THE BIRDS ( OF 0 ONTARIO.
Mc Twraith,

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Birds of Ontario,

Being a list of Birds observed in the Province of
Ontario, with an Account oftheir Habits.
Distribution, Nests, Eggs, &c.,

Lipa

THOMAS McILWRAITH,

SUPERINTENDENT OF THE ONTARIO DISTRICT

FOR THE

MIGRATION COMMITTEE OF THE AMERICAN
ORNITHOLOGISTS' UNION.

PUBLISHED BY THE HAMILTON ASSOCIATION.

HAMILTON :
A. Lawson & Co., PRINTERS, I0 YORK STREET:

1886.

INTRODUCTION.

Although familiar for the past thirty years with most of the birds
described, I have had but little experience in writing their bistory,
and while so engaged have had frequent occasion to apply to others
for information and advice; in every case I received a prompt and
hearty response, even beyond what I could have anticipated.

To all who have thus contributed to the work, I now beg to
tender my best thanks ; to Dr. Coues I am under special obligation
for permissior to use his writings, of which I have taken full advan-
tage, most of the technical descriptions being from his pen.

Valuable aid has also been received from J. A. Allen, President
of the American Ornithologists Union, and from Messrs. Ridgeway,
Merriam, Brewster and Wheaton, I have received useful suggestions.
In Canada comparatively little attention has been given to the study
of Ornithology, yet, Dr. Garnier, of Lucknow, W. E. Saunders, of
London, W. L. Scott and Geo. R. White, of Ottawa, and others
have readily responded to all enquiries regarding the birds of their
respective districts. I do not suppose that the list in its present form
is complete, but look forward to having it increased by the addition
of such casual visitors, or rare summer residents as may have escaped
observation.

Should this list furnish a starting point for some future Ornitho-
logist when preparing a more comprehensive work on the subject,
or supply to such as may desire it, the means of identifying any
bird that may be found in Ontario ; or be the means of leading any
of our young people to turn occasionally from the excitement of city
life to seek for rest and recreation among the deep and mysterious
haunts of the Black Squirrel and the Blue Jay, the writer will feel
amply repaid for all the labor he has bestowed on it.

CAIRNBRAE, }

HamMILtTon, AuGusr 20th, 1886 T. McILWRAITH.

ON BIRDS AND BIRD MATTERS.

By Tuomas McILWRAITH.

Although the subjects brought before the Association during
the present session have been both numerous and varied, it is some-
what remarkable that no branch of the animal kingdom has yet
come up for consideration. With the view of introducing this
department of Natural History, and thinking that it might be a
pleasing change for you to pass from the consideration of sewage
and other unsavory, though all important subjects, which have
recently engaged your attention, T have availed myself of the oppor-
tunity offered, of asking you to spend an hour with me among the
birds. The subject is a very attractive one, the objects which it
embraces being always near us, varied in form, beautiful in color,
and possessed of the most wonderful instincts, to mark the exercise
of which is a continual source of delight.

A treatise on Ornithology, in the highest meaning of the term,
is beyond the scope of this paper, as it would require us to go back
half-way through the geological periods, where we would find the
early forms of bird life very different from those we see around us
at present.

It is not my purpose to follow the subject in this direction, nor
to attempt giving you a highly scientific dissertation, made unintelli-
gible by the use of unpronounceable technicalities. I would much

5

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prefer taking a cursory glance at what has been written about
American birds from the date of the earliest records we have on the
subject up to the present time,—calling your attention to a few of
the more remarkable species found near this city ; and leaving with
the Association a list of all the birds which have been observed in
Ontario, with special reference to those found in our near neighbor-
hood. This list, I hope, may be useful to the rising generation of
Ornithologists, serving as time rolls on, to show by comparison what
. changes take place in the number and distribution of the different
species. So long ago as 1860, I reada similar paper, and presented
to this Association a similar list, which subsequently appeared in
the Canadian Fournal for that year; but so many changes have,
since that time, been made in the nomenclature, and in the arrange-
ment of the different groups, that we would not now be able to
recognize the birds by the names then given them. These frequent
changes have been a constant source of annoyance to the students
who, after getting fairly familiar with the system, and having
occasion to leave it for a short time, may find on his return that he
will have to begin all over again, and learn to recognize his old
friends by new names—an experience which is certainly very dis-
couraging, and yet when we consider how these changes are brought
about, it seems hardly possible for the present to avoid the difficulty.

To such as have given even a limited amount of attention to
the subject, it will be apparent that among birds there exists certain
natural groups or families, the members of which are related to each
other. Classification undertakes to separate and set apart each of
those groups by itself, under a special family name, and did we
know all the birds in existence, and in what ways they resemble each
other, and in what ways they differ, the work would be comparatively
easy ; but unfortunately, here as elsewhere, human knowledge is
incomplete, and the results are defective for want of proper data.
Besides the difficulties arising from defective knowledge of the
subject, it is evident that the arrangement of the groups can be
carried out in different ways, as viewed from different standpoints :
One may take as the basis of his system the formation of the bill
and feet, while another, ignoring these points, may class together
only such birds as resemble each other in their anatomical structure,
and each of these systematists having his followers writing and

“6

—

ONTARIO.
publishing under the system they favor most, produce the confusion

so much complained of.

The subject of classification is now under consideration by a
committee of the most able living Ornithologists, and it is to be
hoped that their labors will result in the arrangement of a system of
universal application which will be practically permanent.

_As regards American birds, there are at present two different
Jists of names before the public,—one by Dr Elliot Coues, a most
accomplished scholar and brilliant writer, and another by Mr. Robt.
Ridgeway, the accurate, careful curator of the bird department of
the Smithsonian Iustitution. Either of these might be «uite
sufficient were the other out of the way, but having ¢wo only leads
to confusion.

In most of the older systems it was customary to place the birds
of prey first on the list, in consideration of their great size and
strength, the noble (?) eagle occupying a place in the foremost
ranks ; better acquaintance with these birds shows us, however, that
they do not possess the noble qualities attributed to them, that they
are slovenly and irregular in their habits, often gorging themselves
with carrion, and remaining for days in a state of dozing stupidity
till the calls of hunger again force them out in search of things new
and old.

I think it was Professor Lilgeborg of Upsala, who first advo-
cated the view that the birds entitled to the highest rank should be
those which are possessed of the greatest amount of nervous
irritability, and have all bird-like peculiarities most fully developed.
When we consider that these peculiarities include swimming on the
water, hopping on the ground, perching on trees, hopping nimbly
from branch to branch, and making their presence known by their
characteristic and melodious voices, we readily see the justice of
giving the first place to the passeres, or perching birds, all of which
have a much higher organization than the birds of prey. This
arrangement is adopted generally by both Dr Coues and Mr.
Ridgeway, yet they differ slightly in detail, one giving the first place
to our familiar garden songster, the Robin, and the other to the
Wood Thrush, a handsome bird of shy and retiring habits, seldom
seen except in its favorite haunts in the bush. These and similar
differences occur all through the arrangements which we hope soon
to see reconciled.

a
BIRDS OF aie

The birds of North America are understood to be all such as
are found north of the Mexican border, and it is quite interesting
to look back and observe at what rate the published record of species
has increased, as well as the causes which have led to these results.
No doubt many of the common species were observed by the early
settlers in the country, and while raising their primitive homes with
their minds still full of memories of the old land, finding a bird
with a red breast coming familiarly near, he would naturally get the
name of “ Robin ” after the familiar ‘‘ Robin Red Breast ” who was
so much a favorite at home, but for some such circumstances our
Robin might with greater propriety have been called the Red-
breasted Thrush.

In these earlv days the hardy pioneers would have little time to
devote to the study of birds, and still less to record the result of such
observation, but as the country became better known, and the faci-
lities for reaching it were increased, travellers, adventurers, mission-
aries and others made frequent visits from foreign countries, and,
as usual took home glowing accounts of the natural productions of
the new land. Dr _Coues, who has made a careful search for
records of this description, gives in his new “ Key to North
American Birds ” the names of quite a number of books published
between the years 1600 and 1700, in which special reference is
made to the birds of the districts visited by the writers. The Natural
History of Carolina, Florida, etc., by Mark Catesby, published in
parts, is the first in which any definite number of birds is mentioned.
It was brought out in 1731, and by taking into account some
additional species named in the appendix, the total number is
brought up to 113. .

In 1771 J. R. Forster published a tract entitled ‘‘ A Catalogue
of the Animals of North America, ” in which he mentions 302 birds,
but they are not described, nor even named correctly.

In 1787, Pennant and Latham followed, the result of whose
combined labors was the description of 500 species of American
birds.

About this time Gmelin was busy compiling and transcribing
the works of his predecessors, but he did not discover anything new
in the connection, and, according to Dr. Coues, it is to Catesby,

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» Edwards, Forster, Pennant, Latham and Bartram, that the credit

belongs of making North American Ornithology what it was at this
period.

The name of Bartram will always be respected from his connec-
tion with Wilson, yet Bartram himself was an advanced Ornithologist
for the time, and published a list of the birds of the Eastern United
States, naming many species as new, which, it is believed, were
credited by subsequent authors to Wilson.

Prior to 1794, Alexander Wilson lived in his native town of
Paisley, in Kenfrewshire, Scotland, where he followed his father’s
steps as a hand-loom weaver. For a time he turned packman, but
the venture was not a success. He had also courted the Muses,
and had written several pieces, which were so well received as for a
time to be attributed to Burns. In 1789, while carrying the pack,
he added to his wares a prospectus of a volume of his poems, in
which he said “‘if the pedlar should fail to be favored with sale,
then I hope you'll encourage the poet.” But he did not succeed in
either capacity, and, in 1794 he came to America, where he was
once more a weaver, a pedlar, and a school-master. It was here, on
the banks of the Schuylkill, that he enjoyed the society of Bartram,
which was no doubt instrumental in deciding his future course in
life, and in all his troubles he received sympathy and encourage-
ment from this venerable friend and ardent lover of nature The
period of Wilson’s labors here was bright but brief. The first
volume of his work appeared in 1808, and he died in 1813, before
the work was finished. With a cheap gun, hardly safe, with which
to secure his specimens, and only common paper on which to trace
his illustrations, he followed the subject with enthusiasm and perse-
verance, which earned for him a reputation far ahead of all
competitors at the time ; even now he is regarded as the father of
American Ornithology, and many of his descriptions of the birds
are still quoted as the best which have appeared on the subject.
After the untimely death of Wilson the work was carried en and
completed by his associate Ond, who brought out the eighth and
ninth volumes in 1814. In this work about 280 species of birds

were fully and faithfully described, and many of them shown in
colored illustration.

In 1824 Prince Lucien Bonaparte contributed to the ¥ournal

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of the Philadelphia Academy, a series of critical articles on Wilson’s ,
American Ornithology. These referred chiefly to the nomenclature,
a subject to which Wilson paid but little attention. During the ten
years succeeding the above date, several editions of Wilson’s work
appeared, each containing the changes in the nomenclature sug-
gested by Bonaparte, and having descriptions of such new species
as had from time to time been brought to light. Bonaparte’s
principal work was his “ American Ornithology” published in 1833,
in which the number of species described was 366. In 1838 he
published in London his ‘‘ Geographical and Comparative List of
the Birds of Europe and North America,” in which the number of
species was farther raised to 471. The Fauna Boreali Americana
was now in course of publication. The volume descriptive of the
birds, which appeared in 1831, not only described many hitherto
unknown species, but contained a vast amount of valuable informa-
tion regarding the nests, eggs, and habits of the birds in their
northern homes, about which little or nothing had hitherto been
known.

In the mean-time John James Audubon, a man of high culture,
ample means, anda large amount of material to start with, was busy
preparing his great work, the first volume of which appeared in
1827, but was not completed until 1839. The number of birds
described was 506, nearly every species being shown in a colored
illustration.

The attention of Ornithologists was now turned to the west,
and a most valuable contribution was made to the subject by Mr.
John Cassin, who published in 1856 a beautiful, book entitled
“T]lustration of the Birds of California,” illustrated with fifty
colored plates.

In 1858 appeared the celebrated 9th volume of ‘ Pacific Rail-
road Reports,” which overturned the whule previous form of the
subject. The number of specimens sent in by the different survey-
ing parties was very great, and nearly all different species from those
already known in the east. These, with the reports referring to.
them, were placed in the hands of Professor Baird, who, with the
assistance of Messrs. Cassin and Geo. N. Lawrence, revised the
whole subject, and introducing for the sake of comparison the
eastern species already known, made the volume a complete expos-

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ition of all that was known up to that time of the birds of America,
north of Mexico, and bringing up the list of described species to 744.

In 1874 Dr. Coues, then a surgeon in the U. S. Army, published
a check list, which included such additional species as had been
added since the former date, bringing up the number to 778.

In 1880 Mr. Ridgeway, in making out a catalogue of the
specimens in the Smithsonian Institute, Jabelled as North American,
found that they numbered 924, but it is thought that many were
thus included which were collected beyond the limits.

In 1882 Dr. Coues published a second edition of his check list,
in which the number is increased to 888, and in his new key
published in 1884, the number is reduced to 878. So the numbers
stand at present, and as we do not now expect to have many new
species added, any change which takes place will probably be a
reduction, caused by condensing the groups, which many think are
at present too much divided.

Nothing of late years has happened, so well calculated to advance
the interest of this subject, as the result of a meeting which was
held in the Museum of Natural History, in the Central Park, New
York, in September, 1883. The meeting, which was called by
circular, was composed of a few of the leading amateur and _profes-
sional Ornithologists of North America, There were present one
from Ontario, one from New Brunswick, and about twenty from
different States in the Union. The meeting was a most enjoyable
one, as it brought together many who were known to each other by
correspondence, and yet had never personally met. It remained in
session for three days, with Dr. Coues as Chairman, and Mr. E. P.
Bicknell as Secretary. The proceedings resulted in the formation
of an American Ornithologist’s Union, now familiary known as the
A. O. U., witha constitution and by-laws similar to those of the
British Association of similar name. J. A. Allen, of Cambridge,
Mass., was elected President, and Dr. C. H. Merriam, of Locust
Grove, N. Y., Secretary. Committees were formed to report on the
following subjects at the next meeting :—Nomenclature and Classi-
fication, Migration, Osteology, on the desirability or otherwise of
encouraging the English Sparrow, and Distribution of Species. At
the close it was decided, in consideration of the importance of the

Iz

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proceedings, and of the enjoyment they had afforded, to have all
those present photographed in a group, which was subsequently
carried out successfully by Bogardus, of Broadway.

At the second meeting of the Union, held in the same place in
September, 1884, the committee on Nomenclature reported progress
but had not yet completed their-labors. The hope was expressed
that by next September a system of classification and nomenclature
will be agreed on, which will be practically permanent, and save the
annoyance arising from the frequent changes already referred to,

The committee on the desirability or otherwise of encouraging
the English Sparrow, reported that they had taken evidence on the
subject from every State where he was located, and the vote was
almost unanimously against him; but he is here now, and the
committee taking a merciful view of his case, did not at present
recommend any violent measures for his extinction, but suggest that
no more houses be put up fur the accommodation of the birds, that
those who have been in the habit of affording them food and shelter
should discontinue doing so, and that in all States where they have
not yet appeared, every means should be used to keep them out.
If thus left to themselves for a few years, it would be seen whether
the severity of the climate or other causes would be sufficient to
keep them within proper bounds ; if not, an aggressive movement
could then be made against them.

On behalf of the committee on Migration, Dr. Merriam reported
that on taking office as Chairman, he had at once issued circulars
calling for observers tu note and report on the movements of the
birds during the season of migration, and that he had now nearly 700
at different points in the States and Canada ; besides which, every
lighthouse keeper in both countries had instructions from their
departments, to furnish a record of all birds destroyed by flying
against the glass at night, with the date and name of birds so killed
as far as possible,

The amount of information furnished on these subjects was so
great that the Chairman found it impossible to present it in proper
shape without the use of maps, which he hoped within a short time
to be able to supply. He presented an abstract from the reports
referring to the’ movements of one or two representative birds from

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the time they crossed the southern boundary till they reached their
northern limits. But the most interesting facts relating to the subject

were brought forward to show the great destruction which takes
place among the birds by flying against the lighthouses. It is known
that migrations take place mostly during the night, the day being
spent in seeking rest and refreshment. The smaller birds do not
like to cross the lakes, but are found in great numbers flitting along
the shores, or following the course of the larger rivers, the Missis-
sippi valleyin this way becoming the great highway of the travellers
during the season of migration. By looking at the map of the
State of Michigan, it will be observed that northern bound birds
entering that state from the south, finding themselves hemmed in
between Lakes Michigan and Huron, and naturally gather into a
cul de sac to cross at the Straits of Mackinac, which they no doubt
do in vast numbers. ‘‘Inlake Huron, at the eastern end of the
straits, and midway between the shores, lies Spectacle Reef, on
which is erected a lighthouse eighty-six feet above the water level.
The light is of the second order, and shows alternately a red and
white flash every 29 seconds, which is seen in clear weather at a
distance of sixteen and a half miles. The lighthouse is surrounded
by a wooden platform 85 feet square. The keeper of the light, Mr.
William Marshall, has been there seven years, and states that during
the season of migration, on misty and rainy nights large numbers of
birds strike and are killed. On one morning he picked up one hun-
dred and fifty on the pier surrounding the tower, and thinks that ten
times that number fell outside the platform into the water. <A
package of these, which were forwarded for identification, showed
them to be such birds as we are accustomed to see passing north
during the spring. A similar report furnished by the keeper of the
lighthouse at Sombrero Key, Florida Reefs, shows that as many as
200 sometimes strike during one night.” The circulars of instruc-
tions and tabular work are again in the hands of observers for the
spring work of 188, and farther south many entries have no doubt
already been made. Profiting by the experience of last year, the
work has now been better systemized, and more information will
be gained with less trouble. In the course of a year or two we will

no doubt be able to say where all the species spend the winter,
when they leave their winter quarters for the north, at what rate they

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travel, and how far north they go ; but whether we will find out
what excites within birds the desire to migrate, and how they are
able to carry out these desires with such precision and regularity,
is very doubtful.

Having thus reviewed the subject generally, if we turn our
attention homeward we find that in an ornithological point of view,
Hamilton is favorably situated, its surroundings being such as will
attract birds ofall classes. In the country we find highly cultivated
fields alternating with clumps of mixed bush and rocky gullies, while
the bay, with its sandy shores and marshy inlets‘ provides ample
food and shelter for the waders and swimmers. Here, too, we are
favorably situated for observing the movements of the migratory
armies in the spring, and have done so with results similar to those
already described.

Pressing on toward the north through Ohio early in May, the
birds meet the south shore of Lake Erie, and following its course
crowd in perfect swarms along the Niagara River until they strike the
shore of Lake Ontario at right angles. Here, most likely a separa-
tion takes place, some following the line of the lake shore eastward,
while the greater number most likely take the western route, and
are seen flitting from bush to bush along the beach, where for
a few days in May they almost rival the sand flies in number, and
that is saying a good deal. That some attempt to cross the lake is
evident from their frequenily flying on board vessels which are pa s-
ing up and down at that season, and the fact of these iudividuals
being generally much exhausted, would imply that many fall short
of the north shore and perish in the water. ‘The spring of 1882 is
memorable as one in which the birds on their northern journey
received a severe and sudden check. On the 9th of May the season
was unusually tavorable, and the migratory wave was rolling along
ut its height, when a severe north-easter set in during the night,
accompanied by cold drizzly, sleety rain. This forced the birds to
descend from upper air and seek shelter wherever it could be found.
In the morning my garden was full of warblers, all in their glowing
nuptial dress, but dull and draggled, not knowing where tu turn. I
collected more rare specimens in my garden that morning than I
ever did anywhere else in the same time. This would seem to be

14

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an unfortunate resting-place for the birds, but others fared quite as
bad elsewhere, for when a little daughter of Mr. Smith, who keeps
the Ocean House went down to play by the lake shore in the morn-
ing, she returned in a few minutes with her pinafore full of little dead
birds which were being washed up from the lake all along the shore.

In former years it was the custom with those who wished a collection
of birds to have them mounted and placed in glass cases, but the
mounting in very many instances failed to satisfy those who were
familiar with the appearance of the birds in life; besides which,
they took up too much room, and always suffered by transportation.
This mode is now practised mostly by public museums, where the
specimens remain permanently, and are under the care of a curator.
The plan now followed by amateur collectors is to skin and preserve
the specimen, filling out the skin with cotton to about the natural
size, so as to make the bird look as if newly killed. In this way
they are kept in trays in a cabinet, where they are easy of access for
measurement or examination, besides which, through the facilities
offered for transportation by mail, an exchange of duplicates can at
very small cost be made by collectors residing at far distant points,
On the table there are now brought together in this way specimens
from Alaska to Texas, and from New Brunswick to California, as
well as many intermediate points. a

The month of May, above all others in the year, is the one
enjoyed by collectors, the birds being now arrayed in their richest
dress, and excursions to the woods in pursuit of them offering so
pleasing a change after our long, hard winter has passed away.
There is no group of our small birds so interesting as the Warblers,
which, though they do not differ much in size, yet vary greatly in
plumage, some of them, such as the Blackburnian and Black and
Yellow. being exceedingly beautiful, while others are so extremely
rare everywhere that the securing of one is an event of the season.
Among the latter class I may name the Cape May, of which I got
two specimens at the beach one morning in May, 1884.

The name of John Cassin has already been mentioned in this
paper as a representative Ornithologist of his time. Hear what he
says about the birds we are describing :—

“ Bird collecting ” says Mr. Cassin, “is the ultimate refinement»
the ne plus ultra of all the sports of the field. It is attended with

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all the excitement, and requires all the skill of other shooting with a
much higher degree of theoretical information, and consequent
gratification in its exercise. Personal activity, (not necessarily to be
exerted over so great a space as in game bird shooting, but in a
much greater diversity of locality), coolness, steadiness of hand»
quickness of eye and of ear—especially the latter ; in fact all the
accomplishments of a first rate shot will be of service, and some of
them are indispensable to successful collecting. The main reliance,
however, is on the ear for the detection of birds by their notes, and
involves a knowledge the more accurate and discriminating the
better, which can only be acquired by experience, and always
characterizes the true woodsman, whether naturalist or hunter.

‘‘ This ability is of incomparable value to the collector, whether
in the tangled forest, the deep recesses of the swamp, on the sea-
coast, or in the clear woodlands, on mountain or prairie ; it advises
him of whatever birds may be there, and affords him a higher grati-
fication, announcing the presence of a bird he does not know. We
know no more exquisite pleasure than to hear in the woods the note
of a bird which is new to us. It is in the latter case that the culti-
vated quickness of the eye of the experienced collector is especially
important, and his coolness and steadiness of nerve is fully tested.
It will not do to be flustered. But in fact, all these qualities must
be possessed for the acquirement of the smaller species of birds
found in our woods. Some species, especially the Warblers, are
constantly in motion in the pursuit of insects, and are most frequently
met with in the tops of trees ; they are, morever, only to be killed
with the finest shot, or they are spuiled for specimens. The
obtaining of these little birds always requires the most careful and
skilful shooting,

With us the Warblers arrive with remarkable regularity about the
10th of May. Should the season bea lat2 one, they may be observed
at this time gleaning their scanty fare among the almost leafless
branches, ; or again, if early, the leaves may be opening out by the
first of the month, yet the little birds do not appear till their regular
time. As the first flocks arrive they rest and recruit for a day or
two, and then pass on to make rvom for others who arrive and take
their places. So the stream flows on until the Queen’s Birthday,
(May 24). About this time the Black Poll arrives, and when it goes

16

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the migratory season may be considered over, for it is always
the last of this class to arrive in spring. Thrushes, Orioles,
Tanagers and Flycatchers are now here in full life, and the
busy collector can hardly take time to sleep, but if he does he
sees flocks of desirable species rise before his excited vision.
Not till the middle of June, when the birds are all nesting, does
he lay aside the gun and take time to count his treasures.

The Sparrows, as a class, are also well represented near the
city; some of them, such as the Fox Colored, White Crowned
and White Throated, being very handsome birds, which visit
us in spring and fall, but do not remain during the summer or
winter. The best known of this group is the English Sparrow,
which has been looked upon as an outsider, but it is here now
for good (or bad, as the case may be), and is entitled to a place
among the others of its class. With all writers on American
birds, it is at present very unpopular, the principal charges
brought againstit being those of eating the fruit buds, and of
driving away our native birds. Some time ago I gave an
account of my observations on this subject, which appeared
elsewhere, but may be worth repeating here. It was in the
summer of 1874 that I first noticed a pair of these birds about
the outhouses, and in a few days they became quite familiar,
having evidently made up their minds to stay with us. I made
them welcome for old acquaintance sake, and thinking they would
make good settlers, was going to put up a house for them, when
it became apparent that they were providing for themselves in
a manner quite characteristic. Ona peak of the stable wasa
box occupied by a pair of Swallows, who were at that time en-
gaged in rearing their young, and of this box the Sparrows
seemed determined to get possession. The Swallows resisted
their attacks with great spirit, and their outcries bringing a host
of friends to their assistance, the intruders were for a time
driven off, but only to return with renewed energy and per-
severance. The Swallows were now sorely beset, for one had
to remain on guard while the other went in search of supplies.
Still they managed to hold the fort, till the enemy, watching his
opportunity, made a strategic movement from the rear, and
darted into the box. Quicker than | can tell it, he reappeared

a7,

BIRDS OF

with a Callow Swallow hanging bythe nape of the neck in his
bill, dropped it on the ground, and soon dragged out another
amid the distressing cries of the Swallows, who, seeing their
hopes so completely blighted, sat mute and mournful on the
ridge of the house for a short time and then departed, leaving
*the Sparrows in undisputed possession of the box. There they
remained and raised some young ones during the summer.

By the spring of the following year the numbers had in-
creased, and they began to roost under the verandah, which
brought frequent complaints from the sanitary department, and
a protest was made against their being allowed to lodge there.
Still, in view of the prospective riddance of insect pests from
the garden, matters were arranged with the least possible dis-
turbance to the birds, and we even stood by and saw them dis-
lodge a pair of House Wrens, who had for years been in possession
of a box provided for them in an apple tree in the garden. So
the second year wore on, no further notice being taken of the

Sparrows, though we remarked that they were getting more
numerous.

I had missed the sprightly song and lively manners of the
Wrens, and in the spring when they came round again seeking
admission to their old home, I killed the Sparrows which were
in possession, in order to give the Wrens achance, and they at
once took advantage of it, and commenced to carry up sticks in
their usual industrous manner. They had occupied the prem-
ises for two days only, when they were dislodged. Again the
intruders were killed off, and domestic felicity reigned for three
days, when a third pair of Sparrows came along bent on the
same object, and if possible more overbearing and determined
than their predecessors. This time I thought of a different
mode of accomplishing the object in view, and taking down the
box at night nailed a shingle over the end, bored with a centre-
bit a hole just large enough to admit the Wrens, but too small
for the Sparrows, and put the box back into its place. Early
in the morning the assauit was renewed, butthe Wrens found at
once that they were masters of the situation, and never were
two birds more delighted. From his perch aloft the male
poured forth torrents of scorn and ridicule, while the female

18

ONTARIO.

inside the box fairly danced with delight, and I almost fancied
she made faces at the enemy as he struggled ineffectually to
gain admission, or sullenly but fruitlessly tried to widen the
aperture.

Shortly after this dispute was settled, I noticed ten or
twelve Sparrows quietly at work at the grape vines, and feeling
pleased at the havoc thev were apparently making among the
insects passed on, speculating on the increase of fruit I should
have. In the afternoon they had moved to another trellis, and
I thought ‘‘ Well, they are doing the work systematically, and
no doubt effectually.” But shortly afterwards, while passing the
vines where they commenced, I observed a slight debris of
greenery on the grcund. This led to an examination which
showed, to my intense mortification, that the heart had been
eaten out of every fruit bud where the birds had been, and noth-
ing was left but the outside leaves. The report of firearms was
heard several times in the garden that afternoon, many dead
and wounded Sparrows were left to the care of the cats, and
every crevice where the birds were known to breed was closed
up at once.

Since thenthe Wrens have held possession of their box, and
with a little attention I can keep the Sparrows out of the garden,
for they find plenty of provender around the stables; but they
are still on the increase, and if this continues in the future as in
the past, the time is not far distant when the streets and stable
- yards will not furnish food enough, and there is no doubt that
they will then betake themselves to the fields and gardens, and
appropriate whatever suits them. This is the serious view of
the subject which has called for legislation in other countries,
and may do so here unless some unexpected check arises to pre-
vent the necessity for it. In the meantime it is well that all
parties having the opportunity, should take notes of the move-
ments and increase of the birds for future consideration.

One of our most showy birds, and one which seems to
enjoy the society of man, is the Baltimore Oriole, whose clear,
flute-like notes are usually heard around our dwellings for the
first time in spring about the 8th of May, soon after which the

19

BIRDS OF

curious purse-like nest may be observed suspended from the
slender twigs of a neighboring tree. There are seven different
species of Orioles peculiar to North America, all of them very
handsome birds with a general family resemblance. Formerly
we had only one species with us, but in the spring of 1883 I
found that several pairs of Orchard Orioles were breeding at
different points around the city. I hoped that this addition to
our garden birds would be permanent, but last year not one was
noticed. The Orchard Oriole is the smaller bird of the two, and
where the Baltimore is orange it is rich chesnut-brown.

Another showy, dashing, familiar bird is the Blue Jay—
better known around the farm house than in the city. Heis a
gay, rollicking fellow, always ready for plunder or mischief.
The greater number move south at the approach of winter, but
a few remain in the pine woods, whence they issue on mild days
to sun themselves among the tree tops. They are somewhat
gregarious in their habits, and even in the breeding season have
a custom of going about in guerilla bands of four or five, visiting
the farm house in the early morning, seeking a chance to suck
eggs, and woe betide the unlucky Owl whom they happen to
come across on any of these excursions! His peace for that
day is over, for the excitement is often kept up till darkness
forces the Jays to retire.

There is another Jay found in Canada which has not been
noticed so far south as Hamilton. This is the Canada Jay, a
constant hanger on about the lumber camps, where he picks
up bits of m2at or other refuse from the table. His taste for
raw meat is so well known that the lumbermen have given him
the names of ‘‘ Butcher’s Boy,” ‘‘ Meat Bird,” etc. He is very
common in the district of Muskoka, which is his southern limit
in this part of the country. This species is strictly confined to
the north, and has the singular habit of building its nest during
the winter, and raising its young as early as March, while the
ground is still covered with snow. ‘There are eighteen different
Jays described as North American, but the greater number of
these are found on the Pacific coast.

The Woodpeckers, as a class, move off at the advance of
civilization, and when the country becomes clear of heavy tim-

20

ONTARIO.

ber veryfew areseen. In thedistrict of Muskoka there are tracts
which the fire has gone through, leaving many large trees killed
and going to decay. These places are described by my corres-
pondent, Mr. Tisdall, as a perfect paradise for Woodpeckers.
There the large black Logcock is quite common, and the Arctic
Three-toed species is a constant resident. The Raven is also
frequently seen in that district, and during the winter I saw a
fine specimen of the great Cinereous Owl, which had been sent
down to Hamilton from one of the villages.

The Owls are not a numerous family, but all those peculiar
to the eastern part of the continent have been found near
Hamilton, though some of them are of very rare occurrence, the
most recent addition to the list being the Barn Owl, strix
flammea, a specimen of which was shot by young Mr. Reid,
gardener, near the cemetery, in 1882. This harmless mouser is
believed to be identical with the British bird of the same name,
whose history is so strongly colored by superstition; poets and
historians, ancient and modern, uniformly associating his name
with evil. In the writings of Shakespeare frequent allusion is
made to the Owl as a bird of ill repute; thus in connection with
the omens which preceded the death of Cesar, it is said that
*« Yesterday the bird of night did sit even at noonday upon the
market place, hooting and shrieking.” In describing the memor-
able midnight ride, when Thomas Graham of the farm of Shan-
ter, wasprivileged to get a glimpse of the proceedings of a social
science meeting of the moving spirits of the time, the poet
Burns implies that the bird was in the habit of keeping bad
company: ‘Kirk Allowa was drawin’ nigh, whaur ghaists and
hoolets nichtly cry.”

In the rural districts of Scotland, where superstition still
lingers, the ‘“‘hoolet”’ is regarded with aversion, and his visits
to the farm house are looked upon as forerunners of disaster to
the family. Itscry, when heard at night, is described in the
literature of the country as most appalling. Thus, in a song by
Tannahill, the fellow townsman and brother poet of Wilson, the
hero is entreating admission to the chamber of his lady love,
and in describing his uncomfortable position outside, mentions
among other causes that the “cry o’ hoolets makes me eerie.”

21

B'RDS OF

I have listened attentively to the cry of this and other Owls, but
have not noticed anything so terrifying about them. A short
time ago I heard the serenade of the Great Horned Owl, down
near Stoney Creek, underthe mountain. It wasloud and harsh,
and struck me at the time as resembling the neighing of a colt.
Such sounds, when heard unexpectedly at night in a lonely
place, are not calculated to inspire courage in a breast already
depressed with superstituous fear; but the effect produced must
to a great extent depend on the train of thought passing through
the mind of the hearer at the time, for though many a stalwart
Scot has quailed at the cry of the ‘“ hoolet,” it is a matter of
history that the sons of that romantic land, when roused to
enthusiasm by similar sounds extorted from the national instru-
ment, have performed deeds of personal valor which will live in
song and story so long as poets and historians seek such themes.

In our country we have no birds of evil omen, and the Owl
is given his proper place in science and literature. Longfellow
speaks of him as ‘‘a grave bird; a monk who chants midnight
mass in the great temple of nature.”” The object of his visits to
the farm house is well understood, and if they are followed by
disaster 1c 1s usually to the poultry or to the bird himself, if the
farmer’s boys can so direct it.

Towards the little Screech Owl the feeling is quite differ-
ent. When the weather gets severe he frequently takes up his
quarters inside the barn, and remains there undisturbed till the
weather softens in the spring, when he again betakes himself to
the woods. During the day he sits on the cross-beams, glower-
ing at the people as they come and go, but at night he is most
active in the pursuit of mice, which at that season form his
favorite fare.

There is no doubt that before the country was settled, the
sheltered watersof Burlington Bay were a favorite resting place
for the vast crowds of waterfowl which annually pass to and
from their breeding placesinthe north, but now that they are sur-
rounded by railroads, and constantly dotted with steam or sail-
ing craft moving around for trade or pleasure, these visits are
fewer and of shorter duration than in former years. Gulls,
Grebes, Loons and Ducks in large flocks are still observed in

22

ONTARIO.

spring and fall. In the still summer evenings, the bumping
sound of the Bittern is frequently heard coming up from the
marsh, and the little Bittern is common enough in suitable
places all around the bay.

Occasionally Swans and Geese are seen, most frequently in
spring, about the time the ice is breaking up, and in March,
1884, five white Pelicans spent a short time in the open water
near the canal, but such visits are made only by birds who seem
bewildered by foggy weather or exhausted by adverse winds.

Inthe month of May the bay is visited by flocks of the Velvet
Duck, oidemiadeglandi. Their large size and jet black plumage
make them conspicuous objects on the water in the bright sunny
days of the early summer, but, strange to say, they are not long
here before individuals are noticed dead on the Beach, and the
mortality increases so much during their stay that I have counted
as many as ten or a dozen ina walk of two miles along the shore.
The birds are aliin excellent condition, and I have heard of no
satisfactory cause for the occurrence. The fatality seems
to be confined to this species, and was first observed twoor three
years ago, but since that time it has been rather on the increase.
I have not heard of its being noticed elsewhere, which would
imply that the birds die from the effects of something which they
find in the bay. Whether the paper, recently read by Dr.
Chittenden on the evil effects of allowing the city sewers to
empty themselves into its waters, throws any light on the subject
is a matter well worthy of consideration, for if there is anything
being mixed with the water which causes death to the birds it
cannot be conducive to the health of the people.

I have glanced but lightly at the history of a few of the many
species of birds to be found in the neighborhood, but should
farther information be wanted regarding any particular species,
I shall have pleasure inreferring to the list which will henceforth
be in the library of the association, and I hope the time is not
far distant when the library will contain not only the names of
the birds, but that preserved specimens of the birds themselves
will be found within the cabinets in the museum.

(Read before the Hamilton Association, April and, 1835.)

23

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A DESCRIPTION OF THE

“ISIRDS OF ONTARIO,»

=e

EE EOWVEAS AvLeoLE WW ALI Sa.

OrpveR PYGOPODES. Divine Birps.
SuBORDER PODICIPEDES. GreBEs anp Loons.
Famity PODICIPID. Greses.

Genus COLYMBUS Lunn.
SuspcEenus COLYMBUS.

1 COLYMBUS HOLBOELLII (Rernu.). 2

Holboell’s Grebe.

Tarsus about four-fifths the middle toe and claw; bill little shorter than
tarsus ; crests and ruff moderately developed. Length, about 18; wings, 7--8 ,
bill, 1% to nearly 2; tarsus, 3 ; middle toe and claw, 2%. Adult:—Front and
sides of neck rich brownish-red ; throat and sidesof head ashy, whitening where
it joins the dark color of the crown, the feathers slightly ruffed ; top of head
with its slight occipital crest, upper-parts generally, and wings dark-brown
the feathers of the back paler edged; primaries brown; part of inner quills
white ; lower parts pale silvery-ash, the sides watered or obscurely mottled,
sometimes obviously speckled with dusky ; bill black, more or less yellow at
base. The young will be recognized by these last characters, joined with the
peculiar dimensions and proportions.

Has. North America at large, including Greenland. Also Eastern
Siberia, and southward to Japan. Breeds in high latitudes, migrating south
in winter.

The eggs are said to be dull white, clouded with buff or pale green.
25

. BIRDS OF | : ada
This species raises its young in high latitudes, and in winter

goes south as far as Pennsylvania. In spring and fall it is seen
on most of the waters of Ontario, though it is not as numerous
as other two representatives of the family ; it is a regular
visitor at Hamilton Bay, but only remains for a few days,
and being somewhat difficult of approach is not often obtained ;
during the summer or winter it has not been observed. For
many years the young of this species was described as the
Crested Grebe, owing to the close resemblance it bears to the
British bird of that name, Dr. Brewer was the first to point out
the error which is now corrected in all modern works on Ameri-
can Ornithology.

SuBGENUS -DYTES Kaup.

2 COLYMBUS AURIEUS Linn, 3
Horned Grebe

Tarsus about equal to the middle toe without its claw; bill much shorter
than the head, little more than half the tarsus, compressed, higher than wide
at the nostrils, rather obtuse; crests and ruffs highly developed. Small, length,
about 14; extent, 24; wing, 6 or less; bill, about ?; tarsus, 14. Adult :—
Above, dark-brown, the feathers paler edged ; below, silvery-white, the sides
mixed dusky and reddish ; most of the secondaries white ; fore neck and up-
per breast brownish-red ; head glossy black, including the rutt; a broad band
over the eye, to and including occipital crests, brownish-yellow : bill black,
yellow-tipped. The young differas in other species, but always recognizable
by the above measurements and proportions.

Has. Northern hemisphere. Breeds from the Northern United States
northward.
Eggs two, whitish shaded with green.

Generally distributed, breeding in all suitable places throughout
the country, notably at St. Clair flats ; little if any attempt is
made to build a_ nest, the eggs being simply deposited
close together on a clump of bog which is usually afloat,
so that the young when hatched may be said to tumble out of
the shell into the water. Arrives in spring as soon as the ice
begins to break up and remains quite late in the fall, individuals
being occasionally seen on Lake Ontario during the winter.

26

ONTARIO.

3 COLYMBUS NIGRICOLLIS CALIFORNICUS(HEEr«.).4

American Eaced Grebe.

Adult male :—Long ear tufts of rich, yellowish-brown ; head and neck all
round, black; upper parts greyish-black; sides, chestnut ; lower parts, silvery
grey; primaries, dark-chestnut ; secondaries, white, dusky at the base ; length
13inches. Young similar, the ear tufts wanting, and the colors generally duller.

The eggs cannot be distinguished from those of the preceding species.

Has. Northern and Western North America, from the Mississippi
valley westward.

I mention this as an Ontario species on the authority of

Dr. Garnier of Lucknow, Bruce Co., who informs me that a
specimen was sent to him in the flesh from Colpoys Bay, as
being something different from those usually seen at that point;
it was too far gone for preservation when received, but the Dr.,
who has long been an ardent collector, assures me that he is quite
satisfied -of the correctness of his identification.

This species is comparatively a new acquaintance to
American Ornithologists, for although described by Audubon, it
was not found by him. It is now known to breed in Texas, Kan-
sas, Illinois, Dakota and Colorado, so that we need not be sur-
prised if a straggler is now and then wafted this far. out of its or-
dinary course.

Genus PODILYMBUS LEsson.

4 PODILYMBUS. PODICEPS (Linn.). 6
Pied-billed Grebe.

Length 12 to 14; wing, about 5; bill, r or less; tarsus, 14. Adult :—
bill bluish, dusky on the ridge, encircled witha black bar ; throat with a long
black patch ; upper-parts blackish-brown ; primaries ashy-brown, secondaries,
ashy and white ; lower-parts silky-white, more or less mottled or obscured
with dusky ; the lower neck in front, fore breast and sides, washed with rusty.
Young lacking the throat-patch and peculiar marks of the bill, otherwise not
particularly different ; in a very early plumage with the head curiously strip-
ed.

Has. British Provinces southward to Brazil, Buenos Ayres, and Chili,
including West Indies and the Bermudas, breeding nearly throughout its
range.

27

BIRDS OF
Nest a few matted rushes on the bog.. Eggs usually whitish, clouded
with brown.

The Dab Chick is not quite as numerous as the Horned
Grebe, neither is it as hardy, being a little later in arriving in
spring, and disappearing in the fall at the first touch of frost.
It is generally distributed, and is the only one of the family
which breeds in Hamilton Bay, where it may often be seen
in the inlets in summer accompanied by its young with their
curiously striped necks. From its small size and confiding
manners it is not much disturbed, but if alarmed has a con-
venient habit of sinking quietly under water, the point of the
bill being the last part to disappear.

FamMity URINATORIDZ. Loons.
Genus URINATOR Cuvier.
5 URINATOR IMBER (Gunvy.). 7

Loon

Black ; below from the breast white, with dark touches on the sides and
vent ; back with numerous square white spots ; head and neck iridescent with
violet and green, having a patch of sharp white streaks on each side of the
neck and another on the throat ; bill black. Young:—Dark gray above, the
feathers with paler edges ; below, white from the bill, the sides dusky ; bill
yellowish-green and dusky. Length, 24--3 feet ; extent, about 4; wing, about
14 inches; tarsus, 3 or more; longest toe and claw, 4 or more; bill, 3 or less,
at base 1 deep and 4 wide, the culmen, commissure and gonys all gently
curved.

Has. Northern part of Northern hemisphere. In North America breeds
from the northern tier of States northward ; ranges in winter south to the
Gulf of Mexico.

Nest among the flags near the water’s edge. Eggs dull greenish yellow
with numerous spots of brown.

The Loon, on account of its large size, is conspicious where-
ever it appears, and its loud and melancholy cry is often heard
at night during rough weather when the bird itself is invisible.
Many pairs raise their young by the remote lakes and ponds
throughout the country but they all retire further south to spend
the winter ; as soon as the ice disappears they return, mostly in.

28

ONTARIO

pairs, and by the end of May have made choice of their summer
residence. The Loon,in common with some other waterfowl,
has a curious habit when its curiosity is excited by any thing it
does not understand, of pointing its bill straight upwards, and
turning its head rapidly round in every direction as if trying thus
to solve the mystery under consideration. Once, when in my
shooting skiff, behind the rushes, drifting down the Bay before
a light wind, I came upon a pair of these birds feeding about
20 yards apart ; they did not take much notice of what must
have seemed to them to be a clump of floating rushes, and being
close enough to one of them I thought to secure it, but the cap
snapped,when the birds hearing the noise, and still seeing nothing
living,rushed together and got their bills up as described for a con-
sultation, and so close did they keep to each other that I shot
them both dead at forty yards with the second barrel.

6 URINATOR ARCTICUS (Linn.).. 9
Black-throated Loon,

Back and under-parts much as in the last species ; upper part of head
and hind neck, bluish-ash or hoary-gray ; fore neck purplish-black. The
young resemble those of that species but will be known by their inferior size.
Length, under 23 feet ; extent, about 3; wing, 13 or less; tarsus, 3; bill,
about 24.

Has. Northern part of the Northern hemisphere. In North America mi-
grating south in winter to the Northern United States.

This is a much more northern bird than the preceding, it
being very seldom met with in the United States, and then mostly
in winter in immature plumage. In its migratory course it no
doubt visits the waters of Ontario, and should be looked for by
those who have opportunities of doing so. A pair of these birds
which were found in the neighbourhood of Toronto, were in-
cluded in a collection which was sent to the Paris Exhibition in
1866, and I once saw another in Hamilton Bay under circum-
stances which prevented me from shooting it though I was quite
close enough, and satisfied ofits identity. It was ona still, dull
day in the early part of April, the ice on the Bay was broken up
and floating about in loose flakes. Waterfowl of different

é 9

BIRDS OF

kinds were coming rapidly in and pitching down in the open water.
I was out in my shooting skiff in search of specimens when it
suddenly blew up from the East and I was caught among the
the drifting ice; everything in the skiff got soaking wet;
I broke both paddles trying to force a passage, and for a time
was at the mercy of the elements. While drifting along in this
condition I came close toa Black-throated Diver in similiar
trouble, it being caught among the ice unable to rise, and
evidently afraid to dive not knowing where it might come up.
We looked sympathizingly at each other, it uttered a low whin-
ing cry, and we drifted apart; I got safe to land, and it is
to be hoped the rare bird reached the open water and got off in
safety; we did not meet again. From not having seen the species
recently or heard of its capture by others it may be considered
a very rare visitor to these inland waters. In Dr. Wheaton’s
exhaustive report on the birds of Ohio, mention is made of an
individual being shot in Sandusky Bay in the fall of 1880 ; but
the line of its migratory course is probably more along the sea
coast.

7 URINATOR LUMME (GuNN). 11
Red-throated Loon.

Blackish , below white, dark along the sides andon the vent and crissum;
most of head and fore-neck bluish-gray, the throat with a large chestnut patch;
hind neck sharply streaked with white ona blackish ground, bill black.
Young have not these marks on the head and neck, but a profusion of small,
sharp, circular or oval white spots on the back. Size of the last, or rather
less.

Has. Northern part of Northern hemisphere, migrating southward in
winter nearly across the United States.

Breeds in high latitude. Eggs, two in number, pale green.

Audubon found this species breeding at Labrador, and in
the Fauna Boreali-Americana it is spoken of as ‘ frequenting
the shores of Hudson Bay up to the extremity of Melville Pen-
insula.”

39

ONTARIO

Large numbers of these birds visit the waters of Southern
Ontario in March and April, about the time of the breaking up
of the ice; yet an adult with the red throat patch is scarcely
ever seen ; the one in my collection was procured out on Lake
Ontario at midsummer, having tor some reason failed to follow
the flocks to the far north. In the fall very few are seen, their
route to the south being in some other direction.

All the birds of this class have a most ungainly gait on land,
and when surprised away from the water are often taken by the
hand before they can get up to fly; on the water or unde? its sur-
face their motions are exceedingly graceful.

Dr. Coues when speaking in his ‘‘ Birds of the North-west ”
of the familiarity of the Pacific Black-throated Diver in the
harbour of San Pedro, in Southern California, says: ‘They
even came up to the wharves, and played about as unconcerned
as domestic ducks; they constantly swam around the vessels
lying at anchor in the harbour, and all their motions both on,
and under, the clear water could be studied to as much advan-
tage as if the birds had been placed in artificial tanks for the
purpose. Now two or three would ride lightly over the surface,
with the neck gracefully curved, propelled with idle strokes of
their broad paddles to this side or to that, one leg after the
other stretched at ease almost horizontally backwards, while
their flashing eyes first directed upwards with curious sidelong
glances, then peering into the depths below, sought for some at-
tractive morsel. In an instant, with the peculiar motion im-
possible to describe, they would disappear beneath the surface,
leaving a little foam and bubbles to mark where they went down,
and I could follow their course under water ; see them shoot
with marvelous swiftness through the limpid element, as, urged
by powerful strokes of the webbed feet and beats of the half
open wings, they flew rather than swam; see them dart out the
arrow-like bill, transfix an unlucky fish and lightly rise to the
surface again. While under water the bubbles of air carried
down with them cling to the feathers, and they seem be-spangled
with glittering jewels, borrowed for the time from their
native element, and lightly parted with when they leave it,
when they arrange their feathers with a shiver, shaking off the

31

BIRDS OF
last sparkling drop, the feathers look as dry as if the bird had
never been under the water ; the fish is swallowed headforemost
with a peculiar jerking motion, and the bird again swims at ease
with the same graceful curve of the neck.”

Famity ALCIDAE. Auxks, MurrEsS, AND PUFFINS.
SuBFAMILY FRATERCULINZ. Purrins..
Genus FRATERCULA Brisson.

8 FRATERCULA ARCTICA (Linn.). 13
Common Puffin.

Adult male :—Entire upper parts, and acollar passing round the fore
neck, black ; sides of the head and throat greyish-white; lower parts white ;
a horny protuberance on the upper eyelid. Inthe young the white of the
plumage is shaded with dusky, and the curiously shaped bill is less fully de-
veloped. Length 13 inches.

Has. Coasts and islands of the North Atlantic, breeding from France
and the Bay of Fundy northward, Southin winter to Long Island and occasion-
ally farther.

Nest in a burrow underground, or in a hole among the rocks, one egg,
brownish white.

The Puffin is essentially a bird of the seacoast, which it
seldom leaves except under stress of weather. They breed in
immense numbers in Labrador, Newfoundland, and sparingly
in the Bay of Fundy. In winter they scatter along the sea coast
and are found as far South as Long Island. In the report of
The Ottawa Field Naturalists Club for 1882 and 1883, it isstated
that ‘“‘A young bird of this species was shot on the Ottawa,
towards the end of October, 1881. It had probably been blown
inland by a severe storm which took place some days previous.”
This is the only Ontario record we have of its occurrence so far
from the sea.

32

Susramity PHALERINE.
Genus CEPPHUS PAattas.
9. CEPPHUS GRYLLE (Liny.). 27.
Black Guillemot.

Adult male:—In full plumage, black, shaded with dull green; a white
patch on the wings. In all other stages. a marbled mixture of black and
white. Length 13 inches.

Has. Coasts of Northern Europe, southto Denmark and British Islands.
Coast of Maine, south in winter to Philadelphia ; Newfoundland (?)

Eggs laid on the rocks near the sea, 3 in number, sea-green blotched with
brown.

There is an old record of an individual of this and the suc-
ceeding species being found in the Bay in a state of extreme
exhaustion about twenty-five years ago. I did not see the birds
but enquired into the circumstance at the time and considered
the report correct. As none of this family have been observed
since that time, these two can only be regarded as waifs carried
away against their wishes by the force of the wind.

SuBFAMILY ALCINZ.
Genus URIA Brisson.
10. URIA LOMVIA (Liny.). 31.

Brunnich’s Murre.

Adult male :—Head and neck brown, upper-parts, greyish-brown, secon-
daries tipped with white, lower-parts white from the throat downwards.
Length 17 inches.

Has. Coasts and islands of the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans;
south on the Atlantic coast of North America to New Jersey, breeding from
the Gulf of St. Lawrence northward.

Eggs on the clifts near the sea—pale green.

Found on the Bay under circumstances similar to the pre-
ceeding.

33

BIRDS OF
OrpER LONGIPENNES. Lonc-wincep SwimM_ERs.

Famity STERCORARIID. Skuas anp JAEGERs.
11, STERCORARIUS POMARINUS (Temm.). 36.

Pomarine Jaeger.

Middle tail feathers finally projecting about four inches, broad to the tip.
Length, about 20 inches ; wing, 14; bill, 14--1$; tarsus about 2. Adult:—
Back, wings, tail, crissum and lower belly brownish-black ; below from bill
to belly, and neck all round, pure white, excepting accuminate feathers of
sides of neck, which are pale yellow; quills whitish basally, their shafts
largely white ; tarsi above blue, below, with the toes and webs black. Not
quite adult:—As before, but breast with dark spots, sides of the body with
dark bars, blackish of lower belly interrupted ; feet black. Younger:—Whole
under parts, with upper wings and tail-coverts variously marked with white
and dark; feet blotched with yellow. Young:—Whole plumage transversely
barred with dark-brown and rufous: feet mostly yellow. Dusky stage (com-
ing next after the barred plumage just given ?) ; fuliginous, unicolor ; blackish-
brown all over, quite black on the head, rather sooty-brown on the belly ;
sides of the neck slightly shaded with yellow.

Has. Seas and inland waters of northern portion of the Northern hem-
isphere ; chiefly maritime. South in North America to the Great Lakes and -
New Jersey.

Eggs two or three, grayish-olive with black spots.

The Pomarine Skua is occasionally seen in company with
the large gulls which spend a short time during the severity of
winter around the west end of Lake Ontario, following the fish-
ing boats and picking up such loose fish as are shaken out of
the nets. It is spoken of by the Fishermen as a bird of a most
overbearing, tyranical disposition, one which they would gladly
punish, but on these trying trips all hands are occupied with
matters of too much importance, to think of shooting gulls.

Famity LARIDZE. GuLLs anp TERNS.
SuBFAMILY LARIN. GUulLtLs.
Genus GAVIA Bote.

12. GAVIA ALBA (Gunn). 39.
Ivory Gull.

Adult male :—Pure white all over; quillsof the primaries yellow, feet
and legs black, bill dull greenish ; yellow at the tip. Young, plumage clouded

34

ONTARIO.

with dusky. Primaries and tail feathers, spotted with dusky. Length 20
inches.

Has. Arctic Seas, southin winter on the Atlantic coast of North Ameri-
ca to Labrador and Newfoundland. Not yet found on the coast of the
Pacific.

Receiving interesting accounts from the Fishermen of pure
white gulls which follow their boats out on the Lake, I tried
in vain for two seasons to persuade them to take my large single
gun, and bring me a specimen. Finally I got them to attacha
long line to the stern of one of the boats, with a hook at theend,
bated with a ciscoe; in this way they succeeded in getting me a
fine adult male of the Ivory Gull the only one I ever obtained.

Genus RISSA LeEacu.

13. RISSA TRIDACTYLA (Linn.). 40.
Kittiwake,

Hind toe only appearing as a minute knob, its claw abortive. Mantle
rather dark grayish-blue ; first primary with the whole outer web, and the
entire end for about two inches, black ; next one, with the end black about as
far, but outer web elsewhere light, and a white speck at extreme tip ; on the rest
of the primaries that have black, this color decreases in extent proportionally
to the shortening of the quills, so that the base of the black on all is in the
same line when the wings are closed (a pattern peculiar to the species of
Rissa) ; anc these all have white apex. Bill yellow, usually clouded with
olivaceous ; feet dusky olivaceous. Rather small ; 16-18 ; wing, 12; bill, 14-
14; tarsus about the same ; middle toe and claw longer ; tail usually slightly
emarginate. In winter, nape and hind neck shaded with the color of the
mantle. Young:—Bill black ; a black bar on the tail, another across the neck
behind ; wings and tail variously patched with black ; dark spots before and
behind the eyes; quills mostly black.

Has. Arctic Regions, south on the Atlantic coast in winterto the Great
Lakes and the Middle States

Eggs on cliffs overhanging the water.

This species breeds in suitable places from the Gulf of
St. Lawrence north to the shores of the Arctic Seas. It is quite
common on Lake Ontario, making its appearance early in the
fall and remaining over the winter. Even in summer should it
blow up for a day or two from the east a few Kittiwakes may
be seen soaring aloft as if seeking a sheltered resting place ; as

soon as the weather moderates they again disappear.

35

BIRDS OF

14. LARUS GLAUCUS (Bruny). 42.
F Glaucous Gull.

Adult:—Plumage pure white except the mantle which is grayish-blue,
Bill gamboge yellow with a carmine patch toward the end of the lower man-
dible ; feet flesh colour. In the young the upper-parts are yellowish-white,
mottled with pale brown; breast and lower-parts grey; tail white mottled with
brown, length 27 inches.

Has. Arctic Regions, south in winter in North America to the Great
Lakes and Long Island. North Pacific.

During the winter months the ‘‘Burgomaster,” asthis species
is usually named, may be seen roaming around the shores of
Lake Ontario, seeking what it may devour, and is not very
scrupulous either as regards quantity or quality. In the Fauna
Boreali-Americana, it is described as being ‘“‘notoriously greedy
and voracious, preying not only on fish and birds but on carrion
of every kind; one which was killed in Capt. Ross’s expedition,
disgorged an auk when it was struck, and on dissection was
found to have another in its stomach.”

In March when the days begin to lengthen, and the ice be-
gins to soften, these large gulls rise ftom Lake Ontario, and
soaring around in wide circles at a great height passaway toward
the north.

In the spring of 1884 a specimen of the Glaucous Gull was
shot near Toronto, by Mr. George Guest of that city.

Genus LARUS Linneus.
15. LARUS MARINUS (Liny.). 47.
Great Black-backed Gull.

Feet flesh-colored ; bill yellow with red spot. Mantle blackish slate-
color ; first primary with the end white for 2-3 inches ; second primary with
a white sub-apical spot, and like the remaining ones that are crossed with
black, having the tip white (when not quite mature, the first, with small
white tip and sub-apical spot, the second with white tip alone). In winter,
head and neck streaked with dusky. Young :—Whitish, variously washed,
mottled and patched with brown or dusky ; quills and tail black, with or
without white tips; bill black, Very large ; length 30 inches; wing, 184 ;
bill above 23.

36

ONTARIO

Has. Coast of the North Atlantic ; south in winter to Long Island and
Italy.

Nest on the ground, eggs, three, drab, blotched with brownish black.

This large and powerful gull is often seen by the Lake
Ontario fishermen following the boats, but always at a safe
distance. It greedily devours such dead or dying fish as may
be shaken clear of the nets, and furiously drives off any of the
smaller gulls which would seek to share the spoil. It has evi-
dently a wholesome dread of man, but is not acquainted with all
his ways, the specimen in my collection having been poisoned
by swallowing a bait which was intended for a Bald Eagle.

LARUS ARGENTATUS SMITHSONIANUS Couves.

16. American Herring Gull. 51. a.

Feet flesh-color : bill yellow with red spot; mantle pale dull blue
(darker than in leucopterus, but nothing like the deep slate of marinus, much
the same as in all the rest of the species); primaries marked as in marinus
(but the great majority of specimens will be found to have the not quite
mature or final condition); length, 22-27; wings 15-18; tarsus, 2}-2$ ; bill,
about 2} long, about %--$ deepa base, and about the sameat the protuberance.
In winter ; head and hind neck streaked with dusky. Young:—At first almost
entirely fuscous or sooty-brown, the feathers of the back, white-tipped or
not ; size atthe minimum above given. As its grows old, it gradually lightens ;
the head, neck and under parts are usually quite whitish, before the markings
of the quills are apparent, and before the blue begins to show, as it does in
patches, mixed with brown ; the black on the tail narrows to a bar, at the
same time the primaries are assuming their characters, but this bar disappears
before the primaries gain their perfect pattern. At one time the bill is flesh-
color or yellowish, black-tipped

Has. North America generally, breeding on the Atlantic coast from
Maine northward ; in winter south to Cuba and Lower California.

Eggs, three, greenish-gray, blotched with dark brown.

This is the most abundant bird of its class on the inland
lakes, it may be seen at nearly all seasons of the year either
soaring in wide circles overhead or passing along in front of the
wharves always on the alert to examine any offal which may be
thrown overboard from the vessels. It breeds abundantly along
the sea coast and also in suitable places inland, as shown by

37

BIRDS OF

the following which occurs in the transactions of the Ottawa
Field Naturalist Club for 1881. ‘* On this excursion, which was
held about the 21st of May, we succeeded in discovering on one
of the many small lakes near the Cave, a nest of the common
Gull (Larus argentatus) but we were unfortunately too late, as
not only were the eggs hatched, but the young had already left
the nest; from this fact it is probable that, with this species, the
period of incubation is very early inthe season. The nest, which
was very shallow, was built almost altogether of dried moss, and
was placed on the top of a small rock which stood about a foot
and a half out of the water towards one end of the lake.”

17. LARUS DELAWARENSIS Orp. 54.
Ring-billed Gull.

Adult plumage precisely like that of the Herring Gull, and its changes
substantially the same; bill greenish-yellow, encircled with a black band near
the end, usually complete, sometimes defective, the tip and most of the cut-
ting edges of the bill yellow; in high condition, the angle of the mouth and
and a small spot beside the black, red; feet olivaceous, obscured with dusky
or bluish, and partly yellow; the webs bright chrome. Notably smaller than
argentatus; length usually 18-20 inches; extent, about 48; wing, about 15;
bill, under 2, and only about $ deep at the protuberance; tarsus, about 2,
obviously longer than the middle toe.

Has. North America at large; south in winter to Cuba and Mexico.

Eggs 4; dark cream color, blotched with purple, umber, and black.

This is one of the common Gulls which frequent Lake
Ontario during the winter, whose numbers helpto make up the
vast crowd which is frequently seen assembled on the edge of

the ice at the western extremity of the Lake, or in Hamilton
Bay, near the canal.

In all stages of plumage it bears a strong resemblance to the
Herring Gull, but the ring round the bill and its smaller size
serve as distinguishing marks.

18, LARUS FRANKLINII Sw. & Ricu. 59-
Franklin’s Gull

Adult male:—Eyelids, neck, rump, tail and lower parts white, the latter
with the under-part of the wings, deeply tinged with rich rosy red; hood,

38

ONTARIO.
black, descending downwards on the nape and throat; mantle and wings,
bluish-grey; a band of black crosses the five outer primaries near the end, all
the quills feathers are tipped with white. Young, changing with age as in
other birds of this class. Length 15 inches.

Has. Interior of North America, breeding chiefly north of the United
States ; south in winter to South America,

Eggs, four, greenish-gray with numerous brown markings, heaviest at the
larger end.

When questioning that indefatigable sportsman, John Dynes,
about the rare birds he had seen on his many excursions round
the bay, he told me of a gull with a pink breast, which he had
sometimes seen in the fall, and finally in October, 1865, he
brought me one of the birds thus referred to, which proved to
be of this species; subsequently I shot another in the month of
April, about the time the ice was breaking up ; the latter was in
a more advanced stage of plumage, but neither was mature.

These are the only individuals I have heard of occur-
ring here, their line of migration being probably more toward
the Missisippi, as, according to Dr. Coues, they are not found
on the Atlantic coast. Professor Macoun found them at Gull
Lake in varicus stages of plumage.

19. LARUS PHILADELPHIA (Orp). 60.
Bonaparte’s Gull.

Tarsus about equal to middle toeandclaw. Small; 12-14; wing, 94-184;
tarsus, 14 ; bill, 14--14, very slender, like a Tern’s. Adult in summer : — Bill
black ; mantle pearly blue, much paler than in atricilla ; hood slaty-plumbeous
with white touches on the eyelids ; many wing-coverts white ; feet chrome-
yellow, tinged with coral red; webs vermilion. Primaries finally :—The first
5-6 with the shafts white except at tip ; first white, white outer web and ex-
treme tip black ; second white, more broadly crossed with black; 3d to 6th-
8th with the black successively decreasing. In winter nohood, but a dark
auricular spot. Young :—Mottled and patched abcve with brown or grey,
and usually a dusky bar on the wing ; the tail with a black bar, the primaries

with more black, the bill dusky, much of the lower mandible flesh colored or
yellowish, as are the feet. .

Has. Whole of North America, breeding mostly north of the United
States ; south in winter to Mexico and Central America.

Eggs scarcely known.

39

BIRDS OF
About the middle of May this dainty little Gull arrives in
small flocks, and for a week or two enlivens the shores of the
Bay with its airy gambols, but soon passes on farther north to
its breeding grounds. In the fall it returns, subdued in dress
and manners, remains till the weather begins to get cold, and
then retires to the South to spend the winter.

It has a wide distribution, being found at some period of
the year at almost every point on the continent. Speaking of
this species in the ‘ Birds of the Northwest,” Dr. Coues says ;
“This little Gull holds its own, from the Labrador crags,
against which the waves of an angered ocean ceaselessly beat,
to the low, sandy shores of the Gulf, caressed by the soothing bil-
lows of a tropical sea.”’

SUBFAMILY STERNINZ Terns.
Genus STERNA Linneus.
Surcenus THALASSEUS Boz.
29. STERNA TSCHEGRAVA LeEpecnu. 64.

Caspian Tern.

Adult male ; Crown, sides of the head, and hind head, black, glossed with
green, back and wings, light bluish-gray, the outer primaries dark bluish-gray
on the inner webs, upper tail coverts and tail grayish-white, neck and lower
parts pure white, bill rich vermilion, legs and feet black, tail slightly forked.
Young mottled and barred with dull brown. Length 20 inches.

Has. Nearly cosmopolitan ; in North America breeding southward to
Virginia, Lake Michigan, Nevada, and California.

Eggs, two, laid in a hollow in the sand; pale olive buff, marked with
spots of dark brown.

The harsh cry, long pointed wings, and coral red bill of this
species, at once attract the attention of any one who may happen
to be close enough for observation. In spring, when at liberty
to move about, they visit Hamilton Bay in small numbers, and
are seen fishing, about the mouths of the inlets or more frequent-
ly basking in the sun on a sandy point which runs out into the

40

ONTARIO.

bay opposite Dynes’ place. In the fall they pay a similar visit,
but at this season they are less attractive in appearance, the bill
having lost much of its brilliancy, and the plumage being com-
paratively dull.

91.STERNA SANDVICENSIS ACUFLAVIDA (CaBor.). Ga.
Cabot’s Tern.

Bill rather longer than the head, slender, black, with the tip yellow,
mouth inside, deep blue; feet, black; wings longer than the tail, which is
deeply forked ; upper part of the head and hind neck, bluish-black ; sides of
the head, neck all round, and rest of the lower parts, white; the sides and
breast tinged with pink; fore part of the back, scapulars and upper surface
of the wings pale bluish-gray, the tips and greater part of the inner web of
the scapulars and quills, white, as are the rump and tail ; the four outer quills
blackish, but covered with light gray down on the outer webs, and over a con-
siderable portion of the znner, their shafts white. Length, 15-16; wing, 12-50.

Eggs, two to three, dropped on the dry sand, rather pointed, yellowish
drab, spotted with dark and reddish brown.

The usual habitat of this species is so far to the south of us
that I would hesitate to include it in this list, but for the conclu-
sive evidence we have of its being taken within our limits.

In the spring of 1882, Dr. Garnier noticed three terns of this
species coursing around a mill-pond not far from his residence
at Lucknow. The'Dr. attended to them at once, the result was
that one went clear off toward Lake Huron, another wriggled
with difficulty after it, and the third fell dead on the pond. I
afterward saw this specimen mounted, and satisfied myself of its
identity. It is difficult to account for birds wandering away at
times beyond their usual limit, yet we might with as much truth
say that it is difficult to account for birds so regularly keeping
within certain limits, but when those of this class find themselves
farther from home than they intended, it does not cost them
much labour to correct the mistake.

Suspcenus STERNA.
Za. SG LERNA FORSTERI Nurr. _69.

Forster’s Tern.
Like the next ; larger, tail longer than wings. Wing of adult, 94--10} ;
tail, 64--8, thus often beyond the extreme of hirundo, and nearly as in

41

BIRDS OF

paradisaea; bill, 1% (14--1$), and about 2-5 deep at base (in hirundo rarely if
ever so deep); tarsus seldom down to $; whole foot, about 2. Littleor no
plumbeous wash below ; inner web of the outer tail feather darker than outer
web of the same. Young and winter birds may be distinguished from hirundo
at gunshot range; the, black cap is almost entirely wanting, and in its place
i; abroad black band an each side of the head through the eye ; several
lateral tail feathers are largely dusky on the inner webs ; their outer webs are
white.

Has. North America generally, breeding from Manitoba southward, in
the United States to Virginia, Illinois, Texas, and California; in winter
southward to Brazil.

Eggs, twoto three, drab, blotched and spotted with brown of different
shades.

Said to breed in suitable places from Texas to the Fur coun-
tries; on Lake Ontario it is only a casual visitor in spring and
fall, but it breeds abundantly in the marshes along the River
St. Clair. In general appearance it bears a close resemblance
to the next species, but the difference is readily seen by referring
to the peculiar markings of the tail feathers.

>
w

STERNA HIRUNDO Linn. 170.

Common Tern.

Bill red, blackening on the terminal third, the very point usually light ,
feet coralred. Mantle pearly grayish-blue ; primary shafts white except at the
end ; below white, washed with pale pearly plumbeous blanching on throat
and lower belly. Tail mostly white, the outer web of the outer feather dark-
er than inner web of the same. Length of male, 14} (13--16) ; extent, 31
(29--32); wing, 10 (g$--11$); tail, 6 (5--7); tarsus, $ (§--Z); bill, 1}--14 ; whole
foot, averaging 1? ; female rather less; averaging toward these minima ; young
birds may show a little smaller, in length of tail particularly, and so of total
length ; length, 12 or more ; wing, 9 or more;; tail, 4 or more; bill, 14 or more
In winter this species does not appear to lose the black-cap, contrary toa
nearly universal rule. Young :—Bill mostly dusky, but much of the under
mandible yellowish; feet simply yellowish ; cap more or less defective ; back
and wings patched and barred with grey and light brown, the bluish showing
imperfectly if at all, but this color shading much of thetail ; usually a blackish
bar along the lesser coverts, and several tail feathers dusky on the outer web;
below, pure white, or with very little plumbeous shade.

Has. Greater part of Northern hemisphere and Africa. In North
America chiefly confined to the Eastern Province, breeding from the Arctic

coast, somewhat irregularly, to Florida and Texas, and wintering northward
to Virginia.

42

ONTARIO, |
Eggs, two or three deposited in a hollow in the sand, light brown, tinged
with green and blotched with dark brown.

The Sea Swallow, as this species has often been called, is
common to both continents, and has been found breeding as far
north as Greenland and Spitzbergen; its return to its summer
haunts is hailed as a sure indication that winter is really gone,
and for a time many a quiet bay and inlet is enlivened by its
presence. ;

“Swift by the window skims the Tern,
On light and glancing wing,
And every sound which rises up
Gives token of the Spring.”’

At Hamilton Bay it makes its appearance about the toth of
May, and in company with the black-headed Gulls, in merry
groups go careering around the shores, or settle on the sand
bars to rest and plume their feathers in the sun. By the end of
the month they have all gone to the St. Clair marshes or some
such place to raise their young; again paying us a short visit
in the Fall on their way South.

24. STERNA-PARADISAA Brounn. 71.

Arctic Tern,

Bill, carmine; Feet, vermillion; plumage, like that of Hirundo, but much
darker below, the plumbeous wash so heavy that these parts are scarcely
paler than the mantle; crissum, pure white; throat and sides of the neck,
white or tinged with gray. In winter, cap defective; in young the same,
upper parts patched with gray, brown or rufus; under parts paler or white;
a dark bar on the wing; outer webs of several tail feathers, dusky ; bill
blackish or dusky red with yellow on the under mandible; feet, dull orange,
smaller than hirundo, but tail much longer, Length, 14-17; wing, 10-12;
tail 5-8; bill, r.20-1.40.

Has. Northern hemisphere; in North America breeding from Massa-
chussetts to the Arctic Regions, and wintering southward to Virginia and
California.

Eggs 2 to 3; laid on the bare rock; drab, spotted and dashed with brown
of different shades.

For several reasons the Terns which visit Ontario are less
known than birds belonging to other classes; they are not
sought after by sportsmen, and at present the number of collect-

43

BIRDS OF

ors is so few, that the Sea Swallows (as they are here called,)
are little molested ; then there are several species such as the
Common Tern, Forster’s Tern, and the one we are now con-
sidering, which resemble each other so closely, that the differ-
ence can only be made out on careful examination by one who
is familiar with the subject. As compared with the Common
Tern, the present species is a bird of more slender make, the
tail feathers are usually much longer, and the under parts of a
much darker shade..

In the spring and fall, flocks of Terns resembling each other
in general appearance are seen frequenting Hamilton Bay, and
the inlets along the shores of Lake Ontario, considering the
range of this species it is likely that it is here with the others,
but among the few which I have killed, I have not found any.

In the collection of birds got together undcr direction of the
late Prof. Hincks, and sent to the Paris Exhibition in 1867, a
pair of Arctic Terns was included which were said to have been
procured near Toronto. :

SusBGENus STERNULA Bote.
25. STERNA ANTILLARUM (Less.). 174.

Least Tern.

Bill yel’ow, usually tipped with black. Mantle pale pearly grayish-blue,
unchanged on the rump and tail; a white frontal crescent, separating the
black from the bill, bounded below by a black loral stripe reaching the bill;
shafts of two or more outer primaries black on the upper surface, white under-
neath; feet orange. Young:—Cap too defective to show the crescent; bill
dark, much of the under mandible pale; feet obscured. Very small, only
8-9; wing, 6-64; tail, 2-34; bill, 1-1}; tarsus, §.

Has. Northern South America, Northward to California and New Eng-

lend, and casually to Labrador, breeding nearly throughout its range.

Eggs, 2 to 3; variable in color; usually drab, speckled with lilac and
brown ; left in a slight depression in the dry beach sand beyond the reach of
water,

This is a refined minature of the Common Tern, and a very
handsome, active little bird; it is common along the sea coast
to the south of us but probably does not often come as far north

44

ONTARIO
as Lake Ontario. Dr. Wheaton mentions it as of irregular
occurrence on Lake Erie, and Dr. Brodie reports it as being
found near Toronto. In the month of october, several years
ago, I shot an immature specimen as it rose from a piece of drift
wood in Hamilton Bay, during a southerly blow of several days
duration, which is the only time I have ever seen the species here.

Genus HYDROCHELIDON Bote.

HYDROCHELIDON NIGRA SURINAMENSIS (Gmez.).

26. Black Terr. 77.

Adult in breeding plumage; head, neck and under parts, uniform jet”
black ; back, wings and tail plumbeous ; primaries unstriped ; crissum pure
white ; bill black. In winter and young birds, the black is mostly replaced
by white on the forehead, sides of head and under parts, the crown, occiput
and neck behind, with the sides under the wings, being dusky-gray ; a dark
auricular patch and another before the eye ; in a very early stage, the upper-
parts are varied with dull brown. Small; wing, 8--9, little less than the whole
length of the bird ; tail, 34, simply forked; bill, 1--14; tarsus, $; middle toe
and claw, 14.

Has. Temperate and tropical America. From Alaska and the Fur
countries to Chili, breeding from the middle United States northward.

No nest. Eggs, on the bog, two or three, brownish olive, splashed and
spotted with brown.

Common to both Continents, extending its migrations far
north; it has been found in Iceland, and according to Richard-
son is known to breed in the fur countries. It enters Southern
Ontario early in May and often visits the various feeding
resorts along the route, in company with the smaller Gulls,and
retires to the marshes to raise its young. At St. Clair flats it
breeds abundantly, its eggs being often seen apparently neglect-
ed, yet they are said to be covered by the female at night and in
-rough weather.

In the fall it is again seen moving about with its young, but
seems rather tender as it is one of the first to retire to the South

45

BIRDS OF
Famity SULIDZ. GannetTs.
Genus SULA BRISSON.
Suscenus DYSPORUS ILticer.
27. SULA BASSANA (Linn,), 117.
Gannet.

Adult male: White, the head and hind neck, tinged with yellowish
brown, primaries black. Young dark-brown spotted with white, lower parts
grayish white, Length, 30 inches.

Has. Coasts of the North Atlantic, southin winter tothe Gulf of Mexico
and Africa: breeds from Maine and the British Islands northward.

Breeds in communities on rocks near the sea. One egg, pale greenish
blue.

Although a bird of powerful flight, the Solan Goose seldom
wanders far from the sea. The only record we have of its oc-
currence in Southern Ontario is that of a single individual
which was foundin Hamilton Bay, in a state of extreme exhaus-
tion, after a severe ‘“‘ north-easte>.”

It has many favorite breeding places along the coast from
Maine northward, one of the most extensive of which is ‘‘ Gannet
Rock” in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, where the birds sit on the
ledges in such numbers as to give the rock, when viewed from a
distance the appearance of being covered with snow.

Famity PHALACROCORACID. Cormorants.
Genus PHALACROCORAX Brisson.
SusceEnus PHALACROCORAX.

28. PHALACROCORAX CARBO (Linn.). 119.

Cormorant

General plumage, black, glossed with blue, a white patch on the throat
and another on the sides of the body ; in summer the head is crested with
long narrow feathers which fall off when the breeding season is over, the white
patch on the throat and sides also disappear about the same time. Length,
36 inches.

Has. Coasts of the North Atlantic, south in winter on the coast of the
United States, casually to the Carolinas ; breeding (formerly) from Massa-
chusetts northward.

Nest on precipitous rocks, built of sticks and sea-weed, kept in a filthy
condition from the refuse of the larder, etc. Eggs, three to four, pale bluish
green.

46

ONTARIO.

Although the Cormorants are generally birds of the sea-coast,
yet when not specially engaged at home, they make periodical
excursions to the lakes, where no doubt they find the change of
food and scenery very agreeable; in spring and fall they are
occasionally seen on Hamilton Bay, following their usual avoca-
tion of fishing. Not long since I looked at one through a
powerful glass as he sat on the buoy out off the wharves, and
could not but admire the graceful motions of his long, lithe neck,
as he preened his plumage in conscious safety ; perhapsat that
distance the inspection was more pleasant than it might have
been closer by, as these birds, though apparently cleanly, carry
with them a most unsavory odor.

29. PHALACROCORAX DILOPHUS (Sw. & Ricu.). 120.

Double-crested Cormorant,

Tail of twelve feathers ; gular sac convex or nearly straight-edged behind.
Glossy greenish-black ; feathers of the back and wings coppery.gray, black-
shafted, black-edged ; adult with curly black Jateral crests, and in the breed-
ing season other filamentous white ones over the eyes and along the sides of
the neck; white flank-patch, not observed in the specimens examined, but
probably occurring; gular sac and lores orange. Eyes green. Length, 30-33
inches ; wing, 12 or more; tail, 6 or more; bill along gape, 34; tarsus a little
over 2. Young, plain dark-brown, paler or grayish (even white on the breast)
below, without head plumes.

Has. Eastern coast of North America, breeding from the Bay of Fundy
northward ; southward in the interior to the Great Lakes and Wisconsin.

Eggs, two to three, bluish green.

This, like the preceding species, occasionally visits the inland
lakes, and is distinguished by its smaller size and richer plumage.
The specimen in my collection I shot off Huckleberry Point, as
it rose from a partially submerged stump, which it had used fora
short time as a fishing station. All the Cormorants have the
reputation of being voracious feeders, and they certainly have a
very nimble way of catching and swallowing their prey, yet it is
not likely that they consume more than other birds of similar
size.

47

BIRDS OF
Famity PELECANID.

SuBGENus CYRTOPELICANUS REIcHENBACH.
30. PELECANUS ERYTHRORHYNCHOS Gmet. 125.

American White Pelican.

White ; occiput and breast yellow ; primaries, their coverts, bastard quills
and many secondaries black ; bill, sac, lores and feet yellow. Length, about 4
feet ; expanse, 7-9 : wing, 2; bill, 1 or more ; tail, 4; normally 24-feathered.

Has. Temperate North America, north in the interior to about Lat.
61, south to Central America: now rare or accidental in the Northeastern
States ; abundant in the Middle Province and along the Gulf coast ; common
on the coast of California and Western Mexico.

Nest on the ground or in a low bush near the water. Eggs, one to three,
dull white.

Early in the month of May, 1864, five of these large, odd-
looking birds were observed on Hamilton Bay, and were accord-
ed such attention as is usually given to visitors of this description.
John Dynes was the first to give them a salute, and captured
two of their number, one of which came into my possession, the
other three remained for a day or two, but were much disturbed,
anc finally got away. On the 13th March, 1884, a similar visit
was made by a like number, about the time the ice was brea‘ing
up. Mr. Smith, who was in charge of the Ocean House at the
time, saw them flying heavily up the lake. They seemed much
exhausted, and, on alighting on the ice near the edge of the
water, at once squatted flat, with the head resting between the
shoulders. On two or three rifle bullets being landed uncom-
fortably near them, they again got up reluctantly, and went off
east down the lake, hugging the shore for shelter from the wind,
which was blowing fresh at the time.

I have heard of specimens being captured at other points in
Ontario, but as we are a long way east of their line of migration,
all of these can only be regarded as stragglers driven from their
course by high winds or bewildered by foggy weather.

Professor Macoun found them breeding at Old Wives, Gull
and Long Lakes in the Northwest.
48

ONTARIO.
OrpDER ANSERES. LAMELLIROSTRAL SWIMMERS.

Famity ANATIDZ. Ducks, GEESE, AND SWANS.
SuBFAMILY MERGIN/E. MERGANSERS.
Genus MERGANSER Brisson.

31. MERGANSER AMERICANUS (Cass.). 129

American Merganser.

Nostrils nearly median ; frontal feathers reaching beyond those on sides
of bill; male with the head scarcely crested, glossy green; back and wings
black and white, latter crossed by one black bar : under parts salmon-colored;
length, about 24; wing, 11, female smaller, occipital crest better developed,
but still flimsy ; head and neck reddish-brown ;_ back parts of the male ashy
gray ; less white onthe wing; under parts less tinted with salmon.

Has. North America generally, breeding south to the Northern United
States.

Nest on the ground, built of weeds and moss, and lined withdown. Eggs
six to eight, buff or dark cream.

This is the largest, and by many considered the handsomest
of the three Saw-bills which visit us; it is never plentiful, being
more a bird of the sea-coast, but is usually seen singly or in
pairs among the flocks of waterfowl which crowd up from the
South as soon as the ice begins to move in the lakes and rivers
in spring.

In the fall they are again observed in company with their
young, which at this stage all resemble the female in plumage.
The flesh of the Saw-bills being fishy, the gunners often allow
them to pass when a Blue-bill or a Red-head would not get so
easily off.

32. MERGANSER SERRATOR (Linn.). 130.
Red-breasted Merganser.

Nostrils sub-basal ; frontal feathers not reaching beyond those on sides of
bill ; a long, thin, pointed crest in both sexes. Smaller than the last; wing,
8-9; general coloration, sexual difference the same, but the male with the
jugulum rich reddish-brown, black-streaked, the sides conspicuously finely
waved with black, a white, black-bordered mark in front of the wing, and the
wing crossed by two black bars.

49

BIRDS OF

Has. Northern portions of Northern hemisphere; south, in winter,
throughout the United States.

Nest among the weeds, built of grass, and warmly lined with down. Eggs,
nine to ten, creamy buff.

Rather more numerous than the preceding, being often seen
in spring and fall in flocks of six or eight, fishing about the
mouths of the inlets in Hamilton Bay.

This species is common to both continents, and breeds on
the rocky islets on many of the inland lochs in the north of
Scotland. All the young birds appear for the first season in the
plumage of the female, but the male can readily be distinguished
by a peculiar bony enlargement in the windpipe, which does not
occur in the opposite sex.

It is said that in this and the preceding species, as soon as
the female has completed her set of eggs, the male has the un-
gallant habit of ignoring all family responsibilities, and leaves
the entire care of the youngsters to their mother, who leads them
carefully to the water, and gives them their first lesson at a very
early age.

Genus LOPHODYTES ReEIcHENBACH.

33. LOPHODYTES CUCULLATUS (Linn.). Tot

Hooded Merganser.

Nostrils sub-basal ; frontal feathers reaching beyond those on sides of
bill ; a compact erect, semicircular, laterally compressed crest in the maie,
smaller and less rounded in the female ; male, black, including two crescents
in front of wing, and bar across speculum; under parts, centre of crest,
speculum and stripes on tertials white ; sides chestnut, black-barred; length,
18-19; wing, 8; female smaller; head and neck brown; chin whitish; back
and sides dark-brown, the feathers with paler edges; white on the wing less,
bill reddish at base below.

Has. North America generally, south to Mexico and Cuba, breeding
nearly throughout its range.

Nest in a hole in a tree or stump. Eggs, six to eight, buff or dark cream
color.
This beautiful little Saw-bill is a regular visitor at Hamilton

50

ONTARIO,
Bay where it spends a short time in the beginning of April,
before retiring to its more remote breeding grounds.

The habit of raising its young in a hole ina tree seems rather
a singular one for a bird of this class, but in this retired position
the female spends the anxious hours of incubation, beyond the
reach of danger, to which she might elsewhere be exposed. As
soon as the young are old enough to bear transportation, she
takes them one after another by the nape of the neck and drops
them gently into the water. Like the other Saw-bills, this
species feeds on fish, on account of which its flesh is not con-
sidered a delicacy.

SuBFAMILY ANATIN. River Ducks,
Genus ANAS LinnZus.

34. ANAS BOSCHAS Linn. 132.
Mallard,

Male with the head and upper neck, glossy green, succeeded by a white
ring ; breast, purplish-chesnut ; tail feathers mostly whitish ; greater wing-
coverts tipped with black and white, the speculum violet ; feet orange red;
female with the wing as in the male; head, neck and under-parts pale ochrey
speckled and streaked with dusky. Length, about 24; wing, 10-12.

Has. Northern parts of Northern Hemisphere; in America south to
Panama and Cuba, breeding scuthward to the northern border of the
United States.

Nest on the ground, built of dry grass, lined with feathers. Eggs, eight
to ten, dull drab color.

This, the parent of the domestic duck, isan abundant species
and widely distributed, but is found in greatest numbers at cer-
tain points where its food abounds. At Hamilton Bay it occurs
sparingly during the migratory season, but at Rond Eau, at
Long Point on Lake Erie, and at the flats along the river St.
Clair it assembles in vast flocks in the fall to feed on the wild
rice. At the latter place a few pairs remain during summer and
rear their young, but the greater body pass farther north.

A few years since Mr. John Bates, whose farm is on the
shore of Hamilton Bay near the Waterworks, noticed a female of
the species late in the fall, associating with his tame ducks; it was
shy, and kept away from the house for a time, but as the season

51

BIRDS OF

advanced, and the water got frozen over, it came into the sheds
and remained permanently with the others. In the spring it
built a nest in an out of the way place, and in due time came
forth followed by a brood of young ones, which in time grew
up and bred with domestic species. Mr. Bates pointed out to
me someofthestock which he always could recognize by their sit-
ting deeper in the water, by their comparatively long slim neck, and
by a certain wild look of suspicion and mistrust which clung to
them through several generations. Mr. Bates thought the indi-
vidual referred to had been wounded in the wing, and thus
incapacitated for performing the usual journey south.

30.) ANAS vOBSCURA” iGmen. 1B8s
Black Duck.

Size of the Mallard, and resembling the female of that species, but darker
and without decided white anywhere except under the wings. Tail 16-18,
feathered.

Has. Eastern North America, west to Utah and Texas, north to Labra-
dor, breeding southward to the Northern United States.

Nest on the ground, built of grass, weeds and feathers. Eggs, eight to ten
yellowish drab.

Although there are several other ducks darker in color than
this species, yet it is still the ‘* Black Duck” ofthe gunners all
over the continent, and is excelled by no other in the excellence
of its flesh. It is not as plentiful throughout Ontario as the
Mallard, being more a bird of the sea-coast, frequenting the salt
marshes along the coast of Maine, where it breeds abundantly ;
a few pairs have also been found mating in the marsh along the
River St. Clair, but such occurrences are by no means common.

We are told that long ago the Black Duck was a regular
visitor to the marshy inlets around Hamilton Bay, but now there
is so much to disturb, and so little to attract them, that their
visits are few and far between.

52

=) eae

ONTARIO.
Suscenus CHAULELASMUS Bonaparte,
56. ANAS STREPERA Linn. 135.
Gadwall,

Male with most of the plumage barred or half-ringed with black and
white or whitish; middle coverts chestnut, greater coverts black, speculum white;
female known by these wing marks. Length, 19-22; wing, Io-I1.

Has. Nearly cosmopolitan. In North America breeds chiefly within
the United States.

Nest usually on the ground, sometimes in trees. Eggs, buff or dull cream
color.

The Gadwall is rare throughout Ontario; when a large mix-
ed lot of ducks is sent down in the fall from any of the shooting
stations in the west, one pair or two may sometimes be picked
out, but that is all.

The pair in my collection were shot in Hamilton Bay many
years ago, since that time I have not heard of any being obtained
there. It seems rather a tender species, and does not go as far
north as some others. It iscommon to both continents, but it is
nowhere abundant.

SusceEnus MARECA STEPpPHENs,

37. ANAS AMERICANA Gmet. 137.
Baldpate.

Bill and feet grayish-blue, top of head white, or nearly so, plain or speck-
led, its sides and the neck more or less speckled ; abroad green patch on sides
of head; fore breast light-brownish; belly pure white; crissum abruptly
black, middle and greater coverts white, the latter black-tipped ; speculum

‘green, black bordered ; length, 20-22; wing, 11 ; tail, 5; tarsus, 2; bill, 14-1}:

female known by the wing markings.

Has. North America, from the Arctic Ocean south to Guatemala and
Cuba.

Eggs, eight to twelve, pale buff.

Resembles the preceding in appearance, but can always be
distinguished by the creamy white crown which has suggested
for the species the familiar name of “‘ Baldpate.” It is also more
abundant, being often seen in flocks of fifty to one hundred during

25

BIRDS OF
the season of migration. It has a wide breeding range through-
out the United States and British America. At the St. Clair
flats it has often been seen at midsummer, but so far I have no
record of its nest or eggs having been found there. It seems

rather tender, and is one of the first to retire to the south in the
fall.

Suscenus NETTION Kaup.
38. ANAS CAROLINENSIS Gme tin. 139.

Green-winged Teal.

Head and upper neck chesnut, with a broad glossy green band on each
side, uniting and blackening on the nape; under parts white or whitish, the
fore-breast with circular black spots; upper parts and flanks closely waved
with blackish and white ; a white crescent in front of the wing ; crissum black,
varied with white or creamy ; speculum rich green bordered in front with buffy
tips of the greater coverts, behind with light tips of secondaries; no blue on
the wing; bill black; feet gray. Female differs in the head markings, but
those of the wing are the same. Small; length, 14-15; wing, 74; tail 3; bill,
14; tarsus, rf.

Has. North America, chiefly breeding north of the United States, and
migrating south to Honduras and Cuba.

Nest on the ground, built of dried grass, and lined with feathers. Eggs,
usually eight, pale dull green.

This dainty little duck visits us in considerable numbers
in April; and in September is again seen while on its way south.

It was fcund by Professor Macoun breeding in Grand Valley
near the Assinaboine, and most likely does so in intermediate
districts, though to what extent is not at present known. It is
one of the first to return from the north, and is eagerly sought
for at the shooting stations on account of the delicacy of its flesh.

SuspcENuS QUERQUEDULA STEHHENS.
39. ANAS DISCORS Linn. 140.

Blue-wioged Teal.

Head and neck of the male blackish plumbeous, darkest on the crown,
usually with purplish iridescence , a white crescent in front of the eye; under
parts thickly dark spotted ; wing coverts sky-blue, the greater white-tipped

54

ONTARIO.

speculum green, white-tipped ; axillars and most under wing coverts white ;
scapulars striped with tawny and blue, or dark green ; fore-back barred ; rump
and tail dark, plain; crissum black; bill black, feet dusky yellow; female
with head and neck altogether different; under parts much paler and obscurely
spotted, but known by the wing marks.

Has. North America in general, but chiefly the Eastern Province ; north
to Alaska, and south to the West Indies and Northern South America; breeds
from the Northern United States northward.

Nest composed of dry grass and weeds, lined with feathers. Eggs, eight,
dull green.

At Hamilton very few of this species are seen in spring, but
in the fall they often appear in flocks of considerable size, and
during their short stay afford good sport to the gunners, who
lay in wait for them in the evening near their feeding ground.

At St. Clair I have seen them in June, evidently mated, and
was told that a few pairs still breed there, though the number
of summer residents is small as compared with former years.

In Grand Valley, along the banks of the Assinaboine, Prof.

‘Macoun found them extremely abundant, and breeding in suitable

places throughout the district.

Genus SPATULA Bole.
Ae Se DUA CLY PEAT A (Linn). | 142

Shoveller.

Bill as above with very numerous and prominent lamine. Head and
neck of male, green ; fore-breast white, belly purplish-chesnut; wing coverts,
blue ; speculum green bordered with black and white; some scapulars blue,
others green, all white-striped ; bill blackish; feet red. Female known by
bill and wings.

Has. Northern Hemisphere. In North America breeding from Alaska
to Texas; not abundant on the Atlantic coast.

Nest on the ground. Eggs, eight, greenish gray.

Anadult male Shoveller procured in the month of May makes
a handsome specimen for the cabinet, as there are few of our
waterfowl as gaily attired; the large spoonbill somewhat spoils

his beauty of proportion, but it serves as a distinguishing mark for
individuals of the species, of any age or sex.

55

BIRDS OF

It is not common in Ontario, but is occasionally found by the
gunners steering up some sluggish creek, or sifting the mud along
its shores ; as its flesh is held in high estimation for the table,
it is never allowed to get away when it can be stopped.

It breeds in the Northwest, and was observed by Prof.
Macoun in great numbers in the creeks and pools near the
Assinaboine in September and October.

———— =

Genus DAFILA STEPHENS.

41. DAFILA ACUTA (Liny.). 143.
Pintail.

Tail cuneate, when fully developed the central feathers projecting and
nearly equalling the wing ; much shorter and not so narrow in the female and
young, four to nine inches long ; wing, 11, total length about 24. Bill, black
and blue, feet grayish blue, head and upper neck dark brown, with green and
purple gloss, sides of neck with a long white stripe, lower neck and under
parts white, dorsal line of neck black, passing into the gray of the back, which,
like the sides, is vermiculated with black; speculum greenish-purple, anter-
iorly bordered by buff tips of the greater coverts, elsewhere by black and
white ; tertials and scapulars black and silvery ; female and young with the
whole head and neck speckled or finely streaked with dark brown, and grayish
or yellowish-brown ; below dusky freckled ; above blackish, all the feathers
pale-edged ; only a trace ot the speculum between the white or whitish tips of
the greater coverts and secondaries.

Has. Northern hemisphere. In North America breeds from the north-
ern parts of the United States northward, and migrates south to Panama and
Cuba.

Nest on the ground. Eggs, eight to twelve, dull grayish olive.

An abundant migrant in spring and fall, and one of the most
graceful in its movements, either on land or water. At Hamil-
ton its visits are of short duration, as it seems to prefer running
streams. According to Mr. Saunders, a few pairs breed at St.
Clair, but the great body pass the summer much farther north.

Genus AIX Bolg.
42. AIX SPONSA (Linn.). 144.
Wood Duck.

Male : Head crested, metalic green and purple ; line above and behind
the eye, white ; throat white ; above, coppery black with a gloss of green and
purple ; beneath white, upper part of the breast, chestnut ; sides buffy, very

56

ONTARIO.

finely variegated with black ; the shoulder bordered also with biack ; covert
and quills with mere a fewer tips and shades of white and purple. Female :
chestnut of the neck detached and dull; sides not striped ; head and neck
dull. Bill reddish, edges dusky. Legs and feet yellowish, iris red. Length,
1g ; extent, 27-50 ; wing, 9.

Has. Temperate North America, breeding throughout its range.

Nest in a hole ina tree. Eggs about twelve in number, pale buff slightly
tinged with green.

This, the most beautiful of all our waterfowl, is very gener-
ally distributed throughout the country, arriving from the south
about the time the ice disappears from our lakes and rivers, and
again retiring early in the fall. Owing to the great beauty of the

_male these birds are much sought after by all classes of sports-

men, and are now seldom seen except near the retired ponds and
marshes where they breed. Twenty-five years ago I have seen
them leading out their young from one of the inlets of the Dun-
das marsh; they were also known at that time to breed near
Gage’s inlet, but of late years they have been observed only as pass-
ing migrants in spring and fall. The Wood Duck has frequently
been domesticated, and adds greatly to the interest and beauty
of an artificial pond in a pleasure ground.

Genus AYTHYA Bole.

43. AYTHYA AMERICANA (EyrT.). 146.
Redhead.

Bill dull blue with a black belt at end, broad and depressed, shorter than
head (2 or less) the nostrils within its basal half; color of heac rich, pure chest-
nut, with bronzy or red reflections, in the female, plain brown ; body anteriorly,
rump and tail coverts black, in the female dark brown, back, scapulars and
sides plumbeous-white, finely waved with unbroken black lines, less distinct
in the female; speculum, bluish-ash.. Length, about 20; wing 9-10; tarsus,
14-13.

Has. North America, breeding from California and Maine northward.

Nest like that of a Coot, composed of broken bits of rushes on a clump of
bog, often afloat. Eggs, seven to eight, dull buff.

The Redhead is one of the most abundant species which visits
Lake Ontario, and, judging by the numbers which are sent down
from the shooting stations farther west, it seems to be equally so
at other points. They are strong hardy birds, and a heavy
charge skilfully aimed, is necessary to stop them when on the

57

BIRDS OF

wing. During the past two seasons a flock of 100 to 150
remained in Lake Ontario all winter, about half a mile from the
shore, opposite the village of Burlington; the birds spent most
of their time at one particular place, sometimes diving, or again
sitting at rest on the water, and always close together, as
if for greater warmth. When the weather moderated in March
they shifted about for a few days and then went off to the north-
west, the course taken by most waterfowl when leaving this
point in spring. Great numbers are said to spend the summer
in Manitoba.

44, “AVYTHYA VALLISNERIA (WiLs.). 147.
Canvas-back,

Similar to the preceding, but bill blackish, high at the base and narrow
throughout, not shorter than head (two and a half or more), the nostrils at its
middle; head much obscured with dusky; black waved lines of the back
sparse and broken up into dots, the whitish thus predominating.

Has. Nearly all of North America, breeding from the Northwestern
States northward to Alaska.

Breeds in the Northwest. Nest and eggs similar to those of the Redhead.

The Canvas-back occurs with us occasionally in limited num-
bers ; it resembles the Redhead in many ways, but can readily
be distinguished by its low forehead and by the sooty color of
the head and upper part ofthe neck. Its mode of diving is also
peculiar, as before going under the water it throws itself upward
and forward, thus describing a curve as if seeking to gain im-
petus in the descent, just as boys sometimes do when taking a
header off a point not much above the water level.

Its reputation as a table duck is very high, but the excellence
is attained only when the birds have for some time been feeding
on wild celery, of which they are very fond; when that is not
available they are no better for the table than Redheads or Blue.
bills.

58

ONTARIO.
Suscenus FULIGULA STEPHENS.
45. AYTHYA MARILA NEARCTICA Steyn. 14%.

American Scaup Duck,

Male with the head, neck and body anteriorly black, the former with a
green gloss ; back and sides whitish, finely waved in zig-zag with black; below,
and speculum of wing white ; bill dull blue with black nail; legs plumbeous.
Female with the head and anterior parts brown, and other black parts of the
male, rather brown; face pure white. Length, about 20; wing, 9.

Has. North America, breeding far north.

Nest of weeds and dry grass, lined with down, placed on the ground.
Eggs, dull drab.

This and the next species, which are nearly allied, are the
ducks most frequently met with in Southern Ontario, where
they are known as Blue-bills. In the fall they remain in Ham-
ilton Bay till they are frozen out, and in spring, even before the
bay is open, they appear outside on Lake Ontario and
make frequent excursions inward to watch for the moving of
ice. Inspring many remain in the bay till about the first of May,
by which time they seem all to be paired, but I have no record
of their having been found breeding, and think it likely that
nearly all spend the summer to the north of the Province.

46, AY TERY A ABP EINIS (Eyt.). 149.

Lesser Scaup Duck.

Extremely similar to the preceding, but smaller, about 16; wing 8; gloss
of head chiefly purple ; flanks and scapulars less closely waved with black (?)
It is very difficult to define this bird specifically, and it may be simply a small

southern form ; but it appears to preserve its characters though constantly
associated with the last.

Has. North America in general, breeding chiefly north of the United
States, migrating south to Guatemala and the West Indies.

Closely resembles the preceding except in being considerably
less in size.

According to Dr. Coues, it is a more southerly bird, not breed-
ing so far north, and going farther south in winter.

In Southern Ontario it is about equal in abundance with the
preceding, with which it is often associated, but it does not leave
Hamilton Bay till about the middle of May which would lead

us to suppose that it does not go so far north to breed as some
of the others.

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BIRDS OF

In the fall it arrives before the preceding species and does
not remain so late.

47. AYTHYA COLLARIS (Donov.). 150.
Ring-necked Duck.

Similar to the foregoing, but an orange-brown ring ronnd the neck ; spec-
ulum gray ; back nearly uniform blackish ; bill black, pale at base and near

tip ; female with head and neck brown, and no collar, but loral space and

chin whitish, as is a ring around eye; bill plain dusky. In size between the
foregoing.

Has. North America, breeding far north, and migrating south to Guat-
emala and the West Indies.

Nest on the ground, composed of grass and moss. Eggs, eight to ten,
pale green.

This handsome little Duck is not as common as either of
the preceding ; while here it resembles the Teal in its habits,
being partial to the marsh, rather than the open water, on

account of which the gunners have given it the name of Pond
Blue-bill.

As compared with the Blue-bills, it seems more tender, the
feathers are of a softer texture, and it neither comes as early in
spring nor remains as late in the fall.

Genus GLAUCIONETTA STrTEjNEGER.
GLAUCIONETTA CLANGULA AMERICANA (Bonar.).

48. American Golden-eye, 151.

Male with the head and upper neck glossy green, and a white oval or
rounded loral spot, not touching the base of the bill throughout ; lower neck
all round, lower parts, including sides, most of the scapulars, wing coverts
and secondaries, white ; the white of outer surface of wings continuous ; lining
of wings and axillars dark ; most of upper parts black ; no waving on the back
or sides ; bill black with pale or yellow end, with nostrils in anterior half;
feet orange, webs dusky ; eyes yellow; head uniformly puffy. Female with
head snuff-brown, and no white patch in front of the eye, and white of wings
not always continuous. Length, 16-19; wing, 8-9.

Has. North America, breeding from Maine and the British Provinces
northward ; in winter south to Cuba. ;

Said to nest in trees.

A regular visitor at Hamilton Bay during the spring and fall
migrations. While here they do not keep by themselves, but

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seek the society of whatever species may be at hand; they are
very watchful and difficult of approach. If any of my readers
have ever tried to scull up behind the rushes towards a bunch
of Blue-bills, among which were one or two Golden-eyes, and suc-
ceeded in getting a shot, they have had much better luck than
I have had; more frequently before getting within 100 yards I
would hear the whistling of the Golden-eye’s wings, and looking
up see them going off with the others following. Like many
others which are known in Southern Ontario only as visitors in
spring and fall, the Golden-eyes breed in suitable places
throughout the North-West Territory.

In Ontario it is not an abundant species, though a few are
seen every season.

49. GLAUCIONETTA ISLANDICA (Gm.). 152.

Barrow’s Golden-eye.

Very similar to the preceding, differing chiefly in being larger in size;
gloss of the head purple and violet; loral spot larger; white on the wing
divided by a dark bar ; feathers on the hind head lengthened into a crest : bill
blotched with red. Length 19-22; wing, 9-10. The female can probably not
be distinguished from the preceding.

Has. Northern North America, south in winter to New York, Illinois,
and Utah; breeding from the Gulf of St. Lawrence northward, and south in
the Rocky Mountains to Colorado.

Dr. Garnier, who resides at Lucknow, near the south end of
Lake Huron, reports having found this species occasionally in
winter in the inlets along the lake shore. The Dr. is not in har-
- mony in all things with the modern school of Ornithologists, and
thinks this a case of unnecessary sub-division, at all events he
claims having found both forms, which is likely correct, as the
present species is found on Lake Michigan, which is within easy
reach of the point which the Dr. refers to. It has also been
taken at Toronto, and at Hamilton I am aware of three being
obtained, one of which came into my possession ; they may,
however, be more common than we are aware of, as the Hun-
ters do not trouble the Whistlewings if anything more suitable
for the table is in view.

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BIRDS OF
Genus CHARITONETTA SrTEjnEGEr.

50. CHARITONETTA ALBEOLA (Linn.). 153.
Buffle-headed Duck.

Somewhat similar to the foregoing in color, but male with the head par-
ticularly puffy, of varied rich iridescence, with a large white auricular patch
confluent with its fellow on the nape; small; length, 14-16; wing, 6-7; bill,
1, with nostrils in its basal half; female still smaller, an insignificant looking
duck, with head scarcely puffy, dark gray with traces of the white auricular
patch.

Has. North America; south in winter to Cuba and Mexico. Breeds
from Maine northward, through the fur countries and Alaska.

Dr. Coues (Birds N. W., 575) describes the nest of this duck as placed in
the hollow of adead tree, and composed of feathers. The eggs are described
as varying from buff to a creamy-white or grayish-olive color.

The Buffle-heads are common at all the shooting stations in
Southern Ontario in spring and fall, though owing to their small
size they are not much sought after. The male in
full spring dress is a very handsome little fellow, and, like many
other animals of diminutive proportions, seems to feel himself
as big as any of those about him. I havein my collection a
young male of this species of a uniform cream color, which was
shot in the bay a few years since. Inthe fall they do not
remain as late as the Blue-bills or Redheads, but move south at
the first indication of cold weather.

Genus CLANGULA Leacu.
51. CLANGULA HYEMALITS (Linn.). 154.
Old Squaw ; Long-tailed Duck.

Tail of fourteen narrow pointed feathers, in the male in summer the cen-
tral ones very slender and much elongated, nearly or quite equalling the wing ,
nail of bill occupying the whole tip; seasonal changes remarkable. Male in
summer with the back and the long narrowly lanceolate s¢apulars varied with
reddish-brown, wanting in winter, when this color is exchanged for pearly-
gray or white; general color blackish or very dark brown, below from the
breast abruptly white ; no white on the wing ; sides of head plumbeous-gray,
in winter the head, neck, and body anteriorly white, but the gray cheek-patch,
persistent, and a large dark patch below this ; bill at all seasons black, broadly

62

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orange barred. Female without lengthened scapulars or tail feathers, the
bill dusky greenish, and otherwise different ; but recognized by presence of
head and neck patches, and absence of white on the wing. Length, 15-20 or
more, according to tail; wing, 8-9.

Has. Northern hemisphere; in North America south to the Potomac
and the Ohio; breeds far northward.

Nest on the ground. Eggs six to seven, drab color,

Vast numbers of ‘‘cowheens” (as these birds are called here)
spend the winter in Lake Ontario, out on the deep water away

from the shore. Even there they are not free from danger, as
great numbers get entangled in the gill nets. Passing along the

beach in winter, strings of drowned, draggled cowheens may be
seen dangling from the clothes lines about the fisherman’s out-
houses, where I have frequently heard the fishermen, when trying
to force a sale, declare positively, that if buried in the earth for
twenty-four hours before being prepared for the table, that these
birds are excellent eating, notwithstanding all of which the sup-
ply keeps still ahead of the demand, and numbers are turned
over to the pigs, a sorrowful end for the beautiful, lively Clan-
gula hyemalis.

Genus HISTRIONICS LEsson.
b2) Ist RIONICUS! (HISTRIONICUS; (Linn.): 155.
Harlequin Duck.

Bill very small and short, tapering to the tip, which is wholly occupied
by the nail, and with a membraneous lobe at its base, tertiaries curly ; plum-
age singularly patched with different colors. Male, deep bluish lead color,
browner below, sides of the head and of the body posteriorly chestnut , coro-
nal stripe and tail, black; a white patch at the base of the bill, and another
on the side of the occiput, of breast and of tail, two transverse ones on side of
neck forming a nearly complete ring, and several on the wings; a white jug-
ular collar ; speculum violet and purple. Female, dark brown, paler below, a
white patch on auriculars and before the eye; length 15-18 inches; wing 8.

Has. Northern North America, breeding from Newfoundland, the Rocky
Mountains, and the Sierra Nevada northward ; south in winter to the middle
states and California.

Nest composed of weeds and grass lined with down from the breast of
the owner, it is usually placed in a hollow tree or stump not far from the
water ; eggs, 6 to 8, pale green.

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BIRDS OF
The Harlequin is found on the northern shores of Europe,
Asia, and North America. In the latter country it breeds spar-
ingly in Maine, and in the north-west to Alaska. It has also
been found in the northern Rocky Mountains and the Sierra
Nevada ; in winter it descends to the Middle States and
California.

With these facts before us we might naturally expect to hear
of the species being seen occasionally in Ontario, but of such
occurrences the records are very few.

William Loane, of Toronto, reports having killed a
pair near that city in the spring of 1865 and in the fall of 1881
he killed another, a female, which is now in the rooms of the
Toronto Gun Club.

One of the residents on the Beach, near Hamilton, told me
some years ago of having seen a pair there in spring, the male
‘in ful) plumage was correctly described by my informant, and
spoken of as the most ‘‘ dapper little drake ” he had ever seen.
The name Harlequin is suggested by the peculiar markings on
the head of the male which are supposed to resemble those often
assumed by the clown in a circus.

f

‘

Genus SOMATERIA Leacu.
Suspcenus SOMATERIA.
53. SOMATERIA DRESSERI Suarpe. 160.

American Eider.

Bill with long club-shaped frontal processes extending in a line with the
culmen upon the sides of the forehead, divided by a broad feathered inter-
space. Male in breeding attire, white, creamy-tinted on breast and washed with
green on che head; under-parts from the breast, lower back, rump, tail,
quills, and large forked patch on the crown, black. Female with the bill less
developed. general plumage an extremely variable shade of reddish-brown or
ochrey-brown, speckled, mottled and barred with darker; male in certain
stages resembling female. Length, about 2 feet; wing, 11-12 inches.

Has. Atlantic coast of North America, from Maine to Northern Labra-
dor, south in winter to the Delaware.

Nest on the ground, composed of dry grass, moss and sea weed, lined
with down and feathers ; eggs, 6 to 10, drab, tinged with green.

64

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‘The Eider-Duck is essentially a bird of the sea coast, breeding
abundantly along the shores of Newfoundland and Labrador.
Its visits to these inland waters are made during the season of
migration, when the movements of all migratory birds are con-
siderably affected by the prevailing winds. On Lake Ontario
it is only a casual visitor in winter, and seldom if ever seen there
in mature plumage.

The one in my collection is a young male in the garb of the
female; I shot it from the pier of the canal at the entrance to
the bay a few years since, they were seen more or less all that
winter, but they were known to be “fishy” and there being
nothing attractive in their dress, very few were killed, though
they allowed a nearer approach than other waterfowl are dis-
posed to do.

54 SOMATERIA SPECTABILIS (Liny.). 162.
King Eider.

Bill with broad squarish, nearly vertical frontal processes bulging angu-
larly out of line with culmen. Male in breeding attire, black, including a
forked chin-patch, a fronial band, and small space round eye; and the neck
and fore-parts of the body, part of inter-scapulars, of wing coverts and of
lining of wings, anda flank patch. white, creamy on the jugulum, greenish
on sides of head; crown and nape, fine bluish-ash. Female resembling that
of the Common Eider, but bill different. Size of the last or rather less.

Has. Northern part of Northern Hemisphere, breeding in the Arctic
regions ; in North America, south casually in winter to New Jersey and the
Great Lakes.

I mention this species more as a bird to be looked for, than
one which has actually been taken in Ontario, as I have no pos-
itive record of its occurrence within the province: that it has
been here and passed unnoticed may fairly be presumed, when
we consider that it was taken by Giraud at Long Island, and
Mr. Allen mentions in his notes that as many as eighteen were
taken in Lake Erie near Buffalo in Nov., 1879. A pair were in
the collection sent from Toronto to Paris in 1867, but I am not

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BIRDS OF

certain of their being taken in Ontario. It is of circumpolar
distribution, breeding abundantly around the shores of the Arctic
sea ; when coming south in winter the line of migration is mostly
along the Pacific coast, where it is observed in great numbers as
far south as the Aleutian Islands.

The peculiarities of its bill serve readily to distinguish it from
the other Eiders.

GeENus OIDEMIA FLeminc.
Suscenus OIDEMIA.

55. OIDEMIA AMERICANA (Sw. & Ricn.). 163.

American Scoter.

Plumage of male entirely black; bill black, the gibbosity orange.
Female sooty-brown, paler below, becoming grayish-white on the belly, there
dusky-speckled, on the sides and flanks dusky-waved; throat and sides of
head mostly continuous whitish; bill all black; feet livid olivaceous, with
black webs. Male, nearly 2feet ; wing, about roinches; female, 18-19 inches.

Has. Coasts and larger lakes of Northern North America; breeds in
Labrador and the northern interior ; south in winter to New Jersey, the

Great Lakes and California.
Nest on the ground. Eggs, 6 to 8 ; buff color.

This is another of the Sea-Ducks which breeds in large num-
bers at Labrador and elsewhere along the coast, visiting the
larger lakes in the interior occasionally during the season of
migration. On Hamilton Bay it is sometimes observed in com-
pany with others of its class, but there being nothing in its
appearance or history to commend it to popular favor, it is gen-
erally allowed to pass unmolested.

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ONTARIO.
SuspcENus MELANITTA Bote.
56. OIDEMIA DEGLANDI Bonap. 165.
White-winged Scoter,

Male : Black, with a large white wing-patch, and another under the eye ;
feet, orange-red, with dusky webs. Bill, black, broadly orange-tipped ; size *
of the last or rather larger ; female, smaller, sooty-brown, pale-grayish below,
with much whitish about head, but showing white speculum ; bill all black.

Has. Northern North America, breeding in Labrador and the Fur
Countries ; south in winter to the Middle States, Southern Illinois, and
Southern California.

Unlike the preceding, the Velvet Ducks visit Lake Ontario
in large flocks in the spring, and usually remaintwo or three weeks
before retiring to their breeding places. They are large, heavy
birds, and their jet black color makes them look at a distance
larger than they really are.

While moving about from one part of the bay to another,
they fly heavily at no great height above the water, but they
have not the restless habits of some other ducks, and if not dis-
turbed will remain for days together feeding near the same spot.

For the past five years during their visits a good many are
found dead along the shore. Whether they bring the cause of
their death with them when they come here, or whether the
emptying of the city sewage and the refuse of the oil refineries
into the bay is in anyway connected with the mortality referred
to has not yet been determined.

They arrive about the end of April, and by the 2oth of May
are all gone.

SuBGENUS PELIONETTA Kavp.

fe OLroEe MTA PERSPICIZEATA (Linn.). 166.
Surf Scoter.

Bill narrowly encroached upon by the frontal feathers, on the culmen,
nearly or quite to the nostrils, but not at all upon its sides, about as long as

_ the head, with the nail narrowed auteriorly, the swelling lateral as well as

superior ; nostrils beyond its middle ; bill of male orange-red, whitish on the
sides ; with a large circular black base. Plumage of the Male :—Black, with.

67

BIRDS OF

a patch of white on the forehead and another on the nape, none on the wing.
About the size of a Scoter. Female :—Smaller ; bill black ; feet, dark, tinged
with reddish, webs black ; plumage, sooty-brown, below~silvery-gray, two
whitish patches on each side of the head.

Has. Coasts and larger inland waters of Northern North America ; in
winter south to the Carolinas, the Ohio River, and Lower California.

According to Audubon this species breeds on the coast of Labrador;
niaking a nest of grass lined with feathers. The eggs, 4 to 6in number, are
whitish, and are hatched in July.

The Surf Scoter is found on Lake Ontario mostly in spring
in company with the preceding which it resembles in habits, the
clear white patches in marked contrast to the deep black of the
plumage, serving even at a distance to mark its presence in a
flock. It is never numerous, though more frequently seen than

the Scoter.
é

Genus ERISMATURA BonaparTe.
58. ERISMATURA RUBIDA (Wizts.). 167.
Ruddy Duck.

The male in perfect plumage with neck ‘all round, and the upper-parts
brownish-red, the lower-parts silky-white watered with dusky, the chin and
sides of the head dead-white, the crown and nape black, but not often seen in
this condition in the United States ; as generally observed, and the female at
all times, brown above, finely dotted and waved with dusky, paler and duller
below with undulations and sometimes a slight tawny tinge, as also occurs
on the side of head ; crown and nape dark-brown ; crissum always white.
Length, 14-17 ; wing, 5-6 ; tarsus, rf.

Has. North America in general, south to Cuba, Guatemala and
Northern South America, breeding throughout most of its North American
range.

I once saw a waggon load of Ruddy Ducks exposed for sale
in the Hamilton market ; it was in the month of May, and a
large flock had got entangled in the nets in Lake Ontario, where
they had tarried for rest and refreshment while on their way to
their summer haunts farther north. The fishermen, regardless
of grammar and other considerations, still maintain that ‘all is
fish that comes in the net,” and they tried hard to make the

68

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most of their haul, but although the birds attracted a good deal
of attention from their bright blue bills and rich brown plumage,
they did not meet with a ready sale. A few pairs visit us reg-
ularly in the spring and fall: I have seen them at St. Clair in
June, evidently mated, and was told that they breed sparingly
throughout the marsh there.

SuBFAMILY ANSERINA®. GEESE.

Genus CHEN Bolte.
59) (CGHENSHY PERBOREA NIVALIS (Forst.). 9169 a.

Greater Snow Goose

Bill with laminz very prominent, owing to arching of the the edges of the
bill. Adult plumage pure white, but in most specimens the head washed
with rusty-red ; primaries broadly black-tipped ; bill, lake-red with white
nail ; feet the samewith dark claws. ‘‘ Young, dull bluish or pale lead col-
ored on the head and upper part of the body" (Cassin). Length, about 30 ;
wing, 17-19 ; tail, 54-6 ; bill, 24 : tarsus, 34,

Has. North America, breeding far north, and migrating south in win-
ter, chiefly along the Atlantic coast, reaching Cuba.

The Snow Goose is widely distributed throughout the conti-
nent, raising its young in high latitudes, and retiring to the south
at the approach of winter. During the latter season vast flocks
are found along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, and sparingly
along the Atlantic sea-board. dm Ontario it can only be regard-
ed as a casual visitor during the season of migration, and, as it
is seldom that more than two or three are seen together,
they are looked upon as stragglers from the main body, whose
line of migration is chiefly along the Mississippi or the Pacific
coast. The specimen in my collection was killed at the Beach
in the month of December a few years since, while making its
way toward the open water in Lake Ontario.

Genus ANSER Brisson.
60. ANSER ALBIFRONS GAMBELI (Hart1.). 171a.

American White-fronted Goose.

Laminz of bill moderately exposed ; tail normally of sixteen feathers.
Under-parts white or gray, extensively blotched with black ; back dark-gray;

69

BIRDS OF

with paler or brownish edging of the feathers; upper tail-coverts white ; head
and neck grayish-brown, the forehead conspicuously pure white (in the
adult ; dark in some states) ; bill pale-lake ; feet orange, with pale claws.
Length, about 27 inches ; wing, 16-18 ; tail, 5-6 ; tarsus, 2#-3 ; middle toe and
claw about the same. Only differs from the European in an average longer
bill (13-2 instead of 14-14.

Has. North America, breeding far northward; in winter south to

Mexico and Cuba,

The eggs of this species are dull greenish yellow with obscure darker
tints. They measure 3.00 by 2 00.

Like the preceding, this species is only a casual visitor to
Ontario, the vast flocks which annually leave their breeding
grounds in the north at the approach of winter, apparently pre-
ferring to make their southern journey along the western coast
rather than by the Atlantic or the interior ; stragglers have been
observed at the different shooting stations, where they are looked
upon as rare. The specimen in my collection was killed at St.
Clair flats ; it is an immature male.

Genus BRANTA Scopo.l.
61. BRANTA CANADENSIS (Uinn.). 172.

Canada Goose.

Tail normally eighteen feathers. Grayish-brown, below paler or whitish
gray, bleaching on the crissum, all the feathers with lighter edges ; head and
neck black, with a broad white patch on the throat mounting each side of the
head ; tail black with white upper coverts. Length, about 36 ; wing, 18-20 ;
tail, 64-74 ; bill, 1$-2 ; tarsus, usually over 3.

Has. Temperate North America, breeding in the Northern United
States and British Provinces ; south in winter to Mexico.

Nest usually on the ground, sometimes in trees. Eggs 5 to 6 ; pale dull
green.

This is the wild goose of Canada, the bird we see in April
passing to the northwest in V-shaped columns, whose hoarse
honking we listen to with pleasure as a sure indication that
brighter skies and warmer weather are close at hand.

A few are seen every season at the shooting stations at St.
Clair and along the north shore of Lake Erie, but if the weather

7oO

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is favorable, the flocks usually pass over us without stopping.
The Canada Goose is less boreal in its range than some of the
others of its class. Individual pairs have been found nesting at
different points in the Middle States; Professor Macoun found
them breeding abundantly in the Northwest, and Dr. Coues
mentions the singular fact of their being observed in the “‘ Upper
Missouri and Yellowstone regions breeding in trees.”

I have known instances of their being domesticated, but they

_ always retained the wild habit of skulking off to conceal their

eggs in some out of the way place.

BRANTA CANADENSIS HUTCHINSII (Sw.& Ricu.).

62. Hutchins’s Goose. 1724.

Tail sixteen-feathered. Colors exactly as in the Canada Goose, but size
less. Length, about 24 feet; wing, 15-17; tail, 5-6; bill, 14-13; tarsus
rather under 3.

Has. North America, breeding in the Arctic regions, and migrating south
in winter, chiefly through the Western United States and Mississippi
Valley.

Apparently a small race of the preceding, which has been
raised to the rank ofa separate sub-species, in which position it is
as easily considered as in any other. Where the Canada Goose
ends and the Hutchins’s begins is at times difficult to determine.
Small geese are occasionally seen with the last groups of the
others which pass in spring ; but they are fewer in number and
less frequently obtained. I once saw a fine pair of these birds
in the hands of a local taxidermist where they had been left
to be ‘‘stuffed,” and with such vigor had the operation been per-
formed that when finished it would have been a hard matter for
any one to have told to which species the birds originally
belonged.

The Hutchins’s Goose has not been found nesting within the
limits of the United States, being apparently more northern in
its range than the preceding.

7

BIRDS OF
63. BRANTA BERNICLA (Liny.). 173.

Brant.

Head, neck, body anteriorly, quills and tail black ; a small patch of
white streaks on the middle of the neck, and usually white touches on the
under eyelid and chin ; upper tail-coverts white ; back brownish-gray, under
parts the same but paler, and fading into white on lower belly and crissum ;
black of jugulum well-defined against the color of the breast ; length 2 feet ;
wing, 13; tail, 5 ; bill, 1 1-3 ; tarsus, 23.

Has. Northern parts of Northern hemisphere; in North America
chiefly the Atlantic coast ; rare inthe interior, or away from salt water

Breeds in high latitudes,

Another casual visitor to the waters of Ontario, where it is
less frequently seen than either of the other geese. It is by no
means a scarce species, but seems partial to the sea coast. In
the list of the birds of Western Ontario it is mentioned as a
‘“‘rather rare migrant.” I have only seen it once, flying
past, out of reach.

SuBFAMILY CYGNINZE. Swans.

Genus OLOR WAGLER.

64. OLOR COLUMBIANUS (Orp.). 180.
Whistling Swan.

Size and color of the next species except a yellow spot on bill near
base. Bill not longer than the head ; nostrils median. Tail (normally) of
twenty feathers.

Has. The whole of North America, breeding far north.

Eggs 2 to 5 ; dull white stained with brown.

These beautiful birds, never at any time abundant, are now
very seldom seen in Ontario. I once saw four in full adult

plumage come up Lake Ontario on a very stormy afternoon
toward the end of March ; they evidently expected to find rest

72

ONTARIO.

and shelter in the bay, but there being only a small patch of
open water near the canal they wheeled round and went off east
again. On another occasion a family of four visited the bay in
the fall ; they were not allowed to remain long undisturbed, and
one young bird was so disabled by a pellet of shot in the wing
as to prevent it leaving with the others, it could still take care
of itself, however, and remained till the bay froze over, when it
walked ashore and was captured in an exhausted condition by
one of the fishermen.

65. OLOR BUCCINATOR? (Ricni).: « EST.
Trumpeter Swan.

Adult plumage entirely white; younger the head and neck washed witha
trusty-brown ; still younger, gray or ashy. Bill and feet black. Length
4-5 feet. Tail (normally) of twenty-four feathers. No yellow spots on bill
which is rather longer than the head, the nostrils fairly in its basal half.

Has. Chiefly the interior of North America, from the Gulf coast to the
Fur Countries, breeding from Iowa and Dakota northward ; west to the

c a a
Pacific coast, but rare or casual on the Atlantic.

Eggs 2 to 5 ; dull white stained with brown, shell rough.

Swans are seen nearly every spring and fall at one or other of
the shooting stations in Western Ontario, but the points of
specific distinction are so inconspicuous that unless the birds
are secured it is difficult to tell to which species they belong.
Dr. Ganrier reports having taken one at Mitchell’s bay. There
was one in the collection sent from Toronto to Paris in 1867
and I have seen two which were killed at Long Point in Lake
Erie.

The highway of this species from North to South is evi-
dently by the Mississippi Valley, where it is quite common dur-
ing the period of migration, those we see here being stragglers

off the route.

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BIRDS OF
OrpeER HERODIONES. Herons, Srorks, IsIsEs, ETc.
SuBORDER IBIDES. SpoonsiLts aAnp IBISEs.
Famity IBIDIDZ. Isises.
Genus PLEGADIS Kauvp.
66. PLEGADIS AUTUMNALIS (Hassetg.). 186.

Glossy Ibis.

Plumage rich dark-chestnut, changing to glossy dark-green with purplish
reflections on the head, wings and elsewhere ; bill dark ; young similar, much
duller, or grayish brown, especially on the head and neck which are white
streaked. Claws slender, nearly straight ; head bare only about the eyes and
between the forks of the jaw. Length, about 2 feet ; wing, 10-11 ; tail, 4;
bill, 44 ; tarsus, 3 1-3 ; middle toe and claw, 3.

Has. Northern Old World, West Indies, and Eastern United States.
Only locally abundant, and of irregular distribution in America.

The eggs of the Glossy Ibis measure from 1-go by 1-45 to 2-10 by 1-50,
and are of a dull greenish-blue color, without markings. The number usually
deposited is believed to be three.

About the end of May, 1857, Mr. John Bates, whose farm
adjoins the creek near the Hamilton waterworks, saw two tired
looking birds which he took to be Curlews, circling round with
the evident intention of alighting near the creek. Mr. Bates’s
gun was always in order, and none in the neighborhood at that
time knew better how to use it. In a few minutes he
picked up a pair of Glossy Ibises, the only birds of the kind
which have been observed in Ontario. This pair, which subse-
quently came into my possession, were male and female in fine
adult plumage ; they are not common anywhere on the Ameri-
can continent. Wilson knew nothing of the species nor was it
known to naturalists till after his death.

SuBorDER HERODII. Herons, Ecrets, BITTERNSs, ETC.
Famity ARDEIDZ. Herons, BITTERNS, ETC.
SusraMILyY BOTAURINZ. BITTERNs.

Genus BOTAURUS HeErmann.

Suscenus BOTAURUS.

67. BOTAURUS LENTIGINOSUS (Monrtae.). 190.
American Bittern,

Plumage of upper part singularly freckled with brown of various shades,
blackish, tawny and whitish ; neck and under-parts ochrey or tawny-white.

74

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Each feather marked with a brown dark-edged stripe, the throat line white,
with brown streaks ; a velvety-black patch on each side of the neck above ;
crown dull-brown, with buft superciliary stripe ; tail brown ; quills greenish-
black, with a glaucous shade, brown tipped ; bill black and yellowish, legs
greenish, soles, yellow ; length, 23-28 ; wing, 10-13; tail, 44; bill, about 3 ;
tarsus, about 34.

Has. Temperate North America, south to Guatemala and the West
Indies.

The nest of the Bittern is placed on the ground ; the eggs, three to five
in number, are brownish-drab, measuring about 2-00 by 1-50.

A common summer resident, found in all suitable places
throughout the country, where during the early summer may be
heard the peculiar clunking sound which has gained for the
species the not inappropriate name of ‘‘ Stake Driver.” It sel-
dom leaves the marsh where it makes its home and finds its
favorite tare of fish, frogs and lizards. It drops readily to a
light charge of shot, but when wounded makes a fierce resist-
ance, raising the feathers of the head and neck and striking
straight at the eye of a dog with its sharp-pointed bill. It
arrives as soon as the flags begin to show green, about the end
of April, and leaves again for the south toward the end of Sep-
tember, or later, according to the weather.

SuscEnus ARDETTA Gray.
68. BOTAURUS EXILIS (Gmet.). 191.

Least Bittern.

No peculiar feathers, but those of the lower neck, long and loose, as in
the Bittern ; size very small ; 11-14 inches long ; wing, 4-5; tail, 2 or less ;
bill, 2 or less ; tarsus, about 13. Male with the slightly crested crown, back
and tail, glossy greenish-black ; neck behind, most of the wing-coverts, and
outer edges of inner quills, rich chestnut, other wing-coverts, brownish-yel-
low ; front and sides of neck and under-parts, brownish-yellow varied with
white along tke throat line, the sides of the breast with a blackish-brown
patch ; bill and lores mostly pale yellow, the culmen blackish ; eyes and soles
yellow ; legs greenish-yellow ; female with the black of the back entirely, that
of the crown mostly or wholly replaced by rich purplish-chestnut ; the edges
of the scapulars forming a brownish-white stripe on either side.

Has. Temperate North America, from the British Provinces to the
West Indies and Brazil.

as

BIRDS OF

Nest among the rushes.
Eggs, 3 to 5 ; white with a bluish tinge.

This diminutive Bittern, though seemingly slender, and tender,
is not only generally distributed in Southern Ontario, but has been
reported by Professor Macoun as ‘‘ common throughout the
country” in the North West. At Hamilton Bay it is a regular
summer resident, raising its young in the most retired
parts of the marsh. The nest is large for the size of the bird,
a platform being made for its support by bending down the
flags till they cross each other a foot or more above the water
level. The whole affair is very loose and readily falls asunder
at the close of the season. The Little Bittern is not supposed
to be as plentiful as its big brother, but from its retiring habits
may be more so than we are aware of. It is seldom seen ex-
cept by those who invade its favorite haunts ; when disturbed
it rises without note or noise of any kind, and with a wavering
uncertain flight passes off for a short distance and again drops
among the rushes. It arrives about the end of May and leaves
early in September.

SuBFAMILY ARDEINX. HeErRons anpD EGRETS.

Genus ARDEA Linn.
SuscEenus ARDEA.
69. ARDEA HERODIAS Linn. 194

Great Blue Heron.

Back without peculiar plumes at any season, but scapulars lengthened
and lanceolate ; an occipital crest, two feathers of which are long and filam-
entous ; long loose feathers on the lower neck. Length, about four feet ; ex-
tent, 6; bill, 54 inches; tarsus, 64; middle toe and claw, 5; wing, 18-20 ;
tail, 7. Female much smaller than male, Adult of both sexes grayish-blue
above, the neck pale purplish-brown with a white throat-line, the head black
with a white frontal patch ; the under-parts mostly black, streaked with
white ; tibia, edge of wing and some of the lower neck feathers orange-brown ;
bill and eyes yellow, culmen dusky, lores and legs greenish. The young
differ considerably but are never white and cannot be confounded with any
of the succeeding.

76

i

ONTARIO.

‘Has. North America, from the Arctic regions southward to the West
Indies and Northern South America.

Nests usually in trees, sometimes in rocks.
Eggs 2 or 3 ; elliptical light, dull greenish-blue.

As the Great Blue Heron breeds in communities it is not
often seen during the summer except in the vicinity of the
Heronry. In the fall when the young birds are able to shift for
themselves they disperse over the country, their tall gaunt
figures being often seen standing motionless watching for eels
by the shore of some muddy creek. In the report of the ornith-
ological branch of the Ottawa Field Naturalists’ Club, for 1883,
is a most interesting account of a visit paid by a number cf
members of the club to a Heronry situated on the bank of the
river about 25 miles from the city ; limited space will admit only
of a short extract, as follows: ‘‘ The Heronry is located in the
centre of a thick swamp which, on the occasion of our first visit
was so deeply submerged as to bar all ingress. On the 1gth of
July, however, the water was but knee deep. After proceeding
about half a mile into the swamp our attention was arrested by
a peculiar sound which we at first thought proceeded from some
distant saw-mill or steamer on theriver. As weadvanced, how-
ever, the sound resolved itself into the most extraordinary noises,
some of which resembled the yelping of dogs or foxes. On
penetrating still deeper into the swamp, we discovered that the
noises proceeded from immense numbers of Herons, some
perched on branches of trees, some sitting on the nests and
others flying overhead. The uproar was almost deafening
and the odor arising from the filth with which the trees and
ground was covered was extremely disagreeable. We tramped
all through the Heronry and calculated that it must extend
about half a mile in each direction. The nests were all of the
same pattern, great cumbersome piles of sticks, about a foot
thick, with but a very shallow cavity and no lining.

‘“« The birds were very tame, making no attempt to fly until we
began to climb the trees on which they were; and even then
they moved lazily off and manifested little or no alarm at our
near approach to their young.”

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BIRDS OF

The adult Heron is an exceedingly wary bird and is seldom
obtained except when it happens to fly above some hunter who
is concealed among the rushes watching for ducks.

When thus brought down from above with neck, wings and
legs getting all mixed up it presents a most ragged appearance,
but when seen alive at shooting distance the graceful move-
ments of the long, lithe neck, with its pointed plumes present a
sight we all like to look upon.

SusBGENuS HERODIAS Bolte.
70. ARDEA EGRETTA Gme-. 196.
American Egret.

Adult with a long occipital crest of decomposed feathers and similar dorsal
plumes, latter recurved when perfect ; similar, but not recurved plumes on
the lower neck, which is bare behind : lores, eyes and toes yellow ; bill and
legs black, former yellow at base, latter yellow at lower part behind. Plum-
age always entirely white. Length, 24 ; wing, 11-12 ; bill, 3 ; tarsus, 34-4.

Has. Temperate and tropical America, from New Jersey, Minnesota,
and Oregon south to Patagonia; casually on the Atlantic coast to Nova
Scotia.

I have only one record of the occurrence of this species
in Ontario ; it is from Dr. Garnier, and I give it in his own
words, as follows :

‘‘ Garzetta Candidissima, Little White Heron, is also some-
times seen here, but I think rarely. I never saw it myself.
One was shot by a Frenchman named David Leguis, in 1870,
at Mitchell’s Bay, at least so he declared to me positively, and I
have no reason to dispute him, as in these matters he was
reliable enough.”

This is a Southern bird but I think it will yet be found as
an occasional straggler along our Southern border.

SuscGENnus GARZETTA Kauvup.
71. ARDEA CANDIDISSIMA Gme-. 197.
Snowy Heron.

No obviously lengthened feathers on the head at any time ; in the breed-
ing season, back with very long plumes of decomposed feathers drooping far

78

ONTARIO.

beyond the tail ; neck closely feathered ; plumage entirely white at all sea-
sons ; legs and feet black. Length, 36-42 inches (not including the dorsal
train) ; wing, 16-17 ; bill, nearly 5 ; tarsus, nearly 6.

Hazs. Temperate and tropical America, from Long Island and Oregon
south to Buenos Ayres ; casual on the Atlantic coast to Nova Scotia.

Nest in trees.

Eggs, 3 to 4; pale greenish-blue.

Although this species has been frequently taken in Ontario. I
have no record of it being found nesting within our limits.
Several specimens sent to me from Rond Eau and other points
on the north shore of Lake Erie were all immature. Dr.
Wheaton, in his report on the birds of Ohio remarks that only
young birds had been seen there, which rather confirms Dr.
Coues’ remarks in the ‘‘ Birds of the Northwest,” to the effect
that “‘ a certain northward migration takes place in summer
among some southerly birds of this class which on leaving the
nest seem for a time to wander away in the wrong direction.”
There is, however, a record in the Auk, vol. 11, page 110, Jan-
uary 1885, of a pair having been observed at Rockcliffe, on the
Ottawa river, in the spring of 1883. The male was shot by Mr.
S. H. McIntyre, and isnow in the Museum of the Geological
Survey at Ottawa. After being deprived of her mate the
female was seen about the place for a day or two and then she
went away. The record states that these were the only two
birds of the kind ever seen at that point.

SusceENnus BUTORIDES BtyrTu.
72. ARDEA VIRESCENS Linn. 201.
Green Heron.

Adult in the breeding season with the crown, long soft occipital crest,
and lengthened narrow feathers of the back, lustrous dark-green, sometimes
with a bronzy iridescence, and on the back often with a glaucous cast ;
wing-coverts green, with conspicuous tawny edgings; neck purplish-
chestnut, the throat-line variegated with dusky or whitish ; nnder-parts
mostly dark brownish-ash, belly variegated with white; quills and tail
greenish-dusky with a glaucous shade, edge of the wing white ; some of the
quills usually white-tipped ; bill greenish-black, much under mandible yel-
Jow ; lores and iris yellow ; legs greenish-yellow ; lower neck with lengthened

79

BIRDS OF

feathers in tront, a bare space behind. Young with the head less crested,
the back without long plumes, but glossy-greenish, neck merely reddish-
brown, and whole under-parts white, variegated with tawny and dark-brown.
Length, 16-18 ; wing, about 7 ; bill, 24 ; tarsus, 2 ; middle toe and claw about
the same ; tibia bare 1 or less.

Has. Canada and Oregon southward to Northern South America and
West Indies ; rare or absent in the Middle Province.

Nest composed of twigs, placed in a bush or low tree in a swamp or by
the bank of a stream. Eggs 3 to 6 ; pale greenish-blue.

This handsome little Heron finds its northern limit along
the Southern border of Ontario. According to Dr. Macallum
it breeds regularly on the banks of the Grand River near Dunn-
ville, and has also been observed occasionally at Hamilton, and
at the St. Clair flats, Like the others of its class the Green
Heron feeds mostly at night, and is seldom seen abroad by day
except by those who have occasion to invade its marshy haunts ;
on this account it may be more numerous than it is supposed to
be. It arrives about the end of April and leaves for the south
again in September.

Genus NYCTICORAX STEPHENS.
SuBGENuS NYCTICORAX.
73. NYCTICORAX NYCTICORAX NAVIUS (Bopp.). 202.

Black-crowned Night Heron

No peculiar feathers excepting two or three very long filamentous plumes
springing from the occiput, generally imbricated in one bundle; bill very
stout ; tarsi reticulate below in front; length, about 2 feet ; wing, 12-14
inches ; bill, tarsus and middle toe, about 3. Crown, scapulars and inter-
scapulars very dark glossy-green ; general plumage bluish-gray, more or less
tinged with lilac; forehead, throat-line and most under-parts whitish ;
occipital plumes white ; bill black ; lores greenish ; eyes red; feet yellow.
Young very Ccifferent ; lacking the plumes ; grayish-bzown, paler below, ex-
tensively speckled with white ; quills chocolate-brown, white-tipped.

Has. America, frem the British Possessions southward to the Falkland
Islands, including part of the West Indies.

Breeds in communities, returning to the same place year after year.
Nest, a large loose platform of twigs, placed well up in a tall tree.

Eggs 4 to 6; pale greenish-blue.
80

a

ONTARIO.

In Ontario the Night Heron or ‘‘Quawk,” as it is commonly
called, is not generally distributed ; though stragglers are oc-
casionally seen at different points throughout the Province, yet
their breeding places are by no means common, the vicinity of
the sea being evidently preferred to the interior.

Along the banks of the lower St. Lawrence they breed in
immense numbers, every tree in certain districts having several
nests among its boughs ; when viewed from a distance the trees
have the appearance of being heavily coated with dirty white-
wash, and the entire vegetation underneath them is killed by the
accumulated droppings of the birds.

Though somewhat untidy in their surroundings at home the
birds themselves when seen in spring plumage are very hand-
some, the fiery red eye and long flowing plumes giving them
quite an interesting appearance.

OrbER PALUDICOL. Cranes, Ralts, ETc.
SUBORDER GRUES. CRANEs.

FamMiLy GRUIDA. CRrRaAngs.
Genus GRUS Pa.tas.

74. GRUS MEXICANA (MuLL.). 206.
Sandhill Crane.

Adult with the bare part of head forking behind to receive a pointed ex-
tension of the occipital feathers, not reaching on the sides below the eyes,
and sparsely hairy. Bill moderately stout, with nearly straight and scarcely
ascending gonys, that part of the under mandible not so deep as the upper at
the same place. Adult plumage plumbeous gray never whitening ; primaries,
their coverts and alula, blackish. Young with head feathered, and plumage
varied with rusty-brown. Rather smaller than the last.

Has. Southern half of North America; now rare near the Atlantic
coast, except in Georgia and Florida.

Eggs 2 ; light brownish-drab, marked except at the greater end with
blotches of dull chocolate-brown, shell rough, with numerous warty eleva-
tions.

I amindebted to Dr. Garnier, of Lucknow, for the only
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BIRDS OF

record I have of the occurrence of the Sandhill Crane in On-
tario. Writing under date Dec. 6, 1884, he says: ‘ About 22
years ago a pair of these birds spent the summer in the marshes
near Murphy’s landing, County Kent ; later in the season they
were seen stalking about accompanied by two young, and finally
all disappeared as the weather grew cold.”

“In 1881 a pair spent the summer near mud creek in the
same locality, and were often seen by the people residing there.
On the rst Nov., Mr. Jos. Martin, while out shooting in his
canoe, suddenly came upon them at short distance. He killed
one dead, and the other being hard hit dropped on a shaking
bog close by. Mr. Martin brought me the dead one, and next
day I went with him in search of its mate. We saw it lying
quite dead on the bog, but though my partner and I tried hard
to force our way to where it was we were compelled to give it up,
to my very great regret.” These are the only well authenticated
instances of the occurrence of the Sandhill Crane in Ontario,
that I know of.

These large and interesting birds are now quite rare in the
East, but are common enough further west, where they go a
long way north, as Prof. Macoun found both the present species
and the White Crane breeding near Moose Mountains in the
Northwest.

SUBORDER RALLI. Raits, GALLINULEs, Coots, ETc.

Famity RALLID. Ralits, GALLINULEs, AND CootTs, ETC.
SuBFAMILY RALLINZ. Ratts.
Genus RALLUS Linnezvus.
75. RALLUS ELEGANS Aup. 208.
King Rail.
Above brownish-black ; variegated with olive-brown, becoming rich
chestnut on the wing-coverts; under-parts rich rufous or cinnamon-brown,
usually paler on the middle of the belly and whitening on the throat ; flanks

and axillars blackish, white-barred. Length, about 10 ; wing, 5-6 ; tail, 2-23;
bill, 24 ; tarsus, 2 : middle toe and claw, 2$. Female smaller.

82

ONTARIO.

Has. Fresh water marshes of the Eastern Province of the United
States, from the Middle States, Northern Illinois, Wisconsin, and Kansas
southward. Casually north to Massachusetts, Maine and Ontario.

Nest a rude mass of reeds and grass, on marshy ground close to the
water.

Eggs 6 to 12 ; buff or cream color, speckled and blotched with reddish-
brown.

This large and handsome Rail which, until recently, was
considered to be only a casual visitor to Ontario, is now known
to breed plentifully in the marshes all along the river St Clair ;
it has also been found at other points in Southern Ontario, but
the St. Clair flats seem to be its favorite breeding place. The
extent of the marsh, and the almost stagnant water seem to suit
the taste of these birds, and here they spend the summer and
raise their young without being disturbed.

They are seldom seen on the wing but get very noisy and
excited before rain, keeping up an incessant cackling, which
—better than anything else—gives an idea of the number which
are moving about under cover of the rushes.

They arrive from the south early in May and leave again in
September.

76. RALLUS VIRGINIANUS Linn. 212.
Virginia Rail.
Coloration exactly as in elegans, of which it is a perfect miniature.

Length, 84-104 ; wing about 4; tail about 14; bill, 14-12; tarsus, 1}-14 ;
middle toe, 14-13.

Has. North America, from British Provinces south to Guatemala and
Cuba.

Nest in a tuft of reeds or rushes, some of them being bent down to
assist in forming the structure which is usually placed close to the water.

Eggs 6 to 9 ; buff or creamy, speckled and blotched with reddish-brown.
Although this cannot be said to be a numerous species, it
is very generally distributed, being found in all suitable
places throughout the Province. When not disturbed it may
be seen quietly wading in the shallow ponds in search of its

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BIRDS OF

food, which consists of aquatic insects, snails, worms, and the
seeds of such grasses as grow near its haunts, but if alarmed it
at once takes itself to the rushes and passes with such swiftness
along the covered runways which interlace the rush beds that it
will thus elude the pursuit of an active dog, and so avoid ex-
posing itself to the aim of the sportsman.

It breeds regularly along the south shore of Hamilton Bay
where it arrives early in May and leaves again in September.

Genus PORZANA VIEILLOoT.

SuBGENUS PORZANA.
77. PORZANA CAROLINA (Linn.). 214.
Sora.

Above, olive-brown, varied with black, with numerous sharp white
streaks and specks ; flanks, axillars and lining of wings, barred with white
and blackish ; belly whitish ; crissum rufescent. Adult with the face and
central line of the throat black, the rest of the throat, line over eye, and
especially the breast more or less intensely slate-gray, the sides of the breast
usually with some obsolete whitish barring and speckling ; young without the
black, the throat whitish, the breast brown. Length, 8-9 ; wing, 4-44; tail,
about 2 ; bill, 3-3; tarsus, 14; middle toe and claw, 14.

Has. Temperate North America, but most common in the Eastern
Province, breeding chiefly northward. South to West Indies and Northern
South America.

Builds a rude nest of grass and rushes on the ground near the water.
Eggs 8 to 10 ; dull drab, marked with reddish-brown,

Here as elsewhere the Sora is the most numerous of the
Rail family, and is found breeding in all suitable places
throughout the country. Many also pass up north, and when
they return in the fall accompanied by their young they linger
in the marshes along the southern border till they are found
swarming everywhere ; they are very sensitive of cold and a
sportsman may have good Rail shooting till late in the evening,
but should a sharp frost set in during the night he
may return in the morning and find that the birds have all left.

They arrive early in May and remain till the first frost.

84

a

ONTARIO.
Suspcenus COTURNICOPS Bonaparte.
78. PORZANA NOVEBORACENSIS (Gm.). 215.
Yellow Rail.

Above, varied with blackish and ochrey-brown, and thickly marked with
narrow white semicircles and transverse bass; below, pale ochrey-brown,
fading on the belly, deepest on the breast where many of the feathers aie
tipped with dark brown ; flanks rufous with many white bars ; lining of the
wing, white ; a brownish-yellow streak over the eye ; length about 6 inches.

Has. Eastern North America, from Nova Scotia and Hudson’s Bay
west to Utah and Nevada. No extra-limital record except Cuba and the
Bermudas.

Nest like that of the other Rails.

Eggs 6 to8 ; dark buff color, marked with reddish spots at the greater
end.

We know little of this bird, partly because it belongs to a
class much given to keeping out of sight, but chiefly because it
is a rare species everywhere ; during the present year I saw a
fine mounted specimen in the store of Mr. Cross, taxidermist,
Toronto. It was got in the marsh near that city, and I have
heard of another which a few years since was got near the same
place and is now in the public museum at Ottawa. The greater
number of specimens of the Yellow Rail now in existence have
been found in New England, but that may be owing to the
greater number of collectors there. It would be well for our
Canadian sportsmen to look out for the species when visiting
its haunts, as from its general resemblance to the Sora it may
readily be overlooked.

SuBFAMILY GALLINULINZ.
Genus GALLINULA Brisson.

"79. GALLINULA GALEATA (LicHT:.). 219.
Florida Gallinule.

Head, neck and underparts grayish-black, darkest on the former, paler
or whitening on the belly ; back brownish-olive ; wings and tail dusky-;
crissum, edge of wing, and stripes on the flanks, white; bill, frontal plate,
and ring around tibiez red, the former tipped with yellow ; tarsi and® toes

85

BIRDS OF
greenish ; 12-15 long ; wing, 64-74; tail, 34; gape of bill, about 14 ; tarsus’
abont 2.
Has. Temperate and tropical America from Canada to Brazil and
Chili.
Nest a mass of broken, rotten reeds and rushes, with a slight hollow in
the centre ; it is seldom much above water level and often afloat.

Eggs 10 to 12 ; brownish-buff, thickly spotted with reddish-brown.

A common summer resident breeding in suitable places
throughout Southern Ontario. Near Hamilton it is quite com-
mon, a few pairs generally spending the summer in the Water-
down Creek, and also in the Dundas Marsh. Its retired haunts
are seldom invaded during the summer months, the mosquitoes
being a bar to the intrusion of visitors, and its flesh not being
in demand for the table it is not much disturbed. It arrives
early in May and leaves toward the end of September.

SuBFAMILY FULICINZA.
Genus FULICA LinNe&uws.
80. FULICA AMERICANA GmneL. 221.

American Coot.

Dark slate, paler or grayish below, blackening on the head and neck,
tinged with olive on the back ; crissum, whole edge of wing, and top of the
secondaries white ; bill white or flesh-colored, marked with reddish-black
near the end ; feet dull olivaceous ; young similar, paler and duller. Length,
about 14 ; wing, 7-8 ; tail, 2 ; bill from the gape, 1}-14; tarsus, about 2;
middle toe and claw, about 3.

Has. North America, from Greenland and Alaska southward to West
Indies and Central America.

Nest of vegetable rubbish from the marsh, often afloat and fastened to
the rushes like the Grebes, but sometimes on dry ground back from the water.

Eggs 10 to 12 ; clear clay color dotted minutely with dark brown.

Not so generally distributed as the last named species. It
breeds abundantly at St. Clair, but at Hamilton is only a
migratory visitor in spring and fall. It is a hardy bird, often
arriving in spring before the ice is quite away, and again linger-
ing late in the fall as if unwilling to depart. They are some-

86

ONTARIO.

times by amateur gunners mistaken for Ducks, and in this way a
few lose their lives, but except in such cases they are not
molested—Mud Hens generally not being looked uponas game.

OrvER LIMICOL. SuHoreE Birps.

Famity PHALAROPODID-A.
GENuS CRYMOPHILUS VIEILLor.
81.) CRYMOPHILUS; FULICARIUS (Lins.). 222.

Red Phalarope.
Adult with the under-parts purplish chestnut of variable intensity, white
in the young ; above variegated with blackish and tawny. Length, 7-8
inches ; wing, 5 ; tail, 2? ; bill, 1, yellowish, black-tipped ; tarsus, 3, greenish
Has. Northern parts of Northern hemisphere, breeding in the Arctic
regions and migrating south in winter ; in the United States south to the
Middle States, Ohio, Illinois, and Cape St. Lucas ; chiefly maritime,

Nest a hollow in the ground lined with dry grass.

Eggs 3 to 4 ; variable in color, usually brownish-olive spotted or blotched
with dark chocolate-brown.

Vast numbers of Phalaropes breed in Spitzbergen and on
the shores of the Polar Sea. At the approach of winter they
retire to the south, but in these migratory journeys they follow
the line of the sea coast so that the stragglers we see inland are
most likely bewildered by fog or driven by storm away from
their associates and their regular course.

Dr. Garnier saw a flock of six, one of which he secured at
Mitchell’s Bay, near St. Clair, in the fall of 1880, and on the
17th of November, 1882, Mr. Brooks, of Milton, shot a single
bird which he found swimming alone on Hamilton Bay, a little
way out from Dynes’s place. These are the only records I have
of the occurrence of the species in Southern Ontario.

Genus PHALAROPUS Brisson.
SusceEnus PHALAROPUS.
82. PHALAROPUS LOBATUS (Liny.). 223.

Northern Phalarope.

Adult, dark opaque-ash or grayish-black, the back variegated with
tawny ; upper tail-coverts and under-parts mostly white ; side of the’ head

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BIRDS OF

and neck with a broad stripe of rich chestnut, generally meeting on the jugu-
lum ; breast otherwise with ashy-gray ; young lacking the chestnut. Length,
about 7 inches ; wing, 44; tail, 2 ; bill, tarsus, and middle toe each, under 1,

black.
Has. Northern portions of Northern hemisphere, breeding in Arctic
latitudes ; south in winter to the tropics.

Nest a hollow in the ground lined with dry grass.

Eggs 3 to 4 ; similar to those of the Red Phalarope but smaller.

Like the preceding this is a bird of the sea coast. Though
singly or in pairs it is sometimes seen inland during the season
of migration. The two in my collection were found in the fall
on one of the inlets of Hamilton Bay.

In the list of the birds of Western Ontario mention is made
of three having been taken in Middlesex, and one found dead
at Mitchell’s Bay in 1882.

While this was passing through the press K. C. McIlwraith
shot a young male of this species as it rose from one of the in-
lets which run from the Bay up to the Beach road near
Hamilton.

Suscenus STEGANOPUS VIEILLor.
83. PHALAROPUS TRICOLOR (ViEgILL.). 224.
Wilson’s Phalarope.

Adult ashy ; upper tail-coverts and under-parts white; a black stripe
from the eye down the side of the neck spreading into rich purplish-chestnut
which also variegates the back and shades the throat ; young lacking these
last colors. Length, 9-10 ; wing, 5 ; tail, 2 ; bill, tarsus and middle toe, each
over 1, black.

Has. Temperate North America, chiefly the interior, breeding from
Northern Illinois and Utah northward to the Saskatchewan region ; south in
winter to Brazil and Patagonia.

Nest in moist meadows.

Eggs 3 to 4; variable in pattern, usually brownish-drab, marked with
splashes, spots, and scratches, of chocolate-brown.

This is the largest of the Phalaropes and the handsomest of all
our Waders. Unlike the others of its class it is rare along the
sea coast but common inland ; its line of migration being along

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the Mississippi valley ; another peculiarity of the species is
that the female is the largest and most gaily attired, and from
choice or necessity the eggs are incubated by the male. In
some other respects their domestic relations are not in accord-
ance with the recognized rules of propriety, but as it is not
always safe for outsiders to interfere in such matters we will
leave that part of the history without further comment.

Being a bird of the prairie ponds it is but a straggler in
Ontario. The only record I have of its occurrence is the
notice in the list of the Birds of Western Ontario, of one having
been taken at Mitchell’s Bay in 1882. It was observed by
Prof. Macoun in the Northwest breeding in the marshes east of
Moose Mountain.

Famity RECURVIROSTRID-.
GENusS RECURVIROSTRA Linneus.

84. RECURVIROSTRA AMERICANA Gm. 225.
American Avocet.

White ; back and wings with much black; head and neck cinnamon-
brown in the adult, ashy in the young , bill black, 33 to gape; legs blue; eyes
red. Length, 16-18 ; wing, 7-8 ; tail, 34 ; tarsus, 34.

Has. Temperate North America, from the Saskatchewan and Great
Slave Lake south, in winter, to Guatemala and the Wes. Indies. Rarein the
Eastern Province.

Eggs variable in size and markings, usually brownish-drab, marked
with spots of chocolate-brown.

This is another delicate inland Wader, rare on the sea coast,
but abundant in the Mississippi valley. Stragglers appear
occasionally at far distant points, and are at once identified by
their peculiar markings and awl-shaped bill. I am aware of
three individuals having been taken at different times at Rond
Eau, on the north shore of Lake Erie, but these are allI have
heard of in Ontario. Prof. Macoun found it abundant on the
brackish ponds and marshes of the Northwest.

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BIRDS OF
‘Famity SCOLOPACIDE. Snipes, SAnppIPERS, ETC.
Genus PHILOHELA Garay.
85. PHILOHELA MINOR (Ge t.). 228.

American Woodcock.

Above variegated and harmoniously blended black, brown, gray and
russet ; below pale warm brown of variable shade. Length, male, 10-11 ;
female, 11-12 ; extent, 16-18 ; wing, 44-5 ; bill, 24-3 ; tarsus, 13; middle toe
and claw, 14 ; weight, 5-9 ounces.

Has. Eastern Province of North America, north to the British
Provinces, west to Dakota, Kansas, etc. ; breeding throughout its range. No
extralimital records.

The nest, which is composed of a few dead leaves, is usually placed at
the root of a tree, or in a clump of weeds.

Eggs 3 to 4 ; grayish-brown marked with spots and blotches of lilac and
chocolate.

The Woodcock is a summer resident in Southern Ontario in
uncertain numbers, appearing about the time the snow is going
out of sight. In the fall it is much sought after by sportsmen
with varying success. Occasionally good bags are made but in
this respect no two seasons are alike. The fall of 1885 was one
of the poor seasons, very few being obtained.

The birds seem to be paired on their arrival in spring, and
at once select a site for the nest, which 1s usually placed in dense
woods or swampy thickets ; when the breeding season is over
they change their places of resort and are often found in corn
fields, orchards, and moist places where they feed mostly during
the night. They remain as long as the ground is soft enough
for them to probe, after which they retire to the south.

Genus GALLINAGO LeEacu.
86. GALLINAGO DELICATA (Orp). 230.

Wilson’s Snipe.

Crown black with a pale middle stripe ; back varied with black, bright
bay and tawny, the latter forming two lengthwise stripes on the scapulars ;
neck and breast speckled with brown and dusky ; lining of wings barred with
black and white ; tail usually of 16 feathers, barred with black, white and

go

ONTARIO.

chestnut ; sides waved with dusky ; belly dull white ; quills blackish, the
outer white edged. Length, 9-11 ; wing, 44-5}; bill, about 24 ; whole naked
portion of leg and foot, about 3.

Has. North and Middle America, breeding from Northern United
States northward ; south in winter to West Indies and Northern South
America.

Nest usually a depression in a grassy meadow.

Eggs 3 to 4; grayish-olive, heavily marked with umber-brown and
irregular lines of black.

This is the Snipe of America, although the name is often
erroneously applied to other species. It is sometimes called
English Snipe, owing to the close resemblance it bears to the
British bird, but those who have compared the two species
state. positively that they are different in their markings, besides
which the American Snipe has 16 tail feathers, whereas the
English bird has only 14.

In Southern Ontario it is found in considerable numbers in
spring and fall, and it is also said to breed sparingly through-
out the country.

In the List of Birds of Western Ontario it is stated that
“many breed in the St. Clair marshes,” and mention is made of
a pair having been shot there on the 17th of May, 1882.

Wherever it appears it is eagerly sought after both on ac-
count of the excellency of its flesh and the enjoyment it affords
to the sportsman. It arrives toward the end of April, passes
north for the summer and in the fall remains here till October.

Genus MACRORHAMPHUS Leacu.
87. MACRORHAMPHUS GRISEUS (Gme_L.). 231.

Dowitcher.

Tail and its coverts, at all seasons, conspicuously barred with black and
white (or tawny), lining of the wings and axillars the same; quills dusky,
shaft of first primary, and tips of the secondaries, except long inner ones,
white ; bill and feet greenish-black. In ‘summer, brownish-black above,
variegated with bay ; below brownish-red, variegated with dusky ; a tawny

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BIRDS OF

superciliary stripe, and a dark one from the bill to the eye. In winter, plain
gray above, and on the breast, with few or no traces of black and bay, the
belly, line over eye and under eyelid white. Length, 10-11 ; wing, 5-54; tail,
2% ; bill, about 23 ; tarsus, 14 ; middle toe and claw, 1}. A variety of this
(M. scolopaceus Lawrence) is almost a foot long, the bill upward of three
inches.

Has. Atlantic coast of North America, breeding far north.
Eggs 3 to 4 ; identical in appearance with those of the common Snipe.

Although this species is said to be abundant along the sea
coast and also in the Mississippi valley during the season of
migration, it can only be regarded as a straggler in Ontario.
The specimen in my collection is the only one I have ever found
near Hamilton. In the List of Birds of Western Ontario it is
spoken of as rare ; and in Lr. Wheaton’s exhaustive list of the
birds of Ohio the writer says he never saw it in that State but
has had it reported as a rare spring and fall migrant.

In their habits the Red-breasted Snipe very much resemble
some of the Sandpipers, associating in large flocks, and feed-
ing in exposed places, without much fear or suspicion,
which often leads to great slaughter intheir ranks. Their flesh
is held in high estimation ; and in the south where they spend
the winter they are often exposed for sale in the markets.

Genus MICROPALAMA Barrp.

88. MICROPALAMA HIMANTOPUS (Bonap.). 233.
Stilt Sandpiper.

Adult in summer, above blackish, each feather edged and tipped with
white and tawny or bay, which on the scapulars becomes scalloped ; auri-
culars chestnut ; a dusky line from bill to eye, and a light reddish super-
ciliary line ; upper tail-coverts white with dusky bars ; primaries dusky with
blackish tips ; tail-feathers ashy-gray, their edge and a central field white ;
under-parts mixed reddish, black and whitish, in streaks on the jugulum,
elsewhere in bars ; bill and feet greenish-black. Young and adult in winter,
ashy-gray above, with or without traces of black and bay, the feathers
with white edging ; line over the eye and under-parts white; the jugulum
and sides suffused with the color of the back, and streaked with dusky ; legs
usually pale. Length, 8-9 inches ; wing, 5 ; tail, 2}; bill and tarsus, both 14-
1% ; middle toe, 1.

92

i

ONTARIO.

Has. Eastern Province of North America, breeding north of the United
States, and migrating in winter to the West Indies, Central and South
America.

I have some scruples about including this species in my list,
as I have no record of its having been taken within the
Province, and yet when we consider that it breeds to the north
of us, and winters far to the south, there can be no reasonable
doubt that it passes through Ontario, but being rather a scarce
species may have escaped the notice of sportsmen or it may
have been taken and no record made of the occurrence. I|
anticipate that when this list is made public I will learn
of birds having been found in Ontario which are not in-
cluded here for the simple reason that I had not heard of it.
There being no convenient way of placing such records before
the public, they drop out of sight and are forgotten.

It is to be hoped that the writer of the next list of the birds
of Ontario will in this way have many additions to make to
the present one.

While this article was in the hands of the printer
Mr. Cross, taxidermist, of Toronto sends me a _ bird for
identification which proves to be this_ species. It is
one of two which were shot near Toronto about the 25th of
June last by Mr. Heinrich. Mr. Cross has made a happy hit
in the mounting of them. They look like a pair of miniature
Curlews.

Genus TRINGA Linneus.
SusBGENus TRINGA.
89. TRINGA CANUTUS Linn. 2.54.

Knot,

Bill equalling or rather exceeding the head, comparatively stout ; adult
in summer ; above, brownish-black, each feather tipped with ashy-white, and
tinged with reddish on scapulars ; below, uniform brownish-red, much as in
the Robin, fading into white on the flanks and crissum ; upper tail-coverts
white with dusky bars, tail feathers and secondaries grayish-ash with white
edges ; quills blackish, gray on the inner webs and with white shafts ; bill

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BIRDS OF

and feet blackish. Young : above, clear ash, with numerous black and white
semicircles ; below white, more or less tinged with reddish, dusky speckled
on breast, wavy barred on sides. Length, 1o-11 ; wing, 6-64 ; tail, 24, nearly
square ; bill about 14 (very variable).

Has. Nearly cosmopolitan. Breeds in high northern lattitudes, but
visits the Southern Hemisphere during its migraticns.

This is the largest and handsomest of the Sandpipers ;
though said to be common along the sea coast it is only an occa-
sional visitor inland. The specimen in my collection I killed
many years since on the muddy shore of one of the inlets of the
bay. I did not see it again till May, 1884, when K. C. Mcll-
wraith killed four very fine specimens in a moist vegetable
garden on the beach. Dr. Wheaton met with it only once in
Ohio, and it is not mentioned inthe List of the Birds of Western
Ontario, from which it may be inferred that we are not on the
line of its migrations. In distribution it has a wide range;
in the fall large flocks, which are supposed to come from Ice-
land visit the east coast of Scotland, It is also reported from
Australia, New Zealand and South America.

SuBGENUS ARQUATELLA Bairp.

90. TRINGA MARITIMA Brunn. 235.
Purple Sandpiper,

Bill little longer than the head, much longer than the tarsus, straight or
nearly so ; tibial feathers long, reaching to the joints; though the legs are
really bare a little way above ; adult, above ashy-black with purplish and
violet reflections, most of the feathers with pale or white edgings ; second-
aries mostly white ; line over eye, eye-lids and under-parts white, the breast
and jugulum a pale cast of the color of the back, and sides marked with the
same. In winter, and most immature birds, the colors are similar but much
duller ; very young birds have tawny edgings above, and are mottled with
ashy and dusky below. Length, 8-9 inches ; wing, 5 ; tail, 2%, rounded; bill,
1} ; tarsus, # ; middle toe, 1, or a little more.

Has. Northern portions of the Northern Hemisphere; in North
America chiefly the northeastern portions breeding in the high north,
migrating in winter to the Eastern and Middle States, the Great Lakes, and
the shores of the larger streams in the Mississippi Valley.

The eggs are said to be four in number ; clay-color, shaded with olive
and marked with rich umber-brown.

94

ONTARIO.

This, like the preceding species, is common to both conti-
nents, and is of circumpolar distribution. If it was in the
habit of passing this way it did so without being observed till
the 31st of Oct., 1885, when one individual was killed at the
Beach by K. C. Mcllwraith. This isthe only record we
have of it in the Province.

As its name (Maritima) implies, it is a bird of the sea coast,
but though a Sandpiper, it is not so fond of the sandy shores as
it is of the rocky ledges covered with sea weeds, where it no
doubt finds something to suit its taste. The name purple
might lead a stranger to expect this to be a bird of showy
colors, but in general appearance it is perhaps the least so of its
class, and might be described as about the size and make of the
Black-heart, dull slaty-blue above, belly and vent white. Seen
when in full plumage the feathers feel soft and silky for a bird
of this class, and in certain rays of light seem slightly glossed
with purple.

SuBGENUS ACTODROMAS Kavp.
ol. sTRINGA: MACULATA ViriLi. * 339.
Pectoral Sandpiper.

Coloration much as in Baird’s Sandpiper, but crown noticeably different
from cervix ; chestnut edgings of scapulars straight-edged ; chin whitish,
definitely contrasted with the heavily ashy-shaded and sharply dusky-
streaked jugulum. Large. Length, 84-9 inches ; wing, 5-54 ; bill, tarsus and
middle toe with claw, about 14 ; bill and feet greenish.

Has. The whole of North America, the West Indies, and the greater
part of South America. Breeds in the Arcticregions. Of frequent occurrence
in Europe.

While on their extended migratory journey in spring and
fall, these birds rest and refresh themselves on the marshes and
lake shores of Ontario, where they are frequently observed by
sportsmen in flocks of considerable size.

Near Hamilton they are not of regular occurrence, though
they occasionally appear in the fallin goodly numbers, and if the
weather keeps soft, remain till October.

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BIRDS OF

While here they frequent the grassy meadows and muddy
inlets near the Bay, being very seldom noticed on the sand.

Like several others of the same class this species has a wide
geographical distribution, being found in Iceland, Europe and
Asia.

92. TRINGA FUSCICOLLIS Viritit. 240.

White-rumped Sandpiper.

Size, medium. Upper tail-coverts white ; feet black ; bill black, light-
colored at base below ; coloration otherwise much as in the preceding species,
An ashy wash on the jugulum is hardly perceptible except in young birds,
and then it is slight ; the streaks are very numerous, broad and distinct,
extending as specks nearly or quite to the bill, and as shaft lines along the
sides.

Has. Eastern Province of North America, breeding in the high north.
In winter, the West Indies, Central and South America, south to the Falk-
land Islands. Occasional in Europe.

Several of our Sandpipers resemble each other so much in
general appearance that by the gunner they are considered as
all of one sort and treated alike—that is they are tied in bunches
by the neck or legs and handed over to be prepared for the
table. With the collector it is different, every individual is
carefully examined as to species, sex, age, and condition, so
that nothing may be lost that is worth preserving. In the
present species the white rump is always a distinguishing mark,
most conspicuous while the birds are on the wing. Inland it is
not very common, but a few are usually seen associating with
the others during the season of migration. The pair in my collec-
tion I found on the sandy shore of Lake Ontario near the Bur-
lington canal.

93. TRINGA BAIRDII (Cougs). 241.
Baird’s Sandpiper.

Adult male : bill wholly black, small and slender, slightly shorter than
the head, just as long as the tarsus or as the middle toe and claw, slightly
expanded or lancet shaped at the end, the point acute ; grooves long, narrow

96

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deep ; feathers on the side of lower mandible evidently reaching further than
those on upper. Upper parts brownish-black (deepest on the rump and
middle upper tail-coverts, and lightest on the neck behind), each feather
bordered and tipped with pale brownish-yellow, the tipping of the scapulars
broadest and nearly white, their marginings broad and brightest in tint,
making several deep scallops toward the shafts of the feathers. Only the
outer series black, the others plain gray, with paler margins. Jugulum
tinged with light, dull yellowish-brown, spotted and streaked with ill-defined
blackish markings, as are also the sides under the wings. Throat and other
under parts white, unmarked. Feet black, like the bill. Length, 7-25;
extent, 15-25 ; wing, 4-90 ; bill, 85 ; tarsus, middle toe and claw, the same.
The female is entirely similar, but slightly larger. The young have the upper
parts wholly light brownish-ash, darker on the rump, and all the feathers
with a dark field, and pale or whitish edging ; waves of brownish black on
the scapulars. Jugulum and breast suffused with dull, light reddish-brown ;
the spotting small, sparse, and very indistinct.

Has. The whole of North and South America, but chiefly the interior
of North and the western portions of South America. Rare along the Atlantic
coast, and not yet recorded from the Pacific coast.

Known to breed only in the Arctic regions.

Eggs, 3 to 4 ; clay color, spotted with rich umber-brown.

Dr. Coues, in his new Key to North American Birds, says
that ‘this is the most abundant small Sandpiper in some parts
of the West during migrations,” yet it has not been found on

the Pacific coast and is quite rare on the Atlantic. The only

record we have of its occurrence in Ontario is that of a fine
specimen now in my collection which was shot at the Beach on
the 25th of August, 1885, by K. C. MclIlwraith. It was singled
out among a flock of small Sandpipers by its peculiar erratic
Snipe-like flight, and on being secured its dainty little body
was picked up with feelings which only the enthusiastic
collector can understand.

It is named after S. F. Baird, of the Smithsonian institution,
and, so far as known, is peculiar to the American continent.

On the 23rd of August, 1886, while this article was in the
printer’s hands, the locality where the specimen herein referred
to was obtained was again visited, and strange to say another
individual of the species was got at the same place, under
similar circumstances. On the rst of September the place was

7,

BIRDS OF

again visited and two more were obtained, but on two subse-
quent visits made within a day or two no more were seen.
Those who are observant of the migratory movements of the
birds must have been often astonished to see with what per-
sistent regularity certain birds appear at certain places at a
given time. In the present instance these are the only birds of
the kind we have ever seen or heard of in Ontario, yet they
were all found within a few yards of the same spot, and within
ten days of the same date in different years.

94. TRINGA MINUTILLA VieiLL. 242.

Least Sandpiper.

Upper parts in summer with each feather blackish centrally, edged with
bright bay, and tipped with ashy or white ; in winter and inthe young simply
ashy ; tail feathers gray with whitish edges, the central blackish, usually
with reddish edges, crown not conspicuously different from hind neck ;
chestnut edgings of scapulars usually scalloped ; below white, the jugulum
with dusky streaks and an ashy or brownish suffusion ; bill black ; legs dusky
greenish. Smallest of the Sandpipers; length, 54-6 inches; wing, 34-33;
tail, 2 or less ; bill, tarsus and middle toe with claw, about #.

Has. Whole of North and South America, breeding north of the United
States. Accidental in Europe.

The appearance of this, the smallest of the Sandpipers,
always excites a feeling of pity as he is seen hurrying along the
sand in rear of his big brothers, uttering his feeble ‘‘peep’”’ as
if begging them to leave a little for him.

In Ontario it is a common species, found in all suitable
places in spring and fall, but its breeding ground is far north,
and little, if anything, is known of its nest or eggs. Some might
say that is a matter of no consequence ; here is what Dr. Coues
says about it in his Birds of the Northwest: ‘“‘ Fogs hang low
and heavy over rock-girdled Labrador. Angry waves, palled
with rage, exhaust themselves to encroach upon the stern
shores, and sink back howling into the depths. | Winds shriek
as they course from crag to crag in mad career, till the humble
mosses that clothe the rocks crouch lower still in fear. Over-
head the Sea Gulls scream as they winnow, and the Murres all

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silent ply eager oars to escape the blast. What is here to
entice the steps of the delicate birds ? Yet they have come,
urged by resistless impulse, and have made a nest on the
ground in some half-sheltered nook. The material was ready
at hand in the mossy covering of the earth, and little care or
thought was needed to fashion a little bunch into a little home.

“ Four eggs are laid (they are buffy-yellow, spotted over with
brown and drab), with the points together that they may take
up less room and be more warmly covered. There is need of
this—such large eggs for so small a bird. As we draw near,
the mother sees us, and nestles closer still over her treasures,
quite hiding them in the covering of her breast, and watches us
with timid eyes, all anxiety for the safety of what is dearer to
her than her own life. Her mate stands motionless but not
unmoved, hard by, not venturing even to chirp the note of
encouragement and sympathy she loves to hear.

‘Alas, hope fades, and dies out, leaving only fear ; there isno
further concealment—we are almost upon the nest—almost
trodden upon she springs up with a piteous cry and flies a
little distance, re-alighting, almost beside herself with grief; for
she knows only too well what is to be feared at such a time.
If there were hope for her that her nest was undiscovered, she
might dissimulate and try to entice us away by those touching
deceits which maternal love inspires. But we are actually
bending over her treasures, and deception would be in vain ;
her grief is too great to be witnessed unmoved, still less por-
trayed; nor can we, deaf to her beseeching, change it to
despair. We have seen and admired her home—there is no
excuse for making it desolate ; we have not so muchas touched
one of the precious eggs, and will leave them to her renewed
and patient care.”

SuBGENUS PELIDNA Cuvier.
95. TRINGA ALPINA PACIFICA (Cougs). 243 a.
Red-Backed Sandpiper.

Adult in summer: above chestnut, each feather with a central black
field, and most of them whitish-tipped, rump and upper tail-eoverts blackish,

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BIRDS OF

tail feathers and wing coverts ashy-gray, quills dusky with pale shafts,
secondaries mostly white, and inner primaries ecged with the same ; under-
parts white, belly with a broad jet black area, breast and jugulum thickly
streaked with dusky ; bill and feet black. Adult in winter, and young ‘
above, plain ash-gray, with dark shaft, with or without red or black traces ;
below white, little or no trace of black on the belly ; jugulum with a few
dusky streaks and an ashy suffusion. Length, 8-9 inches ; wing, 44-5; tail,
2-24 ; bill, 14-13, longer than head, compressed at base, rather depressed at
the end ; tibia bare about 4 ; tarsus, 1, or rather less.

Has. North America in general, breeding far north, and straggling to
eastern coast of Asia.

This is the Black-heart Plover of sportsmen. It is a regular
visitor in Ontario in the season of migration, appearing on the
shores of Lake Ontario with wonderful regularity on the
Queen’s birthday, (May 24th), as if to afford sport to our
gunners on that Canadian holiday. It is much in favor with
those who are fond of killing a great number of birds at once,
as it usually appears in large compact flocks and is not very
difficult of approach. I once saw seventy-six killed or wounded
with the discharge of two barrels. They had just arrived on the
shore, and seeming tired after a long flight, settled on a partially
submerged log near the water’s edge, from which they were
unwilling to rise, and allowed the gunner to do as stated, toshis
extreme delight. It did not occur to one, when looking at so
large a number of dead and wounded birds, that any very
commendable feat had been accomplished, but so it was con-
sidered at the time, and so it will be again, I presume, with that
class of sportsmen, but the like opportunity may not soon occur
again, as the number of Blackhearts which now visit that
locality is very small.

96. TRINGA FERRUGINEA Brunn. 244.

Curlew Sandpiper.

Adult : crown of the head and entire upper parts greenish-black, each
feather tipped and indented with yellowish-red ; wing-coverts ashy-brown,
each feather with dusky shaft line and reddish edging. Upper tail-coverts
white, with broad dusky bars, tinged at their extremities with reddish.

100

ONTARIO.

Tail, pale gray, with greenish reflection. Sides of the neck and entire under-
parts uniform deep brownish-red ; under tail-coverts barred with dusky ;
axillars and under wing-coverts white ; bill and feet greenish-black.

Has. Old World in general ; occasional in Eastern North America.

So far as at present known, the Curlew Sandpiper is only a
straggler on the American continent, about ten or a dozen
being all the recorded captures ; it is quite a common British
species, and like others peculiar to those eastern lands, may
occasionally be wafted westward against its inclinations, but no
nest of the species has yet been found on this side of the
Atlantic.

In 1867, the Board of Arts of Western Canada prepared a
‘‘ catalogue of birds observed in the country,” in connection
with the collection which, during that year, was sent to the
Paris exhibition. The Curlew Sandpiper is named in the
catalogue, but no specimen was available for the collection. I
have mentioned it here, chiefly with the view of placing the
technical description in the hands of those interested, so that
they may be able to identify the species should they at any
time fall in with it.

Genus EREUNETES ILLIGEr.
97. EREUNETES PUSILLUS (Linny.).) 246.

Semipalmated Sandpiper.

Adult in summer : above variegated with black, bay and ashy or white,
each feather with a black field, reddish edge and whitish tip; rump and
upper tail-coverts, except the lateral ones, blackish ; tail feathers ashy-gray,
the central darker ; primaries dusky, the shaft of the first white ;a dusky line
from the bill to the eye, and a white superciliary line ; below, pure white,
usually rufescent on the breast, and with more or less dusky speckling on the
throat, breast anc sides usually wanting ; in winter the upper parts mostly
plain ashy-gray ; but in any plumage or under any variation the species is
known by its small size and semi-palmated feet. Length, 54-64 inches ;
wing, 4}-3? ; tarsus, and middle toe and claw, about 1 ; bill variable from 4
to 14, averaging {.

Has. Eastern Pcovince of North America, breeding north of the
United States ; south in winter to the West Indies and South America.

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BIRDS OF

Nest, a depression in the ground, in or near some moist place ; lined with
withered grass.

Eggs 3 to 4; variable in color, usually clay color, blotched or spotted
with umber-brown,

A very abundant species during the season of migration,
thronging alike the shores of the sea, and those of our inland
lakes and marshes.

They visit the shores of Hamilton Bay in spring and fall in
considerable numbers, but are so much disturbed by amateur
gunners that they soon seek for more retired feeding grounds
elsewhere.

Some, but probably not all of them, breed far north, as they
are here till the end of May and return again with their young
by the end of August. They are usually found associating with
the Least Sandpiper, which they much resemble in general
appearance, but the semipalmated toes of the present species is
always a sure distinguishing mark.

Genus CALIDRIS Cuvier.
98. CALIDRIS ARENARIA (Linn.). 248.
Sanderling.

Adult in summer : head, neck and upper parts varied with black, ashy
and bright reddish ; below from the breast pure white ; tail except central
feathers light-ash, nearly white ; primaries gray with blackish edges and tips,
the shafts of all and bases of most white ; secondaries white except a space at
the end,,and greater coverts broadly white tipped; bill and feet black.
Adult in winter, and young, nc reddish ; speckled with black and white,
sometimes tawny tinged on the jugulum. Length, 74-8; wing, 44-5; tail,

. 2}; bill, about 1 ; tarsus, 1 or rather less ; middle toe and claw, 3.

Has. Nearly cosmopolitan, breeding in the Arctic and Subarctic

regions, migrating, in America, south to Chili and Patagonia.

A species of very wide geographical distribution, being found
in suitable places nearly all over the world.

It visits the shores of the great lakes in Ontario during the
season of migration, and appears in different dress according to
age or the season of the year. Inspring the breast and _ fore-

102

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neck are tinged with pale rufus, but in autumn the whole lowér
parts are as white as snow. It is a very active species, and
when feeding along the shore, shows great celerity in following
the receding wave, or keeping clear of the next one that rolls
up on the Beach. When wounded in the wing, it will run with
great swiftness, and even take to the water and swim well. In
spring their visits to Hamilton Bay are uncertain and of short
duration, but on the return trip they appear about the end of
August and are found all through the fall.

Genus LIMOSA Brisson.
99. LIMOSA FEDOA (Linn.). 249.

Marbled Godwit.

Tail barred throughout with black and rufous, rump and upper tail-
coverts like the back ; no pure white anywhere. General plumage rufous or
cinnamon-brown ; below, nearly unmarked and of very variable shade,
usually deepest on the lining of the wing ; above, variegated with black and
brown or gray ; quills rufous and black ; bill flesh-colored largely tipped with
black; feet dark. Large; length, 16-22; wing, about g; tail, about 34; bill,
4-5; tibia bare 1-14; tarsus, 24-3}, 14, stout;

Has. North America; breeding in the interior (Missouri region and
northward), migrating in winter southward to Central America and Cuba.

Nest on the prairie.
Eggs 3 to 4 ; olive-drab spotted with various shades of umber-brown.

The Marbled Godwit is occasionally seen singly or in pairs on
the lake shores of Ontario during the season of migration, but
these can only be regarded as stragglers, as we learn that in
spring it passes up the Mississippi Valley in flocks of consider-
able size, and has been found nesting in Iowa, Minnesota and
Dakota. It was also found by Prof. Macoun ‘“ feeding in large
flocks along the Salt marshes at Old Wives Lakes and other
points” in the Northwest.

It is a handsome bird, in general appearance resembling the
Curlews, from which, however, it can readily be distinguished
by its straight bill.

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BIRDS OF

From its large size and the delicacy of its flesh, it is held in
esteem by sportsmen who do not let it pass within reach.

It used to visit the Beach at Hamilton regularly in spring
and fall, but of late years has been rarely seen.

190. LIMOSA HAZMASTICA (Liny.). 251.
Hudsonian Godwit,

Tail black, largely white at base, its coverts mostly white; rump
blackish ; lining of wings extensively blackish ; under-parts in the breeding
season intense rufous (chiefly barred) with dusky ; head neck and upper
parts brownish-black, variegated with gray, reddish and usually some
whitish speckling ; quills blackish, more or less white at the base. Young
and apparently winter specimens much paler, tawny-whitish below, more
gray above. Considerably smaller than the foregoing, about 15 ; wing, 8 or
less ; bill, 34 or less ; tarsus, 24 or less.

Has. Eastern North America and the whole of Middle and South
America. Breeds only in the high north.

Eggs 4 ; olive-drab with dark spots,

Less abundant than the preceding. This species seems to
prefer the line of the Atlantic for its migrations, but is also
noticed inland in smaller numbers. I have seen it in spring at
St. Clair flats, and also on the shores of Hamilton Bay, where
the specimen in my collection was obtained.

It is not known to breed anywhere within the limits of the
United States, and Prof. Macoun in recording its presence in
the Northwest speaks of it as “less abundant than the pre-
ceding and more to the north.”

In spring, the prevailing color of the plumage is rich chest-
nut-red, crossed with wavy lines of black. In the fall, it is less
attractive, being mostly ashy-gray.

Genus TOTANUS BEcHSTEIN.
Suscenus GLOTTIS Kocu.
191. TOTANUS MELANOLEUCUS (Gme_t.). 254.

Greater Yellow-legs,

Bill straight or slightly bent upwards, very slender, grooved half its
length or less, black ; legs long and slender, yellow. Insummer, ashy-brown,

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ONTARIO

above varied with black and speckled with whitish, below white, jugulum
streaked, and breast, sides and crissum speckled or barred with blackish,
these latter marks fewer or wanting in winter and in the young; upper tail
coverts white with dark bars ; tail feathers marbled or barred with ashy or
white ; quills blackish. Large ; length, over 12; wing, over 7; tail, 3 or
more ; bill, 2 or more ; tarsus, about 2}; middle toe and claw, 1}; tibia
bare, 14.

Has, America in general, breeding in the cold temperate and subarctic
portions of North America, and migrating south to Chili and Buenos Ayres.

In spring even before the ice is quite gone from the lakes
and rivers of Ontario, the shrill piercing cry of this bird may
be heard overhead as it circles round in search of some quiet
marshy inlet as a temporary resting place.

At this season but a short stay is made, as it passes quickly
on to its breeding place in the far north. As early as the end
of August the birds again appear, toned down in dress and
manners accompanied by their families, many falling the vic-
tims of misplaced confidence by exposing themselves within
reach of the ever-ready breech-loader which at this season of
the year seems omnipresent in all the marshes.

Like others of its class this species is an occasional visitor
at the Beach near Hamilton, but the visits of all this class of
birds at that point are now of less frequent occurrence and of
shorter duration than in former years.

« 102. TOTANUS FLAVIPES (GmMeL.). 255.
Yellow-legs.

A miniature of the last ; colors precisely the same ; legs comparatively
longer ; bill grooved rather further. Length, under 12 ; wing, under 7 ; tail
under 2 ; tarsus, about 2 ; middle toe and claw, and bare tibia, each rf.

Has. America in general, breeding in the cold temperate and subarctic
districts, and migrating south in winter to Southern South America. Less
common in the Western than in the Eastern Province of North America.

Nest a slight depression in the gronnd, lined with dried grass or leaves.

Eggs 3 to 4 ; variable in color, usually clay-color, blotched or spotted
with umber-brown.

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BIRDS OF

In color, haunts, and habits, this species closely resembles
the preceding, the difference in size serving at all times to dis-
tinguish one from the other ; both are esteemed for the table,
and are therefore sought tor by the gunners and often exposed
for sale in the market. When oneis wounded from a flock, the
others raise a great outcry and remain near it solong that their
ranks are often still farther thinned before they move off. Alone
or in company with the preceding this species pays a passing
visit to the shores of Hamilton Bay in spring and fall.

SuBGENUS ,RHYACOPHILUS Kavp.
103. TOTANUS SOLITARIUS (Wits.). 256.

Solitary Sandpiper.

Bill perfectly straight, very slender, grooved little beyond its middle
Dark lustrous olive-brown, streaked on the head and neck, elsewhere finely
speckled with whitish ; jugulum and sides of neck with brownish suffusion
and dusky streaks ; rump and upper tail coverts like the back ; tail, axillars
and lining of wings beautifully barred with black and white ; quills entirely
blackish ; bill and feet very dark olive-green ; young duller above, less
speckled, jugulum merely suftused with grayish brown. Length, 8-9; wing,
5 ; tail 23 ; bill, tarsus, and middle toe, each about 1-1} ; tibia bare 3.

Has. North America, breeding throughout the temperate portions
(more commonly northward), and migrating southward as far as Brazil and
Peru.

Information regarding the nest and eggs of this species is still much
desired.

As its name implies, this is a solitary bird, nowhere abun-
dant, yet widely distributed. Itis seen during the summer
months in Southern Ontario. Prof. Macoun reports it as “ of
frequent occurrence on the plains” of the Northwest, and it has
been found in Alaska.

In the List of Birds of Western Ontario, published in the
Canadian Sportsmen and Naturalist for November 1882, it is —
stated that ‘‘ inthe summer of 1879 this bird bred very com-
monly along the streams in Middlesex, but, has since then been
quite rare. Most of those I have seen near Hamilton have got
up unexpectedly from some pool by the roadside, frequently from

106

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places where cattle have been in the habit of visiting to obtain
water. I have not seen more than two together. In thei
motions they are quiet and sedate, but have the habit peculiar
to others of this class, of nervously jerking their hinder parts in
a manner apparently satisfactory to themselves, though what
particular purpose is served by it, is not to usapparent. From
having seen this species in all the summer months, I have
placed it on the list as a rare summer resident here.

Genus SYMPHEMIA RarFINESQUE.
104. SYMPHEMIA SEMIPALMATA (GmeEL.). 258.
Willet.

Bill straight, comparatively stout, grooved little if any more than half its
length. In summer, gray above, with numerous black marks, white below,
the jugulum streaked, the breast, sides and crissum barred or with arrow
shaped marks of dusky (in winter, and in young birds, all these dark marks
few or wanting, except on jugulum); upper tail-coverts, most of the
secondaries, and basal half of primaries, white ; ends of primaries, their
coverts, lining of wings, and axillars, black ; bill bluish or dark. Toes with
two conspicuous basal webs. Length, 12-16 ; wing, 7-8; tail, 24-3; bill or
tarsus, 2-23? ; tibia bare, 1 or more, middle toe and claw, 14-2.

Has. Temperate North America, south to the West Indies and Brazil.
Nest in a tussock of grass in the marsh, just above water level.

Eggs 3 to 4; usually clay color, splashed or spotted with varying shades
of umber brown,

Very little is known of this species in Ontario. On two
occasions I have seen it brought in by gunners from the marsh,
but have not met with it alive. That it passes this way in
spring and fall is probable, as it breeds generally throughout the
United States as far north as Dakota, and has also been
observed in the Northwest by Prof. Macoun. In general
appearance it resembles the Greater Yellow Shanks, but in the
present species the legs are bluish-lead color. The Willets are
very wary birds, and along the sea coast, where they are more
common and much sought after, decoys are used to attract
them within range. In the fall they are said to get extremely
fat and are much prized for the table.

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BIRDS OF
Genus PAVONCELLA LeEacu.

105. PAVONCELLA PUGNAX Linn. 260.

Ruff.

Above varied with black, rufous, and gray, the scapulars and tertials
exhibiting these colors in oblique bands. Beneath, white, varied on the
jugulum and throat ; primaries, dark-brown, with greenish reflection above ;
the inner webs finely mottled towards the base. Outer three tail-feathers
plain, the remainder transversely barred. Bill, brown ; sides of rump, white,
legs yellow. Male in spring dress with the feathers of the neck greatly
developed into a ruff ; the face covered with reddish papillae. Length about
10 inches ; wing, 6-40 ; tail, 2-60 ; bill, 1-25.

Has. Northern parts of the Old World, straying occasionally to
Eastern North America.

A wanderer from the Old World, which has been frequently
obtained on Long Island, on the coast of New England and in
the Middle States.

The fact of a specimen having been killed on the island near
Toronto in the spring of 1882, gives me the privilege of record-
ing it as a rare visitor to Ontario. This is farther inland than
any of the others occurred, and the probabilities are that it will
not often be found so far from the sea. The specimen referred
to is apparently a young male in nearly perfect plumage, and is
now mounted, and in the possession of Mr. Young, of Toronto.

Genus BARTRAMIA LEsson.
106. BARTRAMIA LONGICAUDA (Becust.). 261.

Bartramian Sandpiper.

Above blackish, with a slight greenish reflection, variegated with tawny
and whitish; below, pale tawny of varying shade, bleaching on throat and
belly ; jugulum with streaks, breast and sides with arrowheads and bars of
blackish ; axillars and lining of wings pure white, black-barred ; quills blackish,
with white-bars on the inner webs; tail varied with tawny, black and white,
chiefly in bars, bill and legs pale, former black-tipped. Length 11-13 inches;
wing, 6-7; tail, 3-4; bill, 1-1}; middle toe and claw about the same; tarsus,
about 2.

108

ONTARIO.

Has. Eastern North America, north to Nova Scotia and Alaska, breed-
ing throughout its North American range; migrating in winter southward, as
far even as Southern South America. Occasional in Europe.

Nest on the prairie.

Eggs 4, clay color, marked all over with small spots of umber brown,
most numerous at the larger end.

The Field Plover, as this species is frequently called, is now
very seldom seen in Ontario, though the older sportsmen tell us
that in former times it was often observed in the pasture fields in
spring and fall. The few that I have noticednear Hamilton, have
always been in such places, but these can only be regarded as
stragglers, bewildered by fog, or driven by adverse winds away
from theirregularhabitat. In all the country between the Miss-
issippiand the Rocky Mountains, this species is said to be exceed-
ingly abundant during the seasonsof migration, many remaining
to raise their young in Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, and Dakota,
while large flocks pass on for the same purpose, going as tar
north as the Yukon. According to Prof. Macoun, it 1s
abundant on the prairies of the Northwest, where it will afford
good sport and a table delicacy, to many a future settler in
that promising country. °

Genus TRYNGITES Casanis.
107. TRYNGITES SUBRUFICOLLIS (VieiLt.). 262.
Buff-breasted Sandpiper.

Quills largely white on the inner web, and with beautiful black marbling
or mottling, best seen from below ; tail unbarred, gray, the central feathers
darker, all with subterminal black edging and white tips ; crown and uppet-
parts blackish, the feathers with whitish or tawny edging, especially on the
wings ; sides of the head, neck all round and under-parts pale rufous, or
fawn-color, speckled on the neck and breast with dusky ; bill black ; feet,
greenish-yellow. Length, 7-8 ; wing, 5-54; tail, 2} ; tarsus, 1}; middle toe
and claw, and bill, under an inch,

Has. North America, especially in the interior ; breeds in the Yukon
district and the interior of British America, northward to the Arctic coast ;
South Americain winter. Of frequent occurrence in Europe.

Nest a depression in the ground, lined with dry grass or leaves.
Eggs 4 ; clay-color, blotched or spotted with umber-brown'

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BIRDS OF

In the early fall, I have several times met with these interest-
ing little birds, running among the short grass on the sandy
knolls, north of the canal at the Beach, but have not seen them
elsewhere.

They are said to breed in high lattitudes, a dozen sets of
eggs in the Smithsonian Institution, having all been collected
by Mr. Macfarlane in the Anderson River region, and along
the Arctic coast.

With this record before me, I was not a little surprised to
receive from Dr. G. A. Macallum, of Dunnville, Ont., a notice
of his having found a nest of the species near his home, a few
miles back from the north shore of Lake Erie. In answer to my
request for further particulars, I received a prompt and full
reply, from which the following is an extract: ‘* About the
Buff-breasted Sandpiper ; I find on turning up my notes that it
was taken June 10, 1879, when two of the eggs were hatched
and the other one chipped, which however I was able to makea
good specimen of, and it is now in my cabinet.

The female was shot, and with the two little fellows, stands in
my collection. The young are fawn-colored, with black spots
over the whole body ; the egg measures 1-25 x 95, is pyriform
in shape ; color, ground, buff, thickly covered with dark blotches
of two shades of brown, making the general appearance very
dark—almost as dark as the egg of Wilson’s Snipe.

The nest was placed between two tussocks of grass on the
ground, a short distance from the ban of the river where the
ground is tolerably high, and where it is the custom to cut
marsh hay. The nest was of a decided shape, and was com-
posed of a fine moss or weed which grows between the tussocks
of marsh grass. This is the only case of its breeding here to
my knowledge.”

This species not being common anywhere, there is not much
opportunity for obtaining positive information regarding its
distribution during the breeding season. It may be that the
case referred to by Dr. Macallum is an isolated one ; but it may
yet be found that, like its near relative Bartram’s Sandpiper, the

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Buff-breasted has a wide geographical range, and that although
many pairs breed in the far north, a few remain and raise
their young in the middle districts. Those I obtained were got
on the 5th of September, 1885, and, though evidently young
birds, were in good plumage at that time.

Genus ACTITIS Itticer.

108. ACTITIS MACULARIA (Liny.). 263.

Spotted Sandpiper.

Above, olive (quaker-color, exactly as in the Cuckoo), with a coppery
lustre, finely varied with black ; line over eye, and entire under-parts pure
white, with numerous sharp circular black spots, larger and more crowded in
the female than in the male, entirely wanting in very young birds ;
secondaries broadly white-tipped, and inner primaries with a white spot ;
most of the tail feathers like the back with sub-terminal black bar and white
tip ; bill pale-yellow, tipped with black; feet flesh-color. Length, 7-8 ;
wing about 4 ; tail, about 2 ; bill, tarsus and middle toe, each about tr.

Has. North and South America, south to Brazil. Breeds throughout
temperate North America. Occasional in Europe.

Nest on the ground not far from water, composed of dried grass.

Eggs 4 ; clay-color, blotched with blackish-brown.

No bird of its class is so well known throughout Ontario as
the ‘‘Teeter Snipe:”’

Merry bands of children, getting out to the woods to pick
flowers in the early summer listen with delight to its soft ‘‘peet
weet,”’ as it flits from point to point along the margin of the
stream, and find great amusement in watching the peculiar
jerky teetering motions which give rise to its common name.
It thus becomes associated in the mind of the rising generation
with the return of summer and its many outdoor enjoyments,
and soisalways welcome. About the middle of April the Peet-
Weets cross our Southern boundary and are soon dispersed in
pairs all over the country, where they are heard and seen by
every brook-side till about the end of September, when they
move off to spend the winter in the Southern States. In the

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BIRDS OF

fall they get quite numerous, and many may be seen along the
lake shore at one time, yet they are not gregarious, each’
individual choosing its own time to arise, and place to alight.
The female is rather larger and more heavily spotted than the
male.

Genus NUMENIUS Brisson.
109. NUMENIUS LONGIROSTRIS Wits. 264.
Long-billed Curlew.

Bill of extreme length and curvature, measuring from 5 to 8 or 9g inches ;
total length, about 2 feet ; wing a foot or less ; tail, about 4 ; tarsus, 24 to 2#.
Plumage very similar to that of the Godwit, prevailing tone rufous, of varing
intensity in different birds and in different parts of the same bird, usually
more intense under the wing than elsewhere ; below, the jugulum streaked,
and the breast and sides with arrow-heads and bars of dusky ; above, varie-
gated with black, especially on the crown, back and wings; tail barred
throughout with black and rufous ; secondaries rufous ; primaries blackish
and rufous ; no pure white anywhere ; bill black, the under mandible flesh-
colored for some distance ; legs dark.

Has, Temperate North America, migrating south to Guatemala and
the West Indies. Breeds in the South Atlantic States, and in the interior
through most of its North American range.

Nest on the prairies.

Eggs 3 to 4 ; clay-color, blotched or spotted with umber-brown.

The Long-billed Curlew is a bird of the prairie rather than
the coast, though it is often met with along the shores of the
sea. It is said to breed in suitable places from Carolina
to Minnesota, but is spoken of by Prof. Macoun as rare in the
Northwest. In Ontario, it is occasionally seen along the shores
of the Lakes, but only as an irregular visitor and not in large
numbers. Among the veteran sportsmen near Hamilton, it ‘is
spoken of as one of the kinds which have been scared away by the
railroads. Whether the snorting of the locomotive has anything
to do with the disappearance of the birds from their former
haunts is hard to say, but certain it is that the number of
Waders and Swimmers we now see is small as compared with
former years.

IIz2

ONTARIO.
110. NUMENIUS HUDSONICUS Latu. 265.

Hudsonian Curlew.

Bill medium, 3 or 4 inches long ; length, 16-18 ; wing, 9 ; tail, 34; tarsus,
2}-24. Plumage as in the last species in pattern, but general tone much
paler ; quills barred. :

- Hap. All of Northand South America, including the West Indies ;
breeds in the high north, and winters chiefly south of the United States.

Nest similar to the preceding.

Eggs similar in markings but smaller.

According to Dr. Coues, this species is less abundant than
either of the other two Curlews, yet at Hamilton it is, of the
three, most frequently observed. I was once on the Beach in
May, when there appeared to be a migratory movement of Hud-
sonian Curlews toward the North. They flew high, in regular
order like geese and showed no inclination to alight till a boy
with a long shot brought down one, wing broken, from a pass-
ing flock.

Knowing the habits of the birds, he quickly tied it to a stake
in a moist meadow, and concealing himself close by, had good
shooting during the afternoon, as the loud outcry made by his
prisoner brought down every passing flock.

Of late years very few have been seen.

111. NUMENIUS BOREALIS (Forst.). 266.

Eskimo Curlew.

Bill small, under three inches long; length, 12-15 inches; wing, under
g; tail, 3; tarsus, 2. Plumage in tone and pattern almost exactly as in the
last species, but averaging more rufous, especially under the wings, and pri-
maries not barred.

Has. Eastern Province of North America, breeding in the Arctic
regions, and migrating south to the southern extremity of South America.

Nest in open plains.
Eggs similar to the preceeding but smaller.

The Curlews all resemble each other in plumage, but in size
they vary considerably, this being the smallest of thethree. It is

sai)

We

BIRDS OF .

very abundant in the remote regions which it frequents in summer,
and also along its migratory course from which it does not seem
to deviate much. On the Pacific coast it has not yet been ob-
served, and on the Atlantic shores it appears only in limited
numbers. The ‘great highway of the species is through the
States just east of the Rocky Mountains, where it is seen in
immense flocks in spring and fall. I once found myself unex-
pectedly in close proximity to a solitary individual on the shore
of the Beach near Hamilton, and secured it, but that is the only
record I have of its occurrence in Ontario.

Famity CHARADRIID# PLtovers.
Genus CHARADRIUS Linvneuvs.
SuBGENUS SQUATAROLA Cuvier.
112 CHARADRIUS SQUATAROLA (Linv.). 270.
Black-bellied Plover.

Adult in breeding season (rarely seen in the United States) ; face and
entire under parts black; upper parts variegated with black and whice, or
ashy ; tail barred with black and white ; quills dusky with large white patches.
Adults at other times and young, below white more or less shaded with gray,
the throat and breast more or less speckled with dusky; above blackish,
speckled with white or yellowish; the rump white with dark bars, legs dull
bluish. Old birds changing show every grade, from a few isolated feathers
on the under parts, to numerous large black patches. Length, 11-12; wing,
7 or more; tail, 3; bill, 1-1}; tarsus, 2; middletoe and claw, 14; hind toe,
hardly 4.

Has. Nearly cosmopolitan, but chiefly in the Northern Hemisphere,
breeding far north, and migrating south in winter; in America to the West
Indies, Brazil, and New Grenada.

Eggs 4, dark clay color, blotched or spotted with brownish black.
Although of nearly cosmopolitan distribution, this large and
handsome Plover is nowhere abundant. It has been found

breeding on the Arctic coast east of the Anderson River, where
its eggs were taken by Mr. McFarlane.

114

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In its migrations it prefersthe sea coast on either side, to the
interior, but a few are also observed inland.

At Hamilton it visits the Beach in spring and fall in limited
numbers. I once got two out of three very handsome individ-
uals which I saw there on the third of June. In the lst of
Birds of Western Ontario, it is mentioned as a ‘‘common M1-
grant” at St. Clair Flats.

SuBGENUS CHARADRIUS LInn2zus.
M3. CHARADERIUS DOMINICUS Mutu. (272.

American Golden Plover.

Plumage speckled above, and in the breeding season black below, as in
the last species, but much of the speckling bright yellow, and the
rump and upper tail-coverts like the back; forehead, and a bread line over
the eye to the nape white; tail feathers grayish-brown, with imperfect white
or ashy bars; axillars, gray or ashy. At other times, the under parts nearly

' asin the last species. Length, 10-11; wing, 7 or less; tail, under 3 ; bill, 1
or less.

Has. ArcticAmerica, migrating southward throughout North and South
America to Patagonia.

Nest composed of dry grass in a natural hollow in the ground.

Eggs 4, similar to those of the preceding species but not quite so large.

Aged gunners tell us that Golden Plovers used to follow
the line of the Detroit River in immense flocks, passing quickly
to the north in the spring, and lingering along the shores and in
the pasture fields on their return in the fall.

According to the list of Birds of Western Ontario, they are
still regular visitors there, but only in small numbers. Near Ham-
ilton they have never been common. Small flocks of immature
birds are seen passing south in the fall occasionally, but not
regularly.

The Golden Plover in full breeding plumage is a very hand-
some bird, but like the Snow Bird and some others which breed
in high latitude, they do not assume the nuptial dress till
they reach their northern home, and by the time they get back
within the bounds of civilization they have donned the sober
garb of winter.

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BIRDS OF

This species has, by some authors, been described as identical
with the British bird of the same name. Dr. Coues who has
made a careful comparison of the two, tells us they are different,
and, as one distinguishing mark which is constant, mentions
that the lining of the wings which is pure white in the European
bird, is, in the American species, ashy-gray. This distinction I
have confirmed by specimens of each in my possession.

Genus ASGIALITIS Bole.

SuBGENuSs OXYECHUS REIcHENBACH.
114. -AXGIALITIS VOCIFERA (Linn.). 273. :
Killdeer.

Above quaker-brown with a greenish tinge, sometimes most of the feath-
ers tipped and edged with orange-brown ; rump and upper tail-coverts orange
‘brown; most of tail feathers white at base and tip, suffused with orange-brown
in part of their length and with 1-3 black bars; secondaries mostly white,
and primaries with a white space; a black bar across the crown, and two
black bands on the neck and breast ; forehead and entire under parts except
as stated, white; bill, black; feet, pale; eyelids, scarlet. Length, 9-10 inches;
wing, 6 or more; tail, 34, much rounded; tarsus, about 14.

Has. Temperate North America, migrating in winter to the West
Indies, Central and Northern South America.

Nest in the grass or shingle in the vicinity of water.
Eggs 4, clay color marked with blackish-brown.

A noisy, well known bird, generally distributed throughout
Ontario, and abundant in the North-West. In April, even
before the snow is quite gone, the shrill cry of the Killdeer is
heard in the upper air as it circles around, surveying its old
haunts, and selecting a bare spot on which to settle.

Its favorite resorts are pasture fields or waste places near
water, where it spends much of its time on the ground, some-
times running with great speed, and again sitting quietly as if
aware that it is more likely to escape obseryation in this way
than by moving. It can scarcely be called gregarious, yet, in
the fall, when the young birds are getting strong on the wing,
they may be seen in companies of ten, or a dozen, visiting the
muddy shores of streams and inlets, till about the end of Sep-
tember, when they all move off south.

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ONTARIO
SuspcENus AZGIALITIS Bole.

115. AZSGIALITIS SEMIPALMATA Bownap. 274.

Semipalmated Plover,

Above dark ashy-brown with an olivaceous shade ; below white ; very
broad coronal and pectoral black bars in the adult in spring, in fall and in
the young the coronal bar hardly evident, the pectoral grayish-brown ; edges
of eyelids bright orange ; bill moderately short and stout, orange or yellow,
black tipped ; legs yellowish ; toes conspicuously semipalmate. Length,
about 7 inches ; wing, 4? ; tail, about 24 rounded.

Has. Arctic and Subarctic America, migrating south throughout
tropical America, as far as Brazil and Peru.

Nest a depression in the ground lined with dry grass.

Eggs 4 ; clay-color, marked with blackish-brown.

A solid, plump, little bird of very pleasing plumage, particu-
larly in spring when the colors are clear and decided. In com-
pany with other Beach birds, itis found along the shores of the
lakes in Ontario from the middle till the end of May. In the
fall it is again seen in increased numbers in similar places, till
about the end of September, when they disappear for the
season. Dr. Coues found the Ring Necks breeding abundantly
in Labrador, and mostly remaining there till the beginning of
September. The distance between their summer and winter
home is very great, but their flight is rapid, and as they seem
to know the way, the journey is quickly made.

116. AZGIALITIS MELODA (Opp). 277.
Piping Plover.

Above, very pale ashy-brown ; the black bands narrow, ,often imperfect ;
bill colored as in the last, bur shorter and stumpy ; edges of eyelids colored :
no evident web between inner and middle toes, and only a slight one between
middle and outer. Length, about 7 inches ; wing, 44 ; tail 2.

Has. Eastern Province of North America, breeding from the coast of
New Jersey (at least formerly) northward ; in winter, West Indies.

Eggs 4 ; deposited among theshingle of the beach ; clay-color, marked
with spots of brownish-black, not exceeding a pin’s head in size.

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BIRDS OF

The Piping Plover is a more Southern bird than the Ring
neck, and evidently does not penetrate far into Ontario. I have
met with it at the Beach, but only on two occasions. It has
also been found on the island at at Toronto, but is more com-
mon along the north shore of Lake Erie, and Mr. Saunders
reports it as breeding at Point Pelee, at the western end of that
lake: When sitting quietly among the shingle of the beach, the
colors of this little bird harmonize so well with its surroundings
that quite a number may be close at hand without being
observed. The birds seem aware of this, and when suspicious
of danger, sit perfectly still till it is time to fly, when they rise
simultaneously and move off with a soft, plaintive, piping note.

Wa AEGIALITIS NIVOSACasss (278:

Snowy Plover.

Male in breeding dress ; above, pale ashy-gray, little darker than in
meloda. Top of head with a fulvous tinge. A broad black coronal bar from
eye toeye. A narrow black post-ocular stripe, tending to meet its fellow on
the nape, and thus encircle the fulvous area. A broad black patch on each
side of the breast ; no sign of its completion above or below; no complete
black loral stripe, but indication of such in a small dark patch on either side
of base of upper mandible. Forehead, continuous with line over the eye,
sides of head, excepting the black post-ocular stripe, and whole under-parts
excepting the black lateral breast patches, snowy white. No white ring
complete around back of neck. Primaries blackish, especially at bases and
ends. the intermediate extent fuscous ; shaft of first, white, of others white
for a space ; nearly all the primaries bleachiug toward bases of inner webs,
' but only on some of the inner ones with a white area on outer webs.
Piimary coverts like the primaries, but white-tipped. Greater coverts
like the back, but white-tipped Secondaries, dark-brown, bleaching inter-
nally and basally increasing extent from without inwards, their shafts white
along their respective white portions. Tertiaries like back. Several inter-
mediate tail feathers like back, darkening toward ends ; two or three lateral
pairs entirely white ; all the feathers more pointed than usual. Bill slender
and acute, black. Legs, black. Length, 6-50 to 7-00; extent, 13-50 to
14-00 ; wing, 4-00 to 4-25 ; tail, 2-00 or less.

Has. Western Province of North America ; in winter, both coasts of
Central America, and Western South America to Chili.

118

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ONTARIO.

The Snowy Plover is a western bird very seldom seen east
of the Rocky Mountains, and would not have been mentioned
here, but for the following notice of it which appears in the
Auk, for Oct. 1885. Itis contributed by Mr. Seton, of Toronto.
«“ A specimen of this bird was shot here by Mr. I. Forman,
May, 1880, and is now in the rooms of the Toronto Gun Club.
It was at the time in company with some Piping Plovers. This
specimen answers in general to the description in Coues’s Key
and fully in regard to the bill ; it differs in being much lighter
in plumage. I had no opportunity to make measurements, but
in the same case were Meloda and Semipalmata and comparison
with these makes me almost certain that it is Cantiana. The
bill is noticeably long, black and slender. I never met the
bird before and have no material to aid me in settling the
point.”

If Mr. Seton has correctly identified the specimen described,
it can only be regarded as a casual straggler from the far west
which may not be seen here again.

Famity APHRIZID. Surr Birps anp TURNSTONES.
SuBFAMILY ARENARIIN AE. TurnstTones.
Genus ARENARIA Brisson.

118. ARENARIA INTERPRES (Linn.). 283.

Turnstone.

Adult in summer pied above with black, white, brown and chestnut red,
the latter color wanting in winter and in young birds ; below from the breast
(which is more or less completely black) throat, most of the secondaries,
most of the primaries, and bases and tips of the tail feathers white ; bill
black ; feet orange ; length, 8-9 inches ; wing, 54-6; tail, 24; bill, %, almost
recurved ; tarsus, 1 ; tibiz bare but a little way.

Has. Nearly cosmopolitan. In America from Greenland and Alaska to
the Straits of Magellan ; more or less common in the interior of North
America, on the shores of the Great Lakes and the larger rivers. Breeds in
high latitudes.

In the ‘ Birds of Ohio,’ Dr. Wheaton says that ‘“ Mr.
Sinnett observed this species on the coast of Texas in the
breeding season, and believes that they breed there. The eggs
are described as olive-green, with brown spots.”

11g

BIRDS OF

The beautifully marked Turnstone is a bird of nearly cos-
mopolitan distribution. It is found in America on both coasts,
and also in the interior. At Hamilton Beach it is a regular
visitor in spring and fall, though seldom more than two or three
are found together.

They are very sociable in their habits, mixing freely with
whatever other waders they chance to meet, and as they are
seen here till the end of the first week in June, it is probable
that they breed within the limits of Ontario.

They are again seen, young and old together, early in Sep-
tember, and linger around the shores of the bay till the end of
that month, when they move farther south to spend the winter.

ORDER GALLINZ. GatuinaceEous Birps.

SUBORDER PHASIANI. Pueasants, Grouse, ParTRIDGES,
QuAILS, ETC.

Famity TETRAONIDAE. Grouse, ParTRIDGES, ETC.
SUBFAMILY PERDICINAE. PartrRIpcEs.
Genus COLINUS LEsson.

119. COLINUS VIRGINIANUS (Linn). 289.
Bob-white.

Coronal feathers erectile but not forming a true crest. Forehead, super-
ciliary line and throat white, bordered with black ; crown, neck all round
and upper-part of breast brownish-red, other under-parts tawny-whitish, all
with more or fewer doubly crescentic black bars ; sides broadly streaked
with brownish-red ; upper-parts variegated with chestnut, black, gray and
tawny, the latter edging the inner quills. Female known by having the
throat buff instead of white, less black about the fore-parts, and general
colors less intense, rather smaller than the male. Length, 9-10 ; wing, 44-5;
tail 24-3.

Has. Eastern United States and Southern Canada, from Southern
Ma ne to the South Atlantic and Gulf States,west to Dakota, Eastern Kan-
sas, and Eastern Texas.

Nest on the ground in a natural or excavated hollow, lined with grass or
leaves, usually sheltered by tall grass, weeds, bushes, or brush.

120

ONTARIO

Eggs, pure white, said to range in numbers from 10 to 4o, the larger lots
supposed to include contributions from several females ; 15 being considered
the usual set.

Bob-white may be claimed as a permanent resident in
Southern Ontario, which is the northern limit of his range, and
he has hard work to hold his own against the many influences
which are continually operating against him. Birds of prey,
crows, jays, weasels, dogs, cats, mowing machines, and sports-
ten of all classes tend to thin the ranks ; worse than all these
the vicissitudes of winter, spells of cold weather during which
the mercury gets down below zero, and occasional long con-
tinued deep snow, tell so severely against this little bird that
were it not for its wonderful capacity for increase it would soon
be exterminated.

The Quail follows in the wake of cultivation, and under
ordinary.circumstances thrives best near the abode of man. It
is a good friend to the farmer, and is well entitled to his pro-
tection in return for the service it renders, not only in the con-
sumption of large quantities of the seeds of noxious weeds, but
also in the destruction of many sorts of insects whose ravages
among the crops are often very severe and difficult to prevent.
A recent writer mentions having examined the crop of one
which was killed as it rose from a potato patch, and found
it to contain seventy-five potato-bugs. This is only one of the
many instances illustrating the value of this bird to the farmer.

Were I a farmer, I would hang over my kitchen fire-place
the motto, inscribed in goodly characters : ‘“‘ Spare the Quail.”

Many interesting articles have from time to time appeared
in sporting magazines concerning the query—has the Quail the
power to withhold its scent ?

No one acquainted with the habits of the birds will deny
that at times the best of dogs will fail to find them where they
have been marked down, but how this happens is a subject
regarding which sportsmen still hold different opinions.

From among many instances given in illustration of the fact
we select the following by Dr. H. E. Jones, an enthusiastic
bad

I2I

BIRDS OF

sportsman and naturalist : ‘* A few years since I was out with
a friend, and we flushed a very large bevy, and marked them
down accurately on an elevated piece of ground in a woodland
pasture. The grass was short and there was not even a weed
or briar, but here and there a large tree. We moved forward
with three dogs, expecting to bring on an engagement at once.
We made the dogs approach cautiously, giving them warning
that game was in the immediate vicinity, but they arrived at
the identical spot where we saw as many as thirty birds alight,
without making the least demonstration whatever that there
was anything unusual about the place. We knew better, and
made them go over and over, crossing and recrossing, until it
seemed every foot, every inch of ground had been most
thoroughly examined. We did this until two sportsmen and
three dogs gave up the pursuit. It was now past noon, and
we sat down on the grass, uncorked our canteens and opened
out our lunch. We were eating, talking and laughing, occa-
sionally rewarding the dogs with a cracker, when my friend by
way of sport said, ‘‘ Look at old Tom, he is on a point.” The
dog was standing half up, half down, with his nose thrown
under his chest between his front legs. Sure enough he was on
a point, for there was the bird, with its bright black eyes, only
partially concealed by a leaf, almost under the dog’s body.
My friend put his hat over it and caught it without moving
from the dinner table. At that instant another dog made a
point within six inches of my feet. I saw the bird at once, and
tried to capture it with my hand, but it made its escape. This
was the signal for a general move and the whole covey now
arose from all around and about us. —Thé concert of action in
the manner of going down, retaining their scent, remaining still
under the most trying circumstances, and the mode of leaving
—all indicated an understanding and education by command
how to act in time of danger.”

Some time ago the Government of Ontario passed an Act
prohibiting the killing of Quail under any circumstances for a
period of three years, which co-incident with mild winters had
the effect for a time of increasing the numbers, but again they
are greatly reduced and in need of protection which they well
deserve.

122

ONTARIO.
SuBFAMILY TETRAONINZ. GRouseE.

Genus DENDRAGAPUS ELLiot.
SuBGENUS DENDRAGAPUS.

DENDRAGAPUS OBSCURUS RICHARDSONII (Sas.).
120. Richardson’s Grouse. 297b.

Adult-male : Back and wings blackish-brown crossed with wavy lines of
slaty-gray, mixed with yellowish-brown on the scapulars. _ Long feathers of
the sides tipped with white, under-parts light slate-color, mixed with white
on the lower parts. Cheeks black; chin and throat speckled with black
and white feathers on the sides of the neck slightly enlarged, covering a rudi-
mentary air sack. Tail brownish-black veined and marbled with gray, and
having a broad terminal band of the same color. Female smaller, more
varied and generally lighter incolor, but having the under-parts and bar at
the end of the tail slate-gray as in the male. Length, 20 to 22 inches; wing,
g to ro ; tail, 7.

Has. Rocky Mountains, from Central Montana northward into British
America.

Eggs, creamy-buff, freckled all over with chocolate-brown.

For a notice of the occurrence of this species in Ontario, I
am indebted to C. J. Bampton, of Sault St. Marie, who has
frequently seen it brought into market at that place.

It bears a strong resemblance to the Dusky Grouse (Den-
dragapus Obscurus (Say.), of which it is regarded as_ the
Northern form. The Dusky Grouse is found chiefly on the
west coast as far south as New Mexico and the White Moun-
tains of Arizona. In the Rocky mountains toward the north,
it gradually assumes the peculiarities of the present species ;
but many intermediate individuals are found which cannot
positively be said to belong more to the one than to the other.

In Richardsonii, the tail feathers are longer and broader
than in Obscurus. The slate-colored bar at the end is smaller,
or wanting, and the general colors darker, specially so on the
throat.

123

BIRDS OF
SuBGENUS CANACHITES Srejnecer.
121. DENDRAGAPUS CANADENSIS (Linn.). 298.

Canada Grouse.

Adult-male : Tail of sixteen feathers, rounded, black, with an orange-
brown bar at the end. Prevailing color, black, barred and spotted with .
white on the lower parts, and above crossed with wavy lines of tawny and
grey. Female smaller, variegated all over with black, brown, white and
tawny. Tail bar as in the male but less decided. Length, 16-00; wing 7 ;
tail, 5-50.

Has. British America, east of the Rocky Mountains, from Alaska
south to Northern Michigan, Northern New York, and Northern New Eng-
land.

Nest on the ground in secluded places, well concealed, built of twigs,
leaves, moss and grass.

Eggs 12 or more ; creamy-brown, sometimes dotted or blotched with a
darker shade.

When young birds of different species are cast loose from
parental oversight, and go out into the world on their own
account they are often very erratic in their movements, are
frequently found in places where they have no business to be,
and sometimes thereby come to grief.

It was from some such cause as this that I once got a speci-
men of the Canada Grouse in the Hamilton market. It was in
month of October, a farmer had seen this small dark-colored
bird in company with some Ruffed Grouse, and following them
up, singled it out as something new. They are not known to
breed anywhere near Hamilton, but are common in the pictur-
esque district of Muskoka, between the Georgian Bay and the
Ottawa River, where they breed and are resident.

They are plump, handsome little birds, but are not equal to
the Quail or the Ruffed Grouse for the table.

Genus BONASA STEPHENS.
122. BONASA UMBELLUS (Linyn.). 300.
Ruffed Grouse.

Sexes nearly alike ; variegated reddish or grayish-brown ; the back with
numerous oblong, pale, black-edged spots ; neck-tufts, glossy-black ; below,

124

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ONTARIO.

whitish barred with brown ; tail with a broad subterminal black zone, and
tipped with gray. Length, 16-18 ; wing, 7-8.

Has. Eastern United States, south to North Carolina, Georgia, Miss-
issippi, and Arkansas.

Nest in a hollow in the ground, lined with grass or leaves ; often placed

by the side of a log or stump.

. © 6 ’
Eggs, 8to 12; cream-color, sometimes minutely spotted with chocolate-

brown..

Notwithstanding the :continual persecution to which the
Ruffed Grouse is exposed, it is still a common _ species
throughout Ontario, breeding in all suitable places from the
shore of Lake Erie to the northern boundary of the Province,
and even in Alaska.

It is a robust, hardy bird, well able to stand the rigors of
our climate, and being exceedingly strong and active on the
wing, gets oftener away from the sportsman than any other
species he pursues. Occasionally when the birds are found
feeding among bushes of stunted growth, with a good dog a
fair bag may be made, but to follow them through the tangled
masses of foliage and fallen trees where they are usually found
is attended with great fatigue, and usually very slim results.
The birdsget up with wonderful suddenness, and disappear as if
by magic ; besides which they seem always torise at the wrong
time, from the wrong place, and to go off in the wrong direction
to suit the sportsman.

Much has been written regarding the mode in which this
bird produces the peculiar drumming sound so familiar to all
who have had occasion to visit its haunts, but it is now gener-
ally believed to be caused by the rapid vibratory motion of the
wings beating the air, a similar sound being produced in a
similar way by the Hummingbird, and also by the Night-
hawk. The Grouse in the spring-time produces this music as
a call to his lady fair, who, no doubt, delights to hear it, and
responds accordingly. It is also heard occasionally late in the
season, when he is_ possibly working off the exuberance of his
spirits after some happy experience in his sylvan life.

125

BIRDS OF

At different points throughout its extensive habitat, this
species is subject to considerable variation in plumage. This
has recently led to the formation of several sub-species, one of
which (Bonasa umbellus togata) (Linn.), will, I daresay, be
found in Ontario, but between these new groups are always to
be found intermediate individuals which render the boundary
rather uncertain. All are more or less closely related to the
old original Bonasa umbellus.

Genus LAGOPUS Brisson.

123. LAGOPUS LAGOPUS (Liwn.). 301.
Willow Ptarmigan.

Bill stout, as high as the distance from the nasal groove .to its tip. In
summer rufous, or orange-chestnut on the head and neck : the feathers of the
back black, barred rather closely with yellowish-brown and chestnut. In
winter white, the tail black tipped with white. Length, 15 to 17; wing,
about 8 ; tail, 5-50.

Has. Arctic America, south to Sitka and Labrador.

Nest on the ground,

Eggs, 14 ; fawn color spotted with reddish-brown.

The Ptarmigans are found both in the old and new world,
as far north as vegetation extends, and so thoroughly boreal
are they in their habits, that they seldom come within even the
northern boundary of Ontario. C. J. Bampton, registrar
of the district of Algoma, who has furnished me with many
interesting notes regarding the birds of that remote district,

mentions the Willow Ptarmigan as a rare winter visitor at
Sault St. Marie.

124. LAGOPUS RUPESTRIS (Gwe t.). 302.

Rock Ptarmigan.

Bill slender, distance from the nasal groove to the tip greater than
height at base. In summer the feathers of back black, banded distinctly

126

ONTARIO

with yellowish-brown and tipped with white. In winter white, the tail
black, tipped with white ; the male with a black bar from the bill through

the eye. Length, 14 to 15 ; wing 7 to 7-50 ; tail, 4-50. i

Has. Arctic America, from Alaska to Labrador.
Nest on the ground.
Eggs, reddish-brown, spotted with darker brown.

This is another northern species reported by Mr. Bampton
as being occasionally exposed in the winter time in the market
at Sault St. Marie. It resembles the preceding in general
appearance, but is rather less in size, and in winter plumage
the black band through the eye of the male serves at once to
decide his identity.

The Ptarmigans have a most interesting history, their small
feet covered densely with hair-like feathers, the wonderful
changes which their plumage undergoes to match their
surroundings, and their life amid the rigors of an arctic
winter, are matters which invest the history of the group with
peculiar interest.

Genus TYMPANUCHUS GL1toce_en.
125. TYMPANUCHUS AMERICANUS (ReEicu.). 305.

Prairie Hen.

Above variegated with black, brown, tawny or ochrey, and white, the
latter especially on the wings; below pretty regularly barred with dark
brown, white and tawny ; throat tawny a little speckled, or not ; vent and
crissum mostly white ; quills fuscous with white spots on the outer webs ;
tail fuscous, with narrow or imperfect white or tawny bars and tips; sexes
alike in color, but the female smaller with shorter neck-tufts. Length, 16-18 ;
wing, 8-9 ; tail, about 5.

Has. Prairies of the Mississippi Valley, south to Louisiana, east to
Kentucky and Indiana.

Nest on the ground, in a tuft of grass or small shrub.

Eggs, 8 to 12; pale greenish-gray, sometimes minutely dotted with
brown.

Southern Ontario has no prairie which meets the require-
ments of the Prairie Chicken, and therefore the birds are not
here. From various sources I have heard of their being still

127

BIRDS OF

found along the south western frontier, but their numbers are
on the decrease. In the List of Birds of Western Ontario it is
stated that a*few still breed at St. Clair. From W. E.
Wagstaff, one of the oldest and most respected settlers in the
County of Essex, I have a most interesting letter regarding the
birds he has observed during his long residence there. Of this
species he says: ‘‘ I have never seen Prairie Chickens alive,
but have heard of their being seen in bands about Sandwich.
When I first came to Amherstburg, about 1840, I heard the old
sports tell of having killed them in the gardens of the town.”

From the foregoing it would appear that the days of the
Prairie Chicken in Ontario are numbered. They afford
excellent sport to the gunner, and the facilities for reaching
them in their remote haunts are now so much increased, that
year by year, even in the United States, they are being driven
to regions still more remote.

In the first week in May, 1886, some young men were
practising flight shooting at such waterfowl as were passing
between the bay and the lake near the canal at the Beach.
Presently a bird of different flight and shape came buzzing
along, and was brought down by one of the gunners who was
greatly astonished to find he had killed a male Prairie Chicken
in fine spring plumage. I came along shortly after and saw
the bird just as picked up. It had been going at a very rapid
rate, but whence it came, or whither bound, was not apparent.

Genus PEDIOCZETES Balirp.

126. PEDIOCA‘TES PHASIANELLUS (Linvn.). 38.
Sharp-tailed Grouse.

Adult male :—A decurved crest of narrow feathers ; a bare space on each
side of the neck capable of being inflated ; tail short, much graduated, of
sixteen feathers, all of which are more or less concave, excepting the two
middle ones along the inner edge, obliquely and abruptly terminated, the
two middle projecting an inch beyond the rest. Upper parts variegated with
light yellowish-red, brownish-black and white, the latter in terminal
triangular or guttiform spots on the scapulars and wing-coverts ; quills
grayish-brown, primaries with white spots on the outer web ; secondaries

128

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tipped and barred with white, tail white variegated at the base, the two
middle feathers like the back ; loral space and a band behind the eye
yellowish-white, a dusky streak under the eye ; throat reddish-white, with
dusky spots ; fore-parts and sides of the neck barred with reddish-white ;
on the breast the dusky spots become first curved, then arrow-shaped, and
so continue narrowing on the hind part of the breast and part of the sides of
which the upper portion is barred ; abdomen, lower tail-coverts and axillars,
white ; tarsal feathers light brownish-gray, faintly barred with whitish.
Female smaller, the tints of colors less bright. Length, 18-20; wing, 8-9 ;

middle feathers of the tail. 4-6 ; outer feathers, 14.

Has. British America, from the northern shore of Lake Superior and
British Columbia to Hudson's Bay Territory and Alaska.

Nest in a tuft of grass on the prairie.

Eggs, 5 to 12; grayish-olive or drab color, minutely dotted with brown
spots the size of a pin's head.

Writing from the Northwest Prof. Macoun says of this
species: ‘‘ This is the Prairie Chicken of our western plains,
the true Prairie Chicken not being observed here.”

And Dr. Coues, writing in the same strain, says: ‘ This is
the Prairie Chicken of the whole Northwest, usually occurring
where the Pinnated Grouse does not, although the habitats of
the two species overlap to some extent.” From the foregoing
it appears that while the present species occupied the North-
west, the Prairie Chicken flourished more in the south-east, but
that now both are being driven farther to the north-west, as the
prairies come under cultivation.

The Sharp-tail is abundant near Winnipeg, from which
point it has reached the Hamilton market. It is also reported
by Mr. Bampton as being found at Sault St. Marie.

Famity PHASIANID. PueasanTs, ETC.
SuspraMILy MELEAGRIN/. Turkeys.
Genus MELEAGRIS Linnzus.

1227 MELEAGRIS GALLOPAVO Linn. 130.
Wild Turkey.

Naked skin of head and neck livid-biue ; general color copper-bronze
with copper and green reflection, each feather with a narrow black border ;

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BIRDS OF

all the quills brown closely barred with white ; tail chestnut barred with
black and a broad subterminal black bar. Tip of tail feathers and upper
tail-coverts lighter chestnut. Length, 3-4 feet.

Has. United States, from Southern Canada to the Gulf coast, and west
to the Plains, along the timbered river valleys ; formerly along the Atlantic
coast to Southern Maine.

Nest on the ground.

Eggs, 10 to15 ; dark buff or cream color, thickly sprinkled with dark
umber-brown.

Within the recollection of people still living, Wild Turkeys
were comparatively common along our south-western frontier.
Mr. Wagstaff in his letter already referred to says: “ Wild
Turkeys are getting scarce. They were once numerous in
Kent and Essex, going about in flocks, but the severe winter of
1842 almost exterminated them. About 1856 they had again
become numerous, but are gradually getting fewer in number
as the settler’s axe clears away the timber.” In the List of
Birds of Western Ontario it is stated that a nest was found in
the County of Middlesex in 1878.

That veteran sportsman and naturalist, Dr. Garnier, of
Lucknow, writing under date of December 11th, 1884, says:
* T have killed several Wild Turkeys in the County of Kent,
and saw one there this season which I did not obtain.

On the 21st of last October I had a female of this species in
my hands at Chatham station, which had just been killed near
by. About four years ago, at Leguis farm, near Mitchell’s Bay,
I saw three gobblers, two of which I killed right and left, the
third was shot the same day by a boy from whom I bought it
for a dollar.

Most of the domestic Turkeys in that section are either the
wild species tamed or half-breeds, and are far superior in flavor
to the ordinary stock. In 1856 I killed two out of a large flock
within half a mile of Hagersville, which at that time consisted
of a waggon-shop, a toll-gate, postoffice, and a small shop called
‘store.’ I also got a set of nine eggs, and found the female
killed by a fox, lying close by, still warm but quite dead.”

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ONTARIO.

The Wild Turkey has never advanced into Ontario much
beyond the southern boundary, the climate being evidently too
severe, and the locality from other causes perhaps not very
attractive. The few which still remain are more hunted
as they become more rare, and to all appearance the day is not
far distant when this valuable game bird will be sought for in
vain in the Province of Ontario.

In the south a second species is found which is believed to
be the parent of the domestic stock. It is more of a southern
bird, being found chiefly in Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and
southward.

OrpER COLUMBE. Piceons.
Famity COLUMBID&. PIGEons.
Genus ECTOPISTES Swainson.
128. ECTOPISTES MIGRATORIUS (Linn.). 315.
Passenger Pigeon.

Adult-male :—Dull blue above with olivaceous tinge on back, below dull
purplish-red, whitening on vent and crissum ; sides of neck golden and ruby ;
some wing-coverts black-spotted ; quills blackish, with slaty, whitish and
rufous edging ; middle tail-feathers bluish-black, the others white or ashy,
the inner webs basally black with chestnut patch ; bill black ; feet coral-red ;
Female and young duller and more brownish or olivaceous above, below dull
grayish, with a tawny tinge anteriorly, or quite gray ; very young have the
feathers skirted with whitish ; length, 15-17 ; wing, 7-8 ; tail about the same.

Has. Eastern North America, from Hudson's Bay southward, and west
to the Great Plains; straggling westward to Nevada and Washington
Territory.

Nest on bushes or small trees, loosely built of twigs.

Eggs, I or 2 ; pure white.

As its name implies, this is a migratory species, but it has
not, like many others, a regular migratory course which it
instinctively follows year after year in the same direction. On
the contrary, the movements of the Wild Pigeon are quite
irregular, and guided only by the instinct which directs the
birds in their search for food. A few straggling pairs are still

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BIRDS OF

found in the backwoods in Southern Ontario where they
probably breed, but the rising generation of sportsmen can have
but inadequate conceptions of the vast flocks of pigeons which
used in former years to pass over Hamilton.

They were annually looked for in April—the first who
observed them circulated the news, ‘‘ The Pigeons are flying,”
and early in the morning a regular fusilade was heard all along
the edge of the mountain, where at daylight the gunners had
taken up their stand at such points as the flocks were likely to
pass. These annual migrations seemed to attain their
maximum in 1854, ‘(the year of the cholera.” During that
season, from the middle of April till the end of June, flocks could
be seen in every hour of every day passing to the west. The
summer was unusually warm, and as the heat increased the
birds seemed weak and languid with scarcely enough energy
left to rise above the houses. Vast numbers were killed, till,
fortunately for the birds, a rumor got abroad that eating too
many pigeons caused the cholera, after which they were
allowed to pass on their way unmolested.

After that year the flocks rapidly decreased in number, tillat
present the annual migrations have entirely ceased.

The food of the species consists chiefly of beech nuts, wild
berries, and seeds of different kinds. These disappear as the
country comes more under cultivation, and the pigeons seek
the less settled districts, in search of their favorite fare. At
present we hear of them being exceedingly abundant in the
valley of the Upper Missisippi, and being quite hardy, they
probably extend up north into the “ Great Lone Land.”

Those who wish to see such flocks of pigeons as used to
pass over Ontario will have to follow them there, as, in all
probability, they will never be seen here again.

Genus ZENAIDURA Bonaparte.
129. ZENAIDURA MACROURA (Liwn.). 316.
Mourning Dove.

Brownish-olive, glossed with blue on the crown and nape; below
purplish-red, becoming tawny white on the vent and crissum ; neck metallic-

132

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golden ; a velvety-black spot on the auriculars and others on the wing-
coverts and scapulars ; middle tail feathers like back, the rest ashy-blue at
the base, then crossed by a black bar, then white or ashy-white ; bill very
slender, black ; feet carmine ; the female and young differ as in the wild
pigeon ; length, 11-13 ; wing, 5-6; tail, 6-7.

Has. North America, from Southern Maine, Southern Canada, and
Oregon, south to Panama and the West Indies.

Nest usually ina tree or bush, sometimes on a log or on the ground,
composed mostly of twigs.

Eggs, 2 ; pure white.

The Mourning Dove breeds sparingly throughout Southern
Ontario, but is more common farther south. It feeds in the
open fields on berries, buckwheat, and the seeds of certain
weeds, but on being disturbed seeks shelter in the nearest
woods.

It is a gentie, timid species, and as it does not occur with
us in sufficient numbers to make it worth following, itis seldom
disturbed. It is one of the most difficult birds the collector
undertakes to handle, the skin being so tender that should the
bird be brought down even from a moderate height the fall is
almost sure to burst the skinand destroy the specimen. For the
same reason the greatest care is necessary when preparing the
skin for the cabinet.

OrDER RAPTORES. Birps orf Prey.
SUBORDER SARCORHAMFHI. American VuLrures.
Famity CATHARTIDA. American VULTURES.
Genus CATHARTES Itticer.

130, \CATHARTES AURA (Uinn.). 325,
Turkey Vulture.

Blackish-brown ; quills ashy-gray on their under surface ; head red ; feet
flesh-colored ; bill white. Skin of the head corrugated, sparsely beset with
bristle-like feathers ; plumage commencing in a circle on the neck; tail
rounded. Length, about 24 feet ; extent, 6 ; wing, 2 ; tail, r.

Has. Temperate North America, from New Jersey, Ohio Valley,
Saskatchewan region, and Washington Territory southward to Patagonia.
Casual northward on the Atlantic coast to Maine. }

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BIRDS OF

Breeds generally in communities. Nest on the ground, or in a hollow
log or stump.

Eggs, usually 2; creamy white, spotted and blotched with different
shades of brown.

So far as I am aware, the Turkey Buzzard has been observed
in Ontario, only inthe south-western portion of the Province.

Mr. Wagstaff, in the letter already quoted, says: ‘* Turkey
Buzzards are frequently seen in Essex sailing around in search
of carrion.” I once saw it at Baptiste Creek some years since,
but have not heard of it being seen farther east. Dr.
Coues says: ‘‘ This species has a curious habit of ‘ playing
possum’ by simulating death when wounded and captured, the
feint being admirably executed and often long protracted.”

SUBORDER FALCONES. Vuttures’ Fatcons, Hawks,
Buzzarps, Eacues, Kites, Harrigrs, Etc.

Famity FALCONID. Vutrtrures, Fatcons, Hawks,
EAGLES, ETC.

SuBFAMILY ACCIPITRIN. Kites, Buzzarps, Hawks,
GoSHAWKS, EAGLES, ETC.

Genus ELANOIDES VIEILLoT.
131.. ELANOIDES. PORFICATUS (Linn.). 327.
Swallow-tailed Kite.
Head, neck and under-parts white ; back, wings and tail lustrous black ;

feet greenish blue, claws pale. Length, female, 23-25 ; wing, 16-16}; tail, 14 ;
male a little smaller.

Has. Southern United States, especially in the interior, from Pennsyl-
vania and Minnesota southward, throughout Central and South America ;
westward to the Great Plains. Casual eastward to Southern New England.
Accidental in England.

Nest on a tree ; constructed of sticks, hay, moss, etc.

Eggs, 4 to 6 ; whitish, blotched and spotted with chestnut-brown.

In the course of its extensive wanderings, this bold, dashing
Kite has been known to visit Ontario. In the List of Birds of

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Western Ontario mention is made of a pair having spent a
summer about eight miles north-west of London, and there is
also a record of one having alighted on the top of a flagstaff at
Ottawa, when it was closely examined through a glass and
satisfactorily identified.

The food of this species consists chiefly of snakes, lizards,
grasshoppers, locusts, etc., which not being abundant in
Ontario readily accounts for the absence of the _ birds.
According to Audubon the Swallow-tailed Hawk feeds chiefly
on the wing, and having pounced on any prey on the ground,
rises with it and devours it while flying. ‘‘ In calm weather,”
he farther observes, ‘‘ they soar to an immense height, pursuing
the large insects called Mosquito Hawks, and performing the
most singular evolutions that can be conceived, using their tail
with an elegance peculiar to themselves.”

Genus CIRCUS Lacepepe.
laze ClR GUS UDSONILUS®(hinns. 0/83):
Marsh Hawk.

Adult-male :—Pale bluish-ash, nearly unvaried, whitening below and on
upper tail-coverts ; quills blackish towards the end. Length, 16-18; wing,
14-15 ; tail; 8-9; female larger, above dark-brown streaked with reddish-
brown, below the reverse of this ; tail banded with these colors ; immature
male is like the female though redder, but in any plumage the bird is known
by its white upper tail-coverts and generic characters.

Has. North America in general, south to Panama.
Nest on the ground ; composed of twigs and dried grass.

Eggs, 4 to 5 ; pale greenish-white, spotted or blotched with light brown,

In Ontario the Marsh Hawk in the red plumage is a well
known bird, but in the blue phase it is seldom seen. It arrives
from the south in April as soon as the ice is gone, and from
that time till November, it may usually be seen coursing over
the marshes and moist meadows in search of its food, which
consists of mice, small birds, snakes, frogs, worms, etc. It
breeds sparingly at the St. Clair Flats, becoming quite
numerous in the fall on the arrival of those which have bred

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BIRDS OF

farther north. It is said that during the excitement of the
breeding season, this bird has the singular habit of turning
summersaults in the air. I have never happened to see one in
this state of hilarity, all those observed being quite subdued in
their habits, seldom deviating from their daily occupation of
sailing over the marshes looking for mice.

Genus ACCIPITER Brisson.
SuspcEenus ACCIPITER.
133. ACCIPITER VELOX (Wuts.). 332.
Shiaxp-shinnded Hawk.

Feet extremely slender ; bare portion of tarsus longer than middle toe ;
scutellz frequently fused, tail square. Above dark-brown (deepest on the
head, the occipital feathers showing white when disturbed), with an ashy or
plumbeous shade which increases with age, till the general cast is quite
bluish-ash ; below white or whitish, variously streaked with dark-brown and
rusty, finally changing to browrish-red (palest behind and slightly ashy
across the breast), with the white then only showing in narrow cross-bars ;
chin, throat and crissum mostly white with blackish penciling ; wings and
tail barred with ashy and brown or blackish, the quills white-barred basally,
the tail whitish tipped ; bill dark ; claws black ; cere and feet yellow. Male,
10-12 ; wing, 6-7 ; tail, 5-6 ; female, 12-14 ; wing, 7-8 ; whole foot, 34 or less.

Has. North America in general, south to Panama.

Nest in trees.
Eggs, 4 to 5 ; white, shaded with purple and splashed with brown.

A rather common summer resident in Southern Ontario,
smaller in size than Cooper’s Hawk, but similar in markings.
It lives chiefly on small birds, and nothing can exceed the
impetuosity with which it dashes down and captures them by
sheer power of flight. ‘‘ Many have been the times,” says
Audubon, ‘“‘ when watching this vigilant, active and industrious
bird, have I seen it plunge headlong into a patch of briers, in
defiance of all thorny obstacles, and passing through, emerge
on the other side bearing off with exultation in its sharp claws
a finch or a sparrow which it had surprised at rest.”

136

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ONTARIO

This species is much given to variation in size and
markings, making it difficult at times to distinguish between a
large Sharp-shinned and a small Cooper’s Hawk. In_ the
present species the legs and feet are relatively longer and more
slender than in the other, the term sharp-shinned being
no misnomer. They all seem to retire from Ontario in the fall,
as none are observed during winter.

134. ACCIPITER COOPERI (Bonap.). 333.

Cooper’s Hawk.

Feet moderately stout; bare portion of tarsus shorter than middle toe ;
scutellz remaining distinct ; tail a little rounded. Colors and their changes
as in A. fuscus ; larger, male, 16-18 ; wing, 9-10; tail, 7-8; female 18-20 ;
wing, to-11 ; tail, 8-9. Whole foot 4 or more.

Has. North America in general, south to Southern Mexico.
Nest in trees, mostly in evergreens.

Eggs, 4 to 5; white tinged with green, sometimes faintly spotted with
brown.

This is one of the Chicken Hawks, and it well deserves the
name from the havoc it makes among the poultry. It 1s most
common in spring and fall, but sometimes appears suddenly in
the winter and shortens the days of Passer domesticus when
nothing better is available.

Cooper’s Hawk breeds sparingly throughout Southern
Ontario, apparently preferring the vicinity of large marshes,
where blackbirds, rails, etc., are easily obtained.

Extraordinary migrations of hawks are sometimes seen in
the fall, when for two or three days in succession, along a
certain section of country, individuals of this and the preceding
species will be continually in sight. Flocks of this description
have often been observed at Point Pelee, near the west end of
Lake Erie, where the birds probably gather when working their
way round the west end ofthe lake, in preference to going
across. Although a few remain during the winter, this species
is mostly migratory, arriving in April and leaving in October.

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BIRDS OF

SusBpceEnus ASTUR LackEpeps:.
135. ACCIPITER ATRICAPILLUS (Wits.). 334.
American Goshawk.

Adult dark bluish-slate blackening on the head, with a white superciliary
stripe ; tail with four broad dark bars ; below closely-barred with white and
pale-slate, andwharply streaked with blackish. Young dark-brown above,
the feathers with pale edges, streaked with tawny-brown on the head
and cervix ; below fulvous-white with oblong brown markings. Female, 2
feet long ; wing, 14 inches ; tail, 11 ; male smaller.

Has. Northern and Eastern North America, breeding mostly north of
the United States, south in winter to the Middle States. Accidental in
England.

Nest in trees.
Eggs, 3 to 6; soiled white faintly blotched with brown.

The Goshawk and the Peregrine Falcon were both much
prized in the olden time when hawking was a princely amuse-
ment in Europe, and the same spirit and courage which was
the admiration of lords and ladies fair in those ancient days
still characterize the birds in their native haunts. They
never fail to attract the attention of the sportsman, as
unencumbered by hood or bell, they carry terror and dismay
among the ranks of the waterfowl.

In Ontario the Goshawk is an irregular winter visitor, some-
times appearing in considerable numbers, and again being
altogether wanting for several years in succession. In the
young plumage it bears some resemblance to Cooper’s Hawk,
but is always much larger in size, and is more bold and daring
in proportion, frequently carrying off poultry from the very
doors of houses in the suburbs of the city.

It is one of the handsomest species of the family. A small
sized adult male in my collection is the finest I have ever seen,
a perfect model in symmetry, the colors clear and
bright, and the whole plumage smooth and compact, admirably
suited for passing rapidly through the air with the least
possible resistance.

138

|
|

ONTARIO.
Genus BUTEO Cuvier.
136... BUTEO BOREALIS (Gmen.): \ 337.
Red-tailed Hawk.

Four outer quills emarginate on inner web. Adult, dark-brown above,
many feathers with pale or tawny margin:, and upper tail-coverts showing
much whitish ; below white or reddish-white, with various spots and streaks
of different shades of brown, generally forming an irregular ‘zene on the
abdomen ; tail above bright chestnut-red, with subterminal black zone and
narrow whitish tip, below pearly-gray ; wing-coverts dark; young with the
tail grayish-brown barred with darker, the upper parts with tawny streaking.
A large stoutly-built Hawk, Female, 23; wing, 154; tail, 83; male, 20;
wing, 14 ; tail, 7.

Has. Eastern North America, west to the Great Plains.

Nest placed on a high tree, composed of sticks, twigs, grass, moss, etc.

Eggs, 2 to 4: dull white blotched with rich brown.

This a large and powerful bird, strong of wing, and stout of
limb, yet incapable of performing the feats of dexterity common
tothe Hawks and Falcons. It is most frequently seen sitting
bolt upright on a stub in a field, or by the edge of the woods,
carefully scrutinizing the ground below in search of young
birds or small quadrupeds on which it feeds. It 1s resident in
Ontario, being seen both in summer and winter, but 1s most
frequently observed during the period of migration m spring
and fall, from which may be inferred that many individuals
spend the winter farther south. Occasionally in spring this
species may be seen singly, or in pairs, soaring to a vast height,
sailing round in wide circles, apparently enjoying the
warm sunshine and the return of life to the landscape below.

The Red-tail breeds in Southern Ontario, is generally
distributed throughout the province, and 1s included in the list
of birds observed by Prof. Macoun in the Northwest.

1st BUGEOWMINSATLYS (GmMeL.):, 339%
Red-shouldered Hawk.

Four outer primaries emarginate on inner web. General plumage of the
adult of arich fulvous cast ; above, reddish-brown, the feathers with -dark-
°

38)

BIRDS OF

brown centres; below a lighter shade of the same, with narrow dark streaks
and white bars; quills and tail blackish, conspicuously banded with pure
white; the bend of the wing orange-brown. Young plain dark brown above,
below white with dark streaks ; quills and tail barred with whitish. Nearly
as long as B. borealis, but not nearly so heavy ; tarsi more naked. Female,
22; wing, 14 ; tail,g; male, 19; wing, 13; tail, 8 (average).

Hap. Eastern North America, west to Texas and the Plains, south to

the Gulf coast and! Mexico.

Nest in trees ; composed of sticks and twigs, lined with grass and a few
feathers.

Eggs, 2 to 4; variable in color, usually dull white, blotched with rich
brown.

In Southern Ontario this species is a common summer
resident, breeding freely in the less settled parts of the country,

where it is more frequently seen than any other of the ‘“* Chicken
Hawks.”

In the fall it becomes quite numerous, making occasional
predatory visits to the poultry yard, although it is usually
satisfied with smaller game. It is not included in the list of
birds observed by Prof. Macoun in the Northwest, and as it
does not occur with us in the winter, it is probably less hardy
than the Red-tail.

Like others of the family, this species varies greatly in
plumage according to circumstances. The young birds do not
show any of the rich reddish-orange of the adult, and were at one
time described as a separate species under the name of Winter
Falcon. From Western Texas to California, and south into
Mexico, the colors get much brighter and more decided, which
has led to this western form being described as a subspecies
under the name of Buteo lineatus elegans (Cass.). Occasionally
we meet here with an adult in full plumage which might well be
included in this group, but generally all are much brighter in the
west.

138. BUTEO SWAINSONI Bonap. 342.

Swainson’s Hawk.

It is hardly possible, within the limited space at my disposal, to give
anything like a detailed description of the various phases of plumage which

140

ONTARIO.

this interesting buzzard assumes, according to age, sex, or the season of the
year. Suffice it to say, that individuals differ so much from each other as to
have led to the description of about a dozen different individuals as new
species, all of which are now attributable to Buteo Swainsoni.

In measurement this species is about the same as its nearest relative, the
Red-tail, averaging about 20 inches in length by about 50 in extent, but is
less stoutly built, has the wings longer and more pointed, and it has only
three of the primaries emarginate, whereas the Red-tail has four. The entire
upper parts are dark-brown, many of the feathers with tawny edgings, those
on the head showing white when disturbed. Tail feathers, ashy-gray crossed
with numerous dark bars, and tipped with yellowish-white. Upper tail
coverts, chestnut and white with blackish bars. Under-parts white, more or
less shaded with chestnut. A broad pectoral area of bright chestnut, usually
with a glaucous shade, and displaying sharp black shaft lines; this area
contrasting strongly with the pure white throat.

In younger birds the upper parts are much as already described—the
lower parts, including the lining of the wings, are nearly uniform fawn color,
thickly spotted with blackish brown. These large dark spots for the most
part circular or guttiform, crowd across the fore-breast, scatter on the middle
belly, enlarge to cross bars on the flanks, become broad arrow heads on the
lower belly and tibia, and are wanting on the throat. In all stages of
plumage the iris of the eye is brown.

Has. Western North America, from Wisconsin, Illinois, Arkansas and
Texas to the Pacific coast ; north to the arctic regions, and south to Buenos
Ayres. Casual east to Massachusetts.

Nest in a bush or tree ata height varying from ro to 4o feet from the
ground.

Dr. Coues gives an admirable history of this species in his
Birds of the Northwest (page 357), from which I will here
make a few extracts :

“This large hawk is very abundant in Northern Dakota
where it came under my almost daily observation during the
summer of 1873. They were to be seen anywhere in the region
mentioned—even far out on the prairie, miles away from the
timber, circling overhead or perched on the bare ground. In
alighting it generally takes advantage of some little knoll
commanding a view around, though it has often no more
prominent place than a heap of dirt froma badger’s hole, from
which to cast about for some imprudent Gopher espied too far
from home, or still more ignoble game.

I4I

BIRDS OF

. The quarry of Swainson’s Buzzard is of a very humble |
nature. I never saw one swoop upon wild fowl or grouse, and
though they often strike rabbits like the Red-tails, their prey is
usually nothing larger than Gophers. Though really strong
and sufficiently fierce birds, they lack the ‘snap’ of the Falcons
and Asturs, and I scarcely think they are smart enough
to catch little birds very often. I saw one make the attempt on ;
a Lark Bunting. The Hawk poised in the air at a height of |
about 20 yards for fully a minute, fell heavily with an awkward
thrust of the talons—and missed. The little bird slipped off,
badly scared no doubt, but unhurt, while the enemy flapped
away sulkily, very likely to prowl around a Gopher hole for his
dinner, or take pot luck at grasshoppers.”

From the foregoing it will be seen that the home of Swain-
son’s Buzzard is on the prairies of the Northwest, while in
Ontario it is only a casual visitor. I first met with it at an
agricultural fair in Hamilton in 1865, where a young specimen
was observed in a collection which was competing for a prize.
Being called upon to name the species to which it belonged, I~
turned to such works of reference as were available and made
it out to be Buteo Bairdi (Hoy.), which is now known to be the
young of Buteo Swainsoni. Since that time I have occasionally
seen birds in similar plumage flying overhead, but did not again |
meet with it close enough for examination till the present |
summer (1886) when I saw one in the hands of a local |
taxidermist where it had been left to be “stuffed.” It too was |
a young bird, but in fine plumage with the characteristic ;
markings fully displayed. |

When we have more naturalists among our sportsmen, such
a bird as this will be more frequently brought to light. At
present should a hawk come along, when there is nothing better
in sight, it is killed in the interest of the game, but is seldom
picked up.

139. BUTEO LATISSIMUS (Wits.). 343.
Broad-winged Hawk.

Three outer primaries emarginate on inner web. Above, umber-brown,
the feathers with paler, or even with fulvous or ashy-white edging, those of

142

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the hind head and nape cottony-white at base ; quills blackish, most of the
inner webs white, barred with dusky ; tail with three broad dark zones
alternating with narrow white ones, and white tipped ; conspicuous dark
maxillary patches ; under parts white or tawny, variously streaked, spotted
or barred with rusty or rufous, this color usually predominating in adult
birds, when the white chiefly appears as oval or circular spots on each
feather ; throat generally whiter than elsewhere, narrowly dark-lined. In
the young the upper parts are duller brown, varied with white, the under-
parts tawny-whitish with linear and oblong dark spots, the tail grayish-brown
with numerous dark bars. Female, 18 ; wing, 11 ; tail, 7 ; male less.

Has. Eastern North America, from New Brunswick and _ the
Saskatchewan region to Texas and Mexico, and thence southward to Central
America, Northern South America and the West Indies.

Nest in a tree, built of sticks and twigs, lined with grass and leaves.

This species was first described by Wilson who met with
two individuals in the woods near the Schuykill, and does not
appear to have seen it again.

In Southern Ontario the Broad-winged Hawk 1s often very
common in the spring. Toward the end of April or early in
May, should the weather be clear, great numbers are seen
soaring at a considerable height, and moving in circles toward
the Northwest.

About the same time, singly or in pairs, it may be met with
in the woods, usually sitting quietly on the lower branch of a
tree near some wet place, watching for frogs. A few pairs
remain during summer, but the greater number pass on to the
Northwest, and in winter none have been observed.

Genus ARCHIBUTEO Breum.

ARCHIBUTEO LAGOPUS SANCTI-JOHANNIS (Gmet.).
140, American Rough-legged Hawk. 347 a.

Below, white, variously dark colored, and often with a broad black
abdominal zone; but generally no ferruginous. Above, brown varying
from dark-chocolate in the adult to light umber in the young; the back,
scapulars and shorter quills strongly cinereous. The head above more or
less white, dark streaked ; upper tail coverts and tail at base white, the
former tipped with blackish ; the latter barred near the tip with one, and

sometimes several bands of black or dark-brown. In this plumage the bird

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BIRDS OF

has been known as A. lagopus, the Rough-legged Buzzard, while to a
melanotic variety of the same, found in this country only, the name sancti-
johannis has been given. This variety is entirely glossy-black, except the
occiput, forehead, throat, inner webs of quills, base of tail and broad tail-
bars, white. As it is now generally conceded that thése are varieties of the
same species, the original name, /agopus is retained and the American form
considered a geographical variety of the European, characterized as variety
sancti-johannis. Length, about 2 feet ; wing, 16-17 ; tail, 8-10.

Has. Whole of North America north to Mexico, breeding chiefly north
of the United States.

Nest on trees or rocks.
Eggs, 3 to 4; soiled white, blotched with reddish-brown.

Another large and powerful bird, which, from some cause,
seems contented with very humble fare, living chiefly on mice,
lizards, frogs, etc., while its appearance would lead us _ to
suppose it capable of capturing much larger game. It is some-
times found in a melanotic state, the plumage being nearly
black, and in this garb it was formerly described as a distinct
species, but this idea has now been abandoned.

It can always be recognized by the legs being feathered
down to the toes which are very short.

In Southern Ontario this is only a visitor during the season
of migration, being most plentiful in the fall, when it is often
seen frequenting the marshy shores of Hamilton Bay. It has
not been observed during the breeding season, neither does it
occur in winter.

Speaking of this species Sir John Richardson says: ‘ In
the softness and fullness of its plumage, its feathered legs, and
habits, this bird bears some resemblance to the Owls. It flies
slowly, sits for a long time on the bough of a tree watching for
frogs, mice, etc., and is often seen sailing over swampy pieces
of ground and hunting for its prey by the subdued daylight
which illuminates even the midnight in the high parallels of
latitude.”

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Genus AQUILA Brisson.
mi AQUIEA CARYSAETOS (Eimn-). 349:
Golden Eagle.

Dark-brown with a purplish gloss ; lanceolate feathers of head and neck
golden-brown ; quills blackish ; in the young, tail white with a broad
terminal black zone. About 3 feet long ; wing, upwards of 2 feet ; tail a foot
or more.

Has. North America south to Mexico. Northern parts of the Old
World.

Nest, an accumulation of sticks, usually placed on an inaccessible rocky
crag.

Eggs, 2 to 4 ; soiled white marked with brown.

This fierce and daring Eagle has its home among the rugged
and inaccessible cliffs of Canada east, but in the fall it is seen
following the flocks of waterfowl, which, at this season, visit the
lakes to rest and recruit themselves as they travel southward.
Some years ago I asked a boy, whose home I thought a
favorable point for getting birds of prey, to shoot any Hawks
or Owls he saw and bring them to me. A few days afterwards
I sawhim approaching my house with a sack over his shoulder,
which, judging from the bulk, might contain a dozen hawks,
but great was my surprise when he shook out a finelarge female
Golden Eagle which he had shot that morning as it flew over
the place where he happened to be standing.

Shortly afterwards I got a young male which was caught
near Stoney Creek. I have also seen several which were
procured near Toronto. Dark-brown Eagles are often observed
hovering along the shores of Lake Ontario during the fall, but
at a distance it is impossible to distinguish between this and
the young of the Bald Eagle, which is also uniform brown
throughout. The quickest way of identifying the species, on close
inspection, is by referring to the legs, which, in the Golden Eagle,
are feathered down to the toes, differing as much in this respect
from the Bald Eagle as the Rough-legged Buzzard does from
any of the other Hawks.

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BIRDS OF
Genus HALIZZEETUS Savieny.
142, HALIZZETUS LEUCOCEPHALUS (Linn.). 352
Bald Eagle.

Dark-brown ; head and tail white after the third year ; before this, these
parts like the rest of the plumage. About the size of the last species.
Immature birds average larger than adults.

Has. North America at large, south to Mexico.
Nest of huge dimensions, built of sticks, placed on a tree.
Eggs, 2 ; soiled white.

This is more frequently seen than the preceding species, and
may be considered resident, asit is often observed during winter,
and breeds in suitable places throughout the country, usually on
or near the shore of a lake. Ina letter from Dr. McCormick
dated Breeze Place, Pelee Island, June 12th, 1884, the writer
says: ‘‘ I chanced to observe an interesting incident a few
days since, showing what looked very much like reasoning
powers in a Bald-headed Eagle. The wind was blowing quite
strong from the west, and the Eagle had caught a large fish.
Rising in the air with his dying prey in his talons, he tried to
fly directly to windward, towards his nest, but the wind was
too strong, and after several unsuccessful attempts he
dropped the fish (now dead) into the water. Then flying
off toward the north for some distance, apparently to try
the wind in that direction, and finding he could progress
more easily, he turned round, went back to the fish, took it up
again in his claws, and flying north with a beam wind made the
shore. Then in shelter of a friendly grove of trees, he flew away
toward the west and his nest, with his scaly treasure, thus exercis-
ing what appeared to be a reasoning process of cause and effect.”

A favorite haunt of this species used to be along the Niagara
River below the Falls, where they would sit on the dead trees
by the river bank and watch for any dead or dying animals that
came down the stream. This habit becoming known to
collectors, a constant watch was kept for the appearance of the
birds, many were picked off with the rifle, and although a few
still visit the old haunts, their numbers are greatly reduced.

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Twenty years ago, I knew a youth who shot one of these birds
as it flew over him while he lay concealed among the rushes on
the shore of Hamilton Bay watching for Ducks. On taking it
up he found an unusual appendage dangling from the
neck, which proved, on examination, to be the bleached skull of
a weasel. The teeth had the ‘‘death grip” of the skin of the
bird’s throat, and the feathers near this place were much
confused and broken.

The Eagle had probably caught the weasel on the ground,
and rising with his prize, a struggle had ensued in the air, during
which the weasel had caught the bird by the throat and hung
there till he was squeezed and clawed to pieces.

Bald Eagles are, during some winters, common at the
Beach, where they pick up any dead fish and ‘‘ Cowheens”’ that
are shaken out of the fishermen’s nets. Knowing the habits of
the birds, the fishermen often capture them by placing a
poisoned carcase near the edge of the ice. The bait is sure to
be taken by the first Eagle which comes along, and usually the
bird dies before leaving the spot.

SuBFAMILY FALCONINZ. Fatcons.
GeENus FALCO LINNe&us.
SuBGENUS RHYNCHODON Nirzscu.
143. FALCO PEREGRINUS ANATUM (Bonap.). 356.
Duck Hawk.

Tarsus feathered but little way down in front, elsewhere irregularly
reticulated in small pattern, not longer than middle toe; 1st quill alone
decidedly emarginate on inner web, not shorter than the 3rd. Above blackish-
ash, with more or less evident paler waves ; below and the forehead, white,
more or less fulvous tinge, and transverse bars of blackish ; conspicuous
black ear-patches. Young with the colors not so intense and tending to
brown ; the tawny shade below stronger, the lower parts longitudinally
striped. Length, about 18; wing, 13-14 ; tail, 7-8.

Has. North America at large.
Nest, in a tree, or on a rock, or on the ground.

Eggs, 3 to 5; dull white, blotched with different shades of reddish-

brown.

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BIRDS OF

This is the Bullet Hawk, the terror of the Ducks and
admiration of the sportsmen at the shooting stations, where he
is often seen, either capturing game on his own account or
appropriating what has been killed by the gunner before he has
time to pick it up. _As it is known to breed in Massachusetts,
on the coast of Labrador, and in Alaska, it will most likely be
found also to do so in suitabie places in Ontario, but at present
we have no satisfactory record of the fact. The steep rocky
ledges which overhang the blue waters of Lake Superior offer
inducements which the birds will hardly overlook, and we
expect yet to hear of their being found breeding there.

While here the Peregrine is no loiterer, but follows the
migratory course of the waterfowl and fares sumptuously every
day. Ducks are his favorite game, and he need never be ata
loss, yet (by way of relish perhaps) we see him sometimes
scoop up a Sandpiper or a Mudhen, and pick its bones on an
elevation which commandsa clear view for some distance around.

In Southern Ontario the Peregrine is seldom seen except in the
fall.

SuBGENUS AZESALON Kavup.

144. FALCO COLUMBARIUS Linn. 357.
Pigeon Hawk.

Tarsus scarcely feathered above, with the plates in front enlarged,
appearing like a double row of alternating scutellz (and often with a few true
scutellz at base) ; 1st and 2nd quill emarginated on inner web.

Adult-male, above ashy-blue, sometimes almost blackish, sometimes
much paler ; below pale fulvous or ochreous, whitish on the throat, the
breast and sides with large oblong dark-brown spots with black shaft lines ;
the tibiz reddish, streaked with brown ; inner webs of primaries with about
eight transverse white or whitish spots ; tail tipped with white, and with the
outer feather whitening ; with a broad subterminal black zone and 3-4 black
bands alternating with whitish ; cere greenish-yellow. Female with the
upper parts ashy-brown ; the tail with 4-5 indistinct whitish bands ; about
13; wing, 8; tail, 5 ; male, smaller.

Has. The whole of North America, south to the West Indies and
Northern South America.

Nest, in a hole in a tree, or on a branch, or on rocks.
Eggs, yellowish-brown, blotched with brown of a darker shade.

148

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This handsome little Falcon is a miniature of the Peregrine,
and is quite its equal in courage and spirit, often attacking
birds of much greater weight than itself. lt 1s not a common
species anywhere, and in Southern Ontario can only be regarded
as a migratory visitor in spring and fall. It is at all
times a difficult matter to define the precise breeding range of
birds that are rare everywhere, and regarding the summer
haunts of the Pigeon Hawk we have yet much tolearn. As it
has been known to breed in Maine, and in Alaska, it is quite
likely to breed also in Ontario, where there is plenty of room
for it to do so without being observed. In the fall
when the Blackbirds get together in flocks, they are frequently
followed by the Little Corporal who takes his tribute without
much ceremony. I once saw him *“ stoop” on a flock as
they hurried toward the marsh for shelter. _ How closely they
huddled together, as if seeking mutual protection, but he went
right through the flock and came out on the other side with one
in each fist !

SusBGENusS TINNUNCULUS VIEILLoT.
145. FALCO SPARVERIUS Linn. 360.

American Sparrow Hawk.

Tarsus and quills as in columbarius. Crown ashy-blue, with a chestnut
patch, sometimes small or altogether wanting, sometimes occupying nearly
all the crown; conspicuous black maxillary and auricular patches, which
with three others around the nape make seven black places in all, but a part
of them often obscure or wanting ; back cinnamon-brown, in the male with
a few black spots or none, in the female with numerous black bars ; wing-
coverts in the male ashy-blue, with or without black spots, in the female, like
the back ; quills in both sexes blackish with numerous pale or white bars on
inner webs ; tail chestnut, in the male with one broad black subterminal bar,
white tip, and outer feather mostly white with several black bars; in the
female the whole tail with numerous imperfect black bars ; below white
variously tinged with buff or tawny, in the male with a fewsmall black spots
or none, in the female with many brown streaks ; throat and vent nearly
white and immaculate in both sexes ; bill dark-horn, cere and feet yellow to
bright orange ; 10-11; wing, 7 ; tail, 5, more or less.

Has. Whole of North America, south to Northern South America.

Eggs, 5 to 7 ; deposited in the hollow of a decayed limb, or deserted
Woodpecker’s hole. In color variable, usually yellowish brown, blotched all
over with brown of a darker shade.

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The peculiar and handsome markings of this little Hawk
serve, even ata distance, to prevent its being mistaken for
anyother species. Though sometimes seen near the farm-house
it does not bear the stigma of having felonious intentions
towards the occupants of the poultry yard, but is credited with
the destruction of large numbers of mice, and is therefore
regarded with favor by the farmer. It also feeds freely on
snakes, lizards, grasshoppers, etc., but has the true falcon
etiquette of taking only what is newly killed. It is generally
distributed throughout Ontario, arriving on the southern
frontier about the end of April, and leaving for the south in
September.

Genus POLYBORUS.
SuBraMity PANDIONINZE. Ospreys.
Genus PANDION Savieny.
PANDION HALIAETUS CAROLINENSIS (Ge z.).
146. American Osprey. 364.

Plumage lacking after-shafts, compact, imbricated, oily to resist water ;
that of the legs short and close, not forming the flowing tufts seen in most
other genera, that of the head lengthened, acuminate ; primary coverts stiff
and acuminate, Feet immensely large and strong, the tarsus entirely naked,
granular-reticulate, the toes all of the same length, unwebbed at base, very
scabrous underneath, the outer versatile ; claws very large, rounded under-
neath Hook ofthe bill long, nostrils touching edge of cere. Above dark-
brown ; most of the head and neck and the under-parts white, latter some-
times with a tawny shade, and streaked with brown. Length, 2 feet ; wing,
16-18 inches ; tail, 8-10.

Has. North America, from Hudson's Bay and Alaska, south to the
West Indies and Northern South America.

Nest in a tree; composed of sticks, often very bulky, from annual
additions

Eggs, 2 to 4; variable in color, usually creamy-brown, blotched with
various darker shades of brown.

The Fish Hawkis generally distributed throughout Ontario,
breeding by the lakes and rivers in the less thickly settled parts
of the country. Along the sea coast it is more abundant,
frequently breeding in communities of several hundreds. In |

150

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such cases the nests are placed indifferently on rocks or trees,
and sometimes the eggs have been deposited on the sand.
Near such breeding places the Bald Eagle has every oppor-
tunity of tyrannizing over the Fish Hawks, and compelling them
to drop the fish they have just caught. On the inland waters
of Ontario the Bald Eagle is of less frequent occurrence, and
the Osprey is allowed to enjoy the results of his industry in
peace.

The Fish Hawk arrives in Ontario as soon as the ice breaks
up in the spring, and in the fall remains fishing along the
shores till November.

SuBORDER STRIGES. Owt.s.
Famity STRIGIDZ. Barn Ow ts.
Genus STRIX Linneus.

147. STRIX PRATINCOLA Bonar. 365.

American Barn Owl.

Tawny or fulvous brown, delicately clouded or marbled with ashy or
white, and speckled with brownish-black ; below, a varying shade from
nearly a pure white to fulvous, with sparse sharp blackish speckling ; face
white to purplish-brown, darker or black about the eyes, the disk bordered
with dark-brown ; wings and tail barred with brown, and finely mottled like
the back ; bi!l whitish ; toes yellowish. Length, female, 17 ; wing, 13 ; tail,
54; male rather less.

Has. Warmer parts of North America, from the Middle States, Ohio
Valley and California southward through Mexico.

Breeds in hollow trees, frequently in the tower of a church or other
high buildings,
Eggs, 3 to 6 ; soiled white.

Although this species, so much like the Barn Owl of Britain,
has long been known as an American bird, coming as far north
as Massachusetts, it is only within the past few years that it
has been observed in Canada. In May, 1882, a specimen was
killed by young Mr. Reid, gardener, York street, Hamilton,
and in the fall of the same year another was found in an empty
outhouse near the canal leading to Dundas. On calling the

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BIRDS OF

. attention of Dr. Garnier, of Lucknow, to these facts, he

mentioned having seen one several years before near where he
lives, and from Mr. C. J. Bampton comes a report of his having
seen two individuals near Sault St. Marie. Compared with
the British Barn Owl, the American species isa little larger,
but by many they are regarded as identical. The British bird
is noted for its partiality for ruinous church towers and other
lonely places. Strange to say, Mr. Reid’s specimen was killed
in the cemetery, while one of those seen by Mr. Bampton was
perched on the cross on the spire of the Catholic church.

It has a sharp inquisitive visage, and is said to be an expert
mouser. In Ontario it can be regarded only as an accidental
visitor from the south.

Famity BUBONID-. Hornep OwLs, ETC.

Genus ASIO Brisson.
148. ASIO WILSONIANUS (Less.). 366.

American Long-eared Owl.

General plumage above a variegation of dark-brown, fulvous and whitish,
in small pattern ; breast more fulvous, belly whiter, the former sharply
striped, the latter striped and elaborately barred with blackish ; quills and
tail mottled and closely barred with fulvous and dark-brown ; face pale,
with black touches and eye patches ; bill and claws blackish. Ear-tufts of
8-12 feathers. Length, 14-15; wing, 11-12; tail, 5-6.

Has. Temperate North America.

Nest of sticks loosely put together, lined with a few feathers, variable as
to situation, frequently in a thick evergreen.

Eggs, 4 to 6; round, white.

The Long-eared Owl is strictly nocturnal in its habits,
and is seldom seen abroad by day, except when disturbed in its
retirement among the evergreens. So far as I have observed, it
is not a common species in Ontario, but from its retiring habits
it may be more so than we are aware. Those observed near
Hamilton have been found in the fall, the season when birds of
all kinds wander away from their summer resort, before retiring
south to spend the winter. Along the sea coast it is more

152

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common, and in New England resides throughout the year.
That it breeds in Ontario is vouched for by Mr. Robert Elliot,
who found a nest near his home at Bryanston during the
summer of the present year (1886).

149: ASIO ACCIPIFRINUS (Part): 367.
Short-eared Owl.

Fulvous or buffy-brown, paler or whitey-brown below ; breast and upper
parts broadly and thickly streaked with dark-brown ; belly usually sparsely
streaked with the same, but not barred crosswise ; quills and tail buff, with
few dark bands and mottling ; facial area, legs and crissum pale, unmarked ;
eye-patch blackish ; ear-tufts of from 3-6 feathers. Size of Wilsonianus.

Has. Throughout North America ; nearly cosmopolitan.

Nest, on the ground ; consisting of a few sticks, blades of grass and
feathers, loosely thrown together.

Eggs, 4 to 6; white, nearly round.

This is a much more common species than the preceding,
and probably more northern in its range. I have reports of its
occurrence at different points throughout Ontario, and it was
observed in the Northwest by Prof. Macoun. It is less
nocturnal inits habits than the preceding, and is somewhat
gregarious, being occasionally scen during the day in the fall
in flocks of 10 or 12, hunting in company. It has not been my
fortune to fall in with any of those migratory groups, but I
have observed the species skimming noiselessly over the inlets
and moist meadows along the shores of Hamilton Bay.

It is a most expert mouser, destroying large numbers of the
farmers’ foes, and is therefore entitled to his protection, but all
birds of prey are regarded as enemies by the sportsman, who
allows none to pass that come within his reach.

GENuS SYRNIUM Savieny.
150. SYRNIUM NEBULOSUM (Forst.). 368.
Barred Owl.

Above cinerous-brown, barred with white, often tinged with fulvous ;
below similar, paler, the markings in bars on the breast, in streaks elsewhere:

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BIRDS OF

quills and tail feathers barred with brown and white with an ashy or fulvous
tinge. Length, about 18 ; wing, 13-14 ; tail, 9.

Has. Eastern United States, west to Minnesota and Texas, north to
Nova Scotia and Quebec.

Nest, in a hollow tree, or in the deserted nest of a hawk or crow.
Eggs, 2to 4; round, white.

Along the southern boundary of Ontario the Barred Owl is
by no means rare, but farther north I have not heard of it
being observed. It does not occur west of the Rocky Moun-
tains, but is very abundant along the south Atlantic and Gulf
States. It is occasionally seen abroad by day, butat such times
its sight seems to be rather uncertain, so that the capture
of the small animals on which it feeds is accomplished
during the hours of darkness.

Regarding its uncertain vision by day, Mr. Giraud, in his
Birds of Long Island, says: ‘‘ My friend, Mr. J. G. Bell,
informs me that when on acollecting tour in South Carolina,
and while looking for the blue- winged yellow warbler whose
note he had a moment before heard, he was startled by feeling
a sudden pressure on his gun. Judge of his surprise when he
perceived perched on the barrels a Barred Owl, which, at the
same moment, discovered its mistake, but too late to correct the
fatal error, as it was shot down by the astonished gunner.”

Audubon mentions seeing one alight on the back of a cow,
which it left so suddenly, when the cow moved, as to
show that it had mistaken the objeci on which it perched for
something else.

In former years I used to find the Barred Owl regularly
every fall in the ravines along the south shore of the Dundas
Marsh, but now many of the pines and hemlocks which formed
an inviting retreat are cut down, and the bird has sought for

greater seclusion elsewhere. Its black eyes are at all times a °

ready mark to distinguish it from any other member of its
family.
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Genus ULULA CvuvIER.

151. ULULA CINEREA (GmeEL.). 370.
Great Gray Owl.

Above, cinereous-brown, mottled in waves with cinereous white ; below,
these colors rather paler, disposed in streaks on the breast, in bars elsewhere ;
quills and tail with five or six darker and lighter bars; the great disk
similarly marked in regular concentric rings. An immense owl, one of the
largest of all, much exceeding any other of this country. Length, 23 feet ;
wing, 14; tail, a foot or more

Has. Arctic America, straggling southward, in winter, to the northern
border of the United States.

Nest, in trees, composed of sticks and twigs, lined with moss anda few
feathers.

Eggs, 3 to 4 ; not quite round, white.

This beautifully marked and solemn-looking bird is usually
described as the largest of North American Owls, but it can
only be regarded so by measurement, as in weight, strength
and ferocity it is inferior to either the Snowy or the Great
Horned Owl. The lengthy tail, and the long loose feathers with
which its body is densely clothed, gives it the appearance of a
very large bird of prey, but when closely examined, the legs,
claws and bill are smaller and weaker than those of either of
the two species named.

The Great Gray Owl is said to be more northern in its
range than even the Snowy Owl. In Southern Ontario it is a
casual visitor in the winter only. I have had two individuals
brought to me which were got near Hamilton, and have seen
several in the hands of other parties. During the present
winter I saw one which was sent down from Muskoka, where
it was shot in the woods in the month of December.

Genus NYCTALA Breuo.
NYCTALA TENGMALMI RICHARDSONI (Bonapr.).

152, Richardson’s Owl. 371.

Upper-parts, grayish-brown, tinged with olive ; feathers of the head and
neck spotted with white; scapulars, quills and tail also with white spots ;

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BIRDS OF

ruff and lower parts, yellowish-white, throat white. Male, 11 inches; female,
12 inches.

Has. Arctic America, south occasionally in winter into the Northern
United States.

Nest in trees.
Eggs, 2 ; round, white.

This comparatively small and timid-looking owl is perhaps
more hyperborean in its range than any of the others we have
had under consideration, inasmuch as the records of its occur-
rence do not extend so far south as those of either the Great
Gray or the Snowy Owl. It is warmly clad in a dense coat of
soft, silky feathers, which, no doubt, enables it to withstand the
severity of the winter. In the matter of food, it evidently finds
a supply, as the species is spoken of by Sir John Richardson as
being abundant in the region of the Saskatchewan, yet only a
very few come as far south as Southern Ontario. The two in
my collection were both found during winter in the neighbor-
hood of Toronto, besides which I have very few records of its
being observed anywhere throughout the country.

153. NYCTALA ACADICA (Gwe L.). 372.

Saw-whet Owl.

Size, small. Bill, black, the cere tumid, the circular nostrils presenting
anteriorly. Above chocolate-brown, spotted with white, the tail with
transverse white bars ; facial area and forehead variegated with white, the
face and superciliary line grayish-white ; the lower parts white with streaks
of the color of the back. Length, 74-8 ; wing, 54; tail, 3%.

Has. North America at large, breeding from the Middle States
northward.

Nest, in a hole in a tree.

Eggs, 4 to6 ; round, white.

This is the smallest member of the family found east of the
Rocky Mountains. For some reason all the owls are of irregular
occurrence in the settled parts of the country. I have seen as

many as six or eight of this species in one winter, and again
for several years have not seen one. Without being migratory,

156

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in the ordinary sense of the word, I think it is highly probable
that during the fall these birds associate in groups, and move
from one section of the country to another in search of food.
In this way a good many may be observed at one point, while
for many miles around they may be altogether absent.

The ‘Saw-whet” is evidently partial to a medium
temperature, as it is most common in the northern states,
and does not penetrate far into British America. In the
opposite direction, it has been found breeding as far south as
Mexico, but mostly in the wooded mountain ranges. In
Southern Ontario, these birds are most at home in the thick
shelter of the evergreens in the depths of the woods, but when
deep snow covers the ground they are often found in the barn,
or other outhouse near the farmer’s dwelling, where they are
forced to seek for food and shelter when their supply outside
is cut off.

Genus MEGASCOPS Kavp.
154. MEGASCOPS ASIO (Linn.). 373.
Screech Owl.

One plumage: general aspect gray, paler or whitish below. Above,
speckled with blackish, below patched with the same ; wings and tail dark-
barred ; usually a lightish scapular area.

Another: general aspect brownish-red, with sharp black streaks ;
below rufous-white, variegated ; quills and tail with rufous and dark bars.
These plumages shade insensibly into each other, and it has been determined
that they bear no definite relations to age, sex or season. Length, about ro ;
wing, 7 ; tail, 34.

Has. Temperate Eastern North America, south to Georgia, and west

to the Plains. Accidental in England.

Nest, in a hole ina tree ; lined with feathers.

This is the most abundant of the Owlsin this part of the
country, yet, like the others, it is of very irregular occurrence.
I have met with it once or twice in the woods in summer, but
it is most frequently seen in winter, when the ground is covered
with snow. It is then forced to approach the dwellings of man
in search of food, and during some winters there is scarcely a
farm in the country which has not its Screech Owl in the barn.

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BIRDS OF

There it sits on a rafter, snoozing away the hours of daylight,
occasionally opening its round, yellow, cat-like eyes, and
glowering at the farm hands as they move about like shadows
below. After dark it is all alive, not a mouse can stir without
being observed, and so quick and noiseless is the flight of the
bird that few escape which expose themselves. It thus renders
good service to the farmer, in consideration of which it is
protected by the more intelligent of that class, but is persecuted
almost to extinction by the “ boys.”

As will be seen by the description of the markings given
above, individuals of this species assume different phases of
plumage, and are spoken of as the ‘‘red” and “gray.” For
many years great difference of opinion prevailed on this subject,
some believing the red bird to be the male, and vice versa. It
is now fully understood that the color is entirely independent of
age, sex or season. It is one of those seeming irregularities
which we find in nature, and all we can do is to bear witness
to the fact without being able to tell the reason of it.

During the long winter of 1883-4, I kept a record of the
birds of this species I heard of, in or near Hamilton, and the
total number reached 40. In 1884-5 they were less common,
and during 1885-6 I am not aware of a single individual being
observed.

Genus BUBO CuvIer.
155. BUBO'VIRGINIANUS (Gme_EL.). 375.
Great Horned Owl.

Distinguished by its large size, in connection with the conspicuous ear
tufts ; the other species of similar dimensions are tuftless. The plumage
varies interminably, and no concise description will meet all its phases ; it is
a variegation of blackish, with dark and light-brown, and fulvous. <A white
collar is the most constant color mark. Length, about 2 feet ; wing, 14-16
inches ; tail, 9-10.

Has, Eastern North America, west to the Mississippi Valley, and from
Labrador south to Costa Rica.

Nest, if any, in a hollow tree, or cleft of a rock.
Eggs, 2; round, white,
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The Great Horned Owl is well known in Ontario, being
generally distributed throughout the province. During the day
it hides away in the deep impenetrable parts of the woods, but
at night sallies forth in quest of prey, and does not hesitate to
rob the hen roost, returning for that purpose night after night,
unless stopped by a snap shot in the dark, or caught in a trap
baited for the purpose. Individuals vary greatly in plumage,
so much so that they have been described as distinct species.
Near Hamilton I have found them varying from light silvery-
gray to deep fulvous-brown, I once obtained a very handsome
specimen in the latter dress which I was unable to utilize from
its having been recently in contact with a skunk. It is strictly
nocturnal in its habits, yet, when obliged by the attention of
crows or other disturbing causes to move during the day, it
makes good use of its eyes, and gets quickly away to the nearest
thicket for shelter.

Genus NYCTEA STEPHENS.
lisp.) NYCTEANY@LEA (InN.). 376:
Snowy Owl.

Pure white with more or fewer blackish markings. Length, nearly 2
feet ; wing, 17 inches ; tail, ro.

Has. Northern portions of the Northern Hemisphere. In North
America breeding mostly north of the United States ;in winter migrating
south to the Middle States, straggling to South Carolina, Texas and the
Bermudas.

Nest, on the ground, or on rocks.

Eggs, 5 to 10; laid at intervals, so that the nest may contain young
birds and fresh eggs at the same time. (Cowes Key).

An irregular winter visitor to Ontario, sometimes appearing
in considerable numbers, and again entirely absent for several
years in succession. Near Hamilton its favorite resort is on
the Beach, or along the shore of the bay, where it may be seen
sitting watchful on the top of a muskrat heap, or pile of drift-
wood, frequently turning its head right round to look out for
approaching danger. It hunts by day as well as at night, but
is most active in the morning andevening. I once saw a large

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BIRDS OF

female make several attempts to capture a wounded Duck,
which was swimming in a patch of open water among the ice
on the bay near the canal. The Owl skimmed along close to
the ice and tried in passing to grasp the Duck, which quickly
went under water and appeared again cautiously at a different
.place. The Owl passed several times over the pond in this
way, resting alternately on the pier of the canal and on the
shore, till getting into a favorable position I shot it on one of
the return trips, and subsequently I also shot the Duck on
which I had a first claim.

The number of these birds which occasionally descend from
the north in the early part of the winter must be very great,
for their migrations extend over a wide extent of country, and
at Hamilton, which is only one of the points they pass, I have
known of as many as thirty being captured in a single season.
During the winter they are seen as far south as Texas and the
Carolinas. How interesting it would be to know how many of
these individuals which travel so far south are permitted to
return.

Genus SURNIA Dume_erIL.
157. SURNIA ULULA CAPAROCH (MUuLL.). 3%7%a.
American Hawk Owl.

Dark-brown above more or less thickly speckled with white ; below
closely barred with brown and whitish, the throat alone streaked ; quills and
tail with numerous white bars ; face ashy, margined with black. Length,
about 16 inches ; wing, g ; tail, 7, graduated, the lateral feathers 2 inches
shorter than the central.

Has, Arctic America, migrating in winter to the northern border of the
United States. Occasional in England.

Nest of sticks, grass, moss and feathers ; in trees or on rocks.

Eggs, 4 to 7 ; soiled white.

In Southern Ontario the Hawk Owl can only be regarded as
a rare winter visitor. Farther north it seems more common,
as I have heard of it being frequently seen in the district of
Muskoka. While here in winter it has no particular haunt,
but takes the country as it comes, like a Hawk, and is evidently

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as sharp in the sight, as it is active on the wing. The two in
my collection were obtained in the neighborhood of this city.

The Hawk Owl, like some other boreal birds of prey,
occasionally comes south in the winter in large numbers, and is
welcomed by collectors wherever it appears. These extensive
migrations occur most frequently in the east. In Quebec,
some years since, in the month of March, I saw them exposed
in the market day after day, and when coming west by rail I
noticed many perched on trees near the track.

OxrpeR COCCYGES: ' CucKoos, etc:
Suporper CUCU. Cugoos, Ere, <
FaAwiLy CUCULIDZAD. “Cuckoos, ‘ANIS, ETC:
SUBFAMILY COCCYGIN. American Cuckoos.
GENUS COCCY7Z US. ViriILior.
fs) COCCYZUS AMERICANUS: (EInw.). 367.
Yellow-billed Cuckoo.
Above as in the last ; below pure white. Wings extensively cinnamon-
rufous on inner webs of the quills. Central tail feathers like the back, the

rest black with large white tips, the outermost usually edged with white.
Bill extensively yellow below and on the sides. Size of the next.

Has. Temperate North America, from New Brunswick, Canada,

Minnesota, Nevada and Oregon, south to Costa Rica and the West Indies.
Less common from the eastern border of the Plains westward.

Nest. on a bough, or in the fork of a low tree; composed of twigs, leaves,
and soft vegetable material.

Eggs, 4 to 8 ; pale greenish.

It is a well-known fact that the British Cuckoo entirely
ignores family responsibilities by depositing its eggs in the nest
of a bird of a different species, and with a pleasant “cuckoo”

bids good-bye to the whole connection.

The two kinds we have in Canada are not so totally
depraved. They usually build a nest and bring up a family,
but even to them the duty does not seem to be a congenial one,
and they are sometimes known to slip an egg into each

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others nests or into that of a different species. The nest they
build is of the most temporary description, and the eggs are
deposited in such a desultory manner, that it is no uncommon
occurrence to find fresh eggs and young birds therein at the same
time.

Of the two Cuckoos we have in Ontario, the Yellow-billed
seems the more southern, apparently finding its northern limit
along our southern border, where it is rather scarce and not
generally distributed.

159. COCCYZUS ERYIRROPHTHAEMUS Wars.): 388.
Black-billed Cuckoo.

Above uniform satiny olive-gray, or ‘‘quaker color,” with bronzy reflec-
tions. Below pure white, sometimes with a faint tawny tinge on the fore
parts. Wings with little or no rufous. Lateral feathers not contrasting with
the central, their tips for a short distance blackish, then obscurely white.
Bill blackish except occasionally a trace of yellowish below. _Eye-lids red ;
bare circum-ocular space purplish. Length, 11-12 ; wing, 5-54 ; tail, 6-6} ;
bill, under 1.

Has. Eastern North America, from Labrador and Manitoba south to
the West Indies and the valley of the Amazon ; west to the Rocky Moun-
tains. Accidental in the British Islands and Italy.

Nest, loosely constructed of twigs, grass, strips of bark, leaves, etc.,
placed in a bush.

Eggs, 2 to 5; light greenish-blue.

The Black-billed Cuckoo is a regular summer resident in
Ontario, where it arrives about the end of May, after which its
peculiar note may often be heard, especially before rain, and its
lithe slim form be seen gliding noiselessly among the evergreens.
Though not an abundant species, it is generally distributed
throughout the province, and well known to the country people
as the rain-crow.

The food of the Cuckoos consists chiefly of caterpillars, with
an occasional change to ripe fruit in the season. They also
stand charged with sucking the eggs of other birds. They
retire to the south early in September.

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SusporDER ALCYONES. KINGFISHERS.
Famity ALCEDINIDA‘. KINGFISHERs.
Genus CERYLE Bole.
SuspGENuS STREPTOCERYLE Bonaparte.
m0 CHRYLE ALCYON (EInw.). 390;
ra Belted Kingfisher.

Upper parts, [ee bar, and sides under wings, dull blue with

fine black shaft linc eyelid, spot before eye, a cervical collar and
under-parts, except as said, pure white ; the female with a chestnut belly
band, and the sides of the same color, quills and tail feathers black, speckled,
blotched and barred with white on the inner webs; outer webs of the
secondaries and tail feathers like the back ; wing-coverts frequently sprinkled
with white ; bill black, pale at base below ; feet dark. Length, 12 or more ;
wing, about 6 ; tail, 34 ; whole foot, 14 ; bill, about 2}.

Has. North America, south to Panama and the West Indies.

Nest, none.

Eggs, 6 to 8 ; white, deposited in an enlargement at the end of a tunnel,
4 to 8 feet deep, dug by the bird into a sand bank or gravel pit.

The Kingfisher is generally distributed throughout Ontario.
It arrives early in April, and soon makes its presence known by
its loud rattling cry, as it dashes along and perches on a
horizontal bough overhanging the river. On some such point
of observation it usually waits and watches for its scaly prey,
but when passing over open water of greater extent it is often
observed to check its course, hover Hawk-like at some distance
above the surface, and then dash into the water after the manner
ofa Tern. Ifa fish is secured it is carried in the bill to some

_convenient perch, on which it is hammered till dead, and then

swallowed head downwards.

The Kingfisher is a strong flier, and is sometimes seen
careering at a considerable height as if for exercise.

They remain in their summer haunts till the end of
September, when they all move farther south.

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Orver PICI. Wooppreckers, WRYNECKS, ETC.
Famity PICIDA®. WooppeEckers.
Genus DRYOBATES Boi.
161. DRYOBATES VILLOSUS (Liyn.). 393.
Hairy Woodpecker.
Back black, with a long white stripe ; quills and wing coverts with a

profusion of white spots ; four middle tail feathers black, next pair black and

white, next two pairs white ; under-parts white ; cro and sides of head
black, with a white stripe over and behind the eye; ther from the nasal

feathers running below the eye to spread on the side the neck, and a
scarlet nuchal band in the male, wanting in ther young with the crown
mostly red or bronzy, or even yellowish. Length, 9-10; wing, nearly 5;
tail, 33

'
Has. Middle portion of the Eastern United States, from the Atlantic
coast to the Great Plains.

Nest, in a hole in a tree.
Eggs, 5 to6; pure white,

A resident, though not very abundant species, noticed more
frequently in winter than in summer. It is generally
distributed through Southern Ontario, and was also noted by
Prof. Macoun in the Northwest. Individuals vary much in
size, those found in the north being the largest.

The Hairy Woodpecker is one of the most retiring of the
family, spending much of its time in the solitudes of the woods,
and when these are thinned out or cleared away, moving to
regions still more remote. It is a strong, hardy, active bird,
and the noise it makes while hammering on a tree, when heard
in the stillness of the woods, might well be supposed to be
produced by a bird of much greater size.

162. DRYOBATES PUBESCENS (Linn.). 394.

Downy Woodpecker.

Coloration exactly as in P. villosus except the outer tail feathers are
barred with black and white. Length, 6-7 ; wing, under 4 ; tail, under 3.

164

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Has. Northern and Eastern North America, from British Columbia
and the eastern edge of the Plains northward and eastward,

Nest, a hole in a tree.
Eggs, 5 to 6; pure white.

A miniature of the preceding species which it resembles in
habits as well as in appearance, although it is of a more
sociable disposition, often being found in winter in company
with the Chicadees and Brown Creepers. It is also an
occasional visitor to the orchard, where it goes over the apple
trees carefully, examining all injured or decayed parts in search
of insects.

It is commonly known as the little Sapsucker, but the name
is incorrectly applied, for any holes drilled by this species are
made while it is in search of insects, those which allow the sap
of the tree to exude being the work of the Yellow-bellied Wood-
pecker.

Like its big brother, the Downy Woodpecker is a resident
species, but more plentiful in spring and fall than in summer,
the numbers being increased at those seasons by passing
migrants.

Genus PICOIDES LaAcrEpeEDE.
163. Picoip—es ARCTICUS (Swarns.). 400.

Arctic Three-toed Woodpecker

Crown with a yellow patch in the male. Back uniform black, sides of
head striped, of body barred with black and white; quills with white spots ;
tail feathers unbarred, the outer white,-the central black. Length, 8-9 ;
wing, 44-5 ; tail, 34-4.

Has. Northern North America, from the arctic regions south to the
northern border of the United States ; much further south in the western
part of the United States (Nevada, California), along the mountain ranges.

Nesting, habits and eggs, so far as known, similar to those of other
Woodpeckers.

This is a truly northern bird, seldom, even in winter, coming
as far south as the southern border of Ontario. In November,
1859, I killed one on a pine tree on the south shore of Dundas

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BIRDS OF
Marsh, which is the only time I have ever seen it alive. I
have heard of one or two others being obtained in Southern
Ontario, but as the species is common farther north, these can
only be regarded as wanderers.

In the district of Muskoka it is resident and quite common,
frequenting certain tracts of country which the fire has gone
through and left the trees standing dead and decaying, It
belongs toa small group, the members of which have only three
toes. Whether this is a special adaptation of the bird to its
life among the pines is not apparent, but it seems quite as
able to shift for itself with three toes as its near relatives
are with four.

164. PICOIDES AMERICANUS Breum. 401.

American Three-toed Woodpecker,

Three-toed ; entire upper-parts glossy, bluish-black with a few spots of
white on the wing quills. Below, white from the bill to the tail ; the sides,
flanks and lining of the wings barred wlth black. | Four middle tail feathers
black, the rest white. Male with a square patch of yellow on the crown,
wanting in the female, bill and feet dull blue. Length, 9-1o inches.

Has. Northern North America, from the Arctic regions southward, in
winter, to the Northern States.

Nesting, habits and eggs as in the other Woodpeckers.

This is a more northern species than even the preceding,
and nowhere so abundant. The two are often seen in company,
and were found by Dr. Merriam breeding in the same district in
northern New York, but strange to say, the present species
has not been found in Muskoka, where the other is common
and resident. During the past two years my friend Mr.
Tisdall has been much in the woods in that district, and though
he has seen scores of the black-backed during that time, he has
never once met with the other. The only record I have of
its occurrence in Ontario 1s that of a single female which was
obtained near Ottawa, and is now 1n the collection of Mr.
White of that city. Mention is made in the List of Birds of
Western Ontario of one being found near London, but Mr.

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Saunders informs me that the record is now believed to be
incorrect. In the far west it is said to be common on the
mountains of Colorado, but differs from the eastern form in
having an uninterrupted stripe of white down the back, on
account of which it has been ranked as a separate species under
the name dorsalis or pole-back.

Genus SPHYRAPICUS Bairp.
16>. /SPHYRAPICUS VARIUS (Linn.).. 402:

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker.

Crown crimson, bordered all around with black ; chin, throat and breast
black, enclosing a large crimson patch on the former in the male, in the
female this patch white ; sides of head with a line starting from the nasal
feathers and dividing the black of the throat from a trans-ocular black stripe,
this separated from the black of crown by a white post-ocular stripe ; all
these stripes frequently yellowish ; under parts dingy yellow, brownish and
with sagittate dusky marks on the sides; back variegated with black and
yellowish-brown ; wings black with large oblique white bar on the coverts,
the quills with numerous paired white spots on the edge of both webs ; tail
black, most of the feathers white edged, the inner webs of the middle pair
and the upper coverts mostly white. Young birds lack the definite black
areas of the head and breast and the crimson throat patch, these parts being
mottled-gray. About, 84 ; wing, 44-5.

Has. North America north and east of the Great Plains, south to the
West Indies, Mexico and Guatemala.

Eggs, 4 to 6; white ; deposited in a hole in a tree.

In Ontario this beautiful species is strictly migratory, not
having been observed during winter, but from the fact of its
being seen late in the fall and again early in spring we infer
that it does not go far south.

It is decidedly a Sapsucker, the rows of holes we see
pierced in the bark of sound, growing trees being mostly made
by this species. It is not endowed with the long, extensile
tongue peculiar to many of the Woodpeckers, but feeds largely
on insects, which it finds on the outer bark of the trees or
catches on the wing. It has been accused of doing serious
injury to growing trees, by girdling them to get at the inner bark

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on which it is said to feed. Dr. King, of River Falls, in his
‘“Economic Relations of our Birds”’ exonerates it from this
charge, and says that in the stomachs of thirty specimens
which he examined he found in only six a small amount of
material resembling the inner bark of trees, and further adds :
‘* no instance in which the bark of trees has been stripped off
by these birds has come under my observation, nor do I know
of a single case in which their puncturings of the bark have
been fatal or even appreciably injurious to the tree.” In
Southern Ontario a few remain and raise their young, but the
majority go farther north.

Genus CEOPHLCEUS Casanis.
166. CEOPHLCLUS PILEATUS. (Ein... aoe
Pileated Woodpecker.

Black ; the head, neck and wings much varied with white or pale
yellowish ; bill dark ; male scarlet crested, scarlet moustached ; female with
the crest half black, half scarlet, and no maxillary patches, Length, 15-19 ;
wing, 84-10 ; tail, 6-7.

Has. Formerly, whole wooded region of North America ; now rare or
extirpated in the more thickly settled parts of the Eastern States.

Nest, a hole in the trunk or limb of a tall tree.

Eggs, 4 to 6 ; oval ; white.

This is one of the grand old aborigines who retire before
the advance of civilization. It used (so we are told) to be
common near Hamilton, but seclusion among heavy timber is
necessary for its existence, and such must now be sought for in
regions more remote.

It is not strictly a northern species, being found resident in
suitable localities both north and south, but varies considerably
in size according to latitude, the northern individuals, as usual
in such cases, being the largest. Many spend the winter in the
burnt tracts in Muskoka, and in spring disperse over the
country to breed in the solitude they seem to like.

They are wild, shy birds, difficult of approach, but their loud
hammering is at all times a guide to those who wish to follow

them in the woods. A nest was taken in the county of
Middlesex, in May, 1885, by Mr. Robt. Elliot.

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Genus MELANERPES Swainson.
SuBpGENus MELANERPES.
167. MELANERPES ERYTHROCEPHALUS (Linn.). 406.

Red-headed Woodpecker.

Glossy blue-black ; rump, secondaries and under-parts from the breast
pure white ; primaries and tail feathers black ; whole head, neck and breast
crimson in both sexes, grayish-brown in the young ; about 9; wing, 53;
tail, 33.

Has. United States, west to the Rocky Mountains, straggling westward
to Salt Lake Valley ; rare or local east of the Hudson River.
Nest, in a hole in a tree, varying greatly in height.

Eggs, 4 to 6; white.

In Ontario the Red-headed Woodpecker is a summer
resident only, arriving early in May and leaving again in
September. It is quite common and perhaps the best known
of any of the Woodpeckers, both on account of its decided
markings, and from its habit of visiting the orchard during the
season of ripe fruit. It is also an expert fly-catcher, frequently
taking its position on the top of a dead pine, from which it
darts out after the passing insect in true fly-catcher style.
Though a very showy bird when seen in the woods, it does not
look so well in collections, the red of the head evidently fading
after death.

Suscenus CENTURUS Swainson.
168. MELANERPES CAROLINUS (Linn.). 409.
Red-bellied Woodpecker.

Back and wiags, except larger quills, closely banded with black and
white ; primaries with large white blotches near the base, and usually a few
smaller spots. Whole crown and nape scarlet in the male, partly so in the
female ; sides of head and underparts grayish-white, usually with a yellow
shade, reddening on belly ; flanks and crissum with sagittate-black marks ;

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tail black, one or two outer feathers white barred ; inner web of central
feathers white with black spots, outer web of same black with a white space
next the shaft for most of its length ; white predominating on the rump.
Length, 9-10 ; wing, about 5 ; tail, about 33.

Has. Eastern United States, to the Rocky Mountains; rare or ©

accidental east of the Hudson River.
Nest, a hole in a tree.
Eggs, 4 to 6; white.

This handsome species is gradually becoming more common
in Southern Ontario, and like some others, such as the Lark,
Finch, Orchard Oriole and Rough-winged Swallow, it evidently
makes its entrance to the province round the west end of Lake
Erie, for it has become quite common near London and farther
west, while I have found it only twice near Hamilton.

It is rather retiring in its habits, raising its young in the
solitude of the woods, and seldom coming near the farm house.
It is possible a few may remain over the winter, for I had a fine
male sent down from near London in March of the present
vear (1886), while the weather was still quite cold and no
spring birds had arrived.

Genus COLAPTES Swainson.
169. COLAPTES AURATUS (Linn.). 412.
Flicker.

Back, wing-coverts and innermost quills olivaceous-brown thickly
barred with black. Rump snowy-white. Quills and tail golden-yellow
underneath, and shafts of this color. A scarlet nuchal crescent and large
black pectoral crescent in both sexes; male with black maxillary patches,
wanting in the few:ale, head and nape ash; chin, throat and breast lilac-
brown ; under-parts with numerous round black spots ; sides tinged with
creamy-brown; belly with yellowish. About 10 inches long : wing, about 6 ;
tail, 44.

Has. Northern and Eastern North America, west to the eastern slope
of the Rocky Mountains and Alaska. Occasional on the Pacifie slope, from
California northward. Accidental in Europe.

Nest. a hole ina tree.
Eggs, 5 to 7; white.

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Early in April, if the weather is mild, the loud cackling call
of the ‘“‘Higholder ” may be heard from his perch at the top of a
tall dead limb, where he watches to welcome his comrades as
they hourly arrive from the south. For a week or two at this
season they are very abundant, but many soon pass on farther
north, and the others are distributed over the country, so that
they are less frequently seen.

In habits this species differs considerably from all the other
members of the family. It is more terrestrial, being often
observed on the ground, demolishing ant hills and devouring
the inmates, for which achievement its curved bill and long
slimy tongue are admirably adapted. It is also fond of fruit,
and of corn, either green or ripe.

It is by no means confined to the forest, but is often seen
peeping from its hole in a stub by the roadside. When
alighting on a tree it perches on a bough in the ordinary
manner, being seldom seen clinging to the trunk like other
members of the family, except when entering its nest. In
Southern Ontario it is seen till late in October, but has not
been observed during the winter.

OrpER MACROCHIRES. Goatsuckers, Swirts, ETC.
SUBORDER CAPRIMULGI. Goatsuckgrs, ETc.
Famity CAPRIMULGID. GoaTSuUCKERs, ETc.

Genus ANTROSTOMUS Goutp.
170. ANT ROSTOMUS VOCIFERUS (Wirs.). 417,
Whip-poor-will.

General color of the upper-parts, dark brownish-gray, streaked and
minutely sprinkled with brownish-black. Quills and coverts dark brown,
spotted in bars with light brownish-red. Four middle tail feathers like those
of the back, the three lateral white in their termina] half. Throat and breast
similar to the back with a transverse band of white on the foreneck ; rest of
the lower-parts paler than above and mottled. Female similar, but with the
lateral tail feathers reddish-white toward the tip only, and the band across
the forehead pale yellowish-brown,

Has. Eastern United States to the Plains, south to Guatemala.

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BIRDS OF
Eggs, 2; marbled and clouded like the plumage of the birds ; deposited

in a hollow or a rotten log, or on the ground on a dry bank among leaves.

This well-known bird crosses the Southern frontier of
Ontario about the toth of May, and should the weather be
mild its loud and well-known cry is soon heard at night at
many different points throughout the country. It is seldom
seen abroad by day, except when disturbed from its resting place
insome shady part of the woods, when it glides off noiselessly like
a great moth. Disliking the glare of the light it avoids the
city, but not unfrequently perches on the roof of the farm house,
startling the inmates with its cry, which is there heard with
great distinctness.

This is the only song of the bird, and it is kept up
during the breeding season, after which it is seldom heard.
We see so little of these birds that it is difficult to tell exactly
at what time they leave us, but it is most likely early in
September that they ‘‘fold their tents like the Arabs, and as
silently steal away.”

Genus CHORDEILES Swainson.
171... CHORDEILES VIKGINIANUS (GmeL. 422
Nighthawk.

Above mottled with black, brown, gray and tawny, the former in excess ;
below from the breast transversely barred with blackish and white or pale
fulvous ; throat in the male with a large white, in the female tawny, cross-
bar ; tail blackish, with distant pale marbled cross-bars and a large white
spot (wanting in the female) on one or both webs of all the feathers toward
the end ; quills dusky, unmarked except by one large white spot on five outer
primaries about midway between their base-and tip; in the female this area
is restricted or not pure white. Length, about g ; wing, 8 ; tail, 5.

Has. Northern and Eastern North America, east of the Great Plains,
south through tropical America to Buenos Ayres.

Eggs, 2; veined and freckled with lavender and gray ; deposited on’

rocks or on the ground, or among the gravel of a flat-roofed house in the city.

A well-known and abundant summer resident, arriving from
the south early in May. Though a Nighthawk, it is often seen
abroad by day during cloudy weather, and in the evening, just

172

ONTARIO.

as the sun is sinking below the horizon, numbers of these birds
are occasionally seen careering around high overhead, uttering
their peculiar cry, so readily recognized, yet so difficult either
to imitate or describe. While thus in the exercise of its most
wonderful powers of flight, and performing many graceful
aerial evolutions, it will suddenly change its course and plunge
headlong downwards with great rapidity, producing at the same
time a singular booming sound which can be heard for some
distance. Again, as quickly, with a few bold strokes of its long
pointed wings, it will rise to its former height, and dash hither
and thither as before.

Poets, inall ages, have sung the praises oftheir favorite birds,
and even now, from the unpoetic plains of Chatham, comes the
following lines on the habit of the Nighthawk, just described :

‘‘ With widespread wings and quivering boom,
Descending through the deepening gloom,
Like plummet falling from the sky,

Where some poor moth may vainly try
A goal to win—
‘ He holds him with his glittering eye’
And scoops him in."’

Towards the end of August, when the first frosts begin to
cut off their supply of insect food, large gatherings of Night-
hawks may be seen in the evenings moving toward the south-
west, not in regular order like Ducks or Pigeons, but skimming,
darting and crossing each other in every imaginable direction,
but still with a general tendency toward the south, till darkness
hides them from our view.

SUBORDERCYPSELI. Swirrts.

Famity MICROPODIDZ. Swirts.
SUBFAMILY CHA TURIN. SpIne-TAILED SwiFTs.
Genus CHAETURA STEPHENs.

172; CHATURA PELAGICA (Linn.). 423.
Chimney Swift.

Sooty-brown with faint greenish gloss above, below paler, becoming gray
on the throat ; wings black. Length, about 5 ; wing the same ; tail, 2 or less.

73

BIRDS OF

Has. Eastern North America, north to Labrador and the Fur
Countries, west to the Plains, and passing south of the United States in
winter.

Nest, a basket of twigs glued together and to the side of the chimney or
other support by the saliva of the bird.

Eggs, 4 to 5; pure white.

The Swift is a late comer, and while here seems ever
anxious to make up for lost time, being constantly on the wing,
darting about with great rapidity, sometimes high overhead,
sometimes skimming the surface of the pond, often so closely
as to be able to sip from the water as it passes over it, or snap
up the insects which hover on the surface.

The original nesting place’ of the Swifts was in a hollow tree,
often of large diameter, and frequented year after year by a
great many of the birds, but now they seem to prefer a city
chimney. There they roost and fasten their curious basket
nest to the wall a few feet down, to be out of reach of the rays
of the sun. A fine exhibition of bird life it is to watch the
Swifts, in the evening about sunset, circling a few times round
the chimney, raising their wings above their backs and
dropping like shuttle-cocks down to their nest, near which they
spend the night clinging to the wall with their claws. The
sharp spines at the end of the tail feathers, pressed against the
surface, form their chief support.

They arrive about the roth of May, and leave for the south
early in September.

SuBoRDER TROCHILI. Hummincesirps.
Famity TROCHILIDA. Hummincsirps.
Genus TROCHILUS Linneus.
SuBcGENus TROCHILUS.

173. TROCHILUS COLUBRIS Linn. 428.
Ruby-throated Hummingbird.

Male with the tail forked, its feathers all narrow and pointed ; no scales
on crown; metallic gorget reflecting ruby-red, etc.; above golden green;

174

ONTARIO.

below white, the sides green; wings and tail dusky-purplish. The female
lacking the gorget ; the throat white; the tail somewhat double-rounded,
with black bars, and the outer feathers white-tipped. Length, 3} ; wing, 13 ;
bill, 3.

Has. Eastern North America to the Plains, north to the Fur Countries,
and south, in winter, to Cuba and Veragua.

Nest, a beautiful specimen of bird architecture, usually placed on the
horizontal branch of a tree in the orchard ; composed of gray lichens, lined
with the softest plant down.

Eggs, 2; pure white, blushed with pink while fresh.

The Hummingbirds begin to arrive towards the middle of
May, and by the end of the month when the lilacs are in bloom
they are quite numerous. About this time many pass on to
breed farther north, while others engage in the same occupation
Nee.

In September they again become common, showing a
strong liking for the impatiens fulva, or wild balsam, which
grows abundantly in moist places, and later they crowd about
the bignonia or trumpet-creeper. This is a late flowering
plant, and the tiny birds, as though loth to leave it, are seen as
late as the middle of September rifling it of its sweets.

There are about sixteen different species of Hummingbirds
now known as North American, but this is the only one found
east of the Mississippi River. Though small it is very
pugnacious, often attacking birds much larger than itself who
may venture near its nest. On such occasions it produces an
angry buzzing sound with its wings, but it has no voice save a
weak chirp, like a cricket or grasshopper.

OrpER PASSERES. PeErcuinc Birps.
SUBORDER CLAMATORES. SonGLess PERCHING BirpDs.
Famity TYRANNIDA. Tyrant FLycaTcHERs.
Genus MILVULUS Swainson.

174. MILVULUS FORFICATUS (GmeEL.). 448.
Scissor-tailed Flycatcher.

First primary alone emarginate ; crown patch, orange or scarlet. Hoary
ash, paler or white below, sides at the insertion of the wings scarlet or blood-

7/2)

BIRDS OF

red, and other parts of the body tinged with the same, a shade paler ; wings
blackish, generally with whitish edgings ; tail black, several outer feathers
extensively white or rosy ; wing, about 44 ; tail, over 12 inches long.

Has. Texas and Indian Territory, casually north to Kansas and
Missouri ; south to Central America. Accidental in Virginia, New Jersey,
New England, Manitoba, and at York Factory, Hudson’s Bay.

Nest, like the King-birds.

Egzs, 4 to 5 ; white blotched with reddish and lilac shell-spots.

The home of this beautiful bird is in Texas, but it is
evidenily much given to wandering, appearing unexpectedly at
points far distant from its usual habitat.

The only record I have of its occurrence in Ontario is
furnished by Dr. Garnier, of Lucknow, Bruce County, who
reports having seen one near his place some years since. He
had no means of securing the bird, but saw it by the roadside
as he drove past, opening and closing its tail feathers with the
usual scissor-like motion.

It was also found in the Northwest by Prof. Bell of the
geological survey. Such visits can only be regarded as
accidental, for the species does not regularly come so far north.

Genus TYRANNUS Cuvier.
175. TYRANNUS TYRANNUS (Linn.). 444.
Kingbird.

Two outer primaries obviously attenuate. Above blackish, darker on the
head ; crown with a flame colored patch; below pure white, the breast
shaded with plumbeous; wings dusky, with much whitish edging ; tail
black, broadly and rather sharply tipped with white, the outer feathers
sometimes edged with the same. Bill and feet black. Young without the
patch ; very young birds show rufous edging of the wings and tail. Length,
about 8 inches ; wing, 44 ; tail, 34 ; bill, under tr.

Has. Eastern North America, from the British Provinces south to
Central and South America. Rare west of the Rocky Mountains (Utah,
Nevada, Washington Territory, etc.)

Nest, large for the size of the bird, placed on the horizontal bough of an
isolated tree ; composed of vegetable fibrous materials and sheep's wool
compactly woven together.

176

ONTARIO.

Eggs, 4 to 6 ; creamy or rosy-white, spotted and blotched with reddish,
brown and lilac shell-spots.

The Kingbird arrives in Ontario from the south about the
1oth of May, and from that time till it leaves again in
September it is one of the most familiar birds in the rural
districts. It is generally distributed, each pair taking
possession of a certain ‘limit,’ which is valiantly defended
against all intruders, no bird however large being permitted to
come with impunity near where the Kingbird’s treasures are
deposited. It is partial to pasture fields, a favorite perch being
the top of a dry mullein stalk. Here the male sits like a
sentinel, issuing his sharp note of warning, and occasionally
darting off to secure a passing insect. When the breeding
season is over and the young are able to shift for themselves,
he gets over his local attachments and quietly takes his insect
fare wherever he can find it, allowing other birds to do the
same.

Genus MYIARCHUS Cagsanis.
MG) NYIARCHUS CRINITUS (Lin.). 452.
Crested Flycatcher.

Decidedly olivaceous above, a little browner on the head, where the
feathers have dark centres ; throat and fore-breast pure dark ash, rest of
under-parts bright yellow, the two colors meeting abruptly ; primaries
margined on both edges with chestnut ; secondaries and coverts edged and
tipped with yellowish-white ; tail, with all the feathers but the central pair,
chestnut on the whole of the inner web, excepting, perhaps, a very narrow
stripe next the shaft ; outer web of outer feathers edged with yellowish ; the
middle feathers, outer webs of the rest, and wings, except as stated, dusky
brown. Very young birds have rufous skirting of many feathers, in addition
to the chestnut above described, but this soon disappears. Length, 84-94 ;
wing and tail, about 4 ; bill and tarsus, each 3.

Has. Eastern United States and Southern Canada, west to the Plains,
south through Eastern Mexico to Costa Rica.

Nest, in hollow of trees, sometimes in the deserted hole of a Wood-
pecker ; composed of straw, leaves, rootlets and other vegetable materials

Sy iT.

BIRDS OF

lined with feathers ; about the edge is always to be found the cast-off skins
of snakes. .

Eggs, 4 to 5; light buffy-brown, streaked lengthwise by lines and
markings of purplish and darker brown. .

This species does not penetrate far north into Ontario, but
is a regular summer resident along the southern frontier, where
it arrives early in May, and soon makes its presence known by
its loud note of warning, which is heard among the tree tops long
before the bird is visible.)

Dr. Wheaton in his ‘‘ Birds of Ohio”’ states that this species
is very numerous near Columbus, where the country being
well cleared and the usual breeding places difficult to find, the.
birds have taken to the use of boxes put up for Bluebirds and
Martins, and have been observed to dispossess the legitimate
owners. It has also been noticed that the snake skins are left
out where the nests are in boxes.

GENUS SAYORNIS Bonaparte.
lii.g SAYORNIS PHCEBE \(Lars.): +406.
Phebe.

Dull olivaceous-brown ; the head much darker fuscous-brown, almost
blackish, usually in marked contrast with the back ; below soiled whitish, or
palest possible yellow, particularly on the belly ; the sides and the breast,
nearly or quite across, shaded with grayish-brown ; wings and tail dusky,
the outer tail feather, inner secondaries and usually the wing coverts edged
with whitish; a whitish ring around the eye; bill and feet black, varies
greatly in shade. The foregoing is the average spring condition. As the
summer passes, the plumage becomes much duller and darker brown from
wearing of the feathers, and then, after the moult, fall specimens are much
brighter than in spring, the under-parts being frequently decidedly yellow,
at least on the belly. Very young birds have some feathers edged with
rusty, particularly on the edges of the wing and tail feathers. Length, 6}-7 ;
wing and tail, 3-34.

Has. Eastern North America, from the British Provinces south to
Eastern Mexico and Cuba, wintering from the South Atlantic and Gulf
States southward.

Nest, under bridges or projection about outhouses ; composed of
vegetable material mixed with mud and frescoed with moss.

Eggs, 4 to 5; usually pure white, sometimes faintly spotted.

178

ONTARIO.

This is one of the earliest harbingers of spring, and its
quick querulous notes are hailed with joy, as a prelude to the
grand concert of bird music which is soon to follow.

Early in April the male Pee-wee appears in his former
haunts, and being soon joined by his mate they at once begin
to repair their old nest or to select the site for a new one.
They are partial to the society of man, and their habits, as
shown in their nesting, have been somewhat changed by this
taste. The original typical nest of the Pee-wee, we are told,
was placed on a ledge under a projecting rock, over which
water trickled, the nest itself often being damp with the spray.
We still see one occasionally in such a position, but more
frequently it is placed on the beams of a bridge, beneath the
eaves of a deserted house, or under the verandah or the projection
of an outhouse. They raise two broods in the season, and
retire to the south in September.

Genus CONTOPUS Cagsanis.
Ms. CONTOPUS BOREALIS (Swatns.). 459.
Olive-sided Flycatcher.

Dusky olivaceous-brown, usually darker on the crown, where the
feathers have black centres, and paler on the sides ; chin, throat, belly,
crissum and middle line of the breast white, more or less tinged with
yellowish ; wings and tail blackish, unmarked, excepting inconspicuous
grayish-brown tips of the wing coverts, and some whitish edging of the inner
quills ; feet and upper mandible black, lower mandible mostly yellowish.
The olive-brown below has a peculiar streaky appearance hardly seen in
other species, and extends almost entirely across the breast. A peculiar tuft
of white fluffy feathers on the flanks. Young birds have the feathers,
especially of the wings and tail, skirted with rufous. Length, 7-8; wing,
34-44, remarkably pointed ; second quill longest, supported nearly to the
end by the first and third, the fourth abruptly shorter ; tail, about 3 ; tarsus,
middle toe and claw together about r4.

Has. North America, breeding from the northern and the higher
mountainous parts of the United States northward. In winter, south to
Central America and Colombia.

Nest, a shallow structure composed of weeds, twigs, rootlets, strips of
bark, etc., loosely put together ; saddled ona bough or placed in a fork high
up in a tree.

Eggs, 3 to 4 ; creamy-white, speckled with reddish-brown.

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BIRDS OF

So far as at present known, this species is rare in Ontario,
and not very abundant anywhere. Towards the end of May,
1884, when driving along the edge of a swamp north of the
village of Millgrove, I noticed a bird on the blasted top of a
tall pine, and stopping the horse at once recognized the
species by the loud O-whee-o, O-whee-o, so correctly described
as the note of this species by Dr. Merriam in his ‘“ Birds of
Connecticut.” I tried to reach it with a charge of No. 8, and
it came down perpendicularly into the brush, but whether dead,
wounded or unhurt I never knew, for I did not see it again.
That was the only time I ever saw the species alive.

It has a wide distribution, having been found breeding in
New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and north on the Saskatchewan,
near Cumberland House. In the west it has been observed in
Colorado and along the Columbia river.

179. CONTOPUS VIRENS (Linn.). 461.
Wood Pewee.

Olivaceous-brown, rather darker on the head, below with the sides
washed with a paler shade of the same nearly or quite across the breast ;
the throat and belly whitish, more or less tinged with dull yellowish ; under
tail coverts the same, usually streaked with dusky ; tail and wings blackish,
the former unmarked, the inner quills edged and the coverts tipped with
whitish ; feet and upper mandible black, under mandible usually yellow,
sometimes dusky. Spring specimens are purer olivaceous. Early fall birds
are brighter yellow below. In summer, before the now worn feathers are
renewed, quite brown and dingy-whitish. Very young birds have the wing-
bars and pale edging of quills tinged with rusty, the feathers of the upper-
parts skirted, and the lower plumage tinged with the same; but in any
plumage the species may be known from all the birds of the following genus
by these dimensions. Length, 6-6} ; wing, 3}-34 ; tail, about 4, not longer
than the dz/1.

Has. Eastern North America to the plains, and from Southern Canada
southward.

Nest, composed of bark fibre, rootlets and grass, finished with lichens ;
on the outside it is compact and firm round the edge, but flat in form, and
rather loose in the bottom. It is sometimes saddled on a bough, more
frequently placed on the fork of a twig 10 or 12 feet or more from the ground.

Eggs, 3 or 4 ; creamy-white, blotched and variegated at the larger end
with reddish-brown.

180

ONTARIO.

This species resembles the Phoebe in appearance, but
is smaller and has an erect Hawk-like attitude,when seen perched
on a dead twig on the outer limb of a tree. It is a late comer,
being seldom seen before the middle of May, after which its
prolonged melancholy notes may be heard alike in the woods
and orchards till the end of August, when the birds move south.
To human ears the notes of the male appear to be the out-
pourings of settled sorrow, but to his mate the impressions
conveyed may be very different.

The Wood Pewee is a less hardy bird than the Phcebe. It
is not so numerous in Ontario, neither does it penetrate so far
north.

Genus EMPIDONAX Capsanis.
180. EMPIDONAX FLAVIVENTRIS Bairp. 463.

Yellow-bellied Flycatcher.

Above olive green, clear continuous and uniform as in dcadicus, or even
brighter ; below not merely yellowish, as in the foregoing, but emphatically
yellow, bright and pure on the belly, shaded on the sides and anteriorly with
a paler tint of the color of the back ; eye-rings and wing-markings yellow ;
under mandible yellow ; feet black. In respect of color, this species differs
materially from all the rest ; none of them, even in their autumnal yellowest,
quite match it. Size of Tyraillii or rather less ; feet proportioned as in
acadicus ; bill nearly as in minimus, but rather larger; first quill usually
equal to sixth.

Has. Eastern North America to the Plains, and from Southern
Labrador south through Eastern Mexico to Panama, breeding from the
Northern States northward.

Nest, in a mossy bank ; composed mostly of moss, with a few twigs and
withered leaves, and lined with black wiry rootlets and dry grass.

Eggs, 4 ; creamy-white, spotted and blotched with reddish-brown and a
few black markings chiefly near the larger end.

Several of the small Flycatchers resemble each other so
closely that it is often difficult for the general observer to
identify them correctly. The clear yellow of the under-parts of

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BIRDS OF

the present species serves to distinguish it from the others, but
it is everywhere scarce and little known except to collectors.

Near Hamilton I have noticed one or two every spring,
and sometimes also in the fall. During the summer it has not
been observed.

It is only within the past five years that correct information
has been obtained regarding the nest and eggs of this species,
one of the first and best descriptions being given by Mr.
Purdie in the Nuttall Bulletin for October, 1878. The nest in
this case was placed among the roots of an upturned tree.

All the nests I have seen described have been found in
Maine, but the species will no doubt yet be found breeding in
Ontario and elsewhere in the interior.

181. EMPIDONAX PUSILLUS TRAILLII (Aup.). 4662:

Traill’s Flycatcher,

Above olive-brown, lighter and duller brownish posteriorly, darker
antericrly, owing to obviously dusky centres of the coronal feathers ; below
‘nearly as in acadicus, but darker, the olive-gray shading quite across the
breast ; wing-markings grayish-white with slight yellowish or tawny shade ;
under mandible pale ; upper mandible and feet black. Averaging a little
less than acadicus, 54-6 ; wing, 22-22, more rounded, its tip only reaching
about ¥ of an inch beyond the secondaries, formed by 2d, 3d and 4th
quills as before, but 5th not so much shorter (hardly or not } of an inch), the
first ranging between 5th and 6th ; tail, 24 ; tarsus, 3 as before, but middle
toe and claw three-fifths, the feet thus differently proportioned owing to
length of the toes.

Has. Eastern North America, breeding from the Middle States
(Southern Illinois and Missouri) northward ; in winter south to Central
America.

Nest, in an upright fork, firmly secured in its place with the stringy
fibres of bark, deeply cupped, composed chiefly of vegetable fibres, lined with
dry grass and thistle down.

Eggs, 3 to 4; creamy-white, blotched, chiefly toward the larger end,
with reddish-brown.

Traill’s Flycatcher is not much known in Ontario, the
number of collectors being few. By the ordinary observer, the
bird may readily. be mistaken for others of its class which it

182

>

ONTARIO.

closely resembles. Mr. Saunders has found it near London,
and I have met with it now and then in the moist secluded
ravines by the shore of the Dundas Marsh, but it is by no
means common.

In former years, confusion existed in the minds of different
authors regarding the history and distribution of the small
Flycatchers, and in my list, published in 1866, the Acadian
Flycatcher is included as a rare summer resident near Hamilton.
Since that time I have had it frequently reported as occurring
at different points in the province, but I have been compelled
to reject all of these records as incorrect, and to conclude that it
is very doubtful if the Acadian Flycatcher ever enters Ontario.

182. EMPIDONAX MINIMUS Bairp. 467.
Least Flycatcher.

Colors almost exactly as in Trailliz ; usually, however, olive-gray rather
than olive-brown ; the wing markings, eye-ring and loral feathers plain

. grayish-white ; the whole anterior parts often with a slight ashy cast ; under

mandible ordinarily dusky ; feet black. It is a smaller bird than Traillii,
and not so stoutly built ; the wing-tip projects only about $ an inch beyond
the secondaries ; the 5th quill is but a little shorter than the 4th, the rst apt
to be nearer the 6th than 5th ; the feet are differently proportioned, being
much as in acadicus ; the bill is obviously under # inch long. Length, 5-5-25 ;
wing, 2-60 or less; tail, about 2-25.

Has. Eastern North America, south in winter to Central America.

Breeds from the Northern States northward.

Nest, in the fork of a sapling or tree ; composed of vegetable fibre and
wilted weeds, with a compact lining of plant down, horse hair and fine grass.

Eggs, 3 to 4; usually pure white, occasionally a set or part of a set are
found dotted with dusky.

The Least Flycatcher is very common throughout Ontario,
and is mentioned among the birds found by Prof. Macoun in
the Northwest Territory. It arrives near Hamilton about the
end of the first week in May, soon after which its short, sharp
call, ‘“‘Chebec,” is heard by the outer edge of the woods, and even
in the city orchards it takes its location and raises its family.
As soon as the young ones are able to fly the birds disperse

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BIRDS OF

more generally over the country, and are in no haste to retire,
but linger till the cold weather cuts off their supply of food.

As the correct indentification of the small Flycatchers is
often a puzzle to the amateur I will give Dr. Coues’ instruc-
tions which may be of use in this connection:

«“ E, Acadicus—Nest, in the trees, in horizontal forks, thin,
saucer-shaped, open-worked; eggs, creamy-white, boldly
spotted.

E. Traillii—Nest, in trees, in upright crotch, deeply cupped,
more or less compact walled; eggs, creamy-white, boldly
spotted.

E. Minimus—Nest, in trees, in upright crotch, deeply
cupped, compact walled ; eggs, immaculate white.

E. Flaviventris—Nest, on the ground or near it, deeply
cupped, thick and bulky ; eggs, white, spotted.”

SuBORDER OSCINES. Sone Birps.
Famity ALAUDID. Larks.
Genus OTOCORIS Bonaparte.
183., OTOCORIS.ALPESTRIS (Linn.),. 474.
Horned Lark

Adult : above brown, tinged with pinkish, brightest on the nape, lesser
wing-coverts and tail-coverts; other upper-parts gray, the centre of the
feathers dusky. Below white, tinged with dusky on the sides, anteriorly
with sulphur-yellow. A large black area on the breast. Sides of the head,
and whole of the throat, sulphury-yellow, with a crescentic {mark of black
below each eye, and a black bar across the forehead, and thence along the
side of the crown, prolonged into a tuft or ‘‘ horn.”

Middle tail-feathers like the back, the others black, the outer web of the
outer pair whitish. Bill blackish, livid blue at base below ; feet black. In
winter, at which season it is observed in Southern Ontario, the colors are
paler and much less decided. Length, 7 to 7-50 ; female smaller.

Has. Northeastern North America, Greenland and northern parts of
the Old World; in winter south in the Eastern United States to the
Carolinas, Illinois, etc.

Nest, a slight depression in the ground lined with grass.
Eggs, 4 to 5; grayish-white, marked with spots of brownish-purple.

184

CC ——— ——

ONTARIO.

The Shore Lark, with which I became acquainted twenty-
five years ago, is a rare winter visitor in Ontario, only a few
being observed. They usually are found in company with the
Snowbirds, and are thoroughly terrestrial in their habits, seldom
alighting anywhere but on the ground. While here they spend
most of their time, during the short days of winter, searching
for their daily fare on bare gravelly patches, from which the
snow has been blown away. Occasionally toward the end of
March, just before leaving, I have seen the male settle himself
on a hillock and warble out a pleasing Lark-like song, which is
probably given with more power and pathos later in the season
near his grassy home, with his mate for an audience.

This.is the northern type of the family, and it is believed to
be identical with the British bird of the same name. In
Ontario it is as rare as formerly, its breeding place being far to
the north and east, but we have now a pale race which spends
the summer with us, a description of which will follow this.

184. OTOCORIS ALPESTRIS PRATICOLA Hensu. 474b.

Prairie Horned Lark.

Adult-male in spring, posterior portion of the crown, occiput, nape,
sides of the neck and breast, lesser wing-coverts and shorter upper tail
coverts, light vinaceous ; back, scapulars and rump grayish-brown ; the
feathers with darker centres, becoming darker and much more distinct on
the rump ; middle-wing coverts light vinaceous terminally, brownish-gray
basally. Wings (except as described), grayish-brown, the feathers with
paler edges, outer primaries with outer web chiefly white. Middle pair of
tail feathers light-brown (paler on edges), the central portion (longitudinally)
much darker, approaching dusky ; remaining tail feathers uniform black, the
outer pair with exterior webs broadly edged with white. Longer upper tail-
coverts light-brown edged with whitish and marked with a broad lanceolate
streak of dusky. Forehead (for about .r5 of an inch) yellowish-white, this
continued back in a broad supercilliary stripe of nearly pure white ; fore-part
of crown (for about .35 of an inch) deep black, continued laterally back to
and including the ear-like tufts ; lores, suborbital region, and broad patch on
cheeks (with convex posterior outline) deep black, jugular crescent also deep
black, this extending to lower part of throat ; chin and throat pale straw-
yellow, gradually fading into white on sides of fore-neck ; anterior half of
ear-coverts white, posterior half drab-gray, each portion forming a crescent-
shaped patch. Lower parts posterior to the jugulum crescent pure white,
the sides of the breast light vinaceous, the sides similar but brown and

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BIRDS OF

indistinctly streaked with darker. Upper mandible plumbeous-black, lower,
bluish-plumbeous ; iris deep-brown ; legs and feet brownish-black. Size,
slightly less than the preceding.

.

Has. Upper Mississippi Valley and the region of the Great Lakes.
Nest, a hollow in the ground, lined with grass
Eggs, 4 to 5 ; dull white marked with spots of brown and purple.

As near as I can remember this species first appeared in
Ontario about the year 1868. It was noticed at once as being
different from our winter visitor, being less in size and its plum-
age having the washed-out look peculiar to the Prairie birds.
Since that time it has increased annually until it has become quite
established. I ihink they do not all leave in the fall, but that a
few remain and associate with the northern form, which arrives
from the north early in the winter. Great numbers appear in
February or early in March, and should the season be late they
swarm in the road tracks and bare places everywhere, waiting
forthe disappearing of the snow, and even before it is quite gone
many pairs commence building their nests. Soon the flocks
separate, the birds scatter in pairs over the country, and are not
again seen in such numbers until the following season.

There are now eight different species of the Genus Otocoris,
described as being found in North America. They have all a
strong family likeness, but differ sufficiently to warrant specific
distinction, though several of the groups are of very recent
formation. They are found mostly in the west and south-west, |
only two species having, till now, been observed in Ontario.

Famity CORVIDA. Crows, Jays, MaGPliEs, ETC.
SuBFAMILY GARRULINA‘. Maapizs anp Jays.
Genus PICA Brisson.

185. FICA.PICA HUDSONICA SAB: I.) ape

American Magpie.

Bill black ; head, neck, fore-part of the breast and back, black, glossed
with green and blue; middle of the back, greyish-white ; scapulars, white ;

186

ONTARIO.

smaller wing coverts, black secondary and primary coverts, glossed with
green and blue; primaries, black, glossed with green, their inner webs white
except at the end; secondaries bright blue changing to green, the inner webs
greenish-black ; tail, glossed with green, changing to bluish-purple and dark-
green at the end; breast and sides, pure white; legs, abdomen, lower tail-
coverts, black Length, 18-20 inches.

_ Has. Northern and Western North America, casually east and south to
Michigan (accidently in Northern Illinois in winter) and the Plains, and in
the Rocky Mountains to New Mexico and Arizona.

Nest, in a tree, 10 or 12 feet or more from the ground; built of coarse
sticks, plastered with mud and lined with hair, feathers and other soft
materials.

Eggs, 5 or 6; greenish, thickly shaded and dashed with purplish-brown.

The gaudy, garrulous Magpie is, on the American continent,
peculiar to the north and west, and is mentioned as a bird of
Ontario on the authority of Mr. C. J. Bampton, Registrar of the
District of Algoma, who reports it asa rare winter visitor at

“Sault St. Marie. It has been seen by surveying parties along
2, J fo) oD

the northern tier of States, and is said to be possessed of all
the accomplishments attributed to the British Magpie, whose
history has been so often written. Mr. Trippe, who found it
breeding in Colorado, describes the nest as having two aper-
tures, one at each side, so that when the bird enters by the front
it leaves by the one at the back, and while sitting on the nest the
long tail projects outside.

The Magpie is a gay, dashing fellow, whom we always like
to see in his native haunts, and we would welcome him to the
woods of Southern Ontario should his curiosity lead him this
way.

In the rural districts of Scotland these birds are regarded
with suspicion, from the belief that they know more than birds
ought to know. They are supposed to indicate future joy or
sorrow to the wayfarer, according to the number he sees together,
the idea being thus expressed in popular rhyme: one, mirth;
two, grief; three, a wedding; four, a death.

187

BIRDS OF

Genus CYANOCITTA SrrickLanp.
186 CYANOCITTA. CRISTATA... (Linn,),. 377.
Blue day.

Purplish-blue; below pale gray, whitening on the throat, belly and cris-
sum ; a black collar across the lower throat and up the sides of the neck and
head behind the crest, and a black frontlet bordered with whitish; wings
and tail, pure rich blue, with black bars, the greater coverts, secondaries and
tail feathers, except the central, broadly tipped with pure white; tail, much
rounied, the graduation over an inch. Length, 11-12; wing, 54; tail, 5%.

Has. Eastern North America to the Plains, and from the Fur Countries
south to Florida and Eastern Texas.

Nest, in trees or bushes, built of sticks, lined with weeds, grasses and
other soft material.

Eggs, 5 to 6; variable in color, usually clay color with brown spots.

This species is common throughout Ontario, and may be
considered resident, for though the greater number migrate in
the fall, a few always remain and are heard squalling
among the evergreens any mild day in the depth of winter.

Notwithstanding his gaudy attire, the Jay is not a favorite,
which is probably owing to his having many traits of character
peculiar to the ‘bad boy,” being always ready for sport or
spoil. He frequently visits the farm house for purposes of
plunder, and when so engaged works silently and diligently till
his object is attained. He then gets off to the woods as quickly
as possible, where he may afterwards be heard chuckling to him-
self over his success.

There is a swampy spot in a clump of bush in West Flam-
boro’ where a colony of Blue Jays has spent the winter for several
seasons, and they seem to have lots of fun even in the sever-
est weather. I have occasionally called in when passing, and
have found amusement listening to their varied notes
issued in quite a colloquial strain. Sometimes the birds
are on the ground, busily gathering nuts with which to replen-
ish their storehouses, but if a scout arrives with some
interesting intelligence, off goes the whole troop, each
individual apparently knowing the object of the excursion.
On the return notes are compared, and I almost fancy

188

ONTARIO.

1 hear them laugh at their narrow escapes and ludicrous
exploits. On such occasions I know I am often the subject of
remark, but if I keep quiet they do not seem to object much to
my presence.

GENUS PERISOREUS Bonaparte.
187. PERISOREUS CANADENSIS (Liwnn.). 484.
Canada day.

Upper parts dull leaden-gray ; lower, dull yellowish-white ; forehead
yellowish-white ; hind-part of the heac and neck, grayish-black ; throat and
band passing round the neck, grayish-white ; secondary quills and tail
feathers narrowly tipped with white ; young, dull slate color, paler on the
abdomen, darker on the head, the white tips of the wings and tail duller than
in the adult. Length, ro to rz inches.

Has. Northern New England, Michigan and Canada, northward to
Arctic America.

Nest, on the branch of an evergreen ; composed of twigs and grass, lined
with feathers.

Eggs, 4 to 5 ; grayish-white, marked with yellowish-brown,

The Indian name for this bird is Wis-Ka-Tjan, which
pronounced by an English tongue sounds much like ‘‘ Whiskey
John.” Through familiarity this has become ‘‘ Whiskey Jack,”
the name by which the bird is best known in the districts he
frequents. The Canada Jay is found in high latitudes,
from Labrador to the Pacific Coast. It is quite common
in the District of Muskoka, where it. breeds and is resi-
‘dent. I have also heard of one individual being taken at
Oshawa, but have no record of its having been seen farther
south in Ontario.

In the Birds of the Northwest, Dr. Coues, quoting from Mr.
Trippe, says: ‘“‘ During the warmer months the Canada Jay
frequents the darkest forests of spruce, occasionally flying a
little way above the trees. It is quite tame, coming about the
mining camps to pick up whatever is thrown out in the way of
food, and evincing much of the curiosity that is characteristic

189

BIRDS OF

of the family. In winter its supply of food is very precarious,
and it is often reduced to mere skin and bones. At such times
it will frequently weigh no more than a plump Sparrow or
Snowbird, and undoubtedly it sometimes starves to death.
During the latter part of the autumn, its hoarse croaking is
almost the only sound to be heard in the cold, sombre forests
which lie near the timber line.”’

SUBFAMILY CORVINAE. Crows.
Cenus CORVUS Linnaeus.
1s. CORVUS CORAX SINUATUS.(Wae1.). 486

American Raven.

Entire lustrous black ; throat feathers acute, lengthened and discon-
nected. Length, about 2 feet ; wing, 16-18 inches ; tail, ro.

Has. Continent of North America, from the Arctic regions to Guate-
mala, but local and not common in the United States east of the Mississippi
River.

Nest, on high trees or inaccessible cliffs.

Eggs, 4 to 5; greenish, dotted, blotched and clouded with purplish and
blackish-brown.

Few birds are so widely distributed over the face of the
earth, and few have obtained so great a share of notoriety as
the Raven, that ‘“‘grim, ungainly, ghastly, gaunt, and ominous
bird of yore.” In Southern Ontario it is now seldom
seen. The specimen in my collection was obtained at
St. Clair Flats some years since, where it was reported as an
occasional visitor in the fall. Wilson, when speaking of this
species, says: ‘‘On the lakes, and particularly in the neighbor-
hood of Niagara Falls, they are numerous, and it is a remark-
able fact that where they so abound the common Crow seldom
appears. I had an opportunity of observing this myself in a
journey along the shores of Lake Erie and Ontario during the
month of August and September. The Ravens were seen
every day, but I did not see or hear a single crow within
several miles of the lakes.” Since the days of Wilson the case
has been reversed, and any one travelling now round the lakes
named will see Crows in plenty, old and young, but not a single

190

ONTARIO.
Raven. They are said to be common in the rocky region of
Muskoka, where they probably nest on the cliffs. They are
believed to continue mated for life, and are _ often
heard expressing their feelings of conjugal attachment in what
to human ears sounds but a dismal croak.

189. ‘CORVUS AMERICANUS Aup. 488.
American Crow.

Color uniform lustrous black, including the bill and feet ; nasal bristles
about half as long as the bill, throat feathers oval and blended ; no naked
space on cheeks. Length, 18-20 ; wing, 13-14 ; tail, about 8 ; bill, 1-75.

Has. North America, from the Fur Countries to Mexico.
Nest, in trees, built of sticks and twigs, lined with moss and strips of bark.

Eggs, 4 to6; green, spotted and blotched with blackish-brown.

While the Raven prefers to frequent the uncleared parts of
the country, the Crow delights in the cultivated districts, where,
in the opinion of the farmer, his services could well be
dispensed with. Though exposed to continued persecution, he
knows the range of the gun accurately, and is wide awake to
the intention of all sorts of ambuscades planned for his destruc-
tion, so that he thrives and increases in number as the country
gets more thickly settled. The Crows mostly leave us at the
approach of cold weather, yet should the carcase of a dead
animal be exposed, even in the depth of winter, it is curious to
observe how quickly it will be visited by a few individuals of
this species, which are probably remaining in sheltered parts of
the woods, and have some means of finding out where a feast is
to be had. Early in April the northern migration begins, and
the birds may be seen daily, singly, in pairs, or in loose
straggling flocks, passing toward the north-west.

Famity ICTERIDZ. Bvacxepirps, ORIOLES, ETC.
Genus DOLICHONYX Swainson.
190. DOLICHONYX ORYZIVORUS (Linn.). 494.
Bobolink.

Male in spring, black ; cervix buff; scapulars, ramp and upper tail-
coverts ashy-white ; interscapulars streaked with black, buff, and ashy ;

IgI

BIRDS OF

outer quills edged with yellowish ; bill blackish-horn ; feet brown. Male in
fall, female and young, entirely different in color ; yellowish-brown above,
brownish-yellow below ; crown and bask conspicuously, nape, rump and sides
less broadly streaked with black; crown with a median and lateral light
stripe ; wings and tail blackish, pale edged ; bill brown. The male changing
shows confused characters of both sexes. Length, 64-74 ; wing, 24-4 ; tail,
24-3 ; tarsus, about 1 ; middle toe and claw, about 1}.

Has. Eastern North America to the Great Plains ; north to southern
Canada ; south in winter to the West Indies and South America. Breeds
from the Middle States northward, and winters south of the United States.

Nest, a cup-shaped hollow in the ground in a hay field ; lined with
withered grass.

Eggs, 4 to 5; brownish-white, heavily blotched and clouded with
chocolate-brown, making the general appearance very dark.

In Southern Ontario the merry, rollicking Bobolink is well
known to all who have occasion to pass by the clover
fields or moist meadows in summer. He attracts
attention then by his fantastic dress of black and
white, as well as by his gay and festive manner, while he
seeks to cheer and charm his modest helpmate, who, in humble
garb of yellowish-brown, spends much of her time concealed
among the grass. Toward the close of the season, the holiday
dress and manners of the male are laid aside, and by the
time the birds are ready to depart, male and female, young and
old, are all clad alike in uniform brownish-yellow. The merry,
jingling notes are succeeded by a simple chink which serves to
keep the flocks together, and is often heard overhead at night
in the early part of September. In the south, where they get
very fat, they are killed in great numbers for the table.

Genus MOLOTHRUS Swainson.

191. MOLOTHEUS ATER (Bopp;);” 495.
Cowbird.

Male, iridescent black; head and neck purplish-brown. Female,
smaller, an obscure-looking bird, nearly uniform dusky grayish-brown, but
rather paler below, and appearing somewhat streaky, owing to darker shaft
lines on nearly all the feathers ; bill and feet black in both sexes. Length,
74-8 ; wing, over 4; tail, over 3.

192

ONTARIO.

Has. United States, from the Atlantic to the Pacific, north into
Southern British America, south, in winter, into Mexico.

Nest, none.

Eggs, deposited in the nest ot another bird ; dull white, thickly dotted,
and sometimes blotched, with brown ; number uncertain.

In Southern Ontario nearly all the Cowbirds are migratory,
but on two occasions I have seen them located here in winter.
There were in each instance ten or a dozen birds which stayed
by the farmhouse they had selected for their winter residence,
and roosted on the beams above the cattle in the cow-house.
Early in April the migratory flocks arrive from the south, and
soon they are seen in small solitary parties, chiefly in pasture
fields and by the banks of streams all over the country.

At this interesting season of the year, when all other
birds are mated and are striving to make each other happy in
the faithful discharge of their various domestic duties, the Cow-
birds, despising ali family relations, keep roving about, enjoying
themselves after their own free love fashion, with no preference
for any locality save that where food is most easily obtained.
The deportment of the male at this season is most ludicrous.
With the view of pleasing his female associate of the hour, he
puffs himself out to nearly double his usual size and makes the
most violent contortions seeking to express his feelings in
song, but like individuals of the human species whom we some-
times meet he is ‘“‘tongue-tied,’’ and can only give utterance to
a few spluttering notes.

As the time for laying draws near the female leaves her
associates, and manifesting much uneasiness seeks diligently
for the nest of another bird to suit her purpose. This is usually
that of a bird smaller than herself, which the owner has just
finished and may have made therein a first deposit. Into such
a nest the female Cowbird drops her egg, and leaving it, with
evident feelings of satisfaction, joins her comrades and thinks
no more about the matter. By the owners of the nest the
intrusion 1s viewed with great dislike, and should it contain no
eggs of their own it is frequently deserted. Put another
expedient to rid themselves of the incumbrance is sometimes

193

BIRDS OF

resorted to which shows a higher degree of intelligence than
what we are accustomed to call ordinary instinct. Finding that
their newly finished cradle has been invaded, the birds build a
floor over the obnoxious egg, leaving it to rot while their own
are hatched on the new floor in the usual way.

Should the owners of the nest have one or more eggs
deposited before that of the Cowbird appears, the intrusion
causes them much anxiety for an hour or two, but in the
majority of cases the situation is accepted, and the young Cow-
bird being first hatched the others do not come to maturity.
The foster parents are most attentive in supplying the wants of
the youngster till he is fit to shift for himself, when he leaves
them, apparently without thanks, and seeks the society of his own
kindred, though how he recognizes them as such is something we
have yet to learn.

Much speculation is indulged in regarding the cause of this
apparent irregularity in the habits of the Cowbird, and different
opinions are still held regarding it, but whatever other purpose
it may serve in the economy of nature, it must cause a very
large reduction in the number of the different species of birds
on which it entails the care of its young. Some idea may be
formed of the extent of this reduction by looking at the vast
flocks of Cowbirds swarming in their favorite haunts in the fall,
and considering that for each bird in these flocks from three to
four of a different species have been prevented from coming to
maturity.

The number of species imposed upon by the Cowbird is
large, including Warblers, Vireos, Sparrows, Thrushes, Blue-
birds, etc., but the one they most frequently select in this locality
is the Summer Yellowbird. On the prairies where the Cow-
birds are numerous and the number of foster parents limited,
it is said that in the month of June nearly every available nest
contains an egg of the Cowbird.

In Southern Ontario they disappear during July and August,
but usually return in vast flocks in September, when they
frequent the stubble fields and patches of wild rice by the edge
of the marshes.

194

ONTARIO.
Genus XANTHOCEPHALUS Bonaparte.
XANTHOCEPHALUS XANTHOCEPHALUS (Bonap.).

192. WYellow-headed Blackbird. 497.

Male black, whole head (except lores), neck and upper breast yellow,
and sometimes yellowish feathers on the belly and legs ; a large white patch
on the wing, formed by the primary and a few of the outer secondary coverts.
Female and young brownish-black, with little or no white on the wing, the
yellow restricted or obscured. Female much smaller than the male, about 9}.
Length, ro-11; wing, 54; tail 43.

Has. Western North America, from Wisconsin, Illinois and Texas to
the Pacific coast. Accidental in the Atlantic States (Massachusetts, South
Carolina, Florida).

Nest, composed of aquatic grasses fastened to the reeds.
Eggs, 3 to 6 ; grayish-green spotted with reddish-brown.

A wanderer from the west, this handsome Blackbird has
appeared from time to time at different points in the Eastern
States. The only record I have of its occurrence in Ontario is
that given by Mr. Seton in the Auk for October, 1885, as
follows: ‘‘ This species has been taken a number of times in
company with the Red-winged Blackbirds by Mr. Wm. Loane,
who describes it as the Californian Blackbird. The specimen
I examined was taken near Toronto by that gentleman, and it is
now in the possession of Mr. Jacobs, of Centre street.”

Though the Yellow-headed Blackbird is only a casual visitor,
I think it is quite probable that we may yet see it as a summer
resident in the grassy meadows of Ontario. At present it
comes east as far as Iowa, Minnesota, Illinois and Wisconsin,
while in a northerly direction it extends its migrations to the
interior of the Fur Countries, reaching the Saskatchewan about
the 20th of May.

We should like to see him here, his yellow head making a

bright spot among the sombre plumaged Cowbirds and
Grackles.

TQ5

BIRDS OF
Genus AGELAIUS VIEILLorT.
193. “AGELAIUS PHCENICEUS (Linn;): 498.
Red-winged Blackbird.

Male uniform lustrous black; lesser wing-coverts scarlet, broadly
bordered by brownish-yellow or brownish-white, the middle row of coverts
being entirely of this color, and sometimes the greater row likewise are
similar, producing a patch on the wing nearly as large as the red one.
Occasionally there are traces of red on the edge of the wing and below. The
female smaller, under 8 ; everywhere streaked ; above blackish-brown with
pale streaks, inclining on the head to form median and superciliary stripes ;
below whitish, with very many sharp dusky streaks ; the sides of the head,
throat and the bend of the wing tinged with reddish or fulvous. The young
male at first like the female, but larger ; apt to have a general buffy or
fulvous suffusion, and bright bay edgings of the feathers of the back, wings
and tail, and soon showing black patches. Length, 8-9; wing, 44-5;
tail, 34-4.

Has. North America in general, from Great Slave Lake south to Costa
Rica.

Nest, large for the size of the bird ; composed of rushes and sedges
loosely put together and lined with grass and a few horse hairs ; usually
fastened to the bulrushes, sometimes placed in a bush or tussock of grass
near the ground.

Eggs, 4 to 5 ; pale blue, curiously marked with brown.

This species is generally distributed and breeds in suitable
places throughout the province. It is very common near
Hamilton, breeding abundantly in the Dundas Marsh, and in
the reedy inlets all around the shores of Hamilton Bay. As soon
as the young broods are able to fly, old and young congregate
in flocks, frequenting the stubble fields and moist meadows
by day, and roosting at night among the reeds in the marsh.
As the season advances the numbers are increased by others
arriving from the north, and during October very large flocks
are observed in the places they frequent. Towards the end of
that month, if the weather gets cold, they all move off to the
south, and none have been observed here during the winter.

196

ONTARIO.

Genus STURNELLA VIEILLoT.
194. STURNELLA MAGNA (Liny.). 501.

Meadowlark,

Above, the prevailing aspect brown. Each feather of the back blackish,
with‘a terminal reddish-brown area, and sharp brownish-yellow borders ;
neck similar, the pattern smaller ; crown streaked with black and brown, and
with a pale median and superciliary stripe ; a blackish line behind eye ;
several lateral tail feathers white, the others with the inner quills and wing-
coverts barred or scolloped with black and brown or gray. Edge of wing.
spot over eye, and under-parts generally, bright yellow, the sides and
crissum flaxen-brown, with numerous sharp blackish streaks ; the breast with
a large black crescent (obscure in the young) ; bill horn-color ; feet light
brown. Length, ro-11; wing,5; tail, 34; bill, 1}. Female similar,
smaller, 94.

Has. Eastern United States and Southern Canada to the Plains.

Nest, on the ground, at the foot of a tuft of grass or weeds ; lined with
dry grass, and sometimes partly arched over.

Eggs, 4 to 6; dotted and sprinkled with reddish-brown.

The Meadowlark is found in all suitable districts throughout
Ontario, and was observed by Prof. Macoun breeding in the
grand valley of the Assinniboine in the Northwest. In the
southern portion of the province it is generally distributed
throughout the agricultural districts, where its loud, clear,
liquid notes are always associated in our minds with fields of
clover and new-mown hay. Here it may be considered
migratory, the greater number leaving us in October to return
again in April, yet it is no uncommon thing to find one or two
remaining during the winter in sheltered situations. On the
7th of February, 1885, when the cold was intense and snow
covered the ground, I noticed an individual of this species .
digging vigorously into a manure heap at the Beach. When
examined he was found to be in very poor condition, and looked
altogether as if he had been having a hard time. In the west
the Meadowlark resembles our eastern form so closely that it is
doubtful if any one, judging by appearance, can separate them
with certainty, but the song of the birds is so entirely different,

197

BIRDS OF

that chiefly on this account the western bird has been recorded
as a separate species under the name of Sturnella magna
neglecta, or Western Meadowlark, the dry central plains forming
the boundary between the two.

GeENus ICTERUS Brisson.
195. ICTERUS SPURIUS (Liny.). 506.

Orchard Oriole.

Male black ; lower back, rump, lesser wing-coverts, and all under-parts
from the throat, deep chestnut ; a whitish bar across the tips of greater
wing-coverts ; bill and feet blue-black. Tail graduated. Length, about 7 ;
wing, 3}; tail, 3. Female smaller, plain yellowish-olive above, yellowish
below ; wings dusky ; tips of the coverts and edges of the inner quills,
whitish ; known from the female of the other species by its small size and
very slender bill. Young male at first like the female, afterwards showing
confused characters of both sexes ; in a particular stage it has a black mask
and throat.

Has. United States, west to the Plains, south, in winter, to Panama.

Nest, pensile ; composed of grass and other stringy materials ingeniously
woven together and lined with wool or plant down, rather less in size and not
quite so deep in proportion to its width as that of the Baltimore.

’

Eggs, 4 to 6; bluish-white, spotted and veined with brown.

On the 15th of May, 1865, I shot an immature male of this
species in an orchard at the Beach, which was the first
record for Ontario. I did not see or hear of it again till the
summer of 1883, when they were observed breeding at different
points around the city, but since that year they have not
appeared near Hamilton.

Mr. Saunders informs me that they breed regularly and in
considerable numbers near London and west of that city, from
‘which we infer that the species enters Ontario around
the west end of Lake Erie, and does not often come as
far east as Hamilton. Most likely it does not at present extend
its migrations in Ontario very far from the Lake Erie
shore. The notes of the male are loud, clear and delivered with
great energy as he sits perched on the bough of an apple tree,

198

ONTARIO.

or sails from one tree in the orchard to another. This species
would be a desirable acquisition to our garden birds, both on
account of his pleasing plumage of black and brown, and because
of the havoc he makes among the insect pests which frequent our
fruit trees.

SuBGENuS YPHANTES VIEILLotT.
Mee Le THUS GALBULA (Linn.).., 507.

Baltimore Oriole.

Male, with head and neck all round, and the back, black ; rump, upper-
tail coverts, lesser wing-coverts, most of the tail feathers, and all the under-
parts from the throat, fiery-orange, but of varying intensity according to age
and season. Middle tail feathers black, the middle and greater coverts and
inner quills, more or less edged and tipped with white, but the white on the
coverts not forming a continuous patch ; bill and feet blue-black. Length,
74-8 ; tail, 3. Female smaller, and much paler, the black obscured by olive,
sometimes entirely wanting. The young entirely without the black on throat
and head, otherwise colored nearly like the female.

Has. Eastern United States, west nearly to the Rocky Mountains.

Nest, purse shaped ; pensile ; about 6 inches deep ; composed chiefly of
vegetable fibre, with which is often intertwisted rags, paper, thread, twine
and other foreign substances ; usually suspended from the outer branches of
a tree, most frequently an elm, at a height of 10 to 50 feet from the ground.

Eggs, 4 to 6 ; white, faintly tinged with blue.

The gay, dashing, flashing Baltimore Oriole seems to court
the admiration so generally bestowed on him, and is much more
frequently seen among the ornamental trees in our parks and
pleasure grounds than in the more retired parts of the country.
He arrives from the south with wonderful regularity about the
end of the first week in May, after which his clear flute-like
notes are heard at all hours of the day till the early part of July,
when with his wife and family he retires, probably to some shady
region to avoid the extreme heat of summer. At all events they
are not seen in Southern Ontario again till the beginning of
September, when they pay us a passing visit while on their way
to winter quarters. The species seems to be well distributed in
Ontario, for in the report of the “Ottawa Field Naturalists’
Club” it is said to be common, arriving in that district about the
roth of May. It is also included in the list of birds observed at
Moose Mountain in the Northwest by Prof. Macoun.

199

BIRDS OF

Genus SCOLECOPHAGUS Swainson.
197. SCHOLECOPHAGUS CAROLINUS (Mutt.). 599,

Rusty Blackbird.

Male in summer lustrous black, the reflections greenish, and not notice-
able different on the head ; but not ordinarily found in this condition in the
United States ; in general glossy black, nearly all the feathers skirted with
warm brown above and brownish-yellow below, frequently continuous on
the foreparts ; the male of the first season, like the female, is entirely rusty-
brown above, the inner quills edged with the same; a pale superciliary
stripe ; below, mixed rusty and grayish-black, the primaries and tail above
black ; bill and feet black at all times. Length, male about 9; wing, 44 ;
tail, 34 ; bill 3 ; female smaller.

Has. Eastern North America, west to Alaska and the Plains. Breeds
from Northern New England northward.

Nest, a coarse structure, resting on a layer of twigs ; composed of grass
mixed with mud ; well formed inside and lined with fine grass and rootlets ;
usually placed in alder or similar bushes overhanging the water.

Eggs, 4 to 6; grayish-green marked with brown.

During the last week in April or the first in May according
to the weather, the Rusty Grackles are seen in_ small
flocks hurrying on to their breeding places farther north. Their
stay at this time is very short, and the collectors have but little
chance of securing a male in adult plumage, spring being the
only season when such can be had here, and even then only a
few in each flock have acquired their nuptial dress. They will
no doubt yet be found breeding in Ontario, although, owing to
the number of observers being small, the fact (so far as I know)
has not yet been recorded. About the end of August or early
in September they return in flocks of much greater dimensions
than those which passed up in the spring, and in company with
the Cowbirds and Redwings continue to frequent the plowed
fields, cornfields and wet places till the weather gets cold in
October, when they all move off to the south and are not seen
again till spring.

200

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Genus QUISCALUS ViEILLor.
SuBGENUS QUISCALUS.
ie.) OUISCAEUS OUISCULA AANEUS (Ripew.) "5 ht b;
Bronzed Grackle

Metallic tints, rich, deep and uniform. Head and neck all round rich,
silky steel-blue, this strictly confined to these portions, and abruptly defined
behind, varying in shade from an intense Prussian-blue to brassy-greenish,
the latter tint always, when present, most apparent on the neck, the head
always more violaceous ; lores velvety-black. Entire body, above and below,
uniform continuous metallic brassy-olive, varying to burnished golden
olivaceous-bronze, becoming gradually uniform metallic purplish or reddish-
violet on wings and tail, the last more purplish; primaries violet-black ; bill,
tarsus and toes pure black, iris sulphur-yellow.

Length, 12-50 to 13-50; wing, 6-00; tail, 6-00 ; culmen, 1-26; tarsus,
1-32. Third and fourth quills longest and equal ; first shorter than fifth -

projection of primaries beyond secondaries, 1-28; graduation of the tail,
1-48. (Ridgway.)

Has. From the Alleghanies and New England north and west to
Hudson's Bay and the Rocky Mountains.

Nest, coarse and bulky ; composed of twigs and weeds, with a mixture
of mud ; often placed in a spruce or hemlock tree, sometimes in a bush over-
hanging the water, and occasionally in a hollow stub or deserted Wood-
pecker’s hole.

Eggs, 4 to 6 ; smoky-blue with irregular dark brown blotches, lines and
spots.

The Bronzed Grackle was christened by Mr. Ridgway in the
Proceedings of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Phila-
delphia in June, 1869. Prior to that date Dr. Baird had
separated one as peculiar to Florida, but all the others
were supposed to belong to the species named by Linn
as Quiscalus quiscula or Purple Grackle. Mr. Ridgway
on comparing a large number of specimens from different
points found the group to contain two well-defined species, and
his decision has now been generally adopted. One, the original
Purple Grackle, is the more southern bird of the two, its
habitat being given as * Atlantic States from Florida to Long
Island,’ while our present species is said to extend from the
Alleghanies and New England, north and west to Hudson’s

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BIRDS OF
Bay and the Rocky Mountains. Since giving my attention to
this subject I have made a point of examining all available
mounted Crow Blackbirds in public museums, country taverns,
etc., and find that all belong to the Bronzed division.

It is quite possible that a few of the others may yet be
found along our southern border, but unquestionably the Crow
Blackbird of Ontario is the Bronzed Grackle. They like to be
near water and are very common in the town of Galt, breeding
close to the houses along the banks of the river. There is a
colony established at East Hamilton,-where they breed in the
Norway spruce trees near the residence of Mr. Barnes, who
protects them from being molested, whether wisely or not is
open to question, for there rests at their door the serious charge
of robbing the nests of small birds and destroying the eggs and
young, besides that of being very destructive to the sprouting
corn in spring-time.

Famity FRINGILLIDZ. FincuEs, Sparrows, ETC.
Genus COCCOTHRAUSTES Brisson.
Suspcenus HESPERIPHONA BonaparTe.
199. ;COCCOTHRAUSTES, VESPERTINA (Coop)... pil.
Evening Grosbeak.

Dusky olivaceous, brighter behind ; forehead, line over the eye and
under tail coverts yellow ; crown, wings, tail and tibiz black ; the secondary
quills mostly white ; bill greenish-yellow, of immense size, about } of an
inch long and nearly as deep. Length, 74-84 ; wing, 4-44; tail, 24. The
female and young differ somewhat, but cannot be mistaken.

Has. Western North America, east to Lake Superior, and casually to
Ohio and Ontario; from the Fur Countries south into Mexico.

Nest and eggs unknown

This is a western species whose line of travel in the season
of migration seems to be along the Mississippi Valley, casually
coming as far east as Ontario.

I have heard of its being observed during the winter at St.
Cloud, St. Pauls and Minneapolis, and last winter I had a pair
sent me by mail in the flesh from Redwing, Minnesota. The

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ONTARIO.

first report of its appearance in Ontario was made by the late
Dr. T. J. Cottle, of Woodstock, who in the month of May,
1866, observed a flock among the evergreens near hisresidence,
and obtained one or two of them.

Again, in 1871, they were noticed near London about the
same season, and several were procured, three of them coming
into my possession. I did not hear of the species again till the
t7th of March, 1883, when enjoying a sleigh ride along a road
which runs through a swamp in West Flamboro’ we came
unexpectedly upon two in the bush by the roadside and secured
them both.

I have also heard of a female having been obtained by the Rev.
Mr. Doel in Toronto, on the 25th of December, 1854, which
completes the record for Ontario so far as I know. The
Evening Grosbeak 1s much prized by collectors on account
of its rarity, its beauty, and the desire we have to know more
of its history.

Dr. Coues speaks of it as ‘‘ A bird of distinguished appear-
ance, whose very name suggests the far away land of the
dipping sun, and the tuneful romance which the wild bird
throws around the fading light of the day. Clothed in striking
color contrasts of black, white and gold, he seems to represent
the allegory of diurnal transmutation, for his sable pinions
close around the brightness of his vesture as night encompasses
the golden hues of sunset, while the clear white space enfolded
in these tints foretell the dawn of the morrow.” Thus the
glowing words flow from the pen of an accurate observer
and graceful writer, while to the mass of the people
the beauties of bird life are a sealed book. By far the larger
number of those who have the opportunities of observing our
wild birds in their native haunts belong to that practical class of
which the representative is Peter Bell, of whom it is written :

‘« & primrose by the river’s brim

A yellow primrose was to him
And it was nothing more.”

I once directed the attention of an intelligent, successful farmer,
whose speech betrayed his nationality, to a fine mounted speci-

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BIRDS OF

men of the bird we have been describing. | pointed out the beauty
of its markings and related the interesting parts in its history,
but failed to excite any enthusiasm regarding it ; in fact the
only remark elicited was that it was ‘‘unca thick i’ the neb.”

Genus PINICOLA VIEILLoT.
200. PINICOLA ENUCLEATOR (Linn.). 515.

Pine Grosbeak.

Male carmine-red, paler or whitish on the belly, darker and streaked
with dusky on the back ; wings and tail dusky, much edged with white, the
former with two white bars. Female, ashy-gray, paler below, marked with
brownish-yellow on the head and rump. Length, 8-9 ; wing, 44; tail, 4.

Has. Northern portions of the Northern Hemisphere, breeding far
north ; in winter south, in North America, irregularly to the northern
United States. South in the Rocky Mountains to Colorado, and in the
Sierra Nevada to California.

Nest, in a bush, four feet from the ground ; composed entirely of coarse
green moss.

Eggs, 2; slate-color, tinged with green, spotted and clouded with brown
and purple.

In Southern Ontario the Pine Grosbeak is an irregular
winter visitor, sometimes appearing in large flocks and again
being entirely absent for several years in succession. During
the winter of 1882-3, and also 1883-4, they were quite common
and were observed throughout the country wherever their
favorite red cedar or mountain ash berries were to be found,
but since that time not one has been seen. They are fine,
robust birds of a most sociable, gentle disposition. I have often
watched them feeding in flocks, sometimes in places where
food was not over abundant, but never noticed a quarrel among
them, all being willing to share alike.

Very, many of the individuals which visit us are
females or young males clad in a uniform garb of smoky-gray,
more or less tinged with greenish-yellow, but in every flock of
twenty or thirty there are two or three adult males in the
showy crimson dress, which, when seen with a background of

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the sombre foliage of the Norway spruce, forms a most attractive
object at this season of the year when the tide of bird life
is at its lowest ebb.

Our knowledge of the breeding habits of this species is as
yet very imperfect, the description given of the nest and
eggs being that of a supposed Grosbeak’s nest which was found
in Maine by Mr. Boardman, but the birds to which the nest
belonged were not secured.

Mr. Trippe found them in Colorado in summer living up
near the timber line, and observed young birds fully feathered
and shifting for themselves in June, which gives the impression
that they must breed very early. I think it highly probable
that they may yet be found breeding in Ontario, for on the
occasion already referred to they appeared early in January, and
many were seen as late as April, so that they would not
have time to travel far before engaging in their domestic
duties.

GENUS CARPODACUS Kaup.

20k) CARPODACUS PURPUREDUS (GmeEL;).) 517.
Purple Finch.

Male crimson, rosy or purplish-red, most intense on the crown, fading
to white on the belly, mixed with dusky streaks on the back ; wings and tail
dusky, with reddish edgings, and the wing-coverts tipped with the same ;
lores and feathers all round the base of the bill hoary. Female and young
with no red ; olivaceous-brown, brighter on the rump, the feathers above all
with paler edges, producing a streaked appearance; below white, thickly
spotted and streaked with olive-brown, except on the middle of the belly and
under tail-coverts ; obscure whitish superciliary and maxillary lines. Young
males show every gradation between these extremes in gradually assuming
the male plumage, and are frequently brownish-yellow or bronzy below.
Length, 53-6} ; wing, 3-34; tail, 24-24.

Has. Eastern North America, from the Atlantic coast to the Plains.
Breeds from the Middle States northward.

Nest, usually but not always in an evergreen ; composed of weeds,
grass, strips of bark, vegetable fibre, etc., lined with hair.

Eggs, 4to 5; pale green, scrawled and spotted with dark-brown and
lilac, chiefly toward the larger end.

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BIRDS OF

In Southern Ontario the Purple Finch is most abundant
during the month of May. At this season the few which have
remained with us during the winter put on their brightest
dress, and being joined by others which are daily arriving from
the south they make the orchards for a time quite lively with
their sprightly song. Their presence, however, could well be
dispensed with for they are observed at this time to be very
destructive to the buds and blossoms of fruit trees. As the
season advances they get generally distributed over the country
and are not so often seen.

The male does not acquire the bright crimson dress till after
the second season. The young male in the garb of the female
being observed in full song has led to the belief that both sexes
sing alike but such is not the case. Crimson Finch would have
been a more appropriate name for this bird than Purple Finch, for
the color is certainly more crimson than purple.

GeENusS LOXIA LINN#us.
202. LOXIA CURVIROSTRA MINOR (Breum). 521.

American Crossbill.

Male bricky-red, wings blackish, unmarked ; female brownish-olive,
streaked and speckled with dusky, the rump saffron. Immature males
mottled with greenish and greenish-yellow. Length, about 6; wing, 34;
tail, 24.

Has. Northern North America, resident sparingly south in the
Eastern United States to Maryland and Tennessee, and in the Alleghanies ;
irregularly abundant in winter ; resident south in the Rocky Mountains to
Colorado.

Nest, among the twigs of a spruce ; composed of twigs, rootlets, lichens,
etc., lined with hair and feathers.

Eggs, 3 to 4; pale green, spotted toward the larger end with purple and
lilac.

Throughout Ontario the Crossbills are very erratic in their
movements, sometimes appearing unexpectedly in considerable
numbers in sections of the country where for several succeeding
years they will be entirely absent. Their time of nesting is
also unusual, the duties of incubation being performed while

206

ONTARIO.

the ground is still covered with snow. Hence the young being
soon set at liberty are often seen in flocks quite early in sum-
mer, and sometimes in the fall we hear their rattling call and
see them descend from upper air to visit a patch of sunflowers
on the seeds of which they feast with evident relish. Early in
spring, when food was less abundant, I have seen them
alight on the ground and dig the seeds from a squash which
had been left out during the winter.

Their favorite resorts, however, are the spruce and hemlock
trees, whose dark green foliage forms a fine back ground for
the rich red color of the male as he swings about in every
possible position, searching for food among the cones at the end
of the slender branches.

203. LOXIA LEUCOPTERA Get. | 622.

White-winged Crossbill.

Wings in both sexes with two conspicuous white bars ; male rosy-red,
female brownish-olive, streaked and speckled with dusky, the rump saffron.
Length, about 6 ; wing, 34; tail, 24.

Has. Northern parts of North America, south into the United States
in winter. Breeds from Nerthern New England northward.

Nest, similar to the preceding species.

Eggs, 3 to 4; pale blue, dotted toward the larger end with lilac and
purple.

This species resembles the preceding in its habits, but does
not appear in such large numbers. They visit the same
localities, sometimes in company or again in separate flocks.
Both are quite unsuspicious, and when eagerly searching for
food among the pine cones they admit of a very near approach
without taking alarm. They vary much in plumage with age
and sex, but the present species can at all times be identified
by the white wing-bars.

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BIRDS OF

Genus ACANTHIS BeEcusre in.
ACANTHIS HORNEMANNII EXILIPES (Cougs).
204. Hoary Redpoll. 527 a.

Colors pale, the flaxen of linarius bleaching to whitish ; rump white or
rosy, entirely unstreaked in the adults ; breast pale rosy, and streaks on the
sides small and sparse ; bill very small with heavy plumules, feet small, the
middle toe and claw hardly equal to the tarsus.

Length, 5-50 ; extent, 9; wing, 3; tail, 2-50.

Hae. rctic America and Northeastern Asia.

So few Redpolls are taken from the vast flocks which in
some winters visit us from the north that it is unsafe to say how
rare or common any particular species may be. I have however
seen a good many in different winters during the last
thirty years and have only seen one of this species. It was
killed by K. C. Mcllwraith at the Beach on the 6th of April,
1885, and on being picked up at once elicited the exclamations
which follow the capture of a rare bird. It was a male in fine
plumage, the feathers being full and soft, and beautifully tinted
with the rosy color peculiar to the race.

This species is said to inhabit the whole of boreal America,
but has seldom been found as far south as even the northern
tier of states.

205. ACANTHIS LINARIA (Linn.). 528.
Redpoll.

Upper parts streaked with dusky and flaxen in about equal amounts,
rump white or rosy. streaked with dusky ; below, streaked on the sides,
belly dull white ; bill mostly yellow ; feet blackish. Length, 54-53; wing,

23-3 ; tail, 2}-24.

Has. Northern portions of Northern Hemisphere, south irregularly in
winter, in North America, to the Mic dle United States (Washington, D. C.,
Kansas, Southeastern Oregon).

Nest, in a low tree or bush; composed of grass and moss, lined with
plant down.

Eggs, 4 to 5; pale bluish-white, speckled with reddish-brown.

208

ONTARIO.

Like our other winter birds, the Redpollsare somewhat irregu-
lar in their visits, but are more frequently seen than either the
Grosbeaks or Crossbills. Sometimes they appear in October and
remain till late in March, while in other seasons only an
occasional roving flock is seen during the winter, and
again they are entirely absent. They are hardy, active, little
birds, and must consume a large quantity of seeds, which can
well be spared from the weedy places the birds frequent.

Before leaving in spring, the breast of the male assumes a
soft rosy tint, which adds greatly to his beauty when seen
among the snow.

206. ACANTHIS LINARIA HOLBCELLII (Breum). 528 a.
Holbeell’s Redpoll.
Like the last ; length, 6 ; wing, 3-25 ; tail, 2-75 ; bill longer.
Haz. Northern portions of Northern Hemisphere, near the sea coast.

I have occasionally found among the common Kedpolls,
individuals of large size which answer to the description given
of this species. As they are never numerous, and have not
been observed in flocks by themselves, those we see may be
stragglers from the main body of their race, which is said to
keep well up to the north and east.

ie ACAN THIS LINARIA ROSTRADPA (Coves)?s28b:
Greater Redpoll.

Bill regularly conic, only moderately compressed and acute, as high as
long at the base ; color, black or yellow according to the season. Frontlet
black, overlaid with hoary, a recognized light superciliary stripe reaching to
the bill. Crimson cap over nearly all the crown. Upper-parts streaked with
brownish-black and white, the latter edging and tipping the feathers, this
white nearly pure. only slightly flaxen on the sides of the head and neck.
Wings and tail as in other species. | Rump and entire under-parts, from the
sooty throat, white, free from spots ; the rump and breast rosy.

Has. Greenland and Northeastern North America, south irregularly in
winter to New England, New York and Northern Illinois.

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BIRDS OF

About the year 1863, a friend who used to join me in some of
my local collecting trips was in the town of Galt, and seeing a
small flock of large light-colored Redpolls secured two of the
lot and sent them to me in the flesh. I have neither before nor
since met with any so large and hoary. One of them which I
still have, mounted, seems to answer to the above description,
but the country from which the Redpolls come is large enough
to produce varying forms from different latitudes, and I think

it is open to question whether or not it is wise to divide them

into so many different species.

Genus SPINUS Kocu.
208:) SPINUS TPRISTIS (Lanw.):) 5529:
American Goldfinch.

Male in summer, rich yellow, changing t whitish on the tail-coverts ; a
black patch on the crown ;_ wings black, more or less edged and barred with
white ; lesser wing-coverts yellow ; tail black, every feather with a white
spot ; bill and feet flesh-colored. In September the black cap disappears
and the general plumage changes to a pale flaxen-brown above and whitey-
brown below, with traces of the yellow, especially about the head ; this
continues till the following April or May. Female olivaceous, %cluding the
crown ; below soiled yellowish ; wings and tail dusky, whitish-edged ; young
like the female. Length, about 43 ; wing, 23 ; tail, 2.

Has: North America generally, breeding southward to the middle
districts of the United States (to about the Potomac and Ohio Rivers,

Kansas and California), and wintering mostly south of the northern
boundary of the United States.

Nest, a neat strong structure, resembling that of the Summer Yellow-
bird ; composed of miscellaneous soft materials firmly felted together and
lined with plant down; usually placed in the upright fork of a tree or bush,
from 6 to 20 feet from the ground,

Eggs, 4 to 6 ; pale bluish-white, unmarked.

In Southern Ontario the Goldfinch may be considered a
resident species, for they nest throughout the country generally,
and even in the depth of winter are often met unexpectedly in
some favored locality where they find food and shelter. In the
severe winter of 1885-6, I came upon a colony of this kind in
West Flamboro’, where several hundreds of the birds

210

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frequented a grove of hemlock, and judging by the amount of
debris on the snow underneath they must have been there all
winter. They were very lively, keeping up a continual
chattering as they swayed to and froon the slender branches,
extracting the seeds from the cones. Occasionally, when
cheered by the mild rays of the wintry sun, some of the males
would come to the sunny side of the tree and warble out a few
of their varied summer notes, but they spent most of the short
wintry day in feeding and dressing their plumage, retiring early
to the thick shelter of the evergreens.

At other seasons of the year they frequent the cultivated
fields, orchards and gardens, and in the fall, when they are seen
in greatest numbers, they do good service in consuming the
seeds of the thistle and other noxious weeds. They are not in
any great haste to begin the duties of housekeeping, and are
seen in flocks till towards the end of May. About that time they
pair off and are actively engaged in their domestic duties till some
time in August, when the males throw off their gaudy summer
dress and join with the females and young in making up the
flocks we see roving about the country in their own wild way.

2093) SRENUS PINUS (Wiits.),,,533.
Bi
_N Pine Siskin.

a y .

* Bill extremely acute ; continuously streaked above with dusky and
dlivaceouts-brown or flaxen ; below with dusky and whitish, the whole
plumage in* the breeding season more or less suffused with yellowish,
particularly p tight on the rump; the bases of the quills and tail feathers
extensively sulp*tury-yellow, and all these feathers more or less edged
externally with yeitowish. Length, 4? ; wing, 2} ; tail, 13.

Has. North An. erica generally, breeding mostly north of the United
States and in the Rocky’, Mountain region ; in winter south to the Gulf States
and Mexico. x

Nest, placed high in an evergreen.
\
Eggs, pale greenish, speckled with brown.
The Siskin, or Pine Linvet,isa more northern bird than the

Goldfinch, and as a winter visitor in Southern Ontario is some-
times present and sometimes absent. Occasionally they appear

Zito

BIRDS OF

in October in large flocks, swarming on the rank weeds in
waste places, and hanging on the alder bushes by the banks of
creeks and gullies. They are extremely restless, and in certain
districts the twittering sound of their voices will fill the air for
days together, till they rise and pass away like a cloud of
smoke, perhaps to be seen no more for the season. They are
said to have been found nesting in New York State, and also in
Massachusetts, but at present I have no record of their being
found so engaged in Ontario. As the country becomes more
explored we shall have many such items to add to our present
stock of knowledge of the birds.

Genus PLECTROPHENAX Srejnecer.
210) PLECTROPHENAX NIVALIS (Linn.). 19534.
Snowflake.

Bill small, truly conic, ruffed at base ; hind claw decidedly curved. In
breeding plumage pure white, the back, wings and tail variegated with
black ; bill and feet black. As generally seen in the United States, the white
is clouded with warm, clear brown, and the bill is brownish. Length, about /
7; wing, 44; tail, 2%. rs

Has. Northern parts of the Northern Hemisphere, breeding in the
arctic regions ; in North America south in winter into the Northern Unit
States, irregularly to Georgia, Southern Illinois and Kansas.

: : ddle
Nest, on the ground ; composed of grass and moss lined with feu,,
‘S,

concealed by a tuft of grass or projecting ledge of rock ; cavity devep 8

warm and thick.

Eggs, 4; white, scrawled and spotted with brown. Z \

The Snowbirds are our most regular visitorsy from the north,
and they come in greater numbers than any of the other species
which descend from high latitudes to “avoid the rigors of
winter. Asearly as the 2oth of October, their tinkling, icy notes
may be heard, but more frequently the: birds are first observed
later in the season, driving with wild eccentric flight before the
earliest flurry of snow. By the shores of the lakes, on bare sandy
spots, thinly grown over with the Andropogon scoparius, on the
seeds of which they freely feed, they may be found with tolerable
certainty any time between the end of October and the first of

212

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April. Elsewhere throughout the country they are frequently
seen by the roadsides examining the tall weeds whichappear in
waste places above the snow, or running in the road tracks
searching hurriedly for their scanty fare. They are exceedingly
restless, never remaining long in one place, and even when
feeding the flock will often arise without apparent cause of
alarm and go offas if never to return, but not unfrequently
they come swirling back and alight on the spot from which
they have just arisen. There are one or two instances on
record of their nests and eggs having been found among the
highest mountain peaks in Massachusetts, but their breeding
ground is within the Arctic circle, from which they descend
over the northern portions of both continents, enlivening many
a dreary region with their sprightly presence during the dull
days of winter, till reminded by the lengthening days and rising
temperature to return again to their northern home.

Genus CALCARIUS BEeEcusTEIn.
Ale .CALCARIUS LARPONICUS, (Linn.)..,536.
Lapland Longspur.

Bill moderate, unruffed, but with a little tuft of feathers at the base of
the rictus; hind claw straightish, with its digit longer than the middle toe
nd claw. Adult male, whole head and throat jet black, bordered with
% ety or whitish, which torms a postocular line, separating the black of the
xe jn from that of the sides of the head; a broad chestnut cervical collar ;
inser parts in general, blackish, streaked with buffy or whitish that edges all
che featlpets; below, whitish, the breast and sides black streaked ; wings,
dusky, the ;xreater coverts and inner secondaries edged with dull bay; tail,
dusky, with 29 oblique white area on the outer feathers; bill, yellowish,
tipped with blac. ; legs and feet, black. Winter males show less black on the
head, and the cervical chestnut duller; the female and young have no con-
tinuous black on the ead, and the crown is streaked like the back, and there
are traces of the cervic.| collar. Length, 6-63; wing, 33-34; tail, 23-23.

Has. Northern portions of the Northern Hemisphere, breeding far
north: in North America south in winter to the Northern United States,
irregularly to the Middle States, accidentally to South Carolina and abundantly

in the interior to Kansas and Colorado.

Nest, like that of the Snowflake.

Eggs, 4 to 5; greenish-grey, which color is nearly obscured by a heavy
mottling of chocolate-brown.

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BIRDS OF

Like the Snowflake, the present species 1s common to both
continents. They come and go together and keep company
while here; but at all times the Snowflakes far exceed the
others in numbers.

The male Longspur, in full breeding plumage, is a very
handsome bird. It is seldom found in Ontario in this dress, but
some years since two young men who were collecting at
Mitchell’s Bay met with quite a large flock in the month of May
and got some very fine specimens, several of which came into my
possession. All those I have met have been in winter dress, in
which state the colors are obscured by the black feathers of the
head and breast being tipped with yellowish-grey.

Genus POOCAETES Bairp.
212. POOCA/TES GRAMINEUS (Gmet.). 540.

Vesper Sparrow.

Thickly streaked everywhere above, on sides and across breast; no
yellow anywhere ; lesser wing-coverts, chestnut, and one to three outer tail
feathers part or wholly white. Above, greyish-brown, the streaking dusky
and brown with greyish-white; below, white, usually buffy-tinged, the
streaks very numerous on the fore-part and sides; wing-coverts and innee
quills much edged and tipped with bay ; crown, like back, without medir

stripe, line over and ring round eye, whitish; feet, pale. Length, 5%'’
wing, 24-3}; tail, 2}-23. _ddle
Has. Eastern North America to the Plains, from Nova Sotia a

Ontario southward ; breeds from Virginia, Kentucky and Missour, northward.
Nest, a deep cup-shaped hollow in the ground, lined wit'y grass.
Eggs, 4to 6; greyish-white, heavily clouded with ch ,colat2-brown.
This is one of the ‘‘ Gray Birds,” and the most abundant in

Ontario of the several species to which th*s name is applied.

Its song is very sweet and plainti e, and being most fre-
quently uttered in the evening about sandown it has gained for
the bird the appropriate name of Vesper Sparrow.

It is a summer resident, arriving in Southern Ontario toward
the end of April and soon becoming common all over the country.
The favorite perch of the male is the top of a fence post, and

n

214 a |

oi

ONTARIO.

his nesting place among the grass close by. In the fall they
get to be abundant before leaving ; but from their habit of skulk-
ing among the rank weeds they are not so conspicuous as the
Blackbirds and other species which keep in flocks on the wing.
They move to the south in October, none having been ob-
served during the winter.

GENuS AMMODRAMUS Swainson.
SuscEnus PASSERCULUS Bonaparte.
AMMODRAMUS SANDWICHENSIS SAVANNA (WIts.).

213. Savanna Sparrow. 542 a.

Above, brownish-gray, streaked with blackish, whitish-gray and pale
bay, the streaks largest on the inter-scapulars, smallest on the cervex, the
crown divided by an obscure whitish line; superciliary line and edge of wing,
yellowish ; sometimes an obscure yellowish suffusion about the head. Below,
white, pure or with faint buffy shade, thickly streaked with dusky, the
individual spots edged with brown, mostly arrow-shaped, running in chains
along the sides, and often aggregated in an obscure blotch on the breast.
Wings and tail dusky, the wing-coverts and inner secondaries black edged
and tipped with bay. Length, 53-52 ; wing, 24-22 ; tall, 2-24.

Hag. Eastern Province cf North America, breeding from the Northern
_ United States to Labrador and Hudson's Bay Territory.

om ie as

Nest, composed of fine withered grass placed in a deep cup-shaped hole
in the ground.

Eggs, 4 to 6; ground-color grayish, heavily clouded with chocolate-
brown. :

This quiet, unobtrusive, little Sparrow may be seen and
heard in the moist meadows in spring and summer, but it is
not very plentiful anywhere.

Towards the end of August they become abundant along the
marshy shores of Hamilton Bay, where they evidently find food
to suit their taste, and they continue to enjoy it till reminded by
the cool nights in September that it is time to be off to the south.
The specimens secured at thisseason are evidently northern bred
birds, being more fully developed in size and markings than
those which breed with us. Often when picking them up I

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BIRDS OF

fancy I have got the Ipswich Sparrow, but so far have not
succeeded in doing so. I still think the latter species will be
found near Hamilton, for we have several suitable resorts which
will in future be carefully watched at the proper season.

SusBGENuS COTURNICULUS Bonaparte.

AMMODRAMUS SAVANNARUM PASSERINUS (Wits.).
214. Grasshopper Sparrow. 546.

Edge of wing conspicuously yellow ; lesser wing-coverts and short line
over the eye yellowish; below, not or not evidently streaked, but fore-parts
and sides buff, fading to dull white on the belly. Above, singularly variegated
with black, gray, yellowish-brown, and a peculiar purplish bay in short
streaks and specks, the crown being nearly black, with a sharp median
brownish-yellow line, the middle of the back chiefly black, with bay and
brownish-yellow edgings of the feathers, the cervical region and rump chiefly
gray, mixed with bay; wing-coverts and inner quills variegated like the
back; feet pale. Young similar, not so buffy below, and with pectoral and
maxillary dusky spots. Length, 4%-54; wing, 24; tail, 2 or less, the
outstretched feet reaching to or beyond its end.

Has. Eastern United States and Southern Canada to the Plains, south
to Florida, Cuba, Porto Rico and coast of Central America.

Nest, a cup shaped hole in the earth, lined with dry grass.
Eggs, 4 to 6; crystal-white speckled with reddish-brown.

So far as at present known, the Grasshopper Sparrow 1s of
veryrareoccurrence in Ontario, the southern border seeming to
be the northern limit of its distribution.

Many years ago [ killed a male, who was squeezing out his
wheezy notes from the top of a mullein stalk. Mr. Saunders
mentions having taken one near London, but these two cases
complete the record for Ontario.

It is named among the birds found in the Northwest by
Prof. Macoun, but is not mentioned in Mr. Seton’s list of the
Birds of Western Manitoba. It is much given to concealing
itself among the rank herbage, and may in some localities be a
rare summer resident in Southern Ontario, but I do not expect
to see it here, except as a casual visitor.

216

ONTARIO.

Genus CHONDESTES Swainson.
215. CHONDESTES GRAMMACUS (Say.). 552.
Lark Sparrow.

Head curiously variegated with chestnut, black and white; crown
chestnut, blackening on the forehead, divided by a median stripe and
bounded by two lateral stripes of white ; a black line through and another
below the eye, enclosing a white streak under the eye and the chestnut
auriculars; next a sharp black maxillary stripe, not quite reaching the bill,
cutting off a white stripe from the white chin and throat. A black blotch on
middle of breast. Under-parts white, faintly shaded with grayish-brown ;
the middle of the back with fine black streaks. Central tail-feathers like the
back, the rest jet black, broadly tipped with pure white in diminishing
amount from the lateral pair inward, and the outer web of outer pair entirely
white. Length, 64-8 ; wing, 34 ; tail, 3.

Has. Mississippi Valley region, from Ohio, Illinois and Michigan to
the Plains, south to Eastern Texas. Accidental near the Atlantic coast
(Massachusetts, Long Island, New Jersey and Washington, D. C.)

Nest, on the ground ; composed of dry grass.
Eggs, 4 to 7; white, irregularly veined with dark.

In May, 1862, a pair of these birds were observed near
Hamilton, and the male was obtained and shown to me shortly
afterwards.

I did not hear of the species again till the publication of the
List of Birds of Western Ontario in 1882, in which it is given
as ‘breeding, but rare.’”’ More recently, Mr. Saunders informs
me that it breeds regularly near London. In the spring of
1885 I saw several on the Beach near Hamilton, and it is also
reported by Mr. Seton as having been observed near Toronto.

It is evidently like some others making its way into Ontario
around the west end of Lake Erie, and all lovers of birds will do
well to encourage it, for it is a sweet songster and a handsome
little bird of confiding, pleasing manners.

Genus ZONOTRICHIA Swainson.
216. (\ZONOT RICE LA, LE WUECOP HRMS: \(Forst.)) 55x:
White-Crowned Sparrow.

Adults of both sexes with the crown pure white, enclosing on either side
a broad black stripe that meets its fellow on the forehead and descends the

217

BIRDS OF

lores to the level of the eyes, and bounded by another black stripe that starts
behind the eye and curves around the side of the hind head, nearly meeting
its fellow on the nape; edge of under eye-lid white. Or, we may say, crown
black, enclosing a median white stripe and two lateral white stripes, all con-
fluent on the hind head. General color, a fine dark ash, paler below, white-
ning insensibly on the chin and belly, more brownish on the rump, changing
to dull brownish on the flanks and crissum, the middle of the back streaked
with dark purplish-bay and ashy-white. No bright bay like that of albicollis
anywhere, except some edging on the wing-cuverts and inner secondaries ;
middle and greater coverts tipped with white, forming two bars; no yellow
anywhere; bill and feet reddish. Young birds have the black of the head
replaced by a very rich warm brown, the white of the head by pale brownish
and the general ash has a brownish suffusion and the back is more like
albicollis. Length, 6.25-7; extent, 9.20-10.20 ; tail, 2.90-3.20.

Has. North America at large, breeding chiefly in the Rocky Mountain
region (including Sierra Nevada) and northeast to Labrador.

Nest, on the ground among the bushes; composed of grass and weeds,
intermixed with moss and lined with fine hair like grass and rootlets.

Eggs, 4 to 5; ground color, greyish-white, heavily clouded with choco-
late-brown. Very variable in pattern.

The White-crowned Sparrow isamore northern bird than its
white-throated relative, but it does not arrive so early in spring,
seldom appearing along our southern border before the first
week in May. During the two succeeding weeks it is very
common among the brambles and thorn bushes by the way-
sides.

They travel in small companies of ten or twelve, the in-
dividuals keeping each other in view as they skulk from one
brush pile to another to avoid being observed. By the 25th of
May they have all gonenorth, apparently far north, for I have
no record of their having been found breeding in Ontario.

In the fall they are again seen on the return trip, but not in
such great numbers as in the spring,and none have been ob-
served to winter within our limits.

217. ZONOTRICHIA ALBICOLLIS (Gmet.). 558.
White-throated Sparrow.

Adult-male, with the crown black, divided by a median white stripe,
bounded by a white superciliary line and yellow spot from the nostril to the
eye ; below this a black stripe through the eye ; below this a maxillary black

218

a | |

—

ONTARIO.

stripe bounding the indefinitely pure white threat, sharply contrasted with
the dark ash of the breast and sides of the neck and head. Edge of wing
yellow. Back continuously streaked with black, chestnut and fulvous-
white ; rump ashy, unmarked. Wings much edged with bay, the white tips
of the median and greater coverts forming two conspicuous bars ; quills and
tail-feathers dusky, with pale edges. Below white, shaded with ashy-brown
on sides, the ash deeper and purer on the breast ; bill dark ; feet pale.
Female and immature birds with the black of head replaced by brown, the
white of throat less” conspicuously contrasted with the duller ash of
surrounding parts, and frequently with obscure dusky streaks on the breast
and sides. Length, 64-73 ; wings and tail, each about 3.

Has. Eastern North America, west to the Plains, north to Labrador
and the Fur Countries. Breeds in Northern Michigan, Northern New York
and Northern New England, and winters from the Middle States southward.

Nest, among the bushes, on or near the ground ; composed of weeds,
grass and moss, lined with fibre and thread-like rootlets.

Eggs, 4 to 6; variable in color and pattern, usually grayish-white,
clouded and blotched with chocolate-brown.

These beautiful Sparrows make their appearance in
Southern Ontario about the 2oth of April, and till the middle
of May are seen among the shrubbery and underbush, working
their way in small flocks towards their summer residence to the
north of us. Great numbers are said to go right on to the Fur
Countries, but many no doubt find suitable nesting places in
the intermediate districts. I first found them breeding near a
retired pond surrounded by tamaracks, in the township of
Dumfries, about thirty miles north-west of Hamilton. It was
towards the close of a warm day in the early part of July, and
the slanting rays of the setting sun were gilding the tops
of the tamaracks, while underneath the still waters of
the pond, enclosed in a deep natural basin, were shrouded
in gloom. There was little to break the stillness, till
a bird, mounting to the topmost twig of one of the trees, his
bill pointing upwards, his tail hanging limp and motionless,
and his whole attitude indicating languor and weariness,
drawled out the plaintive, familiar ‘‘ Old Tom Peabody, Pea-
body.” This song harmonized so perfectly with the surround-
ings that we felt at once he was at home. The hour, the

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BIRDS OF

attitude, and above all the feeling of weariness expressed in the
plaintive notes of the bird, reminded me strongly at the time of
the Yellow-hammer of Britain.

Allan Brooks has also found this species breeding at Milton,
afew miles north of the west end of Lake Ontario, but such
cases are by no means common in this district. In the fall they
are again seen in limited numbers, but at that season the
plumage of the male has lost much of its brightness, and young
and old, male and female resemble each other in appearance.

Their food, which consists chiefly of seeds, is obtained on or
near the ground. During October they are seen travelling from
one brush pile to another, and by the end of that month they
are gone for the season.

GENusS SPIZELLA BonaparrTE.
218. SPIZELLA MONTICOLA (GMEL.). 559.

Tree Sparrow.

Bill black above, yellow below ; iegs brown, toes black ; no black on
forehead ; crown chestnut (in winter specimens the feathers usually skirted
with gray) bordered by a grayish-white superciliary and loral line, and some
vague chestnut marks on sides of head ; below, impurely whitish, tinged
with ashy anteriorly, washed with pale brownish posteriorly ; the middle of
the breast with an obscure dusky blotch ; middle of back boldly streaked
with black, bay and flaxen ; middle and lesser wing-coverts black, edged
with bay and tipped with white, forming two conspicuous cross bars ; inner
secondaries similarly variegated ; other quills and tail-feathers dusky, with
pale edges. Length, 6; wing and tail, nearly 3.

Has. Eastern North America, westward to the Plains, and from the
Arctic Ocean south, in winter, to the Carolinas, Kentucky and Eastern
Kansas. Breeds north of the United States, east of the Rocky Mountains.

Nest, indifferently on the ground or in a tree or bush.
Eggs, bluish-green, speckled and blotched with reddish-brown.

In Southern Ontario the Tree Sparrow is a regular winter
visitor, arriving from the north during the month of October,
and remaining over the winter in sheltered hollows or among
the brush and weeds by the banks of streams. In appearance

220

ONTARIO.

it does not look like a hardy bird, yet while here it 1s exceed-
ingly lively and cheerful, its silvery tinkling notes being
frequently heard during the coldest snaps in winter. At the
approach of spring they all move off to the north, and none are
observed during summer.

Mo SPIZELILA:SOGCLALIS. .(Wilts.)eo- 560:
Chipping Sparrow.

Adult, bill black ; feet pale ; crown chestnut, extreme forehead black, a
grayish-white superciliary line, below this a blackish stripe through eye and
over auriculars. Below, a variable skade of pale ash, nearly uniform and
entirely unmarked ; back streaked with black, dull bay and grayish-brown ;
inner secondaries and wing coverts similarly variegated, the tips of the
greater and lesser coverts forming whitish bars ; rump ashy, with slight
blackish streaks ; primaries and tail dusky, the bill pale brown, and the head
lacking definite black. Length, 5-54 ; wing, about 2%; tail, rather less.

Has. Eastern North America, west to the Rocky Mountains, north to
Great Slave Lake, and south to Eastern Mexico.

Nest, in a bush or among the vines ; composed of rootlets and fine grass
lined with horse hair.

Eggs, 4 to 6; pale bluish-green, dotted, speckled or scrawled with dark
brown.

Prior to the advent of the House Sparrow, the Chipper was
the most familiar and best known bird around our dwellings,
and though now in the minority it still builds its nest in the
garden, and comes familiarly near the door to pick up crumbs
for the support of its family.

It is very generally distributed over Ontario, being found near
the dwellings of rich and poor alike ; in the shade trees in the
city as well as in weedy corners and thorn bushes in the
pasture field.

It arrives from the south about the end of April, and at once
begins building its nest. It is most diligent in the discharge
of its varied domestic duties during the summer, and when the
young are able to shift for themselves, old and young get
together in flocks, and about the end of October all move off to
the south.

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BIRDS OF

220, SEIZELLA .PUSILAA (Wits. ). ans.
Field Sparrow.

Bill pale reddish ; feet very pale ; crown dull chestnut ; no decided
black or whitish about head. Below white, unmarked, but much washed
with pale brown on breast and sides; sides of heac and neck with some
vague brown markings; all the ashy parts of socialis replaced by pale
brownish. Back bright bay, with black streaks and some pale flaxen
edgings ; inner secondaries similarly variegated ; tips of median and greater
coverts forming decided whitish cross-bars. Size of socialis, but more nearly
the colors of monticola. Young, for a short time, streaked below as in socialis.

Has. Eastern United States and Southern Canada, west to the Plains.

Nest, on the ground, or near it, ina low bush ; composed of grass and
rootlets, lined with fine grass and hair.

Eggs, 4 to 6 ; greenish-white, variously marked with reddish-brown.

The Field Sparrow is sparingly distributed in suitable places
in Southern Ontario, which probably forms its northern limit.
It arrives from the south during the first week in May, and
soon makes its presence known by its pleasing ditty which is
heard from the top of a low tree or bush in the pasture field.
It resembles the Chipper in size, but is more like the Tree
Sparrow in coloring. The cinnamon tinted bill is always a
ready mark by which to distinguish it from any other of the
small Sparrows.

It raises two broods in the season and retires to the south
in September.

Genus JUNCO Wacter.
1. JUNCO HYEMALIS (Linn.). 567.

Slate-colored Junco.

to
bo

Blackish-ash, below abruptly pure white from the breast. Two to three
outer tail-feathers white. Bill flesh-colored. Inthe female, and in fact in
most fall and winter specimens, the upper parts have a more grayish, or even
a decidedly brownish cast, and the inner quills are edged with pale bay.
Length, 6-63 ; wing and tail, about 3.

Has. North America at large, but chiefly east of the Rocky Mountains,
breeding from the higher parts of the Alleghanies and Northern New York
and Northern New England northward. South in winter to the Gulf States.

222

ONTARIO.

Nest, on the ground, rarely ina bush above it ; composed of strips of
bark, grass and rootlets, lined with moss and hair.

Eggs, 4 to 5; greenish-white, spotted and blotched with reddish-brown.

In Southern Ontario the ‘‘ White Bill,” as this species is
familiarly called, may fairly be considered resident, for
although it is most numerous in April and October, yet it
breeds commonly throughout the country, and a few are always
observed remaining during the winter.

It is a very familiar species, showing a marked partiality
for rocky ravines, quarries and stone heaps. It is also com-
mon by the roadsides, and in gullies and other unculti-
vated places, but in the dense bush it is seldom seen,
until we come to a spot where men and horses have been at
work felling andhauling timber. In such a placeat all seasons,
its white tail feathers are almost sure to be seen flirting about
among the brush. The ordinary note of this species is a
simple “chip,” like the sound produced by striking two pebbles
together, but in the spring the male has a rather pleasing little
song, with which he cheers his mate while they are fitting up
their home.

Genus MELOSPIZA Batirp.
222. MELOSPIZA FASCIATA (Ge t.). 581.

Song Sparrow.

Below white, slightly shaded with brownish on the flanks and crissum,
breast and sides with numerous dusky streaks, with brown edges, coalescing
to form a pectoral blotch and maxillary stripes bounding the throat ; crown
dull bay, with fine black streaks, divided and bounded on either side by
ashy-whitish lines ; vague brown or dusky and whitish markings on the
sides of the head ; the interscapular streaks black, with bay and astiy-white
edgings ; rump and cervix grayish-brown, with merely a few bay marks ;
wings with dull bay edgings, the coverts and inner quills marked like the
interscapulars ; tail obviously longer than the wings, pale brown, with
darker shaft lines on the middle feathers at least, and often with obsolete
wavy markings. Length, 6-63; wing, about 23; tail, about 3.

Has. Eastern United States to the Plains, breeding from Virginia and
the northern portion of the Lake States northward.

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BIRDS OF

Nest, on the ground, more rarely on a low tree or bush ; composed of
rootlets and leaves, lined with fine grass and occasionally some horse hair.

Eggs, 4 to 5; very variable in marking, usually grayish or greenish-
white, blotched or spotted with brown, the shades of which differ greatly in
different specimens.

This is an abundant summer resident, and one which seeks
the society of man, being found wherever human habitations
have been raised within its range. Large numbers pass on to
the north in April, returning again in October on their way
south, but they do not all leave us. While getting on or off
the ice on Hamilton Bay in the depth of winter, Ihave several
times been surprised by seeing a Song Sparrow rise from among
the flags, which at that season havea roof of snow, and no doubt
afford a comfortable shelter to the little birds. In the same
locality, on a comparatively mild day in the middle of winter, I
have seen a male of this species mount to the top of a bulrush
and warble forth his pleasing familiar notes, perhaps in
appreciation of the rising temperature.

In the “Birds of Ohio” Dr. Wheaton mentions the
following singular instance of the strong attachment which this
species has for its nest. ‘*Some laborers, who were cutting
grass on a railroad track near Columbus, found a nest of this
species on the embankment, and though rather a delicate piece
of work for this class of men to undertake, they moved it from
its original site among the grass and placed it gently, but loosely,
on the fork of a horizontal limb of a maple sapling three feet
from the trunk. Instead of deserting the nest as many birds
would have done, or attempting to fasten it to the limb on
which it had been placed, the Sparrows brought long stems
of timothy grass and twisted them together and around a limb
extending over the nest at a distance of one and a half feet.
The lower ends of these stems were firmy fastened into the rim
of the nest, and other stems were woven in transversely, form-
a complete basket. The whole structure resembled an inverted
balloon, and in this remarkable construction the eggs were
hatched and the young safely raised. After the nest was
deserted, I found the guy ropes sufficiently strong to bear up
the nest, after the limb on which it was placed had been
removed.”

224

ONTARIO.

Z2a. MELOSPIZA LINCOLNI (Aup,): 583.
Lincoln’s Sparrow.

Below white, breast banded and sides often shaded with yellowish ; every-
where, except on the belly, thickly and sharply streaked with dusky ; above
grayish-brown, crown and back with blackish, brownish and paler streaks ;
tail grayish-brown, the feathers usually showing blackish shaft lines; wings
the same, the coverts and inner quills blackish, with bay and whitish edgings ;
no yellow on wings or head. Length, 54; wing and tail, about 23.

Has. North America at large, breeding chiefly north of the United
States and in the higher parts of the Rocky Mountains; south in winter to
Guatemala.

Nest, on the ground; composed of grass throughout, the finest used for
lining inside.

Eggs, 4 to 6; grayish-white clouded with brown.

Nest and eggs scarcely distinguishable from those of the Song Sparrow.

This retiring lttle Sparrow is almost unknown in the east,
although it has been found at a number of different points, and
from its retiring habits may be more common than we think it is.

Audubon found it first in Labrador, the young being able to
fly on 4th of July. It has occasionally been captured during
the season of migration, chiefly in Massachusetts and Connecti-
cut, and there is in a Bulletin of the Nuttal Club, 1878, an
account of a nest being found by Mr. Bagg in Hamilton Co., N. Y.

Ontario was without a record of this species till the 23rd of
May, 1885, when K. C. McIlwraith got intoa bird wave which had
been stopped at the Beach by a head wind during the previous
night, and from a crowd composed of ditterent classes in !arce
numbers, picked out two Lincoln’s Sparrows, and on the 25th
he got other two at the same place. Since that time Mr.
Geo. R. White reports having taken one at Ottawa, and Mr.
Saunders has also secured one at London.

In the west the history of the species is entirely different.
Mr. Trippe, writing from Colorado, says: ‘“ Lincoln’s Finch is
abundant and migratory, it breeds from about 9.500 or 10.000
feet up to the timber line. It arrives at Idaho Springs early in
May and soon becomes very common, haunting the thickets and
brush heaps by the brooks, and behaving very much like the

225

BIRDS OF

Song Sparrow. During the breeding season it is most abundant
among the bushes near and above timber line, nesting as high
as it can find the shelter of willows and junipers. Reappearing
in the valleys in October it lingers by the streams for a few
weeks and then disappears.”

It is also said to be abundant in spring and fallin Iowa, and
Mr. Ridgway reports it as wintering in great numbers in South-
ern Illinois.

224, MELOSPIZA GEORGIANA (Latn.). 584.

Swamp Sparrow.

Crown bright bay or chestnut, blackening on the forehead, often with
an obscure median ashy line and usually streaked with black; cervix, sides
of head and neck and the breast strongly ashy, with vague dark auricular
and maxillary markings, the latter bounding the whitish chin, the ashy of
the breast obsoletely streaky; belly whitish; sides, flanks and crissum
strongly shaded with brown and faintly streaked ; back and rump brown,
rather darker than the sides, boldly streaked with black and pale brown or
grayish. Wings so strongly edged with bright bay as to appear almost uni-
tormly of this color when viewed close, but inner secondaries showing black
with whitish edging ; tail likewise strongly edged with bay and usually show-
ing black shaft lines. Further distinguished from its allies by the emphasis
of the black, bay and ash. Length, 53-6; wing and tail, 2}-24.

Has. Eastern North America to the Plains, accidently to Utah, north
to the British Provinces, including Newfoundland and Labrador. Breeds
from the Northern States northward, and winters in the Middle States and
southward.

Nest, on the ground in a moist place, sometimes in a tussock of grass or
low bush; composed of weeds, grass and rootlets, lined with fine fibrous
substances.

Eggs, 4 to 6; grayish-white, speckled with reddish-brown.

This is, perhaps, the least known of any of our common
Sparrows, for it seldom comes within reach of the ordinary
observer, and even by the collector -it is apt to be overlooked,
unless he knows its haunts and goes on purpose to seek it. It
is very common by the shores of Hamilton Bay, where it may
be seen skulking along the line where land and water meet, and
if disturbed at once hides itself among the rank herbage of the

226

ONTARIO.

marsh. Occasionally, during the excitement of the mating sea-
son, a male will mount a bulrush and warble out his not un-
pleasant song, but most of their time is spent in places which
are difficult of access either by land or water, and so they are
seldom seen.

They arrive from the south early in May and leave again in
October, none being observed during winter.

Genus PASSERELLA Swainson.
2200 PASSE RELILA TLIACA (Merr:), 585.

Fox Sparrow.

General color ferrugineous or rusty-red, purest and brighest on the rump,
tail and wings, on the other upper parts appearing as streaks laid on an ashy
ground ; below white variously but thickly marked, except on the belly and
crissum, with rusty red, the markings anteriorly inthe form of diffuse conflu-
ent blotches, on the breast and sides consisting chiefly of sharp sagittate
spots and pointed streaks; tips of middle and greater coverts forming two
whitish wing-bars; upper mandible dark, lower mostly yellow; feet pale.
Length, 6%-74; wing and tail, each 3 or more.

Has. Eastern North America, west to the Plains and Alaska (Valley of
the Yukon to the Pacific), and from the Arctic Coast south to the Gulf
States. Breeds north of the United States; winters chiefly south of the
Potomac and Ohio Rivers.

Nest, indifferently, on the ground or in a tree; composed of grass, moss
and fibrous roots, lined with hair and feathers.

Eggs, 4 to 6; greenish-white thickly spotted with rusty-brown.

This large and handsome Sparrow breeds in the north and
winters in the south, but by what particular route it passes
between the two points I am at a loss to determine, for in this
part of Ontario it is seldom seen.

In the London list it is mentioned as “‘rare during migration,
4 Or 5 specimens taken.” In all my rambles I have only met
with it a few times, and but once have I heard it utter its rich,
musical notes, which are the admiration of all who hear them.
Speaking of this species, Dr. Coues, in his Birds of the North-
west, says: ‘‘ During the sunny days which precede their depar-
ture the males are fond of perching on the top of a small tree or

227

BIRDS OF

bush to warble a few exquisitely sweet notes, the overtures of
the joyous music which, later in the year, enlivens the northern
solitudes whither the birds resort to breed.”’ The nest has not
been found within the limits of the United States or Ontario, so
far as I am aware, but in the list of Birds of Western Manitoba
Mr. Seton mentions itas breeding abundantly on Duck Mountain.

GEenvs eleIL ©: Virirror.

2600 PIPILOERY THBROPH THALMUS: (Ann) aoee
Towhee.

Adult male, black, belly white, sides chestnut, crissum fulvous-brown ;
primaries and inner secondaries with white touches on the outer webs; outer
tail feathers with the outer web and nearly the terminal half of the inner web
white, the next two or three with white spots, decreasing in size; bill black-
ish; feet pale brown; iris red in the adult, white or creamy in the young,
and generally in winter specimens. Female, rich warm brown where the male
is black; otherwise similar. Very young birds are streaked brown and
dusky above, below whitish, tinged with brown and streaked with dusky.
Length, male, 83; wing, 34; tail, 4; female rather less

Has. Eastern United States and Southern Canada, west to the Plains.
Nest, on the ground, more rarely in a bush or sapling ; a rude structure,

composed of grape-vine bark, weed stalks, leaves and grass; lined with fine
vegetable fibre.

Eggs, 4 to 6; white, thickly freckled with reddish-brown.

This species has a more northern range than we have been
in the habit of attributing to it, for it is mentioned both by Prof.
Macoun and Mr. Seton as being common in the Northwest
Territory. In Southern Ontario it arrives from the south about
the 1st of May, the males coming on a few days ahead of the
females. Much of their time is spent on the ground, scratching
and rustling about among the withered leaves in search of seeds
and insects. During the pairing time, the male will frequently
rise from the scrub bush to the lower branch of a tree and sing
his original song in his best style, accompanying the performance
with many a jerk and flirt of his long handsome tail, which
shows to advantage on these occasions. If we sit down to

228

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watch his motions for a little we may be favored with a glimpse
of the female stealing through the underbrush, but except under
such circumstances she is rarely seen.

During the heat of summer the loud ringing “‘ Towhee”’ which
has given the birds their common name is discontinued, and
they spend their time quietly in the shade. In September it is
again heard, perhaps as a bugle note to call the flocks together
before starting for the south. We have no record of any being
observed during winter.

Genus CARDINALIS Bonaparre.
227. CARDINALIS CARDINALIS (Linn.). 593.

Cardinal.

Male, rich vermillion or rosy-red, obscured with ashy on the back; face
black ; bill reddish; feet brown. Female, ashy-brown, paler below, with
evident traces of the red on the crest, wings, tail and under parts. Length,
8-9; wing, about 33; tail, 4.

Has. Eastern United States, north to New Jersey and the Ohio Valley
(casually farther), west to the Plains.

Nest, in a bush or low tree near the ground, usually not far from water.
Composed of bark, leaves, grass and rootlets rather loosely put together.

Eggs, 4 to 5; white, thickly spotted with dark reddish-brown often
wreathed round the larger end.

The Cardinal can only be regarded as a casual visitor along
our south-western border. It is quite common in Ohio, and as
might be expected a few occasionally cross the lake. Mr.
Norval reports one or two being found at Port Rowan, and Dr.
Macallum mentions that a few are seen every summer along
the lake shore south of Dunnville, where they are supposed to
breed among the evergreens. They make showy, interesting
cage birds, on account of which great numbers are caught in
trap cages and sold in the southern markets.

229

BIRDS OF
Genus HABIA REICHENBACH.

228. HABIA LUDOVICIANA (Linw.). 595.

Rose-breasted Grosbeak.

Adult male, with head and neck all round and most of the upper parts
black, the rump, upper tail-coverts and under parts white, the breast and
under wing-coverts exquisite carmine or rose-red; wings and tail black,
variegated with white; bill pale; feet dark. Female, above streaked with
blackish and olive or flaxen-brown with median white coronal and supercili-
ary line; below white, more or less tinged with fulvous and streaked with
dusky ; under wing-coverts saffron-yellow; upper coverts and inner quills
with a white spot at end; bill brown. Young males at first resemble the
female. Length, 74-84; wing, about 4; tail, about 3}.

Has. Eastern United States and Southern Canada, west to the eastern
border of the Plains, south in winter to Cuba, Central America and Northern
South America.

Nest, in a low tree; composed of twigs, vegetable fibre and grass, rather
loosely put together.

Eggs, 3 to 4; greenish-white, thickly spotted with reddish-brown.

This robust and gaily attired songster arrives from the south
about the roth of May, and soon its rich, rolling song is heard
in the treesand thickets where it spends the summer. It breeds
regularly along the southern border of Ontario, and has also
been found in Labrador and in the Red River Valley. Its
favorite haunts are along the wooded banks of streams, where
even at noonday, when most other birds are silent, the male in
the shade of the luxuriant foliage cheers his mate during the
tedious hours of incubation with the song she loves to hear.
Its food consists of seeds, buds and berries; but it also takes a
variety of insects, and is one of the few birds which visit the
potato patch and snap up the potato bugs. On this account
alone it is entitled to our protection; but it is also one of the
most attractive birds which visit the shrubbery, and would be
most welcome if it could be taught to consider itself protected
and come nearer to our dwellings.

Before retiring in the fall the males lose the greater portion
of their black, but retainthe carmine on the breast and under
wing-coverts.

230

ONTARIO.

Genus PASSERINA VIEILLOT.

it)
tw
is

i PASSHREINAICYANEA (inn). 1598).
Indigo Bunting.

Adult male, indigo blue, intense and constant on the head, glancing
greenish, with different lights on other parts; wings and tail blackish, glossed
with greenish-blue feathers around base of bill black; bill dark above,
rather paler below, with acurious blackstripealongthegonys. Female,above
plain warm brown; below whitey-brown, obsoletely streaky on the breast
and sides; wing-coverts and inner quills pale edged, but not whitish; upper
mandible blackish, lower pale, with the black stripe just mentioned. The
young male is like the female, but socn shows blue traces, and afterwards is

blue, with white variegation below. Length, 54; wing, 22; tail, 23.

Has. Eastern United States, south in winter to Veragua.
Nest, in a bush, composed of leaves and grass.

Eggs, 4 to 5; white, tinged with blue, sometimes speckled with reddish-
brown.

About the 15th of May the Indigo arrives from the south
and at once commences to deliver his musical message, such as
it 1s, with considerable animation. While so engaged he is
usually perched on the upper twig of a dead limb within hearing
of the female, who is of retiring habits and seeks to elude
observation among the briars and underbrush.

It is rather a tender species, and probably does not penetrate
far north into Ontario. It is not mentioned either by Prof.
Macoun or Mr. Seton as having beenseen by them in the North-
west, and by the middle of September they have all disappeared
from Southern Ontario. The rich plumage and lively manners
of the male make him quite conspicious while here; a favorite
resort of the species near Hamilton being about the railroad
track, near the waterworks reservoir.

Individuals vary considerably in the regularity of their
coloring and in the intensity of the blue, but a male in rich
spring plumage is a very handsome little bird.

231

BIRDS OF
Genus SPIZA Bonaparte.
230. SPIZA AMERICANA (Ge L.). 604.
Dickcissel.

Male, above grayish-brown, the middle of the back streaked with black,
the hind neck ashy, becoming on the crown yellowish-olive, with black
touches; a yellow superciliary line and maxillary touch of the same ; eyelid
white ; ear-coverts ashy; chin white; throat with a large jet-kiack patch ;
underparts in general white, shaded on the sides, extensively tinged with
yellow on the breast and belly; edge of wing yellow; lesser and middle
coverts rich chestnut, the other coverts and inner secondaries edged with
paler; bill dark horn-blue; feet brown. Female smaller; above like the
male, but head and neck plainer; below less tinged with yellow, the black
throat patch wanting and replaced by sparse sharp maxillary and pectoral
streaks. Length, 63-7; wing, 2}; tail, 23.

Has. Eastern United States to the Rocky Mountains, north to Massa-
chusetts, New York, Wisconsin and Minnesota, and south in winter through
Central America to Northern South America.

Nest, on the ground or in a low bush, built of leaves and fine grass.

Eggs, 4 to 5; greenish-white, sometimes speckled with reddish-brown.

The only record we have at present of the Black-throated
Bunting as a bird of Ontario is that furnished by Mr. Saunders
in the “Auk” for July, 1885, page 307. The writer describes
finding the species in June, 1884, at Point Pelee, at the west end
of Lake Erie. The birds were tolerably common and evidently
breeding, one or two pairs being in every field within a limited
district, but it was only after considerable waiting and watching
that the party succeeded in discovering a nest with 5 fresh eggs.

It is just possible that ‘‘ Dickcissel,” like some others, having
reached the north shore of Lake Erie may come along as far as
Lake Ontario, but it is rather a weakly, tender species, and we
hardly expect to see it much north of the present limit, although
there are several records of its capture in Massachusetts and
Connecticut.

232

ONTARIO.
Genus PIRANGA VIEILLOT.
931. PIRANGA ERYTHROMELAS (VIEIxL.). 608.

Scarlet Tanager.

Male, scarlet, with black wings and tail; bill and feet dark. Female,
clear olive-green, below clear greenish-yellow; wings and tail cusky, edged
with olive. Young male at first like the female; afterwards variegated with
red, green and black. Length, 7-74; wing, 4; tail. 3.

Has. Eastern United States, west to the Plains and north to Southern
Canada. In winter, the West Indies, Central America and Northern South
America.

Nest, on the horizontal limb of a low tree on the outskirts of the bush; a
shallow, saucer-shaped structure, composed of vine-bark, rootlets and leaves,
lined with vegetable fibre.

Eggs, 3 to 5; dull greenish-blue, spotted with reddish-brown and lilac.

The Scarlet Tanager is one of our most brilliant colored
birds, but his rich plumage is all he has to commend him to
popular favor, for he is neither handsome in form nor eloquent in
tongue. Still he sings his song as wellas he can, and it probably
pleases his female for whose gratification it is intended, so
we will let him pass. In Ontario the species is peculiar to the
south and makes but a short stay, arriving about the roth of
May and leaving again about the middle of September.

In the fall the bright scarlet of the male’s plumage 1s replaced
by green, but he retains the black on wings and tail.

The food of the species consists chiefly of insects, in the
capture of which they exhibit considerable dexterity. In the
fall, when the wild berries are ripe, they take to them with
evident relish, and though they usually keep to the retired parts
of the woods, sometimes at this season they visit the farmer’s
raspberry patch in such numbers that they leave but few for
household use.

In Southern Ontario they are generally distributed but
nowhere abundant.

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BIRDS OF

232. “~PIRANGA RUBRA (Linun.). 610.

Summer Tanager.

Male, rich rose-red or vermillion, including wings and tail; the wings,
however, dusky on the inner webs; bill rather pale; feet darker. Female,
dull brownish-elive ; below dull brownish-yellow. Young male like the female ;
the male changing plumage, shows red and green confused in irregular patches,
but no black’ The female, with general resemblance to female rubra, is dis-
tinguished by the dull brownish, ochre or buffy tinge, the greenish and
yellowish of rubra being much purer; the bill and feet also are generally
much paler in erythromelas. Size of rubra or rather larger.

Has. Eastern United States to the Plains, north to Southern New
Jersey and Southern Illinois, casually north to Connecticut and Ontario, and
accidently to Nova Scotia. In winter, Cuba, Central America and Northern
South America.

Nest, on the horizontal bough of a tree; composed of strips of bark,
rootlets and grass, lined with fine grass and fibre.

Eggs, 3 to 5; dull greenish-blue, spotted with reddish-brown.

We sometimes meet in the humbler walks of life people
with little education, who, from a natural loveof the subject, are
wonderfully correct in their observation of the birds.

A man of this class, who, at the time I speak of, lived near
a clump of bush on the mountain above the reservoir, three
miles east of Hamilton, told me that one summer while he lived
there a number of red birds, which kad not black wings and tail
like the common kind, bred in that bush. I felt sure he was
describing the Summer Red Bird, and looked through that bush
with interest every subsequent spring, but it was not till May, 1885,
that I found the first and only individual of the species I ever
saw in Canada. It was a female in fine adult plumage, and was
among a group of Scarlet Tanagers, which apparently had
just arrived from the south, and were enjoying the last rays of
the setting sun which gilded the topmost twigs of a dead tree
in the bush already referred to. Individuals have been found
straggling as far north as Massachusetts and Connecticut, but
the home of the species is farther south, and the above is the
only record for Ontario.

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ONTARIO.
Famity HIRUNDINID Swattows.
Genus PROGNE Bote.
oon PD ROGINE Suits (linn): i611.

Purple Martin.

Lustrous blue-black. The female and young are much duller above, and
more or less white below, streaked with gray. Length, 7 or more; wing,
nearly 6; tail, 34, simply forked.

Has. Temperate North America, south to Mexico.

Nest, of kay, straw, bits of twine and paper, lined with feathers.

Eggs 4; pure white.

The Purple Martin arrives in Southern Ontario about the
roth of May, and though generally distributed is nowhere abun-
dant. Its original nesting place was in a knot-hole or other
hollow in a tree, but now, seeking the society of man, it raises its
young. in boxes put up for its accommodation, or in the
interstices of the gothic architecture of our city buildings.

Its flight is rapid and its aerial evolutions often extremely
graceful, while at other times it may be seen sailing Hawk-like
with very little action of the wings.

They are general favorites in town and country, and are
made welcome everywhere. Before leaving in the fall they
have a grand gathering, which is thus described by Dr.
Wheaton in the “ Birds of Ohio :”

‘‘After the breeding season is over, these birds congregate
towards night in large flocks, and having selected a suitable
cornice on some high building make preparations for spending
the night. The retiring ceremony is very formal, to judge from
the number of times they alight and arise again, all the while
keeping up a noisy chatter. It 1s not until twilight deepens
into evening that all are huddled together in silence and slumber,
and their slumbers are often disturbed by some youngster falling
out of bed amid the derisive laughter of his neighbors, which
is changed to petulant scolding as he clambers over them to
regain his perch, tumbling others down as he does so. All at

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BIRDS OF

once the scene of last night’s disturbance is quite and deserted,
as the birds have flown to other lands, where they find less
crowded beds and shorter, warmer nights.”’

GEeNus PETROCHELIDON Casants.
234. PETROCHELIDON LUNIFRONS (Say:.). , 612.
Cliff Swallow.

Lustrous steel-blue; forehead whitish or brown; rump rufous; chin,
throat and sides of head chestnut; a steel-blue spot on the throat; breast,
sides and generally a cervical collar rusty-gray, whitening on the belly.
Young, sufficiently similar. Length, 5; wing, 44; tail, 2}.

Has. North America at large, and south to Brazil and Paraguay.

Nest, a flask-shaped building of mud, lined with wool, feathers and bits
of straw.

Eggs, 4 or 5; white, spotted with reddish-brown.

Early in May the Cliff Swallow crosses the southern
border of Ontario, and gradually works its way up to the far
north, breeding in colonies in suitable places all over the coun-
try. In towns and villages the nests are placed under the eaves
of outhouses ; in the country they are fastened under projecting
ledges of rock and hard embankments. The birds are of an
amiable, sociable disposition, as many as fifty families being
sometimes observed in a colony without the slightest sign of
quarrelling. Two broods are raised in the season, and by the
end of August they begin to move off and are seen no more
till spring. They are somewhat fastidious in their choice of a
nesting place, and on this account are not equally abundant at
all points, but still they are very numerous throughout the
Province.

GeNus CHELIDON Forster.
235. CHELIDON ERYTHROGASTER (Bopp.). 613.

Barn Swallow.

Lustrous steel-blue; below rufous or pale chestnut of varying shade;
forehead, chin and throat deep chestnut ; breast with an imperfect steel-blue

236

ONTARIO.
collar. Tail with white spots on the inner web of all the feathers, except the
inner pair. Sexes alike, young less lustrous, much paler below, tail simply
forked. Wing, 44-42; tail, 24 to 5.
Has. North America in general, from the Fur Countries southward to

the West Indies, Central America and South America.

Nest, in a barn or other outbuilding ; composed of pellets of mud and bits
of straw, and lined with feathers.

Eggs, 4 or 5; white, spotted with reddish-brown.

While the Cliff Swallow chooses to fix its nest outside the
building under the eaves, the present species prefers the inside,
where its dwelling is seen attached to the beams and rafters.

They too are to some extent gregarious, as many as twenty
‘or thirty pairs being often found nesting together in the same

outhouse.

The Swallows as a class, from their great rapidity of flight
and graceful aerial evolutions, are the most easily recognized of
all our birds, and this species is perhaps the most accomplished
of the group. It is seen skimming over the fields and
meadows at a rate which leaves the lightning express far behind,
when suddenly checking its course it will dart, with surprising
rapidity, to right or left in pursuit of some passing insect. It
likes to be near a still sheltered pond, where it can drink and
bathe while on the wing, and beautiful itis, on a still summer
evening, to see these birds take their plunge bath, and almost
without checking their speed rise gracefully from the surface,
shake sparkling drops from their burnished backs, and continue
their airy gambols till the fading light calls them to their humble
home. They arrive in Ontario early in May, and are generally
distributed over the country during summer ; but about the end of
August they begin to move toward the south and soon have all

disappeared.

Genus TACHYCINETA Casanis.
236. vc DACHY.CINE LA, BIGOLOR, «)( VIEILL.)s;. 614.
Tree Swallow.

Lustrous green ; below pure white. Young similiar, not soglossy. Length,
6-64; wing, 5; tail, 23.
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BIRDS OF

Has. North America at large, from the Fur Conntries southward, in
winter to the West Indies and Central America.

Nest, of leaves and grass, lined with down and feathers.
Eggs, white, unspotted.

A common summer resident, arriving early in May and
leaving about the middle of September.

The White-bellied Swallows must at times have had con-
siderable trouble in finding suitable places for their summer
residence, but it may be that like people who move often they have
come tolike the occupation of house hunting. The original nesting
place was a hole in a tree or stub near water, but as the birds
are incapable of making such an excavation themselves they
had to search for a natural aperture, or the deserted hole of a
Woodpecker to suit their purpose, the finding of which must
have been to some extent accidental. As the country became
settled, and the Swallow trees were cleared away, the birds be-
took themselves to breeding in boxes, which in the east were put
up in great numbers for their accommodation, but on the advent
of the English Sparrow many pairs of Swallows were summarily
ejected from the boxes, and were obliged to retire to the remote
parts of the country and resume their primitive habit of nesting
in trees. On this account they are not so common in towns and
villages as they were some years ago, but are more generally
distributed throughout the country. In Southern Ontario they
are seen in greatest numbers during the season of migration.

Genus CLIVICOLA Forster.
937. CLIVICOLA RIPARIA (Liwnn.). 616.

Bank Swallow.

Lustreless gray, with a pectoral band of the same; other under parts
white. Sexes exactly alike. Young similiar, the feathers often skirted with
rusty or whitish. Length, 44-43; wing, 33-4; tail, 2.

Has. Northern Hemisphere; in America, south to the West Indies
Central America and Northern South America.

Nest, a few bits of straw and some feathers placed at the end of a tunnel,
2 to 4 feet deep, dug by the birds in a sand bank.

Eggs, 5; pure white.
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ONTARIO.

A common summer resident, breeding abundantly in suitable
places all overthe country. They arrive about the end of Apriland
leave in September, bothdates being dependent, to some extent,
on the weather.

Near Hamilton this species is very abundant, a favorite
nesting place being in the gravel bank which is cut through to
form the canal to Dundas. There are also many sand banks
around the bay shore, perforated to an extent which shows that
flocks of young ones are raised there every summer.

Dr. Wheaton, in the “‘ Birds of Ohio,” mentions that this
species, from being a common summer residentin the immediate
vicinity of Columbus, has become only a passing migrant in spring
and fall. Thisheattributes partly tothe frequent disturbance of the
nesting places by freshets, and partly to the advent of the Rough-
winged Swallow, which is comparatively a new species at
Columbus, but is rapidly increasing in numbers. The
Bank Swallows aresprightly little birds, greatly attached to their
homes, and we hope that nothing will happen here to cause
them to change their residence.

Genus STELGIDOPTERYX Bairp.
foes ieGIDOPTRRYX SERRIPENNIS (Aup.))" 617.
Rough-winged Swallow.

Lustreless brownish-grav, paler below, whitening on the belly. Rather
larger than the last. Hooklets on outer web of outer primary wanting, or
much weaker in the female.

Has. United States at large (in the Eastern States north to Connecti-
cut), south to Guatemala.

Nest, in holes dug by the birds in the sandy banks of creeks and rivers,
a few straws and feathers at the end of the excavation representing the nest.

Eggs, 5 to 6; pure white.

This species seems to be gradually advancing from west to
east, for we hear every now and then of its being observed at
points in the Eastern States where it has not before been
noticed. I have no record of it from any part of Ontario except
from London, where Mr. Saunders has found it breeding for the

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BIRDS OF

past year ortwo. Itisnot so decidedly attached tothe sand or gravel
bank for a breeding place as the Bank Swallow, the nests
having been found in crevices of rocks, on beams under bridges,
and even in a hole in a brick wall.

It bears a very close resemblance to the Bank Swallow, and
as there are not many of them killed, it is possible the Rough-
winged species may be more common than we think. When
closely examined, the curious little hooklets on the outer
web of the first primary, which are most fully developed in the
male, are always sufficient to identify the species.

Famity AMPELID. Waxwincs, ETc.

SuBFAMILY AMPELINZ®. Waxwincs.—
Genus AMPELIS Linnzus.
239. AMPELIS GARRULUS (Liny.). 618.
Bohemian Waxwing.

General color brownish-ash, shading insensibly from the clear ash of the
tail and its upper coverts and sump into a reddish-tinged ash anteriorly, this
peculiar tint heightening on the head, especially on the forehead and sides of
the head, into orange-brown. A narrow frontal line, and broader bar through
the eye, with the chin and throat sooty-black, not sharply bordered with
white; no yellowish on belly ; under tail-coverts orange-brown or chestnut ;
tail ash, deepening to blackish-ash towards the end, broadly tipped with rich
yellow ; wings ashy-blackish ; primaries tipped (chiefly on the outer webs)
with sharp spaces of yellow or white, or both ; secondaries with white spaces
at the ends of the outer webs, the shafts usually ending with enlarged, horny,
red appendages ; primary coverts tipped with white ; bill blackish-plumbeous,
often paler at base below; feet black; sexes alike. Length, 7 or 8 inches ;
wing, about 4}; tail, 23.

Has. Northern parts of the Northern Hemisphere. In North America,
south in winter, irregularly, to the Northern United States.

Nest and eggs, so far as known, similar to the succceeding species

This handsome, eccentric, garrulous wanderer is common to
the high latitudes of both continents, often appearing unexpect-
edly in verylarge flocks, and disappearing quite as mysteriously,
not to be seen again for many years in succession.

240

ONTARIO.

The Ontario records are mostly of small flocks which
occasionally visit us during the winter, and feed on the berries
of the red cedar or the mountain ash. Sometimes they move
by themselves, and sometimes in company with the Pine Gros-
beaks ; the Waxwings taking the pulpy part of the berries and
the Grosbeaks preferring the hard seeds. The nest of this
species was found by Mr. Kennicott on the Yukon, and by Mr.
McFarlane on the Anderson River, but when we read the
accounts of the vast flocks which have been seen by travellers
we have to admit that it is little we know of their summer
haunts and homes.

240. AMPELIS CEDRORUM (ViEiLt.). 619.

Cedar Waxwing.

Generalcolor asin garrulus. Under tail-coverts whitish ; littleorno orange-
brown about head; no white on wings; chin black, shading gradually into
the color of the throat; a black frontal, loral and transocular stripe as in
garrulus, but this bordered on the forehead with whitish; a white touch on
lower eyelid ; feathers on side of lower jaw white ; abdomen soiled yellowish ;
tail tipped with yellow. Length, 7-73; wing, about 33.

Has. North America at large, from the Fur Countries southward. In

winter south to Guatemala and the West Indies.

Nest, large, built in the orchard or in a low tree in the bush; composed
of twigs, bark, leaves, rootlets, etc., lined with fine grass, hair or wool.

Eggs, 4 to 6; pale blue, spotted and blotched with brownish-black.

The Cedar Bird is generally distributed throughout Ontario.
Itisa resident species, being here both insummer and winter, and
yet it is so uncertain in its movements that its presence at a
particular point at a given time cannot be counted upon with any
degree of certainty. They do not begin housekeeping until
quite late in the season, and may be seen visiting the orchard in
flocks up to the end of May. At this season their food consists
chiefly of insects, some kinds of which they cleverly capture on
the wing. They are also accredited with the destruction of large
numbers of canker worms and other noxious insects. As the
season advances they show a great liking for fruit, especially
cherries, with which they often cram themselves till they can
hardly maintain their balance on the branches. In the fall and

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BIRDS OF

winter the berries of the poke weed, red cedar and mountain
ash afford them a bountiful supply of food. Their voice is
heard only in a weak call note, easily recognized yet difficult
to describe.

In many individuals the secondaries finish with a hard
horny appendage, having the appearance of red sealing-wax.
This is not indicative of age or sex, but is most frequently found
in the adult male, and in some instances the tail-feathers are
similarly tipped. The use of these appendages is unknown
TOS;

Famity LANIIDE. SurikKgEs.
Genus LANIUS Linnezus.
241) EANIUS BOREALIS (Vitit1.): 621.

Northern Shrike.

Clear bluish-ash, blanching on the rump and scapulars; below white,
always vermiculated with fine wavy blackish lines; a black bar along side of
the head, not meeting its fellow across forehead, interrupted by a white cres-
cent on under eyelid, and bordered above by hoary white that also occupies
the extreme forehead ; wings and tail black, the former with a large spot near
base of primaries; and the tips of most of the quills white, the latter with
nearly all the feathers broadly tipped with white, and with concealed white
bars; bill and feet black. Length, 9-10; wing, 44; tail rather more. The
young are similar, but none of the colors are so fine or so intense; the entire
plumage has a brownish suffusion, and the bill is flesh-colored at base.

Has. Northern North America, south in winter to the middle portions
of the United States (Washington, D. C., Kentucky, Kansas. Colorado,
Arizona, Northern California).

Nest, rested on a platform of sticks and twigs in a low tree or bush ;
composed of weeds, rootlets, bark strips, moss and fine grass.

Eggs, 4 to 6; the ground color is greenish-gray, but this is almost hid-
den by the profuse markings of purple and reddish-brown.

In Southern Ontario a few individuals of the species are
seen every winter. They arrive from the north in October, and
remain with us if the weather is mild, but if it becomes severe
about the end of the year they disappear and are not observed
again until March. They like the open country, usually taking

242

ONTARIO.

their position, sentinel like, on the topmost twig of a low tree
or bush from which they notice all that moves within a certain
radius.

I once saw a pair of these birds unite to hunt down an un-
fortunate Junco. It took shelter in a patch of scrubby brush,
and the Shrikes, not being able to clutch it as a Hawk would
have done, sought to wear it out by fright and fatigue. As
there were two of them taking the work by turns, they would
probably have succeeded had | not stopped the proceedings by
collecting the two Shrikes, and so saving the hfe of the Junco.
They, no doubt, breed in the northern portion of the Province,
but in the south I have not heard of their being found so
engaged.

bo
bo

42. LANUS LUDOVICIANUS. (Linn.). 622.

Loggerhead Shrike.

Slate colored, slightly whitish on the rump and scapulars; below white,
with a few obscure wavy black lines, or none; black bar on one side of the
head, meeting its fellow across the forehead, not interrupted by white on under
eyelid, and scarcely or not bordered above by hoary white; otherwise like
borealis in color, but smaller ; 8-84; wing, about 4; tail, rather more.

Has. Eastern United States, north to Maine, west to the Prairies of the
Upper Mississippi Valley.
Nest, ina tree or bush not often more than 15 feet from the ground, the

middle of a thorn Leing often selected.

The eggs cannot with certainty be distinguished from those of the White-
rumped Shrike.

This and the next species resemble each other so closely as
to raise a doubt in the minds of many whether or not they
should ever have been separated. Dr. Coues in his ‘‘New Key
says onthissubject: ‘* Extreme examples of Excubitorides look
very different from Ludovicianus proper, but the two are observed
to melt into each other when many specimens are compared, so
that no specific characters can be assigned.” All those I have
found near Hamilton agree best with the description given of
Excubitorides, but there are other observers who think we have
both kinds, and some believe we have Ludovicianus only. As

”

243

BIRDS OF

a guide to a proper understanding of the matter I have given
the technical descriptions of both, but hold my own opinion
that of the two only. Excubitorides has been found in Ontario.

LANIUS LUDOVICIANUS EXCUBITORIDES (Swaiwns.):
243. White rumped Shrike. 622 a.

With the size and essential characters of head stripe of var. ludovicianus,
and the under parts, as in that species, not or not obviously waved, but with
the clear light ashy upper parts and hoary whitish superciliary line, scapu-
lars and rump of borealis.

Has Western United States, east tothe Middle and New England.
Breeding as far north as Northern New York and Northern New England.
Rare or local east of the Alleghanies.

Nest, in a tree or bush, seldom more than to feet from the ground ;
exteridrly built of prickly twigs, interwoven with strips of bark, rags, twine
and rootlets, lined with fine grass and pieces of cotton waste picked up on
the railroad track.

Eggs, 4 to 6; light grayish color, spotted with yellowish-brown.

Besides the great northern Butcher Bird (Lanius Borealis)
there are two Shrikes, smaller in size, described as North
American. Oneis the Loggerhead Shrike of the south-east,
and the other the White-rumped Shrike, which was originally
described as a western species, but has of late years been
extending its territory to the eastward, north of the Logger-
head’s range. Taking examples from the south-east to compare
with those from the north-west the difference is seen at once,
but as they approach each other in habitat they also approach
each other so closely in appearance that weare almost brought
to the conclusion that they are simply different races of the
same bird which should not have been separated. Those found
in Ontario areof the western race. They were first observed about
1860, and have since become quite common, extending north to
the banks of the Sasketchewan, where they were observed by
Prof. Macoun. The species is also included in Mr. Seton’s list of
the ‘‘ Birds of Western Manitoba,” and is said to be “ abundant
all over ” from May till September.

244

ONTARIO.

In Southern Ontario the little Shrike is not found in the city
nor in the dense bush, its favorite haunts being along the roadsides
in the open country, where it may often be seen on a fence post
or on the telegraph wire by the railway track. My first acquaint-
ance with this bird at its home was made on one of my Satur-
day afternoon excursions, shortly after its first appearance in
this part of the country. While driving along a back road east
of thecity, my attention was attracted by an ancient negro, who,
with a table fork fastened to the end ofa fishing pole, was poking
vigorously into the centre of a very large, dense thorn-bush near
hisshanty. Getting over the fence to find out what he was doing,
I was informed that a lttle Chicken Hawk had its nest in there
and that it had killed twoofhis youngchickens. Looking along the
pole I saw in the heart of the dense bush a Shrike’s nest with
some young ones, which one of the old birds was valiantly
defending, biting at the end of the fork when it came too near
the youngsters. Taking the pole from his hand I worked it into
the bush, but it broke before I got it out which put an end for
the time to hostilities. I tried to convince my colored friend
that he was mistaken about the bird having killed his chickens,
for this kind lived only on grasshoppers and crickets, but he
insisted that it was a Chicken Hawk, giving emphasis to the name
by the use of several profane adjectives, and vowing he would have
him out before night, even if he should have to burn him out.
The appearance of the bush the next time I passed that way
indicated that he had carried out his threat.

My opinion regarding the food of this species, which I gave
in good faith at the time, I have since had occasion to change, and
to believe that after all Sambo was probably right on the subject.
During the past twenty-five years no one could have gone a few
miles into the country in any direction near Hamilton, during
June, July or August, without seeing one or more pairs of these
birds in suitable places, until the present year 1886, during which
not one has beenobserved. It may be that the exodus is only
local and temporary; we shall watch for the birds with
interest next spring.

245

BIRDS OF
FamMity VIREONIDZE. Vireos.
Genus VIREO VIEILLoT.
SuBGENuS VIREOSYLVIA Bonaparte.
244. VIREO OLIVACEUS (Linn.). 624.
Red-eyed Vireo.

Above olive-green ; crown ash, edged on each side with a blackish line,
below this a white superciliary line, below this again a dusky stripe through
the eye; under parts white, faintly shaded with olive along sides, and tinged
with olive on under wing and tail-coverts ; wings and tail dusky, edged with
olive outside, with whitish inside ; bill dusky, pale below ; feet leaden-olive ;
eyes red; no spurious quill. Length, 52-6}; wing, 3}-34; tail, 24-24; bill,
about 4; tarsus, #.

Has. Eastern North America, to the Rocky Mountains, north to the
Arctic regions.

Nest, pensile, fastened by the rim to a horizontal fork, 10 to 25 feet from
the ground ; athin light structure, composed of bark strips, pine needles,
wasp’s nest, paper and fine grass, felted and apparently pasted together.

Eggs, 3 to 5; pure white, sometimes having a rosy blush or a few dark
spots toward the larger end.

A very common summer resident, whose loud, clear notes
are heard in the outskirts of the woods at all hours of the day.
Even during the sultry month of July, when most other song-
sters sing only in the morning or evening, the Red-eye
keeps on all day with tireless energy. In Ontario it is the
most numerous species of the family, arriving early in May and
leaving in September. In the early part of the season its food
consists entirely of insects, which it is at all times ready to cap-
ture, either on the wing or otherwise. In the fall it partakes of
raspberries, the berries of the poke weed and ofother wild plants,
with thejuice of whichits plumageisoften found tobestained. It
is frequently imposed upon by the Cowbird, whose young ones it
rears as tenderly as if they were its own. Large numbers
spend the winter in the Gulf States, and many go even farther
south.

245. VIREO PHILADELPHICUS (Cass.). 626.
Philadelphia Vireo.

Above dull olive-green, brightening on the rump, fading insensibly into
ashy on the crown, which is not bordered with blackish; a dull white super-

246

ONTARIO.

ciliary line; below palest possible yellowish, whitening on throat and belly,
slightly olive-shaded on sides; sometimes a slight creamy or buffy shade
throughout the underparts; no obvious wing bars; no spurious quill.
Length, 44-5}; wing, about 2%; tail, about 2}; bill, hardly or about 4;
tarsus, %.

Has. Eastern North America, north to Hudson’s Bay ; south, in winter,
to Costa Rica.

The only record of the nest and eggs of this species I have
ever seen is published by Mr. E. R. T. Seton in the ‘“‘Auk” for
July, 1885. He says: ‘ Onthe gth of June, 1884, while camped
near Duck Mountain, I found a nest of this species. It was
hung from a forked twig, about 8 feet from the ground, in a
willow which was the reverse of dense, as it grew in the shade
of a poplar grove. The nest was pensile, as is usual with the
genus; formed of fine grass and birch bark. The eggs were 4
in number, and presented no obvious difference from those of
the Red-eyed Vireo, but unfortunately they were destroyed by
an accident before they were measured.”

The owners were not secured.

Very many of the more recent additions to the list of our
American birds have been made bythe discovery that within
certain well-known groups were individuals differing in some
respects from the others. If these differences were found to be
uncertain and irregular they received only a passing notice, but
if they were found to be constant they were made the basis on
which to build a new species.

Thus, although the American Vireos had passed in review
before many distinguished ornithologists, it was not until 1842
that John Cassin found one closely resembling several of the
others, and yet differing in some respects from all of them.

In 1851 he published a description of the bird he had found,
pointed out its peculiarities, claimed for it specific distinction,
and named it after the city near which he first observed it.
For many succeeding years it was again lost sight of, most
likely because no one was looking for it, but as the number of
collectors increased and rare birds were sought after, the species
was again observed, and at far distant points, giving it an exten-

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BIRDS OF

sive range from north to south, and west to the middle of the
continent. How relatively rare it is would be unsafe to say, for
it is difficult to identify it without close inspection, to accom-
plish which might require the slaughter of Warbling Vireos
enough to excite the ire of the Audubon Club.

Some time in the early part of 1883, I took up casually the
Bulletin of the Nuttall Ornithological Club and read therein a
charming article by Wm. Brewster on the distribution of this
Vireo in the Eastern States. It showed the little bird to be
more common and more widely distributed than was first sup-
posed, and left on my mind the impression that it must pass
through Ontario.

In May when the Vireos began toarrive I scrutinized them close-
ly, and the first I shot on suspicion proved to be of this species and
was I believe the first record for Ontario. When seen in the woods
it looked rather smaller than the Warbling Vireo, was more
solid and compact in the plumage, and was noticeably tinged
underneath with yellow. From these features in its general
appearance I have since recognized it both in spring and fall. I
have also heard of its being taken at other points in Ontario,
but have no record of its being found breeding within the Province.

246. VIREO GILVUS (ViezILL). 627.
Warbling Vireo.

Primaries ten, tie exposed portion of the first of which is one-third or
less of the second, no obvious wing-bars, no blackish stripe along the side of
the crown, and no abrupt contrast between color of back and crown. Upper
parts greenish, with an ashy shade, rather brighter on the rump and edgings
of the wings and tail, anteriorly shading insensibly into ashy on the crown.
Ash of crown bordered imniediately by a whitish superciliary and loral line;
region immediately before and behind the eye dusky ash. Below sordid
white with faint yellowish (sometimes creamy or buffy) tinge, more obviously
shaded along the sides with a dilution of the color of the back. Quills and
tail-feathers fuscous, with narrow external edgings as above said, and broader
whitish edging of the inner webs ; the wing-coverts without obvious whitish
tipping. Bill dark horn color above, paler below ; feet plumbeous ; iris
brown. Length, 5 inches, or rather more; wing, 2.80; tail, 2.25; bill, .40;
tarsus, .67.

248

ONTARIO.
Has. North America in general, from the Fur Countries to Mexico

Nest and eggs closely resembling those of the Red-eye, but usually placed
at a greater distance from the ground.

This amiable little songster 1s very common in Southern
Ontario, from the end of the first week in May till the beginning
of September. Although less abundant than the Red-eye, it is
probably known to a greater number of people, owing to the
preference it shows for isolated ornamental trees in parks and
gardens, and the shade trees in cities. Its song is soft, subdued
and flowing, like the murmuring of ‘¢a hidden brook in the leafy
month of June.”

There is another little Vireo I wish to mention here, for |
believe it will yet be found at some point on our southern
frontier, but I cannot include it in the list, having no well
authenticated record of its being found in the Province. This
is the White-eyed Vireo (Vireo Noveboraceusis). Its haunts are
different from those of any other member of the family, it being
partial to dense shrubbery or low tangled thickets, where, like
the Yellow-breasted-chat, it hops about and scolds vehemently
at any intruder who dares to venture too near its nest.

SuspcENus LANIVIREO Bairp.
2A. VIREO FLAVIFRONS (Vierrt.)) 28:

Yellow-throated Vireo.

Above rich olive-green, crown the same or even brighter, rump insensibly
shading into bluish-ash; below bright yellow, belly and crissum abruptly
white, sides anteriorly shaded with olive, posteriorly with plumbeous; extreme
forehead, superciliary line and ring around eye yellow; lores dusky;
wings dusky, with the inner secondaries broadly white-edged, and two broad
white bars across tips of greater and median coverts; tail dusky, nearly all the
feathers completely encircled with white-edging ; bill and feet dark leaden-blue ;
no spurious quill. Length, 53-6; wing, about 3; tail, only about 2}.

Has. Eastern United States; south, in winter, to Costa Rica.

The position and frame work of the nest of this species is similar to that
of the Red-eye, but its appearance and comfort are greatly increased by an
artistic outside coating of gray moss, intertwisted with the silk of caterpillars.

The eggs are not with certainty distinguishable from those of the Red Eye.

249

BIRDS OF

This is a summer resident in Southern Ontario, but is by no
means common. It seems partial to the beech woods, and being
more retiring than the preceding and less noisy than the Red-
eye it is not much observed. It is by some considered the
handsomest of all our Vireos, and a male in full spring plumage
is pleasing to look at, but I prefer the succeeding species. The
Yellow-throated Vireo, though not abundant, seems to be gener-
ally distributed throughout Ontario. It has been found at
Ottawa by Mr. White; at London Mr. Saunders reports it as a
common summer resident ; and it is also included in Mr. Seton’s
list of Birds of the Northwest Territory.

248. VIREO SOLITARIUS (Wrts.). 629.
Blue-headed Vireo.

Above olive-green; crown and sides of head bluish-ash in marked con-
trast; a broad white line from nostrils to and around eye and a dusky loral
line; below white, flanks washed with olivaceous, and auxilaries and crissum
pale yellow; wings and tail dusky, most of the feathers ecged with white or
whitish, and two conspicuous bars of the same across tips of middle
and great coverts; bill and feet blackish horn-color. Length, 5}-5$; wing,
23-3; tail, 2}-2}; spurious quill, 3-3, about } as long as second.

Has. Eastern United States to the Plains. In winter south to Mexico
and Guatemala.

Nest and eggs, similar to those of the other Vireos; resembling those of
the Yellow-throat more than either of the others.

This is a stout, hardy-looking bird, apparently _ better
adapted to live in the north than any other member of the
family. It arrives from the south with the earliest of the
Warblers, and in some years it is quite common during the
first half of May, after which it is not seen again till the fall.
While here it is much among the evergreens, leisurely seeking
its food, and is usually silent, but when at home it is said to

have a very pleasant song.

Famity MNIOTILTIDA. Woop-WarRBLERS.
Genus MNIOTILTA VIEILLoT.
249. MNIOTILTA VARIA (Linn.). 636.

Black and White Warbler.

Entirely white and black, in streaks except on the belly. Tail white
spotted; wings white barred. Length, about 5; wing, 23; tail, 2}.

250

ONTARIO.

Has. Eastern United States to the Plains, north to Fort Simpson,
south in winter to Central America and the West Indies.

Nest, on the ground; built of bark fibre, grass and leaves, lined with
plant down or hair.

Eggs, 4 to 6; creamy-white, spotted and sprinkled with reddish-brown.

’ This dainty little bird, formerly known as the Black and
White Creeper, has now been named the Black and White
Warbler, but as it is much more given to creeping than to warbl-
ing, it is likely that with the ordinary observer it will retain its
former name as long as it retains its creeping habit. It
arrives in Southern Ontario during the last days of April, and
even before the leaves are expanded its neat, decided attire
of black and white is observed in striking contrast to the dull
colored bark of the trees, around which it goes creeping with
wonderful celerity in search of its favoriteinsect food. Itbecomes
very common during the first half of May, after which the num-
bers again decrease, many having passed farther north, and
only a few remaining to spend the summer and raise their
young in Southern Ontario. The note of the male is sharp and
penetrating, resembling the sound made in sharpening a fine saw.

The Black and White Warbler is a typical representative of
the family of Wood-Warblers, which is remarkable for the num-
ber of its members, as well as for the richness and variety of
their dress. There is, perhaps, no group of small birds which
so much interests the collector, or furnishes so many attractive
specimens to his cabinet, as the one we have just been
considering.

Some of the members of this family are so rare that the
capture of one is the event of a life time. To get any of them
in perfect plumage they must be collected during the spring
migration, and that season is so short and uncertain that ifa
chance is missed in May another may not occur for a year.

Game birds are followed by sportsmen with much enthusiasm
and varying success, though Ruffed Grouse, Woodcock, and
Quail are now so scarce in the more settled parts of the country
that it is hardly worth while searching for them.

251

BIRDS OF

Our inland lakes and rivers are, at certain seasons, visited
by crowds of Waterfowl, and the hunter, hidden behind his
screen ofrushes in the marsh, delights tohear the hoarse honking
of an old gander as he leads onhis A shaped flock of Geese, or
to see the flocks of Ducks wheeling around and pitching down
into the open water beside his decoys. At Long Point, and
other shooting places where the Ducks have been ‘protected,
the number killed in a day is often very large. Dull, windy
weather with light showers of rain is preferred. If the hunter
is fortunate in choosing a good point at which to screen his
boat among the rushes he may remain there all day, and if the
Ducks are moving about he needs only to load as quick as he is ©
able and kill as many as he can, the proof of his success being
the number he brings home at night.

Not so with the Field Ornithologist, whose pursuits I have
always felt to be more refined and elevating than those of the
ordinary sportsman. As soon as the winter of our northern
clime relaxes its grasp, and the season of flowers and brighter
skies returns, he enters the woods as if by appointment, and
hears among the expanding buds the familiar voice of many a
feathered friend just returned from winter quarters. The meeting
is pleasant and the birds pass on. The walk is enjoyable, the
bush is fragrant and freckled with early spring flowers, the loud
warning note of the Great Crested Fly-catcher is heard in the
tree tops. Tanagers, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, etc., are there
in brilliant plumage and full of life, but a note is heard or a
glimpse is seen of something rare, and then is the time for the
collector to exercise his skill. He must not fire when the bird
is too close or he will destroy it. He must not let it get out of
reach or he may lose it. He must not be flurried or he may
miss it, and if he brings it down he must carefully mark the
spot where it fell and get there as quick as he can, forif the bird
is only wounded it may flutter away and hide itself, and even
if it falls dead it may be covered with a leaf and not seen again
unless the spot where it fell is carefully marked.

All seasons have their attractions, but the month of May
above all others is enjoyed by the collector, and bright and
rare are the feathered gems he then brings from the woods to
enrich his cabinet.

252

ONTARIO.

Genus HELMINTHOPHILA Ruipcway.
HELMINGIHOPHILA CHRYSOPTERA (Linn.).

250. Golden-winged Warbler. 642.

_ Male, in spring, slaty-blue, paler or whitish below where frequently tinged
with yellowish ; crown and two wing-bars rich yellow ; broad stripe on side of
head through eye, and large patch on the throat black; both these bordered
with white ; several tail-feathers white blotched. Billblack. Backand wings
frequently glossed with yellowish-olive in young birds in which the black
markings are somewhat obscure. Length, 4.75; extent, 7.50; wing, 2.40 ;
tail, 2.00.

Has. Eastern United States; Central America in winter.
Nest, on the ground; built of dry leaves and grape-vine bark, lined with

fine grass and horse hair.
Eggs, 4; pure white, spotted with reddish-brown.

A trim and beautifully marked species, very seldom seen in
Ontario and not abundant anywhere, being spoken of as one of
the rarer Warblers in the Eastern States, which is the habitat
of the species. Mr. Saunders mentions it as rather common
near London, where it breeds and is generally distributed.
From this I infer that it is one of those birds which enter On-
tario at the south-west corner, and having crossed the boundary
do not care to penetrate farther intothe Dominion. I have met
with it on two occasions near Hamilton, and have also heard of
its being noticed at Port Rowan. It is an exceedingly active,
restless species, and is most frequently found among the low
shrubbery on the moist ground near some creek or marshy inlet.

It is first observed about the roth of May, and disappears
early in September.

25). ELEC MIN FHOPHILA RUBRICAPILLA (WILs.). 645.
Nashville Warbler.

Above olive-green, brighter on the rump, changing to pure ash on the
head; below bright yellow, paler on the belly, olive shaded on the sides ;
crown with a more or less concealed chestnut patch ; lores and ring round the
eye pale; no superciliary line; female and autumnal specimens have the
head glossed with olive, and the crown patch may be wanting. Length,
44-42; wing, 24-24; tail, 13-2.

253

BIRDS OF

Has. Eastern North America to the Plains, north to the Fur Countries,
breeding from the Northern United States northward. Mexico in winter.

Nest, on the ground; composed of withered leaves and strips of bark,
lined with fine grass, pine needles or hair.

Eggs, 4; white, speckled with lilac or reddish-brown.

The Nashville Warbler, although an abundant species,
is not very regular in its visits to this part of Ontario; being
sometimes with us in considerable numbers during the season of
migration, and again being almost or altogether absent. When
they pass this way in the spring a few pairs usually remain
over che summer with us, but the greater number go on farther
north. In the fall they are again seen in limited numbers, —
working their way southward in company with their young,
which are distinguished by the absence of the crown patch. In
this part of Ontario we never see as great a number of Warblers
in the fall as we do in spring. Either they areless conspicuous
on account of the time of their migration extending over a longer
period, or they have some other return route by which the
majority find their way south.

252, HELMINTHOPHILA CELATA (Say.). 646.
Orange-crowned Warbler.

Above olive-green, rather brightest on the rump, never ashy on the head ;
below greenish-yellow, washed with olive on the sides ; crown with a more or
less concealed orange-brown patch (sometimes wanting); eye ring and ob-
scure superciliary line wanting. Jength, 4.80-5.20; extent, 7.40-7.75; wing,
2.30-2.50.

Has. Eastern North America (rare, however, in the North-eastern
United States), breeding as far northward as the Yukon and Mackenzie
River districts, and southward through the Rocky Mountains, and wintering
in the South Atlantic and Gulf States and Mexico.

Nest, on the ground; composed of leaves, bark fibre and fine grass.

Eggs, 4 to 6; white, marked with spots and blotches of reddish-brown.

The range of this species is chiefly along the west coast or
middle district of the continent. In the eastit occursrarely. As

a straggler I have met with it only on two occasions, the latter
being on the 11th May, 1886, when a specimen was taken at the

254

ONTARIO.

Beach by K. C. MclIlwraith. Mr. Saunders mentions having
obtained two near London, and Mr. Allan Brooks has got one
in Milton.

It is a very plainly attired species, and may readily be over-
looked, for there is nothing in its dress or manner to attract
attention, but on close examination the color of the crown patch
is a distinguishing mark not likely to be mistaken. The sexes
closely resemble each other, and the young are lke them,
except that they do not always have the brown crown patch
till after the first year.

293. HELMINTHOPHILA PEREGRINA (Wits.). 647.
Tennessee Warbler.

Olive-green, brighter behind, but never quite yellow on the tail-coverts,
more or less ashy towards and on the head; no crown patch; below white,
often glossed with yellowish, but never quite yellow; a ring round the eye,
and superciliary line whitish, frequently an obscure whitish spot on outer
tail-feathers ; lores dusky ; in the female and young the olivaceous glosses
the whole upper parts. Length, 44-42; wing, about 23; tail, 2 or less.

This comparative length of wing and tail, with other characters, prob-
ably always distinguishes this species from the foregoing.

Has. Eastern North America, breeding from Northern New York and
Northern New England northward to Hudson’s Bay Territory; Central
America in winter.

Nest, on or near the ground; built of grasses, mosses and bark strips,
lined with fine grass and hair.

Eggs, 4; white, with markings of reddish-brown about the larger end.

The Tennessee Warbler breeds in the Hudson’s Bay
Territory, where it is by no means rare, but the line
of its migration seems to be along the Mississippi Valley,
so that in the east it is seldom seen. I have only met
with ittwice, once in spring and again inthe fall. It is probable
that a few visit us with the migratory birds every season, but
like one or two others it may owe its safety to its plain attire,
being allowed to pass, while one of more gaudy plumage would
be stopped.

255

BIRDS OF

The discovery of this species is due to Wilson, who found it
on the banks of the Cumberland River in the State of Tennessee,
and who speaks of it as rare, for he met with it again only on two
occasions.

Genus COMPSOTHLYPIS Casants.
254. COMPSOTHLYPIS AMERICANA (Linn.). 648.

Parula Warbler.

Male, in spring, above blue, back with a golden-brown patch, throat and
breast yellow, with a rich brown or blackish patch, the former sometimes
extending along the sides ; belly, eyelids, two wing-bars and several tail
spots white; lores black; upper mandible black, lower flesh-colorel ; female,
in spring, with the blue less bright, back and throat patches not so well
defined; young, with these patches obscure or wanting, but always recogniz-
able by the other marks and very small size. Length, 44-43; wing, 2};
tail, 13.

Has. Eastern Unite] States, west to the Plains, north to Canada, and

south in winter to the West Indies and Central America.

Nest, globular, with a hole in the side, suspended from the end ofa
bough, often 20 feet or more from the ground; composed of hanging mosses,
so as often to look like on excavation made in the side of a bunch of moss.

Eggs, creamy-white, with spots of lilac and brown.

This small and neatly dressed species is very common during
the spring migration, when it may be seen in the tops of the
tallest trees often hanging back downward like a Titmouse,
searching for insects among the opening leaves. In winter it
withdraws entirely from Canada, and even from the United
States, great numbers being at that season observed in the West
Indies.

On the return trip in spring a few pairs stop by the way, but
the majority pass on still farther north to breed. I have not
heard of the nest being foundin Ontario, but I have the impression
that this and many others of the same family will yet be found
breeding in the picturesque District of Muskoka, between the
Georgian Bay and the Ottawa River.

256

ONTARIO.

Genus DENDROICA Garay.
SuBGENUS PERISSOGLOSSA Barrp.
255. DENDROICA TIGRINA (GME L.). 650.
Cape May Warbler.

Male, in spring, back yellowish-olive with dark spots ; crown blackish,
more or less interrupted with brownish ; ear patch orange-brown; chin, throat
and posterior portion of a yellowish superciliary line, tinged with the same ;
a black loral line, rump and under parts rich yellow, paler on belly and crissum:
the breast and sides streaked with black ; wing-bars fused into a large whitish
patch; tail blotches large, on three pairs of retrices; bill and feet black.
Female, in spring, somewhat similar, but lacks the distinctive head markings ;
the under parts are paler and less streaked ; the tail spots small or obscure ;
the white on the wing less. Young, an insignificant looking bird, resembling
an overgrown Ruby-crowned Kinglet without its crest ; obscure greenish-olive
above, rump olive-yellow, under parts yellowish-white ; breast and sides with
the streaks obscure or obsolete ; little or no white on wings, which are edged
with yellowish ; tail spots very small. Length, 5-5}; wing, 23; tail, 2}.

Has. Eastern North America, north to Hudson's Bay Territory, west
tothe Plains. Breeds from Northern New England northward and also in
Jamaica ; winters in the West Indies.

Nest, fastened to the outermost twigs of a cedar bough about 3 feet
from the ground, composed of minute twigs of dried spruce, grasses and straw-
berry vines woven together with spider webs Therim is neatly formed and
the lining is entirely ot horse hair.

Eggs, creamy white; marked with lilac and reddish-brown.

This rare and beantiful Warbler is peculiar to the east, not
yet having been found west of the Mississippi. In the Eastern
States it is got occasionally, but is so rare that it is always
regarded as aprize, and the collector who recognizes in the woods
the orange ear-coverts and striped breast of this species is not
likely soon to forget the tingling sensation which passes up to
his finger ends at the time.

I have altogether found six in Ontario, but the time of their
capture extended over a good many years. The above descrip-
tion of the nest and eggs is condensed from an account given by
Montague Chamberlain in ‘The Auk” for January, 1885, of the
finding of a nest on the northern boundary of New Brunswick
in the summer of 1882.

257

BIRDS OF

SuBGENUS DENDROICA Gray.
256. DENDROICA ASTIVA (GmMEL.). 652.
Yellow Warbler.

Golden-yellow; back olive-yellow, frequently with obsolete brownish
streaks; breast and sides streaked with orange-brown, which sometimes
tinges the crown ; wings and tail dusky, the latter marked with yellow
blotches ; bill dark blue. Female and young paler; less or not streaked
below. Length, 54; wing, 24%; tail, 24.

Has. North America at large, south in winter to Central America and

Northern South America.

Nest, placed in the crotch of a small tree or bush ; composed of a variety
of soft, elastic materials, including wool, hair, moss, bark fibre and plant
down, closely felted together.

Eggs, 4 to 5; grayish-white, spotted and blotched with different shades
of reddish-brown.

This is, perhaps, the best known of all the Warbler family,
its nest being more frequently found in a lilac bush in the gar-
den than in any more retired situation. About the roth of May
it arrives from the south, and soon makes its presence known
by its sprightly notes, the males being in full song at the time
of their arrival.

It spends much of its time picking small caterpillars off the
foliage of the willows, and is a general favorite on account of its
sociable disposition and confiding manners. Unfortunately for
its domestic comfort, it is often reluctantly compelled to become
the foster parent of a young Cowbird, but it does not always
accept the situation. After the obnoxious egg has been deposited,
it has been known to raise the sides of the nest an inch higher,
build a second bottom over the top of the egg, and raise its
own brood above, leaving the Cowbird egg to rot in the
basement.

257. DENDROICA CASRULESCENS (GmMe-.). 654.
Black-throated Blue Warbler.

Male, inspring, above uniform slaty-blue, the perfect continuity of which is
only interrupted, in very high plumages, by a few black dorsal streaks ; below
pure white ; the sides of the head to abovethe eyes, the chin, throat and whole

258

ONTARIO.

sides of the body continuously jet black ; wing-bars wanting (the coverts being
black, edged with blue), but a large white spot at the base of the primaries ;
quill feathers blackish, outwardly edged with bluish, the inner ones mostly
white on their inner webs; tail with the ordinary white blotches, the central
feathers edged with bluish ; bill black; feet dark. Young male, similar, but
the blue glossed with olivaceous, and the black interrupted and restricted.
Female entirely different ; dull olive-greenish with faint bluish shade, below
pale soiled yellowish; recognizable by the white spot at the base of the
primaries, which, though it may be reduced toa mere speck, is always evident,
at least on pushing aside the primary coverts; tail blotches small or obscure ;
feet rather pale. Length, about 5; wing, 23; tail, 24.

Has. Eastern North America to the Plains, breeding fron Northern New
England and Northern New York northward, and in the Alleghanies to
Northern Georgia, West Indies in winter

Nest, placed in the fork of a bush near the ground ; composed of grape-
vine bark and rootlets, lined with vegetable fibre and horse hair.

Eggs, 3 to 5, creamy-white with a few spots of reddish-brown toward the
larger end.

During the spring migration this species is always fairly
represented, and some seasons it exceeds innumbers any other
group of the family to which it belongs. It arrives about the
roth of May, and continues common till the 25th, by which time
those bound for the north have disappeared. I have heard of
individuals being seen in the woods in summer, and think it quite
likely that a few pairs breed in suitable places in the southern
part of the Province, but the majority unquestionably go farther
north. While here the favorite haunt of the species 1s in the
open woods, but it also visits the orchard, and is often seen
among the lilac bushes in search of its insect food. In the fall
it is in the woods during the greater part of September, after
which it disappears and is seen no more till the following spring.

258. DENDROICA CORONATA (Linn.). 655.
Myrtle Warbler.

Male, in spring, slaty-blue streaked with black ; breast and sides mostly
black ; throat and belly pure white, immaculate; rump, central crown patch
and sides of breast sharply yellow, there being thus four definite yellow places ;
sides of head black; eyelids and superciliary line white; ordinary white
wing-bars and tail-blotches; bill and feet black; male in winter and female

259

BIRDS OF

in summer similar, but slate color less pure or quite brownish. Young, quite
brown above, obscurely streaked below. Length, 54-5$; wing, 3; tail, 24.

Has. Eastern North America chiefly, straggling more or less com-
monly westward to the Pacific; breeds from the Northern United States
northward, and winters from the Middle States and the Ohio Valley south-
ward to the West Indies and Central America.

Nest, in a low tree or bush; composed chiefly of hemlock twigs and
lined with feathers.

Eggs, 3 to5; white, marked with brownish-purple.

The familiar Yellow Rump is the first of the family to arrive
in spring, often appearing early in April, and for a time is the
one most frequently met with in the woods, where it is observed
passing in loose flocks among the upper branches of the trees.

By the middle of May they have mostly disappeared, and
are not again seen in Southern Ontario tillthe end of September.
They linger late in the fall as if unwilling to leave, and many
probably do not go much beyond our southern boundary, though
none have been known to remain here over the winter. On
the Pacific coast this species has been replaced by Dendroica
Auduboni (Audubon’s Warbler). These two species resemble
each other very closely, the principle difference being that in the
western species the throat is yellow, while in oursit is white. Our
eastern species has frequently been found on the Pacific coast, but
in the east the western one has only once been observed, the
record being of a specimen taken near Cambridge, Mass., on
the 15th Nov., 1876.

259. DENDROICA MACULOSA (GmMEL.). 657.
Magnolia Warbler.

Male, in spring, back black, the feathers more or less skirted with olive ;
rump yellow ; crown clear ash, bordered by black in front to the eyes, behind
the eyes by a white stripe; forehead and sides of the head black, continuous
with that of the back, enclosing the white under eyelid; entire under parts
(except white under tail-coverts) rich yellow, thickly streaked across the breast
and along the sides with black, the pectoral streaks crowded and cutting off
the definitely bounded immaculate yellow throat from the yellow of the
other under parts; wing-bars white, generally fused into one patch ; tail
spots small, rectangular, at the middle of the tail and on all the feathers except

260

ONTARIO.

the central pair; bill black; feet brown. Female, in spring, quite similar ;
black of back reduced to spots in the grayish-olive; ash of head washed with
olive ; other head markings obscure ; black streaks below smaller and fewer.
Young quite different ; upper parts ashy-olive; no head markings whatever,
and streaks below wanting or confined to a few small ones along the sides,
but always known by the yellow rump, in connection with extensively or com-
pletely yellow under parts (except white under tail-coverts) and small tail
spots near the middle of all the feathers except the central. Small, 5 inches
or less; wing, 24; tail, 2.

Has. Lastern North America to the base of the Rocky Mountains,
breeding from Northern New England, Northern New York and Northern
Michigan to Hudson's Bay Territory. In winter, Bahamas, Cuba and
Central America.

Nest, placed in a low spruce or hemlock, a few feet above the ground ;
composed of twigs, rootlets and grass, and lined with horse hair.

Eggs, 4; dull white, marked with lilac and brown.

This is by many considered the most gaily dressed of the
Warbler family. In Southern Ontario it is a migrant in spring
and fall and usually quite numerous. [From its remaining near
Hamilton till late in May and appearing again about the end of
August, we may infer that some of the numbers which pass in
spring breed at no great distance. Mr. C. J. Young, of the
Collegiate Institute, Perth, mentions having found a nest of this
species in his neighborhood on the rst July, 1885. The de-
scription of the nest, its position, and the four eggs it contained
correspond exactly with that given by others who have seen
them elsewhere. So far as I have observed this is not one of
the high fliers, being seldom seen among the tree tops, but
mostly in young woods, particularly evergreens, where its colors
show to advantage against the back-ground of dark foliage.

260. DENDROICA CA‘'RULEA (Wits.). 658.

Cerulean Warbler.

Maile, in spring, azure-blue, with black streaks ; below pure white, breast and
sides with blue or blue-black streaks ; two white wing-bars ; tail blotches small,
but occupying every feather, except perhaps the central pair; bill black; feet
dark. Female and young with the blue strongly glossed with greenish, and
the white soiled with yellowish; a yellowish eye-ring and superciliary line.
Length, 4-44.

201

BIRDS OF

Has. Eastern United States and Southern Canada tothe Plains. Rare
or casual east of Central New York and the Alleghanies. Cuba (rare) and
Central America in winter.

Nest, in the outer fork of a branch, 20 to 50 feet from the ground ; com-
posed of bark strips, grass and rootlets, and lined with fine grass and fibre ;
outside are many pieces of gray moss fastened with spider's silk.

Eggs, 4; creamy-white blotched with brown.
The Cerulean Warbler is, I think, a regular summer resident
in Southern Ontario, but is somewhat local in its distribution.

One spring I searched for it carefully near Hamilton without
seeing a single individual, while across the bay, four miles off,

Mr. Dickson reported it as quite common, and breeding in the

woods near the Waterdown station of the Grand Trunk Railway.
Its home and haunts are among the upper branches of the trees,
and except on a blustering rainy Gay it is seldom seen among
the lower branches. Its song is almost identical with that of
the Parula Warbler, but in that species it rises to a slightly
higher key at the close, while the Cerulean’s ditty 1s uniform
throughout. The colors of the bird are very pleasing when it
is seen in a good light, fluttering among the topmost twigs of a
beech or maple, the azure-blue and silvery-white seeming like a
shred wafted from the drapery of the sky. Dr. Wheaton men-
tions the species as abundant in Ohio, but elsewhere it 1s con-
sidered rare.

261. DENDROICA PENNSYLVANICA (Linn.). 659.
Chestnut-sided Warbler.

Male, in spring, back streaked with black and pale yellow (sometimes
ashy or whitish), whole crown pure yellow, immediately bordered with white,
then enclosed in black; sides of head and neck and whole under parts pure
white, the former with an irregular black crescent before the eye, one horn
extending backward over the eye to border the yellow crown and be dissipated
on the sides of the nape, the other reaching downward and backward to con-
nect with a chain of pure chestnut streaks that run the whole length of the
body, the under eyelid and auriculars being left white ; wing-bands generally
fused into one large patch, and like the edging of the inner secondaries, much
tinged with yellow; tail spots white as usual; bill blackish ; feet brown.
Female, in spring, quite similar ; colors less pure ; black loral crescent obscure
or wanting; chestnut streaks thinner. Young, above, including the crown,

262

ONTARIO.

clear yellowish-green, perfectly uniform or back with slight dusky touches ;
no distinct head-markings ; below entirely- white from bill to tail, or else show-
ing a trace of chestnut streaks on the sides ; wing-bands clear yellow, as in the
adult ; this is a diagnostic feature, shared by no other species, taken in con-
nection with the continuously white under parts; bill light colored below
Length, 5-54; wing, 24; tail, 2.

Has. Eastern United States and Southern Canada, west to the Plains,
breeding southward to Central Illinois and in the Appalachian Highlands,
probably to Northern Georgia. Visits the Bahamas and Central America in
winter.

Nest, in the fork of a bush or sapling, 3 to 8 feet from the ground ; com-
posed of bark strips and grass, and lined with plant down and hair.

Eggs, 4 to 5; creamy-white with reddish-brown marking.

A common summer resident, breeding in suitable places near
the city and throughout the country, and raising two broods in
the season. It is very partial to briar patches, but sometimes
goes gleaning for insects among the trees, when the blending of
its varied plumage with the fresh spring foliage produces a very
pleasing effect. It arrives from the south about the 1oth of
May, and departs early in September.

262. DENDROICA CASTANEA (Wixts.). 660.
Bay-breasted Warbler.

Male, in spring, back thickly streaked with black and grayish-olive ; fore-
head and sides of head black, enclosing a large deep chestnut patch ; a duller
chestnut (exactly likea Blue-bird’s breast) occupies the whole chin and throat,
and extends, more or less interrupted, along the entire sides of the body ; rest
of under parts ochrey or buffy-whitish, a similar buffy area behind the ears ;
wing-bars and tail-spots ordinary ; billand feet blackish. The female, in spring
is more olivaceous than the male, with the markings less pronounced, but
always shows evident chestnut coloration, and probably traces of it persist in
all adult birds in the fall. The young, however, so closely resemble young
striata that it is sometimes impossible to distinguish them with certainty.
Castanea is, however, tinged with buffy or ochrey below, instead of the clear
pale yellowish of striata; moreover, castanea is usually not streaked on the
sides at all. Size of striata.

Has. Eastern North America, north to Hudson’s Bay. Breeds from
Northern New England and Northern Michigan northward ; winters in
Central America.

263

BIRDS OF

Nest, ina hemlock tree, 15 or 20 feet from the ground ; composed of larch
twigs and moss, woven together with spider silk, and lined with fibrous roots.

Eggs, 4; bluish-green, thickly spotted with lilac and brown.

My observations of this species agree with what has been
published regarding it by those who have observed it in the
Eastern States. I have foundit abundant in spring some years,
and in others rare or entirely wanting, while in the fall it is
always scarce, if it is seen at all. This has lead to the belief
that the species does not always follow the same line of migration
in spring, and that in the fall the return trip is made along a
line to the west of us, the few we see being only stragglers from
the main body. It is a late comer, being seldom seen tiil after
the middle of May ; and is less active in its movements than other
members of the family. It is seldom seen on the ground or near
it, usually keeping among the upper branches of the trees.

The only time I ever saw more than three or four together
was in the spring of 1885, when I observed a flock of fifty or
more feeding in a clump of willows overhanging an inlet of the
bay.

263. DENDROICA STRIATA (Forst.). 661.
Black-poll Warbler.

Male, in spring, upper parts thickly streaked with black and olivaceous-
ash ; whole crown pure black ; head below the level of the eyes and whole under
parts white, the sides thickly marked with black streaks crowding forward on
the sides of the neck to form two stripes that converge to meet at base of the
bill, cutting off the white of the cheeks from that of the throat ; wing-bars and
tail-blotches white; inner secondaries white edged; primaries usually edged
externally with olive; feet and other mandible flesh color or pale yellowish ;
upper mandible black. Female,in spring, upper parts, including the crown,
greenish-olive, both thickly and rather sharply black streaked ; white of under
parts soiled anteriorly with very pale olivaceous-yellow, the streaks smaller
and not so crowded asin the male. Young closely resembling the adult
female, but a brighter and more greenish-olive above with fewer streaks, often
obsolete on the crown; below more or less tinged with pale greenish-yellow,
the streaks very obscure, sometimes altogether wanting ; under tail-coverts
usually pure white ; a yellowish superciliary line; wing-bars tinged with the
same color. Length, 54-5%; wing, 2?-3; tail, 2-24.

204

ONTARIO.

Has. Eastern North America to the Rocky Mountains, north to Green-
land, the Barren Grounds and Alaska, breeding from Northern New England
northward. Southin winter to Northern South America.

Nest, in an evergreen, 8 or ro feet from the ground; built of larch twigs
woven together with moss and grass, and lined with fine grass.

Eggs, 5; white, spotted with purple and reddish-brown.

The Black-poll is a regular visitor in Southern Ontario in
spring and fall. It is the last of the family to arrive from the
south, being seldom seen before the 20th of May. Its stay at this
time is of short duration, and when it goes the collector con-
siders the Warbler seasonis over. Inthe fall they are again seen
in increased numbers, many being in the young plumage, and
not in such haste to depart, although none remain over the
winter.

The musical powers, if they have any, are not exercised in
this latitude, the birds while here being mostly silent. They
feed largely on winged insects, which are never plentiful till the
end of May, and this may account for the Black-polls being late
im arriving in spring.

264. DENDROICA BLACKBURNIA. (GMEL.). 662.
Blackburnian Warbler.

Male, in spring, back black, more or less interrupted with yellowish;
crown black, with a central orange spot; a broad black stripe through the eye,
enclosing the orange under eyelid; rest of head, with whole throat, most bril-
liant orange or flame color; other under parts whitish, more or less tinged
with yellow, and sides streaked with black; wing-bars fused into a large white
patch; tail blotches white, occupying nearly all the outer feathers; bill and
feet dark. Female and young male, upper parts olive and black, streaked ;
superciliary line and throat clear yellow, fading insensibly on the breast ; lower
eyelid yellow, confined in the dusky ear-patch; wing patch resolved into two
bars; tail blotches nearly as extensive as in the adult male, the outer feathers
showing white on the outer webs at base. Length, 5}; wing, 23; tail, 24.

Has. Eastern North America to the Plains, breeding from the northern
and more elevated parts of the Eastern United States northward; in winter,
south to the Bahamas, Central America and Northern South America.

Nest, in an evergreen, 20 feet from the ground; built of twigs, grass and
moss, and lined with fine fibre, hair and feathers.

265

BIRDS OF

This “ flying gem,” clad in black and orange of the richest
shade, is by many regarded asthe most gaily attired of all the
Warblers. It is a regular visitor in spring and fall, and though
not abundant is very generally distributed.

From its lingering late in spring and appearing early in
September, it probably does not go much farther north to spend
the summer, but at that season it has not been observed in
Southern Ontario. One of the few errors made by Wilson was
his description of the young of the Blackburnian Warbler as a
different species, which he named the Hemlock Warbler. He
was for a time followed by other writers, till further observation
brought out the truth. Like most of its class this species crosses
the southern frontier during the early part of May, and is again
seen passing south in September.

265. DENDROICA VIRENS (GmMeEL.). 667.
Black-throated Green Warbler.

Male, in spring, back and crown clear yellow-olive , forehead, superciliary
line, sides of head rich yellow (in very high plumage, middle of back with
dusky marks, and dusky or dark olive lines through eyes, auriculars, and even
bordering the crown) ; chin, throat and breast jet black, prolonged behinc in
streaks on the sides; other under parts white, usually yellow-tinged ; wings
and tail dusky, the former with two white bars and much white edging, the
latter with outer feathers nearly all white ; bill and feet blackish; male in the
fall and female in the spring similar, but black restricted, interrupted or veiled
with yellow; young similar to the female, but the black more restricted or
wanting altogether, except afew streaks along the sides. Length, about 5 ;
wing, 24; tail, 2}.

Has. Eastern North America to the Plains, north to Hudson's Bay
Territory ; breeding from the Northern United States northward. In winter,
south to Cuba and Panama. Accidental in Greenland and Europe.

Nest, small, neat, compact, placed in a fork of a pine tree, near the end
of a branch, often 20 to 50 feet from the ground ; composed of twigs, strips of
vine bark and dried grass, and lined with vegetable fibre and horse hair.

Eggs, 3 to 4; creamy-white, marked with reddish-brown, mostly toward
the larger end.

The Black-throated Green Warbler is a regular visitor in
spring and fall. It appears a few days earlier in spring than

266

ONTARIO

some others of its class, and soon announces its arrival by the
frequent utterance of its characteristic notes, which are readily
recognized when heard in the woods, but difficult to translate
into our language. When the Warblers are on their migratory
journey they use trees of all kinds as resting places, but while
seeking food this species evidently prefers the pines, and
is most frequently seen among thehigher branches. In the fall
they are active as ever in their movements, but are mostly silent,
except in the utterance of a simple chirp to advise each other of
their whereabouts.

266. DENDROICA VIGORSII (Aup.). 671.
Pine Warbler.

Uniform yellowish-olive above, yellow below, paler or white on belly and
under tail-coverts, shaded and sometimes obsoletely streaked with darker on
the sides; superciliary line yellow; wing-bars white; tail blotches confined to
two outer pairs of feathers, large, oblique. Female and young similar, duller;
sometimes merely olive-gray above and soiled-whitish below. The varia-
tions in precise shade are interminable, but the species may always be known
by the lack of any special sharp markings whatever, except the superciliary
line, and by the combination of white wing-bars with large oblique tail spots
confined to the two outer pairs of feathers. Length, 54 to nearly 6 inches

Has. Eastern United States to the Plains, north to Ontario and New
Brunswick, wintering inthe South Atlantic and Gulf States, and the Bahamas.

Nest, in a pine tree, well up from the ground ; built of strips of bark, root-
lets and grass, and lined with plant down, hair and feathers.

Eggs, usually 4; white, tinged with pink and spotted with reddish-brown.

The Pine-creeping Warbler is not remarkable for either the
gaiety of dress or activity of movement which distinguish most
of the others ofitsclass. It isa large, quiet Warbler, yellowish-
green above and greenish-yellow below, and is most frequently
observed creeping on the trunks or branches of the pine trees
searching for insects among the crevices of the bark. It does
not seem to be generally distributed, for Dr. Wheaton speaks
of it as being rare in Ohio, and Mr. Saunders has not met with
it near London, while at Hamilton it is rather acommon species,
and raises its young near the city every season.

267

BIRDS OF

It arrives from the south quite early in spring, and for a
time is quiet, but as the weather gets warmer the male indulges
in a rather pleasant little song, resembling that of the Chipping

Sparrow. In the fall they disappear about the middle of
September.

267. DENDROICA PALMARUM (GMEL.). 672.
Palm Warbler.

Adult male, in spring, beneath yellowish-white, tinged with yellow, the
throat and crissum deepening into gamboge; sides of the neck, sides and en- ©
tire breast streaked with umber-brown, tinged with rusty, the shafts of the
feathers darker; a distinct superciliary stripe of clear yellow ; pileum uni-
form rich chestnut, darker next the bill, when divided medially by a short
and indistinct streak of yellow; upper parts in general olive-gray, deepening
into yellowish olive-green on the upper tail-coverts; tail-feathers dusky,
edged externally with pale olive-yellowish, the two outer pairs with their inner
webs broadly tipped with white; wings dusky, the rimiges edged like the
tail-feathers with yellowish olive-green, both rows of coverts tipped with pale
grayish-buff, forming rather distinct indications of two bands. Wing, 2.55;
tail, 2.30.

Has. Northern interior to Great Slave Lake ; in winter and in migra-
tions, Mississippi Valley and Gulf States, including Western and Southern
Florida and the West Indies. Casual in the Atlantic States.

From the way in which western birds creep up into Ontario
around the west end of Lake Erie, I think it highly probable
that this species will be found here. I have noticed some indi-
viduals much brighter in the yellow than others, but at present
the number of specimens available for comparison is so small
that I cannot say positively that we have both species, and have
some doubts as to whether the recognized authorities have
acted wisely in making the separation.

DENDROICA PALMARUM HYPOCHRYSEA (Rinew.).

268. Yellow Palm Warbler. 672 a.

Adult male, in spring, entire lower parts and a conspicuous superciliary
stripe bright yellow, entirely continuous and uniform beneath ; entire sides
marked with broad streaks of deepchestnut, these most distinct on the sides

268

ONTARIO.

of the breast; auricular mixed olive and chestnut (the ‘latter prevailing),
somewhat darker immediately behind the eye ; lore with an indistinct dusky
streak; entire pileum rich chestnut, becoming darker next the bill when
divided medially by a short and rather indistinct yellow streak; rest of the
upper parts olive, tinged with brown on the back and brightening into
yellowish olive-green on the rump and upper tail-coverts, the latter having
shaft streaks of reddish-chestnut ; tail-feathers dusky, edged externally with
yellowish-olive, the inner webs of the two outer feathers broadly tipped with
white; wings dusky, all the feathers edged with pale brownish-olive, this
edging rather widest on the ends of the middle and greater coverts,
where, however, they do not form any indication of bands. Wing, 2.65 ;
tail, 2.50.

Has. Atlantic States north to Hudson’s Bay. Breeds from New Bruns-
wick and Nova Scotia northward ; winters in the South Atlantic and Gulf
States.

Nest, on the ground; built of bark fibre, grass and moss, and lined with
hair and feathers.

Eggs, creamy-white, blotched with reddish-brown at the larger end.

As this interesting bird is said to be abundant in the
Eastern States as far west as the Plains, we should expect to
find it also plentiful in Ontario, but I have not so observed it
near Hamilton. Occasionally, late in the fall or early in spring,
it is seen running about on the ground, by the roadsides or in
bare weedy fields, but it is not at any time abundant, and some-
times altogether absent. It is very different, in many respects,
from the other members of the group in which it has been placed;
its building its nest on the ground and the jerky motions of its
tail suggesting relationship with the Tit Lark.

Some ten years ago, while examining a large series of speci-
mens of this species in the National Museum, Mr. Ridgway
observed a wide difference in the intensity of the coloring of
different individuals in the group. An examination, as to the
localities from which they had been obtained, showed that the
highly colored individuals were from the east of the Alleghanies,
while those in plainer attire were all from farther west. A com-
parison of specimens in the possession of different collectors in
these districts showed that the differences referred to were con-
stant, and apparently a Geographical race, which has led to
the variety we are now considering being described as a sub-

269

BIRDS OF

species, under the name of Dendroica Palmarum Hypochrysea ;
the original Dendroica Palmarus of Gmelin being supposed to be
the plain colored form observed in the west. I have described
both, so that collectors may satisfy themselves as to whether
we have here the eastern form, or the western, or both.

Genus SEIURUS Swainson.
269. SEIURUS AUROCAPILLUS (Linw.). 674.
Oven Bird.

Crown orange-brown, bordered with two black stripes, no superciliary
line. Above bright olive-green; below pure white, thickly spotted with

dusky on breast and sides; a narrow maxiliary line of blackish; under wing- ,
coverts tinged with yellow ; a white eye-ring; legs flesh color. Sexes alike ;

young similar. Length, 53-64; wing, 3; tail, 2%.

Has. Eastern North America, north to Hudson's Bay Territory and Alaska ;
breeding from Kansas, the Ohio Valley and Virginia northward. In winter,
Southern Florida, the West Indies and Central America.

Nest, on the ground, usually on a sloping bank, frequently roofed over
with an entrance at the side; composed of twigs, leaves and moss, and lined
with fine grass and hair.

Eggs, 4 to 5; creamy-white, spotted with reddish-brown.

The Oven Bird, so called from its habit of building its nest
somewhat in the form of an oven, is a summer resident in
Ontario, and is very generally distributed, being found in suit-
able places all over the country, from the early part of May till
the beginning of September. To see it walking gingerly on the
ground, jerking itstailafter the manner of the Tit Lark, conveys
the impression of a very quiet, retiring, little bird, with clear,
handsome markings, but should it mount to one of the middle
branches of a tree it is astonishing to observe with what
emphasis and energy it delivers its notes. With a little help
from the imagination its song resembles the word teacher,
frequently repeated with increasing emphasis. This loud,
clear call may often be heard in the moist woods during the
month of May, but the bird is said to have also another song
more soft and musical, which may be reserved for special
occasions, for I have not met with any one who has heard it.

270

ONTARIO.

270. SEIURUS NOVEBORACENSIS (GmMEL.). 675.
Water-Thrush.

Entire upper parts deep olivaceous-brown ; conspicuous superciliary line
yellowish; below white, more or less tinged with pale yellowish, thickly and
sharply spotted with the color of the back, except on lower belly and crissum ;
feet dark. Length, 53-6; wing, 2%; tail, 2}; bzll, about &.

Has. Eastern United States to Illinois, and northward to Arctic America;
breeding from the Northern United States northward. South in winter to
the West Indies and Northern South America.

Nest, on the ground ; built of leaves, moss and grasses, and lined with
fine grass and rootlets.

Eggs, 4 to 6; of crystalline whiteness, marked with reddish-brown.

This inhabitant of the moist woods and swampy thickets is
found in all suitable places throughout the country, but it has
not the loud decided notes of the Oven Bird, and is therefore
less known though quite as abundant. It 1s terrestrial in its
habits, being often seen walking with careful steps by the edge
of the pools, or along wet logs, nervously jerking its tail, after
the manner of the Teeter Snipe.

In appearance it closely resembles the next species, with
which it has often been confounded, but the distinction, once
clearly understood, is afterwards readily recognized. In the
present species the throat and breast are streaked from the bill
downwards, while in the next the throat is always unstreaked.

Zio UN US, MOTACILIGA (ViiniLt.).. j676.

Louisiana Water-Thrush.

Very similar to the last ; rather larger, averaging about 6, with the wing 3;
bill especially longer and stouter, over 4, and tarsus nearly 1. Under parts
white, only faintly tinged, and chiefly on the flanks and crissum, with buffy-
yellow; the streaks sparse, pale and not very sharp; throat, as well as belly
and crissum, unmarked; legs pale

Has. Eastern United States, north to Southern New England and Michi-
gan, west to the Plains. In winter, West Indies, Southern Mexico and
Central America.

271

BIRDS OF

Nest, on the ground ; composed of twigs, moss and leaves, and lined with
fine grass and the fur of some quadruped.

Eggs, 4; white, tinged with rose color ard lightly marked with reddish-
brown.

Southern Ontario is perhaps the northern limit of this species,
and even there it isnot generally distributed. My first acquaint-
ance with it was early on a bright May morning, a good many
years ago. I had gone out under the mountain, west of Hamilton,
and was crossing a deep ravine, which there cut through the
mountain wall, when I heard farther up the glen the clear, rich,
liquid notes of a bird that was then entirely new to me. Follow-
ing, with some difficulty, the course of the stream, which was
heard trickling beneath the moss-grown rocks in the bottom of
the ravine, I came, at length, in sight of the musician. He was
on the prostrate trunk of.a tree, which, years before, had fallen
and bridged over the chasm, but was now moss-grown and going
to decay, and on this carpeted platform he moved about with
mincing steps, often turning around with a jerk of the tail and
uttering his characteristic notes with such energy that, for a time,
the whole ravine seemed filled with the sound. I have seen the
species many times since then, but the recollection of our first
meeting has lingered long in my memory, and this particular
bird still occupies a prominent place in my collection.

The Large-billed, or Louisiana Water-Thrush as it is now
called, is by no means so common a bird in Ontario as the pre-
ceeding ; yet along the southern border of the Province, where-
ever there is arocky ravine, its loud, clear notes are almost sure
to be heard in the spring, mingling with the sound of the falling
water. It arrives from the south early in May and leaves in
September.

Genus GEOTHLYPIS Casanis.
SusBcGenus OPORORNIS Barron.
272.. GEOTHLYPIS AiGBLIS, (WV is.). = Gis.

Connecticut Warbler.

Above olive-green, becoming ashy on the head; below, from the breast,
yellow, olive-shaded on the sides ; chin, throat and breast grayish-ash; a

272

ONTARIO.

whitish ring round eye; wings and tail unmarked, glossed with olive ; under
mandible and feet pale ; no decided markings anywhere. Length, 54; wing;
22; tail, 2. ;

Has. Eastern North America, breeding north of the United States.

Nest and eggs unknown.

The Connecticut Warbler was discovered by Wilson, and
named by him after the State in which he found it. Itisa
widely distributed species but 1s nowhere abundant, though it
seems to be more common in the west than in the eastern por-
tion of its habitat. It is of shy, retiring habits, frequenting low,
swampy places and keeping near the ground.

On one or two occasions I have met with the adults in
spring, and have seen them again in the fall accompanied with
their young. In their haunts and habits they closely resemble
the Mourning Warbler, and in certain stages of plumage they
are also like each other in appearance, but the present species
can always be recognized by its wings, which are longer and
more pointed.

This species undoubtedly breeds in Ontario, and as the nest
and eggs are still unknown to naturalists there is here a prize
which our Canadian boys should try to secure. I found the
young in August, and they certainly looked asif they had
not travelled far.

Aion “GEOT MSY PIS *PHILADE MPH (Wits.).""679!
Mourning Warbler.

Bright olive, below clear yellow ; on the head the olive passes insensibly
into ash: in high plumage the throat and breast are black, but are generally
ash showing black traces, the feathers being black, skirted with ash, produc-
ing a peculiar appearance suggestive of the birds wearing crape ; wings and
tail unmarked, glossed with olive; under mandible and feet flesh color ; no

_ white about eyes. Young birds have little or no ashy on the head and no
black on the thrvat, thus nearly resembling the Oporornis agilis. Length,
54-53 ; wing and tail, each about 2}.

Has. Eastern North America to the Plains; breeding from the moun-
tainous portions of Pennsylvania, New England and New York, and North-
ern Michigan northward. Central America and Northern South America in
winter.

273

BIRDS OF

Nest, on or near the ground; built of leaves and weed stalks, and lined
with fine black rootlets.

Eggs, 3; ‘‘ light flesh color uniformly speckled with fine brown specks.”

Very little is yet known of the nest and eggs of the Mourn-
ing Warbler. The above description is given by John Burroughs
of a nest found by him in New York State, which is farther
south than these birds usually spend the summer.

Some years since, when waiting for the train at a way station
on the Kincardine branch of the G. T. R., I strolled into the
neighboring woods to pass the time. Sitting on a prostrate log

onthe sunny side of a ravine, birds of many kinds fluttering about -

me, a pair of Mourning Warblers soon attracted attention by the
displeasure and anxiety they manifested at being disturbed. I
changed my position, andthe female moved cautiously toward
the place I had left. A few minutes more and certainly I
should have seen the nest, but the engine whistle sounded,
and being some distance from the station I had to leave.
Next day as the train slowly passed the place the male was
again observed singing on his former perch.

Any one who has given attention to the movements of the
birds for a number of years, must have been surprised at the per-
sistent regularity with which certain species appear at particu-
lar places at a given time, especially in spring.

For many years after | commenced collecting birds, I con-
sidered the Mourning Warbler only a straggler in this part of
Ontario, having met with it but ontwooccasions. Morerecently I
have carefully studied the topographical aspect of the neighbor-
hood with special reference to the habits of the birds, and have
calculated where certain species should be found at certain dates.
One result of this was, that on two visits made to a particular
place in May, 1885, K. C. McIlwraith obtained nine Mourning
Warblers in a very short time. In the spring of 1886 they were
again observed at the same place, but were not molested. The
name Mourning does not refer to the manners of the bird, for it
sings with much spirit and is quite lively in its movements, but
was suggested by the ashy tips to the black feathers of the
throat, resembling the effect produced by wearing crape.

274

—— ts

ONTARIO.

274. GEhOLBLYPISsTRICHAS |(hinn.).uy681.
Maryland Yellow-throat.

Male, in spring, olive-green, rather grayer anteriorly; forehead and a
broad band through the eye to the neck pure black, bordered above with
hoary-ash; chin, throat, breast, under tail-coverts and edge of wing rich yel-
low, fading into whitish on the belly; wings and tail unmarked, glossed with
olive; bill black ; feet flesh colored. Female, in spring, without the definite
black and ash of the head ; the crown generally brownish, the yellow pale and
restricted. The young in general resemble the female, at any rate lacking the
head markings of the male; but are sometimes buffy-brownish below, some-
times almost clear yellow. Length, 4-5; wing and tail, 1g-2.

Has. Eastern United States, mainly east of the Alleghanies, north to
Ontario and Nova Scotia, breeding from Georgia northward. In winter,
South Atlantic and Gulf States, and the West Indies.

Nest, on the ground ; composed of leaves and grass, and lined with fine
withered grass.

Eggs, 4 to 6; white, thickly sprinkled with reddish-brown.

The Maryland Yellow-throat is widely but somewhat
irregularly distributed. I have heard its familiar notes on the
banks of the St. Lawrence, near Quebec; by the marshy ponds
between Galt and Paris I have found it breeding abundantly ;
but near Hamilton, where there are places equally suitable for
its summer residence, so far as we can judge, it is only observed
as a casual migrant in spring and fall. It is a very lively little
bird, and makes its summer haunts ring with its loud, clear
‘‘whit-ti-tee’’ often repeated, which once heard is not soon for-
gotten by any one who has an ear for bird music. It arrives
during the first week in May, and disappears about the end of
August.

GeNus ICTERIA VIEILLoT.
210. IC TERIA VIRENS GEINN.).. 683.

Yellow-breasted Chat.

Bright olive-green ; below golden-yellow, belly abruptly white ; lore black,
isolating the white under eyelid from a white superciliary line above and a
short maxillary line below; wingsand tail unmarked, glossed with olive; billand
feet blue-black, female and young similar, colors less bright. Length, 7-74;
wing, about 3; tail, about 3}.

275

BIRDS OF

Has. Eastern United States to the Plains, north to Ontario and South-
ern New England, south in winter to Eastern Mexico and Guatemala.

Nest, ina thicket, in the upright fork of a sapling, 3 to 6 feet from the
ground ; composed of leaves, strips of grape vine bark and grass, lined with
fine withered grass and fibre.

Eggs, 3 to4; very smooth, white, spotted and blotched with several shades
of reddish-brown.

Bird collecting is attended with all the excitement of other
speculations, the very uncertainty as to the amount of success
attainable tending to increase the feeling.

Laying aside accidents by gun, boat or buggy, much time
and labor are sometimes expended with very slim results, while
on the other hand the prizes are often obtained quite unexpect-
edly. On the 16th of May, 1884, I went for a short excursion
to the woods, impressed with the feeling that I had lately spent
too much time collecting common species which I already had,
and that by amore careful inspection of the birds I came across
I should have a better chance of finding something new. I in-
spected quite a number that afternoon, but came back without
a specimen of any kind, and as it began to rain I got home
thoroughly damped, and unhitched my horse, firm in the belief
that the subject was unworthy the attention I was giving it.
Just then I noticed an olive-backed bird lying dead on the
ground close by, and on picking it up found it to be the decay-
ing body of a Yellow-breasted Chat, which had probably been
killed by flying against the telegraph wire which passed over
where it was found. It had evidently been there for two or
three days, and I must have passed close to it several times
daily. It was too far gone for preservation, so I had to console
myself with its being the first record of the species in Canada.
A week or so afterwards when visiting Mr. Dickson, who is
Station-master on the G. T. R. at Waterdown, he pointed out
to me an old, unused mill-race, grown up with briars and bram-
bles, where the day before he had seen a pair of Chats mated.
Mr. Dickson was collecting at the time, and was greatly sur-
prised at their suddenly appearing within ten feet of where he
was standing, but on his moving backward, with a view of get-

276

ONTARIO.

tingtoa safer shooting distance, they disappeared in the thicket
and did not again become visible, though they kept up their
scolding as long as he remained near the place.

A pair of this species was also found by Mr. Saunders breed-
ing on the north shore of Lake Erie, near Point Pelee, which
completes the record for Ontario so far as I have heard.

Genus SYLVANIA NoutTTAt.
276. SYLVANIA MITRATA (GMEL.). 684.

Hooded Warbler.

Clear yellow-olive ; below rich yellow shaded along the sides, whole head
and neck pure black, enclosing a broad golden mask across forehead and
through eyes ; wings unmarked, glossed with olive; tail with large white
blotches on the two outer pairs of feathers; bill black; feet flesh Color.
Female, with no black on the head ; that of the crown replaced by olive, that
of the throat by yellow. Young male, with the black much restricted and in-
terrupted, if not wholly wanting, as in the female. Length, 5-54; wing, about
22; tail, about 24.

Has. Eastern United States, west to the Plains, north and east to
Michigan. Southern New York and Southern New England. In winter, West
Indies, Eastern Mexico and Central America.

Nest, in a low bush or tree, a few feet from the ground; built of leaves and
coarse grasses, and lined with fine grass and horse hair.

Eggs, 4; white, tinged with flesh color and marked with reddish-brown.

The Hooded Warbler is asouthern species which rarely crosses
our southern border. Mr. Norval reports finding it occasion-
ally at Port Rowan, on the north shore of Lake Erie, and I once
found a young male near Hamilton. It was toward the end of
May, there had been a big bird-wave during the previous night,
and this one had apparently got carried away in the crowd.
It is a most expert fly-catcher, very active on the wing, and has
the habit of flirting its tail after the manner of the Redstart.
Its favorite haunts are in thick briary patches and among under-
brush, where it finds food and shelter for itself and family.

There has been considerable discussion regarding the plum-
age of the female of this species, which has apparently subsided

olf |

BIRDS OF
into the belief that in mature adult birds the sexes are nearly
alike, but that the female is longer in acquiring the black of the
head and throat, and is sometimes found with it imperfectly
developed or entirely wanting.

277. SYLVANIA PUSILLA (Wits.). 685.
Wilson’s Warbler.

Clear yellow-olive ; crown glossy blue-black ; forehead, sides of head and
entire under parts clear yellow; wings and tail plain, glossed with olive;
upper mandible dark, under pale; feet brown. Female and young similar ;
colors not so bright, the black cap obscure. Small; 43-5; wing, about 2};
tail, about 2.

Has. Eastern North America, west to and including the Rocky Mount-

ains, north to Hudson’s Bay Territory and Alaska. Breeds chiefly north of

the United States, migrating south to Eastern Mexico and Central America.
*
Nest, a hollow in the ground; lined with fine grass and horse hair.
Eggs, 5; dull white, freckled with rusty-brown and liliac.

Wilson’s Fly-catcher passes through Southern Ontario on its
way to the north, in company with the Mourning Warblers and
other late migrants. Like some of the others it has certain
resting places, where it appears regularly in limited numbers
every spring, but strangers unacquainted with its haunts might
ransack the country for miles without seeing a single specimen.
The greatest number go far north to spend the summer, but it
is probable that a few remain in intermediate districts, for Mr.
Geo. R. White found a pair nesting in his garden in Ottawa.
This is the only record of the kind I have for Ontario.

In ‘‘New England Bird Life,” part I., page 172, is an account
of a nest found by Mr. D. H. Minot on Pike’s Peak, 11,000 feet

up, near timber line. The nest and eggs were as described
above.

278. SYLVANIA CANADENSIS (Liny.). 686.

Canadian Warbler.

Bluish-ash ; crown speckled with lanceolate black marks, crowded and
generally continuous on the forehead; the latter divided lengthwise by a
slight yellow line; short superciliary line and edges of eyelids yellow; lores

278

ONTARIO.

black, continuous with black under the eye, and this passing as a chain of
black streaks down the side of the neck, and prettily encircling the throat
like a necklace; excepting these streaks and the white under tail-coverts the
entire under parts are clear yellow ; wings and tail unmarked; feet flesh
color; in the female and young the black is obscure or much restricted, and
the back may be slightly glossed with olive. Length, about 54; wing, 23;
tail, 2}.

Has. Eastern North America, westward to the Plains and north to
Newfoundland, Southern Labrador and Lake Winnipeg; south, in winter, to
Central America and Northern South America.

Nest, on the ground in a tussock of grass or weeds; composed of fibre,
rootlets, leaves and pine needles.

Eggs, 5; white, ‘‘beautifully marked with dots and small blotches of
blended-brown, purple and violet, varying in shades and tints and grouped in
a wreath around the larger end.”’

_ From the 15th to the 25th of May this species 1s very com-
mon in all suitable places in Southern Ontario. After the latter
date the numbers are much reduced, but a few remain to spend
the summer, while the bulk of the species goes farther north.
When here their manners resemble those of the Green Black
Cap, with which they are often found in company, and they
prefer briary tickets, through which they pass nimbly, picking
up their insect fare as they go. In the fall they are less fre-
quently seen, returning south, perhaps, by some other route.
They are first seen about the middle of. May, and disappear
toward the end of August.

GENuS SETOPHAGA Swainson.
2192 SETORPHAGA RUTICIELA (Linn). 687.

American Redstart.

Male, lustrous blue-black, belly and crissum white, sides of the breast,
large spot at bases of the remiges, and basal half of the tail-feathers (ex-
cept the middle pair) fiery-orange, belly often tinged with the same. Female,
olivaceous, ashier on the head, entirely white below, wings and tail blackish,
with the flame color of the male represented by yellow. Young male like the
female, but browner, the yellow of an crange hue. From the circumstance
that many spring males are shot inthe general plumage of the female, but
showing irregular isolated black patches, it is probable that the species
requires at least two years to gainits perfect plumage. Length, 54; wing and
tail, about 24.

279

BIRDS OF

Has. North America, north to Fort Simpson, west regularly to the
Great Basin, casually to the Pacific coast, breeding from the middle portion
of the United States northward. In winter, the West Indies, and from South-
ern Mexico through Central America to Northern South America.

Nest, in the fork of a sapling 6 to 20 feet from the ground; composed of
grape vine bark, grasses and weeds, and lined with fine grass, horse hair or
plant down.

Eggs, 4 to 5; grayish-white, dotted with brown, lavender and purple.

The Redstart is one of the most active and restless little birds
found inthe bush, where its glowing garb of black and orange
shines to great advantage among the fresh green leaves. It is
generally distributed throughout Ontario, and from its manners
and markings is well known to all who give any attention to the
birds. In spring it arrives from the roth to the 15th of May, the
first to appear being the adult male in full costume, after which
come the females and young males in plumage nearly alike.
While here they are not higher fliers, but like to disport them-
selves among the middle and lower branches of deciduous trees,
from which they dart off in pursuit of passing insects, making
the clicking of the bill distinctly heard.

The male is so decided in his markings that he is not likely
to be mistaken for any other species. The female is plainer,
but has the habit of opening and closing the tail feathers, which
serves, even at a distance, to indicate the species to which she
belongs.

After the end of August they are seldom seen.

Famity MOTACILLID/A. Wacrtaits.
Genus ANTHUS BeEcustTE In.
Suscenus ANTHUS.

280. ANTHUS PENSILVANICUS (Latu.). 697.

American Pipit.

Points of wings formed by the four outer. primaries, the fifth being
abruptly shorter. Hind claw nearly straight, nearly or quite equal to its digit.
Above dark brown with a slight olive shade, most of the feathers with dusky
centres ; eyelids, superciliary line and under parts pale buffy or ochrey-brown,

280

ONTARIO.

variable in shade; breast and sides of neck and body thickly streaked with
dusky ; wings and tail blackish, inner secondaries pale edged; one or more
outer tail feathers wholly or partly white. Length, about 64; wing, 34; tail,

23-3.

Has. North America at large; breeding in the highier parts of the Rocky
Mountains and subarctic districts ; and wintering in the Gulf States, Mexico
and Central America. Accidental in Europe.

Nest, a cavity in the ground; lined thickly with coarse dry grass.

Eggs, 4 to 5; dark chocolate, with spots and streaks of black.

In spring and fall loose straggling flocks of Pipits are seen
on the commons, either searching for food on the ground or in
short stages working their way to their breeding grounds in the
far north, though how they ever get there is a wonder to any
one who notices their weak and vacillating flight.

In spring they pass along very quickly, but in the fall they
are seen in flocks by the shores of muddy ponds or creeks, or in
moist meadows in the open country, nervously jerking their tails
after the manner of the Water-Thrushes. Their only note while
here 1s a weak, timid ‘“‘cheep” uttered while on the wing.

On the 2oth of July, 1871, Mr. Allen found young birds of
this species, scarcely able to fly, on Mount Lincoln, Park
County, Colorado, among the snow fields above timber line.

Dr. Coues found them breeding abundantly on the coast of
Labrador, and noticed their habit of resorting to the sea shore
at low tide, there to ramble about in company with the Sand-
pipers in search of food.

Famity TROGLODYTIDA. Wrens, TurRAsHERS, ETC.
SuBFAMILY MIMINA®. TurasHers.
Genus MIMUS Boig.
2312) (MIMUS*POLYGLOTTOS *(Linn:):! "703!
Mockingbird.

Wings considerably shorter than tail; above ashy-gray; below whitish ;
wings and tail blackish, the former with two white wing-bars and large white
spot at base of primaries, latter with 1 to 3 outer feathers more or less white.
Length, 9-10; wing, about 4; tail, about 5.

281

BIRDS OF

Has. United States, south into Mexico. Rare from New Jersey, the
Valley of the Ohio, Colorado and California northward.

Nest, in bushes and low trees ; composed of twigs, leaves, grass, etc., put
together in a slovenly manner.

Eggs, 4 to 6; bluish-green, heavily marked with several shades of brown.

Among birds, as among men, individuals differ greatly
in natural ability, some being much more highly endowed
than others and their gifts are also as varied. Some, representing
the architects of the community, excel in building their homes,
which have not only all the necessary requirements for the
comfort and safety of the inmates, but exhibit a skill and taste
in their construction, and in the selection and arrangement of
the materials, which never fail to excite our admiration. One
of the most complete nests which come under our observation
is that built by the Summer Yellow-bird. It is often placed in
the fork ofa lilac bush near our houses, and is not only luxuriously
comfortable, but it is so well put together that it stands the
blasts of winter and is in good shape in the following spring,
though the birds do not use it a second season, but are seen
tugging pieces out of the old to help to build the new. Another
interesting specimen of bird architecture is the curious, pensile,
purse-like nest of the Baltimore Oriole, which is quite a familiar
object as it 1s seen swaying at the end of a slender twig of a
drooping elm, while in the solitudes of a cedar swamp the
Winter Wren provides a wonderfully cosy home for her numerous
family in the centre of a ball of green moss.

Others may be regarded as the poets, the musicians of the
feathered tribes, and it would bea curious study for us totry to find
out whether those who cannot sing enjoy the singing of those
who can. To human ears the melody of many of the birds is as
pleasing perhaps as it is to their own species, and in this re-
spect there is none more fascinating than the Mockingbird,
whose rapturous music excites admiration wherever it is heard.

One of America’s most gifted poets, who evidently knew and
appreciated the musical powers of the bird, thus describes it in
words well worthy of the subject. The scene is on the lower
Mississippi, a band of exiles is descending the river on a still
evening in the early summer.

282

ONTARIO.

“Softly the evening came. The sun from the western horizon
Like a magician extended his golden wand o’er the landscape ;
* * * * *
Then from a neighboring thicket, the Mockingbird, wildest of singers,
Swinging aloft on a willow spray that hung o’er the water,
Shook from his little throat such floods of delicious music,
That the whole air and the woods and the waves seemed silent to listen.
Plaintive at first were the tones and sad; then soaring to madness
Seemed they to follow or guide the revel of frenzied Bacchantes.
Single notes were then heard in sorrowful, low lamentation;
Till, having gathered them all, he flung them abroad in derision,
As when after a storm, a gust of wind through the tree tops
Shakes down the rattling rain in a crystal shower on the branches.”’

In the Southern States the Mockingbird is a constant resi-
dent. Occasionally a pair come farther north and spend the sum-
mer, but as soon as the young are able for the journey they
again retire to the south. In the ‘“ Birds of Long Island,” Mr.
Giraud mentions it as an occasional summer resident there, and
speaks of a pair having spent a summer near the beach at Egg
Harbor. ‘The male,” he says, ‘“‘ became the pet of the residents,
to whom it also seemed much attached, and, as if in return
for the attention they paid to his wants, he poured forth his
charming melody, which on calm, bright nights, blending with
the subdued voice of the ocean, rendered the scene enchanting
beyond the powers of description.”

In Ontario the Mockingbird 1s best known as a cage bird,
numbers being occasionally brought from the south in captivity,
and when exposed for sale are readily bought up by those who
are fond of feathered pets. Even in confinement it seems to
retain all its natural power and energy as a songster, and being
of a sociable, familiar disposition, soon gets attached to those
who are in the habit of attending to its wants. Among Ameri-
can birds it has been justly styled the ‘‘ Prince of Musicians.”’
Indeed, withthe exception of the British Sky-lark, whose grand
soaring flight adds greatly to the effect of its music, I know of
no bird in any country possessed of such a wonderful compass
of voice. Often while exercising its powers of mimicry, it will
give so correct an imitation of the notes of other birds that the
most retiring species will come from their haunts expecting to

283

BIRDS OF

meet their mates, when suddenly they will be driven in fear

to the thicket by as correct an imitation of the harsh scream of
the Hawk.

The following incident gives me the privilege of claiming
the species for Ontario, a pair having spent the summer of
1883 near Hamilton.

Had any one, acquainted with this neighborhood and with the
habits of the bird, been asked to suggest where it would most
likely be found, he would certainly have said East Hamiiton,
and it was there that Mr. Eastwood first observed the male,
early in the season, in one of the leafy lanes between
his residence and the mountain. Mr. Eastwood was in
the habit of taking exercise on horseback in the early
morning, and seldom passed the place where the _ bird
was first recognized without again seeing him on the dead
branch of a low tree which he had chosen as his perch. As the
season advanced these frequent visits grew into something like
personal friendship, for the bird evidently recognized his visitor,
and if absent at first would readily respond to a call, and mount-
ing his usual perch would answer in his own eloquent style.
He also caught up many of the local sounds of the neighborhood,
the crowing of the rooster, the cackling of the fowls, and the
notes of other birds were imitated with wonderful correctness,
but sweetest of all were his own rich, full tonés, which gave a
new charm’ to that favored locality. Only once during the
season was a glimpse obtained of the female, who was evidently
engaged in domestic duties, though, with the view of making the
pair feel as much at home as possible, the nest was not sought for.

It was hoped that this pair or some of their family would
return the following season to visit their old friends in Ontario,
but if they did they have not been observed, and this so far as
I am aware is the only instance of the species being observed in
Ontario.

284

ONTARIO.

Genus GALEOSCOPTES Casanis.
232. GALEOSCOPTES CAROLINENSIS® (Emn:).’ "704.
Catbird.

Wings but little shorter than tail; dark slate color, somewhat lighter
below; crown of head and tail black; under tail-coverts dark chestnut.
Length, 8 to 9; wing, 33; tail, 4.

Has. Eastern United States and British Provinces, west to and includ
ing the Rocky Mountains; occasional on the Pacific coast. Winters in the
Southern States, Cuba and Middle America to Panama. Accidental in
Europe.

Nest, in a shrubbery or thicket, a few feet above the ground ; composed
of twigs, leaves, bark, rootlets, bits of twine or rags.

Eggs, 4 to 5; dark bluish-green.

A very common summer resident in Southern Ontario; and
in the Northwest it is said by Prof. Macoun to be common
wherever there are bushes. This is a bird well entitled to our
protection, but, unfortunately, it is the subject of an ignorant
prejudice, which leads to its being persecuted especially by boys,
who would throw a stone ata Catbird with much the same feel-
ing that they would at a cat. Perhaps one of his most familiar
notes may have originated the prejudice, but outside of this, it
should be remembered that he ranks high asa songster, coming
next in that respect to the Mockingbird and the Thrasher.
He is one of the first to begin in the morning, and delivers his
message with so much sprightliness and vivacity that we are
always pleased to hear him.

In the garden he is our best friend, destroying an innumerable
quantity of injurious insects, but we seldom think when enjoying
our luxurious crop of cherries or raspberries that we are largely
indebted for such results to the much despised Catbird.

Genus HARPORHYNCHUS Capsanis.
SuBGENuS METHRIOPTERUS ReEIcHENBACH.
2820 *HARPORHYNCHUS* RUFUS “(Linwe)!" 705:

Brown Thrasher.

Above reddish-brown; below white, with more or less tawny tinge; breast
and sides spotted with dark brown; throat and belly unspotted ; bill black
above, yellow below; feet pale; iris yellow. Length, 11; wing, 4; tail, 5 to 6.

285

BIRDS OF

Has. Eastern United States, west to the Rocky Mountains, north to
Southern Maine, Ontario and Manitoba, south to the Gulf States, including
Eastern Texas. Accidental in Europe.

Nest, most frequently placed in the fork of a small tree in a thicket, 3 to
6 feet from the ground, sometimes higher, occasionally on the ground; com-
posed of twigs, grass, leaves and rootlets, lined with bark fibre and similar
substances.

Eggs, 4 to 5; greenish-white, thickly spotted with light reddish-brown.

The Brown Thrasher is not so abundant as the Catbird,
neither is it so confiding or familiar in its habits, seldom coming®
near our dwellings. It delights in the tangled, briary thicket,
in the depths of which it disappears as soon as it is aware of
being observed. Near Hamilton it isa common summer resident,
appearing regularly about the roth of May. At first they are
seen stealing quietly through the underbrush, or scratching
among the withered leaves like the Towhees, but once arrived at
their breeding place, the male is heard from the topmost twig
of an isolated tree, pouring forth, morning and evening, his
unrivalled strains of music, which are heard long ere the per-
former can be seen.

So far as I have observed, the Thrasher is somewhat local in
its distribution, there being certain sections of country of con-
siderable extent, where, without apparent cause, it is entirely
wanting. About the end of September they all retire to the
south.

SuBFAMILY TROGLODYTIN&#. Wrens.
Genus TROGLODYTES Vierttor.
SuscEnus TROGLODYTES.

284.. TROGLODYTES, AEDON (Vieter)s, 72k

House Wren.

Above brown, brighter behind; below rusty-brown or grayish-brown or
even grayish-white, everywhere waved with a darker shade, very plainly on
wings, tail, flanks and under tail-coverts; breast apt to be darker than either
throat or belly. Length, 4%; wings and tail, about 2.

Has. Eastern United States and Southern Canada, west to Indiana
and Louisiana.

2386

ONTARIO.

Nest, in a hole or crevice, the neighborhood of a dwelling preferred ;
composed of twigs, leaves, hair, feathers, etc.

Eggs, 7 to 9; white, very thickly spotted with reddish-brown.

In the thinly settled parts of the country where this Wren
has been observed, it breeds in any convenient hole or crevice
in a tree or fence post by the roadside, and on account of this
habit, and an imaginary superiority in point of size, those found
in such places were described as a separate species, and named
by Audubon the Wood Wren. The individuals procured in town
and country being subsequently found to be identical, this name
has for some years been allowed to drop, and the birds having
taken kindly to the society of man are nearly all furnished with
houses, or finding other suitable nesting places near our dwellings
are living almost domesticated. They are sprightly, active, little
birds, and do good service by the destruction of insects, which
they find on the trees in the orchard or about the outhouses.
Being possessed of all the scolding propensities peculiar to the
family, they resent with great spirit any intrusion in the neigh-
borhood of their dwelling. Their greatest enemy in this respect
at present is the House Sparrow, who does not hesitate to eject
the Wrens when their premises appear to suit his purpose.
This habit may in time drive the Wrens back to their original
mode of life in the woods.

SusGeENus ANORTHURA ReEnnte.
2505 bROGLODY LES -ELIEMALIS.. (ViIEILEy):, 122.

Winter Wren.

Deep brown above, darkest on the head, brightest on the rump and tail,
obscurely waved with dusky and sometimes with whitish also ; tail like rump ;
wings dusky, edged with color of back, and dark barred; several outer prim-
aries also whitish barred ; a superciliary line and obscure streaks on sides of
head and neck whitish. Below pale brown; belly, flanks and under tail-coverts
strongly barred with dusky. Length, about 4; wing, 2 or less; tail, rd orless.

Has. Eastern North America generally, breeding from the northern
parts of the United States northward, and wintering from about its southern
breeding limit southward.

287

BIRDS OF

Nest, a ball of green moss, warmly lined with feathers ; entrance by a hole
at one side.

Eggs, 5 to 6; white, speckled with reddish-brown.

In Southern Ontario the Winter Wren is most frequently
seen during the neriods of migration, but a few pairs remain and
raise their young iu suitable places throughout the country.
There is a wet cedar swamp in West Flamboro’ made impene-
trable by fallen timber, moss-grown and going to decay. In the
stillness and gloom of that uninviting region I have listened to
the song of the Winter Wren in the month of June, and have
thought it one of the most pleasing specimens of bird music we
are privileged to hear. Tinged it may be with melancholy, but
there is a hopeful sprightliness about it which seems torise above
the gloom of the surroundings and point to the brighter world
outside. I have not heard of the species being observed during
winter, but they arrive from the south early in April and linger
quitelatein the fall. During the latter season they are frequently
seen in the city gardens, appearing and disappearing like mice
around the roots of the bushes. In my boyish days I was
familiar with the haunts and homes of the common Wren, the
troglodytes vulgaris of Britain, on the ‘‘ banks and braes o’ bonnie
Doon,”’ and believe it is identical in every respect with the
present species.

Genus CISTOTHORUS Caszanis.
SuBGENuS CISTOTHORUS.
286. CISTOTHORUS STELLARIS' (Lrcur.). Wet:
Short-billed Marsh Wren.

Dark brown above, crown and middle of the back blackish, nearly
everywhere conspicuously streaked with white; below buffy-white, shading
into pale brown on the sides and behind; wings and tail barred with blackish
and light brown; flanks barred with dusky; throat and middle of belly
whitish. Length, 44; wing and tail, about 13; bill, not 3 long and very
slender ; tarsus, middle toe and claw, together r.

Has. Eastern United States and Southern British Provinces, west to
the Plains. Winters in the Gulf States and southward.

288

ONTARIO.

Nest, similar to that of the Long-billed species, but sometimes placed
near the ground ; no mud used in the structure.

Eggs, 6 to 8; pure white, unspotted.

Never having happened to meet with the Short-billed Marsh

Wren in any of my excursions, I consider it to be either locally

- distributed or less abundant than the Long-billed species, which
is common in all the marshes in Southern Ontario,

Throughout Northern New England the Short-billed species
is a common summer resident, and Mr. Seton speaks of it as
being “abundant all over” in Western Manitoba. It is prob-
able therefore that it is a summer resident in Ontario, but so
few people follow these little birds into their marshy haunts
that, at present, their history here is somewhat obscure. Mr.
Saunders says it is found in the marshes along the River St.
Clair, and he has a set of eggs which were taken in a marsh
near Toronto. As the number of collectors increase we shall,
no doubt, learn more about these retiring little birds.

SuBGENUS TELMATODYTES Casanis.

987. CISTLOPHORUS! PALUSTRIS, (Wits.). 725.
Long-billed Marsh Wren.

Dark brown above, crown and middle of the back blackish, nearly everywhere
conspicuously streaked with white ; below buffy-white, shading into pale brown
on the sides and behind; wings and tail barred with blackish and light brown ;
flanks barred with dusky ; throat and middle of belly whitish. Length, 43;
wing and tail, about 1}; bill, not 4 long and very slender; tarsus, middle toe
and claw, together r4.

Has. Southern British America and the United States, south in winter
to Guatemala.

Nest, a large globular mass of coarse grass and rushes loosely laced
together, sometimes plastered with mud and fastened to the reeds; warmly
lined with fine soft grass; entrance by a hole in one side.

Eggs, 6 to 10; variable in shade, but usually so thickly spotted with
chocolate-brown as to appear uniformly of that color.

A common summer resident found in suitable places through-
out Ontario. Near Hamilton it breeds in all the inlets around

289

BIRDS OF

the bay, and it is seen from the beginning of May till the end of
August, climbing, hopping and swaying itself to and fro among
the reeds in all conceivable postures. In the spring it appears
to be continually under great nervous excitement, which it works
off in nest building, often constructing two or three when only
one is required. So large a number of nests, when observed,
gives the impression that the birds breed in colonies, but I have
not noticed this to be the case. All the nests I have seen have
been so placed that they could only be reached by wading or ina
boat, and sometimes they were among the reeds on a quaking
bog where approach was impossible.

Their mode of migration is a mystery. We are accustomed
to say that they retire to the south early in September, but how
do they travel? Do they rise in flocks like Swallows and go off
during the night, or do they make the long journey from the
Saskatchewan, where they were seen by Richardson, south to
Guatemala, flitting singly or in pairs from bush to bush? In
either case it is strange that they are seldom, if ever, seen except
in the marshy tracts where they spend the summer.

Famity CERTHIIDA. Creepers.
Genus CERTHIA Linnzus.
CERTHIA FAMILIARIS AMERICANA (Bonap.).
288. Brown Creeper. 726.

Plumage above singularly barred with dusky, whitish, tawny or fulvous-
brown and bright brown—latter chiefly on the rump; below white, either
pure or sciled, and generally brownish washed behind ; wings dusky, oddly
varied with tawny or whitish bars and spots; tail plain, about 54; wirg and
tail, about 23.

Has. North America in general; breeding from the northern and more
elevated parts of the United States northward, migrating southward in winter.

Nest, nearly always in a crevice where the bark is partially separated
from the trunk of a tree.

Eggs, 5 to 8; dull white, spotted with reddish-brown.

This singular little bird is seen in Southern Ontario at nearly
all seasons, but it is most abundant during the period of migra-

290

ONTARIO.

tion. About the end of April and beginning of May it be-
comes quite common in the woods, and is seen flitting like a
great moth from tree to tree, or winding its spiral way upward
on a trunk, uttering its simple note so descriptive of the motion,
creep, creep, creep. In summer a pair may be seen occasion-
ally in more favored spots, evidently nesting, but at that season
they are quite rare. Early in September they again become
numerous, in company with other migrants who are travelling
southward, and in the depth of winter I have occasionally seen
them mixed up with a small band composed of Chickadees,
Downy Woodpeckers, Nuthatches and Golden Crown Kinglets.
These birds seem to find pleasure in each other’s society, when
they spend the short, sharp days of winter in some sheltered
patch of evergreens.

Famity PARIDA®. NuTHatTcHEs aNnp TITs.
SuBFAMILy SITTINA®. NutwatcuHes.
Genus SITTA Linnzus.
2e9e SIP TAY CAROLINENSI!YS (LATH.).4. 727%
White-breasted Nuthatch.

Back, rump and middle tail-feathers ashy-blue; crown and nape glossy
black, restricted or wanting in the young and many females; tail, except as
above, black, spotted with white; beneath and sides of head white; flanks and
under tail-coverts rusty-brown; wings varied, black, blue and white. Length,
6; wing, 34; tail, 2.

Has. Southern British Provinces and Eastern United States to the
Rocky Mountains.

Nest, a hole in a tree, sometimes a natural cavity, or again dug by the
birds with great labor; lined with hair and feathers.

Eggs, 4 to 6; white, spotted thickly with reddish-brown.

This is one of the few birds which remain with us summer
and winter. It is quite a common species, well known to all
who have occasion to be in the woods in spring, when it is
seen climbing nimbly about, or hanging head downwards on the
bark of a tree. In the winter time the country lads who are
chopping in the bush, listen with pleasure to its familiar quank,

2Q1

BIRDS OF

quank, which is often the only evidence of animal life observed.
As a climber it has few equals, its long hind claw enabling it to
travel head downwards, a feat which the Woodpeckers do not
attempt. Its food consists chiefly of insects, which it finds
lurking in the crevices of the bark. It is also said to hide away
nuts and acorns in the holes of trees, a habit which may at first
have suggested its name.

290. SITTA CANADENSIS (Linn.). 728.
Red-breasted Nuthatch.

Above dark ashy-blue, tail as in carolinensis; below rusty-brown; wings
plain ; crown and nape glossy black, bordered by white superceiliary line; a
black line from bill through and widening beyond the eye.

Has. North America at large, breeding mostly north of the United
States, migrating south in winter.

Nest, in a hole in a stub, about 8 inches deep, warmly lined with
down and feathers.

Eggs, said to be similar to those of the White-bellied Nuthatch, but rather
less in size.

As compared with the White-bellied Nuthatch, this is more
migratory in its habits, being seen in Southern Ontario only in
spring and fall, and is not at any time numerous. I have been
accustomed to think that those we get in the fall with the red-
breast were in full plumage, but recent observers state that
when in mature dress the lower parts are dirty white,
slightly shaded with brown on the sides, and that only
young birds have the lower parts uniform rusty-brown.
While here they are very active, showing a decided partiality
for the upper parts of pine trees, where they, no doubt, find
something to suit their taste. The note resembles that of the
White-bellied species, but is softer, weaker and more frequently
repeated. It arrives during the first week of May, and is lost
sight of again in September.

292

ONTARIO.

SuBFAMILY PARINAE. Tirmice.
Genus PARUS Linneus.
SuBpGENUS PARUS Linnzus.
291. PARUS ATRICAPILLUS): (Linn). «| 735.
Chickadee.

Above brownish-ash ; crown and nape, chin and throat black; beneath
white, brownish on sides; wing and tail-feathers more or less whitish edged.
Length, 5; wing and tail, 23.

Has. Eastern North America, north of the Potomac and Ohio Valleys.

Nest, a hole appropriated or dug by the birds in a dead tree or stump,
not usually very high up; lined with hair, grass, moss, wool, feathers, etc.

Eggs, 6 to 8; white, speckled and spotted with reddish-brown, chiefly
toward the larger end.

In Southern Ontario the Chickadee is one of our most
familiar resident birds. During the breeding season it retires
to the woods, but at other times it is seen in little troops visiting
the shade trees and orchards in the city, searching the crevices
for insects, and uttering its familiar chickadee, dee, dee, so well
known to all the boys. It has also another note, or rather two
notes, one quite high which drops suddenly to one much lower,
soft and prolonged, and probably both convey a meaning to
the ears for which they are intended. During the severity of
winter they are most frequently seen in tamarack swamps,
where they, no doubt, find both food and shelter.

292. PARUS HUDSONICUS (Forst.). 740.
Hudsonian Chickadee.

Crown, nape and upper parts generally clear hair brown or ashy-brown,
with a slight shade of olive, the coloration quite the same on back and crown,
and continuous, not being separated by any whitish nuchal interval; throat
quite black, in restricted area, not extending backward on sides of neck, sep-
arated from the brown crown by silky white on side of the head, this white
not reaching back of the auriculars to the sides of the nape ; sides, flanks and
under tail-coverts washed with dull chestnut or rusty-brown; other under
parts whitish ; quills and tail-feathers lead color, asin other Titmice, scarcely
or slightly edged with whitish ; little or no concealed white on the rump;
bill black; feet dark. Size of P. atricapillus or rather less.

293

BIRDS OF

Has. Northern North America, from the more elevated parts of the
Northern United States (Northern New England, Northern New York,
Northern Michigan, etc.,) northward.

The home of the Hudsonian Tit, as its name implies, is in
the Hudson’s Bay country. It is also comn onin Labrador, and
I have seen it on the banks of the Lower St. Lawrence, travel-
ling in little troops from tree to tree, much after the manner of
our familiar Chickadee. It is truly a northern species, but as
it has been found in Massachusetts, Maine and New Hamp-
shire, I think it will yet be found in the districts of Parry Sound
and Muskoka. At present, the only record I have of its pre-
sence in Ontario is that given by Mr. W. L. Scott, in ‘“‘The
Auk” for April, 1884, page 157, where he mentions having seen
one quite near the city of Ottawa, on the 31st October. In the
same article it is said to be a rare winter visitor to that
district.

Famity SYLVIIDA. Wars.ers, KINGLETS, GNATCATCHERS.
SuBFAMILY REGULINA. KInNGLETs.
Genus REGULUS Cuvier.
293. REGULUS SATRAPA (Licnt:).’ 748:

Golden-crowned Kinglet.

General color as in calendula. Crown bordered in front and on
sides by black, inclosing a yellow and flame-colored patch (in the male ;
in the female the scarlet is wanting) ; extreme forehead and line over the eye
whitish. Young, if ever without traces of black on the head, may be told
from the next species by smaller size and the presence of a tiny bristly feather
overlying the nostril; this wanting in calendula. Size of calendula.

Has North America generally, breeding in the northern and elevated
parts of the United States and northward, migrating south in winter to
Guatemala.

Nest, in appearance resembling a ball of moss; it is open at the top, the
cavity warmly lined with feathers ; fastened to the outer twig of a branch,
6 to 8 feet from the ground.

Eggs, 10; ground color white, with numerous shell marks of purplish-
slate and a few superficial markings of deep buff, making the whole appear
of a cream color.

294

ONTARIO.

An abundant winter resident, appearing in November and
remaining till April. During the severe weather in Feb-
ruary and March, when the mercury is near zero, it is really
surprising to see these tiny, feathered creatures, full of anima-
tion, flitting about among the evergreens, uttering their cheerful
notes of encouragement to their conipanions, and digging out
their insect food from the crevices of the bark. On these
occasions they are usually accompanied by Chickadees,
Downy Woodpeckers and White-bellied Nuthatches, making
a merry company nowise discouraged by the severity of the
weather.

The Gold-crest is known to breed in Northern New England,
a nest containing young having been found by Mr. H. D. Minot
in a forest of evergreens and birches on the White Mountains of
New Hampshire, on the 16th of July, 1876. I once met with a
pair, evidently mated, who were located in a swamp in West
Flamboro’ about the end of June. I did not persevere in seek-
ing the nest, though I felt sure it was close at hand. That is
the only time I have seen the species here in summer.

2A REGULUS CALENDULA (Linn.). 749;
Ruby-crowned Kinglet.

Above greenish-olive, below whitish, wings and tail dusky, edged with
greenish or yellowish; wing-coverts whitish tipped ; crown with a rich scarlet
patch in both sexes (but wanting in both the first year), no black about head ;
bill and feet black. Length, 4-44; wing, 24-24; tail 14-1.

Has. North America, south to Guatemala, north to the Arctic coast,
breeding mostly north of the United States.

Nest, large for the size of the bird, a mass of matted hair, grass, moss
and feathers, placed on the bough of a tree.

Eggs, unknown.
In Southern Ontario the Ruby-crown isa regular migrant in
spring and fall, but in summer or winter it has not been observed.

During the latter part of August and beginning of Septem-
ber, these little birds are exceedingly abundant, although from
their small size and the weak, lisping note they utter at this

295

BIRDS OF

season, their numbers can be estimated only by close observa-
tion. I was once caught in the rain in the woods in the month
of April, and took shelter in a clump of evergreens, which I
found was in possession of a flock of Ruby-crowns. When the
clouds passed away and a light breeze shook the sparkling drops
from the foliage, I was delighted to hear some of the Kinglets
indulge in a song of considerable compass and duration. It was
more full, soft and musical than anything I have ever heard from
so small a bird. At that season their stay is short ; sometimes
they are seen only during two or three days, but in the fall they
travel more leisurely. Their breeding ground is far north.
‘The only description I have seen of a nest is that of one found
in Colorado. It was placed on the bough of a spruce about 15
feet from the ground, and contained five young birds and one egg.

SuBFAMILY POLIOPTILIN. GwNaTCATCHERS.
Genus POLIOPTILA Sc.atTer.

295. POLIOPTILA CAERULEA (Linn.). 41.
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher.

Above ashy-blue, bluer on the head, lighter on the rump ; forehead and
line over eye black, wanting in the female ; ring around the eye and under parts
whitish; outer tail-feather, except at base, two-thirds the second and tip of
third white, rest of tail black. Length, 44; wing, 2; tail, 2}.

Has. Middle and southern portions of the United States, from the
Atlantic to the Pacific, south in winter toGuatemala, Cuba and the Bahamas ;
rare north toward the Great Lakes, Southern New York and Southern New
England, straggling north to Massachusetts and Maine.

Nest, a model of bird architecture, compact-walled and contracted at the
brim, elegantly stuccoed with lichens fixed to slender twigs at a height vary-
ing from ro to 50 or 60 feet from the ground.

Eggs, 4 to 5; white, speckled with reddish, umber-brown and lilac.

The Gnatcatcher is, I believe, a regular summer resident in
Southern Ontario, though apparently locally distributed and
not very abundant. There is one particular patch of bush
where I usually see this species every spring, but elsewhere I have
not observed it. Mr. Dickson finds it regularly at Waterdown,

296

ONTARIO.

and Mr. Saunders reports it as not very rare near London. It
keeps mostly to the tops of talltrees, and might readily be over-
looked by any one not acquainted with its habits. ‘

In the breeding season it is said to have a pleasing song,
and it shows considerable spirit in driving off intruders from the
neighborhood of its nest.

Famity TURDIDA. TurusHEs, SOLITAIRES, STONECHATS,
BLUuEBIRDS, ETC.,

SupraMILy TURDINA. TuRusuEs.
Genus TURDUS Linnaeus.
SUBGENUS EY LOCICHLA, Barn;

296.) PURDUS, MUSTELINUS*(GMEry Von
Wood Thrush.

Above bright tawny, shading into olive on rump and tail ; beneath white,
everywhere except throat and belly, with large distinct spots of dusky; bill
dusky above, yellowish below; legs flesh-colored. Length, 74 inches; wing,
4a; tails:

Has. Eastern United States to the Plains, north to Southern Michigan,
Ontario and Massachusetts, south in winter to Guatemala and Cuba.

Nest, in a sapling or low tree, seldom more than 20 feet from the ground ;
composed of twigs, leaves, grass, rootlets and moss, cemented together with
clay.

Eggs, 4 to 5; deep greenish-blue.

The Wood Thrush is a shy, retiring songster, little known
except to those who are fond of rambling in the woods in spring
time. The favorite resort of the species 1s in moist beech
woods, where the clear, flute-like notes of the male may be
heard in the early morning, and also toward sunset, during the
months of May and June. Were the song of the Wood Thrush
continuous, the bird would take the highest rank amcng the
songsters of the grove. Its tones are loud and full of
liquid tenderness, but they suddenly break off short, which to
us is a matter of regret.

207

BIkDS OF

Early in May they arrive from the south, and are soon
generally distributed over Southern Ontario; but they are some-
‘what fastidious in their choice of a summer residence, and are
absent from many clumps of bush where we should expect to
find them. They avoid the dwellings of man, and seem most at
home in the retirement of the woods, where they raise their
young. During September they all move off to the south.

297." “LURDUS* FUSCESCENS (STEPH.). “‘7D0.
Wilson’s Thrush.
Above uniform tawny ; below white, olive shaded on sides and strong ful-

vous tint on breast ; breast and sides of neck with small dusky spots. Length,
about 7 ; wing, 4; tail, 3.

Has. Eastern United States to the Plains, north to Manitoba, Ontario,

Anticosti and Newfoundland.

Nest, on or near the ground; composed of grass, leaves and rootlets,
rather loosely put together.

Eggs, 4 to 5; greenish-blue, unspotted.

With the exception of the Robin, the Veery is the most
numerous of the Thrushes which visit Southern Ontario. It
arrives here during the first week in May, and for a few days is
quite common in the woods everywhere. Many soon pass on
farther north to breed, but some remain and locate themselves
among the undergrowth in moist uncleared places, where they
spend the summer. On their first arrival they remain for a few
days quietly in the woods, but as soon as nesting begins the
clear, loud veery is heard at all hours of theday. The song has
a sharp metallic ring, and at first is pleasant to listen to, but
when heard in some favored locality, where several males are
answering each other, it becomes monotonous through fre-
quent repetition. It israther a tender bird, and is one of the
first to move off in the fall. The young are able to shift for
themselves in August, and by the end of September all are gone.

298. “TURDUS ALICIZ (Barrp.). © TdT.
Gray-cheeked Thrush.

Similar to the preceding, but without any buffy tint about head, nor
yellowish ring around eye; averaging a trifle larger, with longer, slenderer
bill.

298

ONTARIO.

Has. Eastern North America, west to the Plains and Alaska, north to
the Arctic coast, south in winter to Costa Rica. Breeds chiefly north of the
United States.

Nest and eggs, similar to those of the Olive-backed Thrush.

It is still a question with many Ornithologists whether this
should be separated from the Olive-back, or regardedas only a
variety of that species. The Committee of the A. O. U. has
decided to separate it as above, and I quite agree with the
decision, for the few I have found could be identified at once by
the description. When seen in the woods it resembles the
Olive-back so closely that, till well acquainted with its appear-
ance, it is difficult to tell the one from the other. On this
account we cannot with certainty say which is the morenumer-
ous; but so far as I can judge, the proportion of the Gray-
cheeked species which pass this way is not more than one to
two of the other. Dr. Coues regards it as the northern form of
the Olive-back, and suggests that this difference in the breeding
range produces the change in size and color, which are regarded
as specific distinctions. Like all the other Thrushes it most
likely is musical at home, but here it comes and goes in silence.

2k -LURDUS USTULATUS SWAINSONTI (Cas.). 758a,
Olive-backed Thrush.

Above uniform greenish-olive; below white, olive shaded on sides ; sides
of head, throat, neck and breast strongly tinged with buff; breast and throat
thickly marked with large dusky olivespots. Length, about 7; wing, 3%; tail, 3

Has. Eastern North America and westward to the Upper Columbia
River and East Humboldt Mountains, stragglingto the Pacificcoast. Breeds
mostly north of the United States.

Nest, in a tree or bush, 6 or 8 feet from the ground ; composed of rootlets,
leaves and moss.

Eggs, 4 to 5; greenish-blue, freckled with brown.

In Southern Ontario the Olive-backed Thrush is a regular
visitor during the season of migration, appearing in small
companies about the roth of May, and remaining till about the

25th of the same month, after which none are seen till they return
in the fall. While here they frequent low, moist woods, and

299

BIRDS OF

spend much of their time on the ground, where their food at
this season is evidently obtained. When at home, near their
nest, the male is said to have a very pleasing song, which he
takes delight in repeating, but while here they have only a low,
soft call-note, easily recognized in the woods, but difficult to
describe.

The return trip begins toward the end of September, and
continues for about three weeks. At this time the birds move
leisurely, and as they fare sumptiously on different sorts of
wild berries they get to be inexcellent condition, bothas regards
flesh and plumage. We occasionally fall in with individuals of ©
this species much below theaverage size, and with the lower parts
more deeply suffused with buff. Dr.Wheaton has also observed
these little fellows, and suggests that they may be a local,
southern-bred race. The distribution of this species during the
breeding season 1s not yet clearly defined, but in Southern Ontario
none have been observed except in spring and fall.

300. TURDUS AONALASCHKA PALLASII (Cas.). 759 b.
Hermit Thrush.

Above olive, shading into rufous on rump and tail; below white, olive
shaded on sides ; sides of head, eyelids, neck and breast strongly tinged with
buff; throat and breast marked with large dusky-olive spots. Length, about
74+; wing, 3}; tail, 3.

Has. Eastern North America; breeding from the Northern United
States northward, and wintering from the Northern States southward.

Nest, on the ground, sometimes slightly above it; composed of weeds,
leaves, rootlets and grass.

Eggs, 4 to 5; greenish-blue, without spots.

The Hermit Thrush is a regular visitor in spring and fall,
arriving a few days before the Olive-back, and making but a
short stay, although it‘probably does not go so far north to
breed as the latter species. Referring to the Hermit, the follow-
ing occurs in the ‘List of Birds of Western Ontario:”
‘‘Found common in full song in a large swamp, June 22nd,
1882. No nest found, although it was undoubtedly breeding.
None observed in summer in any other locality.”

300

ONTARIO.

At home, the habits of the Hermit are in keeping with its
name. Among the dense shrubbery in some retired spot it
builds its nest and raises its young; there too it pours forth its
sweet song on the ‘desert air,” where very few have been priv-
ileged to hear it. During the seasons of migration the birds
come more into the open country, but they are at all times shy
and fond of concealment. On these occasions they have only a
simple call note, apparently used to tel] their companions where
they are.

Genus MERULA Leacu.
301. MERULA MIGRATORIA (Linn.). 761.
American Robin.

Above dark olive-gray, blackish on head and tail; below reddish-brown,
throat, vent and under tail-coverts white, throat with black streaks; outer
pair of tail-feathers white tipped; bill dusky above, yellow below; feet dark ;
very young birds spotted above and below. Length, 93 inches; wing, 5};
tail, 44.

Has. Eastern North America to the Rocky Mountains, including East-
ern Mexico and Alaska. Breeds from near the southern border of the United
States northward to the Arctic coast; winters from Southern Canada and
the Northern States (irregularly) southward.

Nest, in a tree, frequently an apple tree in an orchard ; large and rough
looking; composed of twigs, grass and weeds cemented together with mud ;
lined with fine grass.

Eggs, 4 to 5; plain greenish-blue, without spots.

The Robin is well known and widely distributed throughout
Ontario. In the south it is most abundant during the period of
migration, but great numbers breed all over the Province, and
along the southern border it is no uncommon thing to meet with
individuals spending the winter in sheltered hollows, from which
they are ready to start out and hail the first indications of return-
ing spring. As theseason advances, northern bound individuals
of this species arrive from the south and pass on with little
delay, but those which are satisfied to remain at once become
engaged in the great business of the season, viz., raising their
young. The males are the first to arrive, and are occasionally

301

BIRDS OF

heard rehearsing their summer song, being evidently somewhat
out of practice. Ina few days the females make their appear-
ance and receive every attention.

The site for the nest is soon selected, and both birds work
diligently till the structure is completed. The first set of eggs
is layed in April, and during the tedious days of incubation the
male often mounts his perch to cheer his faithful mate with
what to her may seem delightful strains of music. On human
ears the song does not fall as a first-class performance, but it
is given with great earnestness and liberality, and is greeted
with welcome as the prelude to the grand concert of bird music
which is soon to be heard in the woods and fields all over the
country. At this season the food of the Robin consists chiefly
of worms and various insects. It is a fine exhibition of bird life
to seehim, earlyin the dewy morning, hop daintly over the newly
cut grass to where an earth worm is exposing himself near the
surface. With his head on one side the bird watches every
wriggle of the worm with intense interest ; if it is well clear of
the ground it is seized, and with a jerk thrown clear of its hole,
but if only a part of the worm is exposed the course 1s different ;
it is seized quickly and held firmly while it struggles hard to get
intoits hole. Robin knows that now a sudden jerk will part the
animal and give him only a portion, but he knows how much
strain the material will bear, and so he holds on till the exhausted
worm relaxes its hold, is tossed out and pounded till fit for use.

As theseason advancesa second and even a third brood of young
may be raised. The birds acquire a fondness for fruit, and now
come the charges against them of robbing the cherry tree. No
doubt they do take a few for themselves and families, but after
all they are entitled to some consideration on account of the
numbers of noxious insects which they destroy inthe garden, and
for my own part I would sacrifice a good many cherries rather
than not have the Robins around the house.

Those which travel to the far north have a different experi-
ence. Dr. Richardson tells us that ‘‘ The male is one of the
loudest and most assidious songsters which frequent the Fur
Countries, beginning his chant immediately on his arrival.

302

ONTARIO.

Within the Arctic circle the woods are silent during the bright
light of noonday, but towards midnight when the sun travels
near the horizon, and the shades of the forest are lengthened,
the concert commences, and continues till 6 or 7 in the morning.
Nests have been found as high as the 54th parallel of latitude
about the beginning of June. The snow even then partially
covers the ground, but there are in these high latitudes abund-
ance of berries of vaccinium ugliginosum and vites idea, arbutus
alpina, empetsum nigrum, and of some other plants, which, after
having been frozen up all winter, are exposed by the first melt-
ing of the snow, full of juice and in high flavor, thus forming a
natural cache for the supply of the birds on their arrival, soon
after which their insect food becomes abundant.”

In Southern Ontario large numbers are seen congregating
together feeding on the berries of the mountain ash, poke weed,
red cedar, etc. If the weather is mild they remain till Novem-

ber, but usually we have a cold blast from the northin October,
which hustles them all off to their winter quarters in the south.

Genus SIALIA Swainson.
302) “STALTA “SIALAS» (Linn.). + 766.
Bluebird.
Male, uniform sky-blue above, reddish-brown below, belly white. Female,
duller. Young, spotted.

Has. Eastern United States to the eastern base of the Rocky Mountains,
north to Manitoba, Ontario and Nova Scotia, south in winter from the
Middle States to the Gulf States and Cuba. Bermudas resident.

Nest, in natural or artificial holes in trees, stubs or posts, or in bird
boxes ; composed of miscellaneous material, loosely put together.

Eggs, 4 to 6; pale blue, unmarked.

In former years the Bluebirds were among our most abundant
and familiar birds, raising their young near our dwellings, and
returning year after year to occupy the boxes put up for their
accommodation. Since the advent ofthe English Sparrow, they
have been gradually decreasing in numbers, and are now seldom
seen near their old haunts, from which they have been driven by

593

BIRDS OF ONTARIO.

that pugnacious tramp, passer domesticus. They are still com-
mon throughout the country, where they areeverywhere welcomed
as early harbingers of spring, and in the fall they linger till late
in October, as if loth to depart. This species was a special
favorite with Wilson, on account of which it is often spoken of
as Wilson’s Bluebird, to distinguish it from the Indigo bird, and
one or two other species to which the name is sometimes applied.

That enthusiastic lover of birds has made it the subject of
one of his pleasing poetical effusions, in which he faithfully
describes many of its habits, amongst others its early arrival in
spring and reluctant departure in thefall. With a short extract
from this production I will say good-bye, for the present, to the
‘Birds of Ontario.”

‘‘ When all the gay scenes of the summer are o’er,
And autumn slow enters sosilent and sallow,
And millions of warblers which charmed us before
Have fled in the train of the sun-seeking Swallow.
The Bluebird forsaken, yet true to its home,
Still lingers and looks for a milder to-morrow,
Till forced by the [rigors] of winter to roam,
It sings its adieu in a lone note of sorrow.”

Olt Jae si

OF TECHNICAL TERMS USEDUIN THE ‘PRECEDING
DESCRIPTIONS.

MEASUREMENTS.

LENGTH. Distance between the tip of the bill and the end of the longest
tail feather.

EXTENT. Distance between the tips of the outspread wings.

LENGTH OF WING. Distance from the carpal angle formed at the bend
of the wing to the end of the longest primary.

LENGTH OF TAIL. Distance from the roots of the tail-feathers to the
end of the longest one.

LENGTH OF BILL. From the tip of the upper mandible to the point
where it meets the feathers of the forehead.

LENGTH OF TARSUS. Distance from the point where the tarsus joins
the leg above to the point where it joins the middle toe below.

LENGTH OF TOES. Distance from the point last indicated along the top
to the root of the claw.

LENGTH OF CLAWS. Distance in a straight line from the point last
indicated to the tip of the claw.

A

ABERRANT. Deviating from ordinary character.

ACUMINATE. Tapering gradually to a point.

ALBINISM. State of whiteness—complete or partial—arising from defici-
ency or entire lack of pigment in the skin and its appendages.

ALULA. Little wing. The bastard wing, composed of the feathers which
are set on the so-called thumb.

ATTENUATE. Slender and tapering toward a sharp point.

AXILLARS. Elongated feathers on the sides of the body under the wings

B

BAND OR BAR. Any color mark transverse to the long axis of the body
BEND OF WING. Angle formed at carpus in the folded wing

GLOSSARY.

Cc

CALCAREOUS. Chalky.

CANTHUS. Corner of the eye where the lids meet.

CAROTID. The principal blood vessel of the neck.

CARPAL ANGLE. Prominence at the wrist joint when wing is closed.
From this point to the end of the longest quill constitutes the ‘length
of wing.” .

CERE. Fleshy covering of the base of the bill.

CERVICAL. Pertaining to the hind neck.

CHIN. Space between the forks of the lower jaws.

CLAVICLE. Collar bone.

COMMISSURE. Line where the two mandibles meet.

CRISSUM. Under tail-coverts.

CULMEN. Ridge of upper mandible.

CUNEATE. Wedge-shaped. A cuneate tail has the middle feathers longest.

D

DECIDUOUS. Temporary ; falling early.
DECOMPOSED. Separate; standing apart.
DENTIROSTRAL. Having the bill toothed or notched.
DIAGNOSTIC. Distinctively characteristic.

DORSAL. Pertaining to the back.

E

EMARGINATE. Notched at the end; slightly forked.
ERYTHRISM. A peculiar reddish state of plumage.

F

FALCATE. Sickle-shaped. :

FEMORAL. Pertaining to the thigh.

FERRUGINOUS. Rusty-red.

FISSIROSTRAL. Having the bill cleft far beyond the base of its horny
part.

FORFICATE. Deeply forked.

FULIGINOUS. Sooty-brown.

FULVOUS. Ofa brownish-yellow color.

FURCATE. Forked.

FUSCOUS. Ofa dark grayish-brown color.

G

GIBBOUS. Swollen; protuberant.

GONYS. Keel or lower outline of the bill so far as united.
GRADUATED. Changing length at regular intervals.
GULAR. Pertaining to the upper fore neck.

GUTTATE. Having drop-shaped spots.

ll.

GLOSSARY.

H
HALLUX. The hind toe.

I

IMBRICATED. Fixed shingle-wise ; overlapping.
INTERSCAPULAR. Between the shoulders.

J
JUGULUM. Lower throat.

1G

LAMELLA. A thin plate or scale such as are seen inside a duck’s bill.

LANCEOLATE. Shaped like the head of a lance.

LARYNX. Adam's apple; a hollow cartilaginous organ; a modification of
the windpipe.

LOBE. Membraneous flap chiefly on the toes.

LORE. Space between the eye and the bill.

M

MAXILLAR. Pertaining to the upper jaw.

MELANISM. State of coloration arising from excess of dark pigment; a
frequent condition of Hawks.

MEMBRANE. Soft skinny covering of the bill of some birds.

N

NUCHA. The upper part of the hind neck next the hind head

O

OSCINES. A group of singing birds.
OCCIPUT. The hind head.

12

PALMATE. Web-footed.

PARASITIC. Habitually making use of other birds nests.

PECTINATE. Having tooth-like projections like those of a comb.

PECTORAL. Pertaining to the breast.

PLUMBEOUS. Lead color.

PRIMARIES. The large, stiff quills growing on the first bone of the wing ;
usually nine or ten, sometimes eleven in number.

R

REMIGES. Quills of the wing.
RETRICES. Quills of the tail.
RICTUS. Gape of the mouth.

ll.

GLOSSARY.
Ss

SAGGITATE. Shaped like an arrow-head.

SCAPULARS. Long feathers rising from the shoulders and covering the
sides of the back.

SECONDARIES. Quills which grow on the second bone of the wing.

SECONDARY COVERTS. The wing-feathers which cover the bases of
the secondary quills.

SEMIPALMATE. Having the feet half-webbed.

SERRATE. Toothed like a saw.

SPECULUM. Abrightly colored spot of the secondaries, especially of ducks

SPURIOUS QUILL. The first primary when very short.

SUPERCILIARY. Pertaining to the eyebrows.

Af

TAIL-COVERTS. The small feathers underlying or overlaying the base of
the tail.

TARSI. The shanks of the legs.

TERTIALS. Feathers which grow from the second bone of the wing at the
elbow joint.

TIBIA. The thigh.

INDEX OF SCIENTIFIC NAMES

A linaria holbcellii, 206
linaria rostrata, 207

Ammodramus sandwichensts sava-
obscura, 35 nna, 213

strepera, 36 | Ammodramus savannarum passeri-
americana, 37 | nus, 214
|
'
|

|
Anas boschas, 34 |

carolinensis, 38 | Ampelis garrulus, 239
discors, 39 cedrorum, 240
Aix sponsa, 42 Anthus pensilvanicus, 280
Aythya americana, 43 B

vallisneria, :
i ae Branta canadensis, 61
marila nearctica, 45 |

affini 6 | canadensis hutchinsii, 62
€ 1S @) .

. 4 bernicla, 63

collaris, 47

a‘ é ’ Botaurus lentiginosus, 6
Anser albifrons gambeli, 60 8 zi

| exilis, 68
Ardea herodias, 69 : ;
| Bartramia longicauda, 106
egretta, 70

ie es Bonasa umbellus, 122
candidissima, 71 ;
é Buteo borealis, 136
virescens, 72

| lineatus, 137
Actitis macularia, 108. swainsoni, 138

f@gialitis vocifera, 114. latissimus, 139

semipalmata, 115 Bubo virginianus, 155
meloda, 116
Cc

nivosa, I17 F
Arenaria interpres, 118 Colymbus holbeelli, 1

Accipiter velox, 133 | auritus, 2
cooperi, 134 | Nigricollis californicus, 3
atricapillus, 135 Cepphus grylle, 9
Archibuteo lagopus sancti-Johannis, | Charitonetta albeola, 50
140 Clangula hyemalis, 51
Aquila chrysaetos, 141 Chen hyperborea nivalis, 59
Asio wilsonianus, 148 Crymophilus fulicarius, 81
accipitrinus, 149 Calidris arenaria, 98
Antrostomus vociferus, 170 Charadrius squatarola, 112
Agelaius pheeniceus, 193 | dominicus, 113

Colinus virginianus, 119
Cathartes aura, 130

Acanthis hornemannti exilipes, 204
linaria, 205

.

INDEX OF SCIENTIFIC NAMES.

Circus hudsonius, 132
Coccyzus americanus, 158
erythrophthalmus, 159
Ceryle alcyon, 160
Ceophlceus pileatus, 166
Colaptes auratus, 169
Chordeiles virginianus, 171
Cheetura pelagica, 172
Contopus borealis, 178
virens, 179
Cyanocitta cristata, 186
Corvus corax sinuatus, 188
americanus, 189
Coccothraustes vespertina, 199
Carpodacus purpureus, 201
Calcarius lapponicus, 211
Chondestes grammacus, 215
Cardinalis cardinalis, 227
Chelidon erythrogaster, 235
Clivicola ripara, 237
Compsothlypis americana, 254
Cistothorus stellaris, 286
palustris, 287
Certhia familiaris americana, 288
D
Dafila acuta, 41

Dendragapus obscurus richardsonii,
120

canadensis, 121
Dryobates villosus, 161

pubescens, 162
Dolichonyx oryzivorus, 190
Dendroica tigrina, 255

zstiva, 256

cerulescens, 257

coronata, 258

maculosa, 259

cerulea, 260

pensylvanica, 261

castanea, 262

striata, 263

blackburniz, 264

virens, 265

vigorsii, 266

palmarum, 267

palmarum hypochrysea, 268

it

E

Erismatura rubida, 58
Ereunetes pusillus, 97
Ectopistes migratorius, 128
Elanoides forficatus, 131
Empidonax flaviventris, 180
pusillus, 181
minimus, 182

F

Fratercula arctica, 8

Fulica americana, 80

Falco peregrinus anatum, 143
columbarius, 144
sparverius, 145

st G

Gavia alba, 12

Glaucionetta clangula americana, 48
islandica, 49

Grus mexicana, 74

Gallinula galeata, 79

Gallinago delicata, 86

Geothlypis agilis, 272
philadelphia, 273
trichas, 274

Galeoscoptes carolinensis, 282

H

Hydrochelidon nigra surinamensis,
26

Histrionicus histrionicus, 52
Haliaetus leucocephalus, 142
Habia ludoviciana, 228
Helminthophila chrysoptera, 250

ruficapilla, 251

celata, 252

peregrina, 253
Harporhynchus rufus, 283

I

Icterus spurius, 195
galbula, 196
Icteria virens, 275

J

Junco hyemalis, 221

Lad

-
a a

INDEX OF SCIENTIFIC NAMES.

L

Larus glaucus, 14
marinus, 15
argentatus smithsonianus, 16
delawarensis, 17
franklinii, 18
philadelphia, 19
Lophodytes cucullatus, 33
Limosa fedoa, 99
haemastica, Too
Lagopus lagopus, 123
rupestris, 124
Loxia Curvirostra minor, 202
leucoptera, 203
Lanius borealis, 241
ludovicianus, 242
e: cubitorides, 243

M

Merganser americanus, 31
serrator, 32
Macrorhamphus griseus, 87
Micropalama himantopus, 88
Meleagris gallopavo, 127
Megascops asio, 154
Melanerpes erythrocephalus, 167
carolinus, 168
Milvulus forficatus, 174
Myiarchus crinitus, 176
Molothrus ater, ror
Melospiza fasciata, 222
lincolni, 223
georgiana, 224
Mniotilta varia, 249
Mimus polyglottos, 281
Merula migratoria, 301

N

Mycticorax nycticorax nzvius, 73

Numenius longirostris, 109
hudsonicus, IIo
borealis, 111

Nyctala tengmalmi richardsoni, 152
acadica 153

Nyctea nyctea 156

O

Oidemia americana, 55
deglandi, 56
perspicillata, 57

Olor columbianus, 64
buccinator, 65

Otocoris alpestris, 183
alpestris, praticola, 184

je)

Podilymbus podiceps, 4
Phalacrocorax carbo, 28
dilophus, 29 s
Pelecanus erythrorhynchos, 30
Plegadis autumalis, 66
Porzana noveboracensis, 78
carolina, 77
Phalaropus lobatus, 82
tricolor, 83
Philohela minor, 85
Pavoncella pugnax, 105
Pedioceetes phasianellus, 126
Pandion haliaetus carolinensis, 146
Picoides arcticus, 163
americanus, 164
Pica pica hudsonica, 185
Perisoreus canadensis, 187
Pinicola enucleator, 200
Plectrophenax nivalis. 210
Poocetes gramineus, 212
Passerella iliaca, 225
Pipilo erythrophthalmus, 226
Passerina cyanea, 229
Piranga erythromelas, 231
Piranga rubra, 232
Progne subis, 233
Petrochelidon lunifrons, 234
Parus atricapillus, 291
hudsonicus, 292
Polioptila caerulea, 295

Q

Quiscalus quiscula zeneus, 198

INDEX OF

R

Rissa tridactyla, 13

Rallus elegans, 75
virginianus, 76

Recurvirostra americana, 84

Regulus satrapa, 293
calendula, 294

S)

Stercorarius pomarinus, 11
Sterna tschegrava, 20
sandvicensis acuflavida, 21
forsteri, 22
hirundo, 23
paradisea, 24
antillarum, 25
Sula bassana, 27
Spatula clypeata, 4o
Somateria dresseri, 53
spectabilis, 54
Symphemia semipalmata, 104
Strix pratincola, 147
Syrnium nebulosum, 150
Surnia alula, 157
Sphyrapicus varius, 165
Sayornis phoebe, 177
Sturnella magna, 194
Scolecophagus carolinus, 197
' Spinus tristis, 208
pinus, 209
Spizella monticola, 218
socialis, 219
pusilla, 220
Spiza americana, 230
Stelgidopterix serripennis, 238
Seiurus aurocapillus, 269
noveboracensis, 270
motocilla, 271
Sylvania mitrata, 276
pusilla, 277
canadensis, 278
Setophaga ruticilla, 279
Sitta carolinensis, 289
canadensis, 290
Sialia sialis, 3c2

SCIENTIFIC NAMES.

ah

Tringa canutus, 89
maritima, go
maculata, 91
fuscicollis, 92
bairdii, 93
minutilla, 94
alpina pacifica, 95
ferruginea, 96
Totanus melanoleucus, 101
flavipes, 102
solitarius, 103
Tryngites subruficollis, 107
Tympanuchus americanus, 125
Trochilus colubris, 173
Tyrannus tyrannus, 175
Tachycineta bicolor, 236
Troglodytes aedon, 284
hiemalis, 285
Turdus mustelinus, 296
fuscescens, 297
aliciz, 298
ustulatus swainsoni, 299
aonalaschkz pallasii, 300

U
Urinator imber, 5
arcticus, 6
Lumme, 7
Uria lomvia, 10
Ulula cinerea, 151

Vv

Vireo olivaceus, 244
philadelphicus, 245
gilvus, 246
flavifrons, 247
solitarius, 248

».4
Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus, 192

Z

Zenaidura macroura, 129
Zonotrichia leucophrys, 216
albicollis, 217

INDEX OF ENGLISH NAMES

The number opposite each species in the index corresponds with that to

the left of the same species in the book.

The number to the vight of the name in the book is the number of species

in the A. O. U. Check List.

A

Arctic Tern, 24
Avocet, 84

B

Black Guillemot, 9
Brunnich’s Murre, ro
Black-backed Gull, 15
Bonaparte’s Gull, 19
Black Tern, 26
Black Duck, 35
Baldpate, 37
Barrow’'s Golden Eye, 49
Buffle-head Duck, 50
Brant, 63
Bittern, 67

Least, 68
Baird’s Sandpiper, 93
Bartram’s Sandpiper, 106
Buff-breasted Sandpiper, 107
Black-bellied Plover, 112
Bob White, 119
Broad-winged Hawk, 139
Bald Eagle, 142
Barn Owl, 147
Barred Owl, 150
Black-billed Cuckoo, 159
Belted Kingfisher, 160

Black-backed Three-toed Wood-
pecker, 163

Banded-backed Three-toed Wood-
pecker, 164

Blue Jay, 186
Bobolink, 190
Black-bird, Yellow-headed, 192
Rusty, 197
Red-winged, 193
Baltimore Oriole, 196
Bronzed Grackle, 198
Bunting Indigo, 229
Black-throated, 230
Barn Swallow, 235
Bank Swallow, 237
Bohemian Waxwing, 239
Blue-headed Vireo, 248
Black and White Warbler, 249
Black-throated Blue Warbler, 257
Bay-breasted Warbler, 262
Black-poll Warbler, 263
Blackburnian Warbler, 264
Black-throated Green Warbler, 265
Brown Thrasher, 283
Brown Creeper, 288
Black-capped Tit, 291
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, 295
Blue-bird, 302

(e

Caspian Tern, 20
Cabot's Tern, 21
Common Tern, 23
Cormorant, 28
Double-crested, 29
Canvas-back, 44

INDEX OF ENGLISH NAMES.

Canada Goose, 61
Crane, Sandhill, 74
Coot, 80
Curlew Sandpiper, 96
Long-billed, 10g
Hudsonian, 110
Eskimo, 111
Canada Grouse, 12!
Cooper’s Hawk, 134
Cuckoo, Yellow-billed, 158
Black-billed, 159
Chimney Swift, 172
Crested Flycatcher, 176
Canada Jay, 187
Crow, 189
Cowbird, tg1
Crossbill, Red, 202
White-winged, 2c3
Chipping Sparrow, 219
Cardinal, 227
Cliff Swallow, 234
Cedar Waxwing, 240
Cape May Warbler, 255
Cerulean Warbler, 260
Chestnut-sided Warbler, 261
Connecticut Warbler, 272
Canadian Warbler, 278
Catbird, 282
Creeper, Brown, 288
Chickadee, 291
Hudsonian, 292

D
Dabchick, 4

Double-crested Cormorant, 29

Duck, Mallard, 34
Black, 35
Gadwail, 36
Baldpate, 37
Shoveller, 40
Pintail, 41
Wood, 42
Redhead, 43
Canvas-back, 44
Scaup-back, 45
Scaup, Lesser, 46
Ring-necked, 47

ee ee eee

Golden Eye, 48
Burrow’s Eye, 49
Buffle-head, 50
Long-tailed, 51
Harlequin, 52
Eider, 53
King Eider, 54
Scoter, 55
White-winged Scoter, 56
Surf Scoter, 57
Ruddy, 58
Duck Hawk, 143
Downy Woodpecker, 162
Dowitcher, 87
E
Eared Grebe, 3
Eider Duck, 53
King, 54
Egret, White, 70
Eskimo Curlew, 111
Eagle, Golden, 141
Bald, 142
Evening Grosbeak, 199
F
Franklin’s Gull, 18
Forster’s Tern, 22
Florida Gallinule, 79
Fish Hawk, 146
Fly-catcher, Scissor-tailed, 174
Tyrant, 175
Great-crested, 176
Phoebe, 177
Olive-sided, 178

Wood Peewee, 179
Yellow-bellied, 180

Traill’s, 181 q
Least, 182

Finch, Purple, 201

Field Sparrow, 220

Fox Colored, 225

G
Grebe, Holbeell's, 1
Horned, 2
Eared, 3

Pied-billed, 4
Guillemot, Black, 9

INDEX OF ENGLISH NAMES.

Gull, Ivory, 12 H
Kittiwake, 13 Holbcell’s Grebe, tr
Glaucous, 14 | Horned Grebe, 2
Black-backed, 15 Herring Gull, 16
Herring, 16 Hooded Merganser, 33
Ring-billed, 17 Harlequin Duck, 52
Franklin's, 18 | Hutchin’s Goose, 62
Bonaparte’s, 19 Heron, Great Blue, 69

Glaucous Gull, 14 Snowy, 7!

Gannet, 27 | Green, 72

Goosander, 31 Night, 73

Gadwall, 36 Hudsonian Godwit, too

Golden-eye, 48 Curlew, I10
Barrow’s, 49 Hawk, Marsh, 132

Goose, Greater Snow, 59 Sharp-shinned, 133
White-fronted, 60 Cooper’s, 134
Canada, 61 Gos, 135
Hutchin’s, 62 Red-tailed, 136

Glossy Ibis, 66 Red-shouldered, 137

Great Blue Heron, 69 Swainson’s, 138

Green Heron, 72 Broad-winged, 139

Gallinule, Florida, 79 Rough-legged, 140

Godwit, Marbled, 99 Duck, 143
Hudsonian, 100 Pigeon, 144

Greater Yellow-legs, ror Sparrow, 145

Golden Plover, 113 Fish, 146
Canada, 121 Hairy Woodpecker, 16r
Ruffed, 122 Hummingbird, 173

Sharp-tailed, 126
Goshawk, 135
Golden Eagle, 141
Great Gray Owl, 151
Great Horned Owl, 155
Golden-winged Woodpecker, 169
Grackle, Bronzed, 198
Grosbeak, Evening, 199
Pine, 200
Rose-breasted, 228
Greater Redpoll, 207
Goldfinch, 208
Grasshopper Sparrow, 214
Golden-winged Warbler, 250
Golden-crowned Kinglet, 293
Gnatcatcher, Gray, 295
Gray-cheeked Thrush, 298

Horned Lark, 183

Hoary Redpoll, 204
Holbeell’s Redpoll., 206
Hooded Warbler, 276
House Wren, 284
Hudsonian Chickadee, 292
Hermit Thrush, 300

I
Ivory Gull, 12

Ibis, Glossy, 66
Indigo Bunting, 229

J

Jaegar, Pomarine, 11

Jay, Blue, 186
Canada, 187

Grouse, Richardson's, 120 Hawk Owl, 157
| Junco, Slate-colored, 221

iil.

INDEX OF ENGLISH NAMES.

K

Kittiwake, Gull, 13

King Eider, 54

King Rail, 75

Killdeer Plover, 114

Kite, Swallow-tailed, 131

Kingfisher, 160

King-bird, 175

Kinglet, Golden-crowned, 293
Ruby-crowned, 294

Knot, 89

L
Loon, 5

Black-throated, 6
Red-throated, 7
Least Tern, 25
Long-tailed Duck, 51
Least Bittern, 68
Least Sandpiper, 94
Long-billed Curlew, 1rog
Long-eared Owl, 148
Least Flycatcher, 182
Lark, Horned, 183
Prairie, 184
Linnet, Pine, 209
Lapland Longspur, 211
Lark Sparrow, 215
Lincoln's Sparrow, 223
Loggerhead Shrike, 242
Louisiana Water Thrush, 271
Long-billed Marsh Wren, 287

M

Murre, Brunnich’s, ro
Merganser, American, 31
Red-breasted, 32
Hooded, 33
Mallard, 34
Marbled Godwit, 99
Mourning Dove, 129
Marsh Hawk, 132
Magpie, 185
Meadowlark, 194
Martin, Purple, 233
Myrtle Warbler, 258
Magnolia Warbler, 259

lv.

Mourning Warbler, 273
Maryland Yellow-throat, 274
Mockingbird, 281
N

Night Heron, 73
Northern Phalarope, 82
Night Hawk, 171
Northern Shrike, 241
Nashville Warbler, 251
Nuthatch, White-breasted, 289

Red-breasted, 290

O
Osprey, 146
Owl, Barn, 147
Long-eared, 148
Short-eared, 149
Barred, 150
Great Gray, 151
Richardson's, 152
Saw-whet, 153
Screech, 154
Great Horned, 155
Snowy, 156
Hawk, 157
Olive-sided Flycatcher, 178
Orchard Oriole, 195
Oriole, Baltimore, 196
Orange-crowned Warbler, 252
Oven-bird, 269
Olive-backed Thrush, 299

Pp

Pied-billed Grebe, 4

Puffin, 8

Pomarine Jaeger, 11

Pelican, 30

Pintail, 41

Phalarope, Red, 8t
Northern, 82
Wilson's, 83

Purple Sandpiper, go

Pectoral Sandpiper, 91

Plover, Black-bellied, 112
Golden, 113
Killdeer, 114

INDEX OF ENGLISH NAMES.

Semipalmated, 115
Piping, 116
Snowy, 117
Ptarmigan Willow, 123
Rock, 124
Pigeon, Passenger, 128
Peregrine Falcon, 143
Pigeon Hawk, 144
Pileated Woodpecker, 166
Pheebe, 177
Prairie Horned Lark, 184
Pine Grosbeak, 200
Purple Finch, 2o1r
Pine Siskin, 209
Purple Martin, 233
Philadelphia Vireo, 245
Parula Warbler, 254
Pine Warbler, 266
Palm Warbler, 267

Pipit, 280
Prairie Hen, 125
Q
Quail, 119
R

Ring-billed Gull, 17
Red-breasted Merganser, 32
Redhead, 43
Ring-necked Duck, 47
Ruddy Duck, 58
Rail, King, 75

Virginia, 76

Sora, 77

Yellow, 78
Red Phalarope, 81
Red-breasted Snipe, 87
Ruff, 105
Red-breasted Sandpiper, 89
Red-backed Sandpiper, 95
Richardson's Grouse, 120
Ruffed Grouse, 122
Rock Ptarmigan, 124
Red-tailed Hawk, 136
Red-shouldered Hawk, 137
Rough-legged Hawk, 140
Richardson's Owl, 152

Red-headed Woodpecker, 167
Red-bellied Woodpecker, 168
Raven, 188
Red-winged Blackbird, 193
Rusty Blackbird, 197
Redpoll, Hoary, 204

Common, 205

Holbeell’s, 206

Greater, 207
Rose-breasted Grosbeak, 228
Red-bird, Summer, 232
Rough-winged Swallow, 238
Red-eyed Vireo, 244
Redstart, 279
Red-breasted Nuthatch, 290
Ruby-crowned Kinglet, 294
Robin, 301

S

Shoveller, 40

Scaup Duck, 45
Lesser, 46

Scoter, 55
White-winged, 56
Surf, 57

Snow Goose, Greater, 59

Swan, Whistling, 64
Trumpeter, 65

Snowy Heron, 71

Sandhill Crane, 74

Sora Rail, 77

Snipe, Wilson’s, 86
Red-breasted, 87

Sandpiper, Stilt, 88
Red-breasted, 89
Purple, go
Pectoral, 91
White-rumped, 92
Baird’s 93
Least, 94
Red-backed, 95
Curlew, 96
Semipalmated, 97
Bartram’s, 106
Buff-breasted, 107
Spotted, 108
Solitary, 103

INDEX OF ENGLISH NAMES.

Sanderling, 98
Stilt Sandpiper, 88
Semipalmated Sandpiper, 97
Spotted Sandpiper, 108
Semipalmated Plover, 115
Snowy Plover, 117
Spruce Partridge, 121
Sharp-tailed Grouse, 126
Swallow-tailed Kite, 131
Sharp-shinned Hawk, 133
Swainson’s Hawk, 138
Sparrow Hawk, 145
Short-eared Owl, 149
Saw-whet Owl, 153
Screech Owl, 154
Snowy Owl, 156
Swift, Chimney, 172
Scissor-tailed Flycatcher, 174
Snowflake, 210 :
Sparrow, Vesper, 212

Savanna, 213

Grasshopper, 214

Lark, 215

White-crowned, 216

White-throated, 217

Tree, 218

Chipping, 219

Field, 220

Song, 222

Lincoln’s, 223,

Swamp, 224

Fox Colored, 225
Scarlet Tanager, 231
Summer Red-bird, 232
Swallow, Cliff, 234

Barn, 235

Tree; 236

Bank, 237

Rough-winged, 238
Shrike, Northern, 241

Loggerhead, 242

White-rumped, 243
Short-billed Marsh Wren, 286

at

Tern, Caspian, 20

Vi.

Cabot's, 21
Forster's, 22
Common, 23
Arctic, 24
Least, 25
Black, 26
Teal, Green-winged, 38
Blue-winged, 39
Trumpeter Swan, 65
Turnstone, 118
Turkey, Wild, 127
Buzzard, 130
Tyrant Flycatcher, 175
Traill’s Flycatcher, 181
Tree Sparrow, 218
Towhee, 226
Tanager, Scarlet, 231
Tree Swallow, 236
Tennessee Warbler, 253
Thrush, Wood, 296
Wilson's, 297
Gray-cheeked, 298
Olive-backed, 299
Hermit, 300
Vv
Virginia Rail, 76
Vulture, Turkey, 139
Vesper Sparrow, 212
Vireo, Red-eyed, 244
Philadelphia, 245
Warbling, 246
Yellow-throated, 247
Blue-headed, 248

Ww

Wood Duck, 42
White-winged Scoter, 56
White-fronted Goose, 60
Whistling Swan, 64
White Egret, 70
Wilson’s Phalarope, 83
Woodcock, 85

Wilson’s Snipe, 86
Willet, 104

White-rumped Sandpiper, 92

Willow Ptarmigan, 123

aN

)

INDEX OF ENGLISH NAMES.

Wild Turkey, 127
Woodpecker, Hairy, 161
Downy, 162

Black-backed Three-toed, 163
Banded-backed Three-toed, 164

Yellow-bellied, 165

Pileated, 166

Red-headed, 167

Red-bellied, 168

Golden-winged, 169
Whip-poor-will, 170
Wood Peewee, 179
White-crowned Sparrow, 216
White-throated Sparrow, 217
Waxwing, Bohemian, 239

Cedar, 240
White-rumped Shrike, 243
Warbling Vireo, 246
Warbler, Black and White, 249

Golden Winged, 250

Nashville, 251

Orange-crowned, 252

Tennessee, 253

Parula, 254

Cape May, 255

Yellow, 256

Black-throated, Blue, 257

Myrtle, 258

Magnolia, 259

Cerulean, 260

Chesnut-sided, 261

Bay-breasted, 262

Black-poll, 263
Blackburnian, 264
Black-throated, Green, 265
Pine, 266
Palm, 267
Yellow Palm, 268
Connecticut, 272
Mourning, 273
Hooded, 276
Wilson’s, 277
Canadian, 278
Water Thrush, 270
Water Thrush, Louisiana, 271
Wren, House, 284
Winter, 285
Short-billed, Marsh, 286
Long-billed, Marsh, 287
White-breasted Nuthatch, 289
Wood Thrush, 296 .
Wilson’s Thrush, 297

vi

Yellow Rail, 78
Yellow-legs, Greater, Ior

Lesser, 102
Yellow-billed Cuckoo, 153
Yellow-bellied Woodpecker, 165
Yellow-bellied Flycatcher, 180
Yellow-headed Blackbird, 192
Yellow-throated Vireo, 247
Yellow Warbler, 256
Yellow Palm Warbler, 268
Yellow-breasted Chat, 275

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