem-
bling small beetles.
t Encycl. Edinb. 1. c.
t The species occurs generally, i in greater or less abundance, on all
our mountains; and itis found more sparingly on hill-sides and in
sandy fields throughout New England.
460 Lichenes of New England.
Berzelius found to constitute almost 80 parts in the
100, of Cetraria Islandica. In the latter there is also
a bitter extractive matter, said by Linnzus to be pur-
gative, which is removed by boiling; and the ac-
count of the use of the Rock-Tripe given in Frank-
- lin’svoyage,* shows that a great inconvenience found
by the voyagers, in preparing these lichens for food,
was their inability to remove a similar “ bitter prin-
ciple, nauseous, and producing severe bowel com-
plaints." The species of Gyrophora used by these
travellers were GG. Muhlenbergii, Pennsylvanica,
hyperborea, and proboscidea £. arctica, all of which
are found in New England, and the former, which
alone, it seems, is employed by the Indians, (and
which, boiled with fish-roe or other animal matter, is
“ agreeable and nutritious,") very abundantly occurs
on the Blue Hills in Milton, and in many other sta-
tions given in one of the former of these papers.
We are told, however, that they preferred G. vellea,
as “more agreeable to eat than any other of the
preceding species." + It appears from the above, that
in this case, a very considerable difference was found
in the species used, two being considered agreeable
and nutritious, while the rest not only brought on
bowel complaints in some, but, it is further said, if
they served to allay the appetite, “ were very ineffi-
cient in recruiting our strength.” Yet an author 1S .
cited by Mackenzie in his “ Travels in Iceland,”
p. 423, as saying, that these lichens (the Gyropho-
re), are “longe optimum in re cibaria Lichens
* p. 173. t And see “ Kalm's Travels."
Lichenes of New England. 461
genus," * which is very high praise. The excellent
qualities of the Iceland Moss, Cetraria Islandica, as
has been said, are universally known. Proust re-
marks of this lichen that ^ Nature can scarcely fur-
nish à more excellent article of food." It is used in
the form of flour, of which soup and even bread is
made. In Sir William Hooker's “ Journal of a Tour
in Ieeland," I. 133, some account is given of the
mode of cooking and using this lichen in that coun-
try, where it is more employed than probably in any
other. From the same author we learn, that it is
also made use of as a dye-stuff. The medicinal vir-
tues of the plant are differently estimated by authors,
some of whom appear to doubt their importance ; but
reference may be had on this point to the learned
article * Lichen,” by Smith, in Rees's “ Cyelopeedia.”
. Cetreria nivalis and (sapien proboscidea are also
eatenin Iceland. The former, which occurs com-
monly on our highest mountains, is considered, says
Hooker, “an extremely agreeable food, and of a
sweet taste,” and is called by the people Maringraus,
in honor of the, Virgin. The latter, which, it appears
from Mackenzie, is used as food only in times of
scarcity, will probably yet be found in our Alpine
districts. Parmelia physodes, Stieta pulmonace, Ra-
malina farinacea, have also been reckoned edible
lichens, and yield, when boiled, a nearly insipid yel-
low mucilage, which may be eaten with salt.
As Dye-Stuffs, lichens are very extensively used,
* The author seems to have had Gyrophora hirsuta only in his
mind, in making this remark; and perhaps in this case, ** Ep "ds
to be understood to mean only species.
VOL. 1I, — NO. IV. 59
462 Lichenes of New England.
and several authors have treated the subject at large.
I will enumerate a few of our New England species,
which in other countries have been found valuable
for the purposes of dying. Nearly all the common -
Parmelie ; Squamaria Candelaria; Cetraria Islandica
and C. juniperina $. pinastri ; several Lecanore, and
especially L. tartarea, which is the “cud bear” of
commerce, and of which ‘whole cargoes” are im-
ported into Britain, and L. Parella, the “ perelle ” of
commerce, and also an article of trade in Europe;
several Gyrophore; Usnea plicata, and others of the
filamentous lichens, may be mentioned. Evernia
vulpina is not only employed as a dye-stuff, but it is,
according to Pontoppidan, (and a similar account: is
given in L. Fl. Suec.) very poisonous, and used in
Sweden and Norway to kill wolves; which would
lead us to suspect some active principle in this lichen
worth examining; though I have not found its sen-
sible properties very perceptible to the taste. A
slight sensation of burning in the mouth continued,
however; for some time after I made the experiment,
which, I supposed, was caused by the lichen. © This
mode of experimenting on the properties of these
plants, will be found easy and interesting. The fla-
vor of nearly allied species of the same genus will
be found very different, while the same lichens agree
nearly in taste with species of other genera differing
from them in almost every other respect. A E
remark is quoted from “ Weiss Pl. Crypt. Fl. Gott."
in Humboldt's “FÌ. Friberg,” p. 25, to the effect that
the virtues of lichens vary with the trees on whie
they grow: — * Lichenum enim eædem species, si
Lichenes of New England. 463
. diversis arboribus innascuntur, diversum habitum
VIRES que sibi assumunt." And another writer has
stated that where,the same lichens are found growing
on rocks as well as trees, the plants from the former
are “evidently more productive ” of color, than those
from the latter. More observations of this kind
would be very valuable. And perhaps the remark
may be allowed, that chemical analysis might be ap-
plied more extensively than it has yet been, to settle
the real character of these groups and species, which
appear to be reputed as remarkably different in their
properties, as they are like in habit. By this means,
it is probable, some general results would be obtained
and a more complete view of the subject. Sticta
pulmonacea, or Oak-lungs, is one of the ancient sim-
ples which were employed forthe cure of pulmona-
ry complaints. 'The doctrine of signatures, which
found some resemblance in the reticulated thallus of
this plant to the figure of the lungs, aided probably
in giving the lichen the distinction it acquired ; but
later experimenters have detected in it “a portion,
equal to one eighth of its substance, of a reddish
gum, having a slightly bitter taste," which, perhaps,
may also in part account for its reputation. Variola-
ria faginea is now extensively used in France, says
Hooker, in the manufacture of oxalic acid. It is
further remarked by the same author, that this prin-
ciple has been found to be common to several other
crustaceous lichens; and Braconnot considered the
oxalate of lime as bearing “the same relation to the
Cryptogamia, as carbonate of lime to corals, and
Ep , ^ 7M
et " ^d
will $$ k : *
464 Lichenes of New England.
phosphate of lime to the bony structure of the — í
perfect animals.” *
That these hints may possibly be of use in sug-
gesting further examination of the properties of our
lichens, and in making them of somewhat more con-
sequence to investigators, has been my motive in
giving them a place. I cannot close this paper with-
out saying how delightful a pursuit for leisure hours
the study of the Cryptogamia affords. Perhaps no
r4
Li
other braneh of botany ean be pursued with less ex- -
pense of time, though none will repay more ; or with
less of that drudgery which always attends a herba-.
rium. The necessary books are few in number, and
for the Lichenes any of the old Linnzan Floras, as
Scopoli, Lightfoot, Hudson, will furnish, so far as
they go, no contemptible substitute for more modern
systems. And such authors as Linnæus himself, and
Sir James Smith, leave little, indeed; to be desired.
The botanist who engages in this pursuit, finds win-
ter, also, a season of flowers; and the snow cannot .
hide his tree-lichens, or the inhabitants of the exposed
tops of the old fences; and if he keeps in-doors, his
wood-pile is rich in species. Another pleasure 15
added to his walks and to his hours of study, and he
attains, through these humble plants, a yet firmer
hold on the satisfying charms of Nature.
Xoigs* oi yàp nào: Iiug Syytoior moocavoay `
£x Gov yàg yévos au£v, ov uiunuæ AayovTes
uoŬyor, ooo tuer Te xol Egner Oywr ent ere?
eanth.
* Br. F1., II. 169.
; ght
k B
E E.
É Hepatic Mosses of Massachusetts. 465
^
ART. XVI. — ATTEMPT TO ASCERTAIN SOME OF THE
HEPATIC MOSSES OF MASSACHUSETTS, WITH RE-
MARKS. By Jons Lewis Russet ; Corresponding Member of
the “ Boston Society of Natural History,” &c. (Read March 17th,
1841.)
In the year 1821, the Reverend Lewis D. Schwein-
itz published a small tract, which he entitled a
“Specimen of a Systematic Arrangement and De-
scription of the Cryptogamous Plants. of North
America, comprising a diagnostic description of all
the Hepatic Mosses hitherto observed in North Amer-
ica, with ample descriptions of a number of new
species." This valuable little work, I have made
the guide of what research I have been able to
pursue in the study of the plants of my present me-
moir. Next to this, I know of no other authority,
except Muhlenberg's Catalogue, and the Massachu-
setts’ Catalogue, the latter, especially, a mere array
of names, until we come to the unrivalled work of
Professor Hooker on the Jungermannie of Great
Britain. On the first and last of these works, I have
mainly depended in determining some of the few
species of this vicinity, and occasional specimens
from other localities generally presented me by
friends. It were almost unnecessary to state, that,
in the study of these minute plants, often barren
(without fructification), errors may have occurred ;
but great interest in their research and their intrinsic
beauty, have prompted me, nevertheless, to exertion.
To determine more accurately the exact Flora of
* 466 Hepatic Mosses of Mass etts.
+
s
districts, is a work of importance, and to add one's
mite to such an end is pleasing and gratifying.
It only remains for me to Ea. i
most part followed Hooker as authority for reducing
the species to a systematic arrangement.
E JUNGERMANNIA. Lindos
| A
x cordifolia ? Hooker’s Brit. Jung. tab. 32. Grow-
ing among a Species of Dicranum in bogs, South
Pond, Plymouth! December. Some of the stems
furnished with capitula and with white pulverulent
granules ; leaves at the tip of the stem, dark pitpie:
Not in fruit.
J. sphagni, Dicks. Brit. Jung. t. 33 & Suppl. t. 2;
Schweinitz, p. 15. Mass. Catal. Eel River, Plym- :
outh! Generally adherent to Sphagnum by its long
roots from beneath its stem.
J. bicuspidata, L. Brit. Jung. t. 11. Dillenius’e
Musci, t. 70, fig. 13. Schw. p. 17. Found with
empty calyces, October, 1839, near Plymouth!
J. connivens, Dicks. Brit. Jung. t. 15. Schw. i
pP. 17. near Plymouth! In mode of growth and
texture resembles the-last, but is easily distinguished
by the curious forcipated. teeth of the leaf, aie
tiful species.
J. Ehrhartiana, Weber. Schw. p. 17. Piym-
outh! Stem very rooting.
J. nemorosa, L: Brit. Jung. t. 21. Schw. p 17.
Plymouth! A somewhat large species of a]
green color, and ciliato dentato se on the edge 9 of nM
leaves.
E
I have for the :
4.
án.
s ’ $
, ,
; és. cone L. Brit. Jung. t. 81. Dill. Muse.
t. i. 72, fig. 26. Schw. p. 14. Mass. Catal. On mossy
rocks, and also decayed pieces of wood, Chelms-
ford! A deliato species, closely adhering to the
substance on which it grows. Hooker and Schwein-
itz remark, that its habitat is “ the bark of trees.” I
have generally found it on mossy rocks. Gemme
may be frequently seen on the edges of the leaves.
J. bidentata, L. Brit. Jung. t. 30. Dill. Musc.
t. 72, fig. 11. Schw. p. 17. In very moist situa-
tions among Hypna near a spring. Chelmsford! If
the specimen is examined by the naked eye only,
each leaf seems to have three teeth; a deception
arising from the overlapping of one leaf on the next.
I am inclined to suppose this identical with J. triden-
tate of the Mass. Catalogue “Schw. Dr. Porter,”
which, as a species, I can € find described.
J. trilobata, L. ` Brit. Jung. t. 76. Schw. p. 12.
. Mass. Catal. | Among ined and other mosses.
Chelmsford! Plymouth! From the axilla, of the
stipules proceed numerous flagelle, which serve as
an excellent guide to distinguish the species. In
* Muhlenberg’s Catalogue,” it is called J. radicans,
probably on account of this feature. |
J. platyphylla, L. Brit. Jung. t. 40 & Suppl. t. 3.
Schw. p. 9. Mass. Catal. Chelmsford! This is by
far the most common species we have, and, owing to
its great size, is most observed. Although Schwein-
itz mentions its habitat as “on the bark of trees, es-
ly Carpinus,” yet I have seen it abundant on
tocks: Its dark green branching stems are most con-
spieuous in moist weather, investing the trunks of
s H epatic Mosses of Massachusetts. 46T €
b, t E
^s Li ss 3
‘Se E, s ae tus d P
oe M
set = ©
k ` TY *
4
ba -
" 468 ~ Hepatié Mosses of Massachusetts. a à
3 almost every kind of tree, and, nging NC
| sides of large stones in damp si ations, and indeed `
x on the flat surfaces of old stone walls. Its range of
loca P seems extensive, as I have. specimens from
"PN | doc
«J. platyphylloidea. Schw. .p.9. Igive this with 3 i
"aal fpesifütion, from a fine large specimen from X
ims Sheffield, in the western part of the State. It is cer-
= <` tainly much s am di specimen of J. platy-
» * -phylla ; while the color, yellowish green tinged with ;
‘^as brown, inflexed margins of the leaves and stipules, de
Kag à , considered essential characters of Sehweinitz, seem ` X
* $4 ~to point out the species. Unfortunately it is without , a
r fruit, which, differing from that of the pent a
species, serves as a distinguishing trait. A
J. pulcherrima, L. Schw. p. 17. This species
is considered by Hooker as identical with J. ciliaris;
but I concur with Schweinitz that “they are mani-
festly distinct.” My specimens perfectly agree with
his description of J. pulcherrima. It truly merits its
name, being ma far the most beautiful of any of our
=
species. - on Taghannoe mountain, S Sheffield
by my friend Mr. Andrew L. Russell. ?
(Perhaps it may not be amiss to notice that J. ser-
tularioides, M., is quoted in the Mass. Catal. as $Y-
nonymous with J. ciliaris. This is an error; the two
plants being very distinct. I have J. sertularioides
from Topsham, Me., and found going on decay’
o s of trees.) be
dilatata. Brit. Jung. t. 5. (Bins J. taam
jew. p. 10.) Mass. itis I Pcr Terre
* : Nie Seo ae ie’
d v on
- i sth j * Mx y
Dob > 9 a
_— ku a : 3 N Q- Ew
x^ » di KC p " a +
t $ i i A xo EN m. ^ . :
fou e a the Ohio. ae
ah:
t . which Schwei éinitz observes to be cidit confounded
i with another Les similar appearance. With the other
“species, I have not yet been so fortunate as to teet.
Seen generally « on the smooth bark of forest:
spreading widely ith very thin and delicate br
es, in a somewhat radiating manner ; but when ¢
ing on rocks it: is more «d Chelmsford ! and
elsewhere! . ‘+ «
J. pingwis, L. Brit. i t. 46. Schw. p- 19.
Mass. Catal. Loudon Encyc. Plants, sp. 15,000. `
. On sides, of declivities over which water trickles.
E ^"Chelmsford!. In fruit, March. Also at V med ^
— .* South Pond!
pa J. multifida, L. Brit. Jung. t. 45. Bibi P $o.
Mass. Catal.. Allied. to the preceding, but distinct,
having reticulated and narrow fronds. Biya !
ART. XVII. _ DESCRIPTIONS OF "THE FISHES OF THE
OHIO RIVER AND ITS TRIBUTARIES. By Jaren P.
: KIRTLAND, Professor of the Theory and Practice Medicine in
the Medical Pabat of Ohio, at Cinci ES ued from
page 352.) ‘
Powori. Cuv.
i macrochira. Raf. The Gilded Sun-Fish.
* Johthelis macrochir. Raf. Ichth. Ohien. p. 2. »
ES
Plate XXVII. Fig. 3 >
'aleless between the eyes. *
n "ig than those of the other parts of the
Operculum terminates behind
*. the operc
ATO Fishes of the Ohio
in-a semi-circular elongation, which is black and
submargined with a lighter colored border,
Body somewhat compressed, especially near the
back ; uniformly oval. í
Dorsal and anal fins inserted on fleshy, slightly
extended bases, with minute scales extending upon a.
portion of the membranes of their soft rays. Cauda:
fin slightly bilobed ; lobes equal, their bases furnished.
with scales between the rays for one fourth of their
length, Ventral fins horizontal, reaching beyond the
vent, to the commencementvof the anal fin. Pectoral
fins thin, diaphanous, extending as far as the tip of
the ventrals.
Color. Back and head iridescent, brown and pur
ple, blotched with spots of darker brown ; throat,
sides, and belly a brilliant golden yellow. ris gilt-
brown. Pectoral fins fuscous or light brown; the
other fins pale olive.
Length from 2 to 8 inches. NS
D:10— 12; C. 17; A. 38-10; V. 1-5; P 15.
Habitat, Tributaries of the Ohio in the vicinity
a
of Cincinnati, particularly the Bank Lick. °°,
Observations. "This is a well-niarked and d
species, at once recognised by its color, the smallness :
of the mouth, and length of the pectoral fin, as well
as the shape and color of the posterior extremity of
Bei
©) P. vulgaris. Cuv. The Sun-Fish.' Roach. Har
-lequin Roach.
Pomotis vulgaris. Cuv. et Valenc. Hist. Nat. des Poissons. | Hl.
i » i oe 2 : ^ s
i PIO pr. 45
NUR
-
fikirdi Fauna Boreali AT 4
torer. eeey on the Fishes of Miteuhinel.
1 «c ; 4 ee "Report on the Zoology of Ohio. p. 191. "
Labrus auritus. Linnæus. kafi Nature. Torton's Translation.
Vol.I. p. 794
General Dealers Vol. IV. p. 482,
E. Pu a Ly et Philosoph. ^
x
` E ‘Vout
m Mi vem p- 29. S ^ »
Ichthelis aurita. Raf fir esqu
* Plate ES os 3 pd
Head shart, (
obtuse 5 n
ior dorsal fin ess elevated n th ' pos
fin extends beyond the commence
e
E
L4
472 F'ishes of the Ohio
New York. The pectoral and ventral fins in the
western fish are not yellowish as in those of New
York; but I still believe them to be specifically
identical. It does not agree in the number of rays
in the a nor the color of the membranous ap-
pendage with that described under the same name
by Rafinesque; but there is considerable variation
in the specimens from different localities.
P. nitida. Kirtland. The Sun-Fish. Red eyes.
Plate XXVIII. Fig. 1.
^ Bo: ead short, abrupt. Eyes full, vermilion-colored. `
` S £3 aws set with numerous small teeth. Operculum
ps I val, appendage large, black, edged with vermilion
d e cept at its superior and anterior edger which is
bluish white.
| Body c , oval. Back aibbous between
; . the eyes and d fin. Vent post- medial. Lateral
š upwards - the piti of
NS
AE . the percditl e
LI
Y
Dorsal fin double : spinous rays 10, less ele ex — |
than - the soft rays ‘which are 11 ‘in nomb The
al membrane. is fuscous or -ochery-yellow E
! Mea
rane uniting it to the
A LJ reaches the rent, the rays bluish, ined
Ee — pen memb
E
and its Tributaries. 473
Anal fin with 2 spinous and 9 soft rays, nearly
reaches the base of the caudal ; color, the same as the
dorsal, but more bright and orange.
Caudal fin 18 tayed ; — nés the “same as
the dorsal.
Color, brilliant, but onion, and fading as soon
as the fish is taken out of the water. Upper part of
the head and back brown, yellowish, and sometimes
greenish. Head, jaws, operculum, and sides beauti-
fully waved and spotted with verditer blue. Lips
light blue, ‘sides golden yellow, ose d ue with
orange. ..
Length, not exceeding 3 elis.
Hab. Mahoning river. Ld * be
Observations. 1 cannot sif thé en on í
any. of Rafinesque’s species to this fish ;
either of the seven species of Pomotis, describe Roy: a5
Valenciennes in the ES: vo. | of his “Hist do 3
vit
Nat. des Poissons, with its le xa S
do not, therefore, hesitate "e co nsider it an. unde-
& i
scribed species. Its habits are peculiar, and its mark-
ings prominent. 'T'he preceding species always seeks Ld ef^ :
still sluggish water for its resort ; | this species niays TON
streams, on a pebbly Ma. m The size,
listingu e two. : "O09.
Be Awwoceres, Dumer. 21
A. gos Kirtland. The Mod-Eel. p
“Pike EKVIL Fig. 1 o» 4 c4 UR
. Head declivous, convex above the nme i
PR *
m.
474 Fishes of the Ohio
"ings; mouth semi-circular, elongate ; lower lip trans- .
verse; nose terminates in a short snout, projecting -
over the mouth; eyes scarcely discernible ; branchi
openings seven, arranged in a horizontal sulcation.
Body sub-cylindricy more compressed laterally be-
hind the vent; transversely marked, with’ numerous
curved sulcations “tere the whole extent of the
body.
Dorsal fin commences narrow, over the middle of
the-body, expands to its greatest width over the vent,
then declines towards the posterior. extremity, but is
continuous around the tip of the tail, again expand-
ing as it approaches the vent, and is widest one.
third of the distance from that orifice. By this 'ar-
rangement the dorsal, caudal, and anal fins are united
in one continuous extension.
"Color. The back and sides are uniformly. of a a
light olive, or sometimes a leaden hue; the. belly
and throat of a yellowish white; the fins pale and
diaphanous. Irregular series of dark brown dots are
imprinted on the whole length of the sides of the. —
body and more faintly above the branchial openings.
Length 4 or 5inches. Breadth at the bauen
ment of the dorsal fin 8 of an inch. :
Hab. Mahoning and Scioto rivers.
EU
— Observations. I first obtained half a dozen s
; P o a pit sunk in the bank of the Mahoning.
r river, for the purpose of erecting an abutment to à.
]
bridge. At the same time were taken several of the "o
Tm Menopoma and Menobranchus. Subsequently, my pt
T es ~ friend Joseph Sullivant, Esq. , of Columbus, head fur- d
and its T'ributaries. 475.
A ity of P city ; from the latter the } drawings was di.
pecies cannot. be the A. bicolor of Lesueur,
for he describes that species as having the “dorsal
fins low, separated, the second united with the caudal,
which is rounded ; back and sides reddish? &c. I
E
have in my possession the figure of this species, .
drawn, engraved, and colored by that author; and
the characters are so. distinctly different from the
specimens before me, that I believe I am warranted
in describing the latter as a new species.
Fig. a. Full size.
Fig. b. View of the Mouth.
m promelas: Raf. à The Black-headed Flat-head.
Pimephales promelas. NS Ichthyologia Ohiensis. p. 53.
and. Rep. on Zool. of Ohio. p. 194.
Plate XXVIL Fig. 2.
Head globose. . Snout sloping, broad, truncate,
with soft warts in front. Mouth small, elliptical,
transversal, with equal circular hard lips. Eyes
round. rides dusky.
Body full; gibbous on the back, anterior to the
dorsal fin ; somewhat compressed on the sides. Lat-
eral line flexuous at its base. Scales rather large.
Ki. P. _ Dorsal. fin with the anterior ray sub-spinous, stiff,
1 , elevated, half the length of the soft rays, and the
osterior soft ray equal to the longest.
v
Fishes of the Ohio
d Zaudal fin lunated ; the divisions acuminate and K
* Incurved at their tips. ne m E
“© Anal fin rhomboidal.. sgh
` Ventral fin horizontal and extending to the middle
of the base of the Anal. x 2
_ Pectoral fins ovate, do not attain to the bases of
the dorsal or the ventral.
Color. The whole head of a bluish black. ..Back
dusky, sides and abdomen of an olive or sometimes
coppery yellow ; fins olivaceous ; the dorsal blotched
at the base of the rays with jet black... serdi Eos
Length 3 inches. Diameter $ of an inch.
D. 1-8; C.20; A. 8; V.7; P. 16.
Hab. The tributaries of the Mahoning river. ©
Observations. 1 consider myself as extremely
fortunate in being able to lay before the public a cor-
rect drawing of this rare fish. Rafinesque made out
his description of it from a solitary specimen taken in
a pond near Lexington, Ky. During the last sum-
mer, I succeeded in taking three, by means of a small
net, in a spring-run on my farm, in the township of
Boardman, Trumbull County, and also. had repeated .
opportunities to watch their peculiar habits. They —
had formed beds or slight excavations under the !
ends of logs and stones, in still water, and were ac
tively engaged in defending their premises against -
the approach of other fishes. "This habit first
me to distinguish them from the common chubs
which abound in the same locality. The hard, cat- -
tilaginous lips, the character of the first ray of the
dorsal fin, the peculiar, globose form of the head,
well as their habits, will at once distinguish then
and its Tributaries.
from any other of our fishes, and perhaps these el
acters warrant Mr. Rafinesque in setting them apart
as a new genus, characterized by the “ Body ‘ob-
long, thick, and scaly. Vent posterior, nearer to the
tail. Head scaleless, fleshy all over, even over the
gill covers, rounded, convex above and short. Mouth
terminal, small, toothless, with hard cartilaginous lips.
Opercule double, three branchial rays. Nostrils sim-
ple. Dorsal fin opposite the abdominals, with the first
ray simple and cartilaginous. Abdominal fins with
eight rays." i
ConEGoNus. Cuv.
C. albus. Le Sueur. 'The White-Fish of the Lakes.
Coregonus albus. Le Sueut. Journal of the Academy of Natural
i 232.
Sciences.. Vol. I.
u « PEZ Fauna Boreali-Americana.. Fishes. |
p. 195 e
: fig.
‘> Kirtland. esit on the Zoology of Ohio. p. 195.
. Plate XXVIH. | Fig. 3.
Head triangular, compressed, smooth ; gill covers
diaphanous ; mazillaries wide, and when the mouth
is expanding, playing upon their attachment above to
the vomer; eyes brilliant; pupils black ; irides sil-
very; upper jaw longer than the lower; tip of the
nose slightly recurved and obtuse.
Body compressed laterally ; form varying from
age, sex, and condition ; slightly gibbous behind the
head; rectilinear between the dorsal and adipose
- fins. i
-. Dorsal and anal fins, quadrangular.
_ VOL. III. — NO. IV. 61
478 Fishes of the Ohio
_ Adipose fin small, situated above the anal.
Caudal fin deeply and acutely bilobed.
Abdominal and pectoral fins falcate and elongate.
Color Back steel-gray, iridescent ; sides silvery;
abdomen white. Caudal and anal fins reddish and
dusky.
—— Length 20 to 25 inches.
—D.14; P14; Y. 11; A. 14; C. 20.
Hab. Lake Erie and the Upper Lakes.
Observations. A few specimens are occasionally
taken at Cleveland and at other places on the shores
of Lake Erie, but they are most abundant and attain
the greatest size and perfection in some of the Upper
Lakes, where the business of taking and preserving
them gives employment to many persons during cer-
tain seasons of the year. They are esteemed as the
most valuable of the western fishes. They are dis-
tinguished from the Coregonus Artedi by their great-
er size, their color, and the flattened form of their
bodies.
The stomach is small, with thick mucous and mus-
cular coats; the length of the intestinal canal, in-
cluding the esophagus, stomach, and intestines, does
not exceed the total length of the fish. One half of
the contents of the abdomen seems to consist of NU
merous ceca. I have never, been able to detect
substance within their stomachs except a quantity
decayed wood, thickened mucus, and the apparently
comminuted seeds of a polygonum. The stomachs
of the C. Artedi usually contain numerous small
fishes. The jaws of the white-fish are edentulate-
Le Sueur’s figure in the “Journal of the Academy
a
Me
and its Tributaries. 479
of Natural Sciences," Vol. L, is essentially correct,
except in the form of the head and nose, which he
has but badly represented.
Amia. Lin.
C. calva. L. The Dog-Fish of Lake Erie.
Amia calva. 'Turton's Linneus. Vol.I. p.838.
* * Shaw's General Zoology. Vol. V. p.9.
* * Cuy. Griffith’s Translation, Vol. X. p.447.
Amia ocellicauda. Richardson. Fauna Boreali-Americana. p. 236.
Plate XXIX. Fig. 1.
Head cylindric-conical, rather abrupt anteriorly,
solid, rugose ; sutures prominent ; upper jaw slightly
projecting. Vostrils small, circular, a cirrus before
each. Jaws margined with strong, prominent, flat-
tish teeth, armed within with numerous erect smaller
teeth, which also cover the palate. Hyes small,
circular.
Body cylindrical anteriorly, compressed towards
the caudal fin. Scales subcircular, flat, depressed
somewhat in their centres. Medial line slightly
‘curved. — i
. Color. Back of head bluish black ; sides obscure-
ly maculated in some specimens with olive spots ;
‘under surface white.
. The base of the caudal fin oblique ; a black spot
at its upper edge.
Length from 18 inches to 2 feet.
7D. 48; P. 17; V. 6; A. 9; C. 22.
Hab. Lake Erie.
y
480 Fishes of the Ohio
Observations. 'The upper part of the pharynx is
armed with two elongated bony plates; which are
adapted to the bony armature of the branchial rays
in such a manner as to enable the fish to grind to
pieces its food. The alimentary canal from the pha-
rynx to the vent does not exceed the whole length
of the fish itself. Its natatory bladder is cellular, like
the lung of a reptile. In the stomach of one I dis-
sected, were found the remains of a number of craw-
fish. Richardson, in the “ Fauna Boreali-America-
na,” describes a species taken in Lake Huron, which
he calls A. ocellicauda. This northern species I be-
lieve to be specifically identical with the A. calva, as
his description agrees with the description of that
fish ; and I have traced its residence in all the waters
from Lake Erie, south to the Mississippi, and thence
to the waters of South Carolina, whence Linneus
obtained his specimen.
Centrarcuus. Cuv.
C. heracanthus. Valenciennes. The Ne
Grass-Bass.
Cantrarchus hezacanthus. Valenc. Hist. Nat. des Poissons. t. "
p.456. pl. 48.
Cantharus nigro-maculatus. Le Sueur. Hist. Nat. des Poissons.
tl p.855.
Storeria. Kirtland. Rep. on dcm Zool. of — P. w.
Plate XXIX. Fig. 2.
Head small, depressed between the. eyes, com-
pressed laterally. Jaws armed on their edges with a
‘
*e
OR NN ed,
E oda
and its Tributaries. ` 481
row of minute teeth ; lower jaw the longer, project-
ing. Operculum and preoperculum scaly, the latter
serrated on the posterior angle and lower edge. Iri-
des golden yellow. *
Body flattened on its sides; back very little thick-
er than the abdomen, gibbous before the dorsal fins,
especially in the older specimens. Lateral line fol-
lowing the curvature of the back.
Dorsal fin prominent ; the first spinous ray short,
the two last equal, but not equal to the — of the
soft rays.
Pectoral fins delicate, pellucid, extending beyond
the abdominal, to the commencement of the dorsal
and anal.
Ventral fins mass bet the commencement
of the anal; their lastsoft ray connected at its p
with the diloedótt bya reflected membrane.
Anal fin — extending backwards beyond
the dorsal.
Caudal fin large, bilobed or lunated.
Color. Forehead and back maculated and varie-
gated with dusky spots on a ground of sea-green ;
similar spots extend downwards upon the upper half
of the body, in irregular bands, on a groünd color of
light green or yellow ; sides of the head and body
silvery and iridescent; below of a delicate white.
Dorsal, anal, and caudal fins barred with series of
irregular dusky spots, more distinct in old than in
young specimens. Pectoral and ventral fins ferru-
ginous or yellowish.
- Length 6 to 12 inches.
D.6—15; P. 12; V. 1—6; A:6 —19; C. 171.
+
E
482 ^ Pülevf the Oh — 4
Hab. Bayous of the Cuyahoga, and the Big
Miami rivers. - arpa ie ae |
Observation. The number of rays in the differ- - 5
ent fins varies with age; but whether they become
uniform in old specimens, I have not had sufficient,
opportunity to determine. I made the annexed |
drawing from one eight inches in length, obtained in ^
the Cincinnati market, and the rays were countet
with accuracy. —
In my “Report on the Zoology of Ohi ie
cluded it under the name Cichla Storeria, sup D sing
it to be an undescribed species. Dr- Storer has since
informed me that Cuvier had previously described it
in the third volume of his “ Histoire Naturelle des
Poissons," from specimens taken by Le Sueur in the
River Wabash, and sent to him under the name 9
Cantharus nigro-maculatus. It was supposed, at
the time it was described, to be identical with the -
Labrus sparoides, Lacépède; and, consequently, in
the volume referred to, it is called Centrarchus spa-
roides. Subsequently, Valenciennes, in the seven ;
volume of the * Histoire Naturelle des Poissons,”
applied the specific name of hexacanthus. cami
This species is esteemed as a valuable pan-fish by
epicures. It is known in the market of Ci innatt
by the name of the Bank Lick Bass, being taken In
the Bank Liek ran, five miles from the city in the
State of Kentucky. At Cleveland, it is ——
Grass Bass from the cireumstance that it usually
harbours among the weeds and grass that spring UP
in the shoal waters of the old channel of the Cuya
hoga river. In other places it is called Rock Bass.
It bites readily at a baited hook.
w xx : "
+,
» Shells of Massachusetts. . 483
' ART. XVII. — RESULTS OF AN EXAMINATION OF THE
SHELLS OF MASSACHUSETTS, AND THEIR GEO-
GRAPHICAL DISTRIBUTION. By Avavsrus A. Govrp,
M.D. (Read February 3d, 1841.) E
Since the commencement of the various gos:
- eal surveys of the several States, which began with
Massachusetts, under a legislative resolve dated June
ae. and which have since been ordered by al-
ost every State in the Union, Natural Science may
je said to have received its first permanent footing in
America. A new order of men has been called into
action, who have been recognised, and in some meas-
ure patronized, by legislative enactments. It is now
no longer a species of outlawry to be regarded as a
Naturalist ; and the consequence will be, that, in-
stead of the few, who, in spite of circumstances,
have become proficient in Natural History, there will
henceforth be many, who will obtain an honorable
place among scientific men, such as the nations of
the old world delight to honor.
From the manner in which the surveys, above al-
luded to, have been carried on, each State providing
for its own territorial limits, one peculiar advantage
will arise. We shall have not only a careful enu-
meration and examination of the animals of all the
United States, much more than would be likely to
result from the labors of any body of men appointed
by national authority, but we shall pretty accurately
find the geographical limits of every species.
Having been appointed, as one of the Commission-
ers for the Zoological Survey of Massachusetts, to
484 Shells of Massachusetts, — .
examine the invertebrate animals, with the excep-
tion of insects, it is my purpose, in this paper, to give
some notices of the history of conchology in this
State, and the results of my observations on the
m7
-
geographical distribution of the shells within its —
limits.
been so long carried on from Massachusetts with
China, the Northwest. Coast, and the West Indies,
and more especially the whale-fisheries, have given
the principal sea-ports advantages for making collec-
tions of foreign shells, which have not been, enjoyed
by other larger cities. The collection in the Museum
of the ** East India Marine Society," at Salem, was
the fruit of this foreign trade. It is of considerable
extent and much notoriety, but it was made as a mat-
ter of curiosity, rather than for scientific purposes. It
afforded materials for study to its Curator, Dr. Seth
Bass, by whom it was scientifically arranged, at the
same time that he began to collect a private cabinet,
which is now one of the richest in New England. -
The * Linnzan Society," which flourished. about
twenty-five years since, also made a considerable
collection of shells. The principal, if not the only
conchologist in that society, was the Hon. Francis C.
Gray.
Dr. T. Wm. Harris collected shells with other
objects of natural history; and Dr. D. H. Storer
began early to gather the shells along the coast of
Maine and Massachusetts ; and to these two gentle-
men Mr. Say was indebted for most of the shells of
this region, which he described. In addition
The extensive commercial adventures which have —
and their csv Distribution. 485
these, the following persons may be mentioned, as
constituting nearly the whole corps of conchologists
in Massachusetts, previous to the year 1830. The
late Dr. John Dixwell and Simon E. Greene, Esq., of
Boston, Dr. Swift and Mrs. Barnard of Nantucket,
Thomas A. Greene, Esq., and Mrs. Coffin of New
Bedford, Mr. J. M. Earle of Worcester, Dr. L. M.
Yale of Holmes’s Hole, and Amos Binney, Esq., of
Boston, whose collection was, at that time, superior
to all the others, comprising nearly 2000 species, and
formed, by his donation, the basis of the collection
of the Boston Society of Natural History. Since
that time, the number of those who have engaged in
the study of conchology has rapidly increased.
By a resolve of the legislature, dated February 2,
1831, the geological surveyor was directed to cause
a list. of the zoological productions of the State to be
appended to his Report then. in preparation, and
which. was printed in March, 1832. Previous to this,
no attempt had been made to give the Fauna of the
State, and there ; no one person, who eould have
told, with any tolerable degree of accuracy, the native
animals of Massachusetts. Lists of the shells were
furnished for this Report, by Col. J. G. Totten, then
residing at Newport, R. L, 'T. A. Greene, Esq., of New
Bedford, and Mr. J. M. n of Worcester, who had
given special attention to the conchology of the inte:
rior of the State. Their united Catalogues gave, in
all, 126 species. - &
When the second edition of the “ Geological Re-
port” was about to be printed, in 1835, a committee
of the Boston Society of Natural History under-
VOL. III. — NO, Iv. 62
» d, EE
A86 Shells of Massachusetts, A
took to prepare the list.of shells. "This was done
with much labor and care; the number of species
was augmented to 165, and many important: correc-
tions were made in the nomenclature of the preced- —
ing catalogue. |
A still further resolve in June, 1837; for the con-
tinuation of the geological and zoological survey of
the State, by which the different departments were
allotted to distinct Commissioners, gave opportunity
for a still more accurate determination and enumera-
tion of our Fauna. In conchology, the explorations i
of Doctors Storer, Yale, Bass, Forsyth, and Prescott,
and Messrs. Binney, Couthouy, Adams, Whittemore;
Greene, Tuckerman, and Col. Totten, had afforded
materials for rendering our list of shells much more
extensive and complete than it could previously have
been. The- Report on the Mollusca, Crustacea; and
Radiata, is just now from the press, and affords the
following results, as to the testaceous Mollusca. 4
The whole number of species is 274; which is
an addition of 100 to the list of 1835, and of 148
to that of 1832, or more than doubling the number-
Of these there belong to the class Annelida 6 spe-
cies; to Cirripedes 12 ; Conchifera 97 ; Brachiopoda
2; Gasteropoda. 154. Twenty-nine species belon
to the land, 42 to fresh water, and 203 are marine.
With these we might mention nine species of naked
Mollusca, two of which are terrestrial, and seven
marine. Several genera, not previously observed, -
have been discovered. Such are Panopea, Anatin& |
Thracia, Osteodesma, Montacuta, Kellia, Lucina,
Terebratula, Dentalium, Cemoria, Bulimus, Sig9-
DEW
4
*
he
and their Geographical Distribution. 487
retus, Tornatella, Skenea, Janthina, "Turritella,
Scalaria, Odostomia, Cancellaria, Pleurotoma, Ros-
tellaria, and "T'richotropis. 'The number of species
added to some of the g genera. is remarkable. Thus,
there have been added.to Nucula 6, to Chiton 5, to
Bulla 6, to Margarita 4, to Cerithium 4, and to
Ca 3 species, Seventy species have been
discovered and described as new, within the last five
years; while, on the other hand, more than twenty
species which had been described as new, by differ-
ent writers, have been proved to be well known,
and previously described, on the other side of the
Atlantic. . -
They are distributed under the following genera,
namely; Pectinaria 1, Spirorbis 3, Serpula 1, Coron-
ula 1, Balanus 6, Anatifa 3, Cineras 1, Otion 1, T'e-
redo 1, Pholas 2, Solen 1, Solecurtus 2, Machæra 2,
Solemya 2, Panopea 1, Glycymeris 1, Mya 2, Cor-
bula 1, Pandora 1, Osteodesma 1, Anatina 1, Cochlo-
desma 1, Thracia Mactra 3, Cumingia 1, Mesodes-
ma 2, Montacuta I, : ellia m Saxicava 1, Petricola 2,
Sanguinolaria. 2, Tellina 2, Lucina 3, Cyclas 4, As-
tarte 5, Cyprina 1, Cytherea 1, Venus 4, Cardium A,
Cardita 1, Arca 2, Nucula 8, Unio 5, Alasmodon 3,
Anodon 3, Mytilus 2, Modiola 7, Pecten 3, Ostrza 2,
Anomia, 2, Terebratula 2, Chiton 6, Patella 1, Lot-
tia 2, Dentalium 1, Cemoria 1, Crepidula 4, Bulla 9,
Helix 16, Pupa7, Bulimus 1, Succinea 3, Auricula 2,
Planorbis, 11, Physa 3, Limnza 6, Ancylus 2, Val-
vata 2, Paludina 1, Amnicola 1, Natica 8, Janthina 1,
Velutina 2,. Raters 1, Tornatella 1, Vermetus 1,
Skenea 1, Scalaria A. Maia 5, Littorina 3, La-
488 Shells of Massachusetts,
cuna 2, Cingula 2, Turritella 2, Pyramis 1, Odosto-
mia 5, Cerithium 5, Pleurotoma 3, Cancellaria 1,
Fusus 10, Pyrula 2, Ranella,1, Rostellaria 1, 'T'richo-
tropis 1, Purpura 1, Buccinum 9, Columbella 1, Spi-
rula 1. :
At least seventy of our marine species are also
found on the transatlantic shores, and a few terres-
trial species are also found on both continents. Of
these last may be mentioned Heliz aspersa, hortensis,
cellaria, pulchella, perhaps lucida, and Bulimus
lubricus. 'There are several other shells which, if
not the same, are very closely allied ; such as Suc-
cinea, and some of the species of Limnea and Plan-
orbis. Mr. Forbes, in his Report to the British As-
sociation, in 1839, puts down Limnea ‘palustris and
stagnalis, as American species, alluding probably to
our L. appressa and L. elodes. I will not pretend to
dispute this, because their similarity is great, and it
would be very difficult to prove them either identical
or distinct. It appears to me that they present dif-
ferences which are at once perceived, if they cannot
be plainly described, so that any one might readily
separate them from each other. i
It is not difficult to account for the transportation
and subsequent propagation of the terrestrial species
from one continent or island to another. This I5
well known to be the case in England, and Mr.
Forbes, in the report above referred to, gives numer-
ous examples of it, and in- some instances gives Us
the historical period and manner of the transfer.
This, we know, is the history of Helis asper
hortensis, and cellaria in this country,— shells w.
and their Geographical Distribution. 489
commerce has introduced and which have not yet
travelled away from the sea-shore. Helix variabilis
and pisana, and Bulimus acutus, however, which
Mr. Forbes also sets down ‘as introduced to this
continent, have not yet been found, so faras I am
able to learn, while he does not mention Bulimus
decollatus, which is not infrequent in South Carolina
and Georgia. Alasmodon margaritifera and A. ar-
cuata, are also regarded by many as identical. But
all the specimens of the former which I have had an
opportunity to examine, differ very essentially from
any specimens of our shell which I have ever seen. —
Indeed, I am not yet satisfied that any fresh water
mollusk is common to both sides of the Atlantic.
Animals living on territories widely separated by salt
water, are always found to: be different, unless the
means of intercommunication. are obvious, or at least
possible. They appear to have been created distinct,
and ever to remain so, unless — by design or
accidental transfer.
About twenty of the larger species may be regard-
ed as intermediate between the two continents, as
they are most abundantly found about Newfound-
land and the Grand Banks, where they are an abun-
dant source of food tó the eh which are caught
there.
Several thet species have been found in other
States on the immediate borders of this State, which
will, undoubtedly, be found within its limits ere
long.
The iédurufihiéel distribution of shells i is a subject
which is daily gaining additional interest, and assum-
490 . Shells of Massachusetts,
v
^ 'jng a more and more practical aspect. It is pursued
with a view to ascertain the value which fossil con-
chology may have in determining the age and nature
of geological formations. Various causes are found
to modify. the distribution of shells, such as latitude,
altitude, inelination of the surface, the character of
the rocks, &e. On limestone formations snails are
usually abundant, while they are rarely found in
granite regions. T'he Limnza is most abundant in
the streams of colder regions, and Melania takes its
place in warmer climates. T
The geological structure of this State, and its lim-
ited territory, furnish little room for variety. from ,
these causes; yet a few peculiarities in distribution
may be noticed even here. Helix hortensis is as-yet
confined to some limited parts of the sea-coast, as the
extremities of Cape Ann and Cape Cod ; while
H. tridentata, hirsuta, and monodon, are only found
in the interior and western portions of the State
Of the fresh water mussels, we find Unio complana-
tus, radiatus, and probably nasutus, in every region.
U. cariosus is only found in the Connecticut and its
tributaries, and in ponds in Plymouth. Anodon im-
plicata is perhaps -entirely limited, in this State, to
ponds in Essex and Middlesex counties; and A. un-
dulata to the Blackstone and its tributaries. The
region of the sea is said to favor the developement
of some species of land shells; and special mentio
is made of Bulimus lubricus. If I may judge from
a single observation, this remark will hold good with
us. I have seen the fallen leaves all over Oak Island,
a small wooded spot in the vicinity of Chelsea Beach,
and their Geographical Distribution.’ 491
+
so covered with this shell, that from twenty to one -
hundred might be taken up on a single leaf. I have
observed it in only a few other situations, — it
occurs solitary.
The distribution of the marine shells i is more wor-
thy of notice. There is a peculiarity in the topog-
raphy of Massachusetts, which causes as remarka-
ble a modification in the distribution of the Mol-
lusca as can be anywhere shown within the same
limits. I refer to what is well called the right arm
of our Commonwealth, Cape Cod. This’ neck of
land, which stretches out into the sea, in a curved di-
rection, a distance of some forty or fifty miles, and is
nowhere more than about twenty miles wide, has
hitherto proved an efficient barrier to the migration
of many genera and species. Many whole genera
do not pass from one side to the other of this limit.
Thus, no species of Panopea, Glycymeris, Cyprina,
Terebratula, Cemoria, Cancellaria, Rostellaria, or
Trichotropis has yet been found to the south of the
extreme point of Cape Cod; while Corbula, Cochlo-
desma, Cumingia, Montacuta, 'l'ornatella, Cerithium,
Ranella, and Pyrula do not pass to the north of it.
Of the 203 marine species, 81 do not pass to the
south, and 30 have not been found to the north of
the Cape, though many of them approach within a
very few miles of each other. The remaining 92
species take a wider range, and are found on both
sides. It is probable that future observations will
reduce the number of the limited species somewhat,
but still the numbers will be so large : as to exhibit a
most remarkable limitation.
$c:
E M Shells of Massachusetts,
Massachusetts may almost be said to be destitute
of fossil shells. None have been found which do
not also exist in d recent state in the immediate vi-
cinity. It is true that at Gay Head, Martha's Vine-
yard, the most fertile locality for fossil remains in the
State, they are found at an elevation of many feet
above the ocean; and they are also found buried
many feet below the diluvial sands of Nantucket, —
and its neighbourhood. Still, they are the recent
shells of the vicinity, hardly yet fossilized, few in
number, and seeming to have been. buried at no very
distant period. In the interior, we find in the sedi-
ment of ponds, especially those in the neighbourhood
of Pittsfield, myriads, of the species of Planorbis,
Limnæa, Physa, and Cyclas now living in the same
waters, which are forming beds of marl there. In — —
the vieinity of New Bedford, Professor Adams dis-
covered a bed of the shells of Pholas costata, a Spe"
cies which is now extinct here, and is not found
living within 12 or 1500 miles. Yet, from the væ —
rious ages of the specimens and their integrity in
their most delicate portions, it is evident that they -
once lived where they are. now found, and that they
have, from some cause, become entirely extinct-
This is not the only instance of a similar catastrophe. — :
It-is well attested, that native oysters were abun ant —
within the extremity of Cape Cod, previous to about
the year 1780, when they were entirely. destroyed ;
and immense beds of shells still remain to attest the
fact. It is said that the cause of their death. was .
what is called a ground frost, that is, a degree of
80 great as to coat the bed of the sea, where the oy
: : ie
and their Geographical Distribution. 493
ters lay; with ice, thus cutting off from them the
power of respiration. This is especially evident at
Wellfleet, the town whence the Boston market is
now chiefly supplied with oysters, but all of which
are first transported and planted there from more
southern waters. i
Another curious fact which may be interesting to
the geologist, has been observed at Lowell. In dig-
ging away a sand-bank, not far above the junction of
the Concord and Merrimack rivers, which has not been
known to undergo any alteration within the memory
of man, there were found, at some 30 feet below the
surface, some vegetable and animal remains. "They
consisted of the branches, leaves, cones, and acorns
of pines and oaks, in a state of perfect preservation,
and of Unios, apparently perfect: But on examina-
tion, the earthy matter was found to have entirely dis-
appeared, nothing remaining but the epidermis, which
was so entire in its minutest details, that the species
were as readily made out, as if just from the water.
I will mention only one other fact, whieh may
serve to illustrate, how accident, design, or some con-
vulsion of nature may present us fossils in the imme-
diate vicinity of living animals of the same species.
The Western Avenue, or Mill Dam, was built from
Boston across a broad basin to the westward of the
city, by which the water is excluded from the region
between Boston and Roxbury. It is now more than
twenty years since this was done, and much of the
land has already been built upon. Throughout this
whole region, there is a stratum of shells, such as in-
habit the river on the other side of the Mill Dam,
3
VOL. III. — NO. Iv.
494 Shells of Massachusetts.
about four or five inches below the surface. This
may demonstrate to us what has happened in the
fossil rocks of other ages, and what' will be present
to the geologist who may live when the present soils
become condensed into solid rocks. |
Experience has shown, that, in order to construct a
tolerably complete catalogue of the shells of any re-
gion, it is necessary that observations should be ex- .
tended through a series of years. It has been found,
that species, which, in one season, appear in great
abundance, are not seen again for several years, Or
but very sparingly. In the spring of 1838, Osteo-
desma hyalina was strewed upon Chelsea Beach
in great numbers, and of very large size. It had
never been observed there before, and has scatcely
been seen there since. Cyprina Islandica, Sole —
mya velum, Venus gemma, and Margarita arctica
also present instances of similar periodicity at long
intervals. In the summer of 1840, large numbers of
` Janthina fragilis were found upon the shores of
Nantucket; and this is the only occasion on which
I have known of its appearance upon. our coast.
During the winter of 1838 — 9, that remarkable shell,
Nucula thraciaformis, was frequently found in the
stomachs of the sand-dab (Pleuronectes dentata) ;
but the search for them since has been almost fruitless.
These fish were taken off Race Point, the extremity
of Cape Cod, and this is the only locality where the
shell has yet been found. Many similar instances
might be mentioned. Hence, in addition to the te
mark made above, it may also be suggested, that It
is always best to lay in a good store of any species,
"^ While we may. Tie
CONSTITUTION. AND BY-LAWS
OF TH E
BOSTON SOCIETY OF NATURAL HISTORY.
CONSTITUTION.
` ARTICLE I.
THE Siciety shall be called the. > Bostox Society oF
NATURAL Hisronv.
ARTICLE Il.
It shall consist of Members, Corresponding and Hon-
orary Members, and Patrons.
ARTICLE III.
Members shall be chosen by ballot, after having beep
nominated at the meeting immediately preceding that on
which the ballot is taken: the affirmative votes of three
fourths of the members present shall be necessary to a
choice. Corresponding and Honorary members shall be
elected in a similar manner, but their nomination shall pro-
ceed from the Council. Any person who shall contribute
at one time, to the funds of the Society, a sum not less than
fifty dollars, shall be a Patron. :
ARTICLE IV.
Members only shall be entitled to vote, to hold office, or
to transact business: Corresponding and Honorary Mem-
496 CONSTITUTION.
bers and Patrons, may attend the meetings, and take part
in the scientific discussions of the Society.
ARTICLE V.
The officers of the Society, shall be a President; two
Vice-Presidents, first and second; a Corresponding Sec-
retary; a Recording Secretary and Clerk; a Treasurer; @
Librarian; eight Curators, and a Cabinet Keeper, — who,
together, shall form a Board, for the management of the
concerns of the institution, and be called the Council.
ARTICLE VI.
Officers shall be chosen by ballot, and a majority of votes
shall be sufficient for a choice.
ARTICLE VII.
By-laws for the more particular regulation of the Society;
shall from time to time be made. , id
ARTICLE VIII,
This Constitution may be altered or amended in any of
the preceding articles, by a vote to that effect, of three
fourths of the members: but the article which immedial
follows this, shall be unalterable. a
ARTICLE IX. ; i
' The consent of every member shall be necessary, t0 8
dissolution of the Society. In case of a dissolution, the
‘property of the Society shall not be distributed among the
members, but donors may claim and receive such .
as they have made to the museum, and the remainder shall
be given to some public institution, on such conditions 8$
may then be agreed on; and the faithful performance of
such conditions, shall be. secured by bonds with sufficient
penalties for the non-fulfilment thereof. —
BY-LAWS.
SECTION I.
OF MEMBERS.
Arr. 1, Every person who shall have been elected a
member of this Society, shall subscribe an obligation, prom-
ising to conform to the Constitution and By-laws thereof, and
shall pay into the treasury an initiation fee of five dollars.
He shall possess none of the rights of membership, nor
shall his name be borne upon the roll of members until the
said fee shall have been paid. ‘Any person of respectable
character and attainments, residing in the city of Boston,
or its immediate neighbourhood, shall be eligible as a mem-
ber of this Society.
Arr. 2. Corresponding and Honorary members shall
not be required to pay an initiation fee, or other contribu-
tion. Corresponding members shall consist of persons not
resident in the city, who may be interested in the study of
Natural History, or desirous of promoting the interests of
the Society. Honorary members shall be selected from
persons eminent for their attainments in science, on whom
the Society may wish to confer a compliment of respect.
Arr. 3. Persons who have been unsuccessful candidates
for admission, shall not be again proposed as members until
after one year.
Arr. 4, Fo. member may withdraw from. the Society,
by giving written notice of his intention, and paying all
arrearages due from him. A refusal or neglect on the part
of a member to pay any due for the space of one year,
498 BY-LAWS.
shall be considered an intimation of a wish to withdraw
from the Society. And it shall be the duty of the Treasu-
rer to report the names of such delinquent members yearly
to the Council, at their first meeting after the annual meet —
ing, who shall thereupon order their names to be stricken
from the rolls. ;
Art. 5. Members may be expelled from the Society, by
a vote of three fourths of the members present, at a meet-
ing specially called for that purpose, by a notice given at
least one month previous.
SECTION II.
OF OFFICERS AND THEIR DUTIES.
Art. l. The President shall preside at meetings of the
Society and of the Council; shall preserve order, regulate
debates, and announce donations and other interesting infor-
mation. - 1 |
ArT. 2. The Vice-President shall perform the duties of
President, in his absence. oic
Arr. 3. The Corresponding Secretary shall conduct the
correspondence of the Society, and keep a record thereof;
acknowledge all donations ; notify corresponding members
of their election, and receive and read to the Society all
communications ọn scientific subjects which may be e
dressed to him. ` if
ArT. 4. The Recording Secretary and Clerk shall take —
and preserve correct minutes of the proceedings of the So-
ciety and Council, in a book to be kept for that pops
shall have the charge of the papers and documents belong-
ing to the Society, and of their common seal ; shall notify
members of their election, and committees of their ap"
pointment, and shall call meetings when directed by U9*
President. R ecd
Art. 5. The Treasurer shall have charge of all moneys
‘and other property of the Society, except their Library
BY-LAWS. 499
Museum; shall collect all fees and assessments, and receive
any donations in money which may be made to it ; shall
pay all accounts against the Society, when the same are
approved by a vote of the Council; shall keep. a correct
account of all receipts and expenditures in a book belong-
ing to the Society, and shall at each annual meeting, and at
other times when required by the Council, make a detailed
report of the same. : 3 i
Amr. 6. The Librarian shall have control of the books
belonging to the Society, or deposited for their use; he
shall make a correct catalogue of them, and keep a record
of such as are taken from the Library by the members ;
shall permit the use of the Library to members and others,
under such regulations as may from time to time be adopt-
ed, and shall annually report the condition of the Library.
Art. 7. The Curators shall be intrusted with the care
of the Museum. They shall, within six weeks after a do-
nation is made, deposit such donation in their particular
Cabinets., Each Curator shall have his particular depart-
ment allotted to him at the time of his election. The Cu-
rator having charge of any division of the collection, shall
keep the keys thereof; shall arrange the specimens after
some approved system, and, so far as is practicable, label
them with the names they bear in such system. He shall
keep a correct catalogue of articles in his care, and shall
be alone authorized to select duplicate. specimens from the
Cabinet, and effect exchanges. He may select from
among the members of the Society a person to assist him
in arranging and labelling the specimens. The Curators
shall, at the annual meeting, make a written report to the
Society, concerning the Museum, the state of the different
collections, the additions made during the past year, and
the deficiencies which exist. :
Arr. 8. The Cabinet Keeper shall have the general
charge of the room or rooms belonging to the Society ; shall
500 BY-LAWS. s
see that their contents are kept in the best order; shall se-
lect a competent person as a porter or attendant, and this
person shall be considered as under his immediate control. .
He shall also, when convenient, attend personally, during
the days of public visitation. sian ;
Arr. 9. The Council shall provide suitable rooms for
the meetings of the Society, for lectures, and for the Muse-
um: they shall select the subjects of the lectures, regulate
the order in which they shall be given, and determine on
what terms the public may be admitted to them ; appoint
Lecturers, and fix their compensation; authorize the ex-
penditure of money for the increase of the Library and
Museum, and designate the books which shall be purchased ;
and do any other acts not inconsistent with the Constitution
and By-laws, which they may think necessary to the con- -
tinuation and success of the Society. i
SECTION UL. fa
—— OF ASSESSMENTS.
Art. 1. Every member who shall have resided in the
city of Boston, or within ten miles thereof, during the six
c aths a ow the first of October in each year, or dur-
; any part of said term, shall be subject to an annual
assessment of three dollars, payable on that day ; Provided,
that no assessment shall be required of any member during
the six months succeeding his election. os :
Amr.92.. Any member who shall pay into the treasury
at one time, the sum of thirty dollars, shall be exempt from
the annual assessments. i
Azr.3. Whenever a member of this Society shall be —
come acquainted with a young man of good moral character,
who is desirous of joining: the Society from a pure lore Vf
Natural Science, and shall be aware of his inability to be-
come a member should. an initiation or assessment fee be
,— he shall be allowed to nominate the said ind
te,
a
wx.
$
2
- BY-LAWS. 501
‘vidual in the usüal way, sparing his feelings by making no
reference to his situation. But in case of his election, he
shall state his situation to the Treasurer, and pledge the hon-
or of the individual elected, that all the fees which would
ordinarily be demanded, shall be promptly paid, except ar-
rears, whenever his situation will allow ; and the Treasurer
shall make known his circumstances to no one save his suc-
cessor, who shall as carefully guard his feelings. :
SECTION IV.
OF THE LIBRARY.
Art. 1. The Library shall consist of works on —
History, and other subjects connected therewith.
RT. 9. The selection of Books to be purchased for the
Library, shall be made by the Council ; but for the present,
such- books only shall be purchased, as are not found in
other publie Libraries in the city of Boston. -
Art.3. Members may deposit books in the Library f for
the use of the society; but such books shall not be taken
from the Library-room, without the consent of the owners.
Art. 4. The Society shall be responsible for the safe-
keeping and careful usage of books deposited, e
recompense the owners for any damage which may oc
to them, while in the Society's keeping.
sAÀmnT.5. Books owned by:the Society may be taken
from the Library by members, upon signing a receipt for
the same, and promising to make good any damage which
may be sustained when in their FORES and to “ll
the same if lost.
Ant. 6. The Council may prohibit valuable ‘ind rare
books from cireulation..
^ Art. 7. Books shall not be kept from the Library m more
than one calendar month by-the same persons.
VOL. III. — NO. 1v. 64
v.
a ANTE a.
ks: A ^
502 ik.
Art. 8. The Council may appoint particular days for -
taking books from the Library.
Art. 9. All Books shall be returned to the Library on
the third Wednesday of April annually, and remain one
fortnight ; and any person then having one or more books,
and neglecting to return the same, shall be reminded of his
delinquency by the Librarian.
Art. 10. The Council may extend the use of the Libra
ry to other persons than members.
SECTION V.
_OF THE MUSEUM.
Art. 1. The Museum shall consist of collections in the
different departments of Natural History.
ArT. 2. All specimens sent to the Museum. shall. be
considered the property of the Society, unless the owner
shall make known in writing his. wish to retain the peptone
of withdrawing them.
Art. 3. When a member deposits in the Museos a ii
ficient number of articles to fill an.entire case, a key of the
case shall be at all times at his command.
.4. The names of donors, with the articles given,
shall in every instance be recorded in a book kept for that -
purpose, by the curators of each department.
Art. 5. No specimens shall be removed í from the. Mr
seum, without the leave of the Council.
ArT. 6. Members, corresponding members, and patrons;
shall have access to the Museum, at all times, slit to the
regulations of the Council.
Art. 7. Members or other persons desirous of examining !
or describing specimens, or of taking them from the cases
for the purpose of study, must apply to the curators; who — —
have charge of them.
Art. 8. At the menting in October, a committee £
=
Lodi
4
ge
AES 7 las
b. A
EREI
BY-BAWS. 503
three members shall be appointed, who shall report at the
next meeting on the state of the Cabinet and Library
SECTION VI.
OF LECTURES.
Art. 1. Public lectures shall be annually given under
the auspices of the Society, on the several branches of
Natural History.
Art. 2. The order in which the lectures shall follow
each other, shall be fixed by the Council.
Art. 3. Members of the Society shall have free admis-
sion to the lectures; other persons shall be admitted on
such terms as the Council shall prescribe.
RT. 4. The moneys received’ for admission to the lec-
tures, shall go to pay the compensation of Lecturers and
other expenses; the balance, if any, shall be paid into the
Du of the Society.
SECTION VII.
. OF MEETINGS.
Art. 1, A meeting shall be held on the first Wednesday
in May annually, for the choice of officers and other gen-
eral purposes. At this meeting, reports shall be made, by
the Treasurer, on the state of the funds; by the Librarian,
on the condition of the Library ; and by the Curators, on
the condition of the Museum.
Arr. 2. Stated meetings of the Society shall be held on
the first Wednesday of every month.
Arr. 3. Six members shall form a quorum for business.
Arr. 4. Members will be expected to communicate at
the meetings of the Society, such interesting information as
may come into their possession respecting Natural History
in general, and particularly any new facts respecting that
of our own country.
* -*
504 BY-LAWS.
Art. 5. Written communications on subjects connected —
with Natural History, may be made by the members; the
subjects, and time of reading, shall be chosen by them-
selves; but after the same shall have been read, the opin-
ions and facts therein contained, shall be open to remark
by other members.
Art. 6. The order of proceeding at matings shall be
as follows, to wit :
Record of preceding meeting read.
Written communications read.
Verbal communications made.
Business called up by special resolutions.
Donations announced. |
Candidates for membership proposed.
Adjournment. ! at
Dr
D s go
"n9
LIST OF MEMBERS
OF THE
BOSTON SOCIETY OF NATURAL HISTORY.
IMMEDIATE MEMBERS.
Abbot, J., s
Abbot, S. La
Adams, C. B. it Col; Vt
Adaras, Edw
- Adams, Pilot Cincinnati. i
ams William J. 2
Amory, Charles
Andrews, Benjamin H.
Andrews, William T.
Andrews, William W., Malta.
Appleton, Edward.
Ailin Thomas G.
Ayer, J. Cullen. -
Pi
^
Bacon, John, Jr.
Baker, H. F., London.
ae Sati. a oo on
Bates, Charles J., Illinois. -
Belknap, A. E.
ans Charles V., Medford.
Bemis, — el A.
Benjamin, Park, New Fork.
Bethune, like M. TM
Bige
wer, T. M.
riggs, ma A., Charlestown.
Brimmer, Martin
Brodhead, paner C.
Brooks, Edward. -
Brown, Daniel J.
506 LIST OF MEMBERs.
Brown, James.
Bryant, Henry.
ugard, B. F.
Bulfinch, Thomas,
Bullard, William S.
Butts,
, George B
Chapman, Jonathan.
Channing, Walter.
Channing, William F.
Choate, Charles, Illinois.
Clark, H. G
Cushing, Thomas Jr.
Cutler, William.
sari flier A.S.
' Dewar, H. A., Edinburgh.
Dixwell, Epes S.
Dixwell, John James.
Dodge, Pickering, Salem.
Dupee, Horace. —
Emerson, Ralph W., Concord.
Emmons, Robert L.
Emmons, Stephen.
Fales, E. F.
Fellows, Lewis, Cuba.
-=
g
a
5
z
=
ay
oS
i
+
Fowle, William B.
a W: H.
Gay, Mart
Gould, estt A.
Gould, B.
Gould, David.
Gray, ae Andover.
Gray, F
Gray, Frederik T.
Gray, John C.
Gray, Thomas Jr.
Greene, Benjamin
Greene, aerem G., Windsor, hin
Guild, G. F.
Hale, and E. :
LIST OF
nink Nestor, New York.
Hayden, John C.
Hayes, Augustus A.
Henshaw, David.
Hickling, Charles, Roxbury.
Higginson, Francis J., Michigan.
Oliver W.
owe, Samue
Hubbard, H. A m
Ingalls, William.
Ingalls, William, Jr.
Jackson, Charles T.
Jackson, Charles, Jr.
Jackson, Francis H. |
ackson, mes Tte
Jackson,
Jarves, es ames, Peres Islands.
Jarvis, Nathan .
Jellison, Zachariah.
Joy, Joseph
Kahler, Jeremiah.
Keep, N. C.
Keep, Solomon.
Keith, Omen S.
Kent, Benjamin, Roxbury.
Kettell, Samuel.
Kinsman, H. W., Newburyport:
Lawrence, William.
MEMBERS. 507
Lawrence, William R.
Leach, Daniel, Roxbury. +
nch, B. D., New Orleans.
- Lee, William R.
$ :
Leland, A. L
Lewis, J. W. P
L
> LI F .
ewis, Winslow, Jr.
Lyon, — Cuba.
May, Samuel J.
Mears, E.R
Miles, Solomon P.
Moriarty, Joseph, Gloacester.
Morse, Robert M.
otley, Thomas.
“Nuttall, Thomas, Philadelphia.
Osgood, David.
Otheman, Edward.
Otis, George W., Jr.
Palmer, pun
Palmer, n K.
Park, Thomas Bo California.
Perkins, James H., Ohio.
Li
508 LIST OF
Perkins, William.
Perry, Marshall S.
Pierce dcm
Power, Thom
Pratt, Alfred B. New Orleans.
Pratt, William, Jr.
Prescott, Edward G., New Jersey.
Putnam, Charles G.
Quincy, Josiah.
Quincy, Josiah, Jr.
Randall, John.
Restieaux, Thomas.
Reynolds, a Jr.
Reynolds, W. B.
Robeson, ‘Anew, Jr., New Bed-
ford.
Robeson, William, Fall River.
r
uther.
inson, Horatio, Salem.
Rodman, Samuel W., New Bed-
fe i
ord.
Rogers, William M.
Russell, Le Baron
_ Tuckerman, Henry H
Salisbury, -—
Sargent, Epes, Jr., New York.
He *
Sargent, Howard.
Sargent, John T. > |
halS. .-
nd. Nathaniel B., Jr.
Shurtleff, S.A
MEMBERS.
inner, Francis.
Smith, Jerome V. C.
Smith, William H.
Sn Wee Nathaniel G. —
Soule, ard,
Sparhawk Thodds; White Mom-
St adi Charles.
Stone, Henry O. à
Storer, D. Humphreys
Storer, R i
Storrow, ind 8.
ter, Sebastian F
Sturgis, Josiah
Sullivan, Richard.
Swett, Samuel B., New Me
Tappan, Benjamin.
T
ena.
ant, George.
Tucker, Nathaniel S. >
Tuckerman, Edward, Jr.
Tyler, William C.
Walter, Lynde M.
West, Benjamin H.
LIST OF MEMBERS. 509
West, Bayes ese Illinois. Wigglesworth, Samuel.
Weston, Alden Williams, Moses B.
Werton, Ezra on i Williams, Timothy.
Whitman, "ien Portland. Wing, Benjamin F.
Whitney, J. D. ; Winslow, Hubbard.
more, Thomas J. Winthrop, R. €.
W
Wille cti Edward. yuan, Jeffries.
.LIFE MEMBERS.
Bartlett, 'T'ho Parker, Leonard M.
Dillaway, Charles MOM Perkins, Thomas H.
pi iie es MEMBERS.
*Benjamin Lincoln, Burlington, Samuel P. Hildreth, Marietta,
hio
Vermont.
Isaac gi Eastport William W. Wood, Manilla.
John J. Audubon, Philadelphia. *William S. Emerson, Alton, IIl.
Richard Rent Phila adelphia. ` Pablo de la Gironniere, Manilla.
Leroy M. Yale, Holmes' Hole. io E. Holbrook, Charleston,
Thomas A. Greene, New Bedford. —. S. C.
E H, Sweet dit Dupont, M : e Boston.
Edm Charleston,
Charles Came, St. Petersburg, 5. E
Charles Pickering, Philadelphia.
Russ
William 4 Oakes, I pswich. J. C. Jay, New York.
Edward G. Bumstead, Cuba, W.I. J.J.Robertson, Constantinople.
James B. Forsyth, Sandwich, J. G. Totten, U. S. Army, New-
J. N. Reynolds, New York. port, R. I.
Ebenezer NT Williams en ies hs. Beverly, Mass.
lege, Mass Jose 6, Turin.
John Declinki; Charleston, S.C. W. B. O. pecia Springfield.
VOL. III. — NO. Iv. 65
510 LIST OF MEMBERS.
Chester Dewey, Rochester, N. Y. Sir John Stoddard, Malta.
F. W. Cragin, Surinam, 8. A. D. S. Macauley, Tripoli.
Benjamin B. Brown, St. Louis. *John Deal, Honolulu.
John M. Earle, Worcester. Richard Parnel. HORN
Asa Gray, New York. Benjamin Silliman, Jr., Yale Col-
John Leconte, New York. le VA
ge.
James Trudeaux, Philadelphia. James Hall, New York.
Charles Zimmerman, Columbia, Owen Mason.
S. C. J. S. Phillips, Philadelphia.
John E. Dekay, New York. Francis Boott, London.
Timothy A. Conrad pou. J. C. Loudon, London.
Samuel Geo. Morton, Edward Doubleday, Epping, Eng.
J. P. Wetherill, e S. Stehman Halde i
Edmund Harris, Morristown, N.J. enn.
A. W. Chapman, Quincy, Florida. Charles Wilkes, U. S. Navy.
John L. — Chelmsford. Thomas S. Savage, Cape Palmas,
Henry Blood, New Orleans. W. Africa.
A Ballistiere, Singapore. John L. Alexander, Hubbards-
James O. Savage, Cuba, town. j
Salvatore Scuderi, Catania. Albert Hopkins, Williams College —
Placido Portal, Palermo. John L. Hayes, Portsmouth.
Chevalier Magnetto, Gibralter. Francis Archer, Li
Thomas Reid, Tunis. Frederick Miller, New Bedford.
Ignatius Bonavita. í
HONORARY MEMBERS.
M. Elie de Beaumont, Paris. Alexandre Bronquis Paris.
Benjamin Silliman, Yale College. John Edward Gray, London.
Edward Hitchcock, Amherst Col- Gideon A. Mantell, Brighton,
lege. ; ' England. .
Isaac Lea, Philadelphia. John Richardson, London.
William Buckland, Oxford Uni- William Swainson, London.
Wi
versity.
M. Louis Agassiz, Neufchatel, L. C. Kiener, Paris.
Switzerland. C. Lucien Buonaparte, Borden-
Thomas Bell, London. town.
H. M. Ducrotay de Blainville, W. Jackson Hooker, Glasgow:
Paris. Leonard Jenyns. - : :
LIST OF MEMBERS. 511
William Jardine, London. Achille Richard, Paris.
Richard Owen, London. . Auguste St. Hilaire, Paris.
C.,G.: B. mon Oxford Uni- Adolphe Brongniart, Paris.
versit William Whewell.
Charles Lyell, London.
John hd ley, London.
gn amen, Edinburgh Uni- C. U.S
y.
- J. 8. Fei: Cambridge Uni-
versity
epard, Charleston, S. C.
drien Eide. Pari
A. Beoná. Cambridge Univer-
sity.
OFFICERS
OF THE
* BOSTON SOCIETY OF NATURAL HISTORY
ron 1841 — 2.
PRESIDENT, | ES
GEORGE B. EMERSON. _ "n
VICE-PRESIDENTS,
AMOS BINNEY,
CHARLES T. JACKSON.
CORRESPONDING SECRETARY,
EPES S. DIXWELL.
RECORDING SECRETARY,
FREDERIC A. EDDY.
TREASURER,
JOHN JAMES DIXWELL.
. LIBRARIAN,
CHARLES K. DILLAWAY.
CURATORS, | |
^— T. WILLIAM HARRIS, m à
E D. HUMPHREYS STORER, r.
AUGUSTUS A. GOULD,
J. E. TESCHEMACHER,
MARTIN GAY,
NATHANIEL B. SHURTLEFF,
THOMAS BULFINCH,
SAMUEL L. ABBOT, Jr.
" CABINET KEEPER,
THOMAS T. BOUVE-.
BOSTON SOCIETY OF NATURAL HISTORY.
ADDITIONS TO THE LIBRARY . d
OF THE
SINCE 1837.
[The names bal the donors are appended to their donations. }
The “ Feas Fund ^ Ve * the contribution of Messrs. Amos aree;
B. D. Greene, Samuel A. Eliot, David Eckley, George. B. Emerson, Wil-
liam Ingalls, G. C. Shat tak, 9^ p: Shattuc ck, Jr., Me» . G. C. Shattuck,
George Parkman, and Charles A
The “ Courtis Fund ” represents à a part of the i income » obtained from the
legacy of the late Ambrose S. Cou
)
I. GENERAL WORKS.
« Li reet sa Academy of Natural [ot at Philadelphia,
ademy
Journal of. 8vo. 8 vols. Philadelphia: 1820-39. Ac
of conl Sciences.
- Albany. Transactions of the Albany tie vols. 1 and 2,
38.
Ani of Arts and Sciences, N Memoirs a to the
pd ita "ol e "Boston
1834-41. Containing Pesce at rahina, > read to the
- Hartford. Tra apta of pre Natural History Society of Hart-
8vo
pe 1 No. 36.
Gle eanings in N atural History We! vu je Jesse. 129mo.
Philadelphia. 1833. — 2d se London : 1834. os
Bong:
= ournal of a Naturalist. 12mo. Philadelphia : 1831. Amos
inne
Tiersed- First Report ot the Liverpool Natural History Soci-
ety. 8vo. pamphlet. Liverpool: 1 r
Ma Transactions of the Maryland a of Science
oon Literatu: 8vo. pamphlet. Baltimore :
F
514 Additions to the Library.
324. Silliman. American Journal of Science and Arts. Conducted
by eae, Silliman. 8vo. New Haven. Vols. 1 to 23. Ezra
Weston — Volumes 3 to 40, Benjamin Silliman.
325. Memoires F^ Museum d'Histoire Naturelle par les Professeurs de
cet Établissement. 4to. 1815-18. aris.
396. R Britannicum. Being an Exhibition of the
ymsdyk. useum
Curiosities of the British Museum. By John and Andrew Von
ymsdyk. Folio. London: 1773. F W. . Greenw
397. New York. Annals of the pce of "— History, of New
—. York. 1834-36. 8vo. 2 vols.,and Nos. 5. to 14 of Volume 3.
1" Lyceu
“London. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of
London. 4to. ay sert vols. 47 to 96. 1752- George B.
c Emerson.
Dat jose Taxidermy; with the Biography of Zoologists and
otices of their Works. By William Swainson. 12mo. Lon-
don: 1840. Audubon Fun
330. White. Natural History ut Selborne, By the late Rev. Gilbert
— agr; Philadelphi ia: 1832. Amos Binney.— The
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on. (Œuvres completes de xxr] mises en ordre et prece-
P d'une Notice historique par r M. Richard, suivies de la.
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ries. Simo
339. Malta, Natural History of ofp partiy i in ae
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and the zoological by E: afa.
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: Di llawa à ét
341. Boitard vd y Canivet. Manual del Naturaliste Disector. ah
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. T.J
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^ T
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E
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H. ZOOLOGY.
347. Audubon. The Birds of America, from original meg s
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um à
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351. Bell. A History of British Reptiles. By Shit Bell. 8vo.
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356. Potter. Notes on the Locusta Septentrionalis pric e De-
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357. Cuvier. The Ani al | Kingdom arringed i in conformity with its
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urtis
358. Weeks, Manual, or e re of comer Bees. By
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359. E Essai sur I Histoire Nonii des Corallines -— d'autres
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aye: 1750. . Store
360. Ie le onograph of he Limniades = other fresh-water
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361. Sundevall. Svenska d vns : af Carl. J. Sunde-
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Doubleday. A Nomenclature of British Birds. By Henry
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a
mane Magazine. 8vo. London. Nos. 1 to 24, Editors.
Harris
deus € Harris. 8vo. Pamphlet. Cambridge:
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London
i ar Huish. a of oe
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et. New t :
Jay. Catalogue of [* Shells, arranged according to the la
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a
7 Ge
im wn. cies and Iconography of recent Shells.
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nslated from the French by D. H. Storer,
" D. yg em hlet. No. l. Boston: 1837. Translator
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Manuel d'Ornithologie. Par R. P. Lesson. 18mo. ^.
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376. McClelland. Indian Cyprinide. By John: Menem Pus
1
377. Munro. MuR and Physiolo of Fishes e aspi and
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382,
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384. Mi
po: XXe. putt 2d, of Asiatic Researches. 4to pei
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on North "4
Richardson. 8vo. Mee London: 1837. Jr.
Sowerby. Conchological Manual. By George B. Sowerby,
500 figures. 8vo. ndo - 1839 -Anthoni és etle
Bischoff. Exposition de la Doctrine de Gall sur le Cerveau Ber-
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lin:
Dandolo. L'Artd'éléver les Vers à Soie. Par. Mons. le Conte
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_ missioners
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assachuscits. Report of the crisi i fi :
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orer. Svo. oston :
y à
386. Yeats. Institutions of Entomology. By Thomas P. Yeats. 8vo.
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387. Jen A Mais ual " rra Vertebrated Animals, By
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Leonard Jenyns, M. A. 8vo; Cambridge (Eng.): 1835. Au-
“8
38 : Manuel pe théorique - qme des Proprie-
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389. Nordmann. Mi lrogrephisale Beitrage nd Naturgeschichte der
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. Zimm erma n.
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s mm, 8 0.
- Innes. A short Desain of the Human Muscles i opm m as
i and
they appear on Dissection, together with their several
the Saar xs of the best A hors. By John Innes. Gent Ne .
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392. Westwood. — dunes: of Insects of China. By J. O.
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393. ate ur of the raees of ludis. By J. O.
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294. Tyson ve Homo sylv Vis ; or the my
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W.L
HE a
395
. White.. _ Account of the am ar Grad dation in Man and in Es
bles.
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1
- Croom. bet m of Plants, native and naturalized, in the vi-
cinity of Newbern, N. C., irn gc and Sm By
H. B. C room gp Pamphle w Yor
. Colman: ` Third e ofthe sein of Massachusetts
Wheat ond Silk. By Henry Colman. 8vo. Pamphlet 1840.
erson.
: Dartington Flor s Copirion : An Atte tempt to enümerate and de-
scribe the flowering a filicoid Plants of Chester ince d
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- Greville. Alge Britannice. By — Kaye Greville. Svo.
need 1830. n E. Gre
. c on T Structure kd —— of the Order Ce-
ratoph T€ By A ray. 8vo. Pamphlet. New York.
J.P.
i Horticultural Register and Gardener's Magazine. Edited by
66
OL. IIT. — NO
518 Additions to the Library.
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"mum Schoo John “London:
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1839, Audubon Fund. Haste "
ectiones in Ordines naturales Plantarum. 8vo.
d. moires sur les Coniferes et les Cycadées, ouvra
Richard de L. C. Richard. Terminé et "pe par A
i 1826. Audubo d.
uc o. Paris: 1896.
411. Dyck. Hortus Dyckensis; ou Catalogue des Plantes cultivées
dans les Jardins de Dyck. 8vo. Dusseldorf: 1834. F. W. P.
Greenwood.
412. Hooker. The British Flora; comprisin Phenogamous or
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: 1830. wr
tanical Miseellany. "n William Jackson Hooker.
114. Humboldt Von: Fiber l
è . Flore Fribergensis s cimen, Plantas
presertim subterraneas. eshi ibens P Edi idit Fred. Al. e E oll
4to. Berolini: 1793. F. W. P. Greenwood.
115. Tatham, Essay on the Culture and Commerce of Tobaceo. By
William Tatham. 8vo. London: 1800. D. H.Storer. .
116. Barton. Elements of Botany. By Beste Smith Barton,
.D. 8vo. "Philadelphia : 1503 C. P. Curtis, Jr.
417. De Candolle. “Introdustion à l'Etude de la Botanique ou Traité
élémentaire de cette Sci "e. Par Alph. De Candolle. Byo.
Paris: 1835. G.B. Emers
418. Lindley. Natural System of Botany. By John Lindley. 9
ed. 8vo. London: 1836. n Fun
419. Locke. Outlines of Botany. By ohn Looke, M. p. 12mo.
i Boston : 1819. Simon E. di
420. Scuderi. Dissertazione Agrarie riguardanti il Regno di Siciliad: -
ne paca ay:
die Salvadore Scuderi. 12mo. C Noth 1812, A dull
^ Gray. A Flora of North America, by Jo
ed don a ny yeh 1. 8yo. New York: 1898. Thomas
BOO C
concise Application of the Prineiples
ctural y to Horticulture, by J. E. Tesehemacher. 18m0:
| sonas 1840. ^ uthor.
Introduction to the Study of oo gamous Plants.
Sprengel.
a org By Kurt Sprengel. 8yo. Lon 1807. a
ited by
. Van Mons. Arbres fruitiers, leur anai * n Belgique, de Te i
J. B. Van Mons. 12mo. 2. Lóuv
macher.
495. Wernischek. Genera Plantarum ordinavit M EU midi
f Wernischek. 18mo. Vienna, Austria Wo
man, Jr.
496. Wright Cata Im Plants growing witho ut Clie
tion in the A d einit of Troy. John A Wah and J
8vo. Pamphlet. Troy: 1836 6
Additions to the Library. 519
iy. MINERAL por AND GEOLOGY.
ea. Not
sritions of some of its pe Remains i By Isaac e 4to.
k :
Etwas über die Natur- Wunder i in Nord America, zu-
engetragen von Vnus Cramer. 8vo. Pamphlet. St.
Pelérsbüty * 1837;
. Dufrén sos. — Nur sérvir à une Description géólogique
de - France. r MM. MAR den en -— rey shiny e
, is: 1830. G. B. Em
- Reports of a Committee for investigating the Coal and Mineral
Resources of India. 8vo. Pam mphl Calcutta: 1838. Authors.
. Robinson. Catalogue of Am beni: 4 ‘Minerale and their Localities.
By Samuel renti M. D. 8vo. Boston: 1825. Simon E.
- Comstock. Elements of erem d <A h L. Comstock,
M. D. 8vo. Boston: 1827. E.G
- Houghton. Geological Report of the State of. faz coe
Douglas Houghton. vx Pamphlet. 1839 inthrop.
- New York, Report on the Geological Survey of the State,
made the Assembly February 27th, 1839. « 8vo. _ Pamphlet,
New York. E. Emmons. M f sep. 2
Geological re e € ical R en or
W. W “Emmons, T: A. Conrad,
, Levis C. s C. Beck,
ros ae sib uxem. dd cá. yw “Pamphlet. AMD. 28407
mm
E.
im ` Proceedings of the € Society of Lo
8vo. 2 vols. and 12 numbers. London: 1834-40. Geologi:
cal Societ
37. New York. An nual Report of the Superintendent and Det
E!
LP of Salt, in Onandaga Co., New York. 8vo. Pamphlet. 1841.
orer.
irdner. Ess ssay on Mineral and Thermal ym By Mere-
dik Gairdner. » London: 1832. T. G. Bradford.
- Redfield. The Fossil Fishes of Connecticut and Massachusetts.
By John H. Redfield, 8vo. toys smears New York: 1836.
Autho: 1
- Daubeney. Sketch of North (oi etie Charles Duiday.
8vo. Pamphlet. Oxford: 1899. Author.
- Eaton. Index to the Geology of the Northern — By
Ea N Y.: 1890. B. Em
À à : TO
. Jackson Repo b. Gcde iudi mi and A segue Survey of
the State of Rhode. Island. By Charles T. Jackson, M. D. 8vo.
Pamphlet. Providence: 1840. Prov idence Franklin Socie
As thor
Green. Mo: h of the Trilobites of North America, with
colored Models of the Species. > By Jacob Green, M. D. . 12mo.
oe hia: 1
The Wonders = prr gy. By Gideon Algernon
Man ll. 18mo. ubon Fund.
446. Lyell. Address befo cde ‘Goole’ 1 Society of London. «b
Charles s Lyell. 8vo. EM ndon: 1837. Author
Ld
520 Additions to the Library.
447. Jackson. ond Annual Report on the Geology of the Public
Lands of Maine and Massachusetts. By C. T. Jackson. 8vo.
cn ap Augusta : Author
838.
Third Annual Report on the Geology of the State of
` Maine. By Charles T. Jackson. 8vo. Pamphlet.
1839. Author
449. Moore. pr aru cm en N. F. Moore. 12mo, New
York: 1834. Geor
450. Buch. de erae sea en ` Amerique par Mr. Alexandre
de Humboldt Mr. Charles Degon hardt, decrites par Le-
^ . opold de E. olio. Berlin: 1839. Leopold de Buch.
451. Rogers. Report on the Geological po of the State of New
Jersey. By William B. Rogers. Pamphlet. Philadel-
phia : 3
452. ———. Report on the Geological Reconnoissance of f the S
of Virginia. By William PE Soppee 8vo. Pamphlet. Phila
i Tre reference to their prac-
i twanger. 8vo.
Author
Taylor. Two Reportson the Coa of Penns lvania. By
* Richard C. — 8vo. eren Philadelphia: 1840.
Amos Binne
456. irn Tracts. Ato. cit d 1785, to 1818.
= " ; os vo. Berlin: 1809.
. mos Bi
AX Sicilienne ou Ca e raisonné de toutes les
Nu —t la bee par M. la C. D. B. C. D. C. de plusieurs
phlet. Naples: yc Amos
"M rends et Experie aites au Vesuve, A
` dant 1821 et 1822. Par T. Monticelli. et on Covelli. 8yo. Pam-
phlet.. Naples: 1822.
MISCELLANEOUS.
Hearne. Journal from Prince of Wales Pen in Hudson's Ba Bay
p Hearne. 8vo.,
. By
. W. Lewi
gus. Book of Natural Theolo By. Henry Fe
Revised, &c. by Rev. Charles H. Alde 4 9d ed. .
. & Lincoln
d m Catalogue of Books ‘added dinh 1897. ro.
‘am t. 1840. Atheneum.
er en; dams. Twining. rh. Addresses delivered at "
ir Ina on as Pro s of Mia dlebury College. 8vo
hlet. 1839. C. B. Adams.
Faits et Observations &ur la Fabrication - - EC gt
teraves, et sur la Distillation des Mélasses. Par C.
iieu de Dombalse: - 12mo. felis 1831. Joseph r on
echanic's M eph cii p lh
ork : 1827. seco ietitete wo New York le
b ia: By. an
E Philadelphia: 1 ctas
leslongchamps.
$
f
z
3
3
A Pam.
aha S BB t
—— CAL uu
5
2B
o
B
Es
E 23
a í
iE
=
t
Simon E. ‘Greene.
Müriers et Vers à Soie; leur Culture et leur
E
or
at
Additions to the Library. 521
A Par M. -Loiseleur Deslongchamps. 8vo. Pamphlet.
i oc Elemente - Chemistry. B J. Marra 8vo. 2.
Edinburgh: 1810. Francis Parkm d d i
- Humboldt. Voyage de Humboldt et dodo Troisiéme Partie.
Essai Politique sur le Royaume de ainava le Mapegne, 4to. 2.
Paris: 1811.— Atlas to the same. Folio. 1819. Amos Binney.
- Salem. East India Marine. Society of Salem; By-Laws, &c.
8vo. Pamphlet. Socie
. upplement to tio same. Svo. 1837. Pamphlet. So-
. ciety.
i E ibe kr a to E Atomic Theory. By Charles
Daubeny. 8vo. Oxford: 1831. Author.
" arteiiens, Mob 4. No. E a Cambridge. N. I. Bow-
. Irwin. A Los ies of Adwaptuces | in the Course of a Voyage up the
ve La ea, - By Eyle s Irwin. 4to. London: 1780. DÐ. H:
ux
y ie By ‘Bernard O'Reilly. 8vo.
SD. H.S
er Cat atalogue of tha Books belonging to the University
Vermont. 8vo. Pamphlet
A Jokes ae Walter R. Report o on e Quit of epi Boilers,
or.
Lister rney is in the Year 1698.. p Dr. Martin
r . Lond 99. Edward Tuckerman,
Ne Fifty-second Annual Report of the Regents of the
University of New Y o. Pam 889
- Mangetus. Bibliothica Anatomica, si sive Kenca in Anatomia In-
ventorum oe locupletissimus. Daniel Le Clerc et ak
Mangetu us. Folio. Geneva: 5 eher by W. Lewis, Jr
- Palermo. Giornale di ro compilato dagl npn all
Dirizione centrale della Statistica di Sicilia. Vol. 8vo
Pamphlet. 1836. Compilers .
- American Philosophical Society, Proceedings of. Vol. 1. Nos. 8,
J BAS Pamphlets., Philadelphia : erg Society.
An account of the Cape of Good Hope. By Capt.
p
. marks on the supposed Connexion of the
Stream with Ebodte Curiis on the Coast of the United Sus.
By William C. Redfield. 8vo. Pamphlet. New York:
hor.
Pinkerton eneral Collection of the best and most interesting
Voyages a and dc all Parts of the World. m Eom - Pink-
Philadelphia : 1810. Rev. F. Parkm
Tay. . ico-theological Discourses co € primi
tive Chaos, general Deluge, and Dissolution of the World. B
Joh [M London : ard Tuckerman, Jr.
. A Companion to the Museum, late Sir Ashton Lever's.
4to. London: 1796. Hon. John Pi ckerin
a
3
E
. American Turf "pa =o ron ring Maga uu. A 1 to 6,
Additions to the Library.
Scuderi. TY e I * 4s nN. a * sai XT" e aae Catania
del een Salvator Scuderi. 12mo. Pamphlet. Catania:
1837 hor
——. se sulle Rotazio sous de Cavaliere Salya-
tore Seuderi. 12mo. rcm ' Pa ermo: 1835. Author. |
Abbot. Svo. Pamphlet. 1840. Author.
. Kalm. Travels pe — America, by Peter Kalm. Translat-
3. Warrington:
ed into lish n R. Forster. 8vo.
770. cates Fa a
- Schoolcraft. Narrative of an Expedition through the Up
Hear Re Sch to Stooks Lake, the actual Source of yee jerk"
hooleraft. Svo. New York:
* Thénord. Traité de Chimie wage o v théorique et pct.
Par L. J. Thénard.. 9d ed. 8vo
erso
and 11 nu mbers of v to 1836.
Sim mon
. Daubenton. Adv se to = "Won and Owners of Flocks. Trans-
lated from the French of M. Daubenton. 8vo. Boston: 1811.
Simon E. Greene
nd Importance of the Na d
oinsett. iscourse on the Objects a
tional - Institution het the Herre oe ‘of e gr established at
Washington. 1840. By Joel € 8vo.
— ton: 184], od Wyma é
ssociation for the Kisten of Scien ce, Report
s London : 18994 1836. Sons of Nathaniel Bowditch.
ta 5 raire descriptif: ou Description ri
o gographique, historique, et pittoresque de la France et
l'Italie. E : 1818. Courti Soci-
R Doista before ‘the Massachusetts ag <
ussell
ety. By John L. Russell 8vo. Pam
Auth
Rochon. to Madagascar and the East — y the
cap freien dre London: 1793. Deposited by wir
H can Gardener's Magazine. Conducted by C.M.
Howey A B. mie 2. 1835- 6 ;
INDEX.
zog t ders. Shells,
e Shells,
Alahda alp pénis,
Á
\leédo dle’
Alger’s notices of Minerals,
HE
J
£
J
Ammoc ates) concolor,
Ko Lern dal mp
J
—- clypeata, . p :
?
—- pom, 3".
Anculótus carinàtus, .
CEELELECLÉHHLEBE
Page.
318
332 | ———
31
316
316
148
202
30
473
ostatus, . .
——— — Kirtl M 4 995
Ancy'lus fuscus, ; . 329
Anser imm E; ee eee
—— —- Hutchínsii, pU D
hyperbóreus, t 237
— —- leucóps 240
T.C on n Anculotus, 394| C
— ells, 278
Anthus spinolét, 148
Apophyl 309
Ár diea HN à 209
candidissima P
i epu coin op
Arthónia,
— pinctiformis,
ia
Auk, taor billed, a’
BATRÀCHIA, us
Banas s Helices,
2 | —_—_—
Cérthia familiari ^
1
Birps or Prey
9 | Bittern, American, s
: st,
ea
Black-bird, cow,
crow,
red-winged,
Rick wari:
eG, UU.
Bombycilla Carolinénsis,
—————- gárrula, .
Borréra furfu
Bunting, seeks throated, it
———— Dod
278 | Butcher- bird x
uzzard, NES
Cacholon ng
Cálidris a
Ciprimülgdé Vir gininus, :
wae
at-bird,
2 peii 'auràolus, A
Cedar-bird,
Centrárchus hexacánthus, 3
Cerithium Em
nigroeietuin,
rebrale
ria,
Cetraria ciliàris, á
| AMEN
t i i h v Y
| »*
524 Indez.
Cetraria glaüca, . . E | Córvus Americànus, .
Islándica, . 998| istà
uniperina, 299 | Creeper, black and white,
unósa, 446 | — brown,
nivàlis, ., 999 | Cross-bill, —
aca 445 | ——— te-winged,
Cóocyzus Americàn 167 | Crótalus fresa .
I erythrophthilmus, 16 merican, .
Colléma saturninum, . 392 | Cuckoo, black-billed, .
llòides, . . 393 yellow-billed,
Cóluber, 21 | Curlew, Esquimaux, .
ame'nus, 28 MG
—— —- constrictor, 27 small Esqui
eximius, 30 Colas élegans, . .
occipito-maculatus, — 33 | Cypselus pelásgius, .
rdinatus, . 23
punctatus, . 26 | Darter, black,
—— —— saurita, 32
—— sipedon, . 31) Delphinula serpuloides, ;
irtàlis, 21 | Diver, blac ted, .
vernà 25 | ——-- grea at nortberii/ «
Colürmba Carolinénsis, . 192 -- red-throated, .
mi 192 Mak, c ice
Chalcedony, pe 315 | Dog-fish of Lake Erie,
Charadrius Helvéticus, 207 | Dove, Carolina turtle, .
melodus, 204 | Duck, American
pluviàlis, . 203 | —— buffel-headed. .
n s, . 206 | -— canvass-back, .
vociferus, . 205 | —- dusky, .
ilsónius, 205 ——— eider, L .
tterer, waxen, `. 11 ^ .
CHELÒNIA, . 3|—- n LIN y 10
ieepbese, i. oM king, .
Chub, horned, 345 | — — .
——— two-spot 344 itd, irae
Cistida Blandingii, 14 j. fe E
Catolina, . 2\|— piotail, .. »
cornucopi®, >. ——- ring- 1] *
digitàta, . 9304 heran n ere.
fo ià . . 303 scaup, . ^
————— grácilis, o o. 909|—-- spirit, $ t
squa: . 9304 summer, .
- subulifórmis, * 302 surf, . . *
Coly mbus us, . . 958|——- velvet, + +
4 gheilis . . 957 (E, 7 3
—— ptentrionàlis, . 258 !
ci ' . ^. '996| Eagle, bald, A
os in albus, . . 477 ———-- Iden, « .
255 | — Washington .
' double-erested, 955 | — — white-headed, +
gene CUP NH E Emberiza / An
iiec —— bi I : Sol | Eye gut
c 7 . \Emys es yet
: 200 | 5. vir [deu Sasa - e
»
*
jo. Se * ob 2
SE, e o P m. co e co^
x *A 3M
l x ue
> £ r
;
-
Indez. 525
Page. Page.
E'mys pícta, "| Fringilla eio. P 163
x eim serpentina, 10 | — cüta 59
Endocarpon miniàtum, 283 | —_—— vore E 162
umbilicatum, 283 | ————— graminea, . . 153
Ethedatoma blennidides, 348 Fiemalis, . 156
meena es, . 346 ilaca, | 162
——— maculata, . 5 om D leucóphrys, x
variata, `. 974 | —— ——- linaria,. "USE OR
Ludoviciàna, 163
Falco albicilla, P 73 mariti 159
——- borealis. ` i] meadi, . 154
— asetin App Eus ct palüstr . 159
——- colambarius, 2. aU Pennsyivánion, .. 153
Coopèrii, . 78 | ———— pin . 161
cyàneus, . . 89|—— poire 165
fülvus, 71 silla, 158
üscus, K dE: s nna, 155
árlani, A rn. DI savannarum, 157
——- hiemólis, . P . $82|—— sociális, . 57
——- halietus, . . 75 | ————— tristis, ‘ 160
- Islándicus, ; 68| Frog, bull, . - * 40
——- lagopus, ih 79 - Teopait,:, a it ie M
leucocéphalus,. . 73 -pickerel, . .. 45
—— lineatus, ; 82 s ma Seay P a
niger, ; 79 wo ^ 46
——- @'salon, 83 . ye iod did gren, 42
- palumbarius, 77 | Fulica American .. 226
——- Pennsylvánicus, « 52 s aT ay EF a. MM
——- peregrinus, 83 | ———-- Americana, . 248
——- Sáncti Johánnis, 7 --clángula, . 251
——- sparvérius, yes: ferina, . 250
——- temerarius ; B77 | neces fen, V o o MB
véloz, . 78|——-—--glaciàlis, |. . 253
Washingt . NSI — 2 histridnica, . 252
Falcon, rdi . $68|-—-—— Labradé ; E
h-le po i (979 | +. marila, .
Finch, bay- mie Hu : .. 153 | —— —-- molli , 246
: 161 | ———-- perspicillata, 247
- purple, $ x 165 -— ribida, 248
EICONN ` . 159 -— rufitórques, . 251
JT sharpie . ` e 159| ———- spectabilis, . 247
Fish-hawk, -75 — Valisnéria, 249
Flat-head, bleck- headed, 475 P
ny; catcher, Canada, . . 120 Grewal, . 243
blue-gray, 190 | GAELINACEOUS Binps, . 195
RCM great-c 114 Gallinila eee 66, 226
— ——-— — green-black-cap, 120 | ————— ica, . 60, 226
— oliveiside 16 | Gallinule, Floris, .. 66, 226
— small headed, 119 | Gannet, 256
3 mmm. i 120 Gasterdatets incénstans, 273
Fringilla Ln i . 154| Geo pon nn of
uM « WEE L.S! Mess chu hells, 483
<.. 181| Godwit, Hudodan. 3 221
émdeosis, . . 157|———- marbled, — . 220
VOL. Iv. 67
HIE — NO.
-
526 Indez.
Page. Pago.
Golden-eye, 951 on night, 190
ocn American, . 160 ' 83
Goo : 253 70
Bike, Wadi; wer te 240 | ——— “tailed 80
- brant, ov <>. 240 s sd shouldered 82
Canada, 238 | ——- slate-colored, . Pie.
bee: í 240 | Hayes’s Notice of Salts, . 979
ow, 237 | Heliotrope, . . 315
wk, Amer 77 | Hèlices, Binney’ s, 353, 405
Gould, on cd Shells of Mas- Hélix alternàta, . . 423
3|———appréssa, . |. + 996
Gould's s Monography of Pupa, m - arborea, oh, PEN
Grakle, rusty, 104 | auriculàta, 394
Ollnvonou: Biros, . . 148|——-- cellària ; 42l
Gràphis cürvul . 282 | ——- chérsina, . 416
* Grebe, crested, ^ 998 óncava, . - 372
orned, ,7998 eléetrima, . . + 493
pied-billed, . 999 fatigiata, . —. + 988
—— —— red-necked, v7 999 fralérna, . + . 363
Grosbeak, ice 3 164 fuliginósa, ; 3x
rdinal, 163 gularis, ae.
— pi ni » 165 rsùta ; + *
————— rose-breasted, 163 ndentata, - 4
Grous, ioni: 199 nflécta, LOU
ruffe 197 nornàta, di.
Guillemot, black, 959 ntérna, > 1
E wt 259 | ——- intertéxta, e
breed, 260 | ——- labyrinthica, e «+ *
E er 261 —— ra, . . d
Gull, black-backed, 234 | —— limátula, Eb.
——- Bonapar 231 | ———- lineata, See.
: mii prid . 932|-—— minüscula, 4
- herring, 233 | ———- mónodon, . i
kittiwake, 232 | ——- multidentà ;
——- silvery, 232 Nuttalliàna, Pee
ve à 234 palliata, . : am
winged, ; 233 | ——— perspecti v: (TN
Giisohera. deista, ir 294 rofunda, ait e
———— erósa, 295 | ———- pulchélla, * A9
hirelta, 294 | ———— Sayii, pies
hy perborea, 297 | ——- séptemvólva, . do
Muhlenbérgii, . 295|———- solitària, . * 307
Pennsylvá 296 pb, ss) ae 139
polyphy lia, 297 striatélla, . + 976, Ü
robosc 295 suppréssa, . DON en
spadéchroa, 444 ownsendiàna, . * 329
tridentàta, . 32
Hemátopss ostrálegus, — . 203 | Hen-harrier, . i
—— —— palliatus,. — . 902|-———., night, e
Bikcró . ]8l | Heron, great-blue, 909
Hawk, American = n 78 reat-white, T
——— Cooper's 78 r : . 201
fish, 75|-——— night, . ' 609
—— Ie i 83 | ——_— snowy, .; * eg
— marsh, . 82 white, .
Indez. 527
s
| deae platirhinos, PT l Killdee, oM Eee ape - H6
Heulandite . 312 Ki g-b bird, 113
fi, bled: ecked, . 909| King- “fish belte 181
Himántopus nigricóllis, — . 202 | Kirtland's s Fishes g Ohio, . SUME
Hiründ icàn ol , 469
Ms T . 186| Kouphone-spar, . . . 307
uiva, 67, 185
purpürea, . 181 | Lamprey, . 342
— — riparia, : . 196 Lits aeptentrionàlis, Supe os
Hog-fish, blenny-like, 348 róides ie
common, . 346 | Lark, fowls iar . 148
ckled, 276 shore, f : ci
Hum 179 | Larus argentatus, X . 233
Hydra 977|——- Bonapárüi, — . 231
Hy'la, Title peeping, . i = 9 rim y 939
réll : 49 | —- leucópterus 233
: color E | marinus, 234
Hylodes Pickeringii, : DUCUNT Pomarinu 67
tridactylus,
Ping . «aie onorhy nchus, 232
éllu us, . . 213| Lecanóra cerina, . 441
ati yl ad i appensa T eee
pomi víridis, . 121 |———— ventosa, 2 EMT
cterus agripénnis, z =. 102 Lecidès pee 286
A e mo ; 97| ———-- anóm
101 eográphi
a pheniceus, . $9|— —- rwn 4 440
Indigo-bird s AOE, incàna, . 439
Mil iea Bins, oP | = Gen 440
muscórum, 985
Jager, arctic, . . | . 935|———- polftropa, 441
——- Pomarin ^ 67,935 " i: . 986
Richardson's, . 987
Jaminea füsca, 337 Léstris tidie esteri tes, . 9M
prodicta, parasiticus, + 235
———- seminida, 7 arinus, . 935
Jay, blue, ^ 1 dsónii, 935
Jungermánnia, . Lichenes, .'- . 981, 438
— — — ——- bicuspidata, 466 e-stuffs, 461.
—— — bidentàta, |. 46 systematic arrange-
—— — ——- complanàta, ^ 467 E 449
— — ——— connivens, . 466|————- uses, - - ° 458
————- cordifolia, . 466|Limne'a jam a
— — — —- dilatàta, 468 mbilicata, . + 320
PT HREROR ee a 466 | Limósa fèdoa Tu ae
GE ce ultifida . 469 — —- Hudsónica, T SUAE
tno ordsa, 466 Little Co rporal, +: Olak
RU Cieero i . 469 Lizard, blue-tailed, 19
—————— platyphylla, 467 Le roorED BIRDS, 226
~ — platy phylldi- í 957
. 468 Lphius piecatrius, . 267
M —- pulehérrima, 468 | Lóxia curvirós i. 166
— ————- sphágni, . 466 ucé 166
rs
tr
467 Tamias dss eos . 941
longàtus
. 339
528
Marti :
Mele ngallopivo, :
Merganser, hooded, .
ed-b breasted,
Mérgus cucullàtus,
————1n
ud-eel, ` :
Mullet of the Lake,
Muscicapa Acádica,
—-—— —- atra
bo rak
- Canadénsis, :
Wilsdnii,
Native Nitrate of Soda, .
Nephroma aspera, :
ped bélld; 5
——-—— párilis
Night-h wk
Nuininius borealis,
udsónieus,
——-—— iróstris,
Nüfhateh, a ellied,
white-b breasted,
Der AN Birps,
Oriole, Baltimore,
lac :
Owl, Acadian,
great-horned, .
— short-ehted,
ee
oe $9 @
Indez.
Page. Page.
181 | Owl, Tengmalm's, m
195 | —— white-horned, 9
954 | Oyster-catcher, American, . . 902
954
254 | Paludina Cine AM » B
. 953 | Parmélia aleu . 442
254 | ————— dés, . A
83 | ——— crinita, . 443
313 | ———— diátrypa, . "O9
124 | ——— Fahlunénsis, 289
261 VION : 442
465 | là . 987
473 | n Pedvedlléaia, 987
349 speciósa, . 988
118 stellàris, 443
115 | ———— ulothri 989
116 ^ dM. American, . 195
190 108
190 | —- Hudsonicus, 109
116| Passerine Brnps, 148
114 | Peabody on Birds, 65
119 | Peltigera ap hthòsa 444
118|— ydáctyla,. 444
190 rü oben, 444
113 | Perch, white, of Ohio, 350
117 | Pérdix Virginiàna, . 195
190 | Petrel, wr Mop . 236
eh ae . 237
97 ormy ^ 226
993 Perm zon srgénteus, *
293 | Pew all, 118
293 dem . HT
190 Phalacrócorax Carb, : . 955
914| —— ———— dilophus, + 999
213 | —— —— culus, 256
213 Fodssupe; lores 92r
Y Lulu Fed . 991
176| ————— Wilo 225
Phalarópus Riera . 997
92 hyper erbór m . 927
2 P. nii »
97 | Phæbe, `. "ibo i
104 | Picus auràtus, . iy
nus .
91 erythrocéphalus, — - ui
"TES, pileatus, . n
87 - pubéscen : IS
88 | —- tridáctylus, . n
87|——-vàrius, -> . "I
83 villosus, . Td
90|PicEoN TRIBE, - 109
88 | Pigeon, pas ger, 45
85 | Piméphales prómelas, 397
8 is elevàtus 396
- virens,
Pleurótoma plicàta,
Plover, black- bellied,
?
——— rübricóllis,
Pomótis merelin,
——— RS a,
e
Procellària E..
Püpa armifera, :
— bàdia
e
E
.
Purple gt pind,
—— ' papillària,
colecina,
Pjrrhula. enit s
uail, Amer
Indez.
Page.
318
207
5
Salamander, banded,
E E aas
Roach, . .
Robin, aa
ound,
Rock-fi ;
Ru ssell’ s Hepatic Mosses, ^
j | Rusticola minor,
me
——Ó— Mn oe colored,
Salamándra,.
millennne
0 Seer red- iad, lied,
| P
Shoveller,
Sanderling, 3 .
Sand-piper ash hoe .
Sand-piper, ash tad.
———. Wilsónü, -
Semótilus biguttàtus, .
——— —- céphalus, .
SEHE
ils of Massachusetts,
spott
Shrike, ian gray,
——ÓÓ erican
Sila Wilani . r
». 4 ww.» eee Ww
Sni DN ati : eee
- red-breasted, ‘ L
aiiis. pemipalaiated, % . x59 17 i ona
Snow-bird, . $5456
— — ioe
chip
DES ov zo
EE eld, cS
— fox -colored, . 2 47162
— savannah, . 155
song, . = . 154
swamp, voc ee
tree, . ~ 157
ite-crowne ed, 152
— white-throated, 153
———— -shouldered, 157
Sparrow-hawk, American, 69
Splisies plickot fr rági ile, . 9301 |
comis : s
———— coriàcea,
Squàlus élephas, >
mària ċlegans,
————- paste 825,
Starling, Am .
Stereocáulon iieu,
paschàle, i
Stérna Cayàna, "
Dougalli
es
——— minita,
Sternothe'rus, ` '
—————— T i
Stickleback, variable, y ‘i
— eot
291
MEL. pu m àcea, F + eee
"oae UST MM
Stilbi chos dls
Storer’ s Reptiles, 1
upp ment, . à 267
Strepsilus intérpres, ‘ 207
Strix Acddica, 90
——-aretica, . à fxi
ringed, =
TE -necked, 27-798 15
ped, : c
530 Indez.
Sitta Canadénsis, . . "17 I àsio, .
Zarolinénsis, 176 brichy di,
StwpzR-BILLED gs 176 | ——- cinérea,
Snake, banded rattle, . 387|——- funérea,
— chicken, . . 390|—-—- nebulósa,
—— — black, . 27|——- nyctea,
gre : . Mg a 0108,
—— fite | brown, : 2 emen gmálmi,
— —- red, Ebert AMI i aii
ub. MS SW a ae
maculósa
petéchia, .
——— pàrus, ->
———— Philadélphia,
—— —— pinus,
Róscoe g xe
rubricapilla,
one
sphagn
striata, -
S wainsónii,
trichas
tróchilus,
vermivora,
virens, ->
Ta a pail scarlet,
anagra rubra, .
Tattler, Bartrain’ 8,
ry,
———- spotted, .
Teal, blue-winged,
mecum n-winged,
Tell-
ioterocéphala, $
ec «x ea. £X, ee €
E
>
^ Tellina tenta,
T
"fiseidrema. Leach,
"Thelot z mee
elo aes e ipit
' Thrasher, e. :
Thrush, i dd
uec crowned,
Tinis, Ps
————- Hudson’ s 'Ba 3
Toad, common ad i
— — tree
To ornatélla. panoto. strita,
Tortoise, alligato
nati box,
a mr etter,
————- wood,
Tótanus Motiv.
—— — ghloropý gius,
—
A à
— — platyrhinea, .
Trichilns cólubris.
Toglody'tes ve mericàna,
Tal 531
“B58 | Tardas cages . d . 196
'930
"rers PN gms
230 «191
231 msi inus, . 130
231 — Nov septa . 132
199 | — — poly gióttos at jr.
197 | — —- rifus, M
236 Wilsónii, 132
236 fimin LP ae 195
439 | Turnst 207
125 | Turtle dome “Carolina, . 192
125
132 | Urceolaria cinérea, . 284
131 | ————- scruposa, 284
f 132| U'ria álle, . 261
132 | —— Brunnichii, A 260
130 flle, ‘ «0D
108| —— tróile, AM IU E
109
52 | Variolària, . s: . 488
48 | ———— —- aspergilla, 284
323 discóidea, . 984
$6] aac faginea, . . 284
]12|-———— velàta, . 984
16 | Verrucària cinèrea, 283
7 | ósita, . 438
4 enteroléuca, . 983
10|— - epidérmidis, 9:2
10 | ——— — gemm 282
6; ———— a 282
T) | aem netifórmis, 282
219 | Vireo flàvilrons, . 121
218 | ——- gilvu « 29
219 Hcc is Nord Eboracénsis, so JI
217 olivàc . . 123
218 | ——— red-ey . 123
48 | ——— warbling, i. IR
214|——— white-eyed, . . 122
216 — — yellow-throated, 2 0E
216
215|Wapine Bikos; ..— .. ©. 909
215 Warbler, autumnal, . . 138
216 — bay breasted, ak
215 lack-
214 |a black-throated green. 135
BET T us =
214 TUTTI n 1
179 chestnut-sided, . 136
146 | —- olden- winged, . MH
143 emlock, ; ma
144 rning, 140
146 | Nashville, . 141
145 | orange-colored, . 141
> 438 | ge-th ted, 136
139 ý 139
o e
532
ets pipe,
Indez.
Pac
13
+
. alain -— ape as.
—— pin e-swamp, pro -toed,
prairie 139 | -_——-— yellow’ “bellied,
———— spotted, i 135 | Wren, fiery- en owne
———— — S wainson's, 141| ———. air id mes
worm-eating, deu .
yellow-crowned, . 133 one ero .
yellow red-pole, 134 | ——— salt-water math, .
Warrior, black,- . «ò Sl | a willow; '. :
Wes-rooreD BIRDS, éa — . 230|.——— winter; . adds
Whippoorwill . . 189 wood, .
White-fish of the Lakes, . 477
idge a ge —— 43 | Yellow-bird, summer, :
cock; American, ~~ 223 | Yellow-shanks, `. :
Woodpecker, downy, : . 174| Yellow-throat, Maryland, .
[3174 -—————- Roscoe's, .
gold-winged, 2368
—————- ted, . 470 | ZyeopActyi, . Š .
— id bellied, IT
t
A ^
ERRATA.
217, 5th for ** semipaimuated ” ost « A ated "
« 934 4th € ber m, for ** caturractes 7? read “cataractes.”
* 243, 10th «€. .«* ; for ** Gadwile?? read **Guadw ?
" i, 17th **. * top, for ** cetrerea ” read **cetruria.
to oU Cte er: n Bonon Teri paimo æ” read **pulmonacea."
** 467, l6th ** ** top, for ** tridentate ” read“ trid ntata.?
€ 479 9th « «
[11 “sé “ [11
4t b
« 479, 5th « «
* 480,&h *
lotam, * n “u Locher ? read “ ochreous.
ipiam e deck
ect? read ** decurrent.”?
Jus [11 A. ”
“ Cantrarchus ? read“ Centrarchus.
AN
Wi "ur vun
ap Q
"e
1 P
Several plates of the Helices described in this vol-
ume have been unavoidably deferred, but they will we,
probably. be given with the first number of the next $
volume. ! X
)plhüreis coriacea lin r Moore's Lith Bostan
steus cnconstans.
2.Etheostoma variata.
1. Gasteros
*.Hydrargira limt
IP Kirtla
nd del: i GF Storm se:
Y OL IL,
PL. Mm.
Xx a?
\ 7
Y Re)
striata... ADAM: 17 ANCYLUS. fis
AB PUPA... PZadía..—
. ADAMS. 19- i
B
M.
i
Cdd
—" C COU CC C TEC
Oa ee ae eee
í
‘ty
L4
Lr P F
^ » 4 , *,
"Jy.
^.
wo T
Helix palliata
>
-
PLY
. PL.VITL
Nutting dei StormSe q
Melia dppressa. sax.
1. Helier inffecta. sxx.
9
pulchellg. LER.
4
Storm Se
a Qe...
|. Felix meonodom RACKETT
2 [Paterna BAX
3 Pursata.
PL.XI.
1. Helix gularis. Sax
2. . spinosa.
Muttin s deg 3 .o SUppressd, .. Storm Sc
PL.XIIL,
Nutting ded Storm Sz
Helix Nuttalliana GEA.
PLX N
StormSe.
N 7 .
We Helix Townsendtana, VEA.
Helix concave, sax.
FL.XIY.
~
heeded
Y,
Helix profunda, sxx.
PL.XV.
Sterne
Pil XYI
[^ 3
i "F 3
Histo =
a
"S
"inci aid
Helix Sayil BINNEY.
Storm Sc
Nutting de?
PTL.XWVI.
Helix tridentata. sax.
Nutting ded Storm Se
Helix tridentata, sax.
PL.XVill.
Storm Sc
PIL. XIX.
<a
1.2 Helix auriculata. SAY
3. . funguta.
A . eptemvolva, .
Mutina del ree Si
YOL HI, PL XX1.
i
3
E 1
2 >
¢
LE.
+ C ^
1. Helix interna , SAX. 3, Helix inernata/ , SAY...
2,.- limdtula, BINNEY. 4. perspectiva , SAX.
es D A] Wa ]
Erie 5. H - striateligr, ANTHONY. See PI. M, F. 2. Varren Se
6 ©
omm
WOR tu.
Helix solitaria: Say:
PL. XXIIT
VOL. ILL.
Puttinu del
Helix fuligines a, GrutTuh..
TURN EREE
NEN SS ai
hina
MNT tats (9
3»
XXVIII.
Pl
eec
at RT.
2, 4,
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he M á
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side
HITTI
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SERRA
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PUE
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Vol. Tk
PEXXIX.
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