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PROFESSIONAL PAPERS OF THE ENGINEER DEPARTMENT, U. S. ARMY.
No. 18.
REPORT
OF THE
tf J6 GEOLOGICAL EXPLORATION OF THE FORTIETH PARALLEL,
MADE
BY ORDER OF THE SECRETARY OF WAR ACCORDING TO ACTS OF CONGRESS OF MARCH 2, 1867, AND MARCH 3, 1869,
UNDER THE DIRKCTION OF
BRIG. AND BVT. MAJOR GENERAL A. A. HUMPHREYS,
CHIEF OF ENGINEERS
CLARENCE KING,
U. S. GEOLOGIST.
l-II
Q/^'
VOLUME IV.
III-IV
x r
UNITED STATES GEOLOGICAL EXPLORATION OF THE FORTIETH PARALLEL. CliAEENCB KING, GEOLCGIST-IN-CHARGE.
PART I.
PALEONTOLOGY.
BV
F. B. MEEK.
PART II.
P^L ^K ONTOLOGY Y
BY
JAMES HALI^ AND R. P. WHITFIELD.
PART II r.
ORNITHOLOGY.
BY
KOBERT RIDGWAY.
SUBMITTED TO TUE CHIEF OF ENGINEERS AND PUBLISHED BY ORDER OF THE SECRETARY OF WAR UNDER AUTHORITY OF CONGRESS.
ILLUSTRATED BY XXIV PLATES.
WASHINGTON: GOVEBNMENT PRINTING OFFICE,
18 7 7. v-vi
/J^ / J K
"\
\
TABLE OF CONTENTS-
Page.
Intboduotoby letter XI
Part I. Paleontology, by F. B. Meek 1
inteodtjctory remarks 3
Descriptions of fossils— Silurian species 17
Devonian species 25
Carboniferous species 50
Triassic species 99
Jurassic species . 130
Cretaceous species 140
Fresh and Brackish- water species . 163
Tertiary species 182
Part II. Paleontology, by James Hall and E. P. Whitfield 198
General remarks 199
Fossils of the Potsdam 205
Lower Silurian 232
Devonian 246
Waverly. — 251
Lower Carboniferous 265
Coal-Measures and Permo-Carboniferous 273
Triassic 280
Jurassic 284
Part IIL Ornithology, by Egbert Eidgway 303
Table of contents 305
Letter op transmission 307
Description of the route 309
Physical features of the Great Basin 313
Local Avifauna , 316
Description of camps 328
General remarks on the Basin Avifaunje 377
Catalogue of species 386
Biographical section 391
Index to Part I 645
Index to Part II 649
Index to Part III 652
VII-VIII
LIST OF PLATES.
The plates accompanying this volume were engraved and printed by Julius BiEN, of New York. The original drawings for Part I were executed by JJ. W, Elliott, of Washington ; those of Part II, by H. M. Martin, of Albany.
FA.TIT I.
Plate I Silue'ian and Devonian species.
II. .".-... Devonian species.
Ill Devonian and Carboniferous (?) species.
IV Carboniferous species.
y Carboniferous species.
VI Carboniferous species.
VII Carboniferous species.
VIII Carboniferous species.
IX Carboniferous species.
X Triassic species.
XI Triassic species.
XII Jurassic and Carboniferous species.
XIII 4 Cretaceous species.
XIV Cretaceous species.
XV Cretaceous species.
XVI Cretaceous and Tertiary species.
XVII Cretaceous and Tertiary species.
I Primordial and Silurian species.
II Primordial and Silurian species*
III Devonian species.
IV Waverly species.
V Lower Carboniferous species.
VI Upper Carboniferous and Triassic.
VII , Jurassic species.
IX-X
Office of the U. S. Geological Exploration
OF THE Fortieth Parallel,
New York, April, 1877.
General: Herewith I have the honor to transmit Volume IV of the Reports of this Exploration, composed of Memoirs on Palaeontology, by Messrs. F. B. Meek, James Hall and R. P. Whitfield; also on Ornithology, by Robert Ridgway.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
CLARENCE KING,
Geologist-in-charffe.
Brig. Gen. A. A. Humphreys,
Chief of Engineers U. 8, Army,
Washington, D. C.
XI-XII
UNITED STATES GEOLOGICAL EXPLORATION OF THE FORTIETH PARALLEL.
CLARENCE KING, Geologist-in-chakge.
PART I.
PALEONTOLOGY.
BY
p. B. MEEK.
INTRODUCTORY REMARKS.
This being a strictly palseontological report, any extended remarks on the geological formations from which the fossils described were obtained are not expected, and would be out of place here. A few words, however, respecting some points on which the specimens investigated throw more or less light, seem to be necessary to a clear understanding of the palaeontology itself.
Before proceeding further, however, it is proper to state here, that, in order to give as full and complete an account of the palaeontology as possible of the district explored, some collections brought from the same region more than ten years since, by Col. J. H. Simpson, of the United States Topograph- ical Engineers, while conducting a Government expedition through the same country, have also been included. In 1860, the writer published, in the Pro- ceedings of the Philadelphia Academy of Natural Sciences, brief preliminary descriptions of the new species of fossils contained in Colonel Simpson^s collection, iind soon after prepared, for that gentleman's report, more extended descriptions and figures of the same. Unfortunately, however, Congress failed to make the necessary appropriation to publish Colonel Simpson's report. Consequently, the large amount of important information contained in the same remains unpublished; and, as it is now extremely improbable that his report will ever be printed,* at any rate with the accompanying illustrations, it has been thought desirable that we should give here descriptions and figures of the new fossils of his collection, now in the
♦Since this was written and revised. Colonel Simpson's report has been pub- lished.
3
4 PALEONTOLOGY.
museum of the Smithsonian Institution. In doing this, however, he has been duly credited as the discoverer of each species, and the original types have generally been figured, even where specimens of the same forms are contained in Mr. King's collections ; though figures of the latter have also been given, where better specimens than those first found have been obtained.
The fossils here reported on, evidently came from the following geolog- ical formations, viz., Lower Silurian* Devonian, Carboniferous, Triassic, Jurassic, Cretaceous, and Tertiary. The small number of Lower Silurian forms are represented on the upper part of plate 1. Two of the Trilobites, from Antelope Springs, House Mountains, belong, one to the genus Cono- coryphe, and the other to the genus Paradoxides^ or some allied group. They are decidedly Primordial types, and show that rocks belonging to this ancient period occur at that locality.*
The other Silurian forms merely consist of small univalve shells that came from a gray, granular limestone on the summit of tjte Peak, Wa- satch Range, Utah. One of these is a small Ophileta^ scarcely distinguisha- ble from 0. complanata of Vanuxera, first described from the Calciferous sand- rock of New York. The other two are lenticular, or much depressed forms, with an angular periphery and a large umbilicus, and evidently belong to the same formation, being nearly allied to forms found in beds of the age of the Calciferous period, in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Texas. From the affinities of these fossils, we can therefore scarcely entertain any doubts that the rock from which they were obtained belongs to the Calciferous epoch.
The Devonian forms in these collections are more numerous than the Silurian. They are illustrated on the lower part of plate 1, and on plate 2, and the upper part of plate 3. Those on plate 1, with the exception of a small ProetuSj to be mentioned further on, came from a light-colored argil- laceous limestone about three miles south of Piiion Pass, Piiion Range, Ne- vada, and consist of a small subglobose, undetermined species of Favosites, Atrypa reticularis^ a new Spirifer, a bivalve of doubtful genus, and fragments of a DaJmanites. It is possible that the last-mentioned fossil may be an Upper Silurian species, as Mr. King found it in the lowest bed exposed at the locality, and it seems to be quite as nearly allied (so far as its charac- • Sec Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., Ap. 1870, p. 56. "
INTRODUOTORY REMARKS. 5
ters can be made out from the imperfect specimens) to Upper Silurian as to Devonian types. The Spirifer, however, is very closely allied to forms found in the Upper Helderberg (Devonian) limestones, at the Falls of the Ohio; while the specimens of Atrypa reticularis belong to a variety very common in rocks of that age in the vicinity of Louisville, Kyw, and in the neighboring portions of Indiana. It is also worthy of note, that these fossils were found quite abundant, weathered out of the matrix, and that they are silicified and in all respects similar, in their state of preservation, to the Upper Helderberg fossils, so common in the Western States mentioned above. From these facts, it is highly probable that these Pinon Range fos- sils came from a rock belonging to about that horizon.
The other Devonian fossils, figured on plates 2 and 3, came from an entirely distinct rock from those mentioned above, and are more than usually interesting, because they were found, with a few exceptions, in the formation containing the rich silver-mines of the White Pine Mining District, Nevada. They were all found in a dark-colored or grayish matrix, entirely different from that containing the Pinon Station fossils mentioned above. Those from the White Pine District consist of several species of Corals, Brachiopods, and two species of Orthoceras. Among the Corals, there are species that seem to be undistinguishable from the European Devonian forms Acervularia penta- gona and Smithia Hennahii The other Corals are an apparently new Alve- olites and a DipJiyphyllum* The Brachiopods consist of a small Productus, at least allied to the Devonian species P. siibaculeatus, Atrypa reticularis ^ a small Hemipronites^ apparently undistinguishable from a New York Hamil- ton Group species, and several small Spirifers, some of which resemble Ham- ilton Group forms.
The presence of the genera Productus and Smithia would alone be a strong argument, in the present state of palaeontological science, against the supposition that these silver-bearing beds might belong to the Silurian, to say nothing of the specific affinities of these and the associated fossils; while the occurrence in the same beds of Atrypa reticularis^ and the Acervularia^ Smithia^ and Ptycliophylluniy with the specific affinities of the other fossils,
* The little Favosites and Gyathophyllum^ represented by figures 2 and 3 of plato 2, are from a different horizon in Arizona.
6 PALEONTOLOGY.
furnish even a stronger argument against the conclusion that this formation might belong to the Carboniferous. Hence we cannot doubt that these beds belong to the Devonian, and probably to about the horizon of the Hamilton Group of the New York series* Indeed, in 1860, on nearly the same evi- dence, this formation, at localities a little farther north, was referred by the writer to the Devonian, from the examination of specimens brought from there by Colonel Simpson; though at that time this rock was not known to contain silver-mines, f
The little Proetm, illustrated by fig. 10 on plate 1, probably also came from near the same horizon as the Devonian fossils mentioned above, as it is contained in a similar matrix quite unlike that containing the Pifion Range fossils.
On the lower part of plate 3, a few fossils are figured together in a sepa- rate division, because they are of a somewhat doubtful nature. They are also from the White Pine District, and came from beds known to hold a position between well-marked Carboniferous and Devonian rocks. All of them, excepting the Spirifer^ came from a black bituminous shale, asso- ciated with some more or less arenaceous beds, beneath well-marked Car- boniferous limestones. The Aviculopecten (fig. 10) is very closely allied to some western Carboniferous forms; and the little shell represented by fig. 8 also resembles Carboniferous species believed to be at least nearly related to Posidonomya. The Brachiopod represented by fig. 9, however, is remark- ably like Devonian species of Leiorhynchus, and hence would favor the opinion that this shale is Devonian. The Spirifer represented by fig. 11 seems to belong to the common and w^idely-distributed Carboniferous species S. cmpidatus^ and came from a gray, subcrystalline, cherty limestone, above th6 above-mentioned black slate, and was associated with some largd Crinoid columns, casts of an OrthiSj like 0/resupinata or 0. Micheliniy and imperfect specimens of a smaller Spirifer^ apparently like the Devonian species 8.
♦ These remarks on the Devonian age of the White Pine silver-bearing rocks were quoted by Mr. Arnold Hague, in the Mining Eeport of Mr. King's Survey, 41G, (issued in 1870.) It is to be regretted, however, that, owing to the fact that Mr. Hague did not see the proof, several annoying typographical errors, in the names of the fossils mentioned, were not corrected.— F. B. M., Sept. 29, 1874.
f See Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., 1860, XII.
INTRODUCTORY REMARKS. 7
gregarius. The evidence to be drawn from these few fossils would therefore seem to be somewhat conflicting in regard to the exact age of these black shales and cherty limestones; but the first more probably belongs. to the Devonian and the latter to the Carboniferous.
Of all the collections that have yet been brought from this region, the decidedly Carboniferous types are far more numerous than those from any of the other formations. This will be more readily understood when it is remembered that we have illustrated on the accompanying seventeen plates, all of the known species of every age of which there are specimens accessible, while the Carboniferous forms alone occupy plates 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9, with the exception of one Goniatite, of apparently the same age, from New Mexico, These fossils consist almost exclusively of Corals and Brachio- pods, and seem to have been obtained from two distinct rocks; that is, the Corals, with a few exceptions, together with an Orthis^ a HemiproniteSy* and Productus semistriatuSj figured on plate 7, as well as a distorted specimen of Prodmtus punctatm^ and others of Fusulina, not in a condition to be figured, came from a dark-gray and deep bluish-gray limestone, while the other specimens came from a light yellowish-gi-ay limestone. So far as has yet been ascertained from all of the explorers of Utah and Nevada, these two rocks have nowhere been observed to occur together at the same localities. That they belong to different horizons in the Carboniferous series of this region, however, seems to be evident, not only from their different lithologi- cal characters, but also from the fact that they contain mainly distinct groups of fossils. The specimens from the dark-colored beds came from Pinon and Diamond Mountains, Nevada, Long's and Boxelder Peaks, Strong's Knob, etc., Utah; while those from the light-colored beds are marked, north of Moleen Peak, Egan and Mahogany Ranges, Ruby Group, south of Railroad Cafion, White Pine Mountains, and various localities in the White Pine District
From the fact that almost none of the peculiarly characteristic Coal- Measure species of the Mississippi Valley have been identified among the species from the dark-colored limestones mentioned above, while there are,
* Imperfect specimeus of this species were also brought from the light-colored beds at Fossil Hill, White Pine.
8 PALAEONTOLOGY,
among the specimens from that rock, fragments of an Archimedes^ together with imperfect specimens of Spiriferina spinosa^* (both Lower Carboniferous types), it is very probable that this rock belongs to the Lower Carboniferous series. This view also receives some support from the presence, in these dark beds, of a species of LitJiostrotion^ a genus very abundantly represented by one or two species in the Lower Carboniferous, but unknown in the Coal- Measures of the Mississippi Valley.
When we turn our attention to the fossils from the hght-yello wish Car- boniferous limestones of Nevada, however, at the localities mentioned, we find among them forms undistinguishable from Athyris stcbtilitaj SjpiHfer cameratus, Productus Prattenianus, and Spiriferina Eentuckemisf none of which are certainly known from any horizon below the Coal-Measures of the Mississippi Valley. Hence it is more probable that these lighter-colored Carboniferouslimestones belong to the horizon of the Coal-Measures; though I believe no beds of coal have yet been found associated with them.
Perhaps of all the collections of fossils that have yet come to us from the Far West, there are none more interesting than those from the Upper Trias of West Humboldt Eange. The speciniens from this formation in the collec- tions under consideration are illustrated on plates 10 and 11, and will be seen to consist of a few bivalves and some ten or twelve species of Cephalo- poda. The occurrence of this formation in that region was first made known by Prof J. D. Whitney and Mi\ Gabb, of the California Geological Survey, in the reports of which several of the species here figured were illustrated and described along with others.
It is a remarkable fact that there should be at these distant western locali- ties an immense series of deposits, containing so exact a representation of the very peculiar fauna of the Upper Trias of Europe, as exhibited in th(j St. Cassian, Aussee, and Hallstadt deposits. For instance, there are, among the collections that have been by different parties found in these beds, the following peculiar genera, especially characteristic of the rocks of this age in Europe, viz., Halohia^ Monotis^ Cassianella^\ Trachyceras, Archestes, Clido-
* The speciineBS of these species in the collection, althongh recognizable, are not in a condition to be figured.
t Mn Gabb has described a species of this genus in the American Journal of Conchology from this formation in Nevada.
INTEODDCTORY REMARKS. 9
niteSj etc., directly associated with the more ancient genus Orthoeeras. There have also been found in these beds the following species, closely allied to, or possibly in some cases identical with, Halobia Lommelei, Monotis 8ali- nariiis, Ceratites Haidingerii, Archestes Ausseearms^ etc. There are likewise known from this formation various other types of the AmmonitidcBj which, like those found at the same horizon in Europe, are not true Ammonites, nor Ceratites, nor yet Goniatites, as these genera have been restricted by late authors, but new generic types, sometimes intermediate in their characters between the typical forms of the above-mentioned genera.
It is evident, from the collections that have been ah^eady obtained from this formation, that a rich harvest of new and interesting fomis awaits the collector who can visit this region under circumstances favorable to its thorough exploration.
The species in the collection believed to be of Jurassic age are- illustrated on plate 12. The specimens of Belemnites came from the West Humboldt Range, Nevada ; while all of the others were collected four or live hundred miles further eastward, at Weber Canon, Wasatch Range, Utah, from apparently about the same horizon. It is barely possible that a few of the West Humboldt species that have been supposed to be of Triassic age may belong more properly to the Jurassic (Lias), as there seems to be a great development of these rocks there, without a strongly- marked division, so far as lithological characters are concerned, if we can judge by the matrix of the specimens. At any rate, the specimens of Belemnites from there are contained in an apparently undistinguishablo matrix from that of the Orthoeeras and other Triassic fonns; while Mr. Gabb has described from that region an Ammonite (specimens of which I have seen in a similar matrix) that seems scarcely distinguishable from the European low Liassic species A, bisulcatus.
The species figured on the lower half of plate 12, from Weber Canon,
have been placed together in a separate division, because some doubts at
one time existed in regard to the stratigraphical position of the bed from
which they were obtained. ^
♦ Since this was written and the plates arranged, Mr. King informs me that he has found this rock to be, as I had from the first believed, of Carboniferous age.— F. B. M., i^ov. 29, 1874.
10 PALEONTOLOGY.
The Cretaceous fossils of the collection, as will be seen by plates 13, 14, and 15, are all merely casts of bivalves, excepting two species of Gas- teropoda. Exclusive of the two species of large tnoceramus, represented by fig. 3 of plate 13, and fig. 4 of plate 14, which came from a different horizon near the eastern base of the Rocky Mountains, they are all from a light-yellowish sandstone, containing beds and seams of brown coal, at various localities in the region of Coalville and** Bear River, Utah. The specimens yet obtained are in a bad state of preservation ; but, as far as can be determined, they appear to be very nearly if not quite all distinct from the Cretaceous species yet known from the Upper Missouri country.
Taken collectively, this group of fossils presents much the general facies of the fauna of the series in California, referred by Professor Whit- ney to the upper part of the Cretaceous of that State, under the name -Tejon Group. Yet, after careful comparisons with the figures and descrip- tions in the California reports, I am not fully satisfied that any of the species are positively the same ; though in some instances they may at least safely be regarded as closely-allied representative forms. With the excep- tion of the two or three species of Inoceramm, the genus Gyrodes^ and per- haps Anchura, they present, so far as their characters can be made out from the specimens yet brought in, just such a group of forms as might be, with almost equal propriety, referred either to the Cretaceous or to the Tertiary.* The presence of the genera mentioned, however, would, in the present state of palsBontological science, exclude them from the Tertiary and place them in the Cretaceous. The fact, too, that they are all marine types, while all of those yet collected in this great internal region of the continent, from well-defined Tertiary beds, are terrestrial, or fresh- and brackish-water types, would confirm the other evidence that these light-colored coal- bearing sandstones of the region of Coalville and Bear River really belong to the Cretaceous. Indeed, I arrived at this conclusion in 1860, while investigating Colonel Simpson's collections from this formation.f The fact, however, that all the collections yet brought in from this formation contain
♦ Since ibis was written, Dr. Hayden's party have also brought in, from these Coalville beds, other decidedly Cretaceous types of fossils. t See Proceed, Acad. Nat. Sci. Philud., Ap. 1860, p. 126.
INTRODOCTOKY REMARKS. 1 1
no Ammonites, Scaphites, BaculiteSj Hamites, Turrilites, HelicoceraSy or any of the numerous other types generally believed to have died out at the close of the Cretaceous period (excepting the very few forms already . mentioned), would appear to indicate that this formation was deposited at near the close of the physical conditions most favorable to the existence of t3^pes of life peculiar to the Ci*etaceous epoch; and hence that it belongs to some of the latest, if not to the latest, deposits of that period.*
The fossils from the Bear River fresh- or brackish-water strata, and those from later and undoubted Tertiary beds, have been illustrated together on plates 16 and 17. The species from these different horizons might more appropriately have been separated on distinct plates ; but this could not well be done without arranging the figures on three plates; while there are not quite enough of them to be so distributed. Those from the oldest upheaved brackish- water beds associated with the light-colored marine Cretaceous sandstone already mentioned, at the Bear River locality, are Unio priscus, U. helliplicatuSy and Corbicula Durkeei of plate 16; and Cor- hula Engelmannij C. pyriformis, Limnma nitida, Bhytiphoms priscus, Campe- loma (Melantho) occidentalisf, C. macrospira, Viviparus Conradi, and Pyrgu- lifera humerosa of plate 1 7.
This formation seems, at Bear River, to be associated with the Creta- ceous sandstone of that region in such a manner as to give the impression that it probably immediately succeeded the latter in point of time. It is evident, however, from the striking contrast in the fossils characterizing the- two formations, that marked physical changes had taken place here between the deposition of the last of the undoubted Cretaceous sandstones and the commencement of what appears to be the oldest Tertiary, since nearly or quite all the fossils found in the former are marine types, while those of the latter are fresh- and brackish- water, or, in some few instances, perhaps teiTes- trial forms. This strongly-marked change in the fossils in passing from the Cretaceous sandstone below into the fresh- and brackish-water beds apparently above, and the close affinities of most of the species in the latter
♦ Later persoual exaiuiDattons ot these beds at Coalville, aud the equivalent marine Cretaceous strata at Bear River, as stated in Dr. Hayden's Report of 1872, have satisfied me that this formation, at the former locality, represents probably nearly the whole of the Upper Missouri Cretaceous series. — P. B. M., Nov., 1874.
12 PALAEONTOLOGY.
either to foreign Lower Tertiary species or to living forms, are the grounds upon which Dr. Engelmann and the writer, in 1860, referred these estuary- beds to the Lower Tertiary.
One of the species found in the Cretaceous sandstones at Coalville, Utah, certainly agrees very closely with Corbida pyriformis from the later estuary beds at Bear River, as may be seen by comparing fig, 2, plate 14, with fig. 2 a, plate 17. As the specimen from the sandstone, however, is a mere cast, it is not possible to make a very satisfactory comparison. It is also worthy of note here that there certainly is a species in the latest Cre- taceous beds of California {Corhula alceformis of Gabb) that agrees very nearly with our C. pyriformis from the Bear River estuary beds. Indeed, I find very little in the figure or description of the California species to distin- guish it from some specimens of C, pyriformis var. concentrica. Most of the specimens of C. pyriformis are more coarsely and more irregularly ribbed and furrowed than is shown in Mr. GabVs figure; but the specimens vary much in this character, some of them being nearly smooth, as in fig. 2 a, plate 17, while others are regularly ribbed, as in fig. 2, or irregularly so, as in fig. 2 a^ and there are all conceivable intermediate gradations. As Mr. Gabb, however, only figures one specimen, it is not possible to make an entirely satisfactory comparison; though his species is most probably dis- tinct from ours.
This similarity of a few of the forms in the upper coal-bearing Creta- ceous beds in Utah, Wyoming, and California, with species in the estuary- beds in the Bear River country, and the general conform ability of these formations, together with their association at the same localities, and the non-conformability of the estuary-beds with the later Tertiary, might suggest the inquiry, whether we ought not to carry up the line between the Tertiary and Cretaceous here, so as to include the estuary-deposits in the latter.
This suggestion would certainly appear to receive some support, froni the fiict that some of the vertebrate fossils collected by Dr. Hay den, appar- ently from equivalent estuary -beds at the mouth of Judith River, on the Upper Missouri, were regarded by Dr. Leidy as belonging to Cretaceous types. Supposing that the change from marine to fresh- and brackish- water
INTRODUCTORY REMARKS. 13
conditions in this region had taken place a little before, instead of exactly at, the close of the Cretaceous period, this change alone would be amply suffi- cient to account for the destruction of the marine Cretaceous forms. Still, this would not account for the paucity of strictly Cretaceous types here through a considerable thickness of marine sandstones below, nor for the striking Tertiary and more modern affinities of several of the forms ih the estuary-beds above.*
While willing to admit that facts may yet be discovered showing that some of the brackish-water beds so widely distributed in this internal region of the continent belong more properly to the Cretaceous than to the Ter- tiary, I still think, from all the light we now have on the subject, that the Bear. and Judith River fresh- and brackish- water deposits represent the oldest Eocene Lignites of the Paris basin. At least, if they are Cretaceous, there is little or nothing in the moUuscan remains yet obtained from them to sup- port such a conclusion, f
The probability is, as I have elsewhere remarked, that, as the continent was rising, toward the close of the Cretaceous epoch, the Rocky Mountains, in part at least, existed as islands in the Cretaceous Sea. Still later, as the process of elevation continued, considerable areas that had been occupied by the sea became at first partly isolated, so as to form bodies of brackish water, that gradually became fresh-water lakes, as further elevation com- pletely isolated them from the influx of the sea. In the deposits formed in these waters, we might naturally expect to find, at the base, brackish-water types, and, further up, wholly fresh- water forms, just as is the case in the beds referred to the Tertiary in that region.
Whether this change from marine to fresh- water conditions was exactly contemporaneous with the close of the Cretaceous, and the introduction of the Tertiary epochs elsewhere, perhaps we shall never know; but that it
* For iustance, compare Corhiciila BurJceei (fig. 6 a-g, plate 16) with (7. antiquaj Ferrussac, and G. Forbesii, Deshayes, from the Lower Lignites of the Paris basin, as well 'ds Fyrguli/era humerosa (digs. 19 and 19 a, platQ 17) with the so CdWeA Melania armata of Matheron, from the same horizon at the mouth of the Rhone.
t These remarks were written in 1870; since that time, however, additional facts have come to light, as already suggested, rather favoring the conclusion that these Bear River estuary- beds may belong to the latest Cretaceous. — F. B. M., Nov., 1874.
14 PAD^ONTOLOGY.
corresponded in the sequence of geological changes here to that event seems probable.
In the vicinity of Fort Bridger, Tertiary* deposits exist, apparently of later date than the Bear River beds that have furnished the fossils men- tioned above. So far as yet known, these Fort Bridger beds contain only fresh-water and perhaps terrestrial fossils. From this formation, the fol- lowing species, figured on plate 17, were collected, mainly by Colonel Simp- son's party, viz., lAmncea similiSy L. vettcsta, Goniobasis Simpsoniy Planorbis spedabilis, and P. spectabiUsy var. Utahensis; also Unto Haydeni^ figured on plate 1 6. So far as known, all the species from this formation are distinct from those found in the Bear River deposits; and only one species, Planorbis spectabilis, is very nearly related to any species found on the upper branches of the Missouri.
A few fossils in the collection, from the region of Fossil Hill, Kawsoh Mountains, Nevada, show that there is there an exceedingly interesting Tertiary formation. These fossils are in a beautiful state of preservation, and contained in a white, soft limestone, or indurated marl. Not a single one of the species yet known from this formation is identical with any of those hitherto discovered in any of the other Far- Western Tertiary deposits.* They are all fresh-water forms, and consist of the following species, viz., SphcBrium Idahoense and S, rugosum, figured on plate 16, and Carinifex Tryonij C. JBinneyij Goniobasis sculptilis, G. subsculptilis, and Ancylus undu- latusy figured on plate 17. The species all being new, and the rock not having been seen connected with any of the other Tertiary formations of that region, we have no means of determining its exact position in the Tertiary series ; though it is probably more recent than either of the other formations from which fossils are figured and described in this report. It will probably yield a large number of new and interesting fossils to who- ever may be able to explore it thoroughly.
As it has been thought desirable to give as full and complete an
♦ At the time of writiDg the above, I had overlooked the possible identity of the species I have described under the name Ooniohasis sculptllia with Melania Taylori^ Gabb, described in vol. II, p. 13, Pateont. California, from apparently the same forma- tion in Idaho.— F. B. M., Nov., 1874.
INTRODUCTORY REMARKS. 15
account as possible of the palaeontology of the country explored, in a number of instances species have been figured and described even where the specimens are not in a condition to give any clew to their generic characters. This has been done, because, notwithstanding the imperfection of the specimens, they can readily be identified as characteristic forms of the several respective rocks. Hence, as future explorers, under more favorable circumstances, obtain more extensive collections, it will certainly be found necessary in perhaps not a few instances, to modify the nomen- clature here provisionally adopted. In all these doubtful cases, however, the doubts in regard to their generic or specific affinities have been fully indicated, either by the use of a query-mark or in words. In some other cases, fossils have been figured, and, as far as possible, described, where the species could not be certainly identified with known forms, nor yet satisfactorily determined to be new. In such instances, they are merely given as undetermined forms, without having any specific name appended.
In closing these remarks, I take pleasure in acknowledging my obliga- tions to Professor Henry for the use of rooms, books, and specimens, as well as for other facilities at the Smithsonian Institution, while preparing this report.
Smithsonian Institution,
Washington Citi/y D. C, August 2, 1870.
xDEsoi^ii^Tioisrs o:f ipossils.
SILURIAN SPECIES.
MOLLUSCA.
GASTEROPODA^
SOLARIIDJE- ? Genus OPHILETA, Vanuxem. Ophileta complanata, var. nana.
Plate 1, figs. 1, la, 1&.
OpUleta complanata, VaDuxem (1842), Eeport Third Geol. Dist. N. Y., 36, fig. 2.— Hall (1847), Palseont. N. Y., I, pi. ii, fig. 2, and pi. iii, fig. 6.
Ophileta complanata var. nana^ Meek (1870), Hayden's Prelim. Report of the U. S. Geol. Survey of the Territories, 295.
Shell compressed-planorbicular, both sides slightly concave ; volutions about six, very narrow, and increasing very gradually in size, flattened and slightly oblique on the outer side, and presenting a quadrangular transverse section, with upper and lower surfaces somewhat converging inward from the angle on each side of the periphery.
Greatest diameter, 0.30 inch; 'thickness or height, 0.06 inch; diameter of last volution, measuring in the direction of the plane of the shell, 0.05 inch.
As Vanuxem's species was not fully described or well figured, it is scarcely possible to be positively sure that our shell might not be only a closely-allied species, without direct comparison with authentic examples
17 2PR
18 PALAEONTOLOGY.
of the New York form. Our specimens are scarcely one-half as large as Vanuxem's figure ; but we are not sure that they are entire. The shell, how- ever, certainly agrees very closely with 0. complanata in proportions and the exceedingly narrow character of its volutions. Still, as it seems to have nearly the same number of whorls in less than half the diameter of 0. complanata^ it may be a distinct smaller species. If so, it may be called 0. nana.
Locality and position, — Ute Peak, south of Muddy Creek, a tributary of Bear River, Utah ; from a gray, granular limestone of Lower Silurian age, and probably belonging to the epoch of the Calciferous Group of the New York series.
Genus RAPHISTOMA, Hall
EAPHISTOMA 1 ROTULIFORMIS, Meek. Plate 1, figs. 2, 2 a, 2 &.
Euomphalus {Baplmtoma f) rotuliformis^ Meek (1870), Proceed. Acad. Nat. 9ci. Philad., 61; and (1872) Haydeu's Ann. Eep. Geol. Survey of the Territories, 464.
Shell small, sublenticular, or more than twice and a half as wide as high, with the periphery sharply angular, and the much-depressed spire a little more prominent than the convexity of the last turn below the angular periphery ; umbilicus very wide, deep, and depressed-conical ; volutions six or seven, exceedingly narrow, and increasing very gradually in size, all obliquely flattened, or sometimes slightly concave on the upper slope, which is nearly coincident with that of the spire, and with the under side sloping downward and inward (being nearly one-third wider than the upper surface) to the umbilicus, around which they are rather distinctly angular ; aperture obliquely-rhombic. Surface unknown.
Breadth, 0.32 inch; height, 0.12 inch; breadth of last turn on the upper slope, 0.15 inch; on the under slope, 0.18 inch ; breadth of aperture, 0.09 inch ; height of aperture, 0.07 inch.
This species is evidently nearly allied to Euomphalus polygyratuSj Roemer, from the Lower Silurian rocks of San Saba, Texas (see Kreid. von Texas, tab. xi, figs. 4 a, 6). It differs, however, in being much smaller, its greatest diameter being less than one-fourth that of Roemer^B species,
SILURIAN SPECIES. 19
although it shows nearly the same number of volutions. Its volutions are also proportionally more convex below, and slope more abruptly into the umbilicus.
Locality and position. — Same as last.
Kaphistoma! trochiscus, Meek.
Plate 1, figs. '^J 3 a, aud 3 5.
Euomplialus (RapMsfoma f) trochiscus. Meek (1870), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., 61 J and (1872) in Hayden's Ann. Eep, Geol. Survey of the Territories, 4G4.
Shell sublenticular, about twice and a half as wide as high; spire much depressed, or but little higher (measuring from the horizon of the sharply angular periphery) than the convexity of the last turn below the same; um- bilicus wide, deep, and depressed-conical; volutions four and a half to five, increasing gradually in size, all obliquely flattened (or sometimes slightly concave) above, nearly on a line with the slope of the spire, and sloping downward and inward below to the umbilicus, into which the curve is so abrupt as to form an obtuse angle around its margin ; aperture wider than high, and rhombic-subtrigonal in outline. Surface unknown.
Breadth, 0.40 inch ; height, 0.15 inch ; breadth of last turn, 0.12 inch; breadth of umbilicus, about 0.25 inch.
This is similar in general appearance to the last species, but may be readily distinguished by its less numerous whorls, which increase more rapidly in size. It is much more nearly allied to a form now before me in masses of chert, from the west side of Lake Pepin, in Minnesota, found in beds of about the age of the Calciferous sand-rock of the New York series. The latter, however, attains a much larger size; some of the specimens being an inch in diameter, with about six volutions. The Minnesota form is also more sharply angular on the periphery, and has the upper side of the volutions distinctly more concave, and the spire more depressed.*
Locality and position. — Same as last.
* In the Proceedings of the Philadelphia Academy for 1870, cited above (p. 62), I have proposed the name E, Pepinensis for this Minnesota species.
20 PALEONTOLOGY.
ARTICULATA.
CRUSTACEA.
PARADOXID^.
Genus CONOCORYPHE, Corda. CoNOCORYPHE (Ptychoparia) Kingii, Meek.
Plate 1, fig. 4.
Conocoryphe (Gonocephalites) Kingii, Meek (1870), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., 63. Conocoryphe {Ptychoparia) Kingii^ Meek (1872), Haydeu^s Ann. Report U. S. Geol.
Survey of the Territories, 487.— White (1876), Palaeont. of Lieut. Wheeler's
Survey, 40, pi. ii, figs. 2 ah^c.
Entire form ovate and much depressed, with breadth equahng about two-thirds the whole length. Ceplialic shield semicircular, or a little wider than long, with the anterior and antero-lateral borders regularly rounded in outline, and provided with a narrow, slightly-defined, marginal rim; posterior margin nearly straight, with the lateral angles terminating in abruptly-pointed extremities, so short as scarcely to project as far backward as the posterior margin of the second thoracic segment. Grlabella depressed nearly even with the cheeks, about two-thirds as long as the entire head, and between one-third and one-fourth the breadth of the same behind, but narrowing for- ward to its subtruncated anterior end, and separated from the cheeks on each side and in front by a shallow furrow ; occipital furrow moderately well defined, and continued as rather deep broad furrows along the posterior mar- gins of the cheeks out nearly to the points where the facial sutures cut the margin ; lateral furrows not clearly defined in the specimens, but appar- ently consisting of four pairs. Facial sutures directed at first, for a short distance, forward from the inner anterior end of each eye, then curving gracefully outward as they extend forward, until near the anterior margin of the head, where they are a little wider apart than the distance between the eyes, but again curving rathei* abruptly inward, so as to reach the ante- rior margin nearly on a line with each eye; posteriorly these sutures extend at first outward nearly at right angles to the longitudinal axis, from the pos- terior end of each eye, and then curve gracefully backward, so as to intersect
SILURIAN SPECIES. 21
the posterior margin between one-fourth and one-third the distance from tlie lateral angles inward toward the glabella. Eyes rather depressed, slightly arched outward, separated from each other by a space somewhat less than half the entire breadth of the head, and placed less than their own length in advance of the posterior margin, and about once and a half their length be- hind the front margin of the head; visual surfaces narrow, and not showing any lenses under a good magnifier.
Thorax with its length bearing the proportions to that of the head of 79 to 52, and to its own breadth of 79 to 107, being very shghtly wider near the middle than in front, and narrowing posteriorly, with gently convex lateral margins, from behind the middle to the pygidium. Axial lobe de- pressed, narrow, or only about two-thirds the breadth of each lateral lobe at its anterior end, and narrowing regularly with straight sides posteriorly; segments thirteen, nearly or quite straight, and each with some appearance of a small node or prominence at each end.^ Lateral lobes depressed or nearly flat ; pleurae almost transverse, or arching slightly backward to near the extremities, which are abruptly pointed ; each with a well-defined fur- row, which commences small near the anterior inner end, and widens and deepens for about half-way out, and then narrows and becomes more shal- low, so as to die out before reaching the lateral extremities.
. Pygidium subsemicircular, being rounded posteriorly, with a narrow, slightly -flattened border, and somewhat rounded anterior lateral extremities; length bearing to that of the thorax the proportions of 30 to 79, and to that of the head of 30 to 52, with a breadth of not quite two-thirds that of the head; axial lobe equaling more than two-thirds the length, narrow, depressed, and showing more or less distinctly about five segments; lateral lobes much depressed, nearly twice as wide at the anterior end as the middle one, each with about three segments, which curve a little backward, and become obsolete before passing upon tlie narrow, smooth border; segments each provided with a comparatively large longitudinal furrow, corresponding to those on the pleurae.
* lu the specimens, these little prominences seem to be so very obscare as to leave doubts of their real existence as nodes. They are imich too distinctly defined in our figure.
22 PALJEONTOLOGT.
Entire surface apparently smooth, excepting fine radiating striae on the anterior and lateral portions of the cephalic shield, that are scarcely visible without the aid of a magnifier.
Whole length, 1.60 inches; breadth of thorax, 1.07 inches; of cephalic shield (somewhat flattened by pressure), about 1.12 inches; length of thorax, 0.70 inch; length of pygidium, 0.30 inch; breadth of same, 0.60 inch.
Of this fine Trilobite, three entire specimens and a part of another were obtained. They are, however, all merely sharply-defined natural casts, formed by the deposition of a crust of arragonite in the original moulds left by the fossil in some kind of a matrix. The specimens were evidently some- what flattened by pressure before or at the time they left their impressions in the rock. This compression has obscured the lateral furrows of the gla- bella; but most of the other characters of the upper side of the fossil are clearly seen, even to the facial sutures, and the faintly-marked radiating strise around the front and lateral margins of the cheeks.
The genus Conocephalites (or more properly Conocoryphej for a strict application of the rules of priority would, I should think, require that the latter name should be adopted for the genus to which they were both applied) is so nearly allied to Olenus that it may not be always easy to dis- tinguish the two types without seeing the hypostoma, and hence it is possi- ble that the fomi under consideration may be more properly an Olenus. As it has more the regular oval outhne of the former, and less pointed and pro- duced pleurae than the latter, while it shows clearly the fine radiating striae around the anterior and lateral margins of the head, so often seen in Cono- corT/pJie, it more probably belongs to that genus. It is worthy of note, how- ever, that all of the specimens seem to be much more depressed or flattened than any of the species yet described of that genus, while only one of them shows any traces of the slender ridge usually seen passing from the ante- rior end of each eye to the front extremity of the glabella; and in this one, the ridge is so faintly marked as to leave doubts whether or not it is natural.
The slight differences between some of the details of the type speci- men illustrated on our plate, and those figured by Dr. White, are either sexual, or due to accidental causes. The most obvious of these differences
SILURIAN SPECIES. 23
is the greater length of the posterior lateral spines of the cephalic shield in Dr. White's specimens, which difference is probably sexual; while the others seem to be mainly due to the accidental flattening of our specimen.
Locality and position. — Antelope Springs, House Range, Utah ; Lower Silurian, and probably, judging from the known position of the genus Com- cephalites in the rocks of this country and Europe, from the Primordial Zone.
Genus PARADOXIDES, Brongniart.
Paradoxides If Nevadensis, Meek.
Plate I, fig, 5.
Faradoxldes f Nevadensis, Meek (1870), Proceed. Acad. ]S"at. Sci. Philad., 62.
The only specimen of this Trilobite obtained consists of a natural cast, formed by a moderately thick crust of arragonite, deposited in a natural mould, or impression, of a part of the thorax and the pygidium, with the free borders of the latter broken away. Its rather large size, much depressed form, spiniferous pleurse, and general physiognomy, as far as seen, at once recall to the mind the well-known genus Paradoxides, A closer inspection, however, shows its pygidium to be proportionally larger than we see in the known species of that genus, with possibly tlie exception of P. Forsckham- meri of Angelin,
Of the thorax, eight of the posterior segments are preserved. These show the axial lobe to be much depressed, and about as wide as the lateral ones, exclusive of the free recurved points of the pleurse. The segments of the axial lobe are defined by a broad, rounded furrow, or depression, across the anterior side of each, and have much the general appearance of those of some species of Paradoxides, being a little thickened, squarely truncated, and slightly curved forward at the ends. But they differ in showing dis- tinct remains of a mesial spine, or tubercle, on each, and in having an obscure, oblique furrow, or depression, on each side, passing outward and backward from the broad, anterior, transverse furrow to the posterior lateral angles, so as partly to isolate the slightly-thickened and truncated extremities of each. The lateral lobes are nearly flat, and composed of pleurae that extend straight outward at right angles to the axis, to their free extremities, which are
24 ' PALAEONTOLOGY.
abruptly contracted (almost entirely on the posterior side) into slender, rounded, very sharp spines, which curve backward and outward. Each of the pleurae is also provided with a broad, rather deep, flattened furrow, which commences near the inner end, and extends straight outward for some distance, with parallel sides, but gradually tapers, mainly on the ante- rior side, to a lanceolate point, before reaching tlie free extremities. These furrows have not the obliquity usually seen in those of Paradoxides, but run parallel to the direction of the pleurae, so as to leave a slender straight ridge of equal size along the anterior and posterior margin of each rib.
The pygidium, exclusive of the portions of the free border broken away, has a nearly semicircular outline, being about twice as wide as long, while it is as much flattened as the thorax. The part remaining equals in length the five thoracic segments next in advance of it Its mesial lobe is much depressed, and about three-fourths as wide anteriorly as the breadth of that of the thorax at its widest part seen. Posteriorly it tapers moderately, and extends nearly the entire length of the pygidium, as seen with the free border broken away. It is evident, however, that the flattened border pro- jected more or less behind its termination. It shows distinctly five seg- ments, with indications of about two others at the posterior end. The lateral lobes have each three segments, the anterior one being extended out nearly parallel to those of the thorax, while the others are directed more obliquely backward, and rapidl)^ widen outward. Like the pleurae, they have each a broad, flattened furrow; that of the anterior one being nearly parallel to those of the pleurae, while those of the other two are directed more obhquely backward, particularly the posterior one, which is almost parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body. These furrows are so deep and broad as to give the three segments of each lateral lobe the appearance of &ix iiTCgular ndges; the irregularity being produced by the posterior two furrows, instead of passing along the middle of each segment, being curved backward so as to divide it very unequally, leaving the anterior part much the broader. No fine surface-markings are preserved on the specimen.
Entire length of the imperfect specimen, nearly 3 inches, of which the remaining 8 thoracic segments form 1.70 inches; breadth of the thorax, exclu- sive of the free spiniferous ends of the pleurae, 2.05 inches, and, including
DEVONIAN SPECIES. 25
the projecting ends of the pleuroe, 2.40 inches; length of what remains of the pygidium, 1.03 inches; breadth of the same, about 1.80 inches.
Supposing it to be a true Paradoxides, with not less than sixteen thoracic segments, the entire specimen, when complete, could not have been far from six inches in length. It can hardly be a true ParadoxideSj however.
It is possible I should call this species Olenus or Paraholina Nevadensis; but its large size seems to be an objection to placing it in any section of either of these groups. In the possession of a node, or spine, on each of the thoracic segments, as well as in the direction of the posterior segments of the lateral lobes of the pygidium, it agrees with the type of Paraholina; but, unfortunately, the specimen is not in a condition to show whether or not these segments of the pygidium terminated in produced marginal spines, while the furrows of its pleurae have not the obliquity of those seen in that type, but agree more nearly with those of some species of Conocorypke, The comparatively large size of its pygidium, and the nodes, or spines, on its thoracic segments, as well as the nature of the furrows of the pleurae, are rather against its reference to Paradoxides, and lead me to think that it may belong to an undescribed genus; if so, it might be called Olenoides.
Locality and position, — Same as last.
DEVONIAN SPECIES.
EADIATA. POLYPI.
FAVOSITIDJl.
Genus ALVEOLITES, Lamarck. Alveolites multilamella, Meek.
Plate 2, figs. 7, 7 o, and 7 &.
Corallum massive, apparently hemispherical, or subglobose. Calices very small, or uniformly only about three-hundredth s of an inch in their greater diameter, and about half as much in their smaller diameter ; as
26 PALAEONTOLOGY.
seen in transverse sections, subtrigonal or subrhombic, and separated by walls equaling their smaller diameter in thickness; apparently not very oblique at their terminations to the general surface, and showing (at least in sections) a small tooth-like projection at the middle of the outer wall. Longitudinal sections showing the tabulae to be numerous, extremely thin, and not always exactly transverse or parallel to each other, but nearly so, and arranged somewhat regularly at intervals of only one-hundredth of an inch apart. Mural pores comparatively rather large, and regularly arranged, so that six of them may be counted in a space of one-tenth of an inch.
In the size and form of its calicos, as well as in its massive growth, this species is nearly allied to a coral described by the writer (under the name J., valloriim), found by Mr. Kennicott at *Hhe Ramparts" on Macken- zie River, near Fort Good Hope, Arctic America (see Trans. Chicago Acad. Sci., I, 86, pi. xi, fig. 9). It differs, however, in having its calices slightly larger, and not ranging near so obliquely to the general surface ; the tubes formed by their continuous growth being much straighter, and more nearly parallel with each other, or only slightly radiating, instead of being very oblique and curving about in all directions. Whether or not it agrees with the Arctic species in the arrangement of its numerous transverse septa or diaphragms and its mural pores, I have been unable to determine ; these parts not having been seen in that coral.
Compared with European species, it seems to be in some respects allied to A. spborhicularis, Lamarck, from the Devonian rocks of France, and A. reticulatuSj Steininger, from rocks of the same age in France and Germany. From the first, it differs in its massive instead of encrusting mode of growth, as well as in its thicker walls between the calices, which latter are also smaller; while its tabulae are much more numerous and more crowded. Its calices are a size larger than those of A. reticulatus, and sepa- rated by thinner walls, they also seem to be less oblique.
Locality and position. — Argyle Hill, White Pine District, Nevada;
Devonian.
Alveolites (undt. sp.)
From near the same locality, there is, in the collection, from the Devo-
DEVONIAN SPE€IES. 27
nian of the White Pine District, an imperfect specimen of an Alveolites, that grew in an irregular, rather thin, foHated form, with exceedingly- oblique calices, of somewhat larger size and narrower form than the fore- going. This, I think, belongs to another species ; but the specimen is scarcely in a condition to admit of its being figured and described,
Genns FAVOSITES, Lamarck. Favosites (undt. sp.).
Plate 1, fig. 6.
Corallum small, siibglobose or ovoid, often growing attached to shells. Corallites rather small, and very unequal in size and form, in consequence of the rapid growth of young ones between the corners of the old, so as to give the latter a polygonal or nearly circular outline, while the mucli smaller young often appear at the surface with a trigonal or quadrangular form, all rapidly radiating in all directions. Tabulse passing straight across at intervals nearly equaling the diameter of the larger corallites. (Septa and mural pores unknown.)
Diameter of corallum, about 1.50 inches; of the largest corallites, about 0.08 inch.
The specimens of this little coral have all the cavities solidly filled with silicious matter, so that it is scarcely possible to make out very clearly its more important specific characters. It may be a new species ; but, in a genus like this, the species of which are often so diflicult to distinguish, even from the very best preserved specimens, it would be folly to attempt to identify our coral with any of the known species, or to name and describe it as new, without better specimens for comparison.
Loeality and position. — Three miles south of Piiion Pass, Pinon Range,
Nevada; Lower Devonian or Upper Silurian. Found associated with
Spirifer Pinonensis, Atrypa reticularis, FAmondiaf Pifionensis, and fragments
of a JDahnanites,
Favosites polymorpha, Goldf. ?, var.
Plate 2, fig. 3. Calamopora polymorpha, Goldf. (1826), Petrif. Germ., T, 79, tab. 27.*
Of this coral, I have seen but the single fragment figured, and this is * For synonymy, see Edwards and Ilaime's Monograph of Fossil Corals.
28 palj5o:ntology.
not ill a very good condition for examination. As nearly as its characters can be made out, it seems to belong to one of the varieties or species usually referred to F. polymorpha of Goldfuss, Without more and better specimens, however, it would scarcely be possible to determine its specific relations with exactness.
Locality and position. — Rio Verde, Arizona; found by Dr. Palmer associated with CyatJiophyUum Palmeri.
Genus SYRINGOPORA, Goldfuss. Sykingopora (iiudt. fp.).
Corallites very slender or only about 0.06 inch in diameter; generally separated by spaces from one to three or four times their own diameter ; usually nearly straight, but sometimes more or less flexuous ; surface with small transverse wrinkles; connecting tubes distantly separated; (interior unknown).
In its general appearance, this coral rather closely resembles S, perele- gans^ Billings (Canadian Journal, March, 1859, fig. 19), and it may possibly belong to that species. As I only know it, however, from imperfect speci- mens, and there are doubtless many closely-allied species of this genus in the rocks of this country, I do not feel warranted in identifying it with that described by Mr. Billings, or in naming it as a new species. Its coral- lites are certainly more widely separated than in Mr. Billings's typical specimens, and, although this is to a considerable extent a variable charac- ter, I am rather inclined to regard it as a distinct species.
Locality and position. — Babylon Ilill, White Pine Mining District; Devonian.
CYATHOPHYLLID^.
Genus PTYCHOPHYLLUM, E. & H. Ptyohophyllum ? iNFUNDiBULUM, Meek.
Plate 2, figs. 1, 1 a, I 6.
Corallum subturbinate, or possibly becoming more or less cylindrical with age ; central fossula moderately deep, truncato-obconic, about one- third the breadth of the entire corallum ; rays stout, about fifty, generally
DEVONIAN SPECIES. 29
rather arcuate, or sometimes nearly straight along most of their length, every alternate one (or sometimes more) extending in nearly or quite to the middle, where they become tortuous, and apparently form a small, false columella ; transverse plates stout, sometimes dividing, sloping a little from near the fossula to their free margins, which are subcrenate, while within they curve abruptly downward around the fossula. Transverse sections showing what appear to be a few dissepiments, arching strongly outward between the septa ; but these may be oblique sections of the divisions of the infundebuliform plates. Vertical section showing a small prominence at the bottom of the central fossula, and under the fossula a few thin dis- sepiments passing transversely or curving a little upward as they approach what appears like a slender central columella.
Breadth, nearly two inches ; height, somewhat less than one inch.
The specimens of this coral in the collection are very imperfect, and leave some doubts in regard to its true relations. Possibly I should call it Chonophyllum infundibulum, to which genus I was at first inclined to refer it. On making vertical sections of one of the specimens, however, I have found some appearances of a small, false columella. If these appearances are not deceptive, it would fall into the genus Ptycliophyllum ; but, if there was no columella, it would have to be referred to the genus Chonophjllum. Its septa, however, are much less numerous than those of any of the described species of the former genus ; while it has also a smaller number than in any of the latter known to me, and likewise has a differently-formed calice.
Locality and position. — Treasure Hill, White Pine Mining District, Nevada ; from the silver-bearing Devonian rocks of that region.
Genus DIPHYPHYLLUM, Lonsdale.
DiPHYPHYLLUM FASCICXJLUM, Meek. Plate 2, figs. 4,4 a, 4 6.
Corallum growing in tufts ; corallites slender, elongated, cylindrical, moderately flexuous, and often adhering or growing together where brought into contact by the flexures, or sometimes by short, irregular, transverse processes; gemmation lateral; epitheca thin, and easily removed by weath-
30 PAL/EONTOLOGY.
ering, so as to expose the edges of the septa, thus presenting a distinctly striated appearance; surface more or less wrinkled transversely, but not very sti'ongly so; septa from about thirty-six to forty, every alternate one of which is shghtly thinner than the others, and generally terminates at, or a little within, the thin wall of the outer vesicular zone, while the others continue straight inward, and terminate abruptly a little before reaching the middle. Vertical section showing the narrow central space not occupied by the septa to be crossed by transverse plates, which seem to curve downward, and sometimes to divide all around the central transversely septate space, so as to form a kind of narrow, undefined inner vesicular area. Out- side of this, there is a well-defined, very narrow, outer, vesicular zone, sepa- rated from the inner by a distinct, very thin wall, and occupied by only a single series of vesicles, the dissepiments between which range obliquely outward and upward, (Calices unknown.)
Entire size of corallum unknown; diameters of corallites, from 0.16 to 0.^0 inch; spaces between the corallites rarely greater than the diameter of the latter, and generally less.
This coral seems to present essentially the structure of the genus Dipliy- phyllmn of Lonsdale, particularly as illustrated by Professor McCoy in his fig- ures of his D. latiseptum (Brit. Pal. Foss., pi. 3 c, fig. 10.) Specifically, however, it differs materially from that form in having more slender coral- lites, and a much narrower, outer, vesicular zone, as well as a proportionally wider middle area occupied by the broad tabulae.
1 am aware that Edwards and Haime have expressed the opinion, in their valuable Monograph of the Fossil Corals (p, 446), that the specimens on which Lonsdale's genus Diphyphyllum was founded, and those of another species described by McCoy, are probably only examples of Lithostrotion, in which the columella had accidentally been dissolved out during the process of fossilization. If this is so, the name of the species here under consideration would probably become Diplophyllum fasciculum^ as it seems to present very nearly the structure of that genus as proposed by Professor Hall, who, however, has since expressed doubts whether or not his genus is distinct from Diphyphyllum of Lonsdale,
Whatever may be the real structure of Lonsdale^s typical specimens of
DEVONIAN SPECIES. 31
DiphyphyUum, it seems to me that there can be no reasonable doubt in regard to the coral under consideration having no trances of a columella. It is true that fossil corals, in different states of preservation, sometimes do present quite deceptive appearances in their internal structure; but, from the exami- nation of ground sections in various directions through the corallites, as well as from broken specimens, showing the interior more or less distinctly, I think I cannot be mistaken in the conclusion that this coral has not the characters of Litliostrotion^ and agrees with Lonsdale's genus.
Locality and position. — Argyle and Treasure Hills, White Pine Mining District, Nevada; Devonian.
Genus ACERVULARIA, Schweigger.
ACERVULARIA PENTAGONA, GoldfuSS (sp.). Plate 2, ^g9. 5, 5 a.
Gyathophyllum pentago7ium, Goldf. (182C), Petref. Germ., I, 60, tab. 19, fig. 3.— Morveu
(1832), Descr. Corall. Belg., 56. Favastrea pentagona, de Blainville (1830), Diet. Sci. Nat., LX, 340; Mann. d'Actin., 375. Astrea pentagonay Lonsdale (1840), Geol. Trans., 2d ser., V, pi. 57, fig. 1.— Phillips
(1841), Palaeozoic Fossils, II, pi. 6, fig. 15. Acervularia pentagona, Micbelin (1845), Icon., 180, pi. 49, fig. 1. — McCoy (1851), Brit.
Palaeozoic Foss., 19. — Edwards and Haime (1851), Polyp. Terr. Pal^oz., 418;
and Brit. Foss. Corals, 238, pi. 53, figs. 5, 5 a, 5 &.— Pictet, Traits de Pal^ont.,
pi. 108, fig. 3.—Milne Edwards, Hist, des Corall., Ill, 410. Acervularia ananas, Micbelin (1845), Icon., pi. 47, fig. 1. Lithostrotion pentagonum, d'Orbigny (1850), Prodr. de Paleout., I, 106.
Corallum astreiform. Corallites comparatively small, and of rather uni- form size, generally hexagonal or pentagonal; septa eighteen to twenty -fom-, rather strong, nearly straight, half of them teraiinating at the inner wall, while the others continue in nearly to the center; outer walls very thin, minutely zigzag; inner walls moderately defined around the calices, which are of medium depth, and generally rather more than one-third as wide as the corallites. Dissepiments, as seen between the walls in vertical sections, very thin, rather closely arranged, and at some points slightly waved.
Entire breadth of corallum unknown ; breadth of an imperfect mass of same, 2.80 inches; breadth of coralHtes, about 0.18 inch; breadth of calices, about 0.07 inch.
32 ^AL.EO^TOLOG Y.
The specimen referred to the above species seems to agree well with the published figures and descriptions of that form. Its outer walls, as seen in transverse sections, are perhaps a little thinner, and its septa slightly more rigid or less curved, than represented in Edwards and Haime's enlarged figure of Goldfuss' species ; but, unless better specimens than that I have seen might reveal some other characters than those observed, I cannot see how it can be separated from the European form.
It has much smaller corallites than any other species of the genus known to me from American rocks.
Locality and position. — Treasure Hill, Nevada; silver-bearing Devonian beds.
Genus SMITHIA, E. & H.
Smithia Hennahii, Lonsdale (sp.).
Plate 2, fig. 6, 6 a
Afftrwa Hennahii (pRYH), Lousd. (1840), in Sedgwick and Murcbison, Geol. Trans., 3d sen, V, G97, pi. 58, JBg. 3.— Phillips (1841), Palaeozoic Foss., 12, pL 6, fig. 16.
Cyathophyllum Hennahii, Bronn (1848), Index Palaeont., I, 368.
Lithostrotion Hennahii and Actinocyaihus Eennahiij d'Orbigny(1850), Prodr.de Pal6ont., I, 1(16 and 107.
PhilUpsastrea Hennahii (pars), d'Orbigny (1850), ib., 107.
Smithia Hennahii^ Edwards and Ilairae (1851), Polyp. Foss. des Terr. Pal^oz., 421; Brit. Foss., Corals, 240, pi. 54, ^g, 4.— Edwards (1860), Hist. CoralL, III, 413.
Arachnophyllum Hennahii, MrQoy (1851), Brit. Palaeoz. Foss., 72.
Acervularia seriaca^ Quenstedt (1852), Handb. der Petret'., 664, pi. 60, fig. 3.
Corallum apparently subhemi spherical in general form. Mural circles from twice to about four times their own diameter apart, but iiTegularly an-anged ; as seen in a transverse section, moderately well defined. Septa twenty-three to twenty-six, very thin excepting near the mural circles, where they are somewhat thickened, and every alternate one terminates, while the others continue straight inward nearly to the center ; all more extended, straighter, and more directly confluent in one direction (usually outward toward the periphery of the corallum) than transversely to the same; in which latter direction they are variously curved, or more or less abruptly geniculated. Vertical section showing the vesicular dissepiments between the septa to be very thin, nearly horizontal, and rather closely arranged.
DEVONIAN SPECIES. 33
Greatest transverse diameter of corallum, 4 inches or more; diameter of mural circles, about 0.10 inch ; number of vesicular dissepiments seen between two of the septa, in a space of 0.10 inch of vertical section, 8.
It is possible that a very critical comparison of good specimens might show some differences in the details of structure by which this coral could be separated from the European Smithia Hennahii; but I have failed to de- tect any characters, either mentioned in the descriptions or illustrated in the most reliable published figures of that species, by which our specimens can be distinguished. Every word in Edwards and Haime^s description of S. Hennahiiy as they restrict the species, would apply equally well to the spec- imens under consideration, so far as their structure can be made out.
. Locality and position, — Babylon Hill, White Pine Mining District, from the silver-bearing rock ; Devonian.
Genus CYATHOPHYLLUM, Goldfuss. Oyathophylltjm Palmeri, Meek.
Plate 2, fig. 2.
Corallum composite, astreiform, growing in irregular masses three to four or more inches in diameter, with the corallites radiating in all direc- tions from near the base of attachment. Corallites very unequal in size, and usually pentagonal or hexagonal in form, with rather deep calicos in the middle; separated by nearly straight, moderately-projecting walls, excepting where a young corallite protrudes a little beyond the others, when it is sometimes surrounded by a nearly circular wall. Gemmation both calicu- lar and interstitial; in the former case, the young corallites often growing up directly in the middle of the calicos of the old, and soon expanding so as to take the place of the latter. Septa twenty-eight to thirty-four, well developed, slightly denticulated, thicker, and most prominent for about half-way inward, where every alternate one thins off to nothing, while the others continue on very thin to the center, where they form, without twisting, a small projection in the bottom of each calice. Vesicular dissepiments very thin, rather closely aiTanged, and not continued in farther than the ends of the shorter septa.
Breadth of the whole corallum, 4 or more inches; height, about 2.50
3PE
34 PALEONTOLOGY.
inches; breadth of the largest corallites, about 0.40 inch; but the average size not more than one-half to two-thirds as much.
At a first glance, this coral recalls such forms as Cyathophyllum quadri- gemmatuMf Goldfuss, as represented by figs. 6 b and 6 c, plate xviii, of his Petref. Germ. A moment's comparison, however, shows that it is very dis- tinct. In the first place, its corallites are more compactly crowded together, and more strongly radiating, in consequence of the more rapid growth of inter- mediate young corallites, thus leaving no space for any of them to grow out free from the others. In a few instances, where a young corallite grew more rapidly than the others, it became free, and assumed a round or oval outline ; but this form seems never to have been continued for more than very short distance before the rapid expansion of the young brought them into contact laterally, when they assumed angular outlines like the old ones, thus covered and hidden from view. The form of the calicos in the species under consideration is also quite difierent, being very shallow or nearly flat for about half-way in from the walls, and then dropping in almost ver- tically ; while, in C. quadriffemmatum, they slope abruptly inward from tlie walls. The latter likewise has about forty-six nearly equal septa to each corallite.
It is probably more nearly allied to C, Sedgwicki, Edwards and Haime (see British Foss. Corals, pi. lii, figs. 3, 3 a), but it differs in having con- stantly a smaller number of septa, which are all thicker at their outer ends, and taper inward, instead of being all thinner there, with the longer series becoming thickened about half-way in, and then tJbinning inward.
The young corallites growing up within the old often give the coral the appearance of an Acervularia ; but a moment's examination shows that these inner circles are young corallites, and not inner walls.
The specific name is given in honor of Dr. E. Palmer, who discovered and brought in the only specimens I have ever seen. They are all silicified, so as to prevent the possibility of ascertaining the internal structure by sec- tions of the corallites.
Locality and position, — Rio Verde, Arizona; from its affinities, it is believed to be of Devonian age.
DEVONIAN SPECIES. 35
MOLLUSOA.
BRACHIOPODA.
STEOPHOMENIDiE.
Genus HEMIPRONITES, Pander.
Hemipronites CHEMUNaENSis var. ARCTOSTRIATA, CoDrad (sp.).
Plate 3, fig. 2.
Strophomena Ghemungensis^ Conrad (1843), Jour. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., VIII, 257, pi.
14, fig. 12. Orthisina arctostriata, Hall (1861), Thirteenth Eeport Regents Univ. N. Y. on State
Cab. N. EL, 80 5 and (1862) Fifteenth do., 185 and 186, figs. 1 and 2. Streptorhynchus arctostriatusj Hall (1863), Sixteenth Report Regents Univ. K. Y. on
State Cab. N. H., 62. Sireptorhynehus Chemiaigensis var. arctostriata. Hall (1867), Palseont. N. Y., IV, 71.*
Shell small, nearly semicircular, rather depressed ; hinge very nearly or quite equaling the greatest breadth; lateral extremities about rectangular; anterior and lateral margins forming together a semicircular curve. Ven- tral valve most convex at the beak, which is only moderately prominent, and a little distorted, but not arched,, and seems in the figured specimen to have been broken at the apex in becoming detached from some body to v^hich it had grown ; area comparatively low, nearly flat, and very slightly inclined forward, or ranging nearly at right angles to the plane of the valves; pseudo-deltidium triangular and a little convex ; surface marked by small radiating striae. Dorsal valve unknown.
Length, 0.31 inch; breadth, 0.45 inch; convexity of ventral valve, 0.12 inch.
So far as can be determined from a single specimen of a ventral valve,
* Professor Hall's latest conclusion on this point is, that Conrad's Strophomena GJiemungensis, puhliBhed in 1843, includes, either as varieties or individual modifica- tions of form, etc., all of the following proposed species, viz., Strophomena hifurcata^ Hall, 1843; 8. arctostriatay Hall, 1843; 8, pectinacea^ Hall, 1843; Orthis perversa, Hall, 1847; Orthisina arctostriata^ Hall, 1860; 0. alternata. Hall, 1860; and OrtMs inequalis and 0. parvis, Hall, 1858; as well as 8treptorhynchus pandora, Billings, 1860. The names 8» pandora, 8, arctostriata, 8, perversa, and 8, peotinacea, he retains for varie- ties of Mr. Conrad's species (see Palaeont. N. Y., IV, 67-73).
36 PALEONTOLOGY.
with the shell mostly exfoliated, this form seems to agree well with the above-cited New York species, as may be seen by comparing our figure with fig. 2, pi. 9, of the 4th vol. N. Y. Palaeontology. It is quite possible, how- ever, that a direct comparison with New York specimens might show it to be distinct. I do not feel justifiable, however, without a good series of specimens from the two distantly-separated localities for comparison, in run- ning the risk of further complicating the synonymy of a species that has already received so many names, and consequently prefer to refer it to the New York species, instead of attempting to name it as new.
Locality and position, — Colonel Simpson's collection, latitude 39^ 30' N., longitude 115^ 36' W.; from dark Devonian limestone.
PRODUOTID^.
Genus PRODUCTUS, Sowerby. Produotus subaouleatus, Murchison ? .
Plate 3, figs. 7, 7 a, 7 6.
Productus snbaeuleatm, Murchison (1840), Bull. Soc. Geol. Fr., XI, 255j pi. ii, &g, 9.
De Verneuir(m part) (1845), Geol. Euss. and the Ural Mts., 11,282, pi. xvi, fig. 9.— De Koninck (1847), M^m. Soc. Roy. Li^ge, IV, 249, pi. xiv, fig. 4; and Monogr. Prod, and Chon., 142, pi. xvi, fig. 4.— De Vern. (1847), Bull.— Soc. G6ol. Fr., 2d ser., IV, 705, pi. Ix.— Schnurr (1853), in Dunker and von Meyer's Palaeont., II, 228, pL xliii, fig. 4 a. — Davidson (1853), Quart. Jour. Geol. Soc, 336, pi. xv, fig. 12.— Sandberger (1855), Die Brach. Reiniscb. Schicht. Nassau, 75, pi. xxxiv, fig. 17.— Davidson (1865), Monogr. Brit. Devon. Foss., 99, pi. XX, parts 1-2. — Meek (1876), Col. Simpson's Report Expl. across the Great Basin of Utah, 345, pi. i, figs. 3 a, 6, c.
Lept<ma fragaria, Sowerby (1840), Trans. Geol. Soc. Lond., 2 ser., V, 704, pi. ivi. fig. 5.— Phillips (1841), Pal. Foss., 59, pi. xxv, fig. 100.
Lepicena (Strophalosia) subaculeata, McCoy (1852), Brit. Pal. Foss., 388.
Comp, P. Shumardianus var. pyxidatus^ Hall (1858), Iowa Report, I, part 2, 498 and 499.
Shell small, thin, truncato-subhemispherical; hinge equaling or less than the greatest breadth; ears small, nearly rectangular^ or somewhat rounded; lateral margins rounding to the front, which is regularly rounded in outline. Ventral valve moderately convex, the greatest convexity being near the middle, without any traces of a mesial sinus; beak not very prom- inent, incurved, though without distinctly passing within the hinge-margin ;
DEVONIAN SPECIES. 37
surface with small, obscure, concentric wrinkles and strise of growth (strongest on the ears and sides of the umbonal region), and scattering spine-bases, apparently most numerous on the ears. Dorsal valve somewhat more than semicircular in outHne, rather distinctly concave, the greatest concavity be- ing in the central and anterior regions, marked with small, rather regular, concentric wrinkles and striae of growth, with scattering pits corresponding to the positions of the spines of the other valve.
Length, 0.50 inch; breadth, 0.57 inch; convexity, 0.25 inch.
In regard to this little shell, I can only say that it seems to be so nearly like European forms referred by good authorities to P, subaculeatus that I have not been able, from the imperfect specimens yet brought in, to be quite sure that it is distinct. It is certainly nearly allied to that species, if not the same. As near as can be determined, however, from mere internal casts, it would seem not to have had such distinct tubercles at the bases of the spines as we see represented in most of the published figures of Murchison's species ; though in this respect it appears not to differ from the Russian spec- imens referred by De Verneuil to P. subaculeatus. Still it differs from these and the specimens figured by others, in having more distinct concentric wrinkles, particularly on the dorsal valve. I expect it is probably only a representative species, but have not the necessary specimens to determine the question at present.
In general appearance, and the absence of any traces of longitudinal striae, it resembles P. pyxidatus of Hall, but differs in being more convex, more symmetrical, and in having smaller ears and stronger concentric wrinkles, particularly on the dorsal valve.^
Locality and position. — From the dark, silver-bearing limestone, contain- ing Devonian fossils, in White Pine District, Nevada. Colonel Simpson also brought specimens of it from the same rock at latitude 39^ 30' N., longi- tude 115^ 36' W., in 1860.
♦ Nothing short of a direct comparison of a good series of authentic European and American specimens can decidedly settle the exact relations of this shell to P, 8vbaculeatU8^ as well as to several forms described by Professor Hall under the names P. pyxidatus^ P. Shumardianm, P. spinulocostatus, P. concentricus, etc. Professor Hall seems now to think these probably all varieties of the one species P. Shumardianus ; while European authorities most generally refer all such shells to P. subactileatua.
38 PALAEONTOLOGY.
RHYNCHONELLID^.
? Genus ATRYPA, Dalman.
Atrypa reticularis, Linnseas (sp.).
Plate 1, figs. 7 and 7 a ; and Plate 3, figs. 6 ? and 6 a.
Anomites reticularis^ Linnaeus (1767), Syst. Nat, XII, ed., 1152. — Wahlenb. (1821),
Nov. Act. Soc. Upsal., YIII, 65. Terebratula pectinata, Brugui^re (1789), Hist. Nat. Vers. Test. Eacyc. M^th., 242, fig. 4. TerebratuUtes priscus^ Schlot. (1820), Petref., 262 ; Nacht., pi. xvii, fig. 2, and pi. xx,
fig. 4. TerebratuUtes explanatus, Schlot. (1820), Nacht., pi. xviii, fig. 2. Terebratula affinis, Sowerby (1822), Min. Conch., IV, 324, fig. 2. Atrypa reticularis^ Dalman (1827), Vet. Akad. Verhandl., 127, pi. iv, fig.*
Of this widely-distributed form, there are numerous specimens in the collection from several localities, presenting all the characters of the species, with the limits usually assigned it. As it is too well known to require a detailed description, I would merely remark that the specimens from Pinon Station are larger and more robust than any of the others from the other localities, and closely resemble, not only in form and surface-markings, but in their state of preservation (being silicified), the numerous examples found in the Upper Helderberg limestones near Louisville, Kentucky. They were also found associated with a Spirifer, very closely allied to one of the Louis- ville species of that horizo«.
The other specimens, from the silver-bearing, dark- colored limestone at Treasure Hill, White Pine District, and other localities, are all of smaller size, and not silicified. Some of these are finely striated, as represented by our fig. 6 a of plate 3, while others have the surface more coarsely striated or costated, as represented by fig. 6 of the same plate, and thus more nearly approach A. aspera, Schlotheim (sp.), to which possibly they might with more propriety be referred.f As there are, however, among the specimens
♦ For the long list of additional synonyms of this species, as most generally understood, see Mr. Davidson^s Monograph British Silurian Brachiopoda, 130.
+ Some reliable authorities believe that, even after separating A, aspera and some other forms often included as varieties, this name is made to include several dis- tinct species. Never having made an especial study of the group, however, I have here included provisionally a few forms that a strict classification might possibly require should be separated under some of the published names.
DEVONIAN SPECIES. 39
intermediate gradations in this character, I have preferred to regard those showing this diflference as naore probably mere varieties of the variable species reticularis. The question in regard to the specific identity or differ- ence of such shells is one respecting which authors may well differ without quarreling.
Locality and position, — Pinon Station, Treasure Hill, White Pine Dis- trict; Roberts's Creek ; and near Warm Springs, Upper Humboldt Range, Nevada. Colonel Simpson also brought specimens, including both the finely and more coarsely costated varieties, from latitude 39^ 30' N., longitude
115^ 26' W
SPIRIFERIDiE.
Genus SPIRIFER, Sowerby. Spirif-EH Utahensis, Meek.
Plate 3, figs. 1, 1 a, 1 5, 1 c, 1 d, 1 e.
Spirifera Norwood^ Meek (1860), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., XII, 308 (not &
Norwood^ Hall). Spirifera Utahensis, Meek (1860), note appended to extra copies of above-cited paper. Spirifera Utahensis, Meek (1876) in Col. Simpson's Report Expl. across the Great Basin
of Utah, 345, pi. 1, figs. 4 a, h, c.
Shell rather -small, very inequi valve, distinctly convex, or sometimes sabpyramidal, with (as seen from above or below) its general outline form- ing rather more than a semicircle ; length about one-half to two-thirds the greatest breadth ; lateral extremities somewhat obtusely angular ; anterior and antero-lateral margins forming together about a semicircular outline. Ventral valve elevated at the umbo, and sloping off abruptly to the front and lateral margins, with usually a slightly convex outline, especially on the anterior slope, sometimes with one of the lateral slopes concave in outline posteriorly; mesial sinus shallow, rather narrow, rounded within, and extended to the apex of the beak ; beak elevated, abruptly pointed, and slightly arched ; area high, or with height equaling about half its breadth, triangular, and continued to the extremities of the hinge, with well-defined or angular, lateral slopes, ranging at about right angles to the plane of the shell, and usually a little arched; foramen proportionally very narrow, or sometimes twice as high as wide. Dorsal valve much depressed, or but
4:0 PAL^ONTOLOQY^
moderately and evenly convex ; beak very small, or little distinct from the cardinal margin, and somewhat incurved ; area merely linear ; mesial fold much depressed, being scarcely so defined as to correspond to the sinus of the other valve in size, and becoming nearly or quite obsolete before reach- ing the beak. Surface of each valve marked by about thirty to forty small, generally simple, radiating costae, or striae, about eight to ten of which occupy the mesial sinus, and about as many the mesial fold, where they sometimes bifurcate.
Length of a medium-sized specimen, measuring from the umbo of the ventral valve to the front, 0.57 inch ; from the umbo of dorsal valve to the front, 0.49 inch; convexity of the two valves, 0.40 inch; breadth of a large specimen, 0.90 inch ; length of ventral valve from beak to front, 0.77 inch; height of area, 0.38 inch.
This species is related to S. Archiaci of Murchison, from the Upper Devonian rocks of Russia, but diflfers in having the dorsal valve less convex and its mesial fold more depressed, while the foramen of its ventral valve is proportionally much narrower in all of our specimens. I have likewise been unable to see any traces of the fine surface-granulations observed on that species, though the specimens are scarcely in a condition to have pre- served such fine surface-markings, if they ever existed. In general form, as well as in its high, large area, it has more the aspect of a Gyrtia or Gyrtina than of a Trigonotreta ; but as none of the specimens show any indications of the foramen being closed by a false deltidium, or of a punctate structure, I have preferred to refer it provisionally to the typical section of the genus Spirifer,
Professor Hall and Mr. Whitfield have described, in the Twenty-third Report of the Regents on the New York State Cabinet, Natural History, 238, pi. 11, figs. 21-24, a species very similar to this, from the Hamilton Group of Iowa. Their figures represent their shell as having a somewhat higher and slightly less arch area, as well as a proportionally wider foramen; but, in nearly every other character, it certainly agi'ees very closely with the species here described.
Locality and i^o^i^^m— Longitude 115^ 26' W. ; latitude 39^ 30' N., from a dark limestone of Devonian age; Colonel Simpson's collection.
DEVONIAN SPECIES. 41
Mr. Hague also found it with other Devonian fossils, at Fossil Hill, White Pine District, Nevada, in the silver-bearing Devonian beds; the formation being the same at these two localities.
Spieifer Bngelmanni, Meek.
Plate 3, figs. 3, 3 a, 3 6, 3 c (and 3 e?, 3 e, 3/f ).
SpiHfera Engelmanni, Meek (1860), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., XII, 308. 8pirifer Engelmann% Meek (1876), Col. Simpson's Eeport Expl. across the Great Basin of Utah, 346, pi. 1, figs. 1 a, &, c (not 8. Ungelmanni, Meek and Worthen).
Shell rather small, somewhat gibbous, subsemicircular, or approach- ing subtrigonal in general form, with- the greatest breadth on the hinge-line ; lateral extremities rather acutely angular; anterior lateral margins with outline usually straightened and converging rapidly from the lateral extrem- ities to the middle of the front. Ventral valve more convex than the other, its greatest prominence being at or near the beak, which is abruptly pointed and more or less incurved; area generally rather high, well defined, and standing nearly at right angles to the plane of the valves, but always arcja- ing backward with the beak; foramen higher than wide; mesial sinus nar- row and shallow, but extending to the apex of the beak, smoothly rounded within, and bounded on each side by a. plication that is a little more px-om- inent than any of the others ; lateral slopes each occupied by about seven to ten simple costae. Dorsal valve moderately convex, the greatest con- vexity being near the middle ; mesial fold narrow, flattened, or more or less rounded, and, like the sinus of the other valve, without costse or plications ; lateral slopes with costse as in the other valve; beak scarcely distinct from the cardinal margin. Fine surface-markings and internal characters unknown. Figs. 3, 3 a, 3 &, and 3c represent the type, while the others are only referred doubtfully to this species.
Length, 0.57 inch; breadth, about 0.82 inch; convexity, about 0.50 inch.
Specimens of this species with an elevated beak and area have much the general appearance of the last, and, when not well preserved, might be confounded with it by a careless observer. The two species, however, are very distinct, and may be readily separated by the larger eostse of the form under consideration, which also differs in never having any costse occupy- ing the mesial fold and sinus.
42 PALEONTOLOGY.
In naming a Spirifer after my friend Henry Engelmann, esq., in the Illinois Greological Report (vol. 3, p. 398), I had forgotten that the above-named species had been previously dedicated to the same gentleman. This renders it necessary to find another name for the Illinois species. I would therefore propose to designate it as Spirifer Wortheni,
Locality and position, — Same as last.
Spirifer (Trigonotreta) argentarius, Meek.
Plate 3y figs. 4, 4 a, and 4 6.
Shell rather small, moderately convex, wider than long, and having a general subsemicircular or subtrigonal outline, with the greatest breadth on the hinge-line; lateral extremities acutely angular; valves nearly equally convex. Ventral valve with the greatest convexity between the middle and the umbo; beak strongly incurved; area rather low, with nearly par- allel sides near the break, but somewhat abruptly narrowed at the lateral extremities, though continued the entire length of the hinge; foramen wider than high; mesial sinus shallow and narrow, but well defined by the mar- ginal rib on each side extending quite to the beak, and without costse; lateral slopes each occupied by from twelve to fourteen simple radiating costse, which diminish very gradually in size toward the lateral extremities. Dorsal valve most convex near the middle; beak rather distinctly incvirved; mesial fold corresponding in size to the sinus of the other valve, being rather low, and flattened on top along its whole length, with a more or less defined furrow along its middle ; lateral slopes costate, as in the other valve. Surface of both valves marked with very fine, regular, undulating lines of growth, most distinct between the costse.
Length, 0.65 inch; breadth, 0.80 inch; convexity, 0.44 inch.
It is hardly possible that this can be a variety of the last; at least, with the means of comparison now available, it certainly seems to be quite dis- tinct. It is true I have only two specimens of this form, but of the other we have a suflSicient number of individuals, all agreeing with each other, and differing from this to such an extent as to render it very improbable that there may be connecting forms. On comparison, this species will be seen to differ very decidedly in having a mtich narrower (lower) and more
DEVONIAN SPECIES, 43
arcuate area, with nearly parallel margins. The beak of its ventral valve
is also distinctly more incurved, as is that of its dorsal valve. It is likewise
more nearly equivalve, has rather smaller and more numerous costae, while
its mesial fold differs in being depressed and furrowed along its top, instead
of rounded.
Locality and position. — Treasure Hill, White Pine District, Nevada;
from the dark Devonian limestone in which the White Pine Silver Mines
occur.
Spibifer (Trigonotreta.) strigosus, Meek.
Plate3, figs. 5, 5 a, 5 5.
Spirt/era macra, Meek (1860), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., XII, 309 (not Hall, 1856). Spirifera strigosa, Meek (1860), to extra copies of the above cited paper. Spirifer strigosus^ Meek (1876), in Col. Simpson's Report Expl. across the Great Basin of Utah, 347., pi. 1, figs. 5, a, 6, o, d^.*
Shell rather under medium size, moderately convex, subtrigonal, or approaching subsemicircular, with the greatest breadth on the hinge-line; lateral extremities generally more or less acutely angular; lateral margins converging to the prominent, subangular middle of the front, with a some- what straightened or convex outline. Dorsal valve convex in the middle, and compressed toward the lateral extremities; mesial fold narrow, rather prominent, and sometimes subangular near the front, continued to the beak. • Ventral valve scarcely more convex than the dorsal, most gibbous in the umbonal region, with convex lateral slopes; beak moderately prominent, and distinctly incurved; area rather narrow, well defined, and narrow- ing ofi" laterally, so as not quite to reach the extremities of the hinge, arched, and directed obliquely backward with the beak, rather distinctly striated vertically; mesial sinus corresponding in size to the fold of the other valve, the margins of both being usually a little produced in front, so as to impart an angularity to the outline of the middle of the anterior margin. Surface of each valve ornamented with from twenty to about twenty-six radiating costse (counting at the free margins), some of which are simple, while others bifurcate. Of these costae, about six or seven usually occupy the mesial fold and sinus. Two or three of those within each margin of
* I add references to Oapt. Simpson's report here, in reading the proofs, that report having been published since the revision of this.
44 PALJSONTOLOGY.
the sinus usually coalesce with the two marginal ones, which also generally each give oflF a lateral rib on the outer side; costee of the mesial fold more or less bifurcating, while those of the lateral slopes of both valves are more frequently simple, but jsometimes divided. (Finer surface-markings un- known.)
Length, 0.63 inch; breadth, 1.18 inch; convexity, 0.57 inch.
The type-specimens of this species were brought by Colonel Simpson's party, along with well-marked Devonian fossils, from near White Pine, Ne- vada. They evidently came from a dark, argillaceous limestone, exactly like that from which the Devonian types were obtained; yet the species so nearly resembles a form from a similar rock of the Carboniferous series farther eastward, that I have sometimes feared that possibly these specimens might have been found in the latter, and accidentally packed up along with the Devonian specimens. This suggestion receives at least some support from the fact that no such shell occurs among Mr. King's or any other collec- tions I have yet seen from any of the Devonian rocks of the Far West. The Carboniferous shell alluded to above, resembling this species, I have been inclined to identify with S. Rocky-montana, of Marcou; but still it seems to shade off into forms even more nearly like S, opimuSy such as that repre- sented by fig. 6 on our plate 9.
On the other hand, however, there certainly are Devonian species very closely resembling that here under consideration; such, for instance, as 8. Orestes of Hall and Whitfield, described from Devonian rocks in Iowa, regarded by those authors as most probably of the age of the Chemung Group of the New York series.* This Iowa shell so nearly resembles ours, especially when ventral views are compared, that I was at first inclined to believe them identical; but, on comparing the opposite view and profile, it will be seen that 8. Orestes has its ventral beak more prominent and less incurved, and the cardinal area higher, with a broader fissure. Still shells much more unlike are regarded by high European authorities as being mere varieties of one species in some cases.
Locality and position. — Brought in along with Devonian fossils from a
♦ For figure and description of S. Oreatesi, see 23d Eeport of the Eegents of the Univ. K. Y. on the State Oab. N. H., 237, pL 11, figs. 16-20.
DEVONIAN SPECIES. 45
locality in Nevada, at latitude 39^ 32' N., longitude 115^ 36' W.; Colonel Simpson's collection.
Spirifer (Trigonotreta) PiNONENSis, Meek.
Plate 1, fig8. 9, 9 a, 9 6.
Spirifer (Trigoiiotrela) Pinonensis^ Meek (1870), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., 60.
Shell attaining about a medium size, somewhat wider than long, vary- ing from trans versely-suboval to a nearly semicircular general outline, rather gibbous in adult examples ; cardinal margin nearly or quite equaling the greatest breadth, and terminating in rectangular or rather more obtuse extremities; lateral margins rounding to the front, which is sometimes rounded, sometimes slightly sinuous, or in other examples more prominent and subangular in the middle. Ventral valve generally rather more gib- bous than the other, its greatest convexity being in the umbonal region, from which it rounds off evenly toward the front and lateral margins as well as to the beak, which projects beyond that of the other valve, and is rather distinctly incurved; cardinal area of moderate height, narrowed to the lateral extremities, more or less inclined backward, and strongly arched with the beak; foramen having nearly the form of an equilateral triangle, and provided with slightly-raised, sharp, lateral margins; mesial sinus shallow, rounded, smooth, and of moderate breadth, narrowed regularly, and well defined to the apex of the beak. Dorsal valve generally more than semi- circular, most convex in the central and anterior regions ; beak projecting httle beyond the cardinal margin, and with the narrow area incurved; mesial ridge depressed, smooth, and faintly furrowed along the middle, correspond- ing in outhne to the form of the sinus in the other valve. Surface of each valve ornamented by from eleven to about fourteen simple, regular, rounded, radiating plications on each side of the mesial fold and sinus, and also showing, under a magnifier, minute, regular, crowded, radiating striae, crossed near the front by stronger undiilating lines of growth.
Length of a medium-sized specimen, 0.92 inch; breadth of the same, 1.20 inches; convexity, 0.72 inch.
This species seems to be more nearly related to S. Owen% Hall, from the Upper Helderberg rocks at the Falls of the Ohio, than to any other known
46 PALAEONTOLOGY.
to me. On comparison, however, with good specimens of that shell, from the original locality, it is found to differ in having a narrower area, which, with the beak of its ventral valve, is constantly more arched. Its plications are also larger and proportionally less numerous. There are in the collec- tion large numbers of this shell in a good state of preservation, showing the characters mentioned to be quite constant.
Locality and position,— ThxoQ miles south of Pinon Pass, Pinon Range, Nevada; Devonian, probably of the age of the Upper Helderberg limestones of New York.
LAMELLIBRANCHIATA.
ANATINID^.
Genus EDMONDIA, De Koninck. .
Bdmondia! Pif^ONENSis, Meek. Plate 1, figs. 8, 8 a.
Shell transversely-ovate, wider anteriorly than behind, rather gibbous in adult examples, most convex in the central and anterior central regions ; anterior margin rounded from below the beaks into the base ; posterior end narrow, most projecting near the base, where it seems to be very narrowly rounded in outline ; dorsal border slightly highest a little behind the beaks, from near which point it slopes off more or less rapidly, with a convex out- line, to the posterior basal extremity ; beaks rather depressed, moderately convex, and placed about one-fourth the entire length of the valves behind the anterior margin ; anterior muscular impressions shallow, elongate-sub- ovate, and placed near the margin, with its longer axis ranging nearly vertically ; posterior so faintly marked as not to be apparent on internal casts. Surface of casts smooth, or only showing obscure traces of con- centric marks of growth, with a shallow, narrow furrow, and some appear- ances of an obscure ridge, extending for a short distance obliquely upward and forward from near the posterior basal margin toward the umbones. Hinge unknown.
Length, 1.33 inches ; height, 0.95 inch ; convexity, about 0.60 inch.
At the same time that this species is here referred provisionally to the
DBVOKIAN SPECIES. 47
genus Edmondia, I am by no means s\ire that I would not be nearer correct to call it Palceoneilq Pinonensis^ since it has much the general appearance, and some indications of the oblique posterior basal sulcus, or slight con- cavity, of some species of the latter genus. Still, as it shows no traces of hinge-crenulations in any of the casts contained in the collection, while some of them seem to show some appearance of an impression near the hinge such as might have been made by a thin cartilage-process like that seen in each valve of Edmondia, I have concluded to place it, for the present, doubtfully in that genus. It may be found, however, when its generic characters can be made out from better specimens, to belong to an unde- scribed genus.
Locality and position. — Three miles south of Piiion Pass, Pinon Range, Central Nevada; from a limestone Q>oniw[i\w^ Atry pa reticularis ^ Spirifer Finonensis, a small Favosites, and an Avicula or Fterinea^ and believed to belong to the Lower Devonian.
CEPHALOPODA.
ORTHOOERATITID^.
Genus ORTHOCERAS, Auct. Orthoceras Kingii, Meek.
Plate 2, fig. 8.
Shell attaining a rather large size, conical in general form, rather rapidly tapering; section circular or a little oval; septa numerous and closely arranged, the distance between being uniform, or very nearly so, without regard to the increase in the size of the shell from the smaller to the larger end ; all deeply concave. (Surface and siphuncle unknown.)
Entire length unknown ; length of a specimen imperfect at both ends and septate throughout, 5.25 inches ; greatest diameter of same at the larger end, about 3.20 inches; of smaller end, 2 inches; distance between the septa throughout, 0.23 inch.
The specimen of this species is quite imperfect ; but it seems desirable to call attention to it as one of the fossils characterizing the silver-bearing rocks of the White Pine District. It may be compared with such forms as
48 PALEONTOLOGY
0. prosperum and 0. discors of Bairande, though it tapers more gradually than either of these.
The specific name is given in honor of Clarence King, esq., the geolo- gist in charge of the United States Geological Survey, by which the fossils here described were discovered.
Orthoceras (undt. sp.).
Plate 2, fig. 9.
This is a mere fragment, consisting of a cast of most of the non- septate part of the shell. It shows scarcely any taper from the anterior to the posterior end, and presents a slightly oval section ; while its rounded posterior end shows that the septa were rather deeply concave, and the siphuncle nearly or quite central. If new, it may be called 0, parallelum.
Locality and position, — Babylon Hill, White Pine Mining District, Nevada; Devonian.
ARTICULATA.
CRUSTACEA.
PHAOOPSID^.
Genus DALMANITES, Auct.
Dalmahites (undt. sp.).
Plate 1, figs. 11 and 11 a.
Of this Trilobite, there are, in the collection, only a few imperfect moulds and casts of the pygidium. These show this part to have been subtrigonal in general form, with the posterior extremity rather acutely pointed, and extended, in some cases, even farther back than * indicated by the dotted lines in fig. 11a. It seems to be rather depressed, with the mesial lobe narrower than the lateral, and provided with about fifteen seg- ments, with space enough at the posterior end for two or three more. The lateral lobes have each about thirteen segments, which extend out nearly at right angles from the mesial lobe anteriorly (excepting at their curved outer ends), and become gradually more oblique posteriorly. They extend nearly to the border, and only show the faintest traces of a mesial linear
DEVONIAN SPECIES. 49
furrow along some of the anterior ones. The surface is nearly smooth, or only has a few very small granules near the lateral margins.
I place this species along with the Devonian fossils only because it came from the same locality (and the specimens are in the same kind of matrix) as that from which the other forms, apparently of Devonian age, figured on the same plate, were obtained. In some of its characters, so far as known, it resembles Upper Silurian forms quite as much as, or even more than, Devonian ; and, as Mr. King infomis me that it came from the lowest bed at the locality, it may possibly belong to the Upper Silurian.
Locality, — Three miles south of Pinon Pass, Pition Range, Nevada.
PROETID^.
Genus PROETUS, Steininger. Peoetus (Photon) DENTicirLATUS, Meek.
Plate 1, figs. 10, 10 fl, and 10 6.
I have only seen fragments of this species, consisting of the pygidium, the glabella, and detached thoracic segments. As these parts have not been seen united, of course it is possible that they may belong to more than one type; and, to prevent confusion, if this should be found to be the case, the pygidium, represented by fig. 10 a, is regarded as belonging to the typical form of the species. From the manner in which these different parts occur associated together, however, it is quite probable that they all belong to the same species.
The pygidium is transversely subeUiptic, and is nearly twice as wide as long, with a moderate convexity. Its mesial lobe is about as wide ante- riorly as each lateral lobe (exclusive of their lateral spine-like projec- tions), and more prominent than the latter, with three or four segments. The lateral lobes are rather depressed, and show about four segments each ; these segments are not well defined, but have each a distinct mesial furrow, extisnding out to the margin, where each segment terminates in a short spine, directed backward; while there are two other smaller spine-like projections just behind the posterior end of the mesial lobe ; thus making ten of these projecting points to the whole of the free posterior and lateral 4p R
50 PALEONTOLOGY.
margins. The surface shows a finely granular appearance under a mag- nifier.
The thoracic segments seen lying in the same fragment of rock indi- cate a rather distinct convexity for the thorax, with a rounded, moderately prominent, mesial lobe, about two-thirds as wide as lie lateral lobes (see fig. 10 6 of plate 1).
The glabella (fig. 10) found with the other specimens has a some- what oblong outline, being longer than wide, with nearly parallel sides, and a more or less rounded anterior end ; it shows two very faint lateral furrows on each side, and a strong neck-furrow passing entirely across behind. It retains the palpebral lobes on each side, and these indicate rather large eyes, of lunate form, and rather more than half as long as the glabella, exclusive of the neck-segment. They seem to have been located rather near the glabella on each side, and less than their own length in advance of the posterior margin of the cheeks. The surface appears to be rather more coarsely granular than that of the pygidium.
I know of no very closely allied species.
Locality and position. — The typical and only known specimens of this species were brought by Colonel Simpson from the west side of Steptoe Valley, Nevada ; and, although not found associated with other fossils, they are believed to belong to the Devonian epoch.
CARBONIFEROUS SPECIES.
RADIATA.
POLYPL
FAVOSITIDiE.
Genus SYRINGOPORA, Goldfuss. Syringopoba (undt. sp.).
Plate 6, figs. 2, 2 a.
Corallites nearly parallel or moderately radiating, regularly arranged at distances of about once to nearly twice their own diameter apart, gener-
CARBONIFEROUS SPECIES. 51
ally nearly straight or somewhat flexuous; connecting tubes of about half the diameter of the corallites, arranged in vertical rows, but usually alter- nating on opposite sides, separated by spaces varying from about once to twice the diameter of the corallites; epitheca thick and showing small wrinkles of growth ; septa unknown ; infundibuliform tabulae, as seen in vertical sections, closely and regularly arranged.
Length of corallites unknown ; diameter of same, 0.08 inch, separated from each other by spaces varying from 0.08 to 0.15 inch.
This species is related to S. geniculata^ Phillips, and S. ramulosa and reticulata of Goldfuss, and may be a variety of one of these forms. After repeated very careful comparisons, however, with the published figures and descriptions of those species, I am left in doubt in regard to the propriety of referring it to either of them. Its corallites are slightly more slender than in S. geniculataj as represented by fig. 2, plate 46, of Edwards and Haime's Monograph of the British Fossil Corals, and decidedly less closely crowded together than represented by their fig. 2 a of the same plate. They agree almost exactly in size, however, with their fig. 4 of the plate cited, which they think probably represents a variety of S, geniculata. Still the connect- ing tubes are rather more closely arranged than in either of these figures, and the corallites are rather more widely separated. In the distances be- tween its corallites, it agrees more nearly with 8. ramtdosa ; but its corallites are a size smaller, and generally less flexuous. In the arrangement and general appearance of its tabulae, as seen in vertical sections, it closely resembles Goldfuss' figure, but much less nearly that published by Edwards and Haime.
Compared with S. reticulata, its corallites are found to be a size larger, less closely arranged, and a little more flexuous, with more closely approx- imated connecting tubes. I suspect that it will be found to be a new spe- cies, or a marked variety of one of the above-mentioned forms, in either of which cases it might be called S. occidentali^
Locality and position. — Southwest of Bald Mountain, Uinta Range, and at Morgan Peak, Wasatch Range, Utah; in a dark Carboniferous limestone.
52 PALyEONTOLOG Y.
CYATHOPHYLLIDJE.
Genus ZAPHRENTIS, Rafinesque and Clifford. Zapheentis excentrica, Meek.
Plate 4, figs. l,la,lh,lc,ld.
Corallum obliquely subturbinate, moderately curved, very rapidly ex- panding. Calico apparently shallow, nearly circular, and (at least in the type-specimen) remarkably eccentric on the dorsal or convex side. Septa thin, straight or somewhat curved, about 160 in a specimen 2.50 inches in diameter ; every alternate one continued some distance inward, but not reaching the middle, there being a rather broad, smooth, flat space left in the bottom of the calice ; while those on each side of the fossula converge so as to intersect it before reaching the margin of the smootli central area ; secondary series of septa extending but a short distance inward between the others ; all of both series on the dorsal or convex side, as seen in weathered specimens, divaricating upward from a line along the middle on the exterior surface. Fossula well developed, and situated on the dorsal side, but ex- tending inward to the margin of the flattened bottom of the calice. Outer vesicular area, as seen in a vertical section from the outer to the inner side of the curve through the fossula, comparatively narrow on the dorsal side, but very wide on the inner side, where it is occupied by numerous unequal, rather small, vesicles, ranging obliquely outward and upward within, but curving out horizontally, or even declining a little toward the exterior; tabulae, as seen in the vertical section mentioned above, very thin, closely arranged, numerous, and passing horizontally across from the wide vesicular area, on the inner or concave side of the curve, nearly to the dorsal side, thus occupying more than half the entire breadth of the corallum; somewhat di- vided above, but becoming more simple, straighter, and much more crowded farther down.
Length of entire corallum, measuring along the outer side of the curve, about 5 inches ; greatest diameter, 2.50 to 3 inches.
The only specimens of this species in the collection are so much weath- ered that the epitheca, and at places a portion of the outer vesicles, as well as the margins of the calice, have been removed Sections of it, however,
GABBOIJ^IFEROUS SPECIES. 53
both horizontal and vertical, show its internal structure very clearly. In its short, rapidly-elpanding form, as well as in the divaricating arrangement of its septa along the middle of its dorsal side, and in the position of its fos- sula, it nearly resembles the form I have referred to Z, multilamella. From that species, however, it is readily distinguished by having its septa much more closely crowded, and particularly by having a very wide space within occupied by nearly^ straight, crowded tabulse.
I know of no described species, either American or foreign, with which it is liable to be confounded.
Locality and position, — Boxelder Peak, Wasatcli Range, Utah ; Carbon- iferous limestone.
ZAPHBENTlSrMULTlLAMELLA, Ilall !. Plato f>, figs. 4, 4 a, 4 6. Zuphrentisf multilamellar Hall (1852), StaD8l)ury's Ke[>oit Explorations of Gieat Salt Lake Valley, 408, pi. i, fi^. 2.
Corallum subturbinate, slightly curved, rapidly expanding; cahce cir- cular, of moderate depth; septa thin, about 150 to 160 in specimens meas- uring one and three-fourths to two inches in diameter, alternately longer and shorter, the latter extending one-third to one-half way inward, and the longer apparently reaching the middle of the caUce; fossula narrow, deep, and extending inward from the convex side of the corallum nearly to the middle; outer vesicular zone apparently less than half the semi-diameter; vesicles somewhat elongated, and arranged obKquely outwaid and upward; those of the inner area foraied by the complex nature of the tabulre, arranged more or less obliquely upward and inward. Epitheca thin, and usually destroyed on weathered specimens, showing obscure septal costse, with small wrinkles and low undulations of growth; costal, and, in weathered specimens, the edges of the septa, divaricating upward at acute angles along an imaginary line up the middle of the convex side coincident
with the fossula.
Length, measuring along the outer side of the curve, about 3 inches;
breadth, 2 inches.
Professor HalFs figure of his Z. multilamella shows little more than its general form, and that it has a moderately deep calice; while his description
54 PALEONTOLOGY.
is so brief as to give but a very limited idea of the characters of the coral. It is therefore with considerable doubt that I refer the form under consider- ation to his species. The fact, however, that it came from the same forma- tion and the same region of country, and possesses all of the few characters mentioned in his description, leads me to think that it may be the same. Still, in order to give those who may not have access to Stansbury's report the means of making the comparison for themselves, I quote below Professor Hall's description:
*^ Coral free, turbinate, somewhat rapidly expanding; cells deep; lamellse numerous, thin; outer portion cellular."
He does not mention the number of septa (lamellae); but from his state- ment that they are ^^numerous", and the fact that they are indicated at one point of the margin of the calice, in his figure, as being very closely arranged and thin, they may be as numerous as in our specimens. That from which his figure was drawn was split longitudinally very nearly through the middle, and apparently exactly coincident with one of the septa on each side, so as to show little or nothing of the structure within. It evidently had the margins of the calice less worn away than our specimens, which makes the cavity in ours look more shallow.
From 'the appearance of a false columella, or portuberance, in the bottom of the calice, I am not sure that this coral would not be more cor- rectly called CUsiophyllum multilamella. If I am not mistaken, however, in its apparent possession of a septal fossula, it could hardly be properly placed in the genus CUsiophyllum.
Locality and position, — The typical specimens of Z, multilamella came from Cloth Cap and Flat Rock, Great Salt Lake. Those here referred to that species came from Strong's Knob, on an island in the Great Salt Lake, from a dark-colored Carboniferous limestone.
Zaphrentis? Stansbubii, Halli
Plate 6, figs. 3, 3 a, 3 &, 3 c.
Zaphrentis Stansburii^ Hall (1852), Stansbury's Eeport of Explorations Great Salt Lake Valley, 408, pi. i, figs. 3 a, & (not Marcou, N. Am. Geol., vii, fig. 7).
Corallum conical, slightly curved ; epitheca thin, with moderately dis- tinct septal costse, and small, irregular wrinkles of growth ; calice circular
CARBONIFEROUS SPECIES. 55
or nearly so, rather deep, with steeply-sloping sides, and a somewhat irreg- ularly-flattened bottom, showing some appearances, as seen in sections, of a low mesial prominence and other inequalities; septa very thin, about 150 in a specimen measuring one inch and a half in diameter, generally nearly straight, every alternate one terminating about half-way in, while most the others continue to the middle, where they are sometimes slightly bent. Outer vesicular zone occupying from one-third to one-half the space between the wall and the middle below the bottom of the caliee, occupied by numerous vesicles, which, as seen in vertical sections, are generally very narrow, and more or less elongated, with their longer axes ranging obliquely upward and outward. Inner area occupied by numerous, somewhat larger, vesicles, which, as seen in vertical sections, have a general transverse arrangement, but arch upward all around a little within the lateral mar- gins of the area, and then bend downward, and again upward as they approach the middle. Septal fossula, as seen in transverse sections below the bottom of the caliee, narrow, and extending about one-half to three- fourths of the way inward from the side of the greater curve, as seen in fig. 3 k
Length of the largest specimen seen, about 4 inches ; greatest diame- ter of the caliee, 1.80 inches; number of septa in one-tenth of an inch, at their outer ends, about 3 to 3^.
It is only provisionally that I have referred this coral to the species described by Professor Hall. It certainly presents no characters inconsist- ent with his description, as far as that goes,^ and agrees with his figure, excepting in having, in a larger specimen, nearly double the number of septa. This latter character, however, would separate it specifically, if the figure of Z. Stansburii is correct in that particular. It is certainly very dis- tinct from the species referred, by Professor Marcou, to Z, Stansburii, in his North American Geology; the specimen there represented having only about sixty thick septa, not alternately shorter and longer. It will also be observed that Professor Marcou's figure likewise differs in this respect
♦"Turbinate, free, or attached only by a pedicel, nearly straifjht, or but slightly curved; cup rather deep; margin (when entire) thin; lamellie numerous, thin; inter- mediate ones extending from the margin one-third to one-half the semi-diameter; fossett distinct." — (Hall, Stansbury's Report.)
B6 PALAEONTOLOGY.
(though less decidedly so) from Professor Hall's, which certainly has the septa more crowded, thinner, and (as also stated in the description) alter- nately longer and shorter.
It will be seen from the description that this coral agrees rather closely in many of its characters with the last ; so closely, indeed, that I have been much inclined to think it might be only a more slender variety of the same. Still, its longer, more attenuated form, and very nearly equally numerous septa, in rather decidedly smaller specimens, as well as the apparently dif- ferent form of the bottom of its calice (see fig. 3 c,) and the direction of the vesicles formed by the complex tabulae, if not deceptive, and constant, would certainly be of at least specific importance.
It is worthy of note, as already suggested with regard to the last, that longtitudinal sections of both of these forms (but more particularly that of the last) show that the tabulae curve upward so as to form a kind of false columella seen projecting upward in the middle of the bottom of the calice (see fig. 4 6), more nearly as in Clisiophyllum and Lonsdalia than I have ever yet observed in Zaphrentis. Still, they seem to differ from those types in the possession of a septal fossula, very clearly seen, at least in the species here under consideration ; while neither of them presents a fasiculate, composite, or astreiform mode of growth, or shows any traces of well-defined inner walls, as in Lonsdalia.
I greatly regret having no opportunity to compare these and other far- western fossils with the original types of species briefly described, and not fully illustrated, man)^ years back, in Fremont's, Stansbury's, and other Government reports, and can therefore only say that I have earnestly endeavored, to the best of my ability, to identify the described forms from the published figures and descriptions.
Locality and position. — Box elder and Logan's Peaks, Wasatch Eange, Utah, in a dark bluish-gray . Carboniferous limestone. Professor Hall's specimens of Z. Stansburii came from the same horizon, on Stansbury's Island, Cloth Cap, and Flat Rock Point, Great Salt Lake. Dr. Hayden's party have also found this fossil quite abundant in the same kind of dark limestone on the divide between Eoss Fork and Lincoln Valley, and at other localities in Idaho,
CARBONIFEROUS SPECIES. 57
Genus CAMPOPHYLLUM, E. & H.
OAMrOPHYLLUM (undt. Sp.)- Plate5, figs. 2, 2 a, 2&.
Corallum cylindrical, more or less elongated, nearly straight or some- what curved, with ridges or irregularities of growth. Calice unknown ; septa about eighty, very thin, every alternate one extending in about half- way to the middle, while the intermediate ones are much shorter ; outer vesicular zone narrow, or only extending in about half as far as the longer costse, occupied by numerous vesicles, which, as seen in vertical sections, range obliquely outward and upward ; tabulae thin, occupying a very wide space, passing horizontally across, but curving a little downward at their outer margins, and sometimes dividing and intersecting each other as they pass across. Epitheca thin, and, at least in weathered examples, marked by distinct septal costse.
Length unknown ; diameter, 1.60 inches.
The only specimen of this species I have seen is a fragment about five inches in length, and imperfect at both ends. It is much weathered, the epitheca being entirely removed, excepting on a few spots, and the calice broken away. I am somewhat inclined to believe that it may be the same species figured by Dr. Owen, from the Upper Coal-Measures on the Mis- souri River, under the name Cyathophyllum vermiculare^ Goldfuss? (see plate iv, fig. 2, of his report of his Geological Survey of Iowa, Wisconsin, and Minnesota). The specimen is straighter than the Missouri River form usu- ally is, and seems not to have had such strong wrinkles of growth ; but it is so much weathered that the wrinkles might have been obliterated in that way. As nearly as can be determined by broken sections, both longitud- inal and transverse, it seems to agree quite closely, in its internal structure, with specimens of the form figured by Dr. Owen, now before me from the original locality. In making the comparison, however, it should be under- stood that Dr. Owen's figures give no idea of the true appearance and number of the septa, or of the costse.
The coral figured by Dr. Owen is a true Campophyllumj and, as he pro- posed to call it Cyathophyllum torquium in case it should be found to be dis- tinct from Goldfuss' species, its name becomes Campophyllum torquium.
58 PAL^ONTOLOG Y .
Fig. 1 of plate 5 represents another coral from the Carboniferous limestone of Piiion Mountains, with rather more closely arranged septa. It may be a ZapJirentis or a Campophyllum, Only undeterminable fragments of it have been seen.
Locality and position, — Diamond Range, near Newark ; Carboniferous.
Genus LITHOSTROTION, Fleming. LiTHOSTROTiON Whitneyi, Meek.
Plate 6, figs. 1, 1 a, 1 6, 1 c.
Lithostrotion Whitneyi, Meek. (M. S.), White (1875), Palfieont. of Lieut. Wheeler's Beport, 103, pi. VI, figs. 1 a, 6, c.
Corallum dendroid or growing in irregular, loosely-aggregated tufts. Corallites cylindrical, of unequal size, and separated by very unequal spaces, often widely divergent, and generally a little flexuous, sometimes slightly adherent where in contact; young branches rather strongly diverg- ing from the larger at their origin, but soon curving so as to become more nearly parallel; epitheca well developed, and only showing faintly-marked septal costse, and moderately distinct wrinkles of growth. Calicos rather deep, nearly or quite circular, with a prominent, strongly-compressed colu- mella rising in the middle; principal series of septa twenty-four to about thirty-three, extending inward, sometimes nearly to the columella, but often only as raised lines on the upper sides of the tabulae along the inner half, though in other examples apparently becoming obsolete within, so as to leave a comparatively large space of the tabulae smooth around the colu- mella; secondary series of septa alternating with the others (with which they agree in number), and very short, or not extending inward beyond the very narrow outer vesicular zone. Outer zone well defined, and so narrow as to be occupied by scarcely more than a single series of small vesicles that range very obliquely outward and upward. Tabulae of inner area very thin, rather closely arranged, and curving strongly upward around the columella, then extending at first nearly horizontally outward, and occa- sionally dividing as they slope or curve a little downward in approaching the outer zone.
Diameter of the largest corallites, 0.30 to 0.40 inch; of the smallest,
OABBONIFEROUS SPECIES. 59
about 0.20 inch ; number of costse at the outer wall of one of the larger corallites, about six in 0.10 inch.
On first examining this coral, I was rather inclined to think it might be the same as a form described by me in the first volume of the California Report (plate 1, fig. 4) doubtfully as a variety of iy. mammillare. On compari- son, however, its corallites are found not only to be more irregular in size and more divergent, but to present important internal difi'erences. In the first place, they have a more solid and well-defined columella, with the tabulae of the inner area differently arranged. The most important differ- ence, however, is to be observed in the comparative breadth of the outer vesicular zone, which is very much narrower in the species under considera- tion, and only occupied by one or two ranges of vesicles, instead of three or four ; and these vesicles, as seen in longitudinal sections, are directed more obliquely upward (fig. 1 c, pi. 6).
Among the described European species, it seems to be most nearly rep- resented by L, Martini^ Edwards and Haime (see Brit. Mountain Limestone Corals, xl, figs. 2 a-g)j smA L. Phillipsij E. & H. (ib., xxxix, figs. 3,3 a). From the first of these, however, it differs not only in having the corallites less uniform in size, and often more divergent, but in having the tabulse of its inner area, as seen in vertical sections, frequently divided instead of sim- ple, and its outer vesicular zone proportionally narrower, while its secondary septa, as seen in transverse sections, and particularly in the calicos, are pro- portionally shorter. It also differs from L. Phillipsi in the inequality and more irregular arrangement and greater divergence of its corallites, which are likewise less flexuous, and want the peculiar coalescent character so characteristic of that species. The L. PhiUipsi probably also shows corre- sponding internal differences ; but, as I have seen no figures or descriptions of its internal characters, I have no means of making farther comparisons.
The specific name of this coral is given in honor of Prof J. D. Whitney, State geologist of California.
Locality and position. — From the dark bluish-gray Carboniferous lime- stone at Boxelder Peak, Wasatch Range, Utah.
60 PALEONTOLOGY.
Genus CYATHOPHYLLUM, Goldfuss. Cyathophyllum (Campophyllum !) Nevadense, Meek.
Plate 5, figB. 3, 3 a, 3 ft.
Corallum attaining a rather large size, elongate-conical, and more or less curved; calice apparently circular, and very deep, with nearly vertical sides, and a flat bottom; septa about 100, every alternate one of which extends inward more than half-way to the middle, while those of the inter- mediate series extend in only one-third to one-half as far as the others ; tabular very wide, somewhat irregular, and generally curving downward around their outer margins; outer vesicular zone, as seen in vertical sec- tions, occupied by comparatively large vesicles, that range nearly vertically, or with only a slight outward inclination. (Surface unknown )
Length of a weathered specimen not quite entire at either end (measur- ing around the outer side of the curve), 5.70 inches; diameter at larger end, about 2.30 inches.
The only specimen of this species in the collection is so much weathered that it retains none of the epitheca, while the margins of its calice are quite imperfect. Without seeing better specimens, it is difficult to determine whether it is a Cyathophyllum^ a Campophyllum^ or a Zaphrentis. The trans- verse section (fig. 3 b) seems to show some indications of a fossula in the arrangement of the septa, as represented in the upper part of the figure. If this is really a fossula, the species may have to be called Zaphrentis Nevadensis.
Locality and position. — Boxelder Peak, Wasatch Eange, Utah; Car- boniferous.
Cyathophyllum subc^spitosum, Meek.
Plate 5, figs. 4, 4 a, 4 6.
Corallum subfasciculate, with gemmation lateral; corallites few, the young starting by slender stems rather low on the sides of the old, and growing up more or less nearly parallel with the latter, but apparently without again uniting or branching above, where they soon nearly or quite equal the size of the old; all subcylindrical above their tapering bases, and more or less flexuous, with a few swellings and smaller wrinkles of growth ; epitheca of moderate thickness, and scarcely showing septal costae.
CARBONIFEROUS SPECIES. Gl
Septa from about fifty-six to seventy, all very tliin in the outer vesicular zone, but (as seen in transverse sections) with the principal series thicker within, and continued nearly (or apparently in part) quite to the middle, while those of the intermediate shorter ones do not extend inward beyond the narrow vesicular zone ; vertical sections showing the vesicular zone to extend only from one-fourth to one-third of the way to the middle, and to be occupied by a few rows of unequal vesicles, ranging outward and upward. Tabulae, as seen in the section last above mentioned, numerous, occupying a very wide space, equaling more than two-thirds of the entire breadth of the corallum, passing nearly straight across, or merely curving downward a little at their lateral margins, somewhat irregularly arranged, and, in paii, more or less divided.
Entire length of corallites unknown; diameter of largest seen, 0.62 inch.
One of the most marked features of this coral is the great breadth of the tabulae compared with the narrow, outer, vesicular zone. This character, and the fact that in some transversely-broken sections the septa do not reach the middle, at first caused me to suspect that it might be a branching Campophyllum, It is true, the species of that genus hitherto known are simple ; but, as suggested by Edwards and Haime, there may be branching species yet unknown. On grinding a transverse section, how- ever, I find that the larger septa all extend farther inward than is usual in Campophyllum^ while some of them seem to extend quite inward to the center (see fig. 4 a). I am therefore led to refer it to the genus Cyatho- phyllum.
Specifically, it does not appear, wheti all its characters are taken into consideration, to be nearly allied to any of the described species with which I am acquainted. In the size of its corallites, and apparently in their mode of growth, as well as in the great breadth of its tabulae, it is very similar to C. pseudO'Vermiculare of McCoy (Brit. PaL Foss., pi. 3 c, fig. 8) ; but it has a much larger number of septa, which pass farther inward, while its outer vesicular zone is decidedly more complex.
Locality and position. — ^Near Swansea, White Pine District ; Carbon- iferous.
62 PALiEONTOLOGY.
MOLLUSCA.
BRACHIOPODA.
STROPHOMENIDiE.
Genus HEMIPRONITES, Pander, Hemipronites crenisteia, Phillips (sp.)»
Plater, fig. 2.
Spirifer crenistriay Phillips (1836), Geol. Yorks., II, 216, pi. ix, fig. 6.
Spirifer senilis, Phillips (1836), ib.. fig. 5.
Leptcena anovnala, Sowerby (1840), Min. Conch., VII, 9, pi. 615, fig. 1 h (not 1 a, d, c).
Orthis umbraculum^ Portlock (1843), Geol. Lond., 456, pi. 37, fig. 5. — De Koninck (1843),
An. Foss. Garb. Belg., 222, pi. xiii, figs. 4-7 (not von Buch). Orihis Becheij McCoy (1844), Synop. Garb. Foss. Ireland, pi. xxii, fig. 3. Orthis comataj McCoy (1844), ib., fig. 5. Orthis caducaj McCoy (1844), ib., fig. 6.
Orthotetes radians, Fischer (1850), Bull. Soc. Imp. Mosc, XXIII, pi. 9, fig. 3.* Leptcena crenistria, McCoy (1855), Brit. Pal. Foss., 450. Leptcena senilis, McCoy (1855), ib., 452.
f Orthis Keolcuk, Hall (1858), Iowa Report, I, part ii, 640, pi. xix, figs. 5 a, &. f Orthis robusta, Hall (1858), ib., 713, pi. xxviii, figs. 5, a, b, c. Streptorhynchtis crenistria, Davidson (1860), Mon. Scottish Garb. Brach., 32, pi. i,
figs. 16-22; and in Mon. Brit. Carb. Brach. (1861), 124, pi. xxvi, fig. 1, pi.
xxvi, figs. 1-5, and pi. xxx, figs. 14-16. f Streptorhynchus Hallianus and 8. Tapajotensis, Derby (1874), Bull. Cornell Univ., I,
35 and 37, pi. v.
The specimens that I have here referred to the above-named widely-dis- tributed and vrell-known species, seem to agree in all their external charac- ters with the published figures and descriptions of that form as given by the most reliable European authorities. None of them, however, show the intmor, and they are all in a bad state of preservation.
Locality and position. — Light-colored limestone, Fossil Hill, White Pine
District; White Pine County, twenty-five miles northeast of Hamilton;
and Railroad Canon, Diamond Mountains. The specimen figured was
brought by Colonel Simpson from a dark limestone near Camp Floyd. All
Carboniferous.
* The name Orthotetes was first proposed by Fischer iu 1829 j but as he neither then, nor at any subsequent time, named, described, figured, or cited any type (until 1850), his genus cannot be regarded as antedating Hemipronites, Pander, 1830.
CARBONIFEROUS SPECIES. 63
Genus ORTHIS, Dalman. Oethis Micheltni, L'Eveille, var.
Plate 7, figs. 1, 1 a, 1 6, 1 c.
Terehratula Michelinij L'Eveill6 (1835), M^m. Soc. G^ol. France, II, 39, pi. ii, figs. 14-17.
Orthis Miehelini, De Koninck (1843), An. Foss. Carb. Belg., 228, pi. xiii, figs. 8 and 10 c, d. — De Verneuil and De Keyserling (1845), G^ol. Rass., II, 185, pi. xii, fig. 7.— Semenow (1854), Foss. Schles. Kolenk., tab. iii, fig. 11.— McCoy (1854), Brit. Pal. Foss., 448, tab. iii, fig. ll.-^Davidson (18G0), Scottish Carb. Brach., 30, pi. i, figs. 7-10 ; and again (1861), Brit. Carb. Brach., 132, pi. xxx, figs. 6-12.
Terehratula fiUaria^ Phillips (1836), Geol. Yorks., II, 220, pi. xi, fig. 3.
Orthis divaricata, McCoy (1854), Synop. Carb. Foss. Ireland, pi. xx, fig. 17.
Orthis circularise McCoy (1854), ib., fig. 17.
Orthis Michelini var. BurlingtonensiSj Hall (1858), Iowa Report, I, part ii, 596, pi. xii, fig. 4.
Compare Orthis Pennianay Derby (1874), BuUetin Cornell University, I, l^To. 2. 26.
Shell rather gibbous, both valves being convex, but the ventral less so than the dorsal, longitudinally oblong or subquadrate in outline, with breadth nearly as great posteriorly as in front; lateral margins nearly straight and parallel, anterior lateral rounding more or less abruptly into the front, v^hich is rounded, somewhat straightened, or very faintly sinuous near the middle ; hinge-line very short, or less than one-third the breadth of the valves. Dorsal valve distinctly and generally evenly convex; beak slightly prominent, and only a little incurved ; area small, very moderately arched. Ventral valve moderately convex all over, excepting near the front, where it is depressed so as to form a broad, shallow, undefined, mesial sinus ; beak projecting little beyond that of the other valve, and arched but not strongly incurved ; area very small, well defined, inclined, and arching more or less backward ; foramen moderate, but nearly or quite closed by the cardinal process of the other valve. Surface of both valves ornamented by numerous, crowded, even, more or less dichotomous, radiating stride, that arch outward on the posterior lateral regions, and are crossed toward the front and lateral margins by rather distinct marks of growth. (Internal charac- ters unknown.)
Length of largest specimen seen, 1.54 inches; breadth, 1.32 inches; convexity, 0.95 inch.
I have long been much perplexed in regard to the proper disposition
64 PALAEONTOLOGY.
of this* shell. It has much the general aspect of 0. MicJielini, but differs rather decidedly from any authentic variety of that species figured in foreign works in its longitudinally oblong outline, straight and parallel lateral margins, and greater convexity, especially that of its ventral valve, which in 0. Michelini is most generally flat, or even a little concave, around the anterior region. Its area is also proportionally smaller than in 0. Mich- elini In some respects, it agrees more nearly with a South American form described by Professor Derby under the name 0. Pennianaj already cited. Still, it differs quite strongly in its oblong or quadrate form (produced by the straightness and parallel outline of its lateral margins, which cause the breadth of its valveis to be almost exactly as great posteriorly as toward the front); while 0. Penniana is decidedly wider anteriorly than behind, almost exactly as in the typical form of Michelini If 0. Penniana of Derby is really specifically distinct from 0, Michelini^ which I am rather inclined to doubt, then our shell might with more propriety be arranged as a variety of the same than of 0. Michelini^ unless it may present some internal differ- ences. If distinct from the above-mentioned forms, either specifically or as a variety, it may be designated by the name Nevadensis.
Locality and position, — From the Carboniferous limestones of White Pine County, Nevada, twenty-five miles east of Hamilton, on the Egan Road ; also, at Railroad Cation, Diamond Mountains. Colonel Simpson also brought it from the pass between Desert and Pleasant Valleys.
PRODUOTID^.
Genus PRODUCTUS, Sowerby.
Productus Nevadensis, Meek.
Plate 8, figs. 2, 2 a, 2 6, 2 c, 2 (!, 2 c.
Shell of medium size, with a general elongate-subovate forai, as seen In adult examples, which are much produced anteriorly; hinge less than the greatest breadth. Ventral valve very gibbous, strongly arched, the curve regularly increasing from the prodticed front to the beak, provided with a rather deep mesial sinus, which extends from near the beak to the front; gib- bous central region comparatively narrow, and, on each side of the sinus, rounded and falling off laterally very abruptly, especially to the ears; beak
CARBONIFEROUS SPECIES. 65
rather narrow, distinctly incurved, so as to pass within the hinge-line; ears small, nearly rectangular; lateral margins sometimes faintly sinuous near the ears, and rounded to the front, which is rounded or a little sinuous in outline at the middle, as seen from above; surface ornamented by rather broad, regularly-arranged, concentric undulations, which become obsolete on the umbonal region, and more strongly defined and wider anteriorly, while on the umbonal portion there are numerous minute, slightly-elongated prominences, arranged in quincunx, which probably bore minute spines; farther forward the little spine-bases are arranged in - concentric bands, mainly in the furrows between the concentric undulations; spines appar- ently all small, short, and inclined forward, or more or less depressed; interior with the scars of the cardinal muscles narrow, nearly parallel, deeply striated, and very profoundly impressed, so as to form on internal casts two very prominent, parallel ridges, between which are seen the distinctly- corrugated scars of the adductor muscles. Dorsal valve flattened, concave over the whole visceral region, excepting a slight mesial ridge corresponding to the sinus of the other valve, and marked by numerous small, regular, concentric wrinkles, with many little projecting points that seem to have borne small spines, especially toward the anterior and lateral margins. Interior unknown.
Length of one of the largest specimens, measuring over the curve of the ventral valve from the beak to the front, 4.30 inches; breadth, 1.7G inches; convexity, 1.30 inches.
For about ten years past I have, at different times, had under consid- eration specimens of this Prodachis, without being able to identify it with any of the described species. I havejiad no difficulty in separating it from all of other known forms from the Far- West, and have always found it to be quite constant in its characters. In young examples, it is much like F, Nehrascenbis of Owen;^ though in adult specimens, it is found not only to attain a much larger size, but to be proportionally greatly more produced in front, as well as much more gibbous; while it evidently did not possess
♦ ]Not as represented by Dr. Oweu's hgnre giveu under that name, on plate v of his Wisconsin, Iowa, and Minnesota Report, however, which figure certainly does not represent the species described under that name by Dr. Owen, as may be seen by reading his description, and as I know from examining his type-specimens. 5 r R
66 PALAEONTOLOGY.
two sets of spines as in the P. Nebrascensis, on which the larger spines were long, strong, and erect. On Dr. Owen's species, the little tubercles, or prominences supporting the spines, are also so much elongated as often almost to present the appearance of little costse (especially on internal casts broken from a limestone matrix), which is not the case with the species under consideration. I have now before me many specimens of P. Nchrascensis, some of which were collected from the original locality, in Nebraska, while others came from the same horizon in Kansas, Iowa, and Illinois, and none of these attain more than Imlf the size of the species here described, nor are any of them but slightly more than hemispherical; while they are all proportionally broader across the umbonal region of tlfe ventral valve. In no instance have I ever seen a specimen of that species so greatly produced in front as we see in this. The most marked differences, however, are to be observed in the internal casts of these two shells, that of P. Nebrascensis scarcely showing any traces of the muscular scars.
Among foreign species, our shell is perhaps most nearly represented by some of the narrow, elongated varieties of P. scabrictduSy P. pustulosus^ or P. pimdatus; but it seems to me to differ too decidedly and constantly from these to render any detailed comparison necessary. Nevertheless, I expect to see it (as is too often hastily done in similar cases) arranged by some authorities as a synonym of one, or alternately of each, -of the above-mentioned species. I am aware that our fig. 2 6, for instance, presents much the appearance of some varieties of P. punctatuSy because it is not placed in a posture to show the greatly-produced anterior, as sliow^n in fig. 2 Cy nor the strong distant concentric ridges as seen in fig. 2. These, however, are not the only differences; ior our shell is constmitly much narrower than the usual form of P. punctatuSy while its umbonal region has a much more squarish appearance, if I may so term it, owing to the sudden and vertical descent of its sides to the ears. Again, it will be seen to pre- sent strongly-marked differences in the form and relative siz^s of the muscular scars in the ventral valve, by comparing our fig. 2 c with fig, 17 of plate xliv of Mr. Davidson's Monograph of the British Carboniferous Brachiopoda. Equally good distinguishing characters can be pointed out between it and the other species mentioned.
CAEBONIFEBOUS SPECIES. 67
Locality and position, — West side of Buell Valley; Summit Spring Pass; Ruby Valley; White Pine Mountains and other localities in Nevada: from a light-colored limestone beUeved to belong to the upper part of the Carboniferous series of that region.
Productus (undt. sp.)
Plate 7, figs. 6, G a, 6 b.
Compare Productus Ivesii, Newberry (1861), Ives' Report on the Colorado, 122, pi. ii, figs. 1-8; also Prodmius Galhounianus, Swallow (1858), Trans. Acad. Sci. 8t. Louis, I, 180.
Shell attaining a large size, longer (measuring over the curve of the ventral valve) than wide; hinge apparently not quite equaling the greatest breadth. Ventral valve very gibbous, much produced anteriorly, very strongly arched, and provided with a deep, wide mesial sinus that extends from the unbonal region to the produced front, to which it gives an emarginated appearance as seen from above ; most gibbous portion on each side of the sinus, comparatively narrow, with abruptly descending lateral slopes, which converge rather gradually to the. beak; ears apparently nearly rectangular, arched, and wrinkled ; surface ornamented by medium-sized, well-defined, occasionally bifurcating costse, that bear numerous, more or less alternately-arranged little nodes, each of which was the base of a slen- der spine sometimes apparently attaining a length of nearly three-quarters of an inch ; beak comparatively small at the apex, incurved so as to pass within the hinge-line, and, together with the adjacent umbonal region, crossed by small concentric wrinkles, which become stronger on the ears; lines of growth very fine and regular. Dorsal valve somewhat flattened or a little concave in the visceral region, and abruptly curved parallel to the other in front, provided with a mesial ridge corresponding to the sinus of the other valve; surface ornamented with costa3 similar to those of the other valve, and crossed on the visceral region by small, regular concentric wrinkles; cardinal edge strengthened within by a strong marginal ridge on each side of the short, recurved cardinal process, from the base of which there extends forward a small mesial ridge, which is bifid at its connection with the process.
Length of one of the largest specimens, measuring over the curve of the
68 PALEONTOLOGY.
ventral valve, about 4.90 inches; breadth of the gibbous part of umbonal region, exclusive of the ears, about 2,50 inches.
Of this Productus^ there are six or eight specimens in the collection from various localities, but unfortunately they are all more or less mutilated or distorted. After numerous careful comparisons, I liave been unable to arrive at any very satisfactory conclusions in regard to its specific relations. At a first glance, it reminds one of some of the larger coarsely- costated va- rieties of P. semireticulatus. It evidently differs, however, in several respects from that species; being not only more coarsely costated, and more deeply sulcated, but it likewise difiers in having numerous little spines scattered over the whole of the ventral valve; while the mesial internal ridge of its dorsal valve (see fig. 6 h) differs in being bifid as in P. scabriculus. Inmost of its external characters at least, excepting its narrower form, it seems to agree pretty well with the description of a form described by Professor Swal- low, from the Upper Coal-Measures of Kansas, under the name P. Calhoun- ianus var. Kansasensis; and yet it appears to be specifically distinct from the Kansas specimens that I have always identified with the form described by Professor Swallow, as well as from all of the others I have ever seen from the same localities as those named by him. It appears also to be re- lated to P. Ivesii of Dr. Newberry, from Arizona, but is more produced anteriorly ; and, so far as I have been able to see from examinations of the interior of the dorsal valve of that form, its mesial ridge is not divided as in this shell, which is also narrower in the umbonal region.
I suspect that it will be found to be an unnamed species ; but, w^ithout better specimens for comparison, I hardly feel justifiable in naming it as a new species. If distinct from all the allied forms, it might be called P.
loPffUS,
Locality and position. — Fossil Hill, White Pine Mountains ; Railroad Canon, Diamond Mountains ; West of San Francisco Mountain, etc.
CARBONIFEROUS SPECIES. 69
Productus semireticulatus, M<artin,
Plate 7, fig. 5.
Anotnites semireticiilatnsj Martin (1709), Petref. Derb., 7, tab. xxxii, figs. 1 and 2, and
tab. xxxiii, fig. 4. Anomites productus^ ib., 9, tab. xxii, figs. 1, 2, and 3. Productm Scoticus, Sovverby (1814), Min. Conch., I, 158, tab. Ixix, fig. 3. Frodmtus Martini, Sowerby (1821), ib., IV, 15, pi 317, figs. 2-4.—De Koninck (1843),
An. Foss. Carb. Belg., 160, pi. vii, fig. 2.— Phillips (in part, 1830), GeoK Yorks.,
II, 213, pi. vii, ^g. 2.— McCoy (in part, 1844).— Brit. Pal. Foss., 467 and 471. Productus antiquatus, Sowerby (1821), Min. Conch., II, 15, pi. 317, figs. 1, 5, and 6. —
Phillips (part, 1836), II, 213, pi. vi, fig. 2.
Productus concinnus, Sowerby (1821), Min. Conch., IV, 16, pi. 318, fig. 1.
Productus pugilis, Phillips (1836), Geol. Yorks., II, viii, fig. 6.
Leptcena antiquata^ Fischer (1837), Oryc. du Goav. de Mosc, 142, pi. 26, figs. 4 and 5.
Leptccna tuhuUfera, Fischer, ib., pi. xxvi, fig. 1 (not Deshayes).
Productus Inca^ d'Orbigny (1844), Paleont. Am. Merid.,51, pi. iv, figs. 1, 2, and 3.
Productus flexistriata, McCoy (1844), Synop. Carb. Foss. Ireland, pi. xvii, fig. 1.
Productus seMireticulatuSj De Koninck (1847), Monogr. Chouotes et Prod., pi. viii, fig. 1, pi. ix, fig. 1, pi. X, fig. 1.— Davidson (1860), Monogr. Scottish Carb. Bnich., pi. iv, figs. 1-5, 7, and 12 ; and of numerous other authors.
The collection contains, from several localities, specimens that seem to me to belong to the above-mentioned well-known and widely-distributed species. At least so far as their characters can be made out from the collec- tions yet obtained for study, no reliable distinctions have been observed.
Locality and position, — Railroad Canon, Diamond Mountains; Fossil Hill, White Pine Mountains, Nevada,
Pkoductus costatus, Sowerby ? % var.
Plate 7, fi^8. 4 and 4 a, b.
Productus cost^tnsy Sowerby (1827), Mineral Conch., VI, 115, pi. 560, fig. 1.— De Ver- neuil (1845), Pala^ont. Russia and the Ural Mts., 268, pi. xv, figs. 13 a, h. — De Koninck (1847), Mon. Prod., 92, x)l. viii, tig. 3,* pi. x, fig. 3, and pi. xviii, figs. 3 a, ^.—Davidson (1860), Mon. Scottish Brach., 44, pi. ii, figs. 22-24; and of various other authors.
Productus sulcatus, Sowerby (1822), Mineral Conch., IV, 17, pi. 310, fig. 2.
Producta costata {et sulcata), Phillips (1836), Geol. Yorks., 213, pi. vii, fig. 2.
Productus costelfatu^j McCoy (1844), Synopsis Carb. Foss. Ireland, pi. xx, fig. 15.
Productus Portlockianus, Norwood and Pratten (1854), Jour. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad.,
III, 15, pi. 1, figs. 9c^, h, c.
* Tins figure of De Koninck's was drawn from an American specimen found at Saint Louis, Missouri,
70 PALEONTOLOGY.
Producta costata, McCoy (1855), Brit. Pal. Foss., 400. Producta Flemingi var. sulcata, McCoy, ib., 461.
Productus costatus, Meek (1872), Palaeont. E. Nebraska, in Haydeii's Eeport U. S. GeoL Survey Nebraska, 159, pi. vi, figs. 6 a, b.
Shell rather under medium size, about as long as wide, measuring direct from the beak to the front, but longer than wide, measuring over the curve of the ventral valve; very gibbous, and strongly incurved, the curvature increasing little from the front to the beak, and sometimes desciibing nearly two-thirds of an entire volution on the ventral surface ; hinge-line about equaling the greatest breadth of the valves. Ventral valve very gibbous, with a well-defined mesial sinus extending from the umbonal region to the front; ears small, nearly rectangular, and rather distinctly arched; lateral slopes rounding off nearly vertically to the ears; beak gibbous, and strongly incurved, but scarcely passing within the hinge-margin; surface ornamented with moderate-sized longitudinal costse, which sometimes become a little irregular in size on the anterior and anterior lateral slopes by some of them bifurcating, or, in other cas6s, by two of them coalescing to form a larger and slightly more prominent one, generally at the origin of a spine. Small concentric wrinkles also give the visceral region a more or less reticulated appearance, while the bases of rather stout spines are seen scattered over the anterior and lateral slopes (generally on the larger costse) as well as on the ears, or sometimes in a row along the sulcus or concavity between each ear and the very abrupt swell of the umbo. Dorsal valve flattened- concave in the visceral region, where it is marked by obscure costoe and small concentric wrinkles; interior with a slender mesial ridge, most sharply elevated near the middle, and having the muscular scars prominent and near the beak; reniform scars obscure, directed outward and a little forward from the anterior side of the muscular scars.
Length of a medium-sized specimen, measuring direct from the beak to the front, 1.21 inches; measuring over the curve of the ventral valve, about 2.20 inches; breadth, 1.25 inches.
It is with considerable doubt that I have ventured to refer this shell lo the variable species P. costatus, though it seems to be the form that has gen- erally been identified with that species in our Coal-Measures and the Lower Carboniferous rocks of the Mississippi Valley. Although these- American
CARBONIFEROUS SPECIES. 71
specimens agree pretty closely with certain forms usually regarded in Europe as being only varieties of P. costatus^ they never possess the very large costse and the strong oblique lateral ridge near each ear, seen in the typical •variety of that species. Indeed, I have never seen any American shell pre- senting the characters of the typical P. costatus^ or nearly approaching it. It is therefore only because the best European authorities include in that species shells with very much smaller costse, and the lateral ridges nearly or quite obsolete (such as that represented by figs. 6 and 6 a on plate 4 of Mr. Davidson^s Monograph of the Carboniferous Brachiopoda of Scotland, first referred by Jlr, Davidson to P. semireticulatus, but afLervvard considei-ed by him to be a variety of P. costatus), that we have in this country referred such forms as that under consideration, even provisionally, to P, costatus. Generally, our specimens resemble quite closely P. sulcalits of Sowerby; and if it were not for the fact that nearly all European authorities who have investigated the Carboniferous Brachiopoda agree in viewing the form on which Sowel'by proposed to found that name as only a variety of P. costatiis, I should scarcely hesitate to retain the name P. sulcatus for our shell. Our specimens, however, are generally more gibbous and more strongly arched than the European varieties of P costatiis with equally small costse. In most cases, they look much like small examples of P. semiretkulatus ; and, indeed, Mr. Davidson thought that specimens apparently of this sliell sent by me to him from the Coal-Measures of Nebraska more probably belonged to that species than to P. costatus; yet the fact that we find these shells throughout wide areas of country here ranging through a considerable thickness of strata, and often directly associated in the same beds with well- marked examples of P. semireticulaius of the usual size and form, and still never attaining more than half the adult size of that species, while they are always proportionally narrower across the umbonal region, and more gib- bous and more produced, seems to be an objection to the conclusion that they belong to the same species; especially as these smaller shells are evi- dently, as may be seen by their much-produced, strongly-arched form, adult specimens. On the other hand, the fact that they vary comparatively little in their characters, wherever we find them, and never nearly approach the typical forms of P. costatus^ would seem to be an equally good reason for
7 2 PALEONTOLOGY.
regarding them as belonging to a distinct species from that form also. Until we can have an opportunity to arrive at a more satisfactory conclusion on these points from the study of more extensive collections, I would therefore refer this form provisionally to P. costatus, but at the same time express the belief that it does not belong to the same species as the typical P. costatus of the Old World.
Locality and ^position. — Railroad Canon, Diamond Mountains ; Fossil Hill, White Pine Mountain; and Moleen Peak, Nevada.
Productus Prattenianus, Norwood.
Plate 7, fig. 7.
Froductus cora, Owen (1852), Geol. Report Wisconsin, Iowa, and Minn., 103 and 136,
pi. V, fig. 1. — Marcou (1858), Geol. N. Am., 45, pi. vii, figs. 4, 4 a. Productus semiretiGxdatus, Hall (1852), Stansbury's Report Bait Luke Exp., 411, pi.
iii, figs. 3, 5, and 5(i, ^ (not Martin, sp.). Productus Prattenianus^ Norwood (1854), Jour. Acad. Kat. Sci. Pbilad. (2d ser.), Ill,
p. 17, pi. 1, figs. 10 a, &, c, d. Productus FlemingHy Geinitz (1860), Carbonf. uud Dyas in Nebraska, 52, taf. iv, figs.
1, 2, 3 (not Sowerby). Compare P. cora^ d'Orbigny (1843), Pal^ont. Voy. Am. M^rid., Ill, 55, pi. v, figs. 8, D.
This is a common shell in the Coal-Measures of the Mississippi Valley, through the whole thickness of which it ranges, if not into the Lower Car- boniferous. It is generally about as wide as long, by direct measurement from beak to front ; though in some examples the anterior margin is more produced. The hinge-line usually equals the greatest breadth ; while the ears are large, rectangular, and marked with a few large wrinkles.that extend a little upon the sides of the umbo, but never cross over it, the visceral region of the ventral valve being nearly always without traces of these wrinkles. It is very gibbous, strongly-arched in the umbonal region, and without any indications of a mesial sinus, though ij; is sometimes a little flat- tened in the middle, with the lateral slopes rounding down abruptly on each side. The beak is often narrowed and distinctly incurved. The surface is ornamented by fine, regular, longitudinal striae, which increase by intercala- tion, or sometimes by division; while over the whole of the ventral valve are distantly, but regularly scattered, a few large spine-bases, at each of which the striae are often interrupted, sometimes three or four of them termi-
CARBONIFEROUS SPECIES. 73
nating at a spine-base, or three or four originating on the lower side, where only one is continued above the same. The spines are large, erect, and apparently long, and occur on the ears as well as over the other parts of tlie valve, there being sometimes a row of them along the hinge-margin of each ear. The dorsal valve is flattened, and generally provided with concentric wrinkles on the visceral portion.
Although this species is quite common, it is rarely found with the ears and free margins unbroken. In most cases, only the umbonal and most gib- bous parts of the ventral valve are preserved when the specimens are broken from a limestone matrix; while, owing to the thinness of the shell, specimens in shale are usually crushed or much distorted. It seems to be much like forms identified in Europe with P. cora^ d'Orbigny, to which it has been by some referred in this country. It certainly differs from d'Orbigny^s figures of that species, however, in having its ventral valve more gibbous, with more nearly rectangular and larger ears, with large strong wrinkles; while its spines were certainly much larger and longer than repre- sented by d'Orbigny. If his figure represents a specimen w^itli the free margins and the edges of the ears broken away, and the shorty pointed spines shown along the hinge are wrongly drawn, then his species may be identi- cal with our shell ; but otherwise it seems to me to be quite distinct. Prof De Koninck, however, who has seen d'Orbigny's original specimens, thinks they are certainly not distinct from the European forms referred to P. com, some of which are much more like our shell than the South American typical form would appear to be from d'Orbigny's figure.
As in other species of the genus, the strise of this shell vary somewhat in size, though much less than is usual in most other species. On measure- ment, I find that from three to five of them may be counted in a space of one-tenth of an inch in the specimens under consideration.
Locality and 'position.— Yo^^A Hill, White Pine District; Eailroad Canon, Diamond Mountains, Nevada: Carboniferous.
74 PALEONTOLOGY.
Productus semistbiatus, Meek.
Plate 7, figs. 8, 8 a.
Productus semistriatus, Meek (1860), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., XII, 309 ; and (1876) in Col. Simpson's Report BxpL across the Great Basin of Utah, 347, pi. I, figs. 7 a, b.
Compare Productus Chandlessii, Derby (1874), Bull. Cornell Univ., I, 51, pi. iv, figs. 1-16, and pi. vi, fig. 1.
Shell rather under medium size, very gibbous, greatest breadth on the hinge-line, which is nearly twice the length, measuring from the beak direct to the anterior slope, but only a little more than half as great as the length of the ventral valve, measuring over its curve. Ventral valve extremely convex, strongly arched, and much produced in front, sometimes provided with a very shallow mesial sinus ; beak gibbous and distinctly incurved, so as to pass within the cardinal margin ; ears triangular, strongly vaulted, and abruptly separated from the vertical sides of the gibbous umbonal region by a rounded, undefined sulcus, which is continued from the beak to the lateral margins, to tlie outline of which it imparts a more or less sinuous character in front of each ear ; surface of the visceral region marked by small concentric wrinkles extending upon the ears, and crossed by numerous rather fine longitudinal striae, or costs;, that become suddenly obsolete on all of the anterior and lateral slopes from above (behind) the middle : these parts of the surface being merely marked with obscure lines of growth and strong, regularly-scattered spine-bases, from each of which there is sometimes a very obscure, undefined ridge extending downward to or toward the free margin. Similar spine-bases are also seen over other parts of the surface, including the ears ; though they nowhere arise from tuber- cles. Dorsal valve unknown.
. Length, measuring direct from the umbo to the anterior slope, 0.83 inch ; measuring over the curve of the ventral valve from the beak to the anterior margin, 2.25 inches ; breadth to the extremities of the ears, about 1.34 inches; breadth of most gibbous part of umbonal region, 0.90 inch ; number of longtitudinal striae on the posterior half of the ventral valve, in the spape of 0.10 inch, 3.
This seems to be a well-marked species, which is peculiar in having well-defined longitudinal striae and moderately distinct transverse wrinkles
OARBONIFEliOUS SPECIES. 75
on the gibbous visceral region of the ventral valve, and no traces whatever of either on the anterior and lateral slopes, composing more than half of the entire surface. The ventral valve is very gibbous, distinctly arched, and much produced; the elevated umbonal region being comparatively nar- row, with vertical sides, and but a faint indication of a mesial sinus. The spines seem to have been stout, erect, and to have arisen very abruptly from the surface, without being connected with tubercles.
In several respects, the South American shell described by Professor Derby, under the name Productus Chandlessii, in the Bulletin of Cornell University, already cited, would seem, as nearly as can be determined from his figures and description, to be closely allied to the species here under consideration ; but, without specimens for comparison, I am not prepared to express a decided opinion respecting the relations of the two shells.
Locality and position. — The type-specimens of this species were brought by Colonel Simpson from a locality southeast of the Great Salt Lake, Utah (latitude 40^ 22' N., longitude 111'' 38' W.), where they were found in a black bituminous limestone of Carboniferous age.
Productus subhobeidus, Meek.
Plate7, figs. 3, 3 a, 3 5.
Shell small, or of moderate size, generally much produced, longitudinally oblong-suboval, the length being distinctly greater than its breadth ; hinge- line about equaling the greatest breadth. Ventral valve very gibbous, espe- cially in the umbonal region, with a deep mesial sinus extending from near the umbo to the front, very strongly arched, the curve increasing from the front to the beak, which is distinctly incurved, but scarcely passes the hinge- margin ; ears small, nearly rectangular, arched, and standing out nearly at right angles to the abrupt sides of the umbo; surface smooth, excepting sometimes broad, obscure, obsolescent longitudinal ridges on the anterior and lateral slopes, and strong spine-bases, rather thickly scattered over the whole, including the ears ; spines strong, erect, and long. Dorsal valve and interior unknown.
Breadth of a medium-sized specimen, 0.85 inch ; length of the same, measuring direct, 1.03 inches; measuring over the curve of the ventral valve, 2.06 inches.
76 PALEONTOLOGY.
In its smooth surface, deep mesial sinus, and strong spines, this species resembles the narrowest varieties of Produdus Jiorridus of Sowerby. Its imiform adult size, however, from widely-separated localities, and through a great thickness of strata, is less than half that of the average size of P. horridus; while it is greatly more produced and elongated in proportion to breadth, and has a proportionally shorter hinge and smaller ears. All its associate fossils in the same beds are also decidedly Carboniferous forms, while I\ horridus is a Permian species.
In some respects, this shell resembles a form described by Professor Swallow, from the Coal-Measures of Kansas, under the name P. costatoides. It attains a larger size, however, and is more produced anteriorly ; while it wants the well-defined costae of that shell, being almost entirely smooth, excepting the spine-bases, and the faintest possible traces of a few broad, undefined ridges, sometimes seen descending the anterior slope. It never shows the faintest indications of concentric ridges, or furrows, on the visceral region, or any other part of the surface.
Locality and position. — Light-colored Carboniferous limestone of Wa- satch Mountains; Hamilton Butte, Ruby Group; Mahogany Peak, Egan Mountains, and north slope of Moleen Peak, Elko Range, west side of Long Valley, Ruby Group.
Probuctus multistuiatus, Meek.
Plate 8, figs. 3; 3 a, 3 &, 3 c, 3 c?, 3 e,
Produdus multistriaim^ Meek (1860), Proceed. Acad. !N'at. Sci. Philad., July, 309 ; and (1876) in Col, Simpson's Report Expl. across the Great Basin of Utah, 350, pi. 1, figs. 8 a, 6.
Shell of about medium size, much produced ; length of entire speci- mens greater than the breadth, even by direct measurement from the umbo to the produced front, and proportionally still longer, measuring over the curve of the ventral valve ; ears of moderate, or rather large size, some- what triangular, strongly vaulted, and defined by a sinuosity of each lateral margin, which generally makes them less than rectangular at the extremi- ties ; lateral margins rounding anteriorly from the sinuosity in advance of each ear, to the front, which is distinctly sinuous in outline at the middle. Ventral valve extremely gibbous, very strongly arched, and provided with a profound mesial sinus, which extends from near the umbo to the front ;
CAEBONIFEROUS SPECIES. 77
iimbonal region, behind the most gibbous part, depressed-convex, and with- out traces of transverse wrinkles ; beak incurved, but not passing far within the hinge-Hne ; most convex portion on each side of the mesial sinus prom- inently rounded, with very abrupt lateral slopes. Ventral valve deeply concave, but more or less flattened in the visceral region, where there com- mences a broad mesial ridge, corresponding to the sinus of the other valve, while a low prominence extends out from near the umbo to the sinuous part of each lateral margin in front of each ear, internally showing a sudden gen- iculation around the front and lateral margins, nearly at right angles to the more or less flattened visceral region ; muscular and reniform scars unknown. Surface of both valves ornamented by numerous fine, regular, rather ob- scure, longitudinal costse, or striae, apparently generally destitute of spines, though sometimes a few very scattering large spine-bases are seen on the anterior slope of the dorsal valve, as well as on the ears of the same, where they, on some specimens, form a row along the hinge-margin. ,
Greatest length, measuring from the most gibbous part of the umbonal region to the front, about 1.90 inches; from the strongly-incurved beak to the front, 1.15 inches; breadth, to the extremities of the ears, l.f;4 inches; convexity of the ventral valve, 1 inch ; number of surface strise in 0.10 of an inch, 3 or 4.
Of this species, there are some fifteen or twenty specimens before me, in various states of preservation, all of which are remarkably uniform in nearly all their characters. Its most marked features are its very gibbous form, deep mesial sinus, dividing the ventral valve into two prominently- rounded lobes, its somewhat depressed umbonal region without any traces of transverse wrinkles, and its fine, even striae, with only a very few scat- tering, large spine-bases, sometimes seen on the anterior slope, and near the hinge-margin of the ears. The sudden geniculation of the dorsal valve around the anterior and lateral margins of the flattened visceral region, is also so strongly marked as to give the internal view of this valve much the form of StropJiomena rhomhoidalis (see fig, 3 e), excepting that it wants the concentric wrinkles of that shell. Although there are specimens in the col- lection showing this character very satisfactorily, unfortunately none of them
78 PALEONTOLOGY.
are in a condition to show the musculai* or reniform impressions, nor very clearly the form of the cardinal process.
Generally, on somewhat worn specimens, the fine striae are so nearly obsolete that the surface presents the appearance, at a first glance, of being entirely smooth ; but even these specimens nearly always show remains of the striae on the more protected parts, while, where the surface is well pre- served, they are always seen distinctly defined on all parts.
I am not acquainted with any other species nearly enough allied to this to render a comparison necessary.
Locality and position. — The original type-specimens of this species were brought by Colonel Simpson's party from latitude 39^ 51' N., longitude 115^ 10' W., near the center of the eastern margin of Nevada. Those in Mr. King's collection came from further west, in the Ruby Group, and Ma- hogany Peak, Egan Range ; the matrix being, in all cases, a light-colored limestone. I have never seen it from any other localities, and know of no nearly allied form in the rocks of the Mississippi Valley, Its associates are always well-marked Carboniferous types.
rROBucTus LONGispiNUs, Sowerbj.
Plato 8, fi;?8*^, 4 a, Productus lo7igispmu8, Sowerby (1814), Min. Concb., I, 154, pi. Ixviii, fig. l.—Do
Koninck (1847), Descrip. An. Foss. Carb. Belg., 187, pi. xii, figs. 11 a, b^
aud pi. xii bis^ fig. 2.— Davidson (1853), Introd. Brit. Foss. Brach., pi, ix, h^.
221 ; also (1860), Monogr. Scottish Carb. Brach., pi. ii, figs. IO-I95 and (18GI)
Brit. Carb. Bracb., 154, pi. xxxv, figs. 5-17. Productus Flemingil, Sowerby (1814), Min. Conch., 1, 154, pi. 6S^ fig. 2. — De Koninck
(1847), Monogr. Prod., pi x, fig. 2.— McCoy (1855), Biit. Pal. Foss., 461. Productus spinosus, Sowerby (1814), Min. Couch., I, 157, pi. 69, fig. 2. Productus lobatus, Sowerby (1821), ib., IV, 16, pi. 318, figs. 2-6.— Yon Bach (1841),
Ver. Konigl. Akad. Wiss., Theil I, 32, pi. ii, fig. 17.— De Verneuil (1845),
Geol. liuss. and Ural Mts., IF, 266, pi. xvi, fig. 3, and pi. xviii, fig. 8. Productus elegans^ Davereux (1833), Const. Geol. de la Prov. de Li^ge, 272. Producta setosa, Phillips (1836), Geol. Yorks., If, 214, pi. viii, figs. 9 and 17. Productus Gapacii, d'Orbigny (1843), Pal6ont.Voy. Ana. M6rid., 50, pi. iii, figs. 24-26. Productus tuberosus, De Keyserling (1S46), Petschora Land, 208, pi. iv, fig. 6. Productus Wabashensls^ Norwood and Pratteu (1854), Jour. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., Ill,
pi. 1, tig. 6. f Productus splendens^ ib., pi. i, tig. 5.
Tlie specimens of the little shell that I have, with doubt, referred to the
above species, are not in a very good state of preservation ; but, as far as
their characters can be made out, they seem to agree at least with forms
CARBONIFEROUS SPECIES. 79
regarded by reliable authorities as being varieties of Sowerby's species. The best specimen in the collection is represented by the figs. 4, 4 a, on plate 8. This is more gibbous in the umbonal region, and has larger cos- toe than the most characteristic examples of P. longispinuSj while it shows no traces of the mesial sinus usually seen in the same. In these respects, however, it agrees more nearly with a form illustrated as a variety of that species by Mr. Davidson's figs. 19, 19 a, plate xxxv, of his Monogr. Brit. Garb. Brach. It is true that it does not show the angular projection of the anterior margin seen in Mr. Davidson's figure, but its anterior margin is broken. Some of the other more imperfect specimens, however, show the usual mesial sinus, and the smaller costse, exactly as in characteristic exam- ples of P. longispinus. Generally, the surface is exfoliated, and the spines broken away; but, in a few instances, some remaining traces of their bases can be seen, while fragments of comparatively stout spines, like those of Sowerby's species, occur closely associated in the same matrix.
Locality and position, — Fossil Hill, White Pine District, Nevada; in light- colored Carboniferous limestone.
RHYNCHONELLID^.
Genus LEIORHYNCHUS, Hall. Leiorhynchus QUADRicosTATXJS, Vauuxem ? (sp.).
riate3, figs. 9, 9 a, 9 6. Ortlm quadricostatus^ Yanux. (1842), Geol. Rep. Third Dist. N. Y., 186. Leiorhynchus quadricostatusj Hall (1843), Eegent'S Thirteenth Kep., 865 and Pal. N. Y. iv, 357.
Shell trigonal-subovate, or subcircular, very thin, and apparently com- pressed; posterior lateral margins somewhat straightened, and diverging from the beaks at about a right angle; anterior lateral margins rounding to the front, which is generally a little protuberant in the middle, but some- times rounded, or even faintly sinuous in outline. Dorsal valve apparently more convex than the other, and provided with a depressed mesial fold, which extends little farther than the middle, and bears four, or rarely five, low, rounded costse, which do not reach the umbonal region; lateral surfaces smooth, or only showing very faint traces of a few undefined radiating oostae. Ventral valve with a shallow mesial sinus, corresponding to the fold of the other valve, and bearing three, or rarely four, obscure costse, while
80 PALEONTOLOGY.
very faint traces of a few similar costae are sometimes seen on each side of the sinus. Surface of both valves marked by fine lines, and more or less stronger sulcations of growth, which undulate gracefully in crossing the costa3.
Length, 1 inch; breadth, 0.93 inch; convexity unknown. One pro- portionally broader specimen measures 0.93 inch in length and 1.06 inches in breadth.
The specimens of this shell in the collections studied by me are merely distorted casts with portions of the shell attached. These so nearly resem- ble Leiorliynchus muUicostatuSj Hall (supposed by Professor Hall to be prob- ably only a variety of L, quadricostatuSy Vanuxem, sp., from the Hamilton Grroup, N. Y.), that I had called attention to the close similarity. On com- parison, however, with the figures and descriptions of the N. Y. shell, I thought them most probably distinct, and had proposed, in manuscript, a new name for them. Since then Professor Hall and Mr. Whitfield, who have investigated Mr. King's later collections, have referred this shell to L. quadricostatuSj Vanuxem (see Am. Jour. Sci., XI, 476, June, 1875). As they have had the advantage of making direct comparisons with authentic New York specimens of Vanuxem's species, which I had no opportunity to do, it is presumable that they are more apt to be con-ect. Consequently, as these pages are passing through the press, I have withdrawn my proposed name; and, as it has never been published with a description, it need not be cited in synonymy.
The group Leiorhynclms seems to be, so far as yet known, distinguished from the older types of Rhynclionella more by the obscurity and obsolescent character of its plications, and other superficial characters, than by any observed fundamental differences of the muscular or other internal peculiar- ities. The known New York species are found only in the Hamilton and Chemung Groups of the Devonian.
Locality and position. — White Pine Mountains, Nevada; where it occurs in a dark shale. If a true Leiorhynchus^ and especially if identical specifically with the New York shell referred to, the black shale from which it was obtained, would be almost certainly, as I had suspected, Devonian, and not Carboniferous.
OABBONIFERODS SPECIES. 81
SPIRIFERIDJE. Genus ATHYRIS, McCoy. Athyris? persinuata, Meek.
Plate 9, figs. 4, 4 a, 4 6.
Shell subtrigonal, very gibbous, somewhat longer than wide ; lateral margins rounded in outline; front prominent in the middle; connecting margins of the valves, on each side of the beaks, broadly and deeply sinuous (see fig. 4 6.) Dorsal valve much nK)re convex than the other, its greatest convexity being at the middle of the front, where it is elevated in the form of a very prominent, rounded, mesial fold, which projects somewhat forward, and scarcely extends back to the middle ; lateral slopes rounding abruptly downward, and considerably produced, so as to meet the margins of the other valve nearly at right angles ; beak strongly incurved. Ventral valve moderately convex in the umbonal region, and depressed in front into a broad, rounded, or somewhat flattened and profound mesial sinus, which causes the anterior margin to project obliquely forward and upward as a linguiform extension filling a corresponding sinus in the margin of the other valve, which it intersects at less than a right angle ; beak unknown. Surface of both valves apparently nearly smooth, excepting rather distinct, subimbricating marks of growth near the anterior and lateral margins.
Length, about 1.28 inches; breadth, 1.16 inches; convexity, 0.98 inch;
Although I have seen no entire specimens of this shell, those I have had an opportunity to examine seem to differ so widely, not only from all the other fonns in the collection, but from any described species of which I have seen figures or specimens, that there appears to be little, if any, reason to doubt that it is a new species. At a first glance, its extremely elevated fold and deep sinus remind one of Bhynchonella acuminata; but, on closer inspection, this fold is seen to be merely rounded, instead of angu- lar, or divided into several smaller ridges, as we see in that shell. I am in some little doubt, however, whether or not it is really a true Athyris^ since none of the specimens show the beak of the ventral valve, or, very clearly, any of the internal characters. One internal cast of the dorsal valve shows that it has a mesial ridge, or low septum, in the umbo, much as we often
6 P R
82 PALEONTOLOGY.
$ee in Mhynchonella; but some scars of the adductor muscles seen near the middle of the valve seem to be more like those of Athyrw. If a Mhyncho- nella, it would, of course, belong to the section of the genus including J2. acuminata.
Locality and position, — Light-colored Carboniferous limestone of White Pine Mountains, JsTevada.
AiHYBis RoiSSYi, l'Eveill6 (sp.).
Plate 9, figs. 3, 3 «, 3 &.
Spirifer de Roissyiy l'Eveill6 (1835), M^m. Soc. G6ol. France, 11, 39, pi. ii, figs. 18-20.
Spirifer glabristriatus, Phillips (183G), Geol. Yorks., II, 220, pi. x, fig. 19.
Spirifer fimbriatus^ Phillips, ib., 220.
Terebratula Boissyij De Verneuil (1840), Bull. Soc. G6ol.^ Prance, XI, 259, pi. iii, figs.
1 &, c, ^ (not 1 a aud e).— De Koninck (1843), An. Poss. Garb. Belg., 300, pi.
xxi, fig. 1 (not pi. XX, fig. 1).* Athyris depressa^ McCoy (1844), Synop. Oarb. Poss. Ireland, 147, pi. xviii, fig. 7. Athyrls de Boissyi, McCoy (1855), Brit. Pal. Poss., 433. Athyris glahristriata, McCoy, ib., 434. Athyris Boyssi, Dsbvidmn (1860), Monogr. Carb. Bracb. Scotland, 16, pi. i, fig. 12;
and (1861) Brit. Carb. Brach., 84, pi. xviii, figs. 1-11. ? Athyris siiblamellosa^ Hall (1858), Iowa Report, II, part 2, 702, pi. xxvii, figs.l a, &, c.
There are among* the collections before me a number of specimens, some of which agree very closely with A. Boissyi in form, size, and general appearance ; but, as none of them show the fringed lamellae of growth so characteristic of I'Eveille's species, it is with considerable doubt that I have identified them with that widely-distributed Carboniferous form. Still, as the peculiar surface-markings are said not to be always preserved in speci- mens of A, Boissyij it is quite possible that they may have originally existed in our specimens, which came from a limestone matrix. They all show rather distinct, subimbricating marks of growth, but without traces of projecting fimbriated lamellae. Some of the larger specimens have exactly the transversely-oval form and well-defined mesial sinus seen in mature, wide individuals of A. Boissyi; while other smaller individuals are propor- tionally narrower, with a much more prominent beak, and more rapidly- sloping posterior lateral margins, thus passing by easy gradations into forms that it is difficult to separate from A. subtilita, Hall, especially in specimens that have the surface-markings not well preserved. The adult specimens all show the sinus of the ventral valve terminating in a rounded marginal
OARBONIFEBOUS SPECIES. 83
projection, fitting into a con-esponding sinuosity in the front of the other
val^e, just as we see in A. Roissyi; but the sinus in all of them becomes a
narrow, very shallow sulcus, at a short distance from the front, instead of
being broadly rounded or somewhat flattened, as we usually see in large
examples of TEveill^'s species.
Locality and position. — From the light-colored Carboniferous limestones
of Ruby Group ; also, from same in Wachoe Mountains ; Mahogany Peak ;
Egan Range, Nevada,
Athyrts subtilita, Hall.
Plato 8, figs, 6, 6 a.
tSpirifer Roissyi^ d'Orbi^ny (1843), Voy. dans Ara^r. M^rid., 46, pi. iii, figs. 17 and 19,
(by error marked Terebratula Peruviana on the plate; not Athyris Boissyij
rEveill6, sp.). Terebratula subtilita, Hall (1852), Stansbury's Report Salt Lake Exp., 409, pi. 4, figs. 1
and 2 ; and again (1858) in Iowa Geol. Report, I, part ii, 714. — Marcou (1858),
Geol. N. Am., 52, pi. vi, figs. 9 a, b, o, d, e,/. Athyris differentis, McChesney (1860), Descriptions New Palaeozoic Fossils, 47. Athyris subtilita, Davidson (1861), Brit. Carb. Brach., 86, pi. i, figs. 21-22, and pi.
xvii, figs. 8-10.— Salter (1861), Quart. Jour. Geol. Soc, XVII, pi. iv, figs. 4a, ft.—
Meek (1876), in Col. Simpson's Report Expl. across the Great Basin of Utah,
350, pi. 2, figs. 4 <i, 6. Compare Terebratula argentea^ Shephard (1838), Am. Jour. Sci. and Arts, XXXIV, 152,
fig. 8; also, Athyris subquadrata. Hall (1858), Iowa Re{)ort, I, part ii, 703,
pi. 27, figs. 2 «, b, c, d.
Of this very conimon species, there are in the collection from several localities in Nevada well-marked and characteristic examples, agreeing in all respects with those found in the Coal- Measures of the Mississippi Valley, from Kansas and Nebraska to Texas, as well as westward to New Mexico, and eastward to Ohio. If Athyris subquadrata, Hall, is really identical with this species, which it certainly very closely resembles, then it must be com- mon both to the Upper and Lower Carboniferous in the West ; but if that is a distinct species, A. subtilita would seem to be confined, so far as known, to the Coal-Measures in the Mississippi Valley ; though the English speci- mens referred to A. subtilita by Mr. Davidson came from the Lower Car- boniferous.
Mr. Salter identified with this species a South American shell from the Andes, and also a form described from there by d'Orbigny, and referred by him to Athyris Boissyi: and, from the figures given by these authors, as well
84 PALAEONTOLOGY.
as from the other fossils found in the same beds, I can scarcely doubt that this South American shell is really identical with A. subtilita.^
Although the figure given in the Journal of Science by Shephard, of the shell described by him in 1838 under the name Terehratula argentea, does not resemble adult forms of A. subtilita, I have long suspected that it represents an immature example of this species, as no other similar form is known among all the numerous specimens from our western Coal- Measures. If it should be found to be the same, Shephard's specific name would have to stand, as it has priority of date.
Locality and position.— Rxxhy Gvoiip'j Moleen Peak; near Humboldt River, and other Nevada localities, in a light-colored limestone.
Genus SPIRIFERINA, d'Orbigny. Spieifebina (luidfc. sp.).
Plate 8, figs. 5, 5 a, 5 h.
Compare Spirifer octoplicatnsj Sowerby (1827), Min, Conch., V, 120, pi. 562, figs. 2, 3, and 4 (= Spiriferina cristata var. octoplicata of Davidson and others).
Shell rather small, very gibbous, about equivalve, subtrigonal or rhombic-subquadrangular in general outline; hinge-line apparently equal- ing the greatest breadth. Ventral valve most convex in the umbonal region; beak incurved and projecting backward; mesial sinus nan-ow, well defined, somewhat flattened, and, without costse w^ithin, continued to the point of the beak, and having its anterior margin produced forward in the form of a somewhat angular projection fitting into a corresponding sinus in the margin of the other valve; lateral slopes with each five to six elevated, simple, narrowly -romided, or subangular costse of the same size as the deep depres- sions between; cardinal area of moderate height, with well-defined margins that slope from the beak apparently to the lateral extremities of the hinge, rather strongly arched, and inclined obliquely backw^ard. Dorsal valve with a narrow, very prominent, subangular, simple mesial fold, most elevated at or near the front, but continued to the beak, and projecting forward *so as to give a rather acutely angular character to the outline of anterior margin;
♦Since this was written. Professor Derby, of Cornell University, has identified A. mhtilita from Brazil (see Bull. Cornell University, I, No. 2, 7.)
CARBONIFEROUS SPECIES. g5
beak rather distinctly incurved and but very little projecting; lateral slopes costate as in the other valve. Surface of both valves with a few rather strong zigzag marks of growth, most distinct near the deeply interlocking, angular serratures of the anterior lateral margins, showing very clearly, under a common single lens, the rather large punctures regularly arranged in quincunx.
Length, measuring from the most prominent part of the ventral umbo to the front of the mesial fold of the dorsal valve, 0.82 inch; breadth, about 0.93 inch; convexity, 0.68 inch.
This shell seems to be related to a common form in our western Coal- Measures, generally known in this country by Dr. Shumard's name 8. Ken- tuckensis (but supposed by Mr. Davidson not to differ from S. octoplicata of Sowerby), though it is probably distinct from Dr. Shumard's species. With- out more and better specimens for comparison, however, I scarcely feel war- ranted in regarding it as new. The only individual of it in the collection has the lateral extremities broken away, but it is evidently a larger and more robust and more gibbous shell than any specimens of the form described by Dr. Shumard that I have seen, and differs both from that and the European typical 8, octoplicata in having its mesial fold much more elevated, and pro- jecting forward so as to impart a very distinctly angular outline to the middle of the anterior margin. Should other specimens show these characters to be constant, I should think it entitled to a distinct name, either as a species or as a variety, and would in that case propose to call it 8, gonionota, in allusion to its high angular mesial fold.
Locality and position. — Light-colored limestone of Carboniferous age at Railroad Canon, Diamond Mountains, Nevada.
Spieiferina pulohra, Meek.
Plate 8, ags. 1 1 a, 6, c, d, c; and pi. 12, figs. 12, 12 a, ft, c, d ?, Spirifera pulchraj Meek (1860), Proceed. Acad. IlJat. Sci. Philad., XII, 310; and (1876)
in Col. Simpson's Report of Expl. across the Great Basin of Utah, 352, pi. 2,
figs. 1 a and 1 h. Spiriferina pulckra^ Meek (1865), Palseont. Upper Missouri, 10.
Shell of about medium size, transverse, rather compressed, or some- times gibbous ; breadth from twice to about three times the length ; lateral
86 PALiBONTOLCGY.
extremities more or less acutely angular; valves nearly equally convex, the dorsal being generally most convex in front, and the ventral in the umbonal region. Dorsal valve with its beak not very prominent or strongly incurved in the type-specimens, in which the area is rather narrow, well defined, nar- rowed to the lateral extremities, and a little arched and inclined backward over the hinge ; foramen triangular, slightly higher than wide, and provided with a distinct marginal furrow on each side; mesial sinus rather narrow, well defined, smoothly rounded within, and commencing at the apex of the beak, from which it widens and deepens gradually to the front; lateral slopes on each side of the sinus ornamented by from nine to twelve or thir- teen simple, prominent, rather acutely-rounded costse. Ventral valve with a narrow, well-developed cardinal area, which generally tapers to the hinge- line before reaching the lateral extremities, and, with the short beak, arches rather strongly inward ; mesial elevation simple, narrow, rounded, and con- tinued to the beak ; lateral slopes with their simple costse corresponding in number and arrangement to those of the other valve. Surface of both valves with small, somewhat obscure, subimbricating lines of growth, which are rather distinctly arched in crossing the costae, fold and sinus, show- ing the punctate structure very clearly under a common single pocket- magnifier.
Length (of one of the more compressed specimens), 0.95 inch ; breadth of the same, about 1.76 inches; convexity, 0.52 inch.
Most of the typical specimens of this species are rather compressed, and have the lateral extremities extended and acutely pointed. Other specimens, however, from the same rock at localities a little farther north, found associated with the same group of fossils, are more gibbous, and have slightly smaller and a little more crowded costse, with a somewhat higher and more arched area and beak. As the latter, however, vary somewhat in these respects, and agree exactly in all other known characters with the more compressed typical examples, I have not been willing to separate them.
Although not unlike some of the .described species of Spirifer {Tri- gonotretd)j I am not acquainted with any described species of Spiriferina so near this as to render a comparison necessary. It certainly belongs to
CARBONIFEROUS SPECIES. 87
the latter group, being beautifully punctate, as can be readily seen with a common single lens, the punctures being so large as even to give the whole surface of internal casts a beautiful granular appearance; while casts of the rostral cavity of the ventral valve show a deep mesial slit, left by a well-defined mesial septum, as seen in fig. 1 c of plate 8.
Locality and position, — The typical specimens were brought by Colonel Simpson from a locality in Nevada, at latitude 40^ N., longitude 115^ 20' W. ; the other more gibbous specimens in the collections under consideration came from White Pine County, twenty-five miles northeast of Hamilton, Ruby Group, Nevada: all from light-colored Carboniferous limestone.
A number of other specimens in the collection, from a light-grayish limestone at the mouth of Weber Canon (see pi. 12, figs. 12, 12 a, 12 6, 12 c, 12 d\ agree, so far as can be seen, in all respects with this species. Some of them are compressed like the typical specimens, while others are more gibbous, and agree exactly with those from the Ruby Group.
Genus SPIRIFER, Sowerby. Spirifbr cuspid ATUS, Martin! (sp.).
Plate 3, figs. 11, 11 a.
Anomites cuspidatus^ Martin (1796), Trans. Linn. Soc, IV, 44, pi. iii, figs. 1-6. Conchyliolithus (Anomites) cuspidatusy Martin (1809), Petref. Derb., I, 10, pi. 46, fig. 34,
and pi. 47, fig. 5. ISpirifer cuspidatus^ Sowerby (1816), Min. Oonch., II, tab. 120, figs. 1-3 5 and of numer-
ous later authors. Delthyris cuspidatuSj Keiferst. (1824), Naturges. des Brdk., II, 611. Cyrtia simplex^ McCoy (1844), Synop. Garb. Foas. Ireland (not of Phillips). , Cyrtia cuspidata, McCoy (1855), Brit. Pal. Foss., 466.
Of the form I have referred with doubt to the above-mentioned species, there is but one distorted specimen and a part of another in the collection. It seems to have had, before distortion, exactly the form, size, and surface- characters of a medium-sized individual of S. cuspidatus, excepting that its high area is arched a little backward, instead of being merely vertical or slightly arched forward, as seems to be generally the case with S, cuspidatus. As this, however, is doubtless a more or less variable character, unless known to be constant in a large number of specimens, and to be accom-
88 PALEONTOLOGY.
panied by some other differences, it would be unsafe to view our shell as belonging to a distinct species; though it is barely possible that it naay prove to be such. One of the specimens shows that it has the transverse septum and the split tube between the dental laminse, now known to exist in S. cuspidatus, I have not been able yet to see evidences of the shell being punctate, though I have not given it a thorougli examination, and believe that it will be found to possess that character also.
Locality and position. — White Pine Moui^tains, Treasure Hill, Nevada ; exact position not known, but it is believed to have come from a gi'ay semi- crystalline limestone holding a position between well-marked Carboniferous and Devonian rocks, and probably belanging to the former epoch.
Spiuifer (Trigonotreta) opimus, Hain.
Plate 9, fig. 6.
Spirifer opimus, Hall (1858), Geol. Eeportof Iowa, L part ii, 711, pi. xxviii, figs. 1 «, b.
Splrifer subventricosiis, McObesney (1860), Descriptions Kew Palaeozoic Fossils, etc., 44; and Trans. Chicago Acad., I, pi. i, fig, 4.
Compare SpiriferbisulcatuSj Sowerby (1825), Min. Conch., V, 152, pi. 494, figs. 1 and 2; also 8» Rocky montana, Marcou (1858), N. Am. Geol., 50, pi. vii, hg^^, 4, 4 a-e ; j8, Keolculc^ Hall, var. (1858), Iowa Keport, I, pi. xx, and pi. xxv, and 8. incre- hescensj Hall, ib., pi. xxvii, figs. 6 a-i ; also S, Keokuk^ var. SkelbyensiSj Swal- low (18G7), Trans. St. Louis Acad., 11.
Shell attaining nearly a medium size, moderately gibbous, subequi- valve ; hinge about equaling the greatest breadth ; lateral extremities sub- rectangular, slightly rounded, or more or less than rectangular; front having a general subsemicircular outline, sometimes a little projecting in the middle. Ventral valve most convex in the umbonal region ; beak rather pointed and distinctly incurved; area of moderate height, strongly striated vertically, and arched with the beak ; mesial sinus narrow, rather shallow, and nar- rowing gradually to the apex of the beak, occupied by generally four costsB, a little smaller than those on each side, with which the lateral ones usually coalesce before reaching the umbo ; lateral slopes each occupied by from eleven to thirteen, most generally simple, but sometimes in part bifur- cating costae, crossed on well-preserved specimens by moderately distinct, undulating marks of growth. Dorsal valve most convex near the middle ; beak strongly incurved ; mesial fold corresponding in size and form with
CARBONIFEROUS SPBGIES. gg
the sinus of the other valve, and, as well as the lateral margins, costated in the same way.
Length, 1 inch; breadth, about 1.30 inches.
I am not entirely satisfied that this shell is identical with S. opimus, Hall ; though, so far as the specimens afford the mean^ of comparison, it seems to present no constant essential differences. Professor HalFs figure in the Iowa report represents a short gibbous form of the shell with a rather high area; but collections from the Coal-Measures of the Western States show the shell to vary much in these characters. In fact, it is very questionable whether there are any reliable specific differences between S, opimus and S. Keokuk (including both Professor HalFs varieties of the latter) and S, subventricosusj McChesney. Again, some varieties of these shells very nearly resemble certain forms of S. increiescens^ Hall ; while several of the most distinguished European authorities consider the last-mentioned form itself identical with S, bisulcatus, Sowerby, an opinion in which I am much inclined to concur. It will also be noticed that our figure represents a shell almost exactly agreeing with some varieties of 8. bisulcatus, as may be seen by comparing it with the variety of that species illustrated by fig. 8, plate vii, of Mr. Davidson's Monograph of British Carboniferous Brachio- poda. S. bisulcatus J seems to be, from the published illustrations, a variable form; and, according -to the limits assigned it by European authors, might, so far as can be determined from comparison of external characters, take in all of the proposed species and varieties mentioned above. Dr. White considers 8. opimuSy Hall, and 8, Eocky-montana, Marcou, identical, which may or may not be so; but however this may be, there is about as good reason for viewing all of the shells here mentioned as varieties of 8. bisulcatus^ Sowerby.
As I have not the necessary specimens at hand to attempt the solution of the question in regard to the relations of these American forms to each other and to 8. bisulcatus, I have merely referred our shell to 8. opimus, Hall, provisionally, for the present.
Locality and position. — Six miles south of Promontory Station, Promon- tory Mountains, Railroad Canon, Moleen Peak; Mount Nebo, in Utah, and at longitude 111^ 38' W., latitude 40^ 22' N.; generally found in a
90 PALiBONTOLOGY.
dark-colored limestone. There are specimens in the collection, however, from Fossil Hill, White Pine District, apparently belonging to this species, in a lighter-colored matrix. Everywhere in Carboniferous beds; and either the same or a closely-allied species occurs in the Coal-Measures of Illinois.
Spirifer (Trigonotreta) scoBiNA, Meek.
Plate 9, figs. 1, 1 a, 1 6, 1 c, 1 d.
Spirifera scohina. Meek (1860), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., XIF, 310. iSpirifer (Spiriferinaf) scohina^ Meek (1876), in Col. Simpson's Report Expl. across the Great Basin of Utah, 351, pL ii, figs. 5 a, &, o.
Shell attaining a moderately large size, truncato-subcircular, or approaching subpentagonal, rather gibbous, and more or less nearly equi- valve, with length and breadth scarcely differing; hinge-line about equal- ing, or a little less than the greatest breadth, and generally intersecting the lateral margins at rather obtuse angles; outline of front rounded, a little straightened, or probably sometimes slightly sinuous at the middle ; lateral margins rounding to the front. Ventral valve generally a little more con- vex than the other; beak not very prominent, but strongly incurved; area well defined, of moderate breadth (height), and continued to the extremities of the hinge, more or less arched and directed a little obliquely backward; foramen wider than high; mesial sinus narrow and very shallow, but usually continued nearly to the beak, occupied at the front by about five smaller plications than those on the lateral slopes, the outer ones usually coalescing with the larger marginal one on each side before reaching the beak; lateral slopes each occupied by about eight rather depressed costse, which are wider than the furrows between them, and sometimes, though rarely, bifurcate. Dorsal valve \Vith beak strongly incurved; mesial fold scarcely defined, excepting at the front, where it is flat, and ornamented by about six much depressed costse, which coalesce so as to reduce the number to three before reaching the beak; lateral slopes each occupied by about eight to ten rather broader, depressed, and sometimes bifurcating costse, as in the other valve. Surface of both valves, when well preserved, showing very fine, obscure, crowded, and undulating striae of growth, and everywhere covered with closely and very regularly arranged granules, not generally readily seen without the aid of a magnifier.
CARBONIFEROUS SPECIES 91
Length, 1.90 inches; breadth, 2 inches; convexity, 1.30 inches.
This fine species may be compared with S. bisulcatus of Sowerby, some varieties of which (especially those with broad depressed costae) it more or less nearly resembles. It seems, however, to be always longer in propor- tion to breadth, and is much less variable in form. The most reliable dif- ference observable, however, is the beautifully -granulated surface of our species. I know of no nearly similar American shell with which it is neces- sary to compare it.
Locality and position. — Light-colored Carboniferous limestone, at lati- tude 40'' N., longitude 115^ 20' W.; Colonel Simpson's collections.
Spirifer (Trigonotreta) cameratus, Morton.
Plate 9, figs. 2, 2 a.
Spirifer eameratus, Morton (1836), Am. Jour. Sci. and Arts, XXIX, 150, pi. 2, fig. 3. — Hall (1856), Pacific R. K. Report, III, 102, pi. 2, figs. 9, 12, and 13; and (1858) in Iowa Geological Report, I, part ii, 709, pi. xxviii, fig. 2. — Meek (1876), in Col. Simpson's lleport Bxpl. across the Great Basin of Utah, 353, pi. ii, figs. 3a,b.
Spirifer MeusebachanuSj Roemer (1852), Kreid. von Texas, 88, pi. 11, figs. 7 fi, &, c.
Spirifer triplieatus^ Hall (1852), Stansbury's Report of Salt Lake Bxpl. Expedition, 410, pi. 2, tig. 5 (by error pi. 4).
? Spirifer fasciger^O^ ^n (1852), Report Wisconsin Iowa and Minnesota, pi. 5, fig. 4 (Keyserlingf (1846.)
Spirifer striatm var. triplicatm^ Marcou (1858), Geol. N. Am., 49, pi, vii, fig. 3.
Spirifer cameratus var. KansasensiSy Swallow (1867), Trans. Saint Louis Acad. Sci., II.
f Spirifera camerata, Derby (1874), Bull. Cornell Univ., I, No. ii, 13, pi. i, tigs. 1-9, and 14.
The specimens that I have referred to this common species are all more or less broken or distorted ; but, so far as their characters can be made out, they seem to agree so nearly with characteristic examples of Morton's species from the Coal-Measures of the Mississippi Valley, that I have scarcely any doubts of their identity. They all have the peculiar fasciculated character of the costae, so characteristic of S. cameratus^ more or less marked, while in some of them it is well defined. They seem to have the mesial fold some- what less prominent, and the lateral slopes less compressed than we usually see in S. cameratus; but these are more or less variable characters in that species.
Locality and position. — Light-colored Carboniferous limestone, at Fos-
92 PALEONTOLOGY.
sil Hill, White Pine District; also from same in the Ruby Group, Nevada. Colonel Simpson likewise brought specimens of it from latitude 39^ 33' N , longitude 115^ 12' W., where it seems to be quite abundant in the same limestone.
LAMELIJBRANCHIATA,
PTERIID^. ? Genus POSIDONOMYA, Bronn.
PoSIDONOMYAf FRAGOSA, Meek. Plate3, fig3. 8,8 a.
Shell subovate, compressed, more or less oblique, very thin and fragile ; hinge short and apparently varying much in its obliquity to the longer axis of the valves; beaks apparently nearly terminal; posterior basal margin rounded. Surface with irregular concentric undulations and striae, usually most distinct on the central region, where they are often crossed by faintly- defined radiating costse, which sometimes extend nearly to the posterior basal margin.
Length of one of the largest specimens seen, measuring obliquely in the direction of the longer axis of the valves, l.lO inches; breadth at right angles to the same, abOut 0.80 inch.
As the specimens of this shell in the collection (or at least all that remains of the shell) are extremely thin and fragile, and flattened between the laminae of the shale, as well as otherwise distorted, it is quite probable that it may be found necessary to modify some of the characters given in the above diagnosis of the species. Until better specimens can be obtained for examination, its generic affinities must also remain doubtful, though I am inclined to think it belongs to some genus at least allied to Posidonomya of Bronn, and including a species I have described from the Coal-Measures of Ohio under the name Posidonomya frada ; which latter also occurs in the Coal-Measures of Illinois.
[As these pages are going through the press, I observe that Professor Hall and Mr. Whitfield, who have prepared a supplementary report on Mr. King's later collections, have referred this shell to Lunulicardium of Miinster (see Am. Jour. Sci. and Arts, vol. XI, p. 479, where the name is,
CARBONIFEROUS SPECIES. 93
^y ^ typographical en-or, printed Lmulicardia). As stated in the foi-egoing remarks, the specimens examined by me are flattened between the laminse of shale, and therefore in a very unfavorable condition for satisfactory generic determination. I have not seen them since writing the foregoing description, six years back ; and the old work in which Miinster described the genus LunuUcardium is one of the very few publications of the kind that I have never yet been able to consult. If I am correctly informed, the hinge of LunuUcardium is unknown, and it is very improbable that any specimens of the shell here under consideration showing the hinge have yet been found. From the impressions of its general physiognomy, however, left on my mind, it would seem to differ much from the general external characters of LunuUcardium excrescenSj Miinster, which is the species gen- erally figured as an illustrative example of the genus. That it is certainly a Posidonomya, however, I have never asserted.]
Locality and position. — White Pine Mountains near Hamilton, Nevada; from a black laminated shale of Devonian or Carboniferous age.
Genus AVICULOPECTEN, McCoy.
AVICULOPEGTEN CATACTUS, Meek. Plate 3, figs. 10, 10 a (and 10 b ?).
Shell rather under medium size, much compressed, very thin and hav- ing scarcely any degree of obliquity — exclusive of the ears, subovate in outline ; hinge-margin less than the greatest breadth ; posterior and anterior margins rounding into the regularly-rounded base. Left valve compressed- convex ; ears nearly flat ; the posterior one not distinctly separated from the swell of the umbo, about as long as the margin below, from which it is separated by a broad, more or less rounded, moderately deep sinus, which imparts a rather acute angularity to its posterior extremity ; anterior ear a little declining, with its anterior margin slightly convex in outline, but ter- minating nearly in a right angle above, and defined below by a rather shal- low, obtusely angular sinus ; beak slightly nearer the anterior side, project- ing a little above the hinge, and incurved, but not oblique. Right valve nearly flat, and having the same general outline as the other, excepting that its beak is much less distinct from the hinge-margin, and the sinus
94 PALEONTOLOGY.
under the anterior ear is very deep, sharply defined, narrow, and directed obliquely backward toward the beak. Surface of left valve ornamented by small, generally simple, depressed, radiating costsa, between each two of which there is one, or on* some parts two or three, smaller linear ribs, that usually die out before reaching the beaks ; while small concentric wrinkles are also usually more or less defined on the body-portion of the valve, so as to impart a faintly tubercular appearance to the costse at the points where they cross ; radiating costae on the ears, merely small raised lines, rather distantly separated, and crossed at regular intervals by little sharply- elevated lines, parallel to the free borders, so as to produce a more or less cancellated style of ornamentation. Surface of right valve (fig. 10 &) with radiating costse (excepting one separating the posterior ear from the body of the valve, and those on the anterior ear, which are larger than the others) all small, and of nearly uniform size. Lines of growth very minute and ob- scure on both valves ; though the right valve has some strong concentric furrows.
Height of one of the largest specimens, 0.88 inch ; breadth of the same, 0.89 inch; length of hinge-line, 0.64 inch.
This species is evidently allied to Aviculopeden occidentalis (= Peden occidentalism Shumard, zz: P. Cleavelandicus, Swallow), a very common and widely-distributed species in the Coal-Measures of the Mississippi Valley. It is a much thinner and more compressed shell, however, and always without any traces of the subimbricating concentric lamellai of growth, generally seen on well-preserved left valves of that species, and some- times even rising as little vaulted scales on the costse, especially on those of the anterior ear and near it. From A, Lyelli of Dawson, described from the Lower Carboniferous rocks of Nova Scotia (which I am much in- clined to think not distinct from A. occidentalism Shumard), it differs in the same characters distinguishing it from the latter. Compared with A. recti- laterarius of Cox (sp.), it will be seen to differ not only in its deeply sinu- ous posterior margin, and the consequent acutely angular character of its posterior ear, but in having two sets of costae ; that is, a larger and a smaller set, generally alternating. It is probably most nearly allied to A. Goxanus, Meek and Worthen, from the Coal-Measures of Illinois; with which
OAEBONIFEROC7S SPECIES. 95
it agrees ia its extreme thinness as well as in general appearance. It, how- ever, attains a larger size, and has proportionally larger costae ; while its surface does not show, under a magnifier, the fine, regular, and distinct striae of growth seen on that species. •
Among foreign species, it seems to be most nearly represented hy Avi- culopecten papyraceus, Sowerby (sp.); which, however, is a much larger, more oblique shell, with very differently formed ears, as illustrated by Sow- erby. In the form of its posterior ear, as well as in some other characters, it agrees more nearly with a shell from the Coal-Measures of Belgium, fig- ured by Professor De* Koninck (An. Fos. Belg., plate v, figs. 6 a, 6), and by him referred to A. papyraceus, Sowerby ; though it differs materially in other respects. If the figures published by Sowerby and De Koninck, of the forms illustrated by them under the name Avicula papyracea, are exactly correct, I should think they represent two distinct species. At least, none of our analogous species in this country present, among hundreds of individ- uals, such marked differences as are seen between their published figures.
Locality and position, — From a black bituminous shale at Hamilton, White Pine Mountains, Nevada ; of Devonian or Carboniferous age.
AvicuLOPECTEN Utahensis, Meek.
Plate 9, figs. 7, 7 a, 7 6 (and 7 c, d ?). Peeten Utakensis, Meek (1860), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., XII, 310. Aviculopecten DtahensiSj Meek (1876), in Col. Simpson's Report Expl. across the Great Basin of Utah, 354, pi. i, figs. 9 a, 9 b.
Shell of about medium size, suborbicular, compressed, thin, not oblique; hinge-line straight, equaling about one-half to two-thirds the antero-poste- rior diameter of the valves ; pallial margin regularly rounded. Left valve compressed, or moderately convex; ears rather small, flattened so as to be more or less distinct from the slight convexity of the umbo, each separated from the margin by a shallow, olTtusely angular notch, of which the one under the anterior ear is rather more distinctly defined ; anterior ear nearly rectangular at the extremity, with a slightly convex anterior margin; posterior ear generally more obliquely truncated ; beak small, rather com- pressed, not projecting above the hinge, and placed at or slightly in advance of the middle of the cardinal margin, with its lateral slopes diverging at an
96 PALEONTOLOGY.
angle of about 95^; surface ornamented by rather obscure, unequal, radi- ating costae, and numerous, very regular, extremely fine, concentric striae, scarcely visible without the aid of a magnifier ; costse not defined on the ears, or usually on the adjacent lateral margins, and most frequently arranged with from one to thn^e smaller ones between each two of the largest, the middle one of the three smaller being sometimes a little larger than the smallest one on each side. Eight valve as convex as the other, or sometinaes more compressed, but without traces of radiating costae or striae ; ears of the same size, and nearly of the same form as in the other valve, excepting that the anterior one is defined by a deeper marginal notch.
Length, or antero-posterior diameter of a large specimen, 1.70 inches; height of the same, 1.73 inches; convexity of left valve, 0.25 inch.
I am not positively sure that the two valves described above belong to the same species, not having seen them in any instance united. The fact, however, that they occur together in the same matrix, and have the same form, and do not differ very greatly in size, while the smooth specimens are all right valves, and the costated ones left valves, leaves little room for doubting that they are the opposite valves of the same species. The most obvious characters of this shell are its nearly circular form, subequal ears, and the very fine, regular, concentric striae, and unequal radiating costae of its left valve. I know of no other species nearly enough allied to render a comparison necessary.
The form to which the costate valves belong may be considered the type of the species, in case the smooth valves should prove to belong to a diffierent shell.
Locality and position, — In light-colored Carboniferous limestone, at latitude 39° 33' N., longitude 115° 12' W.; Colonel Simpson's collection.
AVICULOPECTEN OCCIDANETJS, Meek. Plate 12, figs. 13, 13 a, 13 5.
Shell small, usually very little oblique, broad ovate-suborbicular in out- line exclusive of the ears ; hinge shorter than the antero-posterior diameter; pallial margin more or less regularly rounded,* but generally a little more prominent behind the middle than before. Left valve moderately convex;
CARBONIFEROUS SPECIES. 97
beak pointed, convex, nearly central, projecting slightly beyond the hinge- margin, and somewhat incurved; ears nearly equal, compressed; the anterior one, which is nearly rectangular at the extremity, generally separated from the swell of the umbo by a broad, rather deeper concavity, which is continued to the margin, to which it imparts a slight sinuosity under the ear ; posterior ear a little larger than the other, but not extending back as far as the margin of the valve below, in some examples apparently less than rectangular at the extremity, and in others more, in consequence of the more or less sinuous character of the margin. Surface ornamented by small, raised, simple, radi- ating costse, or striae, about every fourth to every seventh one of which (especially on the body-part) is a little larger and more prominent than the others; whilethose on the ears, particularly on the anterior one, are all smaller^ though they are generally well defined on both ears; a few very small, irregu- lar, concentric marks of growth may also sometimes be seen crossing the surface of the body-part of the valve. Right valve not certainly known.
Height of one of the medium-sized specimens of a left valve, 0.44 inch; breadth, 0.37 inch; convexity, 0.10 inch.
I am not sure that I have seen any right valves of this species. There are among the specimens some imperfect examples that would seem, from the direction of the very slight obliquity, to be right valves. But owing to the fact that they are generally quite as convex as others that are certainly left valves, and have exactly the same surface-markings, while the ears, as nearly as their form can be made out, would also indicate that they are left valves somewhat distorted so as to change their slight obliquity, I am led to regard them as such. The most characteristic features of the species are its rather small size, nearly equal ears, and small radiating costae, always increasing by intercalation, with every fourth, fifth, sixth, or seventh one on the body of the valves (at least the left one) a little larger and more prominent than the others.
The reason why this and some other Carboniferous and possibly some Jurassic forms are figured together on the lower half of plate 12 is else- where explained. (See note on explanations of plate 12.)
Locality and position, — Weber Caiion, Wasatch Range; Upper Coal- Measure limestone. 7 p n
98 PALEONTOLOGY.
CEPHALOPODA.
GONIATITID^.
Genus GONIATITES, De Haan. GoNiATiTES aoNiOLOBUS, Meek.
Plate 9, figs. 5, 5 a, 5 6.
Shell distinctly discoid, with (in internal casts) a narrowly-rounded periphery; volutions compressed laterally, with slightly convex sides, the greatest convexity being a little within the middle; about twice as wide in the dorso-ventral diameter as at right angles to the same; each turn em- bracing all the others, so as to leave only a very small umbilicus, showing none of the inner volutions. Septa closely and very regularly arranged, but nowhere in contact or lapping upon each other; siphonal lobe (gener- ally called the dorsal lobe) very large, and profoundly divided into two large, elongated, acutely-pointed terminal branches, v/hich lap so far over each side of the volutions as to appear each like a large lateral lobe; while between these there is a third minute central projection; first lateral sinus very deep, elongate-conical, very acutely angular at the extremity, and arched or obliquely curved toward the umbilical side; second lateral lobe of much the same form as the divisions of the siphonal lobe, but a little shorter; second lateral sinus wider than the lateral lobe, but more shallow, and merely forming a broad forward arch to the umbilicus. Surface of internal oast without nodes, costae, or angles.
Greatest diameter of a specimen, with the body-chamber broken away, 3.07 inches; convexity, 0.87 inch; breadth of outer volution, measuring in the direction of the plane of the shell, 1.72 inches.
Excepting in being more compressed, with a more narrowly rounded periphery, this species has much the general appearance externally of G, rotatoriuSj De Koninck. Its septa are more closely approximated, however, and differ remarkably in having* the siphonal lobe so enormously developed, and so wide and deeply divided as to lap over on the sides far enough to cause its large, acutely-pointed terminal branch on each side, to appear, in a side-view, like a first lateral lobe; while the first lateral lobe is thus, as it were, crowded much farther inward, and appears like a second lateral lobe.
UPPER TRIASSIO SPECIES. 99
From this structure, each side of the fossil looks very much as if there were two large, sharply-angular lateral lobes, where there is really only one.*
The only specimen of this species I have seen belongs to the Museum of the General Land-Office at Washington. It is an internal cast, com- posed of a deep brownish-red oxyd of iron, but shows all the characters of the species, excepting the surface-markings (if there were any), very clearly.
Locality and position. — It is only known that the specimen came from New Mexico. From its affinities, it would seem to be of Carboniferous age.
UPPER TRIASSIO SPEOIES.
MOLLUSCA.
BRACHIOPODA.
DISOINID^.
Genus DISCINA, Lamarck.
DisciNA, sp. undetermined.
Plate 10, figs. 3, 3 a,
I only know this shell from two specimens of the under valve, and these show only the inner side. They have a subcircular or broad subovate outline, being slightly narrower posteriorly than in front. The anterior
* The contrast in the structure of the septa of the typical Goniatites, such as G. spJiccricus^ De Elaan, and the species here described, with their deep, acutely angular lateral lobes, and those older species, such as 0. expansm or Marsellensis^ Vanuxem, with the septa making merely a broad backward curve across each side, without any lateral lobes, is very striking. It may therefore be convenient to separate these more simple types (the H^autilini of authors) as a distinct subgenus on this structure of the septa and other characters. I would therefore propose for this group the subgeneric name Agoniatites^ with Goniatites [Agoniatites] expansus^ or Marselleiisis^ of Vanuxem, as the type. It is probable, however, that there are, among the known species with this simple structure of the septa, forms that might be properly separated from the group including G. expansus on other characters, as that species presents some striking peculiarities in its development, the young having its periphery rounded with a double groove and a ridge between, and the sides marked with arching undula- tions, while in the adult, the undulations become obsolete, and the periphery flattened, with distinct angles. G. Bokemicus of Barrande belongs to this group.
100 PALEONTOLOGY.
central region is concave on the inside, and the posterior convex and pierced by the fissure, which is rather short, with its inner end about equidistant from the posterior margin and from the middle of the valve; though its inner end terminates at the center of growth, as may be seen by the concentric arrangement of the fine obscure striae of growth observable on the interior.
Antero-posterior diameter, 0.62 inch; breadth, 0.58 inch.
The species of this genus are so difficult to distinguish without a good series of specimens, that I have been unable to satisfy myself that this is new, or to identify it with any known species, and therefore merely give a figure of it, as one of the forms found in the rocks at the locality men- tioned below. If new, however, it may be called D. Utahensis.
Locality and position, — Weber Canon, Wasatch Range; Triassic.
LAMELLIBRANCHIATA.
PTEEIID^.
Genus HALOBIA, Bronn. Halobia (Daonella) Lommelt,' Wissmanu.
Plate 10, fig 5.
Halobia Lommelt, Wissmaiin (1841), Beitr. Petref., IV. Heft, 22, tab. 16, fig. 11.— Horness (1855), Densk. Kais. Akad. Wissensch., IX, 52, taf. ii, fig. 17.— Zittel, Fossile Moll, und Echinoderraen aus Neii-Seeland, 27, taf. vi, figs. 1 a, &, c— Stoliczka (1866), Mem. Geol. Survey India, Y, 44.
Avicula pectiniformis^GatuWo (1847), Prodr. Pal. Alpi Veu., 73, pi. i, figs. 1, 2, 3.
Posidonomya Lommelij d'Orbiguy (1840), Prodr. de Pal^ont. Stratigr. Univ., I, 201.
f Halobia f duhiaj Gabb (1864), Geol. Survey California, I (Palteont.), 30, pi. 5, ^gs. 28 «, b.
Baonella duUa^ Mojsisovics (1874), Ueber die Trascb. Pelicyp.-Gatt. Paouella und Halobia^ 22.
Shell truncato-subcircular, very much compressed, and very slightly oblique, nearly or quite equivalve, and but slightly inequilateral, the ante- rior side being a little shorter than the other; hinge somewhat shorter than the valves ; anterior and posterior margins intersecting the hinge at obtuse angles, the latter more obliquely than the other, both rounding into the more or less regularly rounded base; posterior basal margin more promi- nent than the anterior ; beaks very small and inconspicuous, with their
UPPER TRIASSIC SPECIES. 101
small abruptly-pointed apices scarcely projecting above the hinge and turned slightly forward. Surface marked off, as it were, into more or less wide, irregular, flat radiating costse, by much narrower or merely linear furrows, the ribs themselves being sometimes also more or less subdivided by much finer furrows; ribs often obsolete near the hinge, both before and behind the beaks, but sometimes one or both of these spaces are occupied by fine irregu- lar costse; a few very faint concentric marks of growth also usually occur near the beaks.
Length of large specimens, apparently about 2.30 inches; height, about 1.60 inches.
Although this shell seems to have been quite abundant, none of the specimens contained in the collection show the entire outline, though its general form can be pretty nearly inferred from the faint undulations of growth. It is possible that a comparison of specimens might show this shell to be distinct, but I have been unable to find any greater difi*erences, even in the most unimportant details, between these specimens and the figures of the European form, than I observe among the specimens themselves, and between the figures of H. Lommelij published by different authors.
I see Professor Mojsisovics refers Halobia Lommeli of Wissmann, and //. dKhiUj Gabb, to his newly-proposed genus Baonella, I am not very well acquainted with the type-species of Bronn's genus Halobia; his figured speci- men, as well as those illustrated by Professor Mojsisovics, being quite im- perfect. If I can be permitted to judge, however, from the figures of sev- eral other species referred to Halobia and Daonella by Professor Mojsisovics, there would seem to be such a series of intermediate gradations between these two groups as to leave the impression that they are hardly more than subgenerically distinct, if even that. The only difference seems to be that in the typical species oi Daonella (D, Moussoni) the lateral margins round into the straight dorsal border, while in the species referred by Professor Mojsisovics to Halobia^ they meet the straight dorsal edge at more or less obtuse angles; and on the anterior side the cardinal margin is compressed, or has an oblique furrow, indicating a slight tendency to form an obscure anterior auricle, defined by the faintest possible indication of a marginal sinus. With these exceptions, the diagnoses of the two groups are precisely the same.
102 PALAEONTOLOGY,
Locality and position. — West of New Pass Mines, Desatoya Mountains, Cottonwood Canon, West Humboldt Eange, Nevada.
LUCmiD^,
Genus SPHiERA, Sowerby.
SpHuERA Whitneyi, Meek.
Plato 10, figs. 4, 4 a, 4 &, 4 c.
Shell subcircular, almost exactly equilateral, rather convex, basal, ante- rior, and posterior margins forming together a regular semicircular curve ; dorsal margin somewhat straightened and nearly horizontal, or apparently sometimes sloping slightly from the beaks, rounding rather abruptly into the anterior and less distinctly so into the posterior margins; beaks rather depressed, or moderately prominent, obtuse, nearly central, and without visible general obliquity, but with the incurved immediate points directed a little obliquely forward; surface only showing obscure lines of growth.
Length of largest specimen seen, 1.65 inches; height, 1,54 inches; con- vexity, 0.86 inch.
None of the specimens of this shell give any clew to the nature of its hinge or interior; but, from its general external characters, I am led to refer it to Sphcera^ though I am aware that it might, so far as can be seen, with almost equal propriety be referred to Unicardium, or any one of several other genera. Some varieties of it resemble Idicina anceps of Laube (see Fauna der Sch. von St Cassian, taf. xv, figs. 4, 4 a); but it is evidently not a Lu- cina. It also differs in attaining a much larger size, and in wanting the peculiar sinuous character of the anterior ventral margin, so distinctly marked in Laube's shell.
It is possible that our largest specimen represented by fig. 4 c may be a distinct species from the smaller typical forms represented by figs. 4 and 4 a.
Locality and position, — Buena Vista Cafion, West Humboldt Range, Ne- vada; Upper Trias.
UPPER TRIASSIO SPECIES. 103
MYT1LIDJ5. ! Genus MODIOMORPHA, H. & W.
MODIOMOUPHA ? OVATA, Meek. Plate 10, figs. 1 and 1 a.
Shell obliquely ovate, much compressed; posterior side wider than the anterior, and broadly rounded in outline; anterior margin narrowly rounded above and sloping backward below; base prominently rounded behind the middle, rounding regularly into the posterior outline, and sloping up ante- riorly from behind the middle, with some appearance of being slightly gaping in advance of the middle; cardinal border shorter than the valves, and passing, by more or less gradual curves, into the anterior and posterior margins, ranging obliquely to the longer axis of the shell; beaks depressed nearly upon a line with the hinge-margin before and behind them, com- pressed and located about one-third the length of the valves from the ante- rior extremity. Surface showing only moderately distinct concentric lines, with sometimes very obscure undulations of growth. (Hinge and interior unknown.)
The specimens of this shell in the collection are all right valves, and have the anterior ventral margin bent inward a little, so that if the other valve presented the same character the lower margin, somewhat in front of the middle, must have been more or less gaping. Without seeing its hinge and interior, we can only guess at its affinities. In general appearance, it reminds one of some of the broad compressed species of Modiolopsis from the Silurian; but it is apparently as nearly like some of the species included in the new Devonian and Carboniferous genus Modiomorpha. That it really belongs to either of these genera, however, is at least improbable, and the chances are in favor of the conclusion that it will be found to belong to an undescribed genus. If so, I would propose for it the name Modiolina,
Locality and position. — ^North fork of Bueua Vista Canon, West Hum- boldt Eange; Upper Trias.
MoDiOMOEPHA ! LATA, Meek.
Plate 10, fig. 2.
Shell transversely ovate, moderately convex in the central and um- bonal regions, and compressed behind ; posterior side distinctly wider than the
1 04 PALEONTOLOGY.
anterior, rather broadly and regularly rounded in outline; base semi-ovate, being more prominent behind, where it rounds up regularly into the poste- rior margin, while it is somewhat straightened and sloping up gradually for- ward; anterior end short, and truncated a little obliquely forward above from the beaks to the anterior basal extremity, which is abruptly rounded or subangular in outline ; hinge-margin straight, about half as long as the shell, and rounding into the posterior margin behind, but not extending for- ward beyond the beaks, which are slightly tumid, obtuse, depressed, and located only about one-fifth the length of the shell from tlie anterior extremity. Surface showing obscure lines- of growth. (Hinge and anterior unknown.)
Length, 1.30 inches; height, 0.95 inch; convexity (of left valve only), 0.20 inch.
Judging from external appearances only, this shell seems to be con- generic with the last; but, as nothing is known of the nature of its hinge and internal characters, I am equally in the dark in regard to its affinities. As it resembles some of the forms included in the genera Modiomorpha, I have referred it provisionally to that group, until its generic charac- ters can be determined. It is a more convex shell than the last, and also differs in having its anterior end obliquely truncated above, instead of be- ing extended, rounded, and compressed in front of the beaks.
Locality and position, — Same as last.
CEPHALOPODA.
OETHOCEEATITID^.
Genus ORTHOCERAS, Auct.
Orthooeras Blakei, Gabb?.
Plate 10, fig. 11. Orihoceras Blakei, Gabb (1864), Geol. Survey of California. I (Palseont.), 19, fig. 1.
The specimens here referred doubtfully to the above species consist merely of two fragments, one of which seems to have belonged toward the posterior part of the shell, though not showing the septa, and the other is a part of the body-chamber. The first is gradually tapering, with a circular
UPPER TRIASSIC SPECIES. 105
section, and the other seems to have been almost exactly cylindrical, and is somewhat compressed, though evidently by accidental pressure. It also shows some appearances of a slight constriction at the aperture, arid has, in the cast, a raised line along the ventral side, as w^e often see in palaeozoic species. As there are no appearances of septa, I have sometimes suspected that it may possibly be the cast of a Belemnite ; but it seems not to be.
Not having had an opportunity to compare good specimens of 0. Blakei with European species from the same horizon, I have formed no opinion in regard to its relations to the latter, and merely refer the form under consideration doubtfully to Mr. Grabb's species, because it came from the same region and the same geological position; while the specimens present no characters inconsistent with the conclusion that they belong to the species described by Mr. Gabb.
Locality and position, — Ridge above Cottonwood Canon, West Hum- boldt Range; Upper Trias.
AMMONITOID FORMS OF THE UPPER TRIAS OF NEVADA.
In examining the shells of the above-mentioned types, in Mr. King's collection from the Upper Trias, or possibly in part from the Lower Lias of Nevada, it soon became evident that none of them would fall properly into the genus Ammonites as the latest methods of classification will require that group to be restricted. It was also equally manifest that the same principles of generic Hmitation would require the estabhshment of new genera for the reception of some of the species. Having neither the neces- sary material at hand, nor the time nor inclination, merely for the classifica- tion of a few species, to enter upon the study and revision of the whole group of Triassic and Liassic Ammonitoid types, I proposed, after separat- ing and writing out full descriptions of the species, to send the specimens to Professor Hyatt (who has long made an especial study of these older forms of this great group of extinct Molluscs), with the view of having them com- pared with the splendid series of European forms in the Cambridge Museum of Comparative Zoology ; the understanding being that he should name and describe the new genera, and that I should describe the species and refer
106 PALEONTOLOGY.
them to the same. To this Professor Hyatt kindly assented, and I now give his descriptions of the new genera, and remarks on some of the species; placing his initials (A. H.), wherever quotations are made from his manu- script
I should remark, however, that I had already identified among the specimens, the following genera, viz., Trachyceras^ Clydonites, and ArcesteSj and referred the species to forms figured and described by Mr. Gabb in the Palaeontology of California, ranging them under the above-mentioned genera.
It would be superfluous for me to attempt the expression here of any opinion of my own in regard to the propriety of the subdivision of the old genus Ammonites into such a great number of genera, and even families, as is done in the new classifications, since I have never made an especial study of this extensive group of shells with the view of forming an opinion on this point. I can therefore only say that Professor Hyatt's conclusions have not been lightly adopted; but that he has, on the contrary, devoted much time and patient research to the study of one of the most extensive and complete collections of this group of shells in the world.
It may be proper for me to explain here some differences of terminology that will be observed in Professor Hyatt's and my own descriptions and remarks. For instance, he very properly describes the external margin, or outer side of the volutions in the Ammonitoid types, as the abdomen, and the inner as the dorsum; while I have used the term periphery for the former, and mnbilical or inner side for the latter. His method has the advantage of properly expressing the true. relations of the animal and its shell; though I have rather preferred the terms I have used, because they avoid the per- plexing confusion of ideas liable to arise in the minds of those who have become familiar with the (until recently) prevalent method of describing the outer side as the dorsal, and the inner as the ventral, as w^e see in nearly all the published works on such shells. Again, in the same way, he terms the outer lobe of each septum the abdominal lobe; while I have for the same used the term siphonal lobe, already in use by some European authors. The lateral lobes and intervening sinuses of the septa I have merely numbered consecu- tively J?rs^, second^ third, and so on, from the outer one inward, instead of using
UPPER TRIASSIG SPECIES. 107
von Buch's terms superior-lateral, lateral, inferior-lateral, and auxiliary hies and saddles. The former method seems to me more simple, and enables one to refer very precisely and directly to any particular lobe or sinus, whether there be few or many. For the ridges crossing the volutions, Professor Hyatt uses the iQvm pilce; while I have used for the same the old term ccwfcs. I am not, however, objecting to Professor Hyatt's terminology, which is very good, but merely explaining the different terms we have here and elsewere used for the same parts of the shell.
-CLYDONITID^.*
^' Genus COROCERAS, Hyatt.
** (K<5pi)f , a helmet ; Kepaq, a horn.)
''^Ammonites, Ooniatltes, Aganides, &c. (sp.)? of several authors, but not as those genera
are now restricted* ^'Clydonites (pars), Hauer (I860), SitzuDgcsb. der Kais. Akad. Wiss., XLI, 122.— Laube
(1869), Fanna St. Cass., 14.
** This genus comprises the following species, viz., Clydonites delphino- cephalus, G. ellipticus, Hauer, and C.nautilinus and C.monilis, Laube; the lat- ter being viewed as the type. These species all have numerous lobes and cells, with smooth sutures, and a large abdominal lobe; the latter being very broad and prominent. They are pileately ribbed and very involute ; the umbilicus nearly covered. The mouth is more or less hooded or constricted. These are the only members of the group that can be satisfactorily charac- terized. The remaining species originally included in Clydonites are very dis- tinct from the typical forms and from each other, and may be arranged into the following groups:
^^ 1. — Clydonites genueulatus, C glaucus, and C Eryx, Hauer, with C. Wissmannij of the same author.
" These have a similarly short clumpy abdominal lobe, with a minute siphonal cell; but otherwise they are entirely different. The whorls of the first, however, are short, with gibbous sides, subangular at the edge of the abdomen; the second, high and crowded Those of C glacialis, on the
♦ Professor Hyatt proposes this new family for the reception of his above described genus Coreceras and Clydonites, Hauer, with probably other genera not contained iu the Kevada collections. In the same way he proposes other new families farther on.
108 PALEONTOLOGY.
Other hand, are very flat and compressed. The lateral lobes and cells would pass for those of a typical Clydonites; but the .latter are larger and more numerous. In both, however, tlie superior lateral lobes are the deepest.
'^ 2. — Clydonites quadrangularis and C, costaiuSj Hauer.
^^ These have septa quite similar, but there is no agreement of form, the former having involuted, squarely-shaped, rapidly-increasing whorls, and the latter abdominally-depressed, non-involute, gibbous-sided, keeled whorls.
^^ ^.—Clydonites spinescens and C armatus, Hauer.
''These are very distinct species, the septa differing considerably, and the forms and pilse more.
'' 4. — Clydonites decoratiis, Hauer, the first species mentioned by him, and here viewed as the type of that genus, is decidedly unique in the group; the rows of tubercles on the abdomen are exceptional, although the septa, if correctly drawn, are similar to those of C. spinescens,
"5. — Clydonites Fresei, Laube, has very singular septa, quite similar to those of Ammonites Klipteinianus. The smoothness, stoutness, and involu- tion of the whorls, however, in the latter are ver}^ different from the pileated non-involute whorls of the former.
'* The want of proper classification and arrangement which is thus shown to exist in this natural series was very plainly perceived by its describer, who asserts that it contains diflferent types, and is capable of division into different families.
^' The confusion introduced into nomenclature of the Ammonites by von Buclv who, as a geologist, did not recognize the necessity of giving a fixed value to the names of groups, is here repeated; and the families are considered less comprehensive than the genera.
''So little is known of the septa of the American specimens that their place among the Clydonitidce appears to be doubtful, though the few lateral lobes figured in the California Geological Report seem to show that they belong to this division.'' — (A. H.)
UPPER TRIASSIO SPECIES. 109
Genus CLYDONITES, Ilauer. Clydonites l^vidorsatus, Hauer (sp.).
Plate 10, fig. 7.
Ammonites Iccvidorsatus, Hauer (1860), Sitzungsb. K. Akad. Wien, ph 3, figs. 9 and 10 b, Qoniaiites Icevidorsatus^ G'<xhh (1864), Geol. Survey of California (Palseont.), I, 21, pi. 3, figs. 6, 7.
Shell compressed-discoidal, with a very wide, exceedingly shallow um- bilicus; periphery more or less narrowly rounded; volutions numerous, very slender, increasing very gradually in size, and each one enveloping about one-third to one-half of the next within; aperture as determined by sections of the volutions, emarginate-subelliptic, being more or less emarginated on the inner side for the reception of the outer side of the next turn within. Surface nearly smooth, or only obscurely ribbed in some specimens, but more generally ornamented with rather strong, regular costae on each side, that usually curve rather strongly forward as they approach the periphery, upon which they become obsolete.
Greatest diameter of one of the largest specimens, 2.70 inches; con- vexity, about 0.60 inch.
I have seen no specimens of this species showing either the siphuncle or the septa, and it seems that none of those seen by Professor Hauer were in a condition to show the nature of the septa. Mr. Gabb, however, describes them as being each ^^ composed of a dorsal and two lateral lobes, which, with the saddles, are all nearly rounded undulations ". From this character of the septa and the general form of the shell, taken in connection with the age of the formation in which it occurs, it is far more probable that the ^^ gullet" of its siphuncle will be found to agree with that of Professor Hauer's genus Clydonites than with that of Goniatites,
As remarked by Mr. Gabb, this shell varies considerably in its surface- characters, some individuals being nearly smooth, while others have the costse of the sides well developed. There are also some diflferences in the size and the arrangement of the costae, which are sometimes proportionally wider and more widely separated than in other examples, while the periphery is more narrowly rounded in some individuals than in others.
I have had no opportunity to compare this shell with typical foreign
110 PALEONTOLOGY.
examples of the species (7. IcevidorsatuSy but merely follow Mr. Gabb in refer- ring it to that form from the general resemblance to Professor Hauer's figures. After I had written the above, and referred this species to C. Icevidorsatus, Hauer, Professor Hyatt sent me the following remarks in regard to this species, which are worthy of quotation here, because they were drawn up by him after making direct comparison with authentic European specimens of Dr. Hauer's species:
**GabVs figures and descriptions agree well with the Nevada speci- mens in the collection, and his figure of the septa shows that the species probably belongs to Clydonites. The agreement with Hauer's figure is not so exact on account of the want of due exactness by which the pilse are made to cross the abdomen in his figure, whereas in the specimens it is a characteristic of late production.
"Gabb especially states that in none of the specimens examined by him did the pilse cross the abdomen. Hauer alludes to the need of a strong side-light, in order to detect them in his specimens. This is by no means the case with the two full-grown Nevada specimens under consideration, the abdominal pilsB being very prominent in both. The young correspond to the description alluded to in the California Report, which seems to have been taken from a young specimen. The first of the adult stage of develop- ment corresponds to Hauer's description, and a further development of the abdominal pilae introduces the full-grown adult. All of these stages are easily traceable; and the one very large specimen mentioned in the Cali- fornia Report belonging to this species which did not have the abdominal pilse must have been an old specimen. In that case, it would have lost these characteristics in the regular course of senile degeneration." — (A. H.)
Locality and position, — Buena Vista Canon, North Fork, Humboldt Range, Nevada; Upper Trias (St. Cassian beds).
"TRACHYCERATIDiE.
"Genus GYMNOTOCERAS, Hyatt.
^^{yvfivdg^ uaked; v(i>)Togy back; Kepag^ a horn.)
"The development of Ammonites BlaJcei, Gabb, and the characters of its abdomen, separate it at once most decidedly from any species of Tra-
UPPER TRIASSIO SPECIES. lU
chyceras. The development generally of a keel, or, in some varieties, of a raised abdomen, over which the pilse do not pass, shows that this is a differ- ent genus, characterized by a different mode of development. The septa are quite similar to those of TracJiyceras ; but it is very evident that in the TrachyceroiidcB the septa cannot be looked to for generic differences. Great differences also occur in the amount of involution of the different species, and in the development of their external characters. This is shown by con- trasting the species Blakeij Trachyceras hrevidorsatunij or T, BrotJieus, with the type of the genus T. aon.
"The forms and characteristics of the young in these three species could hardly be more different, and yet their septa are very similar. Possibly a closer study of the lobes will bring out corresponding differences; but at present it is safer to rely upon the development of external features in this family."— (A. H.)
Gymnotoceeas rotellifoeme, Meek.
Plate 10, figs. 9 and 9 a.
Shell discoid-lenticular, with periphery subangular, or very naiTOwly rounded; convexity only about one-fourth the greatest breadth; umbilicus very small, or scarcely more than two-fifths the breadth of the outer volu- tion, with its nearly vertical walls meeting the lateral surface of the volution so as to form a subangular margin; whorls laterally compressed, with greatest convexity within the middle of the sides, thence converging outward with gentle convexity toward the periphery, all increasing gradually in convexity and more rapidly in breadth; each inner turn almost completely embraced in a profound sinus or concavity of the inner side of the succeeding larger one. Surface in the young ornamented with small, slightly flexuous costae scarcely distinct from the lines of growth, but becoming apparently most defined in young shells about one inch in diameter, after which further in- crease in size rendered them very obscure, broader, and more distant, until they gradually died out, leaving the sides smooth, or nearly so, in a speci- men two inches broad; costse and lines of growth curving strongly forward as they approach the periphery, which the former do not cross or reach. Septa with four lateral lobes on each side, decreasing rapidly in size from the largest or first one (which is oblong, and, like the second and third,
112 PALEONTOLOGY.
merely digitate), to the fourth, which is very small, and nearly or quite simple; first sinus between the siphonal and first lateral lobe smaller, but of the same form as the latter, and merely obtusely serrated, while the suc- ceeding sinuses decrease rapidly in size inward, and become more nearly simple; siphonal lobe shorter than the first lateral, but of about the same breadth, with a short, spreading, digitate, terminal, lateral branch on each side, and a few small lateral serratures along the lateral margins.
Greatest breadth of a specimen apparently, retaining most of the outer volution, 2.34 inches; convexity of same, about 0.55 inch.
In form, this shell agrees pretty nearly with some varieties of G. Blakei, Gabb (sp.); but it differs in being more compressed, particularly toward the periphery, which is thus made narrower, and in its more deeply enibracing volutions, and consequent narrower umbilicus. Its costae are also, appar- ently at all ages, excepting, perhaps, in the very young specimens, much more obscurely defined. So far as the details of the lobes and intermediate sinuses of its septa can be made out from the specimens, they seem to agree exactly with those of G, Blakei I had selected for it the name rotelliformis^ and written out a full description, with remarks on its points of difference from, and agreement with, G. Blakei^ but was not fully satisfied whether it should be included provisionally as a marked variety of that species, or sep- arated entirely as a distinct species. As Professor Hyatt confirms the latter conclusion, I have decided to place it apart as a different species. Professor Hyatt sent the following note respecting its relations to G. Blakei:
"This seems a distinct species from G, Blakei. The latter develops from the young, in which the pilse are distinct, and the abdomen invariably keeled at one' stage; whereas similar pilse and a keel are only occasionally and faintly shown in the shell under consideration. The young are more distinctly pileated than the adults, and are somewhat like the young of G. Blakei at certain stages of growth. A close comparison, however, shows them to be flatter, and nearly the whole of each whorl is concealed by the involution of the shell, whereas G, Blakei has a more open umbilicus at the same age. The same remarks apply equally well to the figure of (?. Blakei in the Palseontology of California.
"The general development and characteristics of the septa of this species.
UPPER TRIASSIC SPECIES. 113
however, resemble those of G. BlakeL The abdomen of the latter, however,
is at first rounded, then more acute, or with a raised keel-line, and finally
this disappears in a flattened abdomen." — (A. H.)
Locality and position. — Buena Vista Canon, West Humboldt Range,
Nevada; Trias.
Gymnotoceras Blakei, Gabb (sp.).
Plato 10, figs. 10, 10 a, Wb, 10 c; ai.d pi. 11, figs. 6, 6«.
Ammonites Blakei^ Gabb (1864), Geol. Survey of California (Pal(»oiit.), I, 24, pi. 4, figs. 14-15.
Shell more or less compressed-discoidal, with periphery rather nar- rowly rounded, or subangular, in consequence of a narrow, obscure, smooth, welt-like ridge, usually seen along its middle, being sometimes more prom- inent in the more compressed specimens; umbilicus moderately deep, and equaling generally a little more than one-fifth the breadth; volutions six or more, more or less compressed laterally, particularly in adult specimens, but usually more rounded in the young; each enveloping one-half to three- fourths of the next within, rounding to the penphery, and truncated, or, in adult specimens, even a little overhanging around the umbilicus; aperture, as determined by sections of the volutions, subcordate, or, in compressed specimens, subhastate, wdth the sinus on the inner side rather deeply defined. Surface ornamented by generally distinctly-defined costse, which, in most cases, increase by bifurcating (usually at a slightly pinched-up prominence on the larger specimens) between the umbihcus and the middle, or in part by the intercalation of others between; all curving strongly forward as they approach the periphery, where they become obsolete before reaching the faintly -marked central ridge.
Septa with siphonal lobe rather short, or about as wide as long, and divided at the extremity into two short, digitate, terminal branches, above which there are two or three very small lateral serratures. First lateral lobe, longer than the siphonal, and provided with two short, digitate terminal divisions^ with some very small lateral notches above. Second lateral lobe considerably smaller than the first, but not difterlng very mate- rially in other respects. Third lateral lobe still smaller than the second, and merely provided with two or three minute notches at the end; between
8 P B
114 ' PALAEONTOLOGY.
the latter and the suture, in the vertical wall of the umbilicus, there are two other minute, apparently simple lobes. First lateral sinus (saddle) a little wider than the siphonal, which it exceeds in length on its inner side, rounded at the end, and slightly serrated on the margins; second lateral sinus much like the first, excepting that its outer side is the longer. The other sinuses are very small, and apparently nearly simple.
Greatest diameter of the largest specimen seen, 2.20 inches; convexity, 0.70 inch. Some of the specimens are proportionally more compressed.
This is one of the most common species found in the Nevada St. Cas- sian beds. It seems to vary considerably in form, as well as in surface- marking; the majority of the specimens before me, however, are less com- pressed, and more obtuse on the periphery, than the typical specimen figured by Mr. Gabb. A few of the others, however, seem to agree more nearly with his figure, while there are so many gradations between these and the less compressed form that I am inclined to regard the whole as belonging to one species.
Mr. Gabb mentions seeing a specimen from near Star City, which he supposed belonged to this species, that was nearly six inches in diameter, and had a row of large nodes around the middle of the whorls. Adopting the conclusion that this really belongs to the species under consideration, the numerous specimens before me would seem to be all young shells, or the inner volutions of large ones, as none of them are more than two and a half inches in diameter, or show the large lateral nodes mentioned by Mr. Gabb. It is true none of them are entirely complete; but if the shell had ever attained so large a size as six inches in diameter at the locality where our specimens were obtained, there would probably have been some fragments of these large individuals brought in with the others.
As remarked by Mr. Gabb, this shell (that is the variety figured by him) resembles Ammonites^ or more properly, I should think, Ceratites sea- phitiformis of Hauer ; but it has the peripheral ridge decidedly less prominent, and shows differences in the nature of the costse, and particularly in the septa; which latter, in Professor Hauer's species, seem to me to present more nearly the characters of Ceratites.
The foregoing description and remarks were written out by me entirely
UPPER TRIASSIC SPECIES 115
from such specimens as those represented by our figs. 10, 10 a, and 10 b on pUte 10; my impression at that time being that the peculiar forms, such as that illustrated by figs. 5 and 5 a of plate 11, belong to an allied but dis- tinct species, differing in the development of lateral nodes, the flattening of the periphery, and the singular elliptic or scaphitoid general outline in the adult. For this form I had proposed the specific name scaphitoides {Gymnot scaphitoideSj as the nomenclature here adopted would require). I had noticed, however, the similarity of its inner volutions to those of G, Blakei, and had considered the question of its possible identity with that species. But the fact that there are some ten or eleven specimens in the collection, all showing the form and flattened periphery seen in fig. 5, plate 11, while none of those that I referred to G, Blakei, even of equal size (as that from which were drawn figs. 10 and 10 a on plate 10), show any traces of the lateral nodes, flattening of the periphery, or elliptic general outline, I was led to think the former could hardly belong to G. Blakei.
Professor Hyatt, however, after studying the specimens carefully, arrived at the conclusion that these scaphitoid specimens with lateral nodes and flattened periphery only represent a more advanced stage in the deveV/p- ment of G, Blakei. Consequently, I now yield my opinion to his greater experience and advantages in tracing the different phases of development in this order of shells, and adopt his conclusion. I prefer, however, to allow my description of G. Blakei to stand as originally written, and to quote below Professor Hyatf s remarks rather than rewrite my own.
The following are Professor Hyatt's notes on G. Blakei^ and its varia- tions and development:
*' This species is smooth for the first three or four volutions. Then the pilse begin to appear as lateral folds. During the next volution, the abdo- naen is smooth and broad; the whole form and mode of involution resembling Lytoceras fimbriatum. After this, a low, broad keel arises [see fig. 10 a, pi. 10], and the increase in bulk is exceedingly rapid. Intermediate pilse [costal] are added by folds of the shell near the abdomen on the sixth or seventh volution [see fig. 10, pi. 10]. These soon coalesce with the longer pilse, and form more or less prominent and subsequently a tubercular junction. On the eighth or ninth whorl, the broad keel disappears, and the pilae are wholly
116 - PALEONTOLOGY.
forked instead of single, the tubercles at the junction very large, and the abdomen gibbous, but smooth [see figs. 6 a, pi. 11]. The terminations of the pilsD are at the edge of the abdomen at this stage, and show obtuse tubercles, whereas in the young they are continued over the edge of the abdomen to the base of the keel. This is the normal succession of these characters, but variations are remarkable. Besides the earlier attainment of the tubercule-shaped pilse, there are those which never have them at all, and one specimen which becomes wholly smooth on the eighth or ninth whorl.
*' Some specimens are also much flatter than others, and often the lines of growth are so decided where they cross the siphon that at first sight they may be mistaken for the pilae themselves, but a closer examination shows that they subdivide the pilae. These more decided striae evidently indicate arrests of growth, and are outlines of the transient mouth. If so, there was a periodical pause in the building-up of the shell, as each pair of pilse were about half completed.
'* Another variation occurs either through compression or subsequent elliptical growth, such as is described by Ban-ande in Goniatites fecundus. By one of these means, probably the former, in eleven specimens, a ScapMtes- like shell is produced [fig. 6, pi. 11], with broad flattened abdomen [fig. 6 a, same plate] and exceedingly prominent tubercles. So similar is this mal- formation, that I at first considered it a true Scaphitoid, bearing to Scaphites a relation similar to that of Bactrites to BacuUtes.
*' There is, however, not one specimen of the eleven examined which is not more or less twisted laterally by compression." — (A. H.)
Locality and position. — Cottonwood Canon, West Humboldt Eange, Nevada ; Upper Trias.
Genus TRACHYCERAS, Laube. Trachyc^eras Whitneyi, Gabb (sp.).
Plate 11, figs. 3, 3 a.
Ammonites Whitneyi^ Gabb (1864), Geol. Survey of California (PalsDont.), I, 23, pi. 4, figs. 11 and 12.
Shell attaining a rather large size for a species of this group^ discoid
UPPER TillASSIG SPECIES. 117
in form, with tlie peripheral channel of somewhat variable depth, but usually well-defined; volutions about five, more or less flattened on the sides, round- ing off a little to the periphery, and abruptly truncated, or even overhang- ing on the umbiHcal side, each enveloping about half of the next one within; umbilicus rather shallow, or of moderate depth, and less than one- third the diameter of the shell. Surface ornamented by a variable number of costse, which curve forward as they approach the periphery, often bifur- cating once or twice in crossing the sides, and also increasing by the inter- calation of shorter ones between, while they usually bear on each side about four or five rows of small nodes, the most prominent of which are generally those along the margins of the peripheral furrow, and around the edge of the umbilicus; the outer rows being sHghtly compressed, and more or less oblique, while those on the sides of the volutions are apparently sometimes obsolescent (Septa not observed.)
Greatest diameter of the largest specimen seen (which is imperfect), about 4 inches; convexity, 1.20 inches; diameter of umbilicus, about 1.15 inches.
The specimen from which the foregoing description and our figures were prepared, agrees much better with Mr. Gabb's fig. 12 than with his fig. 11. He was probably right, however, in including both of his figured specimens as varieties of one species, though I have not seen a series con- necting the two forms. Taking the specimen represented by his fig. 12 as the typical example of the species, our shell may safely be called T. Whitneyi
Among foreign species, this may be compared with T. Archelaiis, Laube (Fauna der Sch. von St. Cassian, 5. Abth., pi. xl, fig. 1); but it differs in having its costse more frequently bifurcating, with fewer nodes, none of which seem to be developed into spines, as in I.aube's species.
After I had written the foregoing, Professor Hyatt sent me the follow- ing note respecting it:
^^ This species is very distinct* on account of its coarse prominent nodes and pilse, the number of the latter, and the young, which are not unlike the young of Gymnotoceras Blakei. The pilse of the young shell in
♦He meaus distinct from T. Judicaricum ; he concurred in the opinion that it is the T. Whitneyi, Gabb (sp.).
118 PALiEONTOLOGY.
T. Judicaricum are finer, and the abdominal channel appears at a much
earlier period of the shell's growth. The abdominal channel in this species,
and others of the same genus, is preceded by a stage in which the abdomen
is flat, more nearly as in the adult G. Blakei" — (A. H.)
Locality and position, — Cottonwood Canon, West Humboldt Range,
Nevada; Trias.
Tbachyceras Judicaricum, Mojsisovics,
Plate 11, figs. 1, la. TracJiyceras Judicaricum, Mojsisov. (1869), Jabrb. Geol. Reicb., Wien, 133, pi. 3, fig. 4.
The specimens ranged under the above name agree so nearly with the smaller examples of T. Whitneyi, Gabb, that I had only separated them as a variety of that species. Professor Hyatt^ however, whose facilities for making critical comparisons of this group of fossils with European forms are far superior to my own, thinks it identical with the above-mentioned foreign species. As may be seen by our figure, it seems to differ from T, Whitneyi chiefly in its proportionally smaller and more crowded costas and nodes. Mr. Hyatt sent me the following note in regard to its relations to Mojsisovics'* species :
^* The only difference noticeable in Mojsisovics' description is that the pilse are continuous across the abdomen, whereas in this specimen the abdominal channel is smooth. Tliis, however, if of any more than indi- vidual value, is probably a local variation." — (A. H.)
Locality and position. — Same as last.
Trachyceeas Judicaricum, var. subasperum.
Plate 11, figs. 2, 2 a, and 2 &.
This shell agrees with the last in form, proportions, and the smallness of its costae, but differs rather decidedly, both from that shell and T. Whit- neyi, in having its costae almost entirely obsolete around the middle of each side, and only a single row of rather distant prominent nodes there. It shows, however, a tendency tx) develop a small row around the umbilicus on each side, as in those forms, and has the usual row of oblique nodes on each side of the mesial furrow of the periphery, with another row a little farther in. At least this is the character of the single specimen of this kind in the col- lection, as may be seen by our figures of it on plate 11.
UPPER TRIASSIC SPECIES. 1 19
The specimen does not give a very clear idea of the details of the septa ; but, as nearly as they can be made out, they seem to present the fol- lowing characters: siphonal lobe narrow, oblong, and apparently merely provided with two small, short, simple, terminal divisions, as in T, Whitneyi, The sinus on each side of this is smoothly rounded, and about as wide as long, while the first lateral lobe is smaller, and also shorter than the siphonal lobe, and armed with a few digitations at the end. Between the latter and the umbilicus, there are two shallow, smoothly-rounded sinuses, and two small lobes, the first of which seems to be digitate at the end and the other smooth.
Locality and position. — Same as last.
^^AROESTIDJ],
^^ Genus ARCESTES, Suess.
^^ Ammonites (sp,), Munster, Kiipsteiu, Hauer, Giebel, Quenstedt, and others; notBrug,
as restricted. *'^Arce8ies^ Suess (1865), Akad. d. Wissensch., LII, 76.
'^The genus Arcestes of Suess, like Phylloceras and Lytoceras of the same author, is a well-defined generic group. I have been justly criticised by Dr. Laube for unintentionally omitting, in my preliminary essay on the * Fossil Cephalopods of the Museum of Comparative Zoology' at Cam- bridge, to give credit to Prof Edward Suess for having been the first to suggest, in any published communication, that the Ammonites were suscep- tible of generic subdivision. I was, however, unacquainted at that time with Professor Suess's results, and therefore must still continue to attribute, so far as I am concerned, the credit of the idea to Professor Agassiz, who gave me the information long before Professor Suess had published his paper.*
'^Other criticisms with which I have been favored will be best answered by the memoirs now in course of publication at the Museum of Comparative
♦ It is well known to the writer, and many others in this country, that Professor Hyatt had long been at work on his subdivisions of the Ammonites before the publi- cation of Professor Suess' paper; though no one will pretend to question the fact that Professor Suess^ conclusions were independently formed, and have priority of publica- tion.—F. B. M.
120 PALEONTOLOGY.
Zoology. I will take this opportunity, however, to say that there were pecuharities in my attempt to frame a new classification for the Ammonites which have passed unnoticed. The species were arranged in series whose affin- ities and genetic connections were successively traced, just as any zoologist would trace the same relations among any disorderly mass of animals. The usual pala&ontological style of making genera, as if families and larger groups had no 'raison d'etre', and the genera themselves no interdependent affin- ities, was carefully avoided. Another peculiarity was that two of my much abused genera precisely agreed with two of those so well described in the justly-admired work of Professor Suess; and as the thirty others described independently by me were founded upon precisely the same set of differ- ences, I find myself unable to appreciate criticisms which *blow hot and cold' upon the same subject, according to the man, and not the man's
work."— (A. H.)
Arcestes! perplanus, Meek.
Plate 11, figs. 7 and 7 a.
Shell strongly compressed, or nearly flattened-subdiscoidal, the lateral compression making the periphery so narrow as to appear almost subangu- lar; umbilicus very shallow, and equaling about one-fourth the greatest diameter of the shell; volutions five or more, nearly flat on each side, increas- ing gradually in size, and each enveloping about two-thirds of the next within; aperture, as determined from a section of the whorls, very narrow at right angles to the plane of the shell, and profoundly sinuous on the inner side for the reception of the next turn within. Surface without nodes, costse, or (on casts) visible remains of striae. (Septa unknown.)
Greatest diameter of the largest specimen seen, 2 inches; convexity of same, 0.30 inch.
This species is chiefly distinguished by its remarkably compressed form. The only two specimens of it seen are also very slightly elliptical in outline. This latter character, however, may be due to accidental distortion ; but as a similar irregularity of form exists in a number of specimens of another associated shell, and the same want of symmetry has been noticed by Pro- fessor Hauer in species from rocks of the same age in the Alps, and by Dr. Stoliczka in the Himalaya Mountains, under circumstances leading to the
UPPER TRIA8S1C SPECIES. ]21
conclusion that it was not due to accidental distortion, it may be natural in the form under consideration.
It is quite similar, even in its elliptic form, to a compressed variety of A. Batteni, Stoliczka (Mem. Geol. Survey of India, V, plate vi, figs. 1 and 1 a), figured by Dr. Stoliczka, from rocks of the same age in India. It is even more strongly compressed, however, and has a proportionally smaller umbiHcus. Although it may possibly belong to the same species, it is far more probable that it does not. Until its septa can be seen, of course its generic relations must remain doubtful. It is not a true Ammonite, how- ever, as the genus is restricted by the latest investigators of the fossil Cephalopoda, but may be placed provisionally in the genus Arcestes until its true relations can be determined from specimens showing the septa.
Some months after writing the above, I received the following note in regard to it from Professor Hyatt:
'^This species seems to be very closely alHed to Arcestes Daonicus, Mojs. (Jahrb. Geol. Reichsan., Wien, XIX, 136, 1869). It is smooth and has no keel, but is simply subangular on the abdomen, and has no knots on the sides, as described in A. Baonicus, There are certain resemblances to Am- monites glaucus which need comparison, and, when the septa are known, they may prove more important than would appear to be the case." — (A. H.)*
Locality and position. — Buena Vista Canon, South Fork, West Humboldt Range; Upper Trias (St. Cassian beds).
Aecestes Gabbi, Meek.
Plate 10, figs. 6, 6 a, and 6 b.
Arcesies Amseeanus, Gabb (1864), Palaeont. Cal., I, 25, pi. 3, figs. 16 and 17 (not of Hauer.)
Shell compressed-subglobose, being rounded on the periphery and
convex enough on the sides to present an elliptic profile view; volutions
increasing gradually in size, each so profoundly enveloping all of those
within as to leave only a very contracted, deep, almost cylindrical umbil-
♦ Oa comparison with Laube's figures of Am7n. glaucus, Mauster, our sbell is seen to be very similar in form, but its volutions are more embracing and more rapidly ex- pand, while its umbilicus is consequently proportionally smaller. Of course the septa as figured by Dr. Laube, unless made out from a very young shell, would show Amm. glaucus to be very distinct from Ammonites proper.
1 22 PALEONTOLOGY.
icus ; aperture, as determined from transverse sections of the volutions, com- pressed, crescent-shaped, being very profoundly sinuous on the inner side for the reception of the involuted turns; internal cast generally showing four subequidistant, transverse furrows to each turn, left by a thickening of the lip within at four regular periods of cessation in the growth of the shell to each volution; each of these furrows, or constrictions, bends a little back- ward in starting from the umbilicus, and then passes nearly straight, or with a slight backward or forward curve over the periphery. Surface generally appearing almost smooth, or only showing obscure lines of growth, with apparently sometimes the faintest possible traces of longitudinal strife on the rounded periphery.
Septa, as made out by Mr. Gabb in the California Report (none of those I have seen show the septa), with siphonal lobe narrow-oblong, being about twice as long as wide, deeply divided into two slender, nearly par- allel, bifid, and digitate terminal branches, with two or three smaller lateral branchlets on each side; first lateral lobe a little shorter than the siphonal lobe, and trifid at the extremity, with two or three lateral branchlets on each side; second lateral lobe slightly shorter than the first lateral, and similar, excepting that it is bipartite at the extremity, with the terminal divisions bifid; third lateral lobe projecting a little beyond the second, and divided more nearly like the first lateral, but otherwise some- what smaller. Between this and the umbilicus there are two much smaller lobes, the first of which is two or three times as large as the second, and more distinctly tridigitate at the extremity. First lateral sinus smaller than the siphonal lobe, longer than wide, and tripartite at the extremity, with short lateral branchlets; second lateral sinus of much the same size and form as the first, while the three succeeding sinuses diminish rather rapidly in size toward the umbilicus, and show a more or less distinct tend- ency to develop similar divisions to those of the others.
Greatest diameter, 2.25 inches; convexity, 1.35 inches.
Although I thought, from sketches of this shell sent to me some years back for comparison by Mr. Gabb, that it probably could not be properly separated from A, Ausseeanus of Hauer, a careful examination of a series of specimens reveals some differences that lead me to conclude that it is more probably only
UPPER TRIASSIG SPECIES. 123
a closely-allied representative species."^ In the first place, as was noticed by Mr. Gabb, it is distinctly more compressed laterally than Professor Hauer's figures of A. Ausseeanus, and also differs in having the greatest convexity of the sides of its volutions much nearer the umbilicus. I am aware that these are characters in which the Ammonitoid types vary con- siderably, but the fact that the Nevada specimens are very constant in these characters, while there are also differences in the details of the lobes and sinuses of the septa, as made out by Professor Hauer and Mr. Gabb, leads me to suspect that still other differences would be observed if we had the means of comparing perfect specimens from the two widely-sepa- rated localities. The differences in the septa alluded to consist in the more conical form of all the lateral lobes and sinuses of the Hallstadt specimens; which also have, according to Professor Hauer^s figure, the second lateral lobe distinctly tripartite, instead of bifid at the end, as represented by Mr. Gabb. There are likewise other differences in the details of the lobes and saddles, but these might be merely individual peculiarities. I lay no stress on the appearances of very faint traces of longitudinal striae seen on some of our specimens, because others show no indications of them.
In form, and some of the characters of its septa, our shell is decidedly nearer like Arcestes Barrandei of Laube (Fauna der Schicbt. von St. Cassian, pi. xliii, fig. 2) than it is like the typical A. Ausseeanm, though it differs in having the periphery more broadly rounded, and its sides less convex in the umbilical region, while in the form and proportions of the lobes and sinuses there are differences of perhaps more importance.
Some time after the foregoing description and remarks were written, Professor Hyatt sent me the following note in regard to this species :
^'It is very distinct in form from A. Ausseeanus, Hauer; witness its greater lateral compression, the scaphitoid or elliptical mode of growth, which is habitual; and the fact that while the adults are so different, the young are similar in their forms to the adults of ^. Amseeanus. I think it to be new."— (A. H.)
Locality and position, — ^West Humboldt Range, near Cottonwood Canon, Nevada (St Cassian formation).
♦ I had at first only separated this form here as a variety of A. Ausseeanusj but, with the concurreuce of Professor Hyatt, I now view it as a distinct species.
124 rAL^ONTOLOGY.
"PHYSAN0IDJ3]. "Genus ACROCHORDICERAS, Hyatt.
*^(aKpoxopd<^Vy a wart ; KepaCy a horn.)
^^This genus is closely allied to Lytoceras and PhylloceraSy Suess, and Haploceras of Zittel, combining characteristics which are found in all of these, besides having peculiar characters of its own, and a different develop- ment The extent of involution is comparable with that of Haploceras^ but the whorl itself is about intermediate between the extreme roundness of LytoceraSj and the more flattened sides of Phylloceras.
'^Its peculiar characteristics consist in having large lateral tubercles and abdominal pilse, which are united as they near the tubercles. The smooth zone along the center of the abdomen in the young is also probably of gen- eric value." — (A. H.)
AcROCHOEDiCBRAs Hyatti, Meek.
Plate 11, figs. 5 and 5 a.
Shell discoid, with the periphery rounded; volutions rounded or very nearly so, and increasing gradually in size, with each of the inner ones about three-fourths embraced by the succeeding larger — all, so far as known, rounded on the outer side; umbilicus more than half as wide as the dorso-ventral diameter of the outer volution, rather deep, and exposing about one-fourth the breadth of each inner whorl. Surface at first in the young shell nearly or quite smooth, then ornamented with small, regular, straight, moderately distinct costae, that seem not to cross the periphery, and die out before reaching the umbilical side, while at a later stage of growth they become quite strongly developed, especially in crossing the periphery, on which are intercalated occasional intermediate ones of equal size. These coalesce with the others on the sides of the volutions, and give origin at the points of junction to prominent nodes arranged at regularly-increasing inter- vals, so as to form a single row near or within the middle of each side. Protected parts also show rather distinct lines of growth, running parallel to the costse, which latter are slightly sigmoid on the sides of the larger volutions, but pass straight across the periphery.
UPPER TRTASSIC SPECIES. 125
Greatest breadth of an imperfect entirely septate specimen, 2.82 inches; convexity of same, exclusive of the nodes, 1.15 inches
No entire specimens of this shell have yet been found; consequently we cannot be quite sure whether or not the periphery continues to be rounded and costate on the outer volution of large mature specimens, though it probably is at least rounded and less strongly costate. One dis- torted specimen shows that near the broken larger end of the outer volution, the costa? become less prominent and more distant, with an intermediate one between each two of the larger, the intercalated ones extending inward but a short distance from the periphery, and dying out without coalescing with the others. This part of the outer turn seems also to be nearly without lateral nodes, which, however, are well developed on the inner turns of the same specimen, where they are seen on the inner volutions just within the inner margin of the umbilicus. None of the specimens are in a condi- tion to exhibit very clearly the details of the septa; but the one represented by our fig. 5 a, plate 1 1 , shows that there are three lateral lobes on each side, the first or outer one being about one-third longer and wider than the sec- ond, with, like the latter, a few short branches or mere digitations at the end. The third or inner lobe is much smaller than the second, placed close in at the inner margin of the whorls, and apparently provided with a few short digitations.
The position of the lateral nodes, it will be observed, varies somewhat in different individuals; those on the specimen represented by fig. 4 being placed nearly out at the middle of the volutions, while on that shown by fig. 4 a they seem to be located farther inward. This, however, is probablj^, at least in part, due to the oblique distortion of this specimen.
In relation to this species. Professor Hyatt sent the following note:
*^ The development of this species is altogether anomalous. The whorls were evidently cylindrical and smooth for a considerable time; the increase in size being at first very slow. Large tubercles appear while the sides are still comparatively smooth in one specimen, though in another they have becorne completely pileated. These tubercles are from the first very prominent. Soon after the introduction of these and the pilse, the increase in size becomes much more rapid. The resemblance of the young to Lytoceras is very close
1 26 PAL^ONTOLOG Y.
at firs^t, and the general form always remains similar. The septa are, how- ever, very distinct; the lobes and cells, so far as they could be traced, hav- ing much more simple outhnes. The pilse do not extend across the abdomen at first, but leave a smooth band in the center. This is broken up on what is supposed to be the fifth volution by the extension of the pilae across the abdomen." — (A. H.)
Locality and position, — New Pass, Desatoya Mountains, Nevada; Trias.
The following two types Professor Hyatt views as representing two undescribed genera, in regard to the family relations of which he has expressed no opinion. His attention was called to them after he had sent on his paper on the others ; and in returning the specimens, he also sent the notes quoted below respecting them. These notes he seemed rather to regard as suggestions than as full descriptions, as he stated that I might as well go on and name and describe them myself It seemed more proper, however, as he had investigated the whole, that these also should stand in his name. Consequently, I have selected the names, and take the liberty to insert them here on his authority, quoting his notes in regard to them.
Genus EUTOMOCERAS, Hyatt.
/^(augm. part.) ; T0}x6qj sharp ; /cepac, a horn.
'* This is a well-marked type, characterized by its lenticular form, nar- row umbilicus, apparently at all ages very sharp abdominal keel, without furrows or lateral ridges, and small regular arched pilse on middle-sized specimens, growing wider, more irregular, less distinct, and developing small lateral nodes on the adult, with both nodes and pilse becoming obso- lete on the larger part of the body- volution." — (A. H.)
EuTOMOCEBAS Laubei, Meek.
Plate 10, figs. 8 and 8 a.
Shell compressed-Wnticular, with the periphery very acutely carinated; umbilicus small, or scarcely more than one-sixth the greatest diameter of the shell. Volutions much compressed laterally, with the sides gradually
UPrER TRIASSIC SPECIES. 127
converging, and sliglitly convex in outline, to the acutely angular periphery, on each side of which there is a very shallow undefined concavity that can hardly be called a channel, while on the inner side they are abruptly truncated or inflected, and gathered into little subnodose wrinkles at the umbilicus; each turn enveloping about four-fifths of the next one within. Aperture, as determined by transverse sections of the volu- tions, compressed-subhastate, being acutely angular at the outer end, and profoundly notched on the inner side, for the reception of the next turn within. Surface ornamented, in young shells of one and a half inches in diameter, by small regular costse, that bifurcate at or near the little promi- nences or wrinkles at the margin of the umbilicus, after which they cross the sides and curve very strongly forward as they approach the periphery, where they become merely obsolescent lines, that are continued some dis- tance forward almost parallel to the carina ; thus indicating the probable presence of a narrow prolongation of the outer side of the lip at the aper- ture. A few very small, pimple-like nodes are also scattered over the inner half of the volutions at this stage of the shell's growth, while, as it increased in size, the costse become less strongly defined and the little nodes more numerous ; but farther around toward the aperture both nodes and costa? gradually fade away, until it is probable that in large shells, a part, or possi- bly the whole, of the surface becomes nearly or quite smooth. (Septa unknown,)
Greatest diameter of a specimen incomplete at the aperture, 1.40 inches; convexity, about 0.65 inch.
This shell has an unusually acute, unserrated, peripheral keel, which, so far as the specimen shows, seems to retain its sharpness both in the young and in the adult. The concavity on each side of this keel is very shallow, and merely so directed as to contribute to the thinness of the knife-like carina, rather than to impart any tendency to divide off another keel or even obtuse ridge on either side. The little pimple-like prominences on the sides of the volutions are almost entirely on the inner half, maialy on the little costse, and are irregularly scattered, so as to show little or no tendency to arrange themselves in spiral rows. The obscure wrinkles or little prominences around the small umbilicus give it a somewhat puckered appearance.
1 28 TAL^^ONTOLOG Y.
This shell differs from all of the compressed, sharply-keeled ammonitoid forms known to me, with a small umbilicus and curved costae, in the pres- ence of the numerous little irregularly-arranged pimple-like nodes. As the specimen shows no traces of the septa, it is not possible to determine which of the numerous proposed groups it most nearly approaches in its internal characters.
The specific name is given in honor of Dr. Gustav C. Laube, of Vienna, the author of the beautiful Monogi-aph of the St. Cassian Fosfils.
Locality and position, — Same as last.
laenus EUDISCOCERAS, Hyatt.
ev (augm. part.) ; dlaKogy a quoit ; nipa^y a horn.
^^ This type is distinguished by its discoid form, open umbilicus, and an abdominal keel, bordered by furrows and ridges, the latter being inter- rupted or tubercular; the young with comparatively large pilae, growing smaller and more flexuous in the adult, and finally fading away in the larger half of the body-volution." — (A. H.)
EUDISCOCERAS Gabbi, Meek.
Plate 11, figs. 3 and 3 rt.
Shell compressed-discoidal, with the periphery narrowly truncated, and having a narrow, very obscure, smooth ridge along the middle ; umbilicus shallow, equaling about two-thirds the breadth of the outer turn; volutions flattened on the sides, and abruptly truncated around the umbilicus on the inner side, each embra<?ing apparently about two-thirds of the next within. Surface with moderate-sized, rather distinct, bifurcating costse on the sides of the volutions in young shells. As the shell advanced in growth, the costse became smaller and more crowded, being merely coarsely linear on the outer turns, where they curve first a little backward at the umbilicus, then arch gently forward as they cross the middle of the sides, beyond which they usually curve a little backward, and then very shghtly forward, as they abruptly terminate, so as to leave a narrow, smooth space between their outer ends and the naiTow periphery. Around each margin of the latter there is also a row of compressed nodes arranged with their longer
UPPER TRIASSIC SPECIES. 129
axes nearly parallel to the keel of the periphery, or with but a slight obliquity, those on the opposite sides often alternating. (Septa unknown.)
Greatest diameter, 1.96 inches; breadth of umbilicus, 0.60 inch; con- vexity, 0.47 inch.
This form is quite unlike any of its associates, being rather peculiar in the nature of its small flexuous costse, and the presence of a row of elon- gated nodes around each margin of its very narrowly truncated and keeled periphery, the nodes being arranged with their longer diameters nearly par- allel to the curve of the truncated margin itself, and so disposed that those on opposite sides alternate. The ridge along the middle of its periphery is narrow, smooth, and not so defined as to be separated from the row of com- pressed nodes on each side by a very deep furrow.
This shell seems to be related to the St. Cassian species Ammonites Cor- varensis, Laube, as represented by a side-view on plate xl, fig. 3, of Professor Laube's Monograph of the St. Cassian Fossils, especially in form and the nature of compressed nodes around each side of its periphery. It differs, however, in having a proportionally wider umbilicus and well-defined costae on the sides of its volutions.
Whether Professor Laube's species has a central peripheral ridge or carina, such as is seen in our shell, cannot be determined from his figure, giving a side-view only, and he says nothing in his description on this point, doubtless because his specimen does not show the outer margin of the volu- tions : nor have we yet the means of making comparisons of the septa of our species with that described by Professor Laube.
The specific name of this shell is given in honor of WiUiam M. Gabb, esq., late of the California Geological Survey, and now in charge of a geo- logical survey of Santo Domingo.
Locality and position. — Cottonwood Canon, West Humboldt Range, Nevada; Upper Trias.
9 PE
130 PALAEONTOLOGY.
JURASSIC SPECIES.
MOLLUSOA.
LAMELLIBRANCHIATA.
LIMID^.
Genus LIMA, Bruguifere.
Lima (Limatula) erecta, Meek.
Plate 12, ^g, 2.
Shell, exclusive of the small ears, vertically narrow-elliptic, or about once and a half as high as the antero-posterior diameter, moderately con- vex, and not in the slightest degree oblique; hinge shorter than the breadth of the shell, and ranging at right angles to the vertical diameter of the valves; ears small, compressed, almost exactly equal, and obtusely angular; beaks small, nearly exactly central, and slightly incurved without any appar- ent obliquity. Surface marked with fine radiating lines, which seem to show some tendency to gather into a few distant larger costae, near the nar- rowly-rounded basal margin; a few obscure undulations of growth are also seen crossing the striae.
Greatest vertical diameter, 0.72 inch; breadth, or anterior-posterior diameter, 0.50 inch; convexity of one valve, about 0.10 inch.
I only know this species from a single specimen, showing none of its internal characters; and, owing to the fact that it is not in the slightest degree oblique, it is impossible to determine whether it is a right or a left valve. It is remarkable for its narrow form, equal ears, and want of obliquity. Owing to the fineness of its striae, and the fact that they are obsolete from a little below the middle to the beak, I have been unable to see whether or not they are divaricating along the middle, as in some spe- cies of LimatulUj though they seem not to be so from their direction below.
Locality and position, — New Pass, Desatoya Mountains, Nevada; appar- ently from the horizon of the Lower Lias.
JURASSIC SPECIES. 131
PINNID^.
Genus PINNA, Linnaeus.
Pinna Kingii, Meek.
Platel2, figs. 9, 9 a.
Shell attaining about a medium size, very thin, elongate-subtrigonal in general outline, apparently slightly arcuate, rather convex, with a more or less defined angle extending along the middle of each valve, so as to give the transverse section, especially at almost any point between the middle and the beaks, a rhombic subquadrangiilar outline, becoming more compressed pos- teriorly; upper and lower margins converging rather rapidly to the beaks, the first being very nearly straight, and the latter slightly convex; posterior extremity a little obliquely truncated, but rounding into the base below ; valves flattened from the mesial angle to the upper and lower margins. Sur- face marked by fine lines of growth running parallel to the posterior and lower margins, and showing a tendency to gather into little wrinkles, particularly near the latter; while above the lateral angle they are crossed b}^ about ten to twelve obscure radiating costse, most distinctly defined near the beaks, and gradually becoming obsolete near the middle.
Apparently attaining a length of about 4 inches, with a height at the posterior end of about 1.90 inches; convexity, 0.85 inch.
The only specimen of this species contained in the collection is in an imperfect condition, though sufficiently well preserved to show its form and surface-markings, as well as its remarkable thinness. In form and size, it seems to have been much like P. cancellata of Bean (Moiris and Lycett's Monogr. Moll. Great Oolite, tab. xiii, fig. 20 a b), from which it differs in having a mesial angle along each valve, and in having its radiafing costse obsolete on the posterior part of the valves. These costa3 likewise differ in being merely obscure ridges on our shell, about as wide as the furrows between, instead of mere '' knotted lines ^^ It is, however, about as nearly allied to some imperfectly-known Carboniferous species of the Mississippi Valley.
Locality and position. — Weber Canon, Wasatch Range; possibly Ju- rassic ; though it may be Carboniferous, as it was found loose, and rocks be-
1 32 PALEONTOLOGY.
longing to both of these ages occur there. As elsewhere explained, the fossils on the lower half of this plate were figured together, because some doubts at first existed in regard to the exact horizons of the beds from which they came. Some of them are certainly Carboniferous; while others are more like Jurassic forms.
MYTILID^.
Genus VOLSELLA, Scopoli.
VOLSELLA SCALPEXJM, var. ISONEMA.
Plate 12, figs. 4, 4 a.
Moviola scalprum^ Sowerby (1821), Miiu Conch,, III, 87, pi. 248, fig. 2. Mytllus scalprum, Goldf. (1833), Petref. Germ., II, 174, tab. 130, fig. 9.
Shell attaining a moderate size, extremely thin, transversely elongated, or about twice and a half as long as high, gibbous along the umbonal slopes, and rather distinctly arcuated; hinge-line apparently nearly half the length of the valves, passing gradually into the slope of the posterior dorsal curve; posterior margin curving obliquely backward and downward to the rather narrowly-rounded posterior basal extremity; pallial margin broadly sinuous or arched, so as to be nearly parallel to the dorsal and posterior dorsal out- line; anterior margin rounding up to the beaks, which are much depressed, extremely oblique, very slightly projecting, somewhat compressed, and placed nearly over the anterior end; umbonal slopes very prominently rounded, so as to form an oblique ridge, extending from near the beaks to the posterior basal extremity; above and behind this ridge, the surface is slightly convex, while the flanks below it are more or less concave. Sur- face ornamented with very fine and perfectly regular concentric lines.
Length, 1.95 inches; height, 0.77 inch; convexity, about 0.60 inch.
This shell agrees so very nearly in form and general appearance with Modiola scalpmm of Sowerby, and especially with a form referred by Gold- fuss and others to that species (see Petref Germ., plate 130, fig. 9), that I am left in doubt whether it is not a mere variety of the same. It agrees less nearly with Sowerby^s original figure, but his illustrations are not usually so accurate as those published by Goldfuss; while the figure referred to in the work of the latter author is, I believe, generally regarded as repre*
JURASSIC SPECIES. 133
t
senting Sowerby's species. In one important character, however, our shell certainly differs, at least from the figures published by both of the above- mentioned authors; that is, in the great regularity of its concentric striae. If I knew their figures to be exactly correct in this respect, I should not hes- itate to regard our shell as belonging to a distinct species; but, until this question can be settled by a comparison of specimens, I prefer to view it as a variety of Sowerby's species. In the fineness and regularity of its striae, as well as in its remarkable thinness, it agrees with F, pertenuis, M. & H., from the Jurassic beds near the Black Hills; but, in addition to being much larger, it is more arcuate, and has more prominent umbonal ridges; while its anterior ventral region below and in front of the umbonal ridge is pro- portionally larger. It is barely possible, however, that these may not be constant characters.
Locality and position, — Weber Canon, Wasatch Range, Utah; Jurassic.
TEIGONIID^.
Genus MYOPHORIA, Bronn.
Myophoria LiNEATA, Munsterl.
Plate 12, figs. 3, 3 a.
Trigonia Hneata, Miinster (1834), Leonhard uud Bronn's Jahrb., I, 5 and 9. Lyrodon lineaturrij Goldf. (1838), Petref. Germ., II, 199, tab. 136, figs. 4, a, 6, c, <!. Myophoria lineata^ Munster (1841), Beitrage, IV, 88, tab. 7, fig. 29; and (1864) in
Alberti's, Trias, 111.— Laube (1865), Fauna St. Oass., 59, tab. 18, fig. 7. Trigonia lineata^ Giebel (1852), Dentschl. Petref., 392. Opis lineata, Laube (1864), Bemerk. im Jabrb. d. Geol. Eeichsaust., 489; Fauna der
Scbicht. von St. Cass., 59, pi. xviii, fig. 7.
Shell small, trigonal, rather compressed; anterior end shorter than the other, rounding from below the beaks into the base; posterior side com- pressed, truncated, with a slight forward slope above, and angular at the base; ventral margin semiovate, rounding up anteriorly, most convex in out- line slightly in advance of the middle, and straight or very slightly sinuous near where it connects with the posterior basal angle; beaks apparently elevated, and placed a little in advance of the middle; posterior umbonal slope forming a well-defined angular ridge extending from the back part of
134 PALEONTOLOGY.
»
the beaks to the posterior basal angle. Surface ornamented with small, very regular, concentric costse, which terminate abruptly on the posterior umbonal ridge of each valve, or are only continued on the compressed pos- terior dorsal region above the angle as fine lines of growth.
Length, 0.44 inch; height, about 0.36 inch; convexity, about 0.15 inch.
This shell seems to agree very closely in outline and surface-markings with the published figures of Miinster's species, and I am inclined to believe it the same; though it is quite as probable that a good series of specimens would show specific differences separating it from that shell. As I have only seen a single imperfect specimen, however, and that presents no relia- ble characters by which it can be distinguished, I refer it with doubt to M, lineata. I should remark here that its costse are much more strongly marked than on Miinster's species, as illustrated by Dr. Laube, in his work on the St. Cassian Fossils, but in this respect our specimens agree exactly with Goldfuss' figures of that species.
Locality and position, — Weber Canon, Wasatch Eange, Utah; from above '^quarry rock". In Europe, M, lineata occurs in the St. Cassian beds; but the shell here described appears to occupy a higher position (in the Jurassic seriesj if its exact position in the section was accurately determined.
ARCIDJl.
Genus CUCULL^A, Lamarck. CucuLL^A Haguei, Meek.
Platel2, figs. 1, la, IJ. Compare Cucullcea concinna, Phillips (1835), Geol. Yorks., 160, pi. v, fig. 9.
Shell small, oblong-subrhomboidal in outline, about once and a half as long as high, and rather gibbous in the central region ; posteriorly a little obliquely truncated above, and obtusely-subangular and most prominent at its connection with the base below ; base nearly straight and parallel to the cardinal margin along the middle, and rounding up rather more gradually in front than behind ; anterior margin compressed, convex in outline, and connecting with the hinge above at an angle of about 98^ ; hinge-line less than the greatest length of the valves ; beaks rather prominent, gibbous,
JURASSIC SPECIES. 135
incurved, and very nearly central ; posterior umbonal slopes more or less angular, while the posterior dorsal region above these oblique umbonal ridges is compressed. Surface neatly ornamented with small, regular, radiating lines, or raised striae, which are rather widely separated and larger on the anterior part of the valves, where they curve gracefully forward, and alternate with a smaller intermediate series, none of which are continued to the beaks ; posteriorly they all become much smaller, and closely crowded ; crossing all of these, there are, on all parts of the valves, numerous very small regular and crowded concentric lines.
Length, 0.67 inch ; height, 0.35 inch ; convexity, 0.30 inch.
This species seems to be closely allied to, and may even be identical with, some of the forms that have been referred to CucullcBa concinnaj Phillips, by different authors. It certainly differs, however, very materially from the type of C. concinna, as originally illustrated by Phillips, in being much less depressed, proportionally shorter, decidedly less angular along the poste- rior umbonal slopes and" at the posterior basal extremity. Phillips' figure also shows obscure, coarse, radiating costae, on the posterior surface of the valves above the umbonal angle, not seen on our shell, which likewise differs in having more prominent and more gibbous umbones, with a more rounded basal outline. It is more nearly like the form figured under Phillips' name by Goldfuss (Petref Germ., plate cxxiii, fig. 6 a, ft), and by Quenstedt (Der Jura, tab. 67, fig. 16); but it is less angular at the extremities, and has more gibbous umbones. It may also be compared with a shell figured from the Jura by Richard Andree, in the Zeitschrift der Deutschen Geologischen Gesellschaft, XII, plate xiv, fig. 7, under d'Orbigny's name Area subconcinnay which, however, is less depressed, much more rounded in outline, and has smaller and lower umbones than our shell.
Locality and position, — ^Weber Cafion, Wasatch Range, Utah ; from a limestone apparently of Jurassic age.
136 PAL^EOISTOLOGY.
ANATINIl)^.
Genus MYACITES, Auct.
Myacites (Plexjbomya) subcompressa, Meek.
Plate 12, figs. 6, 6 a.
Myacites [Pleuromya) nubcOmpressa^ Meek (1873), Hayden's Ann. Rep. U, S. Geol. Survey of the Territories, 472.
Shell of medium size, oblong-subovate, moderately convex, the gi'eatest convexity being nearest and above the middle of the anterior end ; valves nearly closed, or but slightly gaping behind ; posterior margin somewhat abruptly cuneate, rounded in outline, though slightly more prominent below the middle ; basal margin with a moderately convex outline, rounding up more gradually behind than in front; anterior end short, subtruncated ; dorsal margin rather short, rounding off gradually into the posterior margin ; beaks gibbous, but somewhat flattened on the outer side, rather prominent, and located about half-way between the middle and the anterior end ; anterior umbonal slopes prominently rounded, or forming a rounded undefined ridge, which descends nearly vertically from the anterior side of each beak to the anterior basal margin ; the sides behind this ridge being a little flattened, or possibly sometimes slightly concave below. Surface marked by small, rather regular, but not strongly-defined, concentric ridges that become nearly obsolete on the posterior dorsal region and near the front.
Length, 1.27 inches; height, 0.92 inch; convexity, 0.66 inch.
This shell closely resembles some varieties of Pleuromya ferruginea and P. impressa, Agassiz, but has the anterior end shorter and more truncated, the concentric ridges of less regularity, and the concavity extending from the beaks to the anterior basal margins of the valves either entirely wanting or very feebly marked. In first pi-eparing this report, I had written the above diagnosis of this species, and prepared the figure on plate 12 ; but being in doubt r.specting its affinities, 1 did not then propose a name for it Subse- quently numerous specimens of this shell were brought in by Dr. Hayden's party from the Canon of Yellowstone River; Spring Cation; near Fort Hall, Montana ; and other localities. These show that it varies considerably in
JURASSIC SPECIES. 137
form and the distinctness of its costae, though our figure on plate 12 gives a good idea of the most usual appearance of this shell.
Locality and position. — Webor Canon, Wasatch Range, Utah; Jurassic.
Myacites iKCOKSPicuus, Meek.
Plate 12, fig. 10.
Shell very small, depressed, elongate*subelliptic, moderately convex; posterior margin narrowly rounded; anterior very short, truncated obliquely forward from the beaks above, and rounded below; basal margin, subpar- allel to the dorsal, most convex in outline at or slightly behind the middle, and a faintly sinuous anteriorly; dorsal outline nearly straight, and horizontal behind the beaks, but rounding off very gradually posteriorly; beaks some- what tumid, rising slightly above the cardinal margin just behind them, and placed near the anterior end; posterior umbonal slopes prominently rounded; while a broad shallow compression, or slight concavity, extends from the beaks to the anterior ventral margin of each valve. Surface only showing obscure concentric marks of growth.
Length, about 0.45 inch; height, 0.20 inch.
Although there is nothing particularly notable in the form or general appearance of this little shell, I have been unable to identify it with any of the described species. Perhaps its most marked features are its small size, depressed form, and narrowly- rounded extremities. It may be a young shell, and in larger individuals, more nearly approaching some of the described species; but my present impression is that it is new.
Locality and position,— W eher Oaiion, Wasatch Range, Utah. The
specimen Avas supposed to have come from the rock in which the Spiriferina
RTid Aviculopecten of the same plate were obtained; but it probably belonged
to some Jurassic bed at that locality. (See note on the explanations of
plate 12.)
Myacites (Pleuromya) TVeberensis, Meek.
Plate 12, figs. 11, 11 a.
Shell of about medium size, moderately gibbous, subovate; anterior side very short and subtruncated, but rounding into the base; basal margin forming a semiovate curve, more prominent anteriorly, and curving up more
138 PALEONTOLOGY.
gradually behind; posterior side apparently narrowly rounded, and most prominent above the middle; beaks nearly over the anterior margin, rather pointed, depressed, and strongly incurved. Surface ornamented by numer- ous, rather small, but well defined and very regular, concentric costse, about equaling in breadth the furrows by which they are separated.
Length, about 1.40 inches; height, 0.81 inch; convexity, 0.72 inch.
The only specimen of this species in the collection has had about one- third of the posterior dorsal region broken away. The general outline, how- ever, can be pretty accurately inferred from the curve of the costse. It has somewhat the appearance of the anterior portion of an AUorisma; and I am not quite sure that it may not more properly belong to that genus, especially as it seems to have the cardinal margins of the valves inflected, as we see in AUorisma, Still the curves of its costse show that it was a proportionally shorter shell than is usual in that genus, and its beaks are more nearly terminal than is often seen in AUorisma,
Locality and position, — Weber Canon^ Wasatch Range, Utah. Originally supposed to have come from the same horizon as the Spiriferina and Avicu- lopecten figured on the lower half of the same plate ; but as those shells are certainly of Carboniferous age, this one, unless it may be an AUorisma, probably belonged to a higher horizon, although found loose with the other forms mentioned.
CEPHALOPODA.
BELEMNITID^. Genus BELEMNITES, Auct. BELEMNriES Nevadensis, Meek,
Plate 12, figs. 7, 7 a, 7 & (and 8 a, 8 ft f).
Guard attaining a medium or larger size, gradually tapering, appar- ently not perfectly straight; section circular at the anterior end, but com- pressed-elliptic near the posterior end; alveolus elongate-conical, and extend- ing back nearly half the length of the guard ; surface smooth.
Length, about 3.25 inches; diameter at the anterior end, 0.60 inch; larger diameter, at 2.60 inches behind the anterior end, 0.46 inch; smaller diameter, at the same point, 0.30 inch.
JURASSIC SPECIES. 139
From another locality in the same region in which the guard described above was obtained, several fragments were bought in, of an elongate-conical chambered shell, that may be the phragmacone of the same or of another Belemnite. It is represented by figs. 8 and 8 a of plate 12, and will be seen to taper regularly from the larger to the smaller end. Its section at all points is very nearly circular, while its septa are deeply concave, and sepa- rated by spaces equaling about one-fifth the greater diameter of the shell at the point of measurement. The siphuncle is very slender, and exactly marginal; surface smooth, or only showing under a magnifier, traces of obscure lines of growth that arch forward on the side opposite the siphuncle. The whole shell must have been, when entire, nearly six inches in length, and, if really the phragmacone of the above Belemnite, it must be evident that that species attained a much larger size than the guards figured would indicate.
Whether the last-mentioned shell is the phragmacone of a Belemnite, or the shell of an Orthoceras, may perhaps admit of some doubt until better specimens can be obtained; but that the guard described above is that of a true Belemnite, there can be no doubt whatever.
Locality and position. — The specimens of the guard are labeled ^'Cotton- wood Canon, West Humboldt Range", and came, I am informed by Mr. King, from the upper beds of the series, above those containing the Triassic fossils, and are therefore probably of Jurassic (Liassic) age. The larger chambered shell (figs. 8, 8 a) is labeled '* American District, West Humboldt Range," Nevada; and probably came from the same horizon.
140 PALEONTOLOGY.
CEETACEOUS FOSSILS.
MOLLUSOA.
OSTREID^.
Genus OSTREA, Linn.
OsTREA (undt. sp.). Plate 15, figs. 10, and 10 o, 6,c.
Shell of about medium size and thickness, more or less elongate-sub- ovate, tapering to the beak, which is usually abruptly pointed, and often bent a little to the left or to the right, generally compressed and subequi- valve. Lower valve rather shallow ; ligament- area triangular, with its mesial furrow usually deep; surface merely showing appressed imbricating laminae of growth, without any traces of radiating ridges, plications, or stiise. Upper valve a little more flattened, or sometimes nearly as convex as the other, but rather less concave within ; beak usually more obtuse, and the ligament- area often proportionally a little shorter, with its mesial ridge well defined; lateral margins often thickeDed and crenated near the beaks; surface much as in the other valve.
Length of a medium-sized specimen, about 2.80 inches; breadth, 1.90 inches; convexity of the two valves, about 1 inch.
In first preparing this report, I merely gave figures of this Oyster with- out a specific name. Subsequently, in revising portions of the report, with- out having the type-specimens at hand for comparison, I was impressed with the similarity of this shell, as figured on our plate, to a species that I had in the mean time described in one of Dr. Hayden's reports from Wyoming, under the name 0. Wyomingensis, and placed that name with a mark of doubt opposite its number on the explanations of the plate, while I also in the same way mentioned it in a hst of Coalville species. Having since made a direct comparison of the specimens from the two localities, I am led to doubt their specific identity, though they are certainly very much alike. The Coalville specimens have the beak of the under valve less curved upward, and the lateral margins of the only upper valve I have seen from that
CRETACEOUS FOSSILS. 141
locality more strongly crenate or transversely striated than I have yet seen in any example of the Wyoming shell. As I have only two lower valves and one upper from Coalville, it is not possible to say to what extent this shell may vary. If distinct from 0. Wyomingensis, it might be called 0, Coalvillensis.
Locality and position. — Coalville, Utah; Cretaceous.
ANOMIIDiE.
Anomia b^tifoemis, Meek.
Shell of well-developed specimens tran&versely subovate, generally more p. J broadly rounded on the left side (as seen from above),
and rather narrowly rounded on the right margin, with the pallial margin between semiovate in outline; upper valve moderately convex, the greatest convexity being toward the left margin, while the narrowly-rounded right margin is more compressed and produced; beak marginal, nearly central, with generally a slight curva-
Anomia rwtiformis. ji«i n i» nn
Cast of upper valve, nat- turc towarcl the right; surtacc showmg small, obscure ^i»inkles and strise of growth, with sometimes traces of a few indistinct radiating markings on the most convex part of the umbo; lower valve unknown.
Greatest (transverse) diameter, 1.26 inches; diameter from beak topallial margin, 1.12 inches; convexity of upper valve, about 0.30 inch.
This species presents, in the well-developed adult, a singular Bceta- like form, being narrowed and subrostrate, or more or less produced on the right (posterior) margin. The younger specimens are generally more nearly circular in form.
I know of no other Cretaceous species of the genus very nearly allied to this.
Locality and position.— TRidge southeast of Laporte, Colorado Territory; Cretaceous. Horizon of the Fox Hills Grroup of the Upper Missouri section.
142 PALuffiONTOLOGY.
PTERIIDJE.
Genus INOCERAMUS, Sowerby. Inoceramtts Simpsoni, Meek.
Plate 13, fig. 3.
Inoceramus Simpsoni, Meek (1860), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Pbilad., XII, 312 ; and (1876) in Col. Simpson's Beport Expl. across the Great Basin of Utah, 360, pi. iv, fig. 4.
„ Shell (right valve) attaining a rather large size, transversely oval-subob- long, gibbous, the greatest convexity being in the antero-central region, cuneate posteriorly; length nearly twice the height; anterior end very short and rounded from the beaks; base forming a long, semi-elliptic curve, most prominent near the middle, and somewhat straightened, or even slightly sinuous, posteriorly; hinge-line long, straight, and ranging parallel to the longer axis of the shell; posterior margin subtruncated, with a slight backward slope above, and forming an abrupt curve into the oblique posterior basal margin; beaks depressed so as to project little above the hinge-line, incurved, and placed nearly over the anterior margin. Surface ornamented with moderately distinct, regular, concentric undulations and lines of growth.
Length, 8.10 inches; height, about 4.30 inches; convexity of right valve, nearly 2 inches.
The only specimen I have seen of this shell is a cast of the interior of the right valve, with some portions of the moderately thick fibrous shell attached. It belongs to the group Catillus, as most generally understood, excepting in wanting the peculiar flexure near the cardinal margin; that is, to the group composed of nearly equivalve (or, at any rate, not very strongly inequivalve) shells, with a more or less elongated hinge, ranging nearly or quite parallel to the longer axis of the valves, instead of having a shorter hinge standing nearly at right angles to the longer axis, as in the typical forms of Inoceramus^ which latter are often decidedly inequivalve. Although I have seen but the right valve of this shell, it is evident, from its moder- ately gibbous, as well as transversely elongated form, that it does not belong to the more inequivalve section of the genus. Its most remarkable charac- ters are its transversely elongated, vary inequilateral form; being proportion-
CRETACEOUS FOSSILS. 143
ally longer and more depressed than any otherwise nearly allied species with which I am acquainted.
Locality and position. — North Platte River, above Platte Bridge, in Da- kota Territory; from the Cretaceous formation No. 2 or 3 of the Upper Mis- souri section. Discovered by Colonel Simpson. Museum of the Smith- sonian Institution.
INOCERAMUS PROBLEMATICUS, Schlot.l
Plate 13, figs. 2 and 2 a.
Mytilites prohlematictis^ Schlotb. (1820), Petref., 312.
Inoceramus myUloides^ Sowerby (1823), Min. Conch., V, 61, pi. 442 ; Goldf. (1836),
Petref., II, 118, tab. cxiii, fig. 4. Catillus Schlotheimii, Neilssoo (1827), Petref. Suecaua, 19. Catillus mytiloideSj Deshayes (1830), Eucyc. M6th., II, pi. 211. Inoceramus prohlemaUcus, d'Orbigny (1843), Pi)l^.ont. Fr., Ill, 510. — Meek (1873),
Hayden's Sixth Report, 476; and (1876) in Col. Simpson's Report Expl. across
Great Basin of Utah, 358, pi. 4, fig. 1 a. Compare J. mytiloides^ Roemer (1852), Kreid. von Texas, 60, pi. vii, fig. 5 (^ L myti-
^ojpsis, Conrad (1857), U. S. and Mex. Bound. Report, 1, 152, pi. 5, figs. 6a, and Gh{
also \^ith L pscudo-mytiloidesy Schiel (1855), Pacific Railroad Reports, II, pi. 3,
fig. 8.
Shell obliquely subovate, extremely inequilateral, rather compressed, and apparently nearly equi valve ; anterior margin truncated or sloping very obliquely backward from the beaks to near the middle, where it passes im- perceptibly into the base; basal margin sloping obliquely backward and rounding into the posterior basal extremity, which is generally narrowly rounded; hinge-line rather short and very oblique to the longer axis of the valves; posterior dorsal margin sloping obliquely with a more or less convex outline from the posterior extremity of the hinge to the posterior basal mar- gin; beaks very oblique, acutely pointed, incurved, and terminal. Surface ornamenied with small, more or less regular, concentric undulations and striae.
At the time I wrote the above description, I had seen only the figured specimens, which are much broken and distorted. Since that time, I have had an opportunity to collect and examine a large series at the same locality in Wyoming from which those figured on plate 13 were collected. These additional specimens show that this shell varies greatly in form; there being apparently an unbroken series from specimens like those figured on our
144 PALAEONTOLOGY.
plate to forms much broader posteriorly, and less oblique. They all agree, however, in having the beaks much more attenuated and curved for- ward than in any figures of Schlotheim's /. problematicus^l have seen. Some of the broader forms agree more nearly with some of those cited above, and figured by Koemer and others from western localities; but still they have more pointed and oblique beaks. I suspect that this shell belongs to a dis- tinct species from /: problematicus ; but, if so, it will probably have to be designated by Dr. Schiel's name /. pseudo-mytiloides.
Locality and position. — The figured specimens were brought by Colonel Simpson's party from a bed of yellow Cretaceous Sandstone over a bed of coal, at the mouth of Sulphur Creek on Bear River, Wyoming. (See bed number 12 of sec, on page 451, Dr. Hayden's Sixth Ann. Rep., 1873.)
Inooeeamus (sp. undt.).
Plate 13, figs. 4, 4 a.
Compare L dimidiusj White (1876), Palaeont. Wheeler's Surv., 179, [)1, XVI, figs. 2 a-d.
This is a neat, symmetrical, Kttle shell, of obliquely-ovate or mytiloid form, with rather pointed, oblique, terminal beaks, and very regular, dis- tinct, concentric surface-undulations. It may be a young of the last, or an entirely distinct species. In some respects, it resembles one of the forms figured by Mr. Conrad in the United States and Mexican Boundary Report (I, plate 5, fig. 6 b) ; but it has much more regular surface-undulations, and apparently more produced beaks. I was long inclined to believe it the young of the last described form; but it may be distinct.
[Long since the above was written, Dr. White described from Lieu- tenant Wheeler's collections, a form under the name /. dimidiuSj from near Pueblo, Colorado, that agrees very nearly with this, and I am rather inclined to believe it to be the same. He had so many specimens all of the same small size, as to lead to the conclusion that it is most probably distinct from L problematicus.^
Locality and position. — Cretaceous sandstone, on Sulphur Creek, near Bear River, Wyoming. (Benton or Niobrara group of Upp. Mo. Sec.)
CRETACEOUS FOSSILS. 145
INOCEBA.MUS ERECTUS, Meek.
Plate 13^ figs. 1 and 1 a ; and pL 14, fig. 3.
Compare Tnoceramus ElUottii, Gabb (1868), Palaeont. of California, II, 193, pi. 31, fig. 90.
Shell attaining a medium size, vertically ovate-oblong, being higher than wide, not obhque, very gibbous, and nearly or quite equivalve; hinge shorter than the antero-posterior diameter of the valves, and ranging at right angles to their longer (vertical) axes; basal margin regularly rounded; anterior margin tmncated nearly vertically from the front of the beaks more than half-way down, but rounding into the base below, inflected in both valves along the rather gibbous anterior umbonal slopes, so as to form a long, undefined, lunule-like excavation, that extends more than half-way down from the beaks; beaks not very prominent, abruptly pointed, very nearly equal, incurved with rather slight obliquity, and placed nearly directly over the vertical anterior margin. Surface of both valves ornamented by regular, medium-sized, concentric undulations, which are usually obsolete on the posterior dorsal region and the inflected anterior margins.
Height, about 2.50 inches; length, 2 inches; convexity, 2.30 inches.
As I have only seen imperfect specimens (mainly casts in sandstone) of this shell, and Mr. Gabb merely gives a single side-view of one speci- men of the California species L JElliottii, without measurements, I have doubts in regard to the relations of these shells. In outline, as seen in a side-view, it agrees well with Mr. Grabb's figure cited above, excepting that it appears to be more convex than his shading would indicate, and has more obtuse undulations.
[Since writing the above, I have, through the politeness of Mr. Gabb, had an opportunity to compare our shell with the type of his L EUiottii, and I am led to regard the two as belonging to distinct species. The California form is, as I had inferred from Mr. Gabb's figures, much more compressed; while its surface undulations difier decidedly in being very acutely angular. As I have not been able to identify our shell with any other described species, I add the name /. erectus for it here as this report is passing through the press.]
Locality and position, — Chalk Creek, near Uptown, Utah; Cretaceous.
10 TB
146 PALiEONTOLOGY.
INOCEBAMUS DBFOBMIS, Meek.
Platel4, figs. 4, 4 a.
Inoceramus ?, Hall (1845), in Gen. Fremont's Eeport ExpK Eocky Mts., 309, pi.
iv, fig. 2. Inoceramus deformis (lS7!i), Hayden's Secoud Anii. Eeport U. S. Geol. Survey of the
Territories, 29C.— White (187G), Palseout. Wheeler's Survey, 179, pi. xv, figs.
la^b. Compare Raploscapha eapax, Conrad (1874), in Hayden's Ann. Geol. Eeport for 1873,
456; also H, grandis^ Conrad (1875), in Cope's Eeport on the Vertebrates of
Hayden's Survey, 23, pi. Ivi.
Shell attaining a rather large size, obliquely ovate, and rather com- pressed in young examples, but more rounded, gibbous, and irregular, as well as much less oblique, in adult specimens; more or less inequivalve, but never very decidedly so; posterior and basal margins rounded; the latter curving up more gradually and obHquely to the short anterior margin ; hinge short and usually not very oblique; beaks moderately prominent and placed betvreen the middle and the anterior margin ; neither greatly more elevated than the other. Surface ornamented vrith large, strong, concentric undula- tions, w^hich are sometimes moderately regular, but often very irregular, and generally becoming rather abruptly smaller on the umbones, where their curves indicate the greater obliquity of the young shell.
Height of a medium-sized specimen, about 4.50 inches; length of same, 4.30 inches; convexity of right valve, about 2.50 inches.
I have frequently had under examination, during the last twelve years, specimens of this shell, without being able to identify them with any described species. Nearly all of the explorers who have visited the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains between the south branch of Platte River and New Mexico have brought in specimens of it, but almost always in a distorted or broken condition. Its distortion, however, is evidently not always due to accident, since it often resulted from one of the depressions between two of the undulations being so much larger and deeper than the others, as to give the valves a remarkably constricted appearance. In other cases, it resulted, in part at least, from the great irregularity in the size of the undu- lations themselves. Although it is often found distorted in general form by accidental pressure, it was evidently also naturally quite variable in out- line, particularly in convexity.
CRETACEOUS FOSSILS. 147
Our figured specimen is merely an imperfect internal cast of a right valve with the umbonal and anterior portions broken away.
Professor Hall seems, from his remarks in Fremont's report, to have regarded this shell as being related to L involutus of Sowerby. It is, however, very distinct from that species, and even belongs to a different section of the genus, as it certainly did not have one valve very greatly larger than the other, as I know from the examination of numerous specimens of both valves. The specimen figured by Professor Hall, and described by him as being *^flat", is, as may be readily seen by the curve of the undulations, a left valve; while the corresponding valve in A, invo- lutus is extremely gibbous, elevated, and involute, being almost like a spiral univalve. His figure well illustrates a peculiar flattening of the umbonal region, and the greater obliquity of the undulations often seen on that part of both valves.
I believe the shell here described to be also the same as that on which Mr. Conrad has proposed to found a new genus, Ilaploscapha, Since the pub- lication of his descriptions, already quoted, he has informed me that he had arrived at the conclusion that his proposed new genus is identical with CatiUus, Brongniart; bvit that he still retains his name, on the ground that the name Catillus had been previously used for Navicelhy Lamarck, by Humphrey, in 1797.^ I have not had an opportunity to examine Mr. Con- rad's specimens, but I had always supposed this shell to be an Inoceramtis, and, like nearly all others, had believed Catillus, Brongniart, not to be more than subgenerically distinct from Inoceramits proper. If Mr. Conrad's name Haploscapha should be retained, the name of the species here described would probably become Inoceramus (Haploscapha) deformis. If not, it will probably be Inoceramus {Catillus) deformis.f
^Catillus, of Humphrey, however, was published merely in a list, without auy diagnosis, figure, or the citation of any known type, and therefore, I should think, ought not to stand.
t The principal characters that have led Mr. Conrad to separate such shells from Inoceramus are, if I have correctly understood him, a kind of rolling or flexure of the hinge-margin (none of our specimens are in a condition to show whether they possess this character of the hinge-margin or not), the entire absence of hinge-teeth, the very thin substance of the shell near the iinibones, and its greater thickness at the free margins. There are various types of Inoceramus^ however, without hinge-teeth ) the
148 PALEONTOLOGY.
Locality and position. — Common in Kansas, and near Pueblo and Col- orado City, as well as at other places in Colorado along eastern base of Rocky Mountains, and farther west; everywhere in the Benton and Niobrara Groups.
ARCID-^.
Genus CUCULL^A, Lamarck.
OucuLL^A (Trigonarca?) obliqxja, Meek.
Plate 14, figs. 1, 1 a, 1 1,
Shell attaining about a medium size, rhombic-subovate, moderately convex, the greatest convexity being along the posterior umbonal slope,
presence of one or more obscure anterior teeth being an exceptional, and not by any means a general, character in this grgup. i. striatvsj Mantell, for instance, has one obscure anterior hinge-tooth in one valve, while the nearly allied L snhstriatm is figured by Goldfuss without any traces whatever of such tooth. Again, Goldfuss figures another shell that he refers to I, Brongniartij with indications of three small anterior hinge-teeth. On the other hand, I. Guvleriij Sowerby, from which the original figures and description of the genus were prepared, has no hinge-teeth;* and, according to the best authorities, this is the case with nearly all the other known species the hinges of which have been seen.
In regard to the greater thinness of the shell at the umbones than at the free margins, it should be remembered that it is the outer prismatic layer, and not the inner pearly layer, that Mr. Conrad refers to. So far as 1 have been able to see, how- ever, this outer layer is not unfrequehtly thinnest near the umbones, excepting under the beaks along the hinge, in different types of the genus* In our shell, this outer fibrous layer, like that of other species in the lower divisions of the Upper Missouri Cretaceous, is nearly always found with the inner pearly layer dissolved away, in which condition the fibrous part appears to have been flexible, as I have often seen it abruptly folded upon itself in various ways. The rolling-over of the hinge-margin in Mr. Conrad's type I should think not of generic importance. Mr. Conrad thinks J. involutus of Sowerby has the hinge-characters of his Haploscapha; but Dr. Stoliczka had previously proposed for that type the name Volviceramus as a subgenus under InoceramuSj in which genus all authorities have plased it.
Since writing the above, Mr. Conrad has informed me that he adopts the name Volviceramus^ and ranges Haploscapha as a subgenus under it.
* Sowerby ^8 original diagnosis of tbis genus, read before tbe Linn. Soc. in 1814, and published in the Trans, of same, XIII (dated 1821, but usually cited 1822-3), was drawn up from I. Cuvierii; and Parkinson, who fijrst adopted the genus in Trans. Geol. Soc., 1821 (often cited 1819), mentioned firsfc (p. 53)1. CMuimi; while Mantell, whoadoptedit with a generic diagnosis in Geol. Suss., 1822 described under it first a species referred by him to J. Cuvierii, Hence this species has been cited as the type of the genus; but, owing to the fact that Sowerby, in publishing the genus in his Min. Con., Ill (title p 1821, index 1822), described under it first /. concentricttSf Park., some regard that as the type.
CRETACEOUS FOSSILS. 140
while the anterior ventral region is abruptly cuneate; anterior .margin rounded in outline; base with a shallow semiovate outline, being usuall)^ slightly more prominent in advance of tlie middle; posterior margin long, and very obliquely truncated, with a slightly convex outline, from the hinge to the posterior basal extremity, which is prominent and subangular; hinge- margin very short, or little more than equaling one-third the length of the valves; posterior umbonal slopes prominent, and more or less angular from the beaks to the posterior basal angle; cardinal area short and rather nar- row; beaks moderately prominent, incurved, and placed one-fourth to one- third the length of the valves from the anterior margin. Surface ornamented by moderately distinct lines of growth, crossed by obscure radiating cost« that are wider than tlie mere linear furrows between.
Length, 1.50 inches; height, 1 inch; convexity, about 0.70 incli.
I only know this shell from casts that do not show the hinge. They bear impressions, however, in some instances, of a ridge or projection along the margin of the posterior muscular scar, as in CucuUcea. From the gen- eral form of the shell, and its very short hinge-margin, I can scarcely doubt that it belongs to Mr, Conrad's group Trigonarca; but, until the hinge can be seen, its relations to that genus cannot be satisfactorily determined. . I know of no very nearly allied species.
Locality and position. — East Canon Creek, Wasatch Range, Utah; in a whitish sandstone of Cretaceous age.
Genus AXINJEA, Poli.
AxiN^A Wyomingensis, Meek
Shell attaining a medium size, subcircular or very slightly longer than high, gibbous, thick, and strong; beaks rather prominent; basal margin semicircular, and rounding regularly upward in front into the anterior border, which rounds to the cardinal edge, so as scarcely to produce more than a very slight angularity at the connection of the two above; posterior margin making a slightly broader and similar curve, excepting that it is faintly sinuous above the middle; hinge plate thick, moderately arched, with denti- cles rather strong, nearly straight, or a little curved, numbering about eight or ten well-developed ones in front, and sev^n or eight behind, with per-
150
PALAEONTOLOGY.
Axiticea Wyomingensis. Fig. 2. Exterior or left valve, with surface somewhat
eroded. Fig. 3. Interior, and hinge of eamo.
Imps a few other smaller ones towoxd .the central region ; cardinal margin
short; hinge-area small, with apparently only a few coarse cartilage-fur-
Fig. 2. Fig. 3. rows; pallial margin strongly cre-
nate within; surface ornamented by fine concentric strise, and a few stronger marks of growth, crossed by about thirty-five to forty very obscure radiating, flat- tened, or much depressed costse, only separated by scarcely per- ceptible narrow or linear fur- rows.
Height, 1.30 inches; breadth, 1.33 inches; convexity, 1.04 inches. This species is perhaps as nearly allied to A, suhimhricata, M. & H., as to any other Cretaceous form. It is a much thicker and more gibbous shell, however, with proportionally less transverse valves, and much less distinctly defined costse. It also differs in having a broader hinge-plate and straighter hinge-denticles. If Poll's name AxincBa should not be retained for this genus, the name of this species here described will become Pectunculus Wyomingensis.
Locality and position, — East side of Cooper Creek, near Old Stage Sta- tion; Laramie Plains, Wyoming Territory ; Cretaceous.
CORBULIDJ]. Genus CORBULA, Bruguifere.
CORBULA (imdt. sp.). Plato 14, fig. 5^.
Shell transversely ovate-pyriform, being gibbous in the anterior and umbonal'^ regions, and distinctly contracted, compressed, and subrostrate behind; ventral margin semiovate, with the most prominent part a little in advance of the middle; anterior margin truncated obliquely forward from the beaks above, and somewhat abruptly rounded from near the middle into the base; beak (of left valve) prominent, rather gibbous, incurved, and
CRETACEOUS FOSSILS. 1 5 1
placed in advance of the middle; dorsal outline somewhat concave behind the beaks. Surface apparently smooth Hinge and interior unknown.
Length, 0.96 inch; height (of left valve). 0.66 inch.
I have seen but a single cast of the left valve of this shell (apparently of its exterioi*), and consequently know nothing of its hinge, muscular, and palUal impressions, nor of the relative convexity of its right valve. It will be seen, however, to agree very closely in form, so far as we have the means of making a comparison, with the large species G. pyriformis^ from the fresh- or brackish- water deposits at the Sulphur Creek locality near Bear Hiver, Wyoming, figured on plate 17. The resemblance is so close to cer- tain forms of that variable species, such as fig. 2 a of plate 17, that I should have suspected that the label, indicating a different locality and position, had been accidentally associated with it, were it not for the fact that it is composed of a different material (a light-colored sandstone) from the matrix of the Sulphur Creek fossils. If the label really refers to its proper locality, it will probably prove to be a distinct species from that found at Sulphur Creek, as there seems, so far as yet known, to be no species common to the two localities, unless this one may be so. If a new species, G. pirum would be a good name for it.
Locality and position, — Coalville, Utah ; Cretaceous sandstone.
CAKDlIDiE.
Genus CARDIUM, Linnaeus. Cardtum curtum, M. & E.l
Plate 15, fig. 3 (not 3 a).
Cardtum (R&inicardimn f) cv,rtum^ Meek and Hayden (1861), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., Xni, 442.
Shell truncate-suborbicular, with height and length generally about equal, and the greatest convexity along or near the angular posterior umbo- nal slopes; anterior margin rounding into the rounded or semi-ovate base, which is often most prominent slightly behind the middle; posterior margin obliquely truncated above, and very abruptly rounded or subangular below; beaks elevated, rather pointed, and strongly incurved at right angles to the hinge, placed slightly in advance of the middle; hinge-margin short; posterior
152 PALEONTOLOGY.
umbonal slopes and back part of beaks angular, the angularity being con- tinued obliquely to the posterior basal margin, while the surface behind these angular slopes is flattened, and rather abruptly inflected to the trun- cated hinder margin. Surface ornamented by distinct radiating non-spinif- erous costse, about equal to the intermediate furrows; cost^ largest and sometimes bifurcating on the flattened surface behind the umbonal angles, and simple and very regular in front of the same, where they gradually diminish in size anteriorly; lines of growth moderately distinct
Length, about 0.80 inch; height, 0.75 inch; convexity, about 0.60 inch.
The specimens of this shell in the collection seem to agree pretty closely with (7. curtum^ but are proportionally slightly longer, with rather more depressed beaks, and less sloping anterior and posterior dorsal margins. Hence, I am not quite sure of their exact specific identity. At the time this report was originally prepared, I supposed the smaller shell, represented by fig. 3 a of the same plate, might possibly be the young of that here under consideration; but, on subsequently collecting and examining a number of specimens at the same district and horizon, I was led to believe these forms much more probably distinct, and consequently proposed the name C. sub- curtum for that represented by our fig. 3 a, in one of Dr. Hayden's reports.
These shells belong to the genus Cardiuniy but not to the typical sec- tion, I originally referred the typical C. curium very doubtfully to the section Hemicardium; but it cannot be properly included in that section, being much nearer the subgenus Fragrum^ but still not agreeing with that group either.
Locality and position, — The type-specimens of C. curtum were brought by Captain Raynolds from Gros Ventres River, Wyoming, from a gray sandstone of Cretaceous age. The specimens liere under consideration came from Chalk Creek, two miles west of Uptown, Utah, where they occur in a whitish Cretaceous sandstone.
Carmum subcubtum. Meek,
Plate 15, fig. 3 a (not fig. 3). Gardmm stcbcurtunij Meek (1873), see foot note in Dr. Hayden's Sixth Ann* Eeport Geol. Survey of the Territories, 476.
Shell under medium size, truncato-sub,orbicular, about as high as wide.
CRETACEOUS FOSSILS. 153
rather convex, and but very slightly oblique; beaks nearly central, rather prominent, distinctly incurved almost at right angles to the hinge; posterior margin truncated with a slight forward obliquity, so as to connect with the dorsal margin at an obtuse angle; anterior margin rounding regularly into the base, which describes a slightly oblique semi-ovate curve, being more prominent behind, wjiere it rounds up very abruptly to the posterior mar- gin, so as to give a subangular outline to the posterior basal extremity; umbonal slopes rather prominent, but not angular; hinge-margin shorter than the length of the valves. Surface ornamented by small, regular, sim- ple radiating costae, and moderately distinct lines of growth.
I have seen specimens nearly twice the linear dimensions of that figured on plate 15; and, as these have the posterior umbonal slopes rounded instead of angular, there seems to be very little reason for doubting that it is a dis- tinct species from the last. As already stated, I at first thought it the young of (7. curkim; but the specimens I have since had an opportunity to examine have led to a different conclusion.
Locality and position, — Chalk Hill, near Coalville, Utah, where it occurs in a whitish sandstone of the coal-bearing Cretaceous series of that region. I also collected specimens of it between Coalville and Weber Cafion, at apparently higher horizons than the Chalk Hill beds.
MAOTEIDJ].
Genus MACTRA, Linnaeus. Maotra? .Emmonsi, Meek.
Plate 15, fig. 8.
Shell small, oval-subtrigonal, rather compressed, longer than high, nearly or quite equilateral, or with anterior side slightly longer than the other; basal margin forming a semi-elliptic curve; anterior margin narrowly rounded below the middle; posterior margin somewhat broader, most promi- nent and abruptly rounded or obtusely subangular below, and very faintly subtruncated obliquely above; dorsal margin sloping before and behind the beaks, the anterior slope being greater, with a concave outline; beaks nearly central, or sometimes placed a little behind the middle, rather depressed, and incurved with very slight obliquity; posterior umbonal slope very obscurely
154 PALAEONTOLOGY.
angular from the beaks to the posterior basal extremity. Surface only marked by fine obscure lines of growth. (Hinge and other internal char- acters unknown.)
Length, 0.45 inch; height, 0.30 inch; convexity, 0.17 inch. Some^ specimens of apparently the same species are nearly double the size of that from which the above measurements were taken, and some of the smaller ones are proportionally a little shorter.
As I am unacquainted with the hinge and other internal characters of this little shell, it is only provisionally referred to the genus Mactra, In addi- tion to this, until conchologists can agree in regard to which one of the several generic types included by Linnaeus in that genus is to be regarded as the typical form, it is impossible to know what we ought to call a shell of this type, even where the specimens are in a condition to show clearly all the generic characters.
It is a smaller and more depressed shell than any of the known Upper Missouri Cretaceous Mactras, and more closely resembles a species described by Dr. Hayden and myself, from the southwestern base of the Black Hills, under the name Tancredia Warrenana, from beds believed, from their strati- graphical position, to belong to the Jurassic series. The typical specimens of the T, Warrenana are merely casts, showing none of the internal char- acters, but have almost exactly the form and general appearance of the genus Tancredia; though they may belong to some other genus. On critical comparison with the species under consideration, the latter is found to difier in having its beaks slightly more obtuse, its posterior umbonal slopes less angular, and its posterior margin more rounded in outline.
The specific name is given in honor of S. F. Emmons, Esq., of the United States Geological Survey of the Fortieth Parallel.
Locality and position. — East Canon Creek, Wasatch Range, Utah, in an ash-colored sandstone, believed to belong to the upper bed of the Cretaceous of that region.
Mactea (Trigonella) ! AEENARiA, Meek.
Plate 14, fig. 5.
Shell attaining a medium size, trigonal-subovate, rather compressed ; posterior margin rounded, or sometimes faintly subtruncated ; anterior more
CRETACEOUS FOSSILS. 155
narrowly rounded, most prominent a little below the middle; base forming a nearly semi-elliptic curve, being most prominent along the central region, and rounding rather more abruptly into the posterior margin ; dorsal mar- gin sloping from the beaks toward the extremities ; beaks moderately promi- nent, but very slightly oblique, and very nearly central, or placed slightly behind the middle ; posterior umbonal slopes with each a shallow but dis- tinct sulcus extending obliquely from the beak toward the posterior basal margin. Surface ornamented by very regular, distinctly-defined, concentric lines and furrows. (Hinge and interior unknown.)
Length, 1.48 inches; height, 1.10 inches; convexity, about 0.60 inch.
As the specimens of this shell yet obtained show neither its hinge nor internal characters, it is not possible to determine from them whether it is a true Mactra {Trigonella)^ or a Spisula, or whether it belongs to some of the other allied groups. It has the form and general external appearance of Mactra (Trigonella), but differs from all of the otherwise similar described species of that genus known to me, in the distinctness and regularity of its concen- tric lines and furrows, as well as in the possession of the oblique posterior umbonal sulcus. In the later character, it seems to agree very nearly with Mactra? tenuistria, Gabb (California Palaeontology, vol. II, plate 29, fig. 68). It differs, however, in being proportionally longer and more abruptly or narowly rounded in front, much more coarsely striated, and in having the posterior umbonal sulcus of each valve directed so as to reach the posterior margin farther up. This sulcus seems not to impart any dis- tinct sinuosity to the posterior margin, but perhaps gives it a very slightly truncated appearance in some specimens.
Compared with the last, this species will be seen to differ, not only in its larger, more gibbous, and less depressed form, but in the possession of proportionally stronger concentric ridges and furrows.
Locality and position, — Whitish Cretaceous sandstone, including coal, on Red Creek, Uinta Mountains; and in the same rock on Chalk Creek, Utah.
Mactra (Cymbophora) ? Utahensis, Meek.
Plate 15, figs. 9, 9 a, and 9 6.
Shell subovate, moderately convex; anterior margin rounded; posterior
156 TALJiiONTOLOGY.
margin narrower, and rather abruptly rounded, or sometimes apparently slightly truncated, being most prominent below ; basal margin forming a semi- elliptic or semi-ovate curve, being sometimes more prominent anteriorly ; dor- sal outline sloping from the beaks toward the extremities; beaks moderately ^ prominent, very nearly central, and incurved with little obliquity; umbonal slopes merely roundod, and not terminating in a flexure of the posterior basal margin. Surface apparently merely marked with fine, obscure, irregular lines of growth. Hinge merely known to possess linear anterior and posterior lateral teeth. Ligament and internal characters unknown.
Length, 1.35 inches; height, 0.90 inch; convexity, about 0.50 inch.
The specimens of this shell in the collection agree so nearly with a form described by the writer in connection with Dr. Hayden, from the Upper Cretaceous beds on Deer Creek near the North Platte, under the name Tel- Una nitidula, that I was at one time inclined to think they might belong to a variety of that species. Still, as they are merely internal casts, giving but a limited knowledge of the hinge, and showing nothing of the internal char- acters, it is much more probable that they are really very distinct. So far as regards their form and general appearance, they seem only to differ in having the anterior side rather more produced and sometimes wider.
From this general resemblance, however, I have, in the absence of any knowledge of the nature of its cardinal teeth or pallial line, ventured to refer it provisionally to the same section of the Mactra group to which Tellina nitidula is now believed to belong ; that is, to Cymbophora^ Gabb. I should have been inclined to refer it to Macoma or Gastrana, were it not for the impressions of lateral teeth seen before and behind the beaks in the casts.
Locality and position, — Whitish Cretaceous sandstone. East Canon Creek, Wasatch Range, and near Coalville, Utah.
TELLINID^.
Genus TELLINA, Linnaeus. Tellina !?isoNEMA, Meek.
Plate 15, fig. 6.
Shell transverse, elliptic-subtrigonal in outline, compressed, and nearly
CHETACEOUS FOSSILS. 157
or quite equilateral; anterior margin narrowly rounded; base forming a semi-elliptic curve; posterior end narrowly rounded or subangular at the termination of a slight, oblique flexure of the valves; dorsal margin sloping from the beaks to the extremities, with a moderately convex outline; beaks almost central, rather small, and projecting little above the cardinal margin, incurved with scarcely any visible obliquity; hinge and interior unknown, Surface ornamented by fine, perfectly regular, concentric, thread-like lines, gradually becoming smaller and more crowded toward the umbones, on which they are nearly or quite obsolete.
Length, 0.90 inch; height, 0.60 inch; convexity, about 0.20 inch.
The fact that this is one of the characteristic shells of the formation in which it occurs seems to render it desirable that some notice should be taken of it, although we have not the means of arriving at satisfactory con- clusions in regard to its affinities. At the same time that I place it pro- visionally in the above genus, I really have very little faith in its belonging properly to that group. It seems to be a very thin shell, as the spec- imens (which in some instances appear to be internal casts) show the exceedingly regular thread-like concentric lines quite distinctly. In some of these casts there are appearances of the impression of a thin lamina, or very slender ridge, nearly parallel to the hinge-margin both behind and in front of the beaks. These may have been left by elongated lateral teeth ; though thej^ appear not to be exactly marginal, but a little removed from it, as if they had been made by a thin projecting lamina, somewhat similar to the cartilage-support in the genus JEdmondia, 1 do not think the shell at all related to that group, however.
After numerous comparisons, I have been unable to identify this shell with any described species.
Locality and position, — In whitish and buff-colored sandstone, at Chalk Creek, above Coalville, Utah; also in a similar matrix from East Canon Creek, Wasatch Range; Cretaceous.
Tellina modesta, Meek.
s
Plate 15, figs. 4 and 5. ^
Shell rather small, transversely elongate-subelliptic, being twice as long as high, rather distinctly compressed; anterior margin narrowly rounded;
1 58 PAL^.OKTOLOG Y.
base forming a long, semi-elliptic curve; posterior extremity more narroTvly and less regularly rounded than the other, apparently slightly bent to the left; dorsal margin declining very slightly, with convex slopes, both in front and behind the beaks; beaks very nearly central and inconspicuous, being depressed and compressed. Surface of casts smooth, but probably on well- preserved shells marked with fine concentric striae. Hinge and interior unknown, with the exception of some appearances of lateral teeth seen in casts.
Length, 0.86 ibch; height, 0,44 inch; convexity, 0.10 inch.
This little shell has the general form of Tellina, or Abra, but without seeing the hinge and interior it is impossible to determine whether it may not belong to some allied, but distinct, group. It is a more depressed shell than T. scitula, M. & H., or any of the other species from the Cretaceous rocks of the Upper Missouri, and I have been unable to identify it with any of the known American or foreign species. Perhaps the most nearly allied American fossil species yet known is Mr. Gabb's T, Ashburnerii (from division A of the California Cretaceous series), which, however, is a pro- portionally higher (wider) shell, with much less depressed and more angular beaks.
Locality and position, — Whitish sandstone of East Canon Creek, Wasatch Range, upper part of series; Cretaceous.
VENERIDJ].
Genus CYPRIMERIA, Conrad.
Cyprimebia? subalata, Meek.
Plate 15, fig. 7.
Cyprhnei*ia subalata^ Meek (1873), Hayden's Sixth Eeport U. S. Geol. Survey of the Territories, 476.
Shell transversely broad-subovate or subelliptic, strongly compressed; extremities rather narrowly, and nearly equally rounded; basal margin forming a regular semi-elliptic curve, being most prominent along the mid- dle, and rounding up gradually and equally intx) the anterior and posterior lateral margins; dorsal margin sloping from the beaks, the posterior slope being more convex in outline than the anterior; beaks small, scarcely pro-
CRETACEOUS FOSSILS. I59
jecting above tliQ hinge-margin, very nearly or exactly central, and almost entirely without obliquity. Surface apparently smooth, or only showing very fine, obscure, concentric striae. (Hinge and interior unknown.)
Length, 1.22 inches; height, 0.90 inch^ convexity of left valve, only about 0.12 inch.
Although I have seen only casts of this species, giving no satisfactory knowledge of its hinge and internal characters, from its very close similarity to Cyprimeria depressa of Conrad, described from the North Carohna and Missis- sippi Cretaceous rocks, I can scarcely doubt its generic identity with that shell. It is quite unlike Mr. Conrad's type-species of Cyprimeria (C. excavata)^ so much so, indeed, that I should not have suspected it to belong to the same genus. Its very close specific relations, however, as stated above, to (7. depressa^ which has the characteristic hinge of Cyprimeria^ leaves little reason for doubts on this point. On comparison with good specimens of C, depressa, sent to me by Mr. Conrad, I find our shell only differs (in external characters at least) in having its beaks a little less flattened and placed slightly farther forward, while its posterior dorsal outline is some- what less straightened, and its anterior outline a little less narrowly rounded. These, however, are not greater differences than we often see between dif- ferent individuals of the same species among such shells.
Locality and position. — Whitish Cretaceous sandstone, at East Canon, Wasatch Range, Utah.
GASTEROPODA.
NATICIDJE.
Genus GYEODES, Conrad. Gykodes depressa, Meek.
Plato 15, figs. 1, 1 a.
Shell depressed so as to be about twice as wide as high; volutions three to three and a half, increasing rapidly in size ; last one widest below the middle, narrowly rounded, but not angular on the under side, at least in casts; spire much depressed; suture channeled in such a manner as to be flattened within, owing to the presence of a revolving furrow just above it; umbilicus wide and depressed-conical in form, without showing any revolv-
160 PALiEONTOLOGY.
ing ridges within; aperture obliquely suboval, witli its longer axis ranging downward and outward. (Surface unknown.)
Height, 0.55 inch; breadth, 1.05 inches.
The specimens of this shell in the collection are merely casts in a very fine arenaceous material. It certainly differs, however, in its much depressed form, from any otherwise similar described species "with which I am acquainted. Its umbilicus is quite wide, but diminishes rapidly in breadth within, in consequence of the depressed form of the shell. The under side of the body- volution is prominently and naiTowly rounded around the um- bihcus, but not properly angular; at any rate not so in casts. Owing to the form of the body- volution, the aperture has an oblique outward slope. The whorls seem not to be truncated around the upper edge, as is often the case in this genus; but a revolving furrow, just above the suture, gives the latter a duplicated or banded appearance, the band forming a flattened bot- tom to the channeled suture. Only faint traces of very oblique lines of growth are seen on the cast.
Locality and position. — Chalk Creek, at the mouth of the cafion, above Coalville, in the whitish Cretaceous sandstone series, Utah.
APOREHAID^. Genus ANCHURA, Conrad.
ANCHUEAI FUSIFORMIS, Met'k. Plate 15, figs. 2, 2 a.
Shell subfusiform; spire conical, rather short; volutions about five, moderately convex, those of the spire smooth and separated by a com- paratively distinct suture; last one subovate, obscurely angular around the middle in young examples, but with angle entirely obsolete in the adult, gradually tapering below into a long, straight, rather stout canal, which has some appearance of being obliquely truncated at the extremity; outer lip, with extension apparently short, simple, and slightly recurved; surface with only obscure lines of gi'owth, excepting near the lip on the body- volution in adult shells, where there are usually a few small, slightly oblique, longi- tudinal costae, that become obsolete before reaching the suture above and a little below the niiddle of the volution. (Aperture and columella unknown.)
CRETACEOUS FOSSILS. 161
Length of the largest specimen seen, including canal, about 1.28 inches; breadth of body- volution, including the lip as far as preserved, about 0.70 inch.
The specimens of this shell are unfortunately not in a condition to show the entire lip, though they leave no room for doubting that it is more or less extended. The fact that the commencement of a single mesial angle can also be seen on the outside of the dilated part indicates that the lip proba- bly has but one spur; and, from a slight upward curve of this angle, it is probable the extended part is more or less recurved. None of the specimens show the inner lip or the exact form of the aperture.
Owing to the stoutness and straightness of the canal, and the presence of flexuous costae on the outer side of the body-volution in this species, it presents some general resemblance to Pugnellus manubriatuSj Gabb, from the Cretaceous rocks of California. Unfortunately, no specimens have been found in a condition to show whether or not it has the outer margin of its lip thickened as in that genus; but it seems not to present that character. It at least differs specifically from G. manubrialm in having its canal more slender and elongated, and its spire more elevated.*
Locality and position. — The type-specimens were found at the water-tank two miles from Coalville, Utah, and on Chalk Creek above Coalville, in a whitish Cretaceous sandstone. I also found several specimens of it at Coal- ville, in bed No. 11, of section given on page 439 of Dr. Hay den's Sixth Annual Report of the United States Geological Survey of the Territories, 1873.
* Since the foregoing description and remarks were written (in 1870) Dr. White has figured and described, in his report on Lieutenant Wheeler's collections (page 190, pi. xvii, fig. 4), a shell from New Mexico supposed to belong to this species. Although when he showed me his specimens with others when I was lying sick at Oakland, Md., in 1874, 1 was inclined to believe it not distinct from this species, a later comparison has led me to regard the New Mexican shell as belonging fo another species with a more elevated and more slender spire. Better specimens of the two forms would doubtless show other differences. 11 PR
162 PALEONTOLOGY.
SIPHONARIIDiB.
menus ANISOMYO^, M. & H. Anisomyon sexsulcatus, M. & H.f
Helcion sexsulcatns^ Meek and Hayden (1856), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., YIII, G8. Anisomyon aexsuleatus, Meek and Hayden (1860), Am. Jour. Sci., XXXYIII (2d ser.), 35.— Meek (1876), Palaeont. Upper Missouri, 293, pi. 18, figs. 8 a, h.
FigM. Fig. 5. rjy^Q Specimen I have here referred doubtfully
to the above species is smaller than the original type of the same, being but little more than half the linear dimensions of that species. It also has its apex proportionally a little higher, and the ante- Anisomymi sexsuicaius, j^qj. gJope slightly convex near the apex, instead of
Fig. 4. An internal cast as seen t_»i -i^ i xt_ • i i
from above-(nat. size). coucave ; whilo it shows ou the internal cast an Fig. 5. A side-view of same. obscurc mcsial Carina dowu the posterior slope, not seen on the cast of the type of A. sexsulcatus. It shows the six radiating furrows, however, exactly as in that species, and agrees so very nearly in all other known characters that I have concluded to refer it provisionally to the same.
The original type-specimen of A. sexsulcatus is an imperfect cast of the interior, retaining only thin films of the inner layer of the shell. That now before me is also an internal cast, but retains some fragments of the shell near the margin, and one of these shows that there is, as I had long since conjectured, a narrow furrow on the outer surface of the shell over each of those seen on the internal cast. These fragments of the shell, although apparently not worn, show only obscure marks of growth.
I suspect that a good series of specimens may show this shell to be a distinct species from A. sexsulcatus, of smaller size. If so, it may be called A. Wyomingensis.
Locality and position. — Outer sandstone ridge southeast of La Porte, Colorado ; Fox Hills Grroup of the Upper Missouri Cretaceous series.
OEETACEOUS FOSSILS. 1 63
FOSSILS OF THE BEAR RIVER FRESH- OR BRACKISH-
WATER BEDS.
As it is still a matter of some doubt whether the above-mentioned highly-inclined strata seen on Sulphur Creek near Bear River, Wyoming, very nearly conformable to well-marked marine Cretaceous beds at the same locality, belong to the latest member of the Cretaceous or to the earliest Eocene Tertiary, I prefer to describe the fossils from them here separately under a distinct heading. I have from the first inclined to the opinion that these brackish-water beds belong to the horizon of the oldest Eocene, though I have several times mentioned certain reasons for suspecting that they may prove rather to belong to the closing period of the Cretaceous. One diffi- culty in deciding in regard to their precise horizon is, that all of the fossils yet known from them are new and entirely distinct from those found else- where in very well-determined horizons. None of them belong to any of the characteristic Cretaceous genera, while several of the species are nearly allied to Lower Eocene forms of the Old World, though clearly distinct specifically.
The fact, however, that at least one species occurring here seems to be identical with a form ( Vivipara Conradi) found in a similar brackish-water group of strata, associated with Cretaceous types of Vertebrate remains at the mouth of Judith River on the Upper Missouri, when taken in connec- tion with the recent discovery of a Cretaceous type of Saurian remains in Wyoming, apparently at a higher horizon, and of a decidedly brackish- water group of MoUuscan remains beneath a considerable thickness of Cre- taceous strata at Coalville, Utah, certainly seems to indicate that these beds belong rather below than above the line of division between the latest Cre- taceous and the oldest Eocene. Unfortunately, however, as I have often remarked, fresh-water and estuary shells do not generally present the same well-defined distinguishing features, if I may so speak, in each of the vari- ous geological horizons, usually observable among marine types, being often very similar from rocks of quite different ages, and again quite distinct in equivalent beds at different localities.
164 PALEONTOLOGY.
MOLLUSOA.
LAMELLIBRANCHIATA.
UNIONIDJ].
Genus UNIO, Retzius.
Unio vetustus, Meek.
Plate 16, figs. 5, 5 a, 5 6, and 5 c.
Unto vetu8tu8j Meek (1860), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., VIII, 117 ; and (1876) in Col. Simpson's Eeport Expl. across the Great Basin of Utah, 359, pi. v, figs. 12 a, &.— White (1875), Eep. on Wheeler's collections 206, pi. xxi, figs. 12 a—d.
Compare IT. prisctts, Meek and Hayden (1856), Proceed. Acad. Sci. Philad., 117. — Meek (1876), Pal. Upp. Mo., 516, pi. 43, figs. 8 a, 6, c.
Shell of about medium size, transversely-subovate or subelliptic, the widest part being anteriorly, though young examples are narrower, with dorsal and ventral margins more nearly parallel, rather thin and moder- ately convex, about twice as long as high; base forming a long semi-elliptic or semi-ovate curve in adult shells, but usually straighter in the young; posterior margin rather narrowly rounded below in large specimens, and obliquely truncated in small examples; dorsal margin nearly straight, except- ing in large shells, where it is more arched; anterior margin short and rounded; beaks depressed, not eroded, placed near the anterior, very neatly ornamented with small, perfectly regular, concentric ridges and furrows, that generally end abruptly behind at a small, oblique, linear, posterior umbonal ridge extending backward and downward, while midway between this and the cardinal margin there is a second similar ridge; other portions of the surface merely marked with lines of growth, which sometimes assume a subimbricating appearance near the free margins. Hinge of moderate length, with two cardinal teeth in the left valve, the posterior one being larger than the other; lateral teeth long and nearly straight (cardinal teeth of right valve unknown) ; scars of anterior muscles deep and irregularly pitted.
Length of a large specimen, about 4 inches; height, 2.23 inches; con- vexity, about 1.10 inches.
CRETACEOUS FOSSILS. 1 65
Young specimens of this species seem to be generally proportionally nar- rower, and have the posterior margin more distinctly truncated, while thecostse or concentric ridges of the beats cover proportionally more of the umbonal region. In large examples, these markings become obsolete, excepting on the immediate umbones, and the posterior margin is more round or less dis- tinctly truncated, while the valves become proportionally less depressed in general outhne. I have long suspected that this shell may possibly be identical with U, prisms^ M. & H., as the specimens seem to be very much alike. Still, as we only know the latter from very imperfect specimens, while the Bear River beds from which the form here under consideration was obtained, seem to be very local, and, so far as yet known, to contain a peculiar fauna, ahnost without exception unknown in the Upper Missouri country where the type of U, priscus was discovered, it is perhaps better to keep these two proposed species separate until we can have an oppor- tunity to compare better series of specimens from the two distantly sepa- rated localities.
Locality and position. — Fresh-water beds on Bear River, near the mouth of Sulphur Creek, Wyoming.
Unio BELLiPLicATUS, Meek.
Plate 16, figs. 4, 4 a.
Unio beUiplicatus, Meek (1870), Proceed. Philosophical Society of Philadelphia, XL Unio {Loxoplmrus) belliplicattts^ Meek (1873), Hayden's Second Keport Geol. Survey of the Territories, 294.
Shell attaining a medium size, transversely subovate, the widest part being a little in advance of the middle, moderately convex, generally less than twice as long as high ; anterior margin short, rather regularly rounded; posterior margin obliquely- subtruncated, with a more or less convex out- line, most prominent below, where it is obtusely subangular or abruptly rounded into the base; dorsal outline nearly straight, or more or less arched; base broad-semiovate, being most prominent in advance of the middle, in large specimens generally a little sinuous posteriorly; beaks much depressed, or scarcely rising above the cardinal margin, oblique, and placed near the anterior end, not eroded ; hinge moderately long, with car-
1 66 P AL.EONTOLOGT.
dinal and lateral teeth, yo far as known, mucli as in the last-described species. Surface ornamented by a series of very regular, distinctly-defined, and gener- ally simple plications, which commence very small, and closely approxi- mated along the dorsal margin just before the beaks, and after slight curves, radiate and descend obliquely toward the posterior basal margin, increasing in breadth and becoming more obtuse as they descend and diverge, and at last in large specimens becoming obsolete before reaching the margins; while another more or less similar series of plications sometimes originates along the cardinal margins behind the beaks, and descends obliquely back- ward and downward, so as to connect with those of the first-mentioned series along the posterior umbonal slopes at very acute angles, somewhat like we see on species of Goniomya. Marks of growth moderately distinct, becom- ing sometimes stronger or subimbricating near the margins.
Length of a large specimen, 2.75 inches; height, 1.50 inches; convex- ity, about 0.85 inch.
This beautiful species may be distinguished at a glance from the last by its peculiar plications, the principal series of which, although originating, as in that species, just before the beaks, always radiate obliquely backward and downward across the lines of growth, instead of running horizontally backward parallel to those lines. The fact that these plications do not con- verge to the beaks will serve to distinguish this shell from another associated species, of which there are fragments in the collection, with a series of very prominent plications converging more nearly to the apex of each beak. In the latter, the beaks are also much more gibbous.
In its style of ornamentation, this species seems to approach South American types, such as U, hylea and TJ, Gilhraniana^ more nearly than any of the numerous North Ameri-can forms. Its radiating plications remind one of the genus Castalia; but its form and hinge are entirely dififerent, the latter being that of true Unio.
In Dr. Hayden's Second Annual Report of the Geological Survey of the Territories, page 294, published in 1872, 1 proposed a subgenus io.wpfewrw, for the reception of this species, which it can retain, if it shall be considered desirable to separate it subgenerically or otherwise from the typical and other established sections of the genus Unio^ on account of its very peculiar
CRETACEOUS FOSSILS. 167
surface-markings or other characters. My present opinion, however, is, that it may find a place in some of the previously-proposed sections of Unio.
Locality and position.— The typical specimens of this species were brought by Dr. Hayden from Limestone Hill, on Bear Eiver, Utah. Mr. King also found it on the same river, beneath indications of lignite. Speci- mens were also sent by Mr. H. R. Durkee to the Smithsonian Institution, from the same horizon at Gilmer, Wyoming.
OYRENID^.
Genus CORBICULA, Benson.
CoRBicuLA (Yeloritina) DuRKEEt, Meek.
Plate 16, figs. 6, a, ft, c, d, e, f, g,
Cyrena {Corbieulaf) Burlceei, Meek (1870), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., XI, 431. Corhicula {V^loritina) DurJceei, Meek (1872), Hayden's Second Ann. Report U. S. Geol.
Survey of the Territories, 294. Cyrena ( Veloritina) Durkeei, White (1876), Eeport on Lieut. Wheeler's collections, 207,
pi. xxi, fig. 13.
Shell attaining a large size, thick, trigonoid-subcordate, gibbous, oblique, with length exceeding somewhat the height, most convex a little in advance of and above the middle, andcuneate postero-ventrally; posterior dorsal slope long, straight, or slightly convex in outline from the umbones to the angular or subangular posterior basal extremity; basal margin semi-ovate in outline, being most prominent anteriorly; anterior margin short, descending very abruptly from the beaks, with a slightly concave outline above, and rounding regularly into the base below; beaks elevated, gibbous, obliquely incurved, contiguous, and placed about half-way between the middle and the anterior end, or sometimes nearly over the latter; .posterior umbonal slopes prominently rounded, with posterior dorsal margins inflected or incurved so as to form a profound, broad concavity, or sulcus, along their entire length, as the two valves are seen united; lunule in most cases deep, but generally without well-defined margins; ligament short, narrow, and so deeply seated in the broad dorsal concavity as not to be visible in a side- view when the valves are united; surface only showing moderately distinct lines of growth; hinge strong; cardinal teeth oblique, excepting the anterior
1 68 PALEONTOLOGY.
one, which ranges nearly vertically; lateral teeth elong'ated, and only very minutely striated, or very nearly smooth, the posterior one of the left valve being sometimes mainly formed by the beveling of the inflected edge of the valve, instead of standing out at right angles from an erect margin; pallial line with a short, very shallow sinus, immediately under the ovate, shallow, and oblique scar of the posterior adductor muscle (see fig. Q g)] anterior muscular impression deeper, slightly smaller than the other, and ranging nearly vertically.
Length of a large specimen, 1.78 inches; height, 1,56 inches; convex- ity, 1.12 inches.
As may be seen by our figures, this shell varies greatly in fonn, some specimens being more depressed, with the posterior basal extremity more produced than in others (see fig. 6 b); while others have the umbones more Novated, and the whole shell proportionally shorter, as seen in our fig. 6 c. Still other specimens, that seem to be younger examples of this species, are proportionally both more compressed and more depressed, with a more nearly ovate outline, as represented by fig. 6 / It is possible that the latter may belong to a distinct species; but my present impression is that it can hardly be separated from the others, as there seem to be all intermediate gradations of form and size.
Some varieties of this species look almost exactly like a Lower Lignite Paris Basin species, described by Deshayes under the name Cyrena Forbesi (see plate xxxvii, figs. 24 to 26, Descr. des An. sans Vert., Bassin, Paris, 1), particularly as seen in a side-view of the exterior. Deshayes' species, however, is a thinner shell, with a weaker hinge, and has its lateral teeth more strongly striated, and the posterior dorsal margins of the valves not near so strongly inflected; while its umbonal slopes are less prominently rounded, and it wants the small sinus of the pallial line seen in our spe- cies. In its greater thickness, more trigonal form, and prominent umbonal slopes, our shell agrees more nearly with another species described by Ferussac under the name Cyrena antiqua, and figured by Deshayes (from the Lignite beds of the Paris Basin) on plate xviii of his **Coquilles Fos- siles des Environs de Paris". The latter species, however, is proportion- ally shorter, with still more elevated beaks, a broader hinge-plate, less
CRETACEOUS FOSSILS. 169
diverging cardinal teeth, and more strongly striated laterals. Its surface is also rougher, being more strongly furrowed and ridged than that of our shell, and its lunule is much larger.
Deshayes has noticed, in his later work on the Paris Basin fossils, the points of resemblance between the latter of the above-mentioned species and the existing genus Velorita, and yet points out some differences that indicate a transition from the typical forms of Corbicula toward Velorita, through such species as (7. antiqua. The species here under consideration seems to me also to occupy a somewhat intermediate position between the two genera mentioned, having more nearly the trigonal form, oblique car- dinal teeth, and thick solid shell of Velorita, while its anterior lateral teeth are as elongated and slender as in Corbicula. It, however, differs from both, in the peculiar incurved character of the posterior dorsal edges of its valves, so as to form a very deep concavity or furrow along their entire length, as seen when the valves are united. This inflection of the borders and the depressed nature of the ligament, bring the latter so far below the elevated umbonal slopes that it is entirely hidden from view in looking at the shell from either side, instead of projecting above the umbonal slopes, as in the two types above mentioned. Again, the posterior lateral tooth of its left valve is some- times mainly formed by beveling of the inflected edge of the valve, instead of projecting out at right angles to an erect margin. In consequence of these peculiarities of our shell, I have already proposed to make it the type of a new section, under the name Veloritina, in Dr. Hayden^s Report of 1872. Whether or not this section can properly include Cyrena antiqua, I am not well enough acquainted with that shell to decide; but, although it seems to depart from our type in some of its distinguishing characters, I am inclined to believe that it may find a place in the same group.
Locality and position. — The first specimens of this species that I have seen, were brought from the brackish- or fresh- water beds on Sulphur Creek, near Bear River, Wyoming. Soon after, Mr King's party brought in additional specimens from the same locality and beds; and, at a later date, Mr. Durkee, an engineer on the Union Pacific Railroad, sent numerous specimens of it and the associated fossils to the Smithsonian Institution, for the use of which
1 70 PALEONTOLOGY.
specimens I am indebted to Professor Henry. Dr. White has also identi- fied it among Lieutenant Wheeler's collections from the north fork of Virgin River, Utah.
CORBULID^.
Genus CORBULA, Brug. CoBBULA (Anisoehynchus) pyriformis, Meek.
Plate 17, figs. 2, and 2 a, &, c, d.
Corbula {Potamomya f) pyriformis^ Meek (1860), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., 312.
Corhula {Potamomya f) concentrica, Meek (1860), ib., 313.
Corbula {AnisorJiynchus) pyriformis^ Meek (1871), Extract from Dr. Hayden's Second Anu. Report Geol. Survey of the Territories ; and (1872) in the last-mentioned Report, 292; and (1876) in Col. Simpson's Report Expl. across the Great Basin of Utah, 359.
Corhula pyriformig^ Dall (1872), Am. Jour. Conch., VII, 90.
Shell attaining a large size, rather thick, oval-subpyriform, nearly equivalve, very gibbous in the central and anterior regions, and much more compressed, narrowed, and produced posteriorly; beaks elevated, nearly equaj, incurved, and placed more or less in advance of the middle; ante- rior side generally truncated obliquely forward above, from the beaks to near the middle, thence rounding abruptly to the base; posterior side much attenuated, and usually slightly truncated at the immediate extremity; dorsal margin generally very concave in outline behind the beaks, and pro- vided with a well-defined marginal carina, extending in each valve from the beaks nearly to the posterior extremity, and between these carinse with a deeply-excavated lanceolate escutcheon; basal' margin deeply rounded in the central and anterior region, and more or less sinuous in outline behind the middle; lunule deeply and rather largely impressed, without being always distinctly defined, though it is sometimes margined by a subangular ridge on each side. Surface ornamented with concentric ridges and furrows, most regularly and strongly defined on the umbonal region, and gradually becoming more irregular and less distinct toward the basal margin, or in some cases entirely fading away, so as to leave only the lines of growth over the whole exterior. Hinge with the tooth of the right valve rather thick, prominent, subtrigonal, striated, and a little curved upward; cartilage-pit deep and trigonal; hinge of left valve, with pit and cartilage-process, pre- senting the usual characters; pallial line with apparently a small shallow
CKETACEOUS FOSSILS. 171
sinus; posterior muscular impressions very faintly marked; anterior muscu- lar impressions generally well defined, subovate, attenuated, and curving backward above where they connect with the small scars of the pedal muscles.
Length of a medium-sized specimen, 1.33 inches; height of the same, 0.87 inch; convexity, 0.78 inch.
This species varies considerably in form, as well as in surface-markings. In some specimens, the whole surface is nearly smooth or only marked with obscure lines of growth (fig. 2a) ; while, in others, the most gibbous part of the valves and the umbones are marked with very regular, distinct, concentric ridges and furrows (fig. 2). In still others, the ridges and furrows are exceed- ingly irregular and very strongly marked (fig. 2c). There are also more or less marked differences in the elevation of the beaks, the convexity of the anterior region, and the proportional length of the attenuated posterior extremity. Yet all of these varieties blend together by such slight shades of difference that it seems impossible to find constant characters by which they can be separated specifically.
In first describing this species, from the few imperfect specimens orig- inally brought from the Far- West, I was led to believe that there were two distinct species represented among them; one nearly smooth, which I called Corhula pyriformis, and another with regular, concentric ridges, for which I proposed the name C. concentrica. The extensive series of specimens, how- ever, brought in by various explorers from the same locality, soon led to the conclusion that the two types really belong to one variable species.
None of the specimens originally studied were in a condition to give any clew to the nature of the hinge; but, from the fact that they were found associated with some fresh- water shells, it seemed quite probable that they belonged to the brackish- water group Potamomya^ or more properly Amra^ and for that reason I placed the name Potamomya, with a mark of doubt, parenthetically between the generic and specific names. Some years later, however, when large numbers of fine specimens of this shell were at hand for study, I succeeded in working out the hinge, and found that it does not
172 PALEONTOLOGY.
present the characters of Amra at all, but seems to agree almost exactly with that of Corhula proper. From this fact, and its apparent fresh- or brackish- water habits, I at first thought it might possibly find a place in a newly proposed South American group for which Mr. Gabb used the name Pachydon (but afterward named Anisothyris by Mr. Conrad, because Pachydon had been previously used by Sowerby for another genus ), some species of which closely resemble the shell under consideration; while the South Amencan type differs little from Corbula in its hinge-characters.* Soon after, on informing my friend Mr. Conrad that I had found our shell to differ in its hinge from Amra^ and to agree almost exactly with Corbulaj he wrote to me that he had been studying specimens of the same, sent to the Academy of Sciences from the original locality, and that he had pro- posed, in manuscript, to make it the type of a new genus Anisorhynchus, founded mainly on its brackish- or fresh- water habits, -^^e^ra-like form, and supposed gaping posterior; and I adopted his name in a subgeneric sense, in an extract from Dr. Hayden's Second Annual Report, then just ready to go to press, as well as in the report itself, printed a month or two later.
After examining hundreds of specimens of this shell, however, I have failed to detect any evidence that its valves were in the least gaping; and, as regards its Netjera-like form, there is an objection to giving very much weight to it as a distinguishing character, that is the fact that Corbula alee- formis Gabb, from marine beds, has exactly the same general form ; so that, so far as yet known, the group Anisorhynchus seems to rest entirely upon the apparent brackish- water habits of our shell. There are not known at present any well-determined fresh- water living species of Corbula; but Dr. Stoliczka says (Palaeont. Indica, III, p. 35) that there certainly are Indian brackish-water species which cannot be distinguished from true Corbula, excepting that they are thinner and Necera-like in form.
From all that is therefore yet known in regard to the characters of this
♦Originally, J.wi«ot/iym, Conrad, or Pachydon, Gsbbb, was supposed by both of those authors to have an external ligament; but, on exanjining a series of the type- species, 1 found that it really has an internal cartilage like Corbtda, with only a more oblique cartilage-process. Hence Mr. Conrad now rests the group mainly on its brack- ish-water habits, the subspiral character of the beaks, and the presence, in some of tite spedes, of an obscure rudimentary posterior lateral tooth.
GUETACBOUS FOSSILS. 173
shell, T am of the opinion that it is most probably not more than subgener- ically distinct from Corhula proper. As I have elsewhere stated, we have (at present) reason to believe that in this internal region of the continent, the changes from marine conditions, first to comparatively large areas of brackish-water, then to more restricted bodies of fresh-water, were so gradual, as the continent was slowly rising at about the close of the Creta- ceous, and the beginning of the Tertiary periods, that probably a few types of MoUusca, originally exclusively marine in their habits, may have grad- ually adapted themselves to a brackish-water habitat.
The most characteristic specific features of this shell are its large size, very nearly equal valves, gibbous anterior, attenuated or subrostrate poste- rior extremity, and incurved, equal, and rather oblique beaks. In most specimens, the valves seem to be almost exactly equal, though usually a close examination reveals the fact that the right valve is a little larger than the other ; although the immediate apex of its beak curves in under that of tliQ left valve, and seems to be placed very slightly farther forward.
I have been inclined to think that the species described from the Califor- nia Cretaceous by Mr. Gabb, in vol. ii of the California Palaeontology, under the name Corhula alceformiSj may be somewhat nearly related to this species. At any rate, certain varieties of our shell seem to agree very closely with Mr. Gabb's figure and description of his species. Most of our specimens are more coarsely furrowed and ridged ; but, as already stated, they vary greatly in this respect, so much indeed, that it is difficult to know how far we can rely on this character in distinguishing Mr. Gabb^s species from our type, especially as he has figured only a single specimen. The fact, however, that our shell is apparently only found associated with fresh-, or perhaps in part, brackish-water types, while Mr. Gabb's came, if I am not mistaken, from a marine deposit, would favor the conclusion that there were developed sufficiently marked dififerences to constitute specific, if not more important, distinctions.
Locality and position, — The original type-specimens of this species were brought by Colonel Simpson's party from Sulphur Creek, near Bear River, Wyoming. The Union Pacific Railroad there cuts directly through a small ridge composed of the upturned strata of the estuary beds containing this
174 PALEONTOLOGY.
and various fresh- and some brackisli-water shells, which occur there by millions. Dr. Hayden's and Mr. King's parties have brought large collec- tions of these shells from this locality; and Mr. Durkee, an intelligent civil engineer, sent great quantities of them to the Smithsonian Institution. I have, as elsewhere stated, referred these beds to the Lower Eocene ; but they may yet prove rather to belong to the latest Cretaceous, as suggested by me in Dr. Hayden's Reports, and in the Upper Missouri Palaeontology.
CoRBULA (Anisoehynohus ?) ENaELMANNi, Meek.
Plate 17, figs. 1 and 1 a.
Corhula {Anisorhynchus f) Engelmannij Meek (1860), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., XII, 312.
Shell subovate, moderately gibbous, nearly equivalve; anterior margin rather narrowly rounded; base forming a semi-ovate curve, with the most prominent part in advance of the middle; posterior more or less narrowed and compressed, with the immediate extremity slightly truncated; beaks rather depressed, nearly or quite equal, and placed a little in advance of the middle; dorsal outline sloping gradually before and behind the beaks toward the extremities, with a shallow marginal furrow extending from the beaks posteriorly ; lunule excavated, but not sharply defined. Surface with small, more or less regular, concentric furrows and strise.
Length of the typical specimen, 0.50 inch; height, 0.20 inch; convexity, 0.20 inch.
Since seeing how greatly the preceding species varies in form and other characters, I am led to suspect that this may be only a young or more depressed form of the same shell. Its greatest differences, aside from its generally smaller size, are its less gibbous form, more depressed beaks, placed a little farther backward, and its proportionally less attenuated pos- terior, with its dorsal margin merely sloping backward from the beaks with- out being concave in outline. ' Although with my present impressions of the variable character of C. pyriformis, I should hesitate to separate the form under consideration from that species, if I were now for the first time investigating these shells, as it has already been described under another name, it may be better to keep them separated until we can have an oppor-
CRETACEOUS FOSSILS. 175
tunity to study the development of the young of C. pyriformis through its various stages of growth.
This form resembles Mr. Grabb's C. Eornii, though not so closely as the last resembles his C. alceformis.
Locality and position, — Bear River, mouth of Sulphur Creek, Wyoming, from the same horizon as the last.
GASTEROPODA.
Genus RHYTIPHORUS, Meek.
(pvTc^^ a wrinkle ; (popd^y to bear.)
Bhytiphorusj Meek (1873), Hayden's Sixth Ann. Kep. U. S. Geol. Survey of tbe Terri- tories, 478.
The type of this group has the general aspect of Melampus^ excepting that it has a series of small, oblique, short folds around the top of the some- what shouldered whorls; while a sHght curve in these little folds or costse indicates the presence of a faint sinus in the lip near the suture, somewhat as in Schi^ostoma, I^ea, but much less deeply defined. It has two folds on the columella, while the outer lip is thin, and apparently entirely smooth within.
Type Melampus priscus, Meek, which is the only species known. Rhytiphobtjs PBisous, Meek.
Plate 17, figs. 6 and 6 a,
Melampus priscus^ Meek (1860), Proceed. Acad. Nat, Sci. Philad., XII, 315. Ehytiphorus priseus, Meek (1876), Col. Simpson's Report Expl. across the Great Basm of Utah, 364, pi. v, figs. 4 a, ft.*
Shell obovate, about once and a half as long as wide; spire depressed- conical; whorls about five, convex, or faintly subangular; last one large, somewhat shouldered above, and tapering below the middle; suture well defined; surface marked by rather obscure/ lines of growth, and the small, regular, vertical, or slightly oblique folds, which are distinct on the volutions of the spire, and around the upper edge of the body-whorl, but obsolete on all the surface below this; aperture narrow, angular above, and apparently very narrowly rounded below; outer lip sharp and apparently smooth * These are better figures than those here given.
176 PAL.350NTOLOGY.
within; columella provided with one rather strong oblique fold below, and a much smaller less oblique one about half-way up the aperture.
Length, about 0.77 inch; breadth, 0.50 inch; apical angle nearly regu- lar, divergence about 80°.
I know of no other shell so nearly allied to this as to render a com- parison necessary. Its most striking character is the presence of the little folds around the upper part of its body-volution and on those of the spire. These will at once distinguish it from any type of the Melampince known to me, even in specimens not in a condition to show any of the other char- acters.
Locality and position. — The only three specimens of this species I have seen were found by Colonel Simpson's party in the brackish- water carbon- aceous beds at the mouth of Sulphur Creek, on Bear River, Utah.
OEllIPHASIIDR^.
PYRauLiFERA HITMEEOSA, Meek.*
Plate 17, figs. 19, 19 a, and wood-cut fig. 6.
Melania humerosa^ Meek (I860), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci., XII, 313.
Tiara humerosa^ Meek (1806), in Conrad's Smithsonian Check-List of Eocene and Oligo-
cene Fossils, 12. PyrguUfera hnmerosa, Meek (1872), in Dr. Hayden's Second Ann. Beport Geol. Survey
of the Territories, 294 and 299; and (1870) in Col. Simpson's lieport Expl.
across the Great Basin of Utah, 303, pi. v, fig. 6 a, Z>, c.
Shell attaining arather large size, modei'ately solid, ovate-subfusiform; spire prominent, distinctly turreted; volutions five and half to about seven,
♦This genus is related to Lithasia^ as originally deflnied by Professor Halderaan, and presents the following characters :
Shell subovate, thick, imperforate 5 spire produced, turreted ; volutions angular, shouldered, and nodular above ; surface typically with vertical ridges and revolving markings; aperture subovate, faintly sinuous, but not notched or distinctly angular below ; outer lip prominent in outline below the middle, retreating at the base, and subsinuous at the termination of the shoulder of the body-volution above; peristome continuous; inner lip a little callous below, and thickened all the way up, but without a protuberant callus above, sometimes with a shallow umbilical furrow along its outer margin .below.
Differs from Lithasiaj Haldemau, in not having its aperture distinctly angular and notched, or subcanaliculate below, in wanting a protuberance at the top of the inner lip, and in having a more produced, distinctly turreted spire, as well as very different .surface markings.
CRETACEOUS FOSSILS. 177
angular and strongly shouldered, the upper surface being flattened or a little ^^s- ^' concave, with usually a slight outward slope from the suture
to the angle or shoulder, where it meets the vertical outer sur- face nearly at right angles ; last or body-volution large, or generally composing about two-thirds the entire bulk and length of the shell; suture well defined by the prominence and angularity of the volutions, but not channeled. Sur- face of each turn ornamented by about ten to fifteen rathei strong, vertical, or slightly oblique folds, or costal, each
„ ,.- , of which terminates in a small nodular projection at the
Pyrguhferahumerosa. a j
Showing the aper- shouldcr abovc, SO as somctimcs to impart a subcoronate ture much better appearance to the same, while they all become nearly or
than the specimen ^ ^ ' */ j
figured on the plate, quite obsolete below the middle of the body- volution; ver- tical costae crossed by smaller, but quite distinct revolving, raised lines, or small ridges, some four to six of which may be counted on the outer surface of each turn of the spire, and about ten on the body-volution, where they increase in size downward;* upper flattened surface of the volution generally only marked by the moderately distinct lines of growth seen below; aperture obliquely rhombic -subovate, being higher than wide, rounded-subrectangular above, and narrowed and more or less angular, with a slight sinus or notch, at the connection of the outer and inner lips near the middle below; colu- mella arcuate; inner lip, in mature specimens, rather thick all the way up, but more so below, where it is somewhat reflected and margined by a slight, revolving umbilical furrow, with usually an angular outer margin; outer lip sharp, prominent near the middle, and retreating below and at the angle of the whorls above.
Length of the largest specimen seen among hundreds, 1.6 J inches; breadth, 0.90 inch; height of aperture, 0.81 inch; breadth of same, 0.50 inch.
All of the specimens of this shell first studied, as well as all those for
some years after brought in, had the outer lip and lower part of th^ coki-
mella broken away, so that no very clear idea of the nature of its aperture
and the connection of its outer and inner lips below could be formed from
them ; while, in all its characters that could then be determined, it so closely
* These revolving ridges are represented too coarse in the above figure. 12 p R
178 PAL.«:ONfOLOGY.
resembled the typical forms of the foreign genus Melania (zr Tiara) that I was led to refer it to that group. At last, however, a fine, large, nearly perfect specimen was brought from the original locality, and this at once showed that the outline of the lower part of its aperture is more angular, and its inner lip more thickened below than in the Tiara group ; the whole com- bination of characters being more nearly as in Lithasiaj but still evidently different from that genus. Consequently, in Dr. Hayden's Second Annual Report, I proposed to found a new genus Pyrgulifera, for its reception ; which name I now retain for it.
Among the Old World fossil species, this shell seems to be most nearly represented by Melania armata of Matheron, from the Lower Eocene lignite beds at the mouth of the Rhone, in the southeast of France (see Cat Mdth. Corps Org. Foss. du Depart, des Bouches-du-Rh6ne, pi. 37, figs. 11, 12, and 13). It differs, however, in the form of its aperture, as well as in hav- ing the vertical folds, or costse, on all of the volutions of the spire and the upper flattened part of its whorls nearly or entirely without revolving lines; while those below the angle of M, armata are finer and more numerous than on our shell, which also has its inner lip generally thicker below.
Locality and position, — Sulphur Creek, near Bear River, Wyoming, directly on the Union Pacific Railroad, where it occurs in the upheaved beds in great numbers, along with numerous fresh-water and perhaps some brackish-water shells, belonging to the horizon of the latest Cretaceous or oldest Tertiary.
VIVIPARID^.
Genus VIVIPARUS, Montfort.
YiviPARUS CoNRADi, Meek aud Hayden. Plate 17, figs. 18 and 18 a.
Paludina Conradi^ Meek and Hayden(18o6), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., VlII, 112. Viviparus Conradi^ Meek (1866), in Conrad^s Smithsonian CheckList, 12,
Shell subtrochiform ; spire conical, moderately prominent, abruptly pointed at the apex; volutions five or six, flattened nearly to the slope of the spire ; last one rather distinctly angular around the middle in young shells, but more obtuse in the adult ; suture generally merely linear. Sur-
CRETACEOUS FOSSILS. 179
face marked with fine oblique lines of growth, which, in well-preserved specimens, are sometimes seen to be crossed on the upper volutions b\ traces of minute revolving* strise, scarcely visible without the aid of a mag- nifier. Aperture rhombic-subcircular ; columalla rather deeply sinuous in the umbilical region ; axis imperforate.
Length of an adult shell, about 1 inch; breadth, 0.70 inch; length of aperture, 0.44 inch; apical angle nearly regular, or with slightly convex slopes, divergence 54^.
The above description was made out from the typical specimens from the Upper Missouri country near the mouth of the Judith River. The example we have figured from Wyoming is quite imperfect, though agree- ing well with those from the Upper Missouri in all respects, so far as its condition affbrds the means of comparison. Being so far as yet known apparently common to these two distantly separated localities, I have thought it desirable to give a figure of it, notwithstanding the imperfect condition of the specimen. The identity of- the Bear River specimen with the true F. Conradi cannot be regarded as positively demonstrated.
Locality and position, — Mouth of Sulphur Creek, on Bear River, Wyom- ing, at the same horizon as the last ; Museum of the Smithsonian Institu- tion^ Colonel Simpson's collection.
Genus CAMPELOMA, Raf. Campeloma macrospira. Meek ?.
Plate 17, figs. 17 a, h.
Melantho (Campeloma) macrospira, Meek (1872), Haydeu's Second Ann. Eeport U. S.
Geol. Survey of the Territories, 299. Compare Turho paludinwformis^ Hall (1845), Fr6inont's lieport Expl. Rocky Mts., 309,
pi. iii, fi^s. 13 and 13 a.
Shell ovate, of medium size; volutions about five or six, convex, increas- ing rather gradually in size, and without revolving ridges or angularities; spire moderately prominent, conical, and not eroded at the apex ; suture distinct in consequence of the convexity of the volutions ; surface with fine, obscure, slightly sigmoid lines of growth ; aperture ovate ; inner lip some- what thickened below.
180 PALAEONTOLOGY.
Length, about 0.95 inch; breadth, O.f^O inch; length of aperture, 0.45 inch ; breadth of aperture, 0.30 inch.
I have been incUned to refer this shell to C paludinceformis {-zzTurho paludinreformis, Hall), figured in Fremont's Report; but the fact that that spe- cies is said to be associated with Goniobasis nodulosa (= Cerithium nodulosum, Hall), in a light-colored '^ Oolitic limestone", seems to be a very strong- objection to the conclusion that it can be the species here under considera- tion ; the latter being from dark, carbonaceous, shaly and arenaceous beds, probably belonging to a very different horizon. I have seen specimens believed to belong to (?. nodulosa j in a light- colored matrix from this region, densely packed with Cypris, presenting much the appearance of oolitic par- ticles; but these came from an entirely different formation, containing a different group of fossils from those found in the strata from which the shell under consideration was obtained. In size and general appearance, our shell is not very unlike Professor Hall's figures of C, paludinceformis; but still it has a less oblique suture and more convex volutions.
The form here described agrees well with many specimens now before me from the same locality and beds, which specimens I think most proba- bly medium-si^ied examples of C, macrospira, founded on a much larger, more elongated shell ; but, as they may possibly be distinct, I have merely referred them provisionally to that species. In order to facilitate com- parison, I give below a description of C, macrospira, from the original typical specimens :
Campeloma {Melantho) macrospira, Meek, — Shell attaining a rather large size,conoid-subovate; spire elongate-conical; volutions five or six, moderately convex ; suture deep, rather oblique ; body-volution larger in proportion to the others than would be formed by the regular rate of increase of those above, and obliquely produced below ; aperture comparatively large, ovate; inner lip rather thick, arcuate, a little reflexed, but not covering the deep umbilical indentation, in old shells rather distinct from the body-volution all the way up ; surface only showing the usual slightly sigmoid lines of growth. Length, about 1.80 inches ; breadth, 1.14 inches.
The form here referred to C macrospira seems to agree pretty well in size and proportions with the upper three or four volutions of that shell;
CKETACEOUS FOSSILS. Ig]
though it still has- a rather less oblique suture. The body-volution of the adult C, macrospira, however, is suddenly, and dispropoitionally enlarged, and so oblique as to give a rather different aspect to the whole shell. Locality and position. — Same as foregoing.
CAMPELOMA (UDdt. sp.).' Plate 17, figs. 15 fl, 6, and 16 a, 6, c.
Shell ovate, attaining a medium size; volutions about five or six, con- vex, rounded, increasing moderately in size, all without revolving angles; spire moderately prominent; suture well defined, in consequence of the convexity of the volutions; surface showing fine, slightly oblique, some- what sigmoid lines of growth; aperture ovate; inner lip apparently a little thickened, and in adult shells somewhat reflexed below, but leaving a small umbilical pit uncovered.
Length of one of the larger specimens, about 1.45 inches; breadth, about 0.95 inch.
Our fig. 15 a does not give a correct idea of the form of the aperture, which, in the specimen figured, is filled with rocky material that laps upon the columella, so as to give an unnatural apparent breadth to the mouth of the shell. The engraving also makes the marks of growth much too coarse and too straight on fig. 15; and the specimen is compressed accident- ally, so as to appear broader than natural. It may, therefore, be only a distorted specimen of the last; and the smaller specimens represented by figs. 16 and 16 a, 6, c are probably young shells.
Locality and position, — Same as foregoing.
LIMN^ID^. Genus LIMN^A, Lamarck.
LlMN-^A (LiMNOPHYSA) NITIDULA, Meek.
Plate 17, tigs. 5, 5 a.*
Melania fniiidula^ Meek (1860), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Pbilad., XII, 314, Limncea nitidulay Meek (1866), in Conrad's Eocene Smithsonian Check-List, 9.
Shell small, ovate-subfusiform; spire conical, moderately elevated; vo- lutions about six and a half, convex, last one forming two-thirds of the
* Fig. 5 a does not give a very correct representation of the aperture of this shell.
V
1 82 PALEONTOLOGY.
entire length; suture well defined; aperture subovate, narrowly rounded below and angular above, scarcely equalingone-half the length of the shell; columella apparently with only a very small fold, and showing by the side of the inner lip below, appearances of a small umbilical indentation. Stu*- face marked by fine, rather obscure lines of growth, with (on some speci- mens) exceedingly faint traces of microscopical revolving striae.
Length, 0.40 inch; breadth, 0.20 inch; apical angle convex, divergence 40^:
Among recent species, this may be compared with L. humilis, and the several forms regarded by Mr. Binney as varieties of that species. It is a decidedly more slender shell, with a less expanded aperture and less developed inner lip than Mr. Binney's figure (p. 63, fig. 99, Land and Fresh Water Shells) of an authentic specimen of that species. It agrees, however, more nearly in fonn with some of those figured by Mr. Binney as varieties of L. humiliSj but still differs from them all in other details.
Locality and position. — Same as last. By some oversight, in first describ- ing this species, the locality was wrongly given as Ham's Fork, latitude 41^ 40' north, longitude 110^ 10' west.
SPECIES OF UNDOUBTED TERTIAllY AGE.
M0LLU8CA.
LAMELLIBRANCHIATA.
CYRENID^.
Genus SPHJ^RIUM, Scopoh. Sph^uiitm rugosum. Meek.
Plate 16, figs. 2, 2 a, and 2 b. Sphcerium rtigosum, Meek (1870), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., Ap., 56. •
Shell above medium size, rather gibbous, thick, quadrato-suborbicular in outline, the length being a little greater than the height; greatest con- vexity slightly above the middle; anterior margin more or less regularly rounded; base semi-elliptic or sub-semicircular in outline; posterior margin
• UNDOUBTED TERTIARY SPECIES. 183
generally a little wider than the anterior, and faintly subtruncated, with an anterior slope: dorsal outline rounding into the anterior and posterior mar- gins, but more regularly into the former. Beaks not eroded, nearly cen- tral, rather prominent, and incurved, but not oblique. Surface ornamented by sharply-defined, often elevated, concentric striae, separated by rounded furrows, in which very minute lines of growth may be seen under a magni- fier; the elevated concentric strise becoming more regular, coarser, more distantly separated, and more prominent on the umbones. Cardinal margin and lateral teeth comparatively stout.
Length of largest specimen, 0.34 inch; height, 0.30 inch; convexity, 0.28 inch.
Tlie most marked characteristics of this species are its quadrato- Buborbicular, rather gibbous form, very nearly central beaks, and particu- larly its sharply elevated, concentric strise, growing stronger, more prominent, and more distantly separated on the umbones, until near the points of the same they often assume the character of sharp, raised plica- tions. In some of the smaller specimens, these raised, rather distantly separated, stronger strise extend over nearly the whole surface; while in others they pass gradually into mere irregular lines of growth on most of the surface, occasionally separated by wider furrows.
In form, this species is very similar to the existing S, Vermontamim of Prime, with which it also agrees nearly in size. It is more regularly rounded in front, however, and has stouter lateral teeth; while its concen- tric, raised striae and impressed sulcations are generally larger and grow more distinct on the umbones than below, instead of the reverse. In this latter character of marking, it agrees more nearly with S. aureum^ Prime, from which, however, it differs entirely in form.
Locality and position, — Fossil Hill, Kaw-soh Mountains, Nevada; in a white calcareous matrix of Tertiary age.
Sph^rium? Idahoense, Meek.
Plate 1(), Ug. 1 and 1 a. Sphceriumf Idahoensey Meek (1870), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Pliilad., Ap., 57.
Shell attaining a large size, moderately convex, rather thick in propor- tion to size, orbicular-subovate in outline, being wider in front than pos-
184 PALEONTOLOGY.
teriorly; anterior margin regularly rounded; l^ase semi-ovate in outline; pos- terior margin somewhat narrowly rounded below and sloping forward above; dorsal margin short ; beaks placed in advance of the middle, a little com- pressed, and directed obliquely forward and inward ; surface marked by concentric strise and fuiTOws ; lateral teeth stout.
Length, 0.98 inch; height, about 0.92 inch; convexity, about 0.54 inch.
The specimens of this shell are not in a very good state of preserva- tion, being, with one exception, internal casts, and this one only retains a part of the shell. They certainly differ, however, from the last not only in their much larger size, but in being less nearly equilateral, more produced, and rather more narrowly rounded posteriorly, as well as proportionally less convex. The internal casts have the umbonal region from a little above the middle of the valves compressed. Some of these casts show a few rather distinct, broad, irregular, concentric undulations that were doubtless more strongly defined on the exterior of the valves.
None of the specimens of this shell show the hinge very clearly; but, from its large size and thickness, I was at first inclined to believe it a Cyrena or a Corbicula. Impressions in the matrix, however, show that its lateral teeth are not striated, nor of the form seen in the latter genus. Possibly I should call it Cyrena Idahoensis; as its pallial line is certainly simple, how- ever, and not sinuous, as in most of the American living species, and, so far as known, in nearly all the fossil Cyrenas and Corbiculas of this con- tinent, I have concluded to place it provisionally in the genus Sphcerium until better specimens can be obtained for study.
Locality and position, — Same as last, and from same formation at Castle
Creek, Idaho.
UNIONID^.
Genus UNIO, Retzius. Unio Haydeni, Meek.
Plate 16, figs. 3, 3 a, and 3 6. (Tndo Haydeni^ Meek (1860), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., Xlf, 312,- and (1876) in Col. Simpson's Report Expl. across the Great Basin of Utab, 364, pi. v, figs. 11 a, b.
Shell rather small, or of nearly medium size, elliptic-subovate, rather
UNDOUBTED TERTIARY SPECIES. 185
more than once and a half as long as high, moderately convex, the greatest convexity being usually slightly above and in advance of the middle; ante- rior end rounded; posterior end more or less regularly rounded, being usually most prominent a little below the middle; basal margin forming a semi-elliptic curve; dorsal outline somewhat straightened, or slightly convex, along the central region, and rounding into the anterior and posterior mar- gins; but more abruptly to the former; beaks much depressed and incon- spicuous, located about half-way between the middle and the anterior margin; hinge equaling about two-thirds the length of the valves; lateral teeth rather long and nearly straight; cardinal teeth unknown. Surface smooth, excepting small stride of growth.
Length, 1.60 inches; height, 1 inch; convexity, 0.64 inch.
This species is mainly characterized by its regular, nearly elliptic out- line, inconspicuous beaks, and smooth surface. Its shorter and more elliptic form, and especially its smooth umbones, will at once distinguish it from both of the Bear River species. I have sometimes suspected that this shell might possibly be the same figured and described by Professor Hall, in Fremont's Report, page 307, plate iii, fig. 1 (not fig, 2), under the name Mija tellinoides. Still, that figure seems to represent a shell with a more atten- uated posterior and more prominent beaks. At any rate, it may be regarded as extremely improbable that the figure cited, if correctly drawn, repre- sents a shell even nearly related to My a; and, although not agreeing exactly with any of the known Uniones from that region, it very probably represents a species of that genus. I greatly regret not having an opportunity to com- pare our western fresh-water shells with those figured in Fremont's Report, the types of which are in Albany, N. Y. I saw them all many years back; but, not being at that time interested in the study of such forms, I retained no very distinct recollection of tlieir specific characters, while the published description is too brief to aid one' much in identifying them.
Locality and position, — The typical specimens of this species were brought by Colonel Simpson from a whitish limestone, containing great numbers of Goniobasis Simpson% at Ham's Fork, near Fort Bridger, Wyom- ing Ten-itory. Dr. Hayden has also obtained specimens of it from near the same locality. It belongs to the Bridger Group of the Tertiary series.
186 • PALEONTOLOGY.
GASTEROPODA.
LIMNMIDM.
Genus ANCYLUS, Geoffroy. Ancylus undulatus, Meek.
Plate 17, figs. 18 a and 12 6. Ancylus nndulatus, Meek (1870), Proceed. Acad. IvTat. Sci. Philad., 57.
Shell thin, attaining a very large size, elliptic-oval in outline, being sometimes slightly widest a little in advance of the middle; apex much ele- vated, pointed, curved backward, and placed about half-way between the middle and the posterior margin; posterior slope concave; lateral slopes nearly straight; anterior slope distinctly convex. Surface marked with fine, rather obscure lines of growth, and strong, comparatively large, concentric undulations, most distinct and regular on the anterior slope, where there are sometimes very obscure traces of about three radiating ridges.
Length of the largest specimen seen, 0.67 inch; breadth of the same, 0.54 inch; height, 0.35 inch.
The specimens show some variation in their proportions, as well as in the regularity and distinctness of the undulations; the largest individual from which the above measurements were taken being proportionally a little wider and more elevated than some of the smaller ones, while its undulations are less distinctly and regularly defined. As there are various gradations, however, in these characters, I am at present inclined to regard them as mere individual modifications of one species.
Owing to the thinness of the shell, the undulations are often quite well- defined on internal casts, particularly along the anterior slope.
The only North American recent species with which I am acquainted that approaches this in size is the A. Newberryij described by Dr. Lea, from California. From this, the species under consideration differs in having its apex nearer the posterior, and much more pointed and curved backward. The undulations of its anterior slope also give the shell quite a different appearance.
Locality and position, — Fossil Hill, Kaw-soh Mountains, Nevada.
UNDOUBTED TERTIARY SPECIES. 187
Genus CARINIFEX, Binney.
Subgenus VORTIGIFEX,* Meek.
(Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., Ap., 1870, .C9.)
This type differs from Carinifex proper in having no traces of the
revolving caringe seen on the typical species of that genus, and in having
very strongly defined costas of growth on young examples. It is also a
thicker shell, with a smaller umbilicus. The first of the following species
is regarded as the type of the subgenus. The group seems to be related to
Choanomphahis, Gerstfeldt; but, as that genus was founded on minute or very
small shells, quite similar to Valvata^ it is riot very probable that our type
is congeneric.
Carinifex (Vobticifex) Binneyi, Meek.
Plate 17, figs. 11, 11a. Carinifex Binneyi^ Meek (1870), Proceed. Acad. IJ^at. Sci. Philad., 59.
Shell attaining a large size, depressed-subglobose in form ; spire scarcely rising above the body- whorl; umbilicus large, but rapidly contracting within; volutions about three and a half, increasing very rapidly in size; those of the spire a little convex ; last one forming more than nine-tenths the entire bulk of the shell, widest above, and produced below so as to form a prominent ridge, or subangular margin around the widely-excavated umbili- cal region ; all without revolving carinse ; aperture large, obovate, being widest above and narrowed abruptly to a subangular termination below ; lip remarkably oblique, apparently very slightly reflexed, and strongly produced forward above. Surface marked with extremely oblique lines of growth, which apparently sometimes form little regular costse.
Height, 0.59 inch; breadth, 1 inch; height of aperture, about 0.50 inch; breadth of aperture, 0.54 inch.
This species differs too widely in nearly all of its characters to require comparison with (7. Newherryi, the typical and only known living species of true Carinifex, which it also exceeds in size.
All of the specimens of this species in the collection are incrusted by a laminated, smooth, calcareous deposit that has to be removed before the sur-
* This name was wrongly priuted Vortifex in the Proceedings of the Academy.
188 PAL^O:STOLCGY.
face-marking can be seen. This is continuous over the suture, and covers all the volutions of the spire. At first, I was inclined to think that it might have been secreted by the mantle of the animal enveloping the whole shell; but further examinations have led to the conclusion that it is more probably merely an inorganic incrustation precipitated over the surface after the death of the animal, as some of the other types from the same beds are similarly covered.
This shell approaches the aspect of the typical form of the genus CarinifeXj but still wants the characteristic carinse of that type.
Locality and position. — Same as last
Oarinifex (VoRTioiFEX) Tryoni, Meok.
Plate 17, fig8. 10, 10 a, 10 &, 10 c.
Carinifex ( Vordcifex) Tryoni^ Meek ( Ap., 1870), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci* Philad., 59. Carinifex ( Vorticifex) Tryorii var. concava, Meek, ib.
Shell depressed-subglobose, approaching subdiscoidal, the spire being much depressed. Volutions four and a half to five, increasing rather rap- idly in size; those of the spire slightly convex; last one sometimes becoming a little concave on the upper slope near the aperture, and more or less ven- tricose below, the most prominent part being near the rather small, deep umbilicus, into which its inner side rounds abruptly; all the whorls rounded on the outer side, and without any traces of carinse or revolving markings; suture well defined; aperture rather large, subcircular, its height being to its breadth about as 29 to 34; lip sharp, oblique, and produced forward above, faintly sinuous at the middle of the outer side, as well as at the inner side of the base, where •it is a little thicker. Surface ornamented with small, distinct, regular ridges, and much finer lines of growth, running parallel to the very oblique outline of the lip.
Height, 0.35 inch; breadth, 0.64 inch; height of aperture, 0.29 inch; breadth of aperture, 0.34 inch.
This shell differs from the foregoing species in its smaller size, more rounded, less rapidly enlarging whorls,more prominent spire, and less exca- vated umbilical region. It evidently varies considerably in form and sur- face-markings, some of the specimens being proportionally more ventricose, or, in other Words, have the body- volution, and consequently the aperture,
UNDOUBTED TERTIARY SPECIES. 189
higher in proportion to breadth than the others, while more or less difference in the elevation or depression of the spire is observable. The most marked differences, however, are to be observed in the character of the surface- markings. Yet, since proposing for it a dictinct name, more critical com- parisons lead me to suspect that it may be only the young form, or the inner volutions of the last.
Another form, which I described as C, Tryoni var. concava, in the Pro - ceedings of the Academy, cited above, has the spire depressed below the top of the body-whorl, so as to be a little concave. This may possibly be a distinct species, but it agrees so nearly with the typical C. Tryoni in nearly all other respects that I am inclined to regard it as a mere variety of this shell. It is represented by fig. 10 c of plate 17.
Locality and position. — Fossil Hill, Kaw-soh Mountains, Nevada; Tertiary.
Genus PLANORBIS, Guttard. Planorbis sPECTABiLis, Meek.
Plate 17, figP. 13, and 13 a, &, c,d, €,f. Planorbis spectabilis^ Meek (1860), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., XII, 312 j and (1876) in Col. Simpson^s Report Expl. across the Great Basin of Utah, 366, pi. V, figs. 7 a-d*
Shell rather large, discoidal, concave above and below, but more deeply below than above; volutions about six, increasing gradually in size, gen- erally a little higher than wide, rounded on the periphery, more narrowly rounded below, and convex but more depressed above ; each about half enveloped below, and near one-fourth above, by the succeeding turn. Sur- face and aperture unknown.
Greatest breadth, 0.80 inch ; height, 0.26 inch ; section of outer volu- tion, 0.23 inch wide by 0.26 inch in hight.
Since describing this shell under the above name, I have suspected that it may possibly be only a large variety, or more fully developed P. con- volutus, M. & II. It has much the same form ; but, as the types were found at widely different localities, and apparently at different horizons, I do not feel sure that they can be properly united under one specific name.
Locality and position,— The specimen figured was found by Colonel Simpson on Ham's Fork, Wyoming.
♦These figures were drawq from better specimens than those here illustrated.
190 PALEONTOLOGY.
Planorbis spectabilis var. Utahensis, Meek.
Plate 17, figs. 14, 14 a, 14 6, and 14 c.
Flanorbis Utahensis^ Meek (I860), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., Xlf, 314; and (187G) in Col. Simpsou^s Eeport Expl. across the Great Basiu of Utah, 305, pi. v, figs. 8 a, bj c.
Shell large, discoidal; upper side nearly flat, or sometimes slightly concave in the middle; periphery rather narrowly rounded or subangular; umbihcus moderately large, rather deep; volutions five and a half to six, increasing gradually in size, wider than high, and moderately convex both above and below, each about one-half enveloped on the under side, and less than one-fourth on the upper, by the next succeeding turn. Surface and aperture unknown.
Greatest breadth of a large specimen, about 1.19 inches; height, 0.35 inch.
This form is much like the last, but differs in having a deeper umbil- icus, and proportionally wider volutions, which are generally distinctly wider than high, instead of the reverse. It seems to be quite similar to P. rotimdatus of Brongniart, from the Paris Basin; but none of the specimens show any traces of the angle around the under side of the volutions, gener- ally seen in that shell, as illustrated by Deshayes in the supplement to his great work on the fossils of the Paris Basin. Among our known recent American species, it is perhaps most nearly represented by P. subcrenatus of Carpenter, from Oregon; but it evidently shows a greater number of volutions on the upper side, and certainly seems not to have had as strong marks of growth as that shell. It is true the specimens are all casts; but it seems scarcely probable that if it had ever possessed these lines there would have been no traces of them left.
The type-specimens of this form certainly have much more depressed and proportionally wider volutions than the last; and if we could be quite sure that this is not, at least in part, due to accidental pressure, there would be scarcely any reason for doubting that it is specifically distinct.
The form referred to this species by Dr. White, in his report on Lieu- tenant Wheeler's collections, plate xxi, fig. 8, seems to me to agree more nearly with the last.
UNDOUBTED TBUTIAEY SPECIES. 191
Locality and position,— \l?Lxn'^ lork, near Fort Bridger, Bridger beds of the Wyoming Territory ; collections of Colonel Simpson's expedition, in Museum of the Smithsonian Institution ; Tertiary. Dr. Hayden's party have also brought this shell from the same region.
Genus LIMN^A, Lamarck.
LlMN^A (LiMNOPHYSA) VETUSTA, Meek, Plate 17, figs. 4, 4 a, and 4 b,
Limnoea vetu8ta,Ue^\i (1860), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., XIII, 314; and (1876) in Col. Simpson's Report ExpU across the Great Basin of Utah, 365, pi. v, figs. 3 a, &.
Shell small, elongate-subovate, or subfusiform; spire moderately prom- inent, conical, scarcely as long as the aperture; volutions five and a half to six, compressed-convex; last one not very ventricose, sometimes almost sub- cylindrical; suture well defined, with comparatively little obliquity ; surface showing only obscure lines of growth; aperture very narrow, subovate; columella with a moderately distinct fold.
Length, 0.56 inch; breadth, 0.26 inch.
Among existing species this may be compared with i. decidiosa of Sa}^ some varieties of which it quite nearly resembles. Its body- volution, how- ever, is less ventricose, and its aperture less expanded, than we see in any of the several forms that have been supposed to be varieties of that species. It is perhaps more nearly allied to some of the real or supposed varieties of L, humiliSj Say; though not exactly agreeing with any of them. It varies much in form.
Locality and position. — Ham's Fork, near Fort Bridger ; Colonel Simp- son's collection, in the Museum of the Smithsonian Institution; Tertiary.
LiMN^A siMiLis, Meek.
Plate 17, figs. .3 aod 3 a.
Limncea similiSj Meek (1860), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Set. Philad., XII, 314; and (1876) in Ool. Simpson^s Eeport Expl. across tbe^reat Basia of Utah, 365, pi. v, figs. 2 a, b.
Shell small, narrow-subovate, approaching subfusiform; spire rather prominent, nearly as long as the aperture ; volutions five and a half to six, convex; suture rather deep and oblique; surface showing only fine, obscure
192 PALEONTOLOGY.
lines of growth, scarcely visible without the aid of a lens; aperture subovate, rather narrowly rounded below, and acutely angular above ; columella twisted. into a moderately prominent fold.
Length, 0.39 inch; breadth, 0.19 inch; apical angle slightly convex^ divergence about 38^.
This variable form is so closely allied to the last that I am nearly satisfied that it is only a variety of the same. Its chief difference consists in having the volutions of its spire a little more convex, and more drawn out, as it were, so as to give decidedly greater obliquity to the suture. It seems to be even more nearly allied to some of the more slender forms regarded by Mr. Binney as varieties of L, humilis of Say; though it is a decidedly more attenuated, less compact shell than that represented by Mr. Binney's figure of L, humiliSj given on p. 63 of his *^Land and Fresh- Water Shells", published by the Smithsonian Institution. There is scarcely any probabiHty, however, that our shell is identical with any of the existing species.
Locality and position. — Same as last, Colonel Simpson's collection, in the Museum of the Smithsonian Institution.
LiMN^A (PoLYRHYTis) KiNaii, Meek.
Shell ovate; spire short; volutions about four, convex, rapidly increas- ing in size, last one very large and ventricose; suture well defined; aperture large, subovate; columella appar- ently with a moderately well-developed fold; surface ornamented by regular, distinct, vertical costae, that are strongly defined on the body- volution, but more obscure or nearly obsolete on the spire.
Limn(Ba Kinffii. Length, 0.73 inch; breadth, about 0.43 inch.
Fig G. A side-view, with rpj^j^ .^^ j^ remarkable for having its surface
. outer lip restored. ^ ^
Fig. 7. A slightly 4ifft^rent ornamented by very regular, vertical costse, quite 8ame(na .size), g^j.Qjjg|y Refined on its body-volution. This character
will readily distinguish it from any other species, either recent or fossil, known to me, and, with its other characters, forbid its reference to any of the established. subgenera. In the possession of ribs^ it agrees with Pleu-
UNDOUBTED TERTIARY SPECIES. 193
rolimncea, but it diflFers extremely in form from that type. I have therefore proposed for its reception a new subgenus under the name Polyrhytis*
I have seen but a single specimen of this shell, consisting of a well-defined mould, from which a gutta-percha cast has been taken, and from this the figures and description were prepared. The specific name is given in honor of Clarence King, esq., the Geologist-in-charge of the Survey of the Fortieth Parallel.
Locality and position. — Cache Valley, Utah; Tertiary, probably of Miocene age.
CEEIPHASIID^.
Genus GONIOBASIS, Lea. GoNiOBASis SiMPSONi, Meek.
Plate 17, figs. 7, 7 a, 7 5, 7 c, and 7 df.
Melania Simpsonij Meek (1860)^ Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., XII, 313. Ooniobasis f ISimpsoni^ Meek (1866), in Conrad's Smithsonian Gbeck-List, 12 ; and (1876)
in Col. Simpson's Keport Expl. across the Great Basin of Utah, 365, pi. v, figs.
1 a to 1 e.
Shell attaining nearly a medium size, elongate-conical ; spire gradually tapering apparently to an acute apex, which is not eroded ; volutions eight or nine, flattened or more or less convex, increasing gradually and regu- larly in size ; last one rounded below ; suture generally linear, and some- times presenting a very slightly banded appearance, or becoming deeper as the volutions assume a more convex outline. Surface ornamented with more or less distinct, regular little vertical, or slightly arched costse, which are crossed by small, often obscure, revolving, raised lines, usually largest and most widely separated on the lower half of the body- volution ; costse sometimes assuming a very faintly nodose appearance around the middle of the volutions. Aperture rhombic-subovate, and a little oblique, slightly sinuous at the base of the columella ; outer lip somewhat sinuous above, and moderately prominent below.
Length of a mature specimen, 0.78 inch; breadth, about 0.30 inch;
* This subgenus be«ars the same relations to Limncua proper, that Costella, Dull, bears to the typical forms of Physa. It was first proposed by the writer in the Palseont. Upper Mo., 532, 1876. 13 PR
194 PAL^OI^TOLOGY.
angle of spire nearly or quite regular, divergence somewhat variable, but usually about 26^.
This species seems to be very variable, particular^ in its ornamenta- tion. On some specimens, both the costae and the revolving lines are quite distinct, while, in others, one or the other, or both, become more obscure, or nearly obsolete. Sometimes the costae are rather closely arranged, and in other specimens they are proportionally a little larger and more widely separated. Occasionally they are somewhat more prominent, or even assume a minutely nodular appearance, around the middle of the volutions of the spire and above the middle of the last turn (see fig. T*d), Where the costae fade away, they sometimes, especially on the body- volution, merely pass into coarse, irregular lines of growth. The volutiolis also vary in their convexity, being sometimes flattened on a line with the slope of the spire, so as to show a merely linear suture (see fig. 7 a), and, in other examples, they are more convex. In one specimen in the collection, the volutions are decidedly convex. This specimen also has the revolving lines and the costae very nearly obsolete, though small, obscure, closely -arranged costae are seen near the upper part of the sjiire, and the rather strong lines of growth on the body- volution show a tendency to gather into a few irregular folds, or costae. (See fig. 7 t\)
There are also in the various Tertiary beds of Wyoming forms more or less nearly like this, ranging through a great thickness of strata, and varying so much as to be with great difficulty separated from each other. In regard to their exact relations to the shell here figured, and to each other, as well as to two species figured by Professor Hall in Fremont's report, and one by Mr. Conrad in the Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., from this region, I have not been able to arrive at any very satisfactory con- clusion. Oar specimens, however, certainly look very unlike Professor Hall's figures of the species described by him.
This species resembles more or less nearly several of the existing western fonns; but, after careful comparisons, I have been unable to identify it with any of them. Its specific name was given in honor of CoL J. H. Simpson, of the United States Topographical Corps, who brought the typical specimens from the Far West.
UNDOUBTED TERTIARY SPECIES. 195
Locality and position. — Ham^s Fork, near Fort Bridger, Wyoming Ter- ritory, from the Bridger group Tertiary ; Colonel Simpson's collections, in the Museum of the Smithsonian Institution.
MELANIID^. Genus MELANIA, Auct. Melania! sculptelis, Meek.
Plate 17, fig. 8.
Melania (Ooniobasis f) sculptilisj Meek (1870), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., 58. Compare Melania Taylori, Gabb (1869), Palaeont. Calif or Dia, II, 13, pi. 2, fig. 21.
Shell of medium size, conoid-subovate ; spire more or less elongate- conical, with convex slopes, the apical angle being greater in the young than in the adult, not eroded at the apex ; volutions six to seven, rather dis- tinctly convex ; suture strongly channeled ; aperture ovate, a little oblique, rather narrowly rounded below; lip sharp, most prominent below the middle, and slightly sinuous at the lower inner side. Surface elegantly ornamented by numerous, very regularly disposed, slightly flexuous or sig- moid, vertical costse,* which are crossed by equally distinct and regular spiral ridges, about four of which may be counted on each volution of the spire (excepting those near the apex, which are smooth), and eight to ten on the last turn, on the under half of which they are most strongly defined ; minute lines of growth may also be seen by the aid of a magnifier; costse slightly nodulous at the points where they are crossed by the little revolv- ing ridges.
Length, 0.62 inch; breadth, 0.27 inch.
This is a neat species, remarkable for its sharply-defined and very regular cancellated style of sculpturing. The vertical costae are equally well defined on all the volutions, excepting those near the apex, and on the under side of the last one ; while the revolving lines, or ridges, become a little more distinct on the lower part of the body-turn. Although there are nearly always four of these revolving ridges on the volutions above the last one, in a few examples as many as six may be counted on these turns ; but this is due to the intercalation of a smaller one between two of the others, and
* These are represented too straight on the figure.
196 PALEONTOLOGY.
the exposure of another above the suture that is usually hidden beneath it by each succeeding turn.
Among the existing American species, this seems to be most nearly represented by G. Alhanyensis^ Lea. Mr. Tryon, to whom I sent a specimen of it, thinks it resembles some Asiatic species of Melania^ and that it may possibly belong to that genus, and not to Goniohasis. •
Since publishing a description of this shell under the name Melania (Goniobasis?) sculptilis, I have been led to suspect that it may not be distinct from Melania Taylori of Gabb, described in the California Report from the same region. Mr. Gabb's type seems to be much more slender and elongated, however, especially if his restored outhne of the wanting part of its spire is nearly correctly drawn. Still, our types may be only young specimens of the same, as they are much smaller. I remember that there were with them a few larger casts and imperfect specimens from the same locality, so coated over with a calcareous deposit that their characters could not be made out. These agree more nearly in size and form with Mr. Gabb's type.
Locality and position, — Kaw-soh Mountains, Nevada ; Tertiary.
Melania f subsculptilis, Meek.
Plate 17, fig. 9. Melania [Qoniobasis f) subsoulptUiSy Meek (1870), Proceed. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad>, 68.
Shell apparently less than a medium size ; spire conical, with convex slopes ; apex pointed, not eroded ; volutions about seven and a half, flat- tened-convex ; suture channeled ; aperture ovate, slightly oblique, rather abruptly rounded below ; margin of lip most prominent below the middle, and faintly sinuous on the lower inner side. Surface ornamented by small, regular, slightly sigmoid, vertical costae, with an obscure revolving ridge just below, and a slight angle above the suture, to which prominences the costse impart a somewhat crenated appearance ; last turn marked with a few distinct, revolving, raised lines, strongest on the lower half.
Length, 0.43 inch; breadth, 0.19 inch; length of aperture, 0.14 inch; breadth of same, 0.10 inch.
This form differs from the last by its smaller and more crowded costse,
UNDOUBTED TERTIARY SPECIES. tdl
less convex whorls, and the absence of revolvmg ridges, or lines, excepting on the body-volution, arid the one just below and above the suture. As in that foiin, its apical whorls are smooth. The only good specimen of it in the collection is smaller than the average size of those of the last, and probably a young shell. I am now of the opinion that it is most probably only a variety of that- shell ; but it may be distinct. Locality and position.'- Same as last.
PL^TE I.
Page. Fig, 1. Ophileta complanata, rar. nana : * 17
1. Au upper view of a specimen, natural size, as seen lying iu the matrix. 1 a. The same, enlarged.
1 h. Profile view, enlarged.
Fig. 2. Raphirtoma! kotcliformis 18
2. View of upper side, natural size.
2 a. Profile view of same.
2 6. Under side of same, magnified. [In the specimen, the umbilicus is filled with rock,
though its subangular margins are exposed.]
Fig. 3, Kaphistoma? trochiscus , jg
3. Upper side, natural size.
3 a. Profile.
3 6. Under side, enlarged. [The uuibilicus is filled with rock iu the specimen, but its margin is clearly seen.]
Fig. 4. CONOCORYPHE KiNGii. Upper view, natural size 20
[The specimen is accidentally compressed so as to spread cut the posterior extremities of the cephalic shield more than is natural. Broken edges of the crust are also in the figure wrongly made to look like small nodes at the ends of the segments of the mesial lobe.]
Fig. 5. Paradoxides T Nevadensis. Shows upper side of a part of thorax and pygidium 23
Fig. 6. Favosites (undt. sp.) 27
Fig. 7. Atrypa reticularis 38
7. Dorsal view.
7 a. Side view.
Fig. 8. Edmondia? Pinonensis 46
8. Side view of a large specimen, natural size.
8 a. Opposite view of a smaller specimen.
Fig. 9. Spirifer Pinonensis 45
9. Dorsal view, natural size.
9 a. Profile view of same.
9 h. Ventral view of same.
Fig. 10. ProetijS denticulatus 49
10. The glabella embedded in the matrix (enlarged two diameters).
10 tt. Pygidium, enlarged two diameters.
10 i». One of the thoracic segments seen iu profile (enlarged two diameters).
Fig. 11, DALMANITE.S (uudt. Sp.) 48
11. A mouldof the pygidiuuj.
11 a. Another specimen of same.
Yxi'i. 40Pai-nl]eI
Silurian and Devonian
1 a..
2 a.
2. h.
.r<^i^iMe0^^es^^
fliriiiiiiiia.;.'; , aJJ^jPII' '-fe
[\ :x
P»L^TE II.
Page. Fig. 1. PTYCHOPII YLLUM INFUNDIBUIXM *. 23
1. A loDgitudinal section, showing the depth of the calice, with the unfundihuliform
plates, and appareuces of a columella. 1 a. Ad upper view of another specimen. 1 5, A side view of a third specimen.
Fig. 2. Cyathopiiyixum Palmeri 33
View of upper side, showing the young corallites at jjlaces growing in the middle of the calices of the old.
Fig. 3. FaVOSITES POLYMOliPHA ! ? 27
Fig. 4. DlPHYPHYLLUM FASCICHLUM 29
4. A side view of a bundle of the corallites, imperfect at both ends, and showing them
to coalesce at intervals. 4 a. A longitudinal section of one of same, enlarged, showing the wide inner area occupied by broad, slightly arching tabulsB (without any traces of a columella), and the . very narrow, outer vesicular area.
4 b. A transverse section of same, enlarged.
Fig. 5. ACERVULARIA PENTAGONA 31
5. View of upper side, showing corallites, natural size.
5 fli. A transverse section of a few of the corallites, enlarged.
Fig. 6. .Smithia Hennahii 32
6. View of surface, showing corallites, natural size. G a. Transverse section of same, enlarged.
Fig. T. Alveolites MULTiLAMEixA .. 25
7. View of a flat, vertical, weathered section.
7 a. A portion of same, polished and magnified, so as to show the num< roue, thin, crowded tabula), and the mural pores; the latter being seen through the transparent calcareous matter filling the interior.
7h. A transverse section of the same, showing the forms of the corallites, magnified.
Fig. 8. Orthoceras KiNGii 47
Fig. 9. Orthoceras (undt. sp.) 48
IT. ':x 'o-(^LExDl.40PaT-all^^l
Devonian
Plate II
/ :^r^^-,
-:-^*«l.i.,.>fe
1 a.
MW J'^llioU. aei
J , iiieri \'K\\ .
PLA.TEIII.
Fi^. 1. Spirifeu Utahensis 39
1. All an tero- ventral view, natural size. 1 a. Dorsal view of same specimen.
1 h, A side view of a smaller specimen.
1 c. A cardinal view of another specimen, showing area and foramen.
1 d. Cardinal view of tbo ventral valve of the largest specimen seen.
I €. An antero-ventral view of same.
Fig. 2. Hemipkonites Chemung ensis, var. arctostriata 35
2. View of ventral valve, with an oblique view of area.
Fig. 3. Spiriper Engelmanni ^^
3. A cardinal view, showing area and foramen. 3 a. A side view of same.
3 6. Dorsal view of same.
3 0. An antero-ventral view. ,
3 rf. A ventral view of another specimen apparently of this species.
3 e. Dorsal view of last.
Fig. 4. Spirifer ARGENTARIU8 42
4. A ventral view.
4 a. Cardinal view of same specimen, showing its low, strongly incnrvtd area, foramen,
etc.
4 5. A dorsal view of same.
Fig. 5. Spirifer strigosus 43
5. View of ventral valve.
5 a. View of dorsal valve. 5 b. Profile view of same.
Fig. G. Atrypa reticularis ^ 33
G. Ventral view.
Ga. Dorsal view of another specimen with finer strife.
Fig. 7. PRODUCTUS subaculeatus ? _ 3r,
7. Ventral view.
7 a. Ventral view of another more elongated specimen.
7 6. A cast of the exterior of a dorsal valve of same.
Fig. 8. POSIDONOMYA ? FilAGOSA , 92
8. A left valve, flattened by pressure between the laminae of shale, with the edges
abont tlie beak incomplete.
8 a. A smaller right valve flattened in the same way, and showing indications of a small
anterior ear-like projeotion.
Fig. 9. Leiorhynchus ? quadricostatus 79
9. An internal cast of a ventral valve, flattened by pressure.
9 a-b. Internal casts of two dorsal valves, somewhat compressed.
Fig. 10. AVICULOPECTEN CATACTU8 93
10. A left valve, somewhat enlarged.
10 a. Another left valve, natural size.
10 fe. Aright valve, apparently of this species, enlarged about two diameters ; much of its palUal margin being broken away.
Fig. 11. Bpirifer (Syringothyris) cuspidatus 87
11. A cardinal view, showing the high area and foramen, and, within the latter, the
transverse septum and internal tube.
II a. An anterior view of same.
■I.'FIxjjI. 4D?a:'allel
Devonian
111,
j.Biari hth.
Page.
B^ig. 1. Zaphrentis excbntkica **'^
1. An oblique upper view, showing the excentric calice, with its margins broken away.
1 a. A longitudinal section of same, mainly as exposed by fracture, showing the very broad tabulae (<) ; and at (v) the large vesicular space on the ventral side. The points marked («, «, a) show the lateral surfaces of the septa, which are marked with curved stria ; while the points {g, g, g, g) show the surfaces of the septa ground smooth ; (0 is the fossula.
1 6. A dorsal view of the coral as seen with the epitheca worn or weathered oflf, so as to show the edges ot the septa divaricating along the middle of the dorsal side.
1 c. A side view of same specimen,
1 d. A transverse section of same, nearly at the middle.
..,.T Fv-T,! 40
X\iL 4' ) rar?;!..-:^;!
Carboniferous
Plate K
J.hien hui.
PLATE V.
Page. Fig, 1. Zaphrentis ? (uudt. sp. ) 58
1. A side view of a portion of tlio corallnm, natural size.
Fig. 2. Campophyllum (nndt. sp.) 57
2. A side view of a \Teatbered specimeu, showing the edges of tlio septa (slightly too
wide apart), and the crowded, complex vesicnhir structure between Iheni. 2 rt. A longitudinal section of tho same, i-howing the very broad tabulsB, surrounded by a narrow vesicular zone.
2 J). A transverse section of same, showirg the dissepiments to bo (at some places) much
nioro crowded between the septa in the vesicular zone than would be indicated by the longitudinal section.
Fig. 3. C YA rHOPUYLLUM (Campophyllum ?) Nevadense CO
3. A much-weatheri d specimen (side view) showing tho edges of the septa and dissepi-
ments, with an oblique view of the calice filled with hard calcareous matter.
3 a. A vertical section of a part of the same specimen, showing the tabuljB and vesicular
dissepiments represented by dark^ines, as far as they can be made out. The dark space above shows the very deep calice (with a nearly flat bottom) tilled with dark calcareous matter.
3 &. Is a transverse section at near the middle of the crralUun.
Fig. 4. Cyathophyllum subc^spitqsum CO
4. A specimen consisting of several corallites lying together in the matrix, with the
epithcca mainly removed by weathering.
4 ci. A transverse section of one of the same. 4 6. A longitudinal section of a part of same.
U. ;■:. G-cl/Exi)l 40?Grail^^l
'.arboiufercDUS
ridt.,; v:
iM^^''iii
ii.'vrKi]:
V
PL^TE VI.
Page.
58
V\S' 1- LlTHOSTUOTIO?^ WlIITNKYI
1. A view of a ninss of limestone iiiclnding several of the corallites, natural size.
1 a. Another view of same, allowing tlio encls and calices of the corallites.
1 &. A transverse section of one of the same, somewhat eulurged.
1 c. A long tudinal section of same.
Fig 2. Syuingopora (nndt. sp.) ^^
'2. A side view of a fragment of the corallnm.
2 a. Another view of same specimen, showing the ends cf the corallites.
Fig. 3, Zapiihentis Stansblryi -• ^'^
:]. A side view of an imperfect specin^cn, with the edges of th€ calico and the lower extremity broken away.
3 a. An upper view of same, showing the septa, "with the n mnining portion of the calice
iilled with rock. 3 ft. A transverse section of the corallum below the middle.
3 c. A longitudinal section of the upper part of the same, showing the complex tabnlse
and outer vesicular zone, the form of the broad bottom of tbo calice, etc.
Fig. 4. Z APHKEKTIS ? (CLISIOPH YLLUM ?) MULTILAMELLOSA 53
4. A dorsal view of a specimen denuded of its epitheca, and showing the divaricating arrangement of the septa.
4 a. A view of the calice of same, with its margins broken* away and its bottom filled
with rock. 4 h, A longitudinal broken section of same, showing imperfectly t-ho internal structure, with the fossula on the right.
G-^^-i.ExiJ. ^'^■""iParall^V:
Carboiufercus
■H^^/. Elliott del
FLi^TE VII.
Page. Fig. 1. Orthis Michelini var. Nevadensis ^^
1. A 8i(le view of a larj^e specimen. [Beak of ventral valve not quite arched enough,
and the height of the area of the dorsal valve not well shown, in this figure.] 1 a. A dorsal view of same. [Figure makes the cardinal area look too wide.] 1 &. A side view of a smaller specimen. 1 c. A ventral view of same, [Posterior lateral striae too straight in this figure and 1 a.]
Fig. 2. Hemipronites crenistria "-*
2. A ventral view of an accidentally distorted specimen.
Fig. 3. PnODUCTUS SUBHORRIDU8 '^^
3. A side view.
3a. A front view of another specimen.
3 ft. A ventro-anterior view of another example.
Fig. 4. Pkoductus costatus??
4 An anterior view ; the shell heing turned so as to show the irregularity of the costse
on the anterior slope. 4 a. A side view. 4 6. A ventral view.
Fig. 5. Pkoductus semireticulatus
5. View of ventral valve.
Fig. 6. Pkoductus Ivesi!
6. An oblique side view of a large specimen distorted by pressure.
(Ja. A ventral view of another specimen, with its ears and margins broken away.
G b. An external cast of the dorsal valve, with some portions of the shell remaining near the cardinal margin, showing the thick marginal ridge, and a part of the cardinal process, with the small mesial ridge, which latter is divided near the cardinal pro- cess, as in P. 8cdbrtculu8.
7*2
Fig. 7. Pkoductus Prattenianus
7. A ventral view of an imperfect specimen, with the ears and free margins broken
away.
7 a. A side view of another imperfect specimen.
Fig. 8. PrODUCTUS SEMISTRIATUS '^
8. An an tero- ventral view.
8 a. A side view of same.
Geo], '5x1.1. 40 1'arall-l
narboiufeTH}us
j.i:5ieii iim.
vV
.-V^>
Pngo. Fig. 1. Spirifehina pulciira 85
1. Dorsal view of the original typictil speciraen. la. Veutrul view of same.
1 h. An ontlino profile of same.
1 c. An internal cast of the ventral valve, showing the slit left hy the rostral septum.
Id. A dorsal view of another very gibhous specimen.
1 c. An ontline profile of same. ""
Fig. 2. Productus Nevadrnsis C4
2. Ventral view of a specimen, with the ears broken away.
2 a. Cast of the exterior of a ventral valve of same species,
2 b. Ventral aspect of another specimen, turned so as t o give a more direct view than
fig. 2. 2 c. Internal cast of ventral valve.
2 (f. A side view of same.
2f. A longitudinal section of a specimen with the valves united.
Fig. 3. PJJODI'CTUS MULTISTRIATU8 76
3. Ventral view of a rather large specimen, with the free margins broken away.
3 a. Side view of same.
3&. Ventral view of a smaller specimen, with one ear and much of the margins broken
away. 3 c. Dorsal view of last. 3d. Side view of same.
3 6". Internal view of a dorsal valve, too much worn to show internal markings, but
showing the very abrupt geuiculation of the anterior and lateral margins around the flattened visceral region.
Fig. 4. Productus longispinus 78
4. A side view.
4 a. Ventral view, with ears partly broken away.
Fig. 5. Spiriferixa (undt. sp.) 84
5. Dorsal view of a specimen, with lateral extremities imperfect. ^)a. Antero- ventral aspect of same.
f) b, A side view of same.
Fig. 6, AniYUis subtilita 83
(). Dorsal view.
(J a. An outline profile of same.
n. S. GRnl.bq)].40rarallhl
CarlDomferous
piute "vm.
H.Y^ Elllou del
J.Bieri htli.
I>LA.TE IX.
Page. Fig. 1. Spirifbr scobina , 90
1. Dorsal yiew of a mature specimeu, with the granules of the surface worn off. 1 a. Side view of same.
1 h. Ventral view of same.
1 c. A portion of the granular surface magnified.
Idf. A cardinal view of a ventral valve, showing area and foramen.
Fig. 2. SpmiPEE CAMERATU8? 91
2. Ventral view of an imperfect specimen.
2 a, Side view of same.
Fig. 3. Athymis Roissyi 82
3. A side view of a large specimen accidentally compressed.
3 a. Ventral view of same.
3 6. Dorsal view of same.
Fig. 4. ATHYKIS? PERSmUATA ^ 81
4. An antero- ventral view, showing the profound sinus of the front.
4 a. A dorsal view of same ; a part of the shell being removed so as to show the
mnsoular scars.
4 h. Side view of same, with heak and contiguous parts broken away.
Fig. 5. GOKIATITKS aONIOLOBUS-. - 98
5. A profile view of an internal cast, with the body-chamber broken away.
5 a. Side view of same.
5 h. Diagram of lobes and sinuses of one of the septa, natural size.
Fig.6. Spirifbr OPiMus?. A ventral view 88
Fig. 7. Ayiculopectbn Utahensis 95
7. A left f valve, natural size.
7 «, A portion of the surface of same, magnified to show the minute, crowded, concentric
strisB. 7 d. A mould of a larger individual in the rock. 7 0. A mould of a small right valve of apparently the same. 7 ^. A cast of another specimen of same, differing a little in form.
Page. Fig. 1. MODIOMORFHA? OVATA 103
1. Right valve ; the specimen being a cast of the outside. la. A profile to show the convexity of same.
Fig. 2. MoDiOMOKPHA f J.ATA. A^ external cast of a left valve 10.3
Fig.3. DisciNA (undt. sp.) ....- , 98
3. Uuder yalye.
3 a. Same, enlarged two diameters, anxl showing more nearly the proper proportions.
Fig. 4. SPiiiERA WpiT^Eyf ...^. J02
4. \ left valve of a sjiiaU specimen.
4 a. An outline to show the convjexity of saaws. 4 6. A right valve of a larger specimen,
4 c. A largo individual apparently of the same species.
Fig. 5. Halohia LoMAf ei,!. A slab of rock, with several imperfect valves, all being casts of th^
exterior.., 10(0
Fig. 6. Arcestes Gabbi ^ 121
0. A cast of the interior, side view.
6 a. Profile view of same.
() &. An outline showing the lobes and sinuses of one of the septa from the umbilicus to the siphonal lobe; taken from Mr. Gabb^s figure in the Cafifornia Geological Report.
Fig. 7. Clidonites i^^vidorsatus ,.... 109
7. A side view of the largest specimen in the collection.
7 a. Profile of a smaller specimen of same.
Fig. 8, EuTOMOCEKAS Laubei ,^ ....^ , 126
8. A side view of an imperfect specimen, 6 a. Profile of the same.
Fig. 9. Gymnotockjras rotelliformb .---rr 111
9. Side view of an incomplete specimen.
9 a. Profile of same.
Fig. 10. Gymnotoceras Blakei .^ •-.,, ^ 113
10 Side view of an incomplete specimen, 10 a. Profile of same.
10 &. A smaller specimen.
10 c. An outline of the lobes and sinuses, taken mainly from Mr. Gabb^s figure in the California Geological Report.
Fig. 11. Orthogeras Blakei t Merely fragments of a cast, showing none of the septa — , 104
^1 ' r^vu Yx^ 1 ioPc^j.HpI
TriHSc L
Plre X.
. JLiilOtt, dt-5
Bien .jitii.
FLA.TE XI.
\ Page.
Pig. 1. TrACHYCEBAS JUDICARICUM 118
1* A peripheral or ventral view of an imperfect specimen.
1 a. A side view of same.
Fig. 2. TrACHYCERAS JUDICARICUM, Var, SUBASFKRUM .; 118
2. A side view of an imperfect specimen.
2 a. A peripheral or abdominal view of same.
3 &. A view of the lobes and sinuses of the septa.
Fig. 3. Trachyceras Whitneyi 116
3. A peripheral or abdominal view of an imperfect specimen.
3 a. Side view of same.
Fig. 4. Eudiscoceras Gabbi 128
4. Side view of an imperfect specimen.
4 a. A peripheral or abdominal view of same.
Fig. 5. ACROCHORDISCERAS HYATTI 124
5. Side view of a broken and somewhat distorted specimen.
5 a. A side view of a larger imperfect specimen.
Fig. 6. Gymnotoceras Blakei . - , 113
6. Side view of a nearly complete ad alt specimen apparently of this species.
6 a. A peripheral or abdominal view of same> showing the remarkable flattening of
the periphery.
Fig. 7. ABCESTEst pbrplanus • : 120
7. Side view of a cast, showing no surface-markings.
7 a. A profile view, showing the strongly-compressed form of the shell.
U.S. GeoIExpI, 40 Parallel
Triasc:iC
Kc^e XI.
K^l Elliott d^:
J.Bien kth.
I'LA.TE XII.
Pago. ^ Fig, 1. CucuLL^A Haguei.-.. ;_ 134
1. Side view, magnified.
1 a. A line showing the natural size of same.
I &. An outline anterior view» to show the convexity of the shell, natural size.
Fig. 5>. Lima (Limatula) euecta. A single valve, natural size 130
Fig. 3. MyophorialineataI.. 133
3. A specimen with the heak broken away, natural size.
3 a. The same, magnified.
Fig. 4. VOI^ELLA SCALPRUM, VUT. ISONEMA •.* ,.. , 132
4. Side view, natural size.
4 a. An outline to show convexity.
Fig. .5. An undetermined bivalve (internal cast).
Fig. 6. Myacites (Pleuromya) subcomprbssa - J.. 130
6. Side view.
6 a. An outline to show convexity.
Fig. 7, Beliiimnitks Nevadensis ^ 138
7. An imperfect specimen, with the lower extremity broken away. It also has a part
of one side broken out, so as to show^ the cast of the internal cavity for the recep- tion of the phragmocone.
7 a. Is a section across Ihe upper end, showing the form of the upper part of the internal
cavity..
7 &. An outline to show the compressed form of the guard near it6 lower end.
Fig. 8. Phragmocone of apparently a large Belemuite 131)
8 a. Another view of same, with a part of one .side removed, so as to show the deeply
arcuate septa.
8 &. Another fr^igment, showing the marginal siphuncle.
Fig, 9. Pinna Kingii 131
9. A side view of an imperfect cast, retaining portions of the shell.
9 a. Dorsal view of same.
Fig. 10. Myacites inconspicuus. a side view, magnified two diameters 137
Fig. 11. Myacites (Pleuromya) Weberensis 137
11. Side view of a specimen with the posterior end broken away.
II a. Anterior view of same.
Fig, 12. Spiripbrina pulchra..^ .' ,.,. . 85
12. A side view of a specimen, with the extremities and beak broken away. 12 a. A cardinal view of same, showing area and foramen.
12 ^. An anterior view of saime.
12 e. A dorsal view of another specimen, with imperfect extremities.
12 d, A nearly complete ventral valve, as seen embedded in the matrix.
Fig, 13. AVICOLOPKCTEN OCCIDANEUS 96
13. A specimen of left valve, with the anterior ear broken away, natural size.
13 a. Another specimen of left valve, figure enlarged two diameters.
136. Another specimen, apparently of left valve, with posterior ear more acute.
U. S. Geol.Eziil.40Paranel
Jurassic and Carboiiiferoiis
Plate m.
J-iarass
,ai'boTuJ '
11 Vv\r,:iiiru •!«:.
PLA.TE XIII.
Page. 145
Fig 1. INOCBRAMUS BRECTUS - ■
1. A side view of an internal cast of both valves, somewhat distorted.
1 a. Another small cast of a left valve.
Fig. 2. INOCERAMUSPROBLKMATICUS? 1^^
2 a. Cast of a light valve.
2 6. A part of an internal cast of a form with a more pointed beak (partly due to distor- tion), possibly belonging to another species.
Fig. 3. INOCERAMUS SiMPSONi. An internal cast of a right valve, with some remaining portions of the shell. Portions of the basal and posterior dorsal margins being broken
142
away •
Fig. 4. INOCBRAMUS (itndt. sp,), side view ^^^
4 a. A profile outline of same.
PL^TE XIV.
Page. 148
Fig. 1. CUCULLJSA(TKIGOXARCA?)OIiLIQUA .---,
1. Internal cast of a left valve. 1 a. Another larger one of same. 1 &. A cast of right valve of same.
Fig. 2. CoRBULA (cast in sandstone) • ^^^
Fig. 3. INOCERAMUS KRECTUS. An anterior view of an internal cast of the two valves partly 145 opened. Their lower margins are distorted, and probably were originally as broad as indicated by the outlines below.
Fig. 4. Inocbramus deformis ^^^
4. Cast of a right valve, with a part of the anterior margin and beak broken away, 4 a. Another view of same.
Fig. 5. Mactra (Trigonella! ) arenaria 1^
A view of the exterior of the left valve.
IT. S. Geol.,Ex-pl.4C)?araI],^:;l
u^etaceous
Pl'ate JTl
ir,w;:F,iuou ^m...
J.Bien Ml.
Page. Fig. 1. Gybodes depressa 159
1. Upper view of an internal cast.
1 a. Side view of same.
Fig. 2. AnCHUKA? FUSIPORMIS 160
2. External cast of a specimen with the apex of the spire broken away, and the outline
of the lip not clearly seen.
2 a. A smaller specimen, with the lip and the extremity of the canal broken away.
Fig. 3. Cardium curtum 151
Left view of one of the largest specimens, which is an internal cast.
Fig. 3 a.* Cardium subcortum -• 152
A small specimen, right side view.
Fig. 4. Tellina modesta. Cast of left valve 157
Fig. 5. Tellina f modesta. Cast of a larger left valve, possibly of this species 157
Fig. 6. Tellina! isonema. Left view of a cast of exterior 156
Fig. 7. Cyprimerl/iT subalata. Internal oast of left valve 158
Fig. 8. Mactra 1 Emmonsi. Cast of outside of left valve, two diameters 153
Fig. 9. Tellina (Arcopagia) ? Utahensis — 155
9. Cast of right valve-
9 a^h. Two other casts of right valves, differing somewhat in form, but probably belong-
ing to the same species.
Fig. 10. OSTREA 140
10. Interior of an upper valve.
10 a. Outer or upper side of same. 10 K Interior of an under valve. lOo. Oatside of same.
\
TJ, S. Geel.ErDl. 40 Parallel
CretaceoLis
Plate ffl
HW, Elliott d_el.
Page. Fig. 1. SpH^RiUMf Idahobnsb 183
1. A specimen consisting mainly of an internal cast^ with some portions of the shell
remaining. 1 «. An outline to show the convexity of the same.
Fig. 2. Sph^rium rugosum 182
2. A rather small specimen, enlarged two diameters. 2 a. A larger specimen, enlarged two diameters.
2 6. An outline to show convexity, enlarged two diameters.
Fig. 3. Unio Haydeni ., 184
3. View of left valve.
3 a. Same view of a larger specimen.
3 &. Internal cast, showing an impression of the hinge.
Fig. 4. Unio belliplicatus 166
4. Left side of one of the larger specimens.
4 a. Right view of a smaller individual of same.
Fig. 5. Unio VETUSTUS 16
5. A young shell flattened by pressure, with a part of the posterior broken away.
(Original type of the species.)
5 a, A large specimen, somewhat twisted over by oblique pressure, so as to hide the beaks. 5 &. A dorsal view of same.
5 c. A smaller specimen of same.
Fig. 6. Cyrena (Veloritina) Durkeei 167
6. A medium-sized specimen.
6 a. An anterior view of same, showing its unusually deep and well-defined Innule. 6 ^. A larger individual.
6 0. A very gibbous, short variety.
6df. A dorsal view of same, showing the deep posterior dorsal concavity.
6 e. A separate left valve, showing hinge.
6/. A small, depressed variety, or possibly a distinct species.
6g, An internal cast, showing muscular impression, and the slightly sinuous pallial line.
U. S, Geol.ExpI 40 Parallel
Cretaceous and Tertiary
Plate XVL
FLA^TE XVII.
Paf<e. Fig. 1. CORBUJ.A Engelm\nm 174
1. A large specimen, with a part of posterior extremity broken off. la. The original typical specimen, enlarged two diameters.
Fig. 2. CORBULA PYRIFORMIS 170
2. A side view of a ruther distinctly ribbed specimen^ with a portion of its posterior
extremity broken away, natural size. 2 a, The original typical specimen, smooth variety. 2 b. An anterior view of same, showing its very nearly equivalve character.
2 c, A very large, irregularly ribbed specimen, with the posterior extremity slightly
broken. 2d. A dorsal view of another specimen, slightly distorted by compression. It shows the posterior dorsal furrow and the angle along the margin of each valve.
Fig. 3. LlMN^A SIMILIS 191
13. A dorsal view, shon iug aperture, enlarged two diameters.
3 a. An opposite view of same.
Fig. 4. LiMNiEA VKTUSTA ' 191
4. A dorsal view, natural size.
4 a. The same, somewhat enlarged.
4 5. An opposite view of same, enlarged.
Fig. 5. LiMNJEA NITIDULA ". Igl
5. Dorsal view, enlarged two diameters. [Inner lip not well shown.]
5 a. An opposite view of same.
Fig. 6. Rhytiphorus pkiscus 175
6. View of dorsal side (type-specimen).
6 a. An opposite view of same, showing the narrow aperture, with a part of the lip
broken away.
Fig. 7. GONIOBASIS SiMPSONI 193
7. One of the typical specimens, natural size, with apex broken away.
7 a. A specimen without regular costa. 7 h. An opposite view of same.
7 c. A nearly smooth specimen.
7d. A Gostate and slightly nodose specimen, enlarged about two diameters.
Fig. 8. Melania? sculptilis 195
Side and aperture view, enlarged about two diameters. Fig. 9. Melania ¥ subsculptilis ; perhaps only a variety of last , 1 96
Side and aperture view, about two diameters. Fig. 10. Carinifex (Vorticifex) Tbyoni 188
10. Side and aperture view, natural size. 10 a. View of upper side of same.
10 h. Under view of same.
10 c. A young, strongly costate specimen, with the apex much deprt^ssed, being the type
■ of the var. concava.
Fig. 11. Carinifex (Vorticifex) Binneyi 187
11. Side and aperture view, natural size.
11 a. View of upper side of same.
Fig. 12. Ancylus undulatus 186
12. A medium-sized specimen, natural size, dorsal view, 12a. An outline lateral view of same.
12 &. An outline lateral view of a larger specimen, natural size.
2
Fiif. 13. Planorbis spectahilis 169
13. A small specimen (under side view). 13 a. A profile view of same.
13 6. An upper view of same
13 c. A profile view of a larger specimen.
13 d. An upper view of a large distorted specimen.
13 e. View of under side of same.
13/. An under view of a smaller specimen.
Fig. 14. Planorbis spbctabilis, var. Utahjsnsis 190
14. Upper side, natural size.
14 a. Under side, same.
14 &. Upper aide view of another specimen.
14 c. Profile view of same specimen represented by fig. 14.
Fig. 15. Campeloma (undt. sp.) 181
15. A large, imperfect specimen, somewhat distorted (widened) by compression (lines
of growth too strong and too straight), so as to appear rather wider than natural.
15 a. An opposite view of same specimen.
Fig. 16. Probably the young of the above species ,
16 «. Another view of another specimen.
16 h. Another specimen, with the spire broken away.
Fig. 17. Campeloma macrospira? (young specimen) 179
17. A dorsal view.
17 a. An opposite view of same.
Fig. 18. ViVIPARUS CONRADlf 178
18. An imperfect specimen from Bear River, Utah.
18 a. A specimen from the original locality on the Upper Missouri, figured here for com-
parison.
Fig. 19. Pyrqulifera humerosa 176
19. A large specimen, with the lip broken, so as to give an unnatural angularity to the
basal outline.
19 a. Another specimen, with the apex of the spire broken off, but showing the form of
the aperture.
U.S. GeolEzpI 40 Parallel
Cretaceous and Tertiary
Plate :XM.
li-^.£Uiottctel
J.Biai Utiu
UNITED STATES GEOLOGICAL EXPLORATION OF THE FORTIETH PARALLEL.
CLARENCE KING, Geologist-dj-Chabgk.
PART II.
PALEONTOLOGY.
JAMES HALIj and R. P. WHITFIELD.
GENERAL REMARKS.
In studying the fossils placed in our hands, from the several Palaeozoic formations occurring in the regions examined by the *^ Geological Exploration of the Fortieth Parallel", there are several groups of special interest noticed; but perhaps none more deserving of close attention than those from the lime- stones and silico-calcareous shales representing the Potsdam Period, from the White Pine and Eureka mining-districts and from Schell Creek. The peculiar interest attached to these specimens arises chiefly from the great number and variety of the Trilobitic remains, represented in the few blocks present in the collection, and their great resemblance to forms previously described from the soft, friable sandstones of the same period in the Mississippi Valley, within the States of Wisconsin, Iowa, and Minnesota. Although there is not a single species common to the two regions, yet there is such a close generic resemblance as to leave no doubt whatever of the positive identity of the formations. As yet, there have been fewer genera recognized from these far western localities than from the more eastern ones; but if the smaller number of distinct locations and the restricted space or territory over which collections have been made, as well as the small amount of material examined, be taken into consideration, it will at once be seen that the probability of the existence of as varied and equally abundant fauna is very great, especially as there are at present several undescribed, but quite distinct, forms recognized among the material in hand, but in fragments too poor for description or figures.
The species here described also present a striking resemblance to forms recognized in beds of corresponding age in the San Saba Valley, Texas, by Dr. F. Roemer, in his work on the Cretaceous formations of Texas (Kreid. von
199
200 PALEONTOLOGY.
Texas, &c.). The remarkable form there described and figured, under the name Pterocephalia SanctisdbcBj finds a close representative in the one here given as Pterocephalm laticeps^ and shows the propriety of the generic separa- tion, while the form characterized by the '^slipper- shaped" glabella of Dr. Owen shows not only the wide geographical distribution of this peculiar type, which is common in the Wisconsin beds, and largely prevails in the White Pine, Eureka, and Schell Creek localities, and also occurs in the San Saba district, but also its value as a generic type, for which Dr. Owen pro- posed the name CrepicephaluSy which may with propriety, we think, be retained for this widely-distributed group. The extensive geographical range of these peculiar and marked generic forms, through the western countries, is a point of great interest, and a feature that will undoubtedly be of much service in the future study of the formations over these as yet imperfectly-explored regions, as, from their strongly-marked character, they will be readily recognized, and serve as reliable guides in tracing out and locating, stratigraphically, the formations wherever they may be met with.
Besides the above, the genera Bikellocephalus^ Ptychaspis^ Chariocephalm, and Agnostus have been recognized in one or more species each. The Brachi- opodous fauna of these localities is quite meager, both as regards species and individuals, and affords but imperfect means for comparison with that of other localities. The genus Lingulepis has been fully recognized, and a species, apparently referable to the genus Obolella, also occurs at Eureka, together with a minute species of Kutorgina. No other forms of life have as yet been noticed among the collections from rocks of this age within the region covered by the Survey.
A few very interesting species of Trilobites and other forms have been given from the collections from the base of Ute Peak, Wahsatch Range, Utah, which, from the evidence furnished by the Brachiopodous and MoUuscan fauna, have been referred to the age of the Quebec group, together with other beds at White Pine, Nevada, and East Cailon, Oquirrh Mountains, Utah.
The Devonian formations are represented in a few localities; among the most interesting of which may be mentioned that of Treasure Hill, and the black slates near Eberhardt Mill, White Pine Mountains, Nevada. The
GENERAL REMARKS. 201
fossils of this last locality have a peculiar interest, from the occurrence of Leiorhynchus quadricostatus, Hall, a form which characterizes the black slates (Genesee Slates) at the top of the Hamilton group of New York, and also a species of Lunulicardium (L. fragosa =z Posidonomi/a fragosa Meek). The occurrence of these two species, together with an Aviculopecten, scarcely dis- tinguishable from A. equilatera (-zzAvicula equilatera H., Geol. Rept., 4th Dist. N. Y., p. 180, fig. 7), would appear to be sufficient reason for consid- ering these shales of an earlier date than the Carboniferous, and much more nearly related to the Devonian Black Slates of New York. It is true there are black slaty layers, bearing Carboniferous fossils, immediately above them, or separated from them by only a thin bed of sandy calcareous shales, as at Eberhardt Mill; but these upper layers are lithologically quite dis- tinct from those below, being, in fact, a bituminous limestone; and the fossils are so entirely distinct and strongly Carboniferous in character, one of them (Cardiomorpha Missouriemis S.) being positively identical with a well-known Coal-Measure species, that it appears to us there can be no doubt of their Carboniferous age and entire distinction from those below. The specimen of sandy calcareous shale in the collection, marked as occur- ring in the black slates at Eberhardt Mill, contains fragments and imperfect individuals of a Spirifer, resembling 8. Keokuk H., but too imperfect for positive identification. If this specimen is authentic in its location, it undoubtedly marks a line of separation between -the two beds of black slates.
Another group of fossils of considerable interest will be found figured on plate IV. These were obtained from limestones at Dry Caiion, Oquirrh Mountains; and from Ogden, Little Cottonwood, and Logan Cafions, in the Wahsatch Range, Utah, from their character we should consider them as of about the age of the Waverly group of Ohio and the yellow sandstones of Burlington, Iowa; which have been referred to the same age. Some of the species are identical with forms described from these localities, while others are very closely representative species; and all have more of a Devonian than a Carboniferous aspect. The occurrence of so many Devonian types at several localities within a limited district, and in considerable numbers, showing that it is not an accidental feature of an
202 PAL^O]!^TOLOGY.
isolated spot, would appear to be a matter of some importance in a strati- graphical point of view. The genus Proetus seldom occurs in rocks above the Devonian, but is here represented by two distinct species; one of which, P. peroccidenSj has been recognized at three different localities. Besides the species illustrated on the plate, there are represented, in the collection from near Dry Canon, a species of Syripffopora, and a small-celled, closely- aggregated Cyathophyllum, an undetermined ProduduSj and a Platyceras; also what appears to be a Goniatite, but too imperfect for determination.
Above the limestone beds bearing Waverly fossils, at Dry Cafion, and separated from it by about twelve hundred feet of limestone, occurs a band of somewhat sandy calcareous shale, filled with Bryozoans, among which can be recognized a Fenestella, a Polypora, and a Glauconome, together with a species of Spirifera too indistinct for deteimination; above this sandy shale there is nearly or quite another thousand feet of limestone, near the top of which occur the fossils figured on plate V. These latter are all of Lower Carboniferous forms, and mostly of known species, and interesting, as occuiTing in limestones without any intermingling of Coal-Measure types, a feature rarely met with in the Carboniferous localities of the Far West. The species represented are known in the more eastern localities as charac- teristic of several of the Lower Carboniferous divisions; but none of them occur in the true Coal-Measures, except Productus semireiiculatus^ which is a well-known cosmopolitan.
The age of the shales containing the Bryozoans is somewhat doubtful, as there are no known species by which to identify them with other local- ities ; but the layers holding the fossils in question, and which occur just beneath the Weber quartzite, would appear to represent nearly all the divisions of tlie Lower Carboniferous as recognized in the Mississippi Valley. At one time, it was hoped, by Mr. Clarence King and his associates, that the Weber quartzite might prove a line of separation between the Lower Carboniferous and the true Coal-Measures; but all the localities except this one have yielded fossils of both formations, or of Coal-Measure forms only, showing a mingling of the two faunae, as usually recognized in the Missis- sippi Valley and eastward, but in this locality, only the lower forms occur.
GENEKAL REMARKS. 203
On that account, it will prove to be of very great interest in a stratigraphical point of view.
The section of the formations in the Western Oquirrh Mountains, in which Dry Canon and Snowstorm Hill are situated, is likely to prove one of the most instructive of the Western Palaeozoic localities, as in it will probably be found the most complete representation of the Palaeozoic for- mations, extending from the quartzites of Ophir City (which are likely to prove as old as Huronian, being overlaid by shales bearing Trilobites of Primordial age) to these Weber quartzites, lying above the beds contain- ing the Lower Carboniferous fossils. The layers of limestones between the Trilobitic shales and the limestones furnishing Waverly group fossils, two thousand feet in thickness, undoubtedly represent the Silurian and Devonian formations, and will probably, when thoroughly examined, yield fossils of these formations in some of their outcrops.
The rocks at this locality are said to change gradually, in passing upward, from a limestone to a quartzite, and above, having limestone bands interstratified. If such be the case, some of these limestones will most prob- ably yield fossils on thorough examination, and show a gradual change from a Lower Carboniferous to a Coal-Measure fauna.
A few additional species furnished by the later collections from the Upper Coal or Permo-Carboniferous beds of the Weber River section, will be found figured on plate VI.
On plates VI and VII are given a few forms each of Triassic and Juras- sic species. The later collections from these formations are rather unsatis- factory in their character, and not very abundant. There is one group, how- ever, of special interest, labeled as coming from Shoshone Springs, Augusta Mountains. Of the age of these beds we are not at all satisfied. Mr. King and his associates are inclined to place them as low as Jurassic or even Tri- assic. Tliis view may be correct. The species are all of undescribed forms, and therefore of but little stratigraphical value. The generic value of the Aviculopecten-like shell would indicate an age at least as great as this, if the generic reference is correct, about which there may possibly be some doubt ; but the features of some others would incline one to believe them of much more recent date, especially the two described under the new generic name
204 PALiEOKTOLOGY.
of Septocardta. These shells have the general aspect externally of the genus CarditUj and resemble very cosely the forms of that genus peculiar to the Eocene formations. Since, however, they prove to be a. new generic type, they cannot be said to possess the same stratigraphical importance as one already known to be peculiar to any definite horizon, and they may be only the first appearance of what afterward becomes a common feature of a group, characterizing a later period. Several fragments of additional species, all apparently new to science, occur in the collections from this locality, but all in too imperfect a condition to be serviceable.
Among the collections are many small groups of species from various localities, which would have been of great interest, and highly advantageous to science, could they have been illustrated, but the limited time and means at our disposal would not permit.
FOSSILS OF THE POTSDAM GROUP.
BRACHIOPODA.
Genus OBOLELLA FJl. Obolella discoid a n. sp.
Plate I, figs. 1-2.
Shell very small, discoid, and scale-like; valves depressed convex; the larger one a little longer than wide, giving a very short, ovate form, only perceptibly narrowing toward the beak, rounded on the sides and a little straightened on the front margin; surface slightly convex, more convex on the umbo and flattened toward the front. Smaller valve circular, sometimes almost truncate at the beak, slightly convex on the umbo, and flattened in front, having a less degree of convexity throughout than the other valve.
Surface-structure not observed. The shells are all more or less exfo- liated by separation from the rock. The substance of the shell is calcareous, and the surface of the cast smooth and shining, with very fine concentric lines.
The shells seldom measure more than an eighth of an inch in their greatest diameter, and are usually smaller; while the largest examples seen do not exceed one-sixth of an inch. It is remarable only for its small size and flattened form, possessing no salient features by which it can be com- pared with other species.
Formation and locality. — Quite common in some hard, sandy limestones of the Potsdam formation, in the Eureka District, Nevada, associated with Kutorgina^ AgnostuSy and several species of Trilobiks. Collected by Arnold Hague, esq.
205
206 PALJSONTOLOQY.
Genus LINGULEPIS Hall.
LiNGULEPIS M^EA B. Sp. Plate I, figs. 5-7.
Shell small, short-ovate, a little longer than wide, point of greatest width a little below the middle of the length; base regularly rounded; beak small, pointed, and slightly incurved; cardinal slopes long, diverging from the beak to below the middle of the shell, and inclosing an angle of about ninety degrees. Valves convex, a little the most ventricose above the middle of the valve; the beak of the longer valve appearing quite full and round.
Surface of the shell apparently smooth. Internal cast distinctly radiated.
The surfaces of the shells are all mo^e or less exfoliated in separating from the matrix, and in this condition are more or less lamellose in their structure, while the layers are bright and polished. The shell in many of its features resembles L, pinnaformis Owen, from the Potsdam sandstones of the St. Croix River, but has not the extended beak of that species, the valves being more nearly of equal length, that of the ventral exceeding the dorsal only by the beak being pointed instead of rounded.
Formation and locality, — In hard, somewhat ferruginous, sandy limestone of the Potsdam group in the Eureka District, Nevada. Collected by Arnold Hague, esq.
LiNGULEPIS ? MINUTA D. sp. Plate I, figs. 3-4.
Shell minute, seldom exceeding a line in its greatest diameter; in fox-m very short-ovate, the greatest width considerably below the middle of the length and narrowing to the beak, especially on the larger valve, which is apparently slightly truncate at the extremity; base broadly rounded. Valves moderately convex, but not rotund. Smaller valve nearly circular. Substance of the shell nacreous and apparently phosphatic, not presenting any appearance of having been calcareous; the exterior concentrically lamellose.
Casts of the interior of the larger valve show a sharp, longitudinal depression along the middle, extending in some cases to near the front
FOSSILS OF THE POTSDAM GROUP. 207
margin; also two shorter, widely-diverging impressions near the beak. The same features are seen in the smaller valve, except that the shorter impres- sions are less divergent.
There may be some doubt as to the true generic relations of this shell. Its entire phosphatic structure places it at once among the true Linguloid species, but the muscular scars are not quite like those of Lingulepis, We know of no species very closely resembling it with which it may be com- pared.
Formation and locality, — In thinly laminated siliceous and somewhat ferruginous shales of the Potsdam formation, in the Eureka District, Nevada. Collected by J. E. Clayton, esq.
Genus KUTORGINA, Billings.
KUTORGINA MINUTISSIMA n. Sp. Plate I, figs. 11-12.
Shell minute, quadrangular in outline, and a little wider than long, with a straight hinge-line nearly or quite equaling the greatest w^idth of the shell; sides straight or slightly rounded; antero-lateral angles rounded; front margin broadly rounded or very slightly emarginate in the middle by the very faint mesial sinus of the dorsal valve. Ventral valve somewhat pyramidal, with the side formed by the cardinal area vertical; apex of the valve obtusely pointed; cardinal area triangular, about half as high as wide. Features of the area and foramen not observed. Dorsal valve convex, but much less elevated than the ventral, and having the beak obtusely rounded and rather tumid, a very little projecting beyond the cardinal line; middle of the valve marked by a very broad, shallow, and faintly-defined mesial sinus, which does not extend quite to the apex of the valve.
Surface of the shell marked by fine, elevated, concentric lines, which are sharp on the top and often interrupted in their course, coalescing or bifur- cating, and appearing as if broken, giving a peculiar roughened but not lamellose surface-structure. There are also a few very faint, scarcely defined, and somewhat irregular, distant radii. This latter feature has only been observed on the dorsal valve.
208 PALEONTOLOGY.
The shells have all the generic features of the specimens upon which the genus Kutorginaj as given by Mr. BiUings (Pal. Foss. Canada, vol. 1, p. 8, figs. 8 and 10; the specimen fig. 9 probably belongs to some other genus), was founded, but differs specially in the minute size of the shell. Our specimens figured measure scarcely a line in width, and are less in length; while the original of his species, which we had the pleasure of examining some years ago, considerably exceed half an inch in length. The peculiar surface-character is one that cannot be easily mistaken, and one which we do not remember to have seen on any other Brachiopodous shell.
Formation and locality. — In limestone of the Potsdam group, at Eureka, Nevada. There are also remains of shells of the same genus, but of a species two or three times the size of this one, in come green shales from East Gallon, Oquirrh Mountahis, Utah. Collected by J. E. Clayton, esq.
Genus LEPT^NA Dalman. Lept-^ena Melita n. sp.
Plate I, figs. 13-14.
Shell of medium size, transversely semi-oval in form, the length equal to about two-thirds of the width; hinge-line straight, as long as the width of the shell below; sides nearly straight for a short distance below the cardinal extremities and rectangular to the hinge-line; lower lateral margins rounded; basal line regularly convex; ventral valve depressed-convex, regularly arching from beak to base, but sometimes slightly marked by a broad, shallow, not distinctly defined, mesial depression; beak low and inconspicu- ous; dorsal valve concave, nearly conforming to the curvature of the oppo- site valve, leaving but a limited space between the two. Area not definitely ascertained, but apparently quite narrow and linear.
Surface of the shell marked by distinct, strong, somewhat arching, radiating striae, with an indefinite number of very fine intermediate ones occupying the concave spaces between the stronger, and with them forming fascicles. This feature varies very greatly in strength and number of the finer strise in different individuals, and also in the number of stronger radii; in some cases there being only nine or ten of the strong radii on the entire
FOSSILS OF THE POTSDAM GEOnP. 209
shell, while in others there may be fifteen or twenty. Concentric lines of varying strength cross the radiating lines at irregular distances.
The shell is a very pretty and strongly-marked form, and not easily confounded with any previously-known species.^
Formation and locality, — In sandy ghales of Lower Silurian age, proba- bly of the horizon of the Potsdam or Calciferous, at Eureka, Nevada. Collected by J. E. Clayton, esq.
CEUSTACEA.
Genus CONOCEPHALITES Zenker, iziCONOCOEYPHE Corda.
Subgenus CREPICEPHALUS Owen, % = LOGANELLUS Devine.
The following species of Trilobites possess some peculiar features, which, being common to the whole, mark them at once as a distinct generic type or group. In many of these features, they closely resemble some of the forms described under the name ConocejjJialites, from the same horizon in Wisconsin; while at the same time these peculiar characters distinguish them from the greater number of those species. They all possess more or less distinctly the ^'sUpper-shaped^^ glabella referred to by Dr. D. I). Owen, in his generic description of Crepicephalus, and all appear to have been more or less distinctly marked by three pairs of glabellar furrows, although some of them so faintly as to be seen only by the reflection of light across their surfaces. Another marked peculiarity is the great breadth of the frontal limb between the facial sutures along the anterior border, most of them widening perceptibly in front of the eyes to the anterior margin of the head, where the rim is intersected, almost at right angles with the border, by the suture-line. The great width of the fixed cheeks opposite the eye is another peculiar character of the entire group, in several cases exceeding one-half the width of the anterior end of the glabella; while in only one example, C. (C,)unisulcatus, is this feature reversed, and that to only a limited degree.
Among the Wisconsin species, the frontal limb is usually not wider
♦ Orthis Barahouensis Winchell, from the Potsdam sandstone near Spirit Lake, Wisconsin, specimens of which we have lately examined, is closely related to this shell, but less strongly plicated and more deeply sulcated. — E. P. W. 14 p R
210 PALAEONTOLOGY.
tlian the breadth across the eyes, but generally a little naiTower, and the antero-lateral angles are rounded by the extreme point of the movable cheeks, which extend in front on the upper side of the carapace, while the fixed cheeks are as a general thing reduced to their minimum breadth.
Another feature which prevails throughout the entire group is the well- marked, and often strong, ocular ridges, a feature rarely noticed among the specimens from Wisconsin. The absence of this feature in thes6 latter may, however, be in great part owing to the unfavorable material and condition of preservation, they being all casts in a loose, friable, and often coarse sand, not fitted for retaining the more faintly marked characters of the organisms;* while the matrix from these western localities is a hard and very solid lime- stone, containing a considerable a mount of sand in some parts, and extremely difficult to separate from the organic remains.
The features above noticed are mostly those pertaining to Dr. D. D.
Owen's genus Crepicephalus as shown in the figures, cited by him as generic
(Geol. Iowa, Wis, and Minn., plate lA, figs. 10 and 18); and we see no
sufficient reason why they should not be considered as of generic importance.
But whether the name Crepicephalus shall be retained is not so readily
determined. The genus Loganellus Devine, 1863, is a very closely allied,
if not identical, form ; but as no entire individuals have been obtained, either
from the Wisconsin or these more western localities, except of C. (i.) Hagueiy
herein described, it is impossible to satisfactorily determine their true generic
relations. There would seem, however, to be no doubt in regard to the
generic identity of the latter, or. of C. (i.) quadranSy with Loganellus Logani
Devine, and from the great similarity of these to the dismembered parts of
the other species, we are inclined to consider them as all pertaining to one
genus.
Crepicephalus (Loganellus) Haguei n. sp^
Plate II, figs, 14-15.
Body broadly ovate in form, widest across the base of the head,
broadly rounded in front and rapidly tapering behind to the small pygi-
dium, strongly trilobed and moderately convex.
♦Since this matter has beeu in the printers' hands, I have examined many freshly collected specimens from several localities of this formation in Wisconsin, and find, on most of them, the ocular ridges strongly marked. — R. P* W.
FOSSILS OF THE POTSDAM GKOUR 211
Cephalic shield semicircular forward of the occipital line, the posterior extremities extending in rather broad spines, which reach to the fifth or sixth thoracic segment, and when in their normal condition are nearly parallel to the axial lobe, but are usually spread out laterally by the flat- tening of the head.
Glabella rather small, rounded-conical, narrowing gently from the occipital furrow forward; front regularly rounded; surface depressed-con- vex, marked by three pairs of transverse furrows, which extend rather more than one-third of the distiance across the glabella, and are strongly curved backward at their inner ends; occipital furrow broad and shallow; occi- pital ring narrow. Fixed cheeks narrow at the eye, separated from the glabella by rather distinct furrows. Frontal limb long, about half as long as the glabella, strongly and nearly equally concavo-convex; posterior limb narrowly triangular, reaching about two-thirds of the width of the movable cheeks.
Movable cheeks of moderate size, irregularly triangular, distinctly notched at the inner angle for the reception of the eye-lobe; surface con- vex, irregularly striated by very fine lines, which radiate from the base of the eye-tubercle; marginal rim of moderate width, flattened, the flattening extending upon the spine ; occipital furrow well pronounced and reaching to the inner margin of the posterior spine.
Suture-lines distant, cutting the anterior margin of the head with a slightly inward curvature, leaving the frontal limb nearly half as wide as the entire width of the base of the head ; thence directed gently inward, with a slight curvature to the anterior angle of the eye, and, after passing around the eye-tubercle is directed in a straight line to the posterior mar- gin of the head, which it reaches at about two-thirds of the distance between the glabella and outer margin of the cheek.
Eye distinct, slightly elevated, distinctly reniform, and about one-third as long as the glabella and occipital ring.
Thorax considerably wider than long, distinctly trilobed, rather rapidly tapering from the third or fourth segment posteriorly, and composed of twelve segments. Axial lobe rather narrow and gradually tapering through- out, scarcely equaling at its widest part one-fourth of the entire width of
212 PALiEONTOLOGY.
tlie thorax ; segmente distinct, moderately elevated, elightly flattened, and, oa the older specimens, having obscure flattened tubercles at the outer extremities ; hiteral lobes convex, flattened on the inner half, and gradually rotmdnig on the outer portion, becoming flattened and slightly concave •oAvard the free ends of the pleura. Pleura straight for nearly one-half iheir length, beyond which they are directed backward with an increasing curvature to the free ends ; fun-ows broad and deep, occupying nearly the entire breadth of the pleura on the straight portion, beyond which they are liaiTowed, and become obsolete on the flattened part of the extremities.
Pygidium small, elliptical, the anterior and posterior margins nearly equally rounded ; outer angles obtuse ; surface convex, strongly trilobed ; axis not quite one-third of the entire width, prominently convex, and reach- ing nearly to the posterior margin, marked by three rings exclusive of the terminal ones ; lateral lobes depressed-convex, marked by three pairs of furrows, which are curved backward, and become obsolete before reaching the margin.
This species differs from ConocepJialites (ConocorypJie) Kingii Meek in it s broader form, proportionally wider axis, and smaller pygidium ; in hav- ing one less thoracic ring, a broader and less conical glabella ; and in the broader furrows of the pleura, as well as in several points of minor import- ance. It also bears considerable resemblance to Loganellus Logani Devine (Pal. Foss. Canada, vol. 1, pp. 200 and 201), but differs conspicuously in the proportionally larger cephalic shield, larger cheek-spines, and in wanting the extended extremities of the pleura, as in that species.
Formation and locality, — In dark-colored limestone of the Potsdam group, on the west side of Pogonip Mountain, and near French Mine, White Pine District, Nevada. Collected by Arnold Hague, esq.
Crepicephalus (Loganellus) nitidus d. sp.
Plate II, figs. B-IO.
Glabella pyramidal, squarely truncate in front; lateral margins nearly straight; height above the occipital furrow less than the width at the base, and the anterior end equal in width to the. entire height, including the occipital ring, separated from the fixed cheeks by well-defined, rather deep,
FOSSILS OF THE POTSDAM GROUR 213
dorsal furrows. Surface regularly convex, with a scarcely perceptible angularity along the median line, which is seen only by the reflection of light from the surface; glabellar furrows nearly obsolete, or the posterior pair visible only on the most critical examination. Occipital furrow nar- row, and the ring distinct and rounded.
Fixed cheeks rather narrow, prominent at the eye, and rapidly declin- ing in front, and more especially to the antero-lateral angles of the frontal limb; ocular ridges distinct Frontal limb, including the narrow, elevated, and rounded border, as long as the width of the anterior end of the glabella, and strongly convex between the rim and glabella, from which point it rapidly descends to the margin; very wide in front between the suture- lines, and rapidly contracting to the eyes. Posterior lateral limbs triangu- lar, their lateral extension greater than the width from the eye to the basal border of the head. Eye-lobes small.
Facial sutures cutting the front margin considerably outside of the line of the eye, the angles of the limb slightly rounded; from this point the line is directed strongly inward to the eye, behind which it again passes outward and downward to the posterior margin, making an angle of about thirty-five degrees with the base of the head. Surface of the crust of the head smooth.
The pygidium associated with the glabellas in the same fragments of rock is suborbicular or obscurely pentangular, slightly transverse; the posterior margin regularly curved; junction of the anterior and posterior lines forming obtuse angles; the anterior margin is also angular on the shoulders. Axis small, convex, about two-thirds the length of the sliield, and marked by four annulations exclusive of the terminal ones; lateral lobes flattened, broad, slightly convex on the inner half; anterior margin bordered by a strong flattened rib, extending to the lateral angles; three other obscure ribs mark the convex portion; border broad and flattened.
The species diff'ers from any other herein described in the short, trun- cate glabella, associated with the laterally-expanded frontal limb, and want of glabellar furrows. There are none of the Wisconsin species which approach it in the combination of these features. C lowensis is perhaps as closely related as any, but the eyes are much larger, and the lateral limbs very much longer and narrower. The pygidium has much the appearance
214 PiVL^ONTOLOG Y.
of a BiTcellocephalus ; but, as there is no other form of pygidium in the rock containing the heads, it would seem to belong with them.
Formation and locality, — In limestone of the Potsdam group, at Eureka, Nevada, Collected by Arnold Hague, esq.
Crepicephalus (Loganellus) granulosus n. sp.
Plate II, figs. 3-3.
Glabella and fixed cheeks when united having a quadrangular form, with projecting posterior lateral limbs, giving to the whole a somewhat pyramidal form, with a broadly-truncated summit.
Glabella short-conical, somewhat rapidly tapering in front of the occipital furrow, and squarely truncate at the summit; height equal to the width at the occipital furrow; surface depressed-convex, and marked by three pairs of very oblique furrows, the posterior pair extending nearly across and almost uniting in the middle with the occipital furrow; anterior pair very short and faint, situated near the anterior angles of the glabella; second pair intermediate in size and position.
Fixed cheeks about half as wide as the center of the glabella, verj^ prominent in the region of the eye, and rapidly declining anteriorly and posteriorly from this point; palpebral lobes long and narrow, rather distinct and prominent. Frontal limb nearly half as long as the glabella anterior to the occipital furrow, rapidly declining forward, and bordered by a thickened rounded rim, which is equal to one third of the entire length of the limb; the space between the glabella and the marginal rim is strongly convex. Posterior lateral limbs triangular, once and a half as long as high; ocular ridges existing in the form of an abrupt elevation, passing from the front of the eye to the anterior furrow of the glabella; occipital furrow strongly marked on the lateral limb.
Facial suture passing in a direct line from the eye to the anterior margin, and from behind the eye obliquely backward to the posterior margin of the head, forming an angle of about thirty degrees to the occipital line.
Surface of the crust densely covered by rather coarse granules or pus- tules.
FOSSILS OF THE POTSDAM GROUP. 215
This species approaches more nearly to Conocephalites Shumardi Hall (16th Rept. State Cab., p, 154, pi. 1, fig. 7, and pi. 8, fig. 2) than to any- other described species, but differs very conspicuously in the greater breadth of the front of the head between the facial sutures. No other parts of the organism have been detected. Although the fragments of rock containing the lieads are filled with Trilobitic remains, there are none showing the granulose surface corresponding to this one ; and, where the entire crust of the head is so thickly covered with granules, it would seem natural to sup- pose the other parts of the animal would be similarly marked.
Formation and locality, — In compact limestone of the Potsdam group at Eureka, Nevada. Collected by J, E, Clayton, esq,
Crepicephalus (Loganellus) maculosus n, sp.
Plate II, figs. 24, 25, and 261.
Glabella and fixed cheeks quadrangular; glabella rounded, conical, a little higher than wide, and highly convex, prominent and gibbous along the median line, marked by very oblique furrows, only two pairs of which show upon the cast, except on critical examination, the anterior pair being very obscure, and situated very near the anterior end of the glabella ; middle pair more distinct, and situated at about the anterior third of the length ; posterior pair commencing a little behind the middle of the length, at the margin, and directed backward so as to unite with the occipital fuiTow just before reaching the center of the glabella, separating the posterior glabel- lar lobes, which form triangular areas of large size; occipital furrow wide, and ring distinct
Fixed cheeks nearly half as wide as the central diameter of the glabella, moderately prominent in the middle near the eye-lobe, and gently declining in front and posteriorly; ocular ridges strongly marked. Frontal limb longer than the width of the fixed cheeks, strongly convex in front of the glabella, and rapidly declining to the front margin, which has been bordered by a narrow rim, the form and extent of which has not been determined. Lateral limbs unknown. Surface of the cast, except the glabella, which is smooth, marked by distant elevated pustules of moderate size.
A movable cheek, associated in the same blocks, and possessing a simi-
216 PALEONTOLOGY.
lar surface, is distinctly convex between the eye and the outer border, and the latter rather broad and flattened, separated from the inner convex area by an abrupt sinus, and terminating behind in a short, sharp, rounded spine, and anteriorly the under surface is continued in. a spiniform exten- sion. The facial suture starting from the front margin on a line with the eye passes in a nearly direct line to the eye, behind which it passes obliquely with a sigmoid curve to the posterior line of the head, a little outside of the center of the movable cheek, as seen on the latter.
Associated with the above specimens are several forms of pygidia, two of which have the form and character of Dikelhcephalus, while other two are similar to forms associated with, and referred to heads of this kind in the sandstones of Wisconsin. One of these is transversely elliptical, nearly twice as wide as long, acutely pointed at the lateral angles ; the anterior and posterior margins nearly equally curved, the posterior being a little the most regularly arcuate. Axis narrow, and not more than two-thirds the length of the shield, roundly pointed at the extremity, and marked by five annulations, exclusive of the terminal ones; lateral lobes broad and flattened, very slightly convex on the inner half; anterior border marked by a comparatively strong and distinct nb, with two fainter, almost obsolete ribs farther back ; margin wide and plain ; surface smooth.
This species differs from any other in the collection, and also from all those from the Wisconsin localities, in the general form and pustulose sur- face. Mr. Billings describes a species under the name of Bathyurus coniciis, from the calciferous formation at &t, Timothy, on the Beauharnois Canal, Canada, having a similarly-formed glabella and pustulose surface, but show- ing no furrows on the glabella.
Formation and locality, — In limestone of the Potsdam group, at Eureka, Nevada. Collected by Arnold Hague, esq.
Crepicephalus (Loganellus) unisulcatus n. sp.
Plate II, iigs. 22-23.
Glabella and fixed cheeks united, elongate-quadrangular in form, the entire length nearly one-third greater than the width between the suture- lines on the anterior margin; sides very gently increasing in width to the base of the posterior limbs.
FOSSILS OF TDE FOTSDAM GllOUP. 217
Glabella moderately tapering from the base anteriorly, and squarely truncate in front, the width of the anterior end equal to half of the entire height; marked by a single pair of transverse furrows near the base, which are united and deepest on the middle of the glabella, the outer extremities having a slightly forward curvature. The second pair of farrows are very faintly marked, and sometimes obsolete or only seen in the reflection of light across the surface, oblique, and situated anterior to the middle of the length of the glabella; anterior furrows obsolete.
Fixed cheeks rather narrow, pi^ominent at the eye-lobes, and rapidly sloping anteriorly and posteriorly; separated from the glabella by very sharp and distinct dorsal furrows. Frontal limb short, abruptly convex between the anterior margin and the glabella, strongly arched upward in the middle, and bordered by a narrow, thickened, rounded rim; ocular ridges not observable; occipital furrows and ring distinct. Lateral limbs not observed.
A pygidium associated in the same block is transversely broad, semi- circular, or short paraboloid; nearly twice as wide as long, and margined on the under side of the posterior border by a wide, considerably thickened, recurved selvage. Axial lobe narrow, depressed-convex, and marked by six annulations exclusive of the terminal ones; lateral lobes depressed-con- vex; their anterior margin bordered by an elevated ridge, which extends with increasing strength to near the outer angle; two other faint ribs can be detected on each lobe.
The species somewhat closely resembles ConocepJialites Shumardi Hall (IGth Rept. State Cab., p. 154, pi. 7, figs. 1 and 2, and pi. 8, fig. 32). It is, however, proportionally wider in front between the suture-lines, the palpe- bral lobes are smaller, and the furrows of the glabella less distinct. The pygidium is also very similar, but proportionally longer, the axis stronger, and the ribs of the lateral lobes much more distinct.
Formation and locality, — In limestone of the Potsdam group, at Eureka, Nevada. Collected by J. -E. Clayton, esq.
218 PALEONTOLOGY.
Ceepicephalus (Loganellus) simulator n. sp,
Plate II, figs. 16-18.
Head within the facial sutures quadrangular in form, exclusive of the postero-lateral limbs, slightly contracted in width in the region of the eyes.
Glabella narrowly conical, vjery gradually tapering from the base ante- riorly, the sides nearly straight, and rather squarely truncate in front; bordered by distinct, impressed, dorsal furrows; surface evenly convex throughout, and marked by three pairs of faint, moderately oblique, trans- verse furrows; the two anterior pairs not extending quite one-third of the width of the glabella; third or posterior pair longer, but faintly marked, their inner ends strongly recurved, almost separating the posterior glabellar lobes; occipital furrow distinct; ring prominent and rounded.
Fixed cheeks of moderate width, prominent at the eye-lobes, and rapidly declining in front and behind; ocular ridges faintly marked. Frontal limb longer than the width of the fixed cheeks, bordered by a nar- row, elevated rim, between which and the front of the glabella it is distinctly convex, and the part immediately in front of the glabella more strongly convex. Eye-lobes small. Posterior lateral limbs not known. Surface of crust smooth.
Specimens of movable cheeks associated with the above, and corre- sponding in character, are somewhat triangular in form ; margined by a slightly-flattened, elevated border of moderate width, which is continued in a long, rather slender spine at the posterior angle; inner area of the cheek convex and distinctly marked with radiating strise; inner angle strongly notched for the proportionally large eye-lobe. Pygidium un- known.
The species very closely resembles in form and characters the corre- sponding parts of C, (i.) maculosus, but is somewhat shorter in proportion to the wddth; the glabella is not rounded at the summit as in that species, and the furrows are more distinctly marked and not so oblique, while the surface does not possess the pustules characteristic of that one.
Formation and locality.— In limestone of the Potsdam group, at Eureka, Nevada Collected by Arnold Hague, esq.
FOSSILS OF THE POTSDAM GKOUP. 219
CEEPICEPHALXTS (LoaANELLUS) ANYTUS D. sp. Plate II, figs. 19-21.
Glabella and fixed cheeks, when united, irregularly quadrangular in form, contracted at the eyes, and broadly spreading below by the projecting postero-lateral limbs.
Glabella conical, moderately tapering anteriorly; the height and width about equal, measuring from the occipital furrow, and the width of the anterior end equaling two-thirds of the height; marked by three pairs of transverse furrows, the posterior and middle ones distinct and strongly recurved, situated at the first and second third of the length of the glabella; anterior furrows small and faintly marked, rising from the antero-lateral angles of the glabella and directed obliquely backward; occipital furrows broad and well defined; ring distinct and moderately elevated.
Fixed cheeks about half as wide at the eyes as the width of the ante- rior end of the glabella, widening in front and rapidly expanding l^ehind, moderately elevated but not prominent; ocular ridges very strong, promi- nent, and rounded; frontal limb as long as the width of the front of the glabella, and rather rapidly sloping from the glabella to the anterior mar- ginal rim, which is of moderate width, and rounded in the smaller specimens, but becomes thin and somewhat projecting and angular in the center in older individuals. A distinct angularity along the median line of the entire head is a noticeable feature. Postero-lateral limbs triangular, their length from the dorsal furrows about once and a half as great as their breadth at base, the lower edge distinctly grooved by the occipital furrows. Facial sutures distant on the anterior margin of the head, and rapidly converging to the eye, behind which they are directed obliquely backward to the posterior border of the head, at an angle of about thirty -five degrees to the occipital border, forming a slightly sigmoidal line.
Movable cheeks irregularly triangular, elongated in a postero-lateral direction, and produced behind in form of a sharp, rather slender spine, one- half as long as the cheek; central area convex, and strongly marked with radiating striae; border wide and flattened, or slightly rounded; ocular sinus small.
Pygidium transversely elliptical, obtusely angular at the lateral extrem-
220 PALEONTOLOGY.
ities; anterior and posterior margins subequal; the anterior margin having the flattest cm^ve. Axis naiTOw, two-thirds as long as the shield, and marked by three annulations exclusive of the terminal ones; lateral lobes large, concavo-convex, the margin being slightly recurved; border thin and entire; four faintly-marked ribs may be counted on each side.
This species closely resembles C (L,) simulator in the form of the middle portions of the head, but is proportionally longer in front of the eye, and this latter organ smaller than would be indicated by the sinus in the cheek referred to that species, while the cheeks are more oblique and longer in a postero-lateral direction. The parts here associated are the only ones occurring in the specimens from the locality, and there can therefore be no doubt of their correct reference to the one species.
Formation and locality, — In limestone of the Potsdam group, at Schell Creek, Nevada. Collected by J. E. Clayton, esq.
CrEPIGEPHALUS (BATHYURUS ?) AKGIJLATUS IK Sp. Plate II, fi^'. 28.
Entire form unknown, the specimen consisting only of an imperfect glabella and fixed cheeks united. The form of the fragment is somewhat quadrangular, strongly angular in front, and constricted at the anterior angle of the eye-lobe.
Glabella rounded-conical, narrowly rounded at the summit, strongly and regularly convex on the surface, the height and width subequal, meas- ured from the occipital furrow, entirely destitute of transverse furrows; occipital ring narrow, moderately prominent, and having the appearance of an obscure tubercle in the center. This feature may be deceptive.
Fixed cheeks narrow at the eyes; palpebral lobes small, obliquely situated; postero-lateral limbs short, equilaterally triangular; continuation of the occipital furrow faintly marked; frontal limb short in front of the glabella, wide and extended at the sides and antero-lateral angles; the width between the fticial sutures equaling the entire length of the head; anterior margin thickened, distinctly angular in the middle, the sides sloping rapidly to the suture-lines. Facial suture cutting* the anterior margin a little outside of a line with the outer angle of the eye, and directed with a gently convex
FOSSILS OF THE POTSDAM GROUP. 221
cnrvature to the anterior angle of the ocular sinus; behind the eye, it is directed obliquely outward to the posterior margin of the head at an angle of about forty-five degrees. No indication of ocular ridges can be detected.
There is considerable doubt as to what genus this species should bo referred. It lacks many of the characters of Crepicepliakis and Conocepkalites, and possesses neither glabellar furrows nor ocular ridges. The form of the glabella corresponds with many of those referred to the genus Batliyurm by its author, but it differs in the direction of the facial sutures; in this latter feature, it corresponds with Loganellus Devine, but differs in the absence of glabellar furrows. The projecting angular frontal margin is a marked and distinguishing feature.
Formation and locality, — In the lowest beds of limestone, Potsdam group, on the west side of Pogonip Mountain, White Pine, Nevada; asso- ciated with Pterocephalus laticeps. Collected by Arnold Hague, esq.
Genus PTEROCEPHALUS Roemer.
CONOCEPHALITES (PTEROCEPHALUS) LATICEPS D. Sp. Plate II, figs. 4-7.
Entire form unknown; the remains consisting of dismembered and frag- mentary parts imbedded in the rock together.
Glabella and fixed cheeks, when united, having a somewhat elongate- quadrangular form, exclusive of the postero-lateral limbs; widest at the front margin, and contracted in the region of the eyes; the greatest width being one-fifth less than the entire length of the head. Glabella compara- tively small, highly convex and subangular along the median line, regu- larly tapering from the base, including the occipital ring, to the summit, which is rather abruptly truncate; width at the occipital lobe more than equaling three-fourths of the entire hsight, and the wadth across the anterior lobe of the glabella equal to a little more than one-third of the height. The glabella is divided by three pairs of strongly-marked transverse furrows, which extend about one-third of the width of the glabella at their respective points, and are slightly inclined backward at their inner ends, separating the glabella into four pairs of distinct lobes^ which decrease regularly in
222 TALiEOISITOLOaY.
Size from below upward. Occipital furrow narrow, not extending entirely across the lobe; occipital ring narrow, flattened on the outer ends, and marked by a node-like tubercle in the center.
Fixed cheeks broad in proportion to the size of the glabella; palpebral lobes large, rapidly rising from the margin of the glabella to the border of the eye; lateral limbs of moderate size, and, judging from the direction of the sutural margin of the movable cheek, have been short, and rapidly slop- ing, with an almost direct line, from the posterior angle of the eye to the posterior border of the head. Frontal limb excessively expanded, and form- ing about three-fifths of the entire length of the head, including the occipital ring. From the front of the glabella, the surface rises gently for a distance equal to the width of the anterior end of the glabella, and beyond is grace- fully and gently concave to the anterior margin, where it has been bordered by a double rim. The rising surface in front of the glabella is distinctly marked by fine, irregular lines, or striae, radiating from the edge of the gla- bella. Ocular ridges well pronounced, rising from the sides of the anterior lobe of the glabella, and passing with a slight upward curvature to the ante- rior angle of the eye-lobes. Eyes not observed.
Movable cheeks very large and wide, irregularly triangular in outline, the posterior angle projecting backward in the form of a broad, short, flat- tened spine; outer margin gently arcuate; anterior margin, forming the facial suture, slightly concave to near the eye, where it becomes slightly recurved. Ocular sinus large. Surface of the cheek gently concave from the eye to the outer border, and marked by a low, rounded ridge parallel to the margin at a little more than one-third of the entire width from the eye. Continuation of the occipital furrow very faintly marked. Upper sur- face of the cheek marked by fine, closely-arranged, irregular striae, nearly parallel with the margin. Under surface more strongly and distantly striated.
Thorax known only by a part of a single articulation, associated with the other parts in the same fragment of rock. The fragment consists of a right pleura, and is of moderate width, with parallel margins slightly recurved throughout its length, and more abruptly near the free extremity. The surface is characterized by a very broad, shallow furrow, occupying nearly the entire width, and becoming obsolete near the end of the rib. The ante-
FOSSILS OF TDE TOTSDAM GEOUR 22S
rior margin is elevated, forming a narrow, sharply-rounded ridge, gi'adually widening toward the outer end. The upper surface bears no markings whatever, while the under side is marked by strong obHquely vertical striae.
The pygidium associated with the other parts is transversely elliptical, almost one-third wider than long; the anterior and posterior margins nearly equally rounded, and the lateral extremities, or sides, somewhat subangular at the junction of the two lines; the posterior margin deeply and angularly notched in the middle. Axial lobe small, about one-half as long as the shield, elevated and subangular along the median line, and obscurely pointed behind; marked by seven low, rounded rings, exclusive of the terminal ones. Lateral lobes large, concavo-convex, rather rapidly declining on the inner half, and slightly recurving to the margin ; marked by five broad, rather indistinct ribs, exclusive of the anterior articulating projection, which become obsolete near the middle of the lobe.
The species is peculiar in its broad, expanded cephalic shield and rapidly- tapering conical glabella; in these respects differing from all other forms with which it is associated, as well as all of those from the Wisconsin beds of this age, to so great an extent that there is not the least danger of mis- taking it. In the broadly-expanded cheek and frontal limb, it resembles some forms of Dikellocephahis, as well as in the form of the pygidium; but tlie glabella is so very different that it at once distinguishes it, although so closely allied to that genus in other respects.
It closely resembles Pterocephalus Sancti-sabce Roemer, from the same position in Texas (see Kreid. von Texas, plate xi, fig. 1, p. '93), but differs specifically in many and important features.
Formation and locality. — In the lowest limestones seen on the west side of Pogonip Mountain, White Pine, Nevada; age of the Potsdam group. Col- lected by Arnold Hague, esq.
Genus PTYCHASPIS Hall. Ptychaspis pusulosa n. sp.
Plate ir, fig. 27.
Entire form unknown. Glabella and fixed cheeks united, irregularly quadrangular in form, slightly angular in front, the margin declining on
224 TALJllONTOLOGY,
each side of the middle. Glabella strongly convex, subangular along the central line ; broadly conical in outline, and rounded-truncate in front ; the length from the occipital furrow a very little exceeding the greatest width at base ; marked by two pairs of transverse furrows, which divide it into three nearly equal parts on the margin, and are directed very obliquely backward for their entire length, reaching two-thirds of the distance between the margin and the median line. Occipital furrows broad, well defined ; occipital ring rather strong.
Fixed cheek wide, separated from the glabella by an indistinctly defined fun^ow; ocular ridge strong, rising from the upper lateral angles of the glabella, and passing with but little curvature to the anterior angle of the eye. Front border of the head of moderate width ; marginal rim thick- ened and cord-like, separated from the inner portion by a deeply-marked furrow, within which the surface rises abruptly to the ed^-e of the narrow anterior fun-ow bordering the glabella. Posterior lateral limbs unknown.
Surface of the fixed cheeks and frontal limb marked with strong, scat- tered granules or pustules. The surface of the glabella may have been marked with similar pustules, but has been somewhat injured by weather- ing, so that none show in its present condition.
The species somewhat closely resembles Ptychaspis Miniscaensis Owen's sp., from the Mississippi Valley, in the form of the glabella and the furrows marking the same, but differs in the wider fixed cheeks and the form of the anterior border, so far as that one is known, as well as in the pustulose surface. No other parts of the organism have been detected than those here described.
Formation and locality. — In the lowest layers of limestone seen, on the west side of Pogonip Mountain, White Pine District, Nevada; of the age of the Potsdam sandstone. Collected by Arnold Hague, esq.
Genus CHARIOCEPHALUS Hall. Chariocephalus tumifrons n. sp.
Plate II, figs. 38-39.
Glabella large, prominent, and cylindrical, nearly as wide as long, strongly rounded and protuberant in front, projecting beyond the rim of the
FOSSILS OP THE POTSDAM GEOUP* 225
head fully one-fourtli of its entire length, including the occipital ring, in a rounded, tumid boss; marked by two transverse furrows anterior to the occipital ring, the anterior one rudimentary and dii^ected forward, visible only on the sides of the glabella ; posterior furrows strong and deep, but nar- row, extending entirely across the glabella in equal strength and nearly in a direct line, situated a Kttle in front of the middle of the entire length of the head; occipital furrow a little stronger than the posterior glabellar furrow, directed slightly forward in the middle. Occipital ring wide and flattened, about of the same dimensions as the space between the occipital furrow and the posterior glabellar furrow.
Fixed cheeks trapezoidal, strong, and broad, inflated and tumid between the eye and the glabella, so as to overhang the eye and the suture-line. Frontal limb very short, and abruptly bent downward. Posterior lateral limbs short-triangular, nearly vertical outside of the line of the eye; occipital furrow deep, and the ring narrow; ocular sinus very small, situ- ated on a line with the occipital furrow of the glabella.
Facial suture cutting the anterior margin of the head a little outside of the line of the glabella, and almost immediately deflected outward with a strong convex curvature to the ocular sinus, behind which it is directed to the posterior border at an angle of about forty-five degrees to the axis.
Surface of the crust smooth, so far as can be determined from the specimens.
The species will be easily recognized by the highly convex and cylin- drical glabella, which projects far in advance of the frontal border of the head.
Formation and locality, — In the lowest limestone beds on the west side of Pogonip Mountain, White Pine District, Nevada, of the age of the Pots- dam group ; associated with Conocephalites {JDikellocephalus) laticepSy Bathy- urus f angulatmy &c. Collected by Arnold Hague, esq.
Genus DIKELLOCEPHALUS Owen,
Associated with the preceding species from the Eureka beds of the Potsdam group are two forms of pygidia, so unlike anything positively known to belong to species with conical or slipper-shaped glabellas, that it 15 P E
226 PALEONTOLOGY.
seems unnatural to thus refer them. On the other hand, they so closely resemble the corresponding parts of the genus Dikellocephalus from the sand- stone of the Mississippi Valley, that it has been deemed safer to refer them to that genus, although no other parts recognized as belonging to the genus have been observed. It is even more than probable, however, that, on examining a larger collection of material from this locality, other parts of the organisms will be found justifying this reference, as there are many fragmentary portions of undetermined species in the few blocks now before us.
DiKELLOOEPHALUS BILOBATUS D. sp.
Plate U;#g. 36.
Pygidium transverse, irregularly oval, rather straight on the anterior border, rounded and deeply bilobed on the posterior margin by a sharply angular constriction of the posterior border on the median line, extending to the extremity of the axial lobe; marginal lobes rounded on their pos- terior extremities. Axis comparatively small, moderately convex, marked by six or seven transverse rings, exclusive of the terminal ones. Lateral lobes broad, rounded behind, and wing-like, shghtly convex on the under surface, and recurved toward the border; marked by four ribs on each side, which appear to have been obscurely divided, and do not extend to the margin of the shield. On the under surface, the posterior border is inflected^ forming a very wide inner rim, or lining, occupying nearly one-half the area of the lateral lobes. Surface apparently smooth.
The deeply bilobed character of the posterior border is a marked and distinguishing feature.
Formation and locality. — In limestone of the Potsdam group, in the Eureka District, Nevada. Collected by Arnold Hague, esq.
DiKELLOCBPHALUS MITLTIOINOTUS D. Sp. Plate II, fig. .37.
Pygidium somewhat triangular in general form, or, considering the anterior border as consisting of two sides, would be somewhat trapezoidal ; front margin arcuate, a little angular on the shoulders, and more rapidly declining toward the outer extremities ; the entire front nearly semicircular; posterior margin extended in the direction of the median line, and present- ing the 9-ppearance of having been digitate on the lateral borders. This
FOSSILS OF THE POTSDAM GROUP. 227
feature may have been wrongly interpreted, as the specimen is mutilated and somewhat obscure. Axial lobe narrow and moderately elevated ; less than two-thirds of the entire length of the shield; marked by ten very short annulations, exclusive of the terminal ones. Lateral lobes moderately con- vex in the middle and becoming flattened toward the margin ; marked by five simple, faint ribs on each side, exclusive of the anterior one, which is also the most prominent and angular. The posterior border has the appear- ance of having been produced at the extremity into a broad, flattened, tri- angular process, or spine ; and judging from another individual, apparently of the same species, has had two other points or digitations on each side, one at the lateral angle and the other just below, leaving a deep, broad sinus between it and the central point.
The specimen has some resemblance to small convex examples of D. Minnesotensis Owen, but differs in the more arcuate anterior border, extended posterior extremity, and greater number of rings on the axis. From D. Pepinensis Owen, it differs in the stronger axis, more numerous rings, sim- ple ribs of the lateral lobes, and in the form of the posterior lateral margins.
Formation and locality, — In limestone of the Potsdam group, in the Eureka District, Nevada. Collected by Arnold Hague, esq.
DiKBLLOCEPHALUS FLABELrLlFER n. Sp. Plate II, figs. 29-30.
A small pygidium occurring in a fragment of dark-colored limestone, associated with those containing Conocephaliteslaticeps^Bathyurus fangulatuSy and Chariocephalus tumifrons^ but probably from a different layer, judging from the lithological characters of the specimens, has a character so marked and peculiar that it has been deemed worthy of notice. The specimen pos- sesses the following characters :
Pygidium transversely semicircular, the length and width being as three to seven ; front margin slightly arcuate to near the outer extremities, where it curves somewhat abruptly backward to the point of the first digi- tation. Posterior margin digitate, having three points on each side, and a central one ; digitations broad and obtuse, the middle one on each side the largest. Axial lobe of moderate strength, highly convex, faintly subangular
228 PALJESONTOLOGY.
along the median line, reaching two-thirds of the entire length of the shield; obtusely pointed at the extremity, and marked by five transverse rings, exclusive of the terminal ones, which gradually decrease in size poste- riorly. Lateral lobes moderately elevated and convex on the inner half, becoming concave or flattened toward the edge ; marked by four elevated, angular ribs on each side, including the one submarginal to the anterior border, with broad, shallow, depressed areas between them. The ribs rise from the margin of the axial lobe, and reach the border of the shield at the angles of the marginal sinuosities, most strongly marked near the axis, and becoming nearly obsolete toward the outer border. Surface of the crust apparently smooth.
The specimen is remarkable for the simple ribs of the lateral lobes, and for the digitation of the margin. In these respects, it differs very materially from any Trilobite hitherto described from the Potsdam group; and it is possible that it may have come from a somewhat higher position at the same locality than the other specimens with which it is placed.
Formation and locality. — In dark crystalline limestone of the Potsdam group, on the west side of Pogonip Mountain, White Pine District, and in the Eureka District, Nevada. Collected by Arnold Hague, esq-
Genus AGNOSTUS Brongniart.
AaNOSTUS COMMUNIS n. sp. Plate I, figs. 28-29.
Cephalic shield subparaboloid, wid-er than long, the respective diameters being as six and seven. Surface strongly convex and distinctly trilobed. Glabella nearly equaling one-third of the width of the shield, more promi- nent than the lateral lobes, and separated from them by distinct dorsal fur- rowS) three-fourths as long as the entire length of the head, broadest at base and gradually narrowing for two-thirds of the length, beyond which point it is more abruptly narrowed or obtusely pointed; anterior third separated from the part behind by a faint, scarcely perceptibly impressed, transverse line. Central portion of the glabella marked by a distinct elongated and angular tubercle. Right and left lateral lobes, or sides of the head, sepa- rated in front of the glabella by a narrow furrow, which is a continuation
FOSSILS OF THE POTSDAM GROUP. 229
of the dorsal furrows, and reaches to the anterior border. Small triangular occipital nodes are situated one on each side at the base of the glabella. Entire shield margined by a flattened border of moderate width. Thoracic segments unknown.
The caudal shield associated with the above in the same fragments of rock, and in equal numbers, is shorter in proportion to its width, being more regularly rounded, and is margined by a similar flattened border, which is projected in form of a short, spine-like process on each side, about two- thirds of the length from the anterior border. Surface strongly convex and trilobate in the anterior half, the dorsal furrows being directed gently inward for half their length, and then suddenly deflected outward with a slight curvature, becoming obsolete a little b(^hind the middle of the length. An elongated, angular node marks the axial lobe near its anterior margin. Sur- face of both shields smooth under an ordinary magnifying power. Length of the larger specimens about one-seventh of an inch.
Formation and locality, — In blackish limestone of the Potsdam group, White Pine. Collected by A. J. Brown, esq.
AaNOSTus Keon u. sp.
Plate I, figs. 26-27.
Cephalic shield short, subparaboloid, three-fourths as long as wide, highly convex; sides nearly straight for half its length from the base, and gradually rounding in front; anterior margin broadly rounded, being almost straight in the middle. Glabella rather more than two-thirds the length of the shield, and less than one-third as wide at its base, conical throughout, more rapidly tapering near the anterior end; anterior third distinctly sepa- rated by a transverse furrow. Dorsal furrows well marked, scarcely con- tinued in front of the glabella; occipital nodes large, rounded-triangular. Lateral lobes of the head convex, margined in front and on the sides to just behind the middle of the length by a narrow, flattened border, which gradually becomes obsolete before reaching the posterior line of the head. Thoracic segments unknown.
Caudal shield of similar form to the cephalic shield, but entirely mar- gined by a flattened border of nearly twice the width of that of the head,
230 PALEONTOLOGY.
and much wider posteriorly than on the sides, produced into spine-like projections at the lateral angles. Axial lobe distinct, strongly marked, more than one-third as wide as the entire shield; posterior division, or lobe, broader, rounded; anterior division short; annulation well marked; a longitudinally angular node marks the middle of the axis, extending from the anterior to the posterior division, across the furrow which marks their limits.
This species differs from the A, communis in the shorter form of the cephalic shield, and proportionally longer caudal shield, both being equal in this species, while in that one the cephalic shield is much the longest. It also differs in the wider border of the caudal shield and in the absence of a node on the glabella. The caudal shield is precisely similar to that of A. Josepha of the Wisconsin sandstone of similar age, except in the spine-like processes of the lateral angles. The cephalic shield, however, is entirely different.
Formation and locality. — In limestone of the Potsdam group, at Eureka, Nevada. Collected by Arnold Hague, esq.
AONOSTUS PBOLONGUS D. Sp. Pkite I, figs. 30-31.
Cephalic shield elongate, or very high dome-shaped in outline; sides straight, or nearly straight, for more than one-half the length, above which the margin, including the anterior border, is regularly and beautifully rounded. Surface low or depressed-convex in front and gradually rising to near the occipital border, where it becomes low-tumid ; glabella not visible except under a strong magnifying power, and by the reflection of light across the surface, when the outline of a conical form, with triangular occi- pital nodes, may with difficulty be detected. The shield is margined by a narrow, somewhat rounded rim, which gradually fades out toward the postero-lateral angles. Thoracic segments unknown.
The caudal shield associated with the head is much shorter in propor- tion to the width. The form is much like that of a cephaKc shield, and it is with some hesitation that we have associated it with the above. Its shortness, however, and the want of occipital nodes, together with the
FOSSILS OF THE POTSDAM GEOUP. 231
absence of all other forms in the same block, has determined us in so doing. The axial lobe forms more than one-third the width of the shield, is short and rounded obconical; marked by a node at its upper end, and divided across by a doubly-curved transverse furrow near the lower end. Dorsal furrows distinct, and continued as a median furrow from the end of the axial lobe to the posterior margin. Posterior border emarginate and surrounded by a flattened rim
Formation and locality. — In limestones of the Potsdam group, at Eureka, Nevada. Collected by Arnold Hague, esq.
AaNOSTUs TUMmosus n. sp.
Plate I, fig. 32.
Cephalic shield highly dome-shaped iii outline, very slightly contracted . near the occipital border, very convex, and margined by a narrow, flattened border. Dorsal furrows very distinct, not continued in front beyond the glabella. Glabella proportionally small, less than two-thirds as long as the head, distinctly conical in form and very highly convex, especially tumid in the lower part; the central tubercle marked near its edge by a very slight, depressed line, which presents the appearance of a border surrounding it. Anterior lobe forming- a little more than one-fourth of the length of the glabella; the furrow separating it from the principal lobe very distinct Occipital nodes very small, triangular, and distinctly modifying the base of the glabella on each side. Thoracic segments and caudal shield unknown.
The specimen above described is so entirely distinct and well marked that we have no hesitation in giving it as a species, although it is as yet the only individual specimen noticed. The highly dome-shaped outline, literally horseshoe-shaped, is peculiar, which, together with the form and markings of the glabella, cannot fail to distinguish it from all others.
Formation and locality. — In limestones of the Potsdam group, at Eureka, Nevada. Collected by Arnold Hague, esq-
232 PAIiiBONTOLOGY.
FOSSILS OF THE LOWER SILURIAN. BRAOHIOPODA,
Genus LINGULEPIS Hall. LiNGULEPis Ella n. sp.
Plate I, fig. 8.
Shell below the medium size. Dorsal valve subcircular or oblate, the width slightly exceeding the length; the beak perceptibly projecting beyond the general contour of the shell, but very obtuse and slightly truncate; sides and base rounded, the latter more broadly curved. Surface of the valve depressed-convex, a little the most prominent on the umbone ; marked by fine irregular concentric lines of growth on the upper part, becoming more strongly marked and finally quite lamellose toward the margin of the valve. A few very indistinct, radiating lines may be seen near the beak by the aid of a strong magnifier. Ventral valve unknown. Shell-sub- stance phosphatic.
There may be some doubt as to the true relations of this shell. The broadly oblate form would be an objection to considering it as a true Lingular while the truncation of the beak of the dorsal valve would accord more nearly with what is known of some forms of Lingulepis. It is possible it may prove to be a Lingulella^ but, in the absence of the ventral valve, it cannot be satisfactorily determined. It diflPers from most known species very perceptibly in the oblate form of the valve.
Formation and locality. — In greenish argillaceous shales of the age of the Quebec group, in the caiion above Call's Fort, north of Box Elder Cafion, Wahsatch Range, Utah. Collected by S. F. Emmons, esq.
Genus ORTHIS Dalman. ORTms PoaoNiPENSis n. sp.
Plate I, figs. 9-10.
Shell quite small, seldom exceeding a third of an inch in width, and usually much less; paraboloid in form below the hinge-line, but somewhat
FOSSILS OF THE LOWER SILURIAN. 233
variable in proportion; beak obtuse, and rather prominent; the cardinal margins sloping rapidly to the extremities of the hinge. Area not observed, but, judging from the prominent beak, it must be rather high and but slightly arcuate; hinge-extremities angular, or slightly rounded. Surface of the valves strongly convex and marked by extremely fine strise, which become a little coarser toward the margins of the shell Interior unknown.
The species has much the general form of 0, costalis Hall of the New York Chazy limestone, but the striae differ greatly in their extreme fineness. It also somewhat resembles 0. Electra Billings (Pal. Foss. Canada, vol. 1, p. 79, fig. 72), but is not so broad, and the valves are more convex, and beak more prominent. The shells occur in a coarsely granular and highly crystalline limestone, and become more or less exfoliated in separating from the matrix, so that the external features are not perfectly recognized. The examples used are all separated valves, partially imbedded in the rock, so that the hinge-features are not fully revealed. Those figured would seem to be dorsal and ventral, and, if so, the dorsal is much less convex than the ventral.
Formation and locality — In limestone of the age of the Chazy of New York, Pogonip Mountain, White Pine District, Nevada. Collected by A. J. Brown, esq.
Genus STROPHOMENA Rafinesque.
Strophombna Nemea n. sp.
Plate I, fig. 15.
Among the specimens received from the gray granular Kmestones of the Pogonip Mountain, there is a small Strophomenoid shell, which is some- what semi-oval in outline, about two-thirds as high as wide; the hinge-line nearly straight and not quite as long as the width of the shell below; the cardinal angles are slightly rounded; and the lateral margins and basal line almost regularly curved, forming a little .more than half of a circle. The surface of the ventral (?) valve is regularly and evenly convex longitudi- nally and laterally, but not highly rounded, and marked by rather fine, even, and somewhat sharp radiating striae. The dorsal valve and interior of the shell have not been seen.
234 PALEONTOLOGY.
The species presents much the appearance of a Chonetes in its regularly rounded valve, even striae, and general characters, but shows no appearance of spines on the hinge-Hne. We know of no species of this or any allied genus from rocks of a similar age having a very close resemblance to this one.
Formation and hcality, — In the granular Hmestones of the age of the Quebec group, Pogonip Mountain, west side. White Pine District Col- lected by A. J. Brown, esq.
Genus PORAMBONITES Pander.
PORAMBONITBS OBSCURUS n. sp.
Plate I, fig. 16.
Shell of moderate size; irregularly transversely oval in form; a little angular toward the beak, and broadly emarginate in front. Ventral valve flattened-convex on the middle of the shell; more sharply rounded near the lateral margins, and strongly bent upward in front in the form of a broad linguiform extension, which is rounded on the end, two-thirds as long as wide, and distinctly concave on the exterior, forming an emargination in the front of tJie valve; beak very obtuse, short, and but little curved. Dorsal valve unknown, but, judging from the elevation of the front exten- sion of the ventral valve, it must have been quite rotund.
The surface of the shell is mostly exfoliated; but near the front a por- tion is partially preserved, and shows what appears to have been punctate lines, or striae, though they are obscure and unsatisfactory. A number of concentric lines of growth are clearly distinguishable. The beak of the specimen, where the shell has been removed, shows the two diverging lamellae which characterize the genus Porambonites. The specimen is quite imperfect, but interesting as representing a genus so seldom recognized in this country.
Formation and locality. ~hi dark grayish crystalHne limestone of the age of the Quebec group, Pogonip Mountain. Collected by A. J. Brown, esq.
FOSSILS OF THE LOWEE SILURIAN. 235
GASTEROPODA.
Genus RAPHISTOMA Hall. Rhaphistoma acuta n. s\}.
Plate I, ti^s- 20-22.
Shell small to medium size, lenticular in form, and sharply acute on the periphery; volutions three to three and a half, moderately increasing in size with the growth of the shell; suture close. Upper surface of the volu- tions less convex than the lower, very slightly rounded below the suture- line, and a little concave just within the margin, giving an acutely angular edge. Lower surface of the volution once and a half as deep as the upper part, measuring from the angle ; subangular or sharply rounded at the edge of the umbilicus, which is nearly one-third as wide as the entire diameter of the shell, showing all of the inner whorls when free from rock Aperture triangular, wider than high, acute on the outer edge, the widest part being above the middle. Surface of the shell not observed, the specimens being either internal casts or having partially-exfoliated surfaces.
The species bears considerable resemblance to B, lenticularis Sow. from the Trenton limestone, but is more depressed, and the volutions are more angular on the lower side. In this latter feature, it corresponds more nearly with the forms of the gonus occurring in the Chazy and Calciferous formations than with those from the Trenton group, and bears a striking resemblance to some forms of B. staminea Hall, but has probably not had the strong surface-markings of that species. It differs from Euomphalus f rotuliformis and JE7. ? trochiscus Meek in having a smaller number and more rapidly-increasing volutions.
Formation and locality, — In limestone of Lower Silurian age, probably
Chazy, at Ute Peak, Wahsatch Range, Utah. Collected by Arnold Hague,
esq.
Genus MACLUREA Lesueur.
Maclurba minima n. sp.
Plate I, figs. 17-19.
Shell quite small, subdiscoidal, the largest individuals not measuring more than four-tenths of an inch in their greatest diameter. Spire depressed,
236 PALAEONTOLOGY.
as in the typical species of the genus, and appearing as an umbilicus on a sinistral shell, the depression rather narrow and abrupt; under side flattened, without any depression or umbilicus. Volutions about two in number, somewhat rapidly increasing in size with the increased grow^th of the shell; flattened on the lower surface for more than one-half their diameter, but very evenly and regularly rounded above; periphery rounded, a little less so below than above the middle; aperture semi-ovate, or having the form of a circle, with the lower third truncated. Surface of the shell not observed.
The specimens of this species which have been observed are all internal casts, and occur in a coarsely crystalline and quite friable limestone. The sub- stance of the shell has been quite thick, and, being also coarsely crystalline, crumbles at once on attempting to remove the specimens from the surround- ing rock, so that the surface-characters of the shell cannot be obtained. The generic features of the specimens are so obvious that there can be no doubt whatever of their right reference to Maclurea; and their small size, together with the rounded upper surface of the volutions, which do not show the least tendency to become angular at the edge of the spiral depression or cavity, but is evenly and regularly rounded on the inner as well as on the outer side, will serve, we think, to distinguish it from all other described species of the genus.
Formation and locality. — In limestone, probably of the age of the Chazy limestone of New York, at Ute Peak, Wahsatch Range, Utah. Collected by Arnold Hague.
Genus FUSISPIRA Hall,
FUSISPIEA COMPAOTA U. sp. Plate I, ^g, 25.
Shell elongate, turreted; spire elevated, forming considerably more than half, probably two-thirds, of the entire length of the shell; composed of six or more short, compact, rather rapidly-increasing volutions, which are strongly rounded on the surface, and less than half as high as their diameter. Aperture not definitely determined, but apparently elongated, and probably attenuate below, judging from what can be seen of the lower
FOSSILS OF THE LOWER SILURIAK 237
part of the last volution on the specimen examined. No surface-markingg can be detected.
The specimen is quite imperfect, and is only given on account of its low geological horizon; the most of the species hitherto recognized being from the Trenton or Hudson River groups. The species differs from all others of the genus yet described in the short compact volutions.
Formation and locality, — In the granular limestones, Pogonip Mountain, west side, White Pine District, Nevada; of the age of the Quebec group. Collected by A. J. Brown, esq.
Genus CYRTOLITES Conrad. Cyrtolites sinuatus n. sp.
Plate I, figs. 23-24.
Shell small, laterally compressed; composed of about one and a half to two volutions, which are closely coiled, but not embracing. Volutions acutely triangular; the dorso-ventral diameter about one-half greater than the lateral diameter; sides of the outer one marked by a broad, shallow depression or sinus a little within the margin, between which and the umbilicus the surface is rounded. Umbilicus broad, exposing the inner volutions; the sides abrupt or nearly vertical except on the edge, which is slightly rounded. Surface of the shell unknown.
The species is characterized by the vertical margins of the umbilicus, and the broad, shallow, depressed sinus of the outer half of the volution, giving a somewhat concavo-convex curvature to the surface between the umbilicus and the outer edge, or keel. In this respect, it differs from all other species with which we are acquainted.
Formation and locality. — In the granular limestone, on the west side of Pogonip Mountain, White Pine District, Nevada. Collected by A. J. Brown, esq.
CRUSTACEA.
Genus CONOCEPHALITES Zenker.
CONOOEPHALITES SUBCORONATUS D. Sp. Plate II, fig. I.
Glabella short, conical, with straight lateral margins, regularly con-
238 PAI*«QKTQEOQT.
verging from the base upward to the rather squarely truncated summit; height above the occipital furrow scarcely exceeding the breadth of the base, and the width at the sununit equal to about two-thirds of the height; marked by three pairs of very oblique, subequally distant, and moderately distinct transverse furrows. Occipital furrow narrow and well marked; ring distinct, widest and somewhat pointed on the center of th€> posterior margin.
Fixed cheeks wide, separated from the glabella by distinct dorsal fur- rows, prominent and rounded between the glabella and eye-lobe, almost equaHng the convexity of the glabella; ocular ridges slender and curved. Frontal limb wide and concave, destitute of a thickened marginal rim, as long as the glabella, and obscurely trilobed from an extension of the dorsal furrows, forming a convex, boss-like area in front of the glabella, which is divided transversely by a double depressed* line, or narrow fillet, midway of the limb and parallel with the anterior margin of the head. Eye-lobes about half as long as the glabella, obliquely situated, and separated from the fixed cheek by a deeply-depressed ocular sinus.
Facial suture cutting the anterior border on a line with the front angle of the eye, which it reaches by a broad, convex curvature, giving rounded lateral margins to the frontal limb; posterior to the eye, it is directed out- ward; the actual course not determined. Posterior lateral limbs not seen. Surface of the crust in front of the glabella strongly striated.
The species is only known by the glabella and fixed cheeks. The specimens are all minute, but readily recognized by the peculiar formed boss in fi:ont of the glabella.
Formation and locality. — In limestone of the age of the Quebec group, at the base of Ute Peak, Wahsatch Range, Utah. Collected by Arnold Hague, esq.
Genus CREPICEPHALUS Owen ? = LOGANELLUS Devine.
CBEPIOEPHALUS t (LoaANELLUS) QUADBANS U. Sp. Plate II, figs. 11-13.
Form of entire body unknown. Glabella and fixed cheeks together broadly quadrangular, about four-fifths as high as wide, and quite uniform
FOSSILS OF THE LOWER SILURIAN. 239
in many individuals, very depressed-convex, or quite flattened, as occurring on the surface of the shale in which they are imbedded; glabella distinctly conical, moderately tapering above the occipital furrow, and broadly rounded in front; marked by three pairs of distinct transverse fuiTows, which are directed obliquely backward from their outer ends; the posterior pair almost or quite meeting in the middle, the others shorter, and situated at almost equal distances from each other. Occipital furrow well marked, proportionally wide and shallow; occipital ring narrow, not well defined.
Fixed cheeks very broad, nearly two-thirds as wide as the glabella, depressed-convex; frontal limb short, the border and inner part of nearly the same width; sides of the limb in front, wide, and slightly rounded at the antero-lateral angles; posterior limb wide at its junction with the glabella, and rapidly narrowing outward, being about once and a half as long as its greatest width; ocular ridges slender, but very distinct; rising from the anterior angle of the eye and uniting with the glabella near the anterior furrow, forming a slightly curved line parallel with the marginal furrow of the head.
Facial sutures directed inward from the anterior margin of the head to the eye-lobe, behind which they are directed outward and backward to the posterior margin of the head, at an angle of about forty degrees to the occipital line.
A form of movable cheek found associated in considerable numbers with the glabellas, and corresponding in size and character, is narrowly ti'iangular, the posterior, extremity terminating in a short, blunt spine, slightly curved; inner angle strongly notched for the reception of the eye- lobe, and the outer margin bordered by a thickened, rounded rim, which gradually increases in width to the base of the spine. The facial suture corresponds to the margin of the fixed cheek above described, and, on the under side, the anterior border is prolonged in the form of an acute process, to extend along the anterior border of the frontal Hmb.
The pygidium associated with the above specimens is minute, trans- versely subelliptical in form, most strongly rounded on the front border, with a wide axis terminating obtusely a little within the posterior margin. The axis is marked by five rings, exclusive of the terminal ones. Lateral
240 PALJSONTOLOGY.
lobes convex, marked by three or four divided ribs, exclusive of the anterior single one.
Surface of the head and cheeks marked by fine anastomosing lines, radiating from the eye and front of the glabella.
Formation and locality. — In dark greenish, thinly-laminated shales of the Quebec group, in canon above Call's Fort, Wahsatch Range, Utah. Col- lected by S. F. Emmons, esq.
Genus DIKELLOCEPHALUS Owen.
DiKELLOOEPHALUS QUADRICEPS U. Sp. Plate I, fi«8. 37-40.
Glabella and fixed cheeks united, quadrangular in form, with a regu- larly and symmetrically arcuate front margin. Glabella elongate quad- rangular, a little expanded and rounded in front, three-fourths as wide across the middle as the length above the occipital furrow, very gibbous or some- what inflated; marked by three pairs of transverse furrows, which extend about three-fourths of the distance to the center, not in the least oblique, and so faint as to be detected only on the closest examination, or by the reflec- tion of light along the surface; occipital furrow very distinct; ring strong and robust, supporting a strong, thickened spine of undetermined length on the posterior margin. The base of the spine is broad, and the spine directed backward and upward.
Fixed cheeks of moderate size, strongly convex, a little more than one- third as wide at the eye as the width of the glabella, and rapidly declining to the antero-lateral angles. Eye-lobes small, situated rather behind the middle of the length of the head; ocular ridges distinct, strongly directed forward in their passage from the eye to the glabella. Frontal limb very short, not extending beyond the frontal margin of the glabella, and strongly curving backward to the point of intersection with the facial sutures.
Facial sutures commencing at the anterior margin on a line with the inner angle of the eye-lobe, and running directly back to the eye in a straight line; behind the eye, the direction is outward, but its exact course has not been ascertained. Lateral limb not observed.
A pygidium associated with the glabella is paraboloid in form, and
FOSSILS OF THE LOWER SILURIAN. 241
surrounded on the margins by twelve short, rather strong spines, the four on the posterior margin being shorter than the others. Axis narrow, highly convex, two-thirds as long as the shield, and marked by four rings, exclu- sive of the tei^minal ones. Lateral lobes broad, convex, and marked by four low, rounded ribs, the anterior one much narrower than the others; each of the four ribs terminating in one of the lateral spines.
There can be no doubt that the above-described pygidium belongs to the same species with the associated glabella, as they are both equally abundant, and are the only trilobitic remains brought from the locality, except those of Conocephalites suhcoronatus. The glabella is enlarged to three diameters in the figure, while the pygidium is given natural size, but is one of the largest individuals seen; while there are fragments of glabellas in the rock fully twice the size of the specimen figured. The species bears a very close resemblance to D. gothicuSy herein described, but differs princi- pally in the simple ribs; while in that species they are divided, a feature that will very readily distinguish the two forms.
Formation and locality. — In limestone of the age of the Quebec group, from the base of Ute Peak, Wahsatch Range, Utah. Collected by Arnold Hague, esq.
DiKELLOCEPHALUS WAHSATCHENSIS D. Sp. Plate I, fig 35.
Glabella elongate-quadrangular, with parallel lateral margins and slightly-rounded front; height and width about as four to three; very depressed-convex, and marked by two pairs of transverse furrows, which do not quite meet in the center, dividing the glabella into three nearly equal portions. Occipital furrow naiTow, not strongly defined ; ring nar- row, distinct, and bearing a slender spine on the center; dorsal furrows narrow and poorly defined.
Fixed cheeks wide and flattened ; ocular ridges faintly marked, rising opposite the anterior fun-ow of the glabella, and directed shghtly backward to the eye-lobe. Frontal limb very short and wide, the marginal rim regu- larly arcuate, narrow, and prominent, closely cutting the front of the glabella. Facial sutures not fully determined, but are distinct on the anterior margin, cutting the rim with a strong outward curvature, and again 16 P R
242 PALJilONTOLOGT.
recurving to the eye, leaving the limb nearly two-thirds as wide at its widest point as the glabella.
This species differs from any other described in the length of the glabella and the position of the furrows, in the short frontal limb, and great lateral extension of the same. No other parts of the species have been recognized. There are, however, several specimens of a pygidium associ- ated in the same slates, and, as they are the only remains of Trilobites occurring in the slates, except C, (L.) quadrans^ which cannot well be con- founded with either, it would be natural to suppose they were parts of the same species. But the characters of the pygidium are so unlike anything heretofore recognized or known to belong to the genus DikellocephaluSy that we have great doubt of their generic identity, and for that reason have placed them under different specific names with a doubt as to the generic reference.
Formation and locality. — In green argillaceous slates of the Quebec group, in the canon above Call's Fort, Wahsatch Range, Utah. Collected by S. F. Emmons, esq.
DiKELLOOEPHALUS! GOTHICUS n. Sp. Plate I, fig. 36.
Pygidium semi-ovate, or short paraboloid, with a very strong central axis, and spinose margin ; anterior margin straightened for about two-thirds the width of the lateral lobes, where it curves abruptly backward to the lateral angles. Axial lobe strong, cylindrical, and prominent, forming one- third of the entire width exclusive of the spines, and reaching almost to the posterior margin of the shield ; obtusely rounded at the extremity, and marked by six annulations exclusive of the terminal ones. Lateral lobes very moderately convex, and marked by four divided ribs on each side, each terminating in a strong and proportionally long marginal spine ; central area of each rib depressed, forming a flattened groove, extending to the base of the marginal spine. Borders of the ribs elevated, the anterior one strongest and prominent, gi-adually widening from its origin to the margin of the shield ; posterior border narrow and rounded, separated from the next succeeding rib by^ sharply-depressed, narrow groove. This peculiar form
FOSSILS OF THE LOWER SILURIAN. 243
of rib gives to the shield an appearance similar to the groining of a Gothic arch. Margin of the shield surrounded by twelve long, rather strong spines, four of which, on each side, are about equal in size and strength, while the four occupying the posterior border are shorter and unequal, those in the middle being the shortest.
The peculiar feature of the specimen consists in the divided ribs of the lateral lobes and spinose margin. In these features, it differs from all others known, and may possibly, when better material shall be examined, showing other parts of the organism, require a distinct generic name.
Formation and locality, — In greenish argillaceous slates of the Quebec group, in the canon above Call's Fort, north of Box Elder Canon, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah. Collected by S. F. Emmons, esq.
Genus BATHYURUS Billings.
BATHYURUS POGONIPENSIS n. sp. Plate I, figs. 33-34.
The species is recognized only by the pygidium, which is rather small, measuring a little less than three-fourths of an inch in the greatest trans- verse width, by a length of a little less than half an inch. Form transversely elliptical, the posterior margin nearly twice as convex as the anterior border; lateral extremities angular ; axis narrow, forming only about one-fourth of the entire width, highly convex, and about three-fourths as long as the entire shield, extremity obtusely rounded and terminating abruptly; marked by four transverse annulations exclusive of the terminal ones, the posterior one being as long as the two next preceding it ; rings highly convex and rounded, with interspaces of nearly equal dimensions. Lateral lobes broad and somewhat triangular; the inner third of the width horizontal, beyond which the surface slopes rapidly to the outer margin ; marked by three broad, slightly flattened, but strong and very distinct ribs, which terminate about one-third of the width within the margin, leaving a plain border sur- rounding the shield. The two anterior ribs are broad, and show a faint depression along the middle in the upper part. Surface of the crust, under an ordinary magnifying power, apparently smooth, except on the crest of the axial rings, where there are a few node-like granules
244 PALEONTOLOGY.
The pygidium is associated with a granulose glabella of corresponding dimensions, which is too imperfect for illustration or description, but prob- ably of the same species. The sides are parallel or slightly widening ante- riorly, and the front rounded. The entire surface is covered with small, closely-set pustules. The glabella bears considerable resemblance to that of J?, strenuus Bill. (Pal. Foss. Canada, vol. 1, p. 204), but shows indica- tions of a faint glabellar farrow behind the middle of the length.
Formation and locality. — In coarse, crystalline limestones, on the west side of Pogonip Mountain, White Pine, Nevada. Collected by A. J. Brown, esq.
Genus OGYGIA Brongn.
Ogygia producta n, sp.
Plate II, figs. 31-34.
Glabella very much elongated, twice as long as wide, measuring from the occipital furrow; slightly expanded in front, and rounded on the ante- rior extremity; convex and subangular along the median line; marked by two pairs of faint, very oblique furrows, which do not quite meet in the middle. Occipital furrow broad and distinct; ring strongly marked and thickened in the middle.
Fixed cheeks of moderate width; eye-lobes large, two-thirds as long as the glabella, extending from the occipital furrow to the middle of the anterior lobe of the glabella; distinctly marked by a narrow, depressed furrow just within and parallel to their margins. Lateral limbs narrow. Frontal limb unknown.
Movable cheeks obliquely triangular, the outer face being much the longest, and regularly arcuate; posterior extremity rounded, showing no evidence of a spine in the impression of the under surface, though the upper portion may have borne a spine, as seems to be indicated by other impressions of the exterior. Ocular sinus very large, but shallow, regu- larly arcuate; surface of the cheek depressed-convex, with a faint, shallow groove just within the margin and a scarcely thickened rim beyond.
Thorax depressed-convex, distinctly trilobed. Axis narrower than the lateral lobes, and gradually tapering from the occipital region posteriorly, and
FOSSILS OF THE LOWER SILURIAK 245
slightly convex; annulations indistinctly marked. Pleura curving backward near the outer ends and pointed at the extremity; marked along the middle by a broad, shallow furrow, which occupies one-half of the width for a dis- tance of nearly two-thirds the length of the rib, becoming obsolete near the free flattened extremity.
Pj'gidium broadly elhptical, scarcely twice as wide as long, anterior face much less convex than the posterior, which sometimes becomes irregu- larly paraboloid in the slate from distortion. Axial lobe less than one-third of the entire width, and rapidly tapering posteriorly ; about four-fifths as long as the shield, and terminating just within the rather broad, recurved marginal lining of the under surface in an obtusely-rounded point ; axis marked by six strong, rounded rings, exclusive of the terminal one ; lateral lobes depressed-convex, marked by three or four obscure ribs, which, when compressed in the slates, become very faint and obscure.
The material from which the above description is taken is in a very unsatisfactory condition, being fragmentary and much distorted by the slipping and contortions of the shale in which they are imbedded, so that the features of form as here given may be somewhat modified on finding other and more perfect material. The great length of the glabella will serve as a distinguishing feature in the identification of the species.
Formation and locality. — In greenish and reddish shales of the age of the Quebec group, at East Canon, Oquirrh Mountains, Utah. Collected by J. E. Clayton and S, F. Emmons,
OaVGIA PARABOLA D. Sp. Plate II, fig. 35.
Pygidium long-paraboloid, posterior to the antero-lateral angles, with a slight emargination at the posterior border ; front margin somewhat irreg- ularly arcuate ; surface flattened, or very gently convex, and in the cast showing a very wide marginal lining on the under surface, which extends to nearly one-half the width of the lateral lobes on the anterior margin, and very gently widening posteriorly. Axis convex, wide and bulbous in front, nan-owed and cylindrical below for about four-fifths of its length; the anterior bulbous portion forming a single strong annulation, once and a
246 PALEONTOLOGY.
half as wide as the cylindrical portion below, which appears to be smooth and destitute of rings. Lateral lobes also marked by a single, wide, flat- tened rib, corresponding to the annulation of the axis, and a nan'ow, sharply-elevated, anterior ridge, corresponding to the articulating projection of the axis.
The pygidium is all that has yet been recognized of this peculiar spe- cies, but it is so marked in its characters that we have no hesitation in pro- nouncing it distinct from any hitherto described. The absence of rings on so great a length of the axial lobe is a marked and distinguishing feature.
Formation and locality. — In greenish shales of the age of the Quebec group, at East Canon, Oquirrh Mountains, Utah. Collected by S. F. Emmons and J. E. Clayton.
FOSSILS OF THE DEVONIAN.
BRACHIOPODA.
Genus STROPHODONTA Hall. Strophodonta Canace.
Plate III, figs. 1-3.
Strophodonta Canace H. & W., 23d Kept. St. Cab., p. 23G, pi. 11, figs. 8-11.
Shell of medium size, subquadrangular in outline, wider than long; hinge-line a little shorter than the greatest width of the shell, the external border very gently sloping from the middle to the extremities; lateral mar- gins and basal border of the shell somewhat straightened, and the angles rounded. Ventral valve convex, slightly geniculated near the middle of its length, and flattened on the umbonal disk; cardinal area narrow, sublinear or moderately decreasing in width from the middle outward, vertically striated or crenulate and divided in the center by a nan-owly triangular fissure. Dorsal valve concave, a little more than half as deep as the con- vexity of the ventral; area very narrow. Surface of the ventral valve marked by strong, sharp, distant, radiating striae, with concave interspaces, which are occupied by three or more finer, even striae. Surface of the
FOSSILS OF THE DEVONIAN, 247
dorsal valve marked by fine, even striae. The specimen measures about seven-eighths of an inch in length by a little more than an inch in width; convexity of the vdntral valve about five-sixteenths of an inch.
The specimen possesses all the essential specific characters of the Iowa shells, but difiers slightly in the more decidedly quadrangular outline. This feature alone, however, cannot be considered of specific importance, since, among the typical specimens, the variation in this respect is considerable.
Formation and locality/, — In limestone of Devonian age, at Treasure Hill, south of Aurora Mine, While Pine, Nevada. Collected by Arnold Hague, esq.
Genus EHYNCHONELLA Fischer.
Ehynchonella Emmonsi n. sp.
Plate III, figs. 4-8,
Shell rather above the medium size, globosely subcuboidal, very ven- tricose, highly gibbous on the dorsal side, shallow and somewhat flattened on the ventral and squarely truncate in front; cardinal margin broadly rounded, the small, pointed, ventral beak projecting beyond the general con- tour, and having the appearance of a small cardinal area from the projection of the margin of the foramen, into which the beak of the dorsal valve passes; sides of the shell more sharply rounded than the cardinal border. Front of the ventral valve abruptly bent upward in a broad, linguiform extension, nearly or quite equal to the entire height of the shell, and almost two-thirds as wide as the entire width; the sides of the extension are straight and parallel for most of the height, the top being broadly and evenly rounded. Dorsal valve emarginate in front, corresponding with the extension of the ventral valve.
Surface maited by from twenty-three to twenty-five low, rounded, simple plications on each side of the elevation and sinus, and about fourteen on the elevation of the dorsal valve, with a corresponding number on the extension of the ventral valve.
The species is of the type of JR. cuboides of Europe and R. venusta Hall, of the TuUy limestone of New York. It difiers from the former in its much less cuboidal form and broader and shorter proportions, and from the latter
248 PALJUONTOLOGY.
in the same particulars, as well as the finer and more numerous plications, and in the want- of the flattening of these latter on the front of the shell.
Formation and locality, — In limestones of Devonian age, south of Aurora Mine, White Pine, Nevada. Collected by Ai-nold Hague, esq.
LAMELLIBRANOHIATA. Genus PARACYCLAS Hall
rAEACYOLAS PEROCCIDENS D. sp. Plate III, figs. 14-17.
Shell comparatively large, circular in outline, with scarcely projecting, but well-marked beaks; valves ventricose, somewhat inflated along the strongly-curved or convex umbonal ridge; cardinal line strongly arcuate, but becoming slightly alate toward the posterior end, especially perceptible on the internal casts; anterior side of the shell marked by a slight constrict- ing sulcus, or depression, extending from the front of the beaks to the margin of the shell just below the middle of the anterior side, strongly reminding one of the similar constriction on many of the recent Lucinas; beaks pointed and strongly curving forward, situated well anteriorly. On the internal casts, the muscular impressions are large and strongly marked, the posterior one is irregularly quadrangular, and the anterior one reniform, widening below, and not more than half as large as the posterior; pallial line consist- ing of strong longitudinal pustules, arranged side by side.
Surface of the shell somewhat roughened by strong, irregular, but not lamellose, concentric undulations formed by aggregating lines of growth.
The shell diffors from any form previously described in this country in the presence of the anterior constriction, but, in many other respects resembles P. elliptica var. occidentalis H. & W., from the Upper Helderberg limestones of Southern Indiana.
Formation and locality, — In dark limestone of Devonian age, at Treasure Hill, south of Aurora Mine, White Pine. Collected by Arnold Hague, esq.
Genus NUCULITES Conrad.
NUCULITES TEIANGULUS D. sp, Plate III, figs. 12-13,
Shell comparatively large for the genus, subtriangular in outline, about
FOSSILS OF THE DEVONIAN. 249
four-fifths as high as long; valves depressed-convex, perhaps partly due to compression; beaks large, broad, and prominent, situated about one-tWrd of the length from the anterior end; posterior cardinal margin rapidly slop- ing to below the middle of the valve, from which point the posterior end rounds forward to the straight basal line; anterior end rounded, its greatest length being much below the middle of the valve, above which the margin is concave to just below the beak. Teeth and hinge unknown. On remov- ing the shell from a portion of the valve, a slight impression was seen on the cast anterior to the beak, resembling that left by the removal of a muscular clavicle, or ridge, but not quite satisfactory in its character.
Surface of the shell marked only by moderately strong, irregular, con- centric undulations.
The general form of the shell is much like that of N. trtquetra Con. from the Hamilton group of New York, but with a straighter basal line, much larger and tumid beaks, and of very much greater size than is known in that species.
Formation and locality. — In the lower black slates of the White Pine District, near Eberhardt Mill. Collected by Arnold Hague, esq.
Genus LUNULICARDIUM Munster.
LUNULICARDIUM FRAGOSUM. Plate II, figs. 9-li.
Posidonomyaf fragosa, Meek. (Part I, page 92 aud Plate.)
The specimens figured and described by Mr. Meek, under the name Posidonomyaf fragosa, prove, on carefully uncovering the cardinal portions of the specimens, to belong to the genus Lunulicardium, a genus, so far as we are aware, that has only been recognized in rocks of Devonian age, unless the genus Ch(Bnocardia M. & W. should prove to be identical, about which we have some doubt. In the rocks of this age in New York, it has been recognized in several species, ranging from the Marcellus shales to the Chemung group inclusive, one or more species being known in each forma- tion. The shells are readily recognized by the broadly gaping anterior (?) end, bordered by a more or less reflected margin or flange-like projecting border, extending from the beak to the basal margin, which we presume is analogous to the byssal opening in other forms of shell. The species
250 PALEONTOLOGY.
under consideration shows this feature on several specimens in the collection in a somewhat remarkable degree. The flange widens and is somewhat roundly pointed in some cases near the beak, and gradually narrows below. The general form of the shell is obliquely ovate, widest below, varying much, however, in different examples. The substance of the shell has been thin, and marked by comparatively strong concentric undulations, but without other surface-characters.
Mr. Meek's figures are true in all respects, except in wanting the flange-like border ; and the figures given on plate 3 are for the purpose of illustrating this feature. The species has considerable resemblance to L, fragilis = Avicula fragilis Hall (Geol. 4th Dis. N. Y., 1843, p. 222, figs. 1-2) (fig. 2, lac. city falsely represents a posterior wing), from the Genesee slate and Portage group of New York, but differs materially in the greater elonga- tion of the valves. Examples could, however, be selected from among the New York collections that would exceed in length the shorter form from the black slates of the White Pine District, while the peculiarity of having the flange widening near the beak is a feature noticed only in that species among all of those recognized in the New York formations, and is one that shows the close relations of the two species. The greater proportional length of the shells of this one will serve to distinguish them.
GASTEROPODA.
Genus BELLEROPHON Montf. Belleeophon Keleus n. sp.
Plate III, figs, ld-20.
Shell rather above the medium size, nearly globular in form, a little wider than high. Volutions rounded and very slightly carinate on the back, the keel showing only as a low, rounded, scarcel)^ elevated band on the internal cast Lip somewhat expanded laterally, the outer axial margin forming a strong auriculation on each side of the shell ; margin of the lip bilobed, deeply and broadly notched in the middle; the sides of the notch moderately expanding at first, but more rapidly above ; lobes of the lip rounded. Umbilicus closed, but on the internal cast showing as of consid-
FOSSILS OF THE WAYERLY GROUP. 251
arable width from the great thickness of the shell. The inner lip, as seen on a specimen preserving this part of the shell, is much thickened and forms a callus, slightly trilobate and strongly modifying the form of the aperture. Aperture semilunate or reniform, about twice as wide as long. A fragment of the exterior surface preserved is covered with oblique rows of closely crowded, rounded granules, or small tubercles, outside of the median band ; the obliquity of the rows beiiig caused by the quincunx arrangement of the tubercles. The form and ornamentation of the revolv- ing median band has not been fully determined, but is apparently broad and flattened, with retrally curved stride.
The species very closely resembles, and is probably identical with, an undescribed form from the Chemung group of New York; being similar in size, form, and surface-markings, as well as in the solid axis and form of the callus of the inner lip. It differs in the surface-markings from any described form with which we are acquainted.
Formation and locality, — In limestone of Devonian age, at Treasure Hill, south of Aurora Mine, White Pine District, Nevada. Associated with Strophodonta Canace, Rhynchonella Emmonsi, Paracyclas peroccidenSy and other Devonian forms. Collected by Arnold Hague, esq.
FOSSILS OF THE WAVERLY GEOUP.
RADIATA.
Genus MICHELINA D'Kon.
MiCHELINA sp. ?.
Plate IV, fig. 19.
Among the fossils received from Dry Canon there occurs a worn speci- men of this genus, composed of tubes which vary from an eighth of an inch in diameter to nearly or quite twice that size. The corallum seems to have been highly convex, but not hemispherical in form, with few but rapidly diverging tubes of moderate size. The specimen is imbedded in the rock so as to expose the lower part of the tubes cut transversely. The walls have been quite thick at this point, but become much more attenuate
252 PALJBONTOLOGY.
or even quite sharp on their upper edges. The specimen is in such a state of preservation that it is impossible to detect the specific characters, and is chiefly interesting on account of the association in which it is found. The genus MicJielina is not common in this country in rocks above the Devonian, although very abundant in many of the formations of that series, and has been recognized in several species in the Carboniferous rocks of Europe. This species, therefore, furnishes another instance of the mingling of Devonian and Carboniferous forms in the rocks of the age to which we suppose these to belong (viz, Waverly group), showing intimate relations, if not absolute transition Avithout break, from the Devonian to the Lower Carboniferous in several widely distant parts of the country.
BRACHIOPODA. Genus STREPTORHYNCHUS King.
' STREPTORHYNCHUS EQUIVALVIS. riate IV, figs, 1-2. Orthis equivalvis Hall, Geol. Eept. Iowa, vol. 1, pt. 2, p. 490, pi. 2, fig. 6.
Specimens of a species of StreptorhynchuSj having characters very similar to many of those occuringin the Burlington sandstones, occur in the rocks of this formation at Ogden and Logan Canons, Wahsatch Range, Utah. The shell is at all times a very variable one, and not easily deter- mined with satisfaction. The specimen representedby fig. 1, plate IV, is rather wider than most of those above referred to, but resembles them in form except in this particular, and in want of the sinus which often marks them. The alternations of coarser and finer strisB is a common character. The specimen represented by fig. 2 of the same plate is also a not unusual form, although shorter than the generality of individuals. The specimen fig. 1 is from Ogden Cafion, and fig. 2 from Logan Canon. Collected by S. F. Emmons, esq.
STREPTORHYNCHUS INFLATtTS. Plate IV, fig. 3.
Streptorhynchus inflatus White & Whitfield, Troc. Boat. Soc. Nat. Hist , vol. viii, 1862, p. 293. The specimen fig. 3, plate IV, possesses the character of the above-cited species in all particulars as far as can be ascertained from the specimen, except
FOSSILS OF THE WAVBRLY GROUP. 253
lliat it is a little wider, but not sufficiently so to be considered beyond the limits of specific variation. The shell is very gibbous, in fact quite inflated in form, and evenly striate. Other individuals show the large cardinal process known to exist in the original, and, considering the extreme varia- tions to which species of this genus are subject, we see no reason why this should be considered as distinct from the typical forms.
Formation and locality, — In limestones of the age of the Waverly group, at Dry Canon, Oquirrh Mountains, Utah. Collected by S. F, Emmons^ esq.
Genus STROPHOMENA Eafinesque. Strophomena khomboidalis Wilckens.
Plate IV, fig. 4.
Forsynonyma see Palseont. N. Y., vol. iv, p. 76.
The examples of this species observed present a broad flattened surface with but a shght geniculation, the flattened portion being covered by close, rather small, or narrow, concentric wrinkles, which are crossed by fine radiat- ing strise. The form is similar to those found in the yellow sandstones of Burlington, Iowa. The straight hinge-line is about as long as the width oi the shell below, or a little shorter, and the length of the shell about two- thirds as great as the width. The geniculation is near the margin ; the flattened disk occupying almost the entire extent of the shell. Only the ventral valve has been observed.
Formation and locality, — In limestone of the age of the Waverly group, Dry Cation, Oquirrh Mountains, Utah. Collected by J. E. Clayton, esq.
Genus CHONETES Fischer. Chonetes Loganensis n. sp.
Plate IV, fig. 9.
Shell of moderate size, semicircular; hinge-line straight, longer than the width of the shell below; the extremities acutely angular. Ventral valve convex, with a slight flattening, scarcely a depression, along the median line, widening gradually toward the front; sides of the valve rounded,
254 PALJBONTOLOGT.
becoming flattened, or very faintly concave, near the ninge-extremities; hinge-line marked by three or four very short, appressed spines on each side of the beak. Dorsal valve and area of the ventral unknown. Surface marked by very fine, closely crowded, radiating striae; the number not determined, owing to the exfoliated condition of the shell.
The species resembles somewhat C, lUinoisensis Worthen, from the Burlington limestone, in the size and convexity of the valve, and also in the striae, but diflfers in the greater proportional length of the hinge-line and in the flattening of the mesial portion.
Formation and locality. — In limestone of the age of the Waverly group, at Logan Cafion, Wahsatch Range, Utah. Collected by S. F. Emmons, esq.
Genus SPIRIFERA Sow. Spieifeea centronata.
Plate IV, figs. 5-6. Spirifera centronata Wiuchell, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phil., 1865, p. 118.
Shell rather below the medium size, transversely elongate, with mncro- nate extensions, exclusive of which the front margin of the shell forms nearly a semicircle, the length from beak to front being sometimes greater and sometimes less than half the length along the hinge. Valves convex, the ventral most ventricose, with a moderately sized, rather pointed beak, which is slightly incurved and projecting beyond the hinge-line. Area narrow; mesial sinus distinct, narrow, angularly defined at the margins, and extend- ing to the beak; occupied by from three to five plications near the front, formed by the bifurcation of two, which originate at the beak. Sides of the shell marked by from twelve to eighteen or twenty plications, mostly simple, but sometimes bifurcating. The plicatiojis are slender and rounded, not very angular. Dorsal valve depressed- con vex; the narrow fold well defined, but not highly elevated. Minute surface-characters not observed, as the ^specimens are all in a state of exfoliation.
This species seems to be a common form in the rocks near the base of the Wahsatch limestone. It is subject to some variation in external form and number of plications, but is readily recognized and identified.
Formation and locality. — ^Near'the base of the Wahsatch limestone (Wav-
FOSSILS OP THE WAVERLT GROUP. 255
erly?), at Dry Cafion, Oquirrh Mountains, Logan and Ogden Caiions, Wahsatch Range, Utah, collected by S. F. Emmons, esq. We have also seen several specimens of it in collections from a white limestone brought from the Black Hills by Mr. Gr. Bird Grinnell, in 1874.
Spirifera Alba-pinensis n. 8p.
Plate IV, Aprs. 7-8. Compare Spirifera biplicatus Hall, Geol. Kept. Iowa, vol. 1, pt. ii, pi. 7, fig. 5, p. 519.
Shell rather below a medium size, transversely elongate, greatly extended on the hinge-line, with submucronate extremities; the width or length along the hinge equal to about twice the length from beak to front. Ventral valve ventricose, regularly arcuate from beak to front, the margin of the valve forming nearly a semicircle exclusive of the hinge-extremities; beak of moderate size, incurved and pointed; area moderate; a narrow, rather shallow, and not distinctly defined mesial sinus marks the center of the valve, and is bordered on each side by a broad, rounded plication, much stronger and more elevated than the others, and which is divided along the middle on the lower half of the shell by a slightly impressed hne, giving it the appearance of a bifurcated rib. The middle of the sinus is sometimes smooth, and in some cases marked by two or three faint plications, which do not extend beyond the anterior half of the shell. Besides the strong plications bordering the sinus, there are from fourteen to eighteen low, rounded, simple plications on each side, six or eight of which on the outer end of the valve are often very obscure and sometimes obsolete. Dorsal valve unknown.
This species is very closely related to, and may possibly prove to be identical with, S. Uplicatus Hall (loc. cit)y from the Burlington sandstones of Iowa, but it appears to dijffer in not possessing the central depressed line on the mesial fold, if it is safe to rely upon the evidence furnished by the absence of a corresponding fold in the sinus of the ventral valve and the presence of two or more obscure plications in its place. As the dorsal valve has not been observed, although several ventrals have been examined, these differences cannot be positively affirmed.
Formation and locality, — In limestones near the base of the Wah-
256 PALEONTOLOGY.
satch limestone, at Dry Caiion, Oquirrh Mountains, Logan and Ogden Canons, Wahsatch Range, Utah, and from a band of chert beneath the upper black slates of the White Pine District. Collected by J. E. Clayton, S. F. Emmons, and Arnold Hague.
Genus ATHYRIS McCoy. Athyris Claytoni n. sp.
Plate IV, figs. 15-17.
Shell of moderate size, oval or very slightly ovate in general outline when viewed from the dorsal side, the entire length being one-sixth greater than the greatest width, and the rostral half of the shell being slightly more attenuated than the forward part. Valves moderately and nearly equally convex. Dorsal valve nearly circular in outline, convex, most ventricose in the upper part, and somewhat angular along the middle throughout, but not forming any distinct mesial elevation; beak small, incurved, and rather pointed, the apex passing within the fissure of the opposite valve. Ventral valve much longer than the dorsal, the rostral half very ventricose, but becoming somewhat flattened on the antcro-median portion, without forming a distinct sinus; beak large and tumid, abruptly curved upward, and rather strongly truncated at the apex on a line with the plane of the valves; cardinal margins strongly inflected or enrolled, almost presenting the appear- ance of a cardinal area, but without any defined limits; fissure large, broadly triangular, and partly filled by the dorsal beak. Surface of the valves smooth, except a few strong concentric lines marking stages of growth.
The species is peculiar in shape, the cardinal portion presenting so much the appearance of a species of Spirifer of the type of S. Maia Bill., as figured in Pal. N. Y., vol. 4, pi. 63, fig. 8, as to be readily mistaken for one of that group; but the entire absence of a defined cardinal area, together with the perforated beak, readily distinguishes it on a closer inspection. The absence of any defined mesial fold and sinus is also a good specific character.
Formation and locality. — In limestones of the Lower Carboniferous (Waverly?) age, Little Cottonwood, 800 feet east of Reed and Benson's
FOSSILS OF THE WAVERLY GROUP. 257
mine, Wahsatcli Eange, Utah. Named in honor of Prof. J. E. Clayton, of Salt Lake City, Utah, to whom we are indebted for the use of the speci- mens.
Athyris planosulcata?.
Plate IV, figs. 10-11. Compare Athyris planosulcata Phil., Geol. Yorksbire, vol. ii, p. 220, fig. 15.
A small species of Athyris not readily identified with any known species, and yet so closely resembling several described forms, that it is difficult to cite differences which would distinguish it from them, occurs associated with the fossils described from the Cottonwood divide It is of medium size, nearly circular in outline, with ventricose valves and destitute of mesial fold or sinus; beaks small, that of the ventral valve incurved and but slightly truncated by the small foramen. The surface of the shell is smooth except from concentric lines marking stages of growth, and entirely destitute of any marked or distinguishing feature. The specimens are of the size and general appearance of those usually referred to A. planosulcata Phil., and from its lack of distinguishing features we hesitate to refer it with certainty to any known species.
Formation and locality, — In limestone of the Lower Carboniferous (Waverly?) age, Cottonwood divide, 800 feet east of Reed and Benson's mine, Wahsatch Eange, Utah. Collected by J. E. Clayton.
Genus RHYNCHONELLA, Fischer. Rhynchonella pustulosa White?.
Plate IV, figs. 12-14.
Rhynchonella pustulosa White, Jour. Bost. Soc. Kat. Hist, vol. viii, p. 226.
Shell small, transversely subtrigonal, with a broadly rounded front and straightened cardinal slopes; sides of the shell sharply rounded; beak pointed and projecting; valves ventricose, the dorsal the most gibbous.
Surface marked by from sixteen to twenty-two simple rounded plica- tions, five of which are elevated in the middle, to form the proportionally broad mesial elevation, and a coiTesponding number depressed on the ventral forming the sinus. 17 P R
258 PALEONTOLOGY.
The specimens of this species seen are mostly poor ; one, however, pre- serves the form and features, with but little or no distortion, giving the characters as above. The shell varies considerable from the description of Dr. C. A. White ; but, on comparison with a group of several individuals from the typical locaUty, sent by Dr. White as of that species, we find the variations great enough to include specimens departing still further than these here referred. The minute surface-structure having pustules has not been observed among those in this collection, as they are all more or less exfoliated, and it does not appear to be commonly preserved on those from the typical locality. The greater number of plications would seem to be a distinguishing feature, but eight of the twenty-two counted occur on the cardinal slopes, where, in very many cases, they might not be distinguish- able.
Formation and locality. — In limestone of the Waverly group, at Logan Canon, Wahsatch Range, Utah. Collected by S. F. Emmons, esq.
Genus TEREBRATULA (Llhwyd.) Brug. ^ Terebratula Utah n. sp.
Plate IV, iig. 18.
Shell of medium size, elongate-ovate, the greatest width opposite the middle of the dorsal valve, forward of which point the sides are somewhat rapidly contracted to the rather squarely truncated front margin. Valves ventricose, the ventral more gibbous than the opposite. Dorsal valve most ventricose within the upper third of the valve ; beak small and sharply pointed for a dorsal beak, scarcely if at all incurved. Surface of the shell smooth, with the exception of several rather strong concentric lines marking stages of growth. Beak of ventral valve not observed.
The shell is described from a separate dorsal valve and a partially con- cealed ventral valve, but the form of the shell is somewhat different, and the proportions unlike any other known from rocks of a corresponding age.
Formation and locality, — From a dark limestone of Lower Carboniferous age (Waverly?), on the Cottonwood divide, 800 feet east of Reed and Ben- son's mine, Wahsatch Range, Utah. Collected by J. E. Clayton.
FOSSILS OF THE WAVEELY GROUP. 259
GASTEROPODA.
Genus EUOMPHALUS Sow. EUOMPHALUS (Straparollus) Utahensis d. sp.
PlatelV, figs. 20-23.
Shell of medium size, discoidal, composed of about four volutions, which are coiled nearly or quite in the same plane, and in close contact with each other, but not embracing or overlapping, and but moderately increas- ing in diameter with increased growth. On the upper surface, the volutions are marked, near the middle of their diameter, by a narrow, sharply elevated band, or carina ; within which the surface slopes rapidly and evenly to its contact with the preceding whorl; outside of the carina, the volution is evenly and regularly rounded across the dorsum and to the edge of the broad, open umbilicus, where there is a nearly obsolete angularity, situated considerably within the middle of the volution ; within the umbilicus the surface is somewhat evenly rounded. The surface of contact of each volu- tion with the preceding one is very narrow and slight, leaving the inner ones projecting on the sides of the shell, exposing the greater part of each volution.
Surface of the shell marked by rather distinct transverse lines of growth, which are sometimes grouped so as to form slight transverse undu- lations on the larger part of the shell. These lines have a slight outward convexity on that portion within the carina of the upper side, and on the outer portion a somewhat retral curvature as they cross the body of the volution.
The species is of the type of Euomphahis pentangularis Sow., and somewhat closely resembles S. similis var. planus M. & W. (Geol. Rept. Ills., vol. ii, pi. 19, fig. 5), but differs in the sharp carina of the upper side, and in having the volutions coiled more decidedly in the same plane. This shell also attains a much greater size than that one is known to do ; the largest specimen observed having a diameter of nearly an inch and two-thirds. It is also related to S. planodorsatus of the same authors (loc, cit, pi. 24, fig. 2), but is readily distinguished by the form of the upper surface of the volution.
2(50 PALEONTOLOGY.
Formation and locality, — In limestone near the base of the Wahsatch limestone, of the age of the Waverly group, at Dry Canon, Oquirrh Mount- ains, Ogden and Logan Canons, Wahsatch Range, Utah. Collected by J. E. Clayton and S. F. Emmons.
EUOMPHALUS LAXUS. Plate IV, figs. 24-25.
Euomphalus laxm White, MSS. Lieut. Wheeler's Eept^ of Geograph. and Geol. Surv, and Expl. W, of 100th Meridian.
Shell subdiscoidal; the height of the spire above the body of the last volution equal to from one-third to about one-half its diameter, the inner volutions being scarcely elevated above the general plane. Umbilicus broad and proportionally deep, exposing all the inner whorls. Volutions three or more, seldom, however, exceeding four; rather slender in their proportions; the last one more rapidly increasing in size than the others; obscurely pentangular in transverse section ; the periphery being obtusely angulated just below the middle, slightly flattened above the angle, and dis- tinctly so on the upper surface. The lower side of the volution is gently rounded on the outer part, but more sharply curved at the edge of the broad open umbilicus.
Surface of the shell marked by distinct, somewhat irregular, lines of growth, parallel to the margin of the aperture, their direction being nearly at right angles to the axis of the shell, with a very slight sinuosity as they cross the upper flattened surface of the volution.
The species is a well-marked one, and appears to be quite characteristic of beds near the lower part of the Wahsatch limestone, Wahsatch Range, Utah. It bears a strong resemblance to specimens of E, laxus H. from the Burlington limestones, but the volutions increase much more rapidly, and the flattened space on the upper side is narrower in proportion to the diam- eter of the volution than in those specimens, and it is also a much smaller form. It also bears considerable resemblance to an angulated form in the Burlington sandstones, usually referred to jEJ. cyclostomus H., but probably distinct. There is also a species in the Chemung group of New York very closely resembling this one, but which does not show the angularity of the
FOSSILS OF THE VVAVERLY GROUP. 261
periphery, although flattened on the top of the volution. The individual figured is somewhat smaller than the specimen used and figured by Dr. C. A. White in Lieutenant Wheeler's Report above cited, but possesses all the characters of those specimens.
Formation and locality, — In limestones near the base of the Wahsatch limestone, of the age of the Waverly group of Ohio, at Dry Canon, Oquirrh Mountains, and Logan Cafion, Wahsatch Range, Utah. Collected by S. F. Emmons and J. E. Clayton.
EuoMPHALus (Strap ABOLLus) Ophiubnsis n. sp.
Plato IV, figs. 26-27,
Shell of medium size, broadly conical or subtrochiform ; height equal to two-thirds the greatest transverse diameter of the base; composed of four and a half to five volutions, which are closely coiled, so as to rest nearly upon the surface of the succeeding ones; four of the volutions obliquely compressed on the outer upper portion, and sharply rounded on the periphery and below, giving a^ somewhat convex trochiform aspect to the coils. Umbilicus broad and deep, exposing more than one-half of each of the preceding whorls, which are strongly rounded and full. Transverse section of the volution obliquely and irregularly ovate, narrow, and somewhat pointed at the upper end at the junction of the volutions, rounded on the inner, and obliquely flattened or depressed-convex on the outer surface.
Surface of the shell marked only by very fine transverse lines of growth, which have a slightly backward curvature as they cross the volu- tion.
This species has something of the form and general appearance of S. umbilicus M. & W., from the Coal-Measures (see Geol. Rept. Ills., vol. ii, pi. 27, fig. 1), but is more depressed and. proportionally broader, without the horizontal flattening on the upper surface of the volutions, which are instead obliquely compressed nearly in the direction of the slope of the spire.
Formation and locality. — In limestones of the age of the Waverly group, at Dry Canon, Oquirrh Mountains, Utah. Collected by J. E. Clayton.
262 PALEONTOLOGY.
CRUSTACEA.
Genus PROETUS Stein. Proetus peroccidens n. sp.
Plate IV, figs. 28-32.
One of the most persistent and characteristic fossils of this formation at the several locaHties where it has been recognized, and one that will probably serve to identify it at other localities, owing to its marked features, is a small species of Trilobite of the genus Proetus. Although specimens of the pygidium have been obtained at all the localities yet recognized, no other parts of the animal have been noticed except from one locality. These were collected, and sent, among other species, by J. E. Clayton, esq., of Salt Lake City, from Dry Canon, Oquirrh Mountains, Utah. They consist of some detached and imperfect examples of the glabella and cheeks; and as there are no other forms of Trilobites yet known from the locality, and these occurring in the same blocks with the pygidia, it is reasonable to infer that they belong to the same species.
The glabella is conico-cylindrical in form, once and a half as long as wide, very gently narrowing from the base forward, and rounded-truncate in front; very depressed-convex throughout, and marked by four pairs of transverse furrows; the posterior ones strongest, curving backward at their inner ends, nearly surrounding the posterior lobes, forming rounded convex tubercles, each of which is equal in width to one-third that of the entire glabella. The other three pairs are faintly marked, and reach nearly one- third across the glabella; the anterior one transverse and very obscure, distant from the anterior end of the glabella, equal to its width at the furrow; second and third pairs distinct, slightly curving backward at their ends. Occipital ring narrow, depressed-convex, and not strongly marked. Fixed cheeks narrow; palpebral lobe small, situated a little more than one-third of the distance from the posterior border of the head, angular in outline. Frontal border thickened and rounded, well defined, but not distinctly separated from the glabella in front. Posterior lateral limbs not preserved, but narrow at their junction with the fixed cheeks. Suture-line cutting the frontal margin, with a slight curvature at a point distant from the sides of
FOSSILS OF THE WAVEKLY GROUP. 2(53
the glabella equal to one-half its width at the anterior end, and rounding inward with a gentle curvature to the anterior side of the palpebral lobe, the cheek being very narrow at this point, thence passing along the top of the eye to the junction of the posterior lateral limb. Surface of the glabella and cheeks smootli, except a few granules near the base of the glabella.
Movable cheeks of medium size in proportion to the glabella, flattened convex from the base of the eye to the narrow, thickened, and chamfered marginal rim; occipital furrow narrow, not strongly marked, and reaching nearly to the depression within the marginal rim ; posterior angles of the cheeks extending backward in the form of short angular spines.
Thoracic segments unknown.
Pygidium paraboloid in outline, highly convex, abruptly so at the sides and posteriorly. Axial lobe forming a little less than one- third of the entire width, and reaching nearly to the posterior margin, rounded and strongly elevated throughout; gradually tapering posteriorly and narrowly rounded at the extremity; marked by from fifteen to seventeen annulations in different individuals exclusive of the anterior articulating ring. Lateral lobes well marked, very convex, slightly flattened near the axis, but very abrupt at the sides and behind ; marked by from fourteen to sixteen very sharply elevated angular ribs, which occupy the entire border, extending beyond the end of the axial lobe, and reaching almost to the margin, leaving only a narrow plain space at the edge.. The surface of the annulations is marked by a series of small nodes, or pustules, along their crests, arranged in four longitudinal rows on the axial rings, and an indefinite number, closely arranged, occur on those of the lateral lobes.
The species in some of its features resembles P. macrocephalus Hall of the shales of the Hamilton group of New York,. especially in the markings of the pygidium ; but it differs in the more elongate form and number of ribs of this part, while the glabella is proportionally narrower and the sides more nearly parallel ; the fixed cheeks and anterior border are narrower, and the movable cheeks terminate in spines, which is not the case with that one. The surface of the glabella and head is also destitute of the strong pustules which characterize that species.
264 PALAEONTOLOGY.
Formation and locality. — In limestones of the age of the Waverly group of the Mississippi Valley, at Ogden and Logan Canons, Wahsatch Range, and Dry Canon, Oquirrh Mountains, Utah. Collected by S. F. Emmons and J. E. Clayton.
Proetus LoaANBNSis n. sp.
Plate IV, fig. 33.
The pygidium of a small species differing very materially from the preceding occurs at Logan Canon, associated with that one. The form is more nearly semicircular, being but very slightly paraboloid. The axial lobe is highly convex, rapidly tapering below and terminating abruptly a little within the posterior margin ; anterior end forming fully one-third of the entire width of the shield. Lateral lobes moderately convex, with a slightly thickened, scarcely elevated border of moderate width, on which the ribs become nearly obsolete. Axial lobe marked by nine rounded and distinct annulations, exclusive of the terminal ones ; strong in front and rapidly decreasing in size posteriorly. The ribs of the lateral lobes are ten in- number on each side; simple, highly rounded, and continuing entirely around the posterior margin of the shield, the most posterior ones being very faintly marked.
This species differs conspicuously from the corresponding parts of P. peroccidens in its shorter form, small number of ribs, and in being desti- tute of the surface ornamentation which characterizes that one.
Formation and locality. — In limestones of the age of the Waverly group, at Logan Canon, Wahsatch Range, Utah. Collected by S. F. Emmons, esq.
FOSSILS OF THE LOWER CARBONIFEROUS. 265
FOSSILS OF THE LOWEE CAEBONIFEEOUS.
BRACHIOPODA.
Genus ORTHIS Dalman. Orthis kesopinata ?.
Plate 5, figs. 1-2.
Orfhis resupinata Martin sp.
Shell of moderate size, transversely elliptical or quadrate-elliptical; valves ventricose, the dorsal quite rounded and almost evenly ventricose^, sometimes a little fuller on the umbone; middle of the valve slightly- impressed with a broad, shallow, mesial sinus, extending* from near the beak to the front of the valve ; beak proportionally large and full, somewhat incurved, and projecting beyond the line of the hinge ; area moderately large, extending about half the length of the valve, the plane of its surface nearly in the direction of the plane of the valve. Muscular impression large, extending to about two-fifths of the length of the shell, distinctly flabellate and lobed. Ventral valve unknown. Surface marked by moder- ately strong, rounded, radiating striae and concentric lines of growth.
The species is represented in the collection only by dorsal valves, but the specific characters are unmistakable and easily recognized. !
Formation and locality. — In Lower Carboniferous limestone, near the base of the formation, at Dry Caiion, Oquirrh Mountains, Utah. Collected by J. E. Clayton.
Genus PRODUCTUS Sowerby. Productus Flemingi var. Burlingtonensis Hall
Plate 5, figs, 9-12.
Productus Flemingi var. Burlingtonemis Hall, Geol. Eept. Iowa, vol. i, part ii, p. 698, pL 12, fig. 3.
Shell of medium size, wider than long; height and length subequal, or a little longer than high, except in old individuals, where the front is much produced, giving additional height; hinge-line as wide, or a little less than the width of the shell below. Ventral valve strongly arcuate, more abruptly curving just posterior to the middle of the valve; auriculations distinct when
26(5 PALJEONTOLGGY.
well preserved, and in some cases strongly separated from the body of the valve; sides of the valve a little straightened; front rounded on the lateral portions, but strongly emarginate in the center by the rather strong, some- times abruptly depressed, mesial sinus, which extends from near the beak to ' the front of the shell; beak moderately strong, extending beyond the hinge- line and incurved. Dorsal valve nearly flat over the central area, with a slight concavity in the region of the beak, the margins abruptly geniculated to conform to the curvature of the opposite valve. The mesial constriction is as strongly marked, but a little wider than that of the ventral valve, and extends nearly to the beak.
Surface of the shell marked by rather even, rounded striae of moderate strength, except near the front of the shell, where they become indistinctly fasciculate or blended; also, on the rostfal half of the shell by numerous, distinct, closely arranged, concentric, undulating wrinkles, but which seldom extend beyond the point of greatest geniculation. A few scattered spines mark the front and sides of the shell, while several stronger ones are observ- able on the cardinal auriculations. On the dorsal valve, the concentric wrinkles are more distinct, and occupy the entire flattened area of the valve, while the radiating strise are found to be more strongly bifurcating.
The specimens bear a very close resemblance to those from Burlington, Iowa, in their general form and characters. There are a few unimportant differences noticed, but not such as can be considered of specific importance. There is also considerable resemblance to Prod, mesialis Hall (Greol. Iowa, p. 636, plate 19, fig. 2); but that shell is much wider in proportion to the length than any of those from the more western locality.
Formation and locality, — In dark-blue limestone of Lowei: Carboniferous age, north of Snowstorm Hill, Dry Cailon, Oquirrh Mountains, Utah. Col- lected by J. E. Clayton.
PrODUCTUS L^VICOSTUSi Plate 5, figs. 7-8.
Produotus Icevicostus White?, Jour. Bost. Soc. Nat. Hist., 1860, p. 230.
Shell bdow the medium size, subtriangular in general outline, rapidly increasing in width from the small, narrow, and rather pointed beak to near
FOSSILS OF THE LOWEE CARBONIFEROUS. 267
the front of the shell, which is broadly rounded and destitute of any mesial depression; hinge-line short, scarcely more than half as wide as the body of the shell. Ventral valve strongly arcuate in the upper part. Dorsal valve unknown.
Surface of the ventral valve covered by very fine, even, rounded, thread-like strise, seven to eight of which may be counted in the space of an eighth of an inch on the front of the shell, but are much finer near the beak. The striae have been marked by numerous fine, slender spines, the bases of which can be seen protruding through a portion of shale adhering to the surface of one of the specimens; but they are so fine as to make scarcely any perceptible scar on the surface of the striae when denuded.
The species is of the general form of many of those usually referred to P. Prattenanus Norwood, but differs materially from the original specimen used and figured by Dr. Norwood in the finer striae and short hinge-line. It does not appear to be positively identical with any of the forms figured by De Koninck as P. Cora, but is a very closely representative species.*
Formation and locality, — In limestone in the higher parts of the Lower Carboniferous, north of Snowstorm Hill, Dry Canon, Oquirrh Mountains, Utah. Collected by J. E. Clayton.
PiioDuci'US SEMiRETicuLATUS Martm.
Plato 5, fi^s. 5-6.
The specimens of this species in the collection have very much the form and characters of those of the species which occur in the Burlington and Keokuk beds in Iowa and Illinois, represented by the specimen figured in the Geological Report of Iowa (vol. i, part 2, plate 19, fig. 4), except that they are only about two-thirds as large as that individual. The shell is rather narrow and strongly arcuate; the beak narrow and rather pointed, and distinctly separated from the body of the shell; the hinge-line appears to have been about equal in length to the width of the shell below; the sides of the shell abrupt, flattened, and squarish, while the middle of the
* The original specimen of P. Iwvicostus is from the base of the Lower Carbon- iferous, and from the beds at Burlington, Iowa, referred to the Waverly group; but there uie forms of very similar character in other beds of the formations at other places that cannot be readily distinguished from those above referred to.
268 PALEONTOLOGY.
valve is marked by a rather distinct depression, extending from near the beak to the front of the shell, but most marked on the middle of the valve. The striae are rather coarse, somewhat irregular, and present a rugose, knotty appearance; while the upper half of the shell is very distinctly marked by strong, irregular, concentric wrinkles, a little less marked in the central depression. A few of the transverse wrinkles are seen marking the front half of the shell in one specimen, and are broad and less deep than those above.
The specimens are proportionally longer and narrower than the typical forms of P. semireticulatm ; but the form is such a variable one that it is somewhat diiSficult to define the limits of its characters.
Formation and locality, — In the limestone of Lower Carboniferous age, north of Snowstorm Hill, Dry Canon, Oquirrh Mountains, Utah. Collected by J. E. Clayton.
Peoduotus elegans.
Plate 5, figs. 3-4.
Compare Prodnctus elegans N. & P., Jour. Acad. Fat. Sci. Phila., iii, p. 11, fig. 7.
There are two specimens of a Productus associated with the preceding, having so much the form and characters of P. elegans N. & P., that, unless from a larger number of individuals other and different features shall be obtained, cannot well be considered as distinct from that one. The form is narrow in the upper part, the hinge-line shorter than the width of the shell below; beak rather small and appressed; auric ulations not very marked ; ventral valve sharply arcuate above and gently curving throughout, with a slight, scarcely defined depression extending from beak to base. Surface of the valve marked by moderately fine but distinctly radiating striae, which, on the better preserved specimen, have an irregular, knotty appearance, caused by the thickening of the stria3 at the spine-bases. The radiating striae are marked by very fine transverse lines of growth on the forward part of the shell, and on the upper part of the beak and sides of the shell a few obscure transverse wrinkles may be detected.
There are some slight differences between the specimens, one of them being a little more compressed, giving it a broader form, while the striae are
FOSSILS OF THE LOWER CARBONIFEROUS. 269
a little finer and more even than on the other ; but the diiFerences are even less than occur among specimens of P, elegans from the typical locality.
Formation and locality. — In limestone of Lower Carboniferous age, north of Snowstorm Hill, near Dry Canon, Oquirrh Mountains, Utah. Collected by J. E. Clayton.
Genus SPIRIFERA Sowerby. Spieifeea striata.
Plate V, figs. 13-15, Anomites striatus Martin ,• Spirifer striatus Sowerby and others.
Shell rather above the medium size, transversely oval or semi-elliptical, the hinge-extremities either rounded or slightly extended beyond the width of the shell below. Valves moderately convex, or in some cases rather strongly rounded; the ventral valve most rotund and marked by a broad mesial depression, the margins of which are not strongly defined ; front of the valve in the depression somewhat extended and bent upward; beak small, pointed, and closely incurved ; area small, poorly defined, the mar- gins rounding to the body of the shell. Dorsal valve most ventricose in the upper part ; the sides gradually sloping to the margins, and the center strongly elevated, forming a distinct, sharply rounded mesial fold, which is narrow in the upper part but expands very rapidly as it approaches the front of the shell.
Surface of the valves marked by moderately strong, radiating plica- tions, which are distinct and subangular on the upper part of the shell, but frequently bifurcate and become flattened toward the margin, often forming fascicles of three, four, or more on the extension of the valves, while those near the middle are usually in pairs, but not uncommonly simple.
The species is extremely variable in form and surface-markings as it occurs in the collections examined, representing two quite distinct types, which appear to characterize two diflferent horizons of the geological section of the district in which they were found. Although these differences are easily detected on close examination, still they are not sufficiently strong and marked to be considered as of specific or even varietal importance, and, in their extremes, are not nearly so great as those ascribed to the species
270 PALEONTOLOGY.
by European authors. The specimens from the lowest horizon are gen- erally more extended on the hinge-line, and sometimes quite elongated; while those from the lower beds are seldom much longer than the width of the shell below, and in some stages of gi'owth appear to have been short and rounded at the cardinal extremities. There is also a perceptible difference in tlie character of the striae; those from the higher beds being more finely marked, more angular, and more distinctly fasciculate than the others.
Formation and locality. — In limestone of the Lower Carboniferous age, near the base of the section, at Dry Canon, and in the higher beds at Snow- storm Hill, Oquirrh Mountains, Utah. Collected by J. E. Clayton.
Spirifera setigera.
Plate 5, tigs. 17-ie. Spirifer seiigeras Hall, Geol. Eept. Iowa, vol. 1, pt. 2, p. 705, pi. 27, fig. 4.
Shell rather below the medium size, transversely oval or elliptical, with ventricose valves, and a short, scarcely defined hinge-line and rounded extremities. Ventral valve more ventricose than the dorsal, most strongly arcuate in the upper part; beak small, somewhat pointed and strongly or closely incurved; area small, the margins not distinctly defined, but rounded almost imperceptibly into the general curvature of the valve. Center of the valve marked by a moderately distinct, but narrow mesial depression, traceable from beak to base. Dorsal valve rather gently and evenly convex, the center elevated in a narrow, not distinctly defined, rounded elevation corresponding to the depression of the opposite valve.
Surface of the shell marked by numerous, rather closely-arranged concentric varices, marking stages of growth at irregular distances, and also by fine, closely-arranged, setose, radiating lines, most distinct just below each concentric line, but becoming indistinct before reaching the next one below. These lines on the natural surface have been elevated and rounded, forming spines at the concentric ridges, but on the exfoliated surface have the appearance of interrupted radiating lines, scarcely raised on the surface of the shell.
The specimen figured is somewhat imperfect and much distorted by
FCSSILS OP THE LOWER CARBONIFEROUS. 271
compression, but the features of the species are so well and distinctly represented on it that it is impossible to doubt its identity.
Formation and locality, — In limestone of Lower Carboniferous age, north of Snowstorm Hi'J, Dry Canon, Oquirrh Mountains, Utah. Collected by J. E. Clayton.
Spirifeea 8p. ?.
Plate 5, fig. 16. Compare Spirifera imbrex Udll, Geol. Iowa, vol. 1, pt. ii, p. 601, pi. 13, fig, 2.
The figure is of a fragment of a cast of the ventral valve in chert, from a fragment of the Weber quartzite, a rock usually destitute of all organic remains, and it is for this reason only that the specimen has been figured. It is of a species possessing numerous sharply-elevated, angular plications, simple on the sides of the shell, and apparently bifurcating in the mesial sinus; although the example does not furnish positive evidence of such bifurcations, still the direction and number would indicate such to be the case. The plications have been crossed by closely-arranged, strong, zigzag, concentric lines; which give a strongly roughened surface to the cast. The only species having strong affinities with it is S, imbrex Hall from the Bur- lington limestone of the I^ower Carboniferous formations, at Burlington, Iowa (Iowa Geol. Rept., vol. 1, pt ii, p. GOl, pi. 13, fig. 2), and it is even probable that it may be identical; but, as the ventral valve of that species is unknown to us, we are unable to determine positively. The plications of that species often bifurcate on the upper part of the shell, while these are simple; but this feature may not hold good on all specimens of the same species where the bifurcations are but few.
Formation and locality, — In the Weber quartzite, Bear River, Uinta Range, Utah. Collected by Clarence King, esq.
Genus ATHYRIS McCoy. Athybis subquadbata 1
Plate 5, figs. 19-20.
Athyris subquadrata Hall, Geol. Iowa, vol. 1, pt. ii, p. 703, pi. 27, fig. 2.
Shell of medium size, varying from irregularly circular to distinctly quadrate in outline, with more or less ventricose valves; length usually
272 PALAEONTOLOGY,
somewhat exceeding the width, though often less; point of greatest width a little below the middle of the shell, the margins nearly straight from this point to the beak above and to the * front below, giving the quadrangular outline. Dorsal valve ventricose, more distinctly elevated along the middle, forming the proportionally narrow mesial fold, which is often more sharply elevated and sometimes prolonged in front. Ventral valve marked along the center with a narrow depression, corresponding to the fold on the dorsal valve, but narrower, abruptly marked, and extending nearly to the beak; body of the valve ventricose, especially in the upper half; beak strong, sharply incurved, and slightly truncate.
Surface of the valves marked by strong concentric lines of growth at unequal distances, most numerous and crowded near the margin of the shell.
The specimens examined are all more or less imperfect from exfoliation; consequently, the true surface-features caAnot be ascertained. The species, however, closely resembles specimens of ^. siibquadrata from the Chester limestones of Illinois and Kentucky, differing mostly in the less distinctly marked and narrower mesial depression of the ventral and corresponding fold of the dorsal valve. The front is also sometimes much produced, but not more so than is often the case with those. The species as found at Chester, Illinois, and elsewhere, is quite variable, and among twenty or thirty individuals from the typical localities specimens could be selected that would correspond in form to any of those presented in this collection.
Formation and locality. — In dark-colored limestone of Lower Carbonif- erous age; the Wahsatch limestone, at Snowstorm Hill, near Dry Canon, Oquirrh Mountains, Utah. Collected by J. E. Clayton, of Salt Lake City.
COAL MBASUBE AND PERMOCARBONIFEROUS FOSSILS. 273
FOSSILS OF THE COAL-MEASURES AND PERMO-
CARBONIFEROUS.
LAMELLIBRANCHIATA. Genus AVICULOPECTEN McCoy.
AVIOULOPECTEN WEBERENSIS D. sp. Plate VI, fig. 5.
Shell of medium size or smaller, suborbicular in outline, the length and height being subequal, anterior side of the shell larger than the posterior, giving a slight obliquity to the valves; hinge-line straight, nearly two- thirds as long as the greatest length of the shell, anterior portion forming rather more than one-third of the length. Left valvo very convex, the depth equal to about one-third the height when not compressed. Auriculations not dis- tinctly limited, anterior one small, with a shallow rounded sinus below, extremity rounded; posterior side of moderate size, the sinus faintly marked; extremity obtusely angular.
Surface marked by somewhat irregular radiating costse, which vary much in size, some of them being moderately strong and distant, with from one to four smaller ones between, most prominent and distinct on the median portion of the valve, becoming gradually smaller on the sides and wings. There are also fine concentric striae crossing the radii, giving a slightly roughened surface. Right valve unknown.
The species resembles in some of its characters many of those referred to Eumicrotis Hawni M: & H., but diflFers in the size and form of the wings and in the finer radii of the surface. The character of the auriculations would prevent it from being classed as Eumicrotis,
Formation and locality. — ^In limestones of the Upper Coal-Measures (Permo-Carboniferous), foot-hills southeast of Salt Lake City, Wahsatch Range, Utah. Collected by S. F. Emmons, esq.
AVICULOPECTEN CURTOCAEDINALIS n. Sp. Plate VI, fig. 4.
Shell of small size, broadly ovate in outUne, and nearly equilateral, widest just below the middle of the height; hinge-line short, not exceeding
18 PR
274 PALEONTOLOGY.
half the width of the shell below, and sloping somewhat rapidly from the center to the extremities on each side of the beak. Left valve highly con- vex, becoming almost subangular on the umbone; auriculations subequal, quite small and indistinctly separated from the body of the shell by very slight, rounded depressions, extending from the beak to the margin on each side, in which they cause slight sinuosities, the anterior one most distinct Beak small, somewhat pointed, and slightly projecting beyond the cardinal line. Surface of the valve marked by fine, even, rounded, thread-like radi- ating strise, scarcely visible without the aid of a lens; also by finer concen- tric lines. Right valve not observed.
The species presents much the appearance of many forms of Lima, and it is possible it should be so referred ; but there is no other evidence of a cardinal area on the left valve than the sloping of the hinge-line, while the wings and sinuosities are more like those of Aviculopecten.
We know of no species so closely related to this one as to be readily mistaken.
Formation and locality. — In limestone of the Upper Coal-Measures (Permo-Carboniferous), foot-hills southeast of Salt Lake City, Wahsatch Range, Utah. S. F. Emmons, collector.
AVICULOPECTEN PARVULUS n. sp. Plate VI, fig. 6.
Shell quite small, equilateral, broadly ovate in outline, a little higher than wide; sides and base rounded, slightly prolonged on the postero-basal side, and obscurely angular near the middle of the anterior margin. Hinge- line two-thirds as long as the greatest width of the shell, longest on the anterior side, and very moderately sloping from the beak. Left valve highly convex; wings moderate, not distinctly separated from the body of the shell; anterior one largest, the margins nearly rectangular to each other, the sinus scarcely perceptible, forming only a broadly- curved indentation below the angle; posterior wing small, the .margins forming an obtuse angle. Surface of the valve highly convex; beak small and obtusely pointed, barely projecting beyond the cardinal line. Body of the valve marked by alternating larger and smaller radii, the stronger ones extending
COAL MEASURE AND PEiRMO CARBONIFEROUS FOSSILS. 275
to the beak, while th^ smaller are added at irregular distances; wings marked by finer radii of nearly equal strength. A few irregular concentric undulations cross the radii at unequal distances. Right valve unknown.
This species differs from the preceding {A. curtocardinalis) in the stronger radii, in being higher in proportion to the width, and in the longer hinge- line. It differs from A. occidaricns Meek, plate 12, fig. 13, of his report, with which it is associated, in being a smaller shell, more highly convex, and in having a greater number of strong radii, with a smaller number of intermediate ones; this having usually but one instead of from two to four, as in that species.
Formation and locality. — In limestone of the Upper Coal-Measures (Permo-Carboniferous), foot-hills southeast of Salt Lake City, Wahsatch Range, Utah. Collected by S. F. Emmons, esq.
Genus MYALINA De Koninck. Myalina aviouloides.
Plate VI, fig. 8..
Myalina aviculoides M. & H., Proc. Acad. N. Sci. Phil., May, I860, p. 184; Pal. Up. Mo., p. 51, pi. 2, fig. 8.
Shell of rather more than average size, mytiliform, ovate or triangularly ovate in outline, half as high again as long; beak prolonged, narrow, and somewhat curved; body of the shell nearly erect, highly convex, and obtusely angular along the umbonal ridge, which is placed near the anterior border and parallel to it; anterior face of thfe shell nearly vertical; posterior surface rapidly and regularly sloping from the crest of the ridge to the pos- terior margin; hinge-line nearjy as long as the shell below the prolongation of the beak; anterior border sinuous above and nearly rectangular to the hinge-line below ; base naiTowly rounded ; posterior margin broadly rounded. Surface marked by rather strong, concentric lines, indicating stages of growtL
The shell is somewhat peculiar for the form of the beak, which is slender and greatly prolonged anteriorly beyond the body of the shell, with a slightly upward curvature near the point. It is also remarkable for the great con- vexity of the valves along the umbonal ridge, which gives an almost vertical anterior face. These features readily distinguish this from all other species.
276 PALiBOKTOliOGY.
Formation and locality, — In limestones of Permo-Carboniferous age, foot- hills southeast of Salt Lake City, Wahsatch Range, Utah. Collected by
S. F. Emmons, esq.
Myat.ina Pebmiana.
Plate VI,- fig. 7. Mytilus {Myalina) Permianus Swallow, Trans. St. Louis Acad. Sci., vol. 1, 1858, p. 17. Mytilus (Myalina) concavtis (Swal.) Meek, ib., p. 18. Myalina Permianus (Swal.) Meek, Pal. Missouri, p. 52, pi. ii, fig. 7.
Shell of medium size, elongate triangularly-ovate, much higher than long, suberect; hinge-line shorter than the width of the shell below; ante- rior margin concave; base sharply and narrowly rounded; posterior margin broadly rounded, sloping abruptly forward in the upper part to meet the hinge-line, considerably contracting the length of the shell at this point. Surface of the valves highly convex near the front border, and somewhat gradually sloping toward the posterior margin; umbonal ridge rounded; beaks obtuse, nearly or quite terminal. Surface of the shell marked by concentric lines of growth, obscurely preserved on the casts.
This species differs from the last (Jf. aviculoides)^ with which it is asso- ciated, in the less convexity of the valves and more rounded umbonal ridge, as well as in wanting the narrow and prolonged beak of that species. The example used and figured differs from those figured by Mr. Meek {loc. cit.) only in having the hinge-line a little shorter. This feature, however, varies much among the specimens in the collection.
Formation and locality, — Occurs with the preceding.
Genus SEDGEWICKIA McCoy.
SEtoaEWIOKIA ! CON02LV A. Plate VI, flg. 3. Sedgewickiaf <^mcava Meek & Hayden, Pal. Up. Missouri, p. 41, pi. 1, fig. 8, 1864. Lyorma conoam M. & H., Trans. Albany Inst, vol. iv, March, 1858.
Among specimens on a yellowish-brown sandy shale from the Wahsatch Mountains, near Salt Lake City, is one so nearly resembling the figure cited above that we cannot hesitate in considering it as specifically identical. The specimen is about one-third longer than the figure cited, being about nine-tenths of an inch long. The form is transversely elongate-elliptical,
COAL MEASURE AND PEBMO OARrBO^IFEEODS FOSSILS. 277
a little more than twice as long as high, with the posterior extremity rounded and recurved; beak large, prominent, and situated at about the anterior third of the length; anterior end rounded, and longest below the middle; basal line slightly convex, more abruptly directed upward for the posterior third of its length; cardinal line concave; valve convex, becoming slightly more compressed posteriorly; marked by slight concentric undulations of growth parallel with the margins.
Formation and locality. — Upper Coal-Measures (Permo-Carboniferous), foot-hills, southeast of Salt Lake City, Wah^atch Range, Utah. Collected by S. F. Emmons.
Genus CARDIOMORPHA De Koninck. Oabdiomorpha Missoubh;nsis.
Plate VI, figB. 1-2, Cardiomorpha Missouriensis Swallow, Trans. Acad. Sei. St. Louis, vol. 1, p. 207, 1858.
Shell rather below the medium size, transversely elongate and sub- quadrangular in general outline ; valves ventricose, or even gibbous, pre- senting an almost cylindrical form, Hinge-line more than half the length of the shell, very slightly arcuate and abruptly rounding into the posterior extremity, which is obliquely rounded, and longest below ; basal margin nearly straight in the middle, curving more abruptly at each extremity; anterior end short, rounded; beaks tumid and enrolled, situated rather within the anterior third of the length ; umbonal prominence faintly sub- angular; cardinal slope narrow and abrupt. Surface of the shell marked with fine concentric strise of growth and stronger undulations. Substance of the shell very thin.
The specimens described differ so litttle from examples of the species received from the Coal-Measuresof Canton, Illinois, that- they are not readily distinguished when placed together; the most marked difference being the slightly greater length of the anterior end, and somewhat more prominent beaks. The shell is also a little more excavated in front of the beaks ; but these differences are not strong enough to be deemed of specific importance.
Formation and locality. — In black shale of Coal- Measure age, near Eberhardt Mills, White Pine. Collection of Arnold Hague, esq.
278 PALiBOlfTOLOGT.
CEPHALOPODA.
Genus CYRTOCERAS Goldf. Cybtocbras cbssatob n. sp.
Plate VI, fig. 15.
Shell of rather small size, moderately curving throughout its length, and rapidly expanding from below upward; the specimen measured showr ing an increase of diameter from less than half an inch to about eight-tenths of an inch in a length of only about nine-tenths of one inch ; section circu- lar. Surface marked by strong, rather distant, rounded annulations, which are separated by concave interspaces. The annulations are directed slightly upward or forward in crossing the back of the shell, and become gradually more distant with the increased growth of the individual ; four of these annulations occupy a length of the shell equal to its diameter at the upper- most of those counted. Septa equal in number to the annulations, their extreme outer margins reaching nearly to the crest of the ridges in some cases ; others are more distant. Siphuncle small, submarginal, situated a little to the right of the dorsal line (perhaps only an accidental feature).
Surface of the shell marked by fine, crowded, thread-like, encircling striae on both ridges and interspaces.
The species closely resembles in many of its characters that figured by Meek and Worthen (GeoL Ills., vol. ii, plate 24, fig. 3), under the name of Orthoceras annulato-costatum^ but differs in its circular section, more rapidly expanding tube, and longitudinal curvature. The latter feature, together with the dorsally-situated siphuncle, would place the species under the genus CyrtoceraSy and we strongly suspect the Illinois shell will also prove to belong to the same genus when its true characters are ascertained. The 0. Chester ensis of Swallow (Trans. St. Louis Acad. Nat. Sci., vol. ii, p. 98) is still further removed from this one by its closely-arranged annulations, though it is not stated if it be curved or straight.
Formation and locality. — ^In black shales of probably Coal-Measure age, near Eberhardt Mill, White Pine, Nevada; associated with Goniatites Kingii and Cardiomorpha Missouriensis. Collected by Arnold Hague, esq.
COALMBASUEE AND PBRMO OAEBONIPEROUS FOSSILS. 279 Genus GONIATITES De Haan.
GONIATITES KiNail 11. sp. Plate VI, figs. 9-14.
Shell rather below the medium size, subglobose, the length and breadth being about as three to two; composed of from four to six volutions, which are broadly rounded over the dorsum and subangular at the margin of the broad open umbilicus, into which the sides slope abruptly, forming an angle of about forty-five degrees to the axis of tlie shell. Each volution em- braces the preceding one to near the lateral angle, leaving a very narrow surface exposed within the umbilicus. Extreme width of the volution equal to three times the length, measured from the ventral to the dorsal surface, at the center of the volution.
Surface of the shell and umbilicus marked by fine, subequal, trans- verse lines of growth, often becoming crowded, and forming incipient un- dulations on the back of the shell. Surface of the internal casts sometimes marked by transverse constrictions, caused by the thickening of the inner surface of the lip at stated periods of growth, as if for the purpose of strength- ening its substance. Two of these constrictions occur in the space of one volution, bringing them on opposite sides of the cast. Septa rather closely arranged and deeply lobed. The dorsal lobe is longer than wide, and deeply divided, forming two long, slender, lanceolate branches, with a shorter, trun- cated, central projection; dorsal saddle broadly conical, rounded above, and slightly inclined toward the dorsal lobe; lateral lobes as long as the dorsal saddle, obconical, pointed at the lower extremity; lateral saddles broader and shorter than the dorsal saddles..
The shell is somewhat remarkable for the great extent of the outer chamber, appearing from fractured individuals to consist of two complete volutions, and in some cases even more. It does not appear to attain a very large size; the largest fragment observed indicating a specimen of not more than two inches in diameter.
The species is of the type of G, spherictis Sow., but is less globose and the umbilicus much larger. There are several American species of the type known, as 6r. NoUnemis Cox and (?. globulus and G. lowensis M. & W. from
280 PALJBOKTOLOGY.
the Coal-Measvires, but our shell differs from all of them in the proportionate size of the whorls, in the form of the umbilicus, and in the form and dispo- sition of the septa to such an extent as to be not readily mistaken.
Formation and locality. — In black shale of the Coal-Measures, near Eberhardt Mill, White Pine, associated with Cyrtoceras cessator and Cardio- morpha Missouriemis. Collected by Arnold Hague, esq.
FOSSILS OF THE TRIASSIO FORMATION.
RADIATA.
ECHINODERMATA. Genus PENTACRINITES Miller.
PeNTACEINITES ASTEBISCUSf. Plate VI, fig. 16.
t Pentacrinites asteriscus M. & H., Proc. Acad. N. Sci. Phil, 1858, p. 49; 1860, p. 419} Pal. Up. Missouri, p. 67, pi. 3, fig. 2.
Several specimens of the separated disks of a Pentacrinites very simi- lar in character to P. asteriscus M. & H., but diflfering somewhat in form, but more particularly in their larger size, have been noticed among the col- lections from Dun Glen Pass, Pah-Ute Range. When compared with speci- mens of that species from localities of Jurassic age, they differ slightly in the more obtuse points of the star, and .the filling up of the angles between the points, and also in the broader form of the elliptical figures on the ar- ticulating surfaces of the disks. As these features, however, are not constant among any considerable number of specimens of that species, even when found together on the same block, we hesitate to consider them of specific importance. The large size is the most noticeable feature of these speci- mens, some of which exceed one-fourth of an inch in diameter, while those of that species seldom reach one-fifth of an inch, and are usually much smaller. It is possible that this may prove to be a very distinct form wherr
FOSSILS OP THE TBIASSIO FORMATION. 281
more and better material shall have been examined, but at present we hesi- tate to so consider it.
Formation and locality. — In limestone of supposed Triassic age, asso- ciated with Spiriferina Horn fray i and Terehratula Humboldtensis Gabb., near Dim Glen Pass, Pah-Ute Range, Nevada. Collected by Arnold Hague, esq.
BRACHIOPODA.
Genus SPIRIFERINA D'Orb.
Spibifebina Homfrayi ?.
Plate VI, fig. 18.
t Spirifer Homfrayi Gabb, Geol. Sur. Gal., Pal., vol. 1, p. 35, pi. 6, fig. 38.
It is with considerable hesitation that we refer to the above species some very imperfect fragments in the Dun Glen collections. They con- sist of two imperfect dorsal valves, and some still more fragmentary ventrals; the lat|;er altogether too imperfect for iUustration. The dorsal valves are depressed-convex, with slightly rounded cardinal extremities; the mesial fold is simple, broad, and rounded, the front forming a little more than one- fourth of the entire width of the valve, measured along the hinge-line. The sides of the shell are each marked by seven or eight simple, scarcely angu- lar plications, rapidly decreasing in size from the middle outward; front margin nearly semicircular in outline. The ventral valve has been erect and pointed at the beak; the plications appear more angular than those of the dorsal, and the area of considerable height.
The specimens are badly exfoliated, thus rendering the surface-charac- ters obscure. The texture of the shell cannot be distinctly made out, but appears to have been punctate, and for this reason we have classed it under the genus Spiriferina^ although it may possibly not be properly referred.
Formation and locality, — In dark-colored limestone of Triassic age, one and a half miles south of Dun Glen Pass, Pah-Ute Range, Nevada. Col- lected by Arnold Hague, esq.
Spibifeba (Spibifebina !) Alia n. sp.
Plate VI, fig. 17.
Shell of medium size, transversely broad-ovate ; the width about one-
282 PALAEONTOLOGY.
sixth greater than the length, measuring on the ventral valve. Valves rotund, with rounded hinge-extremities. Beak of the ventral valve obtuse, incurved, and rounded; area of only moderate height; middle of the valve marked by a well-defined mesial depression, the front of which is equal to more than, one-thii-d of the entire width of the valve. Dorsal valve not observed. Surface marked by numerous, rather fine, slightly angular, radi- ating costsB, which do not appear to bifurcate except on the mesial fold. There are eight plications marking the mesial sinus, near the front margin, on the specimen figured, and about twenty may be counted on each side of the valve. Interior unknown.
We know of no species of Spirifera or Spiriferina in rock of this age resembling the one under consideration or with which it can be confounded. The substance of the shell, like all those from the same locality, is badly exfoliated, and has apparently undergone some change, which has to some extent obliterated the natural features, so that we are not able to say defi- nitely if it be punctate or not, consequently are in some doubt in regard to its generic relations.
Formation and locality. — ^In dark-colored limestone of Triassic age, one and a half miles south of Dun Glen Pass, Pah-Ute Range, Nevada. Col- lected by Arnold Hague, esq.
Genus TEREBRATULA (Llhwyd.) Brug. Tebebbatula. Hxjmboldtensis.
Plate VI, figs. 22-24. Terebratula HumboldtenRis Gabb, Geol. Survey Oal., Pal., vol. 1, p* 34, plate 6, flg. 35,
Shell of medium size, elongate-oval or ovate, widest above or below the middle in different specimens; front of the shell truncate, marked by a simple fold and sinus on the front margin, or by a double fold on the dorsal, with a sinus between, and corresponding elevation and depression on the ven- tral side- Ventral valve usually slightly flattened across the middle; beak strong and broad, scarcely incurved, truncated by a rather large perfora- tion; cardinal borders broad, strongly inflected and flattened, so as to form an angularity along the edge of the bea£
Surface of the shell marked by strong, irregular, concentric varices of
FOSSILS OF THE TRIASSIC FOBMATION, 2^
growth, but without other visible markings. The substance of the shell appears to have been finely punctate; but, owing to some chemical change, the structure is usually obliterated.
The species is a very variable one, both in general form and in the features of the front margin; sometimes being entirely plain, or having a simple elevation and sinus, or being biplicate on the dorsal side, and appar- ently triplicate on the ventral. These features seldom mark the young or half-grown shells, and on the older specimens are usually confined to the anterior third of the valves.
Formation and locality, — In limestone of Triassic age, near Dun Glen Pass, Pah-Ute Range, Nievada. Collected by Arnold Hague, esq.
LAMELLIBRANCHIATA.
Genus EDMONDIA De Koninck. Edmonbia Myrina n. sp.
Plate VI, fig. 19.
Shell rather below the medium size, transversely ovate, the length nearly one-third greater than the height exclusive of the beaks. Valves very convex, becoming almost inflated near the anterior end and on the umbones; beaks proportionally large and tumid, situated near the anterior end, and projecting largely above the hinge-line; anterior extremity short and rounded; basal line gently convex; posterior extremity more broadly rounded than the anterior; cardinal line nearly two-thirds the length of the shell and gently curved throughout. Surface marked by obscure lines of growth; interior features not determined.
The specimens consist of internal casts, preserving but fragments of the shell in a highly crystalline condition, and do not reveal the true sur- face of tl>e shell, nor the exact generic relations of the species.
Formation and hcdlity. — In limestone of Triassic age, at Dun Glen, Pah- Ute Range. Collected by Arnold Hague, esq.
284 PALEONTOLOGY.
FOSSILS OF THE JURASSIC PERIOD.
BRACHIOPODA. Genus RHYNCHONELLA Fischer.
RHYNCHONBLLA MyBINA II. sp. Plate Vir, figs. 1-5.
Shell of medium size, very broadly ovate, being wider than long; the greatest diameter below the middle, valves depressed-convex, the dorsal much the deepest and nearly evenly convex from beak to base, and also transversely. Ventral valve somewhat unevenly convex, slightly flattened toward the sides, and moderately depressed in front to form the proportion- ally broad mesial extension ; beak rather large, pointed, strongly curved upward, and projecting considerably beyond the dorsal valve.
Surface marked by from thirty-two to thirty-four low, rounded plica- tions, eight to ten of which are elevated on the dorsal valve forward of the middle of the shell, forming the rather wide but only moderately elevated mesial fold and a corresponding number impressed on the ventral valve. Minute surface-structure of the shell finely but evenly marked with con- centric lines of growth.
This is a very pretty species, and is characterized by the moderately fine plications of the surface, which are of nearly equal strength on all parts of the shell, those of the mesial elevation being hardly perceptibly larger than those on the sides. The species bears considerable resemblance to Rhynchonella variam Schl. of the Inferior Oolite from Whitby, England, but differs in the more evenly convex valves and in the rounded plications, those of that species being slightly angular in the specimens examined.
Formation and locality. — In light-colored limestones of Jurassic age, at Flaming Gorge, Uinta Range, Utah.
EHYNOHONELLA aNATaOPHOBA !. Plate VII^ fig. 6. Rhynchonella gnatlwphora Meek f , GeoL Sarv. Gal., Pal., vol. 1, p. 39, pi. 8, fig. 1.
A few individuals referred with doubt to this species occur in the collections from Flaming Gorge. The reference, however, is very unsatis-
FOSSILS OF THE JURASSIC PERIOD. 285
factory, and, on examining specimens of that species, appears even more uncertain; still, the differences are not so great as to positively preclude the possibility of specific identification. The individual represented on plate 7, fig. 6, is perhaps as closely related to Meek's species as any one seen, but differs very materially in the strength of the plications on the lateral parts of the shell, there being from two to four on each side more than oil the most finely marked individuals referred to that species by its author ; the shell is also less rotund and more slender and delicate in habit.
Genus TEREBRATULA (Llhwyd.) Brug. Tebebratula AuausTA n. sp.
Plate VII, figs. 7-10.
Shell small, broadly ovate, the widest part being a little below the middle of the length; width of the shell less than the length; valves depressed-convex, the dorsal sometimes nearly flat, but usually two-thirds as convex as the ventral ; beak small, minutely perforate, and strongly incurved; cardinal slopes angular; margins of the shell acute. Surface marked by lines of growth without perceptible structure except the very fine punctae of the shell.
The species of this genus, when of the same general type, are so similar that it is extremely difficult to point out specific differences or insti- tute satisfactory comparisons, and the shells now under consideration belong to a form which is so often repeated, both in this and several other genera, that it would be useless to enter into any discussion of Specific characters ; therefore we shall rely upon the figures to tell their own story.
Formation and locality. — In limestones referred to the Jurassic, at Shoshone Springs, Augusta Mountains, Nevada.
LAMELLIBRANCHIATA.
Genus OSTREA Linn.
OSTEEA Sp.l.
Plate VII, fig. 12.
Compare 0. Ungelmanni Meek, Proc. Acad. Nat. Set. Phila., 1860, p. 311; Pal. Upper Missoari, p. 73, figs. A and B.
A single example, an impression of an upper valve, found associated
with the following species, appears to be entirely distinct. It is a much
286 PALiaiQNTOLOGY.
larger shell, and possesses all the features of a true Ostrea, The form is irregularly ovate in outline, moderately convex, and slightly curving poste- riorly ; length and breadth about as four to three, the expansion of the valve being most rapid on the posterior side below the middle; posterior border concave in the u|^r pai^ and idiarjdy rounded below ; anterior border r^fulariy and broadly rounded ; adductor muscular scar small, sub- marginal, situated above the middle of the length; the area embraced above the pallial line being not moFe than one-fourth as great as that below.
The specimen under consideration was at first supposed to be the young, or a small individual, of 0. Engelmanni Meek, but there is not the slightest evidence of plications, the shell is proportionally longer, and the muscular imprint proportionally smaller and more nearly submarginal; yet the resemblance to that species is quite strong, and it is possible that in such variable shells such changes may take place in the same species.
Formation and locality. — In rocks of Jurassic age, northwest of Raw- lings Station, Wyoming.
Genus GRYPH^A Lam.
GEYPHJEA CAtOEOLA var. Nebeascensis. Plate VII, fig. 11.
Oryphasa calceola var. Nebrascensis M. & H., Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., 18dl, p. 437; Pal. Upper Missouri, pp. 74-75, pi. 3, fig, 1.
Among the Jurassic fossils of the collection are numbers of a small
Oyster-like shell, which we suppose to be identical with many of those
referred to the above-named variety of Quenstedt's species G. calceola. The
specimens are mostly small and of variable form, the prevailing feature
being broadly and irregularly reniform, or curved-ovate; more or less
truncate at the posterior end ; the smaller valve being extremely shallow
and scarcely convex, while the attached valves are very irregular and
variable in depth and convexity, most of them being flattened and attached
over the greater part of their extent, with the edges abruptly curved
upward, to give the requisite depth, others scarcely showing any mark of
attachment, and still others are squarely and vertically truncate at thb
upper extremity, similar to those represented in the Pal. Upper Missouri,
FOSSILS OF THE JDRASSIO PERIOD. 287
pi. 3, figs. 1 6 and c. The most general feature seems to be their small size, although they difier in this respect, for while the majority of the speci- mens range from half to three-fourths of an inch in length, other examples are found attaining a length of an inch and a half.
It will be seen, by reference to the remarks of Messrs. Meek & Hayden on this species, that they have met with all these various phases and varia- tions among their specimens, although they speak of examples of much larger size, where the attached valves are deep and strongly arcuate, with large, strongly incurved beaks. These they term *' normal forms" of the variety, although it would seem that from some of their localities these forms are nearly or quite absent, and that the flattened forms prevaiL Among the examples examined by us there are none of these '* normal forms", but all are of the megularly convex, the squarely truncate, or the flattened forms above referred to ; and it seems to us that these forms are much more likely to prove an entirely distinct species from the so-called "normal forms" than that they are merely individual differences. In fact, from the specimens before us, and from the figures above referred to, it appears that there is but little reason for considering the forms under con- sideration as belonging to any other genus than Ostrea ; while those referred to as '^normal forms" are unquestionably txMQ Gryphcda.^
In the flattened and almost wholly attached examples, the form and characters are so exactly similar to Ostrea congesta Conrad, from the Creta- ceotis formations, that it is nearly or quite impossible to say wherein they differ, except, perhaps, that they are not so gregarious or so densely packed together as that species often is.
Formation and locality, ^Au shaly limestone of Jurassic age, at Sheep Creek, Uinta Range, Utah, associated with Camptonectes bellistriatus, Penta- crinites asteriscuSj <fec.; and on Ashley Creek, Uinta Range, associated with Camptonectes? extenuatuSy Bellemnites densaj &c. Collected by S, F. Em- mons, esq.
♦ Since the above paragraph was written, Dr. 0. A. White has described these small shallow forms under the name Ostrea strigilecula (see Pal. Bep. Geograph. and Geol. Surv. and Expl. West of 100th Merid., Lieut. Wheeler in charge, by 0. A .White, p. 163, pi. xiii, fig. 3).
28a PALEONTOLOGY.
Genus AVICULOPECTEN McCoy.
AVICULOPECTEN (EUMICKOTIS ?) AUOUSTENSIS n. Sp. Plate vil, figs, 14-16,
Shdl small, broadly ovate, higher than wide ; length of the hinge equal to about half the height of the shell, the anterior side straight and forming two-thirds of the entire length, posterior side slightly declining from the beak; left valve moderately convex, most prominent on the umbone; beak small, obtusely pointed and but slightly projecting beyond the' hinge-line; auriculations depressed, but not distinctly separated from the body of the shell, the anterior one of moderate size, posterior one quite small. Surface of the valve marked by simple rounded ribs of equal strength, except pn the. left auriculation, where they are finer, somewhat corrugated, and strongly curved upward to the margin. Right valve flat or very slightly convex; beak depressed and not extending beyond the hinge-line; ears much more distinctly marked than on the left valve, the lines separating them from the body of the shell, strong, nearly straight, and rapidly diverging from the beak, inclosing an angle of about ninety degrees; anterior auriculation. large, rounding inward from the extremity. Bj^ssal notch more than a third as deep as the length of the ear, broad and rounded at the bottom. Surface- markings similar to those of the opposite valve.
The specimens from which the description is taken are slightly exfoliated and do not present the natural surface-markings; but another fragment j)resenting a weathered surface shows concentric strise, which are strongly vaulted in crossing the radii, but not distinctly marked in the depressions.
The species has much resemblance, especially the left valve, to many of those referred by Mr. Meek to his genus JEumicrotis, in general form and surface-markings, but differs strongly in the large anterior auriculation and byssal notch of the right valve, con'esponding in this respect more nearly with Aviculopecteny and we -are undecided as to which genus they ought properly to be referred.
Formation and hcality.-r-ln limestone referred to the Jurassic, Shoshone Springs, Augusta Mountains. Collected by S. F. Emmons, esq.
FOSSILS OF THE JURASSIC PERIOD. 289
Genus EUMICROTIS Meek.
EUMICEOTIS CURTA. Plate VII, ^g. 24.
Avicula curia Hall, Stans. Rept. Salt Lake, p. 412, ph 2, fig. L
Avicula {Monotis) tenuicostattis M. & H., Proc. A. N. Sci. Phil., 1858, p. 60.
Monotis curta M. & H., Proc. A. N. Sci. Phil., 1860, p. 418.
Eumicrotis curta M. & H., Smithsonian Check-List N. Am. Invert. Foss., 18G4.
Uumicrotis curta M. & H., Pal. Upper Missouri, p. 81, pi. 3, fig. 10.
Shell small, suborbicular or obliquely ovate, a little higher than long, or height and length subequal; valves convex, the left one the most rotund. Hinge-line short, compressed behind and forming a small, obtusely-angular wing; anterior side very short, scarcely forming a wing, the anterior margin rounding nearly to the beak; posterior margin gradually sloping backward from the extremity of the hinge to a point below the middle of the valve, whence it is rather sharply rounded to the junction with the basal line. Base slightly prolonged on the posterior side of the median line, giving a little obliquity to the shell. Right valve apparently less convex than the left. Surface marked by distinct radiating lines or ribs, which are narrower than the spaces between, and usually become obscure or obsolete before reaching the beaks. On the right valve, the radii are much less strongly marked, while the concentric stride become more distinct.
Among a large number of specimens there are no right valves in a con- dition to show the hinge-features or byssal notch, and we are therefore left somewhat in doubt concerning these features. The shells appear to possess all the essential characters of E, curta, but vary so much among themselves as to give rise to some doubt.
Formation and locality/. — In calcareous beds of Jurassic age, above the gypsum beds at Ashley Creek, Uinta Range, Utah. Collected by S. F. Emmons, esq.
Genus CAMPTONECTES Agassiz. Camptonectes bellisteiatus Meek,
Plate VII, fig. 13.
Camptonectes bellistriatus Meek, Pal. Upper Missouri (Smithsonian Contributions to Knowledge), p. 77, figs. A~D.
** Shell very thin, compressed-lenticular, suborbicular in outline; valves 19 P R
290 PALAEONTOLOGY.
nearly equally convex; liinge-line equaling two-fifths to one-half the trans- verse diameter of the valves; posterior ear very short, or nearly obsolete, flat, and obliquely truncated; anterior ear larger, flattened, and marked by rather distinct lines of growth in the right valve, separated from the adjacent margin by a more or less angular sinus, one-third to one-half as deep as the length of the ear, measuring from the beak. Surface striae very fine, regu- lar, sharply impressed, and increasing in number by the intercalation of others between as they diverge in extending from the umbonal region, so strongly arched as to run out on the hinge-line near the beaks; concentric striae fine, regular, closely an-anged, and often nearly or quite obsolete on the impressed spaces between the impressed radiating striae, to which latter they impart a subpunctate appearance."
The above is a transcript of Mr, Meek's description of this species. Although there are quite a number of specimens in the collection which are referable to it, there are none which give the entire characters of the shell; nor are there any from which a figure could be made without some resto- ration. Still the characters of the species are, nevertheless, shown so dis- tinctly as to leave no doubt as to the correct reference. The specimens are generally smaller than the figures given by Mr. Meek, and some of them are a little more oblique in outline, while the characters of the sur- face vary from being nearly smooth to those strongly cancellated; while on some the concentric striae are strongest, and on others nearly obsolete.
, Formation and locality. — Jurassic; specimens have been recognized from northwest of Rawlings Station, Wyoming, and from Sheep Creek, and Flaming Gorge, Uinta Range, Utah. Collected by S. F. Emmons, esq.
Camptonectes extenuatus Meek.
Plate VII, fig. 18.
Ca7nptonecte8 f ecctennaim Meek. Pal. Upper Missouri (Smitbsoniau Contributions to
Knowledge), p. 78. Camptonectes f perienuis M,^ ib., pi. iii, explanations of fig. 6,
Shell small, erect, bi^oadly ovate, a little higher than wide, the point of greatest width being near the middle of the shell; hinge-line short, about half as long as the width of the valve; ears small, the anterior one slightly
FOSSILS OF THE JURASSIC PERIOD. 291
obtuse at the outer angle, the posterior margin sloping gently backward toward the body of the shell, the posterior wing not fully determined. Body of the (right ?) valve convex, most prominent, and almost subangular toward the \imbo; beak small, pointed, scarcely projecting beyond the hinge-line; margin of the shell broadly rounded anteriorly and posteriorly, and some- what acutely rounded at the base.
Surface of the valve in the specimen seen marked by fine, concentric, impressed lines, and by stronger radiating lines. These latter seem to be composed of rows of fine dots, or punctures, and are strongly divergent, so as to curve abruptly upward toward the margin on the sides of the valve, the increase being entirely by interstitial addition.
The shell diflfers from C bellistriata Meek in its smaller size, convex valves, more erect form, and in the proportional height and width of the valve, this being higher than wide, while the reverse is true of the other.
There can be no doubt that this is the shell to which Mr. Meek gave the above names, although he had not seen the radiating strise of the surface so plainly as to feel sure of their existence. On the specimen used in the above description, the striae are very distinct, and have exactly the character of that of C, bellistriata; consequently, there can be no doubt of its correct reference to the genus CamptonedeSj although in our specimens the anterior wing and sinus have not been satisfactorily determined, that part in the figure having to be made from analogy.
Formation and locality. — In light-colored shales of Jurassic age, north- west of Rawlings Station, Wyoming.
Camptonectes pertenuisteiatus n. sp.
Plate VII, fig. 17.
Shell small, very broadly ovate, the point of greatest width being about the middle of the length, width equal to about four-fifths of the height; base and sides of the shell regularly rounded. Right valve very depressed- convex or almost flattened; hinge-line short, the anterior side equal to a little more than one-third of the width of the valve below; posterior side unknown, the specimen being mutilated in this part. Beak small, pointed, not rising above the line of the hinge; cardinal slopes nearly straight from
292 PALJilONTOLOGY.
the beak to a little above the middle of the length, and embracing an angle of about ninety degrees; anterior wing nan^ow, separated from the body of the shell by a deep, sharply rounded notch, which extends about half-way to the center of the valve; a strongly-depressed sinus passes from the base of the notch to the beak, separating the upper part of the wing from the body of the shell.
Surface of the shell marked by rather distinct, concentric lines of growth, which are crossed by exceedingly fine, radiating strise, imperceptible except by the aid of a lens. The striae diverge rapidly from the median line, and curve upward rather more strongly toward the sides of the shell
The shell differs from C, ? extenuatus Meek and Hay den (Pal. Upper Missouri, p. 78, plate iii, fig. 6) in its more attenuated beak, flattened valve, finer strict, and more elongate form.
Formation and locality. — In limestone of Jurassic age, northwest of Rawlings Station, Wyoming.
Genus LIMA Brug. Lima (Plagiostoma) occidentalis n. sp.
Plate VII, fig. 23.
Shell of medium size or smaller, very broadly ovate, the height slightly exceeding the greatest width; widest point about one-third of the height from the basal extremity, below which the margin is regularly and evenly rounded, and above the posterior border is more rapidly rounded and con- tracted to the extremity of the short hinge-line, with which it blends with- out perceptible angle. Valves strongly convex, most ventricose near the middle of the anterior border, from which point the surface declines to the postero-cardinal and postero-basal margins; beaks apparently small, incon- spicuous, and somewhat appressed (?). Anterior wing minute, posterior wing small, but alated, not distinctly separated from the body of the shell; ligamental area not observed. Anterior border of the shell strongly con- cave, the concavity extending more than half the height of the shell.
Surface of the shell marked by simple, strong, rounded radii, about sixty in number, posterior to the junction of the anterior and basal borders, with a few incipient radii observable on the anterior slope. The radii are
FOSSILS OF THE JURASSIC PERIOD. 203
strongest near the middle of the basal border, and decrease very slightly in size anterior to this point; but posteriorly they decrease more rapidly, and on and near the posterior alation are quite fine- Interspaces narrow and concave.
This species is closely allied to Lima lineata Gold. (= Plagiosfoma lineata of authors,) but differs in being more regularly rounded on the basal and pos- tero-basal borders, as well as in being more erect, that species having con- siderable obliquity, the longest point of the base being much nearer the anterior side. The beak is also shorter, and not nearly so prominent, and the greatest convexity of the shell nearer the anterior margin, while that one is most prominent near the middle of the valve, and nearly evenly rounded in both directions from this point. The posterior wing of this species is more alate than in that one, and more finely ribbed, giving about fifteen additional ribs over and above the number counted on that species. This character is perhaps the most distinctly marked feature of the species, and one that will serve to readily distinguish them, although the general resemblance of the shells is very great.
Formation and locality. — In cherty limestones of Jurassic age, at Flam- ing Gorge, Uinta Range, Utah. Collected by S. F. Emmons, esq.
Genus TRIGONIA Brug. Trigonia quadrangulaeis n. sp.
Plate VII, fig. 22.
Shell small, subquadrangular in outline, with depressed convex valves and flattened inconspicuous beaks; length of the shell a little greater than the height; anterior end broad and rather squarely truncate: the margin but slightly rounded; basal line somewhat straightened or but slightly con- vex, more strongly rounded behind; posterior end obliquely truncate, long- est below; cardinal border short, not more than two-thirds the length of the valve, very little concave, and subparallel with the basal margin.
Surface of the valve marked by a flattened, distinctly elevated ridge, which rises from behind the beaks, and passes along the umbonal slope, extending beyond the posterior margin of the valve in a squarish projec- tion, equal in extent to the elevation of the ridge. Above the ridge, the
294 PALEONTOLOGY.
cardinal slope is narrow and depressed, marked only by transverse lines of growth. The surface of the ridge is marked by irregular transverse lines of nodes. The body of the shell is marked by a series of low, rounded ridges or undulations, which originate in a point at the edge of the flattened umbonal ridge, and extend in the direction of the postero-basal angle of the shell, where they are again bent forward, forming a series of acute angles marking the umbonal line of the shell, and are directed with a sKghtly downward tendency to the anterior margin. Along the umbonal ridge of the valv^e the undulations are broad and rounded, becoming narrow again in their anterior extension.
The strong undulations of the body of the shell of this species is a distingxiishing feature, and one by which it will be readily recognized. It differs greatly in this feature from T. Conradi M. and H. (Pal. Upper Missouri, p. 83, pi. 3, fig. 11) from the Jurassic of the Black Hills, as well as in the subquadrangular form of the shell, that species being of a subtriangular form.
Formation and locality, — In light-colored, somewhat shaly, limestones of Jurassic age, near Como, Laramie Plains, Wyoming, associated with Penta- crinites asteriscus M. and H. and other Jurassic species. Collected by Arnold Hague, esq.
Genus SEPTOCARDIA n. gen.
Shell bivalve, equivalve, inequilateral, cardiform. Hinge strong; right valve with a strong, recurving, hooked tooth under the beak, and a deep cavity below and exterior to it, which is profoundly excavated in the thickened substance of the shell. In the left valve, a large, deep cavity corresponds to the tooth of the right valve. Lateral teeth obsolete. Liga- ment external, situated in a groove fonned by a thickened, overlapping portion of the shell posterior to the tooth and corresponding cavity. Ante- rior adductor muscular scar very large and deep, separated from the general cavity of the shell by a calcareous plate, or septum, extending across the anterior end of the valve on the inner side of the scar, thereby forming a distinct chamber in each valve. Posterior adductor scar much smaller, situated within the posterior cardinal margin. Pedal scars not observed.
FOSSILS OF THE JURASSIC PERIOD. 295
Surface of the shell marked, in the typical species, by strong, elevated, radiating' ribs, with ornamented surfaces similar to many of the recent species of Cardium. Type S, fypica.
The shells for which the above generic name is proposed are small, few specimens of the typical species exceeding three-eighths of an inch in their greatest diameter. Externally they closely resemble the Eocene forms of Carditay but the hinge-structure separates them at once from all other known forms. The cardinal border of the right valve appears almost as if composed of two distinct lamella? of shell; an inner and an outer one, the inner one originating on the inside of the umbonal cavity, and rising to the level of the valve margin, coalescing with the outer portion posteriorly, and diverging considerably anteriorly, so as to leave a gradually- widening space between the two, the anterior end of which is partitioned off, forming the anterior muscular scar, or pit, and leaving a smaller, somewhat triangular, cavity posterior to it. From the inner lamella bounding this cavity, the recurved, hooked tooth rises, overarching the cavity beneath. In the left valve, the two lamellse are less distinct; the whole cardinal border being thickened, and the cavity into which the tooth of the right valve fits is excavated in its substance, immediately in front or against the beak of the valve. There are no lateral teeth in either valve. The septum bounding the inner margin of the anterior muscular scar is similar to that of CucuUcea or Idonearca, except that it borders the anterior instead of the posterior muscle as in those genera, and in the species S, typica reaches almost to the basal margin of the valve,
The type-species occurs in rocks referred with some doubt to the Jurassic, although the general appearance of the shells would indicate a much more recent date.
Septocabdia typioa n. sp.
Plate VII, figs. 26-29.
Shell small, subrhomboidal in outline, the united valves angularly cor- difomi and very gibbous. Valves longer than high, oblique, and widening posteriorly; beaks strong, angularly tumid and enrolled, situated near the anterior end of the shell ; cardinal line arcuate, slightly elevated posteri-
296 PALEONTOLOGY.
orly; anterior end short and obtusely pointed; basal line gently rounded; posterior end broadly truncate and slightly rounded. Body of the valves very ventricose, subangular along tlie umbonal ridge, marked by strong radiating costae, separated by equally wide, flattened interspaces ; six or eight of these costae occupy the postero- cardinal slope, and from twelve to sixteen may be counted on the body and anterior portion of the ghell. The costae are flattened on the summit, and marked by closely-arranged, recurved, transverse ridges, or nodes, which become more crowded and stronger with the increased age of the shell Interior margin of the valves strongly den- ticulate from the squarely-depressed grooves, corresponding to the external ribs, and which extend to nearly one-third of the width of the shell.
Formation and locality. — In limestones referred to the Jurassic, at Sho- shone Springs, Augusta Mountains, Nevada. Collected by S. F. Emmons,
esq.
Septocardia Carditoidea n. sp.
Plate VII, fig. 25.
Shell of medium size, subrhomboidal in outline, longer than high, nar- row anteriorly, and widening behind. Valves ventricose, very angular along the umbonal bridge, rapidly sloping to the postero-cardinal margin, and more gently toward the anterior end of the shell ; beaks large, promi- nent, and strong ; placed well toward the anterior end, which is narrowly rounded ; basal line broadly rounded ; posterior extremity obliquely trun- cate, longest at the postero-basal angle. Internal features unknown. Sur- face marked by numerous, strong, sharply-elevated, angular, radiating costas, with sharply V-shaped interspaces, the exact number not deter- mined; those on the postero-cardinal slope near the basal angle count- ing about five in the space of half an inch, giving about a tenth of an inch from crest ta crest ; toward the cardinal line they become gradually finer. Those on the body of the shell appear to have been of nearly equal strength with those on the posterior part, becoming finer toward the anterior extremity. The costae are crossed transversely by fitie, closely-aiTanged, zigzag lines, strongly arched upward in crossing the ribs. Greatest length of the specimen, 1| inches; height, IJ inches.
This species differs from S, typica not only in its greater size, but in
FOSSILS OF THE JUBA8S1C PERIOD. 297
being proportionally longer, but most notably in the angular form of the ribs and interspaces, as well as in the diiBFerent style of transverse orna- mentation. The specimen presents much the appearance of an Eocene Cardita, and closely resembles C, alticostata Conrad ((7. transversa Lea) of the Claiborne beds in Alabama, except that it is narrower anteriorly.
Formation and locality, — In limestone referred to the Jurassic, Shoshone Springs, Augusta Mountains, Nevada. Collected by S. F. Emmons, esq.
Genus ASTARTE Sowerby.
ASTARTE ? ARENOSA n. Sp.
Plate VII, figs. 20-21.
Compare Tancredia Warrenana Meek and Hayden, Pal. Upper Missouri, p. 96, pL 3, fig. 7.
Shell small, the largest specimens not exceeding half an inch in length, by a height about two-thirds as great; form transversely suboval, or quadrangularly oval; cardinal line arcuate, but little more than half as long as the body of the shell, gradually and moderately declining posteriorly ; anterior end constricted in front of the beaks, and rather sharply rounded below; basal line broadly convex; posterior end narrow and obliquely truncate, being longest below at the junction with the basal border ; beaks small, incurved, moderately ventricose, and situated at about one-fourth of the length from the anterior end. Valves ventricose throughout, with a per- ceptible fullness along the umbonal slope, above which the shell declines more rapidly to the cardinal border. Features of the hinge and muscular system unknown. Surface of the shell smooth, so far as can be determined from the specimens examined.
At first, we were inclined to consider this shell as identical with Tan- credia Warrenana M. (Joe. cit), but on closer comparison with figures and description it would seem to be distinct. At least, it is not a Tancredia^ and may be equally distant from Astarte; but, in the absence of all generic features in the specimens beyond the external form, it is impossible to say definitely to what genus it does belong. It is an abundant species in some localities, the rock being literally filled with the impressions. It diff'ers specifically from the above-named shell in being less distinctly triangular
298 PALEONTOLOGY.
and in the more anterior position of its beaks, as well as in the want of convexity in the curvature of the antero-cardinal border, as would be required were it a species of Tancredia.
Formation and locality, — In red sandstones of Triassic or Jurassic? age, North head of Clialk Creek, Utah. Picked up in the debris^ and of no stratigraphical importance.
GASTEROPODA.
Genus NATICA Lam. Natica? Lelia n. sp.
Plato VII, figs. 19-21.
Shell small, globose; height and width about equal, and seldom exceed- ing a fifth of an inch in measurement. Volutions two and a half to three, the last one very rapidly expanding and ventricose, constituting almost the entire bulk of the shell; inner volutions minute, moderately elevated above the surface of the body- whorl, and somewhat regularly rounded, forming a very low spire; suture distinct but not channeled; aperture subpatulose or pear-shaped, higher than wide, largest below the middle, pointed at the upper extremity and rounded below, except near the junction with the col- umella, where it is almost subrimate; outer lip thin and sharp. Columella arcuate, rounded, without any appearance of a callus or thickening of any kind as far as can be determined from any of the examples in hand. (This portion of the shell is more or less concealed by adhering rock in all the individuals, so that this feature cannot be satisfactorily determined.) The strise, however, appear to pass from the body of the shell directly upon and over the solid, sl:ghtly-twisted, and non-umbilicated columella.
Surface of the shell smooth, appearing almost polished, except for the very fine striss of growth which are directed backward across the body of the volution.
The species has nearly the size and general appearance of Naticopsis nana Meek and Worthen, from the Coal-Measures of Illinois and the West, but differs in the columella being less straightened and prolonged below, not giving so great a basal extension to the aperture. The difterences of the character of the columella are too distinct to require comparison. The
FOSSILS OP THE JURASSIC PERIOD. 299
shell is most probably not a true Natica, and may possibly not belong to the same family; but as the real features of this portion cannot be satis- factorily determined, it remains a matter of doubt. It closely resembles, in general form, shells of the genus Neritopsis except for the smooth surface. It differs also from Neritoma Morris in wanting the peculiar callus of that genus and from Narica Reel, in the smooth surface and want of umbilicus. Formation andlocality, — In a greenish white hmestone supposed to be of Triassic age,* northwest of Rawlings Station, Wyoming, and on the East Fork of the Duchesne River, Uinta Range, Utah. Collected by S. F. Emmons, esq.
*I do not myself believe this to be Triassic, but it has been so referred by others.— R. P. W.
CLASSIFIED LIST OF THE FOSSILS DESCRIBED IN THIS REPORT.
Class.
Order.
Family.
Genus and species.
Formation.
Actinozoa Zoantharia .
Echinodermata ... 1 Crinoidea .
Brachiopoda .
Do
Do
Do
Do
Do
Do.......
Do
Do
Do
Do
Do
Do
Do
Do.......
Do
Do
Do ,
Do ,
Do
Do
Do
Do
Do
Do
Do
Do
Do
Do ,
Do
Do
Do
Do
Do ,
Do
Do ,
Do ,
CCELENTERATA. iFavositid® | Michelinasp. undet.... | Waverly group.
ANNULOIDA. iTPentacrinidae 1 Pentacrinites asteriscus? M. & H | Triassic.
Lyopomata
...do
...do
...do
-.-{?)
Arthropomata .
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do ,
do
Lyopomata . . .
do
do ,
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
Lamcllibranchiata ,
Do
Do
Do ,
Do
Do
Do
Monomyaria .
— . do
do
do
do
do
do
MOLLUSCOIDA (ARTICULATA?).
Lingulidae
....do
...do
Obolidse
..-.(?)
Orthidae
....do
Strophomenidae. ....do
.do.?.
...do.?
...do
...do
ProcTuctidae
....do
..-.do
....do
....do
Spiriferidae
....do
....do
...do
....do
....do
....do
....do
LingulidsB
....do
....do
Rhyachonellidae
....do
....do
....do
....(?) .
Terebratulidae . .
....do
.-..do
Lingulepis MaBran. sp
Lingulepis minuta n . sp ■
Lingulepis Elian, sp
Obolella discoida n. sp
Kutorgina minutissima n. sp
Orthis Pogonipensis n. sp
Orthis resupinata? Martin
Strophomena Nemia n.sp
Strophomena rhomboidalis Wilckins
Streptorhynchus equivalvis Hall
Streptorhynchus inflata W.&W
Strophodonta Canace H. & W
Leptaena Melita n.sp ..
Chonetes Loganensis n. sp
Productus Flemingi var. Burlingtonensis Hall
Productus laevicostus ? White
Productus semireticulatus Martin
Productus elegans ? N. & P
Spirifera Alba^pinensis n. sp
Spirifera? (Spiriferina) Allan, sp
Spirifera centronata Winchell
Spirifera imbrex? Hall
Spirifera setigera Hall
Spirifera striata Martin
Spiriferina? Allan, sp.
Spiriferina Homfrayi Gabb
Athyris Claytoni n.sp
A thyris planosulcata ? Phillips
Athyris subquadrata ? Hall
Rhynchonella Emmonsi n . sp
Rhynchonella gnathopbora Meek
Rhynchonella Myrinan. sp
Rhynchonella pustulosa ? White
Porambonites obscurus n. sp
Terebratula Augustensis n . sp
Terebratula Humboldtensis Gabb
Potsdam group. ....do. Quebec. Potsdam group, ....do.
Quebec group. Lower Carbon if. Quebec group. Waverly. ....do. ....do. Devonian. Quebec group. Waverly. Lower Carbonif. ....do. ...do. ...do. Waverly. Triassic. Waverly. Lower Carbonif. ....do. ...do. Triassic. ....do.
Lower Carbonif. ....do. ....do. Devonian. Jurassic. ....do. Waverly. Quebec. Jurassic ? . Triassic.
Terebratula Utah n.sp , Waverly
MOLLUSCA.
Ostreidae . .
....do
Pectinidae .
...do
....do
...do
....do
Ostrea sp. ? ? = O. Engelmanni Meek
Gryphaeacalceolavar. Nebrascensis M. & H. Aviculopecten (Eumicr. ?) Angustensis n. sp.
Aviculopecten curtocardinalis n . sp
Aviculopecten parvulusn. sp
Aviculopecten Weberensis n. sp
Eumicrotis curta Hall
Jurassic.
....do.
... do.
Permo-Carbonlf.
...do.
...do.
Jurassic.
302
CLASSIFIED LIST OF FOSSILS.
Class.
Order.
Family.
Genus and species.
Formation.
MOLLUSC A.
Lamellibranchlata . Do
Do
Do
Do
Do
Do
Do
Do
Do
Do
Do
Do
Do
Do
Do
Gasteropoda . .
Do ,
Do..'.
Do
Do
Do
Do
Do
Do
Cephalopoda.,
Do
Crustacea.
Do
Do,..., Do.... Do... Do.... Do.... Do.... Do....
Do
Do..... Do.....
Do
Do
Do
Do ....
Do
Do .... Do .... Do.....
Do
Do .... Do.....
Do
Do
Do
Dq...., Do
Monomyaria
do
do
do
do
do ,
Dimyaria
do
do
do
do ,
do
do
do
do
do
Pectinobranchiata do
do...
do
do
do
Rhiphidoglossa
do
do
Tetrabranchiata . . do
Trilobita .
do..
do,.
do..
do..
do .
do..
do..
do..
do..
do..
do..
do..
do..
do-.
do..
do,.
do..
do..
do..
do..
do..
do..
do..
do..
do..
do..
do..
Pectinidae
...do ^
...do
....do
PteriidaB
....do
Nuculanidae
Trigoniidae
Cardiomorphidae.
...do
Cardiidse
....do
...do
LucinidaR
Astartidae
Anatinidae?
FasciolariidaD ...
Naticidae ....
Solariidee
....do ,
....do
.-..do
Macluraeidse
Bellerophontidae
....do
Cyrtoceratidae . . Goniatitidae
Camptonectcs bellistriatus Meek
Camptonectes extenuatus M. & H
Camptonectes pertenuistriatus n. sp ... Lima (Plagiostoma) occidentalis n. sp . . ,
MyalinaaviculoidcsM, & H
Myalina Permiana Swallow
Nuculites triangulatus ^ . sp ,
Trigonia quadrangularis n . sp
Cardiomorpha Missouhensis Swallow. . .
Edmondia? Myrina n. sp ,
Lunulicardium fragosum Meek
Septocardia Carditoidea n . sp ,
Septocardia typica n. sp
Paracyclas peroccidens n.sp
Astarte? arenosan. sp ,
Sedge wickia ? concava Meek
F-usispira compactan.sp
Nadca? Lelia n. sp ,
Raphistoma acuta n . sp
Euomphalus laxus White
Euomphalus Utahensis n . sp
Euomphalus (Strap.) Ophirensisn. sp.
Maclurea minima n . sp
Bellerophon Neleusn. sp
Cyrtolitessinuatan. sp ,
Cyrtoceras cessator n, sp
Gpniatites Kingii n. sp
ARTICULATA.
Calymenidae
Calymenidae ? . . .
Paradojtidae ?
...do
....do......
....do
....do
....do
....do
....do
....do
Paradoxidse . ....do .
...do
...do
....do
....do
....do
....do
Asaphidae . . .
....do
....do
Prcetidae
...do
Agnostidae ..
...do
....do
....do
Conocephalites subcoronatus n. sp
Conoceph. (Pterocephalus) laliceps n. sp .
Crepicephalus (L . ) Anytus n . sp
Crepicephalus (L.) granulosus n. sp
Crepicephalus (L.)Haguein, sp
Crepicephalus maculosus n. sp.
Crepicephalus nitidus n, sp
Crepicephalus (L.) quadrans n. sp
Crepicephalus (L.) simulator n. sp
Crepicephalus (L . ) unisulcatus n . sp
Crepic. (Bathyurus?) angulatus n. sp .....
Ptychaspis f^ustulosa n.sp
Chariocephalus tumifrons n.sp
Dikellocephalus bilobatus n . sp ,
Dikellocephalus flabellifer n . sp
Dikellocephalus gothicus n. sp
Dikellocephalus multicinctus n. sp
Dikellocephalus quadriceps n. sp
Dikellocephalus Wahsatchensis n. sp
Ogygia parabola n. sp
Ogygia producta n. sp
Bathyurus Pogonipensis n . sp
Proetus Loganensisn. sp
Proetus peroccidens n. sp
Agnostus communis n. sp
AgnostusNeon n. sp
Agnostus prolongusn. sp
Agnostus tumidosus n. sp
Jurassic. ....do. ....do. ... do.
Permo-Carbonif. ....do. Devonian. Jurassic. Coal-Measurcs. Triassic. Devonian . Jurassic?. ....do. Devonian . Triassic?; loose. Permo-Carbonif. Quebec. Triassic ? . Quebec. Waverly. ....do. .-..do. Quebec; Devonian. Quebec. Coal-Measures. ... do.
Quebec.
Potsdam group.
....do.
....do.
....do.
....do.
....do.
Quebec.
Potsdam group.
....do.
... do.
....do,
....do.
....do.
....do.
Quebec.
Potsdam group .
Quebec.
....do.
Potsdam group.
....do.
Quebec.
Waverly.
...do.
Potsdam group.
....do.
....do.
....do.
EXPLANATION OF PLATE L*
Page. Obolella discoidea. , 205
Fig. 1. View of a dorsal valve, enlargetl, showing the orbicular form,
2. View of a ventral valve, showing the truncated heak. Enlarged.
LiXGULEPISt MINUTA 206
Fig. 3. View of a cast of the shorter valve, enlarged, showing muscular scars.
4. View of the cast of a long valve enlarged, showing the muscular scars more spreading than in the other valve.
LlNGULEPIS M^RA 206
Fig. 5. View of a supposed ventral valve showing the extended heak.
6. A larger valve having a shorter beak. This may be a dorsal valve.
7. Outline showing the relative gibbosity and length of the two valves,
LiNGTJLEPis Ella .* -. 232
Fig. 8, View of a dorsal (?) valve showing the truncation of the beak. Eularged to two diameters.
OlJTIlIS POGONIPENSIS 232
Fig. 9. View of a dorsal valve of rather more than the ordinary size. Enlarged.'
10. A ventral valve of the ordinary size, and of an elongate form, showing the elevation of the beak.
KUTOUGINA MINUTI8SIMA ^ 207
Fig. 11. View of a dorsal valve, greatly enlarged, showing the peculiar strise and the faint radiations on the surface. 12. A ventral valve having a more elongate form.
Leptjena Melita. 208
Figs. 13-14. Views of two different individuals, showing variation in the surface-characters.
Stropiiomena Nemea 233
Fig. 15. View of the specimen described, showing the general form and surface-striie.
PORAMBONITES OBSCURUS 234
Fig. 16, View of the exterior of a ventral valve, showing the lamellae projecting inward from the beak.
Maclurea minima 235
Fig. 17. View of the spire of an internal cast of a specimen. Enlarged.
18. View of the flat side of the same individual.
19. Profile view of the specimen, showing the depth of the shell.
* The line drawn by the side of figures indicates the natural aiie.
2
Pago.
Raphistoma acuta 235
Fig. 20. Profile of a specimen, showiDg the elevation of the spire. 21 and 22. Upper and lower surfaces of the same individual.
Cyijtolites sinuatus 237
Figs. 23-24. Lateral and profile views of a specimen, showing the features of the shell. Enlarged.
FUSISPIRA COMPACTA 236
Fig. 25. View of the specimen described, which is imperfect at both ends; the outline shows the probable form of the anterior end.
Agnostus Neon * ^ 229
Figs. 26-27. View of the cephalic and caudal shields, greatly enlarged, showing the features as seen on the specimens.
Agnostus communis 228
Fig. 28. View of the cephalic shield, greatly enlarged, showing the peculiar form of the glabella and the spine on its centtr. 29. Caudal shield. Enlarged.
Agnostus prolongus 230
Fig. 30. The cephalic shield, greatly enlarged, showing the great length jiud obscurely-marked glabella. 31. View of the caudal shield associated with the above cephalic shield.
Agnostus tumii»osus , 231
Fig. 32. View of the cephalic shield, with its peculiar and tumid glabella. Greatly enlarged.
Bathyurus Pogonipensis 243
Fig, 33. View of the pygidium described, showing the form and character of ribs, and the orna- menting granules on the axial rings. 34, Profile of the same, showing the elevation of the specimen.
DiKELLOCEPHALUS WaHSATCHENSIS 241
Fig. 35, View of the glabella and one fixed cheek. The wider depressions on the glabella are accidental depressions on the glabellar lobes.
DiKELLOCEPHALUS? GOTHICUS 242
Fig. 36. View of a pygidium, showing the peculiar character of the ribs of the lateral lobes.
DiKELLOCEPHALUS QUADRICEPS 240
Fig. 37. Enlarged view of the glabella and fixed cheeks, showing the peculiar form of the glabella and short frontal limb.
38. Profile of the same, showing the elevation of parts.
39. View of the pygidium, natural size.
40. Profile of the same, showing the great elevation.
U. S,^Geol.Exj)l. 40 Parallel
Pnmordial and Silurian
Plate I.
[.M. Martin Del.
J.Bien La.
EXPLANATION OF PLATE II.
Page. CONOCEPHALITES SUBCORONATU8 237
Fig. 1. View of a glabella and fixed cheeks, showiDg the general characters of the species. Enlarged.
Crepicepiialus (Loganellus) granulosus 214
Figs. 2-3. Vertical and profile views of a glabella and fixed cheeks, showing the form and surface-markings. Enlarged.
CONOCEPHALITES (PtEROCEPHALUS) LATICEPS 221
Fig. 4. View of the central parts of the head, showing the pecnliar form of glabella and ext/ended frontal limb.
5. A movable cheek, with a portion of the under surface of the front of the head.
6. A part of a thoracic segment, associated with the other parts.
7. View of an imperfect pygidium, found in the same rock.
Crepicephalus (Loganellus) nitidus 212
Fig. 8. View of the central portion of a head of the species, showing the character of these parts. 9-10. Two pygidia, showing some variations in the details.
Crepicephalus (Loganellus) quadrans 238
Fig. 11. A glabella and fixed cheeks, enlarged.
12. View of a cheek, enlarged to twice the natural size.
13. View of a pygidium, enlarged to three times the natural size*
Crepicephalus (Loganellus) Haguei 210
Fig. 14. View of an entire individual, enlarged to twice the natural size, showing the form and characters of the animal. 15. A single thoracic segment (third), enlarged to show more distinctly its structure.
Crepicephalus (Loganellus) simulator 218
Fig. 16. View of the central part of a head, showing the characters of the species. The lateral limbs have been broken off.
17. View of a movable cheek, enlarged to two diameters, showing the broad, flattened,
marginal border.
18. View of a much lai^er cheek, natural size (upper right-hand corner of plate).
Crepicephalus (Loganellus) Anytus 219
Fig. 19. View of the central parts of the head of a small individual, showing the angular glabella and strong ocular ridges.
20. View of a movable cheek, natural size, showing the striated surface.
21. A pygidinm from the same block as the other specimens.
Page. CPKPlCEPHALrS (LOGANELLU8) UNISULCATUS JilG
Fig. 22. View of the central part of the head, deprived of the postero-lateral limbs. 23. View of the pygidium, associated with the above
Chepicephalus (Loganellus) MACUL0SU8 215
Fig. 24. View of the central parts of the head, showing the rounded glabella, with faintly- marked furrows, and the postuloso surface of fixed cheek, and frontal limb.
25. A movable cheek of the same species, presenting the same surface-markings.
26. ? View of a pygidium found associated with the above i)art8, but not showing pustuloso
markings.
Ptychaspis pustulosa 223
Fig. 27. View of the glabella and fixed cheeks, the postero-lateral limbs having been removed.
ChFPICEPHALUS (BATHYURUSf) AKGULATU8 220
Fig. 28. View of the specimen described, as it appears on a gutta-percha cast, from the im- j)re8sion in the stone.
DiKELLOCEPlIALUS FLABELLIFER 227
Figs. 29-30. Vertical and profile views of the pygidium, showing the broad, undulating, lateral lobes and digitate external border.
OGVGIA PROpUCTA 244
Fig. 31. View of the central parts of the head, the anterior limb broken away. The largo palpebral lobes are shown, extending almost to the top of the glabella.
32. View of a fixed cheek, associated with the glabella.
33. View of an impression, showing the pygidium, which has probably been shortened by
the contortion of the shale, and part of the thorax, while the one attached to the thorax has been obliquely lengthened.
34. View of a separated pygidium.
Ogygia parabola 245
Fig. 35. Viow of the pygidium, showing the elongate form and the straight cylindrical axis, with the single bulbous anterior ring.
DiKELLOCEPlIALUS (PtEROCEPHALUS) BILOBATCS 220
Fig. 36. View of the under side of the pygidium described, showing the form and broad recurv- ing selvage.
Dikellocephalus MULTICINCTU8 , 226
Fig. 37. View of the specimen described, showing the general form, with the margins restored in outline, partly from another specimen.
ChARIOCEPHALUS TtJMIFRONS 224
Fig. 38. View of the glabella and fixed cheeks, showing the glabella projecting in front of the anterior limb, and the two deep glabellar furrows. 30. Profile view of the same individual, showing the short frontal limb, with the glabella projecting beyond it.
U. S. GeoIExpl. 40 Parallel
Primordial and Silurian
Plate IP
11.
21
..^^ 35
H.M. Martin Del,
J.Biai litii
EXPLANATION OF PLATE IIL
Pftge.
STRoniODONTA Canace 246
Fig. 1. View of a very young individual.
2-3. Dorsal and ventral views of an older individual, presenting the features of the species.
KlIYNCHONELLA EmMONSI - 247
Figs. 4-8. Dorsal, ventral, profile, front, and cardinal views of a full-grown and well-formed specimen.
LUNLLICARDIUM FRAGOSUM 249
Fig. 9. View of a short form, enlarged, showing strong undulations, and retaining the ante- rior flange, of large size.
10. An elongated form, enlarged, showing a narrower anterior projection.
11. A right valve of medium proportions, showing a strong anterior flange.
NUCULITES TRIANGULUS 248
Fig. 12. View of a left valve, showing the surface-characters.
13. View of the same individual after having the shell removed from all but the hinge- margin, and showing the imiiression of the clavicle very faintly.
Paracyclas peroccidens - -.. 248
Fig. 14. View of a specimen, preserving a part of the external shell,
15-17. Right, left, and profile views of a cast, showing the muscular imprints and pallial line.
Bellerophon Neleus 250
Fig. 18. View of a fragment, showing the callus of the inner lip and a small part preserving the external ornamentation.
19. Front view of an internal cast, showing the form of the lip and dorsal slit.
20. Profile view of the same individual, showing the axial cavity filled with the thick-
ened shell-substance.
U.S. GeoI.Ezi)1.40Paranel
Devonian
Plate ILL
1.
IV^
H.M, Martin Del.
J.Bien lith.
EXPLANATION OF PLATE IV.
rago. STREPTOKIIYNCnUS INEQUALI8 252
Fig. 1. View of a dorsal valve, showiug an unusual breadth, from Ogden Canon.
2. View of a narrower ventral valve, showing liner and more even striai, from Logan Caiion.
StREPTOKH YNCHUS INFLATU8 253
Fig. 3. View of a very rotund, dorsal valve, with fine, even. striae, from Dry Canon.
StROPIIOMENA miOMBOtDALlS 253
Fig. 4. View of a specimen from Dry CaSon, showing fine, even wrinkles.
Spirifera centronata 254
Fig. 5. View of a large dorsal valve, showing the usual features of the species, Dry Cuuun. 6. A smaller ventral valve, from the same locality.
Spirifera Alba-pinensis 255
Fig. 7. View of a ventral valve, from a siliceous layer at White Pine, Nevada, as obtained by gutta-percha cast from the matrix. 8. Another ventral valve, from Logan Canon, Utah.
CnONETES LOGANENSIS 253
Fig. 9. View of tlie specimen described.
Athyris planosulcata ? 257
Fig. 10. View of a small ventral valve from Logan Cafion.
11. A partial cast of another ventral valve from Cottonwood Cafion, Utah,
Rhyxciionella pustulosa?.- 257
Figs. 12-13. Dorsal and front views of a specimen from Dry Cafion, Utah. Enlarged. 14. Dorsal view of the specimen, natural size.
ATHYRife Claytoni 256
Figs. 15-17. Dorsal profile anct ventral views of a specimen of the species, showiug the form of shell and the perforation of the beak.
Terebratula Utah 258
Fig. 18. View of a ventral valve, natural size.
MiCllELINA sp.? 251
Fig 19. View of the specimen referred to under the description.
2
Pajre.
EuoMPHALUS (Strapakollus) Utahensis a59
Fig. 20. View of the upper snrface of a large individual f . om Ogden CaHoD, showing the obso- lescence of the carina on the outer volution.
21. View of a smaller individual from Dry Ca&on, as obtained by gutta-percha impression
from the matrix.
22. A similar small specimen from Logan Cafion. The figure is an enlarged view.
2*3. A view of the under side of a large specimen from near Read and Benton's mine, Utah.
EueMPIIALUS LAXU8 260
Figs. 24-25. Profile and vertical views of a specimen from Dry Canon, Utah.
EuoMPHALUs (Sthaparollus) Ophirbnsis 261
Fig. 2(>. Lateral view of the specimen, restored partly from the shell and partly from gutta- percha impression in the matrix. 27. View of the umbilicus. From Dry Oa&on, Ophir, Utah.
PROETUS PBROCCIDENS 262
Fig. 28. View of a glabella of the species, from Dry Canon.
29. View of the left movable cheek.
30. View of a pygidium of large size, from the same locality.
31-32. View of a smaller specimen, natural size and enlarged, showing the ornamentar tion of the snrface, from Ogden Cafion, Utah.
pROETUs Loganensis 264
Fig. 33. View of the pygidium, enlarged to two diameters, showing the specific features of this part.
TT. S: G^K^IEx:i)1.40ParaUfil
Waverly Group
Plate IV:'
ii.M.Maxtm Bel.
J.Bien litk.
EXPLANATION OF PLATE V.
Page. Ortiiis resupinata? 265
Fig. 1. View of a dorsal valve, slightly exfoliated, but retaining the shell in great part. 2. A cast of a dorsal valve, showing the muscular imprint.
Pkoductus elegans 2(58
• Figs. 3-4. Profile and front views of a specimen referred to this species.
Pkoductus semiketiculatus 267
Figs. 5-6. Vertical and cardinal views of a specimen referred to this species, showing the form and surface character.
Producius l^vicostus? 2GG
Figs. 7-8. Vertical and front views of specimens having the form and character of the species.
Pkoductus Flemingi var. Burlingtonensis 265
Fig. 9. View of a dorsal valve, showing the cardinal process. *
10. View of a ventral valve. 11-12. Front and profile views of a similar individual, presenting the features of those from Burlington, Iowa.
Spirifera striata 269
Fig. 13* Dorsal view of a specimen somewhat crushed, but showing the specific characters of the shell.
14. Ventral view of the same specimen.
15. Ventral valve of another individual, showing fewer bifurcations in the plications.
Spiiufera sp. t 271
Fig. 16, View of the fragment referred to on page — .
Spirifera setigera 270
Fig. 17. View of a small specimen somewhat compressed, but preserving the surface char- acters and somewhat the general form. 18. View of a larger dorsal valve, showing the form.
Atiiyris subquadrata f 271
Fig. 19. View of the dorsal side of a specimen referred to this species.
20. Ventral valve of the same, showing the sinus as well as the general form of the shell.
IJ, S, GeoIEx]:il.40Faraild
Lower Garb oTiifer OTIS
Plate Y
B-M}4a.n.m Dd,.
J. BienlitK,
EXPLANATION OF PLATE VI.
Pagfl. Cardiomorpha Missouribnsis 277
Fig. 1. View of the right valve of a speciiueD of the usual size and form. 2. Cardinal view of the same individual.
SeDGEWICKIA ? CONCAVA , 27G
. Fig. 3. View of a right valve, as obtained by a gutta-percha impression in the natural mold.
AVICULOPECTEN CUIITO-CARDINALI8 273
Fig. 4. View of the specimen described, enlarged to twice the natural size. AVICULOPECTEN Webejrensis 273
Fig. 5. View of a left valve, showing the strongly alternating coarser and finer striae.
AVICULOPECTEN PARVULUS , 274
Fig. 6. View of a left valve, enlarged to three times the natural size, showing the strong elevated primary rays, with finer ones between.
Myalina Permiana : 276
Fig. 7. View of a cast of a right valve, showing the usual form. The outline at the beak shows the extreme of other specimens.
Myalina aviculoides ' 275
Fig. 8. View of an internal cast of a left valve, with the impression of the extended beak showing in the matrix.
GONIATITES KiNGII 271)
Fig. 9. Lateral view of a specimen of medium size, showing the deep umbilicus.
10. View of the opposite side of a similar individual, showing more distinctly the surface-
markings.
11. Profile view of the specimen fig. 9, showing the great width of the shell.
12. Sectional view, showing the proportional size of the volutions and depth of the um-
bilicus.
13. Profile view of a smaller individual, the outer volutions broken away to reveal the
lines of septa.
14. Profile of a septum from the latter, enlarged.
Cyrtoceras cessator 278
Fig. 15. Lateral view of the specimen described, showing the curvature of the tube and the strong annulations.
Pentacrinus asteriscus? 280
Fig. 16. Enlarged view of a disk referred with doubt to this species. The figure is enlarged two diameters.
Spirifera (Spiriferina?) Alia 281
Fig. 17. View of a ventral valve, showing the characters described. Spiriferina Homprayi? 281
Fig. 18. View of an imperfect dorsal valve referred to this species. Edmondla Myrina 283
Fig. 19. View of an imperfect left valve.
ASTARTB AREN08A — . 297
Fig. 20. View of a specimen of a left valve, enlarged.
21. View of a fragment of rock containing several individuals, InclndiDg the above. The species is placed with some doubt on this plate among the Triasslc forms.
Terebratula Humboldtensis 282
Figs. 22-23. Dorsal and profile views of a specimen, showing strong plications on the front of the valve. 24. Dorsal valve of another individual -nearly destitute of the plications.
U S. GeoIEzpl 40ParaUel
Upper Cartonifercus and Triassic
Plate 71.
1.
16.
10.
H.M.Martm Del.
J Biexi Kth. ..
EXPLANATION OF PLATE VII.
Page. Rhynciionblla MyjsiNA • •. 284
Figs. 1-4. Dorsal, ventral, proj&le, and front views of a characteristic specimen. 5. Ventral valve, showing a variation of form in the sinas.
RayXCHONELLA GNATHOPUORAf 284
Fig. 6. View of the ventral valve referred with doubt to this species.
Tbrebratula Augusta 285
Fig. 7. View of a ventral valve of the usual form and size.
8-10. Dorsal, ventral, and profile views of a specimen, enlarged to two diameters.
GuYPiiJEA? Calceola var. Nkbrascensis ? 286
Fig. 11. Interior of the larger valve, showing the prevailing form which occurs in the localities mentioned under the description.
OSTREA Engelmanni? ^ 285
Fig. 12. View of an impression of the interior of the attached valve.
Camptonectes bellistriatus 289
Fig. 13. View of an imperfect right valve of the siaie most common among those in the collec- tion.
AVICULOPECTEN T (EUMICROTIS) AUGUSTENSIS ^ 288
Fig. 14. View of a right or flat valve.
15. A ieffc valve from the same specimen of rock.
16. Enlargement of stri;» from another individual, preserving the surface.
Camptonectes pertenuistriatUs 291
Fig. 17. View of a right valve of the species, enlarged to twice the natural si^e } the posterior wing restored in outline.
Camptonectes extbnuatus ^^ ..i. 290
Fig. 18. A right valve, natural sii^e. Natica! LelIa 298
Figs. 19-21. Three views of an individual of the ordinary size enlarged. 'Jthe Hlie near tig. 20 shows the natural height.
Trigonia quadrangularis , .*..-. 293
Fig. 22. View of an imperfect right valve, enlarged to twice the natural size. The outline would seem to have been considerably extended posteriorly.
Lima (Plagiostoma) occidentalis 292
Fig. 23. View of a left valve, slightly restored at the beak and hinge, as also on the nmbone. EUMICROTIS curtaI - 289
Fig. 24. View of a left valve, enlarged, showing the alternate size of the radii. Septocardia Carditoidea 296
Fig. 25. View of the posterior end of the specimen described. Septocardia typica 295
Fig. 26, Enlarged view of the exterior of a right valve, showing the general form and the ornamentations on the ribs.
27. View of the interior of the same valves, showing the hinge-character? as described.
28. Enlarged hinge-line of the left valve.
29. Cast of a large right valve, enlarged to twice the natural size, to show the posterior
muscular scar.
H.M.Manm I' el
J.Bieii h^..
UNITED STATES GEOLOGICAL EXPLORATION OF THE FORTIETH PARALLEL. CLAEENCE KING, Geologist-in-chargk.
PART III.
OKNITHOLOGY.
BY
KOBERT RID G WAY.
303
TABLE OF CONTENTS TO PART III.
Page.
Inteoduotoey Lettee ^ 307
Geneeal Repoet:—
Desceiption op the Route 309
Physical Featuees of the Geeat Basin 313
Local Avifauna of the Geeat Basin 316
Desceiptions of Localities wheee Collections oe Obseeva-
tions weee made 328
GeNEEAL REMAEKS on THE AVIFAUNA OF THE GEEAT BaSIN 377
Catalogue of the Species Collected oe Obseeved 386
Repoet Peopee:—
Tuedid^— Theushes • 39i
Saxicolid-^— Stone-Chats 402
Cinolid^— Watee-Ouzels 406
Sylvhd^— Teue Waeblees 408
Paeid^— Titmice, oe Chickadees 410
SiTTiDJs— Nuthatches 415
Ceethiidje— Ceeepees 418
Teoglodytidjs— Weens 418
MoTACiLLiD^— Wagtails and Tit laeks, oe Pipits 426
/ Mniotiltid^— Ameeican Waeblees 427
oL ^^ HiEUNDiNiD^— Swallows : , 439
*^. ' Ampelid^— Wax-wings 446
' VlEEONID^— GEEBNLETS, OE ViEEOS. 448
Laniid^— Sheikes, oe Butchee-bieds 452
TANAGEIDiE— TANAGEES 454
FEINGILLID-2E— Finches, Spaeeows, and Buntings 455
AlAudid^— Laeks 498
IcTEEiD^— Hang-nests, oe Amebic an Oeioles 500
OoEviD^— -Ceows and Jays , 512
Tyeannid^— Tyeant Flycatchees 528
ALCEDINID^— KiNGFISHEES 545
PlCID^— WOODPEOKEES 545
CucuLiDJs — Cuckoos 558
Teoohilidje— Humming-bieds . ..^.... 558
Cypselid^— Swifts ... 564
OAPEIMULGIDiE— GoATSUOKEES . 567
Steigidje— Owls 669
Falconidje— Falcons, Hawks, Eagles, and Eites 575
20 PE
30G TABLE OF CONTENTS.
Report Pboper — Continued. Page.
Oathartid^— American Vultures 593
CoLUMBlD^—PiaEONS, OR DoVES . . 695
Tetraonid^ — Grouse 598
Perdicidje— Partridges and Quails 601
Charadriidje— Plovers , . . . . 603
Phalaropodid^ — Phalaropes 604
EECURVIROSTRID^— AVOOETS AND StILTS 605
ScoLOPAciDja— Snipe, Sandpipers, etc . , 606
GruiDwE— Cranes ^ 611
Rallid^— Rails, Gallinules, and Coots 612
Tantalid^— Ibises - , . , . 615
Ardeid-^— -Herons 616
Anatid^— Swans, Geese, and Bucks 610
Pelecanidje— Pelicans ,.•. 627
Graculid^— Cormorants . 635
Laridje— Gulls and Terns 636
PoDioiPiD^— Grebes 641
Index to Soientifio Names. 652
Index to Popular Names 663
Index to Indian Names 668
Index to Localities Described or Specially Referred to 669
SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION,
Washington, D. C, November 18, 1876.
Sir: I transmit herewith a report on the ornithology of the route explored by the United States Geological Exploration of the Fortieth Parallel, based upon field-work from June, 1867, to August, 1869, inclusive, the time during which I had the honor to serve in the capacity of zoologist to the expedition; the region investigated being that directly between Sacramento City, CaUfornia, and Salt Lake City, Utah, including a few points directly to the eastward of the last-mentioned locality.
The ornithological specimens preserved, and deposited in the National Museum, at. Washington, number 1,522, of which 769 are skins, and 753 nests and eggs. This may seem a small collection proportioned to the time employed in its formation, but the making of protracted field-observations and the elaboration of notes therefrom were deemed of greater importance than the amassing of a large duplicate collection. Moreover,. almost equal attention was given to other branches of zoology, particularly to reptiles and fishes, large series of which, representing very completely the fauna of the country, w^ere placed, according to instructions, in the hands of specialists for identification.^
The unusual facilities most generously afforded by you, and your kind encouragement at all times, aided very materially the successful operations of the zoologist; so that whatever is creditable in the results attained by his labors, the merit is mainly due to yourself Another friend deserves special mention in this connection for his valued assistance — Mr. H. G. Parker, of Carson City, Nevada (at the time of the writer's connection with the expedition Superintendent of Indian Affairs for that State), whose frequent and gratuitous services contributed greatly to the completeness of the natural history collections.
'The reports on these collections have not been received.
307
308 ORNITHOLOGY,
In the preparation of this report, the vahied facilities aflfbrded by the Smithsonian Institution were availed of, through the courtesy and kindness of Professor Joseph Henry, the Secretary of the Institution ; among the many advantages thus secured being frequent access to a splendid working library and an unrivaled collection of North American birds; The author wishes also to express himself as particularly indebted to Professor Spencer F. Baird, Assistant Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution and Curator of the National Museum, for invaluable assistance kindly rendered throughout the progress of the work. I have the honor to be,
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
ROBERT RIDGWAY. Ol^ence King, Esq.,
United States Geologist^
In charge of U. S. Geological Explorations^ 4tOth Parallel
GENERAL REPORT.
DESCRIPTION OF THE ROUTE.
The investigations on which the following report is based, were made almost wholly within the limits of that vast interior region of continental drainage known as the Great Basin, between the parallels of 39° and 42° north latitude, collections having been made at but one outlying locality, the vicinity of Sacramento City, California. As observations were extended along the entire course of travel, however, from San Francisco to points in Utah eastward of Salt Lake City, we shall not confine our treatise to the limited region noted, but shall describe each of the main points where observations were made and notes taken, in regular sequence.^
All the way from Panama to San Francisco several species of pelagic birds followed our vessel, the Black-footed Albatross {Diomedia nigripes) and White-headed Gull (Blasipus heermanni) being daily companions until we entered the ^* Golden Gate." No land-birds made their appearance, how- ever, until, when off the coast of Mexico, between Acapulco and Cape St. Lucas, a solitary Mourning Dove (Zencedura carolinensis) made its appear- ance one day about noon, and, although flying around the vessel for nearly an hour, did not alight, but finally disappeared to the eastward, where no land was in sight.
^ We reluctautly omit, as too far beyond the geographical province of our subject, some notes on the Isthmus of Panama, where,. however, no North American birds were seen, excepting some waiters, observed in the pools along the railroad, among which were the Purple Gallinule {Oallinnla martinica) and the Little White Egret, or Snowy Heron {Oarzetta candidis8ima). In the Bay of Aspinwall several Man-o-war Hawks ( Tachypetes aquila) were observed sailing in circles overhead, much in the manner of Swallow-tailed Kites (Elanoides forficatus)) and in the Bay of Panama, on the opposite (Pacific) side, Brown Pelicans (Pelecanus fmom) were particularly numerous, and noticeable from their occupation of plunging from the air into the water after their prey.
309
310 ORNITHOLOGY.
Arrived in California, no peculiarly western bird was observed until we reached Sacramento City; since, after landing at San Francisco, only Purple Martins {Progne suhis) and Cliff Swallows (Petrochelidon lunifrons), which swarmed about old buildings on certain streets, were seen, while the only notes of other species heard were the familiar songs of caged Canary Birds. The journey up the Sacramento River was equally disappointing in this respect, since, though we kept a vigilant look-out from our post of observa- tion on the hurricane deck of the steamer, none but familiar eastern species, most of which were water-birds (Coots, Florida Gallinules, and various species of ducks), were seen, the only land- birds being an occasional Belted Kingfisher {Ceryle alcyon) perehed on an overhanging willow. During the first day at Sacramento, however, we became familiarized with several of the species peculiar to the western portion of the continent, but as this locality brings us to the commencement of our observations in the field, we shall begin a resume of the subject in another chapter.
1867. — The first camp of the survey was established at Sacramento City, California, on the 6th of June, from which date collections were made until July 4th, when the plains to the eastward and the Sierra Nevada were crossed into Nevada. It is much to be regretted that no opportunity was afforded for making collections along this route, especially in the western foot-hills and in the pine-region of the western slope, since a number of additional species and many valuable observations were thus lost to the collection and archives of the exploration. After entering Nevada, the Big Bend of the Truckee was selected for the first working-camp, and there we remained from July 24th until August 18th; a portion of the time being devoted to an excursion to Pyramid Lake, which was reached by descending the river in a batteaUj the party returning on horseback, after about a week's absence. During this trip the main island in the lake was visited. Our investigations from the main camp also included several visits to the dry caiions of the Virginia Mountains, about eight miles to the westward, across a very sandy mesa. This camp was abandoned on the 25th of August, when we started across the desert for Humboldt Lake; but upon reaching the latter place the writer became a victim of malarial fever, wliich for weeks inter- fered very materially with the prosecution of his duties. We next proceeded
DESCRIPTION OF THE ROUTE. 311
up the Humboldt River to Oreana, where a camp was fixed near the town, but our stay was short on account of the spread of the fever in a very malig- nant form, compelling the entire par|y to seek healthier water and purer air in the high mountains to the eastward. A camp was accordingly made in Wright's Caflon, on the western slope of the West Humboldt Mountains, a locality which proved to be well adapted for a collecting-ground. This camp was deserted, however, about the middle of September, for one on the eastern slope of the same range, for which the town of Union ville, in Buena Vista Canon, was selected. This proved to be the best locality, for birds, yet visited. We left this place about the last of October, and moved westward again, along the same route, toward winter-quarters. At the Humboldt Marshes, on the 31st of October, several new species were added to the collection during the single evening of our stay, but no further collections were made until again at the Truckee Meadows, where we remained from November 7th until the 21st of the same month; and from which place an excursion to the Pea-vine Mountains, near the Sierra Nevada, was made on the 20th inst, in company with Mr. H. G. Parker. From this camp we repaired to Carson City, and remained there until the 5th of December, when, after first spending one day in the pine forests of the Sierra near Genoa, we revisited the Truckee Reservation near Pyramid Lake, through facilitiesextended by Mr. Parker, who accompanied the writer and assisted him in making his collections. This trip was made via the Carson River to below Fort Churchill, whence the desert was crossed to the Big Bend of the Truckee; but in returning the river was followed to the Meadows (at Glen- dale), thence to Hunter's Station, and across the valley to the Steamboat Springs, and over the Virginia Mountains, to Virginia City and Carson.
1868. — Winter-quarters at Carson City were left early in May, for the Truckee Reservation, which was reached on the 14th inst. Large collections were made here, the most important being from the island and '^pyramid" in the lake, which we were enabled to visit through the kindness of Mr. Parker, who placed his handsome j^acht ^* Nettie" at our service, and assisted us to secure large numbers of the previously very rare eggs of several species of water-fowl breeding on these islands. Early in June we repaired to Virginia City, and thence to Austin, in the Toy abe Mountains, which were
312 ORNITHOLOGY.
reached on the first of July. Collections and valuable notes were made by the way, especially at the Carson River, seven miles above Fort Churchill (June 23d), Fort Churchill (June 24th)^ Nevada Statiop (June 25th), Soda Lake, on the Carson Desert, (June 27th), Sand Springs, (June 29th), Fairview Valley, (June 29th), and Edward's Creek (June 30th). At Austin we remained only a few days, when, departing for Ruby Valley, we arrived there July 13th, and camped at the base of the mountains, some four miles northward of Fort Ruby. Toward the last of August we left this place and proceeded northward along the foot of the East Humboldt Mountains, pitching camps of a few days' duration at intervals of the journey. Crossing the range through the pass known as Secret Valley, near Fort Halleck, we approached the upper portion of the Humboldt River, and in continuing northward camped on several of the streams flowing from the lofty Clover Mountains into the Humboldt. The month of September was principally spent in traveling northward to the Humboldt '* Wells,'* thence thi'ough Thousand Spring Valley to the Goose Creek Mountains, crossing which we entered the southern portion of Idaho at the **City of Rocks," the most northern locality reached; from whence our course directed eastward toward Salt Lake City, where we arrived early in October. At intervals during the pursuance of the route traced, small collections were made, when opportunity permitted; the principal stations being — "Overland Ranche," Ruby Valley, (August 26-29), "Camp 22," Ruby Valley, (September 4-5), Secret Valley (September 6-8), Bearing's Ranche, Upper Humboldt Valley (September 10-12), Trout Creek, Upper Humboldt Valley, (September 16- 20), Thousand Spring Valley (September 21-24), "City of Rocks," southern 'Idaho (October 3), and Deep Creek, northwestern Utah (October 5).
1869. — On the 20th of May of this year, collecting was begun at Salt Lake City, and continued until June 21st, when we proceeded to Parley's Park, about twenty-five miles to the eastward, in the Wahsatch Mountains. In the meantime, Antelope, Stansbury, and Carrington Islands, in the Great Salt Lake, were visited. On the 2d of July an excursion was made, in company with the botanists of the expedition, eastward to the western spurs of the Uintah Mountains; there we remained from the 3d until the 8th instant, when we returned to the main camp in Parley's Park via the Provo
PHYSICAL FEATUIIES OF THE GEE AT BASIN. 313
Canon, Utah Lake, and Salt Lake City. Work was continued at main camp until August 1 Gth, when collections and notes were packed and oui- field-work ended.
PHYSICAL FEATURES OF THE ^REAT BASIN. -
While the region traversed by the survey after its equipment embraces the entire distance from Sacramento City, California, to points in Utah eastward of the Salt Lake Valley, the actual field-work began only at the eastern base of the Sierra Nevada, and was thus entirely confined to the interior area of continental drainage known to geographers as the Great Basin, and which we shall frequently refer to in the following pages by this name, as well as by that of the *' Interior," a convenient synonymous term. This vast area corresponds almost strictly in its geographical boundaries with the ^'Middle Province" of zoologists. The route of the expedition was mainly across the middle portion of tlie Great Basin proper, so that the fauna encountered was that typical of the Middle Province.
In few regions is the influence directed on the distribution of birds by that of the plants so manifest to the observer as in the one under consid- eration; and as vegetation is influenced so materially by configuration of the surface, conditions of the soil, elevation, etc., a brief description of the physical features of the country embraced within the limits of our trip is necessary to the intelligent understanding of the nature of the Middle Province avifauna, and the manner in which it is divided into bands of restricted range, according to conditions of environment. Such an excellent description of the field of our investigations has been given by Mr. Watson, the botanist of the expedition, that we cannot do the subject greater justice than to quote the following from *^ Geographical Notes," on pages xiii-xvii of the Botanical Report:^ —
^ ProfessioDal Papers of the Eugineer Department, U. S. Army, No. 18. Report of the Geological Exploration of the Fortieth Parallel, made by order of the Secretary of War according to acts of Congress of March 2, 1867, and March 3, 1869, under the direction of Brig, and B'vt Major-General A. A. Humphreys, Chief of Engineers, by Clarence King, U. S. Geologist. Volume V, Botany. By Sereuo Watson, aided by Prof. Daniel 0. Eaton and others. Submitted to the Chief of Engineers, and published by order of the Secretary of War under authority of Congress. Illustrated by a Map and Forty Plates. Washington: Government Printing Office, 1871.
314 ORNITHOLOGY.
This region constitutes the northern portion of what was at first designated as the "Great Basin," the high plateau, without outlet for its waters, separated on the north by low divides from the valley of the Snake River and continuing southward until it merges into the desert of the Lower Colorado. Geologically considered^ how- ever, as well as botanically, the term is now properly made to include the whole similar arid stretch of country northward to the plains of the Oolumbia, in latitude 48<^.
The lofty and unbroken range of the Sierras bounds this section of the Basin on the one side by its steep eastern slope, entering Nevada at only a single point, where it throws over the border a high flanking-spur, the Washoe Mountains. On the opposite side lies the broad and nearly equally elevated system of the Wahsatch, broken through by the Bear, Weber, and Frovo Rivers, which head among the peaks of the adjoining Uintahs. The intervening space, 460 miles broad in latitude 42*^, but narrowed by the convergence of the opposing mountains to about 200 miles in latitude 370, is for the most part occupied by numerous short and somewhat isolated minor ranges, having a general north and south trend, and at average distances of about twenty miles. The bases of these ranges are usually very narrow, even in the most elevated, rarely exceeding eight or ten miles in breadth, the slopes abrupt and the lines of foot-hills contracted, the mesas grading at a low and nearly uniform angle into the broad uninterrupted valleys. Over the larger portion of the territory, and especially in Nevada, the combined areas of the valleys and the area occupied by the mountains and accompanying foothills are very nearly equal. The main depressions within this region are two^ one at the base of the Sierras at a level of aboat 3,850 feet above the sea, into which flows all of drainage there is from the whole northern half of Nevada and from the eastern slope of the Sierras, the other the "Great Salt Lake Basiiiy" at an altitude 400 feet greater, close upon the base of the Wahsatch and receiving the waters from that range above latitude 40<> and from the northeastern ix)rtion of the Uintahs. Into the first flow the Truckee, Carson, Quinn's, and Humboldt Rivers. The Truckee is a cle^r, cold stream, which issues from Lake Tahoe in the Sierras, and after a rapid descent breaks through the Virginia Mountains and turning north soon empties into Pyramid and Winnemucca Lakes. These are much the deepest of all the lakes of the Basin, being hemmed in by mountains, and are moderately saline. The Carson River also rises in the Sierras farther to the south, but after leaving the base of the moun- tains is a less rapid stream and gradually becomes somewhat alkaline. Inclining more to the eastward it forms a small shallow lake on the border of Carson Desert, and thence issues hi a number of devious channels, and is finally spent in an extensive *^sink^or alkaline mud-plain of some twenty or thirty miles in diameter. Of a like character are the "Mud Lakes,'^ lying north of Pyramid Lake and fed by Quinn's River, which has its source in southeastern Oregon. Beyond the limits of the survey to the south are Walker's and some other smaller lakes, supplied by streams from the Sierras, but all strongly saline*
From this western depression the general level af the country rises gradually to the eastward very nearly to the border of Nevada, where the' valleys have an altitude of about 6,000 feet. Here in the northeastern part of the State the Humboldt River takes its rise, by far the most important river of the Basin, not only as the longest but as opening a passage for three hundred miles to the Central Pacific Railroad through the mountain ranges, that would otherwise have proved a serious obstruction. It is nowhere a large stream, receives few affluents, and in some parts of its course is very
PHYSICAL FEATDEES OF THE GREAT BASIN. 315
tortuous. It at length spreads out into Humboldt Lake, shallow and subalkaline, and from this the little remaining surplus water finds its way in a manner similar to the Carson River into the same sink.
The descent of 2,000 feet from eastern Nevada into the Great Salt Lake Basin is almost immediate, nearly the whole northwestern portion of Utah being an alkaline desert, broken by fewer mountain or hill ranges, and but little above the level of the) lake. The lake itself is for the most part very shallow, in no place over 60 feet in depth, the waters a concentrated solution of salt. As with all these sheets of water the shore line and consequent area vary greatly in different years.
The intermediate ranges of the Basin are very similar to each other in character. They vary in altitude from one to G,000 feet above the valleys, culminating in occa- sional peaks scarcely ever so rugged that they cannot be ascended from some direction upon mules. They are cut up by numerous ravines or *'cailons," which are narrow, very rarely with an acre of interval or surface approaching to a level, the sides some- times rocky or precipitous, more frequently sloping to the summits of the lateral ridges. In geological structure these ranges are more or less complicated, showing rocks of all ages from the azoic to the glacial period, here metamorphic rocks, quartzites, slate, and limestones, there an outburst of granite or syenite, volcanic rocks of often the most diverse and picturesque colors, or broad table-lauds of lava overflow. The erosion and decouiposition of these various rocks have filled the valleys to a monotonous level with a detritus of gravel, sand or silt, and given to them that accumulation of alkaline salts which is so marked a peculiarity of the country.
With few exceptions, also, these mountains are for most of the year wholly desti- tute of water, with but small rivulets in the principal canons, frequently with only scanty springs here and there at their bases, irrigating a few square yards of ground. Even where the mountain supply is sufficient to send a stream into the valleys it is usually either soon entirely evaporated, sinks into the porous soil, or becomes demor- alized with alkali and is ^'losb" in the mud of the plain. The lowest portion of nearly every valley is occupied by some extent of alkali flat, where in the winter season, the water collects and the softened clay-like mud is bottomless and impassable. As the moisture evaporates under the heat of coming summer the level naked surface becomes hard and pavement-like, or covered with a snowy incrustation or deposit of salt or carbonates. The springs and wells even are often more or less' saline, and thermal springs are not rare.
The chief exceptional ranges in northern Nevada, which from their greater altitude receive heavier snowfalls in winter, retained through the year in greater or less quantity in the more sheltered depressions of the higher peaks, and which in summer are subject to more abundant rains, are the West Humboldt Mountains, 100 miles east of the California State line, the East Humboldt Mountains, 75 miles from the Utah line, and the Toyabes, nearly intermediate between the two. Star Peak is the highest point of the first range, with an altitude of nearly 10,000 feet, but with little deposit of snow and the vegetation of the summit scarcely sub alpine. Several constant streams here flow from the principal eastern canons and reach the middle of the valley, where they supply irrigation for as many small ranches. The Toyabe Range, especially injts southern portion, is higher, several of its peaks having an altitude of from 10,000 to 12,000 feet, with more snow and fuller streams. The waters of the eastern slope are spent in Smoky Valley. On the western side lies Reese River, flowing northward toward the
316 ORNITHOLOGY.
Humboldt, of which it is a reputed tributary. lu the upper portion of its course of 350 miles it is reenforced to some extent by the drainage of the Shoshone Mountains, a rather high range west of the Toyabes, but as it nears Humboldt Valley it diverges into side-channels and seldom has volume sui&cient to reach the main river itself.
The East Humboldt Mountains are by far the most stern and alpine of all these ranges, the main peaks between 11,000 and 13,000 feet in height, precipitous and ragged, the deeper canons evidently scooped out by glaciers, gemmed with snow fed lakes beneath the peaks and carrying full streams into the valleys. The southern portion, however, below Fr^inont^s Pass, is less rugged and of different geological structure, mainly of nearly horizontal strata of limestone. The canons here, often mere gorges, with close precipitous walls, are perfectly dry on the eastern slope, the melting snows sinking almost immediately, but reappearing at the base in bold ice-cold springs. The water from these springs and streams reunites to form Ruby and Frank- lin Lakes, bodies of nearly fresh water, very shallow, and largely occupied by a dense growth of "Tule'' {Scirpvs validm). As usual in these ranges the western slope is much the more gentle, with a broader line of foot-hills. The streams upon this side form the South Fork of the Humboldt. The * Clover Mountains^ of the Catalogue form the northern extremity of this range, isolated by a depression known as Secret Valley, but of equal height and similar character.
Such is a general description of the country as far east of the foot of the Wahsatch in Utah. These mountains, upon a broad base of nearly fifty miles in width, and with an irregular crest-line 10-12,000 feet high, have a system of long, deep, well-watered canons, often exceedingly rocky, and sometimes cleft like a gateway to the valley level, with perpendicular mountain-walls on each side, but usually opeuing out at some part of their course into meadow-like basins or "parks.^ The prevalent western winds deposit their moisture, which they have gathered in the traverse of the Basin, in abundant snows in winter and at other seasons in frequent and occasionally heavy rains. The upper canons and mountain slopes are to some extent timbered, much more generally so than in any of the ranges westward, and the naked peaks above have a truly alpine vegetation. The Uintahs, which connect immediately with the Wahsatch and extend eastward on the line of the 4l8t parallel for a distance of one hundred and fifty miles to Green River, where they meet the outspurs of the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, have more of the character of those mountains, with broad open cafions and extended lines of foot-hills, the peaks overtopping those of the Wahsatch, glacier-scored and polished at the northern base, but the declivity upou the opposite side stretching southward beyond the limits of vision in a high plateau broken only by the deeply-worn channels of numerous rapid streams, tributaries of the Uintah and Green Rivers.
LOCAL AVIFAUNuE OP THE GREAT BASIN.
We have gone thus into detail with regard to the more prominent characteristic features of the Great Basin for the reason that the distribu- tion of the birds depends so much upon that of the vegetation; and as we know that the latter is separated into several quite distinct groups, whose distribution depends upon altitude, humidity, proportionate amount of
LOCAL AVIFAUNA OF THE GREAT BASIN. 317
alkaline salts in the soil, aiid other causes, we may easily correlate the bird- fauna into corresponding sections.
The boundaries between local floras of entirely different character are usually so abrupt in tlie Great Basin that often a single step will lead from one to the other; thus, the upper limit of Ae *'pine belt" on the mountains marks a given line where the trees disappear almost immediately, and these begin almost as suddenly at the lower edge of the zone; narrow belts of mountain mahogany, western cedar, or cedar and piilon together, may fol- low in the order given, but there is usually no marked straggling of these trees where they meet the sage-brush, as if disputing possession of the ground. The sage-brush reigns supreme from the base of the foot-hills to the brink of the mesa, or over the elevated plain extending from the foot of the mountains to the narrow valleys of the streams, where only the steep, nearly naked bluffs separate the squalid growth of the higher level from the more thrifty growth of the same plants, first with grease-wood intermingled, which occupies the outer portion of the valley-floor; then follows the green- sward of salt-grass in the moister portion of the valley, while nearer the river are thickets of low willows, or in exceptionally rich valleys buffalo-Jberry and other shrubs, with cotton-wood trees interspersed. In a like manner the luxuriant shrubbery of the mountains is usually restricted to the margin of the brooks in the bottom of the callons or ravines, where often the slopes so nearly meet that scarcely room is left for a trail. Such are the main features of the distribution of vegetation in this region, subject, of course, to numerous and sometimes, but not often, complicated local modifications.
The strict correlation between the birds and plants in this matter of distribution was a fact immediately noticed, and the more firmly impressed toward the close of our long period of observations in the field ; each local- ity of particular vegetation being inhabited by its own peculiar set of birds with almost unvarying certainty. In order to familiarize the reader with the local causes which govern the distribution of the birds within the Great Basin the acC/Ompanying arrangement of the more distinct types of locali- ties is given, followed by lists of the species of birds characteristic of each. It is of course to be understood that by characteristic we do not mean that a bird is found in the sort of locality to which it is assigned, and nowhere
318 ORNITHOLOGY.
else, but simply that such a place is where it is most abundant, or most likely to be found ; and also, that the arrangement presented is based upon the distribution of the species during the breeding-season.
There are, however, certain species whose distribution seems to be in nowise connected with vegetation, the considerations which influence their range being the presence of water, of rocks, or of earth-banks ; but these form a small proportion of the summer residents, most of them being the water-fowl, and of these many might be assigned to the meadow series, since they nearly all resort to the meadows to breed.
The main natural subdivisions of the avifauna of the Interior, as above determined, are the following ; —
J. Arboreal Avifauna.
1. Birds of the pine-region, or higher coniferous forests. (18 species.)
2. Birds of the cedar or nut-pine groves. (9 species.)
3. Birds of the aspen groves or copses. (7 species.)
4. Birds of the canon shrubbery. (7 species.)
5. Birds of the wooded river-valleys. (25 species.)
IL Terrestrial Avifauna.
6. Birds of the sage-brush. (10 species.)
7. Birds of the mountain meadows, or parks. (9 species.)
8. Birds of the lowland meadows. (8 species.)
TIL Mural Avifauna.
9. Species strictly saxicoline. (2 species.)
10. Species saxicoline only in nesting habits. (5 species.)
11. Species nesting in earth-banks. (3 species.)
IV. Aquatic Avifauna.
12. Water birds. (41 species.)
1. Birds of the pine-region^ or higher coniferous woods. — Compared with the general extent of the Interior; the wooded portions are exceedingly limited, the only approach to a continuous forest encountered being that clothing the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada, and the more scant and interrupted forests of the Wahsatch and Uintahs, on the opposite side of the Basin. Between these two distant forest-clad mountain systems no true forests exist, only a few of the loftier ranges supporting an extensive tree- growth on their higher summits, forming islands, as it were, in a sea of desert.
LOCAL AVIFAUNA OF THE GREAT BASIN.
319
Woods of ConifersB form by far the greater part of the sylva of the Great Basin, and though diflFering somewhat in their character have much the same bird-fauna wherever they exist, the only decided difference with locality being the replacing of species of one side by representative forms on the opposite side. On the Sierra Nevada these forests are much more extensive than anywhere to the eastward, and the growth far larger and more dense, consisting chiefly of Pinus ponderosa^ but with which are mixed Abies grandis^ A. menziesii^ A. douglasii, Libocedrus decurrenSj and perhaps some other trees. Of these species, only the latter did not occur to the eastward, where, on the higher ranges," as the East Humboldt, Wahsatch, and Uintahs, Pinus halfourianUj P. flexilis, Abies englemanni^ A. amabilis (?), and Jimiperics virginianus occurred as additional species.
The birds peculiar to these dark woods are far less numerous than those found only in the more open and sunny groves of the river valleys, but eigh- teen species being noted as peculiar to them, exclusive of those restricted to one side of the Basin. The strictly pinicoline species are the following: —
l^ot arboreal.
1. Cinclus mexicanus.
2. Kegalus calendula.
3. Parus montanus.
4. Sitta aculeata.
5. Sitta canadensis.
6. Sitta pygmaea.
7. Certhia amerieana.
8. DendroBca audaboni.
9. Pyranga ludoviciana.
10. Loxia leucoptera.
11. CarpodaCQS cassini.
12. Ohrysomitris pinus.
13. Picicorvus columbiunas.
14. Contopus borealis.
15. Empidonax difficilis.
16. Sphyrapicus thyroideus.
17. Oanace obscura.
18. Bonasa umbelloides.
The representative and peculiar species of the opposite mountain sys- tems are as follows : —
Eepresentative species.
Wahsatch and Uintahs.
Sierra Nevada.
X. Junco oregonus. 2. Oyanura frontalis.
1. Turdus ustulatus.
2. Sphyrapicus ruber.
3. Picas albolarvatus.
1. Junco caniceps.
2, Oyanura macrolopha.
Peculiar species.^
[None.J
^ Of these species the two in italics are represented in the eastern ranges by closely allied forms, T. swainsoni and 8. nuchalis^ but they are not inhabitants of the pines, the former being confined to the cafion shrubbery and the latter to the aspen groves.
320 ORNITOOLOGY.
2. Birds of the cedar or nut-pine groves,— Th^m groves are generally found on the lower slopes and foot-hills of the desert ranges, between elevations of about 5,000 and 7,000 feet, and occur even in the most barren and arid districts. In general, two species, the western cedar (Juniperus occidentalis) and the nut-pine, or pifion (Pinus monophyllm)^ are mixed together, but often only one species, the former, is the sole constituent of these groves, this being usually the case on the more barren mountains in the absolutely waterless districts; the latter, on the other hand, prevailing on those ranges which have copious streams in the canons. These trees are of low, compact habit and unshapely form, their height rarely exceeding 15 feet, while the branches are characteristically crooked and the trunks short, rugged, and twisted.^ Along the upper edge of this belt occur, more or less plentifully, trees of the ^^ mountain mahogany" {Cercocarpus ledifoUus), equally stunted and scraggy, but with scant, deciduous foliage. These monotonous groves are seldom inhabited by many birds, but, on the other hand, are often so nearly devoid of animal life that an entire day may be spent among the gnarled and stunted trees without a single living thing being seen, or a sound heard except the far-away croak of a solitary raven from some distant hills. Sometimes, however, the profound silence is broken for a moment by the chattering of a Gray Titmouse {Lophophanes inornatus) or the twittering of a straggling troop of the diminutive *' Fairy Titmice" {Psaltriparus plumbeus)j while the intruder may be suddenly startled by the piercing whistle of a little Chipmunk {Tamias quadrivittatus). Occasionally, a solitary Myiadestes townsendi flies silently by, and more frequently a flock of querulous Piilon Jays {GymnoMtta cyanocephald) sweeps overhead, when all is again silent. In case these woods occur on
^ On the foot-bills or lower slopes of the Wahsatch these woods are represented by the dwarf-oak ** scrub'' — the western cedar having disappeared far to the westward. This scrub consists of a dense growth of oak bashes about 5-15, rarely 20, feet high, the species being considered by botanists a dwarf form of Quercus alba. The birds inhabiting these ojaks are much the same as those found in the eedar and nut-pine groves, with the exception of GymnoMtta cyanocephala and Myiadestes townsendij the first of which appears to be peculiar to the cedars, while thd other occurs elsewhere only in the high coniferous woods. In addition to these species, Helminthophaga vir- ginios^ Pipilo megalonyx^ and Cyanocitta tcoodhousii may be regarded among the most characteristic species of the pak thickets.
LOCAL AVIFAUNA OF THE GREAT BASIK 321
the foot-hills and lower slopes of the higher and more fertile ranges, they may be occa-sionally visited by several species from the pine-region higher up, or from the adjacent cafion shrubbery. The following, however, are particularly characteristic of the cedar and nut-pine groves: —
1. Myiadestes townsendi.
2. Sialia arctica,
3. Lophophanes inornatus.
4. Lanivireo plambeus.
5. Collurio excubitoroides.
6. Spizella arizonsB.
7. Scolecophagus cyanocephalus.
8. Gyranokitta cyanocephala.^
9. Empidonax obscarus.
3. Birds of the aspen groves and copses. — The aspens {Populus trem- uloides) occur only on the higher, well-watered ranges, commonly in the upper canons, in moist and sheltered situations just below the fields or patches of perpetual snow. The slender trees composing these groves or copses are seldom large, never, except perhaps on certain of the more eastern ranges, exceeding 30 or 40 feet in height, and usually not more than half so tall. They are of straight, clean habit, however, with a smooth whitish-green bark, and are carpeted underneath by a varied herbaceous growth, among which beautiful ferns are sometimes conspicuous. The characteristic birds of the aspens are not numerous, the following being all , that were noted: —
1. Tardus inigratorius.
2. Progne subis.
3. Helminthophaga celata.
4. Empidonax obscurus.
5. Empidonax hammondi.
6. Picas gairdneri.
7. Sphyrapicus nuchalis.
Several of the above, or all with the exception of the last three, and Helminthophaga celata, are rather to be considered as species of general and variable range, since they may sometimes be found in very considerable abundance in other wooded localities.
4. Birds of the canon shrubbery. — Several of the higher ranges of the Interior receive sufficient precipitation, or retain throughout the summer snow enough near their summits, to supply the main ravines and caiions with constant streams of water; and these nourish a thrifty or often luxu- riant shrubby growth along their banks, where many species of birds resort,
^ This species we believe to be entirely pecaliar to these woods, its food appar- ently consisting exclasively of the seeds and berries of the nat-pine and cedar. 21 PE
322 ORNITHOLOGY,
as their favorite haunt. These shrubs are of various species, different ones of which predominate in different localities, the more common kinds being Cornus pubescens^ upon the berries of which many birds feed almost exclu- sively in the fall, Sambucm glauca^ Prunus demissay Bibes irriguum^ Alnus incanUf and, more rarely, Cratmgus rivularis^ while in many localities species of Salix are also a common component of the thickets along the cafion streams.^ The birds particularly characteristic of this section are: —
1. Psaltriparos plurabeus.
2. Geothlypis macgillivrayi.
3. Hedymeles melanocephalus.
4. Cyanospiza amoeaa.
5. Melospiza fallax.
6. Cyanocitta woodhousii.
7. Empidonax pusillus.
In addition to these, Turdm swainsonij^ Galeoscoptes carolinensis, Seto- phaga ruticillay^ and Passerella schistacea were found in the Wahsatch region.
5. The Birds of the wooded river-valleys, — As a rule, the valleys of the rivers in the Great Basin are destitute of trees, like the adjacent mesas ; but in the '* western depression" are two notable exceptions in the Truckee and Carson Rivers, both of which are bordered along the lower portion of their course by inviting groves or scattered clumps of large and beautiful cotton- wood trees {Populus monilifera) and dense copses of a smaller species, P. trichocarpa. The buffalo-berry (Shepherdia argentea) and willows {Salix, species) foim the greater part of the shrubbery, but they are associated with numerous other woody plants. In the possession of these features the lower portions of the valleys of both the above-named streams share in common, but the timber along the latter is less regularly distributed, although in places equally extensive.
Localities so inviting as these being extremely rare and distant from each other, it follows as a natural consequence that the birds are found greatly multiplied both in species and individuals in these restricted oases.
Un the East Humboldt MouDtaios, but more especially in the Wahsatch, other species, belonging to the Boeky Mountiiin region, are added, the number being small in the first-named range, but in the latter very considerable, and embracing several eastern species. In the canons of the Wahsatch, for instance, are found Betula oeci- dentalisj Rhus aromaticay R. glabra, Acer grandidentatum^ Negiindo aceroides, and 8am» hucus racemosa. [See Watson, Botanical Eeport, p. xxxvii.]
^ Found also as far west as the East Humboldt Mountains, in September.
^Noticed only in the lower portion of the canons, and more commonly in the valleys, as was also the case with Oaleoscoptes carolitiifnsis.
LOCAL AVIFAUNA OP THE GREAT BASIN. 323
Indeed, to realize how attractive the river-valleys must be to the feathered tribe, one has but to cross the almost limitless desert on either side, with a scorching sun overhead and little else than glaring, heated sand beneath his feet, and after thus suffering all day come suddenly to the verge of one of these lovely valleys, with the fields and groves of verdure close by, while the refreshing breeze brings to the ear the rippling of cooling waters and the glad voices of the birds ! The merry Uttle Wood- Wrens {Troglodytes parJcmanni) gabble and chatter among the trunks and massive branches of the old cotton- wood trees; black-and-orange orioles (Icterus bullocki) and crimson-headed linnets (Carpodacus frontalis) whistle plaint- ively or chant a cheerful ditty as they sport among the leafy branches, while from the willows or the more open thickets is heard the mellow flute- like song of the Black-headed Grosbeak (Hedymeles melanocephalus).
The birds most characteristic of the wooded river-valleys are the following: —
1. Sialia mexicana.
2. Troglodytes parkmanni.
3. Dendrceca SBStiva.
4. Geothlypis trichas.
5. Icteria longicauda.
6. Myiodioctes pusillus,
7. Tachycineta bicolor.
8. Vireosylvia swaiasoni.
9. Carpodacus frontalis.
10. Chrysomitris tristis.
11. Oyanospiza amcena.
12. Pipilo oregonus.
13. Icterus DuUocki.
14. Pica hudsonica.
15. Tyrannus carolinensis.
16. Tyrannus verticalis.
17. Myiarchus cinerascens*
18. Contopus richardsoni.
19. Empidouax pusillus.
20. Coccyzus americanus.
21. !^reph(Bcetes borealis.
22. Ohaetura vauxi.
23. Otus wilsonlanus.
24. Falco sparverius.
25. ZensBdura carolinensis.
6. Birds of the sage-brush. — The term "sage-brush" is the western vernacular for that shrubby growth which prevails over the valleys, mesas, and desert mountain- slopes of the Great Basin to the utter exclusion of all other vegetation, except in isolated and extremely restricted places. One species, the "everlasting sage-brush" (Artemisia tridentata)^ composes by far the larger part of that growth, "covering valleys and foot-hills in broad stretches farther than the eye can reach, the growth never so dense as to seriously obstruct the way, but very uniform over large surfaces, very rarely reaching to the saddle-height of a mule, and ordinarily but half that
324 ORNITHOLOGY.
altitude." The species just mentioned is not the exclusive component of the "sage-brush'' however, for quite a number of other shrubs, belonging to many genera and several widely-different orders, are mingled with it in varying abundance, according to the nature of the soil, some prevailing on the most arid or sandy places, and others thriving best where the soil is strongly alkaline. Those additional to the species given above, a're mainly the following, named in the order of their abundance: Ohione con ferti folia ("grease-wood"), 0. canescem^ Sarcobatus vermiculatuSy Linosyris viscidiflora, Qrayia polygaloides, Halostachys occidentalism Linosyris graveolens ("broom- sage"), Artemisia trifida, A. spinescens, JEurotia lanata, Purshia tridentata^ Ephedra anHsyphilitica^ and Tetradymia canescens. [See Botanical Report, p. xxvi.] Tlie genera named above belong to the following orders: Artemisia, Linosyris J and Tetradymia to the Compositse; Ohione^ Sarcobatus , Grayia, and Eurotia to the Chenopodiacese; Purshia to the Rosacae, and Ephedra to the Gnetacese. The general aspect of these plants is quite the same, however, in the different species, all having a similar scraggy, stunted appearance, with dull-grayish foliage in which there is but the slightest suspicion of green, and a characteristic, disagreeable, pungent odor; and in the utter absence of other shrubs over areas hundreds of square miles in extent, they constitute a most miserable apology for vegetation.
The most numerous animals of these arid wastes are the various species of lizards, which are startled at every step as one walks along, and run nimbly to one side — some kinds disappearing like a flash, so swift are they, while the larger species in their flight scatter the fine gravel and sand so as to make it fairly rattle. These reptiles were most numerous in the western depression, and it was found that they abounded most on the burning deserts, farthest from water.
The birds characteristic of the sage-brush are not numerous, either as to species or individuals, but several of them are peculiar to these districts; the characteristic or peculiar species are these: —
1. Oreoscoptes montanus.
2. Amphispiza nevadensis,
3. Amphispiza bilineata.
4. SpizeDa breweri.
5. Chondestes grammaca.
G. Ereinopliila alpestris.
7. Antrostomus nottalli.
8. Chordeiles henryi.
9. S^>eotyto hypogaea.
10* Centroeercus urophasianus.
LOCAL AVIFAtJN^ OP THE GREAT BASIN. 325
7. Birds of the mountain-meadows or ^^parhsP — On the higher ranges of the Interior, the gentle slopes of the upper canons support the richest or most varied vegetation of the entire region ; especially is this the case when they incline so gently as to form broad and nearly level meadows on either side of the main stream, with pine forests and snow-fields on the higher ridges and a copious volume of water in all the brooks and rivulets. Here the streams are bordered for their whole length with a luxuriant shrubbery, the bushes consisting of numerous species, and overtopped here* and there by occasional trees of the narrow-leafed cotton-wood (Fopulus angiistifoUa)j sometimes of 50 or 60 feet in height The higher slopes are densely matted with low but vigorous bushes of ^^laurel" {Ceanothus velutinus, C, sorediatus, and, in some ranges, Arctostaphylos glaitca)^ with coriaceous, shining, deep- or dark-green foliage. The greater portion of these upper slopes, however, are mainly covered with a rank herbaceous growth, composed of very numerous species, and in season brilliant with a variety of flowers of beautiful or showy appearance, among which the blue spikes or panicles of Ltipinus and Pentsiemon, the orange-red bracts of Castilleia, and the lovely scarlet blossoms of Gilia aggregata are among the most conspicuous. Species of Geranium are also very prevalent in places, while, in many localities, low bushes of SympJioricarpus montanus are scat- tered through the herbage.
The birds most characteristic of these flowery slopes are not numerous, but among them are several fine singers, whose clear and musical voices are among the pleasant memories of these salubrious spots^ The following are the most characteristic species : —
1. Zonotriohia intermedia. ( Western ranges,)
2. Zonotriohia leucopbrys. {Eastern ranges.)
3. Passerella schistacea.
4. Pooecetes confinis.
5. Melospiza lincolni.
6. Pipilo chlorurus,
7. Stellula calliope.
8. Selasphorus platycercus.
9. Trochilus alexaudri.
8. Birds of the lowland -meadows, — The lowland meadows include the bright sward of ''salt- grass" {Brizopyrum spicatumj van strictum) oi the low river- valleys, the ''bunch grass" {Poa tenuifolia and Eriocoma cuspidata^y scattered over the foot-hills, the patches of "rye-grass" [Elymus condensatus?)
326 ORKITHOLOGY.
near the entrance to the cations, and also the sedge and tule marshes, in the neighborhood of the lakes and rivers. The birds most characteristic of the meadows are all mostly pecuHar to them, being seldom if ever found in other locaHties. Besides the land-birds here enumerated, a multitude of the water-fowl resort to the meadows during the breeding-season, but these are best given in a separate list. The most characteristic birds of the meadows are the following: —
1. Telmatodytes paludicola Marslies.
2. Coturniculus perpallidus Dry meadows.
3. Passerculas alaudinus Wet meadows.
4. Agelseus phcBniceus Marshes.
6, Xanthoceplialus icterocephalu8..Jlf ar«i^e«.
6. Starnella neglecta Everywhere except in marshes.
7. Pedicecetes columbianus Dry meadows.
8. Grus canadensis - Wet meadows.
9-11. Mural Avifauna. — This group is a rather heterogeneous one, part of the species being saxicoline, while others nest in vertical banks of earth; and of the former only two species keep altogether among the rocks, the others merely breeding there, the greater part of their time being spent in obtaining their food in other localities.
They may be grouped as follows: —
a. Species strictly samcoline.
^ rA R. ' > Modifying their habits in neighborhood of settlements.
2. Catherpes conspersus. \^ ^^ ^ ^ j
b. Species saxicoline only in nesting habits.
3. Tacliycineta thalassina. — {In other districts said to be arboreal.)
4. Petrochelidon lunifrona. ^
6. Hirando horreorum, > Habits modified in settled districts.
6. Sayornis sayus. J
7. Panyptila saxatilis.
c. Nesting in earth-banhs,
8. Ootyle riparia.
9. Stelgidopteryx serripennis. 10. Ceryle alcyon.
To group **6" of this list might be added such species as Aquila cana- densis and Falco polyagrus, since these species usually build their eyries on
LOCAL AVIFAUNA OF THE GREAT BASIN.
327
the narrow ledges or in niches on the face of cliffs, but their nesting-habits are too variable. The same objection might be urged in regard to Tachy-^ cineta thalassina^ since in some localities this species nests in hollow trees, but along our route we found it to be everywhere strictly saxicoline.
12. Aquatic birds. — This group includes the vast multitude of water- fowl, both waders and swimmers; these inhabit chiefly the valleys, the following being the species which breed in the interior: —
|
1. -^Egialitis vociferus. |
22. Branta canadensis. |
|
2. JSgialitis nivosus. |
23. Anas boschas. |
|
3. Steganopus wilsoni. |
24. Ohaulelasmus streperus. |
|
4. Recurvirostra americana. |
25. Daflla acuta. |
|
5. Himantopus mexicanus. |
26. Spatula clypeata. |
|
6. Numenius longirostris. |
27. Querquedula discors. |
|
7. Tringoides macularius. |
28. Querquedula cyanoptera. |
|
8. Rhyacophilus solitarius. |
29. Nettion carolinensis. |
|
9. Tringa bairdi. |
30. Mareca americana. |
|
10. Triaga minntilia. |
31. Aix sponsa. |
|
11. Ereunetes pusillus. |
32. Erisniatttra rubida. |
|
12. Falcinellus guarauna. |
33. Larus californicus. |
|
13. Falcinellus thalassinus. |
34. Sterna regia. |
|
14. Ardea herodias. |
35. Sterna fosteri. |
|
15. Herodias egretta. |
36. Hydrochelidou lariformls* |
|
16. Nyctiardea nsevia. |
37. Pelecanus erythrorhynchus |
|
17. Botaurus minor. |
38. Graculus floridanus. |
|
18. Ardetta exilis. |
39. Podiceps occidentalis. |
|
19. Eallus yirgiuianus. |
40. Podiceps cristatus. |
|
20.-Porzaiia Carolina. |
41. Podiceps califomicas. |
|
21. Porzana jamaicensis. f |
In the preceding lists of the species characterizing special faunal sub- districts of the Great Basin, we have included mainly those which are common to the entire breadth of the Province. Other species, which might properly be assigned to these lists with respect to their habitats, are excluded, from the fact that they belong to only one side or the other of the Basin. The western series was lost almost immediately after our departure from the Sierra Nevada, very few being found even so far to the eastward of that range as the West Humboldt Mountains. The eastern series, however, presented itself much more giradually, additional species being met with in each successive high range to the eastward, the first of them appearing on
328 ORNITHOLOGY.
the lofty Toyabe Mountains, while a more decided accession of Rocky Mountain and Eastern forms was noticed on the Ruby and East Humboldt ranges, where, however, the numbe? was far less than that encountered on the Wahsatch and in the. Salt Lake Valley.
DESCRIPTION OP LOCALITIES WHERE COLLECTIONS OR OBSERVATIONS WERE MADE.
1. Vicinity of Sacramento City, California (June 6-29, 1867.) — The period of our stay at Sacramento being the midst of the dry season, when the valleys of California are parched by the excessive and protracted drought, the bird-life was found to be comparatively scant, and, as in the Interior, though not to so great an extent, confined within the very restricted limits where the vegetation was nourished by the presence of water — either that of natural streams or that derived from artificial irrigation. But even there the abundance of the birds was due to the number of individ- uals of each kind, rather than of the species themselves. Away from the vicinity of the city, the country at the time of our sojourn presented a scorched appearance, the rolling plains being destitute of rivulets or pools, all the surface-moisture having been long since extracted by the excessive and prolonged heat; the ground itself was baked to a tile-like hardness except where ground to dust, and what remained of the grass and herbage was burnt to a dingy yellow, while the scant foliage of the scattered oaks was desiccated to a russet-brownness. In the moister locations, near the river, the aspect of the landscape was more inviting, however, for green meadow-lands prevailed, with woods of good-sized trees along the river bank (among which the western plane tree, Platanus racemosa, was con- spicuous from its white branches), with a pleasing variety of oak, willow, and cotton-wood copses, interspersed with cultivated farms, with here and there isolated large cotton-wood trees left in the fields for shade. Exten- sive marshes, connected with the river, were filled with tall rushes, or tule (Scirpus validly) J Bxid other aquatics, many of them being hemmed in by skirting jungles of willows and other shrubs, having a dense, often impen- etrable, undergi*owth. Waste places were overspread by a rank growth of wild chamomile, or dog-fennel {Maruta cotula), and large thistles, the latter standing chiefly in the fence-comers, where they presented to the
DESCRIPTION OP OAMPS. 329
intruder a repellent front of frightful thorny spines. Upon the whole, but for the blue mass of Monte Diablo looming in the south, the long dim range of the Sierra Nevada bounding the eastern horizon, its crown of snow- fields glittering in the sunlight, and the brown Coast Range visible to the westward, one might readily imagine a familiar scene in the Mississippi Valley, so similar is the general aspect of the vegetation, in all its charac- teristic features, to that of a semi-prairie district, during the corresponding season. Not less striking was the likeness between the bird-fauna of the vicinity of Sacramento and that of a locality in the same latitude in the Mississippi Valley, although, as regards the number of species, the latter is by far the richer, since in Illinois, Missouri, or Iowa, an area having a relative proportion of prairie and woodland corresponding to the locality under consideration, will be found to possess at least one hundred species of birds during the breeding-season, many more having been found in certain districts.^
Our camp was estabhshed in a very favorable locality, the outskirts of the city, where the surroundings were a pleasing variety of meadow and thicket, with the best collecting spots at convenient distance. The charac- teristic birds were the Red-head Linnet {Carpodacus frontalis), Gold-Finch (Chrysomitris tristis), Yellow Warbler (Dendrceca (estiva), Chipping Sparrow (Spizella ari^once), £inA Wood Pe wee [Contopus richardsoni), among the oaks; the Black-headed Grosbeak (Hedymeles melanocephalus), Traill's Flycatcher {Empidonax pusillm , and Least Vireo {Vireo pmillm), in the willow and cotton-wood copses; the Blue Grosbeak (Guiraca coerulea), Lazuli Bunting {Cyanospiza amcena). Brewer's Sparrow {Spizella breweri), and Lark Bunting {Chondestes grammaca)j in the fields; Western King Bird (Tyrannus verticalis) and Bullock's Oriole {Icterus buUocki), in the large isolated cotton-wood trees; the Long-tailed House Wren {Thryomanes spilurm), and, if near water, the Black Pewee {Sayornis nigricans), about dwellings, with a great variety of water-fowl, identical in species with those inhabiting similar places in the Eastern States, found in the tule sloughs.
^ In the lower Wabash VaUey, of Indiana or Illinois, more than one huudred and fifty species are known to breed. [See Proc. Boston Soc. Nat. Hist., XVI, 1874.]
330 ORNITHOLOGY.
The following is a complete list of the birds found breeding at Sacra- mento between June 6th and July 4th : —
1. Thryomanes spilurus Common, f
2. DendroBca sestiva Abundant
3. Geothlypis trichas * Abundant
4. Icteria lobgicauda Abundant
5. Hirutido horreorum Abundant
6. Progue subis Abundant
7. Petrochelidon luuifrons Abundant
8. Cotyle riparia Common*
9. Stelgidopteryx serripennis Common.
10. Vireosylvia swaiosoai Common.
11. Vireo pusillus Common.
12. CoUurio excubitoroides Comm^tn.
13. Carpodacus frontalis .Abundant
14. Chrysomitris tristis Abundant
15. Coturniculus perpallidus Common.
16. Chondestes grammaca Abundant
17. Melospiza Heermanni * Common.
18. Spizella breweri Common.
19. Spizella arizonsB Common.
20. Hedymeles melanocephalus Common.
21. Guiraca cserulea Common.
22. Cyanospiza amoBna Common.
23. Pipilo oregonus - Common.
24. Agelaeus gabernator Abundant
25. AgelaBus tricolor Abundant
26. Xanthocephalus icterocephalus Abundant
27. Bturnella ueglecta Common.
28. Icterus buUocki Abundant
29. Tyrannus verticalis .Abundant
IW« Sayornis nigricans Rare.
31. Oontopus richardsoni Abundant
32. Empidonax pusillos Abundant
33. Coccyzus americanus Bare.
34. Oalypte annaa ^ Common.
35. Trocbilus alexandri Common,
36. Golaptes mexicanus Bare.
37. Otus wilsonianas Common.
38. Speotyto hypogsea .; ....Abundant
39. Falco sparverius Abundant
40. Zensedara carolinensis # Abundant
41. -ZEgialitis vociferus Abundant
42. Ardea berodias Common.
43. Herodias egretta Bare.
DESCRIPTION OP CAMPS. 331
44. Batorides virescens Abundant
45. Nyctiardea nsevia Canmm*
46. Gallinula galeata Abundant
47. Fulica americana Abundant
48. Anas boschas Abundant
49. Chaulelasmus streperus Abundant
50. Querquedula cyanoptera Abundant
6L Aythya sp.? Abundant
52. Larus sp.f Abundant
53. Sterna forsteri ? Abundant
54. Hydrochelidon lariformis .Abundant
Having alluded to the close similarity between the bird-fauna of tne vicinity of Sacramento City and that of a locality of corresponding latitude in the Mississippi Valley, we select from the above list the species not belonging to the latter locality, they being as follows : —
1. Vireo pusillus.
2. CarpodacQS frontalis.
3. Spizella brewed.
4. Cyanospiza amoena.
5. Hedymeles melanocephalus.
6. Pipilo oregonas.
7. AgelsBUS tricolor.
8. Icterus buUocki.
9. Tyrannus verticalis.
10. Sayornis nigricans.
11. Contopus richardsoni.
12. Calypte annsB.
13. Trocbilas alexandri.
14. Colaptes mexicanus.
15. Speotyto hypogSBa.
16. Qaergnedala cyanoptera.
Twelve of the above species are repesented east of the Rocky Mount- ains by species so similar in appearance or habits that, to the common observer, they might readily pass for the same birds. These represent- ative species are the following: —
Western representatives. Eastern represenUUwet,
Vireo pusillus, representing Vireo belli.
Spizella bre weri, representing Spizella pallida.
Hedymeles melanocephalus, representing .Hedymeles ludovicianus.
Cyanospiza amcena, representing Cyanospiza cyanea.
Pipilo oregonus, representing Pipilo erythrophthalmus.
Icterus bullocki, representing Icterus baltimore.
Tyrannus verticalis, representing ... Tyrannus carolinensis.
Sayornis nigricans, representing Sayornis fuscus.
Contopus richardsoni, representing.. Contopus virens.
Trochilus alexandri, representing Trochilus colubris.
Colaptes mexicanus, representing Colaptes auratus.
Querquedula cyanoptera, representing Querquedula discors.
332 ORNITHOLOGY.
It will thus be observed that the general fades of the avian-fauna of the two remote regions is so similar that out of a total of 54 species noted at Sacramento, only 4 are unrepresented in the eastern locality !^
2. From the Sacramento River to the foot-hills of the Sierra Nevada (July 4-5). — This route lay across a rolling plain, of a character similar to that described before, except that the monotony of the dusty landscape was more frequently relieved by groves of low, spreading oaks, while occa- sional spots near springs or along running streams were quite refreshing from the cool shade they afforded. Such places were usually the site of a ranche, and called to mind a country-place in one of the iess-thickly wooded portions of the Eastern States, the oak trees which, almost exclusively, composed the groves being exceedingly similar in size and general appear- ance to the white oak (Quercus alba). Among these trees sported the California and Nuttall's Woodpeckers (Melanerpes formicivorus and Pious nuttalU)j whole troops of chattering Yellow-billed Magpies (Pica nuttalli), and an occasional screeching Valley Jay {Gyanocitta calif ornica). The other species seen in these groves were the Ash-throated Flycatcher (Myiarchus cinerascens)^ Lewis's Woodpecker {Melanerpes torquatus\ Black-capped Chickadee {Parus occidentalis), House Wren (Troglodytes parkmanni), Com- mon Crow (Corvus americamts). Bam Owl (Strix pratincola), Mottled Owl - (Scops asio), and Red-breasted Hawk (Buteo elegans)\ while on the plains, the Homed Lark (Eremophila chrysolcet^ia)^ Burrowing Owl (Speotyto hypogcea), and Turkey Buzzard (Bhinogryphus aura) were observed. Nearly all these
^ The jvinter fauna would, of course, be considerably diflPerent from that observed by us, on account of accessions from the ranks of species which spend the snminer in the mountains or farther northward, as well as by the absence of some of the summer visitors. An esteemed correspondent, Mr. Gilbert R. Lansing, of San Francisco, has furnished a list of birds collected by him at Sacramento in March, 1873, which includes the following species not in our enumeration of summer birds: —
1. Chamsea fasciata. March 23. 5. Cyanocitta californica.
2. Hesperiphona vespertina. March 16. 6. Zonotrichia intermedia.
3. Junco oregonus. ?• Zonotrichia coronata. March 23.
4. Corvus carnivorus. 8. Melospiza guttata. March 16.
Of the above, specimens were ^nt of Nos. 1, 2, 6, 7, and 8.
DESOEIPTION OF CAMPS. 333
species were noticed from the very beginning' of the open country, on the outskirts of the city, to the first foot-hills of the Sierra Nevada.
3. The Sierra Nevada (July 6-12). — The rolling plains became so gradually modified into more pronounced undulations, and these so imper- ceptibly into decided hills, that there was no abrupt change noticeable in either the fauna or the flora. With the first pine trees, however, were observed the Robin {Turdus migratorius), the California Bluebird (Sialia mexicana)j and Brown Creeper (Certhia americana); while among the thick chaparral of the ravines and hill-sides the following species were seen for the first time: —
a. Western foot-hills (July 6-7).
1. Psaltriparus minimus.
2. Polioptila (cserulea?)
3. Chrysomitris lawrencii.
4. Pipilo crissalis.
6. Lophortyx califomicus.
These species were not seen near the summit, but were gradually left behind as we ascended the now steeper slopes and entered a denser forest, where large and lofty cgniferse became exclusive. The three species pre- viously mentioned, however, continued with us during the journey. As was the change from the plains to the foot-hills a very gradual one, so did the mixed woods and chaparral of the latter, in which deciduous trees and shrubs abounded, become as imperceptibly transformed into denser and loftier forests, where coniferse first greatly prevailed and then constituted the entire sylva. The change was indeed so gradual that we could detect no well-defined point where there was a marked difiference in the birds observed; one species after another being left behind, while one hj one new ones made their appearance, so that it was found impossible to fix a bound- ary-line between two regions. The ^^ Mountain Jay" {Cyanura frontalis) was met with long before we lost sight of the ^* Valley Jay" {Gyanocitta californica), and the *' Valley Quail" (Lophortyx californicus) was common, and leading its young, in ravines, beside which the pines resounded with the screams of the Mountain Jay and Nutcracker (Picicorvus columUanus) and the tapping of pinicoline Woodpeckers (Sphyrapicus ruber and Picus albolarvatus).
334 ORNITHOLOGY.
6. Tlw western slope. At an altitude of about 5,000 feet, all the species characteristic of the foot-hills were lost sight of, the Louisiana Tanager (Pyranga ludoviciana) and Audubon's Warbler {Dendrxca auduboni) made their first appearance, the Mountain Jay and Nutcracker and the Woodpeckers above mentioned became more numerous, while the dark ravines below the road echoed with the carols of Townsend's Solitaire {Myiadestes townsendi) and the Oregon Thrush fTurdus ustidatus\ and the chattering of the Dippers {Cinclus mex- icanus),
c. The summit (July 9).
At an altitude of about 7,000 feet snow lay, even at this season of the year, in situations protected from the sun. The pine forests continued, but were more interrupted, with occasional park-like openings, in one of which, known as the ^* Summit Meadows," we established our camp. Snow-capped peaks were in sight on every hand, while around the borders of the broad meadow snow-banks lay, protected by the shade of the majestic pines; and a strange sight it was tO see, almost touching the snow, beds of flowers which, in variety of form and splendor of coloring, might vie with the choicest to be seen in our gardens or conservatories; while the park itself was so overspread by a plant bearing bright-yellow blossoms, that this was the prevailing color of the surface. Scattered over this meadow were clumps of low spreading dwarf- willow bushes, from the tops of which numerous White-crowned Sparrows (Zonotrichia intermedia) were singing beau- tifully during the evening, and now and then throughout the night. The other more conspicuous birds of this charming spot were the Common Robin {Turdus migratorius), the California Bluebird {Sialia mexicana), and the Oregon Snow-bird (Junco oregonus)}
^Owiug to the UDsatisfactory nature of oar opportunities for studying the avifauna of this interesting and exceedingly rich district, our notes are necessarily meager. It is therefore with great pleasure that we avail ourself of the experience of Mr. B. W. Nelson, of Ghieago, who made collections on the western slope of the Sierra Nevada, chiefly in the vicinity of Nevada City, We quote from Mr. Nelson what is of direct interest in this connection : [See Proc. Boston Soc. Nat. Hist., Vol. XVII, Jan. 20, 1875, pp. 365-365. *^ Notes on Birds observed in portions of Utah, Nevada, and Cali- fornia.'^ " IV. Notes on Birds observed in the vicinity of Nevada City, Cal., between
DESCRIPTION OP CAMPS 835
d. The eastern slope (July 10-12).
The descent from the summit down the eastern slope was much more rapid than had been our ascent of the other side. The forest, however, continued much the same, but the trees were appreciably smaller, becoming more so as we descended. The only new bird detected during our hurried
August 15 and December 15, 1872."J "This locality Las an intermediate situation Ijetween the lofty peaks and the foot-hills of the Sierra Nevadas, and is in the midst of the gold-mining region. My visit being in the last of the dry season, when the vegeta- tion is dried up by the hot sun, probably many of the spring and early summer residents had gone farther down, where the farms are more numerous and less parched than the uncultivated hills surrounding Nevada.
In !N"ovember, while collecting twenty miles farther down, we found many species abundant which were rare at Nevada; among which may be mentioned, Sturnella ne- glectaj Zonotrichia coronata^ and Glaucidium californicum^ which assembled in numbers around our camp-fires every night and serenaded us with their curious notes; [iVbte.— Mr. Henshaw suggests that this owl may have been Scops flammeolaj which has this habit, while the Glaucidium is diurnal and crepuscular.] also, Lophortyx californicuSy Oreortyx pictus^ and many others, were observed on the cultivated flats, which were rare at Nevada." We give below a full list of the species found by Mr. Nelson at Nevada City, those which we did not see in ascending the western slope in July being distinguished by an asterisk : —
1. Turdus migratorius. Aug.-Oet
2. Turdus ustulatus. Common; Aug.-Kov. ♦3- Oreoscoptes montanus. Oct; two pairs, ,
4. Sialia mexicana. . Last of 8ept,-la^t of Nov,
5. Eegulus calendula. Last Sept-first Dec, *6. Chamsea fasciata. Nov.; one pair.
•7. Lophophanes inornatus. First Oet-Nov.
*8. Parus occidentalis. Nov.; high mountains.
♦9. Psaltriparus minimus. Oct-Bee.; very abundant
10. Certhia americana. Aug.-Dec. ♦li. Thryomanes spilurus. Aug.-Nov, *12. Troglodytes parkmanni. Oct; one spec, *13. Helminthophaga ruflcapilla. Last Sept; one spec.
14. Dendroeca aestiva. ♦15. Dendro&ca nigrescens. Sept-lst Nov.; common.
16. Dendroeca auduboni. Abundant after Oct 1st •17. Geothlypis macgillivrayi. Sept; two specs. ♦18. Myiodioctes pusillus. Last Sept; one spec.
19. Pyranga ludoviciana. Oct; rare.
20. Hirundo horreorum. Aug,-8ept
♦21. Oarpodacus californicus. First two weeks in October; common. 22. Ohrysomitris pinus. La^st Sept-first Nov. •23. Ohrysomitris psaltria. Aug,-Sept; very abundant.
336 ORNITHOLOGY.
trip was a solitary Rock Wren{Salpinetes obsoletus) perched upon a boulder, in a rather open region, soon after passing the summit of the Pass.
4. Glendakj or Truckee Meadows (July 16-20; November 7-21. Alti- tude 4,372 feet]. — The Truckee Meadows, so called from the fact that hay
24. Passerculus alaudinus. Oet Ut ^25. Melospiza heermauni. N^ot common.
26, Junco oregonus. Aug.-last Nov,
27. Spizella arizondB. Abundant
♦28. Spizella breweri. SepL-Oct; abundant^ *29. Zoootrichia coronata. Last of October; common. ♦30. Chondestes graminaca. Aug^-Oct; very abundant. *31. Passerella townsendi. Aug.-last Oct; abundant.
32. Hedymeles inelaoocephalus. Aug.-laat Sept
33. Pipilo oregonus. Aug,-middle Nov.
34. Pipilo crissalis. Oct 1st; one spec. •35. Pipilo chlorurus. Common.
36. Sturnella neglecta. Common.
37. Icterus bullocki. Oct; one spec. ( 9 ).
38. Scolecophagus cyanocephalus. First November.
39. Corvus ameiicanus [given om C. caurinuSj but probably not). Last Nov.; IJlocJc.
40. Cyanura frontalis. Very abundant.
41. Cyanocitta californica. Very abundant
♦42. Sayornis nigricans. Aug.-last Nov.; common in Sept
43. Contopus richardsoni. Sept; rare.
44. Empidonax pusilhis. Last Sept; one spec.
45. Antrostomus nuttalli. Last Oct; one spec. ♦46. Calypte annsB. Aug,-middle Oct; common. ♦47. Geococcyx californianus. Rare; not seen. ♦48. Hylatomus pileatus. Not common.
49. Picas albolarvatus. Common until last Nov. ♦50. Picus nuttalli. Common.
51. Pious harrisi. Rare. ♦52. Picus gairdneri. Common until last Nov.
53. Sphyrapicus ruber. Oot-Dec; common. ♦54. Melanerpes formicivorus. Very common. ♦55. Melanerpes torquatus. Middle Oct.-Dec.
56. Colaptes mexicauus. Abundant. ♦57. 1 Scops asio. Not seen. . ♦SB. Glaucidium gnonaa. Rare. ♦59. Nisus fuscus. Common from Aug.-Dec. Ut
GO. "Buteo, sp.'' [Probably B. borealis calurus or B. swainsoni]. ♦61. Haliaetus leucocephalus. Nov.; one spec.
62. " Oatbartes, sp.'' [Probably Rhinogryphus aura Oct]. ♦63. Columba fasciata. Oct; one flock.
64. Zenasdura carolinensis. Common until middle Nov.
DESCRIPTION OF CxVMPS.
337
for the Virginia City market is the chief production of the settlement, lie on the eastern side of the valley, between the Sierra Nevada and the Comstock, or Virginia Mountains, the first of the desert ranges. Through the middle portion of these extensive meadows the Truckee River courses, its banks being fringed with dense thickets of rather tall Avillows, growing about fifteen feet high. During the summer these luxuriant meadows were the abode of numerous water-fowl, while in the thickets Magpies (Pica hudsonica) and smaller birds were abundant The species found in this locality were the following: —
1. Telinatodytes paludicola.
2. Dendrceca aestiva.
3. Geothlypis tricbas.
4. Icteria lougicauda.
5. Pyranga ludoviciaua. 6* Hirundo horreormn.
7. Petrochelidon lunifrons.
8. Stelgidopteryx serripennis.
9. Cotyle riparia.
10. Yireosylvia swainsoni.
11. Collurio excubitoroides.
12. Passerculus alaudinus.
13. Pooecetes confinis.
14. Melospiza lieermanni.
15. Ghondestes grammaca.
16. Hedymeles melanocephalus.
17. Cyanospiza amcena.
18. Pipilo oregonus.
19. Xanthocepbalus icterocepbalus.
20. Agelaeus pbceniceus.
21. Sturnella neglecta.
22. Icterus bullocki.
23. Pica budsonica.
24. Empidonax pasillus. .
25. Gbordeiles benryi.
26. Geryle alcyon.
27. Colaptes mexicanus.
28. Circus budsonius.
29. Zenaedura caroliaensis,
30. ^gialitis vociferus.
31. Recurvirostra americatia.
32. Himantopus mexicanus.
33. Rbyacopbilus solitarius.
34. Tringoides macularius.
35. Botaurus mioor.
36. Porzana Carolina.
37. Auas boscbas.
38. Cbaulelasmus streperus.
39. Mareca americana.
40. Dafila acuta,
41. Spatula clypeata.
42. Querquedula cyanoptera.
43. Nettion carolinenais.
*65. ? Canace obscura. [" Canaee canadensis^ var. franklinV Probably C. obscuraj whicb is abundant on the Sierra Nevada.] Oreortyx j^ictus. Abundant after Oct. 1st Lopbortyx californicus. Abundant ^gialitis vociferus. Oct. Gallinago wilsoni. Nov,; two specs. Branta canadensis. Nov. •71. Anas boscbas. Not seen.
♦72. Pelecanus erythrorbyncbus. Oct; one flock passing over. Tbe more notewortby of tbe above species are Cltamceafasciata^ Sayornis nigricans^ and Galypte annce^ wbicb would hardly bave been supposed to occur so high up among these mountains. 22 PR.
*Q6.
67.
68. •69. •70.
338 ORMTHOLOGY.
In November, the following additional species were found, while many of the above were wanting: —
Anthus ludovicianus. Turd as migratorius. Oiuclus mexicanus. Spizella monticola. Eremophila alpestris. Agelseus gubernator. Corvus caruivorus. Oorvus americanus.
Colaptes (!) [a yellow-shafted species,
probably 0. auratus.] Falco columbarius. Arcbibuteo sancti-johannis. Gallinago wilsoni. Oolumba fasciata.! ^ Branta hutchiusi. Podilymbus podiceps.
The most abundant of these were Anthus ludovicianicSj Agelceus plice- niceus, A. gubernator, Archibuteo sancti-johannis ^ and Branta htdchinsi
5. Big-Bend of the TnicJcee (altitude, 3,^95 feet; July 24- August 18,) — After emerging from its deep,narrow gorge through the Virginia Mountains, the Truckee River bends abruptly to the left, and flows toward the north- west into Pyramid Lake, about thirty miles distant. The vicinity of our camp at this place proved a rich locality for birds, for the nan'ow valley of the river was very fertile, supporting a rich and varied vegetation, while the arid sage-brush plain stretched oflf on one side to the Humboldt Desert, and in the opposite direction to the Virginia Mountains. Only the very few birds characteristic of the desert could exist upon the surrounding sandy wastes, and, as a consequence, the fertile valley was rich in the number of species and individuals crowded within the narrow limits embraced between the steep earth-walls. Along the bank of the river, and surrounding the sloughs connected with the stream, were exceedingly dense willow -jungles, the sloughs themselves being filled with rushes, flags, and other aquatic plants; but most of the valley consisted of meadow-land, interspersed with velvety swards of *' salt-grass" and acres of beautiful sun-flowers {Helianthm giganteus), studded with tine large cotton- wood trees [Populus monUifera and P. trichocarpa), which were here and there grouped into delightful groves, sometimes unincumbered, but generally with a shrubby undergrowth, amongst which the '^buffalo-berry" {Shepherdia argentea) was conspicuous. No birds, excepting Mourning Doves
^ A single specimen of what was probably this species was observed, flying over, on the 19th of November. '
DESCRIPTION OF CAMPS. 339
(Zencedura carolinensis)^ were breeding at the time of our sojourn; nor was the fauna particularly interesting, except from the occurrence of swarms of the Rufous Hummer (SelaspJiorus rtifus) among the sun-flowers, and of several pairs of the Eastern Kingbird {Tyr annus caroUnensis)^ which appeared to have bred in the cotton-wood trees, a few individuals of Coccyzus ameri- canus and Myiodiodes pusiUus, and several families of Sialia mexicana^ being the only other birds of note which came under our observation,
6. Truckee Reservationy near Pyramid Lake (August 10-16, 1867 ; Decem- ber 9-19, 1867; May 15-June 6, 1868). — Investigations along the lower portion of the Truckee Valley extended from the shore of Pyramid Lake several miles up the river, and embraced several trips across the desert mesa to the northern end of the Virginia range, fronting on the southern shore of the lake, besides occasional visits to the islands within the lake. The fertile valley of the river received the principal attention, however, on account of the abundance of its birds; and, as respects the character of the locality where our observations were mostly made, there was no material difference from the surroundings of our former camp at the Big-Bend, twenty-five miles above, except that the valley was consider- ably broader and the cotton-wood groves proportionately more extensive. During our sojourn here, from May 15th to June 6th, one hundred and two species were observed in the valley of the river, most, if not all, of them breeding in the locality. The following are the species observed: —
1. Tardus ustiilatus One specimen.
2. Oreoscoptes montauus Common,
3. Troglodytes parkmauni Abundant
4. Telmatody tes paludicola Abundant
5. DendrcBca SBStiva Abundant,
6. Geothlypis trichas Common.
7. Icteria longicauda Common.
8. Pyraoga ludoviciana Common.
9. Hirundo horreorum Common.
10. Tacbycineta bicolor .Abundant
11. Tacbycineta thalassina Common.
12. Progne subis Rare.
13. Stelgidopteryx serripennis Abundant
14. Cotyle riparia Abundant
15. Petrochelidon lunifrons Abundant
16. Vireoayl via swainsoni Abundant
340 ORNITHOLOGY.
17. Collorio excubitoroidea Common.
18. Oarpodacus frontalis Common.
19. Chrj'somitris tristis. Bare.
20. Passerculus alandinus Common.
21. Pooecetes gramioeus Bare.
22. Melospiza heermaani Abundant.
23. Amphispiza bilineata Common.
24. Amphispiza revadensis Abundant.
25. Spizella arizonge Abundant
26. Spizella breweri Abundant.
27. Chondestes grammaca Abundant.
28. Hedymeles melanocephalus Common.
29. Cyanospiza amoena . , . Rare.
30. Pipilo oregonus Common.
31. Pipilo cblorurus Rare.
32. Molotbrus ater Rare,
33. Agelseus phoeniceus 1 Abundant.
34. Xanthocephalus icterocephalas ...... Abundant.
35. Sturuella* neglecta Abundant
36. Icterus bullocki Abundant
37. Pica budsonica Abundant
38. Tyrannus verticalis Abundant
39. Myiarchus cinerascens Rare.
40. Sayornis sayus - Rare.
41. Oontopas richardsoni Abundant
42. Empidonax pusillus Abundant.
43. Chordeiles henryi • Common.
44. NephcBcetes borealis Rare.
45. Chsetura vauxi Common.
46. Trochilus alexandri Abundant
47. Oeryle alcyon Common.
48. Picas barrisi Common.
49. Colaptes mexicanus Abundant
60. Bubo subarcticus. , Common.
51. Otus wilsonianus Common.
52. Circus hudsouius Abundant.
53. Falco sparverius . Abundant.
54. Falco nsBvius One pair.
56. Buteo calurus Common.
66. Buteo swainsonl Common.
67. Haliaetus lencocephalus Rare.
58. Pandion carolinensis Rare.
59. Ehinogryphus aura Abundant
60. Zenaedura carolinensis Extremely abundant
61. -^gialitis vociferus Common.
62. Recurvirostra americana Common.
63. Himantopus mexicanus Common.
DESCRIPTION OP CAMPS, 341
64. Steganopus wilsoni , , Rare.
65. Trioga americana Rare.
66. Tringa bairdi Bare.
67. Tringa miuutilla Abundant
68. Ereuoetes pusillus Abuvdant.
69. Rhjacophilus solitarius Rare.
70. Tringoides macularias Common.
71. Numeniua longirostris Common.
72. Symphetnia semipalmata .Bare.
^ 73. Ardea herodias Abundant.
74. Herodias egretta Bare.
75. Nyctiardea naevia - Bare.
76. Botaurus minor Common.
77. Ardetta exilis Bare.
78. Falciuellus thalassinus Bare.
79. Grus canadensis Bare.
80. Rallus Virginian us Bare.
81. Porzana Carolina Common.
82. Fulica americana Very abundant
83. Branta canadensis Common.
84. Anas boschas Abundant.
85. Chaalelasmus streperus Abundant.
^Q. Mareca americana Abundant.
87. Querquedula discors Bare. !
88. Querquedula cyanoptera Common.
89. Dafila acuta Bare.
90. Spatula clypeata . Common.
91. Aythya vallisneria Bare.
92. Aix sponsa Bare.
93. Lopbodytes cucuUatus Bare,
94. Erismatura rubida Bare.
95. Pelecanus erythrorhynchus Yery abundant.
^Q. Graculus floridanus Abundant.
97. Larus californicus Very abundant.
98. Sterna regia Bare.
99. Sterna forsteri Bare.
100. Podiceps occidentalis Abundant.
101. Podiceps californicus Common.
102. Podilymbus podiceps Common.
In the above list are the following species which were not observed during the preceding July and August at the Big Bend: —
1. Turdus ustulatus.
2. Carpodacus frontalis.
3. Molotbrus pecoris.
4. Nepboecetes borealis.
5. Cbsetura vauxi.
6. Trocbilus alexandri.
342 ORNITHOLOGY.
All of these were undoubtedly breeding, except the first, a mountain bird, of which only a single individual was seen, probably the last lingering one from the spring migration. It is also a noteworthy fact that Tyrannus carolinensiSy Myiodiodes pusillus, and Selasphorus rufas, found at the Big Bend in July and August, were not observed in the lower portion of the valley in May and the early part of June.
As the above list embraces only those species found within the valley proper of the river, including the marshes at its mouth, other localities produced additional species; thus, on the mesa stretching from the valley to the Virginia Mountains, Eremophila alpestris, Antrostomus nuttalli, Speotyto hypogcea, and Centrocerctts urophasianus were found.
This locality was visited the previous winter, when the fauna was quite different, the following species, not in the summer-list, having been observed: —
1. Regulus calendula Abundant
2. Anthus ludovicianus Very abundant.
3. Dendroeca auduboni Abundant,
4. Sialia arctica Rare,
5. Troglodytes pacificus Rare.
6. Certhia amerieana Rare.
7. Zonotrichia intermedia Abundant.
8. Junco oregonus Abundant.
9. Spizella monticola Common.
10. Falco columbarius • Rare.
11. Archibuteo sancti-johannis Rare.
12. Cygnus (buccinator?) . . , Abundant.
13. Anser albatus Abundant.
14. Branta hutcbinsi. • • • - Abundant.
15. Branta nigricans Rare.1
16. Ay thya amerieana Common.
17. Ay tbya vallisneria Common.
18. Fulix marila Abundant.
19. Fulix afflnis Abundant.
20. Fulix collaris Abundant.
21. Bucephala albeola Abundant.
22. Bucephala amerieana Abundant.
23. Mergus americanus Common.
24. Mergus serrator ^ . Common.
25. Erismatura rubida Common.
26. Larus delawarensis , Common.
DESCRIPTION OF CAMPS. 343
Besides the land-birds marked as abundant in the above list, the other more characteristic winter residents were Amphispim nevadensis, Melospiza Jieermanni, and Fipilo oregonus. Turdus migratorius, Troglodytes parkmannij Ceryle alcgon, Nettion carolinensis, and Mareca americana were also among the winter residents.
7. Islands of Pyramid Lake (August, 1867, and May, 1868). — The two islands investigated ornithologically are the main island and the one known as "The Pyramid,'' from the latter of which the lake receives its name. The former is about ten miles distant from the mouth of the Truckee River and about two miles from the nearest point on the eastern shore. Its shores are, for the most part, abrupt and precipitous, though not high, there being but two convenient landing-places, each a pointed beach of sand extending far out into the water. The island is about three miles in circuit, while in the middle it rises into two bold peaks, each about five hundred feet in height. In May, 1868, we found the limited shore near the southern beach thickly covered with remarkably large grease-wood bushes, on the top of each of which, at the height of about five feet from the ground, was the immense, elaborate nest of a pair of Great Blue Herons (Ardea herodias). Not a hundred yards distant, in an oven-like recess in the face of the precipitous rock forming the shore, and inaccessible, was the deserted eyrie of a Bald Eagle {Haliaetus leucocephalus); on the elevated portion of the northern beach several hundreds of Pelicans (P. erythrorhynchus) were breeding; on a rocky plateau between the northern peak and the shore an immense colony of Gulls {Larus californicus) had their nests, while swarms of Violet-green Swallows (Tackycineta thalassina) were passing into and out of the crevices of the high cliffs near by. ^'The Pyramid" is close to the eastern shore, and appears as a huge rock of very regular pyramidal shape, rising about three hundred feet above the surface of the lake. Its base is a nearly perfect triangle, each side being a sheer precipice from the water to the height of a hundred and fifty feet, while only one of the three corners was found to be easily accessible from the boat. Tempted by the sight of numerous nests near the top, among them being one belonging to a pair of Falcons {F. ncevius), which flew, clamoring, around, we ascended this corner, and, after a careful climb without looking about, reached the almost
344 ORNITBOLOGY.
pointed summit. The view toward the water was a frightful one. In no direction could be seen more than the upper third of the rock, and thus the only one possible path by which we had ascended was lost to view. Looking down into the depths of the deep-blue water, three hundred feet below, we could see the pointed ends of similar pyramidal rocks submerged many feet below the surface, and only visible from this height. The descent was finally accomplished by exercising the utmost caution in selecting the path, in whicli indispensable aid was furnished by our boat- men, who, having watched us ascend, often directed us when we were at a loss which way to proceed. The only species breeding on this isolated cliff were the Great Blue Heron and Peregrine Falcon, there being of the latter but one pair in the vicinity.
Along the neighboring shore were many rocks of peculiar form and structure, styled by our geologists " tufa-domes;" these usually had rounded or domed tops, and were thickly incrusted with calcareous-tufa, while beneath they were honey-combed with winding passages and deep grottoes. Among these rocks several birds were nesting, conspicuous among which were the Barn Swallow, Say's Pewee, and the '* House Finch" {Carpodacits frontalis), the nests of the latter, placed on shelves of projecting rock inside of caverns, affording another, and very remarkable, instance of the ease with which this species accommodates itself to circumstances in selecting a site for its nest.
8. Gomstock or Virginia Mountains^ near Pyramid Lake (^December 24-27, 1867). — From the south end of Pyramid Lake a wide canon leads up into these mountains, and this was ascended for a considerable distance on three occasions — twice in December and once in June. The slopes of this cation were dotted with scattered cedar and pinon groves, and in many places were covered with bunch-grass meadows, while along the stream was the fringe of shrubbery usual to the banks of mountain-streams in the Great Basin. In December, Myiadestes townsendi was found in the cedar groves, while Oreortyx pictus was common in the open portions.
9. Washoe Valley (April 25-May 9, 1868).— -This valley is one of the most beautiful in Nevada. Its form is that of an amphitheater inclosed
DESCEIPTION OF OAMPS. 345
on all sides by mountains, the lofty, snow-capped, and pine-clad Washoe spur of the Sierra Nevada on the west, and the high desert range known as the Comstock or Virginia Mountains on the east, with ranges of elevated hills connecting the two on the north and south sides of the valley. Enter- ing this park from the south, Washoe Lake is seen, shining like silver, to the right, while the steep slopes of the dark-green SieiTa form an abrupt wall on the left, the pine forests projecting, in places, upon the grassy valley in beau- tiful groves, destitute of undergrowth and carpeted by a clean green-sward. In these groves Purple Finches {Carpodacus cassini) sweetly warbled, and the Robins sang their mellow carols, while Magpies and Woodpeckers [Pica hudsonica and Melanerpes torquatus) sported among the trees. Higher up in one of these groves, where alder thickets grew along the stream, the Thick- billed Sparrow {Passerella megarhyncha) delighted us with its rich and pow- erful song, while Blue Jays [Cyanura frontalis) arid Woodpeckers (Picus albo- larvatus and Sphyrapicus thyroideus) were seen on every hand. After leaving these pine groves and crossing the valley to the edge of the lake, we noticed numbers of Terns {Sterna regia, S, fosteri, and Hydrochelidon lariformis) flitting and hovering over the water, while the surface of the lake itself was dotted with swimming -birds, among which were identified the Coot (Fulica americana)j Grebes [Podiceps occidentalis and P. calif ornicus)^ besides several of the commoner ducks.
10. Steamboat Valley (January 3-5, 1867 ; May 9, 1868). — On account of an accident to our vehicle while returning from Pyramid Lake, we were obliged to stop at the way-side hotel in this valley for repairs. The delay, however, was compensated by the pleasure of making some desira- ble additions to our collection. The ground was covered with snow, so that many birds flocked to the neighborhood of the buildings for food, and from among these were obtained specimens of Eremophila alpestris, Sialia arctica, Colaptes mexicanus, C. *^ hyhridus^^ (^one specimen), and Pica hudsonica ; while from a willow thicket in the meadow near by were secured a pair of Otus wilsonianus.
Another portion of this valley, the narrow canon of a stream flowing from Washoe Peak, we passed through on the 9th of May, 1868, after
346 ORNITHOLOGY.
leaving Washoe Valley, and observed, for the first time that spring, Den- drmca (Bstiva, Cyanospiza amoena^ and Icterus huUocJci}
11. Carsoh City, Nevada (November 25-December 4, 1867; January
13-April 29, 1868).— Carson City (altitude 4,700 feet) constituted a central
point from which investigations radiated to localities of very dissimilar char-
acter; the pine -forests of the Sierra Nevada to the west, and the scant
groves of low gnarled cedars and pifion on the otherwise bare ranges to the
eastward ; the grassy valley of the Carson River, with its thickets of small
willows ; the cultivated fields, and the general open waste of sage-brush
plain.
a. Pines of the Sierra Nevada.
The pine-forests of the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada had origin- ally extended from the timber-line, near the summits of these high mount- ains, down to their very base, ceasing abruptly where the valley began, except in a few places where they stood out in scattered groves upon the edge of the gentle slope at their foot; and, although composed of trees far less tall and massive than those on the western slope, were yet quite as dense and continuous, where left untouched by the hand of man. But,
^ The dates of arrival of spring birds in western Nevada, la 1868, were as follows, so far as noted : —
Aloyig the shore of Washoe LaJce.
1. Fulica americjyia.. May 9.
2. Sterna regia May 9.
3. Hydrochelidou lariformis May 9.
In Steamboat Valley,
4. Deudroeca sestiva May 9.
6. Oyauospiza amcena May 9.
6. Icterus buUocki May 9,
Along the Truckee, at Truckee Meadoivs.
7. Geothiypis tricbas May 10.
8. Icteria longicauda May 10.
9. Pyranga ludoviciana May 10.
In the lower Truckee Valley,
10. Carpodacus frontalis May 13.
11. Amphispiza biliueata May 13.
12. Rhyacophilus solitarius , May 13.
13. Hedy tneles melanocephalus - . May 14.
DESCKIPTION OP CAMPS.
347
unfortunately, the most accessible portions of this forest had been almost completely destroyed by the incessant cutting of timber to supply the market of western Nevada. These woods were composed of several species of. pines and spruces, but the Pinus ponderosa was the prevailing growth. We have no notes respecting the size of the largest timber, but probably few trees exceeded 150 feet in height, and we saw none of more than four feet in diameter. The undergrowth was in places very dense, and consisted mainly of a shining-leafed evergreen Ceanothus and other bushes of similar appearance. Owing to the distance to the base of the mountains and the difficulty of ascending to the dense pine timber of the higher portions of the mountains, we seldom penetrated farther than to the edge of the uncut forest, where the characteristic birds of the pines were found to be abundant. The most common species were the Mountain Jay {Cyanura frontalis), Clarke's Nutcracker (Picicorvus columbianus), Nuthatches (Sitta aculeata and S, pygmcea), Mountain Chickadees {Parus montanus\ and, in the early spring, Carpodaciis cassini. The winter residents of the pines, besides those named above, were the following: —
Sialia mexicana Common.
Certhia americana Common,
Eegulus satrapa Rare.
Lophophanes inornatus Common.
Picas harrisi Common.
Pious albolarvatus Common,
Picoides arcticus Bare.
Sphyrapicus thyroideus Common.
Sphyrapicus nuchalis . . One spec.
Colaptes mexicanus Common.
Bubo subarcticua Common.
Falco sparverius Common.
Nisus cooperi Rare.
Aquila canadensis Common.
Archibuteo sancti-johannis Abundant.
Buteo calurus Common.
Oreortyx pictus Common.
In the spring, besides Carpodacus cassini, the following species were
added to the list: —
Pipilo chlorurus {ravines) : April 25.
Melanerpes torquatus [scattered pines) April 2f5.
Cyanocitta calitbrnica (foot-hills) . April 29.
Melospiza lincolni [foot-hills) April 29.
Myiadestes townsendi [pine forests) May 4.
1). Cedar andpinon groves of the desert mountains. The scant groves of stunted cedars and pinon on several ranges to the eastward are the only approach to woods on the desert mountains. la
348 ORNITHOLOGY.
these scattered groves the two trees above named are mingled, their relative abundance varying with the locality, one or the other of them sometimes alone constituting the entire growth, the greater sterility of the soil being indicated by the prevalence of the Juniperus, These trees are usually diminutive, rarely exceeding fifteen feet in height, while their average is hardly more than ten or twelve feet; their trunks are usually large in pro- portion, however, and twisted and gnarled into an unsightly shape. In sucli woods, near Carson City, we found only the Blue Nixtcracker {Gymno- kitta €yanocephala)j Sialia arctica^ Pica hiidsonica, Lophophanes inornatus^ and Oreortyx piduSj with an occasional Spizella hreweri, Colhirio excuhitor aides j and Colaptes mexicanus^ with now and then a straggling flock of Psaltri- parus plumbeuSj the latter, however, most usually seen in the ravines. The Empidonax obsctirus was an additional summer resident, arriving about April 20.
c. The meadows and sage-brush plains.
The plain upon which Carson City is situated consists of the usual sage-brush waste, changing, however, to meadows along the foot of the Sierra Nevada, where the soil is watered by brooks and rivulets from the mountains. The winter residents of this section were: Anthus ludovicianus, CoUurio exeubitor aides, Plectraphanes lappanicus, Eremaphila alpestrisj Amphispiza nevadensis, Sturnella neglecta, Speatyta hypagcea in the sage-brush and meadows of the plain, and Turdus migratarius, Sialia mexicanaj Begulus calendula, Tragladytes parkmanni, Calluria barealis, Zana- trichia intermedia, Junca areganus, Spizella manticala, and Pipilo areganus among the more bushy fields at the base of the Sierra. Besides the foregoing, Carvus carnivarus and Pica hudsanica were abundant about the slaughter-houses, while Xanthacephalus icteracephalus and ScalecapJiagus cyanacephalus frequented the vicinity of corrals. In the spring, the follow- ing species were added to this fauna: —
Sayornis sayus {about buildings) March 12.
Salpinctes obsoletus {rocky places) March 20.
Oreoscoptes montanus {sagebrush) March 24.
Tachycineta bicolor {about buildings) March 25.
Passercalus alaudinus {meadows) March 28.
Pooecetes confinis {sagebrush and meadows) April 1.
DESCRIPTION OF CAMPS. 349
Rhinogryphus anra {everywhere) April 2.
Hiruudo horreoram [about harm) April 8.
Spizella breweri [sage brush) April 9.
Stelgidopteryx serripennis [ravine banks) April 15.
Progne siibis (about buildings) April 23.
Zensedura carolinensis [everywhere) April 23.
Chondestes grammaca [sage-brush) May 3.
Petrochelidon lanifrons [about barns) May 4.
d. Valley of Carson River,
The prominent characteristics of the valley proper of the Carson River consisted of meadow -lands, with dense willow thickets near the river. In the latter, the winter birds were the following species: Turdus migratoriuSj Regulus calendulay Certhia americana^ Troglodytes parkmanni^ T. hyemalisj Bendrceca audubord, Zonotrichia intermedia^ Melospiza heermanni^ Passerella schistacea, Pipilo oregonus^ Pica hudsonica, Pious harrisiy Colaptes mexicanus, and Otiis wilsonianus. The marshes were inhabited by Telma- todytes paludicola, Melospiza heermanni, Circus hudsonius, and Botaurus minor. The water-fowl of the valley were, Branta canadensis ^ B. hufchinsi, Anas hoschaSf Aythya americana, A, vallisneria^ Bucephala americana, B, albeola, Fulix marilaj F, coUariSj Erismatura ruhida, Podiceps occidentalism P. cali- fornicuSj and Podilymbus podiceps; while along the streams were found ^gialitis vocife/rus and Cinclus mexicanus, with the addition of Tringoides macularius after April 29.
12. Virginia City, Nevada, (January 5, 6, and June 10-20, 1868). — Virginia City is situated on the southern slope of Mount Davidson, one of the highest peaks of the Virginia or Comstock range, about midway between the base and summit of the mountain, at a total altitude of near 6,200 feet. The surrounding mountains are of an arid nature, the nearest timber being the few cotton- woods along the bank of the Carson River, several miles distant. The birds observed in the town or its vicinity were exceedingly few in number, those occurring during the breeding-season being species which build their nests in caves, old buildings, or similar places. The most common species was the House Finch {Carpodacus frontalis), which was abundant about all old buildings, even in the most populous portions of the city; while the Rock Wren (Salpinctes obsoletus) was
350 ORNITHOLOGY.
to be found about every abandoned shaft or dilapidated building. Sialia arctica was also frequently seen on the houses, particularly in the outskirts of the town, and nested in the eaves or in any suitable place, in company with the House Finch. All the Swallows were extremely rare, but one individual, a solitary Purple Martin {Progne suhis), having been seen or heard during the time of our residence, although it is said to be common at times. During winter time, all these birds disappear, by descending to the milder valleys, excepting the Sialia^ which itself leaves during severe storms. Snow Birds (Junco oregonus) and Sparrows {Spizella monticola and Zonotrichia intermedia) resort to the door-yards for crumbs, and on one occasion (January 6, 1868) we observed a large flock of Gray-headed Purple Finches {Leucostide littoralis) gleaning over the snow in the outskirts of the city.
13. Carson River j seven miles above Fort Churchill (June 23, 1868). — The valley of the river was here heavily wooded with cotton-woods (Populus monilifera and P. trichocarpa), with the usual undergrowth of willows, buffalo- berry bushes, etc. Near by, a range of hills fronted the river in a bold cliff of basaltic rock, while the general surroundings were the usual sage- brush plains, hills, and mountains. The birds observed here were the following: —
Tardus migratorius. Sialia mexicana. SalpiDctes obsoletus. Oatherpes conspersus. Troglodytes parkmanni. Deudrceca aestiva: Jeter ia longicauda. Petrocbelidoii lunifrons. CoUurio excubitoroides. Oarpodacas frontalis! Chondestes grammaca. Oyanospiza amoena. Pipilo oregonus. Amphlspiza biliueata.
Ampliispiza nevadenses. Sturiiella neglecta. Icterus bullocki. Contopus richardsoni. Myiarchus cinerascens. Tyrannus verticalis. Picas harrisi. Colaptes mexicanus. Antrostomus nuttalli. NeplicBcetes borealis. Falco sparverius. Buteo swaiasoni. Tringoides macularius.
NephcBcetes borealis was the most abundant species, flying over the cotton- wood trees in the morning in immense numbers. Antrostomus nuttalli and Icteria longicauda both sang throughout the night.
DESCRIPTION OF CAMPS. 351
14 Fort Churchill^ Carson River^ {June 24, 1868). — In general character the valley at this point resembled the place just described. The species observed here were as follows : —
Troglodytes park man ni. Sialia raexicana. Dendroeca sestiva. Icteria longicauda. Myiodioctes pusillus. Vireo swainsoni. Amphispiza bilineata. Amphispiza nevadensis. Spizella breweri. Cyanospiza amoeua. Pipilo oregoims.
Sturnella neglecta. Scolecophagus cyanocephaliis. Tyrannus verticalis. Myiarchus ciDerascens. Contoims richardsoni. Picus barrisi. Colaptes mexicanus. Falco sparverius. Buteo swainsoni, Buteo calurus.
All these species seemed to be breeding, but, owing to the fact that the valley was mostly inundated from a late freshet, it was found to be impos- sible to explore the locality for nests.
15. Nevada Station (June 25, 1868). — This place was merely a stage- station in the midst of an inhospitable desert, upon which a few stunted grease-wood bushes constituted the only vegetation in the immediate vicinity. The only birds seen about the station were the ever-present Mourning Doves {Zencedura caroUnensis) and a single pair of Sayornis sayus^ the latter having a nest in one of the out-buildings. The former was particularly abundant about a hill of calcareous tufu, containing many caverns, some distance from the house, the Salpinctes dbsoletus being also common there. On the plain, only Eremopliila alpestris, Amphispiza bilineata, and Bhinogryphus aura were found.
16. Soda Lake, Carson Desert (June 27, 1868. Altitude, 'S^dOQfeet).—* This most remarkable spot consisted of a cistern-like depression in the midst of the desert, containing a nearly circular lake of about a mile in circuit, and with nearly vertical walls seventy-five, or perhaps a hundred, feet high. Seen from the top of this wall the water appeared very clear, while the bottom was distinctly visible far out toward the center, where the depth seemed to be immense, since the floor of pure white borate of soda ended abruptly, after which the water was a deep, dark blue. Springs of fresh
» Altitude, 4,284 feet.
352 ORNITHOLOGY.
water issued from the walls at several places, and upon their borders the vegetation was excessively luxuriant, in consequence of protection from winds by their great distance below the general surface of the desert, as well as the constant moisture of the spot; this vegetation consisted chiefly of tall tuhj rank grasses and sedges, and rose-briers. Elsewhere, the entire country was a sandy waste, with a scant growth of the ordinary desert shrubs, which within the walls of the lake were more thrifty than elsewhere. The most abundant bird of this place was a very small, and clamorous, grebe (perhaps Podiceps calif ornicus)^ which kept out of gunshot from the shore; next in numbers were the Avocets [Recurvirostra americana)^ multitudes of which ran along the beach, scooping up the dead insects which blackened the water around the margin of the lake; mixed with these were a few Stilts (Himantopiis mexicanus). A few pairs of Gulls {Lams californicus)^ which were nesting on a large rock away out in the lake, completed the list of water-birds of this locality. Among the land-birds we noticed only the Oreoscoptes montanus, AmpMspiza bilineata, and a remarkable species, probably Pli(xnopepla nitens, which we tried in vain to secure.
A few rods distant was another somewhat similar, but smaller and shallower, lake, where large numbers of Avocets and a few Stilts were breeding on the numerous islands of borax in the shallow water.
17. Sand Springs Station (June 29, 1868). — This locality is in the midst of the desert, the country being extremely barren, with an immense hill of shifting sand near the station. Only the ordinary desert birds were found here, the following being the species: AmpMspim bilineata, Eremophila alpestris, Corvus camivorus, Zencedura caroUnensis, and Bhinogryphus aura,
18. Fairview Valley {June 29, 1868). — This locality presented the usual characteristics of a sage-brush valley, with no conspicuous or interesting features. The entire region was so dry that water for the use of the station had to be hauled in wagons the distance of twelve miles. The quIj birds observed were the following: AmpMspiza hilineata, A, nevadensis, Chon- destes grammaca, Eremophila alpestris, and Speotyto hypogoea.
19. Edwards Creek {June 30, 1868). — At this camp, where there was no shrubbery along the stream other than a more thrifty growth of sage-brash
DESOBIPTION OP CAMPS. 353
and grease-wood than that elsewhere upon the plain, only the following species of birds were observed : Oreoscoptes montanus, Spizella brewerij and Speotyto hypogcea,
20, Humboldt Marshes^ near the ** SinW^ {Altitude, 3,893 feet; August 26- October 31, 1867). — Although a week was spent at this camp, the state of our health permitted the use of but one day for collecting, which is much to be regretted, since we have never seen another locality where water-fowl so abounded. The writer was a victim of malarial fever, which was only aggravated by the nature of the surroundings. The marshes were miles in extent and almost entirely covered by a dense growth of tule, except where the river meandered through, now and then expanding into a small lake. These marshes were surrounded by a bare plain, consisting in the winter season of mud, but at this time baked perfectly dry and hard by the heat of the sun, except in the more depressed portions, which were covered by a deep deposit of snow-white ^^ alkali." From these extensive flats, desert plains lead away to the barrea mountains on either side, whose summits are bare and rugged eruptive rocks, of weird forms and strange colors. Upon the whole, the entire region was one of the most desolate and forbidding that could be imagined, and in these respects is probably not surpassed by any other portion of the land of ^* alkali" and the "everlasting sage-brush." The effluvium from the putrid water and decaying vegetation of the marshes was at times, sickening, while at night the torments of millions of the most voracious mosquitoes added to the horrors of the place.^ The land-birds of this desolate locality were very few, a solitary raven, hoarsely croaking, being now and then seen winging his way to or from the distant mountains, an occasional Desert Lark {Eremophila chrysolcema) in the scanty sage-brush or on the bare plain, or a few Savanna Sparrows in the salt-grass of the meadows, comprising all that were seen. The water-fowl, however, were extremely numerous, and consisted of many species, of which the following were identified: Tringa bairdi, T. minutilla, Ereunetes pusillus, Symphemia semipalmata, Recurvirostra americanay Himantopus mexicanus, Falcinellus
^ The reader may be surprised, if not incredulous, when told that the mosquitoes and other insects sometimes came in such swarms about the candles in the camp as to extinguish the lights in a few moments! 23 PR
354 ORNITHOLOGY.
thalassinus (extremely abundant), Fulica americana, Erismatura rvbida^ Sterna regia, and S, forsteri This, however, is but a small proportion of the species inhabiting these marshes, since without a boat we had no means of invading the haunts of the more wary kinds. On the 31st of October the same place was again visited, and several birds not seen during our summer stay were noted. Crows {Corvus americanus) were walking about the door-yard with the familiarity of domesticated birds ; a Falcon (Falco poly- agrus) was seen to dash into a flock of tame pigeons belonging to the station, while from an Indian we obtained the fresh skin of a Lesser Snow-Goose (Anser albatus).
21. Humboldt Biver^ at Oreana (August SO^September 3. Altitude, 4,036 feet), — ^At this place the valley of the Humboldt was, as usual, destitute of trees, the only woody vegetation near the river being the thick clumps of small willows on the points and around the sloughs. The greater por- tion of the valley consisted of meadows of salt-grass, but back toward the mesa this gradually gave way to an unusually tall -and vigorous growth of grease-wood and sage-brush. In the latter, the most common bird was the Oreoscoptes montamis, another abundant species being AmpJiispim nevaden- sis; on the meadows, Xanthocephalus icterocephaluSy Molothrus ater, Agelceus phoeniceuSy and Sturnella neglecta; in the willows, Melospim fallax, Den- drceca cestiva, Vireosylvia swainsoni, and Collurio excubitoroides ; Swallows, particularly H. horreorum, were common in the air, while large .flocks of the Green Ibis, or ** Black Curlew" {Falcinellus thalassinus), were almost con- stantly passing up and down the river, now and then alighting to feed for awhile in a slough hidden among the willows. This camp was finally aban- doned on account of a severe form of malarial fever having attacked nearly the entire party, the disease having been contracted at our previous camp — the Humboldt marshes.
22. WrigMs Canon, West Humboldt Mountains (September 3-13, 1867. Altitude, 4,881 feet). — Wright^s Cafion was supplied with a brook, which, though of considerable volume during the rainy season, was inter- mittent through the dry summer months. The water ran briskly at night and in the cool hours of mom and evening, but during the hotter
DESCRIPTION OF CAMPS. 355
portion of the day could be found only in pockets of the rocks, the bed of the stream, or cool nooks completely shaded by overhanging bushes. Bordering this stream, in its entire extent, the vegetation was lux- uriant, compared to that of other sections, the shrubbery consisting princi- pally of a thick growth of a small cornel {Cornus pubescens), from six to ten feet high, often canopied by the trailing stems and delicate foliage of a species of Clematis, There were also clumps of wild roses and a few willows, interspersed at intervals with patches of elder [Samhuciis glauca) and thickets of choke-cherries {Prunus andersoni and P. virginianus). No woods were in sight, but on the slopes of the cafion were small, scattered cedars (Juniperus occidentalis)j while a few isolated small aspens were distributed far apart along the stream. During midday the water of the brook being confined to small pools where shaded by the overhanging shrubbery, or in ''pockets" of the rocks in the bed of the stream, the birds resorted to these little reservoirs to refresh themselves in the shade of the thickets or by bathing in the cool water. The characteristic birds of this canon were Woodhouse's Jay {Cyanocitta woodhousii), Little Titmouse {Psaltriparus plumbeus), and Swainson's Vireo ( Vireosylvia swainsoni). Besides these, the following species were found: Salpinctes obsoletuSj Icteria longicauda^ Myiodioctes pusillus^ Amphispiza hilineata^ Pipilo chlorurus, Troglodytes parkmanni, Zonotrichia inter- media^ Hedymeles nielanocephaluSj Lanivireo cassini, Geothlypis macgillivrayiy Pica hudsonicaj Ectopistes migratoria (!), and Sayornis sayus: The most abun- dant birds of the locality were the Psaltriparus, Vireosylvia, Myiodioctes^ and Zonotrichia, above mentioned, the specimen of Ectopistes being the only one observed during the entire exploration.
23. Buena Vista Canon^ West Humboldt Mountains (September 17- October 23. Altitude, 5,169 feet), — The general aspect of this locality was that of Wright's (Nation, on the opposite side of the range, except that its stream was constant and much larger, with a wider extent of level land on each side, and correspondingly more extensive shrubbery, which, at the same time, was more vigorous and varied. This consisted chiefly of a thick growth of buflfalo-berry bushes, willows, and wild-rose briers in the lower portion of the cation, and higher up of choke-cherry and rose bushes, mixed with extensive copses of small aspens. The slopes on each side
356
ORNITHOLOGY.
were sparingly covered with scattered groves of "cedar," pifion, and '* mountain mahogany," while the summits of the mountains were for the most part bare and rocky, but not sufficiently high to retain snow during summer, their elevation ranging from 8,000 to 10,000 feet. The birds found at this locality during our stay were the following: —
Turdus inigratorius Abundant
Cinclus mexicanus Common.
Reguius cnlendala Common.
Regulus Hatrapa Rare.
Sialia arctica Abundant
Salpiiictes obsoletus Abundant
Psaltriparus plumbeus Abundant
Anthus ludovicianus Bare.
' HelmiDthopbaga celata . . . , Abundant Helminthopliaga hiteBcens. Rare.
DendroBca auduboni Abundant
Myiodioctes pusillus Abundant
Lanivireo solitarius Rare.
Lanivireo cassini Bare.
Carpodacus frontalis Common.
Zonotrichia coronata One specimen.
Zonotrichia intermedia Very abundH.
Junco oregonus Very abuncPt
Melospiza fallax Very abunWt
Melospiza guttata Very rare.
Passerculus alaadlnus Common.
Pipilo oregonus Rare.
Pipilo megalonyx Common.
Scolecophagus cyanocepha-
lus Very abundH.
AgelsBus pboeniceus Common.
AgelsBus gubernator Rare.
Icterus buUocki Rare.
Sturnella ueglecta Common.
Pica hudsonica . f Abundant
Cyanocitta woodhoasii Common.
Corvus carnivorus Common.
Eremopbila alpestris Common.
Sayornis say us Common.
Empidonax obscurus Rare.
Colaptes mexicanas ... . , Common.
Colaptes auratust One specimen.
Nisus cooperi Rare.
Zensedura carolinensis Rare.
Centrocercus uropbasianus. JBare.
The most abundant of these was the Scolecophagits cyanocephalus.
24. Toydbe Mountains, near Austin (July 2-5, 1868). — On the western slope of this lofty range, near its northern extremity, at an altitude of about 6,500 feet, our camp was established in a cafion adjoining the out- skirts of the above-named town. The cailons and principal ravines in this neighborhood were well watered by brooks and rivulets, whose course was followed by shrubbery from their sources to the valleys. At the heads of these, canons extensive copses of small aspens and choke-cherry bushes prevailed, while 2,000 feet below, or near our camp, thrifty bushes of Symphoricarpus montanus were the predominating growth. Corresponding in altitude with the aspens, were scant groves of stunted mountain mahogany, growing upon the summits or ridges of the mountains; but on the lower slopes a thin wood of cedar and pifion prevailed. In si^t, to the south-
DESCRIPTION OP CAMPS. 357
ward, the magnificent snow-capped peaks of the higher portion of the range were seen to be timbered with pine and fir forests, but no opportunity was afibrded to visit these.
The species observed in the neighborhood of our camp were the following: In the lower portions of the cafion, Pipilo chlorurus among the snow-berry bushes, Pooecetes confinis on the weed-clad and grassy slopes, SpizeUa hreweriy Cyanospiza amcena^ Antrostomus nuttalli, Oreoscoptes montanus, Eremophila alpestris, Chondestes grammaca^ Amphispim nevadensis, and Stur- nella neglecta in the sage-brush — ^from the valley-level to 2,000 feet above camp; JSmpidonax obscurus and Vireosylvia swainsoni in the aspen copses; Hedymeles melanocephalus, Icterus buUocJci, and Pipilo megalonyx in the shrub- bery along the streams; Tyr annus verticalisy Myiarchus cinerascens, Spizella arizonce, Scolecophagus cyanocephalus, and Gymnokitta cyanocephala in the cedar and pinon groves, while Turdus migratorius occurred in all wooded localities; Sialia arctica, Hirundo horreorum, Tachycineta thalassinaj Petrochelidon luni- frons^ and Salpinctes obsoletus nested about out-buildings or in old mining- shafts, while species of indiscriminate distribution were Bhinogryphus aura, Buteo caluruSj B, swainsoni, Archibuteo (ferrugineus?), Aquila canadensis, Chordeiles henryi, GoUurio excubitoroides, Corvus carnivorus, and Zenosdura carolinensis. It was here that we met with the first specimen of Panyptila saxatilis, a solitary individual having been observed to pass swiftly over one of the higher hills.
25. ''Camp 19," Btiby Valley and Buhy Mountains (July 12-September 5.) Altitude of Camp, 6,300 feet, — ^This camp was the base of extensive researches in all directions, both the mountains upon whose foot-slope we were encamped and the valley below us being included within the field of investigation. The valley was of the same character that sage-brush valleys usually are, except that its depressed center was occupied by an extensive marsh, known as '^Ruby Lake," the receptacle of the numerous springs of pure, cold water which burst from the base of the limestone mountains on the western side of the valley. This marsh is so filled with tule that the meandering channels of clear water can only be seen from the mountains, from which they appear as narirow silver threads in the dark-green rush-
358 ORNITHOLOGY.
meadows. The birds observed in the valley adjacent to this camp were the following species: In the sage-brush, Oreoscoptes montanuSj Chondestes grammaca, Spizella breweriy Amphispim nevadensisj Antrostomus nuttall% Chordeiles henryi, and Zemjedura caroUnensis; on the meadows, Passer cuius alaudinus. Coturniculus perpaUidus, and Grus canadensis; in the brier thickets, Geothlypis trichas ; and in the marshes, Telmatodytes paludicola^ Xanthocephalus icterocephalus, Fulica americana, Anas hoschas, and Sterna forsteri. The mountains above this camp are exceedingly complicated in their varied characteristics and in the distribution of their bird-life. • The main carious, at right-angles with the trend of the range, become contracted in their lower portion, where their sides consist of vertical limestone cliffs, many of which are 200 to 300 feet in height ; similar cliffs also crop out, in places, near the summit of the range, standing singly, like immense walls, from each side of which the slopes lead down to the bottom of the canons. The altitude of the valley at the base of the mountains is about 6,000 feet above sea-level, while the summits of the range are from 9,000 to upwards of 12,000 feet high. The canons here support nearly all the shrubbery and herbaceous vegetation, while only the spurs and higher slopes are wooded. The lower portion of the streams within the canon is followed by the usual shrubbery of canon streams, which here consisted chiefly of choke-cherry, snow-berry {Symphoricarpus)^ and service-berry {Amelanchier canadensis) bushes, the remainder of the canon, where not occupied by rocks, being covered with the ordinary sage-brush plants. About half way to the summit, however, the cliffs cease, the caflon sides gradually become less abrupt and wider apart, and at this elevation the gently-inclined slopes are overspread with a luxuriant meadow in which various plants with showy flowers abound. The sage-brush still predominates, however, until the lower edge of the side-slopes of the ^'saddles" between the peaks of the range are reached, when the vegetation is transformed into a garden, as it were, so numerous and showy are the flowers, among which the scarlet Castilleias and Gilias, and blue Pentstemons and Delphineums are most conspicuous, from the circumstance that they give the prevailing hues to the meadows. These flowery slopes reach up to the fields of snow, which are found in all shaded spots, and, at a proper elevation, even in places
DE8CEIPTI0K OF CAMPS.
359
constantly exposed to the sun. The woods of this range begin at the base of the "spurs" between the cafions, and continue, in successive belts, to the timber-line, as follows: From the valley level, thick and extensive woods, composed exclusively of cedar and pinon, extend for 2,000 or 2,500 feet, when they gradually give way to more scant groves of mountain mahogany (Cercocarpus ledifolius), which, however, scarcely extend higher than 3,500 feet above the valley. Beyond this altitude no trees of these species are met with, for on the higher peaks they are replaced by forests of pines (Pinus flexilis and P. balfouriana), with an undergrowth of hardy shrubs. These pine trees are not tall, the highest not exceeding thirty or forty feet, but they have trunks of comparatively large size ; and it was observed that when growing in situations where exposed to the wind, which here constantly blows from one direction, all the branches of these trees are bent away from the wind, or, indeed, grow only upon that side, while the shrubs underneath are pressed flat to the ground in the same direction. During our investigations among these mountains, the following species were observed, between July 12 and the 5th of September: —
Shrubbery of canon streams.
Icteiia longicauda Bare.
Geothlypis macgillivrayi. . .Abundant
M,yiodiocte8 pusillus Bare,
Dendroeca aestiva Common,
Melospiza fallax . . • » Bare.
Hedymeles melauocephalus. Commo/t.
Gyanospiza amoena Common,
Pipilo megalonyx Very rare,
Pipilo chlorurus . Common.
Icterus bullocki Common.
Empidonax pusillus Common.
Lower woods.
Turdus migratorius Common,
Parus montanus Bare.
Psaltriparus plumbeus Bare.
Psfiltriparus melanotis? . ., One specimen. Troglodytes parkmanni . . . Common, Helminthopbaga virginise. . Common.
DendrcBca nigrescens Common.
Pyranga ludoviciana. Common.
Lanivireo plumbeus Common.
Vireosylvia swainsoni Common.
CoUurio excubitoroides Common.
Carpodacus cassini (Aug. 10)Abundant, Loxia leucoptera (Aug. 12) . One specimen. Spizella arizon» Very abunWt.
Icterus bullocki Common.
Scolecophagus cyauocepha-
lus Common.
Picicorvus columbianus . ...Bare. Gymnokitta cyanocepbala.-JKare.
Cyanocitta woodhousii Bare.
Tyrannus verticalis Abundant*
Myiarchus ciuerascens Common.
Contopus richardsoni Common.
Empidonax obscurus Common.
Chordeiles henryi Abundant.
Picus harrisi . Bare.
Oolaptes mexicanus Bare.
Zeoffidura carolinensis. . . . .Abundant
360
OBNITHOLOGT.
Alpine woods.
Tardus raigratorius Common.
Sialia arctica Abundant
Oarpodacus cassini Abundant.
Chrvsomitris pinus Abundant.
Spizella arizonsB Common.
Pipilo chlorurus Common.
Cliffs and rocky places.
Salpinctes obsoletas Abundant.
Oatherpes conspersus Common.
Tacbyciaeta thalassina . . ,. Abundant.
Ilirundo horreorum Common.
Petrocbelidon luuifrons Very ohundH.
Sayoruis say us Rare.
Panyptila saxatilis Very abunWt.
Faico polyagrus Common.
Falco usBvius Rare.
Falco sparverius Abundant.
Aquila canadensis Common.
Buteo calurus Common.
Buteo swainsoni Common.
Open meadows.
Pooecetes confinis. Common.
Ghondestes grammaca. , . - Common. Stellula calliope Abundant.
Trochilus alexandri Common.
Selasphorus platycercus . . . Very abundH.
26. Overland Ranche^ Ruby Valley (August 28-September 3). — The characteristics of both valley and mountains were quite different from those at ^'Camp 19," although both were a continuation of the same. The lime- stone formations of the southern portion of the range had become trans- formed to steeper and more rugged granite peaks, the highest of which towered to an altitude of about 12,000 feet, while, owing to their granitic structure and extreme niggedness, their slopes and spurs were almost desti- tute of vegetation. The cafions, however, supported, a luxuriant growth of shrubs and other plants, with here and there small copses or groves of aspen and narrow-leafed cotton-wood (JPopulm angustifoUa\ the copses and thickets having usually an undergrowth of briery rosaceous shrubs, but these, in places, were replaced by a carpeting of beautiful ferns. Unlike localities farther southward in this valley, this shrubbery was continued across the valley, on the borders of the stream, to the meadows which extend to the shores of Franklin Lake. The meadow-lands of the valley had become transformed by cultivation into broad fields of grain, more than a thousand acres of the valley being thus reclaimed. The lake, which occupied the more depressed portion of the valley, was simply an enlarge- ment of Ruby Lake, containing in its central portion a wide expanse of open water, in which thousands of water-fowl dwelt secure from the gunner —
DESCRIPTION OP CAMPS.
361
the lack of a boat rendering them inaccessible. During the short season of our stay at this locality the following species were identified: —
In the marshes and meadows.
Geothlypis trlchas Common.
Passerculus alaudinus Very abunWt
Cotnrniculua perpallidus ..Common.
Dolichonyx oryzivorus Abundant.
Xanthocephalus icterocepha-
lus Abundant.
AgelsBua phoBniceus Abundant.
Sturnella neglecta Abundant.
Circus budsonius Common.
Grus canadensis Common.
Botaurus minor Common.
Falciuellus giiarauna Abundant.
Falica atnericaua Abundant
Branta oanadensis Common.
Anas bofichas Common.
Sterna forstcri Common.
Hydrocbelidon lariformis . . Abundant. Podiceps cristatus Common.
Along the stream.
w(3Egialitis vociferus Abundant.
Gallinago wilsoni Common.
Tringoides macularius Common.
In the sagebrush.
Spizella breweri Abundant.
Chondestes grammaca Common.
Pooecetes confiuis Common.
Oreoscoptes inontanus Common.
Zenaedura carolinensis. Abundant.
In the canon.
Tardus migratorius . ..... Abundant.
Turdus swainsoni Common.
Trolodytes parkmanni ... . Common.
Dendroeca aestiva Common.
Dendroeca occidentalis . . .^Bare.
Dendioeca towusendi Bare.
Myiodioctes pusillus .... Common. Geothlypis macgillivrayi . . Common.
Geothlypis trichas Bare.
Icteria longicauda Bare.
Vireosylvia swainsoni Abundant.
Loxia americana . Common.
Loxia leucoptera Common.
Melospiza fallax . . Common.
Cyanospiza amoena Common.
Pipilo chlorurus Common.
Icterus bullocki Common.
Cyanocitta woodhousii Bare.
Tyrannus verticalis Abundant.
Contopus richardsoni Common.
Empidonax pusillus Common.
Empidonax hatnmondi Common.
Selasphorus platycercus . . .Abundant.
Oeryle alcyon Bare.
Nisus cooperi Bare.
All of the species in the latter list were found along the entire length of the stream, from the lower end of the shrubbery away out in the valley to the upper portion of the cafion, with the exception of Dendroeca occidentalis, D. tovmsendi, Loxia lemoptera, and Empidonax hamfnondi, which we found only in the aspen copses, far up the canon. Turdus migratorius, T, swainsoni, Loxia americana, and Selasphorus platycercus were also more abundant high up the canon than elsewhere.
362
ORNITHOLOGY.
On the foot-hills of the range, on each side the cafion, were a few scattered mountain mahogany and cedar trees, and among these we found Helminthophaga virginicej Contopus borealis, Empidonax ohscuruSy and Picicorvus colupibianus.
A decided step toward a different faunal district, besides the addition of Dolichonyx orydvorus^ Podiceps cristatus, Turdus swainsoni, Dendrceca toivnsendij D, occidentals, Loxia americana, L. leucoptera, Empidonax ham- mondi, and Contopus borealis to our list of birds, was the circumstance that the large white-tailed hare, Lepus campestris, replaced the black-tailed X. callotis, which, up to this time, had been the only one observed.
Species of general distribution observed at this locality were as follows:
Rhiiiogryphua aura Common.
Aquila canadensis Common,
Bnteo swainsoni Common.
Archibuteo sancti-johannis. . . Common. Collurio excubitoroides .Common.
Hirundo horreorura Common.
Scolecophaguscyanocephalas.A&MW(?a»f.
Oolaptes mexicanus Common.
Oorvus carnivorus Common.
Zenasdura caroliaensis Abundant.
27. " Camp 22," Buhy Valley (September 4-5, 1868).— The surroundings of this camp were much the same as those at the Overland Ranche, except that the valley was uncultivated, while the foot-hills were higher ; besides, we had left the marshes behind. The stream was bordered with willows entirely across the valley, while in a marshy spot stood quite an extensive grove of very tall willows and alders. In the latter, considerable numbers of Loxia americana and i. leucoptera were found, besides BendrcBca cestiva, Empidonax pusillus, and Contopm richardsoni, while Gallinago wilsoni was abundant on marshy ground, where was also a small black Eail, supposed to be Porzana jamdicensis. In the sage-brush were Collurio excubitoroideSy Oreoscoptes montanus, Spizella breweri, Pooecetes conjinis, and Chondestes grammaca, while along the stream we found Passerculus alaudinus and Melospiza fallax. In an elevated park at the head of the main cafion in the foot-hills, the following species were observed : Empidonax hammondi, Contopus richardsoni^ Chrysomitris pinus, Canace obscura, Ceryle alcyon, Colaptes mexicantcs, Buteo swainsoni^ Falco sparverius, Zencedura carolinensisy Selasphoms platycerctts, Pooecetes confiniSj Chondestes grammaca^ Spizella breweri, and PipUo chlorurus.
DESCRIPTION OF CAMPS. 363
28. Secret Valley^ East Humboldt Mountains (September 6-8, 1868), — Secret Valley is a small park nestled among high hills, with the East Hum- boldt Mountains proper on the west, and the equally lofty portion of that range known as the '^Clover Mountains'^ to the eastward. The higher slopes of this valley, especially near the sources of the streams, were clothed with by far the most varied and extensive vegetation we had yet seen east of the Sierra Nevada. The aspens along the streams were from 40 to 70 feet high, some of them being 1^ to 2 feet in diameter ; while in places they were so numerous as to form considerable groves. Accompanying these aspens, were dense thickets of varied and luxuriant shrubbery, tall alders and willows predominating in the swampy spots, while the slopes were covered with a nearly impenetrable growth of ^' laurel " bushes {Cean- otlfius velutinus). On the ridges the mountain mahogany formed groves, while in the lower valleys Amelanchier canadensis^ or service berry, grew in great abundance, furnishing food for many species of birds. The birds observed at this place were the following : Among the aspens, Melanerpes torquatusj Colaptes mexicanus, Turdus migratorius, Chrysomitris pinus, Loxia americana, L. leucoptera, Contopus richardsoni, and Empidonax hammondi In the shrubbery along the streams, Selasphorus rufus{l\ S, platycercus, Turdus swainson% Troglodytes parkmanni, Geothlypis trichas (lower portions), G. mac- giUivrayii Myiodioctes pusillus, Dendrmca cestiva, I>, townsendi^ Empidonax hammondij Helminthophaga ruficapiUa, H. lutescens, H. celata^ Vireosylvia swainsoni, Chrysomitris tristiSj Melospim fallax^ Zonotrichia intermedia. Cyan- ospiza amcena, and Pipilo chlorurus. In the sage-brush, Oreoscoptes montanuSy Collurio excubitoroideSj Eremophila alpestris, Pooecetes conftnis, Chondestes grammaca, Spizella hrewer% Sturnella neglectay Zencedura carolinensiSj and Centrocercm urophasianus. Among the mahoganies, Empidonax obscurus was the most common species. Salpinctes obsoletus was found in all rocky places, particularly on the ridges -^ a^ single individual of Ceryle alcyon was seen along the brook, while Corvus carnivorus^ Buteo caluruSj Circus hudsonius, and Falco polyagrus were species of irregular distribution.
29. Bearing^ Ttanclie^ Upper Humboldt Valley (September 10-1.4). — After crossing the East Humboldt range through the pass called Secret
364
ORNITHOLOGY.
Valley, we found the country along the western base of the Clover Mount- ains to be similar to the upper portion of Ruby Valley in its general char- acteristics. As along the eastern base of the East Humboldt range, the streams from the main calions were of considerable volume, while their bordering shrubbery continued with them across the valley to the river. The shrubbery along the main streams of the Upper Humboldt valley was more extensive and vigorous, however, the cotton-woods and aspens being more numerous, and constituting extensive groves, other spots being occu- pied by dense thickets of thorn-apple {Gratcegus rivularis), wild-cherry {Prunus andersonif)j and willows {Salix, species). At this place the following species were observed: —
Passerella scbistacea Common,
Corvns carnivorus Common.
Pica hudsonica Common.
Oontopus richardsoni Common.
Empidonax hammondi Common.
Ceryle alcy on Bare.
Colaptes mexicanus Common.
Melanerpes torquatus Bare.
Picas gairdneri 1 Bare.
Otas wilsoQianus Bare.
Falco sparverius Common.
Falco columbarius Bare.
Circus hudsooius Bar0.
Nisns cooperi Bare.
Nisus fnscus Common.
Buteo calurus Bare.
Buteo swainsoni Bare.
Aquila canadensis Bare.
Rhinogryphus aura. Bare.
Zensedura carolinensis Abundant.
|
Turdus migratorius |
. Common. |
|
Tardus swainsoni |
. . Common, |
|
liegulus calendula |
. . Common. |
|
Troglodytes parkmanni |
. . Common. |
|
Sitta canadensis |
. , Common. |
|
Hehninthophaga celata |
..Abundant |
|
Helminthophaga lutescens. |
..Bare. |
|
Dend'-oeca SBstiva — |
. Common. |
|
DendroBca auduboni |
. Abundant. |
|
Myiodioctes pusillus |
. . Abundant. |
|
Ampelis cedrorum |
. . Common. |
|
Vireosylvia swainsoni . , . . |
, .Abundant. |
|
Lanivireo aolitarius |
. . Common. |
|
Pyranga ludoviciana |
. . Common. |
|
Zonotrichia intermedia. |
. Abundant. |
|
Melospiza fallax |
..Abundant. |
|
Spizella breweri |
. Abundant |
|
Oyanospiza amcBna |
. Common. |
|
Pipilo chlorurus |
. . Common. |
|
Scolecophaguscyanocephalus.A&un^aT^e. |
30. Trout Greek, Upper Humboldt Valley (September 16-20, 1868).— This locality was very similar to the last, a large brook, with an accompany- ing growth of shrubbery and thickets of small trees, extending across the valley from the Clover Mountains to the Humboldt River, the plain itself being covered by the usual sage-brush plants; but the upper portion, next to the lower foot-hills of the mountains, was clothed with rye-grass meadows, interspersed with willow and aspen cepses. In these rye-grass meadows
DESCRIPTION OF CAMPS. 365
the Sharp-taUed Grouse {Pedioscetes Columbians) was very abundant. The principal species met with along this creek were, besides that above-named, the following: —
Tardus gattatus One specimen.
Parus septentrionalis Rare.
Zonotrichia intermedia Abundant.
Junco oregonus Abundant.
Melospiza fallax Abundant
Melospiza HdcoIdI Abundant.
Pipilo chlorurus Common.
Passercalus alaudinus Abundant
Empidonax obscurus Common.
Spbyrapicus nuchalis Bare.
Pious harrisi Rare.
Picus gairdneri Rare.
Antrostomus nuttali Common.
31. Clover Mountains (September 19, 1868). — On the above date, a trip was made to near the summit of the main peak of this range by follow- ing Trout Creek from our camp up the cation to its head, returning by another canon to the southward. The summit of this peak is very lofty, rising considerably above the timber-line, or to an altitude of near 12,000 feet. Large fields of perpetual snow lay in the ravines and behind masses of rock, and in several places below the bare summit were quite extensive pine woods. Nothing of interest, ornithologically, resulted from this exceed- ingly laborious day's work, however, only the usual species being observed. The commoner species of the alpine woods were Sitta canadensis, Parus montanuSj and Junco oregonus^ while at the head of one of the cations, where pines and aspens were intermingled, Canace obscura was very abundant.
32. Rolmes^s Creek, near Thousand Spring Valley (September 22-26. Altitude, about 6,000 /eei). — Observations at this camp were confined chiefly to a small valley nestled among a range of low hills separating the valley of the upper Humboldt from Thousand Spring Valley. Around a spring, which supplied the camp with water, grew a thicket of tall willows and aspens, while along the rivulet from this spring grew willow bushes. Else- where, only the ordinary sage-brush plants flourished. In the thickets above mentioned, Dendro^ca totonsendi, Sphyrapicus nurchalis, and Nyctaie acadica were obtained.
33. ''City of Mocks,'' "^ Southern Idaho (October 2, 1868).— The hills
^ This locaUty derives its name from a remarkable valley among the mountains close by, where immense piles of granite, rising from the floor of the valley, vaguely rep- resent a city of eastlea, domes, and mosques.
366 OBNITHOLOGY.
about this locality were extensively covered with unusually luxuriant woods of cedar and pifion, among which GymnoUUa cyanocephala and Gyanocitta woodhousii were more abundant than we had ever seen them elsewhere. Corvus carnivorm and Centrocercus urophasianus were also abundant.
34. Deep Greeks Northwestern Utah (October 5, 1868).— At this point of our route, the nearly level sage-brush plain was intersected by a narrow valley considerably below the general level, through which flowed, with a sluggish current, a very narrow but remarkably deep creek, a tributary of the Great Salt Lake. The banks of this creek were lined with rushes, while in the valley itself were willow thickets. The principal birds observed here were the following:—^
Melospiza lincolni.
Ainphispiza nevadeusis. Zonotrichia intermedia. Melospiza t'allax.
Telmatodytes paludicola. Geothlypis tricbas.
35. Vicinity of Salt Lake City^ i7ifafe^(May 20--June 1, and June 14-21, 1869). — Owing to its diversified character, the vicinity of Salt Lake City proved exceedingly favorable to the objects of the exploration ; the scrub- oaks of the hill-sides, the luxuriant and varied shrubbery along the stream in City-Creek Cation, the meadow-lands, both wild and cultivated, between the city and the lake, the tule sloughs along the Jordan River, and the extensive marshes about the lake-shore, having each their peculiar species^ besides those found in the sage-brush, and others of general distribution. The species noted in the vicinity of Salt Lake City during the months of May and June were those given in the annexed list, most, if not all, of them having been found breeding in the neighborhood. The asterisk placed in one or more columns after the name of a species Indicates its center of abundance, the columns representing the following types of localities : —
1. Sagebrush plains and mesas.
2. Meadows, chiefly toward the lake.
3. Tale sloughs and marshes near Jordan Elver.
4. Open ponds, shore of the lake, etc.
5. Thickets along the streams, valley, and lower part of Oity Greek Oafion.
6. Scrub-oaks, slopes of City Creek Canon.
7. Rocky places, City Creek Canon.
8. Of general distribution.
9. Mountain mahoganies and scattered cedars on lower spurs of mountains.
1 Altitude about 4,000 feet
DESCRIPTION OF CAMPS.
367
|
1. |
2. |
3. |
4. |
6. |
6. |
7. |
8. |
9. |
|
|
1. Tiirdaa misrratorias |
• * * |
• |
* |
||||||
|
2. Tiirdus aadnhoni |
|||||||||
|
3. Tardus swainsoni |
|||||||||
|
4. OreoscoDtes montanus |
|||||||||
|
5. GalescoDtea carolinensis * . . |
• * |
||||||||
|
6. Cinclus mexicanus. |
|||||||||
|
7. Sialia arctio.a |
« # |
||||||||
|
8. Troglodytes parkmanni , |
|||||||||
|
9. Telmatodvtes oaludicola |
|||||||||
|
10. DendrcBca sBstiva |
* |
||||||||
|
11. Helminthonhaflra virffiniai |
|||||||||
|
12. Geothlvnia trichas |
|||||||||
|
13. GreothlvDis inacffillivravi . |
|||||||||
|
14. Icteria lonsricauda |
|||||||||
|
15 Sfitonhaca rutiftilla .^ |
|||||||||
|
16. Pvranera ludoviciana |
|||||||||
|
17. Profirnft Rubia ».. |
|||||||||
|
18. Petroohftlidon lunifrona |
# • # |
||||||||
|
19. Himndo horreomui |
|||||||||
|
20. TachvcinBta thalaaaina |
|||||||||
|
21 . Taohvoinftta bicolor |
|||||||||
|
22. (jofiVlft rinaria |
|||||||||
|
2.S St;f^l£iriflftiit".Arv3r aftrrinGnnia . . |
|||||||||
|
24. Vireoavlvia awaiiisoiii |
* |
||||||||
|
25. Tjaiiivireo nlnmbeiia |
# |
||||||||
|
26. OarDodacus cassini |
• |
||||||||
|
27. CarDodacaa frontalis |
# |
||||||||
|
28. (.Jhrvsomitris fcriatia |
• • |
||||||||
|
29. Chrvaomitria naaltria |
|||||||||
|
30. Ohrvaomitria 11111 ua -. |
« |
||||||||
|
31 Passerp.nbia alaiidiniia. . . |
• • |
||||||||
|
32. Ootumicnliia nernallidiis |
» |
||||||||
|
.3.3 ^onofirifihia lfinr.oolirv8 . |
|||||||||
|
34 IVf ftloaniza 'fallait . - -..- .. |
# |
||||||||
|
S5 AmnhiAni7.a bilififsata «- . -... |
• • |
||||||||
|
36. Spizella breweri |
• . • • |
• • • • |
• • • • |
• • • • |
068
ORNITHOLOGY.
|
1. |
2. |
3. |
4. |
5. |
6. |
7. |
8. |
9. |
|
|
37. Soizella ari^onsB • •..••....». |
• |
• |
|||||||
|
38. Ghondestes grammaoa . . . . ^ |
# |
||||||||
|
39. Hedvnacles melanoceDhalns* |
• |
||||||||
|
40. OvanosDiza amoBna |
• • • |
||||||||
|
41. Pioilo mesaloDYX |
|||||||||
|
42. Pipilo chlorurus |
|||||||||
|
43. Dolichonvx orvzivorus |
# |
||||||||
|
44. Molotbrus ater ..-.•-... |
# |
||||||||
|
45. Xanthocephalns icterocephalas |
• * |
... |
.... |
||||||
|
46. AgeladQs pbodiiiceas |
|||||||||
|
47. Scolecophafiras cvanoceDhalas |
.... |
• * * • |
# |
||||||
|
48. Sturnella negleota • . |
* |
||||||||
|
49. Icterus bullocki |
# • |
||||||||
|
50. Cyanocitta woodhousii |
• |
||||||||
|
51. Oorvus carnivoras |
* * * |
||||||||
|
52. Tyrannus verticalis ..»w.... |
|||||||||
|
53. Tyrannus carolinensis |
|||||||||
|
54. Myiarcbus cinerascens |
• |
||||||||
|
55. Sayomis sayus . |
« |
||||||||
|
56. Oontopus riobardsoni |
|||||||||
|
57. EiOipidonax pusillus |
• - |
||||||||
|
58. Antrostomus nuttalli |
* * |
. . . . . - i . |
|||||||
|
50. Ohordeiles benryi |
# |
||||||||
|
60, Panvptila saxatilis '. |
« |
||||||||
|
61. Selaspborus Dlatvcerous |
• # |
||||||||
|
62. Trocbilus alexandri |
|||||||||
|
63. Cervle alcvon |
• • * |
||||||||
|
64. Melanerpes erytbrocepbalus |
|||||||||
|
65. Colaptes mexicanus |
|||||||||
|
66. Soeotyto byooffsea * |
* |
||||||||
|
67. Circus badsonius * • |
• |
||||||||
|
68. Falco polvafirrus - |
, |
• • • .... |
|||||||
|
69. Falco sparverius |
. . |
||||||||
|
70. Buteo swaiosonl |
|||||||||
|
71. Zeu8Bdura carolinensis i |
|||||||||
|
72. Gentrooereus UFophasianus. . ^ |
. ». |
« • . w |
, . . * |
DE80EIPTION OP CAMPS.
369
73. Pedioecetes columbianus . ,
74. ^gialitis vociferas
75. uEgialitis nivosas
76. Kecurvirostra americana..
77. Himantopus mexicanus...
78. Steganopus wilsoni
79. Ereanetes pusillas ,
80. Tringa minutilla
81. Tringoides macularius
82. Symphemia semipalmata. .
83. Numenius longirostris . . . .
84. Falcinellus guarauna
85. Ardea herodias
86. Herodias egretta
87. Botaurus minor
88. Grus canadensis
89. Rallus virginianus
90. Porzana Carolina
91. Fulica americana
92. Anas boschas
93. Dafila acuta
94. Ohaulelasmus streperus...
95. Mareca americana
96. Spatula clypeata . . . . .
97. Querquedula cyanoptera..
98. Querquedula discors
99. Kettion carolinensis ,
100. Erismatura rubida
101. Graculus floridanus
102. Sterna regia
103. Sterna forsteri
104. Hydrochelidon lariformis
105. Podiceps occidentalis
106. Podiceps californicus
107. Podilymbus podiceps ....
1.
2.
7.
8.
# *
« * * *
* *
• ft ft ft ft ft ft ft ft ft ft
24 PB,
370 . ORNITHOLOGY.
36. Antelope Islcmd, Great Salt Lake (June 4-8, 1869 ). — ^Antelope Island, the largest of the islands in the Great Salt Lake, appears as a long range of barren mountains, rising from the water. The island is about fifteen miles in length, by about three in width at the broadest part, while its longitudinal axis culminates in a broken rocky ridge, the highest peak of which is, per- haps, some 1,500 to 2,000 feet above the surface of the lake. Some years ago, when the Salt Lake Valley was first settled by the Mormons, this island was indeed a-part of the mainland, a strip of low ground then connecting it with the shore. The gradually increased annual rain-fall, brought about by the careful cultivation of the country by the early settlers, first by artificial irrigation, but in time aided by more and more frequent showers, wrought, among other notable changes in the character of the country, a great difference in the level of the lake, which grew higher, year by year, until the isthmus above mentioned became entirely submerged. The entire island presents the usual desert aspect, through the general absence of water, save at one place on the eastern shore, where springs of pure, fresh water irrigate the soil. This spot had been selected by representatives of the Mormon church as the site of a ranche ; and it was here that our camp was established. In the thrifty orchard of this thriving little farm were found, nesting, the Cat-bird {Galeoscoptes carolimnsis)^ Redstart (Setophaga ruticilla)j Traill's Flycatcher {Empidonax pusillus\ Bullock's Oriole {Icterus biUlocki)j and Warbling Vireo (Vireosylvia swainsoni)] while about the buildings a pair^ of Mountain Blue-birds (Sialia arcticd) had their abode, as did also several paii-s of the House Finch {Carpodacus frontalis). The former were feeding a family of fuU-fledged young, and were the first of this species we ever saw at so low an altitude during the breeding-season, although they were observed later, under similar circumstances, in Salt Lake City.
In the sage-brush, Oreoscoptes montanus^ Amphispiza hilineata^ Spizella brewery Ohondestes grammacaj Carpodacus frontalis^ Bremophila clirysokema^ Collurio excuUtoroides^ Zencedura carolinensis, Agdcem phcenicew, and JEgia- litis vociferus were nesting; while, in a wet meadow, Passer cuius alau- dinusj Agekem phoeniceus, and Numenius longirostris had young. The only additional species noticed among the mountains, were Cyanospim ammna
DESOBIPTION OP OAMPS. 371
and Pipilo megalonyx^ in a ravine, and Corvm carnivorus, about the rocky- peaks.
37. Stansbury Island, Great Salt Lake (June 1 2, 1869). — This island, like the one just described, was formerly connected with the mainland at its southern extremity; but it is now far out in the lake. No water could be found upon it, and consequently the birds were very scarce. The only species obtained was Galeoscoptes caroUnensis, of which a single individual, probably a straggler, was secured.
38. — Garrington Island, Great Salt Lake (June 17, 1869). — The writer did not visit this island, but two members of the party, Messrs. Watson and Davis, who were there, brought with them on their return eggs of Mecur- virostra americana, Branta canadensis, and Larus californicus, and reported various other water-fowl as breeding upon this island and a smaller one near by.
39. ''Babbit Island^' Great Salt Lake (June 11, 1869).— This island was, at the time of our visit, merely a remnant of that portion of the southern shore of the lake which is now submerged. It consisted of merely a low knoll, occupying scarcely an acre in extent, and was named by our party ''Rabbit Island" on account of the large numbers of hares (Lepus callotis) which were found on it. The latter were so numerous that when our boat landed they were seen rushing frantically around, several of them leaping into the water in their efforts to escape. The surface of this small island was covered with a thrifty growth of sage-brush and grease-wood, in which several pairs of Oreoscoptes montanus and Spizella breweri had their nests. A single nest of Mareca americana, containing ten eggs, was also found beneath a grease- wood bush.
40. Parley^s Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah (June 23-July 2, and July 16-August 16/ 1869). — This locality is an elevated park, or broad valley, lying at the eastern base of the main chain of the Wahsatch, and 25 miles distant from Salt Lake Cit}^. From the latter it was approached by the canon of Jordan Creek, a considerable brook, whose sources are among the- mountains surrounding this park, while along the eastern side
372 ORNITHOLOGY.
flowed Silver Creek, a tributary of the Weber. The average altitude of this park is about 6,500 feet, while some of the neighboring peaks of the maiii fange rise 4,000^ fe'et or more higher, and on whose bare, rocky sum- mits spots of snow linger all the summer in the sheltered places. The general character of this park is that of a luxuriant meadow, parts of it under cultivation, the hill-sides being covered with a thick scrub of dwarf- oaks {Querctis alba^ varJ), while the higher slopes are covered by a dense forest of Coniferae, composed of several species (Pinus flexiliSj P.ponderosa^ P. contortaj Abies mendesiij A. englemann% A. douglass^i, A. grandisj A. ama- hilts i and Juniperus virginiana). The higher portions of the ravines are occupied by shady groves of tall aspens {Populus tremuloides), while bordering the lower portions of the streams grow scattered trees of the narrow-leafed cotton-wood {Populus angusti folia), and luxuriant shrubbery, of varied species. Indeed, the desert character of the country to the westward of the Great Salt Lake was here almost entirely wanting. As a natural consequence of increased prevalence and luxuriance of vegetation, the birds were much more numerous than we had found them at any previous camp, and while we found eastern trees and shrubs replacing their western representatives, or added as new elements to the western sylva, we also found many birds of the Eastern Region as common here as at any point in the Atlantic States. Such species were the Cat-bird {Galeoscoptes carolinensis) Swainson's Thrush {Turdus swainsoni)^ Eedstart {Setophaga ruticilla), and White-crowned Spar- row (^Zonotrichia leucophrys), A species of the plains, or the Campestrian Province {Calamospiza bicolor), was also here met with for the first time, while several birds characteristic of the Rocky Mountains proper were more or less common, as Turdm auduboni^ HelminthopJiaga virginice, Passer ella schistaceay Juneo caniceps, and Gyanura macrohpka. In this beautiful park three species of Humming-birds were found, viz : Selaspkorus platycercus^ Stellida calliopey and Trochilus alexandri, the flowery meadows of the upper portion of the callons being especially attractive to these ^^ feathered gems."
The following is a complete list of the species found at this locality during the period indicated above, their distribution being explained by the annexed columns : —
DESCEIPTION OF CAMPS.
373
|
1 i |
1 1 |
1 |
if 11 |
1^ |
1 |
t 1 |
09 . 6 |
1 TO « |
|
|
1. Tardus micrratorius ..* |
* |
# |
|||||||
|
2. Tardus swaiusoui |
« |
||||||||
|
3. Tardus auduboDi |
* |
||||||||
|
4. Galeoscontes carolinensis |
« |
||||||||
|
5. Sialia arctica |
• |
# * * # * # « |
« |
||||||
|
G. CiDclus mexlcanus |
|||||||||
|
7. Reffulus calendula |
|||||||||
|
8. Parus moutauas |
|||||||||
|
9. Sit ta aculeata * |
' ' - ' |
||||||||
|
10. Sitta caiiadBnsis |
|||||||||
|
1 1 Sittia i^vcinflfta .. .. |
, |
||||||||
|
1 2._ Certhia americana |
|||||||||
|
18. Trofflodvtes narkmauni |
* |
|
• |
||||||
|
14, Telmatodvtes paludicola |
# |
||||||||
|
15. !EremoDhila aloestris |
* |
||||||||
|
1 G, Helminthophaga celata |
|||||||||
|
17. Heltninthopliaga virginise |
• * |
||||||||
|
18. DeudroBca sestiva . . . ^ . . * . i |
• |
||||||||
|
19. DendrcBca auduboui |
^ |
||||||||
|
20. DendroBca nigresc^ns |
* |
||||||||
|
21. GeothlvDis macirillivravi |
« |
||||||||
|
22. GeothlvDis trichas |
* |
||||||||
|
23. Icteria lon^zicauda |
• # • |
||||||||
|
24. Mviodioctes nusillua |
*? |
||||||||
|
25. SetoDhacra ruticilla |
|||||||||
|
2G. Pyranga ludoviciana |
•? |
* |
|||||||
|
27. Progne subis » |
|||||||||
|
28. Potrochelidon lunifroDs |
# |
||||||||
|
^9. Hirundo horreorum |
* |
||||||||
|
30- Tafibvciiieta bieolor . |
« |
||||||||
|
31 Taohvcineta tlialassina |
|||||||||
|
32. Ootvle riuaria |
• |
||||||||
|
33. Stelcridontervx sorrinennia |
• |
||||||||
|
34. Vireosylvia swaiusoni |
• |
•f |
* |
> • • • |
374
ORNITHOLOGY.
|
1 |
1 |
1. |
i II II |
O Gu 1* |
rg |
i |
2 . 11 |
So |
|
|
35. Lanivireo plumbeus |
# |
||||||||
|
36. CoUurio excubitoroides |
# |
||||||||
|
37- GarnodacaR cas^tini |
# |
• ♦ |
|||||||
|
38. CaTDodacns frontalis |
.... * #- # |
||||||||
|
39. Ghysomitris tristris , |
|||||||||
|
40. Chysomitris T)S£iltria • . . . |
|||||||||
|
41. Chvsomltris pinns .......,.' |
# |
# |
|||||||
|
42. Passerculus alaudiDtis - - . |
• |
• |
|||||||
|
43. Pooecetes coDfinis |
« |
||||||||
|
44. Coturnlculus DerDallidas |
|||||||||
|
45. Melospiza lincolni |
* |
||||||||
|
46. Melospiza fallax . . . , |
* |
||||||||
|
47. Junco caDiceps |
* |
||||||||
|
48. Spizella arizonse . . . , |
• |
* |
|
« |
|||||
|
49. Spizella breweri |
« |
||||||||
|
60. 2onotrichia leucophrys |
« |
. . . . |
|||||||
|
51. Ohondestes grammaca 62, Passerella schistacea . . • . . .......... |
# |
||||||||
|
* |
|||||||||
|
63. Galamospiza bicolor |
# |
||||||||
|
64. Hedymeles melaDoceDhalus |
« # |
||||||||
|
55* Oyanoi^iza amoeiia |
|||||||||
|
66. Pipilo megalooyx |
* |
# |
|||||||
|
57. Pit)ilo chlorurus • |
|||||||||
|
68. Molothrus ater , |
« » |
# |
« |
. . . . |
|||||
|
69. A^elsens phcBniceus . . - |
|||||||||
|
60. Xanthocenhalus icterocenhalas |
|||||||||
|
61. Icterus ballocki . |
« |
||||||||
|
62. Sturnella neirleota ••.»•..« |
«- |
« |
|||||||
|
63. Scolecophagns cyapocephalas |
•- |
# |
|||||||
|
64. Corvus carnivorus • |
|||||||||
|
65, Ovanocitta woodhousii |
• |
• |
|||||||
|
66. Gvaniira macrolonha ^ |
• # |
||||||||
|
67, Picicorvus colutabianus |
|||||||||
|
68. Tyrannus verticalis |
• |
DBSOBIPTION OF OAMPS.
376
|
aa |
i 1 |
II 1^ |
If |
Ml |
OQ i |
g |
Q 00 |
OS- 'S J |
|
|
69, Tyrannus carolincnsis |
* |
||||||||
|
70. -Mviarchus ciDerasccns ...* |
« |
||||||||
|
71. ContoDus borealis |
* |
||||||||
|
72. Gontopus ricbardsoni ^ |
* |
* |
* * |
||||||
|
73. Empidonax obscurus |
|||||||||
|
74, EiuDidonax diMcilis |
# |
||||||||
|
75. EmpidoDax pusillus |
# |
||||||||
|
76. Antrostomiis DUttalli . . • |
# .# |
||||||||
|
77. Chordeiles henrvi |
* |
||||||||
|
78, Trochilus alexandri |
* « * |
||||||||
|
79, Stellula callioDe |
|||||||||
|
80. SelasT)boriis Dlatvcercus |
|||||||||
|
81. Cervle alcvon |
|||||||||
|
82, Picas barrisi , • . |
* ' * * |
* # |
|||||||
|
83. Piiiiis srairdneri |
|||||||||
|
84. SDhvraDicus nucbalis |
* |
.... |
|||||||
|
85. SDhvraDiciis tbvroideus |
|||||||||
|
86. Golantfts mexicanuA * |
# # |
— |
# |
* * |
« |
||||
|
87, Bubo subarcticus |
|||||||||
|
88. Falco DolvafiTTus |
* |
* |
|||||||
|
89. Falco snarveriiis |
# |
. .. |
• |
? |
1 |
• |
|||
|
90. Circus budsonius |
|||||||||
|
91. Nisus cooperi , . |
• * |
— |
f * |
* • |
|||||
|
92. Nisus fuscus |
|||||||||
|
93. Buteo calurus |
# |
||||||||
|
94. Buteo Rwainsoni .... »...-. |
« |
— |
# |
||||||
|
95. Arcbibuteo sancti-iobaniiis |
# |
• |
|||||||
|
96. Aa uila canadensis |
« |
||||||||
|
97. Rbinofirrvnbus aura |
|||||||||
|
98. Zens&dura carolinensis , ^.. |
# |
• |
• « |
||||||
|
99. Canace obscura |
• • |
||||||||
|
100- jRonaaa umbelloid^s |
|||||||||
|
101. Centrocercus urophasianus 102, PedicDcetes columbianus |
• « |
||||||||
|
• |
• • • • |
• • • • |
376
ORNITHOLOGY.
103. -^gialitis vociferus
104. Gallinago wilsoni
105. Ereunetes pusillus.
106. Actodromus minutilla
107. Symphemia semipalinata . 308. Tringoides macularius ...
109. Ehyacophilus solitarius . .
110. Numenias longirostris
111. Grus canadeusis
112. Porzana Carolina ...
113. Porzana jamaicensisf
114. Fulica ainericana
115. Anas boschas
116. Querquedulacyanoptera.
g
^
^
"^
.£3 O
ll
* *
* * *
*
# *
>. to
s ^
^ .31 teg
g
I
it
P^
41. Pachas Canorij Uintah Mountains (July 3-8, 1869). — This canon is the valley of a considerable stream^ flowing from the higher regions of one of the western peaks of the Uintah range into the Weber River, via Kamas Prairie. In its upper portion both valley and mountains are densely cov- ered with a coniferous forest, while along the banks of the stream the exten- sive and vigorous growth of shrubbery consists of many species. The birds found in this locality were, in part, the following : —
Tdrdas migratorius. Tardus swaiusoni. Galeoscoptes carolinensis. Cinclns mexicauus. Geothlypis macgillivrayi. DendroBca mgrescens. Helminthophaga Virginia^. Setopbaga raticilla, Pyranga ludoviciana. Ohrysomitris tristis, Ghrysomitris psaltria.
Ohrysomitris pinus, Melospiza fallax, Cyanura macrolopha. Picicorvus coUimbianus. Selasphorus platycercus, Antrostomus nuttalli. Chordeiles henryi. Oanace obscura. Zensadnra carolinensis. Tringoides ttiacularius.
GENERAL REMARKS ON THE BASIN AVIFAUNA. 377
^2.—Kamas Prairie, Utah (July 9, 1869).— Kamas Prairie is a grassy valley, lying between the western spur of the Uintahs and the rolling eastern foot-hills of the Wahsatch. We noticed there the ordinary species of meadow localities, with the Sidiition oi Actiturus bartramius, which seemed to be quite common.
43. Provo River, Utah (July 10-11, 1869).— We followed this river, from the valley in which Heber City is situated, to Provo, near the shore of Utah Lake, through the deep and picturesque canon cleft between two high peaks of the Wahsatch range. Among the dense and extensive willow thickets along this river we first found Turdus fuscescens and Parus septen- trionalis (the former in great abundance), and the Magpie again numerous. The other species noticed along this river were, mainly, the following: Gakoscoptes caroUnemis (abundant), Setophaga rvticilla (abundant), Zence- dura caroUnensis (abundant), Dendroeca cestiva, Melospiza fallaXy Icterus btdlockif etc.
GENERAL REMARKS ON THE AVIFAUNA OF THE GREAT BASIN.
The total number of species of birds observed during the exploration is 262, of which only 24 were not seen east of the western slope of the Sierra Nevada; thus leaving a total of 238 species noticed in the Great Basin, including the approximate slopes of the Sierra Nevada and Wah- satch ranges, which form the boundary of the district on the west and east. This number includes both winter and summer birds, as well as the transient species, or those which merely pass through in the spring and fall ; the latter were comparatively very few, however, since the complicated topography of the country afforded such a diversity of climate, with varia- tions of altitude, that extreme northern and southern species passed the summer at different elevations on the same mountain ranges. Although the Great Basin forms a natural ^/ Province" of the Western Region, the Sierra Nevada and main Rocky Mountain ranges forming its longitudinal bounda- ries, the mountains form much less of an actual barrier to the distribution of the species than might be supposed, as is clearly attested by the occurrence of a large proportion of the Californian species on the eastern slope of the
378 OENITHOLOGY.
former, down to the very verge of the desert, and the presence of so many- eastern birds on the Wahsatch and other extreme western ranges of the latter system. It is, therefore, evident that not the mountains, but the deserts, check the species in their range away from their centers of .distribution. It was also noticed that the species having a general range throughout the Interior were those particularly characteristic of, if not peculiar to, the Basin Province, and that their distribution was regulated less by mere topographical features than by other local conditions, the presence or absence of water and vegetation being the main agents.
As stated in the chapter on the local avifaunas of the Great Basin (see pp. 816-328), certain groups of birds not only characterize particular zones of vegetation, but, also, isolated spots of a particular description, no matter at what altitude. An excellent example in illustration of this case is afforded by the humming-birds of the Interior, which are found wherever flowers grow in profusion, either in the valleys or on the mountains; they abound most on the upper slopes of the canons, where numerous flowering plants bloom in such abundance as to form natural gardens; but on one day, in August, we observed an individual of Selasphorus phtycercus in the door- yard of a ranche, in Ruby Valley, the altitude of which was between 6,000 and 7,000 feet, while a few hours later, as we stood on the summit of one of the lofty peaks of the East Humboldt range, at an elevation of about 12,000 feet above sea-level, and far above the fields of perpetual snow, an individual of the same species flew rapidly by, bound for the slopes of an adjoining cafion. The extreme vertical range of this species was thus shown to be nearly 6,000 feet, or more than one mile! In all cases where farms had been established in the valleys, humming-birds were noticed in the door- yards, though had not careful cultivation, with the aid of artificial irrigation, produced these oases in the desert, it is needless to say these birds would not have been seen there. Other cases in point are those of the birds frequenting the cafion shrubbery, which have a vertical range almost equal to that of the humming-birds, the same species following the streams from the valleys up to the snow-fields, provided the shrubbery continues so far. Certain birds which frequent woods, of whatsoever kind, are almost sure to be found wherever trees occur ; thus Oolaptes mexicanm or Picm harrisi may
GENERAL REMARKS ON THE BASIN AVIFAUNA. 379
be observed the same day among the cotton-woods of the lowest valleys, less than a hundred feet above sea-level (as in California), and in the alpine woods, 10,000-12,000 feet above the sea.
Independent of these local modifications of the fauna, as controlled by conditions of environment, important changes were noticed in proceeding eastward, which are of a truly geographical nature. Thus, although the character of the country changed completely with the termination of the coniferous forests of the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada, the change in the fauna was by no means so abrupt. New forms of course immediately made their appearance, or even predominated in number of species and individuals, over those we had met with before, but still many of the latter were not lost sight of completely until we had penetrated many miles into the desert country, but reappeared on the higher ranges of the western depres- sion. This was particularly the case with the West Humboldt Mountains, where Lanivireo cassini, Pipilo oregonus, Melospiza guttata^ Zonotrichia coronata^ and Agelceus gubernator were found in the fall, all being birds of the Pacific Province; while on the desert ranges, within sight of the Sien-a, Oreortyx pictus was more or less plentiful. Along the eastern base of the Sierra. Nevada, near Carson City, Oycmocitta calif arnica — the ^'Valley Jay" of California — -was found in place of G. woodhousiij which was the only species from the West Humboldt Mountains eastward, and the form characteristic of the Middle Province.
As we approached the eastern border of the Basin we met with spe- cies characteristic of the Eastern Region or the Rocky Mountain District of the Middle Province, as gradually as on the western side we had left the Californian forms behind; each successive high range introducing a larger number to the list. But even in this district, where so many eastern forms were met with, there was still a sprinkling of the extreme western element, which, however, seemed to have reached nearly to its eastern limit in the upper Humboldt valley or the neighboring mountains, where such birds as Turdus guttatuSj Helminthophaga lutescenSj Dendrceca occidentaliSj D. townsendiy and Selasphorus rufus were noticed as autumnal migrants.
It seems to be a general rule, that western birds have a tendency to extend eastward during their fall migrations, thus spreading over the whole
380 ORNITBOLOGY,
of the Western Region at this season, though in summer their habitat may be confined strictly to the area of Pacific-coast drainage. This circum- stance we have previously alluded to, in these words: — ^
"Another very remarkable peculiarity of the Wahsatcb region, which I wish par- ticularly to mention in this connection, is the fact that in the case of representative species or races, the Eastern or Rocky Mountain forms breed there, while the more Western forms replace them in winter. Thus, Zonotrichia leuoopJirys and Jmico hyemalis, var. canicepSy are the only species oif these two genera which breed on the Wahsatcb, and they nest there very numerously 5 but in the fall their place is taken by the western Z, leucophrysy var. gamheli [=^intermedia] and J. hyemalis, var. oregonus^ which are un- known in summer. Lanivireo solitaria, var. plumbea^ breeds there, while var. soUtariay coming from the northwestward, replaces it in autumn. The same is the case with Turdus pallasiy var. auduboni (summer resident), and var. nanus (autumnal migrant); and apparently the case also with Helminthophaga virginice (summer), and S. ruficapilla (autumn)." ^
The eastern species occurring within the Basin were found to have reached their maximum in the Salt Lake Valley and adjacent country to the eastward, but, as was the case with the western series, some of them had intruded so far within the western domain as to reach the opposite side. Thus, Tyrannies carolinensis was not rare during the breeding-season in the lower Truckee Valley, almost at the foot of the Sierra Nevada. Ectopistes migratoria was obtained in the West Humboldt Mountains, although the only individual seen was a young one, and evidently a straggler. In the East Humboldt Mountains, Turdus swainson% Helminthophaga ruficapilla^ and
iProc. Essex Inst., Vol. V, Nov., 1873, pp. 170, 171. [" Notes on the Bird Fauna of the Salt Lake Valley and the adjacent portions of the Wahsatch Mountains.'']
2 Other examples of species which have an extreme western or northwestern distribution during the breeding-season, but which migrate in fall both eastward and southward, are, Helminthophaga lutescem^ Bendrij&ca occidentalism D. townsendij and Selas- phorns rufusy found as far east as the Clover Mountains, with the addition of Lanivireo cassinij Melospiza guttata^ Pipilo oregonus, Zonotrichia coronata, and Agelcem gubernator^ which in September and October were obtained in the West Humboldt range. The most plausible explanation of this eastward migration would appear to be found in the supposition that nearly, if not all, these migrants were from the Valley of the Columbia Eiver, whose main tributary, the Snake Eiver, heads almost directly north of the Great Salt Lake; the birds of the Columbia basin would naturally follow the valleys of these upper tributaries as the route offering the least obstacle to their south- ward passage, many species which do not breed eastward of the lower Columbia thus regularly reaching the eastern border, if not the whole extent, of the Great Basin. Whether their return northward is by the same route, remains to be determined.
GENERAL REMARKS ON THE BASIN AVIFAUNA. 381
Dolichonyx oryzivorus were more or less common in the fall. In the Wah- satch district, including the Salt Lake Valley, were Turdus fmcescens, Gak- oscoptes carolinensiSj Setophaga ruticilla^ and Zonotrichia leucophrys as abundant summer residents, and Melanerpes erythrocephalus as a summer straggler; while on Kamas Prairie, between the Wahsatch and the Uintahs, Actiturus hartramius was common in July.
Another result of our investigations was the discovery of the fact that several species, supposed to be peculiarly eastern, are in reality among those which inhabit the entire breadth of the <3ontinent. Among these were Coccyzm americanus, which was found both at Sacramento, California, and in the Truckee Valley, in June and July, and Coturniculus passerinuSy which was as abundant in the vicinity of Sacramento as at any eastern locality ; also, Spwella monticola, heretofore supposed to be of casual or accidental occurrence in the West, but which was found to be an abundant winter res- ident in suitable localities. There was also seen at two places in the western depression — the West Humboldt Mountains (October) and the Truckee Valley (November) — a ColapteSj which was probably the eastern C. auratus, though it may possibly have been C. chrysoides of the Gila and Saint Lucas districts, since it is certain that the individuals in question were not the form intermediate between C. auratus and 0. mexicanuSj known as C. ^^ hyhridus!'^^
Somewhat of an anomaly was noticed in the distribution of several species in the region indicated, in their abundance on the two opposite
^ In- addition to these species, the following are known to occur westward of the main divide of the Eocky Mountains : —
1. DendroBca blackburniai ; Ogden, Utah, Sept. — AUen.
2. Dendroeca coronata ; Fort Bridger, Wyoming. — Baird.
3. Seiurus noveboracensis ; Fort Bridger, Wyoming.— JSatVdf.
4. Oistothorus stellaris ; Utah Lake ; breeding. — Henshaw.
5. Vireosylvia olivacea ; Ogden, Utah, September. — Allen. [" More or less common'^] ;
Fort Bridger, Wyoming.-^J5air^.
6. Junco hyemalis; Iron Springs, Utah, October 4. — Henshaw.
7. Melospiza palustris; Washington, Utah, October 23. — Henshaw,
8. Quiscalus aeneus ; Fort Bridger, Wyoming — Baird.
9. Empidonax minimus J Fort Bridger, Wyoming. — Baird.
10. Kallus elegans ; Ogden, Utah, September. — Allen.
11. Ibis alba; Ogden, Utah, September. — Allen. [" Said to be frequent in summer,'']
12. Anas obscura; Rush Lake, Utah, November. — Yarrow.
382 ORNITHOLOGY.
mountain ranges and their apparent absence from the entire intervening territory. Such was particularly conspicuous regarding Sialia mexicana and Lophophanes inornatus, which, if occurring at all in the Basin proper, were so raa-e that they were not noticed. An apparent explanation of this exceptional rnxkge is the general absence of suitable localities over the greater portion of this vast area ; but the circumstance that the species named were still wanting on the Wahsateh and Uintahs, where the conditions of environ- ment are in every way favorable, would seem to suggest other causes. The partial or entire absence of certain woodland species from the sufficiently extensive forests of the higher interior ranges was indeed a subject of con- tinual speculation, since they were searched for in vain, after leaving the Sierra Nevada, until the Wahsateh or Uintah woodlands were reached, when many of them reappeared, while others did not, although they are known to occur in the same latitudes on the main Rocky Mountain ranges. Besides the species named above, we may mention Scops flammeola^ Ghm- cidium gnoma^ and Cohimha fasciata, which are common to the two widely- separated districts named, but which have not yet been recorded from any intermediate locality; while other species, found both on the Sierra Nevada and Wahsateh, were found to be either extremely rare or apparently not existing at all on any ranges between. These species are the following: Begulus calendula. Parus montanus, SUta aculeata, S. pygmoeay Certhia ameri- cana^ and Sphyrapicus thyroideus. All of these, it may be observed, are of pinicoline habits.
It seems to us that the most reasonable explanation of the abundance of these birds on the Sieri'a Nevada and Rocky Mountains, and their rarity in or absence from the intervening region, is to ^be found in the fact that the two great mountain systems named approximate closely along the northern and southern borders of the United States, thus allowing short and scarcely interrupted passage from one to the other, without being obliged to cross the wide expanse of desert which intervenes along the line of our route.
The following tables are intended to show more briefly the changes noticed in the bird-fauna during our transit of the Basin, as well as the main local peculiarities noted by the way : —
GENERAL REMARKS OJT THE BASIN AVIFAUNA. 383
SPECIES OF THE GREAT BASIN NOT OBSERVED IN CAIilPORKIA. Species* Range within the Basin.
1. Tardus auduboni Eastern side.
2. Oreoseoptes montanus Entirely across.
^ Sialia arctiea Entirely across.
4. Psaltriparos plumbeus Entirely across.
5. Psaltriparus.melanotis Eastern side ; straggler,
6. Salpinctes obsoletus - • . . Entirely across.
7. Catherpes conspersus Entirely across.
8. Helminthophaga virginiae Eastern side.
9. Lanivireo plumbeus - Eastern side.
10.? Phseuopepla nitens - ... Western side.
11 . Carpodacus cassiui . . v Entirely across.
12. Junco caniceps Eastern side.
13. Amphispiza bilineata Entirely across.
14. Amphispiza nevadensis Entirely across.
15. Melospiza fallax Entirely across, except western border.
16. Passerella schistacea Eastern side, chiefly.
17. Calamospiza bicolor * Eastern side ; straggler.
18. Pipilo megalonyx .* Entirely across, except western bof der.
19. Pipilo chlorurus Entirely across.
20. Gymnokitta cyanocephala Western side.
21. Pica hudsonica — Entirely across.
22. Oyanura macrolopha Eastern side.
23. Cyanocitta woodhousii : . . Entirely across.
24. Sayornis say us Entirely across.
25. Empidonax obscurus . Entirely across.
26. Empidonax hammondi Entirely across.
27. Panyptila saxatilis Eastern side.
28. Selasphorus platycercus Eastern side.
29. Stellula calliope Entirely across.
30. Sphyrapicus nuchalis Entirely across.
31. Sphyrapicijs thyroideus Entirely across.
32. Colaptes. hybridus Entirely across.
33. Oolaptes auratus? Western side.
34. Canace obscura Entirely across.
35. Bon'asa umbelloides - . Entirely across.
36. Pedioecetes columbianus Entirely across.
37. Centrocercus urophasianus Entirely across.
38. Falcinellus guarauna Eastern side.
39. Falcinellus thalassinus Western side.
SPECIES OF THE EASTERN REGION FOUND IN THE BASIN.
1. Turdus swainsoni Eastern side.
2. Turdus fuscescens Eastern side.
3. Galeoscoptes caroliuensis Eastern side.
384 ORNITHOLOGY.
Species. Range mthin the Bcmn.
4. Helminthophaga celata Eastern side.
5. Setophaga ruticilla Eastern side.
6. Lanivireo solitarius Entirely across.
7. Zonotrichia leucophrys Eastern side.
8. Dolichonyx oryzivoras Eastern side.
9. Tyrannas carolinensis Entirely across.
10. Melanerpes erythrocephalus Eastern side.
11. Ectopistes migratoria West Humboldt Mts.; straggler.
12. Actiturus bartramius Eastern side.
13. Querquedula discors Entirely across.
LOCALITIES WHERE CERTAIN SPECIES WERE FIRST MET WITH IN JOURNEYING
EASTWARD.
Uastern slope of Sierra N'evada,
1. Oreoscoptes montanus. July.
2. Sialia arctica. December- April 25.
3. Carpodacus cassini. March 21-April 4.
4. Salpinctes obsoletas. Summer resident.
5. Catherpes conspersus. Constant resident.
6. Ampbispiza nevadensis. Constant resident.
7. Ampbispiza bilineata. Summer resident.
8. Spizella monticola. Winter resident.
9. Passerella megarhyncha. From April 25 through summer.
10. Passerella schistacea. February and March 5 scarce.
11. Pipilo chlorurus. Summer resident.
12. Scolecophagus cyanocephalus. Winter resident in valleys, breeding on
mountains.
13. Gymnokitta cyanocephala. Constant resident.
14. Pica hudsonica. Constant resident.
15. Sayornis sayus. Summer resident.
16. Empidonax obscurus. Summer resident.
17. Antrostomus nuttalli. Summer resident.
18. Ohordeiles henryi. Summer resident.
19. Picoides arcticus. Winter resident; rare.
20. Sphyrapicus thyroideus. Constant resident.
21. Sphyrapicus nuchalis. Casual (April 4).
22. Falco polyagrus. Constant resident.
23. Canace obscura. Constant resident.
24. Centrocercus urophasianus.
Iruokee Valley {below Virginia Mountains).
1. Troglodytes hyemalis. Deceoiber.
2. Tachycineta thalassina. Summer residejut.
3. Tyrannus carolinensis. Summer resident.
GENERAL REMARKS ON THE BASIN AVIFAUNA. 385
^ 4. Nephcecetes borealis. Summer resident,
5. Ohgetura vauxi. Summer resident.
6. Selasphorus rufus. August; excessively abundant.
7. Steganopas wilsoni. May ; rare.
West Humboldt Mountains.
1. Psaltriparus plumbeus. September-October.
2. Lanivireo cassiui. September 9-25.
3. Lanivireo solitarius. September.
4. Melospiza guttata. One specimen; Octobers.
5. Zonotrichia coronata. One specimen; October 7.
6. Cyanocitta woodhousii. September-October.
7. Ectopistes migratoria. One specimen; September 10.
8. Colaptes auratus. I One specimen; October.
Soda Lake, Carson Desert 1. ! Phsenopepla nitens. June 27; rare.
Toyabe Mountains {near Austin).
1. Panyptila saxatilis. July 4; one specimen.
Buby Mountains {eastern slope).
1. Psaltriparus melanotis.? One specimen; August 4.
2. Dendrceca nigrescens. Summer resident.
3. Helminthophaga virginiae. Summer resident.
4. Lanivireo plumbeus. Summer resident.
5. Loxia leucoptera. One specimen; August 12.
6. Selasphorus platycercus. Summer resident. . 7. Stellula calliope. Summer resident.
East Humboldt Mountains (eastern slope).
1. Turdus swainsoni. September 1-11.
2. Dendroeca townsendi. September 8-24.
3. Dendrceca occidentalis. August 29.
4. Helminthophaga ruficapilla. September 6.
5. Empidonax hammondi. September 5-8. [Also found on eastern slope
of the Sierra Nevada.]
Here were seen the most eastern individuals of Selasphorus r^fuSy a pair having been observed, and the male secured, September 8. Buby Valley (west side^ near Franklin Lake).
1. Dolichonyx oryzivorus. August and September.
2. Falcinellus guarauna. August and September.
From here northward, Lept^ cdllotis was found to be replaced by L.
campestris. 26 p B
386
ORNITHOLOGY.
Upj^er Humboldt Valley {west of Glover Mountains).
1. Tardus guttatus. September 16.
2. Sitta canadensis. September 10.
3. Ampelis cedrorum. September 10.
4. Picas gairdneri. September 12^17. 6. Nisas fascus. September 10.
6. PedicBcetes colambianus. September 16.
Thousand Spring Valley, 1. Nyctale acadica. September 24; one specimen. Vicinity of Salt Lake City {including shores and islands of the lake. City Creek Carton^ etc.).
1. Galeoscoptes carolinensis. Common summer resident.
2. Setophaga ruticilla. Common summer resident.
3. Chrysomitris psaltria. Rare summer resident.
4. Pipilo megalonyx. Abundant summer resident.
* 5. Melanerpes erythrocephalus. One specimen, June. 6. -^gialitis nivosus. Very abundant summer resident.
Parley^s Park ( Wahsatch Mountains).
1. Junco caniceps. Common summer resident.
2. Zonotrichia leucophrys. Common summer resident
3. Calamospiza bicolor. One specimen, July 30.
4. Cyanura macrolopha. Common resident.
5. Bonasa umbelloides. Rare resident.
Kamas Prairie. 1. Actiturus bartramius. July.
Provo Canon.
1. Tardus fuscescens. Very abundant summer resident.
2. Parus septentrionalis. Summer resident.
CATALOGUE OF THE SPECIES COLLECTED OB OBSERVED.^
Page.
TurdidcB.
•1. Turdus migratorius, L 391
2. Turdus guttatus (Pall.) 393
♦3. Turdus auduboni, Baird 394
♦4. Turdus. ustulatus, IJutt 395
Page. Turdidce — Continued.
•5. Turdus swainsoni, Caban 397
*6. [Turdus fuscescens, Steph.] 398
♦7. Galeoscoptes carolinensis (L.). . . . 399 *8. Oreoscopte8montanas( Towns.)-.. 399
^ For the sake of convenience, we adopt a strictly binomial nomenclature, even in case of forms which are unquestionably mere geographical races. Species dis- tinguished by an asterisk are those which were observed during the breeding-season; those in italics were seen only in California, while those not in the collection are inclosed in brackets.
CATALOGUE.
387
SaxicolidcB.
♦9. Sialia mexicana, Swains 402
*10. Sialia arctica, Swains 403
Ginclidce, *11. Cinclus mexicanus, Swains 406
8ylviidw. *12. Myiadestes townsendi (Aud.).. . . 408
♦13. [Polioptila ccerulea (L.) ?] 409
*14. Regultts calendula (L.) 409
15. [Regains satrapa, Licht.J 410
Paridw. *16. Lophophanes inornatus (Gamb.). 410
*17. Parus montanus, Gamb 411
♦18. Parus septentrionalis, Harris.. . , 412
♦19. [Farus occidentalism Baird ^ 412
♦20. [Paalirij^arus minimus (Towns.)].. 413 ♦21. Psaltriparns plumbeus, Baird. .. 413 22. [Psaltriparns melanoti8(Hartl.) ^. 415 Sittidw,
♦23. Sitta acnleata, Cass 415
♦24. Sitta canadensis, L 416
♦25. Sitta pygmaBa, Vig 417
CerthiidcB.
♦26. pertbia americana 418
TrofflodytidcB,
♦27. Salpinctes obsoletus 418
♦28. Catherpes conspereus, Ridgw. . . 420 ♦29. [Thryomanes spilurus (Vig.) J. .... 422 ♦30. Troglodytes parkmanni, And.... 422
31. Troglodytes pacificus, Baird. 424
♦32. Telmatodytea paludicola, Baird. . 425 MotacilUdce,
33. Anthus ludovicianus (Gm,). 426
Mniotiltidce.
34. Helmiuthophaga ruficapilla
(Wils.) 427
♦35. Helminthophaga virginifiB, Baird. 428 ♦30. Helminthophaga celata (Say), . . . 429 37. Helminthophaga Intescens,
Ridgw 429
♦38. DendrcBca SBstiva (Gm.) 431
39. [DendroBca occidentals (Towns.)J. 432
40, DendrcBca townsendi (Nutt,). . . . 432
♦41. ♦42. ♦43. ♦44. ♦45. ♦46. 47, ♦48,
♦49. ♦50. ♦51. ♦52. ♦53. ♦54 ♦55.
56. 57.
♦58.
59.
60. ♦61. ♦62.
♦64.
66, 67.
♦69.
70. ♦71. ♦72. ♦73. ♦74.
75. ♦76. ♦77.
Page.
Mniotiltidce — Continued.
Dendrceca nigrescens (Towns.). . . 433
Dendroeca auduboni (Towns.). . . 433
Geothly pis trichas (L.) 434
Geothlypis macgillivrayi (And.). 435
Icteria longicauda, Lawr. . 436
Myiodioctes pusillus (Wils.) 437
Myiodioctes pileolatus (Pall.) 437
Setophaga ruticilla (L.) 438
Mirundinidce,
Progne subis (L.) 439
Petrochelidou lunifrons (Say). . . . 440 Hirundo horreorum, Barton — 441
Tachycineta bieolor (Vieill.). 441
Tachycineta thalassina (Swains.). 443
Cotyle riparia (L.) 445
Stelgidopteryx serripennis (Aud.) 446
Amj^elidce, Ampelis cedrorum (Vieill.).. .. 446 f [Pbsenopepla nitens (Swains.)]. . . 447 Vireonidce.
Vireosylvia swainsoni, Baird 448
Lanivireo casaini, Baird 449
Lanivireo solitarius (Wils.) 450
Lanivireo plumbeus, Coues 451
Vireo pusillus^ Coues . , 451
LaniidcB,
Collurio borealis (Vieill.) 452
CoUurio excubitoroides (Swains.). 453 TanagridoB.
Pyranga ludoviciana (Wils.) 454
Fringillidw,
Loxia americana (Wils.) 455
[Loxia leucoptera, Gm.J 456
Carpodacus cassini, Baird 457
Carpodacus frontalis (Say) 458
[Leucosticte littoralis, Baird.] 461
Chrysomitris tristis 461
Chrysomitris psaltria (Say) 462
[Chrysomitris lawrencii (Oms.)]. . . 463
Chrysomitris pinus (Wils.).. ... 463
[Plectrophanes lapponicus (L.)] . . 464
Passerculus alaudinus, Bonap... 464
Pooecetes conflnis, Baird. . . 466
388
ORNITHOLOGY.
Page.
FringillidcB-' Oont%n'ued. ♦78. Coturniculus perpallidus,
Ridgw. 467
♦79. GhoDdestes grammaca (Say). . . 467 ♦80. Zonotrichia leocophrys (Forst.). 470 ♦81. ZoDotrichia intermedia, Ridgw. 471
82. Zonotrichia coronata (Pall.) 472
♦83. Junco oregonus (Towns.). 473
♦84. [Junco caniceps ( Woodh.)] 474
♦85. Ainphispiza bilineata (Cass.). . . 475 *S^u Amphispiza nevadensis, Ridgw. 476
87. Spizella monticola (Gm.). 478
♦88. Spizella arizonse, Cones 470
♦89. Spizella breweri, Cass 480
♦90. Melospiza heermanni, Baird.. . . 481
♦91. Melospiza fallax, Baird 482
92. Melospiza guttata (Natt.),. ... 482
♦93. Melospiza lincolni ( Aud.) 484
♦94. Passerella megarbyncha, Baird. 485 ♦95. Passerella schistacea, Baird.. .. 486 96. Calamospiza bicolor (Towns.)... 487 ♦97. Hedymeles melanocephalns
(Swains.) ., 488
♦98. Ouiraca ccerulea (L.). , 489
♦99. Cyanospiza amoena (Say) 490
♦100. Pipilo oregonus ^Bell) ;•. . . 491
♦10^1. Pipilo megalonyx, Baird. .. . ., 491
♦102. Pipilo chlorurus (Towns.) 496
♦103. [Pipilo crismlis ( Vig.)] 498
Alaudidw. ♦104. Eremophila alpestris (Forbt.).. 498 105. Eremophila leucolseraa, Coues. . 498 ♦106. Eremophila chry8olaBma(Wagl.) 499
IcteridcB, 107. Dolichonyx oryzivorus (L.) .... 600
♦108. Molotbrus ater (Bodd.) . 501
♦109. Xanthocephalns icterocephalus
(Bonap.) ;..... 602
♦110. AgelsBus pboBnicens (L.) ...... 503
♦111. Agelseus gubernator ( Wagl.). . . 504
•112. [AgeUms tricohr (Nutt) ] 605
♦113. Sturnella negiecta, Aud 606
♦114. Icterus bullocki (Swains.)..... 608 ♦115. Scolecophagus cyanocephalus
(Wagl.)....... 610
♦116. ♦117. ♦118. ♦119. ^♦120. ♦121. ♦122, ♦123. ♦124. ♦125.
♦126. ♦127. ♦128. ♦129. ♦130. ♦131. ♦132. ♦133. ♦134, 136. ♦136.
^37,
♦138. ♦139. ♦140. ♦141. 142. ♦143. ♦144. ♦146. ♦146.
♦147. 148.
♦149. 160. 151.
♦152.
Pa^e.
Corvidw.
Corvus carnivorus, Bartr 513
Corvus americanus, Aud 514
Picicorvus columbianiis ( Wils.). 515 Gymnokittacyanocephala,Max. 617
Pica nuttalli^ Aud 619
Pica hudsonica (Sabine) 520
Cyanura frontalis, Ridgw 523
Cyanura macrolopha, Baird. . . . 624 Cyanocitta californica (Vig.). .. 525 Cyanocitta woodhousii, Baird. . 526
Tyrannidce.
Tyrannus verticalis, Say 528
Tyrannus carolinensis (L.) 532
Myiarchus cinerascens, Lawr.. . 533 [Sayornis nigricans (Swains.) ] . 634
Sayornis say us (Bonap.) 534
Contopus borealis (Swains.) 635
Contopus richardsoni (Swains.). 637 Empidonax pusillus (Swains.) . . 539 Empidonax obscurus (Swains.) . 541 Empidonax hammondi, Xantus. 543 Empidonax difficilis, Baird 544
Alcedinidce.
Ceryle alcyon (L.) 545
Picidce.
Picas harrisi, Aud 545
Picus gairdneri, Aud 546
[Picus nuttallij Gamb.] . . 547
Picus albolarvatus (Cass.) 647
Picoides arcticus (Swains.) 548
[Sphyrapicus ruber (Gm.) ] . , . . 549 Sphyrapicus nnchalis, Baird... 549 Sphyrapicus thyroideus (Cass.) - 551 [Melanerpes formieivorus
(Swains.)].. 553
Melanerpes torquatus (Wils.) . . 663 [Melanerpes erythrocephalus
(L.)J 554
Colaptes mexicanus, Swains.. . . 556
Cplaptes hybridus, Baird 556
[Colaptes auratus (L.) !] . . 557
Cuculidce, |Goccyzus americanus {L.)J ..... 658
CATALOGUE.
389
Page.
Trochilidce.
♦153. Calypte annce (Less.) b^S
*154. Trochilas alexandri, Bourc. &
Muls 559
155. Selasphorus rufus (Gm.) 559
♦156. Selaspliorus platycercus
(Swains.) 560
♦157. Stellula calliope, Gould 563
Cypselidw.
♦158. Panyptila saxatilis (Woodh.). , . 564
159. Nepbcecetes borealis(Keim.). .. 565
160. fOhsetura vauxi (Towns.)] 566
CaprimuJgidce.
161. Antrostomus nuttalli (Aud.). .. 567
162. Chordeiles henryi, Cass 568
Strigidcc.
163. Strix pratincolaj Boii3>p 569
164. Otus wilsonianus, Less 570
165. Brachyotus cassiniy Brewer 571
166. 8c(^8 asio^ (L.) 571
107. Nyctale acadica (Gnu) 572
168. Bubo subarcticus, Hoy 572
169. Speotyto hypogsea (Bonap.) 573
Falconidce.
170. Falco nsevius (Gni.) 575
171. Falco polyagrus, Cass 577
172. Falco columbarius, L 578
♦173. Falco sparverius, L 578
♦174. Circus hudsonius, L. 580
175. Nisus cooperi (Bonap.) 581
176. Nisus fuscus (Gm.) 581
^177. [Buteo elegans, Cass.] 582
♦178. Buteo calurus, Cass. 582
♦179. Buteo swainsoni, Bonap 584
♦180. Archibuteo sancti-johannis
(Gm.)... 589
♦181. [Archibuteo ferrugineus
(Licht.)] 690
♦182. [Aquila canadensis (L.)J 590
♦183. fflaliaetus lencocephalus (L.)].. 592
♦184. JEllanus leucurm ( Vieill.) 592
♦185. [Pandion carolinensis (Gm.)] . . . 593
Gathartidm,
♦186. Rliinogryphus aura (L.) 693
Page.
Columbidae.
♦187. Columba fasciata, Say 595
188. Ectopistes migratoria (L.) 596
♦189. Zensedura carolinensis (L.) ..... 596
Tetraonidce.
♦190. Canace obscura (Say) 598
♦191. Bonasa umbelloides (Dougl.).. 599 ♦192. PedioBcetes columbiauus (Ord.). 599 ♦193. Centrocercus uropliasianus
(Bonap.) 600
Perdicidce. ♦194. Oreortyx pictus (Dougl.) , .... 601 ♦195. Lophortyx caUfornictts (ShsLW.),. 602 Charadriidce,
♦196 ^gialitis vociferus (L.) 603
♦197 ^gialitis nivosus, Cass. . . . 604
Phalaropodidce. ♦198. [Steganophus wilsoni (Sab.)]. .. 604
Recurvirostridce. ♦199. Recurvirostraamericana, Gm... 605
♦200. Himantopus mexicanus 606
Scohpacidw. ♦201. Gallinago wilsoni (Temm.). . ... 606
202. [Tringa americana, Cass.] 607
203. Tringa bairdi, Coues 608
204. Tringa miuutilla, Vieill 608
205. Ereunetes pusillus (L.) 609
♦206. Symphemia semipalmata (Gm). 609 ♦207. [Rhyacophilus solitarius (Wils.J. 610
♦208. Tringoides macularius (L.) 610
♦209. [Actiturus bartramius ( Wils.)]. . 611 ♦210. Numenius longirostris, Wils.. . . 611
Oruidce. ♦211. [Grus canadensis (L.)] 611
Ballidce.
♦212. [Rallils virginianus, L.] 612
♦213. Porzana Carolina (L.) 612
♦214. [Porzana jamaicensis (Gm.)!] . . . 613
♦215. Oallinula galeata (Licht.) 613
♦216. Fulica americana, Gm ... . 614
Tantalidije, ♦217. fFalcinellus guarauna (Gm.)J... 615 ♦218. Falcinellus thalassinus^ Bidgw. 616
390
ORNITHOLOGY.
Page.
Ardddie.
•219. Ardea herodias, L 616
220. [Herodias egretta (Gm.)] ... 617
♦221. Butorides virescens (L.) 617
•222. [ Ardetta exilis (Gm.)] 618
•223. [Nyctiardea uaevia (Bodd.)] 618
•224. Botaurus minor (Gm.) 618
Anatidce.
225. [Cygnus buccinator, Bicbard-
8on!] 619
226. Anser albatus, Cass 619
♦227. Branta canadensis (L.) 620
228. Branta hutchinsi (Richardson). 620
229. [Branta nigricans (Lawr.)] 621
♦2^. Anas boschas, L 621
♦231, Ghaulelasmus strepems (L.) . . . 622 ♦232. Mareca americana (Gm.) 622
233. [Dafila acuta (L.)J 622
♦234. [Nettion carolmensis (Gm.)] 623
♦235. [Querquedula discors (L.)] 623
♦236. Querquedula cyanoptera
(Vieill.) 623
237. Spatula clypeata (L.) 624
238. f Aix sponsa (L.)] 624
239. Aythya americana (By ton) 624
240. Aythya vallisneria (Wils.) 625
241. [Fuli3^ marila (L.)] 625
242. [Fulix afflnis (By ton)] • . 625
Page. Anatidce — Continued,
243. [Fulix collaris (Donov.)] 625
244. f Bucephala americana (Bonap.)] . 626
245. Bucephala albeola (L.) 626
♦246. [Erismatura rubida (Wils.)] 626
247. [Mergus americanuv«», Oass.] 627
248. [Mergus serrator, L.] 627
249. [Lophody tes cucullatus (L.)] 627
PelecanidcB, ♦250, Pelecanuserythrorhynchus,Gm. 627 Graculidce.
•251. Graculus floridanus (And.) 635
Laridce,
252. Blasipus lieermanni (Oass.) 636
•253. Larus californicus, Lawr 637
254. Larus delawarensis, Ord. 638
255^. Ohroscocephalus philade Ip Ma
(Ord.) 639
*2m. [Sterna regia, Gamb.] 639
♦257. Sterna forsteri, Nutt 639
♦258. Hydrochelidon lariformis(L.).. 640
Podicipidw.
♦259. Podiceps occidentalis, Lawr. . . . 641
♦260. [Podiceps cristatus (L.)] 642
♦261. Podiceps californicus, Heerm . . 642
♦262. Podilymbus podiceps (L.) 643
REPORT PROPER.
[EMBRACING BIOGRAPHICAL AND OTHER NOTES ON THE SPECIES 0B8ERVED.1
Family TURDID^— Thrushes.
Ti
'URDUS MIGRATORIUS/ Robin-Thrush; Americau Robin.
Turdm migratorius, Linn., S. K, 1, 1766, 292.— Baibd, B. N. Am., 1858, 218 ; Oat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 155; Rev. Am. B., 1864, 28.— Cooper, B. OaL, 1, 1870, 7._CouES, Key, 1872, 71, fig. 13; Check List, 1873, No. 1; B. N.W., 1874,1.
Turdus migratorius var. migratorius^ B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., 1, 1874, 25, pi, ii, fig. 3.— Henshaw, 1875, 143.
The Common Robin was not found at Sacramento in June, nor was it seen anywhere in the Sacramento Valley until we neared the foot-hills of
^For obvious reasons, we have abstained from burdening this report with numer- ous references, and have confined the citations to the more important general works, including, of course, the original description of the species, and the first authority for the binomial combination as adopted. Those desiring other references are advised to consult Dr. Coues's " Birds of the Northwest,^ and Mr. Henshaw's report, cited below, where may be found in the very complete synouymatic tables almost any reference .required. The general works quoted in this report are the following: —
(1.) "Baird, B. N. Am., 1858."— Vol. IX, Pacific B. R. Reports.— Birds: by Spencer F. Baird, Assistant Secretary Smithsonian Institution, with the cooperation of John Cassin and George N. Lawrence. Washington, D, C, 1858.
(2.) "Baird, Catal. N. Am. B., 1859."— Catalogue of North American Birds, chiefly in the Museum of the Smithsonian [nstitution. [First octavo edition,] Washing- ton : Smithsonian Institution [Smithapnian Miscellaneous Collections, No. 108], 1859.
(3>) " Baird, Rev. Am. B."— Review of American Birds, in the Museum of the ^Smithsonian Institution. Part I. Washington : Smithsonian Institution [Smithsonian Miscellaneous Collections, No. 181], 1864-1866. [Edition with indices, published 1872. J
(4.) *'B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B."— History of North American Birds, by S. F. Baird, T. M. Brewer, and R. Ridgway [etc.), 3 vols. Boston : Little, Brown & Co., 1874.
(5.) "CouBS, Key." — Key to North American Birds [etc.]. By Elliott Coues, Assistant Surgeon United States Army. Salem : Naturalists' Agency, 1872.
(6.) *^ CouES, Check List."— Cheek List of North Americau Birds. By Dr. Elliott Cones, tJ. S. A. Salem ; Naturalists' Agency, 1874.
(7.) "CouES, B. N.W." — Birds of the Northwest [etc.]: Miscellaneous Publica-
301
392 ORNITHOLOGY.
the Sierra Nevada, where the first individuals of the species were noticed aniong the scattered pines which formed the outposts of the continuous forest of the mountains. From the Sien-a Nevada eastward, however, it ^was continually met with in all wooded localities, the aspen groves of the higher cailons being its fav.orite resort during the summer, while in winter it descended to the lower valleys, and passed the season among the willows or cotton-woods and attendant shrubbery along the streams. In the vicinity of Carson City it was extremely aburidant from the middle of March until the middle of April, and assembled in large flocks among the scrubby thickets of dwarf-plum bushes along the base of the Sierra. In August they were quite plentiful in the valley of the Truckee, below the "Big Bend," being attracted thither by the abundance of fruit of the buifalo-berry bushes (Shepherdia argented)^ which at this time formed an important portion of their food ; and later in the season they were observed feeding on service-berries (the fruit of Amelanchier canadensis) along the foot-hills of the eastern ranges. In their manners and notes we could not detect the minutest difference between the western and eastern Robins, although climatic or other geographical influences have perceptibly modified their plumage.^ In all respects it seems the same bird, the song and other notes being identical.
tions, No. 3, U. S. Geological Survey of the Territories, P. V. Hay ilea, U. 8. Geologist- incbarge. Washington: Government Priuting Office, 1874.
(8.) "Cooper, Orn. Gal., [."—[Reports Geological Survey of California. J. D. Wbitney, State Geologist.] Ornithology. Vol. I. Land Birds. Edited by S. F. Baird, from the manuscript and notes of J. G. Cooper. Published by authority of the Legis- lature. Cambridge: [Printed by Welch, Bigelow & Co.,] 1870.
(9.) \^ Henshaw, 1875.'^ — Report upon Geographical and G;eological Explorations and Surveys west of the One Hundredth Meridian, in charge of First Lieut. Geo. M. Wheeler, Corps of Engineers, U. S. Army [et<?.]. Chapter III, Vol. V.— Zoology. Washington: Government Printing Office, 1875.
[Note. — In the History of North American Birds, Birds of the Northwest^ and other recent publications, occasional reference is made to a " Zoology of the 40th- Parallel [in pre8s],^Vor ** Rep. 40th Parallel [in press].'' It is to be understood that these citations do iwt apply to the present report, but to the original one, stereotyped in 1,870, but suppressed on account of unavoidable delay in its publication. In its present form the report is substantially the same, but the changes necessary to bring it up to date render the citations of pages and names frequently inapplicable.]
^ The western birds of this species may be distinguished as a geographical race, for which the name Turdm migratorius propinquusj Ridgway, is proposed. Bee[Bulle' tin of the Nvttall Ornitliologiml C/t*&, Vol. II, January, 1877, p. 0.]
TURDUS QUTTATUS. 393
List of specimens^
226, S ad.; Camp 19, West Humboldt Mountains, I^evada, October 4^, J867. 10§— 16— 5/g — 1^\ — j7^ — 1| — 4J — If. Bill, brownish-black, more yellowish-brown along commissure, and on lower mandible ; iris, brown ; tarsi and toes, brownish-black.
269, S ad.; Truckee meadows, Nevada, November 8. 11 — 1^ — 5^ — 4^ — g — 1 J — 4§— IJ. Upper mandible, dilute yellowish horncolor; tip and culmen, blackish; lower, more yellowish; gonys and tip, black; iris, brown ; tarsi and toes, deep black.
358, 9 ad.; Truckee Valley, December 16. 10f—15J— 5^—4^—1— 1^ — 4^—2. Same remarks.
359, S ad.; same date and locality. * 10|— 16^—5^ dj H 1^— 4^-^2. Bill, nearly uniform blackish; yellowish on upper edge of lower mandible; iris, brown; interior of mouth, deep yellow-orange; tarsi and toes, intense black.
803, nest and eggs (4) ; Truckee Valley, June 6, 1868. Nest in cotton wood tree.
820, nest and eggs (4) ; Toyabe Mountains, 7,500 feet altitude, July 3, 1868.. Nest in a copse along stream, about six feet from ground, in choke-cherry bush.
851, nest and eggs (4) ; Camp 19, East Humboldt Mountains, July 22, Nest on pinon tree, about fifteen feet from ground. (8,000 feet altitude.)
1265, 1266, 1267, 1268, nest and eggs; 1269, single egg; Parley^s Park (Wah^ satch Mountains), Utah, June 23, 1869. Nests in cotton-woods along a stream.
1287, nest and eggs (4) ; Parley's Park, June 25. Bushes along stream.
1301, nest and eggs (2) ; Parley's Park, June 27. Nest in aspen.
1338, nest and eggs (4) ; Parley's Park, June 28. Willows along stream.
1367, nest and eggs (3); Uintah Mountains (Pack's Canon), Utah, July 3, 1869. Nests in thorn-apple bushes along stream.
1368, nest and eggs (3); same locality and date. 1395, nest and eggs (4) ; Parley's Park, July, 1&69.
TURDUS GUTTATUS. Hermit Thmsli.
a. guttatm — Dwarf Hermil Thrush.
Mmcicapa guttata, Pall., Zoog. Rosso- As., 1, 1811, 465. [Juv.]
Turdus nanvs^ Axjd., Qrn. Biog., V, 1839, 201, pi. cci (doubtful whether this form!).
Baibd, Birds N. Am., 1858, 213; Oat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 150; Review,
1864, .—Cooper, Orn. Cal., 1, 1870, 4. Turdus pallasi var. nanus, CouES, Key, 1872, 72; Check List, 1873, No. 4 b.— B.
B. &R., Hist. N. Am. B., I, 1874, 20, pi. i, fig. 7. Turdus pallasi. b. nanusy OoUES, B. Northwest, 1874, p. 3.— Henshaw, 1875, 146.
But one individual of the Dwarf Thrush was met with, this one being secured. It is pi'obably more or less common, however, during the migra-
^In the enumeration of specimens certain figures require explanation. The first number denotes the current number of the specimen as registered in the Field Cat- alogue. The measurements are as follows, in regular sequence: (I), length; (2), ex-
394 ORNITHOLOGY.
tions, particularly in the fall, in all suitable localities embraced within the country traversed by the expedition. The specimen in question was obtained on Trout Creek, a tributary of the Humboldt River, and when observed was perched on a low twig in a willow copse, silently watching us as we reclined on the grassy bank of the brook. It uttered no note whatever, and exhibited no fear at our presence.
List of spedmem*
928, 9 ad; Trout Creek, Upper Humboldt Valley, Nevada, September 16, 1868. %^ — 10|| — 2||. Bill, black; basal half of the lower mandible, lilaceous- white; inte- rior of the mouth, rich yellow; iris, dark bister; tarsi and toes, pale purplish-brown — the toes darkest, the tarsi paler along their posterior edge.
^. audvboni — Bocky Mountain Hermit Thrmh; Audtfbon^s Hermit Thrmh.
Merula silens, SWAINS., Phil. Mag., 1, 1827, 369 (not Turdus silenSyYmiLL, 1823 = T. fuscescens), Turdus silens^ Baibb, B. K. Am., 1858, 213, 922; Gat IS. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 149a.
Turdus auduboniy Baibd, Bev. Am. Birds, 1864, 16.
Turdus pallasi var. auduboni, OOUES, Key, 1872, 72; Check List, 1873, No. 4a. — B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., I., 1874, 21, pi. I, fig. 8— Henshaw, 1875, 144.
Turdus pallasi. b. auduboni^ CoUBS, Birds N.W., 1874, 3.
The large Mountain Thrush was first met with in the Wahsatch range, where it inhabited chiefly the deep ravines of the pine region. The first specimen seen was shot May 26, in City Creek Cafion, near Salt Lake City; but this was probably a mere straggler from the higher portions of the mountains. In its manner of flight, which is gliding and noiseless, this Thrush greatly resembles Townsend's Solitaire {Myiadestes townsendi), the resemblance being increased by the pale ochraceous band across the base of the remiges, which shows as a very conspicuous feature on both birds when flying. The haunts of this bird were so difficult of access from our
pause of iving9 when fully stretched ; (3), leugth of wing from tip of the longest primary to the carpal joint; (4), the same measurement to the metacarpophalangeal articula- tion; (5), length of the culmen (not including the cere, and if the bill is curved, the choi*d, and not the arc, of the curve); i[6), length of the tarsus in front ^ (7), length of the tail to the batte of the coccyx ; (8), length of the tail to the tip of the longest upper coverts. If a measurement is wanting, its place is supplied by an interrogation pointy the or Am' being invariably the same. All measurements, and notes on color of e^es, etc., are from fresh specimens, before skinning.
TURDUS U8TULATUS. 395
camp, and its manners so reserved, that we could not learn much regarding its habits, nor did we hear its song. The latter, however, is probably little different from that of the eastern bird, T. guttatus pallasi.
List of specimens.
1051, S ad.; City Creek Oanou (near Salt Lake City), Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, May 26, 1869. 7|— 123. Bill, black ; basal half of lower mandible, dull yellow ; iris, brown ; tarsi and toes, pale brown,
1487, 2 juv.; Parley's Park, August 5, 1869. 7^—12^. Bill, black, the lower mandible purplish basally; interior and angle of the mouth, yellow; iris, dark brown; tarsi and toes, lilaceous- white; claws, brown.
1488, S juv.; same locality and date. 7| — 13. Same remarks.
1489, ^ juv.; same locality and date. 7f— 12J. Same remarks.
1498, 9 ad.; Parley's Park, August 10. 7^—12. Bill, black ; basal half of lower mandible, whitish; interior of mouth, deep yellow; iris, brown; tarsi and toes, very pale brownish flesh-color.
1499, i juv.; 7f— 12|. 1500, <f juv.; 7— 12f . Same date and remarks.
TURDFS USTULATUS. Olive-backed Thrash*
or. ustulatus — Oregon Thricsh; Bttsset-backed Thrush.
lurdus ustulatus^ Nutt., Man., I, 1840, 400 (*<ce«<tt?afte«").— Baied, B. N. Am., 1858, 215, pi. 81, fig. 1 ; Cat. K Am. B., 1859, No. 152 ; Rev. Am. B., 1864, 18.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 4 (part).
Turdus swainsont var. ustulatus, CoUES, Key, 1872, 73 ; Check List, 1873, No. 5 b.— B. B. & R, Hist. N. Am. B., I, 1874, pi. i, fig. 2.
Turdus swainsoni. c. u>stulatus^ OoUES, B. N.W., 1874, 4.
Turdus nanus, Coopeb, Orn, Cal., I, 4 (part).
The Russet-backed or Oregon Thrush, which we consider a mere geographical form of the same species as Swainson's Thrush, or at most a very closely related species, was first met with in the pine-region of the Sierra Nevada, on the western slope of that range, af an altitude of about 4,000 or 5,000 feet above the Sacramento Valley. It inhabited there the deep ravines, where the undergrowth was extremely dense and overtopped by a thick growth of gigantic Coniferae, extending in a vast unbroken forest for hundreds of miles over the mountains to the North and South. Eastward
396 OENITHOLOGY.
of that range it was met with but once, a single individual having been obtained, on the second of June, in the Truckee Valley, not far from the eastern base of the Sierra Nevada, the individual in question being no doubt a last lingering one, since no others were observed after that date, all having departed for the mountains to the westward. The species is known to migrate in winter southward* along the Pacific slope as far as Costa Rica, but its summer-home is chiefly among the forest-clad mount- ains and wooded valleys from California to British Columbia and Sitka.
The song of this Thrush much resembles that of the T. swainsoni^ but is different in some important respects, conspicuous among which is its finer quality. Its modulation is quite correctly expressed by Mr. Nuttall [Manual of the Ornithology of the United States and Canada^ I, 1840, p. 401], who describes it as resembling the syllables ^^ wit-wit, t^villia-fvillia^^' but to convey to the reader even the slightest idea of its tone and effect would be the vainest endeavor. We heard the enchanting songs of these birds under circumstances calculated to make a lasting impression. It was in the midst of the dense and lofty forests of the Sierra Nevada, about half way up the western slope, that we rested for the Sabbath from our journey across the mountains. Hemmed in and overshadowed by giant forest trees, we halted, with rippling and sparkling brooks from the snow- fields far above dashing through the ferns and varied herbage, the roadside bedecked with the gay and lovely flowers .so characteristic of Califomian glades, while below yawned the depths of a dark ra^jine, through which dashed and roared a mountain torrent. In the tall pines, overhead, skulked the noisy Jays and Nutcrackers {Oyanura frontalis and Picicorvus columbi- anus), mingling their discordant notes with the twittering of the wood- peckers, who sported about the branches of the dead trees. But certain outbursts of rarest inelody, heard at intervals from the dark recesses of the deep ravine, drew the attention of every one in camp; notes of exceeding simplicity, yet full of^tenderest expression and thrilling effect, far finer than the softest and sweetest notes of the flute. These haimonious carols would be taken up first by one, then by another, musician, then answered from a distant portion of the dell. It was long before the author of these wild melodies could be se^) but patient search revealed a little brown bird,
TURDUS SWAINSONI. 397
afterward determined to be this species, shyly flitting into the gloomy maze of foliage at our approach.
List of specimens.
779, 9 (M?.; Truckee Reservation, Nevada, June 2, 1868. 7|— 12— 3J, Bill, black, basal half of lower mandible, pale brownish-lilac; iris, sepia; tarsi, dilute lilaceous- brown ; toes, darker.
jS, swainsoni — SwainsofUs Thrush; Olive-hacked Thrvsh
Turdus swainsoni, Cabanis, Tschudi's Fauna Peruana, 18M-'46, 188.— Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 216,- Cat. N. Am. B,, No. 153 ; Rev. Am. B., 1864, 19.— Coopeb, Orn. Cal., 6.— CouES, Key, 1872, 72 ; Check List, 1873, No. 5.— B. B. & R, Hist. N. Am. B., I, 1874, 14, pi. i, fig. 4.— Henshaw, 1875, 147.
Turdus swainsoni. a. swainsoni^ CouES, B.N.W., 1874, 4.
After leaving the Sierra Nevada, not a single individual of any species of the smaller Thrushes was met with until we arrived at the East Hum- boldt Mountains, in eastern Nevada, where the Olive-backed Thrush was encountered, in considerable numbers, in the eastern cations of that range. It was during the season of their southward migration, and it is uncertain whether they came from the northward, or whether they had bred in the cafions where they were observed. During the ensuing spring and summer they were found in still greater abundance among the Wahsatch Mount- ains, on the opposite side of the Salt Lake Basin, in the thickets bordering the canon streams, particularly in the elevated ^^ parks,'' thus occupying a region intermediate between that of the Rocky Mountain Hermit Thrush (jT. auduhoni) of the pine-region, and that of the Tawny Thrush (T. fusees- cens) of the lower valleys.
The song of this species is simple and brief, but very sweet, though less so than tliat of either T. fuscescens or T. ustulatus.
lAst of specimens,
886, $ ad.; Bast Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, September 1, 1868. 74—12^ — 3f . Bill, black, the basal half of lower mandible, pale lilaceous-brown ; interior of mouth, rich yellow; iris, dark^rown; tarsi and toes, dilute lilaceous-brown, with a slight plumbeous cast — the tarsi whitish on the posterior edge.
918, $ ad.; East Humboldt Mountains, September 11. 7J — llj — 3^^^. Same re^ marks as to preceding.
1262, nest and eggs (4); Parley's Park (Wahsatch Moubtains), Utah Territory, June 23, 1869. Nest on bush near stream ; female shot on nest.
398 ORNITHOLOGY.
1271, 9 ad, H — llf. Bill, black, basal half of lower mandible, lilaceous; interior of mouth, deep yellow; iris, brown; tarsi, pale brown; toes, darker.
1296, 1297, nest and eggs (4) ; 1298, nest; 1299, single egg ; Parley's Park, June 27. Nests in willows along the stream.
1302, nest and eggs (4); Parley's Park, June 27. Nest in clump of willows near stream.
1339, nest and 1 egg] Parley's Park, June 27. Nest in willows. (Contained also three young.)
1404, nest; Cash Valley, Utah, July, 1869. [J. C. Olmstead,]
TURDUa FUSOESCENS. TwKWmf Vluriisti$ Wilson's Tlirush.
Turdtis fuscescensj Stephens, Shaw's Gen. Zool., X, 1^17, 182^— Baibd, B. N.Am., 1858, 214; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 15l.-~00UES, Key, 1872, 73^ Check List, 1873, No. 6; B. N. W., 1874, 5.— B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. B., I, 1874, 9, pi. r, fig. 5.— Henshaw, 1875, 148.
The Tawny Thrush, although essentially an eastern species, was found to be more or less common in the Wahsatch district of Utah, where it inhabited only the vicinity of the streams in the lower valleys. It was extremely abundant along the Provo River, especially just above the dehouche of that stream through its picturesque canon between two lofty snow-clad peaks of the main range of the Wahsatch Mountains; and it was also seen in the valleys of the Bear and Weber Rivers, farther northward. In all these localities it frequented the dense willow-thickets in the immediate vicinity of the rivers, where it was extremely difficult to discover, and next to impossible to secure specimens after they were shot.
We never tired of listening to the thrilling songs of these birds, for they were tiiily inspiring through their exceeding sweetness and beautiful expression. The modulation of their notes was somewhat similar to that expressed by the syllables ta-wed-ah, ta-we^l-ah, twiV-ah, twiV-ah^ the latter portion subdued in tone, thus seeming like an echo of the first. In the valley of the Provo it was not unusual to hear a dozen or more of these exquisite songsters uniting in their rivalry, the most favorable time being the afternoon and evening. Considerable resemblance in tone to the song of the T, ustulatm was noted, but it was observed that the modulation was distinctl}^ different.
GALEOSCOPTE8 CAB0LINBNSI9— ORBOSOOPTES MONTANUS, 399
. Galeosooptes CAEOLIFENSIS.
Cat-bird.
Mtisdcapa carolinensis, Linn, 8. N., 1, 1766, 328,
Mimus carolinensis, Baibd, B. K, Am., 1858, 346; Cat. K Am. B., 1859, No. 254.—
OooPEE, Orn, Cal., I, 23.— CouES, Key, 1872, 74 j Check List, 1873, No. 9;
B. KW., 1874, 8.
Oaleoscoptescarolinensis, Cabanis, Mus. Hein., 1, 1850, 82.— Baird, Review, 1864, 54; B. B. & R., I, 1874, 52, pi. ill, fig. 5.— Henshaw, 1875, 152.
Like many species considered to be characteristically eastern, the Cat- bird is likewise one of the most abundant summer residents of the Wahsatch region. Indeed, we found it not uncommon on the large islands in the Great Salt Lake, specimens being shot in an orchard on Antelope Island in the month of June, while another was obtained, during the same month, on Stansbury Island, where few other birds were found. Among the mountains it was more abundant, its favorite haunts being the shady thickets along the streams which descend the canons or course across the meadow-like "parks." It was thus an associate of the Olive-backed Thrush and the Redstart {Setophaga ruticilla)^ but while it did not ascend to as high an alti- tude as the former, we found the latter with it only in the lower portions of its range. No differences from the eastern birds of the same species were detected, in either manners or notes.
List of specimens.
1105, 5 ad.; Autelope Island, Great Salt Lake, Utah, June 4, 1869. (Too badly mutilated for measurement.)
1163, 9 ad.; Stansbury Island, Great Salt Lake, June 12. 8f — 11. Bill and feet, black ; iris, brown.
1263, 1264, nests ; Parley^s Park (Wahsatch Mountains), Utah, June 23. Nest in willows along stream.
1323, nest and eggs (2); Parley's Park, June 28. Nest in willows.
1384, nest and eggs (4) ; Provo Eiver, Utah, July 10, 1869. Nest in willow-thicket.
Oreosooptes MONTANUS.
Hage Thrasher; Mountain Mocking-bird.
Orpheus montanus, Townsend, Journ. Ac. Nat. Sci., Philad., 1837, 192.
Oreoscoptes montanus^ Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 347; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 255; Review, 1864, 42.— Cooper, Orn. Cal, 12.— Coues, Key, 1872, 74 ; Check List, 1873, No. 7; B. N.W., 1874, 7.— B. B. & R., I, 1874, 32, pi. m, fig. 6.— Hen- SHAW, 1875, 149.
Before beginning our account of this interesting species, we pause to
400 ORNITHOLOGY.
protest against the name "Mountain Mocking-Bird," the appellation usually given it in books. This name is objectionable from the fact that it is doubly a misnomer, and therefore likely to convey an entifely erroneous idea of its distribution and song. A more appropriate term would be that of "Sage Thrasher," which is descriptive of both its habitat, and its relationship to the better-known species of the sub-family to which it belongs.
The Sage Thrasher is a widely-distributed species, since it occurs, throughout that extensive portion of the West where the "everlasting sage- brush" forms the prevailing growth. - It seems to be strictly governed in its range by the growth of these plants, and is consequently chiefly an inhabitant of the valleys and mesas, rarely extending farther up the mountains than the foot-hills, to the commencement of the juniper or mahogany woods. It is a migratory species, arriving from the South, in the latitude of Carson City, about the 20th of March, and departing .in October or November. Its presence has been noted at but few Mexican localities, but it winters in such great numbers along our southern border that its abundance in northern and central Mexico at this season may be taken for granted.
At Carson City, very favorable opportunity was afforded for observing the habits of this interesting species during the breeding-season. The males began singing about the 24th of March, or immediately after their arrival, but their notes were then subdued, while their manners were reserved in the extreme. They soon became numerous in the sage-brush around the outskirts of the city, and were often seen perched upon the summit of a bush, turning the head from side to side in a watchful manner, even while singing; when approached, disappearing by diving into the bush; and, after a long circuitous flight near the ground, reappearing some distance in the rear of the pursuer. This peculiar, concealed flight we found to be a constant habit of the species. As the pairing-season approached, ivith the advance of spring, the songs of the males became greatly improved, both in strength and quality; their manners also became changed, for they had lost their former shyness. About the 10th of April, the males were engaged in eager rivalry, each vying with the other as he sang his sweetest notes, his wings being at intervals raised vertically so as to almost touch over the
OREOSCOPTE8 MONTANUS. 401
back, and quivering with the ecstacy that agitated the singer. The first eggs were laid about the 20th of April, the nests having been commen^ced a week or more earlier; and by this time the males had become perfectly silent, their main occupation being that of sentinel on guard for the approach of an intruder. In fact, we know of no oscine bird so completely mute as the present ene during the period of incubation, and throughout the summer and fall, at which time one unacquainted with their habits earlier in the season might think they had no voice. Even when a nest is disturbed, the parent birds do not protest, but merely run anxiously about the meddler, in the • manner of a Robin, now and then halting, and with outstretched necks closely observing his actions. When the young are hatched, however, they become more solicitous, and signify their concern by a low chuck.
The song of this bird possesses no remarkable attributes, but it is extremely pleasing when heard under favorable circumstances. It is most deficient in power and energy, being comparable to the subdued, subtile warbling of the Ruby-crowned Kinglet (Regulus calendula) rather than to the vigorous songs of the Brown Thrasher {Sarporhynchus rufus) or Mocking- bird (Mimus polyglottus), its nearer kindred. It is not, however, lacking in sweetness or variety, while at times it is characterized by considerable vivacity.
List of specimens,
144, S ad.; Cainp 17, Valley of the Humboldt Eiver (Oreana), August 31, 1867. 9 — 12 J — 4 — 3^j^ — |i — 1 J — 3^—2. Bill, black, basal half of lower mandible, pale pinkish- gray, with a faint yellowish tinge; rictus and interior of mouth, deep yellow; iris, gamboge-yellow; tarsi, grayish olive-green; toes, darker, their soles deep yellow.
145, 6 jm; Camp 17, Aug. 31, 1867. 9-12^— 3f^34— ^— 1J—3t-%--(?). Bill, black; basal half of the lower mandible, yellowish-ash, with a lilac cast; interior^ and angle of the mouthy greenish or ashy yellow ; iris, lemon-yellow ; tarsi, dark greenish horn- yellow, deepest greenish along the posterior edge ; toes, nearly black, their soles yellow; claws, black.
152 9 juv.; (same locality and date). 8f— 12^— 4— 3j\— f|— lf-3^— (?). Bill, dull black; basal half of lower mandible, pinkish ashy -white; interior and angle of the mouth, yellow; iris, greenish-yellow ; tarsi, dark yellowish horngreen; toes, darker, their soles yellow.
451, $ ad.; Carson City, Nevada, March 24, 1868. 9—12^—4^^—31. Bill, black, becoming pinkish ashy-brown on basal half of lower mandible; interior of the mouth (except corneous portions), lilaceous flesh-color ; iris, chrome-yellow; tarsi, yellowish- olive, with a tinge of sepia-brown; toes, blackish sepia, straw-yellow beneath.
452 ^ ad.; 8}|— 12^— 4^3^. 26 p R.
402 ORNITHOLOGY.
453, ^ ad,; 8J — 12f— 4y^^ — Sy^g. Same remarks, etc. 517, eggs (4); Carson City, April 24. Kest in brush-heap, in cemetery. b\^^ eggs (5); Carson City, April 24. Nest in sage-bush, about 18 inches from ground.
519, eggs (4) ; Carson City, April 24. Nest on ground beneath sage-bush.
520, %gg» (3) ; Carson City, April 24. Nest in sage-bush, about two feet from ground.
521, eggs (3) ; Carson City, April 24.
554, 555, nest and eggs (5) 5 Carson City, April 28. Nests in brush-heaps, in cemetery.
821, eggs (3) ; Austin, Nevada, July 3, 1868. Nest in small bush of SympJiori- carpus montanuSj about two feet from ground.
1123. 1124; single eggs, from nests containing young. Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake, June 7, 1869.
1125, nest ; Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake, June 7, 1869. Nest in sage-bush, situated as usual.
1135, nest aad eggs (3); Antelope Island, June 8.
1153, nest; Antelope Island, June 8. Nest in sage-bush.
1158, nest and eggs (4) ; *^ Rabbit Island ^' (near Stansbury Island), Great Salt Lake, June 11. Nest in grease- wood bush, near shore.
Family SAXICOLID^— Stone-Chats.
SlALIA MEXICANA.
California Blue-bird.
Sialia mexicana, Swains., Fauna Bor. Am., I^ 1831, 202. — Baird, B* N. Am., 1858, 223; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 159; Review, 1864, 63.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 28.— COUES, Key, 1872, 76; Check List, 1873, No. 17, B. N.W., 1874, 14.— B. B. & II., Hist. N. Am. B., I, 1874, 65, pi. v, fig. 2.— HBNS^AW, 1875, 161.
The Western Blue-bird is known to have a range nearly co-extensive with the limits of the Western Region, it being abundant throughout the main ranges of the Rocky Mountains, north to Colorado, and also in the same parallels of latitude, or even farther northward, * on the Pacific coast Yet we lost sight of this species entirely after we left the eastern water-shed of the Sierra Nevada, and never saw nor heard of it in the Wah- satch or Uintah Mountains, notwithstanding the latter country appeared equally adapted to the requirements of the species. The last individuals seen, as, we journeyed eastward, were a few families of young birds, with their parents, in the wooded valley of the Truckee River, near the Big
8IALIA AECTIOA. 403
Bend. Although these birds appeared to have been bred at that locality, and though we saw an equally small number in the similar valley of the Carson Eiver in the breeding-season, the center of abundance of the species, so far as the Interior is concerned, seemed to be the pine-region of the Sierra Nevada, where they were observed in summer from the lower limit of these forests up to an altitude of more than 6,000 feet, or near the summit of Donner Lake Pass, where these Blue-birds, the Robin, the Oregon Snow- bird, and the Western White-crowned Sparrow (Zonotrichia intermedia) were the characteristic or dominant species.
This beautiful Blue-bird seemed to be a perfect counterpart of the eastern species (S, sialis) in its habits, while it resembled it closely in appearance; but we listened in vain for that lovely warbling which so justly renders the latter bird a universal favorite ; neither did we hear it utter any note comparable to the plaintive call of the eastern bird, so often heard in autumn. This lack of sweetness of voice is, however, somewhat compensated by its superior beauty of plumage, for the richness of its coloring is decidedly superior to that of its eastern representative.
List of speeimens.
413, i ad.; Carson City, l^evada, February 21, 1868. 7— 13— 4^— 3}A. Bill, tarsi, and toes, deep black ; interior of mouth, chrome-yellow ; iris, bister.
414, S ad,; same locality and date. 7J — 13J^ — 4J — 3f, Same remarks.
428, ^ ad.; San Francisco, California-, H. G. Parker. ("Oaks.^0 "7— 13— (?) — 3|." Same remarks.
469, 3 ad.; Carson City, March 28. 6| — 12^— 4-^%— 3^»^. Same remarks.
SlALIA AECTIOA.
Rocky Mountain Blue-bird.
Sialia arctiea^ Swains., Fauna Bor. Am., II, 1831, 209, pi. 39. — Bated, B. N. Am., 1858, 224; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. I6O5 Keview, 1864, 64.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., I, 1874, 67, pi. v, fig. 4.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 29 — Coues, Key, 1872, 76; Check List, 1873, ^o. 18; B. N.W., 1874, 14.— Henshaw, 1875, 162.
This is the characteristic Blue-bird of the Interior, and it is most numer- ous where the other species is rarest. Its favorite haunts are the higher por- tions of the desert ranges of the Great Basin, where there is little water, and no timber other than the usual scant groves of stunted cedars, piiion, or
404 ORNITHOLOGY.
mountain mahogany. In these elevated regions it is abundant during summer, and even remains in winter, except when violent storms or severe cold drive it to the more clement valleys, where it may be seen, either singly or in considerable but scattered flocks, whenever a snow-storm prevails on the mountains. At such times we have seen both this species and the other one (5. mexieana) together in the fields around Carson City, and remarked the striking difference in their manners; the S. mexi- eana being often observed perched upon a fence-post or a willow-bush, descending to the ground only to pick up some insect, and immediately returning to its post of observation, while the individuals of S, arctiea were usually seen flitting restlessly over the ground, now and then, but rarely, an individual alighting for a moment on some prominent object, as a fence- post or telegraph-wire. The visits of this species to the lower valleys are only occasional, however, for as soon as a storm in the upper regions subsides, they return to their own haunts; and when spring has fairly set in they are seen no more, while the "Valley Blue-bird '' remains during the summer. In June, the "Mountain Blue-bird" was observed to be common in Virginia City, Nevada, where it nested in the manner of the Eastern species, in suitable places about buildings in the town, the old mills and -abandoned shafts of the mines being its favorite haunts, which it shared with the House Finch (Carpodacus frontalis) and the Rock Wren (Salpinctes dbsoletus). But while it thus commended itself to the hospitality of the people by its familiarity, it was never heard to utter any note except a weak chirp, when startled from its perch. It was also common under similar circumstances at Austin, in the Toyabe Mountains, while on the higher portions of the West Humboldt, Ruby, and East Humboldt Mountains it was still more abundant On the Ruby Mountains it was found in July and August only in the upper portion of the timber-belt, or at an altitude of 9,000 to 11,000 feet, where it nested both among the rocks and in the deserted holes of woodpeckers among the stunted pines, cedar, or mahogany trees. In the West Humboldt Mountains it was observed that they seldom if ever alighted on the bushes in the bottom of the cafion, although they constantly frequented the adobe houses of the deserted town near by.
This species is usually much more shy than either the eastern Blue-
SIALIA AEOTICA. 405
bird or its western representative, being at all times, according to our expe- rience, a rather diflficult bird to procure. In the fall, they rove about in restless companies over the barren slopes, scattering among the low cedars, only the straggling or lingering individuals permitting a near approach. Their manners during the winter season are most interesting to witness, for they seem to enjoy the playing of the snow-flakes, as they hover in the air over some object on the ground which attracts their attention; then, after alighting to examine it more closely, they flit off to a tall weed-stalk, never thinking, apparently, to enter the cosy copses where the Snow- birds have taken refuge.
A subject of interesting and profitable speculation is the influence of spreading civilization upon the habits of animals in their native haunts. In all well-settled districts, the Purple Martins, the Barn Swallows, and the Chimney Swifts have forsaken the hollow trees and caves as nesting- places, and availed themselves of the superior accommodations and pro- tection afforded by civilized man and his surroundings, with a readiness that is indeed remarkable. The Blue-birds and certain Wrens, even in the most recently-settled sections of the country, are gradually, but rapidly, making the same revolution in their habits, and so are many others of our native birds, too numerous to mention; and every one knows how the Cliff Swallows have abajidoned the precipices of mountainous districts and overspread the entire country, even to places remote hundreds of miles from the original haunts of the species, when they discovered how well suited for their nests were the eaves of barns and churches. The present species is one of this class whose habits are undergoing such modification, for although it is naturally a bird of the high mountains, we noticed that at Salt Lake City they were quite numerous, although, were the locality unreclaimed from its primitive state, they would not have been found there except during their vertical migrations, influenced by changes in the climate. Even on Antelope Island, in the Great Salt Lake, a few pairs were seen about the buildings of the ranche.
List of specimens.
228, i ad.; West Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, October 4, 1867. 7fi— 14— 5— 4^_j— j|— 3J— 1t^. Bill, deep black; interior of mouth, light naples-yellowj iris, hazel; tarsi and toes, black.
406 OBNITHOLOGY.
229, (? ad,; same locality and date. 7/^ — 13j — 4^ — 4— i— |f— 3— IJ. Interior of moutb, delicate light greenish-yellow.
243, 2 ad.; West Humboldt Mountains, October 8. 7^\— 13/^— 4| — 3|— J— f— 2f| — 1\, Same remarks.
244, 9 ad.; same date. 7— 12f— 4y\— 3}|— J— f— 2}f-l.lJ. Same remarks.
375, S ad.; Truckee Bottom, December 21. 7^— ISf— 4|— 3}f . Iris, vandyke- brown.
376, S ad.; same locality and date. 7j^g— 13^4| — 3|f . Same remarks.
399, S ad.; Steamboat Valley, Nevada, January 4, 1868. 7— 13f — 4|— 3|f . Same remarks.
416, S ad.; Carson City, Nevada, March 5. 7J— 13§— 4j|— 3ff .
467, $ ad.; Carson City, March 28. 7^ — 13^. Same remarks.
468, 9 ad.; same locality and date. 7J — 13^. Same remarks.
533, <T ad.; Washoe Valley, Nevada, April 25. 7|— 14. Same remarks.
862, <? juv.; East Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, August 6, 1868.
1103, 9 juv.; Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake, June 4, 1869.
1108, i ad.; Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake, June 5, 1869. 7^— 13|. Bill, tarsi, and toes, pure black; iris, brown ; interior of mouth, rich yellow.
150S,i juv.; 7J-~13i. 1509, <J>t?.; 7J— 13^. 1510, 9 juv.; 7—13. 1511, 9 juv.; 7j_13j. Parley's Park (Wahsatch Mountains), Utah, August 14, 1869.
Family CINCLID J]— Water Ouzels.
CiNCLUS MEXICANUS. I>ipper; Water Ouzel*
Cinelus mexicanus^ Swains., Phil. Mag., I, 1827, 368.— Baird, Review Am. B,, 1864, 60.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., 1874, I, 55, pi. v, fig. 1.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 25.— CoUES, Key, 1872, 775 Check List, 1873, No. 10,- B. N.W., 1874, 10.— HenshaW, 1875, 159.
Eydrobata mexicana^ Baird, B. N, Am., 1858, 229 ; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 164.
This remarkable bird, so characteristic an element of the western avifauna, was found in all localities where the summer rains or melting snows on the mountains were suJBficieht to supply the cations with rushing streams. It was noticed to be abundant only where the torrents were impetuous and the country generally forest-clad, and was therefore most frequently seen on the Sierra Nevada and among the western ranges of the Rocky Mountain system, as the Wahsatch and Uintahs, being rarely observed in the intermediate area of the Great Basin, although it was encountered at intervals on the higher of the intervening ranges. The habits and manners of this bird are most strikingly peculiar, it being one of
m CINCLU8 MEXICANUS. 407
the very few Passeres which are strictly aquatic. Its movements while walking in the shallow water, or as it stands upon a rock in the bed of a stream, remind one very much of the *' Teeters" or ^"^Tilt-ups" (Tringoides and Rhyacophilus), for, whether moving or stationary, its body tilts up and down with an incessant motion. It is more often observed, however, flying rapidly along a stream, with a buzzing flight, following with the greatest ease the tortuous windings of its course without in the least checking its speed ; or dashing swiftly through the spray or foam of a water-fall. Its flight is usually accompanied by a sharp chattering, especially when one is chased by another, as is often the case during the breeding-season ; and when they alight they descend by a sudden drop, much after the manner of the ^^ Gutter Snipes" (Gallinago). Nor are their movements confined to the surface of the water or its neighborhood, for they have been observed to dive into the aqueous element and perform various and dextrous evolutions in its depths, as they pursue their insect-food, propelling themselves by the rapid beating of ^he wings, in the well-known manner of Grrebes and other water-fowl.
We heard the song of this bird on but one occasion, in October, at Unionville, Nevada. It was a pleasing warble, but not sufficiently dis- tinctive, at least on that occasion, to admit of particular description.
List of specimens,
230, $ ad.; West Humboldt Mouotaias, IS'evada, October 4, 1867. 7^— llj— -3}^— 2]^— i— i — Hf — f- Upper mandible, born color, darker terminally; lower, paler, dull light yellowish basally; iris, burnt-umber; tarsi and toes, clear, glossy, livid white, with a sepia tinge between the scutell96 and on joints of toes.
231, 2 ad,; (mate of preceding). 7|—llJ—33—2|—y%— 1—2^^—4. Same remarks. 248, ad.; West Humboldt Mountains, October 11. 7ji— 11^— 3}|— 3f--§— 1— 2
— |. Same remarks.
300, 9 ad.; Truckee River (east of Sierra), November 19. 7^11|— 3f— 2|i— j-|— H — ^ — h ^ili» plumbeous-black; extreme basal portion of lower mandible, and small space on apper below nostril, brownish-white; iris, bright hazel; tarsi and toes, clear, bright, lilaceous- white; divisions of scutellse, and sides of toes, abruptly, sepia.
324, ad.; 325, ad.; near source of American River, California, November. [H. G. Parker.]
1378, S juv.; Pack's Canon, Uintah Mountains, Utah, July 7, 1869. 7f— 124. Upper mandible, and tip of lower, dark plumbeous ; lower msimVMey salmon-orangey this color tinging the upper at the base, and along commissure; iris, grayish-brown ; tarsi and toes, whitish-lilaceous ; urfder side of toes, dusky, the pellets yellow.
408 ORNITHOLOGY.
Family SYLVIIDiE— True Warblers. Myiadestbs townsendl
Townsend's Ptilogonys*
Ptiliogonys totcnsendi, Audubon, Orn., Biog., V, 1839, 206, pi. 419, fig. 2. Myiadestes townsendiy Cabanis, Weigm. Archiv, I, 1847, 208. — Baird, Birds K
Am., 1858, 321; Cat. K Am. B., 1859, No. 235 5 Review, 1866, 429.— Cooper,
Om. CaL, 134.— CoUES, Key, 1872, 117, fig. 57 j Check List, 1873, No. 121;
Birds N.W., 1874, 93.— B. B. & R., Hist N. Am. Birds, I, 1874, 409, pi.
XVIII, figs. 5, 6.— Henshaw, 1875, 231.
We first met with this curious species on the western slope of the Sierra Nevada, in a dense pine forest, at an altitude of about 5,000 feet. The first individual seen was one which had a nest near by, as was apparent from its anxious manner, for as we walked along the embankment of a mining-sluice it flitted before us, now and then alighting upon the ground, and, with drooping and quivering wings, running gracefully, in the manner of a Robin, then flying up to a low branch, and, after facing about, repeat- ing the same maneuvers — evidently trying to entice i>e away from the spot. So much were its actions like those of various Thrushes under similar circumstances that not once did we suspect the species, although perfectly familiar with it in museums, but immediately concluded that a new species of Thrush had been found. Indeed, many times afterward, when an indi- vidual would be seen to glide noiselessly before us, in the characteristic manner of the Thrushes, displaying the ochraceous mark across the wing, was the same illusion entertained. Patient watching and a careful search finally revealed the nest, which was built in the upper bank of the sluice, a foot or two above the water, and in a recess of the rocks. The nest was bulky for the size of the bird, being nearly as large as that oi Harporhynchus rufus^ which it nearly resembled, and was composed externally of coarse sticks, laid in a mass upon the floor of the cave. It contained four half- fledged young, and was consequently left undisturbed.
The species was afterward seen, at various times, among the cedar groves of the interior ranges, but it was nowhere common. It appeared to feed largely on the berries of the Juniperus occidentalism smd lived mostly among these trees, where, as observed, it combined the manners of the Thrushes and Blue-birds. Its song was not heard, or else it was confounded
POLIOPTILA C^EULEA— REGULUS CALENDULA. 409
with that of Turdus mtulatus^ dozens of which were ginging at the first
locality mentioned above.
lAst of specimens,
^11 J $ ad,} Virginia Mountains, near Pyramid Lake, December 21, 1867. 9 — 13 J — 4^— 4— f— 3 — 4^ — 2f. Bill, tarsi, and toes, deep black; iris, dark brown.
POLIOPTILA O^EULEAJ Blue-g^ray Onatcatcher.
Motadlla cceruleay Linn., S. N., 1, 1766, 43.
Polioptila ccerulea, Solatee, Proc. Zool. Soc. Lond., 1856, 11.— Baibd, B. N. Am., 1858, 380; Oat. K Am. B., 1859, No. 282 ; Review, 1864, 74.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., I, 1874, 78, pi. VI, fig. 5.— CooPEB, Orn. Oal., 35.— OouES, Key, 1872, 78; Check List, 1873, No. 23; B. N.W., 1874, 17.— Henshaw, 1875, 166.
In the chaparral of the western foot-hills of the Sierra Nevada, we observed, in July, a species of this genus, in considerable plenty. To all appearance it was the same species as that found in the East, but as no specimens were obtained we cannot be positive that the individuals in question were not P. plumbea. They were certainly not P, melanura, which would have been recognized by its black crown.
Regulus calendula.
Ruby-crowned Kin§:let«
Motadlla calendula^ Linn., S. N., I, 1766, 337.
Eegulus calendula, Licht., Verzeichn., 1823, No. 408.— Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 226 ; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 161 ; Review, 1864, 66.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., 1, 1874, 75, pi. v, fig. 9.— CooPEB, Orn. Cal., 33.— COUES, Key, 1872, 78; Check List, 1873, No. 21 ; B. N.W., 1874, 15.-HenshAW, 1875, 164.
While the Golden-crowned Kinglet was extremely rare, the Ruby- crown was directly the opposite, for it was a common winter resident in all the lower valleys, while in early spring it became abundant to such an extent as to exceed all other birds in numbers. During the coldest portion of the winter they dwelt among the willows along the river-banks, where the dense cover afforded them a suitable shelter from the cold winds, and a cosy retreat at night. As spring advanced, they spread themselves over the foot-hills and up the ravines of the mountains, gradually working upward, until the commencement of the summer found them in the pine -forests, where they remained during the season, again descending to the valleys when the cold
410 ORNITHOLOGY.
weather began. At Carson City they were most numerous in April, and at that time the thickets along the foot-hills were literally alive with these restless, sprightly little creatures, who hopped briskly among the budding branches, nervously twitching their wings in their characteristic manner, the males now and then warbling their low, soft song, so liquid and indescribably sweet, at the same time displaying the red patch ordinarily concealed beneath the overlying feathers of the crown.
List of specimens.
225, 9 ad.; West Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, October 3, 1867. 4J— 63~2|-- 1||. — I — I — 1|— 1^^. Bill, horn-black; iris, brown; tarsi and toes, brownish yellow, the latter, deep yellow beneath. [No red on the croton.]
371, (f ad.; Truckee Bottom, near Pyramid Lake, December 25. 4^ — 7 — 2^^^ — 1^ | — nr — i — ^S — ^* ^^^^» ^^^P Wack ; iris, very dark brown; tarsi, brownish-black; toes, deep brownish-yellow, purer yellow beneath.
Regulus SATEAPA.
Crolden-cronmed Kingrlet.
Regulus satrajpa^ Light., Verzeichn., 1823, No. 410.— Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 227 ; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 162 ; Beview, 1864, 65.— B. B. & R, I, 1874, 73, pi. V, fig. 8.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 32.— Coues, Key, 1872, 78, fig. 19; Check List, 1873, No. 22 ; B. N. W., 1874, 16.
This sprightly little bird, so comnion in our eastern groves and orchards in early spring and in the autumn, and, except the Hummers, the most diminutive of all our species, was very rarely observed by us in the Great Basin. A very few individuals, however, were noticed in the caflons of the West Humboldt Mountains, among the thick bushes ailong the streams. It is probably nowhere a common bird in the Interior.
Family P ARID JE — Titmice or Chickadees.
LOPHOPHANES INORNATUS. Oray Titmouse.
Parus inornatus, GAjycBEL, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Phila., 1845, 265.
Lophophanes inornatus, Cassin, 111. B. Cal., Tex., etc., 1853, 19.— Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 386; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 287 ; Beview, 1864, 78,— B, B. & R., 1, 1874, 20, pi. VI, fig. 3.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 42.— Coues, Key, 1872, 80, fig. 22; Check List, 1873, No. 2S; B. N.W., 1874, 20.— Henshaw, 1875, 107.
In the pine forests of the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada, especially
PARUS MONTANU8. 411
in their lower portion, and among the cedar and pinon groves on the desert ranges immediately adjacent to the eastward, the Gray Titmouse was a rather common species; but it did not §eem to be abundant anywhere. Its manners and notes were quite the same as those of the eastern species (L. bicolor), but weaker and less varied, though still retaining the vehement character of utterance apparently common to all the birds of this genus.
JList of specimens,
272, 9 ad.; cedars of Pea-vine Mountains, near the Sierra I^evada, November 14, 1867. 6— 8|— 3— 2^— i|~fi— 2y»^— 1^3^. Bill, plumbeous, deepening into horn-black terminally J iris, umber; tarsi and toes, plumbeousash.
Paeus MOKTANFS.
mountain Cliickadee.
Parus montanus^ Gambel, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Phila., I, 1843, 259.— Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 394 ; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 294 ; Eeview, 1864, 82.— B. B. & K, Hist. N. Am. B., 1, 1874, 95, pi. vii, fig. 5.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 46.— Coues, Key, 1872, 81 j Check List, 1873, No. 32 j B. N.W., 1874, 22.— Henshaw, 1875, 169.
The distribution of this species seems to be governed entirely by that of the coniferous woods ; consequently, we found it in all pine forests, as well as the more extensive of the pinon and cedar woods on the interior ranges. It was much less numerous on the Wahsatch and Uintah Mount- ains than on the Sierra Nevada, however, as indeed were nearly all species of pinicoline habits. This species is quite a counterpart of the Carolina Chickadee (P. carolinensis) in manners and notes, although it differs so much in size and maz'kings ; and we consider it as much more closely allied to that species than to the common Black-cap {F. atricapillus). In its notes we could discover no difference from those of P. carolinensis beyond the notice- able fact that the ordinary ones were louder and more emphatically enunci- ated, while the spring song, so pleasing in P. carolinensis^ and sounding like a clear, fife-like whistling of the syllables tsip^adee^ tsip*adee, tsip'^adee, was appreciably more feeble and less musical.
412 OBNITHOLOGY.
List of specimen.
333, S ad.; 5|«8§-^2|-2i-|_g-2|-lJ. 334, 9 ad.; 5f--8|-2H--2i— /^-l -^2^— IJ. 335, i ad.; 6^— 8f — 2^— 2^-^— ;[^2J— If. Oarson City, Nevada, No- vember 27, 1867. Bill, plumbeous-black ; iris, deep hazel ; tarsi and toes, dull plumbeous.
450, i ad.; Oarson City, March 21, 1868. 5yV-8|— 3— 2J. Bill, black ; iris, burnt- sienna; tarsi and toes, plumbeousblack.
Paeus ATEIOAPILLUS- Black-capped Chickadee.
/?. septentrionalis — Long-tailed Chickadee.
Parus septentrionalisj Habeis, Pr. Ac. l^at. Sci. Philad., 1845, 300.— Baird, B.
K Am., 1858, 389; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 289; Eeview, 1864, 79. Parvs atricapillus var. septentrionalis, Allen, Bull. Mus. Comp. Zool., Ill, 1872,
174.— CoUES, Key, 1872, 81; Check List, 1873, No. 31a; B. N.W., 1874, 21.
— B. B. & E., 1, 1874, 99, pi. vii, fig 2.— Henshaw, 1875, 170. Parus septentrionalis var. albescens, Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, p. xxxvii; Cat. N.
Am. Birds, 1859, No. 289a,
y. occidentalis — Western Chickadee.
Parus occidentalis, Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 391; Cat. N, Am. B., 1859, No. 291;
Eeview, 1864, 81.— Elliot, Illustr. Am. B., I, pi. viil— Cooper, Orn.
Cal., 45. Parus atricapillus var. occidentaliSj COUES, Key, 1872, 81 ; Check List, 1873, No,
31c.— B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. B., I, 1874, 101, pL vii, fig. 3.
The common Black-capped Chickadee was apparently wanting in all portions of the western depression of the Great Basin, and even on the eastern side it was so extremely rare that none were seen except in the valley of the Provo River, where but a few families, with their full-grown young, were met with. They kept in the willow thickets, and seemed very gregarious, in marked contrast to the Mountain Chickadee (P. montanus) and that eastern species, the Southern Black-cap, or Carolina Chickadee {P. carolinensis). Their notes were also very different, the usual utter- ances being a sort of twittering, resembling but little the distinct and sharp notes of the species named.
Idst of specimens.
1392, $ juv.; 6/g— 7|. 1393, S juv.; 5tV-.7J. 1394, S juv.; 6J— 8§. Provo Eiver, Utah, July 11, 1869. Bill, black; interior of mouth, yellow j iris, dark brown; tarsi and toes, fine ashy-blue.
PSALTRIPARUS MINIMUS— P. PLUMBBUS. 413
PSALTRIPARUS MINIMUS. lieast Titmouse.
Farm minimus^ Townsend, Journ, Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., 1837, 190, Psaltriparus minimus^ Bonap., Oomp. Rend., 1854, 62. — Baied, B. N. Am., 1858,
397; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 298; Review, 1864, 84.-.COOPER, Orn. Cat.y
48.— CouES, Key, 1872, 82; Check List, 1873, No. 35. Psaltriparus minimus var. minimus, B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., I, 1874, 109, pi.
Yii, fig. 9.
Of this delicate little bird we had but a mere glimpse, while passing through the western foot-hills of the Sierra Nevada. It was there seen in small straggling companies, among the brushwood of the ravines, appearing much like the P. plumbea of the Interior in its manners and notes.
Psaltriparus plumbeus.
liead-colored Titmouse.
Psaltria plumbea^ Baird, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., 1854, 118.
Psaltriparus plumheus, Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 398 ; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No.
299; Review, 1864, 79. —Cooper, Orn. Cal., 49.-.Coues, Key, 1872, 82;
Check List, 1873, No. 36 ; B. N.W., 1874, 23. Psaltriparus minimus var. plumbeus, B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., I, 1874, 110, pi.
VII, fig. 10.— Henshaw, 1875, 171.
Of late years, the known range of this species has been greatly extended by the more recent field-observations of the Government surveys. It was at first supposed to be one of those birds characteristic of the southwestern portion of the country, but it is now known to have a range co-extensive with the Middle Province, having been obtained by the naturalists of Dr. Hayden's survey as far to the northeastward as Green Eiver and Bitter Creek, Wyoming Territory, while Captain Charles Bendire, U, S. A., found it a winter resident at Camp Harney, in eastern Oregon. How much farther northward it may extend is not known, but its range in that direction is probably limited by the Columbia Valley. We met with this species on several occasions from the very base of the Sierra Nevada eastward to the Wahsatch Mountains, but the localities where it occurred in abundance were few and remote from each other, while its habits are so erratic that it was seldom met with twice at one place. In the cafions of
414 ORNITHOLOGY.
the West Humboldt Mountains it was very numerous in September. It was found there in ever-restless companies, continually twittering as they flew from bush to bush, at which time the flocks became greatly scattered, the individuals straggling, or "stringing out/^ one behind another. In all their movements they were remarkably restless, in this respect even surpassing the Gnat catchers {Polioptilce), to which they bear considerable resemblance in their movements and appearance. In November many of these birds were seen in company with the Gray Titmice (Lophophanes inornatus) among the cedars on the Pea-vine and Virginia Mountains, and adjacent ranges in western Nevada, and in the spring one or two flocks, supposed to be this species, were observed in the gorge of the Carson River, near Carson City. On the eastern side of the Great Basin a few individuals in City Creek Canon, near Salt Lake City, comprised all that were seen.
Among the numerous specimens killed in September, we noticed that many had the iris blackish, while in others it was clear light sulphur- yellow, and in some intermediate, or yellowish outwardly, and brownish next the pupil. A close examination, however, of these specimens, showed that this difference apparently depended on age, those having the darkest eyes being unmistakably young birds, while those in which the iris was clear yellow were all old birds, as was readily detected by the difference in the texture of their plumage. Even the youngest specimens had a yellowish outer ring to the iris, concealed by the eyelids, so that it seems that this, color gradually spreads from the outside to the pupil, with advancing age, until, when fully mature, the iris becomes wholly clear light yellow.
lAst of specimem,
171, S juv,; West Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, September 7, 1867. 4| — 6—2 — IfJ — x^^ — ^. Bill, black; tn«, sepia-blacJe^ very narrow outer yellowish ring; tarsi and toes, black.
184, 9 ad.; West Humboldt Mountains, September 11. 4J— 5g— 2— 1}^— ^— y»^ — 2| — 1|. Bill, black; im, light yellow; tarsi and toes, black.
185, <J juv.; 4J — 6—2—1}^ — J — ^^ — ^2^^ — 1. Iris, light yellow, brownish next pupil.
250, ad.; West Humboldt Mountains (east side), October 12, 1867. 4/^— 6— 2J — ^— J— T^ — 2J — If. Bill, tarsi, and toes, deep black; iris, sulphur-yellow.
PSALTRIPARUS MELANOTIS— SITTA AOULEATA. 415
PSALTRIPARUS MBLANOTIS.? Black-eared TUmonse,
Parus melanoiisy Hartlaub, Rev. Zool., 1844, 216.
Psaltriparus melanotis^ Bonap., Comp. Rend., 1854, — .-r- Baibd, B. N. Am., 1858,
386, pi. Liii, fig. 3; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 297; Review, 1864, 84.— B. B.
& R., Hist. N. Am. B., 1, 1874, 108, pi. vii, fig. 8.
On the 4th of August, 1868, we saw near our camp, on the eastern slope of the Ruby Mountains, what was unquestionably a bird of this species, since the black patch on the ear-coverts was distinctly visible. Its restless movements made ineffectual our attempt to shoot it, and before we were prepared for another shot it disappeared among the cedar trees, and could not be found again. This we believe is the first known instance of its occurrence within the limits of the United States, though it has been obtained near our border, and is a common bird of the high mountain portions of northern Mexico; but it probably occurs in greater or less numbers, in suitable places, throughout our southern Rocky Mountains.
Family SITTIDJ2— Nuthatohds.
SiTTA CAROLINENSIS. IFhite-bellied iVuthatch.
/?. aculeata — Slender-hilled Nuthatch,
Sitta aculeata, Cassin, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., 1856, 254.— Baird, B.N. Am., 1858, 375, pi. xxxiii, fig. 3; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 278; Review, 1864, 86.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 54.
Sitta carolinensis var. aculeata, Allen, Bull. Mas. Comp. Zool, 1872, 174. — Ooues^ Key, 1872, 83; Check List, 1873, No. 38a; B. N.W., 1874, 24.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., I, 1874, 117, pi. viii, fig. 2 (bill only).— Henshaw, 1875, 173.
Being strictly a pinicoline species, this Nuthatch was observed in abundance only on the Sierra Nevada, being comparatively rare on the Wahsatch and Uintah mountains, while none were seen in the intervening region, not even among the most extensive cedar and pin on woods. In its manners it is a counterpart of the eastern form, but its notes are mark- edly different, being much weaker, and some of them of another character
416 OENITHOLOGY.
altogether. It is with hesitation that we refer this bird to S. caroUnensiSj as a geographical race.
. List of specimms.
439, S ad.; Carson City, Nevada, March 10, 1868. 6— lOJ— 3|— 3. Bill, pure blackish-plumbeous, basal half of lower mandible, opaque, bluish, or milky-white; iris, very dark bister; tarsi and toes, sepia-black.
448, <J ad,; Carson, March 21. 6j — 10^—33—3. Same remarks.
449, 9 ad.; (mate of preceding.) 5g — lOf — 3fi — 3. Same remarks. Tarsi and toes, sepia-slate.
487, 9 ad,; Carson, April 3. 6 — 11 — 3| — 3. Same remarks. 491, i ad.; Carson, April 4. 6 — lOJ — S\l — 3. Same remarks.
SiTTA CAI^ADENSIS.
Red-bellied Nutliateb.
Sitta canadensis^ Linn., Syst. Nat., I, 1766, 177.— Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 376 ; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 279 ; Eeview, 1884, 86.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., 1, 1874, 118, pi. VIII, figs. 7, 8.— Cooper, Orn. CaL, 54.— Coues, Key, 1872, 83, fig. 27; Check List, 1873, No. 39; B. N.W., 1874, 25.— Henshaw, 1875, 174.
An inhabitant in summer of the pine woods exclusively, this species was met with, at that season, only in the thickest or most extensive conifer- ous forests, such as those on the Sierra Nevada, Wahsatch, and Uintah ranges. In all localities where observed it was much less common, how- ever, than either S. aculeata or S. pygmcea^ but wherever found made its presence known by the loud, penny-trumpet tootj so peculiar and so charac- teristic of the species. Unlike the other two species, this one appears to make more or less of a vertical migration, since in September we found it common in the aspen groves along the streams in the upper Humboldt Valley. Later in the same month it was also common among the pines of the lofty Clover Mountains, at an altitude of near 11,000 feet
lAst of specimens.
914, 9 ad.; Camp 24, head of Humboldt Valley, September 10, 1868. 4f-8^— ( *? ) — 24. Bill, uniform blackish-plumbeous, bftsal half of lower mandible, abruptly, bluish white; iris, umber-brown; tarsi, dull wax- green; toes, more yellowish.
SITTA PYGM^A. 417
SlTTA PYGM^A. Pig^niy Nutliatcli«
SUtapygmcea, ViaoES, Zool. Beechey's Voy., 1839, 29, pi. 4.— Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 378 ; Cat. K Am. B., 1859, No. 281 ; Review, 18C4, 88.— B .B. & E., Hist K. Am. B., I, 1874, 120, pi. VIII, fig. 10.— Cooper, Oni. Cal., 55.~CouES, Key, 1872, 83, fig. 27 ; Check List, 1873, No. 41 ; B. KW., 1874, 25.— Hen- SHAW, 1875, 175.
This curious little Nuthatch was always a companion of the larger species (S, aculeata)^ the same local conditions being favorable or unfavor- able to their presence. They appear to live together on the best of terms, since we have often seen individuals of each pass and re-pass one another as they searched the same branch or trunk. The manners of this diminutive Nuthatch partake in their general nature of those common to the genus, and pre*sent no marked peculiarities worthy of note. It is extremely noisy, its shrill notes being uttered almost continually, whether the bird is engaged in creeping among the branches or in flying from the top of one tree to that of another; and although one may be making a din greater than that of any other bird in the forest, it is generally hard to discover him, on account of his diminutive size. The notes of this species greatly resemble in their high pitch the ^^peet" or *^peet-weet" of certain Sandpipers (as Tringoides and Bhyacophilus), but they are louder and more piercing. When once paired, these birds seem to possess a strong attach- ment to their mates, since on one occasion, after a female had been killed, the male made loud and continued complaint, and after being followed from tree to tree, was finally shot from the same one where his mate had been secured.
List of specimens.
410, S ad.; Carson City, Nevada, February 19, 1868. 4j— 8J— 2^— 2y'^. Bill, slate-black, basal half of lower mandible (abruptly), milk-white j iris, very dark van- dykebrown ; tarsi and toes, plumbeous-black.
411, 9 ad.; mate of preceding. 4f — 7f — 2f — 2y'^. Same remarks. White of bill with delicate bluish tinge.
488, 9 ad.; Carson, April 3. 4| — 8 — 2|— 2^. Same remarks. 492, $ ad.; Carson, April 4. 4/^— 8— 2|J— 2j\. Same remarks. 27 PR
418 ornithology.
Family OERTHIIDJB— Ceeepbes Certhia familiaris.
Brown Creeper.
/?. americana.
Certhia americana^ Bonap., Comp. & Geog. List, 1838, 11. — Baied, B. N, Am., 1858, 372, pi. 83, fig. 2; Gat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 275; Review, 1864, 89.
Certhia familiaris var. americana^ B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., I, 1874, 125, pi. Yiii, fig. 11.— Henshaw, 1875, 177.
^^ Certhia familiaris^'^^ Ooues, Key, 1872, 84, ^g, 28; Check List, 1873, No. 42; B. , N.W., 1874, 26.
^^Certhia mexicana^^^ Cooper, Orn. Cal., 1, 1870, 58.
The distribution of this species corresponds with that of Regulus calen- dula^ the pine forests being its home in summer, while in winter it performs a partial migration to the timbered portions of the lower valleys, or to the lower edge of the coniferous belt. It was first observed among the western foot-hills of the Sierra Nevada, where it was seen early in July, at the very commencement of the pine forest. In winter it was more or less common among the cotton-woods in the lower portion of the valleys of the Truckee and Carson Rivers, but eastward of those localities it was not again met with at any season, except on the Wahsatch and Uintah Mountains, where it was a rather common summer resident in the pine-region.
List of specimens. 349, 9 ad.; Truckee Reservation, near Pyramid Lake, December 7, 1867. 5^^^ — 7 — 2J — 2^^ — f^ — ^ — 2| — If. Upper mandible, black; lower, dilute brownish-white, with pinkish tinge; iris, hazel ; tarsi and toes, dilute horn-color.
Family TEOGLODYTID^— Wrens. Salpinotes obsoletus.
Rock Wren.
Troglodytes obsoletus^ Say, Long's Exped., II, 1823, 4.
Salpinctes obsoletus, Cabanis, Wiegm. Arcbiv, 1847, 323.— Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 357; Cat. K Am. B., 1859, No. 264; Review, 1864, 110.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., I, 1874, 135, pi. vm, fig. 3.— .Cooper, Orn. Cal., 65.— CoTJES, Key, 1872, 85; Check List, 1873, No. 45; B. N.W., 1874, 27.— Hen- SHAW, 1875, 179.
The Rock Wren is by far the most common and generally distributed species of the family in the Western Region, since the prevailing character
SALPINCTBS OBSOLETUS. 419
of that country is so well suited to its habits. It was first met with near the summit of the Donner Lake Pass of the Sierra Nevada, but this was on the eastern slope, and in a district where the pine forests were interrupted by considerable tracts of open country, of a more or less rocky nature. East- ward of this point, as far as we journeyed, it was found in suitable localities on all the desert ranges. Its favorite resorts are piles of rocks, where it may be observed hopping in and out among the recesses or interstices between the bowlders, or perched upon the summit of a stone, usually uttering its simple, guttural notes. It is not strictly rupicoline, however, for along the eastern base of the Sierra Nevada, where the pine forest reaches to the very base of the mountains, it was common in cleared tracts where there was much rubbish of old stumps, prostrate logs, and piles of brush, seeming as much at home there as among the rocks. At that place the males were occasionally observed to fly up to a naked branch of some dead tree, and remain there while they sang their simple trill. This species also freely accepts of the accommodations and protection afforded by man, for in many towns, notably those among the mountains, it nests about the old buildings and inside the entrance to mining-shafts, displaying as much familiarity and confidence as the little House Wren, or Bewick's Wren. It is an exceedingly unsuspicious little bird, if unmolested, always greeting an intruder to its haunts by its cheerful note of turee^ while it bows and scrapes most politely at each utterance ; but if too closely observed, or pursued, it manages, by hopping through the interstices, to keep always on the opposite side of the rock-pile, while it changes the note of welcome to an admonishing, guttural tiirrrr. In its general appearance, except color, and in many of its movements, the Rock Wren bears a somewhat close resemblance to the Carolina Wren ( Thryothorm ludoviclams) of the Eastern Region, being of almost exactly the same size and shape; the notes, too, are somewhat similar in their general nature, particularly the ordinary ones, which have the same guttural character ; but the song is a simple monoto- nous trill, very much like that of the Snow-birds (Junco), and though often varied indefinitely, lacks any particular merit, from want of power and sweetness, while it is in no wise comparable to the superb whistling song of the species above mentioned.
420 ORNITHOLOGY.
At Carson City the Rock Wren was migratory, not making its appear ance during the season of our stay until the 20th of March, and first singing on the 30th of that month. Indeed, we saw it nowhere during the winter, and thus infer that it makes a complete migration southward.
List of specimens.
163a ad.; ^r^-^x\-^-'^^r-}'^-^H-\h 164,9 ad.; 6-9-.2|-«2t-V-H- j_i — 2y^^. West Humboldt Mountains (Camp 18), September 4, 1867. Upper mandible, uniform slaty born-color, with lilaceous cast; end of the lower mandible similar, fading on middle portion into ashy-lilac — pale-yellowish basally and on angle of mouth 5 iris, olive; tarsi and toes, deep black.
253, i ad.; West Humboldt Mountains (Camp 19j, October 23. 6— 9-:2i|— 2^^^— 1^ — J — 2f — \^. Upper mandible, purplish-slaty; lower, pale slaty -lilaceous, darker terminally, more pinkish at base; iris, olivaceous-drab; tarsi and toes, slate-black.
458,^0(1.; Carson, March 25. 6—9 — 3—2^. Bill, uniform slate, lower mandible, paler ; iris, grayish-umber; tarsi and toes, black.
478, i ad.; Carson City, Nevada, March 30, 1868. 5^— 9— 2 J— 2^\. Bill, uniform plumbeous-slate, lower mandible, paler, except terminally ; iris, grayish-umber ; tarsi and toes, black.
486,<Jad; Carson City, Aprils. 6^— 94— -StJ^^— 2J. Bill, uniform dull-slate, basal half of lower mandible, slaty bluish- white ; iris, raw-umber; tarsi and toes, deep black.
OaTHERPES MEXIOAinJS. White-throated TFren*
/?. conspersm — Canon Wren.
Catherpes mexicanuSy Baird, B. N. Am., 1858,^ 356; Cat. K. Am. B., 1859, No. 263 ;
Review, 1864, 111.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 66.— CouES, Key, 1872, 85; B. N.W.,
1874, 28. [Not Thryothorus mexicamis, Swains.] Catherpes mexicanus var. conspersm^ Ridgway, Am. Nat., 1872, 2. — B. B. & R.,
Hist. N. Am. B., 1, 1874, 139, pi. viii, fig. 4.— COUBS, Check List, 1873, No.
46, p. 126.— Henshaw, 1875, 181.
Somewhat similar to the common Eock Wren (Salpinctes) in its distri- bution and habits, this remarkable species differs in many noteworthy respects, the principal of which are its appearance and notes. We found it everywhere more rare than the other species, and apparently confined to the more secluded portions of the mountains, where it frequented rocky gorg^es and the interior of caves more often than the piles of loose rocks on the open slopes. It was generally observed to be rather shy, and prone to elude
CATHEEFES CONSPERSUS. 421
pursuit by retreating to the deeper recesses of the rocks, now and then slyly peeping from some crevice but an instant, and then very unexpectedly reappearing at some distant place. While thus engaged, or while hopping about, examining each crevice for a spider or other insect, it utters a simple ringing note, which sounds somewhat like dink, uttered in a metallic tone ; while now and then he pauses to pour forth his piercing song, which is of such volume as to fill the surrounding canons with its reverberations. In many of its movements it greatly resembles the common Rock Wren, par- ticularly in its manner of bowing and swinging oddly from side to side, when its attention becomes attracted by the presence of an intruder. It was frequently seen to cling to the roof or sides of a cave with the facility of a Creeper, and on one occasion to fly perpendicularly up the face of a cliff for a considerable height.
It seems, however, that in other sections of the country, where it is probably more numerous, this species is not always thus shy and retired in its habits; for Mr. Dresser (see *^The Ibis," 1865, p. — ) mentions an interest- ing instance where a pair built a nest in the wall of a dilapidated printing- office in San Antonio, Texas, and were so tame that they became great favorites with the workmen. He also states that at Dr. Heermann's ranche, on the Medina, they often built in cigar-boxes placed for their accommo- dation.
As stated above, the song oi' this bird is one of remarkable power ; it is also unique in its tone and modulation to such an extent that no other song we ever heard resembles it at all. It consists of a series of clear, sharp, whistling, detached notes, beginning in the highest possible key, and descending the scale with perfect regularity through an octave or more. These notes are occasionally heard echoed and reechoed against the walls of the canons, with continued reverberations, such is their power and . distinctness.
List of specimens.
345, $ ad.; near Fort Churchill, December 7, 1867. 5.75-7.50—2.58—2.00—0.83 — 0.56 — 2.25 — 1.18. Bill, slate-color, paler, and with a lilaceous tinge toward base of lower mandible; iris, brown; tarsi and toes, black. [Type of var. consversus^ Ridg- waj, I c]
422 ORNITHOLOGY.
Thrtomanes BEWICKL
Bewick's Wren.
y. spilurus.
Troglodytes spilurusy Vigors, Zool. Beechey's Voy., 1839, 18, pL 4, fig. 1.
Thryothoru8 spilurus. Cooper, Orn. Cal., 1870, G9.
Thryothorus hewiclci var. spilurusj Baird, Review, 1864, 126. — B. B. & B^ Hist. N.
Am. B,, I, 1874, 147, pi. ix, fig. 4.— OouES, Key, 1872, 86; Check List, 1873,
No. 48b. Thryothorus hewichL c. spiltirtiSj CouES, B. N.W., 1874, 31. Tliryothorus bewicJciiy Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 363 (part).
The *' Long- tailed House Wren," or Bewick's Wren, was observed frequently at Sacramento, where, as in certain portions of the East, it fre- quented the out-houses in the city, in company with the Barn Swallow and Black Pewee. After leaving there, we nowhere identified it with certainty, although a single individual of what seemed to be this species was noticed at Glendale, Nevada, in November, 1867. The specimen in question was seen among the willows bordering the river, and disappeared before we could decide whether it was this species or the Wood Wren (Troglodytes park- manni).
Troglodytes aedok
House Wren; Wood Wren.
/?. parkmanni — Parkman's Wren.
Troglodytes parJcmanni, Aitd., Orn. Biog., V, 1839, 310.— Baird, B. N. Am. 1858,
367; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 271; Review, 1864, 140.— Cooper, Orn. Cal.,
7L Troglodytes aMonvHT. parkmanni^ CoUEB, Key, 1872, 87; Check List, 1873, No. 49a;
B. N.W., 1874, 32.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am., 1, 1874, 153.— Henshaw, 1875,
184.
The range of this Wren is apparently co-extensive with the distribution of the timber, or governed strictly by the presence or absence of trees, without special regard to their kind. Its vertical range, like that of the Robin, Louisiana Tanager, and many other species, was consequently very considerable, it being equally abundant among the cotton-woods of the river-
TROGLODYTES PABKMANm. 423
valleys and the aspen copses of the higher canons of the mountains. In- deed it is the only strictly arboreal species of this family which resides in summer in the Middle Province, and there much more rarely seeks the society of man or the protection of his presence than the Rock or Bewick's Wrens. That they are somewhat inclined to do so, however, we saw occasional evidence, particularly in one instance, where a pair had a nest somewhere about the trading-house on the Indian Reservation near Pyramid Lake. This pair had become so familiar and confiding that the constant presence or passing in and out of persons did not alarm them in the least. Among the large cotton-wood trees near by, which extended in scattered groves or clumps for several miles along the river, they were extremely abundant, and their lively, agreeable songs were continually heard. They were equally abundant in the high canons of the East Humboldt and Wahsatch Mountains, their favorite resort in the latter being the aspen copses of the pine-region, where they and the Robins were the most abun- dant birds. Very numerous nests of this species were found, their situation being various, although most of them were similar in this respect; the prevailing character being that of a large mass of rubbish filled in behind the loosened bark of the trunk of a tree, usually only a few feet from the ground, the entrance a natural crevice or a woodpecker's hole; it was always warmly lined with feathers, and very frequently possessed the ornamental- addition of a cast-off snake-skin. One nest was placed behind a flat mass of a small shrub {Spircea ccespitosa), whicli grew^ in moss-like patches against the face of a cliff. Another one, and the only one not concealed in some manner, was built in the low crotch of an aspen, liaving for its foundation an abandoned Robin's nest. It consisted of a somewhat conical pile of sticks, nearly closed at the top, but with a small opening just large enough to admit the owner. Including its bulky base, the total height of this structure was about fifteen inches.
List of specimens. 170, S ad.; West Humboldt Mountains, September 7, 1867. 5J— G|— 2t^1}3.
i — « — 15 — We' Upper mandible, horn-black, the toraium lilaceouswhite; lower, lila- ccous whitish, deepening into purplish-slaty at end 5 iris, umber; tarsi and toes, brownish-whitish*
424 OBNITHOLOGY.
360, 9 ad.; Truckee Bottom, December 17. 5— 6f~2^^— l^J— J— |— 2— |. Bill, black, lilaceous- whitish on basal balf of lower mandible aud along commissure j interior of mouth, deep naples-yellow; iris, raw-umber; tarsi and toes, livid brownish- white.
839, Sad.; Bast Humboldt Mountains, July 13, 1868. 5— 6J— If. Bill, black; commissure, with basal half of lower mandible, deep pinkish-lilac; iris, grayish choco- late-brown ; tarsi and toes, dilute ashy-sepia.
864, S jm.; East Humboldt Mountains, August 7. *5J— 6J— (?)— l^f Upper mandible, dull black; commissure and lower mandible, pale lilaceous; rictus, pale yellow; interior of mouth, intense yellow; tarsi and toes, delicate pale ashy-sepia.
903, S ad.; Secret Valley, Nevada, September 7. 6^— 6f--(f )— 1|. Upper mandi- ble, olivaceous black ; lower mandible and commissure, lilaceous- white, the former more dusky terminally; iris, olivaceous umber ; tarsi and toes, pale lilaceous-sepia.
1260, nest and eggs (6); Parley's Park (Wahsatch Mountains), Utah, June 23, 1869. Built on an old Robin's nest, in crotch of aspen, deep woods.
1261, nest and eggs (7) ; nest in hollow aspen-snag.
1286, nest and eggs (7) ; Parley's Park, June 25. !Nest in hollow snag, entrance through knot-hole,
1308, nest and eggs (6); Parley's Park, June 27. Nest in deserted woodpecker's bole.
1309, nest and eggs (6) ; same locality and date. Nest behind loosened bark of dead aspen.
1421, eggs (3) ; Parley's Park, July 17, 1869. Nest in hollow of tree*
TeOGLODYTES HYEMALIS. IVinter l¥ren.
/3. pacificuS'^Western Winter Wren.
Troglodytes hyemalis var. pacijicus^ Baird, Review, 1864, 145.
Troglodytes parvulus var. pacificmy B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., 1, 1874, 155, pi.
IX, fig. 10. Anorthura troglodytes var. hyemaUs, COUES, Key, 1872, 351 (part); Check List,
1873, No. 50 (part); B. N.W., 1874, 33 (part). Troglodytes hyemalis (part), Baibd, B. N. Am., 1858, 369; Cat N. Am. B,, 1859,
No. 273.— CooPEE, Orn. Cal., 73.
The Winter Wren seenaed to be quite rare in the Interior, since but one individual, the one obtained, was observed.
List of specimens.
369, (J ad.; Truckee Bottom, near Pyramid Lake, Nevada, December 25, 1867. 4— 6 — 2 — 1| — y^j — (^)^li*^ — iV UpP^r mandible, black, tomium dilute brown; lower, dilute brown, dusky along the side; iris, deep burntnmber; tarsi and toes, deep brown.
TELMAT0DYTE8 PALUDICOLA. 425
TbLMATODYTES PALUSTpiS. liOng-billed marsH l¥ren.
yS. paludicola — Tule Wren.
Cistothorus palustris var. paludicola, Baied, Eeview Am. B., 1864, 148. — B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. B., 1, 1874, 161.-«Henshaw, 1875, 185.
Telmatodytes palustris^ CoUES, Key, 1872, 87 (part); Check List, 1873, No. 51; B, N.W., 1874, 35 (part).
Cistothorus {Telmatodytes) palustris (part), Baird, B. K Am., 1858, 364; Cat. K Am. B., 1859, No. 268 (part).— CooPEE, Orn. Cal., 75.
In all marshy localities where there existed even a limited growth of tules, the Long-billed Marsh Wren was more or less abundant. It was consequently found in numerous places, but it abounded most in those extensive marshes adjoining the lower portions of the Truckee, Humboldt, and Jordan Eivers, it being so abundant at the latter locality that several nests were often visible at one time in the thick growth of reeds. The song of this Wren is very peculiar, being a confused sputtering, scolding harangue, somewhat similar to, but harsher and less pleasing than, the song of Troglodytes aedon.
List of specimens.
273, i ad.; Truckee Meadows, Nevada, November 15, 1867. 5jJg— .6| ^2f-^—l{^j% — }l — lj\ — }|. Upper mandible, slaty-black; commissure aud lower mandible, lilace- ous white, the latter more dusky terminally; iris, umber; tarsi and toes, delicate brownish-white, strongly tinged with bluish lilaceous.
370, S ad.; Truckee Bottom, near Pyramid Lake, December 25. 5J — 6^g— 2/^—13 — ^ — \l — 2 — J. Same remarks. Tarsi and toes, deep light-brown, with yellowish tinge.
737, nest and five eggs: Truckee Bottom, near Pyramid Lake, May 18, 1868. Nest among reeds in deep woter, near lake-shore.
738, nest. Same remarks as to preceding.
950, S ad.; Deep Creek, Utah, October 5, 1868. 5|— 7— (?)— l}f . Bill, black -, com- missure and basal two-thirds of lower mandible, pure lilaceousj iris, umberj tarsi and toes, deep sepia, the latter darkest.
951, 8 ad.; 952, 9 ad] 5§— 7^— (?)— 1}|. Same remarks.
1010, 1011, 1012, 1013, 1014, 101*5, May 21, 1869; 1079, 1080, 1031, 1082, June 2, 1869; nests and eggs; Jordan River (near Salt Lake City), Utah. Nests each attached to several stalks of upright reeds, or tules^ standing in the water, near nests of Xanthocephalus icterocephalus. Maximum number of eggs four, but the number prob- ably sometimes exceeds this.
1459, S juv.; Parley's Park ( Wahsatch Mountains), Utah, July 26, 1809. ^^^.
426 OENITHOLQGY,
Upper mandible, sepia-black; commissure and lower mandible, pale lilaceous; iris, brown ; tarsi, dark sepia-plurfbeousf toes, paler, whitish beneath.
1467, S juv.; Parley^s Park, July 28. 4f— 6g. Same remarks.
1476, S juv.; July 29. 5J— 7.
1494, ^ juv.; 5|— 6^. 1495, ^ juv.; 5J-~6J. August 7. Same remarks as to 1459.
Family MOTACILLID J]— Wagtails and Tit-larks, or Pipits.
AnTHUS LUDOYICIANUS. Tic-lark.
Alauda ludoviciana^ Gmelin, Syst. Nat, I, 1788, 793.
Antkm ludovicianus, Light., Verz., 1823, 27.— Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 232; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 165; Review, 1864, 153— B. B. & R., Hist. K Am. B., I, 1874, 171, pi. X, fig. 3.— Cooper, Oru. Cal., 78.— Coites, Key, 1872, 90, fig. 34; Check List, 1873, No. 55; B. N.W., 1874, 40.— Henshaw, 1875, 187.
Perhaps no bird of the Interior is more abundant in winter than the Tit-lark is, at times, in localities of a nature calculated to attract them. At the Tmckee Meadows they came in immense flocks in November, and spread over the soggy meadows, where they remained during the mod- erately cold weather for the greater portion of the winter, occasionally congregating by thousands about the haystacks and corrals. They were equally abundant at Carson City, particularly in the vicinity of the warm springs, where the high temperature of the water kept the meadow soft and comparatively green, even dining the coldest weather. In April, just before their departure for the North, we observed them in their more highly-colored plumage.
List of specimens.
193, 9 ad.; West Hamboldt Moantains, Nevada, September 17, 1867. (Stream, in garden.) 6— 10— 3/^— 2f — .^^}f— 2/^— 1. Upper mandible, dark horn-color, darker terminally; lower, paler, nearly straw-yellow at base; iris, hazel; tarsi and toes, dark horn-color,
270, 9ad.; Trackee Meadows, November 8. 6}|— lOJ— 3^^^— -2^ — J§ — ^3^23—13^. Bill, black ; basal half of lower mandible, light-brown ; iris, hazel ; tarsi and toes, very dark blackish-brown.
274, 9 ad.; Truckee Meadows, November 15. 6^10-^y\--2|^— ^ — ^|_2J— 1^5^. Upper mandible and tip of lower, nearly black, remaining portion dull wax-yellow, deepest basally~alrao8t lemon -yellow on rictus; iris, deep vandyke; tarsi and toes, uniform blackish, toes not darker — dull light-yellowish beneath.
275, i ad,; Truckee Meadows, November 15. 6J— ll^^^-^f — 2ff — J— |f — 2J— 1|. Toes more blackish than tarsus.
HELMINTHOPHAGA RUFIOAPILLA. 427
276, $ ad.; 6|— lOJ— STV-^J—i— 3— 2j|— If . Same remarks.
277, (? ad.; 6f— lOf— 3^— 2|i— J— }|— 2J— 1|. SSame remarks.
278, i ad.; 7— 10|— 3 J~-2}| - j_i.3_23— 1. Same remarks.
279, ^a^.; 6|^10J— 3/^— 2-{i^J— J— 2/^— 1. Tarsi, dark sieana-brown ; toes, more blackish, distinctly pale .yellowish beneath.
280, (? ad.; 6,^i— 10^3^— 2jf— ^— 2— 2f— 1. Same remarks.
281, i ad.; 6^^^— 10^— 3J— 2if— i— |— 2f— IJ. Same remarks.
282, <J ad.; 6^— 10|— 3f— 2^^— J^f— 2|— (?). Same remarks. 2S3,Sad.; 6i— lOf— 3|— 2]|— J— }|— 2^— (?). Same remarks.
Family MNIOTILTIDJI—Amerioan Waebleks. Helminthophaga rupicapilla.
Nashville Warbler.
Sylvia rujicapilla, Wils., Am. Orn., Ill, 1811, 120, pi. 27, fig. 3.
HelmintJiophaga ruficapilla, Baird, B. K Am., 1858, 256; Oat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 183; Review, 1864, 175.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., 1, 1874, 196, pi. xi, figs. 7, 8.1— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 82.— Ooues, Key, 1872, 94 ; Check List, 1873, No. 67 5 B. N. W., 1874, 50.— Henshaw, 1875, 188.
Although not observed in summer, this bird was more or less com- mon in September in the thickets along the streams in the lower portion of the canons. It is not as yet definitely known whether this species breeds anywhere within the Western Eegion, or whether, on the other hand, the individuals which have been obtained at so many localities west of the Rocky Mountains were migrants from the Eastern Region, which, near the northern boundary of the United States, extends so much farther toward the Pacific coast. The same doubt exists in the case of Lanivireo solitarius. It is well known, however, that toward our northern border the Rocky Mountains form much less of a barrier to the westward range of eastern species, many of which, following the head-waters of the Yellowstone and other tributaries of the Missouri River, have but a short flight to reach the head-streams of the Columbia, and thus reach the Pacific coast in Oregon and Washington Territory, by passing down the valley of the latter stream.
^On p. 191 a ** var. gutturalis^^ is characterized, supposed to be distinguished by having the yellow of the throat confined strictly within the maxillaD, and not, as in true ruficapilla, covering the cheeks; the race being based on No. 901 of this catalogue, = No. 53,354, National Museum catalogue. Should this peculiarity prove constant, the western birds may be distinguished by that name. Figure 8, Hist. N. Am. Birds, quoted above, represents this form.
428 ORNITHOLOGY.
These same individuals, in the case of non-resident species, during their autumnal migration, probably follow the bases of the mountain ranges directly southward, instead of returning by the devious route by which they reached the western portions of the country. The occasional cap- ^ ture of such species as those named above, and the more accidental occur- rence of others, as JEdopistes migratoria (see pp. 355, 380, 385, and 596), at localities in the Western Region, may thus be accounted for.
List of specimens.
901, fad,; East Humboldt Mountains (Secret Valley), Nevada, September 6, 1868. H'--'^i — ^^ Upper mandible, plumbeous- black, tbo tomium slightly paler; lower, plumbeous- vThite, with lilaceous glow; iris, burnt-umber; tarsi, bluish-plumbeous; toes, stained with yellow. [Type of Helminthophaga ruficapllla var. gutturalisj Baird, Brewer, and Kidgway, History of North American Birds, Vol. 1, 1874:, p. 191, pi. xi, tig. 8.]
Helminthophaga Virginia.
Virginians IVarMer.
Helminthophaga virginiw, Baird, B. N. Am., ed. 1860, p. xi, pi. 79, fig. 1; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 183a; Review, 1865, 177.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., 1, 1874, 199, pi. XI, tig. 12.— -Cooper, Orn. Cal., 85.— Coues, Key, 1872, 94; Check List, 1873, No. 06-, B. N.W., 1874, 51.— Hensuaw, 1875, 189.
This interesting little Warbler was first observed among the cedar and pifion groves on the eastern slope of the Ruby Mountains. It was not met with west of this locality, but eastward it occurred on all those ranges having a similar or equally extensive growth. At the first-named locality it was rather common in July and August, and was found in the same groves with the Black-throated Gray Warbler (JDendrceca nigrescens) and the Lead-colored Vireo (Lanivireo plumbeus). On the Wahsatch and Uintah Mountains it was more abundant, being particularly plentiful among the scrub-oaks on the foot-hills near Salt Lake City. They lived entirely among the bushes, which there were so dense that the birds were difficult to obtain, even when shot. The usual note of this species is a soft pit, very different from the sharp chip of H. cetote, while its song is so exceedingly similar to that of the Summer Yellow-bird {Bendrceca cestiva) that we often found it difficult to distinguish them.
HELMINTHOPHAGA CELATA— H. LUTESCENS. 429
List of specimens.
S59JUV.; East Humboldt Mouatains, Nevada, August 5, 1868. 5--7| — ('?)—3. Upper mandible, plumbeous-black, the tomium yellowish-white; lower mandible, dull light-ashy, darker terminally; tarsi and toes, yellowish-plumbeous, the latter pale yellow beneath.
1040, S ad.; Salt Lake City, Utah (City Creek Canon), May 24, 1869. 5—8. Bill, lilaceous-blue, the upper mandible nearly black; iris, brown ; tarsi, hepatic-slate^ toes, yellowish.
1041, $ ad, (mate of preceding); 4f — TJ. Same remarks. 1053, 9 ad.; Salt Lake City, May 26. 5 — 7J. Same remarks. 1192, <f ad,; Salt Lake City, June 21. 4}| — 7|. Same remarks.
1188, nest and eggs (4); Salt Lake City, June 19. !N'est imbedded in the layer of dead leaves covering the ground under oak-thicket, on side of ravine ; female shot.
HELMINTHOPHAGA CELATA. Orang^e-crowned Warbler.
a. celata — Common Orange-crowned Warbler.
Sylvia celata^ Say, Long^s Exped., 1, 1823, 109.
Selminthophaga celata (part), Baied, B. K Am., 1858, 257; Cat., 1859, No. 184
(part); Review, J865, 176.--Cooper, Cm. Cal., 83.— Coues, Key, 1872, 95;
Check List, 1873, No. 68 (part) ; B. N.W., 1874, 52.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am.
B., I, 1874, 202, pi, XI, fig. 5.— Henshaw, 1875, 191.
/?. lutescens, — Yellow Orange-crowned Warbler.
Eelminthopliaga celata var. lutescens, RiDawAY, Am. Jour. Sci. & Arts, Jan., 1872, 457 ; Am. Nat, Yll, Oct, 1873, p. — .— B. B. & R., Hist N. Am. B., I, 1874, 204, pi, XI, tig. 4.
Selminthophaga celata. b. lutescens, Coues, B. N.W., 1874, 52. Helmintlhophaxja celata (part), Baird, B. N. Am., and Rev. — Coues, Key, and Check List— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 83.
The Orange-crowned Warbler was most frequently met with during its autumnal migration, at which time it was the most abundant of all the spe- cies of the family ; it was also not uncommon in summer in the high aspen woods of the loftier mountains. In the fall, the thickets and lower shrub- bery along the streams, particularly those of the lower canons, would fairly swarm with them during the early portion of the mornings, as they busily
430 ORNITHOLOGY.
sought their food, in company with various insectivorous birds, especially the Black-capped Green Warbler (Myiodioctes pusillus) and Swainson's Vireo ( Vireosylvia swainsoni). At such times they uttered frequently their sharp note of chip. The brightly-colored specimens representing H. lutescens were prevalent in the western depression of the Basin, but were not observed eastward of the upper portion of the Valley of the Humboldt, nor at any locality during the summer; and wherever found, were associated witli individuals of the other form, which is the only one found breeding on the mountains. It is therefore inferred that all these individuals were migrants from the northern Pacific Coast region and the Sierra Nevada, while those of jET. celata proper were from the higher portions of the more eastern mountains, or from farther northward in the Rocky Mountain ranges; full- fledged young birds being numerous in the high aspen woods of the Wah- satch Mountains in July and August.
lA§t of specimens,
a, celata. •
021, S ad^; " Dearing's Creek," Upper Humboldt Valley, September 11, 1868. 5— 7|-^(<?) — 2j. Upper mandible, brownish plumbeous-black, the tomium whitish ; lower, pale lilaceousplumbeous, darker terminally 5 iris, bright sienna 5 tarsi and toes, plum- beous, with yellow cast.
922, 9 ad.; "Bearing's Creek,'' Upper Humboldt Valley, September 11, 1868. 43_7j — (?)— l|f . Bill rather more lilaceous.
1425, $juv.; Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, July 17, 1869. 4}f— 7|. Upper mandible, black } commissure and lower mandible, dark lilaceous, latter paler basally; iris, brown; tarsi, plumbeous ; toes, olive.
1605, <J ad.; Parley's Park, August 12, 1869. 5— 7J. Same remarks.
1516, <J ad,; Parley's Park, August 16, 1869. 5^\— 5^. Upper mandible, black, paler along tomium ; lower, lilaceous-blue, whitish basally, blackish terminally ; iris, brown; tarsi, dull plumbeous; toes, more greenish.
yS. lutescens.
215, <J ad.; Camp 19, West Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, September 24, 1867. 4|— 7§— 2§— 2— |— 1^— Iff— ^f. Bill, blackish horn-color, the lower mandible, paler; iris, brown ; tarsi and toes, deep horn-color.
907, i ad.; " Secret Valley," East Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, September 8, 1868. 45 — 7f^— (!) — 2. Upper mandible, purplish-black, the tomium deep lilac; lower mandible, bluish-lilac, more pinkish basally, more dusky toward tip ; iris, Vandyke- brown ; tarsi and toes, plumbeous, the latter stained with yellow.
DENDRCECA iEJSTlVA. 431
926, S ad.; <' Dearing's Creek," Upper Humboldt Valley, Nevada, September 12. ^il—'^f— (^)— 2. Upper mandible, plumbeous black, the tomium edged with paler ; lower, plumbeous-white, darker terminally; iris, burntsienaa; tarsi and toes, plumbe- ous, latter with a yellowish tinge.
Dendrceca estiva.
Summer ¥ellow*bird ; Ooldcn IVarbler.
Motacilla cesiiva^ Gmelin, Syst Nat., I, 1788, 996.
Bendrceca cestiva^ Baird, B. K Am., 1858, 282; Catal., 1859, No. 203; Eeview, 1865, 195.-^CooPEB, Orn, OaL, 87.-«C0UES, Key, 1872, 97 ; Check List, 1873, No. 70; B. N.W., 1874, 54.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., 1, 1874, 222, pi. xiv, fig. 1.— Henshaw, 1875, 192.
This common and familiar little bird was met with everywhere, except during the winter season ; and in all wooded localities, with the exception of the higher forests, which it gave up chiefly to 2). audiibonij was the most abundant and generally distributed member of the family. At Sacramento it was one of the commonest birds, inhabiting every copse, whether of willow, cotton- wood, or oak; and throughout the Interior it was equally plentiful in every locality producing a growth of willows or other shrubbery, being most multiplied in the river-valleys or lower cafions, and gradually decreasing in numbers toward the summits of the mountains. No dijSFerence whatever exists, apparently, between the western and eastern birds of this species.
List of specimens.
11, nest and eggs (3); Sacramento, California, Jane 8, 1867. Nest on small oak, in grove.
24, 25, 2G, 27, nest and eggs; Sacramento, California, June 11, 18G7. Nests in a small oak-grove, nearly similarly situated, being generally placed on a high branch near the top of the trees, about fifteen or twenty feet from the ground.
121, Sjuv.; valley of the Truckee, Nevada, August 6, 1867. %V~-"'^Tf— 23®^— .2| — j_§ — 13 — |. Upper mandible, leaden-black, the tomium whitish; lower, leaden- bluish ; iris, hazel ; tarsi and toes, yellowish horn-color, latter yellowish beneath.
158, ? ad.; valley of the Humboldt (Camp 17), September 2. 5y\— 7^—2^7^—2— ^7^ — |— 1| — j|. Upper mandible, black, the tomium pale ashy-lilac; lower mandible, pale ashy-lilac ; iris, hazel ; tarsi and toes, liver-brown, scutellje margined with ashy- blue.
881, ? juv.; East Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, August 29, 1868. 4|— 7:1— (I)— 2. Upper mandible, olive-brown, edged with paler; lower, uniform greenish- white; iris, bister ; tarsi and toes, dilute sepia, strongly washed with yellow.
432 ORNITHOLOGY.
1254, 1255, 1256, nests and egg^*, Parley's Park, Utah, June 23, 1869. Nests in willows along stream.
1306, nest and eggs (4) 5 Parley's Park, June 27. Nest in rose-bush near stream. 1415, nest and egg (1) 5 Parley's Park, July 16, 1869. Nest in willows.
Dbndrceoa ocoidbntalis.
Westeru TFarbler.
Sylvia occidentalism Townsenb, Journ. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., YII, ii, 1837, 190.
Dendrceca occidentalism Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 268; Catal., 1859, No. 190 5 Review, 1865, 183.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 92.— Coues, Key, 1872, 98; Check List, 1873, No. 72.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., 1, 1874, 266, pi. xii, fig. 5.— Henshaw, 1875, 201.
On the 29th of August, 1868, a single individual of this strongly-marked species was seen in the lower portion of one of the eastern caiions of tlie East Humboldt Mountains. It was busily engaged in searching for its insect food, in a thicket along the stream, during which occupation it uttered an occasional note, sounding like a lisped and faint enunciation of p^eet
Dendeceoa townsendi.
Townsend's Warbler.
^^ Sylvia townsendi, Nuttall,'' Townsend, Journ. Ac. Nat. 8ei. Philad., VII, ii,
1837, 191. Dendrceca townsendi, Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 269 5 CataL, 1859, 191; Review,
1865, 185.— CooPEB, Orn. Cal., 91.— CoUES, Key, 1872, 98; Check List, 1873,
No. 73— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., 1, 1874, 265, pi. xii, fig. 7.— Henshaw,
1875, 200.
This Warbler, like the D. occidentalism was exceedingly rare along our route, only one other specimen besides* that obtained having been seen. The one in question was observed on the 8th of September, in an alder- thicket high up one of the eastern canons of the East Humboldt Mountains. The manners and notes of this species, as observed at this season, seemed much like those of D. occidentalism neither possessing any strikingly distinctive trait, so far as could be observed.
List of specimens.
942, i ad.; Thonsand Spring Valley, Nevada, September 24, 1868. (Specimen badly mutilated ; no measiirements.)
DENDRCECA NIGRE80ENS— D. AUDUBONI. 433
Dendrceca NIGRESCENS.
Black-throated Gray Warbler.
Sylvia nigrescens, Townsend, Journ. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., VIL, ii, 1837, 191.
Dendrceca nigrescens^ Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 270; Catal., 1859, No. 192; Review, 1865, 186.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 90.— Coues, Key, 1872, 98; Check List, 1873, No. 75 ; B. N.VV., 1874, 55.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., I, 1874, 258, pi. XII, fig. 8.— Henshaw, 1875, 188.
The Black-throated Gray Warbler doubtless breeds on all the higher mountains of the Western Region, since Mr. C. E. Aiken has discovered it to be a summer resident on the most eastern ranges in Colorado, while it has long been known as a summer bird of the Pacific Coast district; but the mountains of the Great Basin having sufficient timber-growth — a condition essential to the presence of this species — are very few, and so far between, that we met with it at few localities. On the eastern slope of the Ruby Mountains, it was abundant in July and August, in the piiion and cedar woods, never entering the brushwood in the <ianons. A few individuals were also seen in Pack's Canon, Uintah Mountains, where they inhabited the lower slopes which were covered with a scattered growth of scrub- oaks and mountain-mahogany. At the former locality, several families of full-grown young were observed still following their parents. Their song was not heard, but their ordinary note greatly resembled the sharp chip of the eastern Yellow-rump {D, coronata).
List of specimens,
840, i; East Humboldt Mouutains, Nevada, July, 14, 1868. 4|— 7|— (?)— 2j3j.. Bill, deep black ; iris, dark sepia ; tarsi and toes, sepia-black.
855, ^; East Humboldt Mountains, August 4, 1808. 5| — 7J— (?)— 2J. Same re- • marks.
863, cJ; August 7, 1868. 5J— 7^— (?>-2J. Same remarks.
SG6, 9 ; August 10, 1868. 5--7|— ( ? )— 2. Bill, black, slightly lilaceous at base of lower i^iandible.
Dendrceca auduboni.
Audubon's Warbler.
Sylvia audubonii, Townsend., Journ. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., VII, ii, 1837, 190.
Dendrceca audubonii^ Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 273; Catal., 1859, No. 195; Review, 1865, 188.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 88.— Coues, Key, 1872, 100; Check List, 1873, No. 79; B. N.W., 1874, 58.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., I, 1874, 229, pi. XIII, fig. 1.— Henshaw, 1875, 194.
As is the case with the eastern Yellow-rumped Warbler (D. coronata)^ 28 PR
43^ ORNITHOLOGY.
except in the southern portion of its habitat, Audubon's Warbler, the western representative of that species, is the only one of the family which remains during the winter. Its migrations seem to be mainly, if not entirely, vertical, its summer-home being the pine forests of the mountains, while in winter it dwells among the cotton- woods of the river- valleys, or the brushwood of the lower canons. In its habits and manners it is an exact counterpart of D. coronata, which it also resembles so strikingly in plumage; but its notes are markedly different, the usual one being a feeble wit^ very unlike the sharp chip of the eastern species.
List of specimens.
218, S ad.; West Humboldt Mountaias, Nevada, September 25, 180^7. gj— 9—3J— 2j| — ^1 — 1^ — 2i — 1. Bill, tarsi, and toes, deep black; iris, bazel.
245, (? ad.; West Humboldt Mountains, October 8, 18G7. 55— 9J— 3J— 2g— |— J— 2^^ — l^ig.. Same remarks.
346, 9 ad.; Truckee Valley, Nevada, December 7, 1868. 6J— 8f— 25— .2§— ^7__|i_ 2| — J. Same remarks.
493, <J ad.; Carson City, Nevada, April 4, 18G8. (>— 9§--3/g-.2g. Iris, burnt- umber.
500, i ad.; Carson, April 18, 1868. 6—9^—3^—21. Bill, jet-black ; iris, burnt- umber; tarsi and toes, sepia-black.
1257, single egg; Parley's Park, Wabsatch Mountains, Utah, June 23, 1869. Nest near extremity of horizontal branch of pine tree, about ten feet from ground; contained, besides, three young.
Geothlypis TEICHAS.
Maryland ITellow-throat.
Turdus trichasj Linn., Syst. Nat., I, 1766, 293.
OeotlUypis triclias, Cabanis, Mus. Hein., 1850, 16.— Baibb, B. N. Am., 1858, 241 ; Catal., 1859, No. 170; Review, 1865, 220.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 95.— Codes, Key, 1872, 107, fig. 47 ; Check List, 1873, 97 ; B. N. W., 1874, 74— B. B. & B., Hist. N. Am. B., 1, 1874, 297, pi. xv, figs. 7, 8.— Henshaw, 1875, 204.
In all bushy places contiguous to water, this little bird was invariably
to be found ; but it was confined to the valleys, being replaced among the
mountains, even in the lower canons, by the G. macgillivrayi. Clumps of
wild-rose briers and the banks of the sloughs seemed to be its favorite
resorts, and in such localities near Pyramid Lake it was one of the most
abundant species in May, and all day long enlivened the vicinity of one of
our camps by its pleasant song of witch' ity^ witch' ity^ witch' ity — often from
several rival males at the same time.
GEOTHLYPIS MAGGILLIVRATL 435
List of specimens.
750, eggs (4); mouth of Truckee River, May 19, 1868. Nest in sage bnsb, in moist depression.
883, juv.; Buby Valley, Nevada, August 29, 1868. 5J— 6f— (?)— 1^. Upper mandibl-j, sepia-black, the tomium pale brownish-yellow; lower, dilute lilaceous-sepia; iris, plumbeous-brown; tarsi and toes, dilute pinkish sepia, the toes strongly washed with yellow.
899, 9 juv.; Secret Valley, Nevada, September 23, 1868. 6f-7— (?)— IJ. Same remarks.
953, Sad.; Deep Creek, Utah, October 5, 1868. S^^— 7— (?)— IJ. Bill, black; commissure and basal half of lower mandible, dilute brownish-lilac; iris, bister; tarsi and toes, uniform sepia.
1400, nest and eggs; valley of Weber River, June, 1869. [J. O. Olmsted.]
Geothlypis macgillivrayi.
McOillivray's \¥arbler.
Sylvia macgillivrayi, Audubon, Orn. Biog., V, 1839, 75, pi. 399, figs. 4, 5. Geothlypis macgillivrayi, Baird, B. N. Am^ 1858, 244, pi. 99, fig. 4; Catal., 1859,
No. 173; Review, 1865, 227.— Cooper, Orn. Gal., 96.— Coues, Key, 1872,
107 ; Check List, 1873, No. 99.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., 1, 1874, 303, pi.
XV, figs. 4, 5.— Henshaw, 1875, 205. Oeothlypis Philadelphia var. macgillivrayi, Allen, Bull. Mus. Comp. Zool., Ill,
July, 1872, 175.— RiDGWAY, Am. Journ. Sci. & Arts, Dec, 1872, 459. Oeothlypis Philadelphia, a. macgillivrayi, Coues, B. N.W., 1874, 75.
Representing the Maryland Yellow-throat in the mountains, this species w^as found in all the fertile canons from the Sierra Nevada to the Uintahs. It inhabited the rank herbage near the streams, or the undergrowth of the thickets and aspen copses. We did not hear the song of this species, but were very familiar with its ordinary note, a strong chip, greatly resembling that of the Indigo-bird, or its western representative {Cyanospka cyanea and C. a/:noena), the notes of both old and young being alike.
List of specimens,
175, 9 juv.; West Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, September 9, 1867. 5J — 1^-^ — 2^7- — 2^^—^-^ — I — 2J— IJ. Upper mandible, brownish-black; commissure and lower mandible, brownish lilaceous-white, the latter darker terminally ; iris, hazel; tarsi and toes, brownish-white.
900, ^ juv.; East Humboldt Mountains, Nevada (Camp 23), September 6, 1808. 5 J — 7^--(?) — 2^^^. Iris, grayish-sepia; tarsi and toes, pinkish- white.
906, (J a^.; • East Humboldt Mountains, September 8, 1868. 5y^^~7|— (?)— 2J. Upper mandible, brownish-plumbeous, paler toward commissure; lower, paler brown- ish, lilaceous- white, darker terminally; iris, grayish-sepia; tarsi and toes, sepia-white.
436 ORNITHOLOGY,
1258, 1259, nests and eggs; Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utab," June 23, 18GD. Kests about eighteen inches above the ground, in small briers or bushes, in weedy undergrowth near stream. (Parents of both shot.)
1307, nest and eggs (4) j Parley's Park, June 27, 1869. Nest in bush, about a foot from ground.
1365, nest and eggs (3); Uintah Mountains, July 3, 1869. Nest among under- growth of aspen-grove, in bush, a foot from ground.
1380, ^jui?.; Uintah Mountains, July 7, 1809. 5|-.7§. Bill, black, the commissure and basal two-thirds of lower mandible, deep lilaceous; iris, brown j tarsi, light lila- ceousbrown ; toes, darker.
US2,Sjuv,; Parley's Park, July 19, 1809. 5J--7J. Upper mandible, black, the tomium white j lower, lilaceouswhite, the terminal third dusky j iris, brown; tarsi, pur- plish-brown; toes, dark brown.
ICTEEIA VIRENS. Yellow-breasted Cliat.
/?. longicauda — Long-tailed Chat
Icteria longicand4Z^ Lawrence, Ann. Lye. K. H., N. Y., VI, April, 1853, 4. — Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 249, pi. 34, iig. 2; Catal, 1859, No. 177; Eeview, 1865, 230.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 98.
Icteria virem var. ion<jficawc?a, CouBS, Key, 1872, 108; Check List, 1873, No. 100a. — B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. Birds, 1, 1874, 309.-.HENSHAW, 1875, 206.
Icteria virem. b. longicauda, CouES, Birds N.W., 1874, 77.
The distribution of the Yellow-breasted Chat coiresponds so nearly with that of the Maryland Yellow-throat, that they were generally to be found in the same thicket; but its vertical range is somewhat greater, it being fre- quently met with in the lower portion of the caiions. It was equally common in California and the Interior, and appeared to be in all respects the same bird as the eastern race. Its song during the breeding-season, like that of the eastern bird, is conspicuous from its extreme oddity, as well as for its power and variety; and we were often awakened at midnight by its notes, when, but for the yelping of the prowling Coyotes {Cams latrans)^ the stillness would have been unbroken. It was also observed that they were partic- ularly musical on bright moonlight nights.
List of specimens, ^
23, nest and eggs (3); Sacramento, California, June 11, 1807. Nest in wild-rose brier, among undergrowth of oak grove.
MYIODIOCTBS PUSILLUS. 437
49, <J ad. (parent of No. 48) ; Sacramento, California, June 17, 1867. 7f — lOJ— ^{^ — 2|~| — /g — 3g — IJ. Bill, entirely pure black; whole inside of mouth, intense black; iris, hiizel ; tarsi and toes, pale slate-blue.
165, ? ad.; West Humboldt Mountains (Camp 18), September 4, 1867. 75— lOJ— ^i— ^if—fi — 1^— 35— Uf* Upper mandible, horn-black, tomium bluish-white; lower mandible, lilaceous white, point of gonys, black; iris, hazel; tarsi and toes, plumbeous^ without any shade of blue.
168, <J ad,; West Humboldt Mountains, September 7, 1867. 8— 10— 3f — 2{|— y\— II — *ij\ — If. Upper mandible, horn-black, tomium bluish-ichite ; lower mandible, pearl- white, tip of gonys, black; tarsi and toes, dull plumbeous.
48, nest and eggs (3) ; Sacramento, June 17, 1867. Nest abont three feet from ground, in thorny bush in dense thicket.
568, S ad.; Truckee Reservation, May 15, 1868. 75— 10— 2|. Bill, and whole interior of mouth, intense black; iris, blackish-brown; tarsi and toes, plumbeous.
MyIODIOCTES PUSILLUS. Black-capped ¥cllow l¥arblcr.
a. pusillus.
Muscicapa; pusilla, Wilson, Am, Orn., Ill, 1811, 103, pi. 26, fig. 4.
Myiodioctes pusillus, Bonap., Consp. Av., I, 18(50, 315. — Baibd, B. N. Am., 1858,
293 (part); Catal,, 1859, No. 211; Review, 1885, 240 (parr).— Cooper, Orn.
Cal., 101.— CouES, Key, 1872, 109, fig. 50 (part); Check List, 1873, No. 102;
B, N.W., 1874, 79 (part).— B. B. & 11., Hist. N. Am, B., I, 1874, 317, pi. xvi,
figs. 3, 4,— Henshaw, 1875, 207. Myiodioctes pusillus var. pusillus, liiDawAY, Am. Journ. Sci. & Arts, Dec, 1872,
457.
jS. pileolata.
Myiodioctes pusillus (part), Atjct,
. Motacillapileolata, Pallas, Zoog, Bosso-As., 1, 1811, 407, Myiodioctes pusillm var. pileolata, RiDaw., Am. Journ. Sci. & Arts, Dec, 1872, 457.— B.B. & R., Hist. N. Am, B., I, 1874, 319,
This sprightly Warbler was not seen at Sacramento, but in the valley of the Truckee, and in many suitable localities to the eastward, it was a rare summer resident, becoming exceedingly numerous in autumn. Its haunts during the breeding-season were much the same as those of the Summer Yellow-bird {Dendrosca cestiva), but in September it was most abundant in the shrubbery along the cailon streams.
438 ORNITHOLOGY.
List of ^ecimens. a. pusillus.
203, i ad.; West Humboldt Mountains, September 20, 1867. 4j|— G|— 2|— q|-~| — }J— 1||— f ^. Tipper mandible, blackish horn-color edged with pale brownish ; lower mandible, pale lilaceous-brown; iris, brown j tarsi and toes, yellowish brown, the former strongly stained with yellow posteriorly.
880, <? ad.; East Humboldt Mountains, August 29, 1868. 5J— 6J— ( ! )— 1^. Upper mandible, deep-black, tomium edged with lilaceous; lower, dilute-lilac, more whitish beneath; iris, sepia; tarsi and toes, dilute brownish-yellow, the tarsi more sulphury, the toes deeper.
SSI, i ad.; East Humboldt Mountains, September 1, 1868. 5— 7-— (?)— 2. Upper mandible, blackish-olivaceous, tomium and lower mandible, dilute reddish lilaceous- brown; iris, sepia; tarsi and toes, pale olivaceous-yellow.
888, 9 ad.; same locality and date. 4J — 6J — IJ. Tarsi, pale purplish-brown ; toes, olive-yellow.
1039, 9 ad.; Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake, May 24, 1869. 4|— 7. Ui)per man- dible, brownish-black ; lower, paler, basal two-thirds, pale wood-brown ; iris, brown ; tarsi and toes, dilute-brown.
/?. pileolata.
120, S ad.; valley of the Truckee, Nevada, August 6, 1867. 5— 6/^— 2^^ Bill, delicate pinkish horn-color, darker on the culmen; iris, hazel; tarsi and toes, dilute horn-color, stained with yellow.
166, ? ad.; valley of the Lower Humboldt, Nevada, September 5, 1867. 4f — 6f |— - 2J. Bill, dark horn-color, lower mandible paler, dilute brown basally ; iris, dark hazel; tarsi and toes, horn-color, latter yellowish beneath.
176,$ ad.; West Humboldt Mountains, September 9, 1867. 5J— 6|— 2/^. Bill, dark horn-color, paler beneath, the lower mandible inclining to lilaceous; iris, hazel; tarsi and toes, pale livid horn-color.
Setophaga RUTICILLA.
Anieri€aii Redstart*
Muscicapa ruticilla, Linn., Syst. Nat., I, 1766, 326.
Setophaga ruticilla^ Swains., Zool. Jour., Ill, 1827, 358.— Bated, Birds K Am.,
1858, 297; Oatal., 1859, No. 217 ; Review, 1865, 256.— CoUES, Key, 1872, 110;
Check List, 1873, No. 104; Birds N.W., 1874, 81.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am.
Birds, 1, 1874, 319, pi. XVi, figs. 1, 5.— Hbnshaw, 1875, 209.
This beautiful little bird was common in summer throughout the Wah- satch district, being one of several eastern species which have their westward range limited only by the commencement of the arid and treeless region of the Great Basin. It was abundant in the valleys and the lower portion of the canons, but it did not extend far up into the mountains. A few were seen, in June, in the orchard of the *^ Church Ranche," on Antelope Island.
PEOGNE S0BIS. 439
List of specimens.
1104,^ ad.; Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake, Utah, Jane 4, 1869. 5|— 7|. Bill, tarsi, and toes, deep black ; iris, brown.
Family HIRUNDINIDJE— Swallows. Peogne subis. .
Purple JUartio.
Eirundo subis, Linn., Syst. Nat. (10th ed.), 1758, 192.
Prague suhis, Baird, Eeview Am. B., 1865, 274.— B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. B., I,
1874, 329, pi. XVI, figs. 7, 10.— Henshaw, 1875, 213. Eirundo purpurea, LiNN., Syst. Nat. (12th ed.), 17GC, 344. Frogne purpurea, BoiE, Isis, 1826, 971.— Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 314; Catal.,
1859, No. 231.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 113.— Coues, Key, 1872, 114; Check List,
1873, No. 117 ; B. N.W., 1874, 91.
In the more thickly-populated districts of California, the handsome Purple Martin has become, as it has long since in the Eastern States, semi-domesticated, and almost entirely allured from its original haunts, the forests, by the superior advantages afforded by the surroundings of civilized man ; but in the more scantily-settled Interior it was found still retaining its primitive habits. In the cities of San Francisco and Sacramento it was a very abundant species, while eastward of the Sierra Nevada it was rare, except among the aspen woods of the pine-region on certain of the higher mountain ranges. In Carson City it was not common, while in Virginia City but a single individual was seen, the date being June 18, 1868. Among the aspens of the Wahsatch, near Parley's Park, however, it was extremely abundant, and nested in the deserted or captured excavations of the Red- naped Woodpecker (Sphyrapicus nuchalis), most of which were bored into the trunks of living trees, these holes being freely shared with the White- bellied Swallows {Tachycineta bicolor).
As a rule, the Swallows, although true Oscines, are not considered singers; the present species, however, is at least one notable exception, since it is a warbler of high merit. Often have we reclined on some mossy or fern- covered bank beneath the aspens, and given respectful attention to the performance of a voluble male Purple Martin, as, with glossy violet head
440 OENITHOLOGY.
thrust from the entrance to his nest, he entertained his mate with liquid warblings, varied by sweet cadences, his throat swelling and vibrating with the volume of his song.
Pbtrochelidok luniprons.
Cliff Swallow.
Siruncb lunifronSy Say, Long's Exped., II, 1823, 47.— Baird, B. N. Aai., 1858,
309 5 Catal, 1859, No. 226.— Cooper, Orn. Cal, 104. Petrochelidon lunifrons, SOLATER, Cat. Am. B., 1862, 40.— Baird, Review, 18G5,
288.— COTJES, Key, 1872, 114; Check List, 1873, No. 114; B. N.W., 1874,88.
— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., 1, 1874, 334, pi. xvi, 13.— Henshaw, 1875, 215.
The first land-bird observ^ed after arriving at San Francisco, was this familiar and widely-diflEused species, multitudes of which were observed to swarm about certain old buildings along with smaller numbers of Purple Martins {Progne stibis). It was also noticed along every portion of our route across the Great Basin, especially in the vicinity of rivers or lakes, or at the settlements, whether large or small. The species may be consid- ered the most abundant one of the family throughout the West, the next in order being the White-bellied and Eough- winged Swallows {Tachjcineta hicolor and Stelgidopteryx serripennis). In localities most remote from settle- ments it of course built its nest only on the face of overhanging cliflfs, but if near a settlement, any large building, as a baiii or church, was almost sure to be selected ; in either case, vast numbers congregating together and fixing their peculiar gourd-shaped nests side by side or upon each other, the same as in the east. It was not observed to build in any other way, and it is probable that the nesting-habits of this species are less variable than those of its kindred, excepting, perhaps, the common Barn Swallow {Hirundo }iorreorum\ which differs chiefly in selecting caves or the interior of dwell- ings, and in being not gi-egarious.
LiBt of specimens.
852, <J ad.; East Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, July 22, 1868. 6— 12|— (?)— 3|. Bill, deep black ; interior of moutb, pinkish-dusky; iris, dark claret-brown ; tarsi and toes, dark horn-color.
871, egg (1) ; East Humboldt Mountains, August 25, 1868. Nest attached to side of a rafter, underneath roof of a shed, at ranche.
HIBUNDO HOKREOEUM— TACHYCINETA BIOOLOR. 441
HlEtTNDO EBYTHROGASTER. Bam Swallow.
/?. horreorum?
Eirundo Jiorreorum, Barton, Frag. Kat. Hist. Penn'a, 1799, 17.— Baibd, Birds K Am., 1858, 308; Catal., 1859, No. 225; Eeview, 1865, 204.— Cooper, Oru. Cal., 103.— CoUES, Key, 1872, 113, fig. 54; Check List, 1873, No. Ill ; Birds N.W., 1874, 85.-«B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, 1, 1874, 339, pi. xvi, fig. 9.— Henshaw, 1875, 217.
Although inhabiting the same localities as the Cliff Swallow, the pres- ent species was observed to be everywhere much less numerous. It was most common along the shore and on the islands of Pyramid Lake, where it nested among the tufa domes, each nest being attached to the ceiling of a cave among the rocks. In few instances were more than a single pair found in one cave. Several nests were also found in caverns among the lime- stone cliffs on the eastern side of the Ruby Mountains.
List of specimens.
408, (? ad,; valley of the Humboldt, September, 1867.
1151, nest and eggs (3); Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, July 26, 1869. Nest in stable, attached to rafter.
Tachyoineta BICOLOR.
Wliite*l>cllled Swallow.
Hirnndo bicolor, Vieillot, Ois. Am. Sept., I, 1807, 61, pi. 31.— Baird, Birds N.
Am., 1858,310; Catal., 1859, No. 227; Review, 1865, 297.-rC<)OPER, Orn.
Cal., 106.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., I, 1874, 344, pi. xvi, fig. 8. Tachycineta bicolor^ Cabanis, Mus. Hein., 1850, 48.— CouES, Key, 1872, 113;
Check List, 1873, No. 112; Birds N.W., 1874, 86.— Henshaw, 1875, 217.
This species and the Purple Martin were the only Swallows which were
^It is not yet satisfactorily determined whether the North American birds of this species differ constantly from South American examples to the extent that the two series may be separated as geographical races. In case they should not prove thus constantly different, the proper name of the North American bird is JEC, erythrogaster, Boddaert, while the following synonyms are to be added to the above citations: —
Hirundo erythrogaster, Bonn., Tabl. PI. enl. (724, fig. 1), 1783, 45 (Cayenne).— ScLATER, Catal. Am. Birds, 1861, 39 (Brazil).
mrundo rufa, Gm., Syst. Nat., I, 1788, 1018 (PL enl., 724, fig. 1).— BURM., Ucb., Ill, 148 (Brazil).
Hirundo ofanopyrrha, Vieill., Nouv. Diet., XVI, 1817, 510.
442 ORNITHOLOGY.
confined strictly to wooded districts or to settlements, their distribution being much the same, except that, in the case of wooded localities, the former was most abundant in the river- valleys, while the latter occurred oftenest on the mountains. Among the cotton-woods of the Lower Truckee, near Pyramid Lake, in May, the White-bellied Swallow abounded more than elsewhere, and every knot-hole or other cavity among the trees seemed to have been taken possession of by a pair. They were then engaged in building their nests, and throughout the day would come to the door- yard of the Reservation-house to pick up the feathers, or bits of rag or paper, scattered about the ground, after hurriedly seizing which they would fly with the article selected in a direct line to their nests. As they sat on the ground, they were beautiful httle birds, and though they squatted some- what awkwardly, on account of the smallness of their feet, they raised their heads so proudly, and glanced so sharply, yet timidly, about them, that they seemed graceful in their motions; while each movement caused the sunlight to glance from their burnished backs of lustrous steel-blue, with which the snowy white of their breasts contrasted so strikingly. Although the object picked up was most often a feather, it occasionally happened that one would take hold of a string, or a long shred of cloth, perhaps a yard or more in length, in which case, so conspicuous an object was certain to be seized upon by others, as the bearer labored to carry it to his nest, thus becoming the subject of quite a struggle, and much twittering.
The White-bellied Swallow was by no means confined to the wooded river- valleys, however, but it was equally abundant among the aspen woods, high up in the Wahsatch Mountains, at an altitude of 8,000 or 9,000 feet; it was also common in the Sacramento Vallej^, but a few feet above sea-level, among the oak trees of the plain. Neither is it invariably arboreal, for it seems to have become, in certain localities, more ** civilized," like its cousin, the Purple Martin, and to have taken advantage of the abode of man in localities where there are no trees to accommodate them. Such was conspicuously the case at Carson City, where they were quite numerous, and built their nests under the eaves, behind the weather-boarding, or about the porches of dwellings or other buildings, and were quite familiar. The specimens in the collection were shot on the wing; and when one was
TACHYCINETA THALASSINA. 443
brought down the rest would exhibit great concern, cu-cHng about the victim, and uttering a plaintive twitter, as their suffering companion lay fluttering on the ground.
List of specimens.
473, ?«(?.; Carson City, Nevada, March 30, 1868. 6— 13— 4| — ^. Bill, deep black; interior of mouthy fleshy white; tarsi aud toes, dark sepia, tho latter pinkish beneath.
474, $ ad.; Carson City, Nevada, March 30, 1868. 5f — .13— 4f — 4^^. Interior of mouth J pale yellow.
475, ? ad.; Carson City, Nevada, March 30, 1868. 6— 12§— 4|— 3if . Interior of mouthy fleshy white,
748, eggs ; Truckee Bottom s, May 19, 1868. Nest of straw and feathers, in deserted woodpecker's hole, in willow tree.
768, 769, eggs (3—4) j Truckee Bottoms, May 29, 1868. Nests with same location, etc., as preceding.
1038, <J ad.; Salt Lake City, Utah, May 24, 1869. 6—13. Bill, black 5 iris, brown ; feet, dark purplish-brown.
1416, eggs (3); Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, July 16, 1869. Eggs in knot-hole in aspen-tree. Nest of feathers.
1484, i juv.; Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, July 30, 1869. 5f — 12. Bill, black; rictus and interior of mouth, yellow; iris, brown; feet, dark livid sepia.
1485, S juv.; Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, July 30, 1869. 5§— llf . Feety light pink,
TaCHYCINETA THALASSINA. Tiolct-grcen Swalloiv.
Eirundo thalassina^ Swainson, Philos. Mag., I, 1827, 365.— Baied, Birds N. Am., 1858, 311; Catal., 1859, No. 228; Keview, 1865, 299.— Cooper, Orn, Cal., 107.— B. B. & K., Hist. N. Am. Birds, I, 1874, 347, pi. xvi, fig. 11.
Tachycineta thalassina, Cabanis, Mus. Hein., 1850, 48.— Coues, Key, 1872, 113; Check List, 1873, No. 113; Birds N.W., 1874, 86.— Henshaw, 1875, 217.
The beautiful Violet-green Swallow was first seen on the main island in Pyramid Lake, during the month of May. They were very abundant, and frequented chiefly the cliffs of calcareous tufa, where they were observed to enter the fissures of the rock to their nests within. In July we saw it again among the limestone walls of the eastern cafions of the Ruby Mountains, where it also nested in the crevices on the face of the cliffs, its associates being the White-throated Swift {Panyptila saxatilis), and Cliff Swallow (Petrochelidon lunifrons). Their nests were in almost every case
444 ORNITHOLOGY.
out of reach, onlj^ two of those that were found being accessible. Both were in horizontal fissures, scarcely large enough to admit the hand ; the nest consisting of a flattened mass of sticks and straws, lined with feathers, like those of the Bank Swallows ( Cotyle and Stelgidopteryx) ; one of them contained five young birds, but the other had apparently been tampered with in some way, since the parent was dead and her three eggs broken. The latter, like those of T. bicolor and the two species above mentioned, were pure white, without markings.
Although other observers, whose statements we do not in the least doubt, have described the habits of this bird as arboreal, like those of tlie White-bellied Swallow (T. bicolor) and the Purple Martin, we never found it so in any locality during our trip, it being everywhere a strictly saxico- line species, and an associate of Panyptila saxatilis, Petrochelidon lunifrons^ and Hirundo horreorum rather than of the species named, and to be found only where precipitous rocks, affording suitable fissures, occurred. When on the wing the appearance of this lovely Swallow is very striking, and so unlike that of any other that it may be immediately distinguished. No other species resembles it except the T. bicolor^ which is somewhat similar on account of the pure white lower parts ; but a more attentive examination discovers the gi'eater amount of white on the side of the head, and if the bird is viewed from above the plumage is seen to be tricolored — the rump rich intense violet, and the back lustrous green, the two colors being separated by a very conspicuous, broad, and apparently continuous, band of snowy white across the upper part of the rump, caused by the close approximation of the two white flank-patches.
This Swallow appeared to be a very silent species, but a few notes were heard, which called to mind the chirping of young Purple Martins, as heard in rainy weather.
List of specimens,
70l,<Jad; island in Pyramid Lake, Xevada, May 23, 18G8, 5i— I2f— (?)— 4f Bill, deep black; iris, buiat-uaiber 5 tarsi and toes, deep sepia.
847, 9 ad.; East Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, July 20, 1868. 5J— llg~(?)— 3g. Bill, deep black; interior of mouth, pale naples-yellow ; iris, dark sepia; tarsi and toes, pale sepia-purple.
1070, ? ad.; Salt Lake City, Utah (City Creek Oafion), May 29, 1869.
COTYLB EIPARIA. 445
COTYLB EIPARIA.
Bank Swallow.
Elrundo riparia, Linn., Syst. Nat., 1, 17G6, 344.
Gotyle riparia, BoiB, Isis, 1822, 550.--BAIBD, B. K Am., 1858, 313 ; Oatal., 1859, Ko. 229; Review, 1865, 319.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 110.— CouES, Key, 1872, 114; Check List, 1873, No. 115; B. N.W., 1874, 90.— B. B. & R., Hist. K Am. B., I, 1874, 353, pi. XVI, fig. 14— Hbnshaw, 1875, 220.
The distribution of the common Bank Swallow was the same as that of the Rough-winged species, but it was everywhere less abundant. We never found it except when associated with the latter bird, and its habits and appearance seemed so much the same that it required somewhat close observation to distinguish them readily. The pure white lower parts, crossed by a dusky band across the breast, however, served as a good and unfailing mark by which to distinguish the present species, the lower parts of the Rough-winged Swallow being uniform mouse-color, growing gradually paler behind ; while the flight of the Bank Swallow is swifter and more graceful, more like that of the species of Tachycineta, or true Hirundo.
While on the Truckee Reservation, in May, it was daily our custom to visit a small pond, situated in a broad meadow, for the purpose of studying the several species of Swallows which came there in large numbers every evening. Having taken our post of observation a little before sunset, a few individuals of the Rough- winged and White-bellied species were sure to be already there, having but a few rods to come from the ravines and cotton-woods near by. In a short time the Barn Swallows would make their appearance, gliding easily and swiftly over the surface of the water in pursuit of their insect-food. Tliis soon became the most abundant species, excepting the Cliff Swallow, there having arrived in the meantime a very few individuals of the Violet-green and Bank Swallows, the latter being the least numerous of all. In one evening, as we sat on the grassy bank of this pond, we killed specimens of each of these species as they flew by us.
List of specimens. 1410, 1411, 1412, eggs. Valley of Weber River, June, 1869. [J. C. Olmstead.j
446 ORNITHOLOGY.
Stelgidopteryx SERRIPEKE^IS.
Rough- wingred Swallow*
Hirundo «em^e;r^, Audubon, Orn. Biog., IV, 1838, 593.
Gotyle serripennis, BoNAP., Cousp^ Av., 1, 1850, 342.— Baird, B. K Am., 1858, 313 ;
CataL, 1859, No. 230.— Goopee, Oro. Gal^ 110. Stelgidopteryx serripennis, Baird, Review Am. B., 1835^316. — CouES, Key, 1872,
1 14 ; Check List, 1873, No. 116 j B. N. W., 1874, 90.— B. B, & R,, Hist. N. Am.
B., I, 1874, 350, pL XVI, fig. 12.— HbnshaW, 1875, 219.
Next to the CliflF and White-bellied Swallows, this was the most abun- dant species of the family. It was found only in the river- valleys, however, or in the lower ravines of the mountains, where, in company with the Bank Swallow, it excavated the earthy banks or took possession of holes dug by the Kingfisher {Ceryle alcyon). Its habits in general are quite similar to those of the species with which it so freely associates.
lAst of specimens.
534, 9 ad,; Carson City, Nevada, April 25, 1868. 5J— 11^— 4^V-^^- ^^^^N ^ack ; irirt, bister ; tarsi and toes, dark horn-sepia.
1194, 9 ad,; Salt Lake City, Utah, June 21, 1869. 5— 11 J. Bill, deep black 5 iris, brown; feet, black.
1409, eggs; valley of Weber River, June, 1869. [J. C. Olmstead.]
Family AMPELIDiE — ^Wax-wings or Chatterers. Ampelis cedrorum.
Cedar-bird.
Bombycilla cedrorum^ Vieillot, Ois. Am. Sept., 1, 1807, 88, pi. 57.
Ampelis cedrorum^ Solatbb, Proc. Zool. Soc. Lond., 1856, 299. — Baied, Birds N.
Am., 1858, 318; Catal., 1859, No. 233; Review, 1866, 407.— Cooper, Oru.
Cal., 129.— CoUES, Key, 1872, 115, pi. 56; Check List, 1873, 119; Birds N.W.,
1874, 93.— B. B. & R , Hist. N. Am. Birds, I, 1874, 401, pi. xvm, fig. 2.—
Henshaw, 1876, 229.
At only one locality did we meet with this elegant bird, and that was in the Upper Humboldt Valley, where it was common in September in the thickets along the streams flowing from the Clover Mountains. It was found in small companies, feeding on the fruit of a species of thorn-apple, or haw (Cratcegm rivularis)^ which abounded in the thickets.
PH^NOPEPLA NITENS. 447
List of specimens.
915, Sad.; Bearing's Ranch, Upper Humboldt Vallej, September 10, 1808. 7^^- 11 J — (?) — 3J. Bill, tarsi and toes, deep black ; iris, purplisb-brown. 016, $ ad. Same date, locality, and remarks. 7^ — ll| — (^)— ^«
?Ph^nopepla NITEIS^S.
Sliiningr Ptiloy^onys.
Ptiliogonys nitens^ SwAiNSON, Anim. Menag., 1838, 285.
Cichlopsis nitensj Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 320, 923.
PhcBn&pepla nitens, SCLATEB, Proc. Zool. Soc. Lond., 1858, 543. — Baird, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 234; Review, 186(>, 416.— Cooper, Orn. CaL, 131.— CoUES, Key, 1872, 116; Check List, 1873, No. 120.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, 1, 1874, 405, pi. xviii, figs. 3, 4.— Henshaw, 1875, 229.
On several occasions we heard, among the cedar and pition woods of the desert ranges in western Nevada, a note so similar to the prolonged, querulous, rattling call of Nuttall's Woodpecker {Picus nuttalli), that we entered the fact among our notes as evidence of the occurrence of that species eastward of the Sierra. We could never see the author of these notes, however, until, on the 27th of June, 1868, when exploring the Soda Lakes of the Carson Desert, we heard near by, in a ravine of that remarkable locality, the same familiar call and immediately started in search of the bird which produced it. It was soon discovered, perched upon the summit of a large grease-wood bush, but at our approach immediately took wing, and, notwithstanding every artifice and caution on our part, kept out of gunshot range, although enticing us on by fre- quent halts, during which it perched upon the topmost branch of the most prominent bushes. At each flight the peculiar rattling call referred to was uttered, so that the bird so long sought was at last before us. We were greatly surprised, however, to find that it was not the species we had sup- posed, but one we had never seen before.
Several shots were fired at it during the most favorable opportunities, but it escaped unscathed, and we were therefore unable to identify it with certainty. The appearance of the bird was so remarkable that we are able to refer it to only one known North American species — the Phcenopepla nitenSj with the female or young male of which it corresponded in plumage,
448 OR]>rlTliOLOGY.
as well as could be ascertained from the distant view obtained. In its motionless attitude while perched, it called to mind Oreoscoptes montanus, which it closely resembled in size, general form, and dull, grayish colors; but when it flew its markings were more varied, the ivings presenting a large white patchy apparently on the primaries. The manner of its flight was quite similar to that of the Mocking-bird {Mimus polgglottus), the wings and tail being widely spread; while the resemblance was still more striking from the white patch on the primaries. These characteristics correspond well with those of the female or young male of Phcenopepla nitens, so that all circum- stances taken into consideration render it extremely probable that this species is a rare summer inhabitant of the desert portions of western Nevada, a supposition strengthened by the fact that it was obtained in the southern portion of the State by Mr. BischofF, the naturalist of Lieutenant Wheeler's expedition, in 1871.
Family VIREONIDJE— Geeenlets.
ViEEOSYLVIA GILVA. l¥arb]ing^ Virco^ or Oreenlet.
/?. swainsoni.
Vireo swaimoni^ Baibd, B. N. Am., 1858, 33G (in text, sub V, gilvus).
Vireosj^lvia swainsonij Batrd, Review Am B., 1866, 343.
Vireosylvia gilva var. stcamsoni^ Baibd, in Coop. B. Cal., 1, 1870, 116.— B. B. &
K., Hist. N. Am. B., 1, 1874, 371.-.HENSHAW, 1875, 221. Vireo gilvus var. swainsonij CoVES^ Key, 1872, 121, fig. 64; Check List, 1873, No.
125a. Yireo gilvus. b, swainsoni^ COUES, B. N. W., 1874, 98.
Few, if any, of the western birds are more extensively distributed or more abundant than this Greenlet, for it abides in all fertile localities. Altitude makes no difference with it, since it is equally common among the willows or cotton- woods of the lowest valleys and the aspens just below the timber-line — the only condition required being, seemingly, the exist- ence of deciduous trees or shrubbery. The food of this bird consists in summer chiefly of worms and other insects, but in the autumn it seems to subsist almost exclusively on the small bluish berries of a species of cornel {Cornus piibescens)^ which grows abundantly along the mountain streams.
LANIVIREO CASSINI. 449
The habits and notes of the western birds of this species are in all respects like those of the eastern ones.
List of specimens.
122, ? ad,; valley of tbe Truckee (Camp 12), August 6,1867. 5|— 8J— 2|i— 2|— T6~i— ^Tf— ^- Upper mandible, dark horn-color, commissure and lower mandible, lilaceous-wbite; iris, deep brown ; tarsi and toes, light plumbeous-blue.
153, i ad.; valley of the Humboldt (Camp 17), September 7, 1867. 5f\ — 8/^ — 2]-^ —H—l—^—H—\^' Bill, black, commissure and basal two-thirds of lower mandible, more lilaceous; iris, hazel 3 tarsi and toes, plumbeous-blue, almost ultramarine.
177, ? ad.; West Humboldt Mountains (Camp 18), September 9, 1867. 5— 75— 2|-J- — 2J— g— § — 1 J— i^. Same remarks.
180, ? ad.; West Humboldt Mountains, September 10, 1867. 5J — 8— 2/g— 2f— j7_. —tg — ^4—1- Upper mandible, slaty horn-color, tomium edged with lilaceous; lower, pearl- whitish basally, then pale blue, the tip as dark as the upper mandible; iris, brown 5 tarsi and toes, light ashy-ultramarine.
187, S ad.; West Humboldt Mountains, September 12, 1867. 5J— 8|— 2}i— 2J-^ I — § — 2 — i|. Same remarks.
809, nest and eggs (2)5 Fort Churchill (Carson River), Nevada, June 24, 1808. j^est in cotton-wood copse, about four feet from ground. Female seen on nest.
878, ? ad.; East Humboldt Mountains, August 27, 1868. 5/g — 8}i — (I)— 2fL.. Upper mandible, plumbeous-black with lilaceous edge; lower, plumbeous-blue with lilaceous glow basally, and darker terminally; iris, burnt-umber; tarsi and toes, deli- cate light ashy-blue.
879, (sex unknown); East Humboldt Mountains, August 27, 1868. 5f— 8^— 2y\. Same remarks.
1109, $ ad.; Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake, June 5, 1869. 5J— 8if. Bill, dull blackish, the basal two-thirds of lower mandible lilaceousbluish; iris, brown; tarsi and toes, plumbeous-blue.
1251, 1252, 1253, nests and eggs; Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, June 23, 1869. Nests all about four feet from grou\id, in aspens of a grove.
1317, nest and eggs; Parley's Park, June 27, 1867. Aspens.
1497, i ad.; Parley's Park, August 10, 1869. 5jV-8}^. Upper mandible, black- ish brown; commissure and lower mandible, lilaceouss; iris, vandyke-brown; tarsi and toes, fine light blue.
1504, S ad,; Parley's Park, August 12, 1869. 5|— 8|. Same remarks.
Laotvireo cassini.
Cassin's Vireo.
Vireo cassinij Xantus, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., 1858, 117.— Baird, B. N. Am.,
1858, 340, pi. 78, fig. 1 ; Catal., 1859, No. 251. Lanivireo solitarius var. cassinij J3. B. & II., Hist. N. Am. B., 1, 1 874, 377, pi. xvii, fig. 9. Vireo solitarius var. (?) cassinij Henshaw, 1875, 223. y Vireo soKtarius^^ (part), Cooper, Orn. Gal., 1, 1870, 117.
This rare and little-known species was noticed only in the canons of 29 p R
450 ORNITHOLOGY.
the West Humboldt Mountains, where it was not uncommon in September. Those found had probably migrated from the region to the northwestward, or from the Cascade Mountains or the country adjacent, since examples of Zonotrichia coronata, Pipilo oregonus, and Melospiza guttata were obtained at the same place.
List of specimens'.
174, ad,; west slope of West Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, September 9, 1867. H — 9 — 2|f— 2^ — ^ — ^^ — %V"~^' Upper mandible black, tomium bluish-lilac; lower mandible pure pale blue, the tip black; iris, hazel; tarsi and toes, Hue ashy-ultra- marine.
217, S ad.; east slope of West Humboldt Mountains, September 25, 1867. 5J— 7H-^S-V^~i|-i-2i-}f • Same remarks.
Lanivieeo solitaeius.
Solitary VIreo.
Museicapa solitaria^ Wilson, Am. Orn., 11, 1810, 143, pi. 17, fig. 6.
Vireo solitariusj Vieill., Kouv. Diet. Hist. Nat., XI, 1817.-—Baird, B. K Am., 1858, 340; Oatal., 1859, No. 250.— Cooper, Orn. Gal., 117 (part).— CouES, Key, 1872, 6Q, 121; Check List, 1873, 127; B. N.W., 1874, 90.— Henshaw, 1875, 222.
Vireosylvia solitaria^ Baiud, Review Am. B., 1866, 347.
Lanivireo solitarius^ B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., I, 1874, 373, pi. xvii, fig. 8.
This species was met with only during its autumnal migrations, when it seemed to be not uncommon in the month of September among the canon thickets of the western slope of the Clover Mountains. A single specimen was also shot in a buffalo-berry thicket in Buena Vista Canon, on the east- em slope of the West Humboldt Mountains, in September of the preceding year. It is still a question whether such individuals of this species were migrants from the higher portions of the mountains or from a more northern region; but that their migration was not vertical is most probable.
List of specimens.
020, i ad.; head of Hamboldt Valley (Camp 24), September 11, 1868. 5y\— 9— (!)— 2|. Bill black, basal half of lower mandible, plumbeous-blue; iris, burntumber; tarsi and toes, fine ashy-blue.
LANIVIREO PLUMBEUS— VIREO PUSILLUS. 451
Lanivireo PLUMBEUS.
liead-colored Yireo.
Vireo plumheus, COUES, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., 1866, 73; Key, 1872, 122, fig. G. Vireosylvia plufnhea, BAiRDf Review Am. B., 1866, 349. — Cooper, Orn. CaL, 119. Vireo soUtarius v^iY, plumbeusy Ali^ki^jBxiW, Mus. Comp. Zool., HI, 1872,176. —
CouES, Key, 1872, 351; Check List, 1873, No. 127a; B. N.W., 1874, 100,—
Henshaw, 1875, 224. Lanivireo solitariiis var. plumbeus^ B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., 1, 1874, 377, pi.
XVII, fig. 10.
The first locality where we met with this species in traveling eastward, was tlie eastern slope of the Ruby Mountains, where several other species characteristic of the Rocky Mountain district were first encountered, as HelmintliopJiaga virginice and Selasphorus platycercus. It was rather common in July and August, its usual abode being the cedar and nut-pine groves on the lower slopes of the mountains, along with Dendrceca nigrescens and Hel- minthophaga virginice, or in the brushwood of -the ravines. Certain of its notes so closely resembled those of Troglodytes parkmanni that they were hard to distinguish.
List of specimens,
858, ad, (sex uuknownl; East Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, August 5, 1868. 5f — 9J — (?) — 2y^^. Bill, plumbeous black, basal half of lower mandible, plumbeous- blue; iris, dark bister; tarsi and toes, fine asbyultramarine.
861, $ ad,; East Humboldt Mountains, August 5, 1868. (Specimen too badly mutilated for measuring.) Same remarks as to preceding.
ViREO PUSILLUS. L.east Vlreo.
Vireo pusillus^ CoUES, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., 1866, 76. — Baird, Review Am. B., 1866, 360.— Cooper, Orn. CaL, 124.— Coues, Key, 1872, 124; Check List, 1873, No. 132.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., I, 1874, 391, pi. xvil, fig. 14.— Henshaw, 1875, 226.
This Vireo was the characteristic and most abundant species at Sac- ramento City, where it inhabited the dense willow copses along with Empidonax pusillus. It was not observed anywhere else during our explo- rations, and it is probable that its northward range in California is limited to the immediate vicinity of the Sacramento River. Its notes most resemble
452 OENITHOLOGY.
those of F. helli^ of the eastern prairie districts, but they are somewhat different. A single nest was found, the one in question being attached to a forked twig of a low bush among the undergrowth of a dens^ willow copse; it was about three feet from the ground, and contained no eggs.
List of specimens.
47, $ ad,; Sacramento, California, June 17, 18G7. SJ— 7— 2/^— lif— /^— i-|— 2y^^ — IJ. Upper mandible, dusky ; lower, brownish- white; iris, dark hazel ; tarsi and toes, fine ))lunibeous-blue.
55, S ad,; Sacramento, June 18, 1867. 5— 7— 2f^^l5-~|— -}J— -2^— IJ. Bill, black- ish-brown, commissure and lower mandible, pale brownish-lilaceous; iris, dark ha^el; tarsi and toes, deep ashy-ultramarine.
Family LANIID^— Shrikes or Butcher Birds.
COLLURIO EOREALIS.
Great Northern Slirlke.
Lanius horealis^ Vietllot, Ois. Am. Sept., 1, 1807, 90, pi. 50.
Collyrio borealis, Baihd, Birds K. Am., 1858,3245 Cat. K. Am. Birds, 1859, No.
236. CoUurio horeaUsyfBAinj)^ Review Am, B., 1866, 440.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 137.—
CoTJES, Key, 1872, 125, fig. 73 5 Check List, 1873, No. 134 ; Birds N.W., 1874,
lOl.^B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., I, 1874, 415, pi. xix, figs. 1, 2— Hen-
SHAW, 1875, 233.
During the winter of our residence at Carson City, several examples of this northern bird were seen, but it was at all times less common than the smaller species (C excuUtoroides), and seemed to be confined to the shel- tered ravines among the foot-hills of the mountains. Those observed were perched on the summits of the willows along a stream, patiently surveying the surrounding fields and thickets, after the manner of other species of the genus.
List of specimens.
412, 9 ad.; Carson City, IS^evada, February 21, 1868. 10|-^14J— 4|i— 3ii. Bill, dull black, lower mandible more ashy, duller basally; iris, umber; tarsi and toes, black.
455, $ ad.; Carson City, March 25, 18G8. lO^J—Ug— 14}|-^3J. Bill, nearly uni- form dull sliity, lower mandible more asby, paler basally ; iris, burnt-umber; tarsi and toes, black.
COLLURIO EXCUBITOROIDES. 453
CoLLURio ludoyicia:n^ijs,
Southern Sfiiri!£e.
/?. excuhitoroides — White-rumped Shrike.
Lanius cxctibiioroides, SWAINSON, Fauna Bor. Am., II, 1831, 115, pi. 35.
Colhjrio excuhitoroides^ Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 527, pi. 75, fig. 2 ; Cat. N. Am. B.,
1850, No. 238. Collurio excuhitoroides, Baird, Eeview Am. B., 18GG, 445. — Cooper, Oru. C.il., 133. Collurio ludovicianus viir. excuhitoroides^ CouES, Key, 1872, 125; Check List, 1873,
No. 135a.— B. B. & K, Hist. N. Am. B., I, 1874, 421, pi. xix, lig. 3.— Hen-
SHAW, 1875, 233.
Scarcely a locality was visited where this Shrike was not found, in greater or less plenty, its range including both the Sacramento Valley and the country eastward of the Sierra Nevada. At Sacramento it was frequently observed about the outskirts of the city, where it frequented the oak-groves and scattered trees, or the borders of the fields. In the Interior it was most common at those localities where there was a greater or less extent of willow thickets, with meadow-lands and sage-brush adjacent; but it was not rare on the higher mountain ranges, where it inhabited the mahogany and cedar groves in preference to other places. It was most usually observed perch- ing quietly on the summit of a dead weed-stalk or prominent naked branch of. a bush or tree, patiently watching for its food, or during its curious undulating flight, so strikingly characteristic of the species of this genus.
List of specimens.
15G, ijuv.; valley of tbe Humboldt (Camp 17), September 2, 1867. 9— 12J— 3if — 3^^ — li — 1 — 2^"^^. Bill, slaty bora-black, basal portion of lower mandible paler; iris, brown ; tarsi and toes, black.
344J^*l^; cotton-woods of Carson Kiver, Fort Churchill, Nevada, December 6, 1867. Di— 12|— 4— 3i— ji— 1— 4— 2§. Bill deep black, lower mandible paler basally ; iris, brown ; tarsi and toes, black.
442, <J ad.; Carson City, Nevada, March 10, 1P68. 1>J— 13— 4i— 3|. Bill, pure black; iris, bister; tarsi and toes, black.
482, (? ad.; Carson, April 2, 1868. 9^— 13^— 4^%— 3^?^. Same remarks.
524, c? ad.; Carson, April 24, 1808. 9— 13— 4J— 3|. Same remarks.
849, 9 ad.; East Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, July 21, 1868. (Mahoganies; altitude 9,000 feet.) 9J— 13— (?)— 3^. Bill, pure black; interior of mouth, livid fleshy- white ; iris, bister; scutellse of tarsi and toes, pure black, the Interspaces dirty white.
SS9 Juv.; East Humboldt Mountains, September 4, 1868. 8|— 121— (?)— 3p\. I^i^U
454 OENITHOLOGY.
s^ate-black, pale purplish on base of lower mandible; iris, brown; tarsi and toes, black.
1044, nest and eggs (4); Salt Lake City, Utah, May 24, 1869. Nest in oak-bush, about four feet from ground.
10j5, nest and eggs; Salt Lake City, Utah, May 27, 18G9. Nest in sage-bush.
1095, nest and egg (1); Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake, June 4, 1869. JSTest in sage-bush.
1129, nest and eggs (4); Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake, June 7, 1869. Nest in rose-bush in ravine.
1427, eggs (2) ; Prombntory Point, Utah, June, 1869. [F. A. Clark.]
1521, eggs; Fremont's Island, Great Salt Lake, August 16, 1869. [F. A. Clark.]
Family TANAGRIDiE— Tanagees. Pyranga ludoviciana.
l¥e&tern Tanag^cr; ^^I^ouisiana Tanagrer."'
Tanagra ludovieiana^ Wilson, Am. Orn., Ill, 1811, 27, pi. 22, fig. 1.
Pyranga ludoviciana^ Audubon, Synop., 1839, 137. — BaIbd, B. N. Am., 1858, 303;
Catal. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 223.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 145.— CouES, Key, 1872, • 112 ; Check List, 1873, No. 110; B. N.VV., 1874, 83.— B. B. & R., Hist.N. Am.
B., I, 1874, 437, pi. XX, figs. 3, 4.— HenshaW, 1875, 235.
This beautiful Tanager, one of the most brilliant of western birds, was found to be very generally distributed through the wooded portions of the route traversed, excepting in the valley portions of California, none having been seen from Sacramento eastward until well into the pine forest of the Sierra Nevada. It was first observed on the western portion of that range, at an altitude of about 5,000 feet, its song first attracting attention, from its extreme similarity to that of the Scarlet Tanager (P. rubra) of the East. From this point eastward it was met with in every wooded locality, being much more frequently seen on the mountaitis than along the rivers of the lower valleys. In May, soon after their arrival from the south, these Tanagers were very numerous in the rich valley of the Truckee, near Pyramid Lake, where they were observed to feed chiefly on the buds of the grease-wood bushes (Ohione confertifolia), in company with the Black-headed Grosbeak and Bullock's Oriole. Very few were seen later in the season, however, nearly all having departed for the mountain woods. During July and August it was a common species on the eastern slope of the Ruby Mountains, where it inhabited the gi-oves
^ Geographically Id appropriate.
LOXIA AMERICANA. 455
of cedar, nut-pine, and mountain mahogany; while from June to August it was an abundant bird in the pine forests of the Wahsatch and Uintah ranges. In September they were noticed to feed extensively on the fruit of the Crataegus rivularis, in company with the Red-shafted Flicker, Gaird- ner's Woodpecker, the Cedar-bird, and the Cross-bills (Loxia americana and L, Jeucoptera).
In its habits this species is almost a perfect counterpart of the eastern P. rubra, while its song is scarcely distinguishable, being merely of a slightly finer, or more silvery, tone; but the ordinary note, sounding like pW-itj is very different from the chip'-a-rd, ree of the eastern species. The note of the young is quite peculiar, being a low whistle, something like the com- plaining call of the Eastern Blue-bird {Sialia sialis), but louder.
List of specimens,
565, i ad,; Tiuckee Reservation, May 15, 1868. 7|— 11^^—34. Bill, dilute wax- yellow, with a greenish cast, except along commissure, darker greenish-brown toward the culmen, which is dark sepia, with the terminal half sharply, black; iris, grayish- brown; tarsi and toes, pale plumbeous, the latter whitish beneath.
838, ? ad,; East Humboldt Mountains, ITevada, July 13, 1868. (Mahogany woods.) 7| — llf — (?) — 3^, Upper mandible, dark greenish-sepia, the tomium and lower man- dible, light greenish-yellow; iris, burnt-umber; tarsi and toes, plumbeous.
1283, nest and eggs (3) ; Parley ^s Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, June 25, 1869. Kest on extreme end of horizontal branch of pine tree in grove.
1376, nest and eggs (5) ; Uintah Mountains, Utah, July 7, 1869, Nest on mount- ain mahogany tree, near end of horizontal branch.
Family FHINGILLID^ — Finches, Sparrows, and Buntings.
Loxia Americana.
CoBumon Crossbill.
Curvirostra america7ia, Wilson, Am. Orn., IV, 1811, 44, pi. 31, figs. 1, 2.— -Baird, B. N. Am., 1«58, 420 ; Catal., 185|^ No. 318,— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 148.
Loxia americanaj Bo:srAP., Oomp. & Geog. List, 1838, 38.
Loxia curvirostra var. americana^ Coues, Key, 1872, 351; Check List, 1873, No. 143; B. N.W., 1874, 109 —B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., 1, 1874, 484, pi. xxiii, figs. 1, 4.— Henshaw, 1875, 248.
The Common Crossbill may breed on the higher portions of the loftier ranges in the Interior, but none were seen by us until toward the last of
456 OENITHOLOGY.
Au^st, when they became gradually common in the lower canons of the East Humboldt Mountains. They were usually observed in small flocks among the willows or aspens, and uttered frequently, especially while on the wing, a soft whistling note, somewhat like chih^ chih, chih, quite unlike the note of any other bird of our acquaintance.
List of specimens,
884, ^ ad,; Willows, foot of East Humboldt Mountains (Camp 21), August 29, 1868. C — lOJ — (1) — 2J. Bill, uniform born-sepia; tarsi and toes, grayish sepia ; iris, rawumber.
[This specimen is remarkable for its unusually small bill]
LOXIA LEUCOPTEEA.
White- winged Crossbill.
Loxia leucopiera, Gmelin, Syst. Nat., 1, 1788, 844 — B.B. & R., Hist. K Am, Birds, I, 1874, 488, ph XXIII, figs. 2, 3.— CoUES, Check' List, 1873, No. 142 j Birds KW., 1874, 110.
Curvirostra leucoptera^ Wilson, Am. Oni., IV, 1811, 48, pi. 31, hg, 3.~Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 427 ; Cat. K Am. B., 1859, No. 319.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 149.— COUE^, Key, 1872, 129, fig. 70.
On the 12th of August, a male of what was probably this species, but in very unusually brilliant plumage, was seen among the cedars on the eastern slope of the Ruby Mountains. It* is therefore probable that this species breeds sparingly on the higher portion of the loftier ranges.^ In September it was common in the lower canons on the eastern slope of the East Humboldt Mountains, where it inhabited the same localities as the more rare L. ameHcana. The note of this Crossbill is a plaintive tveek, very different from the hurried chihj chih of the other species, or, indeed, the note of any other bird known to us. ■ ^
^When first seen, this individual called instantly to mind tbe adult male of Pijranga eryihromelcenay of Mexico and Central America, so rich and uniform was the bright carmine-red of the plumage, while the pure white wing-bands contrasted con- spicuously with the deep black of the wings an*! tail. It is scarcely possible, however, that it could have been this southern Tanager, which has not yet been taken near oar southern border. It should be considered, however, that a specimen of Fsaltripariis melanotis, also a Mexican bird, not before detected in the United States, was observed in the same locality at nearly the same time.
CAKPODACUS CASSINL 457
Carpodacus CASsmi.
Cassiia^s Purple Ficicti«
Carpodacus cassini^ Baird, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., 1854, 119 • B. N. Am., 1858, 414; Catal., 1859, No. 307.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 155.— CouES, Key, 1872, 128; Check List, 1872, No. 140 ; B. N.W., 1874, 106.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., I, 1874, 460, pi. XXI, flgs. 4, 5.— Henshaw, 1875, 240.
Although this Finch was observed to be essentially pinicoline, it was occasionally found among deciduous trees when such occurred in the imme- diate vicinity of coniferous forests, this being notably the case during the breeding-season. In the pine forests of the Sierra Nevada, near Carson City, these birds were first observed on the 21st of March, at which date large flocks were found among the trees. They continued to increase in abundance until about the middle of April, when they gradually dispersed through the forest, the greater number going higher up the mountains. At the time of their arrival they were in full song, and continued so during tho season, and it was noticed that the young males, in the plumage of the females (possibly the latter also), sang almost if not quite as vigorously and sweetly as those in the adult livery. In certain localities on the eastern slope of the Ruby Mountains they were quite abundant on several occa- sions, the flocks consisting chiefly of young-of-the-year, which, with their parents, had apparently come from the higher coniferous woods near the summits of the range, since no nests were found among the cedar and piiion groves of the lower slopes. In the pine-belt of the Wahsatch and Uintah Mountains they were abundant from May to August, during the whole of which time they were nesting. Most of the nests found were among the as- pens and narrow-leafed cotton-woods {Populus tremuloides and P. angustifolia) of the higher portions of the ravines, where these trees replaced the conifers.
The song of this species is clear and sweet, and is even superior to
that of the Eastern Purple Finch (6^. purpureus), which, however, it greatly
resembles. Many passages are loud and clear, and so much like the notes
of certain Vireones that we were several, times led by them in search of a
new Greenlet. Other portions of its song, which was greatly varied, were
sweet, soft warblings, and tender, whistling calls.
List of specimens. 446, i ad.; Carson City, Nevada,'March 21, 1868. 6|— 11— 3f^3t^^. Bill, uiii-
458 ORNITHOLOGY.
form born color, with delicate lilaceous tinge 5 iris, burnt-amber; tarsi and toes, dark horn-sepia.
447, S ad.; Carson City, Nevada, March 21, 1868. Gjf— 11 J— 3-2— 3J. Same re- marks. Bill, lilaceous-sepia.
403, S ad.; Carson, March 28, 18G8. G}^-11J— 3|— 3J. Same remarks.
4G4, S ad,; Carson, March 28, 1868. 0}^— 1 1| -.3}|— 3J. Same remarks.
465, ? ad,; Carson, March 28, 18G8. Gg—l 1—3^3. Same remarks.
4GG, ? ad.; Carson, March 28, 1808. Gi|—ll J— 3|f— 3J. Same remarks.
494, c? ad.; Carson, April 4, 1868. 0|— 11— 35— 3J. Same remarks.
805, S ad.; Camp 19, East Humboldt Mountains, August 10, 1868. 7J— llj— (? ) — o^\. Same remarks.
1182, nest and eggs (5); City Creek Caiion, Utah, June 18, 1860. Nest in box. elder bush, about 7,000 feet altitude.
* 1239, nest and eggs (4); Parley's Park. Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, June 23, 1869. Nest in top of cotton- wood tree by caiion stream.
1240, nest and eggs (4); Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, June 23, 1869. Nest in top of aspen.
1270, 9 arf.; Parley's Park, June 23, 1869. 6§— 11. Bill, umber-drab, paler and more lilaceous basally and beneath ; iris, brown ; tarsi and toes, horn-color.
1329, nest and eggs (2) ; Parley's Park, June 28, 1869. Nest in aspen along stream.
1342, 1343, nests and eggs (3, 1) ; Parley's Park, June 28, 1869. Nests in aspens near stream.
1347, S ad.; Parley's Park, June 28, 1869. 7— llf .
1433, i ad.; Parley's Park, July 19, 1869. 6J— llj. Bill, pinkishdrab, becoming gradually paler on commissure and on lower mandible, there fading basally into dull whitish ; rictus, pale yellow ; iris, brown; tarsi and toes, purplish-sepia.
1434, nest; Parley's Park, July 19, 1869. Nest on horizontal branch of cotton- wood tree.
1517, ijuv.; Parley's Park, August 16, 1809. 6|— llf. 151Sj9juv.; Parley's Park, August 16, 1869. 6f— lOf.
Oarpodacus feontalis.
House Finch; ''Red-head liinnet."
( We-to-wich of the Paiutes.)
a. frontalis.
Fringilla frontalis^ Say, Long's Exped., II, 1824, 40.
Carpodacvs frontalis^ Gray, Gen. Birds, 1844-'49. — Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 415; Catah, 1859, No. 308.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 156.— Coues, Key, 1872^ 129; Check List, 1873, No. 141.— Henshaw, 1875, 241.
Carpodacus frontalis xsx. frontalis^ RiDaw., Am. Journ. Sci. and Arts, Jan., 1873, 40.— B. B. & B., Hist. N. Am. B., I, 1874, 466, pi. xxi, flgs. 3, 6.
Carpodacus frontalis, a. frontalis, CoUES, B. N.W., 1874, 107.
The ** Red-head Linnet*' was the most familiar and one of the most
CARPODACUS FEONTALIS. 459
abundant of the birds found at Sacramento, where it frequented the shade- trees of the streets or the door-yards and gardens in the city in preference to groves in the suburbs or country. In its abundance and semi-domestic hab- its it thus reminds one somewhat of the European House Sparrow {Pyrgita domestica), but, unhke that bird, has endeared itself to its protectors by the possession of a sweet song and brilliant plumage. It is greatly prized as a cage-bird, and justly, too, for while its plumage is equally pretty, its notes excel those of the Canary in sweetness, while at the same time they are fully equal in vivacity and power. All the notes are decidedly Canary- like, the usual utterance being a soft, musical tweet. The song itself differs from that of the Canary chiefly in being more tender, less piercing, and interspersed with more varied warblings. The males were observed to be shyer than the females, their wariness being perhaps explained by the fact that several were noticed which had their tails clipped, showing that they had once been in captivity. When their nests were disturbed, however, the males exhibited as much concern as the females* and kept up a lively chinking from an adjoining tree.
Few birds are more variable as to the choice of a location for their nests than the present species, since it adapts itself readily to any sort of a place where safety is assured. At Sacramento, they usually built among the small oak trees, generally near the extremity of a horizontal branch, but one nest was placed inside the pendulous, basket-like structure of a '' Hang- ing-bird" {Icterus huUocki); in the narrow gorge of the Truckee River, where that stream breaks through the Virginia Mountains, one was found inside the abandoned nest of a Cliff Swallow; along the eastern shore of Pyramid Lake numerous nests were found among the rocks, placed on shelves in the interior of caves, along with those of the Barn Swallow and Say's Pewee, or in crevices on the outside of the tufa-domes, while in the neighboring valley of the Truckee, where there was an abundance of cotton- wood timber, their nests were nearly all built in the low grease-wood bushes. On Antelope Island, in the Great Salt Lake, they preferred the sage-brush, like the Black-throated and Brewer's Sparrows; in City Creek Cafion, near Salt Lake City, one was found in a mountain-mahogany tree, while in Parley's Park fmother was in a cotton- wood tree along a stream. At all the
460 ORNITHOLOGY.
towns or larger settlements, however, a large proportion of the individuals of this species have abandoned such nesting-places as those described above, and resorted to the buildings, where ^*odd nooks and crannies" tifForded superior attractions.
Although chiefly a bird of the lower valleys, this species was sometimes found in the lower cafions of the mountains, it being common in Buena Vista Canon, in the West Humboldt range, in September, having apparently nested among the ruined adobe houses of the deserted town. In City Creek Canon, near Salt Lake City, several nests were found at an altitude of about 1,800 feet above the level of the mesa, or at the lower limit to the breeding-range of C, cassini, a single nest of which was found on a tree adjoining one in wliich was a nest of the present bird. In Parley's Park it was likewise found, but in small numbers, and only on the floor of the park, the G. cassini inhabiting the upper portion of the streams.
List of specimens.
2, 3, 4, nests and eggs; nests in oak-grove. Sacramento, California, June G, 18C7.
2S^ 29, nests and eggs; nests in oak-grove. Sacramento, California, June 11, 18G7.
34, i ad.; Sacramento, June 12, 1867. 5\^--^dj\—3i—2^,
41, nest and eggs (5); nest in oak-grove. Sacramento, California, June 13, 18G7.
52, nest and eggi^^ nest in oak-grove. Sacramento, California, June 18, 18C7.
57, nest and eggs; nest in oak-grove. Sacramento, California, June 19, 18G7.
73, nest and eggs (4); nest in oak- grove. Sacramento, California, June 20, 1867.
165, nest and eggs (5); nest in niche in rocks. Tufa domes. Pyramid Lake, Nevada, May 25, 1868.
5G9, $ ad.; Truckeo Reservation, May 15, 1868. 6J^ — 9^ — 2§. Upper mandible, brownish horn-color, edged with pale rosy; lower mandible, paler and more pinkish than the upper, with wider rosy edge; iris, dark brown; tarsi and toes, x>ale brown.
774, nest and eggs (5); nest in grease- wood bush. Truckee Reservation, Nevada, May31, 18G8.
780, 781, nests and eggs (5) ; nest in grease- wood bush. Truckee Reservation, Ne- vada, June 2, 1868.
805, nest and eggs (4); nest in grease- wood bush. Truckee Valley, Nevada, June C, 1868.
806, nest and eggs (5); nest in old one of Cliflf-Swallow, on face of a precipice. Truckee Valley, Nevada, June G, 1868.
1066, nests and eggs (4); near Salt Lake City, May 29, 1860. Nest on moujitain- mahogany bush, 1,800 feet above the level of the city!
1076, $ad.; Salt Lake City, Utah, June 1,1869. ViJ—OJ. Bill^ lilacoous-brown, darker above; iris, brown; legs and feet, sepia.
1092, nest; Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake, June 4, 1869. Sdge-bush.
LEUCOSTICTE LITTOEALIS— OHRYSOMITEIS TRISTIS. 4(3^
1093, $ ad,; Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake, June 4, 1869. CJ— 95. Same re- marks as to 1076.
1114^ nest; Antelope Island, June 5, 1869. Sage-bush.
1131, $ ad,; Antelope Island, June 7, 1869.
1140, nest; Antelope Islaud, June 8, 1869. Sage-bush.
1183, uest and eggs; Salt Lake City, June 18, 1869. Sage-bush, 1,800 feet above camp (altitude above 7,000 feet).
1191, nest and eggs (2); Salt Lake City, June 21,1869. Mountain-mahogany, 1,800 feet above camp.
1193, ? ad.; Salt Lake City, June 21, 1869. 6—10. Bill, purplishdrab, lower mandible, more lilaceous basally beneath; iris, brown; tarsi and toes, deep brown.
1238, nest and eggs (2); Parley ^s Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, June 23, 1869. Nest in cotton- wood tree along stream.
Leucosticte littoealis.
Hepburn's Leucosticte.
Leucosticte littoralis^ Baird^ Tvqu&. Chicago Acad. Sci., I, ii, 1869, 318, pi. 28,
fig. 1.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 162. Leucosticte tepJirocotis var. liitoralis, CoUES, Key, 1872, 130. — B. B. & R., Hist.
N. Am. Birds, I, 1874, 507, pi. xxiii, fig. 6.— RiDawAY, Bull. Geol. & Geog.
Expl. Ter., No. 2, sec. ser., 1875, 74.
Leucosticte tejphrocotis, b. griseinucha^ CouES, Birds !N'.W., 1874, 111 (part).
A single flock of this species was seen on the 5th of January in the outskirts of Virginia City, Nevada. The flock comprised perhaps fifty individuals, all busily engaged in gleaning from the surface of the snow, flitting restlessly over one another, in the manner of Lapland Longspurs, at the same time uttering a twittering note.
OhRYSOMITRIS TRISTIS.
Common Goldfincli, JLettuce Bird, etc.
Fringilla tristis^ Linn., Syst. Nat., I, 1766, 320.
Chrysomitris tristis, Bonap., Comp. & Geog. List, 1838, 33.— Baird, B, N. Am., 1858, 421; Catal., 1859, No. 313.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 167.— CouES, Key,^ 1872, 131^ pi. 3, figs. 7, 8, 9, 10; Check List, 1873, No. 149; B. N.W., 1874,* 116— B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. B., II, 1874, 471, pi. xxii, tigs. 7, 8.— Hen- SHAW, 1875, 243.
Few birds were so abundant at Sacramento as this widely-distributed
species ; but eastward of the Sierra Nevada it was found to be extremely
462 ORNITHOLOGY.
rare at all places along our route. Its great abundance at Sacramento may possibly be explained by the extensive and luxuriant growth of thistles which occupied many waste-places in the suburbs, the seeds of these plants supplying them, in season, with a plentiful supply of food.
List of specimens*
5, G, 7, nests and eggs ; Sacramento City, California, June 6, 1867. I^ests in an oak-grove, resting on horizontal branches of the small trees.
54, nest and eggs; Sacramento City, California, Jane 18,1867. l^est on hori- zontal branch of small cotton-wood, in copse.
81; nest and eggs ; Sacramento, June 24, 1867.
87, nest and eggs ; Sacramento, June' 28, 1867.
93, nest and eggs ; Sacramento, Jane 29, 1867. Nest in small cotton-wood, in copse.
778, S ad.; Truckee Eeservation, Nevada, May 31, 1868. 5^V-^i— (^)— ^i- ^^^^» orange-yellow, the point darker; iris, very dark sepia; tarsi and toes, dilute reddish- sepia.
1369, nest and eggs (3) ; Pack's Caiion, Uintah Mountains, Utah, July 4, 1869. Nest in thorn-apple shrub, by stream.
Ohrysomiteis PSALTRIA.
Orecn-backed Goldfinch; << Arkansas Goldfinch." ^
Fringilla psaltrla^ Say, Long's Exped., II, 1823, 40.
Clirysomitris psaltria, BoNAP., Comp. and Geog. List, 1838, 33. — Baibd, B. IST. Am., 1858, 422; Catal., 1859, ITo. 314— Cooper, Orn. Gal., I, 168.--Coues, Key, 1872, 132 ; Check List, 1873, No. 151.— Henshaw, 1875, 244.
Chrysomitris psaltria var. psaltria^ EiDaWAY, Am. Jour. Arts and Sci., Dec, 1872, 454.— B. B. & B., Hist. N. Am. B., II, 1874, 474, pi. xxii, figs. 9, 10.
Chrysomitris psaltria. a, psaltria^ COUES, B. N.W., 1874, 116.
This species we found only among the Wahsatch and Uintah Mount- ains, where It was not common, and usually found associated in small numbers with the large flocks of C. pinus. Attention was first called to it by its extraordinary not^, a plaintive, mellow whistle, difiicult to describe, but totally unlike that of any other bird we have heard. When the bird * takes flight this note is changed to a simple fifing cheer, in a fine, high key, and somewhat resembling the anxious note uttered by the male Red- winged Black-bird [Ageloeus pJiceniceus) when its nest is disturbed.
^ Geographically inappropriate.
CHRYSOMITRIS LAWRENCII~C. PINUS. 463
JLtst of specimens,
1189, ^ad.; Salt Lake City, Utah (City Creek CaOon), June 19, 18G9. 4|— 8. Bill, purplish-brown, the culmen nearly black, the lower mandible inclining to wax- brown ; iris, brown ; tarsi and toes, sepia-brown.
1224, nest and egg (1); Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, June 22, 1809. Nest in top of willow^bush along stream.
Chrysomitris lawrencii.
Lawrence's Ooldfinch.
Carduelis lawreneiiy Cassin, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Pbilad., 1850, 105, pi. v.
Chrysomitris lawrencii^ BoNAP., Comp. Rend., 1853, 913.— Baibd, B. N. Am., 1858, 424; Catal., 1859, No. 31G.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 171.— Coues, Key, 1872, 132; Check List, 1873, No. 150.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., II, 1874, 478, pi. XXII, figs. 14, 15.
This beautiful little Goldfinch was observed only among the western foot-hills of the Sierra Nevada, where we had only occasional glimpses at it, just sufficient to identify the species, and passed so rapidly through its range that no opportunity was afforded to study its habits. It was com- mon among the trees by the roadside, and uttered very pleasant and quite peculiar notes.
Chrysomitris pinus.
Pine Goldfinch.
Fringilla pinus^ Wilson, Am. Orn., II, 1810, 133, pi. 17, fig. 1.
Chrysomitris pinus, Bonap., Oomp. & Geog. List, 1838, 33. — Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 425; Catal., 1859, No. 317.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 172.— Coues, Key, 1872, 131, pi. 3, figs. 11, 12; Check List, 1873, No. 148; B.N.W., 1874, 115.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., II, 1874, 480, pi. xxn, fig. 16.— Henshaw, 1875, 246.
The range of the Pine Goldfinch was strikingly similar to that of Cassin's Purple Finch, the two being almost invariably found in the same localities, whether during their migrations or in the nesting-season. In summer it was abundant in all the pine forests, from the Sierra Nevada to the Uintahs, and like the bird above mentioned occurred also among the aspen copses , which usually replaced the conifers at the head of the canons. The species was more or less gregarious, even in midsummer, and although their nests were extremely scattered, the birds themselves were seldom seen except in flocks. They had no song, but uttered frequently a peculiar screeching
464 ORNITHOLOGY.
note, sounding like sweer^ very unlike that of any other bird, except the JEmpidonax ohscurus; and when a flock suddenly took flight, they all joined in a more rattling note.
Besides the nest described below, another was found, in an aspen bush, but it was abandoned by the owners before any eggs were laid.
List of specimens.
802, Sjuv,; East Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, September 5, 1868. 5^ — 9. Bill, asby born-color; iris, burut-umber; tarsi and toes, dark purplisb-brown.
013, S ad,; East Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, September 8, 1868. 5—9. Bill, purplish-plumbeous, paler basally ; iris, fifrayish-sepia ; tarsi and toes, sepia,
1241, nest and egg (1); Parley's Park, Wabsatch Mountains, Utab, June 23, 1860. Kest near extremity of horizontal arm of flr-tree, about fifteen feet from ground.
1519, <Jiwv.; 4J— 9. 1520, 9JM17.; 4|— 8J. Parley's Park, August^O, 1868. Bill, purplish-plumbeous, paler basally ,• iris, sepia 5 tarsi and toes, plumbeous sepia-black.
PlECTEGPHANES LAPPOKICCrS, !Lapland Longspiir.
Fringilla lapponica, Linn., Syst. Nat., I, 1766, 317.
Flectrophanes lapponicuSj Selby, Linn. Trans., XV, 126, pi. 1. — Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 433 ; Cat. N. Am. B., 1850, No. 326.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 178.— CoUES, Key, 1872, 133, fig. 81 ; Check List, 1873, No. 153 5 B. N.W., 1874, 120.— B. B. &K., Hist. N. Am. B., I, 1874, 515, pi. xxiv, fig. 7.
During the more severe portion of winter, individuals of this species were frequently detected among the large flocks of Horned Larks (Ere- mophila alpestris) around Carson City. They were recognized by their peculiar and unmistakable notes.
Passeeculus SANDYICHBNSIS.
Savannah Sparrow.
a, alaudinus,
Passercttlus alaudinus, Bonap., Comp. Rend., XXXVII, 1853, 918. — Baird, B. N.
Am., 1858, 446; Oat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 335.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I,
1870, 181. Passereulus savanna var. alaudinus^ B. B. & R., Hist. N, Am. Birds, 1, 1874, pi.
XXIV, tig. 11.— Henshaw, 1875, 254 Passereulus savanna, CouES, Key, 1872, 135 (part); Check List, 1873, No. 159
(part). Passereulus savanna, a. savanna, CouBS, Birds N.W., 1874, 127 (part).
PAS8ER0ULUS ALAUDINUS, 465
This well-known and widely-distributed Sparrow was an abundant species in every moist meadow and grassy marsh, not only in the valleys but also in the lower canons of the mountains. It was found during the greater portion of the year, or from March to November, inclusive. During the breeding-season the male has a weak, lisping song, which maybe some- what nearly expressed by the syllables witz^ witz, wiK — tzulj uttered as the bird perches upon a fence-post, or a bush by the brook -side, or as it nestles in the grass upon the ground.
List of specimens.
239, S «<^v* Camp 19, West Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, October 7, 1867. 6| — 9J — 3 — 2^ — y^g — 3 — 24 — }|. Bill, horn-color, darker on culmen, lower mandible paler, with lilaceous glow; iris, hazel; tarsi, straw-color, toes more brownish.
254, i ad,; Camp 19, West Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, October 23, 1867. 5|-.9^9__3^i._2J— ^f— f— 2J— J. Tarsi, clear pinkish-white, with tinge of straw- yellow, the toes stained with brownish.
471, i ad,; Carson City, Nevada, March 28, 1868. 5|— 8— 2|— 2|. Bill, lilac- bluish, the upper mandible nearly black; iris, sepia; tarsi and toes, brownish lila- ceous-white.
480, S ad.; Carson, March 30, 1868. 5}^— 9J— 3— 2^^. Same remarks.
553, ? ad,; Carson City, Nevada, April 27, 1868. 5J--9— 2|— 2f . Same remarks.
885, S ad.; Ruby Valley, Nevada, August 29, 1868. 5|— (?)—(?)— 2|. Same remarks.
933, ? ad.; Camp 25, Humboldt Valley, September 16, 1868. 5i|— 8}|— (?)— 2J. Upper mandible, purplish-black, paler toward rictus; lower, deep salmon-purple, darker terminally; iris, plumbeous- bister; tarsi, straw-white, toes more brownish.
970, <J ad.; Salt Lake City, May 21, 1869. 5g— 9f . Bill, ashy-lilaceous^ the upper mandible dusky—nearly black on the culmen.
971, ^ ad.; same locality and date. 5| — 8^.
972, i ad.; same locality and date. 5^ — 9^.
1016, nest and eggs (5) ; Salt Lake City, May 21, 1869. Nest imbedded in ground, in wet meadow.
1017, nest and eggs (4); same locality, May 22. Nest in tuft of grass, in wet meadow.
1883, nests and eggs (4); same locality, June 3, 1869. Same remarks.
1090, nest and eggs (4); Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake, June 4, 1869. Nest on ground, beneath strip of sage-brush bark, in wet meadow.
1458, S jui\; Parley's Park, Utah, July 26, 1869. 5f— 9. Bill, brownish-lilaceous, darker on the culmen; iris, brown; tarsi and toes, pale pink.
1480, S juv.; Parley's Park, July 30, 1869. 5J— 9^.
USlyjuv.; Parley's Park, July 30. 5|— 9|. 30 PE
466 OEUITHOLOGY.
POOEOETBS GEAMINBUg, Bay uriogred Bantins^; Grass Bantiniiri Tesper Sparrow*
^. confinis.
Pooccetes graminens var. confinis^ Baibd, B. K Am., 1858, 448 (in text, sub P. gram- i7i6ti«).— CouBS, Key, 1872, 136 ; Check List, 1872, No. 161a.— B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. B., 1, 1874, 645 {$ub P. prawin^tw).— Henshaw, 1875, 256.
PocBcetes gramineuSy Coopee, Om. Gal., 1, 1870, 186.
This common species was most frequently met with during the summer on the open grassy slopes of the higher canons, where it and the Green- tailed Bunting were the chief songsters. Its song is sweet and varied, though simple and brief, and its clear, cheery notes are among our most pleasant recollections of those elevated regions. In the fall it descends to the lower valleys, and in September becomes exceedingly abundant among the rye-grass meadows along the foot-hills of the higher ranges. In winter it appears to make a complete southward migration, none having been seen at Carson City until the first of April.
Idst of specimens.
483, $ ad.; Carson City, Nevada, April 2, 1868. 6|— 11^— SyV-S. Upper man- dible, dull brownish-plumbeous, tomium paler; rictus aud whole lower mandible, dilute brownish-lilaceous ; iris, raw-umber; tarsi and toes, dilute brownish, toes darkest.
902, $ ad.; Secret Valley, Nevada, September 6, 1868. 6§— 10t-(f )— 2f . Upper mandible, umber-brown, darker at point, paler on rictus ; lower, pale, fleshy lilaceous- brown, the extreme tip dusky; iris, vandyke;' tarsi, clear brownish- white ; toes, sim- ilar but stained with brownish.
1037, S ad.; Salt Lake City, Utah, May 24, 1869. 6|— 10|. Bill, brownish-lilace- ous, upper half of upper mandible nearly black; iris, brown; tarsi and toes, lilaceous brownish-white.
1233, nest and eggs (3); Parley's Park, June 23, 1869. If est on ground, beneath prostrate sage-bush, by roadside.
1280, nest and eggs (3) ; Parley^s Park, Wahsatch Mountains, June 25, 1869. Nest in grassy bank of brook.
1898, nest and egg (1) ; Parley's Park, July, 1869. Nest on ground beneath sage- bush.
1464, ijuv.; Parley's Park, July 28, 1869. 6^— 11 J. Bill, clear light lilaceous, darker toward culmen ; iris, brown ; tarsi and toes, clear pale flesh-color.
COTUENIOULUS PBRPALLIDU8— OHOKDESTBS GRAMMACA. 467
COTTJRNIOULUS PASSERESTUS. Tcllow-wliii^ed Sparrow.
p. perpallidus.
Ooturnicului passerinus yslt. perpallidtiSj Ridgway, Coues' Key, 1872, 137 ; Check List, 1873, 162a.— B. B. & R., Hist. K Am. Birds, I, 1874, 556.— Henshaw, 1875, 257, pi. I, fig. 2 (adult).
Goturniculus passerinus, h. perpallidus ^ CoUES, Birds K.W., 1874, 132.
Goturniculm passerinus, Coopee, Orn. Cal., 1, 1870, 189.
Like the Savanna Sparrow, this little Bunting is essentially a bird of the valley portions. It is also generally distributed, but instead of inhab- iting the wet meadows, or the borders of marshes, it frequents only the dryer grassy places. It was found to be abundant in the fields about Sacra- mento City, as^ well as throughout the Interior.
List of specimens.
853, ^ juv.; Ruby Valley, Nevada, July 22, 1868. 5— 7|— (!)— 1}|. Bill, pale, pinkisb-lilaceous, the culmen dariierj iris, grayish- umber j tarsi and toes, pale rosa- ceous-pink.
1102, $ ad.; Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake, Utah, June 4, 1869. 5J— 8J. Bill, lilaceous, upper half of upper mandible blackish ; iris, brown ; tarsi, pale yellowish brownish-white ; toes, darker.
Chondestes GRAMMAOA.
I^ark Sparrow: Skylark Bunting'.
Fringilla grammaeaj Say, Long's Exped., I, 1823, 139.
Ohondestes grammaca, Bonap., Oomp. & Geol. List, 1838, 32. — Bated, Birds N. Am., 1858, 456 ; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 344.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 193.— COXJES, Key, 1872, 146, fig. 90; Check List, 1873, No. 186 j B. N.W., 1874, 159.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, I, 1874, 562, pi. xxxi, fig. 1— Hen- shaw, 1875, 259.
. This handsomely-marked and interesting bird is an exceedingly abun- dant species in favorable localities throughout the entire extent of the Western Region. Though essentially a western species, it is not restricted to that portion of the country which extends from the Rocky Mountains westward, as is most often the case with the birds peculiar to the western division of the continent, but it also inhabits nearly every portion of the Mississippi Valley, where it is no less numerous than in the most favored portions farther west. Indeed, this species seems to be gradually extending its range to the eastward, probably in consequence of the general and wide-
468 OBNITHOLOGY.
spread denudation of the forests, the country thus undergoing a physical change favorable to the habits of the species, having already become a regular summer resident in many sections of the country north of the Ohio. It was not noticed in Ohio, so far as the records show, previous to 1860, when Mr. J. M. Wheaton first observed it in the vicinity of Columbus, near the central portion of the State, and ^^ since which time it has increased in numbers, and at present (1874) is not uncommon." [See Coues' Birds of the Northwest, p 234.] Single specimens have already been taken in Massachusetts and Florida, where, in course of time, the species may be- come established.
The Lark Span^ow is essentially a prairie bird, although it prefers semi-wooded districts to the open prairies. It is equally common in the Sacramento Valley and in southern Illinois, inhabiting in each case places which are neither completely wooded nor entirely destitute of trees, and evincing a marked preference for localities where oak-groves alternate with meadow-lands and cultivated fields ; and in its great abundance in the widely-separated districts named above, particularly when taken into con- sideration with its association in both with such species as Thryomanes hewich% Dendroeca cestiva, Icteria virenSj CoUurio excuhitoroides, Chrysomitris tristis, Coturniculus passerinuSy Melospiza fasciqtay Spizella socialis, Guiraca ccerulea, etc., adds to the marked similarity in the general fades of the avifaunse of the two localities, the difference between them consisting in the possession by each of a small percentage of representative species and a very few peculiar forms.^
The habits of this bird are chiefly terrestrial, since it lives mostly on the ground, where it may often be seen walking^ gracefully along or hop- ping in the usual manner of Sparrows ; the male ascending to a fence-post, the top of a small tree, or other prominent object, during the delivery of his song. Its habits in this respect vary greatly, however, it being quite arboreal in some localities, as was conspicuously the case at Sacramento,
1 See pages 328-332.
* It m&y not be generally known that many of the terrestrial Fringillidae are walk- /ers as well as hoppets. Wo have often seen both this species and Melospis^a fasciata walking on the ground with a step as firm and graceful as that of a Meadow Lark or Blackbird.
CHONDESTES GRAMMACA. 469
where it nested almost invariably in the small oak trees at heights varying from 15 to 30 feet from the ground; while, on the other hand, in southern Illinois, where the proportionate area of wood-land is much greater, we never found a nest of this species except on the ground, notwithstanding many nests were found.^
The principal characteristic of the Lark Sparrow is the excellence of its song, which far surpasses that of any other member of the family we have ever heard, while in sprightliness and continuity, qualities so often lacking in our finer singers, we do not know its equal in any bird We have not heard the song of the famed Skylark {Alauda arvensis), but from numerous descriptions imagine it to be somewhat similar in character to that of the present bird ; and we very seriously doubt whether it is superior, if, indeed, it should prove equal. The Lark Sparrow sings all day long, even during the hottest part of summer, beginning in the early morn before any other bird, and not ceasing until the darkening of the evening shades have quieted the other songsters; often, in fact, have we been awak- ened at night by its song when all else was quiet. The song of this bird begins with a chant of clear, ringing notes, each uttered with great distinct- ness ; then follows a silvery trill — the very expression of emotion — and then a succession of sprightly, sparkling notes, varied by rising and falling cadences, finally dying away until scarcely audible, but immediately resumed in all its sprightliness and vigor, and continued as before, until the singer seems actually exhausted by his efforts.
At Sacramento this bird is known as the Mexican Lark; it was familiar to all the boys, who in season eagerly searched for its nests in order to obtain the young, which were readily sold in the city for $4.00 per pair.
^ Many other birds exhibit the same variability in the selection of a site for their nests. A notoriously variable species is Garpodacus frontalis (see p. 459); and Zmmdura caroUnensis is another case in point, this species, in the same locality, nesting indiffer- ently on the ground, on the top of a stump or rock, on a flat fence-rail, in a tree, or on the remnant of an old nest of another species. Mr. E. W. Nelson informs me that he found a nest of Fipilo erythrophthalmus in a bush, a foot or two from the ground, on Fox Prairie, Illinois; while at Mt. Carrael, in the same State, we have found a nest of AgelcBus phceniceus in an elm tree, full 20 feet from the ground, and a nest of Oyanura cristata inside of a barn.
470 OBNITHOLOGY.
lAst of specimens.
8, nest and eggs (3)^ Sacramento, California, June 8, 1867. Lower branch of small oak, in grove.
30, nest and eggs (3) ; Sacramento, California, June 11, 1867. Cotton-wood copse, ten feet from ground,
50, nest and eggs (3) ; Sacramento, California, June 18, 1867. Twenty feet from ground, in oak-grove.
72, nest and eggs (3) ; Sacramento, California, June 20, 1867. Twenty feet from ground, in oak-grove.
85, nest and eggs; Sacramento, California, June 2%^ 1867. Six feet from ground, in cotton-wood copse.
90, nest and eggs ; Sacramento, California, June 29, 1867. Six feet from ground, in cotton- wood copse.
783, nest and eggs (4) ; Truckee Eeservation, Nevada, June 3, 1868. On ground beneath sage-bush, on mesa.
960, $ ad,) Salt Lake City, Utah, May 20, 1869. 7J— llf . Upper mandible, brownish-ash, lower whitish-blue; iris, brown; tarsi and toes, brownish-white.
1020, nest and eggs; Salt Lake City, May 22, 1869.
1045, nest and eggs (5); Salt Lake City, May 25, 1869.
•1046, nest and eggs (5) ; same locality and date.
1047, 1048, nests and eggs; Salt Lake City, May 2^^ 1869.
1056, nest and e^g^^ ; Salt Lake City, May 27, 1869.
1174, nest and eggs (4);. Salt Lake City, June 10, 1869.
1176, nest and eggs (4) ; Salt Lake City, June 17, 1869.
1197, nest and eggs; Salt Lake City, June 21, 1869.
Nests, all on the ground beneath sage-bushes; maximum number of eggs, five.
ZONOTEIOHIA LEUCOPHEYS. 1¥liite-croiirned Sparrow.
Emleriza leucophrysj Forster, Phil. Trans., LXII, 1772, 382, 403, 426.
Zonotrichia leucophyrs^ Bonap., Comp. & Geog. List, 1838, 32. — Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 458, pi. 69, fig. 2 ; Cat. K. Am. B., 1859, No. 345.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 1, 196.— CoxJES, Key, 1872, 144; Check List, 1873, No. 183.— B. B. & E.,Hist. N. Am. B., I, 1874, 566, pi. XXV, figs. 9, 10.— Hbnshaw, 1875, 260.
Throughout the Rocky Mountain ranges, westward to the very verge of the desert-region of the Great Basin, this eastern form entirely replaces in summer the more western Z. intermedia of the Sierra Nevada. It was a very abundant summer species in the elevated parks of the Wahsatch and Uintah Mountains, where, from May to the latter part of August, not a single individual oiZ. intermedia was found. At our camp in Parley's Park these birds were our most familiar neighbors, and by reason of their con- fiding habits and sweet morning carols endeared themselves to the members
ZONOTRICHIA INTERMEDIA. 471
of the party. One young individual, bred in a nest close to the camp,
became so sociable as to visit daily the cook's tent for the crumbs scattered
on the ground.
List of specimens.
1068, 9 ad.; Salt Lake City,. XJtab, May 29, 1869. 6J— 9J. Bill, orange-brown, lower mandible paler, tips of botb black ; iris, brown ; tarsi and toes, deep brown.
1292, nest and eggs (5)5 Parley's Park, Wahsatcb Mountains, Utah, Juno 26, 1869. Nest on ground, under Geranium bush.
1430, $ ad.; 7— 9J. 1431, 9 ad.; 6^^9t. Parley's Park, July 19, 1869. Bill, per- fectly uniform, deep purplish, mahogany-brown; iris, brown; tarsi, reddish hepatic- brown ; toes, darker.
1463, S juv.; Parley's Park, July 28, 1869. 6f — 10. Bill, mahoganybrown, darker on culmen and tip ; iris, brown ; tarsi and toes, dark purplish-brown.
ZOKOTRICHIA IKTERMBDIA. Bidgway's Sparrow.^
{Moohf-um-pooh of the Washoes; Tou-oo-hootf -se-pah of the Paiutes.)
ZonotricMa gambelij Baibd, Birds N. Am., 1858, 460 (part) ; Gat. N. Am. Birds,
1859, No. 346 (part).— Cooper, Orn. Oal., I, 1870, 195 (part). ZonotricMa leucophrys var. gambeli^ Allen, Bull. Mus. Oomp. Zool., Ill, 1872, 157, 177.— OouES, Key, 1872, 145 (part); Check List, 1873, No. 183a (part).— B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. Birds, 1, 1874, 569, pi. xxv, figs. 11, 12. ZonotricMa leucophrys var. intermedia^ EiDawAY, Coues' Check List,. App., 1872, No. 183b.— CouES, Birds N.W., 1874, 156.— Henshaw, 1875, 261, pi. Yn, fig. 2 (adult). At the Summit Meadows, the most elevated portion of the Donner Lake Pass of the Sierra Nevada, these birds were so extremely abundant on the 9th day of July, that, on the evening we camped there, twenty- seven of their eggs were found after a hurried search of less than twenty minutes' duration. The pleasing songs of the males were heard on every hand, not only during daylight, but at intervals through the night, these songs resembling those of Z. leucophrys, although they seemed somewhat more vigorous and distinct. They were exceedingly unsuspicious little birds, the pair usually remaining close by when their nest and eggs were being appropriated, the male even, ou several occasions, singing, as he perched on the summit of a neighboring bush, while we were preparing the eggs for preservation.
^ CouES, Birds of the Northwest^ p. 166.
472 OENITHOLOGY.
List of speeimens,
95, 96, 97, 98, nest and eggs (4) ; Summit Meadows, Donner Lake Pass, Sierra Nevada, July 9, 1867. Maximum number of eggs, 5; usual number, 4,
172, ^; West Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, September 7, 1867. 6^9^— 3j — 2f^ — ^\ — }f — 23 — IJ. Bill, wax-yellow, upper mandible more oclier reddish, point of culmen and gonys, black; iris, umber; tarsi and toes, yellowish horn-color.
183, i; West Humboldt Mountains, September 11, 1867. 6f— 9^— 3— 2J— j7-_j_ 2|| — ly7^. Same remarks.
197, ^; West Humboldt Mountains, September 18, 1867. 6}f— 10^34--2f— j^t^— ^3 — 3 — 1^9^. Upper mandible, deep, light mahogany-brown, inclining to wax-yellow on rictus; lower mandible, paler than upper, inclining to deep wax-yellow, more citreous basally; extreme point of culmen and gonys, black; iris, umber; tarsi, clear, liglit reddish horn-color; toes, darker and more opaque-brownish^
200, ^; West Humboldt Mountains, September 20, 1876. 6J— 9§— 3^— 2j^— y^^— 3— 2|— 1^7^. Same remarks.
201, ^; West Humboldt Mountains, September 20, 1867. ^—d'i^3i—2j%— T« — M — 2g— 1^^. Same remarks.
202, 9 ; West Humboldt Mountains, September 20, 1867. 6|— 9}i— 3^— 2|— /g— 1 3_2j| — If. Same remarks.
207, ^; West Humboldt Mountains, September 21, 1867. {Intermediate between intermedia and leucophry8.\ 6| — 9}| — SJ — 2]^ — f^ — 3 — 3 — If. Same remarks.
209, ^; West Humboldt Mountains, September 21, 1867. 6J— 9§— 3^2|— y^— IE — 2|| — 1^. Same remarks.
„ 210, (J; West Humboldt Mountains, September 21, 1867. 6||— 9^—3^1^— 2^— T6 — S — -S — H' Same remarks.
211, (J; West Humboldt Mountains, September 21, 1867. 7^^— 9^3y\— 2|— ^7_ — 1.3 — 3 — 1|^ Same remarks.
212, 9; West Humboldt Mountains, September 21, 1867. 7— 10— 3^— 2f— 37-— ^ — 2J — 1|. Same remarks.
385, 9; TruckeeEeservation, December 26, 1867. 6|— 9— 3— 2yV-T6— f— 2§— If- Same remarks.
930, $'y head of Humboldt Valley (Camp 25), September 16, 1868. 7— 9J— (f)^ 2|. Same remarks.
939, ^; Uamp 25, September 20, 1868. 7—93— (I)— 2^^. 9^°^® remarks.
944, 9; Deep Creek, Utah, October 5, 1868. 6^— 9|— (?)— 2/^. Same remarks.
ZONOTRIOHIA OOEONATA. Oolden-eroivned Sparrow*
JEmberiza ooronata^ Pallas, Zoog. Rosso- As., II, 1811, 44, pi. [5] lig. 1 (^ ad.).
Zonotrichia coronata^ Baibd, B. N. Am., 1858, 461 ; Catal., 1859, No. 347.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 197.— CouES, Key, 1872, 145; Check List, 1873, No. 184; Birds N.W., 1874, 159 (8uh Z. querula).—B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., 1, 1874, 573, pi. XXVI, fig, 1.
The only specimen of this species seen by us was the one obtained,
JUNCO OREGONUS. 473
which was shot from a flock of Z, intermedia. Its occurrence on the West Humboldt Mountains may be accounted for by the fact that many of the Pacific-coast species have a tendency to straggle eastward during their migrations, among those which reach this range, besides the bird under consideration, being Melospiza guttata^ Pipilo oregonus, Lanivireo cassini, Helminthophaga lutescenSj etc/ [See pp. 379, 380.]
List of specimens.
237, 2 ad.; West Humboldt Mountains, Nevada (Camp 19), October 7, 1867. 7||— lOJ— 3f— 2|— fl — I — 3|-— IJ. Upper mandible, slaty horn-color, darker on culmen, tomium paler; lower mandible, pale lilaceous-brown ; iris, olivaceous-hazel ; tarsi and toes, clear horn-color.
JUNCO OREGONUS. Oregon Siiow«bird.
{Tall' -hah-klai' 'Uh of the Washoes ; NeboK-tone of the Paiutes.)
Fringilla oregona, Townsend, Jour. Ac. Nat. Sci. Pbila., VII, 1837, 188.
Junco oregonus^ Sclater, Pr. Zool. Soc. Lond., 1857, 7. — Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, ^m ; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 347.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 199.— Coues, Key, 1872, 141 ; Check List, 1873, No. 175 ; B. N. W., 1874, 142.— B. B & R., Hist. N. Am. B., I, 1874, 584, pi. xxvi, fig. 2.— Henshaw, 1875, 267.
Juneo hyemalis var. oregonus, RinawAY, Am. Nat., 1873, 613.
This representative of the Eastern Snow-bird (eT". hyemalis) is very abundant in winter from the Pacific coast to the Wahsatch Mountains, but in summer has a more restricted distribution, being then confined to the conif- erous forest-region of the higher western ranges. At the Summit Meadows, nearly 7,000 feet above the sea, on the Sierra Nevada, it was one of the commonest and most characteristic birds of the locality, but eastward of these mountains none were seen during the summer. In its winter migra- tions this bird shows the same remarkable movements as Zonotrichia inter- mediaj Turdus guttatuSj etc., for while its summer habitat seems strictly lim- ited on the eastward to the Sierra Nevada, it becomes generally dispersed in winter over the entire area of the Western Region, being a more or
^According to Mr. E. W. Nelson, an adult male of Z, coronata was captured by Dr. Hoy, a^Bacine, Wisconsin, during the spring migration.
474 ORNITHOLOGY.
less regular visitant during that season as far east as Kansas. We did not, however, meet with it farther eastward than the East Humboldt Mountains.
In all respects this species appears to be a perfect counterpart of the eastern J. hyemaliSj being equally familiar in its habits duiring winter, while its notes are apparently precisely similar.
lAst of specimens.
224:^ 9 ad.; West Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, October 3, 1867. 6—9—3—2^- g — I — 2^ — If. Bill, delicate lilaceous- white, the point dusky ; iris, burnt-sienna; tarsi, clear horn- white ; toes, deep sepia.
378, $ ad.; Truckee Eeservation, Nevada, December 24, 1867. 6f — 9J-:3J— 2^— /^ — I — 2| — l^. Same remarks.
384, $ ad.; Truckee Eeservation, December 26, 1867. 6J—9J— 3^21—3^ — \\-^ 2| — If. Iris, purplish-claret ; tarsi, dilute reddish-umber ; toes, darker leaden-umber.
484, $ ad.; Carson City, Nevada, April 3, 1868. 6|— 9f— 3^— 2f . Iris, dark pur- plish-carmine.
485, $ ad.; Carson City, Nevada, April 3, 1868. 6J— 9J— 34— 2}^. Same re- marks.
938,^ adj.; Trout Creek, Upper Humboldt Valley, Sept. 19, 1868. 6^— 9|— 2|. Upper mandible, light sepia-brown, the tip black ) lower mandible, pinkish-white 5 iris, madder-brown ; tarsi, dilute sepia; toes, deeper sepia.
JUNOO CANICBPS.
Oray-lieaded Snow-bird.
Strufhus canicepsj Woodhouse, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad,, 1852, 202.
Junco caniceps, Baibd, B. N. Am., 1858, 468, pi. 72, fig. 1 ; Oat. N. Am. B., 1859,
No. 353.— CooPBE, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 201.— B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. B., I,
1874, 587, pi. XXVI, fig. 3. Junco dnereus var. caniceps, CouBS, Key, 1872, 141 ; Check List, 1873, No. 176 ;
B. N.W., 1874, 143.— Henshaw, 1875, 269. Juneo hyemalis var. caniceps^ RroawAY, Am. Nat., 1873, 613.
The Gray-headed Snow-bird was met with only in the pine forests of the Wahsatch and Uintah Mountains, where it was rather common from May to August, inclusive. Its habits and notes closely resemble those of J. hyemalis and J. oregonus, but its song, a simple monotonous trill, is somewhat louder and more steady.
AMPHISPIZA BILINEATA. 475
Amphispiza BILINEATA,
Black-tliroated Sparrow.
{Wulf -tU'Ze-ze of the Paiutes.)
Emheriza Ulineata^ Oassin, Pr. Ac. ISfat. Sci. Philad., 1850, 104, pi. 3.
Poospiza hilineataj Solateb, Proc, ZooL Soc. Lond., 1857, 7. — Baibd, B. N. Am., 1858, 470; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 355.— Ooopeb, Orn. Cal., I, 203.— COUES, Key, 1872, 140; Check List, 1873, No. 172.— B. B. & R., Hist. K Am. B., I, 1874, 590, pi. XXVI, fig. 8.— Hbnshaw, 1875, 274.
Amphispiza Ulineata^ CouES, B. N.W., 1874, 234.^
This interesting little bird was found throughout the sage-brush country, the most desert- tracts of which are its favorite abode. It was equg^Uy com- mon in the western depression and in the Salt Lake Valley, as well as in intermediate localities. Unlike the A. nevadensis, which frequents chiefly the more thrifty growth of artemisia in the damper valleys, this species prefers the arid mesas, where the growth is scant and stunted ; and we found it nowhere else so abundant as on the Carson Desert, near the Soda Lakes, where much of the surface consisted of loose, shifting sand. It also differs markedly from that species in being migratory, being merely a summer sojourner, and one of the latest to arrive, few, if any, making their appearance in the Truckee Valley before the first of May, the advance individuals being noted on the 13th of that month, in 1868.
Like A. nevadensis. this species is remarkable for its peculiar song, which in pensive tone and sad expression harmonizes so perfectly with its desolate surroundings. It is from this song that the Indian name^ Wut-tu- ze-ze, is derived, for the notes are very nearly expressed by the syllables wut\ wut\ zeeeeehj repeated once or twice, the first two notes quick and distinct, the last one a prolouged, silvery trill. Frequently a singer reverses, at each alternate repetition of the song, the accent of the first and last portions, thus producing a very peculiar effect.
List of specimens,
106, Sjm.; valley of the Truckee, July 25, 1867. 5J— 8J— 2J— 2^— ^— }J— 2,:^ — If. Upper mandible, plumbeous-black ; lower, pale blue, lilaceous basally, the tip,
dusky; iris, umber; tarsi and toes, dark plumbeous sepia.
^ , .^
' ^^ Amphispiza^ OouES, n. g. (type Emheriza hilineata^ Cass.).''
476 ORNITHOLOGY.
123, JMt;.; Truckee Valley, August 6, 1867. 5|— 8J-.2|-«2i— 1^|— 2g— Ij. Same remarks.
107 Juv.; West Humboldt Mountains, September 4, 1807. 5|— 8^— 2|— 2^^— g— g — 2J — 1^. Same remarks.
961, i ad.; Salt Lake City, Utah, May 20, 1869. 6|— 8^. Upper mandible a»d tip of lower, deep black, rest of lower plumbeous- blue; iris, brown; tarsi and toes, purplish-plumbeous.
1113, nest and eggs (3); Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake, June 6, 1869. Nest in sage-bush.
1126, 1127, nests and eggs (3, 1); Antelope Island, June 7, 1869. Nests in sage- bushes, one foot from ground.
1136, nest ; Antelope Island, June 8, 1869. Sage-bush, one foot above ground.
1195, 1196, nests and eggs (3); Salt Lake City, June 21, 1869. Nests in sage- bushes, about one foot from ground.
1403, 1403, nests ; valley of the Weber River, July, 1869. [J. C. Olmstead.]
Amphispiza NEVADENSIS.
Artemisia Sparrow.
(Tok! -et-se-whaW of the Paiutes.)
'^Poospiza bellii,^^ Baied, B. N. Am., 1858, 470 (part); Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No.
356.-.COOPEB, Orn. Oal., 1, 1870, 204 (part).— Coues, Key, 1872, 141 (part) ;
Check List, 1873, No. 173. [Not P. bellii, Cass.] Poospiza bellii var, nevadensisj Ridg-way, Bull. Essex Inst., V, Nov., 1873, 191. —
Coues, Check List, 1873, App., p. 127.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., 1, 1874,
594, pi. XXVI, fig. 9.— Henshaw, 1875, 275, pi. xi (adnlt). Amphispiza hellii^ Coues, B. N.W., 1874, 234 (part).
The distribution of this species seems to be strictly governed by that of the sage-brush plants, since it is present in nearly all districts where these are found, while it is apparently wanting in localities of any other description. It is most partial to the ifloistef valleys, where the growth is most thrifty, and in such places is generally the most abundant bird. It was observed to be most numerous in the valleys of the western depression, few being seen in the Salt Lake Valley, where the A. bUineata was so abundant; but it does occur there, as well as much farther east- ward— at least to the valleys of Green River and its tributary streams. In the neighborhood of Carson City it was by far the most abundant bird of the open wastes, and its abundance did no|^ abate with the approach of winter. In walking through the sage-brusli one was almost certain to
AMPHISPIZA NEVADENSIS. 477
see these birds at every few steps. They were exceedingly unsuspicious, and very reluctant to take flight, if not pursued too persistently ; merely keeping a few feet in advance, running swiftly on the ground, their tails elevated at an angle of about 45^, but unexpanded, and keeping thusMn front for several rods; when too nearly approached, merely dodging in and out among the low bushes, or concealing themselves momentarily behind a scraggly shrub. Should they be startled, even, they merely fly up, with a chipping twitter, and after a short meandering flight for a few rods, again alight and run out of sight.
They began singing toward the last of February, and by the beginning of April the first eggs were laid. During a walk through the sage-brush, on the ninth of the latter month, several nests were found, the female in nearly every instance betraying the position of the nest by remaining on it until we had approached quite near. Often, by carefully watching the ground a rod or two ahead, did we detect one of these birds steal slyly out from beneath a scraggly, usually nearly prostra^te, bush, and, with tail elevated, run rapidly and silently away and soon disappear in the shrub- bery. On such an occasion, a careful examination of the spot was almost certain to reveal an artfully-concealed nest, eithewmbedded in the ground, or, as was more rarely the case, resting among the lower branches of the bush.
The song of this bird, although not brilliant in execution nor by any means loud, is nevertheless of such a character as to attract attention. It has a melancholy pensiveness, remarkably in accord with the dreary monot- ony of the surt'oundings, yet as a sort of compensation, is possessed of deli- cacy of expression and peculiar pathos — just as the fine lights and shadows on the sunlit mountains, combined with a certain vagueness in the dreamy distance, subdue the harsher features of the desert landscape. This song, when first heard was mistaken for that of a lark {Sturnella negleda) half a mile or so away; but we soon found that the bird was scarcely two rods distant. The early spring is when they sing most beautifully, the usual note during other seasons being a faint twitter or chirp, generally uttered as one chases another through the sage-brush.
478 OBNITHOLOGY.
List of specimens.
151, S ad.; valley of the Humboldt (Oreana), August 31, 1867. 6.^— 10— 3J— 2f— I — J — 2}f — 1t^. Upper mandible, plumbeous-black, tomium paler ; lower, pure pale, bluish-lilaceous basally, the tip plumbeous; iris, bister; tarsi and toes, bluish-sepia.
157, (J ofl!.; Camp 17, September 2, 1867. 6|— 10— 3J— 2J— .^^ — {^3^1^. Tarsi and toes, purplish -black.
182, S ad,; Wright's Canon, West Humboldt Mountains, September 11, 1867. 6g— 8^ — 34 — 2\l — J|-^| — 3 — IJ. Upper mandible, plumbeous-black, edged with whi- tish 5 lower, pale blue, the tip of the gonys dusky ; iris, hazel ; tarsi and toes, liver- brown with a plumbeous cast.
379, 9 ad.; Truckee Eeservation, December 26, 1867. (Sage-brush of the mesa.) 7 — 9j — 3^—2^1^ — ^^g — I — 3 — l^V Upper mandible, plumbeous-slate ; lower mandible and commissure, pure, fine, light plumbeous-blue, the tip dusky ; iris, reddish vandyke ; tarsi, deep sepia-brown ; toes, more blackish.
SSO^i ad.; same locality, date, etc. 6|— 9f— 3|— 2f ^\ | 3j— 1^. Same re- marks.
622, nest and eggs (2); Carson City, Nevada, April 27, 1868.
635, nest and eggs (3),- Carson City, Nevada, April 27, 1868.
637, nest and eggs (3); same locality and date. (Nests on the ground, underneath sage-bushes.)
Spizella MONTICOLA.
Canada Sparrow; Tree Sparrow.
Fringilla monticola, Gmelin, Syst. Nat., T, 1788, 912.
Spizella monticola, Baied, Birds N. Am,, 1858, 427 5 Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 357._C00PBE, Orn. Cal., I, 206.— CoUBS, Key, 1872, 142 5 Check List, 1873, No. 177; Birds N.W., 1874, 146.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, II, 1874, 3, pi. XXVII, fig. 5.— Henshaw, 1876, 277.
During the winter this well-known Sparrow was common and very generally distributed through the valleys of the western depression of the Great Basin. As in the East, it associated with Snow-birds and White- crowned Sparrows, although in this case its companions were different species (Junco oregonm and Zonotrichia intermedia, instead of J. hyemalis and
Z. leucophrps).
List of specimens,
301, i ad.; Truckee Meadows, Nevada, November 19, 1867. 6|— 9^—34— 2}J—g— f— 3— 1|. Upper mandible, deep black, base of the culmen, yellow ; lower mandible, citreous waxyellow on basal two-thirds, then lilaoeouswhite, the tip black; iris, brown j tarsi, deep reddish sienna-brown 5 toes, blackish-brown.
SPIZBLLA AEIZON^. 479
Spizblla SOOIALIS.
Chipping Sparrow.
/?. arkofUB. {80' -ho-quoj/ -e-tse of the Slioshoiies.)
Spizella socialiSy Baied, Birds N. Am., 1858, 473 (part); Oat. N. Am. Birds, 1859,
No. 359 (part).— OooPEE, Orn. Oal., 1, 1870,207. Spizella socialis var. arizoncBj OouES, Key, 1872, 143; Check List, 1873, No. 178a.
— B. B. & E., Hist. K Am. Birds, II, 1874, 11.— Henshaw, 1876, 277. Spizella socialis. a. arizoncBj CouES, Birds N.W., 1874, 148.
The common Chipping Sparrow was found to be very generally distributed, although it was a commoner species in the valley portions than on the mountains. It was a strictly arboreal bird, however, and thus in- habited different localities from S. brewerij even when both were found in the same neighborhood. In the environs of Sacramento City it was particularly numerous; and although the door-yards, gardens, and orchards were alike inhabited by it, the groves of small oak-trees in the inclosed fields were its favorite abode, where it nested in company with Chondestes grammaca^ Chrysomitris tristiSj and othep equally abundant species.
In the Interior it was found in all wooded districts, but, contrary to the rule elsewhere, was less abundant among the cotton -woods of the river-valleys than in the groves of cedars and mahoganies on the lower slopes of the mountains, of which it was eminently characteristic. No- where did we find it in greater abundance than among these woods on the eastern slope of the Ruby Mountains, for there it was the most numerous of all the birds in July and August, associating in large flocks during the latter month, evidently preparing for their departure southward, which commenced in September. We have never observed the eastern form of this species to be gregarious to this extent, but no differences could be detected in its habits during ihe breeding-season, nor in any of its notes.
List of specimens.
848, ?flw2.; East Humboldt Mountains, July 20, 1868. 5J— 84— (?)— 2^. Bill,dark sepia-slate, darker terminally, lower mandible more lilaceous; iris, vandyke; tarsi and toes, pinkish sepia-wbite.
860, nest and eggs (4); Ruby Mountains (east slope), altitude about 8,000 feet, August 5, 1868. I>rest in mountainmabogany tree, six feet from ground.
1187, nest and eggs (4); Salt Lake Oity (Gity Greek Gafion), Utah, June 19, 1869. Nest in scrub-oak, six feet from ground.
480 OENITUOLOGY.
Spizblla BEBWEBI.
Brewer's Sparrow.
Spizella hreweri, Cassin, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Phila., VIII, 1856, 40— Baied, B. N. Am., 1858, 475 5 Oat. K Am. B., 1859, No. 361.— Coopee, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 209.
Spizella pallida var. hreweri, OOUES, Key, 1872, 143; Check List, 1873, No. 180a; B. N.W., 1874, 151.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., II, 1874, 13, pi. xxvii, fig. 4.— Henshaw, 1875, 279.
A counterpart of the eastern Field Sparrow (S, pusilla), in its predilec- tion for fields, or any open bushy localities, this species was found in every place adapted to its habits. It was first observed at Sacramento, where it was quite common, inhabiting the bushy fields along with Chondestes gram- maca, Coturniculus perpallidus, and Sturnella negleda. In the sage-brush country, eastward of the Sierra Nevada, it was still more numerous than in the Sacramento Valley; and throughout the entire extent of the Great *Basin was everywhere one of the commonest birds of the open wastes, and an almost constant associate of Oreoscoptes montanus and the two species of Amphispim.
The resemblance of this species to S. pusilla extends no further than to a similarity of general habits, however, for its nest and eggs are extremely different, being more like those of S, socialisj while its song is remarkable for vivacity and variety, in this respect fully equaling that of the best Canaries, though it is considerably inferior to the latter in power. It is interspersed throughout with a variety of trills or water-notes, and plaintive chants which resemble somewhat the well-known notes of the Field Sparrow.
List of specimens.
106, ? ad.; valley of the Trackee, Nevada, July 24, 1867. 5g— 7/^—2/^— 2-.y\— f— 2J— IJ. Bill, pale lilaceous-brown, darker aloog the oulmen ; iris, hazel ; tarsi and toes, pale brownish flesh-color.
785, nest and eggs (3); Truckee Reservation, Jane 3, 1868. Nest in sage bush, about three feet from ground.
810, nest and eggs (2) ; "Old River'' (near sink of Oarson), Nevada, June 27, 1868. Nest in sage-bush, about four feet from ground.
834, nest and eggs (3) ; Austin, Nevada, July 4, 1868. Sagebush.
874, ad.; Ruby Valley, Nevada, August 28, 1868. 5^— 8— (f )— 2J. Upper man- dible, black, approaching to ashy-lilac on the tomiura; lower mandible, lilaceousashy; iris, ashy-umber; tarsi and toes, grayish horn-color.
MELOSPIZA HEERMANNL 481
1049, 1050, nests and eggs ; Salt Lake City, Utah, May 26, 1869. Nests in sage- bushes, about three feet from ground.
1059, 1060, nests and eggs (3) ; Salt Lake City, May 27, 1869.
1067, nest and eggs (2); Salt Lake City, May 29, 1869.
1077, 1078, nests and eggs (4) ; Salt Lake City, June 1, 1869.
1091, 1097, 1098, 1099, nests and egers; Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake, Jaue 4, 1869.
1115 (3), 1116, 1117, 1118, nests and eggs ; Antelooe Island, Great Salt Lake, June 5, 1869.
1119 (3), 1120 (3), 1121 (3), 1122, nests and eggs; Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake, June 7, 1869.
1128, nest and egg (1) ; Antelope Island, June 7, 1869. Nest in sage-bush.
1132, ? ad; Antelope Island, June 5, 1869.
1137 (3), 1138 (3), 1139, nests and eggs; Antelope Island, June 8, 1869.
1152, nest and eggs ; Antelope Island, June 9, 1869.
1156, nest and eggs (4); southern shore. Great Salt Lake, June 11, 1869. All nests in sage-bushes, about three feet from ground.
1157, nest and eggs (3); Rabbit Island, Great Salt Lake, June 11, 1868. Nest in grease- wood bush.
1164 (4), 1165 (3), 1166 (3), nests and eggs; Salt Lake City, June 14, 1809.
1171, 1172, 1173, nests and eggs; Salt Lake City, June 16, 1869.
1176 (4), 1177 (2), nests and eggs; Salt Lake City, June 17, 1869.
1198, nest and eggs (4); Salt Lake City, June 21, 1869.
1236, nest and eggs (2) ; Salt Lake City, June 23, 1869.
1318, nest and eggs (2) ; Parley's Park, June 27, 1869. Nest in sage-bush.
1354, nest and eggs ; Parley's Park, June 27, 1869. In sage-bush.
1396 (2), 1397 (1), nests and eggs; Parley's Park, July, 1869. Nests in sage- bushes.
1406 and 1407, nests ; Cash Valley, July, 1869. [J. C. Olmstead.]
1466, ? juv.; Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, July 28, 1869. 5g-- 7§. Bill, yellowish-lilac, upper half of upper mandible dark plumbeous; iris, brown; tarsi and toes, light brown.
1482, ? ad.; Parley's Park, July 30, 1869. 5|— 7f.
Melospiza fasoiata*
Song (Sparrow.
J3, heermanni.
(See' 'hoot' 'Se-pah of the Paiutes.)
Melospiza heermanni^ Bated, B. N. Am., 1858, 478 ; lb., ed. 1860, 478, pi. 70, fig. 1 ;
Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 364.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 1, 1870, 212. Melospiza melodia var. heermanniy CoUES, Key, 1872, 139 ; Check List, 1873, No,
169d.— B. B. & R., HiQt. N. Am. B., IF, 1874, 24, pi. xxvii, fig. 9.— Henshaw,
1875, 282. Melospiza melodia. a. heermanni^ CoUES, B. N.W., 1874, 139. 31 PR
482 ORNITHOLOGY.
y. faUax,
Zonotrichia fallax^ Baibd, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Phila., 1854, 119. Meloapim fallax, Baibd, B. N. Am., 1858, 481; ed. 1860, 481, pi. 27, fig. 2; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 367.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 215.
Melospiza melodia xq,t. fallaxj Coues, Key, 1872, 139; Check List, 1873, Ko. 169a.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., II, 1874, 22, pL xxvii, fig. 10.— Hen- SHAW, 1875, 281.
Melospiza melodia, a,fallaxj Coues, B. N.W., 1874, 139.
6, guttata,
Fringilla (Passerella) guttata^ Nuttall, Man., I, 2d ed., 1840, 581.
Melospiza melodia var. guttata^ Coues, Key, 1872, 139; Check List, 1873, No.
169b.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., II, 1874, 27, pi. xxvil, fig. 12. Melospiza melodia. f. guttata^ CouES, B. N.W., 1874, 139. ^^Melospiza rujina,^^ Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 480; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 366.
[Not Emheriza rufina^ Brandt, 1S^Q^=^ Melospiza rufina.]
Speaking of its different races collectively, the Song Sparrow is a widely-distributed bird. The race known as M. heermanni was very com- mon in the thickets at Sacramento, and also throughout western Nevada, its eastern limit being, apparently, the West Humboldt Mountains, where the M. fallax began to replace it ; the latter being the only form found thence to the Wahsatch and Uintah Mountains of Utah. The more north- ern M. guttata was encountered only in the range above mentioned, where a very few individuals were found in the month of October, in the sheltered canons of the eastern slope. Since Zonotrichia coronata was met with in the same locality, it is likely that, as in the case of the latter species, they were not residents, but migrants from the northwestward. Whatever the race, however, the habits, and, so far as we could judge, the notes also, were nearly the same, the geographical modifications in these respects being by no means in proportion to those of form and plumage.
The Song Sparrow was found to be most partial to the dense thickets along streams or in the vicinity of other bodies of water, and was conse- quently most frequently seen in the lower valleys; indeed, we have no recollection of having observed it at a greater elevation than the meadow- like parks of the Wahsatch Mountains, where the var. fallax was abundant among the willows bordering the streams, along with Passerella schistacea.
MELOSPIZA HBERMANNI— M. FALLAX. 483
According to our notes it was there confined to the floor of the park, or did not ascend to any great distance up the canons along the streams. At Sacramento, as well in the river-valleys of western Nevada, it was common among the iules or rushes fringing the sloughs and ponds near the larger bodies of water. The species was stationary in all portions of its range, or at least did not perform more than a partial vertical migration, although the fact that individuals of the var. guttata were met with in the West Hvmiboldt Mountains would seem to indicate that while the species, col- lectively, may be found in one locality throughout the year, individuals poTform more or less of a latitudinal migration.
List of specimens, ^. heermanni,
150 ? ad.; Humboldt River (Oreana), August 31, 1867. 7— 9J— 3— 2^— J— g— 3 — (2§). Bill, dull liver-browQ, the upper mandible darker, nearly black on the culmen ; iria, hazel; tarsi and toes, dark liver-brown.
216, (J ad.; Camp 19, West Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, September 24, 1867, 6|— 81^— 2|— 24— yV-}|--2f— -1 J. Bill, blackish hepatic-olive, paler and more slaty on lower mandible ; iris, hazel ; tarsi and toes, deep purplish horn-color.
236, c? ad.; Camp 19, October 7, 1867. 6f— 9— 2J— 2^7__^7__i3_3_l^^ Upper mandible, slaty horn-black, lower paler brownish-slaty; iris, hazel; tarsi and toes, pale horn-color.
368, S ad.; Truckee Eeservation, Nevada, December 25, 1867. 7—9^—2^—2/^— y^^ — II — 3J — IJ. Upper mandible horn-black, paler along tomium ; lower, brownisli- slaty.
381, ? ad.; Truckee Eeservation, December 26, 1867. 64— 8f — 2||— 2J— /,_i 3_ 2| — 1|. Upper mandible hepatic-black, paler along tomium ; lower, lilaceous-brovvn, with yellowish tinge basally beneath.
382, 9 ad.; Truckee Eeservation, December 26, 1867. 6|— 8J— 2f— 2y\— pV— J— 2J — If. Same remarks.
7 13
383, S ad.; Truckee Eeservation, December 26, 1867. ef— 8§— 2-}|— 2f — j7_
i(^
3 — 1^. Same remarks.
470, i ad.; Carson City, Nevada, March 28, 1868. 6|— 8|i— 2i— 2^. Upi)er mandible, plumbeous-black, tomium paler ; lower, dull plumbeous, with lUaceous glow basally and beneath ; iris, bister; tarsi,, whitish-brown ; toes, deeper brown.
479, $ ad.; Carson, March 30, 1868. 6f— 8§— 2|f— 2/^. Same remarks.
y. fallax.
890, >v.; Camp 22, Euby Valley, Nevada, September 4, 1868. 6J-.8^— (?)~24. Bill, lilaceous ashy-brown, darkest terminally, lower mandible more lilaceous; rictus, pale yellow; iris, very dark sepia; tarsi and toes, dilute lilaceous-sepia, latter pale yellow beneath.
484 ORNITHOLOGY.
931, 9a(f.; Cauip 25, Humboldt Valley, September IG, 1868. G^— Sy^^— (f)— 2f^. Same remarks as to No. 470.
945, $ ad,; Camp 35, Deep Creek, Utah, October 5, 18G8. G|— 8|— (?)— 2J. Same remarks.
94G, 9 ad.; Camp 35, Deep Creek, Utah, October 5, 1868. 6^— 8— (I)— 2J. Same remarks.
947, 9 «rf.; Camp 35, Deep Creek, Utab, October 5, 1868. GJ— 85— (!)— 2J. Same remarks.
948, 9 ad.; Camp 35, Deep Creek, Utab, October 5. 6f— 8^-^(1)— 2yV Same remarks.
1228, nest aud eggs; Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utab, June 23, 1869. Nest among bushes in willow-thicket along stream, about one foot from ground.
1232, nest and eggs (2) ; Parley's Park, June 23, 1869. Situated like preceding.
1275, nest and eggs (5); Parley's Park, June 24, 1869. Nest in thorn-apple bush along stream, six feet from ground.
1314, nest and eggs (3); Parley's Park, June 27, 1869. Nest in willows by stream.
1327, 1328; nests and eggs (4); Parley's Park, June 28, 1869. Nests in willows.
1363, 1364 ; nests and eggs (4) ; Pack's Canon, Uintah Mountains, July 4, 1869. Nests in willows by stream, about three feet from ground. '
1388, 1389; nests ; Provo River, Utah, July 10, 1869. Willows.
1391, nest and eggs (3) ; Provo River, July 11, 1869. Nest in willows by stream.
1405, nest; Bear River Valley, July, 1869. (Collected by Mr. J. C. Olmstead.)
1419, nest and eggs; Parley's Park, July 16, 1869.
1457, 6 juv,; July 26, 1869. 6|— 9|, Bill, dark hepatic-plumbeous, lower man- dible with pinkish flush, the upper almost black on the culmen ; iris, brown; tarsi and toes, deep purplish-brown.
1461, nest; Parley's Park, July 26, 1869. Willows by stream.
1465, S juv.; Parley's Park, July 28, 1869. 6J-.8J. Same remarks as to No. 1457.
1475, ?>?;.; July 29, 1869. 6^—8^. Same remarks.
1506, ^jwi7.; August 13, 1869. 6J— 9. Same remarks.
d, guttata.
223, 9 ad.; Camp 19, October 3, 1867. 6f— 8^— 2|^2i— yV— S— ^S—^i- O^PP^r mandible horn-black, paler along tomium ; lower, horn-blue, darker terminally.
Mblospiza lincolnl
JLincoln's Sparrour*
Fringilla Uncolnii, Audubon, Orn. Biog., II, 1834, 539, pi. 193.
Melospiza lineonii, Baibd, Birds N. Am., 1858, 483; Catal. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 368.— COOPEE, Orn. Cal., I, 216.— CoUBS, Key, 1872, 138; Check List, No. 167; Birds N.W., 1874, 135.— B. B. & R, Hist. N. Am. Birds, II, 1874, 31, pi. XXVII, fig. 13.— Henshaw, 1875, 283.
During the summer we found this species only in the elevated parks of the higher mountain ranges; but during its migrations it was very plenti-
PASSERELLA MEGARHYNCHA. 485
ful in the lower valleys. In Parley's Park it was a rather common summer
resident, inhabiting the open slopes or level pieces of ground covered by
low shrubs, weeds, and grass, in company with ZonotricJiia leucophrys and
Pooecetes confinis. We did not hear its song, but its ordinary note was a
rather strong chuck^ much Uke that of Passerella schistacea. In the autumn
it was common among the willows along Deep Creek, in northwestern Utah,
and in April was quite abundant in the bushy fields at the base of the Sierra
Nevada, near Carson City, particularly in places near springs or close by
the streams.
List of specimens.
•563, 9 ad.; Carson City, Nevada, April 29, 1868. S^?^— 7 J— 2f — 2. Upper raandi- ble, blackish, toiniuin and lower mandible, dull brownish-ashy; rictus, pale yellow; iris, bister; tarsi and toes, dilute horn-color.
932, S (id.; Upper Humdoldt Valley, September 16, 1868. 5^— 8^— 2/_— 1 7_3j_ 2^^. Upper mandible, plumbeous-black, the tomium pale yellowish olive; lower mandi- ble, pale grayish-oliv^e, more yellowish basally ; rictus, light yellow; iris, hazel; tarsi, pale brown, toes darker.
949, i ad.; Deep Creek, Utah, October 5, 1868. 5§--7J—(?)— 2j^. Upper mandi- ble, dull plumbeous-black, tomium and lower mandible, light dull cinereous, more yel- lowish-lilaceous basally beneath; rictus, pale yellow; iris, sepia-drab; tarsi and toes, pale horn-color.
1276, nest and eggs (4); Parley^s Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, June 24, 1869. Nest on ground, beneath prostrate sage-bush, near stream.
Passerella megarhyncha.
Thick-billed Sparrow.
Passerella megarhyncha, Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 925, pi. Lxix, fig. 4; Cat. K Am. Birds, 1859, No. 376a.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 222.
Passerella townsendi var. megarhyncha, B. B. & li., Hist. N, Am. Birds, II, 1874, 57, pi. XXVIII, fig. 10.
Passerella townsendi var. schistacea, CouES, Birds N.W., 1874, 162 (part).
This very interesting bird was met with only in the ravines of the Sierra Nevada, near Carson City and Washoe. Unlike P. schistacea, it was strictly a migrant, being entirely absent during the winter, and not arriving from the south until about the 20th of April. It was found mostly in damp or swampy places in the lower portion of the mountains, and was particularly numerous where the alders grew abundantly along the streams. In such places they were singing loudly on every hand, and their songs,
486 ORNITHOLOGY.
when first heard, seemed so similar to those o£ the Large-billed Water Thrush {Semrus ludovicianus)^ of the east, that they were mistaken for the notes of that bird, until the singers were seen and the species identified. The song possessed but little resemblance to that of the P, schistacea, being so far superior as to be comparable only to that of the bird above men- tioned, its chief qualities being great volume and liquidness.
List of specimens,
530, S dd.; Carson City, Nevada, April 25, 1868. 7|— lO/e— 3^— -i|. General hue of bill, milky lilaceous- white, palest and purest on lower mandible, which has a delicate rosy tint basally beneath; culmen, pale plumbeous sepia; iris, bister; tarsi and toes, deep, rather dilute sepia-brown.
531, 9 ad.; Carson City, Nevada, April 25, 1868. 7— 9|— 3^2yV Same re- marks.
PaSSERELLA SCH18TACEA.
Slate-colored Sparrow.
Passerella schistacea, Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 490, pi. Lxrx, fig. 3; Cat. N. Am.
B., 1859, No. 376.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 1, 1870, 223 (figs, of head and feet). Passerella iliaca var. scliistacea, Anlen, Bull. Mus. Corap. Zool., Ill, 1872, 168. —
COUES, Key, 1872, 147. Passerella townsendi var. schistaoea^ CoUES, Key, 1872, 352 ; Check List, 1873, No.
189a; B. N.W., 1874, 162.— B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. B., 11, 1874, 56, pi.
XXVIII, fig. 9.— Henshaw, 1875, 293.
This species was first met with at Carson City, Nevada, during its northward migration, which began late in February or early in March, some few individuals having doubtless remained during the winter in the shelter of the dense willow-thickets along the river. The following Septem- ber it was observed in similar localities in the Upper Humboldt Valley ; we may therefore judge that it is found, in proper season, and in suitable localities, throughout the country between the Sierra Nevada and the Wahsatch. During the summer .months it was one of the commonest birds in Parley's Park, where it was a constant associate of Melospiza fallax in the willow-thickets. It is quite a counterpart of that species in manners and notes, while the nests and eggs are similar to such a degree^ that it often required the sacrifice of the parent, and always a very close observation, for the positive identification of the species. The ordinary note is a sharp chuck ; but the song is scarcely distinguishable from that of Melospiza fallaz.
CALAM08PIZA BIOOLOR. 487
List of speeimens.
433, i ad.; Carson City, Nevada, March 9, 1868. 7|— lOf— 3/^— 2f . Upper raandible, olivaceotts-sepia, darkest basally, tomium ashy-lilac; rictus and basal two- thirds of lower mandible, bright maize-yellow, deepest beneath; terminal portion, brownish-lilaceoas, the point dusky ; iris, precisely the color of pectoral spots ; tarsi and toes, dilute-sepia.
919, S ad.; head of Humboldt Valley (Camp 34), September 11, 1868. 7f-10^ — (?)— 2|^|. Upper mandible, sepia-plumbeous, darker along culmen, more lilaceous along tomium ; lower paler, point dusky, the basal half deep maize-yellow ; iris, burnt- sienna; tarsi and toes, very deep sepia.
1223, nest and eggs (4); Parley's Park, June 22, 1869. Nest in a bunch of willow sprouts about two feet from the ground, bank of stream.
1225, 1226, 1227, 1229, and 1230, nests and eggs; Parley's Park, June 23, 1869. 1289, nest and eggs; Parley's Park, June 25, 1869. Nests among bushes or willow- stubs in thickets along streams, from one to six feet above the ground.
1460, nest ; Parley's Park, July 26, 1869. Nest among willows.
Oalamospiza bicoloe*
Liark Bunting^.
Fringilla bicolor, Townsend, Jour. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., VII, 1837, 189. Oalamospiza hicohr^ Bonap., Comp. & Geog. List, 1838, 30.— Baird, B. N. Am.,
1858, 492; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 377.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 225.—
CouES, Key, 1872, 147 ; Check List, 1873, No. 190 ; B. N.W., 1874, 163.— B.
B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., II, 1874, 61, pi. xxix, figs. 2, 3.— Henshaw, 1875,
294.
But a single specimen of this species was observed by us, and this was doubtless a straggler from the Great Plains on the eastern side of the Rocky Mountains. The individual in question was on the ground when shot, its appearance and manners being quite similar to those of Ghondestes grammaca. On the plains just east of the town of Cheyenne, we noticed in August, from the car-windows, numerous large flocks of this species, startled by the approach of the train, the flocks rising from the grass on either side, and wheeling about in their flight in the irregular manner of Horned Larks (EremopMla).
List of specimens,
Ull.ijuv.; Parley's Park, July 30, 1869. 7^11 J. Bill, ashy-white; upper half of upper mandible, pale ash, gonys with pinkish glow ; iris, brown ; tarsi and toes, purplish-brown.
488 OENITHOLOGY.
Hedymelbs MELANOCEPHALUS. Black-hended Grosbeak.
{Look' -em of the Washoes; Uni-gu'-eet of the Paiutes.)
Ouiraca melanocephala, Swainson, Philos. Mag., I, 1827, 438.— Baird, Birds N.
Am., 1858, 498; Oat N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 381.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I,
1870,228. Hedymeles melanooephalus, Oabanis, Mus. Hein., 1, 1851, 153. — B. B. & E , Hist.
N. Am. Birds, II, 1874, 73, pi. xxx, figs. 1, 2.— Henshaw, 1875, 296.
Goniaphea (Hedymeles) melanocephala^ Gray, Haud List, I, 1869, No. 7547.
Ooniaphea melanocephala^ OoUBS, Key, 1872, 149 ; Olieck List, 1873, No. 194; Birds
N.W., 1874, 167.
This fine bird was quite abundant in the fertile valleys and lower caQons along the entire route, from Sacramento to the Wahsatch and Uintahs. Its range was exactly that of Oyanospiza amcenaj and it was observed that in the Interior both these species reached their upper limit about where the summer range of Pyranga ludoviciana commenced, viz, about the middle portion of the canons. It was abundant both at Sacramento and in the valley of the Truckee, in western Nevada, but was nearly restricted in the former locality to the willow thickets, while in the latter it preferred the shrubbery of buffalo-berry and other bushes. At the latter locality it was observed to feed, in May, upon the buds of the grease- wood (Obione confertifoUa)^ in company with Pyranga ludovicianay Icterus buUockij and several other birds. It was also found in the shrub- bery along the lower portion of the mountain-streams, but was there less numerous than in the river- valleys,. while at an altitude of about 7,000 feet it appeared to be entirely absent. It was consequently rare in Par- ley's Park, where, however, a few pairs were nesting in the thickets along the strteams. It was very frequently observed that the male of this species assists in incubation, being, in fact, more often seen on the nest than his mate.
This species appears to be a perfect counterpart of the eastern Rose- breasted Grosbeak (jBT. ludovicianus), its notes especially, in all their varia- tions, being quite the same.
GUIRAOA CCERULEA. 489
List of specimem.
21, nest and eggs ^3); Sacramento, California, June 11, 1867. Nest in willow, about ten feet from ground. Male on nest when found.
22, ? ad. (parent of eggs No. 21); Sacramento, California, June 11, 1867. 8J— 13— 4J— 3J — |— ^3j--2. Upper mandible, slate-color, low^er bluish-whit^, with tinge of lilaceous beneath; iris, dark hazel; tarsi and toes, pure light ashy-blue.
32, $ ad.; Sacramento, June 12, 1867. 8-^12j^--4^— 3/^ ,|J§^3^1|. Same remarks.
173, S juv,; West Humboldt Mountains, September 7, 1867. 8|— 12| — i^-^ — 3/^ — f — i — 3j — 1|. Same remarks.
564, <y ad.; Truokee Reservation, May 15, 1868. 8}J — 13J — (?)— 3J. Same re- marks.
804, nest and eggs (3); Truckee River, June 6, 1868. Nest in buffalo-berry thicket.
964, <J ad.; Salt Lake City, Utah, May 20, 1869.
1036, (? ad.; Salt Lake City, Utah, May 24, 1869. 8J— 12J. Upper mandible, slate-color, lower bluish-white; iris, brown; tarsi and toes, plumbeous.
1062, S ^d.; Salt Lake City, May 27, 1869. 8J— 12f .
1300, nest and eggs (3); Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, June 27, 1869. Nest in willows aloug stream. Male on nest.
1324, nest; Parley's Park, June 28, 1869. Nest in a willow copse.
1399, eggs; Cash Valley, Utah, July, 1869. [J. C. Olmstead.]
1474, ? juv.; Parley's Park, July 29, 1869. 8J— 12f . Bill, dull lead-color, darker on culmen, lighter and more pinkish toward gonys; iris, brown; tarsi and toes, ashy- blue.
GUIRACA CCERULEA.
Blae Grosbeak.
Loxia cwrulea, LiNN., Syst. Nat., I, 1766, 306.
Guiraca cwrulea, SWAINS., Philos. Mag., 1, 1827, 438.-— Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858,
499 ; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 382.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 1, 1870, 230.— B.
B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, II, 1874, 77, pi. xxrx, figs. 4, 5.— Henshaw,
1875, 298.
Ooniaphea ccet'uUa, SCLATER, Proc. Zool. Soc. Lond., 1856, 301. — CouBS, Key, 1872, 149, fig. 93; Check List, 1873, No. 195; Birds N.W., 1874, 169.
The Blue Grosbeak was met with only at Sacramento, where it was a very common bird in the bushy fields in the outskirts of the city. The distribution of this species is quite remarkable, it being more or less common on both coasts northward as far, at least, as the parallel of 40^, but of exceedingly rare occurrence in the Interior, except along the south- ern border. This fact seems equally true of the eastern half of the conti- nent as of the western, for there are few local lists pertaining to the Missis-
490 ORNITHOLOGY.
sippi Valley which include it, while on the Atlantic coast it is more or less common, locally, north to New Jersey, having even been taken in the eastern portion of Maine ! Its distribution seems, therefore, not to be gov- erned strictly by climatic conditions, but the facts adduced rather seem to indicate a somewhat littoral range for the species.
At Sacramento this species was found in the same localities with Oyanospiza amcena, it being as characteristic of the edges of the copses of young cotton-woods as was Hedymeles melanocephaltis of the willow thickets.
List of specimens.
18, 19, nests and eggs (3) ; Sacramento, California, June 11, 1867.
20, 9 ad. (parent of No. 18); Sacramento, California, June 11, 1867. 7— lOf— 3j — 2|| — I — }l — 2J — IJ. Upper mandible, dark bluish horn-color, lower light, some- what lilaceous, ashy-white; iris, hazel; tarsi and toes, horn-color.
44, <J ad.; Sacramento, June 17, 1867. 7^— llj— 3|— 3^1— |— 3— 1^. Upper mandible blackish-slate, lower light p^umbeous-blue; iris, hazel; tarsi and toes, plum- beous-brown.
51, nest and eggs (3); Sacramento, California, June 18, 1867.
82, nest and eggs (3); Sacramento, California, June 24, 1867.
91, nest and eggs (3); Sacramento, California, June 29, 1867.
Nests all similarly situated, being placed about six feet from ground, in small cotton-woods, in edge of copse.
Cyanospiza AMCENA.
liazuli Buntingr*
Emheriza amoena. Say, Long's Exped., II, 1823, 47.
Cyanospiza amoena, Baied, B. N. Am., 1868, 504 ; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 386.— Cooper, Orn.Cal., 1,1870,233.— CouES, Key, 1872,149; Check List, 1873, No. 198; B. N.W., 1874, 170.— B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. B., II, 1874, 84, pi. XXX, figs. 11, 12.— HenSHAW, 1875, 300.
This pretty little Bunting was a very common species in all the fertile valleys, as well as iu the lower cations of the mountains, its range being co-extensive with that of Hedymeles melanocephalus. Like its eastern con- gener, C. cyanea, of which it is a perfect counterpart in habits, manners, and notes, it frequents bushy places only ; but it avoids the sage-brush tracts, and resorts to the more thrifty shrubbery in the vicinity of the streams.
List of specimens.
9, nest and egg (1) ; Sacramento, California, June 8, 1867. Nest on extremity of drooping branch of small oak, in grove, about four feet from ground.
PIPILO MEGALONYX— P. OREGONUS. 491
38, nest and eggs; Sacramento, June 12, 1867. Nest in bush.
92, nest and eggs; Sacramento, June 29, 1867. Nest in bush.
99, nest and eggs (2) ; Hunter's Station, Nevada, July 1, 1867. Nest in bush, along stream.
835, nest and eggs (3) ; Austin, Nevada, July 4, 1868. Nest in wild-roso brier, along stream in canon.
850, $ ad.; East Humboldt Mountains, July 21, 1868. 5f — 8f— (!)— 2f . Upper mandible, black, tomium pale bluish ; lower, pale blue, point blackish ; iris, dark Vandyke ; tarsi and toes, dull sepia.
962, $ ad.; Salt Lake City, May 20, 1869. 5^—9^. Bill, generally deep black, lower mandible plumbeous, strip of black on gonys ; iris, dark brown ; tarsi and toes, deep black.
1063, i ad.; Salt Lake City, Utah, May 27, 1869. 5§— 9J^. Upper mandible, black ; lower, bluish-white, a streak of black on the gonys (a constant feature in adult males); iris, brown; tarsi and toes, sepia-black.
1237, nest and eggs (3) ; Parley's Park, Utah, June 23, 1869. Nest in wild-rose brier, by stream.
1303, nest and eggs (4) ; Parley's Park, Utah, June 27, 1869. Nest in bush near stream.
1357, nest and eggs (4) ; Parley's Park, July 2, 1869. Nest among rosebushes, by stream.
1418, nest and eggs ; Parley's Park, July 16, 1869.
PiPILO MACULATU8. 1¥esterii Towliee.
/?. megahnyx — Long-clawed Ground Robin.
Pipilo megalonyx, Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 515, pi. Lxxin; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859,
No. 394.— Cooper, Oru. Cal., I, 1870, 242. Pipilo maculatus var. megalonyx^ Coues, Key, 1872, 152 ; Check List, 1873, No.
205b.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., II, 1874, 113, pi. xxxi, fig. 12.— Henshaw,
1875, 303.
y. oregonus — Oregon Ground Robin.
Pipilo oregonusy Bell, Ann. Lye. N. H., New York, V, 1^2, 6.— Baird, B. N.
Am., 1858, 513; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 302.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 241. Pipilo maculatus var. oregonus, CouES, Key, 1872, 152 ; Check List, 1873, No. 206.
B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. B., II, 1874, 116, pi. xxi, fig. 9.
Of the western species of this genus, which resemble in their general markings the P. erythrophthalmus of the East, three definable forms have been recognized, these representing separate geographical areas, and thus corresponding to what are termed geographical, or climatic, races.^ These
^ Typical maculatuSj representing a fourth race, inhabits the table-lands of Mexico; additional forms are, P. carmanij Baird, of Socorro Island, and P. oonsobrinus^ Eidg- way, of Guadalupe.
492 ORNITHOLOGY.
forms are sufficiently easy to recognize in typical or extreme specimens, but such constitute so small a proportion of the number usually em- braced in collections, that if called upon to define these supposed races by trenchant characters, it is very doubtful whether we could succeed to our own satisfaction, while the concurrence of others could scarcely be expected. This is especially the case with regard to the oregonus and megalonyx types, both of which came under our observation in the field. Judging from the specimens alone, of these two forms, we should not think of recognizing two races in the series before us, for it is absolutely impossible to distinguish certa^in specimens obtained in western Nevada from others taken in Utah. But since the notes of the birds of the two localities were so extremely dissimilar as to really astonish us upon the discovery of the fact, we cannot ignore this difference between the birds of the two districts ; this, therefore, is our reason for arranging their synonymy as above.
In their manners and general appearance these western Ground Robins call at once to mind the eastern Towhee (P. erythrophthalmus)^ for they have the same colors (with merely minor differences, not distinguishable at a distance), the same flirting flight, while they are inseparably attached to the most bushy localities. But in direct contrast to the familiar eastern species, we found the western Towhee to be everywhere one of the very shyest birds of the country. The notes, too, are most remarkably dififerent, since none of them are in the least attractive, but, on the contrary, simple and rude almost in the extreme.
The Oregon Ground Robin was found from Sacramento to the West Humboldt Mountains, it being equally common on both sides, of the Sierra Nevada. Within the Great Basin, its range was strictly confined to the valleys and connecting caiions of the western depression, while it was abundant in proportion to the proximity of a locality to the Sierra. In sununer it was generally distributed — ^that is, included the lower canons of the mountains in its range, as well as the river- valleys ; but in winter, it appeared to make a more or less extensive vertical migration, nearly, if not quite, forsaking the mountain localities. At Sacramento, it frequented the thickets around the border of fields in the outskirts of the city, in the same places as those inhabited by the Yellow-breasted Chat and Song Sparrow
PIPILO MEGALONYX— p. OREGONUS. 493
(Icteria longicauda and Melospiza heermanni); and in the lower fertile valleys of the Interior, as those of the Truckee and Carson rivers, it chose similar localities along the river-banks. It was extremely rare in the fertile mountain canons, excepting their lower portions, being far from common in the vicinity of our camps in the West Humboldt range. It was nowhere else so numerous as along the eastern base of the Sierra Nevada, near Carson City, where it was the most abundant bird among the scattered scraggy shrubs of dwarf-plum (Prunus demissaf) mixed with currant bushes, which grew plentifully in the old fields just below the commencement of the pine timber. There it was found chiefly during the spring, summer, and autumn, none having been observed during the coldest part of the winter, at which time they had sought shelter in the dense willow thickets in the river- valleys. About the middle of February, however, they began returning to their sum- mer haunts at the foot of the mountains, and were observed, at first sparingly, in the locality described above, as well as in the dense chaparral of laurel ( Ceanothus velutinus) and manzanita (Arctostaphylus glauca) on the sides of the ravines. Up to about the 9th of March they were nearly silent, their only note being a very common-place teisJij uttered usually in an impertinent tone. At about the above date, however, the males commenced to sing, or rather to utter their rude trill, during the delivery of which the performer occupied a conspicuous position, as the summit of a tall bush or the top of a high rock, where he sat for an hour at a time, as he performed his part in the morn- ing chorus, the black and white of his markings contrasting boldly, and his form clearly defined against the blue sky. The quality of the performance, however, it seemed to us, by no means justified such ostentation, for it amounted to no more than a rude trill, so simple as not to deserve the name of song, notwithstanding the frequency of its repetition and the earnestness of the performer. None of the few notes uttered by this bird bear the remotest resemblance to those of the eastern species (P. erythrophthalmus)^ although the spring-call described above may be compared to the final trill of the very creditable performance of the latter bird. At all times this bird was excessively shy — another striking contrast to its eastern relative — and was thus extremely difficult to procure, seldom allowing one to approach within gunshot ; if too closely followed, flitting in its peculiar manner, for
494 ORNITHOLOGY.
short distances at a time, 'over the buslies, flirting the expanded white- tipped tail at each heavy beat of the wings.
Eastward of the West Humboldt Mountains, few Ground Robins were observed until we annved at Salt Lake City ; indeed, none were seen except at our camp near Austin, in the Toyabe Mountains, and in the eastern canons of tlie Ruby range, at both of which places they were so extremely rare that we could not determine the race.^ At Salt Lake City, however, we found the species again very abundant, even more so than at Carson City, and also inhabiting the chaparral on the foot-hills, which in this case consisted of scrub-oaks instead of manzanita, laurel, and wild-plum bushes. It was noticed immediately, however, that while to all appear- ance they were the same birds as those found near Carson City, they uttered totally different notes, which we found to agree perfectly with Dr. Coues' description in his '^ Prodrome," a fact which impressed us at once, for we had previously striven in vain to detect in the notes of the birds of this species at Carson the remotest resemblance to any uttered by the Cat-bird or the ^*Dickcissel" [EmpizaY^ and since in their characters the specimens agreed perfectly with the diagnosis of megalonyx, we had considered the description of the notes above referred to as erroneous, and were thus glad to find so satisfactory a relief from our dilemma. Instead of the rude, rather suppressed teish with which we had been familiar, a sharp mew was heard, scarcely distinguishable from the notes of the Cat-bird, found in the same locality; and the song was a very decided improvement on that of the west- ern individuals, for, instead of a short, simple trill, apparently '* strained out'' after considerable effort, these trills were multiplied and connected by other notes, so that a passable song resulted. There was still no approach to the notes of P. erythrophthalmuSy however, excepting a very slight one in the song ; but the habits of the birds were much less shy, though they were far from being so confidingly familiar as the very tame eastern species.
^ Judging from the circumstance that accessions from the Rocky Mountain fauna were first encountered at these two localities, it seems most probable that the Ground Robins met with were also the Rocky Mountain form — P. megalonyx,
^"Ordinary call-note almost exactly like that of Minus caroUnensis ; the song a rather harsh and monotonous repetition of four or six syllables^ something like that of JEuspiza americana.^^ — Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci , 1866, p. 89.
PIPTLO MEGALONYX— P. OREGO\^US. 495
Idst of specimens,
/?. megalonyx,
956, nest and eggs (2) ; Salt Lake City, May 20, 1869. Nest on ground, among scrub-oaks on hill-side.
957, nest and eggs (3) ; Salt Lake City, May 20, 1869. Same remarks.
958, <? ad.; Salt Lake City, Utah, May 20, 1869. 8^—10^. Bill, pure black ; iris, red -lead color; tarsi and toes, slaty-sepia.
10C3, $ ad.; Salt Lake City, May 24, 1869. 8|f— 11. Bill, pure black ,• iris, intense scarlet", tarsi, purplish-sepia, toes darker.
1034, i ad.; Salt Lake City, May 24, 1869. 8|— 11|. Same remarks.
1035, <? ad.; Salt Lake City, May 24, 1869. 8|— 11. Same remarks.
1043, nest and eggs (4); Salt Lake City, May 24, 1869. Nest on ground, beneath sage-bush.
1069, ? ad.; Salt Lake City, May 29, 1869. 8f— 11. Same remarks.
1096, nest and eggs (4) 5 Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake, June 4, 1869. Side of ravine. Nest on ground, beneath sage-bush.
1185, nest and eggs (3) ; Salt Lake City, June 18, 1869. Nest on ground, among scrub-oaks.
1186, nest and eggs (3) ; Salt Lake City, June 18, 1869. Nest on ground, beneath uprooted oak in thicket.
y. oregonus.
35, nest and eggs (3); Sacramento City, California, June 12, 1867. Nest on ground, beneath fallen dead thistle, in thick cotton-wood copse.
199, ^ ad.; West Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, September 20, 1867. 8|— lOJ— ^T6 — ^ — H — I — ^ — ^S' ^^^^ blackish-slate, commissure and lower mandible inclin- ing to ashy ; iris, deep brownish vermilionred ; tarsi and toes, dark horn-color.
222, 2 ad.; West Humboldt Mountains, October 3, 1867. 8f — 10f--35^2J— i— 1^4^ — 2^. Bill, black, lower mandible inclining to dusky slate, paler basally; iris^ light hazelred; tarsi and toes, deep purplish horn-color.
227, i ad.; West Humboldt Mountains, October 4, 1867. 8f— 11^-31—3^^— -9_ — 1 — 4^3_ — x|^ j3ii|^ slate-black, ashy on lower mandible; iris, light brownish-yellow; tarsi and toes, light horn-color.
235, (J ad.; West Humboldt Mountains, October 7, 1867. 81— 10y\— 3J— 25 — ,»^— II — 4 — 2 J. IriSj deep rufous.
434, 9 ad.; Carson City, Nevada, March 9, 1868. 8^10^— 3J— 2|. Bill, slate- black; im, intense orange-chrome ; tarsi and toes, dilute purplish-sepia, the toes with a violaceous cast.
476, i ad.; Carson City, March 30, 1868. 8f ~11|— 3|— 3. Bill, perfectly uni- form, slaty black 5 iris^ rich scarlet
495, ^ ad.; Carson City, April 4, 1868. 8|— 11 — 3g — 3. Same remarks.
[In the western species, the iris when intense red — indicating high maturity — is never of the carmine shade often seen in erythrophthalmtusj but inclines more to scarlet or orange-red.]
496 ORNITHOLOGY.
Pjpilo CHLOEUEUS. Orecn^tailed Bniitingr.
(Pooe-tse^'tse of the Washoes.)
'^Fringilla cMorura^ Townsend," Audubon, Orn. Biog., V, 1839, 336.
Pipilo chlornrus, Baird, Birds K Ain., 1858, 519; Cat. K. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 398.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 248.— Coues, Key, 1872, 153; Check List, 1873, No. 208; Birds N.W., 1874, 176.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, II, 1874, 131, pi. XXXI, fig. 4.— Henshaw, 1875, 307.
This very interesting species was met with on all the higher ranges, from the Sierra Nevada to the Uintahs, particularly in the elevated parks and cafions, where it was one of the most characteristic birds. We never observed it at a lower altitude than the beginning of the canons, or, as happened rarely, in ravines of the foot-hills, while, in the river- valleys, it appeared to be entirely wanting. It is apparently migratory, as none were observed between the months of September and April, and in its passage to and from the south appears to follow the mountain ranges without performing sufficient vertical migration to reach the lower valleys. In the cafions of the lofty Toyabe Mountains, near Austin, this species was exceedingly abundant in the early part of July; it was also very common in the higher cafions and elevated garden-like slopes of the Ruby range, while in similar places near the station of Evanston, on the high Uintahs, numbers were heai'd singing on every hand during our brief stay there, in the month of May. Like its congeners, this species is a bird of the chap- arral, living chiefly in the brushwood of the cafions and ravines; but it is also found among the rank herbage of those flowery slopes so characteristic of the higher portions of that mountainous region.
In the position of its nest there was a rather unusual uniformity of habit manifested, especially by the birds of one locality; thus, those found at Austin were all placed in the thickest part of low bushes of the Symphoricarpus montanuSj at a height of eighteen inches to two feet above the ground; the same was usually the case in Parley's Park, although sometimes other shrubs, as wild-currant bushes, were selected. The maximum number of eggs found in a nest was four.
PIPtLO GHLORURUS. 497
The song of this bird is possessed of great strength and clearness^ as well as considerable variety, approaching most nearly that of the Bay- winged Bunting (Pooecetes gramineus) in style, tone, and modulation. It is louder, however, and more continued, though in the latter respect it is far inferior to that of Chondestes grammaca. Tfie ordinary note is remarkably sweet, sounding like a laughing pronunciation of the syllables keek^ heek\ very much in the tone of the tweet of a Canary-bird; this note is uttered on, the approach of anyone, when the bird hops familiarly about the stranger, without manifesting any symptoms of uneasiness at his presence, but rather expressing pleasure in its notes.
List of specimens.
169, 9 ad,; Camp 18, West Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, September 7, 1867. 7ji_10— 3^^— 2|— y»5— }|— 34— IJ. Upper mandible, slate-black, tomium bluish- white; lower, bluish-white, almost milk-white at the base; m>, purplish rufous ; tarsi, and toes, bluish horn-color, *
532, i ad,; Carson City, Nevada, April 25, 1868. 7^|— lOJ— 3^V-2S. Upper mandible, black, tomium plumbeous-blue; lower, pure pale plumbeous-blue, tip black; m«, de^ purplish-ferruginous (very similar to color of crown); tarsi, dilute whitish-sepia; toes, deeper sepia.
817 (4), 818 (3), nests and eggs; Austin, Nevada, July 2, 1868.
822 (4), 823 (4), 824 (2), 825 (2), 826 (2), nests and eggs ; Austin, Nevada, July 3, 1868.
929, $ ad.; Camp 25, Humboldt Valley, September 16, 1868. 7J— 10— (!)— 2f. Same remarks.
959, ? ad,; Salt Lake City, May 20, 1869. 7^—95 . Upper mandible and gonys, black, lower pale blue; iris, raw-sienna; tarsi, lilaceous sepia, toes darker, more plumbeous-sepia.
1052, 3 ad,; Salt Lake City, Utah, May 26, 1869. 7f — 10. Upper mandible, plumbeous-black, lower plumbeous-blue; irisy cinnamon ; tarsi, pale brown; toes, darker.
1234, 1235, nests and eggs (3) ; Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, June 23, 1869. Thick low bush, by stream.
1274, nest and eggs (3); Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, June 24, 1869. Thick 4ow bush, by stream*
1295, nest and eggs (3)j Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, June 25, 1869. Nest on ground, beneath bush.
1313, nest and eggs (3); Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, June 27, 1869. Nest on ground, beneath bush.
1320 (4), 1321 (2), nests and eggs; Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, June 27, 1869. Bushes by stream,
1325 (4), 1326 (2), nests and eggs ; Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, June 28, 1869. Bushes by stream. 32 P B
498 ORKITHOLOGY.
1478, f juv.; Parley's Park, Jaly 30, 1869. 7|— lOJ. General hue of bill, livid slate, pinkish along the tomium and base beneath^ iris, ashyumher ; tarsi and toes, deep horn.
1479, 9 juv.^ Parley^s Park, July 30, 1869. 7J^9f . Same remarks.
PlPILO OBISSALIS. Brown BniUlnir.
Fringilla crissalis^ ViooBS, Zool. Beechey's Voyage, 1839, 19.
Pipilo fu8cu8 var. crissalis^ COUES, Key, 1872, 163; Check List, 1873, No. 206b.
B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, II, 1874, 122, pi. xxxi, fig. 8. Pipilo fuscus^ Bated, Birds K Am., 1858, 517 [not of Swainson, Philos. Mag.,
1, 1827]; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 396.— Cooper, Oru. Cal., 1, 1870, 245.
This large Bunting was noticed only during our ascent of the western slope of the Sierra Nevada, the species being easily recognized by its large size and uniform tawny color. It was first encountered in the ravines of the lowest foot-hills, and was continually observed among the thickets and chaparral by the roadside until the pine-forest grew dense and closed in to the roadside, after which none were seen. It appeared to be a very silent species, since no notes were heard.
Family ALAUDIDJl— Laeks. Eeemophila alpesteis.
Horned I^ark ; Shore Iiark*
a. alpestris. Alauda alpestris^ Fobstbr, Philos. Trans., LXII, 1772, 398. Eremophila alpestris^ BoiE, Isis, 1828, 332.— CoUES, Key, 1872, 89, fig. 32; Check
List, 1873, No, 63.— HENSH4W, 1875, 309. Eremophila alpestris var. alpestris^ B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am, B., II, 143, pi. xxxir,
figs. 1, 2. Eremophila alpestris. a. alpestris^ CoUES, B. KW., 1874, 37, Alauda cornutaj Wilson, Am. Orn., I, 1808, 87 (in text). •
Eremophila cornutaj BoiE, Isis, 1828, 322.— Baied, B. N, Am,, 1858, 403 ; Cat.
N. Am. B., 1859, Ko. 302.
/?. leucolcema.
f Otoeorys oecidentalis^ MoOall, Pr. Philad. Acad. Nat. Sci., V, 1851, 218 (iuvJ). —Baied, Stansbury^s Salt Lake, 1852, 318.
Eremophila alpestris rar. fet*catowa, OouES, B. N. W., 1874, 38.— Hbnshaw, 1875, 309.
EREMOPHIIiA ALPESTEIS. 499
y, chrysolcema. Alauda chrysolasma^ Wagler, Isis, 1831, 350. Eremophila comuta var. chrysolcema, Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 403. Hremophila alpestris var. chrysol^ma, Coues, Key, 1872, 89 ; Check List, 1873, No.
53a.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., II» 1874, 144.— Henshaw, 1875, 310. EremopMla alpestris. c. chrysolcema, Coues, B. N.W., 1874, 38. EremopUla comuta^ Cooper, Orn. Cal., 1, 1870, 251 (part).
Few birds are more widely distributed than this one ; and if the sage- brush deserves the title of "everlasting," from its abundance and uniform distribution, it would be as proper to designate this species as "omnipresent," so far as the more open portions of the western country are concerned. No locality is too barren for it, but, on the contrary, it seems to fancy best the most dry and desert tracts, where it is often the only bird to be seen over miles of country, except an occasional Dove {Zencedura carolinensis)j or a solitary Raven, seen at wide intervals. Neither does altitude appear to affect its distribution, except so far as the character of the ground is modi- fied, since we saw them in July and August on the very summit of the Ruby Mountains, at an altitude of about 11,000 feet, the ground being pebbly, with a stunted and scattered growth of bushes. The small, deep- colored race known as chrysolcema was the usual form found in summer, but in winter most of these seemed^ to have migrated southward, their place being taken by flocks from the north, composed of migratory individuals of the races called alpestris and leucol(Bma, of which the former predomijaated.
List of specimens, a. alpestris and ^. leucolcema}
148, ^ a(Z.; valley of tbe Humboldt (Camp 17), August 21, 1867. 7i— 12|— 4J— 3J — ^^ — % — 2g — fj^. Bill, plumbeous-black, basal half of lower mandible pearl-white ; iris, umber; tarsi and toes, purplish-cinereous.
232, $ ad.', West Humboldt Mountains (Camp 19), October 4, 1867. 7^^—12^— ^\ — 3^ — J — I — 2jf — }|. Tarsi and toes, plumbeous-black.
^ We include the specimens of these two races together for the reason that they are not distinguished in our note-books, while the specimens themselves are not acces- sible at the present time. All the examples referable to these two races were collected in autumn or winter, during their migrations southward. Throughout the winter they were found in large flocks, frequenting all open places, and in severe weather daily venturing into the streets and door-yards of the towns. During the winter-season the present, or northern-bred, birds nearly replace the summer-resident, var. chrysolcema^ though sometimes individuals of the latter may be shot from a large flock.
500 OBNETHOLOQY.
302, 9 ad.: Trackee Meadows, November 19, 13G7. 7^^— 13— 4§-^J~i^}J-^3— J. Tarsi and toes, Ihid-black.
395, ^ ad.; Washoe Yalley, January 3, 1868. TJ— 13— 4y«^— 3J. Bill, plumbeous- black, basal two-thirds of lower mandible abruptly, bluish-white ; iris, umber; tarsi and toes, deep black.
397, S ad.; Washoe Valley, January 3, 1868. 7^-^.131— 4|—.3f. Same remarks.
417, i ad.; Washoe Valley, January 3, 1868. 7^— 13J — 4^—3^. Same remarks.
304, i ad.; Wa«hoe Valley, Nevada, January 3, 1868. 7— ISJ— 6§— 3g— 3?^— }f — 2| — J. Bill, plumbeons-whitef culmen and terminal third slaty; iris, umber; tarsi, redduhsepia, toes, more blackish, yellow beneath (much as in Anthus ludovicianiis).
396, 9 ad.; Washoe Valley, Nevada, January 3, 1868. 6j— 11§— 3}f — 3J. Same remarks.
398, <J ad.; Washoe Valley, Nevada, January 3, 1868. 7— 12 J— 4J— 3|, Same remarks.
784, nest and eggs (4); Truckee Reservation, June 3, 1868. Nest imbedded in hard gravelly ground, beneath small scraggy sage-bush, on mesa between river and mountains.
819, nest and eggs (3) ; Port Churchill, Nevada, June 24, 1868. Nest on ground, underneath sage-bush.
1032, i ad.; Salt Lake City, UUh, May 22, 1869. 7— 12J. Bill, black, basal two- thirds of lower mandible bluish- white; iris, brown ; tarsi and toes, sepia-black.
1094, <J ad.; Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake, June 4, 1869. 7^13 J. Bill, pure blue-black, basal two-thirds of lower mandible fine pale blue ; iris, brown ; tarsi and toes, dark sepia.
Family ICTERID^ — Hang-nests, American Orioles, or
American Starlings.
dolichonyx ortzivorus.
Bob-o-link.
/S. cdbinuchm.
Dolichonyx wysAtoru^ var. oMnmha, RmowAY, Bull. Essex Inst., V, Nov., 1873, 192.--CotJES^ Check List, 1873, App., p. 129.
Dolwhonyx oryzivarusy Cooper, Orn. Cal., 1, 1870, 255 (part).— Henshaw, 1875, 311.
The Bob-o-link seems to he spreading over all dis^tricts of the "Far West^ wherever tJie cultivation of the cereals has extended. We found it
MOLOTHBUS ATER. 501
common in August in the wheat-fields at the Overland Ranche in Ruby- Valley, and we were informed at Salt Lake City that it was a common spe- cies on the meadows of that section of the country in May, and again in the latter part of summer, when the grain ripened. We did not meet with it in summer, however, and doubt whether it breeds anywhere in the Inte- rior south of the 40th parallel^
List of specimens, 87^, ? ad.; Raby Valley, Nevada (Camp 21), August 28, 1868.
MOLOTHRUS ATER. Cow Blackbird.
a. ater.
Mohthrus ater^ Gray, Hand List, II, 1870, 36, No. 6507 [cites Bodd., PL Bui., 1783, 606, fig. 1].— BaiRd, Orn. Simpson^s Exped., 1876, 370.
Fringilla pecoriSy Gmelin, Syst. Nat, I, 1788, 910.
Moloihrus peeorisy SwAiNS. & Rich., Fauna Bor. Am., II, 1831, 277.— Bated, B. N. Am., 1858, 524; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 400.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 257.— CotJES, Key, 1872, 155 ; Check List, 1873, No. 211.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., II, 1874, 154, pi. XXXII, figs. 6, 7.— Henshaw, 1875, 312.
Molothrus pecoris. a. pecoris^ CoUES, B. N.W., 1874, 180.
We found this species to be so rare in the country traversed by the expedition that the list of specimens given below comprises every individual seen during the whole time.
List of specimens,
146, a jup.; Camp 17, valley of tbe Humboldt, August 31, 1867, 8— 13J— 4J— 3|-«^T^— .1_2| — IJ. Bill, slate-black, paler and more lilaceous on lower mandible; iris, bazel ; tarsi and toes, black.
147, ? jwt?.; Gamp 17, valley of the Humboldt, August 31, 1867. 7 jV-12^V-*tV— 3|— ^— 5— 2|— 14. Same remarks.
782, i ad,; Truckee Eeservation, June 2, 1868. 8J— 14— (!)— 3|. Bill, tarsi, and toes, deep black; iris, burnt-umber.
1231, egg ; Parley's Park, Wahsatcb Mountains, Utah, June 23, 1869. Deposited in nest of Passerella schistacea,
1401, egg ; Bear Kiver Valley, Utah, June, 1869. Deposited in nest of Geothlypis trichas, (Collected by Mr. J. 0. Olmstead.)
* According to Mr. Henshaw {l. c), the Bobolink apparently breeds, at Provo, Utah, parent birds having been noticed feeding their young, July 25th.
502 OENITHOLOGY.
X ANTHOCEPHALTTS ICTEEOOEPHALUS. Yellow-headed Blackbird*
{Se-zooh! of the Washoes.)
Icterus icterocephalus^ BoNAP., Am. Orn., 1, 1835, 27, pi. 3.
Xanthocephalm icterocephalus^ Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 531 ; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, Ko. 404— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 267.— Coues, Key, 1872, 156, fig. 98 ; Check List, 1873, No. 213 ; B. N. W., 1874, 188.— B. B. & K., Hist. N. Am. B. II, 1874, 167, pi. xxxii, fig. 9; pi. xxxiii, fig. 9— Henshaw, 1875, 315.
In order to be assured of the presence of this large and conspicuous specie^, it was only necessary to find an extensive marsh with a sufficient extent of tall rushes, or, as termed in western parlance, tules. It was most abundant in the vicinity of Sacramento City and along the southeastern margin of the Great Salt Lake, near the mouth of the Jordan River; but it was also plentiful at all mtermediate points where suitable localities existed. These birds generally frequent the same marshes as the Red-wings {AgelcBus)^ but usually the two congregate in colonies in separate portions of a marsh. In general habits there is much resemblance to the Red-wings, especially in their fondness for mai'shy localities ; but in many respects there is a closer approach to the Cow-bird (Molothrus), notably in their very terres- trial nature ; for they may be very often observed walking over the green- sward of the damp meadows with a firm, stately, and graceful gait, in the manner of the species alluded to above. The eggs, also, are more like those of Molothrvs than those of Agelceus.
The notes of the Yellow-headed Blackbird are among the harshest and rudest we have heard in any species. Their general character is that char- acteristic of most ** Blackbirds" of this family, the ordinary note being a deep chuck^ similar to that of Quiscalus purpureus or Q, ceneus, but louder ; while the song of the male is a discordant squawk, apparently ** strained out " by great effort, in a squeaking, rasping sort of way, like the similar performance of Mohthrus or Quismlmj but differing in that many of the notes compare, in loudness and grating tone, with those of the Guinea Hen {Numida meleagris). The singer, however, evidently thinks his perform- ance pleasing, and it probably is to his mate, for he makes a great parade
AGEL.EUS PHOBNICEUS. 503
of himself, spreading his tail widel)'-, drcK)ping bis wings, and swelling out his body at each effort.
The species was partially migratory in the Interior, only a few ex- amples being seen during the winter at Carson City, these being mostly solitary individuals mixed in with flocks of Scolecophagus cyanocephaliis^ although occasionally small troops visited the corrals for the purpose of gleaning the half-digested grain from the manure. Their gregarious naturfe was manifest at all times, however, even in summer, for they nested in large communities, apart from the other marsh-birds, although always found in close proximity to them.
List of specimens,
39, nest and eggs (3); Sacramento, California, June 12, 1867. Nest in tule-slough.
140, ^a<i.; Camp 17, valley of the Humboldt, Nevada, August 30, 1867. 11— I'^i— ^tI — ^i — 5 — ^16— 4y3^ — 1|f. Bill, tarsi, and toes, deep black; iris, hazel.
523, i ad.; Carson City, Nevada, April 24, 1868. 10§-.17— 5|^— 4f . Kemarks as above.
965, Sad.; Salt Lake City, Utah, May 21, 1869. 11— 18J. Bill, tarsi, and toes, deep black ; iris, brown.
966, $ ad,; Salt Lake City, Utah, May 21, 1869. 11^— 18^. JEiemarks as above. 973-1004, thirty-two nests with eggs; Salt Lake City, Utah, May 21, 1869. i^ests
among the tules^ in a slough, near Warm Spring Lake ) maximum number of eggs, four.
1021, S ad.; Salt Lake City, May 22, 1869. 11^18|^. Bill, tarsi, and toes, black ; iris, brown.
1022, 9 ad.; Salt Lake City, May 22, 1869. 9— 14f. Bill, dusky horn color, darker above ; iris, brown ] tarsi and toes, black.
AGBLiEUS PHCENICEUS. Bed-shouldered Blackbird.
a. pTmnicem — Red-and-huff-shouldered Blackbird.
{Se-^oo' 'te-mo-lah^ -gehk of the Washoes; Pah-cooV -up-at^ -su-que of the
Paiutes.)
Oriolus phceniceus^ Linn., Syst. Nat., 1, 1766, 161.
AgelcBus phcenioeus^ Vieill., Analyse, 1816.— Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858,626; Cat. K Am. Birds, 1859, No. 401.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 1, 1870, 261.— CouES, Key, 1872, 156, pi. 4; Check List, 1873, No. 212.— B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. Birds, II, 1874, 169, pi. xxxiii, figs. 1, 2, 3.— Henshaw, 1876, 313.
Agelwtis phcenicem. a. pJiwniceuSy CouES, Birds N.W., 1874, 186.
504 OENITHOLOGY.
yff. gub€rnator-—Bed-and-black'Shoul<Jlered Blackbird.
PsarocoUm guhernator^ Wagleb, Isis, 1832, 281.
Agelcem ^w&ernafor, Bokap., Oomp. and Geog. List^ 1838, 30.— Baird, Birds N.
Am., 1868, 529; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 402.— Cooper, Orn. Oal., I,
1870,263.
Agelceus ph^niceus var. gubemator^ CoUES, Key, 1872, 156; Checli List, No. 212a.
— B. B. & K., Hist. K Am. Birds, II, 1874, 163, pi. xxxiii, figs. 4, 8. Agelceus phoeniceus. c. gubernatorj CouES^ Birds N.W., 1874, 186
The Red- winged Blacl4)ird was found in all marshy places, being especially numerous in the vicinity of the great lakes of the Interior and along the larger rivers. The form distinguished as gubernator was exceedingly abundant among the tules near Sacramento, where it was associated with A. tricolor and Xanthocephalus icterocephcUm ; but east of the Sierra Nevada it was found only in the western depression, and was there very rare compared with the commoner form, A, phcenicem.
List of specimens. a. phceniceus.
141, (J; Camp 17, valley of the Huniboidt, Nevada, August 30, 1867. OJ— 14| — "(^)— 05)-- if^l— 3f-~l|- Bill, dark hepatic-brown, stripe of black on side of lower mandible and on the culmen ; iris, hazel; tarsi and toes, black.
142, S; Camp 17, valley of the Humboldt, S"evada, August 30, 1867. 9— 14|— 4}f— 4^1^— 1—1— 34— (!). Same remarks.
154, (J; Camp 17, September 2, 1867. OJ— 14|— If— 3^— jf— 1— 3| -IJ. Same remarks.
238, i; Camp 19, West Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, October 7, 1807. 0§— 15| — 5^^^ — H — i — ^ — ^1 — H' BiU> tarsi, and toes, black; iris, hazel.
265, <J; Camp 26, Truckee Meadows, Nevada, November 8, 1867. Willows. 9J — 15J — 45 — 4^5 — I — 1— 3J — If. Bill, dull blackish, slightly brownish on tomium and gopys; iris, hazel; tarsi and toes, black.
266, ^; Camp 26, Truckee Meadows, Nevada, November 8, 1867. 9J— 15f— 4|| — 4 — I — 1 — 3^ — 1^. Same remarks.
267, i ; Camp 26, Truekee Meadows, Nevada, November 8, 1867. 9— 14 J— 4f J— ^ll~~ll — }| — ^i — ^i- ^^^^ uniform brownish-black, lower mandible rather paler.
268, ii Camp 26, November 8, 1867. Willows. 9|— 15— 4^— 4— J— 1— 3§— 1^. Bill, uniform dull black.
293, (J; Camp 26, November 18, 1867. 9^— ISJ- 5J~4J— if— l^V-SJ- If. Bill, uniform slate-black; iris, vandyke-brbwu ; tarsi and toes, black.
294, ^; Camp 26, November 18, 1867. 9i— 15J— 6^4J— J^l^^— 3|— 1^. Bill, slaty -black, inclining to brownish-cinereous on basal portion of lower mandible.
295, ^; Camp 26, November 18, 1867. 9— 14§— 4|— 3f— f|— Ix^— 3^— ii- Same remarks. .
AGEL^US TEICOLOR. 505
296, <?5 Oamp 26, November 18, 1867. 9J_15|— 54— iy'^— |f— l^V-^S— H. Same remai ks. (Prepared by Mr. Parker.)
297, ?; Camp 26, November 18, 1867. 8J— 13— 4^-^^^— }|— }f— SJ— IJ. Up- per mandible, dull black, lower dull cinereous; iris, hazel; tarsi and toes, dull black.
298, ?; Oamp 26, November 18, 1867. 7|—12i— 4^—3/^-3— J— 3f—l J. Upper mandible, brownish slaty-black, tomium paler, lower brownish cinereous; iris, van- dyke-brown; tarsi and toes, black.
299, 9; Camp 26, November 18, 1867. 7f— 12§— 4J— 34— |f— }|-3— IJ. Same remarks.
403, 9; Camp 26, November 19/ 1867. 7^-12^— 44— 3/^— }|— }f— 3/^— IJ. Upper mandible, horn-black, tomium paler; lower pale horn-color, the point dusky; iris, hazel; tarsi and toes, brownish-black,
566, $ ad.; Truckee Keservation, May 15, 1868. 9|— 15^— (!)— 4. Bill, tarsi, and toes, deep black; iris, sepia.
772 (3), 773 (3); nests and eggs. Truckee Reservation, May 31, 1868. Nests in small bushes, in overflowed meadow.
967, ^ ad.; Salt Lake City, Utah, May 21, 1869. 10— 16^. Bill, tarsi, and toes, black; iris, brown.
988, S ad.; Salt Lake City, Utah, May 21, 1869. 10—16. Same remarks.
1005, 1006, 1007, 1008, 1009; nests and eggs. Salt Lake City, May 21, 1869. Tule-meadows; maximum number of eggs, four.
1023, <J ad.; Salt Lake City, May 22, 1869, 9|— 19. Remarks as above.
1024, <J ad.; Salt Lake City, May 22, 1869. 9^—15^. Remarks as above.
1025, <J ad.; Salt Lake City, May 22, 1869. 9§— 15g^. Remarks as above. 1089, nest and eggs (4); Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake, June 4, 1869. Grassy
marsh, lake-shore.
1142 (4), 1143 (4), 1144, 1145, 1146, 1147, 1148, 1149, 1150, 1151, nests and eggs; Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake, June 9, 1869. Ifesta in sagebrush, in alkaline pond, near lake-shore.
)9. gubernator.
432, i ad.; Carson City, Nevada, March 9, 1868. 9|— 15§— 5J— 4^. Bill, tarsi, and toes, deep black; iris, hazel.
788, nest and eggs (4); Truckee Reservation, June 3, 1868. Nest in sipall bush, in wet meadow.
AGELiEUS TRICOLOR. Red-and*white-sliouldered Blackbird*
Icterus tricolor, NuTTALL, Man. Orn., I, 2d ed., 1840, 186.
Agelwus tricolor^ Bonap., Comp. & Geog. List, 1838, 30. — Baibd, B. N. Am., 1858, 630; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 403.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., II, 1874, 165, pi. xxxin, figs. 5, 6, 7.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 1, 1870, 265.
Agelcem phceniceus var. tricolor, COUES, Key, 1872, 156; Cbeck List,- 1873, No. 212b.
Agelwus phceniceus. d. tricolor, CouBS, Birds N. W., 1874, 186.
This very distinct species was seen only in the neighborhood of Sacra-
506 ORNITHOLOGY.
mento City, where it was excessively abundant, along with the A. guherna- tar and Xanthocephalus icterocepJialus, among the tules near the riven The individuals of this species were easily distinguished by their different appear- ance, while their notes were strikingly dissimilar.
Rturnella neglecta.
Western meadow-I^arkt
{Se-zoo* -te-ya! "lehh of the Washoes; PaW-at-se^-tone of the Paiutes.) 8turneUa neghcta, Audubon, B. Am., VII, 1843, 339, pi. 487.— Baird, Birds N.
Am., 1868, 537; Oatal., 1850, Ko. 407.~Cooper, Oni. Cal., f, 1870^ 270. Sturnella magna var. neglecta. CoUES, Key, 1872, 157 ; Check List, 1873, No. 214a.—
B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. B., II, 1874, 176, pi. xxxiv, flg. 1.— Henshaw, 1875, 317.
Sturnella magna, h. neglecta^ OouES, B. N.W., 1874, 190.
The Western Meadow Lark is a generally-distributed species, since it occurs wherever there are grassy tracts, as well as in the sage-brush of the more fertile districts ; it is much less common in the mountains, however, than in the lower valleys, and we do not remember meeting with it higher up than an altitude of 7,000 feet. So far as general habits are concerned, it is a cdunterpart of the eastern species {S. magna), but its notes are most strikingly different, while it exhibits some very noticeable pecu- limities of manners. It is a much more familiar bird than its eastern relative, and we observed that the manner of its flight differed in an important respect, the bird flitting along with a comparatively steady, though trembling, flutter, instead of propelling itself by occasional spas- modic beatings of the wings, then extending them horizontally during the intervals between these beats, as is the well-known manner of flight of the eastern species.
AH observers, we believe, from the earliest explorers to those of the present time, agree as to the wide difference in the notes of the Western Meadow Lai^k from those of the eastern bird ; and this we consider to be a sufficient evidence of specific diversity, notwithstanding the close similarity of general appearance— especially if taken in connection with the other differences alluded to, and the equally important fact, attested by many writers, that in the region where the habitats of the two forms adjoin they
STUENELLA NEGLEOTA. 507
are found together, each preserving with perfect distinctness its peculiarities of habits and voice, there not being that gradual transition from one to the other, in proceeding eastward or westward, which would exist in case the differences were merely the impress of geographical causes.
We know of no two congeneric species, of any family of birds, more radically distinct in all their utterances than the eastern and western Meadow Larks, two years of almost daily association with the latter, and a much longer famiHarity with the former, having thoroughly convinced us of this fact ; indeed, as has been the experience of every naturaUst whose remarks on the subject we have read or heard, we never even so much as suspected, upon hearing the song of the Western Lark for the first time, that the author of the clear, loud, ringing notes were those of a bird at all related to the Eastern Lark, whose song, though equally sweet, is far more subdued — half-timid — and altogether less powerful ahd varied. As to strength of voice, no eastern bird can be compared to this, while its notes possess a metallic resonance equalled only by those of the Wood Thrush, The modu- lation of the song of the Western Lark we noted on several occasions, and found it to be most frequently nearly as expressed by the following sylla- bles : Tung''tung''tung'ah^ tillah^ 4iUah\ tung' — the first three notes deliberate, full, and resonant, the next two finer and in a higher key, the final one hke the first in accent and tone. Sometimes this song is varied by a metallic trill, which renders it still more pleasing. The ordinary note is a deep- toned tuck, much Hke the chuck of the Blackbirds {Qmscalus)^ but consid- erably louder and more metallic ; another note is a prolonged rolling chat- ter, somewhat similar to that of the Baltimore Oriole [Icterus haltimore\ but correspondingly louder, while the anxious call-note is a liquid tyur^ which in its tone and expression calls to mind the spring-call (not the warble) of the Eastern Blue-bird {Sialia sialis), or the exceedingly similar complaining note of the Orchard Oriole {Icterus spurius). In fact, all the notes of the Western Lark clearly indicate its position in the family Icteridce^ which is conspicuously not the case in the eastern bird.^
^The song itself is more like that of the Common Troupial {Icterus vulgaris) than any other we have ever beard, but it is, if anything, more powerful ; the tone and accent are, however, exceedingly similar.
508 ORNITHOLOGY.
Idat of spedmms.
149, Sjttv.; Gamp 17, valley of the Humboldt, Kevada, August 31, 1867. (Grassy iriver-bottoni.) 9f — 14J — 4J--3| — 1^—1 A — ^—i' Upper mandible, light pinkish- sepia; lower brownish lilaceous- white, tip darker; iris, hazel; tarsi and toes, deli- cate lilaceous-white, faintly tinged with brown.
156, ^Jttu.; Camp 17, September 2, 1867. (Grassy river-bottom.) 9J— 14f— 4f— m — 1^"— H*B — ^i — !• Upper mandible, clear light sepia, deepening into horn color at end ; lower brownish lilaceous-whitii^h, darker terminally.
247, ijuv.; Gamp 19, West Humboldt Mountains, N^evada, October 11, 1867, (Fields.) ]0|— 15— .5— 4|— lf—l^«^ — 3|— 1. CJpper mandible, deep borncolor, black- ish terminally ; tomium and lower mandible, paler lildceons hom-color, darker ter- minally; iris, hazel; tarsi, delicate brownish-whitish; toes, slightly darker.
362, ? juv.; Truckee Reservation, Nevada, December 18, 1867. 9— 141—4^—3 J— ^TB — ^\ — 23 — f. Bill, generally, delicate lilaceous-white; upper mandible with a dilute brownish tinge, the culmen light sepia; iris, umber; tarsi and toes, delicate lilaceous- white.
415, S ad.; Carson City, Nevada, March 5, 1868. 9|— 16J — 5|— 4y^^. Upper man- dible, fttecfc; basal portion of culmen, (between frontal feathers,) broad stripe on basal three-fourths of upper totnium, with basal two-thirds of lower mandible |?ttr6 2)al^ blue; tip of lower mandible, black; iris, umber; tarsi and toes, delicate, uniform, pale ashy- lilaceous.
459, iad.; Carson, City, Nevada, March 26, 1868. 10|— 17— 5i~4i. Same re- marks.
460, i ad.; Carson City, Nevada, March 26, 1868. 10—16—5—4. Same remarks. 606, nest and eggs (5); Carson City, Nevadaj April 21, 1868. Nest imbedded in
ground beneath sage-bush ; nest precisely like that of 8. magna.
787, nest and eggs (4) ; Truckee Eeservation, June 3, 1868. Nest imbedded in the ground, beneath a low bush, on the grassy bank of the river.
Icterus bullocki.
Bullock's Oriole.
{Yset'he of the Washoes.)
Xanikornus hullockiij SvtaINSON, Synop. Mex. Birds, Philos. Mag., r, 1827, 436.
Icterus bnllackiij Bonap., Comp. & Geog. List, 1838, 29.— Baibd, B. N. Am., 1858, 549; Catal., 1859, No. 416.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 273.— Coues, Key, 1872, 158, fig. 100; Check List, 1873. No. 217; B. N.W., 1874, 195— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., II, 1874, 199, pi. XXXTV, flgs. 3, 7.— Henshaw, 1875, 320.
Except in the higher pine forests, this beautiful Oriole is common in all wooded localities of the western country. It abounded at Sacramento to such an extent that several nests were often found in one tree, a large
ICTERUS BULLOOKL 509
cotton- wood by our camp containing five, some of which, however, were unoccupied. In May we found numbers of them in the rich valley of the Truckee, near Pyramid Lake, and observed that they were then subsisting chiefly on the tender buds of the grease-wood {Obione confertifolia), in com- pany with Eedymeles melanocephaluSy Pyranga ludoviciana^ and some other species.
The nest of Bullock's Oriole is very similar in its structure and compo- sition to that of the Baltimore (LbaUimore)y but it is less frequently pendu- lous, and seldom, if ever, so gracefully suspended. Its usual position is between upright twigs, near the top of the tree, thus resembling more that of the Orchard Oriole (J. spurius), which, however, is very different in its composition.
List of specimens.
1, nest and eggs (2); Sacramento, California, June 6, 1867. Nest in top of large isolated cotton- wood.
220, nest; Camp 19, West Humboldt Mountains, October 1, 1867. In aspen- thicket. (Collected by Mr. J. D. Hague.)
667, $ ad,; Truckee Reservation, May 15, 1868. 8J— 12|— (?)— 3^7^. Upper man- dible, black, the toniium bluish- white; lower, pale blue, slightly dusky toward end of gonys; iris, hazel ; tarsi and toes, pale brownish-blue.
808, nest; Truckee Reservation, May, 1868. Nest on drooping branch of willow.
1057 (2), 1058 (5), nests and eggs ; Salt Lake City, Utah, May 27, 1869. l^ests in mountain-mahogany bush, 1,500 feet above camp.
1061, $ad. (parent of No. 1057). 8— 12J. Upper mandible black, tomium and lower mandible fine light blue; iris, brown; tarsi and toes, deep blue, with a faint yellowish stain.
1065, nest and eggs (4); Salt Lake City, May 29, 1869. Nest in maple-sapling, in wooded ravine. (City Creek Canon.)
1106, nest and eggs (2) ; Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake, June 5, 1869. Nest in apple-tree, in orchard.
1130, nest and eggs; Antelope Island, June 7, 1869. Willow-copse.
1178, 1179, nests and eggs; Salt Lake City, June 18, 1869. Mountain-mahogany trees, 1,800 feet above camp.
1346, $ad.; Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, June 28, 1869. 84—12. Bill black, commissure and lower mandible fine light blue; iris, brown; tarsi and toes, horn-blue.
1387, nest ; Provo River, Utah, July 10, 1869. Thorn apple bush,
1390, nest; Provo River, Utah, July 11, 1869. Thorn-apple bush.
510 ORNITHOLOGY.
SCOLECOPHAGUa CYAKOGBPHALUS. Brewer's Blackbird.
PsarocoUus cyanocephaluSj Waglbb, Isis, 1829, 758.
Scolecophagus cyanooephalua^ Cabanis, Mas. Hein., I, 1851, 195. — Baibb, B. N. Am., 1868, 652; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 418.— CooPEB, Orn. Gal., I, 278.— OoUES, Key, 1872, 160; Check List, 1873, No. 322; B. N.W., 1874, 199.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., II, 1874, 206, pi. xxxv, fig. 3.— Henshaw, 1875, 321.
Seldom seen there during summer, this Blackbird becomes one of the most abundant species in the lower valleys during the winter season, when immense flocks frequent the settlements and resort daily to the corrals for their food, which at this time consists largely of the grain gleaned from the fresh dung, or found scattered where the stock has been fed. They also visit the slaughter-houses for their share of the offal, of which, however, the Magpies deprive them of the greater portion. In the severer weather small companies even came to the door-yards in Carson City, to feed upon the crumbs and scraps of meat thrown from the tables. During the breed- ing-season they were observed to have retired to the mountains, where they frequented the trees in the lower cafions, or on the lower slopes, the groves of cedars and nut-pines being a favorite resort. On the 3d of June, 1867, we discovered the breeding-ground of a large colony of this species in a grove of the above-named trees, among the mountains fronting the southern end of Pyramid Lake. More than a hundred pairs had congregated there, and almost-every tree contained one or more nests, while as many as three containing eggs or young were sometimes found on a single tree. Each nest was saddled upon a horizontal branch, usually near the top of the tree, or at a height of twelve or fifteen feet from the ground, and was well concealed in a thick tuft of foliage, the position being quite the same in every instance ; most of them contained young birds, and when these were disturbed the parents flew very near, exliibiting much concern, and uttering a soft chuck as they hovered about us ; the maximum number of eggs or young found in a nest was six, the usual number being four or five. In Parley's Park, among the Wahsatch Mountains, they were also abundant during the breed- ing-season, and although many nests were found, they were more scattered, on account, we suppose, of the surrounding country being more generally
SCOLECOPH AGUS GTANOCEPH ALUS. 51 1
wooded — their gregariousness in the instance mentioned above being most Hkely due to the fact that trees were exceedingly scarce in that portion of the country, and, so far as the mountains were concerned, limited to occa- sional isolated groves. Along toward the latter part of July and during the month of August, they became exceedingly abundant in Parley's Park, a large proportion of the flocks being composed of young birds; aud so numer- ous were they that an average of ten or a dozen would be brought down by a single shot. They thus contributed very essentially to the subsist- ence of our tame hawks — four fine examples oi Buteo swainsoni, reared that season from the nest, and allowed perfect liberty about the camp. A wounded bird, winged in one of these massacres, exhibited great spirit and determination when confronted by one of the hawks mentioned above, for he no sooner saw the latter than he became suddenly possessed of the most infuriate passion, even while yet held in the hand, and, with feathers raised, and silvery eyes flashing, sprang upon the hawk and fastened to the back of his head with bill and claws. The poor hawk was greatly terrified, and with outspread wings hopped frantically over the ground, at the same time uttering such plaintive whistlings that the scene excited shouts of laughter and applause from the spectators. The hawk was finally released from its tormentor, and would never afterward touch a living bird. During a great flight of grasshoppers which devastated the grain-fields of Parley's Park and surrounding districts, these Blackbirds were almost constantly employed tn catching these insects, and during their stay appeared to eat nothing else. When engaged in their pursuit it was observed that they often flew from the perch and caught them in the air, in true flycatcher style, this performance being so far from exceptional that it was not uncom- mon to see several individuals perform the exploit at one time.
Li8t of spedmem.
1S9, gad.; Camp 19, West Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, September 17, 1867. (Sheep corral.) 9|f— 10^—5^7^ — 4/^ — ^H — *i— ^i- ^i^lj tarsi, and toes, deep black; iris, whitish sulphur-yellow.
190, $ad^ Camp 19, West Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, September 17, 18G7. lO-lO-^l— 4f— }|— IJ— 4«lj|. Same remarks.
191 , S ad.; Camp 19, West Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, September 17, 1867. 9g— I5g— 5|g^ 13 11 lA— 3H— ^i' Same remarks.
512 OBI^ITHOLOGY.
195, Sad.; Camp 19^ September 19, 1867. (Sheep corral.) 10— 15|— 5§— 4jV~-| — 1 j^--4|— If. Same remarks.
106, 9 ad.; Camp 19, September 19, 1867. 95-.14^— 4}|-4— f— 1^3}f— 1^. Bill, tarsi, and toes, blaek ; iris, light reddishhazeU
198, i ad.; Camp 19, September 20, 1867. (Sheep corral.) 10— 16~-5^\— 4yV— Jl — Ijl — 44—1^1^. Bill, tarsi, and toes, deep black; iris, whitish sulphur yellow.
205, ^ad.; Camp 19, September 21, 1867. 9^— 14}|— 5 1| |— l^i^-^^lg. Bill, tarsi, and toes, black ; iris, light brownishliazel.
206, 9 ad.; Camp 19, September 21, 1867. 9J— 14|—4}f— 4^1^—1— lyV—3|—lJ. Iris, deep (not light) hazel.
789 (4), 790 (6), 791 (4), 792, 793, 794, 795, 796, 797, 798, nests and eggs; near Truckee Eeservation, June 3, 1868.
1277, nest and eggs (3); Parlej^s Park (Wahsatch Mountains), Utah, June 24, 1869. Nest in bush by stream.
1278 (4), 1279 (2), nests and eggs; Parley's Park (Wahsatch Mountains), Utah, June 24, 1869. Nests in cotton-woods, along stream; supported against the trunk by small twigs.
1424, $ ad.; Parley's Park, June 17, 1869. lOJ— lOJ. Bill, tarsi, and toes, black ; iris, white.
1462, Sjnv.; Parley's Park, July 28, 1869. 10— 16 J. Bill, legs, and feet, black; iris, grayish yellowish white.
Family COEVID^— Ceows and Jays.
COEVUS CORAX. Raven.
/?. carnivorus— American Baven. {Kah'-gehk of the Washoes; Ahf-dah of the Paiutes; Hih of the Shoshones.)
Carvus carnivorus^ Baetbam, Travels, Fla., 1793, 290.— Baird, Birds N. Am., 1868, 560; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1869, Ko. 423.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 1, 1870, 282.
Corvns corax var. carnivorus^ B. B. & E., Hist. K. Am. Birds^ II, 1874, 234, pi. XXXVII, fig. 6.— Hbnshaw, 1876, 324.
Corvus corax (var.t), CoxjES, Key, 1872, 162. • Corvus corax^ CoUES, Check List, 1873, No. 226; Birds N.W., 1874, 204.
Corvus cacalotl, Wagler, Isis, 1831, 627.— Baxrd, Birds K Am., 1868, 663; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1869, No. 424.
This large bird is one of the most characteristic species of the Great Basin^ over which it appears to be universally distributed, no desert-tract being so extensive or sterile that a solitary Raven may not be seen any day, although in such regions it is most usually observed winging
CORVUS CARmVOEUS. 513
its way silenily, or with an occasional hoarse croak, from the mountains on one side the desert to the range opposite. It is also plentiful in the most fertile sections. We did not see it in the Sacramento Valley, where the Common Crow ((Z americanus) was so abundant — the two species being, in fact, nowhere found together in equal abundance; but it became numer- ous immediately after we had crossed the Sierra Nevada, while the Crow disappeared almost entirely. In those portions where the Raven was the predominant species, as in western Nevada, we found that it went by the popular name of ^^Crow," while the more rare C, americanus was distin- guished as the ''Tom Crow!" At the Truckee Meadows the Ravens were very abundant in November, but were so shy as to be with difficulty ap- proached within gunshot. At the latter locality we once observed an assem- bly of them annoying a Rough-legged Hawk {Archibuteo sancti-johannis) which had alighted on a fence-post; but the hawk did not appear to mind them much, and did not fly until we approached, when he took to flight, and was followed by the Ravens until almost out of sight. At Carson City they were very numerous in winter at the slaughter-house, just outside the town, where they congregated with the Magpies to feed upon the offal; they were then very tame and easily killed. The true home, however, of the Ravens appeared to be in the desert mountains, where their eyries were often seen among the high volcanic rocks, out of reach of an ordingCry climber. In the appearance, manners, and voice of the Raven there is such a general resemblance to the Common Crow that after long familiarity with the latter the peculiarities of the former are forgotten. This, probably, accounts for the inappropriateness, or incorrectness, of the western nomen- clature of these two birds, for when the two are seen together, which not often happens, the ^*Tom Crow" appears dwarfed in size, or not as large as a crow should be. The notes, also, are quite similar in their character (far more so than those of the Fish Crow, C ossifragus^ and the common species), but they are considerably hoarser and less vehement. The most conspicuous difference is in their manner of flight, the Crow flapping its wings continu- ally, and seldom if ever sailing with outstretched, motionless pinions, while the Raven almost constantly soars in the buoyant and well-sustained man- ner of certain Baptores, a flapping flight being the very rare exception. 33 PR
514 ORNITHOLOGY.
List of specimenis.
271, ? adj Camp 26, November 11, 1867. 25— 50J— 17— 13|-^— 2J— 9J— f;j. Bill, tarsi, and toes, deep black; interior of mouthy deep slaty violaeeous-blacJc ; iris, deep Vandyke.
284, S ad.; Camp 26, November 16, 1867. 26— 51— 17— 13f~3— 2§— lOJ— 5|. Same remarks. Interior of mouth with some flesh-color beneath the tongue and far back.
2S5^ 9 ad; Camp 26, November 15, 1867. 25— 60— 17— U— 3— 2^—10— 6. Same remarks. Interior of mouth with cloudings of livid flesh-color posteriorly.
CORVUS AMERICANUS. Common Crow.
{Kah'-gehk Nah'-ming of the Washoes ; Queh' Ah' -dah of the Paiutes.)
Corvus americanus^ Audubon, Orn. Biog., II, 1834, 317. — Baird, B. N. Am., 1868, 566; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 426.— CouES, Key, 1872, 162; Check List, 1873, No. 228.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., II, 1874, 243, pi. xxxvii, fig. 5 — Hen SHAW, 1875, 327.
Corvus amerieanus. a. americanns^ CoUES, B. N.W., 1874, 206.
Corinis caurinus^ Cooper, Orn. CaL, 1, 1870, 285 (part, if not entirely).
In crossing the plains from Sacramento City to the Sierra Nevada, we found the Common Crow exceedingly numerous at a certain place along our route, where a considerable stream crossed the plains ; they flew about over the ground and up into the trees with the same noisy cawing as in the east, and appeared to be in all respects the same bird. In the country to the eastward of the Sierra Nevada, however, the Crow was so extremely rare as to be met with on but two occasions, when the number of individuals was limited to a very few. The first examples were seen at the stage-station near the Humboldt marshes, in November. Three individuals only were found there, and these walked unconcernedly about the door-yard with the familiarity of tame pigeons, merely hopping to one side when approached too closely. So much confidence displayed by this usually wary bird was in such contrast with the extreme shyness and caution it exhibits in more thickly-populated portions of the country, that we concluded they were domesticated specimens, and found out our mistake only after questioning the station-keeper as to the history of his ''pets," when we received
PIOICORVUS COLUMBIAN0S. 515
permission to shoot one for our collection. Later in tlie same month a very few — ^perhaps less than half a dozen individuals— were found at the Truckee Meadows, where they frequented the willows along the river. These also were very tame, but except in this regard seemed to be ex- actly like the Crow of the Eastern States, the notes being quite identical.^
List of specimens.
256, i ad,; Humboldt Meadows (Camp 22), October 31, 1867. 19— (?)— 12J— 10— (?) — 2—7 — 4J. Bill, tarsi, and toes, deep black ; iris, hazel.
263, <? ad,; Camp 26, Truckee Meadows, November 8, 1867. Willows, along river, 19^— 37— 12^10^—2— 2—71— 4f. Bill, tarsi, and toes, deep black ; iris, deep van- dyke 5 interior of mouth {except corneous portions), deep flesh-color,
PlOICOEVUS COLUMBIANUS. Clarke's Nutcraclicr.
{Pah! -hup of the Washoes ; Tohf-o-kot^ of the Shoshones.)
Corvus columUanus, Wilson, Am. Orn., Ill, 1811, 29, pi. xx, fig. 2.
Picicorvus columbianus, BoNAP., Consp. Av,, I, 1850, 384. — Baibd, B. N. Am., 1858, 573, 925 J Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 430.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 289.— COUES, Key, 1872, 162, fig. 104; Check List, 1873, No. 230; B. N.W., 1874, 207.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., II, 255, pi. xxxYiii, fig. 4.— Henshavt, 1875, 328.
The dense forest of lofty pines and kindred trees on the Sierra Nevada was where this remarkable bird most abounded, but it was also found to the eastward wherever extensive coniferous woods occurred, it being common on the Wahsatch and Uintah ranges, and rare on the intermediate Euby Mountains; but it was never seen except among the pines, which seem necessary to its existence. The habits and manners of this bird deviate so widely from those of the family to which it belongs that no one would sus- pect its true relationship ; it acts like a Woodpecker, screams like a Wood- pecker, and looks so much like one that the best ornithologists are apt to be misled, by the first glimpse of it, into believing it an undescribed species
^ Mr. E. W. NelsoD iuforms me that in November be noticed the Crows exhibiting the same familiarity at Sacramento City, where they were seen about the door-yards and corrals of houses in the suburbs.
516 ORNITHOLOGY.
of the Woodpecker family; this was our own impression, coiTected only by the obtaining of specimens. Prince Maximilian described a white-tailed Woodpecker (^^Picus leucurus^^) seen by him in the Eocky Mountains, which was undoubtedly this bird; and Mr. J. A. Allen, an accurate observer, was more recently led into the same error.^
In the pine woods near Carson City these birds were very abundant, and, with the Jays {Cyanura frontalis), made the forest resound with their harsh, discordant cries. Their notes were often to be heard when the bird could not be seen, and were generally the first indication of its presence. The usual utterence, a guttural chur-r-r'T-r-r'r'r'r, repeated several times, and generally as two or more alighted in the same tree, possessed a peculiar snarling character; occasionally, however, an individual would take up a rather musical piping strain, which being immediately answered by all the others in the neighborhood, made the woods echo with their cries. As before stated, all the actions of this bird call to mind the traits of the Wood- pecker tribe; it is a conspicuous object as it floats in gentle undulations above the tops of the tall pine trees, when it resembles in its motions the Ring-necked Woodpecker {Melanerpes torquatus); it is also often seen to swoop to the ground to pick up a fallen pine-seed, return to the tree and hammer it vigorously against a branch; and should two or more alight in close proximity a general snarling chur-r-r-r ensues, reminding one of the quarrelsome Red-headed Woodpecker (Melanerpes erythrocephalus).
We were unable to find the eggs of this bird, but a nest was discov- ered on the Ruby Mountains, in August, 1868, after the young had flown. This nest was in a hole — apparently the deserted excavation of the Red- shafted Flicker — in a tall pine stump, about twenty feet from the ground; the nest itself was a very elaborate and symmetrical one, composed of pine needles and fine roots, with larger sticks outside, resembling *in its general character that made by other species of the family. Attention was first attracted to this nest by observing a pair of these birds enter the cavity in question. It is not known whether it is the constant habit of this species to thus build inside of holes in trees, but on the Sierra Nevada they were
^ Sese American Naturalkt^ Vol. VI, p. 350, and Bull. Mas. Comp. Zoology, Vol. Ill, No. 6, June, 1872, p. 150.
GYMNOKITTA OYANOOEPHALA. 517
often seen to go into hollows about the tree3, as if going to and from their nests.^
List of specimens.
308, 9 ad; Pea- Vine Mountain, near Sierra Nevada, November 20, 1867. Pine woods. 12^— 21§— 7|— 6i— If^— li— 4|— 2f . Bill, tarsi, and toes, deep black ; iris, bright hazel.
309, 9 ad.; Pea-Vine Mountain, near Sierra Nevada, November 20, 1867. Pine woods. 12g—21|—7|—6f—l|— 1^^5—4^—3. Same remarks.
310, $ ad.; Pea-Vine Mountain, near Sierra Nevada, November 20, 1867. Pine woods. 12f— 21f— 7^— 6|— 1§— 11— 41— 2^. Same remarks.
320, iad.; pine woods, shore of Lake Tahoe. (Mr. H. G. Parker.) 13— (?)— 8-.6f— 1^-HV"4S-2S.
443, S ad,; Carson, March 21, 1868. Pines. 12f — 22f— 8— 6J. Bill, tarsi, and toes, black ; iris, blackish-sepia.
444, ? ad.; Carson, March 21, 1868. Pines. 12|— 22^— 7f— 6f . Same remarks. 854, 9 ad.; Camp 19, Bast Humboldt Mountains, August 4, 1868. 12|— 22— (?;—
6, Same remarks.
868, i ad.; Camp 19, August 12, 1868. 12^— 22— (?)— 6y\. Same remarks.
1447, S ad.; Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, July 23, 1869. 12f— 23J. Bill, tarsi, and toes, black ; iris, umber.
Gymnokitta cyanocephala.
Blue Nutcracker; Illaxfniilian's ^'Jay^.''
Oymnorhinus q/anocephalus, Maximilian, Reise Nord-Am., 1841, 21.
GymnoMtta cyanocephala, Bonap., Consp. Av., 1, 1850, 382. — Baied, Birds N. Am., 1858, 574; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 431.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 292.— COUES, Key, 1872, 163; Check List, 1873, No. 231; Birds N.W., 1874, 209.— B. B. & 11., Hist. N. Am. Birds, II, 1874, 260, pi. xxxviii, fig. 2.— Henshaw, 1875, 331.
This extraordinary bird was found to inhabit exclusively the nut-pine and cedar woods on the mountain ranges of the Interior, of which it was the most characteristic species. It was eminently gregarious, even breeding in colonies, and in winter congregating in immense flocks, which sometimes consisted of thousands of individuals, all uttering their querulous notes as they swept to and fro over the hills, in their restless migrations. Its blue color is about the only feature in this bird which would lead one at first sight to suspect its relationship with the Jays, all its habits being so utterly
^According to Captain Charles Bendire, U. S. A., this is by no means the usual position of the nest. [See Bulletin of the JSfuttall Ornithological Club, Vol. I, No. 2, July, 1876, pp. 44, 45.J
518 ORNITHOLOGY.
different from those of the more familiar species of this family. It is as essentially migratory as the Passenger Pigeon (Edopistes migratoria) of the east, its appearance in and departure from a locality being equally sudden. We have often visited a nut-pine woods and found it one day full of noisy, roving troops, and the next as gloomy and silent as if a bird had never made its appearance there. In fall and winter, the large flocks, as they sweep back and forth over the scantily-wooded foot-hills, arc sure to attract the attention of a stranger to the country, not merely from their appearance, but the more so from the fact that their peculiar piping notes oi pe' -pe* 'Whj pe' 'pe' 'Wt^ pe^ 'pe' -w^ are often the only sound which breaks the solitude of these desolate regions, and would thus catch the ear of the most unobservant person.
In its manners, Maximilian's Jay resembles Clarke's Nutcracker (Pici- corvus) more than any other bird, the chief difference being its migratory nature, the latter being of very sedentary habits. Most of its movements are quite similar, its attitude being much the same as it sits upon the summit of a small cedar, quietly reconnoitering, while it also frequently alights upon the ground to pick up a fallen pine-seed or cedar-berry. Its flight, however, is strikingly different, being almost exactly like that of the Robin (Turdus migratorius) — a gliding flight, with the wings rather inclined downward and the head raised — but is perhaps rather swifter. The various notes have all a striking character; the usual one resembles somewhat the tremulous, querulous wailing of the little Screech Owl {Scops asio), but is louder, less guttural, and more plaintive, while another is something like the soft love-note of the Magpie (Pica hudsonica)', besides, there is the peculiar piping whistle of pe^-wee^ pe\ described above, and usually uttered during the migration of a flock.
The breeding-season of this bird is remarkably early; for on the 21st of April, before we had thought of looking for their nests, full-grown young were flying about in a cedar and pinon grove near Carson City. In this grove we found the abandoned nests, perhaps a hundred or more in number, and also one containing young nearly ready to fly; but we were too late for the eggs. These nests were all saddled upon the horizontal branches, at a height of eight or ten feet from the ground, and, except that they were
PICA NUTTALLI. 519
more bulky, resembled in their construction those of the eastern Blue Jay {Cyanura cristatd). The single nest which was not deserted contained four fledgelings, which, when taken out for examination and placed in our hat, scrambled out, at the same time squalling vociferously. In color they resembled the old birds, but were of a duller and more uniform blue.
List of specimens,
502, $ ad.; Carson City, Nevada, April 20, 1868. Cedars. 11|— 18|— 6^5. Bill, tarsi, and toes, deep black; iris, deep sepia; interspaces of scutellse and under surface of toes, ashy- whitish.
503, 9 ad.; Carson City, Nevada, April 20, 1868. Cedars. 10|— 18— 5}f— 4f . Same remarks.
507, $ ad.; Carson City, Nevada, April 21, 1868. Cedars, llf— 19— 6|— -5^. Same remarks.
Pica nuttalli.
Yellow-blllcdl Rlaippie.
Pica nuttalli^ Audubon, Orn. Biog,, IV, 1838, 450, pi. 362.— Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 578; Cat. N. Am, Birds, 1859, No. 433.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 295.
Pica melanoleuca var. nuttalli^ CouES, Key, 1872, 164; Check List, 1873, No. 233a; Birds N.W., 1874, 212.
Pica caudata var. nuttalli, B. B. & E.., Hist. N. Am. Birds, II, 1874, 270, pi. xxxviii, fig. 2.
The Yellow-billed Magpie was observed only in the Sacramento Valley, where it was very abundant among the scattered oaks. It was found in the outskirts of Sacramento City as soon as the first large oaks were met with, moving about in small scattered flocks, and incessantly chattering, whether while on the wing or when perched among the branches; it appeared to be both more noisy and more gregarious than the Black- billed Magpie, which, however, it greatly resembled in other respects. Many nests were found, but they were all in the tops of the tallest oaks, and could not be reached; this was one of the most conspicuous differences in its habits from P. hudsonica, which was found to invariably build its nest in bushes, or, at most, only in the smallest trees, as alders and, cedars, even where large trees were abundant; the dense thickets of willow and buffalo-berry bushes being preferred to any others.
520 ORNITHOLOGY.
List of specimens, U.Sjuv.; Sacramento, California, June 20, 1867. Oaks. 1 4|— 22— 7^5|-^1—
Q5,$juv.; oaks. 16|— 23|— 7|-6|— IJ— l}f— 8^6^.
60, <? juv.; Sacramento, California, June 20, 1867. Oaks. ISJ— 23— 7|— 6J—
67, $juv,; oaks. I63— 23J—7|— 6^—11— 1|— 8—64.
68, 9 juv,; oaks. 15^— 22f — 7J— 6^%— l^V— 1|— 8—6.
69, 9 juv.; oaks. 16— 23|-7^-6|— l^V^li-T^-ej.
70, 9 juv,; oaks. 16f— 23^— 73— C§— JJ— 1|— «— 64. ISJuv.; oaks. 16^— 23f— 7J— 6^— li— 1|— Si— Of 79JUV.; oaks. 14-221-7 J— 6-1 ^3^1^-6^-^.
SO Juv,; oaks. 16^-221-7^-64— lf^-lf^8i-6|.
314, i ad.; American River, Sacramento Co., Cal., November, 1867. (H. G.
Parker.) 19— (f;—8— 6^— 1^7^—^1—10^—81.
[All the specimens obtained, with the exception of the last, were immature and in molting condition; thus the measurements given are of little importance. In all, the bill and bare orbital-region is pure unshaded yellow, varying little, if any, with the specimen, being of a deep lemon-, or nearly chrome-yellow, the face more citreous. The skin over the whole body also, as well as the underside of the claws (possibly only in young birds), is yellpw. We did not notice, in examining this species, the leaden-blue outer ring to the iris, afterward found to be a constant feature in P. hvdsonica.]
Pica rustioa.
Black-billed Magpie.
/3, hudsonica — American Magpie.
{Tahf-tut of the Washoes ; Que'-tou-gih^ gih of the Paiutes.)
C-orvus hudsonicnsj Sabine, App. Franklin's Journey, 1823, 25, 261.
Pica hudsonica, BONAP., Comp. & Geog. List, 1838, 27.— Baibd, B. F, Am, 1858,
676; Cat. K Am. B., 1869, ¥0. 432.— COOPBB, Orn. Cal., I, 296. Pica melanoleuca var. hudsonica, CotTES, Key, 1872, 164, fig. 106 5 Check List, 1873,
No. 233a; B. KW., 1874, 211.— Henshaw, 1875, 334. PicacaudatavsbT. hudsonica, Allen, Bull. Mus. Comp. Zool., Ill, 1872, 178. — B. B,
& R., Hist. K Am. B., II, 1874, 266, pi. xxxviii, fig. 1. Pica rustica var, hudsonica^ Baibd, Orn. Simpson's Exped., 1876, 380.
The Black-billed Magpie is one of the most characteristic birds of the Interior, but its abundance varies greatly, in fact, almost unaccountably, with the locality ; it 5s also one of the most conspicuous birds of that region,
PICA HUDSONIOA. 521
being eminently distinguished by the elegance of its form and the striking contrasts of its plumage. In western Nevada, from the Sierras east- ward to the West Humboldt Mountains, it was one of the most abundant species, but on the opposite side of the Great Basin its entire absence from many favorable localities was noted as the most stiiking peculiarity of the fauna. It was most abundant in the rich valleys of the Truckee and Carson Rivers, and along the eastern base of the Sierra Nevada; and, although less common, it was very far from rare in the lower canons of the West Humboldt Mountains. It was resident wherever observed, and at all times was rather familiar than otherwise, though when much persecuted in one locality it soon learned, by the natural shrewdness characteristic of the family, to look out for itself During the winter the Magpies resorted daily, in company with the Ravens, to the slaughter-houses to feed upon the offal.
The Black-billed Magpie is more or less gregarious at all seasons, and when moving about usually goes in small troops, or loose flocks, which chatter in their peculiar manner as they fly. The usual note is a distinct chatter, unlike the note of any other bird of our acquaintance, but during the breeding-season a softer, more musical note is frequently uttered, sound- ing somewhat like hay* e-ehk-hay' , We did not detect any difference between the notes of this and the Yellow-billed species, although slight differences may exis*,
LxBt of specimens.
101, $ juv.; Camp 10, Truckee Meadows, Nevada, July 6, 1867. Willows. 16 — 24i— 8|— 7— IJ— 1^ — 8g— 6J. Bill, slaty-black, fading into ashy on bare orbital region ; iris, very dark brown, with pearl-blue outer ring; tarsi and toes, black, the latter ashy beneath.
143, S ad,; Camp 17, valley of the Humboldt, August 31, 1867. igg— 23|— .7j^— 65-.1^5^— IJ— 10|— 8|. Same remarks.
178, S ad,; Camp 18, West Humboldt Mountains, September 10, 1867. 18^—23—
73_6^--l^— lyV— l^A— ^Tff^ Same remarks.
194, 9 ad.; Camp 19, West Humboldt Mountains, September 19, 1867. 20—24— 8^7—1^^ — 1^— llj— 9§. Same remarks. Bill, pure black.
204, ?ad5.; Camp 19, September 21, 1867. 20—244—8,^-7—14—11—11^—91. Same remarks.
246, ^a(Z.; Camp 19, October 11, 1867. 17|— 21J— 7^— 6J— If— IJ— 9J— 8. Same remarks. _
522 OBNITHOLOGY.
249, cjadf.; Camp 19, October 12, 1867. 19|—24J— 8— 7— 1^^—1^—111— 9f Same remarks.
289, 9 ad.; Camp 26, Truekee Meadows, November 18, 1867. 20^24i— 8J— 6if — 1^1 jL-ii|_9|. Same remarks.
290, ? 5 Camp 26j Truekee Meadows, November 18, 1867. I9f— 24f— 8|— 7— (?)--(<?)— 11_9^. Same remarks.
306, $ ad.; Camp 26, November 20, 1867. (Slaughter house.) 20i— 25— 8|— 6J— l^Tg — l|3_ii| — 9|.^ Same remarks.
307, i ad.; Camp 26, November 20, 1867, (Slaughterhouse.) 17§— 22^— 7|— 6f — 1.^ — l^i — 9| — 8. Same remarks,
338, 9 ad.; Carson City, Nevada, November 25, 1867. (Slaughter-house.) 18^— 23— 7 J— 6^1|— 1 1_10 J— 8^^. Same remarks.
392, ^ ad.; Washoe Valley, Nevada, January 3, 1868. (Willow-copse.) 20— 24^— 8j — Of. Same remarks.
401, S ad.; Truekee Bottoms, December 19, 1867. 21^25— 8^7— If— If— 13— 11^. Same remarks.
"407, ad.; Truekee Bottoms, December, 1867.
501, eggs (8) ; Carson City, Nevada, April 20, 1868. Nest in cedar.
506, eggs (2) ; Carson City, Nevada, April 21, 1868. Willows.
509 (6), 510 (6), eggs; Carson City, Nevada, April 22, 1868. Willows.
511, egg (1)5 Carson City, Nevada, April 23, 1868. (In nest from which No, 506 were taken.)
512, egg (1) 5 Carson City, Nevada, April 23, 1868. Willows.
513, eggs (4) ; Carson City, Nevada, April 23, 1868. Willows.
514 (8), 515 (8), eggs ; Carson City, Nevada, April 23, 1868. Buffalo-berry. 526, eggs (3)5 Carson City, Nevada, April 25, 1868. Alder swamp.
538, eggs (9) ; Carson City, Nevada, April 27, 1868. Willows.
539, eggs (9); Carson City, Nevada, April 27, 1868. Buffalo-berry.
540, eggs (9) ; Carson City, Nevada, April 27, 1868. Willows.
541, eggs, (7) 5 Carson City, Nevada, April 27, 1868. Willows.
542, eggs (8) ; Carson City, Nevada, April 27, 1868. Willows.
543, eggs (7) ; Carson City, Nevada, April 27, 1868. Buffalo-berry.
544, eggs (6) ; Carson City, Nevada, April 27, 1868. Nut-pine.
545, 546, eggs (6); Carson City, Nevada, April 27, 1868. Willows.
547, eggs (6); Carson City, Nevada, April 27, 1868. Buffalo-berry bushes.
548 (4), 549 (4), eggs; Carson City, Nevada, April 27, 1868. Willows.
550 (3), 551 (2), eggs; Carson City, Nevada, April 27, 1868. Willows.
552, eggs (2) ; Carson City, Nevada, April 27, 1868. Willows.
566 (8), 557 (8), eggs; Carson City, Nevada, April 29, 1868. Alder-bushes.
767, eggs (6); Truekee Bottom, May 29, 1868. Nest in willows on river-bank.
[The nest is in every instance "domed,'' the real nest being inclosed in an immense thorny covering, by which it is generally far exceeded in bulk. In the side of this covering is a winding passage leading into the nest. The purpose of this can- opy is possibly to conceal the very long tail of the bird, which, if exposed, would endanger its safety.]
CYANUEA FEONTALIS. 523
CyAJ!^UEA STELLEEL ^teller's Jay.
^. frontalis — Blue-fronted Jay.
{'^Mountain Jay''^ of Californians.)
Cyanura stelleri, Baird, B. if. Am., 1858, 581 (part) Cooper, Orn. Oal., 1, 1870,
298 (part).
Cyanura stelleri var. frontalis^ EmawAY, Am. Jour. Sci. and Arts, V, Jan., 1873, 43.— B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. B., II, 1874, 279, pi. xxxix, fig. 2.
Cyanurus stelleri. b.frontalisj CouES, Check List, 1873, No. 235a; B. N.W., 1874, 215.
We found this Jay only among the pines on the Sierra Nevada, since it did not, like the Nutcracker (Picicorvus), occur on the higher ranges of the Great Basin, though it was represented on the eastern side by the C. macrolopha — neither the latter nor the subject of these remarks occurring at any point intermediate between the Sierra and the Wahsatch, along the line of our route. Except when driven to the lower ravines and foot-hills by the unusual continuance of cold weather or by violent snow-storms upon the mountains, it was not observed to descend to below the coniferous woods, though it was common in the lower edge of this forest-belt. It was almost always found in the same localities as Clarke's Nutcracker, it being usual to see both species in one tree ; its voice seemed also exceedingly like that of the bird just mentioned, being a series of rough and grating, squawking or screeching notes, very different indeed from those of its east- ern congener, C. cristata, whose utterances are far more varied and flexible, and even musical in comparison ; but like the eastern species it frequently imitated other birds, particularly the Hawks, some of which it mimicked, on occasion, quite successfully. The usual note of the Blue-fronted Jay is a hoarse monosyllabic squawk, very deep -toned, and grating ; but a monot- onous chatter is often heard, consisting of a rapid repetition of hollow-toned notes, somewhat like kuk, kuk, kuk, kuk, kuk, kuk, the style of utterance being comparable to the ^* scythe- whetting" call of the Flickers (Colaptes)^ but much more sonorous and less musical. On one occasion we fired at an individual of this species in the top of a tall pine tree, and merely disabling one wing, its fall was broken by the resistance of the uninjured wing and outspread tail, the bird alighting easily upon one of the lower branches of
524 OENITHOLOGT.
an adjoining tree, when it began to ascend by hopping from one limb to another, at the same time uttering a verj^ perfect imitation of the squealing note of the Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo horealis)^ apparently Tor the purpose of preventing pursuit.
On the 24th of February, 1868, during a protracted period of extreme cold weather, with deep snows on the mountains, we observed a pair of these Jays in a shade-tree on one of the back streets of Carson City; but they appeared ill at ease so near the habitations of man, skulking about, as if afraid of being seen in town, and evidently anxious to return to their native woods.
List of specimens.
321, <J 1 ad.; El Dorado County, California. Presented by Mr. H. G. Parker. 12J«(!)~5g-.4H-li-lJ-5|-4f.
322, i t ad.; El Dorado County, California. Presented by Mr. H. G, Parker. 125-(1)--6-45-li-lJ-.5|-3i.
328, $ ad.; Carson City, Nevada, November 27, 1867. 12^17|— 6—4^—1^—1^ — 5| — 3J. Bill, tarsi, and toes, deep black 5 iris, vandyke-brown.
329, $ ad. (mate of preceding) j Carson City, Nevada, November 27, 1867. 12— 17— 5f— 4f— IJ— li— 54— 4.
330, 9 ad.; Carson City, Nevada, November 27, 1867. 12— 17^— 5f— 4/^— 1—1^ —5—3.
445, $ ad.; Carson City, March 21, 1868. 12f— 18— 6— 5. Bill, tarsi, and toes, black ; iris, bister.
477, c? ad.; Carson City, March 30, 1868. 12— 17^6— 4J.
497, S ad.; Carson City, April 18, 1868. 13— 18f — 6^— 5J. Bill, tarsi, and toes, deep black ; iris, bister. [Type of yebr. frontalis^ Ridgw,, 1. c]
498, 9 ad. (mate of preceding) ; Carson City, April 18, 1868. 11|_174— 5fJ— 4|. [Type of vniV. frontalis^ Rmaw., 1. c]
Cyanuba MACEOLOPHA.
JLon^-crested Jay.
Cyanocitta maorolophaj Baibd, Pr. Ac. Nat. 8ci. Pleiad., 1854, 118.
Cyanura macrolophtLSj Baibd, Birds N. Am., 1858, 582 j Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859,
Ko. 436.— CooPEE, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 300. Cyanura stelleri van macrolopha, Allen, Bull. Mas. ZooL, III, 1872, 178. — Coxjes,
Key, 1872, 165, fig. 107; Check List, 1873, No. 235a.— B. B.& E., Hist. N.
Am. Birds, II, 1874, 281, pi. xxix, fig. 3.— Hbnshaw, 1875, 335. Oyanmra coronata var. macrolophay Eidgw., Am. Journ. Sci. and Arts, V, Jan.,
1873, 43.
This more eastern representative of Steller's Jay was first met with
CYANOCITTA CALIFORNICA. 525
among tlie pines of the Wahsatch Mountains, which formed, apparently, the western limit of its range. It was there by no means common, but became more so as we proceeded eastward into the Uintahs, where it was compara- tively plentiful. In its habits and manners it seemed a perfect counterpart of C, frontalis^ but its notes appeared to be less sonorous than those of that form.
List of sj^eeimem.
1284, nest and eggs (6); Parley's Park, June 25, 1869. Nest in small fir-tree, in edge of woods, saddled on horizontal branch, about 15 feet from ground. . Nest aban- doned, and several of the eggs broken.
1373, S ad.; Pack's Canon, Uintah Mountains, July 5, 18G9. 13f— 19. Bill, black; iris, brown j legs and feefc, black.
1374, nest (of preceding, contained three fully-fledged young). Nest on mountain- mahogany tree, on side of ravine of a secluded canon in the pine-region, situated in a sort of triple fork, near extremity of horizontal branch.
1375, i ad.; Pack's Canon, July 6, 1869. 13|— -19^ Same remarks. 1445, lUejuv.; Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, July 23, 1869.
Cyanocitta CALIFOENIOA.
California Valley Jay*
{Yo'Shoo^'Oh of the Washoes.)
Oarrulus caU/ornicus^ Vigors, Zool, Beechey's Toy., 1839, 21, pi. v.
Cyanocitta californica, Strickl., Ann. Mag. XV, 1845, 342. — Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, §84; Cat. N.Am. Birds, 1859, No. 437.-.COOPER, Orn. Cal., I, 1870,302.— B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. Birds, II, 1874, 288, pi. XJ., fig. 1.
Aphelocoma floridana var. calif ornica, Coubs, Key, 1872, 166 j Check List, 1873, No. 236b.
Aphelocoma floridana. c. calif ornica, CouES, Birds N.W., 1874, 219.
The common ^* Valley Jay" of California was observed in abundance only among the western foot-hills of the Sierra Nevada, where it was seen both in the brushwood of the ravines and among the scattered pines. It was also noticed among the oaks of the plains, where, however, it was less plentiful. On the eastern slope it appeared to be quite common, at least on the foot-hills near Carson City, where, in 1868, it made its first appear- ance toward the last of April.
526 ORNITHOLOGY.
This species may be instantly distinguished at a distance from the C. woodhousii by the conspicuous contrast between the pale gray of the back and the blue of the wings and tail, as well as by the pure white lower parts; the colors of C, woodhousii being much more uniform, appearing almost entirely dull grayish-blue, brighter on the wings and tail. The notes, however, appear to be much the same in the two species.
List of specimens.
558, i ad,; Carson City, Nevada, April 29, 1868. Sage-brush, below pines. 12| — 16— 5J — 4^. Bill, tarsi, and toes, deep black; iris, bister.
559, i ad,; Carson City, Nevada, April 29, 1868. 12|— 16— 5J^— 4i. Same re- marks.
560, ? ad.; Carson City, Nevada, April 29, 1868. 11^— 15|— 5i— 4J. Same re- marks.
Cyanocitta woodhousii.
l¥oodlioase's Jay«
(We^-ahk of the Paiutes.)
Cyanocitta woodhousii, Baied, B. N. Am,, 1858, 585, pi. 59^ Cat. N. Am. B.,
1859, No. 438.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 304. Aphelocoma floridana var. woodhousii^ Allen, Bull. Mus. Comp. ZooL, III, 1872,
179.— COUES, Key, 1872, 166 ; Check List, 1873, No. 236a ; B. N.W., 1874,
219. Cyanocitta californica var. woodhousii, B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. B., II, 1874, 291, pi.
. XL, fig. 3. Cyanocitta floridana var. woodhousii, Henshaw, 1875, 337.
This very interesting bird we found to be the most generally-distrib- uted species of the family, since it occurred on nearly every range where there was water in the main cafions, or extensive woods of nut-pine and cedar on the slopes ; it was said to occasionally visit the wooded valleys of the Truckee and Carson Rivers, but we never saw it at either place, although it was found to be more or less common in the similar valley of the Weber, in Utah. At our camp on the western slope of the West Hum- boldt Mountains, it was very abundant in September, and one of the most familiar birds of the neighborhood. It was very unsuspicious where not molested, and anything unusual in the occupation of any one about the
CYANOOITTA WOODHOUSIL 527
camp was sure to excite its curiosity. On one occasion, while the writer was at work skinning birds in the shade of the bushes overhanging the stream, one often came and perched upon a branch near by, quietly watch- ing every movement with all the inquisitive curiosity of a Cat-bird (Galeo- scoptes carolinensis). On the opposite side of the same range, in Buena Vista Canon, it was also common, and was there several times observed in the gardens and door-yards of the town. It was also rather common on the eastern slope of the Ruby range, in the extensive pinon and cedar woods, while at **City of Rocks," in the southern portion of Idaho, the most north- ern point reached during our trip, it was very numerous in October, among the woods of the same description. On the western foot-hills of the Wah- satch it was more or less plentiful, according to the locality, among the scrub-oaks, while many were seen in the valley of the Weber, It did not occur in Parley's Park, however, the altitude of that place being probably too great.
In its manners this Jay and its congeners differ strikingly from the species of the genus Cyanura, or the Crested Jays, their movements calling to mind the Mocking-hird iMimiis polyglottus) and the Cat-bird (Galeoscoptes carolinensis), their manner of flight being exactly the same, while they exhibit a similar predilection for thickets and scrubby brushwood. The notes of the present species greatly resemble those of (7. californica, and are harsh and piercing to an extreme degree. That most frequently uttered is a shrill screech, sounding like we'-aJik, we'-dhk^ whence the name bestowed upon it by the Paiute Indians.
List of specimens,
162, (J ad,; Oamp 18, West Humboldt Mountains, September 4, 1867. Brush- wood, along brook. 11^ — 15f — 5 — 4f — 1^^ — 1^ — 5f — 4, Bill, tarsi, and toes, deep black ; iris, chestnut-bazel.
186, $ ad,; Camp 18, West Humboldt Mountains, September 12, 1867. Junipers.
12— 15j7^— 5— 4/^— l3.V-l^V-^--"ii--"3Ti- Same remarks.
188, ? ad.; Camp 18, West Humboldt Mountains, September 13, 1867. Brush- wood, along brook. 12^ — 15| — 5J — 4| — Ij — 1^^ — 5g — i^^. Same remarks.
242, i ad.; Camp 19, West Humboldt Mountains, October 8, 1867. Sage brush. 12T«g— 15JL|— 5J— 43^5— IJ— lx5._6— 4. Same remarks.
1190, jw./ Salt Lake City, Utah, June 19, 1869. 11 J— 15. Bill and feet, black ; iris, brown.
528 ornithology.
Family TYRANNIDJE — Tyrant Flycatchers. Tyrannus yerticalis.
TFestern Kingbird; <' Arkansas Flycatcher."
Tyrannus veHicalis^ Say, Long's Exped., II, 1823, 60.— Bairb, Birds N. Am., 1858, 173,- Cat. K Am. Birds, 1859, No. 126.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 312.— CouES, Key, 1872, 170, figs. 110a, 112; Check List, 1873, No. 244; Birds N.W., 1874, 236.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, II, 1874, 324, pi. XLIII, fig. 2.— Hbnshaw, 1875, 342.
Generally distributed throughout all fertile districts of the west, this species was extremely abundant in favorable localities, this being especially the case at Sacramento, where perhaps no other species equaled it in num- bers. In its habits, this Kingbird is remarkably similar to the eastern species, T, caroUnensis, and their nest and eggs cannot be distinguished; but it is of an even more vivacious and quarrelsome disposition, continually indulging in aerial combate, sometimes to such an extent that half a dozen or more may be seen pitching into each other promiscuously, but apparently more from playful than pugnacious motives. They are also of a very sym- pathetic disposition, for when a nest is disturbed, the owners soon bring around them, by their cries, all the others in the neighborhood; but no sooner do they assemble than they begin their playful contests, and fill the air with their twitterings. Their notes are all weaker and less rattling than those of the eastern species, partaking more of the character of a tremu- lous, though rather shrill, twitter.
We know of no other bird so easily tamed, or which so thoroughly enjoys the society and protection of human beings, when once domesticated, as this species, as the following account of three individuals possessed by us in the field, at various times, may show: —
The first of these pets, famiharly known to the party as ** Chippy,^' was obtained about the middle of July from the Indians, who had just taken him, along with three others, all fiilly fledged, from the nest. He was carried to camp, and fed with grasshoppers and flies until able to catch them for himself, which he learned to do in about a week after he acquired the power of flight. The little fellow had a most voracious appetite, and during the day continually followed us about, teasing for grasshoppers, until he had eaten enough, after which he quieted down for five minutes or
TYRANNUS VERTIOALIS. 529
so, when he began to clamor for more — thus appearing to be always hungry. Had one person the office of keeping him supplied with food he would con- sequently have been extremely troublesome; but, fortunately, all became interested in him, and he thus received favors and caresses from all hands. When gorged with food, he usually remained perched upon the shoulder of the one who carried him, but sometimes he would fly off to his favorite perch, a rope running from the rear of a tent to a stake in the ground; or, if it happened to be midday and the sun particularly oppressive, would take shelter underneath a hoisted umbrella, hung beneatli the fly of a tent for the purpose of shading a thermometer, perching upon one of the ribs of the apparatus. Chippy was the earliest riser in camp, and at day- break his merry twitter aroused his human companions, of whom his favorite one, the writer, he would often awake by alighting in his face, for he would invariably select him from the dozen or more persons who lay on the ground wrapped in their blankets. At all times he was greatly averse to being left alone, and when night approached would nestle more closely against one^s neck, twittering contentedly until asleep, and if removed exhibiting the greatest disappointment, while he was often so persistent in keeping his place that repeated removals were necessary to induce him to remain upon the roost provided for him, inside the tent.
His almost insatiable appetite was the subject of comment by us all, and speculations were indulged in as to the probable number of grasshop- pers he consumed in a day. It was finally agreed that this should be settled by experiment, so each person was instructed to keep count of the number he himself fed him during the day. At evening notes were compared, and it was found that he had been fed one hundred and twenty grasshoppers since morning!
From the very first he was so completely tame that he did not exhibit under any circumstances the slightest trace of timidity; he always disliked to be handled, however, but this was evidently on account of his plumage, merely, for he would immediately come to any one who called him, or alight upon a hand held out as an invitation. He soon learned his owii name, and knew it so well that when he had strayed som^ distance from camp (as he often did when led away by the temptations of companions 34 p R
530 ORNITHOLOGY.
of his kind, who often visited the vicinity of our camp for the purpose), it was only necessary to call him, and if within hearing he was sure to leave his comrades with impolite abruptness and fly in haste to camp, twittering gladly as he came. The writer was once leaving the camp for a trip into the mountains, and had scarcely reached the mouth of the canon, several hundred yards distant, when Chippy's familiar voice was heard, and on looking back he was discovered following, as fast as his wings could carry him, twittering with all his might, as if calling out for us to wait for him. He soon overtook us, and, alighting upon our shoulder, accompanied us on our way, every now and then flying off after a butterfly or other insect that had caught his eye, capturing which he would return and beat his prey against the hard brim of oiu* straw hat until in a condition to be swallowed; or often these little detours were for the purpose of sporting awhile with others of his species encountered by the way, returning in a little while, followed by them to within a few yards, when they would alight on a branch, apparently wondering at the perfect understanding existing between us. After ascending the canon to where the path became too much obstructed by rocks and brushwood to proceed farther, except on foot, we dismounted and unsaddled; Chippy seemed disposed to rest, so he was placed in the shade of the saddle, as it lay upon the ground, and we proceeded on our way. The little fellow soon missed us, however, and it was not long before he found us out, by the report of our gun — a sound with which he had long been familiar, and which he had not learned to fear, the barrel of our gun often being his perch when he accompanied us on our trips, even the report, though of course startling him, not fright- ening him from our shoulder. On several occasions did the report of our gun prove the means of directing him to us when he had strayed beyond his usual bounds, such a circumstance once occurring half a mile from camp, after he had been missing all the morning. His natural fondness for the society of the birds of his species living in the neighborhood did not have the efiect of in the least alienating his affections, but came, nevertheless, near costing him his life, the circumstances being as follows: He used daily to bring his playmates to the camp, where, after sporting about with them for a half hour or so, they would all leave together and be absent, sometimes*
TYEANNUS VERTIOALTS. 531
the whole afternoon, Chip often not returning until near evening; we began to fear that in consequence of this some harm might befall him while out of our sight, or that some day he might fail to return at all; so, as the best means of preventing such a misfortune, we determined to frighten the wild birds away when they sliould next make their appearance, and thus keep Chip out of temptation. A favorable opportunity presented one afternoon when three were sporting together at a considerable height near our camp; and having just observed Chippy on his accustomed perch, brought out our gun and fired at them. Fortunately none were hit, for one of them, which proved to be our pet, separated from the rest and flew in terror to the camp, screaming with all his might We hastened back, fearing he had been injured, and found him perched upon a rope, terribly frightened, but not at all hurt His disregard for firearms was now at an end, and when we approached him with gun in hand he beat a precipitate retreat, and continued to do so at every attempt, his feathers pressed close to his body and his neck stretched — the very picture of fear. The moment the weapon was laid aside, however, his confidence was restored, and he was then as easily approached as before.
We carried Chippy with us, as we moved from camp to camp, for nearly two months after. Everywhere he excited curiosity and wonder, even among the Indians, while the members of our party grew daily more attached to him. One morning, however, in the latter part of September, we missed his familiar awakening twitter, and when we arose from our blankets he could not be found. Search was made throughout the day, but without success, and a large hawk having been seen early in the morning hovering about the place, seemed to explain the cause of his dis- appearance. He was never afterward seen.
It was suggested by members of the party that instead of exhibiting the docility and intelligence characteristic of the species, this bird was per- haps an exceptional individual, and that another could not be found which would afibrd a parallel case. The following summer, however, another young one was taken from the nest, and being reared under exactly the same circumstances developed the same traits to such perfection that he would have absolutely passed for the same bird. As happened with
532 ORNITHOLOGY.
Chippy No. 1, the new pet after a while atti'acted others of his species to our camp, and these soon became so familiar that they would perch upon the tents, even during our presence. One individual happened to alight upon the fly of the mess-tent wliile we were at lunch, and being near the edge of the canvas, and his shadow showing his exact position from beneath, he was easily caught This proved to be a full-grown bird, although evidently one of the year, and being placed in a cage and sump- tuously fed for a day or two, was released in Chip's presence, and would not depart. He had become almost as tame as his companion, and remained with us until both were killed by our domesticated hawks, some fine speci- mens of Buteo swainsoniy which were allowed the liberty of the camp.
Idst of specimens.
15, nest and eggs (3) 5 Sacramento, California, June 11, 1867. Nest in large cotton-wood tree.
16, nest and eggs (3); Sacramento, June 11, 1867. Nest in small willow, in copse.
17, 9 ad. (parent of No. 15). 8J— UJ-^J— 4^'^— 3— |-^f — If. Bill, tarsi, and toes, deep black 5 iris, bazel.
37, nest and eggs 5 Sacramento, June 12, 1867. Nest in small cotton- wood, in copse.
45, nest and eggs (3) ; Sacramento, June 17, 1867. Nest on horizontal branch of large cotton- wood.
46, S ad. (parent of preceding.) 9J— 16f-6J— 4|-~3— }f--4— If. Bill, tarsi, and toes, deep black ; iris, hazel.
71, nest and eggs (4); Sacramento, June 20, 1867. Nest in top of small oak, in grove.
1180, nest and eggs (4); Salt Lake City, Utah, June 18, 1869, Nest on small mountain-mahogany bush, overhanging cliff.
1181, nests and eggs; same date and remarks.
1408, nest J Bear River Valley, July, 1869. [J. 0. Olmstead.]
Tyrannus OAEOLINENSIS. lUngMrd*
Lanim tyrannus var. y carolinensiSj Gmel., Syst. Nat., I, 1788, 302.
Tyrannus carolinensiSj Temminck, Tabl. M6th. — , 24.— Baibd, B. N. Am., 1858, 171; Oat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 124.— CooPBB, Orn. Oal., 1, 1870, 311.— CouES, Key, 1872, 169, pi. ir, flgs. 1, 2, 110b, 111 ; Obeck List, 1873, No. 242 j Birds N.W., 1874, 235.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., II, 1874, 316, pi. XLiii, fig. 4.— Hbnshaw, 1875, 341.
In the rich valley of the Truckee River, in western Nevada, two or
MYIARCHU8 CINBEASOENS. 533
more pairs of this familiar eastern bird had their abode among the large cotton- wood trees near onr camp; in fact, this species seemed to be no more rare in that locality than the jT. verticalis^ which, however, was itself far from common. On the eastern border of the Great Basin it was more abundant, being quite as numerous in the Salt Lake Valley as the T. verti- calls, both frequently nesting in the same grove.
List of specimens. 1496, 9 jMV.; Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, August 10, 1869. 8^— 14^. Bill, tarsi, and toes, black ; iris, dark brown.
MyIAEOHUS 01NERAS0EN8.
Atsh-ttaroated FIjrcatcher.
TyrannuU cinerascens, Laweenoe, Ann, Lye. N. fl. New York, V, 1851, 109. Myiarchtis cinerascens, Solater, Ibis, 1859, 121.— CoUES, Key, 1873, 171 ; Check
List, 1873, No. 248; B. N.W., 1874, 239. Myiarchus criniius var. cinerascenSj B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B,, II, 1874, 337, pi.
XLUi, fig. 6.— Henshaw, 1876, 345. Myiarchus mexicanus, Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 179 (not of Kaup) ; Catal., 1859,
No. 131.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 1, 1870, 316.
This species was apparently not abundant anywhere, being probably more so in the Sacramento Valley than in any locality eastward of the Sierra Nevada. It was not noticed in the vicinity of Sacramento City, in June, but among the oaks of the plains toward the foot-hills of the Sierras it was common early in July. A few were observed among the cotton- woods of the lower Truckee in July and August, and it was also a not infre- quent summer-resident in the canons of the Ruby Mountains, where it was most often observed perched upon a gnarled cedar or mountain-mahogony overhanging the top of a rocky gorge or high cliflF. It was very rare in Parley's Park.
Resembling its eastern relative, the Great Crested Flycatcher {M. crini- tus), in its general habits, its notes, however, are weaker, and do not possess in so great a degree the strikingly wild character so marked in the vehe- ment whistlings of that species.
List of specimens,
104, i ad,y' Trackee Reservation (Camp 12), Nevada, July 24, 1867. 8J— 13— .4— 3|— J— J— 3§— 1}^^|. Bill, deep black j iris, hazel ; tarsi and toes, black.
534 oenitholoqt.
Sayornis nigricans.
Black Pewee.
Tyrannula nigricans^ Swainson, Synop. Mex. Birds, Pbilos. Mag., 1, 1827, 367.
Sayornis nigricans^ BoNAP., Oomp. Rend., XXVIII, 1854, 87. — Baibd, B. N. Am., 1858, 183; Oat. K Am. B., 1859, No. 134.— Cooper, Orn. Cal.,1, 1870, 319.— COUBS, Key, 1872, 172; Check List, 1873, No. 251.— B. B. & R., Hist. N.Am. B., II, 1874, 340, pi. XLV, fig. 1.— Henshaw, 1875, 347.
The Black Pewee was found only at Sacramento, where it was rather common about the out-buildings of habitations near the river. In its socia- ble disposition, its movements, and its ordinary note of chip^ it reminded ns exactly of the eastern S. fuscus; we did not, however, hear it utter a note similar to that from which the latter receives its common name, but judging from the extreme similarity of the other notes, so far as heard, consider it likely that the one to which we refer is also uttered.
Sayornis sayus.
Say's Pewee*
(To-que^'Oh of the Paiutes.)
Museicapa saya, Bonap., Am. Orn., I, 1825, 20, pi. li, lig. 3.
Sayornis sayus, Baibd, B. N. Am., 1858, 185; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 136. Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 320.— Coues, Key, 1872, 172 ; Check List, 1873, No. 250; B. N.W., 1874, 240.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., II, 1874, 347, pi. XLV, fig. 3.— Henshaw, 1875, 349.
Throughout the country eastward of the Sierra Nevada, this interest- ing bird was found in all suitable places, though it was not abundant any- where, since it was seldom that more than one pair inhabited a restricted locality. Its favorite haunts were the rocky shores of the lakes and rivers, or the walls of the lower caiions in the mountains, where it built its bulky but soft and downy nest among the recesses of the rocks, or, as was more often the case, upon a narrow shelf of rock projecting from the ceiling or dome of a cave. In those wild localities it was found to be rather shy in its disposition; but wherever man had fixed his abode upon the dreary waste this species was attracted to his vicinity, thus assuming the semi-domesticated habits of S. /metis and 8. nigricans^ which it repre-
CONTOPUS BOREALIS. 535
sents in this intermediate region. It was even noticed at several stage- stations in tiie midst of the Humboldt and Carson Deserts, where no water occurred except in the artificial wells. About the larger settlements it was found to be more numerous, and at Unionville, in the West Humboldt Mountains, had, with Sialia arctica and Salpinctes obsoletus, ta.ken possession of the abandoned adobe houses in the upper portion of the town. At this place we observed a nest which was attached to the under side of the eave of a large stone building, being apparently built upon the base of a deserted nest of the Cliff Swallow {Petrochelidon lunifrons).
While this species agrees with its more western and eastern represent- atives {S. nigricans and S, fuscus) in nesting-habits, the character of its nest and eg^y its fondness for rocky localities in the vicinity of water, and in the readiness with which it becomes attached to the vicinity of dwellings, it differs from both in notes, the usual utterance being a fine plaintive peer^ peer^ much like a certain wailing note of Contopus virens, another common note being a prolonged querulous twitter.
List of specimens.
181, 9 ad.; West Humboldt Mountains (Camp 18), ll^evada, September 11, 1867. 8Jg^— 12§— 4J— 3/g — I — f— 3^— 1|. Bill, tarsi, and toes, deep black ; iris, bazel.
456, i ad.; Oarson City, Nevada, March 25, 1868. 7f— 12g— 43%— 3^. Bill, deep black; iris, bister; tarsi and toes, plumbeous-black.
457, 9 ad.; Carson City, Nevada, March 25, 1868. 7}^— 12f— 4jV— 3y\. Same remarks.
762, nest and eggs (2); island in Pyramid Lake, Nevada, May 23, 1868. Nest attached to shelf on roof of cave, oh rocky shore.
764, nest and eggs (4); east shore of Pyramid Lake, May 25, 1868. Nest on shelf in cave, among the tufa domes.
Contopus boebalis>
Olive-sided Flycatcher.
Tyrannus borealis, Sw^ainson, Fauna Bor. Am., II, 1831, 141, pi. xxxv.
Contopus horealis, Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 188 ; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 137— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 1, 1870, 323.— CouES, Key, 1872, 173; Check List, 1873, No. 253; B. N.W., 1874, 243.— B. B. &E., Hist. N. Am. B., II, 1874, 353, pi. XLiv, fig. 1.— Henshaw, 1875, 350.
This interesting bird was a rather common summer-resident in the
536 OBNITHOLOGT.
higher portion of the pine-belt of the Wahsatch, and we have every reason to believe that it is also found in similar localities on the Sierra Nevada. Near the summits of the pine-clad hills in the vicinity of our camp in Parley's Park it was by no means rare in certain parts of the woods, its favorite resort being those portions of the forest where many of the trees had been deadened by fire, the most characteristic associate species being Chrysomitris pinus, Carpodacus cassini, and Jtmco caniceps. It was extremely shy, and could be approached only with the greatest difficulty. Attention was usually attracted to it by its mellow whistling notes, which bore a faint resemblance to certain utterances of the Cardinal G-rosbeak {Cardinalis virginianus)j the bird being generally perched upon the summit of a tall dead pine. One of the specimens obtained was secured only by a tedious and difficult climb to the top of a very tall fir-tree, which fortunately began branching near the ground, the bird having lodged among the topmost branches. The first individual of the species that we saw was perched quite a distance ofi*, upon a dead mahogany tree on the side of one of the lower caflons of the East Humboldt Mountains. Being the first example we had ever seen, its appearance struck us as quite peculiar, as it sat quietly in an upright attitude, but it was at last decided to be a Shrike {CoUurio); upon returning down the cafion an hour or more afterward, however, it was noticed occupying the same position, but presently it flew from the perch and snapped an insect in the air, when it returned to the branch and beat it against the limb in true flycatcher style.
List of y)e€imen8,
875, i ad.; East Humboldt Mountains (Camp 21), Nevada, August 29, 1868. 7J — 13 — (!) — 3 J. Upper mandible, black, lower dilute brown, more yellowish basally ; iris, deep sepia; whole interior of mouth, rich orange-yellow; tarsi and toes, sepia- black.
1273, <y ad.; Parley^s Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, June 23, 1869. 75—13^. Bill, black, lower mandible pale wax-brown, more yellowish basally, the tip black; ifis, brown ; feet, deep black ; interior of mouth, deep yellow.
1423, iad.; Pariey^s Park, July 17, 1869. 7|— 13^. Upper mandible, black, lower wood-brown, mora yelli>wi8h basally; interior of moath, rich Indian-yellow; iris, brown ; tarsi and toes, deep black.
C0NT0PU8 EICHAEDSONL 537
CONTOPUS EICHAEDSONL^
Riehardsou's Pewee.
Tyrannula richardsonii^ Swainson, Fauna Bor. Am., II, 1831, 146, pi. xlti, lower figure.
Contopus richardsonii^ Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 189; Cat. F. Am. B., 1859, No.
138.-.COOPEE, Orn. Cal, I, 1870, 325. Contopus virens van richardsonii, Allen, Bull. Mus. Comp. ZooL, III, 1872, 179.—
CouES, Key, 1872, 174 ; Check List, 1873, No. 255a.— B. B. & E., Hist, N.
Am. B., II, 1874, 360, pi. XLiv, fig. 4.— Henshaw, 1875, 353. Contopus {virens var. 1) richardsoniiy CoUES, Birds N. W., 1874, 247.
Richardson's Pewee was met with in every wooded locality, and was no less common at an altitude of 8,000 feet, in the Wq^hsatch Mountains, than at Sacramento, but Httle above the sea-level. In all respects except its notes and the character of its nest, this species is a counterpart of the eastern Wood Pewee (C. virens), its appearance and manners being quite the same. It seems, however, to be more crepuscular than the eastern species, for while it remains quiet most of the day, no sooner does the sun set than it begins to utter its weird, lisping notes, which increase in loud- ness and frequency as the evening shades deepen. At Sacramento we fre- quently heard these notes about our camp at all times of the night. This common note of Richardson's Pewee is a harsh, abrupt lisping utterance, more resembling the ordinary rasping note of the Night-Hawk (Chordeiles popetue) than any other we can compare it with, though it is of course weaker, or in strength proportioned to the size of the bird. Being most frequently heard during the close of day, when most other animals become silent and Nature presents its most gloomy aspect, the voice of this bird sounds lonely, or even weird.
The nest of this species, as is well known, differs very remarkably from that of d virens, being almost invariably placed in the crotch between nearly upright forks, like that of certain Empidonaces, as J5J. minimus and E. obscurus, instead of being saddled upon a horizontal branch, while its structure is very different, the materials being chiefly plant-fibers and
^ With almost absolute similarity to C. virens^ its eastern representative, in all appreciable details of form, size, and color, this bird presents such radical differences in notes, accompanied by certain peculiarities of habits, that we teel bound to consider it a distinct species.
538 ORNITHOLOGY.
stems of fine grasses, instead of beautiful lichens and mosses, matted together with spiders' webs, and with but a slight admixture of other sub- stances. All its habits, however, especially its deportment, are exactly those of G. virenSj while the eggs of the two species are scarcely, if at all, distinguishable.
At Sacramento we observed in this bird a remarkable display of attach- ment to its favorite haunts, especially to the place where the nest is built. The nest and eggs of a pair had been taken and the female killed as she flew from the nest ; several days afterward, upon revisiting the locality, and happening to look up at the site of the former nest, we were sur- prised to see a new one already completed in the very same spot, the male having found another mate. When we climbed to the nest the male exhib- ited more than usual anxiety, and upon retunring the following day it was found to be abandoned, and the only egg it contained broken.
List of specimens.
12, nest and eggs (2); Sacrameato, June 10, 1867. Nest at extremity of broken clea<l branch near top of small oak, in grove.
13, 9 ad. (parent of Ko. 12) ; Sacramento, California, June 10, 1867. 6^5^— loj— 3| — 3— Y^^ — /^ — 2| — 1^. Bill, deep black above, light-brownish beneath, more yel- low basally, the point nearly black ; whole interior of mouth, deep orange-yellow } iris, dark brown 5 tarsi and toes, black.
42, nest and egg:^ (2) j Sacramento, June 15, 1867. iNTest saddled on rather large branch of oak, in grove, about 15 feet from ground,
43, 9 ad. (parent of No. 42)j Sacramento, June 15, 1867. 64— 10— 3/^—2 fi— j\ — y^g — 2^ — 14. Bill, black, basal half of lower mandible dilute brown.
S6j nest and eggs; Sacramento, June 16, 1867. Situated like No. 12.
88, nest and eggs ; Sacramento, June 24, 1867. Same situation.
89, nest ; Sacramento, June 24, 1867.
898, S juv.; East Humboldt Mountains (Camp 23, Secret Valley), September 6, 1868. 6J— lOJ — (!) — 2}f. Upper mandible, black, lower clear pale yellow, the tip black; iris, sepia; tarsi and toes, black.
1250, nest and eggs ; Parley's Park, Utah, June 23, 1869. Nest in aspen, 20 feet from ground.
1282, nest and eggs (3) ; Parley's Park, June. 25, 1869. Nest in crotch of dead aspen, along stream.
1304, nest and eggs (2) ; Parley's Park, June 27, 1869. Nest in crotch of dead aspen.
1316, nest and eggs (2) 5 Parley's Park, June 27, 1869. Nest in dead aspen.
1503, ? ad.; Parley's Park, August 12, 1869. 6/^—10^. Upper mandible, blacky lower scarcely paler; interior of mouth, rich yellow ; iris, brown ; legs and feet, black.
EMPIDONAX PUSILLUS. 539
EmPIDONAX PUSILLUS.^ L.IUle Flycatcher; Traill's Flycatcher.
{Pish' -e-wah' -e-tse of the Slioshones.)
f Platyrhynchm pusillus, Swainson, Synop. Mex. Birds, Philos. Mag., 1, 1827, 366. Umpidonax pusillusy Cabanis, Journ. fiir Orn., 1855, 480. — Baird, Birds N. Am.,
1858, 194; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 141.— B. B. & E., Hist K Am. B.,
II, 1874, 366, pi. XLiv, fig. 9. Empidonax traillii var. pusillm^ OouES, Key, 1872, 175; Check List, 1873, No.
257a.— Henshaw, 1875, 356. Empidonax traillii, b. pmillusj Coues, Birds N.W., 1874, 252. Empidonax traillii^ Cooper, Orn. Cal., 1, 1870, 327.
This is the most abundant and generally distributed of the EmpidgnaceSj being, so far as known, the only one of the genus occurring across the entire breadth of the continent.^ It prefers the lower portions of the country, however, its favorite haunts being the willows of the river- valleys, and we did not find^t higher up among the mountains than an altitude of about 7,000 feet, where it was confined to the willow thickets bordering the streams flowing across the parks. In the environs of Sacramento City it was, next to Tyrannus verticalis, the commonest of the Flycatchers, and was as characteristic of the willow copses as Contopus richardsoni was of the oak groves. In its manners, this species is more lively than its mountain relatives, JE, dbscurus and E, hammondi^ especially after sunset, when they chase one another among the bushes, twittering as they fly, frequently perching on a high twig and with swelled throats uttering their not unmusical note of twip'utawah^ which is translated by the people of Parley's Park as ^^ pretty dear,^^ by which name it was there familiar to every one.
^ We are unable to appreciate differences between western and eastern (^HrailliV^) specimens of this species sufficient to constitute the latter a recognizable variety. It is only those specimens from the dryer and more scantily wooded localities of the West which are paler and grayer colored than the average of eastern examples, and even then the difference is not comparable to that existing between E, flaviventris and E, difficilis.
*As stated above, we consider pusillus and ^HrailliV^ to be in every respect identical, while we hold flaviventris and difficilis to be specifically distinct.
540 ORNITHOLOGY.
List of specimens.
33, nest and eggs (4); Sacramento, California, June 12, 1867. Nest about 2 feet from ground, in small busli in cotton- wood copse.
36, 9 ad, (parent of above); Sacramento, June 12, 1867, 6| — 8g— (1).
83, nest and eggs; Sacramento, California, June 21, 1867. Nest about 4 feet from ground, in small bush in willow copse.
84, 9 ad. (parent of eggs No. 83); Sacramento, June 24, 1867. 5|— 8J— 2j\— ^ — 1^6 — A — -i — H* Upper mandible, black, lower dilute brownish-yellow, more whitish basally; iris, hazel; tarsi and toes, deep hazel.
94, nest and eggs; Sacramento, June 29, 1867. Nest situated like No. 83.
876, 9 ad. (parent of 877); Euby Valley, Nevada (Camp 21), August 29, 1868. 5J — 8| — (!) — 2^. Upper mandible, black, lower very dilate lilaceous-brown, more yellowish basally; whole interior of mouth, rich orange-yellow; tarsi and toes, deep black.
877 Juv.; Euby Valley, Nevada (Camp 21), August 29, 1878. 5J— 8|— (!)— 2|^. Upper mandible, plumb^usblack, low<3r pale lilaceous, more yellowish basally; whole interior of mouth, rich orange-yellow; iris, purplish -bister; tarsi and toes, pale plum- beous.
1100, <J ad.; Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake, Utah, June 4, 1869. 6|— 9|. Upper mandible, black, lower dilute brown; iris, brown; tarsi and toes, deep black.
1101, 9 ad> (mate of preceding); Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake, Utah, June 4, 1869. 6— 8f . Same remarks.^
1242, 1243, 1244, 1245, 1246, 1247; nests and eggs. Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, June 23, 1869. Nests among willows along stream, generally about 5 or 6 feet from ground.
1288, nest and eggs (2); Parley's Park, June 25, 1869. Nest in wild-rose brier, among undergrowth of thicket, along stream.
1305, nest and eggs (4); Parley's Park, June 27, 1869. Nest in wild-rose brier.
1316, nest and egg (1) ; Parley's Park, June 27, 1869. Nest in rosebush.
1330, nest and eggs (4); Parley's Park, June 28, 1869. Same remarks.
1331, nest and eggs (3) ; Parley's Park, June 28^ 1869. Nest in rose-bush, under- growth of willow-copse.
1358, nest; Parley's Park, July 2, 1869. Nest in rosebush, by stream.
1420, nest and eggs (3); Parley^s Park, July 17, 1869. Nest in willows, along stream.
1469, ^ adf., 6|— 9|^; 1470, 9 ad.,5{l—S^', 1471, 9 ad.,5|— 8§; 1472, 9 ad.,5j^-«8f. Parley's Park, July 29, 1869. Upper mandible, deep black, lower light purplish wood- brown; interior of mouth, deep yellow; iris, deep reddish-brown; tarsi and toes, deep black.
1473, 9 ad.; Parley's Park, July 29, 1869. 6f— 8^. Lower mandible, brownish- white.
1493, ijuv.f Parley's Park, August 7, 1869. 6—9.
* These specimens represent the absolutely typical "fmfnff style.
EMPIDONAX OBSOURUa 541
Empidonax OBSCUEUS.
Wright's Flycatcher.
(Yet^-to-gish of the Paiutes ; Pish'-e-wah'-e-te-tse of the Shoshones.)
f Tyrannula obscura^ Swainson, Sjnop. Mex. Birds, Philos. Mag., I, 1827, 367. Empidonax ohscurm^ Baied, Birds N. Am., 1868, 200; Cat. N. Am. B., 1869, l^o.
146.— CooPEE, Orn. Cal., 1, 1870, 329.— -CouES, Key, 1872, 176; Check List,
1873, No. 261 ; Birds N.W., 1874, 258.— B. B. & R., Hist. K Am. B., II, 1874,
381, pi. XLr\r, fig. 6.— Henshaw, 1876, 360. Empidonax wrightiij Baibd, Birds K Am., 1858, 200 (in text). [Name proposed ia
case Swainson's T. obscura should prove a different species.]
This Empidonax is as characteristic of the mountains as B, pusillus is of the lower valleys. It inhabits both the aspen groves and copses of the higher canons and the mahogany woods of the middle slopes, in which places it is sometimes one of the most numerous of the smaller birds. It is probably not entirely restricted to these elevated regions during the breeding-season, however, since it was common in May among the willow thickets in the lower Truckee Valley, while the first individual of the sea- son was observed in a cedar and pinon woods on the low hills near Carson City, on the 21st of April. In September we found it in the lower canons of the West Humboldt Mountains, where, as in other ranges, the summer fauna assimilated that of the river-valleys rather than that of the higher canons. It was equally common on both sides of the Great Basin, the only districts where it was entirely absent being those where the ranges were destitute of water and vegetation. It was more abundant in the aspen copses of the high canons of the lofty Toyabe range, near Austin, than anywhere else, but it was quite plentiful in similar localities on the Wah- satch and Uintah Mountains.
The habits and manners of this species much resemble those of others of the genus, while in the location and structure of its nest, and the color of its eggs, it resembles very closely E. hammondi and E, minimus. The notes, however, are decidedly distinctive, and but little like those of its congeners. The ordinary utterance is an exceedingly liquid whit^ but when the nest is disturbed, as well as on some other occasions, a plaintive sweer is uttered, which much resembles the call-note of Chrysomitris pinus, but is
542 ORNITHOLOGY.
rather less. loud. We always found this little bird to be exceedingly con- fiding and unsuspicious ; so much so, indeed, that when collecting its eggs on the Toyabe Mountains, an attempt to catch the parent bird with the hand, as it sat upon the nest, proved successful in nearly every instance. One specimen was, on this occasion, frightened from oflf its eggs by our stumbling against the sapling containing the nest before the latter was dis- covered, and alighted in another bush some distance off; it was fired at but apparently missed, for it flew and disappeared; we were therefore consider- ably astonished, upon returning to secure the nest, to find the bird again upon her eggs, where she remained without making the least attempt to escape, and suffered herself to be caught, when it was found that several of her quill and tail-feathers had been carried away, and one toe cut off, by the shot we had fired.
List of specimens.
208, i ad.; eastern slope West Humboldt Mountains, September 21, 1867. 5}|— 8^ — 2| — 2J — -^^ — I — 2/^ — IJ. Upper mandible, uniform deep black, lower mandible dilute cbrorae-yellow 5 iris, hazel; tarsi and toes, deep black.
508, S ad.; Carson City, Nevada, April 21, 1868. 6^— Of— 3— 2J. Upper man- dible, black, lower dilute brownish-white, dusky toward end j whole interior of mouth, intense yellow; iris, deep sepia; tarsi and toes, deep black.
827, nest and eggs (4),; 828, nest and eggs (3) ^ 829, nest and eggs (2) ; 830, nest and eggs (4); 831, ne^t and egg (1). Austin, Nevada, July 3, 1868. No. 827 in mountaiu-mahogany bush, on extreme summit of hill, about 2,000 feet above camp, or at an altitude of 9,000 feet; the others all in aspen thickets, and within reach of the hand.
832, ? ad. (parent of No. S2Sj caught on nest, by hand!)', Austin, Nevada, July 3, 1868. 51 — 8^^^ — 2| — 2^^. Upper mandible, sepia-black, lower dilute sepia-brown, yellowish basally ; iris, dark sepia ; tarsi and toes, deep black.
833, ? ad. (parent of No. 827, caught on nest, by hand !) ; Austin, Nevada, July 3, 1868. 64— 8|— 2|— 2^5^. Same remarks.
867, ? juv.; Camp 1^, East Humboldt Mountains, August 10, 1868. SJ— 8^— (t)— 24. Upper mandible, black, lower, with terminal half, light yellowish, basally more pinkish ; interior of mouth, lemon-yellow ; iris, dark sepia ; tarsi and toes, deep black.
895, i ad.; Camp 23, East Humboldt Mountains, September 6, 1868. 5}|.— 8f— (!) — 2|\. Upper mandible, black, lower dilute brown, paler and more yellowish basally; interior of mouth, orange-yellow; iris, umber; tarsi and toes, deep black.
896, ? ad.; Camp 23, East Humboldt Mountains, September 6, 1868. . 5f|— 9— (!) — 2/^. Same remarks,
897, S ad.; Camp 23, East Humboldt Mountains, September 6, 1868. 6— 9— (?)— 2f . Same remarks.
EMPIDOIsrAX HAMMOKDL 543
911, ? ad,; Camp 23, East Hamboldt Mountains, September 8, 1868. 6J— SJ— (1) — 2y5^. Upper mandible deep black, terminal third of lower deep mahogany-brown, basal portion, with rictus, pale chrome-yellow 5 interior of mouth, rich Indian yellow; iris, umber; tarsi and toes, deep black.
9Ila, 9 ad,; East Humboldt Mountains, September 8, 1868. 5| — 8J-~(?)— 2^. Same remarks.
912, 9 ad,; Camp 23, East Humboldt Mountains, September 8, 1868. 55— 8f— (?) — 2j\. Same remarks.
934, ijuv,; Camp 25, Humboldt Valley, September 16, 1868. 55— 8f— (?)— 2|. Bill, black, basal two-thirds of lower mandible, lilaceous-white; iris, very dark sepia; tarsi and toes, plumbeous-black. (This specimen is remarkable for its pure and very light ashy colors.)
940, ? ad.; Secret Valley, Nevada, September 6, 1867.
1248, 1249, nests and eggs; Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah Territory, June 23, 1869. ^NTests in aspencopse.
1281, nest and ^ggs (4) ; Parley's Park, June 25, 1869. Nest in crotch of dead aspen, along stream.
1334, nest and eggs; Parley's Park, June 28, 1869. Nest in aspens.
1336 (4), 1337 (3), nests and eggs ; Parley's Park, June 28, 1869. Nests in aspens.
1353, nest and eggs (4) ; Parley?8 Park, June 28, 1869. Nest in service-berry bush.
1515, 9 jtiv.; Parley's Park, August 16, 1869. 6--9. Lower mandible, pale pink- ish.
Empidonax hammondi.
Hammond's Flycatcher.
Ttfrannula hammondiij Xantus, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., 1858, 117. Empidonax hammondi^ Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 119, pi. 76, fig. 1 ; Cat, N. Am. B.,
1859, No. 145.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 330.— Coues, Key, 1872, 176;
Check List, 1873, No. 260; B. N.W., 1874, 257.— B. B. & R, Hist. N. Am. B.,
ir, 1874, 383, pi. XLiv, fig. 7.— Henshaw, 1875, 362.
This delicate little Flycatcher was not met with anywhere as a summer resident, but during its autumnal migration was found to be very common on the East Humboldt Mountains. It inhabited exclusively the aspen- groves and copses of tall alders and willows in t^e higher canons, and seemed to keep in the darkest and most secluded places. The only note heard was a soft pit
List of specimens,
893, S «<?•; East Humboldt Mountains, Nevada (Camp 22), September 6, 1868. 5j-_8J — 2/^— 2y3g — |--y»g — 24— (1). Upper mandible, deep black, lower dilute brown, the edge, with rictus, orange-yellow ; iris, dark bister; tarsi and toes, black.
894, i ad.; East Humboldt Mountains (Camp 23), September 6, 1868. 5J— 8|— (!) — 2/5. Same remarks.
544 OBKITHOLOGY.
908, 9 ai.; East Humboldt Mountains (Camp 23), September 8, 1868. 5^— 8J— 2^. Lower mandible, rich brown.
909, S ad,; East Humboldt Mountains (Camp 23), September 8, 1868. 65—8^^— (!) — 2/^. Lower mandible, with rictus, wood-brown.
910, S ad.; East Humboldt Mountains (Oamp 23), September 8, 1868. Sf— 85— (f)— 2y^^. Same remarks.
EmPIDONAX DIPFIOILIS.^ ITestern Yellow-bellied Flycatcher*
Empidonax difficilis^ Baird, B. F. Am., 1858, 198 (in text) 5 ed. 1860, pi. 76, fig. 2 ;
Oat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 144a. Bmpidonax flaviventris var. dijfficilis, ALLEN, Bull. Mus. Comp. Zool., Ill, 1872, 179.
— CouES, Key, 1872, 176 (in text).— B, B. & R., Hist. K Am. B., II, 1874, 380.
— Henshaw, 1875, 362. Empido7uix Jlaviventris, b. difficilis, COUES, B. N.W., 1874, 256. Empidonax flaviventris^ Cooper, Orn. Cal., 1, 1870, 328.
This species was the rarest of the Empidonaces met with by us, a few only being seen in the pine forests high tip on the Wahsatch Mountains, and a still smaller number on the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada. At the former place a few pairs were found in July and August, and when observed were usually perched upon a dead twig, sitting in a nearly ver- tical position, the tail constantly jerked to one side. The only note heard was a distinct chip, much like that of the Yellow-rump Warbler {Dendroeca coronata).
List of specimens.
1490, i ad.; Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, August 6, 1869. 6— 94. Upper mandible, black, lower lilaeeous-white ; iris, deep reddish hazel; tarsi and toes, purplish- black.
1491, 9 ad.; Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, August 5, 1869. 5J— 8§. Same remarks.
^ It is with little hesitation that we consider this bird as distinct specifically from E» Jlaviventris. Not only are there very conspicuous and constant diflferences in pro- portions and colors (especially the former), but numerous observers have noticed remarkable and important peculiarities in the nesting-habits, the present species almost invariably building its nest in cavities, either of stumps, trees, or rocks, or on beams inside of buildings, a habit not yet noticed in E, JtaviventriSy nor, indeed, in any other species of the genus. [See Cooper, Proc. Cal. Acad. Sciences, December 6, 1875, who, however, is mistaken in supposing that " the differences in the two races seem to be wholly in shades of color and size, and not in i)roportion8, as formerly supposed."]
ceryle aloyon— pious hareisi. 545
Family ALCEDINIDJE— K^gfishbrs. Ceryle alcyon.
Belted King^flsher.
{Tafum-pahl/feoi the Washoes; Tsanfak-mik'ket-ah of the Paiutes; Pang'we-
diin'oh-moo of the Shoshones.)
Alcedo alcyon^ Linn., Syst. Nat., 1, 1766, 180.
Ceryle alcyon, BoiE, Isis, 1828, 316.— Baird, B. K Am., 1858, 158 ; Cat. IT. Am.
B., 1859, 117.— Cooper, Orn. CaL, I, 1870, 337.— CouES, Key, 1S72, 188;
Pheck List, 1873, No. 286; B. N.W., 1874, 273.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B.,
II, 1874, 392, pi. XLV, fig. 6.— Henshaw, 1875, 366.
The common Kingfisher was found in the vicinity of all streams and lakes containing fish. In the lower valleys it was resident, but in the mountains was found only in summer.
List of specimens,
292, <? ad.; Truckee Meadows, Nevada, November 18, 1867— 14— 23|— 6f— 5f— 2^ — § — 4 — If. Bill, black, more slaty bas«nlly, where clouded with pale ash}^ ; iris, dark vivid vandyke-brown ; tarsi and toes, livid brownish-black, more bluish on the knees and adjoining part of the tibiae.
1452, 9 ad.; Parley's Park, Utah, July 26, 1869. 12^—22^ Bill, black, the rictus and basal portion of lower mandible pale ashy ; iris, rich dark brown; tarsi and toes, dark plumbeous-sepia in front, purplish salmon pink behind and beneath.
1492, 9 ad.; Parley's Park, August 7, 1869. 141—22^. Same remarks as to the preceding.
Family PICID^— Woodpeckers.
PiCUS HAERISl. Harris's W^oodpecker*
{Kahsoo'te of the Washoes; Wahpe' -pannah of the Paiutes.)
Picus harrisii, AUDUBON, Orn. Biog., V, 1839, 191, pi. 417.— Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 87; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No, 75.— Cooper, Orn. CaL, I, 375.
Picus villosus var. harrisiiy Allen, Bull. Mus. Comp. Zool., Ill, 1872, 180.— CouBS, Key, 1872, 194; Check List, 1873, No. 298a.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, II, 1874, 507.— Henshaw, 1875, 386.
This perfect counterpart of the Hairy Woodpecker of the East (P. villosus ) was met with throughout the year in all wooded localities, from the 35 P B
546 OENITHOLOGY.
Sien-a Nevada eastward. It was equally common in the forests of Con- iferae and among the broad-leafed or deciduous trees. The notes and habits are in all respects identical with those of its eastern representative.
List of specimens.
364, 9 ad,; Truckee Keservation, December 19, 1867. 9^— 15— 5— 4y\— 1|— }i — 3| — If. Bill, slaty horn-color; iris, burnt-sienna; tarsi and toes, plumbeous green.
372, S ad.; Truckee Reservation, December 21, 1867. 9f — 16f — 5/^ — 4,^ Bill, greenish-slate, darker terminally; naked orbital region, similar, but paler; iris, reddish- brown ; tarsi and toes, dark slaty-green.
373, <J ad.; same locality and date. 9f — 16| — 5j\ — 4|. Same remarks.
438, g ad,; Carson City, March 10, 1868. 9f--15J— 5J — 4^. Ucotent of tongue beyond end of bill, 2J inches; its corneous tip, pale plumbeous.
1435, Sjuv.; Parley's Park, July 21, 1869. 10—17, Bill, dark slate; iris, burnt- sienna; tarsi and toes, cinereous.
1512, ? ad,; Parley's Park, August 16, 1869. 9§— 17.
Note. — The two latter specimens, besides being larger than those from western Nevada, are also more spotted with white on the wings, thereby showing an approach to P. villosus.
Pious gaiedneel
Oairdner'8 Woodpecker.
Picus gairdneri, Audubon, Orn. Biog., Y, 1839,317.— Baird, Birds N.Am., 1858, 91; ed. 1860, pi. S5, figs. 2, 3; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 76.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 377.
Picus pubescens var. gairdnerij COUES, Key, 1872, 194; Check List, 1873, No. 299a. — B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. Birds, II, 1874, 512.— Henshaw, 1875, 388.
Picus pubescens. b. gairdneri, CouES, Birds N. W., 1874, 282.
We found this bird to be unaccountably rare in all portions of the country, even where its larger cousin, P. harrisi, abounded; indeed, it was seen at only two localities along the entire route, a very few being found in September among the thickets by one of the streams flowing from the lofty Clover Mountains into the Upper Humboldt At Parley's Park two families of young were met with, on separate occasions, in July and August, but we did not succeed in obtaining specimens. At the former locality they were feeding on the fruit of Crataegus rivulariSy in company with many other species of birds. In all respects, both as to habits and voice, this bird seems to be a perfect counterpart of the Downy Woodpecker (P. pubescens) of the East.
PIOUS NUTTALLI— p. ALBOLARV^ATUS- 547
List of specimens,
925, $ ad.; Upper Humboldt Valley (Camp 25, Deeriug's Creek), IS'evada, Sep- timber 12, 1868. 7— ISJ— (?)— S^'., Bill, pure slate; iris, burrituniber; tarsi aud toes, ochraceous olive-green.
935, $ ad.; Upper Humboldt Valley (Oaojp 25, Deeriug's Creek), Kevada, Sep- tember 17, 1868. 6^12J— (?)— 34.
PiCUS KUTTALLI.
IVuuairs Woodpecker*
Picus nnttalli, G ambel, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., I, 1843, 259.— Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 93; Oat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, 78.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 378.— B. B. & R., Hist. K. Am. Birds, II, 1874, 521, pi. l, figs. 3, 6.
Picus scalaris var. nuttalli, Coues, Key, 1872, 193; Check List, 1873, No. 297a.
Among the scattered oaks of the Sacramento plains we found this Woodpecker to be very common, but met with it nowhere else. It was particularly abundant where the oaks attained a large size, and formed more extensive groves, nearer the foot-hills of the Sierra Nevada. Its manners were very much those of the Downy Woodpeckers (P. pubescens and P. gairdneri), but the notes were entirely different, the usual one con- sisting of a very prolonged rattling call, quite unHke that of any other bird with which we are acquainted.^
Pious albolaeyatus.
White-lieadcd IToodpecker.
Leuconerpes alholarvatusy Cassin, Pr. Ac. Nat. Soi. Pliihul., 1850, 166.
Picus albolarvatus^ Baird, Birds N. Am., i85S, 96; Oat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 81. —Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 382.— Ooues, Kl^y, 1872, 192 ; Che(».k List, 1873, No. 295.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., II, 1874, 526, pi. l, figs. 7, 8.
In the dense forests of lofty and massive coniferae which cover the slopes of the Sierra Nevada, this Woodpecker was found all the year round. It was first met with in July, on the western slope, at an elevation of about 5,000 feet; it was the most abundant Woodpecker of the locality, and was almost constantly seen sporting about the tops of the tall dead pines, usually
^ In several localities in western Nevada we heard, on different occasions, similar notes, but they turned out to be those of one of the Passeres, and a species which we are not able to identify, unless it may be Phwmfiepla nitens. (See page 447.)
548 ORNITHOLOGY.
out of gunshot range. On the eastern slope, it was common near Carson City throughout the winter, keeping entirely among the pines, though some- times coming down to the lower edge of the woods.
, The appearance of the White-headed Woodpecker is very striking, on account of the bold contrast between the white head and neck and the uniform black of the rest of the plumage — the white patch on the primaries showing conspicuously only when the bird is flying. In its habits it resem- bles the larger ^^Sapsuckers" (P. viUosus and P. harrisi), except that it is more lively in its disposition, in which respect it approaches quite nearly to the playful Melanerpese. Its notes, however, are quite distinctive, for although they bear some resemblance to the clear, sharp diph of the species above mentioned, the call forms a connected series of these notes, each ending in a
rather suppressed twitter.
List of specimens.
435,<Jad; Carson City, March 10,1868. 9/^— 15f— 5jV-^i' Bill, uniform slate- black 5 iris, (lull carmitie ; tarsi and toes, olivaceous-slate. Tongue protrudes ^of an inch beyond the end of the bill ; its corneous tip white. [See under P. harrisi, p. 546.^]
436, ? ad. (mate of No. 435). 93^15§— 5J— 4|. Same remarks.
527, S ad.; Carson City, April 25, 1868. 9^— 16J— 5f^ — 4f .
528, i ad.; Carson City, April 25, 1868. 9|— 15|— SyV-^j^.
529, 9 ad. (mate of No. 528). 8}^15^5— 4^3^.
PiCOIDES AECTICFS. Black-backed Three-toed IToodpecker.
Fieus fApternusJ arcticus^ Swainson, Fauna Bor. Am., II, 1831, 313, pi. 57.
Picoides arcticus^ Gray, Genera of Birds, II, 184-, 434, pi. 108, fig. 7. — Baied, B. K Am., 1858, 98; Cat. K Am. B., 1859, No. 82.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 384.— COUES, Key, 1872, 194; Check List, 1873,300; B. N.W., 1874, 284.— B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. B., 11, 1874, 530, pi. l, fig. 1.
The only specimen of this species seen was the one obtained. It was
engaged in hammering on the trunk of a dead pine tree, near the foot of
the mountains.
List of specimens.
409, ? ad,; pines of the Sierra Nevada, near Carson City, February 19, 1868. 9J — 15^ — 5^\— -4J. Bill, slate-color; iris, burnt-sienna; tarsi and toes, dull slate.
'Professor Baird has proposed for this species the generic or subgeneric term Xenopicus (Birds N. Am., 1858, p. 83), which, in view of certain marked structural differences from typical Picus^ it may in future be deemed advisable to adopt.
sphyrapicus ruber— s. kuchalis. 549 Sphyrapicus ruber.
Red-breasted Woodpecker*
Pieus ruber, Gmeltn, Syst N^at,, I, 178S, 429.
Sphyrapicus ruber, Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 104; Oat. N, Am. Birds, 1859, No.
87.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 392,— Ooues, Key, 1872, 195; Check List,
1873, No. 303.
Sphyrapicus varius var. ruber, Ridow., Am. Jouru. Sci. & Arts, V, Jan./ 1873, 40.
— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, II, 1874, 544, pi. li, fig. 6. Sphyrapicus varius. c. ruber, OouES, Birds N.W., 1874, 286.
The Red-breasted Woodpecker was observed only on the Sierra Nevada, chiefly on the western side of that range; we are not even certain of its occurrence on the eastern slope, but it is our impression that we saw it once among the pines near Carson City, but the occasion was not such as to afford a satisfactory opportunity to identify the individual in question.^
Sphyrapicus nuchalis.
Red-napcd liFoodpecker.
{QiJb' um-ah' 'Utz of the Shoshones.)
Sphyrapicus varius var. nuchalis, Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 103 (in text). — B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, II, 1874, 542, pi. lt, figs. 3, 4.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 390.— CouES, Key, 1872, 195^ Check List, 1873, No. 302a.— Henshaw, 1875,392.
Sphyrapicus nuchalis, Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 921; ed. 1860, pi. xxxvj Oat.
N. Am. B., 1859, No. 86. Sphyrapicus varius. b. nuchalis, CoUES, Birds N.W., 1874, 286.
Throughout the country between the Sierra Nevada and the Rocky Mountains, the Red-naped Woodpecker is a common species in suitable localities. Its favorite summer-haunts are the groves of large aspens near the head of the upper canons, high up in the mountains, and for this reason we found it more abundant in the Wahsatch and Uintah region than elsewhere; indeed, but a single individual was observed on the Sierra Nevada, and this one was obtained on the eastern slope of the range, near
^ It has recently been obtained by Mr. Henshaw on the eastern slope, near Lake Tahoe.
550 ORNITHOLOGY.
Carson City. It was very rare throughout western Nevada, but became abundant as we approached the higher mountains in the eastern portion of the State. Among the aspen groves in Parley's Park, as well as in similar places throughout that portion of the country, it was by far the most abun- dant of the Woodpeckers; and it seemed to be as strictly confined to the aspens as S. thyroideus was to the pines. Its nest was almost invariably in a living tree, into tlie soft wood of which it bored with the greatest ease, the excavation being at nearly all heights between eight and thirty feet from the ground, and almost invariably in the trunk of the tree. Both parents incubate and feed the young.
In its general manners, this species is quite a counterpart of the eastern Red-throated Woodpecker (& varius), but its notes are quite appreciably different, the whining utterance so characteristic of all the species of the genus being less plaintive, while we heard other notes which we never knew the eastern bird to utter.
List of specimens.
490, ? ad.; Carson City, l^evada, April 4, 1868. Pines. 8^— 15^— 5J— .4f . Bill, black ; iris, dark bister ; tarsi and toes, olive-cinereous.
936, ? juv.; Upper Humboldt Valley (Camp 25), September 18, 1868. 8f — .15|— (?) — 4|. Bill, dark sepia-slate 5 iris, dark bister; tarsi and toes, olive-plumbeous.
938, S ctd.; Thousand Spring Valley (Camp 27), September 23, 1868. 8|— -15^— (?) — 4§. Bill, pure slaty-drab; iris, dark bister; tarsi and toes, greenish olive-cinere- ous.
1355, <J ad.; Parley Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, July 1, 1869. 8f— 15f. Bill, deep black ; iris, brown ; feet, greenish-ashy.
1356, 9 ad.; Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, July 1, 1869. 8f— 16. Same remarks. [Stomachs of both specimens filled with ants.]
1422, <J ad.; Parley's Park, July 17, 1869. 8f— 15f . Bill, purplish-black ; iris, brown ; tarsi and toes, slaty-olive.
1429, ? ad.; Parley's Park, July 19, 1869. 8i--15i. Bill, black; iris, brown; tarsi and toes, olivaceous blue.
1436, (? ad.; Parley's Park, July 21, 1869. 8|— 15f. Bill, black; iris, umber; tarsi and toes, dull light blue.
1438, ^ ad.; Parley's Park, July 22, 1869, 8— 15f. Bill, black; iris, brown; legs and feet, olivaceous-blue.
1439, ? ad.; Parley's Park, July 22, 1869. 8J— 15J. Same remarks.
1440, 9 ad.; Parley's Park, July 22, 1869. 8— 14§. Same remarks.
1448, i ad.; Parley's Park, July 23, 1869. 84—15. Bill, dark purplish-brown.
SPHYRAPICUS THYROIDEU8. 551
Sphyrapicus THYROIDEUS
Brown«lieaded IfVoodpecker; IVIIIIamsoiiN Woodpecker.
PicMs thyroideus, Cassin, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Pbilad., 1851, 349.
Sphyrapicus thyroideus^ Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 106 ; Catal., 1859, No, 89. — Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 394.— Coues, Key, 1872, 195; Check List, 1873, No. 304; Birds N.W., 1874, 288.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, II, 1874, 547, pi. LVI, fig. 6 (*^ <?"-=? with red streak on throat!).— Henshaw, Am. Nat., 1874, 242 [Identity of thyrouleus and ^' unlliamsonV^ demonstrated J; Wheeler's Rep., 1875, 394.
Picus williamsoni, Newberry, Pacific R. R. Rep., VI, 1857, 89, pi. xxxiv, fig. 1 (young S , or adult 6 with red of throat destroyed by action of alcohol ; for- merly supposed to be ?!).
Sphyrapicus williamsoni, Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 105 ; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 88.— Cooper, Orn. Cal, I, 1870, 393.— Coues, Key, 1872, 195; Check List, 1873, No. 305.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, 11, L874, 545, pi. li, fig. 5.
The discovery of the astonishing fact that the Brown-headed Wood- pecker {8. thyroideus, Cass.) and Williamson's Woodpecker {S. williamson% Newb.) are female and male of the same species, is due to the field-obser- vations of Mr. H. W. Henshaw, the accomplished ornithologist of Lieutenant Wheeler's expedition; the fact being first announced in 1874, in an article in the American Naturalist (Vol. VIII, p. 242). A suspicion that the two might eventually prove to be different plumages of one species several times arose in our mind during the course of our field-work, the chief occasion for which was the very suggestive circumstance that both were invariably found in the same woods, and had identical manners and notes, while they also agreed strictly in all the details of form and proportions, as well as in the bright gamboge-yellow color of the belly. Our theory that thyroideus was perhaps the young^ and ivilliamsoni the adult^ proved erroneous, however ; and it never occurred to us that the differences might be sexual, an oversight caused chiefly by the circumstance of our having seen in collections many specimens of thyroideus with a red streak on the throat and marked as males, while the type specimen of williamsoni had a white streak on the throat and was said to be a female. We were thus entirely misled by the erroneous identification of the sex in these speci-
552 OENITHOLOGY.
mens. We gave the matter up, however, only after shooting a very young specimen of what was undoubtedly williamsoni^ and another of thjroi- deuSj both of which very closely resembled the adults of the same forms, a circumstance which at once convinced us .that the differences could not depend on age ; so we finally concluded that the two must be distinct. Now, however, that Mr. Henshaw has so satisfactorily explained the case, we have no hesitation in indorsing his opinion.
We found this species both on the Sierra Nevada and in the Wahsatch, and it is probable that its range extends throughout the entire Western Region. It is confined to the coniferous forests, however, so that its dis- tribution is governed greatly by local conditions. It appears to be con- stantly pinicoline, since it was a winter resident among the pines near Car- son City, while it was found in summer among those of the Wahsatch, in Parley's Park. Excepting the circumstance of its being so strictly confined to the coniferous forests, it resembles the other species of the genus in habits and manners, while the notes appear to be only very slightly different; the latter are finer and less plaintive, however, than in nuchalis or varitis, and uttered in more detached syllables. The female of this species presents when flying a very close resemblance to the species of CenturuSj the plumage being similarly barred with black and white, while a distinct white area is presented on the lower portion of the ramp. The first male killed (No. 331) had the bill thickly coated with the resinous juices of the pine trees among which it had been feeding.
List of specimens,
331, ^J ad,; pines of the Sierra Nevada, near Carson City, iSTorember 27, 1867. 9|— 19—5J — 4^ — 1 — §— 3J — If. Bill, deep purplish sepia-slate; iris, chestnut; tarsi and toes, ashy-olive.
332, 9 ad.; Carson City, Nevada, November 27, 1867. 9^— 16f~5|— 4f-.}f~W— 3| — If. Bill, deep brownish-slate ; iris, reddish- vandyke ; tarsi and toes, ashy-olive.
437, 9 ad.; Carson, March 10, 1868. 94—16^— 5|-.4f. Bill, dusky purpliwh- slate; iris, umber; tarsi and toes, light ashy-green. (Tongue protrudes ^ of an inch beyond hill; its corneous tip color of bill.)
1486, Sjuv,; Parley's Park, August 5, 1869. 9J— 15J. Bill, black; iris, dark brown ; tarsi and toes, greenish-ashy,
1513, 9 jMV,; Parley's Park, Wahsatch Mountains, Utah, August 16, 1869.
MELANERPES FORMICIVORUS— M. TORQUATCJS. 553
Melanerpes FORMICIVORUS.
California IVoodpecker.
Picus formicivomsy Swainson, Synop. Birds Mex , Philos. Mag., F, 1827, 439.
Melanerpes formicivorus, Boistap., CoDsp., 1, 1850, 115.— Bairb, B. N. Am., 1858, 114; Oat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 95.— Cooper, Orn. Oal., 1, 1870, 403.— CoUES, Key, 1872, 197; Check List, 1873, No. 310.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., II, 1874, 566, pi. Liii, figs. 1, 2.— Henshaw, 1875, 399.
This handsome Woodpecker was observed only among the oaks in the Sacramento Valley, where it sported among the trees along with Yellow- billed Magpies and Valley Jays (Cyanocitta californica). We had no oppor- tunity to observe its habits closely.
Melanerpes torquatus.
I^ewis^s Woodpecker.
Pious torquatus^ Wilson, Am. Orn., llf, 1811, 31, pi. 30, fig. 3.
Melanerpes torquatus, Bonap., Cousp., 1, 1850, 1 15. — Bairb, B. N. Am., 1858, 115; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 9G.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 1, 1870, 406.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., II, 1874, 561, pi. liv, fig. 5.— Henshaw, 1875, 397.
Asyndesmus torquatus, Coues, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Phila., 1866, 56 ; Key, 1872, 197; Check List, 1873, No. 311 ; B. N.W., 1874, 291.
This very remarkable Woodpecker was found along the entire route, from Sacramento eastward, but only in certain widely-separated localities. It prefers the scattered trees of plains, or the mere edge of the denser forests, and was consequently found most abundantly among the oaks of the Sacramento Valley and the scattered pines along the eastern base of the Sierra Nevada. None were seen among the cotton-woods of the Truckee or Carson Rivers, while only a few were noticed among the very large aspens in the lower canons of the East Humboldt Mountains, as well as in similar groves along the streams of the Upper Humboldt Valley. None were observed in the Wahsatch or Uintah Mountains, nor in the Salt Lake Valley. We cannot account for this apparent irregularity of its dis- tribution, which is somewhat parallel to the case of Pica hudsonica in the same region.
In its general habits and manners this beautiful species resembles quite closely the eastern Red- headed Woodpecker (M. erythrocephalus), being
554 ORNITHOLOGY.
quite as lively and of an eqiially playful disposition. Some of its actions, however, are very curious, the most remarkable of them being a certain elevated flight, performed in a peculiar floating manner, its progress appa- rently laborious, as if struggling against the wind, or uncertain, like a bird which had lost its course and become confused. At such a time it presents the appearance of a Crow high in the air, while the manner of its flight is strikingly similar to that of Clarke's Nutcracker (Picicorvus colum- bianus — see page 516). After performing these evolutions to its satisfaction, it descends in gradually contracting circles, often to the tree from which it started.
When a nest of this species in an oak tree was disturbed, the parents were observed to alight upon a large horizontal branch, and now and then cautiously look over at the intruder, at the same time uttering a faint rattling or twittering note. When frolicking among the trees the notes of this species are a faint shrill scream and a rattling twitter, somewhat like the notes of M. erythrocepJialus, but much weaker.
List of specimens,
76^ $ ad.; Sacramento City, California, June 22, 1867. lOJ— 20J— 0|— 5J— IJ— f — 3J — If. Bill, deep purplisbslatej iris, deep hazel; tarsi and toes, pale ashy-blue.
77, 9 ad. (mate of No. 76) ; same locality and date. 10}f~20|~-6/^— 5J— lf_— | — 3| — 1 J. Same remarks.
661, S ad.; Carson City, Nevada, April 29, 1868. llf — 21|— 7— 55. Bill, black ; iiis, hazel; tarsi and toes, olivaceous-blue.
924, S ad.; Upper Humboldt Valley (Camp 24), September 12, 1868. llf— 21J — (!) — 5||. Bill, slate black, deeper terminally; iris, burnt-sienna; tarsi and toes, rather dark ashy.
Melaneepes ERYTHROCEPHALUS.
Bed-headed l¥eedpecl£er.
Pious erythroeephahtSy Linn., Syst. Nat., 1, 1766, 174.
Melanerpes erythrocephalus, Swainson, Fauna Bor. Am., II, 1831, 316. — Baird,
Birds K Am., 1858, 113; Cat. K Am. Birds, 1859, No. 94.— Cooper, Orn.
OaL, I, 1870, 402.— COUES, Key, 1872, 196 ; Check List, 1873, No. 309 ; Birds
N.W., 1874, 290,— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, II, 1874, 564, pL Liv, fig.
4.— Henshaw, 1875, 398.
A single individual of this common eastern species was seen near Salt Lake City in June, 1869, the one in question being observed among the
COLAPTES MEXICANUS. 555
willows along the stream flowing from Parley's Park. Eastward of the Rocky Mountains, as far west as Laramie, it was abundant about the tele- graph-poles along the railroad.
COLAPTES MEXICAmJS.
Red-shafted Flicker.
{Tetsum! of the Washoes; Ah' soo-pannah of the Paiutes; Gooe-nee' -utz of the
Shoshones.)
Colaptes mexicanus, Swainson, Synop. Mex. Birds, Philos. Mag., I, 1827, 440. Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 120; Oat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 98.— Cooper,. Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 408.— CouES, Key, 1872, 198; Check List, 1873, No. 314; Birds N.W., 1874, 294.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, 11, 1874, 578, pi. LV, figs. 3, 4.— Henshaw, 1875, 400.
Being the most abundant and generally distributed of the Wood- peckers, this species was found in all wooded localities; and though it appeared to be rather partial to the deciduous trees of the lower valleys, it was far from rare among the pines of the mountains, excepting in the denser portions of the forest. As to its general appearance, habits, and notes, it is a perfect counterpart of the eastern Yellow -shafted Fhcker ((7. auratus), its notes especially being absolutely undistinguishable; indeed so great is the similarity between the two species that the western bird is almost universally known as the ^* Yellow Hammer" by the people of that country, notwithstanding there is not a yellow feather in its plumage. It appeared to be far more shy than the eastern species, however, and we always found it difficult to secure, except when a heavy growth favored a near approach. This wildness may be partly accounted for by the eager- ness with wliich these handsome birds are sought by the Indians, who highly prize the tail and quill-feathers as ornaments for their head-dresses.
List of specimens,
103, S jnv.; Truckeo Eeservation (Camp 12), Nevada, July 24, 1867. 13— 20|— H — H — 1§ — 5 — ^4 — ^h ^^^h brownish-black 5 iris, chestnut; tarsi and toes, pale livid blue.
556 ORNITHOLOGY.
12C, c? juv,; Oainp 12, August 1, 1867. 13J— 20J— 6xV-5|— 1^^— |— 4J— S^V Same remarks.
241, $ ad.; West Humboldt Mountains (Camp 19), October 8, 1807. 13—21— (>J — 5y\— 1^— }|— 4^ — 2^. Bill, slate-black, deeper terminally; iris, deep chestnut; naked eyelids, tarsi and toes, fine pale lilaceous-blue.
357, S ad,; Truckee Reservation, December 18, 1867. 13J— 21— 6f— 5|— IJ-i— 1 — 5 — 2^. Iris, deep cherry-red.
363, $ ad.; Truckee Reservation, December 19, 1867. 14— 2if~7— 5^— 1|— 1— 5 — 24. Same remarks.
374, ^ ad.; Truckee Reservation, December 21, 1867. 13|— 21^— 6§— 5f . Same remarks.
391, i ad.; Washoe Valley, January 3, 1868. 13J— 21— 6i|— 5f. Same re- marks.
393, ? ad.; Washoe Valley, January 4, 1868. 123— 20i— 6|— 5/^.
461, (J ad.; Carson City, March 28, 1868. 13^22— 6}f—5f.
462, (? ad.; same locality and date. 13^22— 6§—5f.
481, ? ad.; same locality, March 30, 1868. 13^— 211— 6^5|i^.
'^36, eggs (5); Truckee Reservation, May 1 7, 1868. Excavation in a small willow, on bank of the river.
1345, S juv.; Parley's Park, Utah,' June 28, 1869.
1428, ^jw.; Parley's Park, Utah, July 19, 1869. 12^20^. Bill, slate-black; iris, bister; tarsi and toes, light ashy-blue.
COLAPTES HTBRIDUS/
«' Hybrid" Flicker.
Colaptes ayresii, Audubon, Birds Am., VII, 1843, 348, pi. 494. Colaptes hybridus, Baird, Birds K Am., 1858, 122; Cat. K Am.. Birds, 1859, No. 98a.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, II, 1874, 582, pi. Liv, fig. 3.
List of specimens.
400, (J; -Washoe Valley, January 4, 1868. 13— 20f— 6|— 5f.
[General appearance of typical mexicanus^ having ashy throat and scarlet <^ moustaches," but occiput with a distinct scarlet crescent, and the red of the remiges and rectrices inclining decidedly to orange.]
^ Whether the puzzling specimens included under this name are really hybrids, or whether they are remnants of a generalized form from which two "incipient species" have become differentiated, must long remain an open question. The latter view, how- ever, seems the more rational ; and it is altogether probable that this ** hybrid" series is gradually losing its neutral character, through the nearer approach, generation by generation, of its members to the characters of one or the other of the two specialized forms. [For a full and very sensible discussion of this subject, see Coues's Birds of the Norihw€s% pp. 293, 294.]
COLAPTES AUEATUS. 557
COLAPTES AUEATUS? Yellow-shafted Flicker.
Cucnlus auratus, Linn., Syst. Nat., I (ed. 10), 1758, 112.
Colaptes auratus, Swains., Zool. Jouru., ILE, 1827, 353.— Baird, Birds N. Am.,
1858, 118; Catal. N. Ara. B., 1859, No. 97.— CouES, Key, 1872, 197; Check
List, 1873, No. 312; Birds N.W., 1874, 292.
Early in October, 1867, we saw near Unionville, in the West Hum- boldt Mountains, a Flicker which had bright gamboge-yellow shafts to the quills and tail-feathers. It flew from the brushwood of a ravine close by, and was followed over the hills, from rock to rock, through the sage-brush and across fields, and from one ravine to another, for nearly an hour, until it finally disappeared. It was so extremely shy that we found it impossible* to get within fair gunshot range, but several shots were risked at it, one of which brought several feathers, which on examination were found to be pure, bright gamboge-yellow, without the faintest trace of orange. On the 22d of November following, a similar individual was seen among the willows along the Truckee River, at the Glendale Meadows; but being on the oppo- site side of the stream, it could not be obtained. Whether these birds were the typical eastern O, auratus or 0, chrysoides^ of the southern portion of the Middle Province, we cannot, of course, be sure; but geographical consid- erations render the former more probable. It is almost certain they were not specimens of C, hybriduSj since the latter is seldom, if ever, without more or less of an orange tinge to the wings and tail.''^
^ Oeopieus chrysoides^ Malherbe, Rev. et Mag. Zool., IV, 1852, 553. Colaptes chrysoides^ Baibd, Birds N. Am., 1858, 125; Oat. N. Am. "Birds, 1859, No. 99.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 410.— Coues, Key, 1872, 198; Check List, 1873, No, 313.— B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. Birds, II, 1874, 583, pi. Liv, figs. 1, 2.
^In the "Ornithology of California,'' page 412, Dr. J. G. Cooper mentions two specimens from Oakland, near San Francisco, " which are evidently of the form hyhri- dus, Baird," one of which "differs from the auratus only in having the head grayish like meMcanus and the blaclc of the cheek-feathers tipped with redJ*^
558 ornithology.
Family CUOULID^— Cuckoos, cocoyzus americanus,
Yellow-billed Cuckoo.
CuculuH americanm^ Linn., Syst. Nat., 1, 1766, 170.
Coccyzus americanus, Bonap., Obs. Wils. Orn., 1825, No. 47.--CouES, Key, 1872,
190, fig, 126; Check List, 1873, No. 291 ; B. N.W., 1874, 275. Coceygus americanus, Baird, B. N. Am., 185S, 76; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 69. —
CooPEB, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 371.— -B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., II, 1874, 477,
pi. XLViii, fig.4 (^'3'' err.).--HENSHAW, 1875, 386.
The Yellow-billed Cuckoo was so often seen or heard durmg our sojourn in the West, that we cannot regard it as a particularly rare bird in certain portions of that country. At Sacramento City its well-known notes were heard on more than one occasion in June, among the oak groves in the outskirts of the city, while across the Sierra Nevada several individuals were seen in July in the wooded valley of the lower Truckee.
Family TROCHILIDJl— Humming-birds. Calypte ann^.
Anua's Hninmer*
Ornismya annay Lesson, Oiseaiix Mouches, 1830, pi. oxxiv.
Athis annay Baird, B. N. Am., 1858, 137 ; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 105.
Calypte annw, Gould, Introd. Trochilidse, 1861, 88.— B. B. & R , Hist. N. Am. B.,
1874, 454, pi. XLVII, fig. 7.— Hbnshaw, 1875, 375. Selasphorus anna, CouES, Key, 1872, 185 ; Check List, 1873, No. 279. Calypte anna, Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 358.
This beautiful Hummer was found only at Sacramento City, where it was rare, or at least far less common than the Trochilus alexandri We did not see enough of it to detect anything distinctive in its habits.
List of specimens.
10, nest and eggs (2); Sacramento City, California, June 9, 1867* Nest at extrem- ity of a small dead twig, underneath lower branches of small oak, in grove.
TEOGHILUS ALEXANDRI-SELASPHORUS BUPU8. 559
Trochilus ALEXANDRI.
Black-chinned lluifinier.
(Soong-ooh' -eh oi the Paiutes.)
Trochilus alexandri^ Bouroier & Mulsant, Ann. de la Soc. d'Agric. de Lyons, IX, 1846, 330.— Baibd, B. N. Ara., 1858, 133; ed. I860, pi. 44, fig. 3; Cat. K Am. B., 1859, No. 102.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 353.— Coues, Key, 1872, 184; Check List, 1873, 276.— B. B. & R., Hist. K Am. B., II, 1874, 450, pi. XLVir, fig. 1.— Henshaw, 1875, 373.
This was the only Hummer which was encountered along every portion of our route, in the proper localities, it being equally common at Sacramento City and among the mountains of Utah, as well as at favorable intermediate points. Since we found it in the Wahsatch, where it was asso- ciated with Selasphorus platycercus, among the flowery meadows of the higher slopes, it will be seen that its vertical range during the breeding-season extends through fully 9,000 feet of altitude. At Sacramento it nested in the oak groves in the outskirts of the city, where it was apparently more numerous than Calypte anncc; while in the Interior it was equally common in the river- valleys and on the higher slopes of the mountains. In its habits it appeared to be a perfect counterpart of the eastern Ruby-throat (T. colubris).
List of specimens »
776, nest and eggs (2); Truckee Reservation, June 1, 1868. Nest attached to dead twig of grease- wood bush, on river- bank.
777, S ad. (parent of the preceding). 3f|— 4f— (?)— Ig. Bill, black; iris, deep sepia ; tarsi and toes, black.
1285, nest and eggs (2) ; Parley's Park, June 25, 1869. Kest on branch of scrub- oak, in a grove.
1352, 9 ad.; Parley's Park, Utah, June 28, 1869. 3J — 4|. Bill, black ; iris, very dark brown; tarsi and toes, purplish black.
1483, Sjuv.; Parley^s Park, July 30, 1869. 3^— 4f . Same remarks*
Selasphorus rufus.
Rufous Ilumnier.
(Soong-ooh'-eh of the Paiutes.)
Trochilus rufus, Gmelin, Syst. Nat., I, 1788, 497.
Selasphorus rufuSy Swainson, Fauna Bor. Am., II, 1831, 324. — Baibd, B. K. Am., 1858, 134; Cat. F. Am. B., 1859, No. 103.— Cooper, Orn. OaL, 1, 355.— .OouES, Key, 1872, 185 ; Check List, 1873, No. 277.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B,, II, 1874, 459, pi. XLVii, fig. 4.— Henshaw, 1875, 375.
Among the sun-flowers (Helianthus gigantem ?), which covered acres of
560 ORNITHOLOGY.
ground, in the rich valley of the lower Truckee, this was the only species of Humming-bird found in August, jat which time great numbers were seen sporting in all their elegance and beauty among these flowers ; they dis- played the greatest activity and grace of motion, and were ever restless and moving, now chasing each other, then hovering in front of a golden flower ^ for a few moments, then off like a flash. Upon revisiting the same locality in May and June of the following season, not one of this species was to be found, its place being apparently entirely taken by the Black-chinned spe- cies [Trochihis alexandri). We next saw the Eufous-backed Hummer in the fertile canons of the West Humboldt Mountains, where it was more or less common in October. Eastward of the latter locality, the species was seen only in Secret Valley, near the northern extremity of the East Humboldt range, where it was much more rare than S, platycercus^ this point being the most eastern to which it is known to extend, so far as we are at pres- ent aware. It was not found during the breeding-season anywhere along our route.
List of spechnens.
124:, $ juv,; Truckee ReservatioQ, Nevada, August 6, 1867. 3||— 4^— -IJ— 1^— H — 1^5 — ^ — I- ^^11 ^^d feet, black ; iris, dark brown.
905, S juv.; East Humboldt Mountains (Gamp 23), September 8, 1868. 3§— 4y7_
Selasphorus platycercus.
Broad«tailed Hummer.
{Pe* -esh-a-tse d^ndi Toowith! -e-kim' -hooah of the Shoshones.)
Trochilus platycercus, Swainson, Synop. Mex. Birds, Philos. Mag., I, 1827, 441.
Selasphorus platycercus, Bonap., Consp., 1, 1850, 82. — Baird, B. K Am., 1858, 135, 922; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 104. -^Cooper, Orn. Cal., 1, 357.— Coues, Key, 1872, 185; Check List, 1873, JC^To. 278; Birds KW., 1874, 271.— B. B & R., Hist. K. Am. B., II, 1874, 462, pi. xlvii, fig. 5 — Henshaw, 1875, 377.
In traveling eastward across the Great Basin, we first encountered the Broad-tailed Hummer on the Ruby Mountains, where it was very abundant in July and August, on the flower-covered slopes of the upper cafions on the eastern side of the range, in company with Stellula calliope; in Septem- ber we found it associated with the latter species and Selasphorus rufus in
SELASPHORUS PLATYCEECUS^ 561
the northern continuation of the same range (the East Humboldt Jlount- ains), while on the Wahsatch and Uintahs it was found still more abun- dantly throughout the summer in company with TrocJiiltis alexandrL The distribution of Humming-birds being governed by the presence or absence of tracts where a profusion of flowers flourish, this species is consequently mainly confined to the higher slopes of the mountains ; but whenever a portion of the lower valleys is made to bloom by irrigation, this Hummer soon finds it out and at once appears. Under such circumstances its vertical range is very great, amounting, in one instance which came under our observation, to fully 6,000 feet; for one morning we killed a specimen near the ranche in Ruby Valley, and later during the same day, when we had ascended to the summit of one of the highest peaks, which towered to nearly 12,000 feet, a single individual buzzed past us.
The flight of this Humming-bird is unusually rapid, and that of the male is accompanied by a curious screeching buzz, while it is followed through an undulating course. Long before the author of this curious sound was detected its source was a mystery to us. This shrill screeching note is heard only when the bird is passing rapidly through the air, for when hov- ering among the flowers its flight is accompanied by only the usual muffled hum common to all the species of the family. During the nesting-season the male is of an exceedingly quarrelsome disposition, and intrepid, proba- bly beyond any other bird, the Flycatchers not excepted. All birds that approach the vicinity of his nest, whether they be his own species or of the size of hawks, are immediately assaulted with great force and pertinacity by this seemingly insignificant little creature, the vigor of whose attacks, accom- panied as they are by the shrill piercing noise we have mentioned, invariably puts to flight any bird assaulted. We have thus seen the Western Kingbird {Tyranmis verticalis)^ the Black-headed Grosbeak {Eedijmeles melanocephalus^ and the Sharp-shinned Hawk {Nisus fuscus) beat a hasty retreat before the persevering assaults of this Humming-bird. When thus teasing an intruder the Httle champion ascends almost perpendicularly to a consid- erable height, and then descends with the quickness of a flash at the object he would annoy, which is probably more frightened by the accompany- ing noise than by the mere attack itself As we chanced, while hunting 36 PR
562 OKNITHOLOGT.
on the mountains, to pass tlirough the haunts of this Hummer, it frequently happened that one of the little creatures, prompted apparently by curiosity, would approach close to us and remain poised in one spot, its wings vibra- ting so I'apidly as to appear as a mere haze around the body; now and then it would shift from one side to another, its little black eyes sparkling as it eyed us intently. So close would it finally approach that to strike it with the hat or a stick seemed to be quite an easy matter, but upon the slightest motion on our part the little thing would vanish so quickly that its direction could scarcely be traced.
On the mountains we found many nests of this Humming-bird, every one of them being discovered by frightening the female from off her eggs or young. They were variously situated, most of them being in the scrub- oaks on the slopes of the hills ; many were in willows or other bushes bor- dering the streams, and not a few on drooping twigs of cotton-wood trees, along the water-courses. One of those which we secured (No. 1377) affords good evidence of the possession by this bird of a high degree of instinct, if not an approach to reason. This nest was built upon a dead twig of a small cotton- wood; the bark of this twig gradually loosened, and after the eggs were laid slipped around (perhaps by the parent bird alighting upon one edge of the nest), so tHat the nest was turned round to the under side of the limb and the eggs thrown out. Instead of abandoning this nest, however, the sharp little owners built an addition to it, making another complete nest on the upper side, which was now secured in position by the superior weight of the more bulky pendant one.^
List of specimens,
9G3, S ad.; Salt Lake City, May 20, 1869, (City Creek Canon). 4--45. Bill and feet black ; iris, dark sepia.
1042, $ ad.; Salt Lake City, May 24, 1869. 4—5. Same remarks.
1054, i ad.; Salt Lake City, May 26, 1869. 4^4if . Same remarks.
1064, cj ad,; Salt Lake City, May 29, 1869. 4— 4i|. Same remarks.
1272, ? ad.; Parley's Park, June 23, 1869. 4^5^?-. (CaugUt ia a tent during a hard shower.)
1311, ^ad.; Parley's Park, June 28, 1869. 4.
/In Gould's Introduction to the Trochilidce {[mga 20)^ it is stated that certain South American Hummiug-Birds adjust the equilibrium of their nests by weighting the lighter side with a small stone or bit of hard earth I
STELLULA CALLIOPE. 563
1312, S ad.; Parley's Park, June 28, 1869. 4.
1319, nest and eggs (2) ; Parley^s Park, June 26, 1860. Nest on drooping branch of a cotton-wood tree, by a stream.
1332, nest and eggs (2); Parley's Park, June 28, 1869. Kest on bush, along stream.
1333, nest ; Parley's Park, June 28, 1869. Nest on drooping branch of a cotton- wood tree, by stream.
1348, $ ad.; Parley's Park, June 28, 1869.
1349, $ad.; Parley's Park, June 28, 1869.
1350, S ad.; Parley's Park, June 28, 1869.
1351, (J ad.; Parley's Park, June 28, 1869.
1366, nest and eggs (2) ; Uintah Mountains (Pack's Caiion), July 3, 1869. Nest in a sage-bush.
1377, nest ; Pack's Canon, July 7, 1869. Nest on dead twig of a small cotton- wood.
1437, $ ad.; Parley's Park, July 21, 1869.
1411, nest and eggs (2); Parley's Park, July 23, 1869. Nest among willows, along stream.
1442, nest and eggs (2); same date and remarks.
1449, ? ad.; Parley's Park, July 23, 1869.
Stellula calliope.
Calliope Hmnnier.
Troehilus calliope, Gould, Proc. Zool. Soc. Lond., 1847, 11.
Stellula calliope, Gould, Introd. Trochilidae, 1861, 90.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., T,
1870, 363.— COUES, Key, 1872; Check List, 1873, No. 282.— B. B. & R., Hist.
N. Am. Birds, II, 1874, 445, pi. XLVII, fig. 9.— Henshaw, 1875, 372.
On the flowery slopes of the Ruby and East Humboldt Mountains, at an altitude of 7,500-10,000 feet, this little Hummer was abundant in August and September, in company with Selasphorus platycercus ; the habits and appearance of the two species being so much alike that we never knew which was before us until the specimen was secured. The range of the species is doubtless almost universal throughout the Basin, like that of Tro- ehilus alexandri and Selasphorus rufus.
List of specimens*
869, 9 ad.; East Humboldt Mountains (Camp 19), August 12, 1868. 3x^—4^— (!) — If. Bill and feet, black j iris, very dark brown. *
882, Sjuv.; East Humboldt Mountains (Camp 21), August 29, 1868. 3}|--4f|— (?) — 1|. Same remarks.
904, 9 ad.; Secret Valley (Camp 22), September 7, 1868. 3 J— (!)— (!)--lxV Same remarks.
564 ORNITHOLOGY.
Family CYPSELIDiE— Swifts. Panyptila saxatilis.
irtiite-tliroated l^wlfl.
Acanthylis saxatilis, Woodhouse, Sitgreaves' Rep., 1853, G4.
Panyptila saxatilis, CouES, Key, 1872, 182; Check List, 1873, No. 209; Birds
N.W,, 1874, 265.— Henshaw, 1875, 370. Cypselus melanoleucus, Baird, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., 1854, 118. Fanyptila melanoleuca, Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 141 j Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1850,
No. 107.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 1, 1870, 347.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds,
II, 1874, 424, pi. XLV, fig. 5.
We first noticed this singular bird in the early part of July, 1868, on the Toyabe Mountains, near Austin. A single individual only was observed at that place, the one in question passing rapidly by, as if bound for some distant locality; the direction of its course was southward, where the peaks of the range are more lofty and precipitous, so it is probable that in favor- able portions of these mountains the species mp.y have occurred in abund- ance. Upon arriving at the Ruby Mountains, a little later in the same month, we found it extremely numerous about the high limestone cliffs which formed the walls of the canons leading back from our camp. At this place they literally swarmed, and were associated with smaller numbers of PetrocheUdon lunifrons and Tachycineta thalassina, both of which nested among the same rocks. It was afterward seen in City Creek Canon, near Salt Lake City, but it was not abundant there.
The appearance of this bird calls to mind at first sight the Chimney Swifts {Chcetura pelagica and C. vauxi) on a large scale, or NephoeceteSj but it has more conspicuous colors, and more active and varied manners ; the deeply-forked tail, and the abrupt contrast between the black and white areas of its plumage distinguishing it at a glance from all other North American Swifts. It was our frequent amusement to clamber half-way up a cliff, or to where farther progress was impossible, and, hidden among the rocks, watch the movements of these extraordinarily active birds. Every few moments a pair would rush by with such velocity as to be scarcely seen, one chasing the other, and both uttering a sharp rattling twitter. Another pair would collide high up in the air, and, fastening upon each
NEPHCEOBTES BOREALIS. 565
oilier with their strong claws, come whirling to the ground, just before reaching which they would loosen their clutches and separate, or after again ascending resume the struggle. Others hovered around overhead, and without seeming aware of our presence, entered, now and then, the small horizontal fissures in the overhanging cHff to their nests, which were utterly inaccessible.
Specimens of this bird were extremely difficult to procure from the fact that most of those shot fell among the rocks where they could not be reached, while when away from the cliffs they flew at too great a height to be reached with shot.
The notes of this Swift are strong and rattling, sometimes rather shrill, certain ones resembling very much the chatter of young Baltimore Orioles {Icterus haltim^re) as uttered while being fed by their parents.
List of specimens*
836, $ ad.; Camp 19, East Humboldt Mountains, July 13, 1868. 6}^— 13|— (?)— - 4 J. Bill, deep black j iris, dark bister; tarsi and toes, pale livid-pinkish; naked eye- lids, sepia-brown.
837, 9«^v same locality and date. 6J— .14— (!)— 4f|..
846, i ad,; same locality, July 20, 1868. 7— 14J— (I)— 5. Interior of mouth, livid flesh-color.
NePHCEOETES ISTIGEB. Black Swiflt.
/?. horealis.
Cypselus borealisj Kennerly, Pr. Ac. Kat. Sci, Philad., 1857, 202.
Nephwcetes niger var. horealis, CoUES, Key, 1872, 183; Check List, 1873, No. 270.
Nephcecetes niger. b. horealis, CouES, Birds N.W., 1874, 269.
UepJiodoetes niger, Baird, Birds K Ara., 1858, 142; Oat. K Am. Birds, 1859, No. 108, [not Hirundo nigra, G'MBIj.,11SS, = ¥ephcscetes^l — Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 349.— B. B, & R., Hist. N. Am. B., 429, pi. XLV, fig. 4.
The occurrence of this Swift in the valley of the Truckee was made known to us only through the discovery of the remains of an individual which had been devoured by a hawk or owl, the sternum, wings, tail, and feet having been left upon a log in a cotton-wood grove. On the 23d of
* The West Indian form.
566 ORNITHOLOGY.
June, following, we found it abundant in a very similar portion of the valley of Carson River; they were observed early in the morning, hovering over the cotton-wood groves in a large swarm, after the manner of Night- Ilawks {Chordeiles)j but in their flight resembling the Chimney Swifts (CliiEtura), as they also did in their uniform dusky color, the chief apparent diflPerence being their much larger size. They were evidently breeding in the locality, but whether their nests were in the hollow cotton- wood trees of the extensive groves along the river, or in crevices on the face of a high cliff which fronted the river near by, we were unable to determine on account of the shortness of our stay. They were perfectly silent during the whole time they were observed.
List of specimens,
807, wings, tail, feet, and sternum; Truckee Reservation, May 31, 1868. (Found on a log in the woods, where left by a hawk or owl.)
? CH;aiTURA VAUXI. Oregon Swift.
Cypselus vauxii, ToWNSEND, Journ. Acad. Nat Sci. Philad., VIII, 1839, 148. Chcettira vauxii^ DeKay, Zool. New York, 11, 1844, 36. — Baird, Birds N. Am.,
1858, 145; ed. 1860, pi. 18; Cat. K Am. Birds, 1859, No. 110.— Cooper,
Orn. Cal., 1, 1870, 351.— CouES, Key, 1872, 183; Check List, 1873, No. 272;
Birds N.W., 1874, 268. Chcetura (pelagica var.f) vauxi^ B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. Birds, II, 1874, 435, pi.
XLV, fig. 8.
During our sojourn at the Truckee Reservation, near Pyramid Lake, in May and June, 1868, we saw, nearly every evening, but never until after sundown, quite a number of small Swifts which must have been this species; but they always flew at so great a height that we found it impos- sible to obtain a specimen in order to determine the species. In appear- ance, manner of flight, and, apparently, in size also, they resembled the eastern Chimney Swift {G. pelagica), but they difibred in their entirely crepuscular habits, and the fact that they were perfectly silent — the latter in particular being a very marked difference from the eastern species.
ANTEOSTOMUS NUTTALLL 567
Fasiilt CAPRIMULGIDJ]— GoATSuoKEiis. Antkostomus nuttalll
Poor-will.
{Koo-ta-gueh' of the Paiutes; Toet-sa-gueh' of the Shoshones.)
Caprimulgus nuUallij Audubon, Orn. Biog., Y, 1839, 335.
AntroHtomm nuttallL Oassin, Joarn. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., II, 1852, 123.— -Baird,
Birds N. Am., 1858, 149; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 113.— Cooper, Orn.
Cal., 1, 1870, 341.— COUES, Key, 1872, 181; Check List, 1873, No. 2G(>; Birds
N.W., 1874, 261.— B. B. & R., Hist. N, Am. B., II, 1874, 417, pi. XLVr, fig. 3.
— Henshaw, 1875, 369,
Unlike its eastern representative, the well-known Whip-poor-will (A. vociferus), this western species is an inhabitant of open places exclusively, the sage-brush country being, so far as we observed, its only habitat. It appeared to be most abundant on the mesas and about the foot-hills of the mountains, but it was often observed or heard in the lower valleys, as well as in the mountain-parks, below an altitude of 8,000 feet. This bird was seen only when startled from the ground by our too near approach, when it would fly up suddenly and flutter off in a manner similar to that of certain Owls, the flight being also noiseless. Often while returning late from the mountains, and while following the road or trail homeward across the mesa, we have beheld one of these birds start up in front of us, as noiselessly as a shadow, again settling down a few rods ahead; we have followed one thus for a hundred yards or more before it would diverge from our course.
The call of this bird is somewhat like that of the Whip-poor-will, but is far less distinctly uttered, as well as weaker, sounding more like poor-will, the last syllable only being distinctly enunciated. This call we have heard at all hours of the day, but they sing most vigorously as night approaches. Both sexes incubate.
List of specimens,
799, <J ad.; Truckee Eeservation, Nevada, June 3, 1868. S^V-^'^'i— C?)— ^I- Bill^ black; iris, raw-umber; tarsi and toes, dusky sepia.
843, eggs 2; East Humboldt Mountains, July 20, 1868. Deposited on bare ground, beneath sage-bush, on hillside. Male killed while flying from eggs.
568 ORNITHOLOGY.
844, S ad, (parent of preceding); East Humboldt Mountains, July 20, 1808. 8^ — 17^— (!)— 4J. Bill, deep black; interior of the mouth, flesh-color; iris (very narrow), umber; eyelids, ochraceous-brown; tarsi, pale ashy-lilaceous, the toes darker.
937, 6 ad,; Upper Humboldt Valley, September 19, 1868. 8|— 17f— (I)— 5. Same remarks.
1379, 3 ad.; Uintah Mountains, Utah, July 7, 1869. 8J— 17|. Bill, black; iris (narrowly), brown; eyelids, dull ochraceous; tarsi and toes, dull dusky purplish.
Choedeiles POPETUE.
/S, henryi.
{Kow'a-looh of the Washoes; Wy^-e-up-ah'-oh of the Shoshones.)
Chordeilea henryi, Cassin, Illust. Birds CaL, Texas. &c., 1855, 239.— Baird, Birds
N. Am., 1858, 153, 922 ; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 115. Chordeiles popetue var. henryi, Allen, Bull. Mus. Comp. ZooL, III, 1872, 179. —
B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, II, 1874, 404, pi. xlvi, fig. 4.— Henshaw,
1875,367. Chordeiles virginianus var. henryi, CouES, Key, 1872, 181 ; Check List, 1873, No.
267a. Cliordeiles virginianus, b. henryi, CouES, Birds N.W., 1874, 264, Chordeiles popetue. Cooper, Orn. Cal., 1, 1870, 343.
The Night-Hawk was a common summer inhabitant of the country traversed. It was most numerous during the months of August and Septem- ber, when just before dark they congregated in immense numbers and over- spread in scattered flocks those locaUties where insect-life most abounded- In July, their well-known booming sound was often heard. During the greater portion of the day they remained inactive, and were then frequently surprised during their siesta, as they perched on a horizontal limb, a board of a fence, or a stick lying on the ground, their position being, according 'to our experience, invariably lengthwise with the perch.^ While thus resting they often evince a strong attachment to the perch they occupy, returning
* This disposition to sit lengthwise with the perch may be considered by some a constant habit of the CaprimulgidsD; we should be inclined to so regard it ourselves, were it not for the fact that the first specimen of Antrostomus vociferus we ever killed was shot while asleep on a small branch of a hickory tree, its position being at right- angles with the direction of the twig, in the manner usual among the true ^^perchers^' (Passeres, etc.).
STEIX PEATINCOLA. 5G9
to it repeatedly when frightened away; No. 1 18 of the specimens enumerated below being killed after it had been frightened oif a stick lying on the ground in a coiTal three times by unsuccessful shots at it. In all its habits, as well as in the notes, there appears to be no difference whatever between the western and eastern birds of this species.
List of specim ens.
118, ^ ad.; Truckee Valley, [Nevada, August 4, 1867. 9^— 233— 7if — 6iV-i— tV— 4^ — 2J. Bill, black ; iris, dark hazel ; tarsi and toes, dusky purplish.
842, 1 egg; East Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, July 17, 1868. Egg oit the bare ground, beneath a sage-bush.
856, i ad.; East Humboldt Mountains, Nevada, August 4, 1868. 9|— 23J— (!)— 6J. Same remarks.
857, i ad.; same locality and date. 10— 23J—- (?)— 6, Same remarks. 1344, S ad.; Parley's Park, Utah, June 28, 1869.
1383, 1 egg] Uintah Mountains (head of Du Chesne Eiver), Utah, July 8, 1869.
1426, 1 egg; Parley's Park, July 17, 1869.
J 443, 2 eggs ; Parley's Park, July 23, 1869.
1450, (? ad.; Parley's Park, July 24, 1869. 9^—23^.
1507, 9 ad.; Parley's Park, August 13, 1869. 9^—22^.
1514, 9 ad.; Parley Park, August 26, 1869. 9^—23^.
Family STRIGIDJ]— Owls. Strix flammea.
Barn Owl.
6. pratincola.
Strix pratincola, Bonaparte, Comp. & Geog. List, 1838, 7.-— Cassin, in Baird^s
Birds K Am., 1858, 47.— Baird, Cat. N. Am. Birds,. 1859, No. 47.— Cooper,
Orn., Cal., I, 415. Strix pratincola var. pratincolaj EroawAY, B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. Birds, III,
1874,13. Strix americana, Audubon, Synopsis, 1839, 25. Strix flammea americana^ SCHLEa., Mus. PaysBas, 1862, Striges, 4. Strix flammea var. americana, Coues, Key, 1872, 201, fig. 134; Check List, 1873,
No. 316; Birds N.W., 1874, 298.
The Bam Owl was seen only In the vicinity of Sacramento, the single one observed being frightened from a hollow tree.
570 ORNITHOLOGY.
List of speoimefis.
4:22 i ad.; "San Francisco, California, February 11, 1868, 14.|— 42^— (?)^ilj. Bill, bluisli-yeJlow, growing wbite at the point j eyes, blue-black." (Presented by Mr. n. G. Parker.)
Otus WILSONIANUS. Liong-eared Owl.
OlM8 wilsonianus^ Lesson, Traits Orn., 1, 1831, 110. — Cassin, iu Baird's B. N. Am., 1858, 53.— Baird, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 51.— Cooper, 1, 1870,426.
Otus vulgaris var. wilsonianus, Allen, Bull. Mus. Comp. Zool., Ill, 1872, 180. — COUES, Key, 1872, 204 ; Check List, 1873, No. 320; Birds N.W., 1874, 304.— B. B. & 11., Hist. N. Am. Birds, III, 1874, 18.— Henshaw, 1875, 403.
Seldom, if ever, did we enter a willow-copse of any extent, during our explorations in the West, without starting one or more specimens of this Owl from the depths of the thicket. This was the case both near Sacramento and in the Interior, and in summer as well as in winter. In these thickets they find many deserted nests of the Magpie, and selecting the most dilap- idated of these, deposit their eggs on a scant additional lining. This practice is so general, so far as the birds of the Interior are concerned, that we never found the eggs or young of this species except as described above. On the 27th of May we found a nest containing four downy young among the willows along the bank of the Truckee River.
List of specimens.
66^ $ ad.; Sacramento, California, June 18, 1867. 14J— 39.J— 124— 10|— |f — If— 6J — 4. Bill, black ; iris, bright lemon-yellow ; toes, beneath, pale yellowish-ashy, their scutellse more yellowish.
74, ijuv.; iSacramento,Juno22,1867.—llf—30J—8f—6J—}i— 11—4^—3. Bill, brownish-blue J iris, bright yellow 5 exposed scutell® of the toes, pale brownish-blue; soles, ashy-whitish.
389, 9 ad.; Washoe Valley, Nevada, January 3, 1868. 14^— 39— 11|— lOJ. Bill, deep black; iris, rich gamboge-yellow; toes pale ashy naples-yellow beneath, the scutellse light yellowish-brown; claws, deep black.
390, S ad. (mate of preceding). 14 — 36 — 11^ — 9J. Same remarks;
424, " 9 ad.; San Francisco, California, January 31, 1868. 14|— 39f — (?)— 10^. Eyes, bright yellow." (Presented by Mr. H. G. Parker.)
536, eggs (2) ; Carson City, Kevada, April 27, 1868. Eggs deposited in a deserted nest of the Magpie {Pica hudsonica), in a willow-thicket along the Carson Eiver. Parent shot.
BRACHYOTUS CASSINI— SCOPS ASIO. 571
Brachyotus PALUSTRIS.
Short-cared Owl.
(3, cassini Strix hraehyottis, Forster, Phil. Trans., LXII, 1772, 384. Otus hrachyotns, Boie, Isis, 1822, 549.
Oius (Brachyotus) brachyotus, B. B. & R, Hist K Am. B., Ill, 1874, 22.— TIen- SHAW, 1875, 404.
Brachyotus palustris, BoNAP., Comp. List., 1838, 7.— Cotjes, Key, 1872, 204;
Check List, 1873, No. 321 ; B. N. W., 1874, 306. Brachyotus cassinii, Brewer, Pr. Boston Soc. N. H., 1856, — .—Cassin, in Baird's
B. K Am., 1858, 54.— Baird, Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 52.— Cooper, Orn.
Cal., I, 428.
This Owl we did not meet with anywhere, the only specimen in the collection having been presented by Mr. H. G. Parker. It is said, however, to be an abundant species in certain portions of California.
List of specimens.
425, '' 9 ad.; San Francisco, California, February 17, 1868. 16J— 43|— (1)— 11. Eyes, bright yellow."
SCOPS ASIO. Mottled Owl; I^ittle Red Owl.
a, asio,
Strix asio. Linn., Syst. Nat., I, 1766, 132.
Scops asiOj BoNAP., Comp. and Geog. List, 1838, 6.— Cassin, in BaircVs Birds K. Am., 1858, 51.— Baird, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, Ko. 49.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 420.— CouES, Key, 1872, 202, fig. 136 5 Check List, 1873, No. 318.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, III, 1874, 49.
Scops asio, a. asio, CouES, Birds KW., 1874, 303.
Scops asio var. maccalU^ Henshaw, Orn. Wheeler's Exp., 1875, 405. (Not S. maccallij Cass.)
This common little Owl we observed only in the vicinity of Sacramento City; not a single individual was seen in the Interior, nor did we hear of its occurrence there. It was not met with in the red plumage, which ap- pears to be rare — perhaps unknown — on the Pacific coast.
List of specimens.
61, 9 juv.; Sacramento, California, June 20, 1867. SJ— 22|—6|— 5—^^—1 J— 3J — 2. Bill, pale ashy pea-green ;'iris, lemon-yellow; toes, pale grayish.
62, i juv,; §ame locality and date. 8| — 21^—6 — 4||— j^^ — 1| — 3— 2J. Same re- marks.
572 OENITHOLOGT.
75, S ad.; Sacramento, Jane 23, 1867. 9^22— 7— 5f^~-l|— 3f— 2^. Bill, light brownish-blue; iris, leraon-yellow; toes, very pale ashy,
Nyotale AOADICA.
Saw-whet Owl.
Strix acadicaj Gmelin, Syst. Nat., I, 1788, 296. {Adult.)
Kyctale acadica^ BoKAI>., Oomp. and Geog. List, 1838, 7. — Oassin, in Baird's Birds
N. Am., 1858, 58.— Baird, Oat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 57.— Cooper, Orn.
Cal., 1, 436.— CouES, Key, 1872, 205; Check List, 1873, No. 328 ; Birds N. W.,
1874, 315.— B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. Birds, III, 1874, 43. 8trix albifrons^ Shaw, Nat. Misc., Y, 1794, pi. 171. { Young.) Nyctale albifrona^ Cassin, Illustr. Birds Cal., Tex., &c., 1854, 187; in Baird's Birds
N. Am., 1858, 57.— Baird, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 56.— Cooper, Orn.
Cal., I, 435.
But a single individual of this pretty little Owl was met with ; this one was captured alive by Mr. 0. L. Palmer, of our party, who found it asleep and placed his hat over it. It was perched on the edge of an old Robin's nest, in a dense willow thicket near the camp.
Lint of specimens.
941, 9 ad,; Thousand Spring Valley (Camp 27), September 24, 1868. 8— 20— (?) — 4f. Bill, deep black; iris, clear bright gamboge yellow; toes, pale naples yellow; claws, deep black.
Bubo vikginianus.
Great Horned Owl.
fi, subarcticus. {Temooli'mooh! of the Washoes ; Moo-hoo^ of the Paiutes.) Bubo subarcticus^ HoY, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., VI, 1852, 211. Bubo virginianus var. arcticuSj Cassin, Illustr. Birds Cal., Tex., &c., 1854, 178, [Not Strix (Bubo) arcticus, Swains., 1831, = albinescent arctic form.] — CoUBS, Key, 1872, 202 ; Check List, 1873, No. 317.— B. B. & K, Hist. N. Am. B., Ill, 1874, 60, 64.— Henshaw, 1875, 407. Bubo virginianus var. pa^dficus^ Cassin, Illustr. Birds Cal., Tex., &c., 1854, 178;
in Baird's B. N. Am, 1858, 49.^ Bubo virginianus^ Cassin, Baird's B. N. Am., 1858,49 (part).— Baird, Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 48.~-CooPER, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 418.
The Grreat Horned Owl was found by us in all wooded districts, except-
1 Not of RiDGWAY, in B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, which is a northern littoral form, of very dark, colors, whiqh appears to be unnamed, and which may be distin- guished as B. virginianus saturatus, Ridgway.
SPEOTYTO HTPOG^A. 573
ing the Sacramento Valley, where none were seen, although the species undoubtedly occurs there. In the lower Truckee Valley, near Pyramid Lake, it was abundant in December, and its nocturnal hootings were heard from among the cotton-wood groves every moonlight night, while its feath- ers, more than those of any other bird, adorned the arrows of the Indians on the reservation. It was also common near Carson City, and a few were startled one morning as we rode through a cedar woods near the ''City of Rocks," in southern Idaho. One was also seen on the eastern shore of Pyramid Lake in May, it being chased from rock to rock by a male Falcon {Falco commtmis ncevius), who, with his mate, had a nest on the ''Pyramid" just off the shore.
The hooting of this Owl is low and hoarse, resembling the distant bark- ing of a large dog; its modulation is something like the syllables hooh\ JioOj hoOj hoo — JwoooooOj the latter portion a subdued trembling echo, as it were, of the more distinctly uttered notes. These notes do not differ in the least from those of the eastern birds of this species.
List of specimens.
504, eggs (3) ; Carson Eiver, rear Carson City, Nevada, April 21, 18G8. Neat about 30 feet from the ground, in a large cotton- wood tree; evidently an abandoned one of the Buieo swainsoni.
Speotyto CUNICULAKIA.
Burrowing Owl.
y. hypogcea}
Strix hypugwaj BoNAP., Am. Orn., I, 1825, 72.
Athene hypogcea, BoNAP., Consp., I, 1850, 39. — Cassin, in Baird's Birds N. Am.,
1858, 59.— Baird, Cat. N. Am., B., 1859, No. 58.— Cooper, Orn. Cal, I, 440. Speotyto cunicularia var. hypogcea, EiDawAY, in Coues' Key, 1872, 207 ; in B.B.
& R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, III, 1874, 90.— CouES, Check List, 1873, No, 332;
Birds N.W., 1874, 321.— Henshaw, 1875, 409. Athene cunicularia, Cassin, in Baird's Birds N. Am., 1858, 60 (not of Molina, 1782).
—Baird, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 59.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 437.
Although the *' Ground OwP' was found at widely-separated places
^ Races a and fi are, cunicularia, Mol., of the Pampas of Paraguay, Buenos Ayres, etc., and grallaria, Spix, of Peru and western Brazil. Other geographical forms are d, floridana^ Ridgw., of southwestern Florida, and e, guadeloupensis^ Ridgw., of the island of Guadeloupe (West Indies).
574 ORNITHOLOGY.
along our entire route, it was abundant at very few localities. It was most numerous on the dry plains near Sacramento, being even found on the open commons in the outskirts of the city, where it occupied deep excava- tions which were apparently the result of its own work, as no spermophiles or other burrowing quadrupeds were noticed in the locaUty. Eastward of the Sierra Nevada we found it only at wide intervals ; it was rather rare about Carson City, and in the vicinity of the Steamboat Springs, near Washoe ; a single pair was seen on the mesa between the Humboldt River and the West Humboldt Mountains, and a few were noticed in Fairview Valley, while in the neighborhood of Salt Lake City it was more common.
This Owl is as diurnal in its habits as any of the FalconidsB, being habitually found abroad during the brightest hours of day; and its sight is so remarkably acute that it is jextremely diificult to approach, even when bushes, banks of earth, or other screens are taken advantage of. Should one be in its burrow, it will almost certainly fly forth at the most noiseless approach of a person, for its sense of hearing is no less remark- able than its sight. When thus disturbed, this Owl flies to a safe distance, and after alighting upon some prominent object, as a hillock or a telegraph- wire, watches attentively every motion of the intruder, while now and then he scolds him with a saucy chattering, at the same time ludicrously bowing.
Near Carson City, we attempted, with the assistance of Mr. Parker, to excavate the burrow of a pair of these Owls. This burrow was situated in a wheat-field, and was guarded by the nfale bird, who sat at its entrance. As we approached him he flew, but before getting out of range was winged and brought down ; he was captured with great difficult}^, as he made for the sage-brush fast as his extraordinary leaps could carry him, but when overtaken offered no resistance, merely snapping his bill a little. Having him secured, we then proceeded to our task of excavating to the nest, which was accomplished after digging hard for nearly an hour. The hole termin- ated about eight feet from the entrance and four beneath the surface of the ground. Before arriving at its extremity our captive was released, when he immediately disappeared into the hole ; but when the end was reached he, with his mate (the latter unharmed), was secured. In the
FALCO N^VIUS. 575
chamber, which contained no nest whatever, were found one egg and the remains of a frog, which had probably been carried to the female by her attentive companion.
List of specimens. 60, ad.; Sacramento City, California, June 20, 1867. 9J — 25|— 7J— 5§ J^i li^
315, ad.; " near Aracrican River, Sacramento County, California, November, 1867." (Presented by Mr. H. G. Parker.)
423,*'$ ad; San Francisco, California, January 23, 1808. 9§--24|— (?)— 5^. Eyes, bright 3'ellow." (Presented by Mr. Parker.)
525, egg(l); Carson City, Nevada, April 25, 1868.
Family FALCONIDJE— Hawks, Eagles, Kites, etc.
Falco commtj:^is.
Peregrine Falcon.
/?. ncevius — American Peregrine; ^^Duck Hawkr
Falco 7iwvius, Gmelin, Syst. Kat., I, 1783, 271 (adult).
Falco anatwn, BoNAP., Comp. & Geog. List, 1838, 4. — Casstn, Baird's B. K Am,, 1858, 7.— Baird, Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 5.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 457.
Falco communis var. anatum^ Ridgway, Pr. Bost. Soc. Nat. Hist., 1873, 45 ; in B, B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, III, 1874, 132.— Henshaw, 1875, 411.
Falco communis, c, anaium^ Coues, Birds N.W., 1874, 341.
Falco nigricepsj GA^sm, Illust. Birds of Cal., Tex., &c., 1854, 87 ; Birds N.Am. (Baird), 1858, 8^ ed. 1860, pi. 11.— Baird, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 6— Cooper, Orn. CaL, 1, 1870, 45G.
Falco communis, Coues, Key, 1872, 213, fig. 141 (not of Gmelin, 1788) ; Check List, 1873, No. 343.
The Duck Hawk was observed only at Pyramid Lake and along the lower portion of the Truckee River. At the former locality a singlis pair frequented the rocky eastern shore and the adjacent clusters of pyra- midal rocky islands. On the 23d of May, 1868, when we visited the Pyramid, we observed a male of this Falcon, in the blue plumage, flying
576 ORNITHOLOGY,
about this immense pyramidal rock, and from the zealous manner in which he drove away every intruder not to his liking, we concluded the female must be sitting on her eggs or young. The Pyramid was ascended, however, to the very summit, but the nest was not found ; but this was not strange, since but one of the three corners of the* rock was accessible, while to diverge to either side from the exceedingly difficult path by which we ascended would have been impossible. The location of the nest was after- ward definitely ascertained by noticing the male alight on a narrow ledge near the top of one of the vertical sides, about one hundred and fifty feet above the water. A few moments later he was again observed flying around, and while we were watching him he discovered among the rocks a large Horned Owl (Bubo subarcticus) which he immediately dislodged and followed a considerable distance along the shore, uttering a whistling note at each assault. The single specimen in our collection was killed under the following circumstances : Having sat down on a log by the edge of the river to rest, as well as to observe the movements of a Killdeer Plover {^gialitis vociferus) which was running back and forth over the gravelly bar forming the opposite shore, we saw the Killdeer suddenly squat and then dodge, and at the same time saw the Falcon check itself in its flight, after having missed its* aim. Whether its lack of success was caused by the nimbleness of the intended quarry, or whether the Falcon saw us just as it was about to strike, we know not ; but after suddenly checking itself it wheeled immediately about, and would have soon disappeared had we not fired before it got out of range. At the report of our gun, another one, probably the mate of our victim, flew from a cotton- wood tree in the direc- tion from which he came.
List of specimens.
W2,Sjm.; Big Bend of tbe Truckee, Nevada, July 23, 1857. 16^—394— 12|— 10-~i|— 1|— 6J— 3|. Weight IJ pounds. Basal halt' of the bill, pale bluish-whito, terminal portion slate, deepening into black at end; cere, bluish-white, bare orbital space greenish- white; iris, vivid brownish black ; tarsi and toes, lemon yellow, with a faint greenish tinge; claws, jet black.
FALCO POLYAGRUS. 577
Falco SAKER.
Saker Falcon.
/?. polyagrus — Prairie Falcon.
Falco polyagrus, Cassin, Illustr. Birds Cal., Tex., &c., 1853, 88, pi. J 6 (front figure — not the dark one, which = F. communis pealeiy Ridgway, Bull. Essex Inst., V, Dec, 1873, p. 201); in Baird's Birds N. Am., 1858, 12.— Baird, Cat. K Am. Birds, 1859, Ko. 10.— COOPEE, Orn. Cal., I, 458.
Falco lanarius var. polyagrm, Ridgway, in B. B. & R.j'Hist. N, Am. Birds, III, 1874, 123.— Henshaw, 1875, 410.
Falco mexicmus, CouES, Key, 1872, 213; Check List, 1873, No. 342.
Falco mexicanus var. polyagrns, CouES, Birds N.W., 1874, 339.
This daring Falcon was a rather common species throughout the Great Basin. It was first observed on the 31st of October, 1867, at the Hum- boldt Marshes, where we saw one swoop upon a flock of tame pigeons at the stage-station. Late in November, of the same year, it was noticed again among the marshes along the Carson River, near Genoa, where it was observed to watch and follow the Marsh Hawks (Circus hudsonius), compelling them to give up their game, which was caught by the Falcon before it reached the ground ; this piracy being not an occasional, but a systematic habit. In the Truckee Valley we saw one snatch a young chicken from a door-yard, in the presence of several spectators. The quarry of this Falcon is by no means confined to animals smaller than itself, how- ever, for the specimen in our collection was killed while leisurely eating a Jackass Rabbit [Lepus callotis)^ an animal of nearly twice his weight, and which he Jiad carried to the top of a fence-post by the road-side. He exhib- ited no alarm at the approach of our buggy, but continued tearing and devouring his prey; we had even passed by him without seeing him, when the quick eye of Mr. Parker detected him in time for a shot.
In the rocky canons of the more lofty ranges to the eastward it was
common during summer, particularly about the limestone cliffs of the Ruby
range, where the families of young, accompanied by their parents, made
a great clamor, as they flew among the precipitous rocks where they had
been bred. They were likewise common in the rocky canons of the Wah-
satch.
37 PR
578 ORNITHOLOGY.
List of specimens,
336, Sjuv.; tJarson City, Nevada, November 29, 1867. 17— 37f— 12J— lOJ— g— H—'^i—H' Weight, 1^ pounds. Bill, very pure bluish-wbite, shading terminally into bluish-slaty, the point black ] cere, rictus, and bare orbital region, greenish- white ; iris, vivid vandyke-brown 5 tarsi and toes, very pale yellowish, with a tinge of verdigris- green.
Faloo columbarius.
Pjg^eoii Hawk; American Merlin.
Falco columharius, Linn., Syst. Nat., I, 1706, 128.— CoUES, Key, 1872, 214; Check List, 1873, No. 344; Birds N.W., 1874, 345.— Hensh aw, 1875, 412.— Cooper, Orn. Cah, I, 1870, 460.
Eypotriorchis columbarius, Gray, Genera of Birds, 184-. — Baird, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 7.
Falco (HypotriorcUs) columbarius, Cassin, jn Baird's Birds N. Am., 1858, 9. Falco {^salon) lithofalco var. columbarius, RiDav^., Pr. Boston Soc, N. II., 1873, 46; in B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, III, 1874, 144.
This little Falcon was seen on but three or four occasions. The speci- men in the collection was shot just after it had made an unsuccessful assault on a flock of black-birds {Scolecophagits cyanocepJialus) which were feeding on the ground in a corral. Its success was no doubt thwarted by the opening of the door of the house near by, for it flew away frightened, but fortunately came in our direction, and alighted upon a fence-post within easy gunshot range.
List of specimens.
291, ? ad.; Truckee Meadows, Nevada, November 18, 1867. lli_24— 75— 6f— T^—^i-^^i— 3A- Terminal portion of the bill, deep slate-black, basal half very pale whitish-blue, with a yellowish wash toward the rictus; cere and rictus, light greenish- yellow; eyelids, bright gamboge-yellow, bare orbital region more citreous; iris, bright vandyke-brown ; tarsi and toes, deep gamboge-yellow ; claws, jet-black.
Falco spabveeius.
*' Sparrow Hawk;" American Kestril.
Falco sparverius, Linn., Syst. Nat., I, 1766, 128.^Cooper, Orn. Gal., I, 1870,
462.-.COUES, Key, 1872, 214, fig. 142; Check List, 1873, No. 346; Birds N.W.,
1874, 349.— HenshaW, 1875, 413. Falco {TinnuncMlus) sparverius, Cassin, Baird^s Birds N. Am., 1858, 13.— Kidgw.,
in B. B. & K., Hist. N. Am. Birds, III, 1874, 169. Tinnunculus sparverius, Vieill., Ois. Am. Sept., I, 1807, 40, pi. 12.— Baird, Cat.
N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 13.
Regarding the western range of this widely-distributed species, nothing
FALCO SPARVEKIUS. 579
more need be said than that it occurs everywhere^ in suitable places; at the same time, we may remark that it is by far the most abundant of all the birds of prey, although its numbers vary greatly with the locality. At a certain spot along the Carson River, not far from Carson City, stood, in the spring of 1868, a clump of five large cotton-wood trees, the only ones for miles around, and each of these trees was inhabited by a pair of these little Falcons, who had nests in the hollows of the limbs. This is well known to be the favorite location for their nests; but where there were no trees to ac- commodate them, we found them adapting their nesting-habits to the char- acter of the surroundings. Thus, in the precipitous canons of the Ruby Mountains, they built among the crevices of the limestone cliffs, in com- pany with the Prairie Falcon (F. polyagrus)^ the Violet-green and Cliff Swallows, and the White-throated S^vift ; while in some portions of Utah they took possession of the holes dug by the Kingfishers and Red-shafted Flickers in the earthy banks of the ravines. Among the cliffs of Echo Canon, along the line of the Union Pacific Railroad, in Utah, we noticed these birds in August swarming by hundreds about the brow of the preci- pice, several hundred feet overhead.
List of specimens,
63, $ ad,; Sacramento, California, June 20, 1867. 10^—225— 7iJ—6|—.^«^—l J— 5 — 4. Bill, bluish- white, growing slate-black terminally; cere and angle of the mouthy intense orange-red ; iris, very dark brown ; tarsi and toes, deep orange-chrome ; claws, jet-black.
107, $ ad.; Big Bend of the Truckee (Camp 12), Kevada, July 2C}^ 1867. 10— 225—7^ — 6g — /g — IJg — 5|— 3J, Bill, pale blue basally, slate-black terminally; cere and bare orbital region, pale dull yellow; iris, vandyke-brown ; tarsi and toes, dull yellow; claws, black.
108, ? jm, (young of preceding) ; Camp 12, July 26, 1867. 103^23—7/^—6/^— ^ — 1 — 5^ — 3^. Bill^ pale fleshy blue ^ or Ulaceous^white ; cere and orbital region, pale dull yellow ; iris dark brown ; tarsi and toes, very pale dull yellow.
125, <? ad,; Camp 12, August 6, 1867. 10|— 22J— 7^— 6|— /l— }|— 5|— 3}!.. Basal half of the bill, pure pale blue, terminal portion slate-black; cere and bare orbital region, dull yellow ; iris, very deep brown ; tarsi and toes, deep chrome-yellow ; claws, black.
343, 9 ad.; near Fort Churchill, Nevada, December 6, 1867. ll|— 24— 8f— 7— A — ^i — ^i — ^i* Same remarks.
419, '' 9 ad.; San Francisco, California, January 23, 1868. 11J_24J— (!)— 7^-'^ (Presented by Mr. H. G. Parker.)
420, '^ 9 ad,; San Francisco, January 23, 1868. 11^23^(1)— 6 J." (H. G. Parker.)
580 OENITHOLOGY.
489, 9 ad.; Carson, Nevada, April 4, 1868. 11— 24— 8J~.GJ. Cere (entirely sur- rounding base of the bill), bare orbital region, and tarsi and toes, intense reddish- orange, or orange-chrome.
496, (J ad.; Carson, April 18, 1868. 101—235— 7i|—6§. Same remarks.
816, egg (I) ; Fort Churchill, Carson River, June 24, 1868. Egg, with four downy young, deposited in a hollow snag of a cotton-wood tree, about 15 feet from the ground.
Circus hudsonius.
Marsti Hawk.
Falco Imdsoniusy Linn., Syst. Nat., I, 1766, 128.
Circus hudsonius, Vieill., Ois. Am. Sept., I, 1807, 36, pi. ix.— Oassin, Baird^s
Birds N. Am., 1858, 38.— Baird, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 38.— Cooper,
Orn. Cal., I, 489. Circus cyaneus hudsonius^ Schleg., Mus. Pays-Bas, Circij 1862, 2. Circus cyaneus var. hudsonius, Allen, Bull. Mus. Com p. ZooL, III, 1872, 18L—
COUES, Key, 1872, 210, fig. 159; Check List, 1873, No. 333; Birds N.W., 1874,
327.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, III, 1874, 214.— Henshaw, 1875, 416.
No uiarsh of any extent was visited, either in winter or summer, where this Hawk could not be seen at almost any time during the day skimming over the tules in search of its prey. The latter consists of small birds of all kinds, the young of water-fowl, hzards, and probably small mammals, although the latter were not found in the crop of any of the specimens examined. The stomachs and crops of those killed at Pyramid Lake were filled to their utmost capacity with the remains of small lizards, and nothing else ; at the same locality, however, they were often observed to chase small birds, particularly Brewer's and the Black-throated Sparrows, the most numerous species, of which this Hawk appears to be a most dreaded enemy, since its appearance creates perfect consternation among all the Sparrows in its path, who utter distressed cries, and make confused and desperate efforts to escape by plunging precipitately into the thickest
bushes,
lAsi of specimens,
129, 9 juv.; eastern shore of Pyramid Lake, August 15, 1867. 19J— 43^13§— llj— I— 2|— 9J— 6. Bill, deep black, more bluish basally; cere and rictus, greenish- gamboge, most yellowish on top; iris, yellowish gray } tarsi and toes, rich orange- yellow; claws, jet-black.
131, $juv.; Big Bend of the Truckee (Camp 12), August 17, 1867. 18|— 42— 13— 11 — II — 2J — 9— 6J. Same remarks.
367, 9 juv.; Truckee Eeservation, near Pyramid Lake, December 21, 1867. 20^ — 44— 15— 12J. Iris, dull fulvous.
KISUS COOPERI— N. FUSCUS. 581
NiSUS COOPERI. Cooper's Hawk.
Falco cooperi, Bonap , Am, Orn,, I, 1828, pi. x, fig. 1.
Accipiter cooperi, De Kay/ZooI. K Y., II, 1844, 18, pi. iv, fig. 5.— Oassin, in
Baird'8 Birds N. Am., 1858, 16.— Baird, Oat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 15.—
Cooper, Orn. Gal., I, 464— Ooues, Key, 1872, 212; Check List, 1873, No. '
339; Birds N.W., 1874, 334. Msus cooperi, SCHJLEa., Rev. Ace, 1873, 73.— RipGWAY, in B. B. & R., Hist. N.
Am. Birds, III, 1874, 230.— Henshaw, 1875, 418. Accipiter mexicanusj Swains., Fiiuna Bor. Am., II, 1831, 45. — Oassin, Baird's B.
N. Am., 1858, 17.— Baird, Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 16.— Cooper, Oru. Cal.,
I, 1870, 465. Nisus cooperi var. mexicanus^ RiDGW., Proc. Boston Soc. Nat. Hist., May, 1873,
19.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., Ill, 1874, 231.
This daring depredator was more or less common in all localities where small birds abounded, but it was far from numerous anywhere. It was most often seen sailing, with the long tail widely expanded, in broad circles over the thickets which sheltered its prey. The specimen in the collection was shot while soaring thus over an aspen copse, and came whirl- ing to the ground; but being merely winged, made for the thicket by vig- orous leaps, and would have escaped but for a second charge. In other portions of the country, particularly in the fertile canons of the East Hum- boldt Mountains, it was often observed chasing, with its swift, rushing flight, a fleeing Robin* or Flicker.
List of specimens. 240, $^To.; West Humboldt Mountains (Camp 19), October 8, 1867. 14f— 26§— 81 — 0§ — J— 1||— 7 — 4J. Bill, pale blue on the basal third, dull black terminally; cere and rictus, yellowish-green; iris, light chrome-yellow f tarsi and toes, lemon-yellow, with a slight tinge of green ; claws, slate black.
NiSUS FUSCUS.
Sharp- shinned Hawk*
Falcofuscusj Gmelin, Syst. Nat., 1, 1788, 283.
Accipiter fuscus, Bonap., Conjp. & Geog. List, 1838, 5. — Cassin, in Baird's B. N.Am., 1858, 18.— Baied, Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 17.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 1, 1870, 466.— CouES, Key, 1872, 212 ; Check List, 1873, No. 338 ; Birds N. W.,1874, 333.
Nisus fuscus, Kaup, Jardiue's Contr. Orn,, 1850, 64, 281.— Einaw., in B. B. & K, Hist. N. Am. B., Ill, 1874, 224— Henshaw, 1875, 417.^
This miniature of Cooper's Hawk was observed only in thei Upper
58^ ORNITHOLOGY.
Humboldt Valley, where it was common in September along the streams
flowing from the Clover Mountains. The specimen obtained had been
chasing a small bird through a very dense thicket, but losing sight of thd
fugitive, alighted upon a twig within a few feiet of us.
List of specimens. ^
017, 9juv.; Ui»per Humboldt Valley (Camp 24), September 10, 1868. 13J— 24^ — (?) — 6J. Bill, blaok, growing gradually pale bluish basally ; cere and angle of the mouth, yellowish-green; iris, sulphur-yellow; tarsi and toes, rich lemon-yellow; claws, jet-black.
BUTEO LINEATUS.
» Red-sliauldered Hawk.
j3. elegans — Bed-breasted Hawk
Buteo eleganSy GASsm^Fr, Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., 1855, 281; Baird's B. K Am., 1858, 28.~Baird, Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 25.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., 1, 1870, 477.
Buteo Ihieatus var. elegans^ Eidoway, in Coues' Check List, 1873, No. 352a; in B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. B., Ill, 1874, 277.
Buteo Uneatusj CouES, Key, 1872, 216 (part).
This handsome Hawk was seen only in the Sacramento Valley, where it was rather common among the trees near the river.
Buteo boeealis/
Red-tailed Hawk.
^. calurm — Bushy Bed-tail,
Buteo calurusj CASSIN, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., 1855, 281 ; Baird^s Birds N. Am., 1858, 22.— Baird, Oat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 20.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 471.
Buteo borealis var. caluruSy RinawAY, in Coues' Check List, 1873, No. 351a; in B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., Ill, 1874, 236.— Henshaw, 1875, 423.
Buteo borealis, b. calurusy CouES, B, N.W., 1874, 352.
Buteo montanusj Cassin, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., 1856, 39; Baird's B. N. Am.,
1858, 26 (not of Nuttaxl, 18iO,=B. swainsonij, — Baird, Cat. N. Am. B.,
1859, No. 24.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 1870^ 469.
The Red-tailed Hawk was a very common species in all wooded local- ities of the Interior. It was especially abundant during the winter among
^ Other western races of this Hawk are y, lucasanus^ Einaw., of Cape St. Lucas, and d. krideri^ HooPES, of the Great Plains, from Minnesota to Texas. B. harlani^ AuD., and B, cooperi, Cass., are allied but apparently distinct species.
BUTEO CALURUS. 583
the cotton-woods of the Truckee and Carson Valleys, where we found it quite unsuspicious and easily killed. During the summer it was much less abundant in the lower valleys than Swainson's Hawk, but it was more common on the mountains, particularly in the pine forests. . On the Wah- satch, w^e saw several of its nests on tall pine trees or on ledges of the cliffs, most of them being inaccessible, in which respect this species differs con- spicuously from the B, swainsoni^ which in the same region was found to bviild its nest on the top of the scrub-oaks or in the small aspens, within easy reach.
The series of specimens in the collection exhibits the usual individual variation so remarkable to the western birds of this species, there being examples so light-colored as to be scarcely distinguishable from the typical eastern B, horealis^ while one is of an almost uniform deep sooty-black, the others being variously intermediate. As was the case with B. swainsoni, the light and dark individuals were often found paired,^
List of specimens.
132, 9 ad, (melanotic^ very hlackj; Big Bend of the Truckee (Oarap 12), Nevada, August 17, 1867. 23J— 54—16J (moltiug). Bill, slate-black, the basal half of the lower raaiidible bluish-slate; cere, dull yellowish-green, purest on top; rictus, more yellow; iris, muddy paples-yellow ; tarsi aud toes, dull pale greenish-yellow; claws black.
337, 9 ad (melanotic^ rufous-hreasied style); Genoa, Nevada, November 29, 1867. 23J— 55— 17— 14— 1/^— 2— 9i— 5^. Weight, ^ pounds. Bill, dull black, passing into pale bluish basally ; cere aud rictus, light dull ashy-green ; iris, deep hazel ; tarsi and toes pale dull naples-yellow; claws, black.
347, $ ad,; Truckee Reservation, December 10, 1867. 21|— 51§—16--13J— IJ— C?)— 9— 5. Weight, 2 pounds. Bill, dull black, fading into dull light bluish basally; cere and rictus, dull greenish-yellow; iris, deep light hazel; tarsi and toes, very dull light chrome-yellow, deeper beneath.
351,^(7(7.; same locality, December 11, 1867. 21J— 49— 15§— 122— l^^g— (?}— -Of — 5J. Weight, 2^ pounds. Bill, black, fading basally into light horn-drab; basal half of the lower mandible, pale blue; cere and rictus, clear light yellowish igrcen ; iris,
^ There being many who yet hold the old belief that this dark phase, found in so many species of Falconidae, is in some manner dependent on age^ we wish to impress our readers with the fact that it is a purely individual condition, entirely independent of age, sex^ or season; it is properly styled melanism^ and is analogous to the condition of erythrism in certain owls. In every American species which has this fuliginous pla- mage, the dark birds are dusky from the nest up; while those in light plumage never assume the dark dress. This is probably the case with the Old World species also.
584 ORNITHOLOGY.
naplesyellow, tlie lower two-thirds with a brownish suffusion ; tarsi and toes, dull light naples-yellow, with a slight greenish tinge.
352, 9 ad,; same locality and date. 23—57^ — 17|— 14^— l^^g — (f)_10— 5|. Weight, 3:1 pounds. Iris, deep light brown, the upper third naples-yellow.
353, ? ad.; same locality, December 13, 1867. 23— 54— 17— 13§— 1^?^— (!)— 9|— 5J. Weight, 3 pounds. Same remarks.
354, $ ad.; same locality and date. 22— 53— 16J— 135— IJ— (?)— 9^— 5J. Weight, 2^ pounds. Iris, hazel ; tarsi and toes, deep light chrome-yellow.
355, $ ad.; same locality and date. 22^—52— 16— 13— l^—C?) - 9— 5J. Weight, 2i pounds. Iris, deep light hazel, naples-yellow above; tarsi and toes, dull greenish naples-yellow.
356, ? ad.; same locality, December 14, 1867. 24— 55— 17J— 14^— l^^— (?)— 10^ — 6. Weight, 4 pounds. Same remarks as to No. 352.
361, <? ad.; same locality, December 18, 1807. 22— 50f — 16— 13^- IjL— '(?)— 10— 5. Weight, 3 pounds. Same remarks.
418, $jm.; San Francisco, California, February 11, 1868. "20|— 49|— (f)— 13. Eye, bright yellow." (Presented by Mr, H. G. Parker.)
1502, ¥ JMV.; Echo Canon, Utah, July 29, 1869. 23—51. Collected by J. C. 01m- stead.
BUTEO SWAINSONI.
ISwainson^s Hawk.
Buteo swainsoni^ BoNAP., Comp. and Geog. List, 1838, 3. — Cassin, Baird's Birds
N. Am., 1858, 19.— Baird, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 18.— Cooper,
Orn. Cal., I, 476.— Coues, Key, 1872, 217 5 Check List, 1873, No. 354^ Birds
N.W., 1874, 355.— B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. Birds, III, 1874, 263.— Henshaw,
1875, 421. Buteo hairdiij IIoY, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., 1853, 451 {Young), — Cassin, Baird's
Birds N. Am., 1858, 21.— Baird, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 19. Buteo imignatusj Cassin, Illustr. Birds Cal., Tex., &c , 1854, 102, 198, pL xxxi,
(melanotic); Baird's Birds N. Am., 1858, 23. — Baird, Cat. N. Am. Birds,
1859, No. 21.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 474. Buteo oxypterm, Cassin, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., 1855, 283 (Young); Baird^s
Birds N. Am. 1858, 30.— Baird, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 28.— Cooper,
Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 480. Buteo swainsoni var. oxypteruSy EiDGW., in B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, III,
1874, 266. ^' Buteo harlani,^^ Bryant, Pr. Bost. Soc. N. H., 1861, 116.— Cooper, Orn Cal., X 1870, 473 (part) [not B. harlani^ AUD.].
Swainson's Buzzard is one of the most abundant of the lar^e Hawks of the Interior, but it seemed to be less common in winter than in summer. It appeared to be most numerous in the valleys, but it was nevertheless far from rare on the lower slopes of the mountains, as well as in the parks. Our observations in the field tended from the very first to confirm
BCTEO SWAINSONI. 585
the theory advanced by Dr. Bryant/ that the several supposed species described by Mr. Cassin under the names of B, bairdi, Hoy, B, insignatuSj Cassin, and B. swainsoni, Bonap,, were merely different plumages of one species, the very first specimens obtained by us being a family of four young, with their parents, the former being B. bairdi, while of the latter the male was a very light-colored, or extremely typical, B, swainsoni, and the female a very extreme example of B. insicjnatus! Similar cases were often observed afterward, the plumage of the adults being sometimes re- versed— that is, a male in the plumage of the so-called insignatm being sometimes paired with a very light-colored female.
The family mentioned above was first observed on the 26th of July, while we were hunting among the cotton- woods of the lower Truckee Valley. Our attention was attracted by a peculiar squealing cry, not before heard by us, and upon emerging from the willows and looking across the open meadow we observed among the trees on the opposite side several large Hawks, one of which was feeding a young one in a nest in the top of a tall cotton-wood. We then approached this tree under cover of the willows, but upon arriving there found that the old Hawk had gone after more food for its young, three of which were in the trees on the opposite side of a deep and wide slough which we were unable to cross. We then shot the one in the nest, as it looked over the edge at us ; but, as it did not fall, found it necessary to ascend the tree, w^iich was easily done. The nest was very similar to that of other Buteones, being composed almost entirely of sticks, but appeared rather small for the size of the bird, measuring but about two feet in diameter by one foot in thickness. We found it so filled with the accumulated remains of animals caiTied to the young that scarcely any depression was noticeable on the top, the decomposing rubbish con- sisting of bones and other remnants of small hares {Lepus artemisia)j ground squirrels (Spermophilus lateralis, S. harrisi, and Tamias quadrivUtatus)y and, strange to say, a full-grown young Sparrow Hawk (Falco sparverius). We had scarcely reached the nest before the male arrived, and flying about us uttered plaintive cries, of a mewing character, somewhat like the
^''Remarks on the Variations of Plumage of Buteo borealiSj AuOT., and Buteo harlani, AuD." Proc. Bost. 8oc. Nat. Hist., VIII, 1861, pp. 107-119.
586 ORNITHOLOGY.
notes of -R lineatus, but less loud and more monotonous. Three days afterward this family was again met with, and the three remaining young immediately secured; but the parent birds were not so easily killed, for, although they received several charges of dust shot, as they courageously flew about us, they were far tougher than their young. The female was brought down first, when the male only increased in courage and clamor, until he, too, was killed.
On the Truckee Reservation a nest of this species was found in a large cotton-wood tree, and tlie female (No. 771) shot from it. This nest w^as built near the extremity of a large drooping brancli, and was conse- quently inaccessible; by climbing above it, however, the eggs, two in num- ber, could be seen, but it was found impossible, under the circumstances, to secure them. Many other nests were discovered in this locality, but they w^ere in the ordinary position, viz, in a fork of a tall tree. In Parley's Park, on the Wahsatch Mountains, Swainson's Hawk was common, and many nests were found among the scrub-oaks on the slopes or on small aspens on the sides of the ravines. Their position was always low down, often merely a few feet from the ground, and easily reached without climb- ing. In one of these nests, found July 2d, was a single young one, which, although yet covered with snow-white cottony down, was savagely tearing at a dead weasel which had been carried to the nest by the old birds, both of which were killed; of these, the male is a remarkably light- colored example, the entire lower parts, including the under side of the wings, being pure white, the breast covered by a broad patch of uniform cinnamon-rufous, while the female, on the other hand, is one of the darkest examples of the species we ever saw, being of a uniform sooty-black, only the under tail coverts being slightly barred with whitish.
The food of this Hawk is by no means confined to small mammals and birds, but during the flights of the grasshoppers, which so often devas- tate the fields of Utah and other portions of the West, they keep continu- ally gorged on these insects; and at one season we found them living chiefly on the large cricket so common in the Salt Lake Valley. On the 31st of May, 1869, at Salt Lake City, we noticed a number of these Hawks on the ground, where they remained most of the time quiet, but every now
. BUTEO SWAINSONI. 587
and then they would raise their wings and hop briskly in pursuit of some object, which, at the distance, we could not distinguish. Cautiously ap- proaching them, four were shot during the forenoon; they would not allow us to wallc to within gunshot, but after flying for a few minutes would sometimes return toward us, and, passing by, give us a fair opportunity for wing-shot^. Upon dissection, the stomachs of these specimens were found to be filled entirely with the large crickets mentioned above.
At our camp in Parley Park we reared four young birds of this species, which were, taken from their nests while in the downy state. As they grew up under our care they became very pleasing pets, being exceedingly docile, and much attached to those who fed them. When sufficiently old to uso their wings they showed no disposition to leave, although they were cillowed full liberty all the while; and though they made frequent tours of inspection over the neighboring meadows, and occasional foraging excur- sions among the flocks of Blackbirds {Scolecophagiis cyanocephalus) Avhicli frequented the vicinity, they seldom went far away, and always returned after a short absence. They were fed principally upon bits of fresh beef and mutton, varied occasionally by the carcasses of birds we had skinned. Their chief amusement about camp consisted in chasing grasshoppers over the ground, which they pursued by leaping after them, with the wings extended; but when not engaged in this occupation they usually perched quietly upon the fence near by or upon the tents.
List of specimens,
109, $ jm.; Big Bend of the Trackee (Camp 12), Nevada, Juty 2G, 1867. 16^— 45 — 13— lOJ — 1 — 1| — 6J — 3. Bill, dull black, incliniug to pale blue on the rictus and on the basal half of the lower mandible; cere, pale yellowish green j iris, cinereous, with a brownish outer wash ; tarsi and toes, very pale ashy-green.
113, 9 ad. (fuUginous plumage, parent of Nos. 109, 115, 116, and 117); Gamp 12, July 29, 1867. 21^— 53— 17— U~l— 2— 8§— 5. Weight, 2J pounds. Bill, slateblack, light blue basally; cere and rictus, pure light yellow; iris, deep hazel; tarsi and toes, light chrome-yellow^; claws, black,
114, $ ad. {normal plumage, mate of the preceding)^ Camp 12, July 29, 1867. 19|_48— 16— 12g— If— Ig— 7^— 4J. Weight, IJ pounds. Cere and rictus, light dull lemon-yellow; tarsi and toes, deep chrome-yellow; iris, deep hazel.
115, 9 juv.; Camp 12, July 29, 1867. 19J^47— U-ll— 1|— 1|— 7J— 3|. Weight, 2 pounds. Same regiarks as to No. 109.
588 ORNITHOLOGY.
116, S juv.; Camp 12, July 29, 1867. 19§— 45^133— 10f—| 5—1^—7—32, Weight, If pounds. Same remarks.
117, S juv., Camp 12, July 29, 1867. 184— 433— 124—92— |^—l^—Ga--4 J. Weight, IJ pounds. Same remarks.
771, 9 ad. (intermediate plumage, barred ochraceous heUy) ; Truckee Reservation, May 29, 1868. (IShot from nest.) 21^— 52— 16J— 13^. Weight, 3 pounds. Bill, deep black, the upper mandible scarcely paler basally, lower with the basal third palo blue 5 cere and rictus, greenish-gamboge; iris, burnt-sienna; tarsi and toes, deep gam- boge, with a greenish tinge.
1072, 9 ad. [normal plumage, immaculate white belly) ; Salt Lake City, Utah, May 31, 1869. 21 — 53. Weight, 2J pounds. Bill, slate-black, becoming light slate-blue basally; cere and rictns, greenish gamboge; naked eyebrow, olive-yellow; iris, deep line ha^el; tarsi and toes, deep chrome- j^ellow. (Stomach tilled with grasshoppers.)
1073, ? ad. {normal plumage^ immaculate ichite belly); same locality and date. 2U — 53. Weight, 2 J pounds. Same remarks.
1074, 9 ad. {normal plumage, immaculate white belly) ; same locality and date. 22 --^K Weight, 2J pounds. Same remarks.
1075, 9 dd. {normal plumage, immaculate white belly); same locality and date. 211 — 54. Weight, 2^ pounds. Same remarks.
1291, i ad. {normal plumage); Parley's Park, Utah, June 25, 1869. 20—50. Weight, 24 pounds. Upper mandible, deep black, scarcely bluish basally; lower, with basal third, light blue; cere and rictus, greenish-gamboge; iris, burnt-sienna, yellow- ish on top; eyebrow, olivaceous; tarsi and toes, deep light chrome-yellow.
1310, c^ ad. {normal plumage); Parley's Park, June 26, 1869. 19J — 48. Same remarks.
1322, fragment of egg. Parley's Park, June 27, 1869.
1335, 9 ad. {fuliginous plumage); Parley's Park, June 28, 1869. 22—56—17. Weight, 3 J pounds. Bill, black, pale blue basally; cere and rictus, greenish lemon- yellow; iris, deep brown ; tarsi and toes, chrome-yellow.
1359, i ad. {normal plumage, very white); Parley's Park, July 2, 1869. 20 — 50^. Same remarks.
1360, ? ad. {fuliginous plumage, very black; mate of the preceding! ); Parley's Park, July 2, 1869. 21—51^. Weight, 2J pounds. Same remarks.
1501, 9 jnv.; Parley's Park, August 10, 1869. 21— 50f. Bill, black, becoming pale blue basally; cere and rictus, fine yellowish-green; iris, yellowish-brown 5 tarsi and toes, light chrome-yellow.
AROHIBUTEO SANCTI-JOHANNIS. 589
Aechibuteo LAGOPUS.
Roug^h-legi^ed Hawk*
13, sa7icti'johannis,
{Ma' 'hoo-ehk and Ma' -ede-han-ah' -ehk of the Washoes; Assut'te-Queh-naJ}! of the Paiutes; Pe' aJi-Gueh-naK of the Shoshones )
Falco sancti-johannis, Gmelin, Syst. Nat., I, 1788, 273.
Archihuteo sancti-johannis, Gray, Genera of Birds, . — Cassin, Baird's Birds
K Am., 1858, 33.— Baied, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 31.— Cooper, Orn. CaL, I, 1870, 485.
Archihuteo lagopus var. sancti-joliannis, RiDawAY, Pr. Ac. Nat. Set. Pbilad., 1870, 142.— CoiTES, Key, 1872, 218; Check List, 1873, No. 356; Birds N.W., 1874, 3G1.— B. B. & R., Hist N. Am. Birds, III, 1874, 304.— Eenshaw, 1875, 425.
Archibuteo lagopus, Cassin, Baird's Birds N. Am., 1858, 32 (not of Gray, ex Brunn, 17G4).— Baird, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 30.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 483.
This common species was observed nearly everywhere in the vicinity of the fertile valleys. It appears to be resident in western Nevada, for it was extremely abundant in July at the Truckee Meadows, where during the day half a dozen or more were often noticed at one time sailing in broad circles over the meadows. The flight of this Hawk is extremely similar to that of the Golden Eagle, a fact which probably explains why the Indians class it with the Eagles instead of with the Hen Hawks (Buteo)} Most of those seen were in the light-colored, or normal, phase of plumage ; in fact, but one individual was seen which might have been the black ph^se of this species, although it is by no means certain it was not an adirlt spec- imen of Buteo dbhreviatus? This specimen was seen in the latter part of February, high overhead, sailing in a direct line from the eastward toward the SieiTa Nevada. Its color was an intense black, relieved by a conspic- uous white patch under the primaries and several distinct bands of the same
across the tail.
List of specimens.
348, ^juv.; Truckee Reservation, near Pyramid Lake, December 9, 1867. 23J — 56 — 18| — 15 — 1 j\ — (?) — 10— 5J. Bill, deep black, becoming pale blue on the basal half
^ See Indian names above, and compare with those of Aquila canadensis (page 590). ^ Buteo zonocerciiSy Scl., B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, III, p. 272.
590 ORNITHOLOGY.
of the lower mandible, and on the base of the upper, below the cere ; core and rictus, light yellowish -green ; naked eyebrow, plumbeous; iris, deep light-hazel; toes, pure light lemon-yellow ; claws, deep black.
Archibuteo FEERUGINEUS.
Squirrel Hawk.
Buteo ferrugineuSy LiCHT., Tr. Berlin Acad., 1838, 429.
Archibuteo ferrugineuSy Gray, Genera of Birds, , — , pi. VI (name A. regalia
on plate).— Cassin, Baird's Birds N. Am., 1858, 34.— Baird, Cat. N. Am.
Birds, 1859, No. 33.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 482.— Coues, Key, 1872,
218; Check List, 1873, No. 357 ; Birds N.W., 1874, 363.— B. B. & E., Hist.
N. Am. Birds, III, 1874, 300.— Henshaw, 1875, 425.
This magnificent Hawk, which Dr. Coues justly calls the ** handsomest of the North American Falconidse,'^ was much less frequently seen than its relative, the common Rough-leg {A, sancti-johannis). The few observed were sailing majestically overhead, describing broad circles, and resembling the Golden Eagle in the manner of their flight. At such times it may be immediately distinguished from A, sancti-johannis by the snowy white of its lower plumage, which, as seen from below, is the predominating color of the bird.
Aquila CHEYSAETOS.
Golden Eagrte.
/?. canadensis,
(T^oh'taM Ang-elik of the Washoes ; Qmh-nahf of the Paiutes ; Gueh^-nah of
the Shoshenes.)
Falco canadensis, Linn., Syst. Nat., I, 1753, 88.
Aquila canadensis^ Cassin, Baird's Birds N, Am., 1858, 41. — Baird, Oat. N. Am.
Birds, 1859, No. 39.— Coopee, Orn. Gal., 1, 1870, 449. Aquila chrysaetos var. canadensis^ EinawAY, B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., Ill,
1874, 314.— Henshaw, 1875, 426. Aquila chrysaetos, Coues, Key, 1872, 219; Check List, 1873, No. 361; Birds N.W.,
1874,368.
The magnificent Golden Eagle is an almost daily sight in the mount- ain-regions of the Interior. At Carson City we scarcely ever went anaong the hills without seeing it, soaring about, generally in pairs, overhead. We first met with it in July, 1867, near the summit of the western slope of the
AQUILA CANADENSIS. 591
Sierra Nevada; afterward, it was continually observed on all the high ranges to the eastward, such as the Toyabe and the West and East Hum- boldt, being particularly common among the rocky heights of the latter. At Camp 19, on the last-named mountains, on the 29th of July, we were so fortunate as to witness the chase and capture of a Sage-Hen (Centrocercus urophasianus) by a pair of these Eagles. We were standing a few yards in the rear of a tent, when our attention was arrested by a rushing noise, and upon looking up the slope of the mountain we saw flying down its wooded side, with the rapidity of an arrow, a Sage-Hen, pursued by two Eagles. The Hen was about twenty yards in advance of her pursuers, exerting her- self to the utmost to escape ; her wings, from their rapid motion, being scarcely visible. The Eagles in hot pursuit (the larger of the two leading), followed every undulation of the fugitive's course, steadily lessening the dis- tance between them and the object of their pursuit; their wings not moving, except when a slight inclination was necessary to enable them to follow a curve in the course of the fugitive. So intent were they in the chase that they passed within twenty yards of us. They had scarcely gone by, how- ever, when the Sage-Hen, wearied by her continued exertion, and hoping, probably, to conceal herself among the bushes, dropped to the ground ; but no sooner had she touched it than she was immediately snatched up by the foremost of her relentless pursuers, who, not stopping in its flight, bore the prize rapidly toward the rocky summits of the higher peaks, accompanied by its mate. Some moments later, we again saw them soaring overhead, describing circles as they rose higher and higher, when, taking a direct course for some distant range, they disappeared from view. At the Over- land Ranche, in Ruby Valley, one of these powerful birds was in captiv- ity; he was one of the largest size, and a* truly noble-looking creature. He was kept tied to a horizontal pole, which served him for a perch, in a kind of bower constructed of green branches ; none but his keeper could handle him, and every motion of a person who approached was followed by the quick fiery glance of his watchful eye, which did not permit even the slightest movement to pass unobserved. Specimens of the '^ Mountain- Eagle," as this bird is there called, may be found in captivity in almost any settlement in the mountain-regions of the West.
592 ORNITHOLOGY.
Haliaetus LEUCOCEPHALUS.
Bald £airlc«
Faleo leucocephahiSy Linn., Syst. Nat, ij 1766, 124.
Haliaetus lettcocephalusy SAViaNY.— Cuv., llhg. An., ed. 2, I, 1817, 326.— Cassin Baird's Birds N. Am., 1858, 43.— Baird, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 43.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 451.— Coues, Key, 1872, 219; Check List, 1873, No. 362; Birds N.W., 1874, 369.— B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. Birds, HI, 1874, 326.— Hbnshaw, 1875, 427.
The Bald Eagle was met with only in the neighborhood of Pyramid Lake, where it was rare. One individual was seen some thirty or forty miles from the lake, in the pass of the Truckee River through the Virginia Mountains; it was an adult, and was flying along the stream. In August, .1867, when we visited the main island in Pyramid Lake, Mr. H. G. Parker pointed out to us the nest of a pair of these Eagles which had been occupied the preceding season. This nest was placed inside an oven-like cave about half-way up the side of the perpendicular rocks which formed this portion of the shore. The entrance was about fifteen feet from the top of the rock, and the same distance from the water, so it was inaccessible by anj^ means then at command; but it could be plainly seen by looking through a crevice in the top of the rock. This nest was a huge bed of coarse sticks laid on the floor of the cave, and scattered about were the bones of numerous animals which were carried as food to the young. Mr. Parker remarked that on a former visit to the island the nest was occupied, and that he had seen the owners destroy the nest of a pair of wild geese {Branta canadensis) which had been established on the ground near by. The nest had doubtless been abandoned in consequence of frequent visits to the island by persons who came after Gull's eggs.
Elanus leucueus.
White-tailed Kite.
Milvus leticurus, Vibillot, Nouv. Diet. d'Hist. Nat, XX, 1816, 656.
Manns leucurus^ BoNiP., Comp. & Geog. List, 1838, 4— Cassin, Baird's Birds
N. Am., 1858, 37.— Baied, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 35.— COOPEB, Orn.
Oal., I, 1870, 488, CoUES, Key, 1872, 211 ; Check List, 1873, No. 336.— B. B.
& E., Hist. N. Am. Birds, III, 1874, 198.
We did not see this species, but it is represented in the collection by a
PANDION OAEOLESTENSIS— BHINOGRTPHUS AURA. 593
fine specimen presented by Mr. Parker, and obtained by that gentleman in the neighborhood of San Francisco, California, where it is said to be a common bird in the marshy tracts.
List of specimens,
421, " ? ad.; San Francisco, February 11, 1868. 16|— 42—?— llj. Bill, black ; eyes, orange-red; tarsi and toes, yellow.'^ (Presented by Mr. H. G. Parker.)
Pandion HALIABTUS.
Osprey; Fisb-Hawk.
/?. carolinensis.
Falco carolinensis, Gmelin, Syst. Kat., I, 1788, 263.
Pandion carolinensis^ BoNAP., Comp. and Geog. List, 1838, 3. — Oasstn, Baird's
B. IS. Am., 1858, 44— Baied, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 44.— COOPBB,
Orn. Oal., I, 1870, 454. Pandion haliaetus var. carolinensis, Rmaw., Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., 1870, 143 j
in B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., Ill, 1874, 184.— Henshaw, 1875, 415. Pandion haliaetuSf COUES, Key, 1872, 219 ; Check List, 1873, No. 360 ; B. N.W.,
1874, 367.
The Fish-Hawk, Hke the Bald Eagle, was seen only along the lower portion of the Truckee River, near Pyramid Lake, where it was rather common in May. It no doubt bred in that locality, since it was often observed flying up the river, bearing fish in its talons, as if going to its nest.
Family OATHARTID^— American Vultures. Rhinogryphus aura.
Turkey-Buzzard.
{Ro'-shim of the Washoes.)
Vultur aura, Linn., Syst. Nat., 1, 1766, 122.
Caihartes aura, iLLiaEE,"* Prodomus, 1811, 236. — Oassin, in Baird's B. N. Am., 1858, 4.— Baird, Oat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 1.— Ooopeb, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 602.— CoUES, Key, 1872, 222 j Check List, 1873, No. 365; B.N.W., 1874,379.
Rhinogryphus aura, RiDawAT, in B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. B., Ill, 1874, 344.— Henshaw, 1875, 428.
In the Sacramento Valley, the Turkey-Buzzard was so rare that not more than three or four individuals were seen during the entire month of 38 PR
594 ORNITHOLOGY.
June, these being observed sailing over the plains toward the foot-hills of the Sierra Nevada. In the Interior, however, it was abundant throughout the summer, when it was found in nearly all localities; but during the winter months they seemed to have all retired to the southward, none having been seen in the latitude of Carson City earlier than the middle of March. It was more numerous in the vicinity of Pyramid Lake than anywhere else, for there the surf cast up many dead fish, thus affording them a plentiful supply of food. At this place they were almost constantly seen sailing quite low along the shore of the lake searching for their food. During rainy weather we frequently observed them perched among the cotton-wood trees along the river in such numbers as to completely cover the branches. Throughout the Interior the distribution of the Turkey- Buzzard was so general that it might be met with in any sort of locality; thus, on the 19th of April we shot a fine specimen from the top of a dead pine in a ravine of the Sierra Nevada, near Carson City, the spot being in the midst of a dense forest, while on the 29th of June a group, consisting of about a dozen individuals, was seen near '*Sand Springs" Station, on the Carson Desert, and one of them killed with a rifle. They had collected about a small pool of putrid water in a portion of the desert so completely sterile as to be almost devoid of even the usual alkaline shrubs. Through- out the country to the eastward, the Turkey Buzzard was continually met with, both in the valleys and on the mountains, and at all elevations, the latest individual of the season being seen October 3d, at the ^^City of Rocks," in southern Idaho (latitude about 42^). In securing No. 130 of the collection, we went to an amount of trouble worthy of a better result. It was perched upon a high crag of the northern peak of the island, several hundred feet above us, but even at this distance its head appeared to be partly white, as if there might be a ruff of feathers of this color across the occiput ; this appearance was only more distinct as we scanned it closely through a field-glass, so it was determined to secure the specimen if it were possible to do so. We accordingly began cHmbing cautiously toward it, but long before getting within range it flew. We kept on, however, until arrived nearly to the spot where it had been perched, and sitting down to rest, had remained there but a few moments when it was observed sailing
COLUMBii FASOIATA. 595
slowly back again, and approaching within gunshot, was fired at, when it fell with a thump on the rocks below. Other individuals similar to this one were seen as they soared majestically, in broad circles, about the higher, cliffs, but none of them came within range. Upon descending to where our supposed prize lay, we were considerably disappointed to find it but the young of the common species, its peculiar appearance being caused by a patch of dense white down which still covered the occiput. Upon dissection, this specimen was found to have been last feeding entirely on dead fish.
List of specimens,
128, S ad.; eastern shore of Pyramid Lake, August 16, 1867. 27i— 69— 20J— 16J — l^Q — 2 — 11^ — 7^. Bill, chalk-white 5 iris, raw-umber; head and naked portion of the neck, livid crimson, deepest on the forehead and occiput; across the vertex, from eye to eye, a broad band of livid whitish papillse ; tarsi and toes, dirty livid yellowish- white.
130, 9juv,; island in Pyramid Lake, August 16, 1867. 27|— 70i— 211—17—1 J— 2 — 11^—7^. Bill, dull black; iris, light yellowish-brown ; head and naked portion of the neck, livid brownish-black ; tarsi and toes, dirty livid ashy-white.
Family COLUMBID^— Pigeons or Doves.
COLUMBA FASCIATA. Bsind-tailed Pig^eon.
Columha fasciataj Say, Long's Exped., 11, 1823, 10. — Baird, Birds K Am., 1858, 597 J Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 445.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 606.— CouES, Key, 1872, 225; Check List, 1873, No. 367 ; Birds N.W., 1874, 385.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, III, 1874, 360, pi. lyii, fig. 2.— Henshaw, 1875, 429.
On the 19th of November, 1867, we saw a single individual of what
must have been this species, flying to the southward over the Truckee
Meadows. Its appearance and size was very much that of the common
House-Pigeon, but, from the manner of its flight, it was evidently a wild
bird. The specimens in our collection were presented by Mr. Parker, who
obtained them in the neighborhood of San Francisco.
List of specimens.
426, '*?" ad.; "San Francisco, California, January 31, 1868. 16— 26|— (?)— 7^V Bill, yellow, the tip black; eye, pink-red ; lids, vermilion-red; feet, yellow."
427, '^i^ (f) ad.; *' San Francisco, January 31, 1868. 15f— 26^— C?)-«74;' Same remarks.
596 OKNITHOLOOY.
EOTOPISTES MIGRATORIA. Passengfcr Pig^eon.
Golumba migratoria, LiNN., Sjst. Nat., 1, 1766, 285.
Uctopistes migratoriaj SWAINS., Zool. Jour., Ill, 1827, 355. — Batrd, Birds N. Am., 1858, 600; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 448.— Cooper, Ora. Cal., I, 1870, 509.— COUES, Key, 1872, 225, fig. 145; Check List, 1873, No. 370; Birds N.W., 1874, 387.— B. B. & B., Hist. N. Am. Birds, III, 1874, 308, pi. LVii, fig. 4.
Only a stray individual of this species was met witli by us, and it cannot be considered as more than an occasional straggler in the country west of the Rocky Mountains. The specimen obtained flew rapidly past one morning, and alighted a short distance from us, ujpon a stick by the edge of a stream, whither it had probably come for water. Upon dissec- tion it was found to have been feeding upon the berries of a small cornel {Cornus pubescens)^ which grew abundantly in the mountains.
List of specimens,
179, 9 juv.; West Humboldt Mountains (Camp 18), Nevada, September 10, 1867. 13^ — Slf— 7| — 6J — f — i—^^^ — 3. Bill, black, the rictus pinkish; iris, brownish, with a narrow outer ring of carmine; tarsi and toes, pale livid salmon-color, the scutellae more brownish ; claws, blackish.
Zen^dura O^VEOLINENSIS.
mourning Dove.
{Hung^ -O'ho' -ah of the Washoes; We-ho'-pe of the Paiutes.)
Oolumba oarolinensis^ Linn., Syst. Nat., I, 1766, 286.
Zenaidura carolinensis^ Bonap., Consp., II, 1854, 84. — Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 604; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 451.— COOPEB, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 512.— CouES, Key, 1872, 226, fig. 146; Check List, 1873, No. 371; Birds N.W., 1874, 389.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, III, 1874, 383, pi. Lvm, fig.2.— Henshaw, 1875, 431.
Perhaps no bird, not even the Raven, is more universally distributed through the Interior, without regard to the nature of the country, than the common Mourning Dove, and certainly none is more abundant. It occurred about the corrals of the stage-stations in the midst of the most extensive deserts, many miles from any cultivated or wooded district, or natural
ZENiEDURA CAROLINBNSIS. 597
water-courses, while it was also met with oil the equally barren mountains and plains far from the abode of man. In the arid portions of the country, however, it is far less common than in the fertile localities, where it sometimes literally abounds. Such was particularly the case at the Truckee Meadows, where one November evening, after supper, we killed over tliirty specimens for the *^pot," in the immediate vicinity of our camp. In the Sacramento Valley it was no less abundant than in the Interior.
List of specimens,
31, nest and eggs (2); Sacramento, California, June 11, 1867. Nest about six feet from ground, in small aspen, in copse.
53, nest and eggs (2),» Sacramento, June 18, 1867. Nest in oak-tree, in grove, about fifteen feet from ground.
110, nest and eggs (2)^ Big Bend of Truckee (Camp 12), Nevada, July 26, 1867. Nest on the arid mesa, two miles from water, on tbe ground, beneath a sage-bush.
112, nest and eggs (2)^ Camp 12, July 29, 1867. Same locality and situation as No. 110.
192, ? jui?,; West Humboldt Mountains (Camp 19), September 18, 1867. lO^^g — 17 — 6 — 5 — i — i| — 4i — 2J^. Bill, slate-black, bluish-slate at base 5 rictus, pinkish j iris, hazel ; bare eyelids, bluish ; tarsi and toes, pale lake-red ; claws, blackish.
616, <J ad.; Carson City, April 23, 1868. 12|— 171— 6-45. Bill, deep black, becoming slaty -bluish on the soft nasal membrane 5 rictus and interior of mouth, deep lake-redj bare orbital region, delicate pale blue, with a greenish tinge beneath the eye; iris, deep sepia; tarsi and toes, deep lake or coral-red; claws, deep black.
786, eggs (2) ; Virginia Mountains, near Pyramid Lake, June 3, 1868. Nest on ground, beneath sage-bush, on side of ravine.
1170, eggs (2) ; Salt Lake City, June 16, 1869. Nest on ground, beneath sage- bush.
1184, nest and eggs (2); near Salt Lake City (City Creek Caiion), June 18, 1869. Nest on mountain- mahogany tree.
1293, eggs (2); Parley's Park, Utah, June 26, 1869. Nest in aspen tree.
1294, eggs (2); Parley's Park, June 26, 1869. Same remarks.
1340, eggs (2); Parley's Park, June 28, 1869. Same remarks.
1341, eggs (2) ; Parley's Park, June 2S, 1869. Same remarks.
1385, nest and egg (1); Prove Eiver, July 10, 1869. Nest on bush leaning over river-bank.
1386, nest and egg (1) ; Prove Eiver, July 10, 1869. Nest on bush on river-bank. 1417, eggs (2); Parley's Park, July 16, 1869. Nest among willows, along stream. 1522, egg (1); Cash Valley, Utah, July, 1869. [Collected by J. 0. Olmstead.]
598 orj^ithology.
Family TETRAONID^— Geousb. Cai^ace obsouba.
Dusky Orouse.
Tetrao obscurus, Say, Long's Exped., II, 1823, 14, 202.— Baird, Birds N. Am., 1868, 620; Oat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No, 459.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 526.— COUES, Key, 1872, 233; Check List, 1873, No. 381; Birds N.W., 1874, 395.
Canace oUcura^ Bonap., Comp. Rend., XLV, 1857, 428.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, m, 1874, 422, pi. lix, figs. 1, 2.
The "Mountain Grouse," or "Blue Grouse," was a more or less common species on all the ranges clothed with a sufficient extent of pine forests, the existence of which seemed to strictly govern its distribution. It was found on the Sierra Nevada, near Carson City, and on several of the higher ranges of the Great Basin; but it did not occur in abundance until we arrived at the Wahsatch and Uintah Mountains, where it literally abounded in certain localities, particularly on the latter range.
Although seldom seen in the dense pine forests, we always found these Grouse in their vicinity, usually in the open glades with scattered trees and brush, with thicker woods on either side. Our acquaintance with this species being made wholly in the fall and latter part of summer, we did not learn much regarding its habits. We can testify, however, to the excellence of its flesh, which is white and tender as that of a partridge.
List of specimens,
891, $ ad.; East Humboldt Mountains (near Camp 22), September 4, 1868. 21— 31J — 7J. Weight, 2| lbs. Bill black, the lower mandible slightly variegated with whitish at the base; iris, rawumber; bare space over eye, orange-yellow; toes, brownish-gray; claws, black.
954, 9 ad,; Wahsatch Mountains, near Salt Lake City, October, 1868.
1290, $ ad,; Parley's Park, June 25, 1869. 22— 31 J. Weight, 3J lbs. Bill, black ; iris, raw-umber ; naked superciliary space, orange ; toes, lilaceous-gray.
1370, 9 ad.; Pack's Canon, Uintah Mountains, July 5, 1869. 19—29. Bill, black ; iris, raw-umber; toes, ashy.
1371, 9 ad.; Pack's Canon, July 5, 1869. Same remarks.
1372, juv.; same date and locality. 1382, juv,; Pack's Canon, July 8. 1444, i jnv.; Parley's Park, July 23.
B0NA8A UMBELLOIDES— PEDICEOETES COLUMBIANUS. 599
BOI^ASA UMBELLUS. KuOed O rouse.
>ff. umbelloides — Gray Buffed Grouse,
Tetrao umbelloides^ Douglas, Trans. Linn. Soc, XVI, 1829, 148.
Bonasa umbelhis var. lonhelloides, Baird, Birds N. Am,, 1858, 925,- Oat. N. Am.
Birds, 1859, No. 465.— CoUES, Key, 1872, 235; Check List, 1873, No. 385a;
Birds N.W., 1874, 425.-~B. B. & K., Hist. N. Am. Birds, III, 1874, 453, pi.
LXI, fig. 10.
This bird we did not see alive, but dead specimens were occasionally seen in the hands of hunters. It was said to be common in the pine forests of the Wahsatch, where it is known as the '^ Pine-Hen."
List of speeimens. 955,* <J ad»; Wahsatch Mountains, near Salt Lake City, October, 1868.
Pedicecetes phasianellus.
Sharp-tailed Grouse.
yS. columbianus — Western Prairie Chicken.
Phasianus columbianus^ Ord, Guthrie's Geog,, 2d Am. ed., 1815, 317.
Pedicecetes columbianus^ Elliot, Pr. Pbilad. Acad., 1862, 403. — Cooper, Orn.
Cal., I, 1870, 532. Pedicecetes phasianellus var, columbianus, OoUES, Key, 1872, 234 j Check List, 1873,
No. 383a ; Birds N. W., 1874, 407.— B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. Birds, III, 1874,
436, pi. LX, fig. 1. Pedicecetes phasianellus, Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 626 (not Tetrao phasianellus,
Linn., 115S, = Pedicecetes)-, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 463.
This Grouse, known universally among the western people as the "Prairie Chicken,'' we found only in the Upper Humboldt Valley, near Trout Creekj where it was abundant in the rye-grass meadows at the base of the Clover Mountains, and in a very few similar localities in the Wah- satch district.
List of specimens.
927, ^ad.; Upper* Humboldt Valley (Camp 25), September 16, 1868. 15—25— (^) — 6. Bill, black, the lower mandible more ashy basally ; iris, raw-sienna ; toes, ashy horn-color.
600 ORNITHOLOGY.
Centeooeeous UEOPHASIANUS.
Sagre-Hen.
(See-yuh! of the Washoes.)
Tetrao urophasiamcSj BoNAP., Zool. Journ., JIT, 1828, 214.
Tetrao {Gentrocercm) urophasianus, SWAINS., Fauna Bor.-Am., II, 1831, 358, pL 58.
Centrocercus urophasiantis, Jardinb, Nat. Lib. Birds, — , 1840, pi. xvii. — Baird, B. K Am., 1858, 624; Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 462.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 536.— COUES, Key, 1872, 233; Check List, 1873, No. 382 ; Birds N.W., 1874, 400.— B. B. & E., Hist. N. Am. Birds, III, 1874, 429, pi. LX, figs. 2, 4.
Although this large and well-known Grouse was met with throughout the sage-brush country between the Sierra Nevada and the Wahsatch, we saw it so seldom that little was learned of its habits, particularly during the breeding-season. It came under our notice only late in summer and during the autmnn, when it was foimd to be abundant in certain localities, but by no means uniformly distributed. When startled, the Sage-Hen rises with a noisy and apparently laborious fluttering, and then flies off, with a heavy but well-sustained flight, a few yards above the ground, and usually goes a long way before alighting ; indeed, if allowed to escape after being once flushed there is generally little hope of getting a second opportunity for a shot. As an article of food the Sage-Hen cannot be recommended, unless the precaution is taken to flay it immediately, for its flesh soon becomes permeated with the disagreeable odor of the sage-brush, the leaves of which form its principal food. In fact, it is often found necessary to soak the car- case in salt-water over night before the flesh becomes palatable. The leaves of the Artemisia do not form the exclusive food of this species, however, but during the season when grasshoppers abound it feeds largely on these insects, several specimens killed in Parley's Park during a flight of these pests in August having nothing else in their crops. It is a well-known fact among western hunters that the Sage-Hen *^has no gizzard," and the truth of this statement, which was often told us, we confirmed by the dissection of numer- ous specimens ; the stomach being njerely membraneous, or at most but slightly muscular, like that of a bird of prey, and nothing like the thick and powerful grinding machine of other Gallinoe}
^ See American Naturalistj April, 1874, p. 240, where this remarkable peculiarity of the Sage-Hen is referred to, by the writer.
OREORTYX PI0TU8. 601
List of specimens.
214, $ ad.; West Humboldt Mountains (Oamp 19), September 23, 1867. 29— 40J— 12|— 10— IJ— 2J— llj— 3J. Weight, ^ pounds. Bill, deep black; iris, light hazel ; cervical sac, light leaden-blue ; toes, grayish-olive.
311, ? ad.; Pea- Vine district, Western Nevada, November 21, 1867. 23 — 36^ — 12^8^— l^lf— 7f— 23. Bill, deep black ; iris, light brown ; toes, blackish horn- color.
312, 9 ad.; same locality and date. 21|— 34— lOf— 8— IJ— l|~7i— 3. Same remarks.
313, 9 ad.; same locality and date. 21^34---10|— 8— 1^ — l^— 7i — 2J. Same remarks.
943, 9 ad.; City of Rocks, Idaho, October 3, 1868. 22— 35— (?)— 84. Same remarks.
Family PERDIOID^— Partridges and Quails. Oreortyx piotus.
Mountain <tuail or Partridge.
/?. plumiferus.^
{Mah'-tem-aW'teh^LiiA. Tu-eJik! -tuddle of the Washoes; Kih'-Uk of the Paiutes.)
Ortyx plumifera, Gould, Proc. Zool. Soc. Lond., Y, 1837, 42. » Oreortyx pictus var. plumiferus^ B. B. & R., Hist. K Am. Birds, III, 1874, p. 476. Oreortyx pictns^ Auot. (part).
This superb bird occurred rather sparingly among the mountains and hills immediately adjacent to the eastern base of the Sierra Nevada, as well as on the eastern slope of that range itself. It was so rare, however, or at least so difficult to find, that we could learn but little concerning its habits. We first met with it in a broad canon of the Virginia Mountains fronting on Pyramid Lake, where the slopes were covered, more or less, by the tall rye-grass, interspersed with scattered cedars. Here a flock of perhaps a
^The typical form, which inhabits the coast districts of California and Oregon (the present one inhabiting the Sierra Nevada and the peninsula of Lower California), differs in darker, browner colors. Its synonymy is as follows : —
Ortyx picta, Douglas, Trans. Linn. Soc, XVI, 1829, 143.
Oreortyx pictus^ Baibd, Birds K Am., 1858, 642; Oat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, Ko. 473. — CooPEB, Orn. Cal, 1, 1870, 546 (part).— CoxjES, Key, 1872, 237; Check List, 1873, No. 390; Birds KW., 1874, 440.— B. B. & B., Hist. N. Am. Birds, III, 1874, 475, pi. LXiii, fig. 6 (part).
602 ORNITHOLOGY.
dozen individuals was flushed on the 27th of December, 1867, and one of them secured. Before they rose they uttered a confused chuckling, some- what like the alarm-notes of the eastern Bob- White {Ortyx virginiamis), and after they had been separated for some time, commenced calling to one another in a manner exactly similar to young Turkeys (Meleagris) under the same circumstances. Its love-notes we have never heard.
In western Nevada, where the statement seems to be generally believed, we were informed that the Mountain Quail was not an inhabitant of the country eastward of the summit of the Sierra Nevada until after the settle- ment of that country by the whites, when they began following the wagon- roads over the mountains for the purpose of picking up the grain scattered along the way. This may possibly be true; but judging from the fact that a number of essentially Oaliforidan birds and mammals, and even plants, occur plentifully along the eastern base of the Sierra Nevada, in an exactly similar manner, we rather incline to the opinion that it is a true native, in support of which view of the case, we were infonned by the Indians at the Truckee Reservation that it had always been found on the neighboring
mountains.
List of specimens,
319, i ad,; Carson City, Nevada, November, 1867. (Presented by Mr. H. G. Parker.)
386, (J ad.; Virginia Mountains, near Pyramid Like, December 27, 1867. 11^ — 17 — 5| — ^ — ^9_—i^3^ — 3^ — J. Bill, dull black, more brownish terminally; iris, deep brown; tarsi and toes, dilute brownish.
440, S ad.; Carson City, Nevada, March 10, 1868. (Oedargroves.) 11|— t6f— 6§ — 4|. Bill, black, slightly brownish terminally; iris, vandyke-brown ; tarsi and toes, dilute sepia.
441, 9 ad. (mate of No. 440); same locality and date. 11^ — 16f — 5J — 4i. Same remarks.
LOPHOETYX CALIFOENICUS. California Valley Quail.
Tetrao californicus^ Shaw, Nat. Misc., — , pi. 345.
Lophortyx californicuSj Bonap., Comp. & Geog. List, 1838, 42. — Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 644; Cat. N.Am. Birds, 1859, No. 474.— Cooper, Orn. Cal., I, 1870, 549.— COUES, Key, 1872, 238; Check List, 1873, No. 391; Birds N.W., 1874, 439.— B. B. & R., Hist. N. Am. Birds, III, 1874, 479, pi. XLiv, figs. 1, 2.
The ** Valley Quail" of California was met with only among the western
^GIALITIS VOCIFERUS. 603
foot-hills of the Sierra Nevada, where it seemed to be an abundant species.
It continued along our route up to the beginning of the continuous pine
forest, or to an altitude of about 5,000 feet, where a specimen, a fine adult
male, was killed among the brushwood of a ravine by the roadside. There
were evidently others in the locality, since the one killed was in a small
tree, anxiously calling, his note being a sharp cMp^ almost exactly like the
common note of the Cardinal Grosbeak {Cardinalis virginianus). We
unfortunately had little opportunity to observe the habits of this beautiful
species.
List of specimens,
316, (f ad,; 317, S ad,; 318, 9 ad.; " Coast of Oalifornia, near San Francisco." (H. G. Parker.)
Family OHARADRIIDiE— Plovers.
^GIALITIS YOCIFERUS. Klll-deer«
Charadrius voeiferus, LiNN., Syst. Nat., I, 1766. 253.
JSJgialitis vocifertiSj BoNAP., Oomp. & Geog. List, 1838^ 45. — Cassin, in Baird's Birds ISr. Am., 1858, 692.— Baibd, Cat. 2^. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 604-CoUES, Key, 1872, 244, %. 156; Check List, 1873, JSTo. 397; Birds N.W., 1874, 452
(i^oci/em).— Henshaw, 1875, 445.
Tile common Kill-deer was found to be by far the most abundant and generally distributed bird of the order, since it was found about every stream or other body of water, while it was common wherever it occurred. It was also resident, but more numerous in summer than in winter.
List of specimens,
431, (J ad.; Carson City, Nevada, March 7, 1868. lOJ— 20^—7— 5§. Bill, black; iris, bister; eyelids, orange-red; tarsi and toes, pale ashy uaples-yellow.
472, $ ad,; Carson City, March 28, 1868. 10— 20J— 6|4— 5f . Same remarks.
1154, eggs (4); Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake, June 9, 1869. Eggs deposited on the bare sand, in a slight depression, near the shore.
604 ORNITHOLOGY.
iEGIALITIS CANTIANUS. Kentish Plover.
>ff. nivosus — Snotvy Plover.
JEgialitis (Lmcopolim) ntuo«M«, Oassin, in Baird's Birds N. Am., 1858, 606.
JEgialiiis nivosus^ Baibd, Cat. K Am. Birds, 1859, No. 609.
JEJgialiUs cantianus^ GouES, Key, 1872, 245 (aot of Latham) ; Check List, 1873,
No. 401. JEgialiiis cantianm var. nivosm^ RiDawAY, Am. Nat., VIII, 1874, 109. — CouES^
Check List, App., No. 401. ^gialitis cantiana var. nivosa^ Coxjes, Birds N.W., 1874, 456.
This handsome and graceful little Plover was exceedingly numerous in May on the bare mud-flats around Warm Spring Lake, near Salt Lake City. It kept in flocks, running nimbly and very svriftly over the ground, all the while uttering a soft and rather musical whistling note.
List of specimens.
969, i ad.; Salt Lake City, Utah, May 21, 1869. 7— 13|. Bill, deep black j iris, burnt-sienna; eyelids, deep black; interior of mouth, fleshy- white; tarsi, slate-color ; toes, black.
1026, «J ad.; near Salt Lake City, Utah, May 22, 1869. 7— 13f Bill, deep black ; eyelids, black ; iris, deep brown ; tarsi, dull slate ; toes, black.
1027, ^ ad.; same locality and date. 6J — 13J. Same remarks.
1028, ? ad.; same locality and date. 6J — 12}f . Same remarks.
1029, (? ad.; same locality and date. 6J — 13. Same remarks.
1030, <J ad.; same locality and date. 6| — 14f. Samet remarks.
1031, ? ad.; same locality and date. 6| — 13J. Same remarks. ^
Family PHALAROPOBID J]— Phalaropes. Steganopus wilsoni.
Wilson's Phalarope.
PhaUropm wilsoni^ Sabine, App. Franklin's Journal, 1823, 69L— Cassin, in Baird's B. N. Am., 1858, 705.-.BA1BI), Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 519.
Phalaropus (Steganopus) wilsoni^ Gbay, Hand List, HI, 1871, 55, No. 10,362.
Steganopus wilsoni^ OoxjES, Ibis, April, 1865, — ; Key, 1872, 248, flg. 161 ; Check List, 1873, No. 409; Birds N.W., 1874, 467.— Hbnshaw, 1875, 451,
This species was shot from a flock of Sandpipers {Tringa alpina ameri- canaj T. minutUlaj T. hairdij and Ereunetes pusillus), at Pyramid Lake, in
EEOUBVIiM>STRA AMERICANA. 605
May, 1868, and was again seen swimming in the alkaline ponds along the southern shore of Groat Salt Lake, in June, 1869.
Family RECURVIROSTRIDiB— Avoobts and Stilts.
KbCURVIROSTRA AMERICANA. American Avocet.
Becurvirostra americana, Gmelin, Syst. Nat., 1, 1788, 093.— Cassin, in Baird's B. N. Am., 1858, 703.— Baied, Cat. N, Am. B., 1859, No. 517.— CoUES, Key, 1872, 147, fig. 159; Check List, 1873, No. 407; Birds N.W., 1874, 460.— Hen- SHAW, 1875, 448.
This abundant bird is confined chiefly to the vicinity of the alkaline ponds or lakes, where it is usually found in the most barren places, or where the bare earth is covered chiefly with an alkaline efflorescence. At the Soda Lakes, on the Carson Desert, it was particularly abundant, and appeared to be feeding on a kind of insect thrown by the surf upon the beach. It was not met with in the Sacramento Valley, but was. first seen at the Truckee Meadows, where it was abundant in July in some alkaline marshes. Its local names are "Lawyer" and "Yelper" in most locaHties where it is known.
List of specimens.
811, i ad.; Soda Lake, Carson Desert, Nevada, June 28, 1868. 18— 29^(t)— 7. Bill deep black ; iris, burnt-umber ; tarsi and toes, ashy-blue.
812, eggs (4) ; 813, eggs (3) ; 814, egg (1). Same locality and date. Eggs depos- ited in depressions in the alkaline deposit.
1071, $ ad.; near Salt Lake City, May 29, 1869. 18^36J. Bill, deep black ; iris, brown ; legs and feet, plumbeous-blue.
1107, S ad.; Antelope Island, Salt Lake, June 6, 1869. 18J— 31. Same re-
1218, 1219, 1220, 1221 (eggs); Oarringtou Island, Salt Lake, June 17, 1869. (Col- lected by Mr. E. N. Davis and Mr. 8, Watson.)
606 ORNITHOLOGY.
HiMANTOPUS MEXICAKUS. American Sliit*
{Pahn-tuy' -he of the Shoshones.)
GharadriuB mexicanus^ Mulleb, Sjst. Nat., 1776,. 117.
Himantopus mexicanm, Ord (ed. Wils.), Am. Orn., VII, 1824, 52.
Himantopus nigricolUs, Vieillot, Nouv. Diet. d'Hist. Nat., X, 1817, 42.— Cassin,
in Baird's Birds N. Am. 1858, 704.— Baird, Oat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 518.
— COUES, Key, 1872, 247, fig. 160; Check List, 1873, No. 408; Birds N.W.,
1874, 462.— Henshaw, 1875, 450.
This species was almost invariably found in the same localities with the Avocet {Recurvirostra)^ but it was everywhere less abundant than that species. It was more numerous about the southeastern portion of the Great Salt Lake than at any other locality visited by- us.
lAst of specimens,
815, $ ad.; Soda Lake, Carson Desert, June 28, 1868. 15— 29^- (!)— 7f. Bill, deep black; iris, grayish-brown next the pupil, with a wide outer ring of <?lfear rosy-car- mine; legs and feet, deep light rose-pink or lake-red.
1018, eggs (4) ; near Salt Lake City, May 22, 1869. Nest on the ground, on small grassy island in Warm Spring Lake.
1072, 9 ad.; near Salt Lake City, May 29, 1869. 14f— 27^. Same remarks as to No. 816.
1084, $ ad.; mouth of Jordan Eiver, Utah, June 2, 1869. 15^—30. Iris, rich fine carmine.
Family SOOLOPAOIDJl— Snipe, Sandpipees, etc. Gallinago wilsoni.
Wilson's Sinipe.
(Tuttoo'hoy'-ehk and Kay'-lehh of the Washoes; SV-yeheh of the Shoshones.)
Seolopax wilsonii^ Temm., PL Col. V, livr. Lxvin (in text).
Gallinago wilsoni^ Bonap., Comp. & Geog. List, 1838, 52. — Cassin, in Baird's Birds N. Am., 1858, 710.— Baird, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 523.— Coues, Key, 1872, 262, fig. 163; Check List, 1873, No. 414; Birds N.W., 1874, 475.— Hen- SHAW, 1875, 452.
Gallinago gallinaria var. wilsoni^ RinawAY, Ann. Lye. N. Y., X, 1874, 383.
The Common Snipe was an abundant species during the spring and
TRINGA AMERICANA. 607
autumn, in all wet and grassy places. In Parley's Park, either this species or Macrorhamphus griseus was breeding, but we found it impossible to pos- itively determine the species. In the lower portion of the park, about a quarter of a mile from our camp, was an extensive meadow, portions of which were quite wet or marshy; and in this direction we would hear every evening a peculiar hollow gurgUng sound, somewhat like the noise pro- duced by water escaping from a nearly full jug. This was heard only just before dark, and, as we soon ascertained, was produced by a kind of '* Snipe,'' as it pitched downward from a great height. We found it impos- sible to obtain a specimen, but conclude that the bird must have been this species, since we shot specimens along a brook in the same locality at about the same time.
List of specimens,
259, 9 ad,; Truckee Meadows (Camp 26), Nevada, November 7, 1867. 11§— 17 J— ^"^l— 4J— 2ii--.l3-\— 2J~-j\. Bill, blackish for terminal third, greenish-ashy basally, the lower mandible rather paler than the upper; iris, bister; tarsi and toes, pale greenish- ashy; claws, black.
260, <J ad.; Camp 12, November 7, 1867. 11^— 17i— 5|— 4i— 2/g-— l^^^— 2^—/^. Same remarks.
261, (?a^.; same locality and date. 10i|— 165—51—4/^— 237^—1^1^— 2g—(f). Same remarks.
262, $ ad,; same locality and date. 10J-~16|— 5|— 43-%— 2|--1J— 2J— |. Same remarks.
1453, ? ad,; Parley's Park, Utah, July 26, 1869. llj— 17^. Bill, black, growing gradually greenish horn-color basally; iris, dark brown; tarsi and toes, light ashy, with distinct yellowish-green wash on the scutellsB.
1454, ? ad.; same locality and date. 10| — 16f . Same remarks.
1455, ? ad.; same locality and date. 11 — 16|. Same remarks.
TEmGA ALPENA. Red-backed Sandpiper.
/?. americana.
Tringa (Sehceniclus) alpina var. americana^ Oassin, in Baird's Birds N. Am,, 1858,
719. Tringa alpina var. americana, Baik-D, Oat. K Am. Birds, 1859, No. 530. — CouES,
Key, 1872, 256, fig. 166; Check List, 1873, No. 424; Birds N.W., 1874, 489.
This species occurred among the large flocks of Sandpipers and other
608 OENITHOLOGY.
small waders found in the vicinity of Pyramid Lake in May, along with Steganopus wilsoni, Tringa bairdi, T. minutillay and Ereunetes pusillus, all of which were killed at a single shot.
Trikga BAIRDI.
Balrd'8 Sandpiper.
Actodromus bairdii, OouES, Pr. Ac. Kat. Sci. Philad., 1861, 194.— Hekshaw 1875,466. '
ISringa bairdii, SCL., Proc. Zool. Soc. Loud., 1867, 332.— CouES, Key, 1872, 256; Check List, 1873, No. 419; Birds N.W., 1874, 484.
Found about Pyramid Lake in May, and at the Humboldt Marshes in August.
List of specimens,
133, 9 juv.; Humboldt Marshes (Gamp 15), August 26, 1867. 7^|^ — 15^5^—4^— 1 — 16 — 2^^ — |. Bill, black; iris, brown; tarsi and toes, slate-black
Tringa minutilla. .
Least Sandpiper*
Tringa minutilla, Vibillot, Nouv. Diet. d^Hist. Nat., XXXIV, 1819, 452.— CouES, Key, 1872, 254; Check List, 1873, No. 418; Birds N.W., 1874, 482.
Actodromus minutilla, CouES, Fr. Phil. Ac, 1861, 191, 230.— Hbnshaw, 1875, 455.
Tringa mlsoniiy NuTTiXL, Man. Orn., II, 1834, 121.— Oassin, in Baird's Birds N. Am., 1858, 721.— Baibd, Oat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 532.
Vicinity of Pyramid Lake in May, about Salt Lake throughout the summer, and at the Humboldt Marshes in August.
List of specimens.
134, ^ jiet?.; Oamp 16, August 26, 1867. 6^— llf— 3J— 3t^— If— ff— 1,?^— ^. Bill, black ; iris, brown ; tarsi and toes, slate-black.
135, ?;wi?.; same locality and date. 61—12^^3—4^—3^—1^^ — ^|_1|— |^. Same remarks.
136, ? juv.; same locality and date. 6|— 11— 3|^— 3— ^f— f— 1|— J. Bill, dull black; iris, hazel; tarsi and toes, grayish-olive.
EREUNBTBS PUSILLUS--SYMPHEMIA SEMIPALMATA. 609
Eeeunetes PUSILLUS.
^^eiuipalmated Sandpiper.
Tinngapusillaj Linn., Syst. Nat., I, 1766, 252.
Ereunetus pusillus, Cassin, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., XIII, 1860, 195.— Coui^,
Key, 1872, 254, fig. 165; Check List, 1873, No. 417; Birds N.W., 1874, 481.
—Henshaw, 1875, 454.
Ereuneies pefrljicatus, Illiger, Prodromus, 1811, 262. — Oassin, in Baird's Birds N. Am., 1858, 724.— Baird, Cat. N. Am. B., 1859, No. 535.
Ereunetes occidentalis, Lawr., Pr. Philad. Acad., 1864, 107.
Ereunetes pnsillKS var. occidentalism CouKS, Key, 1872, 254; Check List, 1873, No. 417a.
Vicinity of Pyramid Lake in May, and Humboldt Marshes in August,
in flocks with Tringa bairdi and I\ minutilla, [All the specimens of these
three species shot from one flock at a single discharge.]
List of specimens.
137, ijuv.; Camp 15, August 26, 1867. 5f-^lli--3§— 3^ii— f^-^li- ^V ^'^^^i black, becoming greenish-olive on base of lower mandible ; iris, brown; tarsi and toes, greenish-olive.
138, ?jttt?./ same locality and date. 55— 11— 3y»^— 2}|— 3— |— 1/^— .^^^. Same remarks.
139, 9 j?/t7.; same locality and date. 6J— 11.^—3^—34— f|—f|— If i—^^ Same remarks.
SyMPHEMIA SEMIPALMATA.
Wilfet.
Scolopaoc semipalmata, Gmelin, Syst. Nat., I, 1788, 659.
Totanus semipalmatus^ Temm., Man. Orn., II, , 637. — CoUES, Key, 1872, 258;
Check List, 1873, No. 431 5 Birds N. W., 1874, 494.— Qenshaw, 1875, 457. Symphemia semipalmata^ Hartlaub, Eev. Zool., 1845, 342. — Cassin, in Baird's
Birds N, Am., 1858, 729.— Baiud, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 537.
This large and conspicuous Snipe, readily distinguished at sight from other species by the conspicuous whitQ patch on the wings, was found breeding in nearly all marshy localities. It was particularly numerous on the grassy flats along the southern shore of the Great Salt Lake, near the mouth of the Jordan River, where it was found in company with the Long- billed Curlew {Numenius longirostris) and various species of Ducks.
List of specimens.
1160, 9 ad.; southern shore of Great Salt Lake, Ut?ih, June 11, 1869. 16—29^. Bill, black ; iris, browu ; tarsi and toes, slate-color. 39 PE
610 ornitholooy.
Rhyaoophilus solitarius.
Solitary Sandpiper.
Tringa solitaria, Wilson, Am. Orn., VII, 1813, 53, pi. 58, fig. 3.
Totanus solitarius^ Audubon, Synop., 1839, 242. — Coues, Key, 1872, '259; Check
List, 1873, No. 435; Birds KW., 1874, 498.— Henshaw, 1875, 469. Bhyaeophilm solitarius, Cassin, Baird's Birds N. Am., 1858, 733. — Baird, Cat. N.
Am. B., 1859, No. 541.
This species seemed to be exceedingly rare in the Interior, since it was seen on but two or three occasions ; it was noticed in the Truckee Valley, May 13, 1868, while a pair were observed at the Glendale Meadows in July, 1867; a single individual was also observed in Parley's Park, in August. It was not met with in the Sacramento Valley.
TrINGOIDES MACULARIUS. Spotted Sandpiper.
Tringa maculariaj Linn., Syst. Nat., I, 1766, 249.
Tringoides macularius, Gray, Genera of Birds, III, 1849, 574. — Cassin, in Baird's Birds N. Am., 1858, 735.— Baird, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 543.— CouES, Key, 1872, 260; Check List, 1873, No. 436; Birds N.W., 1874, 501.— Hen- shaw, 1875, 460.
Next to the Kill-deer {j!Egialitis vociferus), the Spotted Sandpiper is probably the most abundant and generally-distributed of the small waders in the Great Basin. It was found breeding from the lowest valleys up to an altitude of more than 7,000 feet, its favorite haunts being the gravelly banks of running streams rather than the vicinity of ponds or lakes. Its first arrival at Carson City was noted on the 29th of April, 1868.
lAst^of specimens.
562, S ad.; Carson City, April 29, 1868. 73— 13J— 4|— 3f . Commissure and whole of the lower mandible, dilute wax-yellow 5 rest of the bill, black ; iris, vandyke- brown ; tarsi and toes, dilute ashy-olive.
1362r eggs (2); Pack's Canon, Uintah Mountains, July 3, 1869. Nest, a very neat one of sticks, in a slight depression on the gravelly bank of a brook. Eggs nearly hatched.
1468, juv.; Parley's Park, July 28, 1869. Bill, black, lower mandible purplish basally 5 iris, dark brown 5 tarsi and toes, olive.
ACTITDRUS BARTRAMIUS— GEUS CANADENSIS. 611
AOTITUEUS BARTRAMIUS. Bartram^s Tatler.
Tringa bartramia, Wilson, Am. Orii., VII, 1813, 63, pK 59, fig. 2.
Actiturus bartramius, Bonap., Saggio, 1831, — . — Gassin, in Baird's Birds N. Am.,
1858, 737.— Baibd, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No, 545.— COUES, Key, 1872,
260; Check List, 1873, No. 438; Birds N.W., 1874, 502,
This eastern species was rather common in July in the grassy fields of Kamas Prairie, Utah, but none Were seen anywhere else.
NUMENIUS LONGIROSTKIS. LonfiT^'billed Curlew.
Numenim longirosiris, Wilson, Am. Oni., VIII, 1814,24, pi. 64, fig. 4. — Cassin, in Baird's Birds N. Am., 1858, 743.— Baird, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 549. — CouES, Key, 1872, 262, fig. 174; CLeck List, 1873, No. 441; Birds N.W., 1874, 508.— Henshaw, 1875, 461.
This large Curlew, called ^^ Snipe" by the people of the Salt Lake
Valley, was distributed in summer throughout the Interior in the vicinity
of marshes, the wet meadows near the shores of the larger lakes being
its favorite resort. It was particularly abundant along the southern shore
of the Great Salt Lake, and on some of the larger islands.
List of specimens,
1088, 6 ad.; Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake, June 4, 1869. 22^—39. Bill, black, becoming dull lilaceous on the basal half of the lower mandible ; iris, vandyke-brovvu j legs and fe^et, ashy.
1110, Sad,; Antelope Island, June 5, 1869. 23 J— 39. Same remarks.
1111, pullus; 1112, pullus; same locality and date.
1159, 2 ; south shore of Great Salt Lake, June 11, 1869. 26— 41f . Same remarks as to No. 1088.
Family GRU ID J] —Cranes.
GrUS CANADENSIS- ISand-»hill Crane.
Ardea canadensis, Linn,, Syst. Nat., I, 1766, 234.
Orm canadensis^ Temm., Anal. p. c. — Baird, Birds N. Am , 1858, 655; Cat. N.
Am. Birds, 1859, No. 479.— Coufs, Key, 1872, 271; Check List, 1873, No.
463; Birds N. W., 1874, 532.— Henshaw, 1875, 467.
The Sand-hill Crane was an abundant species in nearly all localities where extensive grassy marshes or wet meadows existed. . A friend living
612 ORNITHOLOGY.
in Carson Valley had a tame bird of this species which had been caught in an adjoining meadow when very young. Om* introduction to this remark- able, pet was somewhat amusing, the circumstances being as follows: Just before coming to the house we had shot a Snow-bird (Junco oreganus), and hastily thrust it into our coat pocket, before opening the gate of the front yard to walk in. We had scarcely entered, when his craneship, having seen the movement, walked familiarly up, and deliberately snatching the bird, proceeded, without further ceremony, to beat it upon the ground until nearly denuded of its feathers, when he swallowed it whole; he then care- fully examined our person for more birds. Not finding any, however, he turned away and with stately steps walked off across the yard. This bird was a great friend of the children belonging to the family, and would frequently join them in their sports. Often, while they were indoors, he would walk upon the porch, and going to the window would look inside, and if the young folks took the least notice of him he would show his pleasure by amusing gesticulations
Family RALLID^ — Rails, Gallinules, and Coots. Rallus vieginianus.
Virg^aniift Kail.
Rallus virginianus, LiNN., Sjst. Nat., I, 1706, 2G3.— Cassin, in Baird's Birds N. Am., 1858, 748.-— Baird, Cat. N. Am, Birds, 1859, No. 554,— Coues, Key, 1872,273; Check List, 1873, No. 467; Birds N.W., 1874, 536.— Henshaw, 1875,468.
Two or three specimens of this Rail were seen in May, among the
sedges bordering a pond near Pyramid Lake.
POEZANA CAROLINA. Sora Rail.
Rallus caroUnuSj Linn., Syst. Nat., 1, 1766, 263.
Porzana Carolina^ Cassin, in Baird's Birds N. Am., 1858, 749. — Baied, Oat.
N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 555.— CouES, Key, 1872, 273; Check List, 1873, No.
468; Birds N.W., 1874, 538.-HENSHAW, 1875, 468.
The Common Rail was constantly met with in all suitable localities in the Interior; it was not identified at Sacramento, where, however, it no doubt occurs also.
? PORZANA JAMAIOENSIS— GALLINULA GALBATA, 613
List of specimens.
1019, nest and eggs (6); near Salt Lake City, May 22, 1869. l^est in the coarse grass and sedges of a pond, near Warm Spring Lake.
1456, $ ad.; Parley's Park,'Wah8atcli Mountains, July 26, 1869. 9—135.^ Bifl yellow, the upper mandible chiefly greenish-olive; iris, brown; tarsi and toes, olive, deepening into yellow on the seutellae.
? PORZANA JAMAICENSIS.
Liittle Black Rail.
Ballus jamaicensis, Gmelin, Syst. Kat., I, 1788, 718.
Porzana jamaicensis, Oassin, in Baird's Birds X. Am., 1858, 749. — Baird, Cat.
N. Am. Birds, 1859, 556.—COUES, Key, 1872, 274; Ohecfc List, 1873, No. 470;
Birds KW., 1874, 540.
On several occasions, and at widely-distant localities, we met with a small Rail of a black color, whicli must have been this species, unless it should prove to be one at present undescribed. It was first seen on the 5th of September, 1868, in Ruby Valley. We happened to be riding horseback through a wet meadow, when the bird sprang up before us, but suddenly dropped into the grass at the edge of a dense willow thicket. We dismounted and attempted to flush it, but without success, for it had evi- dently escaped into the densest portion of the thicket where it could not be found. This bird appeared to be of about the size of Porzana Carolina^ though it may have been smaller, and was of a uniform blackish color, with white along the hinder edge of the wing, showing conspicuously as it flew. The same species was again met with in Parley's Park, in June, July, and August, where several were killed, but all lost in the tall grass and sedges among which they fell. We are well aware that the above description does not correspond with Porzana jamaicensis, but it could have been no other species at present known.
Gallinula galeata
American Oallinule.
Crex galeatay LicfiTENSTEiN, Verz. Doubl., 1823, 80, Ko. 820.
Gallinula galeata^ Bonap., Am. Orn., IV, 1832, 128.— Cassin, in Baird's Birds N. Am., 1858, 752.-~BAmD, Oat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, ISTo. 560.— CouES, Key, 1872, 275; Check List, 1873, No. 472; Birds N.W., 1874, 540.
The ^* Red-billed Mud-hen" was a very abundant species in the tuk
614 ORNITHOLOGY.
sloughs near Sacramento, where it was found in company with the Coot, or ** White-billed Mud-hen" (Ftdica americana). It was not seen in the Inte- rior, where the latter bird was extremely numerous.
List of specimens.
40, 9 a^.; Sacramento, California, June 13, 1807. 13— 21— 6|— -SJ— IJ— lyU— IJ — 2| — IJ. Bill and frontal plate, bright veinous-scarlet ; tip of bill, abruptly, yel- lowish-green ; iris^ hrown; tarsal scutellsD, bright yellowish-green, scutellsB of the toes, deeper green ; knees, and joints of toes, fine ashy-blue; upper half of tibia, all round, bright scarlet.
Ftjlica AMEBICAI^A.
America n Coot.
{Si' -yeh-eh of the Shoshones.)
FuUca americana, Gmelin, Syst. Nat., I, 1788, 704. — Cassin, in Baird's Birds K Am., 1858, 751.— Baikd, Oat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 559.— Coues, Key, 1872, 275; Check List, 1873, No. 474; Birds N.W., 1874, 541.— Henshaw, 1875, 469.
The Coot, or ^'White-billed Mud-hen," as it is sometimes called, was extremely numerous in all extensive marshes, both in the Sacramento Valley and eastward of the Sierra Nevada. In the latter region it was resident, though most abundant in summer.
List of specimens,
841, ¥ ad.; Oamp 19, Eiiby Valley, Nevada, July 16, 1868* 163—265— (I)— 6. Bill, opaque milk-white (purest basally), with a very faint lilaceous glow in the middle portion, assuii^ing terminally a pale bluish -cast; spot at base of frontal iilate, and near tip of each mandible, dark hepatic-sepia, each spot bordered anteriorly with dragon's- blood-red; iris, carmine ji prevailing hue of tibia, tarsi, and toes, delicate pale ashy- blue, but this overlaid on tarsi (all round) and on upper surface of toes (except on joints) with bright yellowish-green ; claws, black.
^ To posterior end of frontal plate.
faloinellus guarauna^f. thalassinus. 615
Family TANTALIDJE— Ibises. Falcinellus guaeauna.
Bronzed Ibis.
Scolopax guarauna, Linn., Syst. Nat., I, 1766, 242.
Ibis guarauna, Ridgway, Am. Nat, Feb., 1874, 110, 111.— CouES, Check List, App., No. 445 bis.— Henshaw, 1875, 463.
'*J&^> ordii, BoNAP.^'— Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 685 (excl. syn.); Oat. N. Am. B., 1859^ No. 500.
IbisfaUineUus var. ordii (part), CouES, Key, 1872, 263 ; Check List, 1873, No. 445.
The Bronzed Ibis was an abundant bird at Franklin Lake, in August and September, but being without a boat we were unable to obtain speci- mens ; a few were also seen at the Great Salt Lake in May and June. Like the following species, from which it may possibly not be distinct, it is known to the inhabitants of the country as the ^^ Black Curlew," or ^' Black Snipe."
Falcinellus thalassinus.
Orcen Ibi^.
'^IMs guarauna^ Linn." — Baird, Birds N. Am., ed. 1860, pi. lxxxvii; Cat. N. Am.
Birds, 1859, No. 500a. Ibis thalassinusy BroawAY, Am. Nat., Feb., 1874, 110, 111. — CouES, Check List,
1873, App., No. 445, ter.— Hensuaw, 1875, 464.
This bird, known locally as the ** Black Curlew," or ** Black Snipe," was first observed in September, at the Humboldt Marshes, where it was one of the most abundant of the water-birds, since it sometimes occurred in flocks composed of hundreds of individuals. They were generally seen about the margin of the pools, standing in a single line along the edge of the water. At Oreana, about forty miles farther up the river, they were almost constantly seen passing back and forth over our camp by the river, the flocks usually formed with a widely-extended front, but oftener arranged in a V-shaped form. They flew quite low, rarely higher than fifty yards, and quite swiftly ; and at this distance appeared of a uniform black color, and much like Numenius longirostris in size and form, whence their common name. Only once was a flock seen to alight at this locality,
616 ORNITHOLOGY.
and from this we obtained the three specimens enumerated below, kiUing them all at a single shot. We approached them under cover of the willows along the river, and found them busily engaged in feeding among the aquatic plants in a slough entirely hemmed in by a dense growth of wil- lows, each individual uttering a hoarse, but low, croaking note, as it waded about. It is still an unsettled question whether this bird is not merely the first plumage of the /. guarauna ; but there are important considerations, geographical and otherwise, which induce us to consider it a distinct species until future developments prove the contrary
List of specimens.
159, <? ad.; Humboldt River, Nevada (Gamp 17), September 3, 1867. 2^^—385— 11 — S^ — 5^—4 — 4— 2J. Bill, pale greenish horu-blue, becoruiDg blackish terminally and basally; iris, hazel; tarsi and toes, deep black.
160, 9 ad.; same locality and date. 21-^7— lOI—S^V—Ve—^Tff—^f—lTl- S^""*^ remarks.
161, 9 jui\; saii^e locality and date. 19|— 344— 10— 7J— 4— 2J— 3J— 1^. Same remarks.
Family ARDEIDiE— Heeons. Ardea heeodias.
Great Blue Heron.
Ardea ^^orfw,LiNN., Syst. Nat., I, 1766, 237.— Baibd, Birds K Am., 1858, 667; Oat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 4S7.-^Ooues, Key, 1872, 267 ; Check List, 1873, No. 449; Birds N.W., 1874, 617.— Henshaw, 1875, 464.
The Great Blue Heron was abundant about all bodies of water afford- ing it a plentiful supply of food. It was particularly numerous at Pyra- mid Lake, where it built upon the rocky islands. One colony had their nests on the large grease-wood bushes on the southern portion of the main island, each nest being placed directly on top of the bush, at a height of about five or six feet from the ground. These nests were very bulky, being several feet in diameter and of proportionate depth, but they were elab- orately made ; each contained from three to four young, about half-fledged, but very active and saucy, who, when disturbed, opened wide their bills and made spiteful thrusts, at the same time uttering an admonishing hiss. On the Pyramid were several other nests, placed among the naked rocks at varying heights from the water.
HERODIAS EGRRTTA-BUTORIDES VIRESOENS. 617
List of specimens,
763, eggs (4) ; Pyramid Lake, Nevada, May 23, 1868. Nest on the " PyraDiid,'' among the rocks, about 150 feet above the surface of the lake.
Heeodias egrbtta.
Great l¥hite Heron.
Ardea egretta^ Gmelin, Syst Nat., I, 1788, 629.— CouES, Key, 1872, 267 ; Check
List, 1873, No. 452; Birds N.W., 1874, 519. Rerodias egretta, Gray, Genera of Birds, III, 1849,--.— Baird, Birds N. Am.,
1858, 666 ; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 486.— Henshaw, 1875, 465. Herodim egretta var. californica^ Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 667 ; Cat. N. Am.
Birds, 1859, No. 486a.
This handsome Heron we sav^ at Sacramento in June, and along the lower Truckee in May, a single individual only having been observed at each place.
BUTOEIDES VIRESOENS. Orcen Heron.
Ardea virescens, Linn., Syst. Nat., 1, 1766, 238 CouES,Key, 1872, 268; Check
List, 1873, No, 457 ; Birds N. W., 1874, 522. Butorides virescens, Bonap., Conspectus Avium, II, 1855, 128.— Baird, Birds N.
Am., 1858, 676; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 493.— Henshaw, 1875, 465.
This common bird was observed only in the vicinity of Sacramento, w^here it was abundant, as it usually is in all parts of its range. It appeared to be entirely wanting in the Great Basin — at least we could never find it, even in localities where other species of the family were found in the usual numbers.^
List of specimens,
14, 9 ad.; Sacramento, California, June 10, 1867. Shallow pond along edge of oak-grove. 18^ — 27J — 7| — 6^ — 2^^ — 2 — 3 — 1. Bill, deep black, pale greenish-yellow along gonys; naked loral and orbital space, greenish-yellow; iris, gamboge-yellow; tarsi and toes, dull olivaceous-yellow, olive- greenish on scutellsB.
58, S ad.; Sacramento, June 19, 1867. Willows along slough near river. 18J _27i— 8— 6|— 2J— 15— 3— IJ. Same remarks.
^A parallel case is apparently afforded in Gallinula gdkata^ which we found abundant at Qacramento, in company with Fulica americana^ but which we did not detect in the Interior, where the latter was everywhere exceedingly numerous, in suita- ble localities.
618 OBNITHOLOGY.
Aedbtta EXILIS-
l^east BItteru.
Ardea exilis^ Gmelin, Syst. Nat., I, 1788, G45.
Ardetta exiUs, Gray, Genera of Birds, III, 1849, — .— Baird, Birds N. Am., 1868,
673 ; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 491.— OouES, Key, 1872, 270; Check List,
1873, No. 4C1 ; Birds N. W., 1874, 528.
One individual of this diminutive Heron was seen in May, among the willows along the lower Truckee, the one in question being startled by the approach of our boat.
Nyctiaedea geisea.
Nii^ht Heron.
fi. nmvia, Ardm nc^ia^ Bodbaert, Planch. Enl. Tabl., 1784, pi. 939. Nyciiardea nwvia. Gray, Genera of Birds, III, 1849, 558. Nyctiardea grisea var. nwvia^ Allen, Bull. Mus. Corap. ZooL, III, 1872, 182.—
CouES, Key, 1872, 269 ; Check List, 1873, No. 458 j Birds N.W., 1874, 523.—
Henshaw, 1875, 466. Ardea gardeni, Gmelin, Syst. Nat., I, 1788, 645. Nyciiardea gardenia Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 678; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No.
495.
This Heron was common both in the vicinity of Sacramento and in
the wooded river- valleys of the Interior. Near our camp at the former
place was a small pond, where, just at dusk, one of these birds alighted
regularly to feed.
BOTAUEUS MINOE.
Amcrlean Bittern*
{Loo'-kem-o of the Washoes ; Tah' -bah-ho-ne-haW -hah of the Paiutes.)
Ardea stellaris var. /5. minor ^ Gmblin, Syst. Nat., I, 1788, 635. Ardea minor, Wilson, Am. Orn., VIII, 1814, 35, pi. 65, flg. 3. Bofaurus minor ^ BoiE, IqIs, 1826, 979.— CouES, Key, 1872, 269 5 Check List, 1873,
No. 460 5 Birds N.W., 1874, 523.— Henshaw, 1875, 466. Ardea lentiginosa^ Mont ague, Orn. Diet., SuppL, 1813, — . Botanrus lentiginosus, Stephens, Shaw's Gen. ZooL, XI, 1819, 596.— Baibd, Birds
N. Am., 1858, 674 ; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 492.
The common Bittern was constantly found in all marshy situations in the Interior, where it appeared to be resident all the year.
CYGNUS BUCCINATOR!— ANSEB ALBATUS. 619
List of specimens.
288, S ad.; Camp 2C, Truckee Meadows, Nevada, November 18, 1867. Wet meadow. 28— 43§— 12|— 9|— 3J^aj— 4J— IJ. Upper half of upper maudible, brown- ish olivaceous- black, growing more brownish basally, this color continuing in a broad stripe over the lore to the eye ; sharply-defined stripe of pure lemon-yellow above this, on upper edge of bare loral space, and involving upper eyelid; stripe of same on lower edge of bare loral space, along angle of mouth, and continuing in a well-defined stripe along the commissure, terminally blending into the brownish of the mandible. Lower mandible, pale lemon-yellow, deepest basally; stripe of dusky brownish along upper posterior portion. Iris, clear light sulphur-yellow next the pupil, shading exteriorly into orange-brownish, this encircled narrowly with black. Tarsi and toes, bright yel- lowish-green. Claws, pale brown, dusky toward point.
350, 9 ad,; salt marshes, shore of Pyramid Lake, near mouth of Truckee, Decem- ber 11, 1867. 244— 37— 11— 8i— 2|— 3J— 3J— 1 J. Same remarks.
Family ANATID J]— Swans, Geese, and Ducks/ Oygnus buocinatorJ
Trumpeter Swan.
Cygnm buccinatory Richardson, Fauna Bor. Am., II, 1831, 464. — Baiud, Birds N. Am., 1858, 758; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 662.— OouES, Key, 1872, 281; Check List, 1873, No. 476 ; Birds N.W., 1874, 544.
In December, 1867, Swans were exceedingly numerous in the vicinity of Pyramid Lake, but as no specimens were obtained, we do not know certainly whether they were the Trumpeter or Whistler (C. americanus). Their note was almost exactly like that of the Sand-hill Crane {Orm cana- densis),
Ansee albatus.
Lesser Snow-Goose.
Anser albatus, Cassin, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., 1856, 41.— Baird, Birds N. Am.,
1858, 925,* Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 563a. Anser hyperboreus var. albatus j Coijes, Key, 1872, 282 5 Check List, 1873, No. 480a. Anser hyperboreus, b. albatus, Coues, Birds N.W,, 1874, 549. Anser hyperboreus, Henshaw, 1875, 470 (?).
This Goose, almost universally known as* the ^^ White Brant," was an abundant winter visitant to the lakes of the Great Basin.
^ Our notes ou inalny of the Auatidse are necessarily very brief, from the fact that they are more difficult to observe than most other birds, except at certain times, when the habits of all the species appear much the same. Many of them are also migratory, and thus were seen only for a brief season. We must therefore pass by certain species without further remarks than to note the season when observed, or a few similar facts.
620 OENITHOLOGT.
List of specimens.
255 Juv.; Humboldt Marsbes (Camp 22), October 31, 1867. Bill, blackish dusky, greenish-slate on upper basal portion ; iris, brown ; tarsi and toes, greenish slate.
388, ^ ad.; eastern shore of Pyramid Lake, December 28, 1867. 28— (?)— 17J— 13|— 2^^— 2|^(?)— (?). Weight, 5 pounds. Bill, dull light salmon-purple, becoming whitish terminally; deepest salmon-color on the culmen, and most purplish basally; commissure deep black, separated from the general purplish hue by a backward con tinuation of the white of the nail; eyelids, fleshcolor ; iris, vandyke-brown ; tarsi and toes, deep salmon-purple ; claws, black.
Branta canadensis.
Canada Goose.
Anas canadensis, Linn., Syst. Nat., I, 1766, 198.
Bernicla canadensis, BoiE, Isis, 1826, 921.— Baird, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 567.
Bernicla {Letwohlepharon) canadensis, Baibb, Birds N. Am., 1858, 764.
Branta canadensis, Bannister, Proc. Ac. Nat. Sci., Phila., 1870, 131.— Cottes,
Key, 1872, 283, fig. 185a5 tlbeck List, 1873, No. 485; Birds N.W., 1874, 554.—
Hbnshaw, 1875, 471.
This species was the only one of the genus found breeding in the Great Basin, where it remained throughout the year about all the larger lakes. Several goslings were caught in May, at Pyramid Lake, and their parents likewise secured ; the latter were unable to fly, having molted their quill-feathers, but it required strong rowing far out into the lake to got within gunshot of them, for they were fast swimmers, and took to the open water when pursued. This species was also breeding at Great Salt Lake.
List of specimens.
1222, egg] Carriugton Island, Great Salt Lake, June 17, 1860. Collected by Mr. R. N. Davis.
Branta hutchinsi.
Hutchins^s Ooose.
Anser hutchinsii, Swains. & Kioh., Fauna Bor.Am., II, 1831, 470. Bernicla hutchinsii, Woodhouse, Sitgreave's Exped., 1823, 102.— -Baird, Cat, N. Ain. Birds, 1859, No. 569.
Bernicla (Leucoblepharon) hutchinsii, Baied, Birds N. Am., 1858, pp. XLix, 766. Branta hutchinsii, Bannister, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., 1870, 131. Branta canadensis var. hutchinsii, CouES, Key, 1872, 284 ; Check List, 1873, No. 485b. Branta canadensis, c hutchinsii, OouBS, Birds N.W., 1874, 554.
This miniature of the Canada Goose was an abundant winter visitant in western Nevada, but it was not seen anywhere in summer, when all liad gone northward to breed.
BRANTA KIGRICANS— ANAS BOSGHAS, 621
List of specimens,
257, <? ad^ Truckee Meadows (Gamp 2G), Nevada, November 5, 1807. 34J— GU- IS— 13| — 1}| — 2| — G — 3^. Bill, deep black 5 iria, vaiidyke-browu 5 tarsi and toes, dull brownish slaty-black.
258, ^ ad.; Gamp 26, November G, 1867. 304—01^—18— 14— 13—2^6— 2^. Same remarks.
Branta nigricans.
Black Bi*ant.
Anser nigricans, Lawrence, Ann. Lye. Nat. Hist. N. Y., IV, 184G, 171, pi. — . Bernicla nigricans, Gassin, Illust. Birds Gal., Tex., &c^, 1853, 53, pi. 10. — Baird,
Birds N. Am., 1858, 767 ; Gat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 571. Branta nigricans, Bannister, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., 1870, 131.
Branta hernicla var. nigricans, GouES, Key, 1872, 284, fig. 184b.— Henshaw, 1875, 472.
Branta hernicla, b. nigricans, Goues, Birds N.W., 1874, 557.
The Black Brant was a rare winter visitant to Pj^ramid Lake, where we noticed it in December, 1867, but did not obtain specimens.
Anas boschas
jflallard.
{Te'-lehh of the Washoes.)
Anas boschas, Linn., Syst. Nat., I, 1766, 205.— Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 774; Gat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 576.- Goues, Key, 1872, 285 ; Gheck List, 1873, No. 488 ; Birds N. W., 1874, 559.— Henshaw, 1875, 472.
The '* Green-head" is one of the most abundant ducks of the Interior; it is hkewise a resident, though most numerous in summer. In July, this species, witli several others, particularly the Cinnamon Teal {Querquedula cyanoptera) and Gadwall, were found in great abundance at the Glendale Meadows, where they were breeding ; at that time they were molting, and having lost their quill-feathers, many were ran down and killed with sticks; thirteen, including the several species, being thus obtained in a single fore- noon.
List of specimens,
119, 9 ad,; Big Bend of the Truckee (Gamp 12), August 4, 1867. 214—23^94 — 7| — 2 — 1^^ — (?) — (?). Bill, dark greenish, becoming olivaceous-yellow along the commissure; iris, brown; tarsi and toes, fine orange-chrome.
1161, eggs (8); south shore of Great Salt Lake, June 11, 1869. Nest in the grass, about a rod from the shore.
622 0BNITH0L06Y.
Ohaulelasmus streperus,
Oadwall.
Anas strepera^ Linn., Syst. Nat., I, 176G, 200.
Ohaulelasmus streperus, Geay, 1838.— Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 782 ; Cat. N.
Am. Birds, 1859, No. 584.— COUES, Key, 1872, 28G; Check List, J873, No.
491; Birds N.W., 1874, 563.— Henshaw, 1875, 474.
During the breeding-season this was by far the most abundant of the Ducks in the Lower Truckee Valley, where in May it outnumbered all other species together. The specimens killed were in fine condition and of excellent flavor, aflfording a delicious addition to our larder.
TAst of specimens,
770, egg» (9); Triickee Reservation, near Pyramid Lake, May 29, 18G8. Nest of down, placed ou top of a dilapidated qest of a Magpie, in a willow tree^ about 8 feet from the ground.
MaREOA AMERICANA. Buld-pate.
Anas americana^ Gmeltn, Syst. Nat., I, 1788, 520.
Mareea americanay Stephens, Shaw's Geu. Zool., XII, 1824, 135.— Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 783 5 Cat. N.Am. Birds, 1859, No. 585.— CoUES, Key, 1872, 280; Check List, 1873, No. 493; Birds N.W., 1874, 504.— Henshaw, 1875, 475.
A rather common summer resident.
List of specimens.
1162, eggs (10)5 Babbit Island, Great Salt Lake, June 11, 1869. Nest of down, under a grease- wood bush, near the shore.
Dafila acuta.
Pill-tall.
Anas acuta, Linn., Syst. Nat., 1, 1766, 202.
Dafila acuta^ Bonap., Corap. & Geog. List, 1838, 56.— Baibd, Birds N. Am., 1858,
776; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 578.— CoUES, Key, 1872, 286, fig. 186;
Check List, 1873, No. 490; Birds N.W., 1874, 561.— Henshaw, 1875, 473.
Not abundant, but observed in November at the Truckee Meadows, and in December near Pyramid Lake. Not seen during the breeding- season.
nettion carolmen8i8---querquedula oyanoptera. 623 Nettion garolestensis
Oreen- winged Teal.
Anas carolinensis, Gmblin, Syst. Nat., I, 1788, 533.
Querquedula carolinemiSf Stephens, Shaw's Gen. Zool., XII, 1824, 128. — OouES,
Key, 1872, 287; Check List, 1873, I^o. 495; Birds N.W., 1874, 565.— Hen-
SHAW, 1875, 475. Nettion caroUnensiSj Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 777 ; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859,
No. 579,
Not common, but shot in June on Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake.
Querquedula discors.
Blue-i¥ing:ed Teal.
Anas discors, LiNN., Syst. Nat., I, I7G6, 205.
Querquedula discors, Stephens, Shaw's Gen. ZooL, XII, 1824, 149. — Baird, Birds
N. Am., 1858, 779 ; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 581.— CouES, Key, 1872, 287 ;
Check List, 1873, No. 496 ; Birds N. W., 1874, 566.— Henshaw, 1875, 476.
Rather common in May at Pyramid Lake, where breeding in the meadows.
Querquedula cyanoptera.
Cliiiiamoii Teal*
Anas cyanoptera, Vieillot, Nouv. Diet. d'Hist Nat., V, 1816, 104.
Querquedula cyanoptera, Cassin, U. S. N. (Gilliss') Astron. Exp., II, 1855, 202. — Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 780; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 582.— Coues, Key, 1872, 288; Check List, 1873, No. 497; Birds N.W.^ 1874, 567.— Hen- shaw, 1875, 477.
This handsome species was common, though not abundant, throughout the West, both in the Sacramento Valley and in the Interior.
List of specimens,
100, nest and eggs (8); Trackee Meadows, Nevada, July 16, 1867. Nest in tuft of grass in meadow, about two rods from the river.
775, eggs (9) ; Truckee Reservation, June 1, 1868. Nest in a grease-wood bush, near tbe water.
1086, c? ad.; mouth of Jordan River, Utah, June 3, 1869. 16^24 J, Bill, black ; iris, orange / tarsi and toes, orange, joints and webs blackish.
1087, 9 ad,; same locality and date. 15J — 24. Bill, dusky, paler along edge and beneath ; iris, brown ; tarsi and toes, ochraceous-drab.
624 ornithology.
Spatula clype ata.
Stiov4!llei%
Anas clypeataj Linn., S.vst. Nat., I, 176G, 200.
Spatula clppeataj BoiE, Isis, J 822, 504.— Baiud, Birds N. Am., 1858, 781; Cat. N.
Am. Birds, 1859, No. 583.— OoUES, K«y. 1872, 288 j Check List, 1873, No. 498;
Birds N.W., 1874, 570.— Henshaw, 1875, 478.
Common at Pyramid Lake in May
AlX SPONSA. Wood Duck.
Anm sponsaj Linn., Syst. Nat., I, 1760, 207.
Aix spomaj BoiE, Isis, 1826, 329.— Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 785; Cat. N. Am.
Birds, 1859, No. 587.— CouES, Key, 1872, 288; Check List, 1873, No. 499^
Birds N. W., 1874, 571.
One pair of this superb Duck was seen in July, among the cotton- woods of the Truckee.
Aythya ameeicana.
Bed-head.
Fuligula americanaj Eyton, Monograph Anatida?, 1838, 155.
Aythya americana^ Bonap., Comp. Rend., 1856, — .— Baied, Birds N. Am., 1858,
793; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 591. Aythya ferina var. americana^ Allen, Bull. Mus. Comp. Zool., Ill, 1872, 183. Fuligula ferina var. americana, CoUBS, Key, 1872, 289; Check List, 1873, No.
503 ; Birds N. W., 1874, 575.— Henshaw, 1875, 480.
In winter this is an abundant species on the lakes of the Great Basin. It and the succeeding species are frequently used by the Paiute Indians in making very artistic and elaborate decoys, which have a body of bent and twisted dry tules (Scirpus), with the skin stretched over it, the head prepared and poised in a style equal to that of the most accomplished taxidermist. The floaiing decoy is anchored by a stone tied to a string, the other end of which is fastened to the bill.
AYTHYA VALLISNERIA— FULIX COLLABIS. 625
Atthya VALLISNERIA.
€anvas-l»ack«
Anas valUsneriaj Wilson, Am. Orn., VIII, 1814, 103, pi. 7, fig. 3.
Fuligula vallisneria, (Stephens, Sbaw's Gen. ZooL, XII, pt. ii, 1824, 196.— CouES,
Key, 1872, 290; Check List, 1873, Ko. 504; Birds KW., 1874, 575. Aythya vallisneria^ BoiE, Isis, 1826, 980.— Baird, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 592.
The Canvas-back was abundant in winter at the lakes and marshes of the Great Basin, and it was also shot in May at Pyramid Lake, when other species were breeding. In June, either this species or the Red-head was very abundant in the tule-sloughs in the vicinity of Sacramento, where they were undoubtedly breeding. We could obtain no specimens, however, although numbers were seen, and are consequently doubtful as to the species.
FULTX MARILA. Big Black-head.
Anas marila^ Linn., Syst. Nat., 1, 1766, 196.
Fuligula marilay Stephens, Shaw's Gen. ZooL, XII, pt. ii, 1824, 198.— CouES,
Key, 1872,289; Check List, 1873,' No. 500; Birds N.W., 1874, 573.— Hen-
SHAW, 1875, 479. Fulix marila, Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 791 ; Oat. N, Am. Birds, 1859, No. 588.
Winter visitant to Pyramid Lake.
FULIX AFPINIS.
Liittle Black-head.
Fuligula ajfinis, Eyton, Monograph Anatidaa, 1838, 157.— CoiTES, Key, 1872, 289;
Check List, 1873, No. 501 ; Birds N. W., 1874, 573. Fulix affinis, Baied, Birds N. Am., 1858, 791; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 589.
Winter visitant to Pyramid Lake.
FULIX COLLABIS.
BiniT-bill*
Anas collariSj Donovan, British Birds, VI, 1809, pi. 147.
Fuligula collariSj Bonap., List Birds Eur., 1842, — .—OouES, Key, 1872, 289 ;
Check List, 1873, No. 502; Birds N.W., 1874, 574.— Henshaw, 1875, 479. FuU(^ coUariSj Baibd, Birds N. Am., 1868, 792 ; Oat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 590.
Pyramid Lake, in December. 40 p R
626 ORNITHOLOGY.
BUOEPHALA CLANGULA. Golden-eye.
p. amerkana.
Clangula amerioana^ Bonap., Comp. & Geog. List, 1838, 53.
Buceplmla amerieana, Baibd, Birds K. Am., 1858, 796 j Cat. K Am. Birds, 1859,
No. 593. Bucephala clangula^ CouES, Key, 1872, 290 (not -Anas clangtila^ LiNN.,=J5tec^A-
ala)i Check List, 1873, No. 505; Birds N.W., 1874, 576.— Hbnshaw, 1875,
480.
Pyramid Lake, in December.
Bucephala albeola.
Batter-ball.
Anas albeolaj Linn., Syst. Nat., 1, 1766, 199.
Bucephala albeola, Bated, Birds N. Am., 1858, 797 ; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No.
695.-.OOUES, Key, 1872, 290; Check List, 1873, No. 507 ; Birds N.W., 1874,
577.— Henshaw, 1876, 482.
Winter resident on the lakes and larger rivers of the Interior.
List of specimem.
387, i ad,} Pyramid Lake, December 27, 1867, 14i-.24J— 7^— 5yV- li^— IJ— 3 — IJ. Bill, deep leaden-blae, dusky on the nail, on the basal portion of the culmen, and behind the nostril; iris^ dark vandyhe-brown ; tarsi and feet, clear pinkish- white, with a slight lilac tinge. *
• #
EeISMATURA EUBIDA. Ruddy Buck.
Anas ruUday Wilson, Am. Orn., YIII, 1814, 128, 130, pi. 71, flgs. 5, 6.
EHsmatura rubida, Bonap., Comp. & Geog. List, 1838, 59.— Baibd, Birds N. Am., 1858, 811; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No, 609.— CoUBS, Key, 1872, 295; Check List, 1873, No. 519; Birds N.W., 1874, 583,— Henshaw, 1875, 483.
This Duck, the adult male of which is very conspicuous from its peculiar markings, was abundant in the lagoons near Sacramento. In the Interior it seemed to be rare, a female killed at Pyramid Lake, in Decem- ber, being about the only one seen.
MEEGUS AMERICANUS— PELBCAlSrUS ERYTHRORHTNOHUS. 627
MeRGUS MERGANSER. BuflT-breasted Sheldrake.
/?. americarMS.
Mergns castor var. americanus, Bonap., Comp. Rend., XLIII, 1856, — •
Mergm americanus^ Oassin, Pr. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philad., 1853, 187. — Baied, Birds
N. Am., 1858, 813; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 611. Mergm merganser^ OouES, Key, 1872, 296 ; Check List, 1873, No. 521 ; Birds N.
W., 1874, 583 (not of LiNN.).— Henshaw, 1875, 483.
Truckee and Carson Rivers, during the winter.
MeRGUS SERRATOR. Red-breasted Sheldrake.
Mergtis serrator, Linn., Syst. Nat., I, 1766, 208.— Baird, Birds N. Am., 1858, 814; Cat. N. Am, Birds, 1859, No. 612,— CouES, Key, 1872, 296; Check List, 1873, No. 522 ; Birds N.W., 1874, 584.— Henshaw, 1875, 484.
Truckee River and Pyramid Lake, in December.
liOPHODYTES CUCULLATUS.
Hooded Sheldrake.
Afergus cucullatus^ Linn., Syst. Nat., 1, 1766, 207 — CouES, Key, 1872, 296; Check List, 1873, No. 523 ; Birds N.W., 1874, 584.— HENSHAW, 1875, 484.
Lophodytes eucullatus, Reich., Syst. Av., 1852, ix. — Baibb, Birds N. Am., 1858, 816 ; Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 613.
This handsome species was occasionally met with in summer in the wooded valleys of the Truckee and Carson Rivers, but it seemed to be very rare
Family PELECANIDJ]— Pelicans Peleoanus erythrorhynghus.
American Pelican.
(Bahns or Bah!-nm of the Paiutes.)
Pelecanm erythrorhynchuSj Gmelin, Syst. Nat., 1, 1788, 571. — Baibd, Birds N. Am.,
1858, 868; Oat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 615. Pelecanm irachyrhynchm^ Latham, Index Orn., II, 1790, 884. — Ooues, Key. 1872,
300 ; Check List, 1873, No. 526; Birds N.W., 1874, 586— HENSHAW, 1875, 484.
{)28 ^ ORNITHOLOGY.
Pehcanus occipitalis^ BiDawAY, American SportsmaD, Vol. IV/No. 19, Aug. 8, 1874, p. 297. [Name proposed in case the western birds prove distinct from the eastern.^]
In July, 1867, when encaraped at the Big Bend of the Truckee River, about fifteen miles from Pyramid Lake, our first opportunity was afforded to observe the habits of the White Pelican. At that time few
' In the author's paper, above cited [^'Breeding-ground of White Pelicans at Pyr- amid Lake, Nevada^], certain discrepancies between the descriptions given by various authors, of the breeding plumage, and form of the mandibular crest, of the White Pelicans of the northern and eastern portions of the continent, and the characters of those observed at Pyramid Lake, are noted ; these consisting, in brief, of the pos- session by the latter of a conspicuous patch of dusky-grayish on the occiput, which is wanting in the fornier, the absence of a yellowish occipital crest and a rosy tint to the plumage, which is mentioned in nearly all descriptions, the smaller general size, and other minor points of diflference. Captain Bendire, however, who found these birds breeding at Lake Milheur, southeastern Oregon (see Rod and Gun^ June 19, 1875, p. 194), says that those observed by him had a white occipital crest, while he does not mention any dusky occipital spot. This apparent difference between the birds of two quite adjacent localities is explained, however, by Mr. C. J. Maynard, who from observations on a specimen kept in confinement, ascertained that this dusky spot appears only after the occipital crest is dropped; and that this takes place just at the close of the breeding-season is proven by the fact that our visit to Pyramid Lake was in the latter part of May, when these birds had just made their second attempt to raise a brood of young, the fimt effort having been foiled by the gulls, who had broken and eaten the eggs. It is a notable fact, in this connection, that our birds possessing the dusky occipital spot had dropped the mandibular excrescence. Mr. Maynard's bird was obtained in Florida (the date of capture is not mentioned), and had then the mandib- ular excrescence and an occipital crest; these were both thrown off early in May, when the dusky spot on the occiput made its appearance, the general plumage and the colors of the soft parts at the same time undergoing certain changes — the brilliant orange of the gular sac and orbital region fading to yellow. At the same time, however, Mr. May- naid's specimen differed in certain respects from all western examples which we have seen, which still renders it likely that, as we suggested, the eastern and western birds of this species may prove to be different races. As to this, Mr. Maynard, in the article cited above, says : " When captured be [the Florida specimen] had a fine occip- ital crest three or four inches in length, of a pale straw-color [italics our own]. * ♦ The feathers of the back, usually the tertiaries, had an elongated central spot of pale roseate. The center of the tail-feathers were also of a beautiful roseate tinge. Others shot at the same tiine agreed with the description given above.^ Mr. Maynard also states that his bird had hazel eyes instead of white, and that the eyelids were yellow instead of red; and that ^* although Audubon and Mr. Kidgway state that Pelicans have white eyes, all that I have examined have hazel.^ It may yet be ascertained, however, that at the proper season (the height of the pairing-season) the western White Pelicans may also possess the rosy tinge to the plumage, the yellow crept, etc., and that the color of the iris may be to a certain extent dependent on age.
PELEOANUS EBYTHROEHYNCHUS. 629
of these birds were seen, only a solitary individual being now and then startled from a bed of driftwood in the river or noticed flying overhead. In August, a portion of the party, accompanied by Mr. H. G. Parker, United States Superintendent of Indian Affairs for Nevada, started on an excursion to explore the lake and visit the abode of the Pelicans on the island therein. As we descended the river the number of Pelicans seen increased hourly, and when we reached the large open sheets of water protected from the gales and swells of the lake by the intervening areas of rushes and reeds (tules), bodies of hundreds of these melancholy-looking birds were seen floating quietly upon the surface. Tliey were exceedingly unsuspicious, and so unmindful of our approach that when we stopped our boat one old fellow swam slowly toward it until his curiosity brought him within gunshot and to his death. Upon reaching the lake we encamped on the sandy -shore about three quarters of a mile from the mouth of the river. There we could see during the day thousands of Pelicans, as they dotted the bosom of the lake, and in the morning, about sunrise, "strings'' of several hundreds were observed flying from the island, about tw&lve miles distant, where they had passed the night, to their feeding-grounds at the mouth of the river. At such times they flew single-file, their manner of flight being a succession of slow regular flaps of the wings, which at inter- vals were extended to their full length, the birds sailing thus for a few rods, when the flapping was resumed. In* their flight, the line preserved the utmost order and method ; the leader being invariably the first to beat or extend his wings^ each one of the line following in succession. Occasionally an individual would break the rank and alight upon the water, often remain- ing in one spot for hours, and appearing in the distance like a white boat at anchor. We remained here at our shore-camp about three days, when, two more of the party joining us, we started about ten o'clock one moon- light night for the island, which we reached after a hard row of about three hours. Our arrival at the island startled the thousands of Pelicans which • were slumbering on the beach, and as they rose into the air the noise caused by their confusion was so great that we could scarcely hear one another's voices. When we landed they had all flown save a few sick or old birds, that swam silently away from the shore; they could bo plainly seen, how-
Qm PENITHOLOGY.
ever, in the bright moonlight, floating as a mass some distance out upon the water; and no sooner had we left the boat than they turned and swam slowly back again. Our blankets were spread upon the higher ground, some dis- tance from the boat, in order to avoid the offensive smell of the roosting- ground. No sooner had we retired than the Pelicans all returned, and in the morning, when we awoke, the whole beach about fifty yards distant was covered with a dense crowd of these gigantic snow-white creatures, who scarcely heeded us as we arose from our blankets; as we approached them, however, they pushed one another awkwardly into the water, or rose heavily and confusedly from the ground, and flying some distance out upon the lake, alighted on the water. Now and then, one swimming from the shore would turn its head and gaze upon us with a melancholy look ; but the majority of the flock remained upon the water only a short time, when they arose and flew over us, divided into battalions, each turning its head and looking down upon us as it went by.
In this connection, it may perhaps be well to remark that of the many individuals killed, including old and young of both sexes, and of the thous- ands seen, not one possessed at this time the horny appendage to the culmen of the upper mandible, so characteristic of the species during the breeding- reason. Three specimens, an adult male and female and a full-grown young bird of the year, were prepared; but our return to camp being attended by many difiiculties, they were lost.
The next visit to the lake was made in December, following, when Mr. Parker extended us an invitation to accompany him to the agency of the reservation; but during our stay of about a month we did not see a single Pelican, all having retired to the southward. Their return was first observed about the twentieth of the following March, when we noticed, at Carson City, immense flocks of them passing northward, in the direction of the lake. They flew at a gi^eat height, and at times appeared bewildered, moving in circles and deviating from the course they had pursued, as if uncertain of their way.
In May, 1868, the lake was again repaired to, and at this time we found the Pelicans in as great abundance as during our visit the summer previous; they appeared to be much more active, however, pairs, small
PBLEOANUS EEYTHROEHYl^CHUS. 631
companies, or single birds flying up arid down the river, quite near the ground; and it was noticed that only a portion of them possessed the " center-board,^' although all exhibited the high-colors of the feet and pouch found only in the fully adult birds in the breeding-season.
A few days after our arrival, we visited the island before mentioned. This island is situated about twelve miles from the mouth of the river, on the southeastern shore, and about three miles from the nearest point on the eastern side, just off which is the remarkable ^^ Pyramid," from which the lake receives its name — a wonderfully regular pyramidal rock about three hundred feet high, with a triangular base. The island itself is about three miles in circuit; its central portion culminates in two peaks having a height of about five hundred feet above the surface of the lake, while the northern and southern extremities run out in long, pointed beaches, the intervening eastern shore being a sloping plateau, with a water-front of perpendicular though broken rocks. In a cave on this rocky shore was the eyrie of a Bald Eagle, which was inaccessible from any point, although it could be plainly seen from above through a crevice in the rocks. The southern point of the island was overgrown by grease-wood bushes of an unusually large size, and on the top of each of these was the nest of a pair of Grreat Blue Herons [Ardea herodias); the more elevated and rocky northern shore was covered by the nests of an immense colony of GruUs (Larus californicus)^ while the northeastern point, a long strip of low gravelly beach, extending for a hundred yards or more out into the lake from the main shore, was the portion of the island which had been selected b)^ the Pelicans as their breeding-ground. This drove of Pelicans, which comprised several hun- dred pairs, had previously, during the same season, laid their eggs on the highest part of the eastern plateau, where we found the fragments of their eggs, which had been destroyed by their incessant enemies, the Gulls, strewn over an area of about two acres' extent. This old breeding-ground was discovered by us during our first exploration of the island, and it was not until a week or so later that we found the new settlement. The site of the latter was a low gravelly point extending a hundred yards or more beyond the main beach, and when first discovered was covered by a com- pact body of Pelicans, which to all appearance were merely resting, since
632 OBNITHOLOGT.
many of them were standiBg. Upon proceeding to the spot, however, it was found that the latter were male birds, standing beside their mates, who were, themselves, sitting on their eggs. At our approach all of them flew, and alighted some distance out upon the water. The ground was then found to be literally covered with their nests, which occupied nearly if not quite one-half of the surface, each nest consisting merely of a heap of gravel raked into a pile and flattened on top, and without any additional material, such as sticks and feathers, like those of the Gulls. No nest contained more than a single egg^ which is no doubt explained by the fact that they had laid once before that season. One hundred and nine, altogether, were picked up, and when blown were found to be perfectly fresh. Many nests were empty, so that it is altogether likely ^ome of the birds had not laid yet. These eggs were, with scarcely an exception, conspicuously blood-stained, caused in part by their large size, but chiefly by the roughness of their calcareous coating; the haemorrhage being in some instances so copious that half the surface was discolored.
It was during this visit to Pyramid Lake that the fact that the man- dibular excrescence characteristic of this species is deciduous was confirmed, it having been first ascertained, so far as we know, several years previous, by Mr. H. G. Parker, of Carson City, a very careful and intelligent observer, at that time United State Superintendent of Indian Affairs for Nevada, who accompanied us upon our several visits to the lake. Upon our arrival there, early in May, it was noticed that quite a number of the Pelicans did not possess this appendage, but it was supposed that these were females; and it was also observed that there was a very perceptible daily increase in the number of such individuals. When we first visited the island none of these curious appendages, appropriately styled by Mr. Parker ^^ center-boards," were noticed; but in the course of a few days they became so numerous that a bushel of them could have been picked up in a short time. Some had been recently dropped, as was readily detected from the soft texture of the surface where they had been joined to the culmen, while others were dried and warped by the sun, having been cast for some .time. Among the large number examined, we found none corresponding in shape with that figured and described by Mr. Audubon, namely, "about one inch high . ^ *
PBLE0ANU8 EEYTHROEHTNOHUS. ' 633
and about three inches in length, in some specimens as much as five inches/' and "continued forward, of less elevation, to the extent of an inch farther"^ — all being of quite regular and firm outline, the top convex or arched, the width at the base greater than that through the middle; they were also with- out anterior or posterior continuations. The usual size was about two and a half inches in vertical length, and the same in width at the base, the largest specimen found being three and a half inches high by three wide. Of two now before us, one measiu-es two and a half inches from the center of the top to the posterior lower angle, three and a quarter from the same point to the anterior lower corner, and a little more than two and a half inches along its base, its transverse thickness being three-tenths of an inch. The other measures one inch and eight-tenths in height (the fibers running per- pendicularly, instead of very obliquely backward, toward the top) by two inches and seven-tenths in width at the base. In some examples the two edges were nearly parallel, the general form being thus very nearly semi- elliptical ; but such specimens were rare, the usual form being an irregular arch.
In a former account of the habits of the White Pelican as observed at Pyramid Lake, published in the American Sportsman (Vol. IV, No. 19, pp. 289 and 297), we stated that the homy excrescence, characteristic of tliis species in the breeding-season, was peculiar to the male. We were led to make this statement by the fact that of the several specimens dissected every one possessed of this appendage proved to be a male, while nearly all those in which it was absent were females. We did not, unfortunately, take into consideration the circumstance that the breeding-season was nearly over, and that, as a consequence, a very large proportion (a consid- erable majority, in fact) of these birds had shed, or cast, this curious decid- uous growth. We are glad, however, to have our error corrected, as has been done by several observers having opportunities which were not aflforded ourselves for deciding the point, and who furnish satisfactory evidence that both sexes possess the so-called "center-board." According to Dr. T. M. Brewer {Bod and Gun, June 19, 1875, p. 194), the error of our statement was perhaps first ascertained by Captain Charles Bendire, U. S. A.,
^ Birds of America, Oct. ed., Vol. VII, p. 26, pi. 422.
634 . ORNITHOLOGY.
who found these birds breeding in immense numbers at Lake Malheur, in southeastern Oregon, on the 16th of April, 1866; but we had been previ- ously corrected by Professor F. S. Snow, in the Observer of Nature (Law- rence, Kansas), June 4, 1875, and by Mr. N. S. Goss, of Neosho Falls, Kansas, in the Bod and Oun for June 12, 1875 (page 167). That the mandibular crest of this species is really deciduous, howevei^, has been fully confirmed by recent observers ; and regarding this remarkable fact, it may be proper to state here, that it was first discovered by Mr. H. Gr. Parker, of Carson City, Nevada (in about 1865), and first published by us, through Professor BaircJ, in The Ibis (London), in 1869 (p. 350).
The length of time required for the perfect development of this ap- pendage is not known. From the articles cited above, however, we know that it is to be found from the 16th of April until June 3d, so that it may therefore fairly be presumed that its growth commences early in the spring or late in winter; and we have also positive proof that it falls off of many individuals as soon as the beginning of May, and that by the end of the latter month exceedingly few which possess it are to be found ; while it is also certain that it does not exist on any specimens during the latter part of summer, in fall, or in the early part of winter. As to the use of this append- age, no plausible theory has yet been proposed, so far as we know ; it cer- tainly is not a weapon of defense or offense, since in that case it would hardly be possessed by both sexes, while it is also well known that few birds are less combative than the Pelican.
There are many seasonal changes of plumage in this species which are, as yet, only very imperfectly understood, but which we hope soon to see made clear by the observations of those who have the opportunity to study these birds in nature during diflFerent times of the year. These problems have been fully discussed by us in the paper in the American Sportsman, alluded to above, to which the reader is referred for information on this point.
List of spedmens.
749, 9 ad.; Pyramid Lake, Kevada, May 19, 1868. 62—106—25^—19. Weight, 15 pounds. General hue of the bill, reddish salmon-color, the culraen dirty whitish, the reddish deepening on the nail and edges of the mandibles into orange-red ; lower mandible deeper reddit^h than the upper, and growing more intense, or brick-red,
GRACULUS FLOEIDANUS. 635
basally; gular. pouch, passing from nearly white anteriorly, through rich yellow and ..then orange, into intense dragon's-blood- or brick-red at the base, and with a blackish suffusion anteriorly ; loose, flabby skin of the lores and orbital region, rich orange- yellow ; eyelids, dark dragon's-blood-red ; iris, clear pearl-white 5 naked portion of the tibia, tarsi, and feet, intense orange-red, so deep as to have the appearance of having been dyed* [ Without the mandibular process,]
766, i ad'.; Pyramid Lake, May 28, 1868. 62— 101— 24 J— 18^. Weight, 17 pounds. Same remarks. [ Without the mandibular process.]
570-679, eggs 5 island in Pyramid Lake, May 16, 1868. One hundred and nine eggs, from as many nests. Nests, mere heaps of gravel, with a slight depression on top, crowded together on a narrow point of the island, only a few feet above the surface of the lake.
Family QEACULIDJl— Cormorants. Graoulus dilophus.
Double-crested Cormorant.
/?. floridanus. {Pah'tsik' 'Wy-he or Pah-tsik'-we of the Paiutes.)
Phalacrocorax floridanus, Audubon, Orn. Biog., Ill, 1835, 387; B. Am., oct. ed.,
VI, 430, pi. 417. Oraculus floridanus, Bonap., Consp. Av., II, 1855, 172.— Lawrence, in Baird's
Birds N. Am., 1858, 879.— Baibd, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 624. Graculus dilophus var. floridanus, CouES, Key, 1872, 303; Check List, 1873, No.
530a. Oraculus dilophus. b. floridanus, CouES, Birds N. W., 1874, 587.
This Cormorant was very abundant at Pyramid Lake and along the lower portion of the Truckee River, being the only species of the family occurring in that vicinity. It was found from May until August, but in December none were observed. Small congregations were frequently to be seen during the summer-time, perched upon the snags far out in the lake, the latter being nearly submerged cotton- wood trees which marked, at that time, the former course of the river when the lake occupied more restricted limits.^
^ As is the case with the Great Salt Lake, Pyramid Lake has risen many feet within the last few years, the principal encroachment being on the low land adjacent to the mouth of the Truckee River, which at the time of our last visit was thrown a mile or more back from its former location, as marked by the line of partly-submerged trees alluded to above.
636 ORNITHOLOGY.
On these tree-tops many of their nests were found, these being composed of sticks, and containing one to three eggs each.
Besides the specimen in our collection, an adult, in the nuptial plu- mage, was killed in May, but was not preserved ; in this specimen the fol- lowing differences were noted in the colors of the soft parts: Iris, brilliant green ; eyelids, and whole interior of the mouth, bright cobalt-blue ; gular sac, deep prange.
List of specimens.
127, 9 juv.; Pyramid Lake, August 13, 1867. 33J — 52^. Bill, dull brownish- yellOw, nearly black on the culmen j gular sac, dull chrome-yellow j iris, greenish- gray 5 tarsi and toes, deep black.
735, egg (1) 'y Pyramid Lake, May 17, 1868. Nest in top of cotton-wood tree, at mouth of the river.
761, egg (1) 'y Pyramid Lake, May 20, 1868. Same remarks.
Family L ARID JE — Gulls and Terns. Blasipus heermanni.
Heermann^s Oull.
Larus heermanni, Cassin, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., VI, 1852, 187.
Blasipus heermannij BoNAP., Consp. Av., II, 1856, 21L— Lawrence, in Baird's
Birds N. Am., 1858, 848.— Baird, Oat. N. Am. Birds, 1869, No. 666. Larus (Blasipus) heermanni^ ScL. & Salv., Proc. Zool. Soc. Lond., 1875, 574
(fig.).— COUES, Birds N.W., 1874, 641. Larus bekheri, SCHLEG., Mus. Pays-Bas, Lari, 9 (part). — CouES, Check List,
1873, No. 531. Larus fBlasipusJ belcfierij CoUES, Key, 1872, 314.
Found only along the Pacific coast. Represented in our collection by a specimen presented by Mr. Parker.
List of specimens.
429, « i juv.; Bay of San Francisco, Pehruary 20, 1868. I7f — 42— (!)— 10.'^ (Pre- sented by H. Q. Parker.)
LARUS CALIFORNIOUS. 637
Larus CALIFORNICUS. California Ooll.
(Que-nahk'-et or Gui-ni' -heet of the Paiutes.)
f Larm argentatoides^ BoNAP., Synop., 1828, 360.
Larus califomicus^ Lawrence, Ann. Lye. Nat. Hist. N. Y., VI, 1854, 79; in Baird's
Birds K Am., 1858, 846.— Baird, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 663 OouES,
Birds N.W., 1874, 634.
Larm delawarensis vav. cali/ornicusy Coues, Key, 1872, 313; Check List, 1873, No. 548a.
This species was the only Gull found in the Great Basin during sum- mer, but it was apparently entirely absent in winter, when its place was supplied by L, delawarensis. It was abundant both at Pyramid Lake and Great Salt Lake, on the rocky islands of which it nested in immense colonies. At the foimer locality, many hundred pairs occupied a portion of the northern shore of the main island, where the ground was elevated many feet above the lake, with a broken ledge of rock along the shore as well as above their breeding-ground. Here their nests covered several acres of ground, and were thickly strewn over the surface ; each consisted of an external rim of gravel and other rubbish raked into a pile, the center hol- lowed out and lined with a few feathers and sticks ; the number of eggs, of which many bushels were gathered for food, varied from one to four in a nest, and among this immense quantity we noticed very remarkable ex- tremes of form, size, and colors, the series selected for preservation illustra- ting the principal of these variations. While their nests were being despoiled, the Gulls kept up a constant clamor, some hovering over our heads, but most of them perched in rows on the ledge of rocks back from the breeding- ground. Over fifty specimens were shot, and among these slight individual discrepancies were noted, the principal one being in the distinctness of the black spots near the end of the bill, which in a few were entirely obsolete, in some distinct on both mandibles, and in others of intermediate develop- ment. The examples in the collection, enumerated below, were selected with a view to represent the extreme variations detected in the large series examined.
6B8 ORNITHOLOGY,
List of specimens.
Ill, S ad.; Truckee River, at Big Bend, July 29, 1867. 21|— d3— 15|— 12— 2^— 2J — ^ — 2J. Bill, greenish lemon-yellow, the terminal third of the lower mandible bright orange-red, tinged with carmine, the tip again yellow j a distinct dusky spot in the middle of the red, and one immediately above it, near end of upper mandible ; rictus and eyelids, vermilion-red; iris, dark hazel; tarsi and toes^ light ashy pea-green ; claws, black.
680-734, eggs; island in Pyramid Lake, May 16, 1868.
739-747, eggs; same locality, May 18, 1868.
752, $ ad,; island in Pyramid Lake, May 20, 1868. 22-.54— 13J. Bill, deep na- ples-yellow, tinged with chrome, and having a distinct band of dusky near the end, which is grayish- white ; the dusky spot on the lower mandible followed posteriorly by a spot of deep orange-red; rictus and eyelids, vermilion ; im, vandyke hrown; tarsi and toes J pale pea-green, [Compare with notes on L. delawarensis, as given below.]
753-760, eggs; same locality. May 22, 1868.
800, S ad.; same locality, May 25, 1868. 22f — 55J — (?)— 13J. Same remarks as to No. Ill, but black spots of the bill obsolete.
801, ^ ad.; same locality and date. 225 — ^^ — (?)— 13^. Same remarks; black spots distinct.
802, 9 ad.; same locality and date. 21^ — 51 J — (!) — ^12|. Black spots obsolete.
1199-1217, eggs; Oarrington Island, Great Salt Lake, June 17, 1869. (Collected by R. N. Davis and S, Watson.)
Larus DELAWARBNSIS. Binir-billed Oull.
(Que-nahJc'-et of the Paiutes.)
Larus delawarensisy Obd, Quthrie^s Geog., 2d Am. ed., II, 1815, 319.— Lawb., in Baird^s Birds K Am., 1868, 846.— Baird, Cat. K. Am. Birds, 1859, ISo. 664.— OouES, Key, 1872, 313; Check List, 1873, No. 548; Birds KW., 1874, 636.— Henshaw, 1875, 485.
This Gull was observed only as a winter sojourner at Pyramid Lake, being entirely absent from there in summer.
List of specimens.
365, 9 ad,; Pyramid Lake, Nevada, December 21, 1867. 18— 45-^14^— 124— 1^ — 1|*-5|— 2j!^. Bill, greenish naples-yellow, with a transvei-se band of deep black near the end ; rictas and eyelids, vermilion-red ; interior of the mouth, deep orange- red, growing more intense posteriorly; iriSy light naplesyeltow ; tarsi and feet^ deep^ light, naples-yellow. [Compare with notes on L. californicusj given above.]
CHRCECOOEPHALUS PHILADELPHIA— STERNA FORSTERL 639
ChRCECOCEPHALUS PHILADELPHIA. Bonaparte^s Gull.
Sterna philadeJphia, Obd, Gathrie'S Geog., 2d Am. ed., II, 1815, 319. Ghrcecocephalus Philadelphia^ Lawr,, in Baird's Birds N. Am. 1858, 852. — Baird, Cat. K Am. Birds, 1859, No. 670.
Larus philade'phia, Gray, List. Br. Birds, 1863, 235.— CoUES, Key, 1872, 316; Check List, 1873, No. 556.
Larus (Chrmcocephalus) Philadelphia^ CoTJES, Birds N.W., 1874, 655. Not seen by us.
lAst of specimens,
430, " 9 ad.; Bay of San Francisco, February 1, 1868. 13J— 31|— {!)— SJ." (Pre- sented by H. G. Parker.)
Sterna regia.
Royal Tern.
Sterna regia, Gambbl, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., IV, 1848, 228.— Lawr., in Baird's Birds N. Am., 1858, 859.— Baird, Cat. N. Am., B., 1859, No. 683.— CouES, Key, 1872, 319 ; Check List, 1873, No. 562.
Thalasseus regius^ Gambel, Jour. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., I, 2d ser., 1849, 228. Sterna (Thalasseus) regia, CouES, Birds N.W., 1874, 669.
This powerful Tern was more or less common in May at Washoe Lake and near Pyramid Lake, in September at the Humboldt Marshes, and among the marshes near Salt Lake City in June and July.
Sterna forsterl
Forster^s Tern.
Sterna forsteri^ Nuttall, Man. Orn., II, 1834, 274 (foot-note).— Lawr., in Baird^s Birds N. Am., 1858, 862.— Baird, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 691.— Ooxjes, Key, 1872, 321; Check List, 1873, No. 566 j Birds N.W., 1874, 676.— Hen- SHAW, 1875, 486.
Sterna havelli, Audubon, Orn. Biog., V, 1839, 122, pL 409, fig. 1 (= yoien^).— Lawr., in Baird^s Birds N. Am., 1858, «61.— Baird, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 686.
Forster's Tern was very common in June at Sacramento, and through- out the summer in the vicinity of Pyramid, Ruby, and Franklin Lakes, and
640 OBNITHOLOGY.
the Humboldt Marshes. It was met with afterward at Great Salt Lake, where it was the most abundant species, far exceeding in numbers even the Eydrochelidon lariformis.
List of specimens.
1085, S jm.; Salt Lake City, Utah, June 2, 1869. 14J-^0J. Terminal half of bill, black; basal half, dull orange-red; iris, brown; tarsi and toes, beautiful rich orange-red,
HYDROOHELEDOlir LAEIFORMIS. Black Tern.
Ballm Uriformisj LiNN., Syst Nat., I, ed. 10, 1758, 153 {European).
Eydrochelidon lariformisy Coues, Birds N.W., 1874, 704.— Henshaw, 1875, 487.
Sterna JissipeSy Lnra/, Syst. Nat., 1, 1766, 228 {European).
Eydrochelidon fissipes^ Gray, Genera of Birds, III, 1849, 660 {European).— Goxms^ Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., 1862, 554; Key, 1872, 323; Check List, 1873, No. 675 {American).
Sterna plumhea^ Wilson, Am. Orn., VII, 1813, 83, pi. LXix, flg. —{American).
Eydrochelidon plumbea^ Lawb., in Baird's Birds N. Am., 1858, 864.— Baird, Oat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 695.
This lively and interesting Tern was an exceedingly numerous species at Sacramento, as well as about the extensive marshes of the Interior, At the former locality they were seen about every pool in the outskirts of the city, flitting over the surface of the water, and across the meadows, uttering their harsh note of hriky krik^ krikj as they flew. They were so unsuspicious that the town boys often killed them with stones or clubs thrown at them when flying.
List of specimens.
59 $ ad.; Sacramento City, California, June 19,1867. 9J— 24J— 8^6|— IJ — A — ^i — ^* ^i^'j d^P black ; rictus, purplish lake-red j interior of mouth, lavender- pink ; iris, hazel ; tarsi and toes^ dark purple ; claws, black.
PODIOEPS OOCIDENTALia 641
Family PODIOIPIDiE— Grebes.
PODICEPS OCCIDEl^TALIS. IVestern Grebe.
Podiceps occidentalism Lawbence, ia BaircFs Birds K Am., 1858, 894.— Baied, Cat.
]^. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 704.— CoUES, Key, 1872, 336 ; Check List, 1873, No.
608.— Henshaw, 1875, 488. ^chmophorus occidentalism CouES, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., 1862, 229.
Fodiceps (JScJmopliorusJ occidentalis. a. occidentalism CouES, Birds N. W., 1874,
727.
This large Grebe was very abundant in Pyramid Lake, where it appeared to be a permanent resident. Tlie specimen in the collection was found ^'snow-bound" in the sage-brush near Carson City, being discovered by its tracks in the deep snow, where it had scrambled along for a hundred yards or more. It was headed toward the Carson River, and had evidently come from Washoe Lake, about five miles distant, and becoming exhausted by the long flight had fallen to the ground. In Pyramid Lake, these Grebes were exceedingly abundant in May, and were constantly in sight from our boat. When fired at with a rifle they would dive at the report, and upon their reappearance generally showed only the head or head and neck above the surface; but they swam so low in the water that we found it exceed- ingly difficult to kill them; one was shot, however, and was found to agree exactly in colors and other respects with the specimen in our collection.^
List of specimens,
402, i ad.; Carsou City, Nevada, Jauuary 13, 1868. 26— 40— 8— 5|— 3— 2f— (?) — (?). Bill, dull, rather light yellow, the lower maudible deepeuing into orange termi- nally ; culmen and broad longitudinal space on the side of the basal two-thirds of the lower mandible, dark olive-green, the former nearly black; iris, pure carmine (having much the appearance of a red currant), growing narrowly whitish around the pupil ; tarsi and toes, dull olivaceous yellow, the outer side of the tarsus and joints of the toes nearly black.
^ The seasonal changes of plumage, so remarkable in moat Grebes, do not manifest themselves in the species of this group (P. occidentalis and P. clarki), the colors and markings being identical in winter and in the breeding-season. Even the young do not differ appreciably from the adult, as is seen from a specimen collected the past season in Nevada, by Mr. Henshaw. In view of these facts, as well as in justice to important peculiarities of form, we should now use the generic name u^chmophorusm proposed by Dr. CouES, for this group. 41 P R
642 ORNITHOLOGY.
PODICEPS CRISTATUS- Crested Grebe.
Colymbm crisiatus, Linn., Syst. Nat., I, 1766, 222.
Podieeps cristatus, Latham, Ind. Orn., II, 1790, 780.— Lawr., in Baird's Birds N. Am., 1858, 893.-.BAI11D, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1869, No. 703.— CoUES, Key, 1872, 336 J Check List, 1873, No. 609 5 Birds N.W., 1874, 729.
This species was quite numerous in August and September in Franklin Lake, but no specimens could be obtained. It is no doubt a summer-resi- dent in suitable localities throughout the Basin.
PODICEPS AURITUS. Eared Ore be*.
/S, calif ornicus — California Grebe.
Podieeps caUfornieus^ Heermann, Pr. Ac. Nat. Sci. Philad., 1854, 179.— Lawr., in Baird's Birds N. Am., 1858, 896.— Baird, Cat. N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 707.
Podieeps auritus var. ealif ornicus^ Coues, Key, 1872, 337 5 Oiieck List, 1873, No. 012; Birds N.W., 1874, 733.— Henshaw, 1875, 489.
This little Grebe was usually found in the same localities with P. occi- dentaliSj and like it was a constant resident. In Soda Lake, on the Carson Desert, we observed a very large flock of what was probably this species, but they kept so far from the shore that the species could not be deter- mined beyond doubt. They were exceedingly clamorous.
List of specimens,
366, S ad.; Pyramid Lake (mouth of the Truckee River), December 21, 1867. 12 — 21 — 5 — 3f . Upper mandible, greenish-black, growing pale ashy olive-green on basal third of the commissure (broadly) and on the culmen ; lower mandible, ashy olive- green, paler below, and more yellowish basally 5 iris, bright orange-red, more scarlet outwardly, and with a fine thread-like white ring around the pupil ; tarsi and toes, dull blackish on outer side, passing on the edges into olive green ; inner side, dull light yellowish -green ; inner too, apple green. [In winter plumage.]
PODILYMBUS PODICEP8 643
PODILYMBUS PODICEPS Thick-billed Orebe*
Golymbm podiceps, Linn., Syst. Nat., I, 1766, 223.
Podilymhus podicepsj Lawrence, Baird's Birds N. Am., 1858, 898, — Baird, Cat.
N. Am. Birds, 1859, No. 709.~-CouES, Ke3^ 1872, 338; Check List, 1873, No.
614; Birds N.W., 1874, 737.— Henshaw, 1875, 490.
This common Grebe was a resident species in all suitable localities.
List of specimens.
264, jut?.; Truckee River (Camp 26), November 18, 1867. 15—22—5^4—1/^— Ig — C?;— (^). Bill, horn-color, becoming blackish basally and on the culmen ; lower man- dible, more lilaceous, with a dusky lateral stripe; iris, of three distinct colors, dis- posed in concentric rings, the first (around the pupil) clear milk-white, the next dark olive-brown, the outer pale ochraceous-brown, the dark ring reticulated into the lighter; tarsi and toes, greenish -slate, the joints darker.
454, 9 ad.; Carson City, March 24, 1868. 131—21^—5—3^. Bill, clear opaque white, or milk-white, purest posterior to a black band across its terminal third, the anterior portion with a strong tinge of slaty -blue; eyelids, pure white; lores, more Dluish ; iris, rich dark brown, with a narrow outer ring of ochraceous-white, the two colors reticulated together; next the pupil, a fine thread-like ring of white; tarsi and toes, greenish slate-black on the outer side, plumbeous on the inner side.
INDEX TO PAET I.
(Synonyms in italics.)
Page.
Acervularia 31
pentagona 31
Acrochordixjeras 124
Hyatti 124
Alveolites 25
multilamella — 25
(undetsp.) 26
Atnmouitoid forms of the Upper
Triassic of Nevada 105
ANATINID-2E 46, 136
Ancbura • 160
ffusiformis 163
Ancylus undulatus 186
Anisomyon , 162
sexsulcatus? 162
Anomia raetiformis 141
Anomiib^ 141
APORRHAID^ 160
Arcestes 119
Gabbi 121
1 perplanus 120
Arcestid^ 119
Arcid^ .134, 148
Articulata 20, 48
Atbyris '• • 81
f persinuata 81
Koissyi 82
subtilita 83
Atrypa 38
reticularis 38
Atjriculid^ ^ 175
Aviculopecten 93
catactus 93
occidaneus 96
Utaheusis 95
Page.
Axinsea «... 149
Wyomingensis 149
Belemnites 138
Kevadensis 138
Belemnitid^ 138
Brachiopoda 36, 62
Oampeloma 179
macrospira 179
(uudet. sp.) 181
Campophyllum 57
Carboniferous species . . e 50
Cardiid^ .... 151
Cardium curtum 151
subcurtum 152
Carnifex ....... 187
( Vortifex) Binneyi 187
Tryoni 188
Cephalopoda 47, 98, 104, 138
Ceriphasiid^ 176,193
Clydonites 109
Clydonitid^ 107
Coaocoryphe 20
(Ptyclioparia) Kingii . . 20
Corbicula 167
( Veloritina) Durkeei 167
Corbula 170
(Anisorhyncbus ?) Engel-
manni 174
( Anisorbyncbus) pyriforinis. 170
(undet. sp.) 150
CORBULIDiE 150, 170
Ooroceras i 107
Cretaceous species 140
Crustacea 48
Cucullaea 134, 148
645
646
INDEX TO PART I.
Pago.
Cucullaea Haguei 134
(Trigonarcaf) obliqua 148
C YATHOPHYLLID^ 28, 52
Cyathophjllum 33,60
(Campophyllum?)
Nevadensis , . CO
Palmeri 33
subcsespitosum .,.• 60
(undet. sp.) 57
Cyprimeria 158
I subalata 158
0 YRENID JE 107, 182
Dalmanites 48
(undet. sp.) 48
Devonian species 25
Dipbyphyllum ........ 29
fasciculatum 29
Discina .........: 99
(undet. sp.) 99
DisciNiD JS 99
Edmondia 46
! Pinonensis 46
Endiscoceras 128
Gabbi 128
Bntomoceras 126
Laubei 126
Favosites 27
polymorpha 27
Favositit)-^ 25, 50
Fossils Of the Bear River fresh- and
brackish-water beds 163
Gasteropoda 159, 175, 186
Gouiatites 98
' goniolobus 98
GONIATITIDJE 98
Goniobasis 193
Simpsoni 193
Gymnotoceras 110
Blakei 113
rotelliforme Ill
Gyrodes depressa . . 159
Halobia 100
(Daonella) Lommeli 100
Hemipronites 35, 62
Ohemungensis far,
arctostriata 35
Page.
Hemipronites crenistria 62
Inoceramus 142
deformis 146
erectus 145
problematicus 142
Simpsoni 142
(undet. sp.) 144
Introductory remarks 1
Jurassic species 130
Lamellibranohiata .... 46, 92, 100,
130, 164, 182
Leiorhynchus 79
quadricostatus . 79
Lima 130
(Limatula) erecta . - 130
LiMiD^ 130
Limnsea 181, 191
(Limnophysa) nitidula 181
vetusta 191
(Polyrhytis) Kingii 192
similis i 191
LlMNJEID^ 181, 186
Litbostrotiou 58
Whitneyi 58
LucmiD^.. 102
Lunulicardium fragosum 93
Mactra (Cymbophora?) Utahensis . . 155
Emmonsi 153
(Trigonella ?) arenaria ..... 154
Mactrid^ , 153
Melanial sculptilis 195
f subsculptilis 196
Melaniid^ 195
Modiomorphaf alata • 103
! ovata . 103
Mollusca .... 35, 62, 99, 130, 140, 164, 182
Silurian 17
Myophoria 133
lineata? 133
Mytilidjs 103, 132
Myacites 136
incoDspicuus -*-.-. 137
(Pleuromya) subc'bmpressa 136.
Weberensis.. 137
Naticid JS 159
Olenus (Parabolina) Kevadensis ... 25
INDEX TO PART I.
647
Page.
Orthis 63
Michelini 63
Ortboceras 47, 104
Blakei 104
Kingii 47
Orthoceratid^ 47, 104
Ophileta 17
complanata var, nana 17
Ostrea 140
(undet. sp.) 140
OSTREID^ 140
Paradoxid^ 20
Paradoxides 23
? Nevadensis 23
Pinna Kingii 131
PlNNID^ 131
Phacopsid^ 48
Physanoid^ 124
Planorbis 189
spectabilis 189
var. Utabensis. 190
Polypi. 50
Posidonomyaf 92
1 fragosa 92
Productid^ 36, 62
Productus • 64
costatus f 69
longispinns 78
multistriatus 76
l?evadensis 64
Prattenianus 72
semireticulatus 69
semistriatus 74
subaculeatus 36
subborridus 75
(undet. sp.) 67.
PROETIB^ 49
Proetus 49
(Phaeton) denticulatus 49
Pteriid^ 92, 100, 142
Ptychopbyllum ; 28
f infundibulum 28
Pyrgulifcra humerosa 176
^Kadiata 25,50
Kapbistoma 18
? rotuliforinis 18
Page.
Raphistoma ? trochiscus 19
Rhynohonellid^ 38, 70
Rby tipborus 175
priscus 175
Silurian fossils described 17
SlPHONARIID^ • 162
Smithia 32
Hennabii 32
Spbaera 102
Wbitneyi 102
Sphserium 182
? Idahoense 183
rugosum 182
Spirifer 39, 87
cuspidatus? 87
Engelmanni 41
(Trigonotreta) argentarius . . 42 cameratus ... 91
opimus? 88
Pinonensis .. 45
scobina 90
strigowis 43
Utahensis 39
Spiriferid^ 39, 81
Spiriferina.' 84
• pulchra 85
(undet. sp.) 84
Strophomenid^ 35, 62
Syringopora 28, 50
(undet. sp.) 28, 50
Tellinal? isonema 156
modesta 167
Tellinid^ 156
Tertiary age, Species of undoubted . 182
Tracbyceras 116
Judicarium 118
Judicarium var. subas-
perum 118
Trachyceratitid^ 110
TRiaoNiiD^ ; 133
Triassic species, Upper 99
Unio. . . 164, 184
belliplicatus 165
Haydeni 184
vetustus 164
Unionid^ 164, 184
648
INDEX TO PART L
Page. Veneeidje 158
VlVIPAEID^ 178
Viviparus 178
Conradi 178
Volsella.. 132
Page.
Volsella scalprum var, isonema 132
Vorticifex 187
Zaphrentis excentrica 52
f multilamella 53
I Stansburyi 64
INDEX TO PART II.
Synonyms in iialics.
Page.
Agnostus communis 228
Josepha 230
Keon 229
proloDgus. .:.- 230
tumidosus 23L
Athyris Claytoni 256
planosulcala 1 — 257
subquadrata 271
Astarte ! arenosa 297
Avicula carta 289
fragilis 250
tenuicostaim 289
Aviculopecteu Augustensis . , . 288
curtocardinalis 273
equilatera 201
occidaricus 275
parvulus 274
Weberensis 273
(Eumicrotis) Augus- tensis 288
Bathyurus ! angulatus 220
conicus. 216
Pogonipensis 243
strenuus 244
Belemnites densus 287
Bellerophon Neleus 250
Oamptonectes bellistriatus 289
? extenuatus 290
■? pertenuis 290
pertenuistriatus 291
Carboniferous, Fossils of the Lower 265
Cardiomorplia Missouriensis 277
Cardita alticostata ..... 297
Cardita transversa. ... 297
Chariocephalus tumifrons 224
Page.
Oh JENOCAEDIA 249
Chonetes lllinoisensis * 254
Loganensis 253
Chonocephalites 209
Ohonocephalites lowensis 213
Sbumardi 215,217
subcoronatus 237
(Pterocephalus)
laticeps 221
CONOCORYPHB 209
Conocorypbe Kingii 212
Crepicephalus 209
Orepicephalus (Loganellus) anytus. 219 (Loganellus) granu- losus 214
(Loganellus)Haguei . 210 (Loganellus) maculo-
sus 215
(Loganellus) uitidus . 212 (Loganellus) quad-
rans 238
(Loganellus) simula- tor 218
(Loganellus) unisul-
catus 216
(Batby urus I) angula- tus 220
Cyathophyllum , - . , 202
Oyrtoceras cessator ... - 278
Cyrtolites sinuatus 237
Devonian, Fossils of the 246
DiKELLOCEPHALUS , 225
Dikellocephalus bilobatus 226
flabelllfer 227
»gothicus ......... 242
649
650
INDEX TO PART 11.
Page.
Dikellocephalas Minnesotensis . 227
multicinctus 226
Pepiuensis 227
quadriceps 240
Wahsatchensis . . - 241
EdmoDdia Myrina 283
Eumicrotie curta 289
Hawni ... 273
Euomphalus cyclostomus 260
laxus 260
(Straparollas) Ophiren-
sis . . . . * 261
pentangularis 259
1 rotuliformis 235
? trochiscus 235
(StfaparoUus) Utalien-
sis 259
Fenestella , . . . 202
Fossils of the —
Coal Measures 273
Devonian 246
Jurassic 248
Lower Carboniferous 205
Permo-Carboniferous 273
Potsdam group 205
Silurian 232
Triassic 280
Waverly group 251
Fusispira compacta 236
General remarks on formations, H.
and W 199
Genesee slate 201
Glauconome 202
Goniatites globulus 279
lowensis 279
Kingii...... 279
Noliuensis 279
sphericus 279
Gryphaea calceola var, Nebrascensis 286 Hall, James, and R. P. Whitfield,
Report of 197
Jurassic, Fossils of the 248
Kutorgina minutissima ... 207
Leptaena Melita 208
Lima (Plagiostoma) occideu talis . . . 292
lineata : 292
Page.
Lingulella 232
Lingulepis Ella 232
MflBra 206
minuta 206
pinnaformis 206
Loganellus anytus 219
granulosus 214
Haguei , 210
Logani 210
maculosa 215
nitidus 212
quadrans 238
simulator 218
unisulcatus 216
Lunulicardium fragilis 250
fragosum 249
Lower Carboniferous, Fossils of . . . 265
Lyonsia concava , . , 276
Maclurea minima 235
Michelina sp. t 251
Monotis curta 289
tenuicostatus . 289
Myalina aviculoides 275
Myalina concavus . . ^. 276
Myalina Permiana 276
Mytilus {Myalina) concavus , 276
Fermianus . 276
Natica ? Lelia . 298
Naticopsis nana 298
Neritoma 299
Neritopsis 299
Nuculites triangulus 248
triquetra 249
Obolella discoida 205
Ogygia parabola 245
producta 244
Orthis Barabouensis 209
costalis 233
Electra 233
Orthis equivalvis 252
Orthis Pogonipensis 232
resupinata 205
Orthoceras annulatocostatum 278
Chesterensis 278
Ostrea congesta. 287
Eugelmanni 285
INDEX TO PxiRT II.
651
Page.
Ostrea strigilecula 287
sp.! 285
Paracy clas elliptica 248
occidentalis 248
peroccidens 248
Pentacrinites asteriscus ^ 280
Perm o Carboniferous, Fossils of the 273
Plagiostoma lineata 293
Plagiostoma occidentalis 292
Platyceras 202
Polypora : ^ 202
Porambonites obscurus 234
Posidonomya f fragosa 249
Potsdam group, Fossils of the 205
Primordial, Fossils of the 205
Productus elegans. 265
Flemibgi var. Burlingto-
neusis 265
laevicostus ? 266
mesialis 266
Prattenianus 267
semireticulatus 267
Proetus Loganensis 264
macrocephalus 263
peroccidens 262
Fterocephalia Sancti'Sabw .... 200
Pterocephalus laticeps - 221
Sancti-sabae 223
Ptydhaspis Miniscaensis 224
pustulosa 223
Eaphistoma acuta • 235
lenticularis .... 235
staminea 235
Ehynchonella cuboides 247
Emmonsi 247
gnathophora *? 284
Myrina 284
pustulosa 1 257
varians 284
venusta 247
San Saba Valley, Potsdam sand-
stones of 1^9
Page.
Sedgewickia ? concava 276
Septocardia 294
Septocardia Carditoidea 296
typica 295
Silurian, Fossils of the . 232
Snowstorm Hill, Fossils and sec-
tionof 203
Spirifera alba-pinensis , 255
Spirifet^a f alia 281
Spirifera biplicatus 255
centronata 254
Spirifer f Eomfraiji f 281
Spirifera imbrex 271
Maia 266
setigera « • - 270
striata 269
sp.? 271
Spiriferina alia 281
Homfrayi *? 281
StraparoUus Ophirensis 261
planodorsatus . . 259
planus 259
similis var, planus 259
umbilicatus 261
Utahensis 259
Streptorhynchus equivalvis 252
iuflatus 252
Strophodonta Canace 246
Strophomena Nemea 233
rhomboidalis 253
Syringopora 202
Tancredia Warrenana 297
Terebratula Augusta 285
Humboldtensis 282
Utah 258
Triassic, Fossils of the • 280
Trigonia Conradi 294
quadrangularis 293
Waverly group, Fossils of the 251
Whitfield, E. P., and Hall, James,
Eeportof 1^7
INDEX TO PART III.
SCIENTIFIC NAMES.
[Names not in italics are synonyms.]
Page.
Acanthylis saxatilis 564
Aocipiter cooperi 581
fuscus 581
mexicanus -- 581
Acliturus hariramiu8 376, 381, 384, 386, 389, 611
Actodromas bairdl 608
minutilla 376, 608
^aEclimophorus occiden talis 641, 642
^gialitis cantiana var. nivosa 604
cantianus 604
cantiamiSj p, nivo»u8 604
var. nivosus 604
nivoBUS 327,369, 386, 389, 604
vooiferus 327, 330, 337, 340, 349
361, 369, 370, 376, 389, 576, 610, 683
Ageli^ns gubernator 330, 338
356, 379, 380, 388, 504, 506
phmniceue 326, 337, 338, 340, 354, 356
361.368,370,374,388,462,504
a. phcenioeus 503
a. phcenioeus 503, 504
/?. gubernator 504, 505
c. gubernator 504
var. gubernator 504
d. tricolor 505
var. tricolor 505
tricolor 330, 331, 388, 504, 505
Jix spoma 327, 341, 390, 624
AlaUdaalpestris...'. 498
Alauda arventds 469
cbrysolaema 499
cornuta 498
Indoviciana 426
Aloedo aloyon 545
Ampelis cedromm 1364,386,387,446
AmpMspiza belli 476
UHneata.,..^4, 340, 346, 350, 351, 352 355, 367, 370, 383, 384, 388, 475, 476
nevadenais 324,340
343, 348, 350, 351, 352, 354, 357 358, 366, 383, 384, 388, 475, 476
Anas acuta 622
albeoia 626
americana 622
Page.
Anaahoschas ...327, 331, 337
341, 349, 358, 361, 369, '376, 390, 621
canadensis 620
carolinensis 623
clypeata. .. — -- 624
coUaris 625
cyanoptera , 623
niarila 625
rubida "... 626
sponsa.. 624
strepera 622
vallisneria 625
Anortbura troglodytes var. h yemalis 424
Anseralbatus 342,354,390,619
hatchinsi 620
hyperhoreus ., 619
b. albatus 619
var. albatus 619
nigricans 691
Anthus ludovicianua 338, 342, 348, 356, 387, 426
AntroBtomus nuttalli 324, 336, 342, 350, 357
358, 365, 368, 375, 376, 384, 389, 567
vocifeitis 567, 568
Apbelocoma floridana. c. calif omica 525
var. calif orn i ca 525
woodhousii 526
Aqnila canadensis ...326,347
357, 360, 362, 364, 375, 389, 589, 590
chrysaetos .590
p. canadensis 590
var. canadensis 590
Arohibuieo ferrugineus 357, 389, 590
lagojpiis 589
/?. sancti'johannis 589
var. sancti-johannis 589
regalis 590
sancti-johannis 338, 342
347, 362, 375, 389, 513, 589, 590
Ardea canadensis 611
egretta w... 617
exilis 618
gardeni 618
h^odias.. 327, 330 341, 343, 369, 390, 616, 631 lentiginosa 618
652
INDEX TO PART III.
653
Page.
Ardea minor 618
naevia 618
stellaris, p, minor 618
virescens , 617
Ardetta exilis 327, 341, 390, 618
Asyndesmus torquatus 553
Athene cunicularia 573
hypogaea , 573
Atthis anna 558
Aythya sp 331
americana 342,349, 390,624
f erina var. americana 624
vallisneria 341, 342, 349, 625
Bemicla canadensis 620
liutchinsi 620
nigricans 621
(Leucoblepharon) canadensis 620
hutchinsi.. 620
Bla8ipu8 heermanni ....309, 390, 636
Bombycilla cedromm 446
Bonasa umbelloides 319, 375, 383, 386, 389
umhellus 599
p, umbelloides 599
var. umbelloides 599
Botaurus lentiginosus 618
minor.. 327, 337, 341, 349, 361, 369, 390, 618
Branta bernicla. b. nigricans 621
var. nigricans 621
canadmeis 327, 337
341, 349, 361, 371, 390, 620
c. liutchinsi 620
var. hutchinsi 620
huicUnsi 338, 342, 349, 390, 620
nigncans 342,390,621
Brachyotus cassini 389, 571
palustris 571
/?. cassini 571
Bubo subarcticus 340, 347, 375, 389, 572, 576
virginianm 572
p. subarcticus 572
saturatus , 572
var. arcticus 572
pacificus 572
Bucephala albeola 342, 349, 390, 626
americana 342, 349, 390, 626
olangula 626
p, americana 626
Buteo abbreviatus 589
bairdi 584,585
borealis 524,582,583,585
b. calurus 582
i3,oaluru8 582
var. calurus 582
d.krideri 582
• Page.
Buteo borealkf y. luca^anus 582
calurus .340, 347
351, 357, 360, 363, 364, 375, 389, 582
oooperi 582
elegans 332,389,582
f errugineus 590
harlani 582, 584, 585
insignatus 584,585
lineatus 582,585
13, elegans 582
var. elegans 582
montanus 582
oxypterus 584
sp 336
swainsoni 340,350, 351
357, 360, 362, 364, 368, 375, 389 511, 532, 573, 582, 583, 584, 585
swainsoni var. oxypterus 584
zohocercus 589
Butorides virescens 330, 390, 617
Calamospiza bicohr 372, 374, 383, 386, 388, 487
Calypte anncB 330, 331, 336, 337, 389, 558, 559
Canace canadensis var. franklini 337
obscura ^ 319,337
362, 365, 375, 376, 383, 384, 389, 598
Caprimulgus nuttalli 567
Cardinalis virginianus .536, 603
Carduelis lawrencii 463
Carpodacus califomicus 335
cassini 319, 343, 347, 359, 360
367, 374, 383, 384, 387, 457, 460, 536
frontalis 323,329,330
331, 340, 341, 344, 346 349, 350, 35B, 367, 370 374, 387, 404, 458, 469
a. frontalis 458
a. frontalis 458
var. frontalis 458
purpureus 4.57
Cathartes aura 593
sp 336
Catherpes conspersus 326, 350
360, 383, :384, 387, 420
mexicanus 420
mexicanus, (3, conspersus 420
mexicanus var. conspersus 420
Centrocercus urophasianus 324, 342, 356, 363
366, 368, 375, 383, 384, 389, 591, 600
Certhia americana 319, 333
335, 342, 347; 349, 373, 382, 387, 418
familiaris 418
/?. americana 418
var. americana 418
mexicaria 418
654
INDEX TO PART III.
. Page.
Ceryle alcyon 310, 326, 337, 340, 343, 346
361, 362, 363, 364, 368, 375, 388, 545
ChcBtura pelagica 564, 566
(pelagica var.t) vauxi 566
vanxi 323, 340, 341, 385, 389, 564, 566
Chamcea faaciata .-. 332,335,337
Charadrins mexicanus 606
vociferus 603
ChauUlasmus atreperus 327, 331
3:57, 341, 369, 390, 622
Chonde$t€8 grammaca 324, 329, 330, 336, 337, 340
349, 350, 352, 357, 358, 360, 361, 362, 363 368, 370, 374, 388, 467, 479, 480, 487, 497
Cliordeiles henryi 324,337,340
357, 358, 359, 368, 375, 376, 384, 389
popetue. 537,568
/?. henryi 568
var. henryi 568
virginianus. b. henryi 568
var. henryi 568
ChrcBcocephalus Philadelphia 390, 639
Chrysomitris lawrencii - . 333, 387, 463
pinua 319, 335, 360, 362, 363
367, 374, 376, 387, 462, 463, 536, 541 i)8a?<na. 335, 367, 374, 376, 386, 387, 462
a. psaltria 462
yar. psaltria 462
trisiis 323, 329, 330, 340
363, 367, 374, 376, 387, 461, 468, 480
Cichlopsis nitens 447
Circus cyaneus hudsonius 580
var. hudsonius 580
hudsonim 337,340,349
361, 363, 364, 368, 375, 339, 577, 580 Cincltts m&noanus 319, 334
338, 349, 356, 367, 373, 376, 387, 406
Cistothorus palustris var. paludicola 425
atellaris. 381
(Telmatodytes) palustris 425
Clangula americana - 626
Coccygus americanus 558
Coccyzm amerimnm . . , . , .2^, 330, 339, ;581, 388, 558
Colaptea auratus 331,338
356, 381, 383, 385, :388, 555, 557
ayresii 556
ohryaoides 381, 557
hyhndM 345, 381, 383, 388, 556, 557
mexicanus 330, 331, 336, 337, 340, 345
347, 348, 349, 350, 351, 356, 359, 360
362, 363, 364, 375, 376, 381, 388, 554 Collurio horealia 348,387,452
excubitoroides 321, 330, 337
340, 348, 350, 354, 357, 359, 362 363, 370, 374, 387, 452, 453, 468
ludovidanua - 453
Tuge.
Collurio liidovidanuSf /?, excubitoroides 453
var. excubitoroides 453
CoUyrio borealis 452
excubitoroides 543
Columba carolinensis 596
faaoiata 336,338,382,595
migratoria - - - 593
Colymbus podiceps 643
Contopus borealis 319, 362, 375, 388, 535
richardsoni 323, 329
330, 331, 336, 340, 350, 351, 359, 361
362, 363, 364, 368, 375, 388, 537, 539
virens ^..331, 535, 537, 538
virens var. richardsonii 537
(virens var.?) richardsonii 537
Corvus omcricawws... 332, 336, 338, 354, 388, 513, 514
a. americanus 514
cacalotl 512
carnivorus..332, 338, 348, 352, 356, 357, 362
363, 364, 363, 368, 371, 374, 368, 512
caunnus 514
columbianus - 515
oorax 512
/3. carnivoms 512
var. carnivoms 512
hudsonicus - 530
oaaifraguB 513
Cotumiculus passerinus 381, 467, 468
/?. perpallidus 467
b. perpallidus 467
var. perpallidus 467
perpallidus 326, 330
358, 361, 367, 374, 388, 467, 480 Cotyle riparia...326, 330, 337, 339, 367, 373, 387, 445
serripennis - 440
Crex galeata - 613
Cuculus americanus 558
auratus - 557
Curvirostra americana 455
leucoptera 456
Cyanodtta calif omica 332, 333 336
347, 379, 388, 525, 527, 553
var. woodhpusii 526
floridana var. woodhousii 526
macrolopha , — '.. 524
woodhomii ....320, 322, 355, 356, 359, 361 366,368,374,379,383,385,388,526
Cyanospiza amma 322, 323, 329, 380, 331, 337
340, 346, 350, 351, 357, 359, 361, 363
364, 368, 370, 374, 388, 435, 488, 490 cyanea ..331,435,490
Cyanura coronata var. macrolopha. 524
oriiJtoto 469, 519, 523
frontalis 319, 333
336, 345, 347, 388, 396, 516, 525
INDEX TO PART III.
655
Page.
Cyanura macrolopha , 319, 372
374, 376, 383, 386, 388, 523, 524
stelleri 523
(i. frontalis 523
var. frontalis 523
macrolopha 524
Cygnus hucdnnator 342, 390, 619
Cypselus borealis 565
melanoleucus 564
vauxii 563
Dafila acuta 327, 337, 341, 369, 390, 622
Diotnedia nigripea * 309
Dolichonyx orymwiw.361,362, 363, 381, 384, 385, 388
/?. albinuchus 500
var. albinuchus 500
Dendrwca €e8tiva.....323y 329, 330, 335, 337, 339, 346
, 350, 351, 354, 359, 361, 362, 363, 364
367, 373, 37.7, 387, 428, 431, 437, 468
auduhoni 319,334,335
342, 349, 356, 364, 373, 387, 431, 433
hlackburnice 381
coronata 381, 433, 434, 544
nigreacena 335, 359
373, 376, 385, 387, 428, 433, 451 occidentali8,3^1y 332, 379, 380, 3^5, 387, 432
townsendi 361, 362
363, 335, 379, 380, 385, 387, 432
Ectopiates migratoria ....355, 380
384, 385, 389, 428, 518, 596
Elanoidea forficatua 309
Elanua leticurus 389, 592
Empidonax diffidlia 319, 375, 388, 539, 544
flaviventria 539, 544
b. difficilis 544
var. difficilis 544
Tiammondi 321,361,362
363, 364, 383, 385, 388, 539, 541, 543
minimua, 381, 537, 541
ohacurua. /S2l, 348, 356, 357, 350, 362, 36 ) 365, 375, 383, 384, 388, 464, 539, 541
puaillua 322, 323, 329
330, 336, 337, 340, 359, 361, 362 368, 370, 375, 388, 451, 539, 541
trailii 539
b. pusillus 539
var. pusillus 539
wrigbtii 541
Emberiza amouna 490
bilineata . -. 475
coroData 472
leucopbrys 470
EremophilaalpeatHa./S2Aj 338, 342, 345, 348, 351, 352
356, 357, 363, 364, 373, 388, 498
a. alpeatria 498, 499
Page-
Eromopbila alpestris var. alpestris 498
/?. leucolwma 498, 499
b. leucolaBma 498
var. leucolaBma 498
o. chrysolsBma 499
y. chryaoJasma . . * 499
var. cb ry solse ma . , , . . . 499
cbrysolaBma : . 332, 353, 370, 388
cornuta 498, 499
var. cbry solsema 499
leucoliema 388
Ereunetes occiden talis 609
petrificatus - 609
puaillua ^.327, 341
353, 369, 376, 389, 604, 609
var. occidentalis 609
Emmatura ruhida 327, 341
342, 349, 354, 369, 390, 626 m americana 494
Falco anatum
canadensis
carolinensis , . .
columhariua 338, 342, 364, 389,
communia
o. anatum
var. anatum
communis naevms
/?. ncBviua
cooperi
fuscus
hudsonius
lanarius var. polyagrus
leucocephalus I
raexicanus
polyagrus
naevius 340, 343,360,389,
nigriceps
polyagrus 326,
360, 303, 368, 375, 384, 389, 570,
saker -...
aakerj /?. polyagrua
sancti-jobaunis
sparverius 323, 330, 340, 347, 350,
360, 362, 364, 368, 375, 378, 385, (^salon) lithofalco var. columbarius.
( Hypotriorcbis) columbarius
(Tinnunoulus) sparverius
Fdlcinellua guarauna .327 , 361, 369, 383, 385, 389, thalaaainua .... 327, 341, 354, 383, 389,
Fringilla bicolor
cblorura
crlssalis
frontalis
575 590 593 578 575 575 575 577 573 575 581 581 580 577 592 517 577 575 575 354 577 577 577 589 351 389 578 578 578 615 615 487 496 498 458
656
INDEX TO PART III.
Page.
Fringilla grammaca 467
lapponica 464
lincolni 484
monticola , 478
oregonus 473
pecoria 501
pinus 463
psaltria*. 462
tristis 461
(Passerella) guttata 482
Fulica americana 331, 341, 345, 346, 354
358, 361, 362, 3G9, 376, 389, 614, 617
Fuligula affinis 625
americana 624
collaris 625
ferina var. americana - 624
marila 625
vallisneria 625
Fulix affinie 342,390,625
collans 342, 349, 390, 625
marila 342, 349, 390, 625
Gal€08copt€8 caroUnemia 322, 327, 367, 370, 371
372, 373, 376, 377, 331, 384, 386, 390
Gallinago gallinaria var. wilsoni 606
tm?»<mi....337, 338, 361, 362, 376, 389, 606
GalUnula galeata 331, 389, 613, 617
martinica 309
Garrulus californicua 525
Garzetia candidiasima 309
Geococoyx califomianus. 333
Geopicus chrysoides 557
Geothlypia macgilUvrayi 322, 335, 355, 359
361, 363, 367, 373, 376, 387, 434, 435
Philadelphia, a. macgilli vrayi 435
var. macgil li vrayi . . 435
trkhaa 323, 330, 337, 339, 346, 358
381, 383, 336, 367, 373, 387, 434, 501
Glancidium calif omicum 335
gnoma 333, 382
Goniaphea csBrulea 489
melanocephalus . . , 488
( Hedymeles) melanocephalus 488
Gr4iettlm dilophu8 635
0.floridanu8 635
b. floridanus 635
var. floridanus 635
floridanus 327, 341, 369, 390
Gru$ canadensis 326, 341
358, 331, 389, 376, 389, 611 , 619
Guiraoa ccBrulea 329, 330, 388, 468,489
melanocephala 488
Gymnohitta cyanocephala 320, 321
348, 357, 359, 383, 383, 384, 388, 617
Haliaettis Uucocephalus 333, 340, 343, 389, 592
Barporhynchus rufus 401, 408
Pftffo.
Hedymeles ludovidanus 334, 483
melanooephalus 322, 329, 330
331, 336, 337, 340, 346, 355, 357 359, 368, 374, 388, 488, 490, 509
Selminiliophaga cslata 321, 356, 363, 334
373, 384, 387, 428, 429, 430
a. celata 429
(3, lutescens 429
var. lutescens 429
lutescens 356, 363, 364
379, 380, 387, 430, 473
ruflcapiUa.335,363, 380, 385, 387, 427
vas, gatturali8-..427, 428
virginicB 320, 359, 362, 367, 372
373, 376, 380, 383, 385, 387, 428, 45i
Herodias egretta 327, 331, 341, 369, 390, 617
var. californica 617
Hesperiphona vespertina • 332
Himantopus mexicanus 327, 3:i7
340, 352, .369, 389, 553, 608
nigricollis 606
Hirundo bicolor 441
cyanopyrrha 441
erythrogaster : 441
p. horreorum 441
horreoram ....326,330
335, 337, 339, 349, 354, 357, S60 362, 367, 373, 387, 440, 441, 444
Innifrons 440
nigra 505
purpurea 439
riparia 445
rufa 441
serripennis. 446
subis 439
thalassina 443
Hydrobata mexicana 403
Hydrochelidon fissipes 640
lariformis 327,331
345, 346, 361, 369, 390, 640
plumbea 640
Hylatomus pileaim 333
Hypotriorchis columbarius 578
Ibis alba
f alcinollus var. ordii
ordii
thalassinus
331
615
615
615
guarauna.. 615, 616
Icteria longicauda..323, 330, 337, 339, 343, 350, 351 355, 359, 361, 367, 373, 337, 433, 403
virens 436,438
(3, longicauda 433
var. longicauda 433
Icterus halUmare 331, 507, 409, 535
INDEX TO PART III.
657
Page.
Icterus hulIocU .....323, 329, 330, 331, 336
337, 340, 346, 350, 356, 357, 359, 361 368, 370, 374, 377, 388, 459, 488, 508
icterocephalus !. . . 502
spunuB 507,509
Icterus tricolor 505
Junco canicepa... Z19, 372, 374, 383, 386, 388, 474, 536
cinereus var. caniceps 474
liyemalis 380, 381, 473, 474, 478
var. can5cep8 380, 474
oregonus 473
oregonm 319, 332, 334, 336, 342, 348
350, 356, 365, 388, 473, 474, 478, 612
Lanius borealis ^ 452
excuUtoroides 553
tyrannus var. y. carolincusis w . 532
Lanivireo cassini 355, 356
378, 380, 385, 387, 449, 473
plumbeus 321, 359
367, 374, 383, 385, 387, 451
soUtarim 350, 356
364, 380, 384, 385, 387, 427, 450
var. cassini 449
plumbens 428, 451
Larus, sp.t 331
argentatoides 637
belclxeri 636
californicus , 327, 341
343, 352, 371, 390, 631, 637, 638
delawarensis 342, 390, 637, 638
var. californicus 637
heermanni 636
Philadelphia 639
(Blasipus) belcheri 636
heermanni 636
(ChrcBCocephalus) Philadelphia 639
Leuconerpes albolarvatus 547
Leucosiicte Uttoralis 350, 387, 461
tephrocotis. b. griseinucha 461
var. Uttoralis 461
Lophodytes cucullatus 341, 390, 627
Lophophanes inornatus 320, 321
333, 347, 348, 382, 387, 410, 414
hieolor 411
Lophwtyx calif ornicm 333, 335, 337, 389, 602
Loxia amenoana 361, 362, 363, 387, 455, 456
coerule^ 489
leucoptera ♦. 319,359
361, 362, 363, 385, 387, 455, 456
Macrorhamphus griseua 607
Mareca americana 327, 337
. ^ 341, 343, 369, 371, 390, 622
Page.
Melanerpes er^throcephalus 368, i^l
384, 386, 388, 516. 553, 554
formicivorus 332, 336, 388, 553
torguatus 332, 336
345, 347, 363, 364, 388, 516, 553
Merulasilens 394
Melospiza fallax ,322, 354, 356, 359
361, 362, 363, 364, 365, 366, 367 374, 376, 377, 383, 388, 482, 486
fasdata 468,481
p, heermanni 481, 483
6, guttata. .482, 484
y, fallax 482,483
guttata 332,356
379, 380, 385, 388, 450, 473, 482
heermanni 330, 336
337, 340, 343, 349, 388, 481, 482, 493 lincolni ... 325, 347, 365, 366, 374, 484, 488
melodia a. heermanni 481
var. heermanni 481
f. guttata 482
var. guttata 482, 483
a. fallax 482
var. fallax 482
palustris 381
rufina 482
Mergus americanua 342, 390, 627
castor var. americanus 627
cucullatus 627
merganser 627
m^ganseTj (3. americanua 627
aerrator.. 342,390,627
Milvus leucurus 592
Mimus carolinensis 399, 494
polygloitua 401,448,527
Molothrua at^- 340, 341, 354, 368,374, 388,501
a, ater 501
pecoris 501
a. pecoris 501
Motacilla aestiva 431
csBrulea 409
calendula 409
pileolata 437
Muscicapa carolinensis .; 399
guttata 393
pueilla 437
ruticilla 438
saya 534
solitaria 450
Myiadestea townaendi..^20, 321, 334, 347, 387, 394, 408
Myiarchua dneraecena 323, 332, 340
350, 351, 357, 359, 368, 375, 388, 533
crinitua 533
var. mexicanus 533
mexicanus 533
658
INDEX TO PAET III.
Page,
Myiodioctes pileolatus 387
2yu8illu8 323,335, 339
342, 351, 355, 356, 359, 361 363, 364, 373, 387, 430, 437
c puaUlus 437, 438
Tar. pileolata 437
p.pdeolatus 437,438
var. pusilltiB 437
Nephcecetes boreali8.323, 340, 341, 350, 385, 389, 564
niger 565
b. borealis 565
(3. horealis 565
var. borealis 565
Nettion carolinensia 327, 337, 343, 369, 390, 623
NUm coopeH 347, 356, 361, 364, 375, 389, 581
var. mexioanus 581
fuacm 336, 364, 375, 386, 389, 561
Numenius lanffiroatiis 327,341
369, 370, 376, 389, 609, 611, 615
Numida mdeagris 502
NyotaU aeadioa 365,386,389,572
albifrons 572
Nyctiardea garden! 618
griaea 618
p.ncBvia 618
var. na&via 618
n»via 327, 331, 341, 390, 618
Oreortyx pioius 335, 337, 347, 348, 379, 389, 601
(i, plumiferus 601
var. plumiferus 601
Oreoacoptes numtanus 324, 333, 339, 348, 352
353, 354, 357, 358, 361, 362, 363, 367 370, 371, 383, 384, 386, 399, 448, 480
Oriolus phcBniceus 503
Omismya anna 558
Orpheus montanus 399
Ortyxpiota 601
plumifera 601
Hrginianua 602
Otocorys occidentalis 498
Otus brachyotus 571
vulgaris var. wilsonianus 570
wiU<mianu8,d23, 330, 340, 345, 349, 364, 389, 570 (Brachyotus) brachyotus 571
Pandion carolinensis 340, 389, 593
halioBtm 593
0. caroUnensU 593
var, carolinensis 593
Pauyptila melanoleuca 564
saxatilU 326,357
360, 368, 383, 385, 389, 443, 444, 564
Parus airicapillus 411,412
var. occidentalis 412
Page.
Pania atrioapillust 7. ooddentaUa 412
/?. aeptentrionalis 412
var. septentrionalis 412
carolinensis. 411, 412
InomatuB 411
melanotis 415
minimus 413
mantantis 319, 347
359, 365, 373, 382, 387, 411, 412
occidentalis 332, 335, 387, 412
septentrionalis 365, 377, 386, 387, 412
var, albescens 412
Passerculus alaudinus 326, 3:36
337, 340, 348, 356, 358, 361, 362 365, 367, 370, 374, 387, 464, 465
sandvichenais 464
a. alimdinua 464
savanna *. 464
a. savanna 464
var, alaudinus 464
Passerella iliaca var. schistacea 486
megarhyncha 345, 384, 388, 485
achiataoea .... .322, 325, 349, 364, 372, 374 383, 384, 388, 482, 485, 486, 501
townaendi 336
var. megarhyncha 485
schistacea 485, 48G
Pedioecetes columbianus 326, 365
369, 375, 383, 386, 389, 599
phaaianelltia 599
/?. columbianua 599
var, columbianus 599
Pelecanua erythrorhynchua.d^, 337, 341, 343, 390, 627
fuscus 309
occipitalis 628
trachyrhynchus 627
Petrochelidon Imifroria 309, 326, 330
337, 339, 349, 350, 357, 360, 367
373, 387, 440, 443, 444, 535, 564
Phmop^la nitena,. . .352, 383, 385, 387, 447, 448, 547
Phalacrocorax floridanus 635
Phalaiopus wilsoni 604
(Steganopus) wilsoni 604
Phasianus columbianus 599
Pica caudata var. hudsonica 520
nuttalli 519
hudsonica.. 323, 337, 340, 345, 348, 349, 355, 356 364, 383, 384, 388, 518, 520, 553, 570
melanoleuca var. hudsonica 520
nuttaUi 519
nuiialli 332,388,519
ruatica 520
p.hudaanica 520
var. hudsonica 520
Pidconma columbianua 319, 333, 347
359, 362, 374, 376, 388, 396, 515, 554
INDEX TO PAET III.
659
Page.
Piooides aroHous 347,384,388,548
Platyrhynchus piisillus 539
Pleotrophanes lapponUnia 348, 387, 464
Picus albolarvatus., ..319, 333, 336f 345, 347, 388, 547
erythrocephaluB 554
fonnicivoms 553
gairdneri 321, 336
364, 365, 375, 386, 388, 546, 547
harrisi 336,340,345,347,349,350
351, 359, 365, 375, 378, 388, 546, 548
leucuxus 516
nuttalli : 332, 336, 388, 447, 547
puhescens ....* 546,547
b. gairdneri 546
var. gairdneri 546
raber ! 549
scalaris var. nuttalli 547
thyroideus 551
torquatns 553
vUlosus 545, 548
var.harrisi 545
williamsoni 551
(Aptemus) arcticus 548
Pipilo carmanl 491
chlorurua 325,336,340
347, 355, 357, 359, 360, 361, 362, 363 364, 365, 368, 374, 383, 384, 388, 496
consobrinus 491
crissalis 333, 336, 388, 498
erythrophthalmus 331, 469
491, 492, 493, 494, 495
f U8CU8 498
var. crissalis 498
maoulatua 491
p.megalonyx 491,495
var. megalonyx 491
y.oregonm 491, 495
var. oregonus 491
megalonyx 320, 356, 357, 359
368, 371, 374, 383, 386, 388, 491, 494
oregonus 323,330
331, 336, 337, 340, 343, 348, 349, 350 351, 356, 379, 380, 388, 450, 473, 491
Podiceps auritus 642
ft. calif ornicus 642
var. calif omicus 642
califomicus.327, 341, 345,349, 352, 369, 390
clarki 641
enstatus 327, 361, 362, 390, 642
occufonto2i«..327, 341, 345, 349, 369, 390, 641 (^chmophorus) occidentalis. a. occi-
dentalis 641
Podilymhua podiceps 338, 341, 349, 369, 390, 643
Polioptila ccBTulea 333,387,409
melanura •. . . 409
plumbea 409
Pag«.
Pooecetes confinis 326, 337, 348
357, 360, 361, 362, 363, 374, 387, 485
gramineua 340,466,497
ft, confinis 466
var. confinis 466
Poospiza belli 476
var. novadensis 476
biliueata 475
Porzana oaroZina.327, 337, 341, 369, 376, 389, 612, 613
Jamaicensis 327,376, 613
Progne purpurea 439
subia 309,321,330
339, 349, 350, 367, 373, 387, 439, 440
Psaltria plumbea 413
Paaltriparua wwZanotw.... 359, 383, 385, 387, 415, 456
minimus 333, 335, 387, 413
minimus var. minimus 413
plumbeus 413
plunibeus 320,322
348, 355, 356, 359, 383, 385, 387, 413
Psarocolius oyanocephalus 510
gubemator 504
Ptiliogonys nitens 447
townsendi 408
Pyranga erythromelama 456
ludoviciana. Z19, 334, 335, 337, 339, 346, 359 364, 367, 373, 376, 387, 454, 488, 509
rubra .454, 455
Pyrgita domeatica 459
Querquedula carolinensis 623
cyanoptera 327, 331
337, 341, 369, 376, 390, 621, 623 diacora .327, 331, 341, 369, 384, 390, 623
Quiacalua caneua 381, 502
purpureas 502
Kallus carolinus 612
elegana 381
jamaicensis 613
larif ormis 640
virginianua 327, 341, 369, 389, 612
Becurviroatra amerioana 327, 337
340, 352, 353, 369, 371, 389, 605
Begulua calendula 319, 335, 342, 348, 349
356, 364, 373, 382, 387, 401, 409, 418
aatrapa 347, 387, 356, 410
Rhinogryphua aura 332,340, 349
351, 352, 357, 362, 364, 375, 389, 593
Bhyacopkilua aoUtariua 327, 337
341, 346, 376, 389, 417, 610
Salpinctea obsoletua 326, 336
348, 349, 350, 351, 355, 356, 367, 360 303, 383, 384, 387, 404, 418, 420, 535
Sayomia fuacua 331, 534, 535
660
INDEX TO PART III.
Page.
SaifornU nigricans 329, 330
331, 336, 337, 388, 534, 535
sayus ...326,340,348,351
355, 356, 360, 368, 383, 384, 388, 534
ScoUcophagua cganocephalus 321, 326, 348
351, 356, 357, 359, 362, 364, 368 374, 384, 388, 503, 510, 578, 587
Scolopax guarauna 615
semipalmata 609
wilsoni 606
Scops asio 332, 336, 389, 518, 571
a. aaio 571
var. maccalU 571
flammeola 335, 382
maccalli 571
Seiurus ludovicianus 486
noveboracensis 381
Selasphorus anna 558
platycerms,. 325,360, 361
362, 363, 368, 372, 375, 376, 378 383, 385, 389, 451, 559, 560, 563
mfu8 339,342
363, 379, 380, 385, 389, 559, 563 Setophaga ruiicilla 322, 367, 370, 372
373, 376, 377, 381, 384, 386, 387, 438
Sialia arciica 321, 342, 345
348, 350, 356, 357, 360, 367, 370 373, 383, 384, 387, 403, 404, 535
mexicana 323, 333, 334, 335, 339
347, 348, 350, 351, 382, 387, 402, 404
sialis '. 403,455,507
Sitta acnleata ..319, 347, 873, 382, 387, 415, 416, 417
canadensis 319, 364, 365, 373, 386, 387, 416
caroUnensis 415, 416
(3. aculeaia 415
var. aculeata 415
pygmcBa 319, 347, 373, 382, 387, 417
Spatula clypeata 327, 337, 341, 369, 390, 624
Spmtyio ounicularia 573
o. cunicularia 573
p. grallaria 573
y. hypogcBa 573
var. hypogaea 573
6. floridana 573
e. guadaloupenis 573
Ixypogroa 324, 330, 331
332, 342, 348, 352, 353, 368, 389, 416
Sphyrapicus nuchalis 319, 321, 347
365, 375, 383, 384, 388, 439, 549, 552
ruber 319,333,336,388,549
thyroideus 319, 345, 347
375, 382, 383, .384, 388, 550, 551, 552
varius 550, 552
YoriaB. b. nuchalis 549
var. nuchalis 549
c. ruber 549
Page.
Sphyrapicus varius var. ruber 549
williamsoni 551,552
Spizella arizonae 321,329, 330
336, 340, 357, 359, 360, 368, 374, 388
hreu^cri 324, 329, 330, 331, 336, 340, 348
349, 351, 353, 357, 358, 361, 362, 363 364, 367, 370, 371, 374, 388, 479, 480
moniicola 338, 342
348, 350, 381, 384, 388, 478
pallida 331
var. breweri 480
pmilla 480
socialis 468, 478
P, arizonm 479
b. arizonsd 479
♦ var. arizonse 479
Steganopus wilsoni 327, 341, 369, 385, 389, 604
Stelgidopteryx serripennts 326, 330, 337
339, 349, 367, 373, 387, 440, 444, 446
Stellula calliope .325, 360
372, 375, 383, 385, 389, 560, 563
Sterna forsteri 327, 331
341, 345, 354, 358, 361, 369, 390, 639
640
havelli 639
Philadelphia 639
plumbea 640
regia .... 327, 341, 345, 346, 354, 369, 390, 639
(Thalasseus) regius 639
Strix acadlca 572 .
albifrons 572
americana 569
asio 571
brachyotus 571
flammea 569
americana 569
var. americana 569
/?. pratincola 569
hypogffia 573
pratincola 332,389,569
var. pratincola 569
(Bubo) arcticus 572
Struthus caniceps 474
Sturnella magna 506, 508
b. neglecta 506
var. neglecta 506
neglecta 326,330,335, 336
337, 340, 348, 350, 351, 354, 356, 357 361, 363, 368, 374, 388, 477, 480, 506
Sylvia auduboni 433
celata 429
macgillivrayi 435
nigrescens 433
occidentalis 432
ruficapilla 427
townsendi. 432
INDEX TO PART III.
661
Page. Symphemia semipalmata ..341, 353, 369, 376, 389, 609
Tachyoineta hioolor 323, 339
348, 367, 373, 387, 439, 440, 441, 444 thalassina 326, 327, 339, 343
357, 360, 367, 373, 384, 387, 443, 564
Tachypetea aquila 309
Tanagra ludoviciana 454
Telmatodytes paludicola 326, 337
339, 349, 358, 366, 367, 373, 3B7
palustris 425
p. paludicola 425
Tetrao californious 602
phasianellus 599
obscurus 598
umbelloides 599
urophasianns 600
(Centrocercus) iirophasianus 600
Thalasseus regius 639
Thryomanes bewicki 422, 468
y. spilurus 422
spilurus 329, 330, 335, 387, 422
Thryothorus bewicki 422
var. spilurus 422
■ ludovicianus 419
mexicanus 420
spilurus 422
Tinnunculus sparverius 578
Totanus semipalmatus 609
solitarius 610
Tringa alpina 607
americana 604
aJpina /3. americana 607
var. americana 607
americana 341, 389
bairdi 327, 341, 353, 389, 604, 608, 609
bartramia 611
macularia 610
minutilla.'S27y 341, 353, 369, 389, 604, 608, 609
pusilla 609
solitaria 610
wilsoni 608
(Scboeuiclus) alpina var. americana. 607 .Tringoid€8 maculariua 327, 337, 341
349, 350, 361, 369, 376, 389, 417, 610 TrocUlus alemndn...d2b, 330, 331, 340, 341, 360, 368
372, 375, 389, 558, 559, 560, 561, 563
calliope - . . . 563
colnhris 331,559
platycercus 560
rufus 559
Troglodntes aedon 422, 425
/?. parkmanni 422
var. parkmanni 422
hyemalis 349,384,424
p. pacificus 424
Page.
Troglodytes hyemalis var. pacificus 424
obsoletus 418
parvulus var. pacificus 424
pacificus 342, 387
parkmanni 323,332,335
339, 343, 348, 349, 350, 351, 355, 359 361, 363, 364, 367, 373, 387, 422, 451
spilurus 422
Turdus auduboni ...367, 372, 373, 383, 386, 394, 397 fu8ce8C€n8....277f 381, 383, 386, 394, 397, 398
guttatus 365, 379, 386, 393, 473
/?. auduboni 394
migratoHus 321, 333, 334, 335
338, 343, 348, 349, 3.50, 356 357, 359, 360, 361, 363, 364 367, 373, 376, 386, 391, 518
var. migratorius 391
propinquua 392
nanus 393
pallasi 380
var. auduboni 380,394
nanus 380,393
b. nanus 393
b. auduboni 394
silens 394
swainsoni 319,322, 361
362, 363, 364, 367, 372, 373 376, 380, 383, 385, 386, 397
a swainsoni 397
trichas 434
nstulatus 319, 334
335, 339, 341, 386, 397, 398, 409
(S, swainsoni 397
Tyrannula cinerascens 533
hammondi 543
nigricans 534
obscura 541
richardsoni 537
Tyrannus borealis 535
carolinensis 323, 331, 339, 342
368, 375, 380, 384, 385, 388, 528, 532
veritmlia 323,329,330
331, 340, 350, 351, 357, 359, 361 368, 374, 388, 528, 533, 539, 561
Vireo belli 331,452
cassini 449
gilvus b. swainsoni 448
var. swainsoni 448
plumbeus 451
puBillua 329,330,331,387,451
solitarius , 449, 450
var. cassini 449
plumbeus 451
swainsoui 351, 448
Vireoaylvia giha 448
var. swainsoni 448
662
INDEX TO PART HI.
Page.
Vireosylvia gilvaf jS, swaimoni 448
olivacea 381
plumbea 451
Bolitaria 450
var. plumbea 380
solitaria 380
swainsoni 323,330,337
339, 354, 355, 357, 359
361, 363, 364, 367, 370
373, 387, 388, 430, 448
Vulturaura 593
Xanthocephalua ioterocephdlus 326, 330
337, 340, 348, 354, 358, 361 368, 374, 425, 502, 504, 506
Xanthomas bnllockii 508
Page.
Zenasdura caroUnenm 309, 323, 330
336, 337, 339, 340, 349, 351, 352, 356 357, 358, 359, 361, 362, 363, 364, 368 370, 375, 376, 377, 389, 469, 499, 596
Zonotrichia coronata 332, 335, 336
356, 379, 380, 385, 388, 450, 473, 482
fallax 482
gamheli 471
intermedia 380
intermedia 325, 332, 334
342, 348, 349, 350, 355, 356, 363, 364
365, 366, 388, 403, 470, 471, 473, 478
Uucophrys .. ..325, 367, 372, 374, 380, 381
384, 386, 388, 470, 478, 485
var. gambeli 471
intermedia 471
INDEX TO PART III.
POPULAR FAMES.
Page.
American Avocet 605
Bittern 618
Coot 614
Gallinule 613
Kestril 578
Magpie 520
Merlin 578
Pelican 627
Peregrine 575
Raven 512
Redstart 438
Robin 391
Stilt 606
Anna's Hummer 558
Arkansas Flycatclier 528
Goldfinch 462
Artemisia Sparrow 476
Ash-throated Flycatcher 332, 333
Audubon's Thrush 394
Warbler 334
Avocet 352,606
Baird's Sandpiper 608
Baltimore Oriole 507, 509, 565
Bald Eagle 343,592,593
Bald-pate 622
Band-tailed Pigeon 595
Bank Swallow 444,445,446
Bam Owl 332,569
Swallow 344, 405, 422, 440, 441, 459
Bartram's Tatler 611
Bay-winged Bunting 466, 497
Belted Kingfisher 545
Bewick's Wren 419,422,423
Big Black-head 625
Bittern 618
Black Brant 621
-backed Three- toed Woodpecker 548
-biUed Magpie 519, 520, 521
-cap 411
-capped Chickakee 332,412
-capped Green Warbler 430
YeUow Warbler 437
-chinned Hummer 559
Curlew 354,615
•eared Titmouse 415
Page.
Black-footed Albatross 309
-headed Grosbeak 323, 329, 454, 488, 561
Pewee 329,422,534
Rail 362
Snipe 615
Swift 565
Tern 640
-throated Gray Warbler 428, 433
Sparrow 459,475,580
Blue-fronted Jay 523
-gray Gnatcatcher 409
Grosbeak 329, 489
Grouse 598
Jay 519
Nutcracker 348,517
-winged Teal 623
Bob-o-link 500
White 602
Bonaparte's Gull 639
Broad-tailed Hununer 560
Bronzed Ibis 615
Brewer's Blackbird 510
Span-ow 329,459,580
Brown Bunting 498
Creeper 333,418
-headed Woodpecker 551
Pelican 309
Thrasher 401
Buff-breasted Sheldrake 627
BuUock's Oriole 329, 370, 454, 508, 509
Burrowing Owl 332,573
Butter-baU 626
California Bluebird 333, 334, 402
Grebe 642
Gull 637
Valley Jay 525
QuaU '.-. 602
Woodpecker 332,553
Calliope Hummer 563
Canada Goose 620
Sparrow 478
Canon Wren 420
Canvas-back 625
Cardinal Grosbeak 536, 603
Carolina Chickadee ^ 411, 412
663
664
INDEX TO PART III.
Page.
Carolina Wren 419
Cassin's Purple Finch 457, 463
Vireo 449
Catbird 370,372,399,494,527
Cedar Bird 446, 455
Chimney Swift 405, 564, 566
Chipping Sparrow 329, 479
Cinnamon Teal 621, 623
darkens Nutcracker 347, 515, 518, 523, 554
Cliff Swallow.^ 309,405
440, 441, 443, 445, 446, 459, 535, 579
Common Crossbill 455
Crow 332,513,514
Goldfinch 461
Orange-crowned Warbler 429
Rail 612
Robin 334
Snipe 606
Common Troupial 507
Cooper's Hawk 581
Coot 310,345,614
Cowbird 502
Blackbird 501
Desert Lark 353
Dick Cissel 494
Dipper 334,406
Double-crested Cormorant 635
Downy Woodpecker - . . 546
Duck Hawk 575
Dusky Grouse 598
Dusky Red-tail 582
Dwarf Hermit Thrush 393
Eared Grebe 642
Eastern Bluebird 413,455,507
Kingbird 339
Lark. 507
Purple Finch 457
Snowbird 473
Yellow-rump 433
-rumped Warbler ^ , . 433
European House Sparrow 459
Fairy Titmouse 320.
Fish Crow 513
Hawk , 593
Florida Galliuule 310
Forster's Tern. :... 639
Gadwall 621,622
Gairdner's Woodpecker 455, 546
Golden-crowned Kinglet 409, 410
Sparrow 472
Eagle 589,590
Page.
Golden-eye 626
Warbler 431
GoldFinch 329
Gray-headed Purple Finch 350
Snowbird 474
Ruffed Grouse 599
Titmouse .320, 410, 411, 414
Grass Bunting. 466
Ground Owl 573
Robin 492
Green-head , 621
-backed Goldfinch 462
Heron 617
Ibis 354,615
-winged Teal 623
-tailed Bunting 466,496
Great Blue Heron ...343,344, 616
White Heron 617
Crested Flycatcher 533
Homed Owl 572
Northern Shrike 452
Guinea Hen 502
Guttersnipe 407
Hairy Woodpecker 545
Hammond's Flycatcher 543
Harris's Woodpecker 545
Hanging Bird 459
Heermann's Gull 635
Hermit Thrush 393
Hepburn's Leucosticte 461
Hooded Sheldrake 627
Horned Owl 576
Lark : 487, 332, 464, 498
House Finch . ..344, 349, 350, 358, 370, 404, 449, 450
Pigeon 595
Wren 332,419,422
Hybrid Flicker 556
Indigo Bird^ 435
Kentish Plover 604
Kill-deer 603, 610
Plover 576
Kingbird 532
Kingfisher 310,446,579
Lapland Longspur - 461, 464
Lark Bunting.... 329,487
Sparrow 467,469
Lawrence's Goldfinch 463
Large-billed Water Thrush 486
Lawyer 605
Lazuli Bunting 329, 490
Lead-colored Titmouse 413
INDEX TO PART III.
665
Page.
Lead-colored Vireo 428, 451
Least Bittern 618
Sandpiper 608
Titmouse 413
Vireo .329,451
Lesser Snow Goose. 354, 619
Lewises Woodpecker ^32, 553
Lettuce Bird '. 461
Lincoln^s Sparrow 464
Little Black Rail 613
-head 625
Flycatcher 539
Red Owl 571
Titmouse 355
White Egret 3C9
Long-billed Curlew 609,611
Marsh Wren 425
-clawed Ground Robin 491
-crested Jay 524
-eared Owl 570
-tailed Chat 436
Chickadee 412
House Wren 329,421
Louisiana Tan ager 334, 422, 454
Magpie 337, 345, 377, 518, 570
Mallard 621
Man-o-war Hawk --- 309
Marsh Hawk 577,580
Maryland Yellow-throat 434, 435, 436
Maximilian's Jay 517, 518
McGillivray's Warbler 435
Meadow Lark 468
Mexican Lark 469
Mooking-Bird 401, 448, 527
Mottled Owl. 332,571
Mourning Dove 309, 338, 351, 596
Mountain Blue-bird 370, 404
Chickadee 347,411,412
Eagle ,. 591
Grouse 598
Jay 333,334, 347
Mocking-Bird 399, 400
Partridge 601
Quail 601
Nashville Warbler 427
Night Hawk 537,566,568
Heron 618
Nutcracker 333, 334, 523
NuttalPs Woodpecker 332,447
OHve-backed Thrush 397
-sided Flycatcher 535
Orange-crowned Warbler 429
Orchard Oriole 507,509
Pasre.
Oregon Ground Robin 491, 492
Snowbird 334, 403,473
Swift 566
Thrush 334
Osprey... 593
Parkman's Wren 422
Passenger Pigeon 518, 596
Peregrine Falcon 344, 575
Pigeon Hawk 578
Pigmy Nuthatch 417
Pine Goldfinch ' 463
Pine Hen 599
PiHon Jay 320
Pin-tail 622
Poor Will 567
Prairie Falcon 577, 579
Purple Finch 345
Gallinule *.... 309
Martin ..309,350, 405, 439, 440, 441, 442, 444
Raven 512,513,596
Red-bellied Nuthatch 416
-breasted Woodpecker 549
-and-black-shouldered Blackbird 504
-buff-shouldered Blackbird 503
- whi te-shouldered Blackbird 505
-backed Sandpiper 657
-billed MudHen 613
-breasted Sheldrake 627
Hawk 3:^,582
-head 624,625
Linnet 458,529
-headed Woodpecker 516, 553, 554
-naped Woodpecker 439, 549
-shafted Flicker 455, 516, 555, 579
-shouldered Blackbird 503
Hawk 582
-tailed Hawk 524, 58:2
-throated Woodpecker .., 550
-winged Blackbird 462, 504
Redstart 370,372
Richardson's Pewee 537
Ridgway's Sparrow 471
Ring-bill 625
-billed Gull 638
-necked Woodpecker 576
Robin 333, 345, 403, 408, 422, 423, 518, 581
Thrush 391
Rock Wren 336, 349, 404, 418, 419, 420, 421, 423
Rocky Mountain Bluebird 403
Hermit Thrush 394,397
Rose-breasted Grosbeak 488
Rough-leg 590
-legged Hawk 513,589
-winged Swallow 440, 445, 446
666
INDEX TO PART III.
Page.
Royal Tern 639
Ruby-crowned Kinglet -•.- 401, 409
-throat 559
Raddy Duck 626
RuffedGrouse 599
Rufous-backed Hummer 560
Hummer 339,559
Sage Hen 591,600
Thrasher 399,400
Saker Falcon..-. 577
Sand-hiU Crane .611,619
Savanna Sparrow 353^464,467
Saw-whet Owl 572
Say's Pewee. 344, 459, 534
Scarlet Tanager ,. 454
Screech Owl..-. 518
Sharp-shinned Hawk 561,581
-tailed Grouse 365,599
Shining Ptilogonys 447
Shore Lark 498
Short-eared Owl 571
Shoveller 624
Skylark 469
Sparrow 467
Slate-colored Sparrow 486
Slender-billed Nuthatch 415
Snowbird 350,405,419,613
Snowy Heron 309
Plover 604
Solitary Sandpiper 610
Vireo 450
Song Sparrow * 481, 482, 492
SoraEail 612
Southern Black-cap 412
Shrike 453
Sparrow Hawk 578,585
Spotted Sandpiper 610
Squirrel Hawk 590
Steller's Jay 523, 524
Sunmier Yellowbird 428,431,437
Swainson's Buzzard 584
Hawk 583,584,686
Thrush 372,397
Vireo 356,430
Swallow-tailed Kite .- 309
Tawny Thrush 397,398
Teeter 407
Thick-billed Grebe 643
Sparrow 345,485
Tilt-up : 407
Tit-lark 426
Ton* Crow 513
Towhee 492
Page.
Townsend's Ptilogonys 408
Solitaire 334
Warbler 432
Traiirs Flycatcher -...329, 370, 539
Tree Sparrow 478
Trumpeter Swan 619
Tule Wren 425
Turkey Buzzard 332, 593,594
Valley Bluebird 404
Jay 332,333,379,553
Quail 333,602
Vesper Sparrow 466
Violet-green Swallow 343, 443, 445, 579
Virginia Rail 612
Virginia's Warbler - - - 428
Warbling Vireo 370,448
Water Ouzel. 406
Western Bluebird 402
Chickadee 412
Grebe 641
Kingbird 329, 528, 561
Meadow Lark 506,507
Prairie Chicken 599
Tanager 454
Towhee 491
Warbler 432
White-crownod Sparrow 403
Winter Wren 424
Yellow-bellied Flycatcher 544
Whip-poor-will 567
Whistler [Swan] 619
White-bellied Nuthatch 415
Swallow 439, 440
441, 442, 444, 445, 446
-billed Mud Hen 614
Brant 619
-crowned Sparrow 334, 372, 470
-headed Gull 309
Woodpecker 547,548
-rumped Shrike 453
-tailed Kite 592
Woodpecker 516
-throated Swift 443, 564, 579
-throated Wren 420
-winged Crossbill 456
Willet 609
Wilson's Phalarope 604
Snipe 606
Thrush 398
Williamson's Woodpecker 551
Winter Wren 424
Wood Duck 624
Pewee 329,537
INDEX TO PART III.
66^
Page.
Wood Thrush 507
Wren 323,422
Woodhouse'a Jay 355,526
Wright's Flycatcher 541
Yellow-billed Cuckoo 558
Magpie 332, 519, 553
-breasted Chat 436, 492
Page.
Yellow Hammer - 555
-headed Blackbird,. 502
Orange-crowned Warbler 429
-rumped Warbler 544
-shafted Flicker 555,557
Warbler 329
-winged Sparrow 467
Yelper 605
INDEX TO PART III.
INDIAN NAMES.
The letter aDuexed to a name is the tribe iDitial: P., denotiDg Paiute (or Pah-Ute), S., Shoehone, and and W., Washoe, — the tribes whose vocabularies were, in part, noted.
Page.
Ab'dah, P. ( Corviw carnivorus) 512
Ah'-soo-pannab, P. {Colaptes mexicanus) 555
Assoi'-te-Queh-nah', P. (Arvliihuieo sancti-
joliannis) • 589
Bahns, P- J ( PeUcanus erythrorhynckus) . . , 627 Bah»-nu8, P. < ^ * ^ ^
Gooe- no'atz, S. ( Colapfea meuiicantis) 555
Gueb'-nah, S. ( Aqaila canadensis) 590
Gue-ni'-heet, P. ( Lanis califomious) 637
Hih, S. (Corvus cajntivorue) 512
Ho'shim, W. ( lihinogryphua aura) 593
Hang' o-bo'-ah, W. (Zencedura cdrolinensis).. 596
Kah'gebk, W. ( Corvua carnivorus) 512
Kah'-gebk Nab'-ming, W. {Corvus america-
nus) 514
Kabsoo'-te, W. {Picus harrisi) 545
Kay '-lehk, W. ( GalUnago wilaoni) 606
Kih'-bik, P. ( Oreortyx pictus) 601
Koo'-ta-gueb', P. ( Antrostomus nuttalU) 567
Ko w'-a-look, W. ( Chordeiles henry i) 568
Look'-em, W. (Hedymeles melartooephalus} — 488
Loo'-kem-o, W. ( Botaurus minor) . 618
Ma'-cd-e-kan-ab'-ebk, W. UArcHhuteosancii-
Ma'-hoo-ebk, W. \ johannls 589
Mab'-tem-ab'-tek, W. ( Oreortyx pictus) 601
Moo-boo', P. ( Bubo subarticus) 572
Moob'-um-pooh', W. {Zonotriohia intermedia) . . 471
Ne-bab'-tone, P. {Junco oregoriua) 473
Pab'-at-se'-tone, P. {Stum^lla negUcta) 506
Pab'-bup, W. (Pioicorvus columbianus) ....... 515
Pab-cool'-up-at'-sa-que, P. {Agelwus phceni-
ecus) 503
Pah-t8ik'-we,P. haraculusfloHdanus).. 630 Pab-tsik'-wy-be, V. y *^
Pabn-toy'-be, S. {Eimantopus mexicanus) 606
Pang'-we-chin'uh-moo, S. {Ceryle alcyon) 545
Pe'ab Gueh-nab', 8. {Archihuteo sancti-johan'
nis) 589
Pe'-esb-a-tse, S. {SeJasphorus platycercus) 560
Pi8b'-e-wab'-e-te-tse> S. (Empidonax obseunis) . 541
Pish'-e-wab'-e-tse, S* {Empidonax pusillus) . . . 536
Pob-tahl'-ing-ebk, W. (Aquila canadensis) .. . 590
Pooe- tse'-tsc, W. ( Pipilo chlorurus) 496
Queh' Ab'dab, P. (Corvua americanua) 514
668
PrtgO.
Queh-nab', P. (Aquila canadensis) '. 590
Que-nabk'-et, P. {Larus, sp.) 637
Que'-to-gib, gib, P. (Pica hudsonica) 520
Qu'-um-ab'-utz, S. (Sphyrapicus nucJialis) 549
Se-hoot'-se-pah, P. (Melospiza fallax) 481
Se-yob', W. (Centrocercus uropkasianus) 600
Se-zoob', W. (Xdnihocephalus icteroceplmlus) . , 502 Se-zoob'-te-mo-lab', gebk, W. (Agelceus pkoBni-
ceua) 503
Se-zooh'-te-ya'-lelik, W. (Sturi^ella neghcia).. 506
Si'yeh-eh, S. ( GalUnago wilsoni) 606
Si'-ye-beb, S. ( Fulica aniericana) 614
So-bo-quoy'-e-tse, S. (Spizella arizonw) 479
Soong-oob'-eb, P. (Trochilus alexandriy and
Selasphorus rvfus) ,... 559
Tab'-bab-bone-kah'-bab, P. (Botaurus minor) . 618
Tab'-bah-klat'-uk, W. (Junco oregonus) 473
Tab'-tu t, W. ( Pica hudsonica) 520
Tab' um-pabrr-te, W. (Ceryle alcyon) 545
Te'-lebk, W. (Anas boschas) 621
Teniooh-moob', W. (Bubo subarticus) 572
Tetsuoi', W. ( Colaptes mexicanus) 555
Toet-ea-gueh', S. (Antrostomus nuttalli) 567
Tob'-o-kotz, S. ( Picicarvus columbthnus) 515
Tok'-et-se-wbab', P. (Amphispiza nevadenais). 476 Toowir-b'-e-kim'-booah, S. (Selasphorus platy-
cercus) 560
To-que'-ob, P. ( Sayomis sayua) 534
Tsan'-ak-nnk'ket-ah, P. ( Ceryle alcyon) 545
Tu-ebk'-tuddle, W. ( Oreortyx pictus) 601
Tuttoo-boy'-ebk, W. ( GalUnago tviUoni) 606
Uni-gu'-eet, P. (Hedymeles melanocephalus) . , . 488
Wab-pe'-pannab, P. ( Pivus harrisi) 545
We'abk, P. ( Cyanocitta woodhousii) 526
We-bo'-pe, P. (Zencedura caroUnensis) 596
We'-to- wicb, P. ( Carpodacus frontalis) 458
Wut'-tn-ze-ze, P. (Amphispiza bilineata) 475
Wy'-e-up-ab'-ob, S. ( Chordeiles henryi) 568
Yet'-* o-gisb, P. (Emj^idonax obscurus) 541
Yo-sboo'-ab, W. (Cyanocitta calif ornica) 5C5
You'-oo-hoot'-se-pab, P. (Zonotrichia interme- dia) 471
Yset'ke, W. (Icterus buUocki) 508
INDEX TO PART III.
LOCALITIES DESCRIBED OR SPECIALLY REFERRED TO.
Page.
Acapulco - 309
Antelope Island (Great Salt Lake) 370
Aspinwall 309
Austin (Toyabe Mountains, Nevada) 356
Big Bend (Truckee River, Nevada) 338
Buena Vista Cafion (West Humboldt Mount- ains, Nevada) 355
*' Camp 19" (Ruby Mountains, Nevada) 357
"Camp 22" (East Humboldt Mountains, Ne- vada)... 362
Cape St. Lucas .'.... 309
Carrington Island (Great Salt Lake) 371
Carson City (Nevada) 346
Carson River (Nevada) 350
City of Rocks (Idaho) 365
Clover Mountains (Nevada) 365
Cometock Mountains (Nevada) 344
Dearing's Rancbe (Nevada) 363
Deep Creek (Utah) 366
Edwards^ Creek (Nevada) 352
Fairview Valley (Nevada) 352
Fort Churchill (Nevada) 351
Glendale (Truckee Meadows, Nevada) 336
Holmes's Creek (Nevada) 365
Humboldt Marshes (Nevada) 353
Islands of Pyramid Lake (Nevada) 343
Kamas Prairie (Utah) 377
Nevada Station (Carson River, Nevada) .... 351
Oreana (Humboldt River, Nevada) 354
Overland Ranche (Ruby Valley, Nevada) ... 360
Pack's Canon (Uinta Mountains, Utah) 376
Panama 309
Parley's Park (Wahsatch Mountains, Utah) 371 Plains [between Sacramento and the Sierra
Nevada] 332
Provo River (Utah) 377
Pyramid Lake [vicinity of] 339-344
Rabbit Island (Great Salt Lake) 371
Ruby Mountains (Nevada) 357
Page. Ruby Valley (Nevada) :—
** Camp 19" 357
"Camp 22" 362
Overland Ranche * 360
Sacramento City (California) 310,328
Salt Lake City (Utah) 366
Sand Springs (Carson Desert, Nevada) 352
San Francisco ( California) 310
Secret Valley (East Humboldt Mountains,
Nevada) 363
Sierra Nevada (Caliiornia and Nevada) : —
Western Foot-hills 333
WesternSlope 334
Summit 334
Eastern Slope 335
Soda Lake (Carson Desert, Nevada) 351
Stansbury Island (Great Salt Lake, Utah) .. 371
Steamboat Valley (Nevada) 345
Thousand Spring Valley (Nevada) 365
Toyabe Mountains (Nevada) 3r6
Trout Creek (Upper Humboldt Valley, Ne- vada) 364
Truckee Meadows (Nevada) 336
Truckee Reservation (Nevada) 339
Uinta Mountains (Utah) 376
Unionville (West Humboldt Mountains, Ne- vada) 355
Upper Humboldt Valley (Nevada) : —
Dearing's Ranche 363
Trout Creek 364
Virginia Mountains (Nevada) 344
Virginia City (Nevada) 349
Wahsatch Mountains (Utah) :—
Parley's Park 371
Provo Canon 377
Washoe Valley (Nevada) 344
. Wright's Cafion (West Humboldt Mountains,
Nevada) 354
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