SXQWM THE LIBRARY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA Biology Library BEQUEST OF Theodore S. Palmer /o, /y/o No. 12. REPORT OF THE WEST VIRGINIA State Board of Agriculture, FOR THE Quarter Ending December 31, 1908. Entered April 13, 1906, at the Post Office. Charleston, \V. Va., as second- class matter, under Act of Congress June 6, 1900. List of Birds Found in West Virginia Charleston The Tribune Printing Co. 1909 DOCUMENTS DLPRHIWENT APR ^C '& LIBRARY UNIVERSITY O^CA ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK (UPPER FIGURE, MALE; LOWER FIGURE, FEMALE) Order— PASSERES Family— FRINGILLID/E Genus— ZAMELODIA Species— LUDOVICIANA No. 12. REPORT OF THE WEST VIRGINIA State Board of Agriculture, FOR THE Quarter Ending December 31, 1908. Entered April 13, 1906, at the Post Office, Charleston, W. Va., as second- class matter, under Act of Congress June 6, 1900. List of Birds Found in West Virginia c. ,k>M 0 Charleston The Tribune Printing Co. 1909 DOCUMENTS DEPARTMENT APR 2c 1956 LIBRARY JNIVERSITY pr CAHFnsiu.fl WEST VIRGINIA STATE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE, 1908. MEMBERS. E. J. HUMPHREY, Belleville, Wood County. M. V. BBOWN, Buffalo, Putnam County. ABBAM McCoLLOcn, Clinton, Ohio County. W. D. ZINN, Philippi, Barbour County. R. E. THRASHER, Maxwelton, Greenbrier County. CHAS. P. LIGHT, Martinsburg, Berkeley County. H. A. HARTLEY, Masontown, Preston County. OFFICERS. E. J. HUMPHREY, President Belleville. J. B. GARVIN, Secretary-Treasurer Charleston. IRENE C. DICK, Assistant Secretary, Charleston. CONSULTING MEMBERS. DB. K. C. ATKESON, Buffalo, Putnam County, Consulting Veterinarian. DB. J. C. CALLANDEB, Parkersburg, Wood County, " DB. L. N. REEFEB, Wheeling, Ohio County, DB. G. A. REVEBCOMB, Ronceverte, Greenbrier Co., " DB. W. M. STANLEY, Charles Town, Jefferson Co., " H. L. SMITH, Martinsburg, Berkeley Co., Horticulturist T. C. ATKESON, PH. D., Morgantown, Agriculturist. H. C. HOWE, Farkersburg, Wood County, Meteorologist R. L. MOBBIS, Morgantown, Civil Engineer. J. R. WELLS, Ben's Run, Tyler County, Dairyman. S. W. MOOBE, Elwell, Mason County, Pomologist HOBACE ATWOOD, M. S., Agr. Poultryman. T. K. MASSIE, Tophet, Summers County, Apiarian. C^logue for BtoL lib £*; INTRODUCTION. W4S7 B; specimens will enable any observer to distinguish between the male and the female of this common species. As may be noted, the male has the red nape, but the female, similar in other markings, is without the scarlet nape. Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America, from Labrador to Florida. W. Ya. Dist. — Yery common in most parts of this state. Dr. Rives observed this species but once or twice while on his visit to the West Yirginia spruce by two specimens, a male and a female. Note the difference in the sexes. Geog. Dist. — Eastern and northern North America, south to North Carolina. W. Va. Dist. — Abundant in all parts of the state. Nest — In hole in dead tree. Five to nine beautiful white eggs. Food — Termites, ants and other insects, fruit, etc. 416. Chuck-TwiH's- widow (Anirostomus carolinensis) . One adult. "We are fortunate in having a specimen of this large southern •goat-sucker. Geog. Dist. — South Atlantic and Gulf States, south to Central America. "W. Va. Dist. — But one record for this species in West Vir- ginia. Mr. Thad. Surber reports that he examined a specimen, on Apr. 22, 1897, that had been picked up on the streets of Lewis- burg, Greenbrier County. Just here it is in place to say that rare southern species are likely to be observed at any time along the waters of the New River and in adjacent sections. Quito naturally both animals and plants follow down that stream from the Carolinas, until they are beyond their usual habitat. I would urge upon persons who live in the southern parts of the state to be on the look-out constantly for rare species from farther south. Nest — Two eggs placed on the leaves or on the bare ground. Food — Aerial insects and, sometimes, small birds. 417. "Whip-poor-will (Antrostomus vocifenis). One specimen only is needed in the collection to represent this common species, as male and female are nearly alike in their markings. Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America to the plains. 26 WEST VIRGINIA [W. VA. W. Ya. Dist. — Generally common. Not often heard 011 the low valley bottom-lands along the Ohio River. Bare in the higher elevations. Common elsewhere. Nest — Eggs placed on leaves or on the ground, with no effort at nest-building. Food — Nocturnal insects. 420. Nighthawk (Cliordeiles virginianus) . Male and female, It is most earnestly hoped that these specimen s, with the one Whip-poor-will, may help in clearing up the endless confusion of these two kinds of birds. The Nighthawk is often seen flying about on late summer evenings in great numbers, and is frequently called "Bull-bat". The Whip-poor-will does not come out in the open as the Nighthawk does. The two species should be readily distinguished, even by the casual observer, by the very different notes. The coloring, too, is quite different. Note the difference- in the shape of the tail in the two species. Geog. Dist. — Northern and eastern North America, west to the Great Plains and central British Columbia, and from Labrador south through tropical America to the Argentine Republic. W. Va. Dist. — Common, especially in August and early Septem- ber when they pass through this section on their autumn migra- tion flights. Nest — No nest. Eggs laid on bare ground, on a stone, or, some times, on the roof of a house. I found a nest of this species at one time in Upshur County. In the mountains these birds are heard frequently in the breeding season. Though I searched very carefully one day last summer for a nest on the summit of Spruce Knob, Pendleton Co., I failed to find one. Food — Flying insects. 423. Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica}. One adult, These birds do not belong to the Swallow family, though they are called "Chimney Swallows" by many people. Structurally, they are un- like swallows. Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America from the Fur Countries to Cozumel Island. W. Va. Dist. — One of our most abundant birds. In "Summer Birds of the West Virginia Spruce Belt" (AUK, Vol. XV, 189*. p. 135) Dr. Rives says, "Occasionally observed". Not very common in the mountainous districts. 1908] BIBDS. 2T Nest — In a chimney or hollow tree. Food — Insects. Very useful birds. 428. Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Trochilus colubris). A pair.. Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America as far north as the Fur- Countries. W. Va. Dist. — Very common. Though there are about five hun- dred species of hummingbirds in North and South America, this is the only species that ever comes into this part of the United States. ;^est — A beautiful nest of plant down, fibers, and lichens saddle 1 on a limb, frequently an apple limb. Difficult to find the nest of this species. Two white eggs. Food — Honey from flowers and minute insects. 444. Kingbird (Tyrannus tyrannus). Male and female. The male is so mounted that its usually concealed orange-red crest may^ be seen. This is the bird that is often called "Bee-bird" or "Bee- martin". Geog. Dist. — North America, most common east of the Rockies. W. Va. Dist. — One of the common birds of our fields and orchards.. Nest — Usually in apple trees. Nests easily found. Food — The Kingbird some times feeds on bees, but it destroys; enough harmful insects to clear its record. 452. Crested Flycatcher (Myiarchus crinitus) . One adult. Sexe& alike. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States and southern Canada. W. Va. Dist. — A very common bird in all sections of the state where there are large tracts of deciduous woodland. Nest — In hollow tree. One peculiarity in the nest-building of this bird is to be found in its selection of a piece of cast-off snake skin for building material. A nest is rarely found without this^ uncanny thing in its walls. Foods— Insects. (See Bull. 110, W. Va. Agr. Expt. Sta., p. 23. for interesting note on the food habits of this flycatcher) . 456. Phoebe (Sayornis phoebe). One adult. Sexes alike. Some times called "Pewee". Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America. "W. Va. Dist. — Common throughout the state. 28 WEST VIRGINIA [W. VA. Nest — Made of mud and moss, and placed on a beam or rafter or rock ledge. Food — Winged insects. 461. Wood Pewee (Myiochanes virens). One adult. Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America, from Florida to Newfound- land. W. Va. Dist. — Common in nearly all sections of the state. It usually makes its presence known by its clear whistling notes. Nest — Saddled across the limb of some forest tree, twenty to forty feet up. Breeds commonly in West Virginia. Food — Forest insects, such as fly about in dark woods. 463. Yellow-bellied Flycatcher (Empidonax flaviventris) . One specimen. G-eog. Dist. — Eastern North America, breeding from northern states to Labrador. Casual in Greenland. W. Va. Dist. — This species has been recorded but twice from the state. The writer has never seen a living specimen in West Virginia. Nest — On the ground in northern spruce forests. Food — Insects. ! 467. Least Flycatcher (Empidon&a minimus). One specimen. Sexes alike. From this series of our smaller flycatchers, the student may observe how little difference there is in either size or coloring. This group of birds brings many perplexities to even an advanced student of bird-life. Geog. Dist. — Chiefly eastern North America. W. Va. Dist. — Rather common in the migration seasons. Of late I have found some evidence of the breeding of this species in our state. In June (1908) I found a number of these little birds at the base of Spruce Knob, Pendleton County. Nest — In the crotch of a tree a few feet from the ground. Food — Flying insects. 474b. Prairie Horned Lark (Otocoris alpestris praticola). Two specimens. Geog. Dist. — This subspecies is found in the upper Mississippi Valley and eastward through New England and the Central States. W. Va. Dist, — A new-comer into W. Va. Within the past ten years this bird has extended its range into nearly all parts of our state. Now breeds in manv of our counties. 1908] BIBDS. 2» Nest — Made of grass on the ground. Food — About 80 per cent of the food is vegetable matter consist- ing of grains, weed seeds, and fruits. The remaining 20 per cent consists of animal food — mostly insects. 477. Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata,}. One specimen of this beautiful bird is quite enough to exhibit his rich blue plumage. Male and female colored alike. Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America to the Plains, and from the- Fur Countries south to Florida and eastern Texas. W. Va. Dist. — Rare along Ohio Valley. In some places quite common, though the abundance or rarity of this species in any given place varies greatly from year to year. More common in the rougher parts of the state. Nest — Nest made of rootlets in a tree crotch fifteen to twenty feet up. Breeds in this state. Food — Of miscellaneous nature consisting of fruits, nuts, seeds and insects. In June (1908) I found this species feeding on great quantities of the bright red fruit of the Mountain Elder, i 488. American Crow (Cwvus brachyrhynchos) . One specimen of this well-known bird. Geog. Dist. — North America, from the Fur Countries to the- southern border of the United States. W. Va. Dist. — Common. Along the Ohio River this species some times gathers in large flocks to spend the winter months. Nest — A coarse affair made of sticks in a tree about thirty feet from the ground. Food — Omnivorous in its feeding habits. It is believed that the food of this bird is such that, on the whole, it must be placed on the list of beneficial birds. For elaborate notes on the food of the American Crow see bulletin No. 6, Dept. Agr., Div. Ornithology and Mammalogy, "The Common Crow of the United States," by- Barrows and Schwarz, 1895. 494. Bobolink (Doliclwnyx oryzivorus). A pair of these pretty birds appears in the collection. Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America, west to Montana. W. Va. Dist. — For many years I looked for Bobolinks in central West Virginia, but failed to find them. Finally in the early 90 's, I saw five birds of this species on the grounds of the West Virginia -30 WEST VIRGINIA [W. VA. Wesley an College at Buckhannon. Since that time I have observed the species many times, most frequently in Wood and Marshall Counties. Large flocks of these birds have been reported from the -eastern and southern parts of the state during migration seasons. Nest — Grassy nest on the ground. There are no breeding records for West Virginia. Food — Seeds, grains and insects. 495. Cowbird (Molothrus ater). The pretty black and brown -colors of these common birds are to be seen in the male and female specimens. Geog. Dist. — United States, from the Atlantic to the Pacific. W. Va. Di-st. — Very common in the summer time. For awhile, 'however, in mid-summer, these birds are strangely absent. In the autumn they gather in large flocks as they prepare to go on their southward migration flights. Occasionally this bird may be seen in mid-winter. Nest — This bird builds no nest, but always lays its eggs in the nest of some smaller bird. Food — Insects and seeds. Watch these birds following the cows out in the fields and see them catching the insects that the cows stir up. 498. Red-winged Blackbird (Agelaius plweniceus}. The very marked difference between the male and female is shown by these two specimens. When the male flies the bright red shoulder marks are most beautifully displayed. The young birds are colored much as the female is. Geog. Dist. — North America in general, from Great Slave Lake south to Costa Rica, W. Va. Dist. — One of the most common birds along the streams in the more developed parts of the state. Abundant along the larger rivers. In the glades about Cowen, I have found these birds breed- ing in large numbers. Nest — In low bushes or reeds. Breeds commonly in West Vir- ginia, Food — Fruits, insects, grains. 501. Meadowlark ( Stumella magna). Male and female. Geog. Dist.— Eastern United States and southern Canada to the Plains. 1908] BIRDS. 31 W. Va. Dist. — Very common in cultivated sections. Sometimes spends the winter here. Nest — Nest made of grasses and placed on the ground. Mr. Frank M. Chapman speaks of the nest as being very hard to find. Four to six spotted eggs. Food — Insects and seeds. 506. Orchard Oriole (Icterus spurius). Male, female, and young. The male does not have its rich chestnut and black colors till the third year. About as common as the Baltimore Oriole, but not so often seen. As the name implies, it is found about orchard trees. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States, as far north as New England. W. Va. Dist — Generally distributed throughout the state where the altitude is under 2,000 ft. Nest — Breeds in W. Va. wherever found. I have found a great many nests of this species in fruit trees in Wood, Upshur and Lewis Counties. Look out for the song of this accomplished musician. Food — Insects. 507. Baltimore Oriole (Icterus galbula). A pair. Named for Lord Baltimore who is said to have dressed in orange and black. Chapman says, "Sometimes Nature, as if to remind us of the rich- ness of her stores, sends from the tropics a gaily attired bird who •seems quite out of place among the more soberly clad inhabitants of northern climes. The genus Icterus contains nearly forty species, all more or less brightly dressed in orange, yellow, an-1 black, but not one is more beautiful than our Baltimore Oriole." Known by almost every one who is at all familiar with our birds. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States as far north as Ontario and Manitoba. W. Va. Dist. — Very common outside the mountain districts. Nest — Pensile, in fruit or shade trees. Eggs, four to six. Very common breeder in mast parts of the state. Food— Destroys some fruit. 83 per cent of the oriole's food is animal matter, caterpillars forming 34 per cent of the whole. '"It may be ranked as one of the chief friends of the orchardist and forester. ' ' ( Forbush ) . 509. Rusty Blackbird (EupJiagus carolinus.) Male and female. This is only a transient visitant in this state, and is less known than any of the other blackbirds that come to West Virginia. 32 WEST VIRGINIA [W. Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America, west to Alaska and the Plains. Breeds from New England northward. W. Va. Dist. — Seen occasionally in the spring and fall. I have observed a number of flocks of this Blackbird at French Creek, Upshur County. Nest — In coniferous trees or on the ground. Little is know of this northern Blackbird in its breeding region. Food — Grains, seeds, insects. Not of economic importance in this state. 511. Purple Grackle (Quiscalus quiscula). Male and female. Not common in the region of the state that lies west of the Alleghenies. Geog. Dist. — East of the Alleghenies from Georgia to Massachus- etts. W. Va. Dist. — Common only in the eastern part of the state. Nest — Breeds m colonies. Nests placed high up in trees. Food— Somewhat destructive to corn and other grains. Yet Forbush says, "Crow Blackbirds ***** are indespensible because of the vast amount of insects they destroy. ' ' 511b. Bronzed Gackle (Quiscalus quiscula aeneus). One adult. The more western form of the Crow Blackbird. Geog. Dist. — From Alleghenies to Rocky Mountains, north to- Great Slave Lake. W. Va. Dist. — Common in all parts of the state west of the- mountains. Not so common, however, in the higher sections. Dr. Rives says that specimens which he examined from the mountainous sections of the state seemed to be intermediate between the typical species and aeneus. Nest — Nesting habits the same as in the last. Food — Insects, grains, and fruits. 517. Purple Finch (Carpodacus purpureus). Male and female. For beautiful colored plates of this and many other species of birds, address the National Association of Audubon Societies, 141 Broad- way, New York City. The Purple Finch is roving in disposition, and is not often seen except by one who knows just where to find it. The plumage is not purple, but rosy. A very good songster. Eugene- P. Bicknell says, "The song bursts forth as if from some uncontroll- able stress of gladness, and is repeated uninterruptedly over and over again, while the ecstatic bird rises high into the air, and, still singing, descends into the trees.'' BALTIMORE ORIOLE (UPPER FIGURE, MALE; LOWER FIGURE, FEMALE) Order— PASSERES Family— ICTERID^E Genus— ICTERUS Species— GALBULA 1908] BIRDS. 33: Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America, from the Atlantic States to the Plains. W. Va. Dist. — Mr, Surber, in notes sent to the Biological Survey, Dept. of Agriculture, Washington, D. C., says, "A rare resident near White Sulphur Springs. May breed." Very common through- out the state in the migrating seasons. I believe, with Mr. Surber,. that this species breeds in the mountain districts of W. Ya. On the 17th of last June (1908), I saw several Purple Finches at Osceola, Pocahontas County. In the summer time I have noted this specijs in "The Pines", a black spruce forest about six miles above Pickens, in Randolph County. Nest — In coniferous tree, five to thirty feet up. Eggs, four to six ; blue, spotted about the larger end with fuscous. Food — Often devours buds and fruit blossoms, though this prun- ing or cutting of buds, blossoms, or seeds of trees is not ordinarily excessive. Forbush says, "This bird eats many of the seeds of" the most destructive weeds, ragweed being a favorite. The Purple Finch also destroys many orchard and woodland caterpillars. It is particularly destructive to plant lice and cankerworms. '' 521. American Crossbill (Loxia curvirostra minor). A pair.. The curved mandibles of this little finch are to be particularly noted. Geog. Dist. — Northern North America, and southward along .tho- Alleghenies. W. Va. Dist. — Rare. Mr. T. J. Frye, who is well acquainted with this little bird in northern Pennsylvania, says, ' ' Saw 30 in a flock on Bull Creek (near Waverly) in winter of 1904 or 1905." Nest — In coniferous trees. Nest is built very early in the spring. Food — Seeds of cone-bearing trees. English Sparrow (Passer domesticus). Male and female. This alien species was introduced into America in 1851 or 1852. How- ever, it did not spread over the country till after 1870. Becoming a great pest. It has been estimated that a single pair of these prolific birds might multiply until, in ten years, their progeny would number 275,176,983,698! Geog. Dist. — "Nearly the whole of Europe, extending eastward to Persia and Central Asia, India, and Ceylon" (Sharpe). Intro- duced into America, Australia, and New Zealand. W. Va. Dist. — Found in all sections of the state. Food — Forbush says it is one of the few species that deserve no 34 WEST VIRGINIA [W. VA. consideration at the hands of the ^farmers. Generally harmful. Destroys some insects, but not enough to amend its other evil habits. 529. American Goldfinch (Astragalinus tristis). Male and fe- male. In the winter the male assumes somber colors similar to those of the female and young. Geog. Dist. — Temperate North America, east of the Rocky Moun- tains. W. Ya. Dist. — Abundant everywhere and at all seasons, though not quite so common in winter. I have found this species particu- larly common in the mountainous portions of the state. Nest — Builds its nest rather late in the summer. Often chooses orchard or shade trees as nesting site. Three to six pale bluish white eggs. A common breeder in West Virginia. Food — Weed seeds, especially those that are furnished with down, as the dandelion and thistle. Many insects. It has been recorded that the Goldfinch sometimes feeds on the Hessian fly. Destroys millions of plant lice eggs. 540. Vesper Sparrow (Pooecetes gramineus). Male and female. Often called "Grassfinch" or " Bay-winged Bunting". A songster of unusual ability. Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America to the Plains, from Nova Scotia and Ontario southward. W. Va, Dist. — Not at all common on Ohio River bottoms. Else- where in the state, with the exception of some of the highest parts, I have found this delightful bird in abundance. To be looked for in old pasture fields. Nest — Builds nest on the ground. Spotted eggs. Food — Grasshoppers form the principal food in mid-summer. Insects of many kind are destroyed by this bird. Weed seeds also enter into its bill of fare. 542a. Savanna Sparrow (Ammodramus $andwichen$is savanna}. Male and female. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States, northward. W. Va. Dist. — Very rare in our state. Only one record so far as the writer can determine. Nest — On the ground. Food — Beetles, ants, and cut-worms. Destroys some weed seeds. 1908] BIRDS. 35 546. Grasshopper Sparrow (Coturniculus savannarum australis) . Pair. So named because of its grasshopper-like song. A bir«l of quiet and unobtrusive ways. The student must look for this species in meadow-lands and along the road-sides. Not generally known, even by those who have a fair knowledge of our common birds. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States and Southern Canada. W. Va. Dist. — Abundant along all our larger river bottoms, par- ticularly along the Ohio. Abundant in the Preston County Glades. Common about Buckhannon. Nest — Well concealed on the ground. Food — No cultivated fruit ; some seeds. Very destructive to cut- worms, army worms, wire-worms, click beetles, weevils, and grass- hoppers. i 547. Henslow's Sparrow (Ammodramus hemlowii). Two, male -and female. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States. W. Va. Dist. — Very rare in this state. Nest — On the ground; made of grasses. Food — Insects and seeds. 554. White-crowned Sparrow (Zanvtrichia leucophrys). One adult. This is one of our rare migrant sparrows, and, in life, is "very beautiful. Few birds have a more stately manner and dig- nified bearing. The observer is very fortunate who, on some morn- ing in October, sees this sparrow on its way toward the south. Geog. Dist. — North America at large, breeding chiefly in the Rocky Mountains. W. Va. Dist. — Occasionally seen in spring or fall while mi'grai- ing. Mr. Ernest Ingersoll saw a White-crowned Sparrow in Ritchie County on May 10. 1874 (See Forest and Stream, Vol. IV, p. 358.) Nest — On the ground or in low bush. Breeding range far to the north. Food — Insects and seeds. 558. White-throated Sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis). Malo and female. Far more common than the preceding species, though this bird is seen only in the spring and fall migration seasons. Often called "Peabody-bird" because of the syllables of its song. A good singer. 36 WEST VIRGINIA [W. VA. Geog. Dist. — Chiefly eastern North America, west to the Plains, north to Labrador and the Fur Countries, W. Va. Dist. — Of common occurrence in October and April. At times it becomes very abundant, and is to be seen in large flocks about briar fields and in open woodland. Nest — On the ground or in bushes. Breeds in the northern states and northward as far as Labrador. Food — Dr. Judd says that ragweed seed constitutes 45 per cent of their food in October. Very fond of the seeds of polygonum. 560. Chipping Sparrow (Spizella passerina) . Male and female. This is a well-known bird. Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America, west to the Rocky Moun- tains, north to Great Slave Lake and Newfoundland, and south to Mexico, breeding from the Gulf States northward. W. Va. Dist. — Very common about all farms, orchards, and even within the towns and cities. Nest — The nesting habits of this little bird are known to all. Eggs four or five, bluish with black markings. Food — Weed seeds, especially crab grass and dandelion seeds; occasionally a little fruit; many insects. The Chippy feeds very largely in the spring and early summer on small caterpillars. One observer saw a Chipping Sparrow eat 54 canker-worms at one sitting. Particularly fond of such destructive species as the gipsy and brown-tail caterpillars; codling moth, tent caterpillar, forest tent caterpillar, and currant worms; devours three species of Iarva3 that feed on cabbage plants. 563. Field Sparrow (Spizella pusilla) . Male and female. This species must be carefully distinguished from the preceding. A bird of old fields and woodland. In musical ability it far exceeds its more domestic cousin, the Chippy. Indeed, of all the good singers in the large sparrow family, there are few that surpass this plain little bird in sweetness of song. Geog. Dist.— Eastern United States and Southern Canada. W. Va. Dist. — Common in every part of the state that the writer has visited, excepting the higher mountain regions. Nest — On the ground or in low bushes. A favorite nesting place in this section is in a bunch of Virginia Beard-grass ("Broom- sedge"). 1908] BIRDS. 37 Food — Weed seeds in great abundance. Destroys many May flies, leaf hoppers, and sawflies. 567. Slate-colored Junco (Junco hyemalias) . Male and female. •Commonly called "Snow bird". Geog. Dist. — North America, chiefly east of the Rocky Mountains. W. Va. Dist. — Common in winter. In the mountains of the state the Carolina Junco (Junco hyemalis carolinensis) , a sub-species that is very similar to the Slate-colored Junco, may be found breeding in great abundance. On the highest mountain in W. Va., Spruce Knob, the Carolina Junco nests in considerable numbers. Nest — On or near the ground. The Carolina Junco prefers to place its nest among the roots of an up-turned black spruce tree. However, on the top of Spruce Knob, all the nests that were found were placed in a sheltered spot on the ground. Evidently the nests were thus placed that they might have greater protection from the winds that blow almost constantly in such high and exposed places. Eggs, four or five, white or bluish white with small spots of rufous- brown. Food — Mostly pernicious weed seeds. 581. Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia). Male and female. This bird may be known by his black "breat pin". Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States to the Plains, breeding from Virginia northward to the Fur Countries. W. Va. Dist. — Perhaps no other species is more generally dis- tributed within our state. Especially common along streams. In abundance along the Elk, Great Kanawha, and Ohio Rivers. In the Webster County glades I found it to be one of the most common species. In August, 1906, I found this species breeding high up in the Back Allegheny Mountains. Nest — One summer I found two nests of this species. The first was in a depression in the ground, at least six inches in depth ; the second was on top of a board fence where wild fox grape vinos liad grown into a cluster thus supporting the nest that was saddled on the top-most board of the fence. Food — Many weed seeds such as the polygonum, crab grass, and pigeon grass. Harmful insects, such as caterpillars and plant lice, make up 18 per cent of the food. 584. Swamp Sparrow (Melospiza georgiana}. A pair. A quiet and elusive species. 38 WEST VIRGINIA [W. VA. Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America and as far north as Labra- dor. W. Va. Dist. — Rarely seen in this state. Reported from the eastern pan-handle by Mr. Eifrig. Mr. Brewster saw a few in- dividuals of this species in Ritchie Co., in May, 1874. The writer has seen the Swamp Sparrow but two or three times within this, state. Nest — Ori the ground. Food — Insects and seeds. 585. Fox Sparrow (Passerella iliaca) . Male and female. Note- the thrush-like appearance of this large sparrow. One of the most beautiful members of the sparrow family. A good songster. Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America, from the Gulf States northward to the Arctic coast. Found in the Yukon Valle}', Alaska. This species, like the Song Sparrow, seems to be particularly susceptible to climatic influence. Consequently, there are several geographic races of this species. W. Va. Dist. — Spends the winter in this section of country. Quite common in West Virginia in the colder part of the year.. To be found in brushy thickets. Nest — In low trees and bushes. Breeds in the far north. Food — Great seed-eaters while spending the winter in this lat- itude. 587. Towhee (Pipilo erythrophthalmus} . Male and female- adults. Often called "Jo-ee" or "Ground Robin". Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States and Southern Canada. W. Va. Dist. — Very common all over the state. This species is abundant in the mountains. Wherever there are old fields or- thickets the Towhees may be found at any time in the year, though they are not nearly so common in the winter as in the summer. Nest — On or near the ground. The nest is usually found about blackberry bushes or other tangles of shrubbery. Four to five spotted eggs. Food — "While scratching and digging among the leaves in early spring it unearths many dormant insects, and disposes of them ero they have an opportunity to propagate their kind'' (Forbush). 593. Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis). Male and female. Knowni to most persons as "Red Bird". 1908] BIKDS. 39 Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America, north to the Great Lakes. W. Va. Dist. — Common in the lower parts of the state. In the mountains it is replaced by its near relative, the Rose-breasted Grosbeak. On Feb. 24, 1908, I saw thirty-three Cardinals in one flock near Weston, W. Va. Nest — In bushes. Breeds in great numbers in this state. Food — Seeds and insects. 595. Rose-breasted Grosbeak (Habia ludoviciana). Male and female. This lovely bird is well named. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States, breeding from the Carolina* northward. W. Va, Dist. — Very common, even abundant, in the higher mountains. In most parts of the state it appears only as a rare migrant in spring and fall. Mr. Thad. Surber says. "Breeds on Cold Knob" (Greenbrier County). Nest — In bushes or trees. Breeds in great numbers in the Alle- gheny Mountains. Food — Fruits, seeds, insects. For full notes on food-habits of this bird, see "Food Habits of the Grosbeaks", Bulletin No. 32, Biological Survey, 1908. 597. Blue Grosbeak (Guiraca caendea). Male and female. Care- fully compare this species with the next named on the list. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States, from New Jersey south- ward to Cuba and Mexico. AY. Va. Dist. — Very rare in this state. A southern bird that does not often come so far north. Doan records it in his list 619. Cedar Waxwing (Hornby cilia cedroriim) . Male and female. The only representative of this family found in the state. Greog. Dist. — North America at large, from the Fur Countries southward. W. Va. Dist. — Very common in every part of the state. Abundant in the mountains. These birds gather in large flocks in the fall. Some times spend the winter in this state. Nests — Bulky nest in fruit or shade trees. Common breeder in West Virginia. Food — They eat cherries, strawberries, and other kinds of fruits. Considering the number of insects they devour, they must, howeverr be classed as beneficial birds. Very fond of wild poke berries. Destroy many cankerworms. 622. Loggerhead Shrike (Lanius ludoviciamis) . Male and fe- male. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States. W. Va. Dist. — Common along the Ohio River. Rare elsewhere. Nest — Placed in low thorny trees. I have never heard of a nest being found in West Virginia. Food — Mice form 50% of the food in winter. They eat many grasshoppers and small birds. The food is impaled upon a thorn from which it is eaten at the bird's leisure. 1908] BIRDS. 43 624. Red-eyed Vireo (Virsosylva olivacea). Male and female. More generally known than any other member of this family of woodland birds. Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America, north to the Arctic regions. W. Va, Dist. — Very common in all parts of the state. Nest — Pensile in a forked branch, not far from the ground, five to forty feet up. Food — "it is universally recognized as a great insect-eater'' (Weed and Dearborn). Especially valuable as a destroyer of insects that attack forest trees. Sometimes eat berries. I 627. Warbling Vireo (Vireosylva gilva}. A pair. These Vireos are more common about our cities and towns than the other members of this family. The Warbling Vireo should be well known to all on account of its sweet song and useful habits. No birds sings more persistently nor more sweetly from the shade trees along the streets than does this small vireo, yet the passer-by does not know the bird, and is ignorant of its form, its song, and its habits. Geog. Dist. — North America in general, from the Fur Countries to Oaxa/ca, Mexico. W.Va. Dist. — Common throughout the state. Not found in the mountain sections. Nest — Pensile, suspended from a forked branch eight to forty feet up. Food — Insects that feed on the foliage of shade trees. An im- mensely useful species. 628. Yellow-throated Vireo (Lanivireo flavifrons) . Male and fe- male. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States, north to Ontario. W. Va. Dist. — Tolerably common in woodlands. Nest — Suspended from a forked branch ten to forty feet up. Three to four spotted eggs. Food — Forest insects. 629. Blue-headed Vireo (Lanivireo solitanus). Male and female, A subspecies, the Mountain Solitary Vireo, is some times found in this state. Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America to the Plains, north to Hudson Bay. W. Va. Dist. — An uncommon migrant, save in the mountain 44 WEST VIRGINIA [W. VA. regions where the subspecies, as noted above, occurs in the summer- time. Nest — Hanging nest, suspended to a forked branch five to ten feet Food — Forest insects. , 631. White-eyed Vireo (Vireo griseus). A pair. A bird of peculiar notes and actions. For observations on this bird in W^est Virginia see West Virginia School Journal, December, 1908. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States, from New England south- ward. W. Va. Dist. — Common along the valleys of the Elk, Great ICanawha, Greenbrier, Ohio, and Little Kanawha Rivers. In several years residence along the Monongahela and the West Fork I have not seen a single specimen of this Vireo. For many years I looked for this bird in Upshur County, but failed to find it there. Nest — Suspended from a forked branch in a thicket. Food — Some fruit. Many insects of trees and shrubbery. 636. Black and White Warbler (Mniotilta varia). A pair. This bird may be known always by its plain black and white stripes. In its habit of running up and down trees, it is like a creeper. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States from New England south- ward. W. Va. Dist. — Common in the summer months. Reaches Wf-st Virginia about the 10th of April and remain till the last of Septem- ber. Not very common in the higher portions of the state. Nest — On the ground by the roots of a tree or under the edge of a log or rock. Food — Insects that are found on the trunks of trees. 637. Prothonotary Warbler (Phrotonotaria citrea). One male adult. A beautiful warbler found about streams and swamps. Geog. Dist. — South-eastern and Central United States. W. Va. Dist. — Mr. Doan says, "I took a specimen of this fine •warbler Aug. 3, near Buckhannon. in a swampy woods." Nest — In a hole in tree. Foods — Insects that are found about water. 639. Worm-eating Warbler (Helmitherus vermivorus) . One •specimen. A very plain, yet beautiful bird. The song of this 1908] BIRDS. 45- Warbler is so nearly like that of the Chipping Sparrow that tho two are often confused. Both sexes have the black and yellow stripes on the head, and, by the same markings, this species may be known at every stage of its plumage-development. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States, southward from New York. W. Va. Dist. — Very common in well-wooded sections of the state. Nest — On the ground. Four to six spotted eggs. Breeds in West Virginia. Food — Forest insects that keep near the ground. Very little seems to be known concerning the food-habits of this species. 641. Blue-winged Warbler (Helminthophila pinus). One speci- men, male adult. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States, from iiouthem New England southward. W. Va. Dist. — There are very few records of the occurrence of this Warbler in our state. Nest — On the ground. Food — Larvae that feed on oak and chestnut leaves, and other insects. 642. Golden-winged Warbler (Helminthophila chrysoptera ) . Male and female. This species may be found about old brier-fields and in open woods. A very beautiful bird. When once the song of this bird is heard, it is not likely to be forgotten. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States, north to southern New England. W. Va. Dist. — Rather rare summer resident in most parts of the state. In Wood and Upshur Counties, I have observed this species in the nesting season. In the summers of 1907 and 1908 I found this bird breeding in considerable numbers in the glados about Cowen, Webster County. Nest — On or near the ground in fields or glades or open woods. Food— ''This bird must be a great destroyer of leaf lice and small caterpillars that infest the tips of branches and the underside of leaves, for they are continually searching and picking at the open- ing buds and waxen leaves at the ends of new twigs, the male pausing frequently to sing. At times their actions remind one of the Gnatcatcher in flitting hither and thither snatching up small winged mites." (See Jacobs, "The Haunts of the Golden- winged Warbler", p. 22). 46 WEST VIRGINIA [W. VA. 645. Nashville Warbler (Helminthophila ruficapilla). Male and female. This species is known by very few persons. Found often about orchard trees in the spring. Rather inconspicuous in both coloring and song. Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America to the Plains, north to the Fur Countries. Breeding from northern United States northward. W. Va, Dist. — The writer has observed this species several times in Upshur and Wood Counties. Accredited to West Virginia by Doan. Nest— On the ground. Breeds north of the United States. Food — Nashville Warblers have been observed feeding upon young tent caterpillars and other species of destructive caterpillars, and, in the west, large numbers of young locusts are eaten by this little bird. 647. Tennessee Warbler (Helmmthophila peregrina). A pair of adults. A very interesting migratory species. Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America, breeding from New Eng- land northward to Hudson Bay Territory. W. Va. Dist. — W. D. Doan says, "Took specimen near Fairmont, Sept. 12." I have observed this very plainly marked little Warbler a few times in various parts of the state. Nest — In low bushes near the ground. Chapman says, "Little seems to be known about the nesting habits of this Warbler." Food — "It searches diligently for the insect mites that infest the foliage of trees, seeming to have a special fondness for aphides, forty-two of which have been taken from the stomachs of three of these birds." (Weed and Dearborn). 648. Parula Warbler (Co-mpsothlypis amcricana). Male and fe- male. One of the daintiest and most beautiful of all our woodland birds. Keeps well up towards the tops of forest trees and is not often observed. Geog. Dist. — Eastern and southern United States. In the north- ern States 'a subspecies, the Northern Parula Warbler, takes the place of this species. W. Va. Dist. — Very common in the summer season throughout the greater part of .this state. ' Nest — In bunches of Usnea moss. Food — Woodland insects. 1908] BIRDS. 47 650. Cape May Wabler (Dendroica tigrina). A pair of adults. A richly colored migrant species. To be looked for in the spring and fall only. Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America, north to Lake Winnipeg and Hudson Bay, and west to the Plains. W. Va. Dist. — Quite common in the spring and fall migration seasons. Some times individuals will linger about evergreen trees for several weeks as they go northward. Nest — On branch of tree. Breeds northward to the Arctic regions. Food — Very little is known of the feeding habits of this bird. I have seen this species eating small insects from evergreen trees and from fruit and woodland trees in the spring. Especially fond of insects that infest spruce trees. Some times opens ripe grapes and drinks the juice. 652. Yellow Warbler (Dendroica a-estiva}. A male and female represent this very common species in the collection. Unlike many of the Warblers, this species is found commonly about orchards, and in the shade trees along city streets. Geog. Dist. — North America at large, excepting the south-western part. W. Va. Dist. — Mr. Brewster says of this species, as he found it in Ritchie County in 1874, ''Restricted entirely to belt of willows/7 Common in all the lower-lying sections of the state. Xest — In orchard trees. Eggs, four to five, bluish white with brown spots. The nest of this bird often contains one or more eggs of the Cowbird. Food — Weed and Dearborn say, "The food habits of the Yellow Warbler are all that could be desired. It freely visits farm premises and feeds on minute insects of many kinds." Often feeds upon canker worms. Tent caterpillars, adult currant borers, codling moths, and other harmful insects of orchard and garden are a part of this Warbler's food. 654. Black-throated Blue Warbler (Dendraica caerulescens}. Adult male and female. Migrant. To be seen only in the woods. Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America, as far north as Labrador. W. Va. Dist. — Very common in our state in the autumn migra- tion. Not so frequently seen in the spring. A subspecies, known as Cairn's Warbler, is abundant in the summer time in the mountains 48 WEST VIRGINIA [W. VA. of West Virginia. Cairn's Warbler may be found nesting in any of the higher ranges of the Alleghenies. Nest — In shrubbery near the ground. Eggs, three to five, almost white with spots about the larger end. Food — Like the Cape May Warbler, this species' is some times guilty of sucking the juice of ripe grapes. Otherwise the bird h use~ ful in destroying insects which feed upon the buds and leaves of forest trees. 655. Myrtle Warbler (Dendroica coronata). A pair of adults. Note the four large patches of yellow on the male. The species. may be identified at any time by the yellow on its rump. Often called the Yellow-rumped Warbler. Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America, sometimes straggling west- ward. W. Va. Dist. — A very common migrant, occasionally remaining throughout the winter. Nest — Breeding range from northern states northward. Low in coniferous trees. Food — Insects and berries of certain kinds, especially myrtle ber- ries. 657. Magnolia Warbler (Dendrocia magnolia). Two specimens, male and female. One of the prettiest birds to be found in West Virginia, Often called ''Black and Yellow Warbler''. Geog. Dist, — North America, east of the Rocky Mountains ami north to Hudson Bay Territory. W. Va. Dist. — Through most parts of the state this Warbler passes in great number in both the migration seasons. In the higher Alleghenies, this species breeds and may be found at any time in the summer months. In the Back Allegheny Mountains near Cheat Bridge, I found old birds feeding their young as late as the middle of August in 1906. Nest — Usually in a small spruce tree only a few feet from the ground. For a very interesting account of the nesting habits of this and other Warblers, see Chapman's ''The Warblers of North America. ' ' Food — Plant lice and other insects. Very little is known of its- food habits. 658. Cerulean Warbler (Dendroica cerulea). Adult male and fe- male. PURPLE FINCH. (UPPER FIGURE, MALE; LOWER FIGURE, FEMALE.) Order — PASSERES. Genus— CAR PODACUS. Family — FRINGILLID/C. Species — PURPUREA. 1908] BIRDS. 4S> Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States and southern Ontario. Moit common in the valley of the Ohio River. W. Va. Dist. — As already indicated the Cerulean Warbler is to be found in largest numbers in the Ohio Valley. In the oak-covered ridges, back a little from the Ohio River. I have found this species in very great numbers. Indeed, at times, almost every tree seemed to contain one or more of these charming little birds. The song1 is very cheerful. Nest — In large trees. Breeds in West Virginia. Food — I have observed this species feeding upon little moths and other insects found about the tops of chestnut oak trees. 659. , Chestnut-sided Warbler (Dendroica pensylvanica] . Male, female, and young. Very appropriately named. In life this is one of oiu- most attractive Warblers. The cheerful song and alert ways of this little bird are very pleasing to any one who essays to study its habits. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States. W. Va. Dist. — Mr. Surber says of this species in Greenbrier County, "A rare summer resident. Have found one nest contain- ing four eggs of this species." I have found this Warbler breeding in considerable numbers in the glades of Webster County. In most parts of the state it appears only as a migrant. One may look for these graceful little birds about the 2nd day of May. For a fewr days they remain, then pass on to their breeding grounds. In the fall they return in the middle of September, then journey on south- ward with the great Warbler hosts. Xest — In bushes a few feet up. I found a nest in Webster County that was built in a Clammy Azalea bush that was then in full bloom. The surroundings of the nest were most beautiful. Food — "It is very destructive to many injurious beetles an-1 caterpillars, being one of the most active consumers of leaf eating insects. " (Weed and Dearborn) ". 660. Bay-breasted Warbler (Dendroica casianea) . Male and female. The colors of this Warbler are iruch like those of tho Chestnut-sided Warbler. A rare bird in most localities, but i\ species of great interest. Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America, north to Newfoundland. W. Va. Dist. — Seen in our state onlv as a migrant. Alwavs 50 WEST VIRGINIA [W. VA. rather rare, though I have seen a great many in some autumn ini- .gration seasons. Nest — Up several feet in coniferous trees. Breeds in extreme northern United States and northward. Food — Such insects as live in the tops of coniferous trees. 661. Black-poll Warbler (Dendroica striata). Male and female. A modestly colored species, but most beautiful when seen moving' about gracefully in the green tree tops. Langille says of the song of this northern Warbler, ''There is a peculiar soft and tinkling sweetness in this melody, suggestive of the quiet mysteries of the forest, and sedative as an anodyne to the nerves." Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America, west to the Rocky Moun- tains, north to Greenland, the Barren Grounds, and Alaska. W. Va. Dist. — This species appears in our section only as it passes from its breeding grounds in the far north to its winter home in South America. In the spring it is not often observed as it passes through this latitude quite hurriedly, but in the fall great numbers •of the young may be seen in the woods, and they linger, sometimes, for several weeks. Nest— Generally placed in a low spruce tree. Four to five speck- led eggs. Food — Plant lice and other insects. Feeding habits not well known. 662. Blackburnian Warbler (Dendroica Uackburniac) . Adult male and female. Few birds are more richly colored than th's species. Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America, west to Kansas, and north to Labrador. W. Va. Dist. — A rather common migrant. It is quite possible that this species breeds in our mountains, but I have never found it there in the breeding season. Mr. Edward A. Preble found the Blackburnian Warbler in the mountains of western Maryland in June and July, 1899. Nest — In coniferous trees some distance from the ground. Food — Insects. Very little has been recorded concerning the food • of this species. 663. Yellow-throated Warbler (Dendroica dominica). Male and female. 1908] BIBDS. 51 Geog. Dist. — Southeastern United States, as far north as Mary- land. W. Va. Dist. — ^Ir. Doan says he found this species in considerable numbers along the head-waters of Middle Fork River. Scott re- ports that a male and female were taken by Mr. W. S. Edwards in Kanawha County some years ago. Nest — In tall trees. No record of the breeding of this species In W. Va. Food — As in the case of so many of our Warblers, very little accurate information has been gathered concerning their feeding habits. Of course all the birds of this family feed principally upon insects, but the exact economic status of the various species is not known. Said to gather most of their iood from the extremi- ties of limbs, among the pine needles which grow there. 667. Black-throated Green Warbler (Dendroica virens). Male and female. The black on the throat of the male is not well defined till bird is mature. A common and very pretty species. Greog. Dist. — Eastern North America, west to the Plains, and north to Hudson Bay Territory. W. Va. Dist. — A common migrant. In the mountains the bird remains throughout the summer and breeds. Nest — In tall tree. Breeds in our state. Food — Caterpillars, curculios and other beetles, small bugs, vari- ous Plymenoptera, small locusts, and cankerworms are recorded as the common food of this Warbler. 671. Pine Warbler (Dendroica vigorsii). A pair of adults. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States. W. Va. Dist. — Recorded from this state by Brewster, Doan. and Eifrig. I have observed this species occasionally, but not often. Nest — Far up in tall trees, mostly coniferous trees. Four to five spotted eggs. Food — Weed and Dearborn say, "It is undoubtedly the particu- lar guardian of the pines, about which it remains until very late in the season, for it feeds mainly on insects that infest pine trees. It is able to subsist to some extent on the seeds of pines." 672a. Yellow Palm Warbler (Dendroica palmarum hypoclinj- sea). Male and female adult. More than most of the Warblers, this spoeies is found along fences and in open fields. May bo roadilv recognized by the constant wag of its tail. 52 WEST VIRGINIA [W. VA. Geog. Dist. — Atlantic States, north to Hudson Bay. ^ W. Va. Dist. — Quite common in the migration seasons. It is probable that both the Palm Warbler and the Yellow Palm Warbler may yet be reported from this state. Indeed, I am inclined to believe that the most common form found in this state is D. pal- marum* Nest — On or near the ground. Breeds far to the north. Food — Such insects as are found in its haunts. 673. Prairie Warbler (Dendroica discolor). Adult male and female. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States. W. Va. Dist. — Reported by Doan and E if rig. Apparently rare in this state. Nest — In bushes on sunny hill-sides. Breeds from Florida to Michigan. Food — Insects. I find no careful notes on food habits of this, species. 674. Oven-bird (Seiurus aurocapillus) . Male and female adm L Often called ''Golden-crowned Thrush*". Sings a very attractive aerial song, though its more common vocal performance has little merit. Geog.. Dist. — Eastern North America, north to the Hudson Bay Territory and Alaska. W. Va. Dist. — Very common in all parts of the state. Last sum- mer (1908) I found an adult with young just from the nest near the summit of Spruce Knob. Nest— An oven-shaped affair on the ground in open woods. Eggs, four to five. A very common bird in our state in the breeding sea- son. Food — Feeding on the ground, it picks up many grubs and other insects that infest the lower shrubbery. 675. Water-Thrush (Seiurus novcboraaensis) . Male and female adult. A thrush-like Warbler that is much more common farther north than in this latitude. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States, west to Illinois, and north to Arctic America. W. .Va. Dist. — This species has been recorded from this state by Brewster, Scott, Surber, and Doan. I have seen this northern 1908} BIRDS. 53 Water-Thrush but once in. the state. In the spring of 1905 I had the opportunity of studying one, for an hour or more, that was flying and singing along a small stream in a large tract of woodland near Waverly. Xest — Generally in a mossy bank. Breeds from northern United States northward. Food — Insects that are found along water-courses. 676. Louisiana Water-Thrush (Seiurus motacilla). One adult. Compare carefully this and the preceding species. The great Audubon considered this bird to be the best of American songsters. G-eog. Dist. — Eastern United States, north to Southern New Eng- land. AY. Ara. Dist. — Very common along all streams. The wagging of the tail, the sharp, loud chirp, and the clear, thrilling song are well-known to all who have observed this bird. Rather rare in the mountains though I have found it in the Yew Mountains. Xest — In the banks along streams. Nests commonly in this state. Food — Insects which are to be found along streams and on the muddy banks of pools. 677. Kentucky Warbler (Oporornis formosa). One pair of adults. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States, but not very far north. AV. Va. Dist. — Very common in the lower wooded regions of tho state. Xest — Made of dry grasses and weed stalks, on the ground. Four to five very beautiful eggs. Food — Ground insects. 678. Connecticut Warbler (Oporornis agilis). One adult. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States and Southern Canada. W. A^a. Dist. — One of the rarest of our Warblers. X"est — On the ground. Has been found breeding in Manitoba. Food — Terrestrial insects, and such species as are found in swampy places. 679. Mourning AVarbler (Oporornis Philadelphia). One male. Comj^are carefully with the two preceding species. \Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America to the Plains. W. Va. Dist. — For some years this species had been classed as 54 WEST VIRGINIA [W. VA. a rare migrant in our state, but Dr. Rives found numbers of them in the mountains about Davis in the summer of 1897. I found tin's interesting species breeding on Spruce Knob in June, 1908. On June 18, I saw Mourning Warblers feeding their young which had just left the nest. Nest — In briars or weed thickets near the ground. Food — Feeds on insects, but the character of its insect food has not been studied with any care. 681. Maryland Yellow-throat (GeoMypis trichas). Male and female adults. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States. W. Va. Dist. — This bird has been reported from almost all parts- of the state, but in certain sections is called rare. In central W. Va. it is quite common in localities where there are many streams and much meadow land. Exceedingly abundant in the glades of Webster County. The song of the Maryland Yellow-throat is the most characteristic song of the glade region, unless it be that of th^ Song Sparrow. Nest — Often found in a tussock of grass or in like situation, near the ground. Breeds abundantly in some sections of the state. Food — Destroys many leaf hoppers and grasshoppers and oth^r insects that are harmful to grass-lands. A very useful bird. 683. Yellow-breasted Chat (Icteria virens). Male and female adults. The peculiar song of this species should be known by every boy and girl in West Virginia. This species is to be seen in briar fields and in the edges of woodland. One of our largest Warblers. Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America, as far north as Ontario. W. Va. Dist. — Very common in all pats of this state outside of the more elevated portions. Nest — In some thicket, or bunch of briars. Common breeder in W. Va. Food — Insects which infest shrubbery. 684. Hooded Warbler (Wilsonia citrinu}. Pair. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States as far north as southern New England. W. Va. Dist. — Most students of the birds of West Virginia hav^ called this a very common species. However, it is not generally 19GS] BIRDS. 55 known. Like so many of these beautiful Warblers, persons, gener- ally, are unfamiliar with its great beauty and usefulness. Xest — I have found a number of the nests of this Warbler. They are placed, as a usual thing, rather low in the crotch of a bush of some kind. Food — Woodland insects. 685. Wilson's Warbler (Wilsonia pusilla). A pair of adults. Sometimes called the Black-capped Fly-catching Warbler. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States, north to Hudson Bay, Labra- dor, and Alaska. W. Va. Dist. — Known in this state only as a rare migrant. Xest — On the ground. Breeds north of the United States, a few nesting in northern Maine. Food — I have no food record of this species. Often flies inlo the air and catches insects on the wing. 686. Canadian Warbler (Wilsonia canadensis). Male and fe- male. This species may be recognized always by the necklace of black spots across the breast. Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America, north to Newfoundland and Athabasca. AY. Va. Dist. — In most parts of the state a rather common migrant. In the mountain section it remains through the summer to breed. Xest — On the ground under some root or tuft of moss. Nests in this state. Food — Insects. 687. American Redstart (Setophaga ruticilla). Male and fe- male. Note the decided difference in the colors. This pretty bird is to be found along streams in the deep woods. Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America, far to the north. W. Va. Dist. — Abundant in most parts of the state. Not found in the mountains. Nest — In the crotch of a sapling. Food — "Apparently there are few forest insects that do not. iit some forms, fall a prey to the Redstart. It takes its prey from trunk, limbs, leaves, and from the air. Destroys some useful para- sitic Hymenoptera. ' ' 703. Mockingbird (Mimuspolyglottos). Male and female. From these specimens and the specimens of the two species following. 5G WEST VIRGINIA. [W. VA. learn the real difference between the true Mockingbird and those species with which it is often confused. Geog. Dist. — Southern United States. AY. Va. Dist. — Extremely rare in the northern part of the state. Occasionally seen in the southern parts of West Virginia. Xest — In thickets. Food— So much has been said of the song of this species that one does not often think of its food. Weed and Dearborn say. "Its food appears to be much like that of the other thrushes, consisting of about equal portions of insects and various wild and cultivated fruits. The young appear to be fed chiefly upon insects, among which the moth of the cotton-boll-worm deserves special mention.'' 704. Catbird (Dumatella carolitiensis). Male and female, Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States and British Provinces. W. Va. Dist. — An abundant species in all parts of the state. Found along streams, even hi five, dark greenish blue. Food — Often destroys much fruit, and yet the species is not altogether harmful. It has been suggested that the planting ,,£ wild fruit trees or such varieties as the Russian mulberry will pro- tect the finer cultivated varieties from these fruit-loving birds. Weed and Dearborn say, "We have no doubt that, on the whole, tho benefit which it does is much greater than the harm, and iis destruc- tion should never be permitted except when necessary to save precious crops." 705. Brown Thrasher (Hari.onjHcliHx rnfus). Male and female, adults. Often called "Mockingbird"' or "French Mockingbird.'' Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States, north to Maine. W. Va.' Dist.— Very common in the less elevated parts of tho state. Xest — In heaps of brush, thickets, or on an old rail fence. Uarely on the ground. Breeds abundantly in this section. Food — Eats wild and cultivated fruits. A great destroyer oP insects of many kinds. A vcrv beneficial bird. « 718. Carolina. Wren (ThrtjoiJiorus ludoviciaiius}. Male and female. A fine songster, as are all the wrens. f 1908] BIRDS. 57 Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States, north to southern New York. W. Va. Dist. — Exceedingly common in all parts of the state that I have visited. Is to be found well up on the sides of the moun- tains, though I have not found it on the summits of our loftier ranges. Very abundant along the Ohio and its larger tributaries. Xest — Most often bill It in crevices about buildings, or in holes in trees, stumps, or logs. I have found this species nesting in dwell- ing-houses. Food — Many kinds of destructive insects. 721. House Wren (Troglodytes aedon}. One adult specimen. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States, more common towards the north. W. Va. Dist. — Xot found more than a few miles west of the sum- mit of the Alleghenies. On top of the mountains, it is quite com- mon. "West of the mountains, this species is replaced by the abun- dant Bewick's Wren. Xest — In a hole in a tree, bird-house, or crevice. Last summer I found a nest at Osceola in a crevice in an old spruce root, out in the open field. Food — Its diet is exclusively insectivorous. Feeds principally upon the insects that are very destructive to orchard and garden plants, shrubbery, and trees. 722. Winter Wren (Xannu* liicnwlis}. Male and female. This is our smallest Wren. A most delightful songster. At Horto.i, in June 1908, I heard the Winter Wren, House Wren, Bewick's Wren, and Carolina Wren all singing at the same time. Geog. Dist. — Eastern Xorth America generally. W. Va. Dist. — In the lower altitudes in the state this tiny bird :s found only in winter. In the mountains, from 3.500 ft. up, it re- mains to breed. Xest — In . the up-turned roots of a tree, in piles of brush, arid sometimes in a pocket of moss on the side of a tree. Five to seven speckled eggs. I have found two nests of the Winter Wren in tho spruce woods above Pickens. Randolph County. Food — Woodland insects. T'^5. Long-billed Marsh Wren (Cistothorus pahistris). Male and female adults. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States. W. Va. Dist. — Mr. Doan says he observed this species along the 58 WEST VIRGINIA [W. VA. Ohio and Great Kanawha Rivers. In four years' residence on tlie banks of the Ohio River I did not see a single specimen of this Marsh Wren. Nest — Among reeds or bushes. Food — Said to feed upon insects, spiders, and snails. 726. Brown Creeper (Certhia familiaris fusca). Two specimens. The name of this bird is a good description of it. Can not be mis- taken for any other species. Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America. W. Va. Dist. — Fairly common in winter, spring, and fall. In the mountains it s occurs in the summer months, and probably breeds there. Nest — Placed behind the loose bark of trees. Five to eight spotted eggs. Food — Very few precise determinations of its food have been made. Feeds upon insects that are found upon the bark of trees. 727. White-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta carolinensis) . Pair of adults. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States, from Georgia northward. W. Va. Dist. — Common in all parts of the state, less so in moun- tains. Nest — In a hole in tree. Five to eight beautiful eggs. Nests- in this state. Food — Grains, seeds, and insects. This species destroys many insects in the egg or larva? stage. Feeding constantly upon the insects that are to be found on the bark of trees, it must be that many harmful species, such as Scolytids and other tree and bark- boring insects, are eaten. This bird is especially useful in the winter as it goes over the tree trunks searching every nook and cranny. 728. Red-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta canadensis) . Main and fe- male adults. To be distinguished most carefully from the preced- ing. A rare bird outside of the mountains. . Geog. Dist. — North America at large. W. V. Dist. — As suggested .above, this bird is rare in West Vir- ginia excepting in the higher elevations, where it may be found in- considerable numbers, in the breeding season. The nasal yanli i/nuk of this species is a common sound in the black spruce forests in the Allegheny Mountains. 1908] BIRDS. 59- Nest — In hole in a tree. Breeds in West Virginia. Food — Much the same as in preceding species. 729. Brown-headed Nuthatch (Sitta pusilla). A pair. Geog. Dist.— South Atlantic and G-ulf States. W. Ya. Dist. — No positive records of the occurrence of this species in West Virginia. Nest — In hole in tree or stump. Food — Insects. » 731. Tufted Titmouse (Parus bicolor). One specimen. Sexes alike. A species that will repay careful study. Geog. Dist. — Eastern United States, from New Jersey and Penn- sylvania southward. W. Va. Dist. — In all the central, southern, and western part of this state, this is one of the most abundant species. Rather rare in the mountains. Nest — Often in deserted Woodpecker's holes. Food — It seems to me that this is one of our most useful birds, though I have not gone into the study of its food habits with special care. This birds feeds constantly about shrubbery, and often comes into our yards, orchards, and gardens where it works unceasingly in its search for insects. My observations lead me to believe that it destroys great numbers of the eggs and larvae of injurious insects. It would be well worth the while if some West Virginian would work out the food habits of this bird, which is so common in our state. 735. Chickadee (Penthestes atricapillus) . Male and female adult. Geog. Dist. — Eastern North America, north of the Potomac and Ohio Valleys. W. Va. Dist. — Found only in the mountains. A very similar species, the Carolina Chickadee, is abundant in the lower elevations of the state. I have found some specimens that seemed to be inter- mediate between the two species. Nest — In a hole in stumps or trees. Breeds in our mountains. Have taken young only a few day from the nest. Food — Eggs of plant lice make up more than one-fifth of the food of these birds in the winter months. A single bird, in one day, has been known to eat more than four hundred and fifty eggs of plant lice. Very useful in destroying other harmful insects anl CO WEST VIRGINIA [W. VA. their eggs. The Chickadees ought to be protected most carefully, and should be encouraged to build about our homes. 748. Golden-crowned Kinglet (Regulus satrapa). Two specimens. This dimunitive bird is well named. Compare with the following species. Geog. Dist. — North America Generally. W. Va. Di'St. — Yery common in the migration seasons and in the winter months. Last summer I took a specimen of this bird on the top of Spruce Knob. I have reason to believe that this species was breeding there. Nest — Usually built high up in coniferous trees. Supposed to breed in this state. Food — Minute forest insects. 749. Ruby-crowned Kinglet (Regulus calendula). One speci- men in the collection. Neither one of the two species of Kinglets is often observed by the untrained student of birds. Strange that such attractive birds as both these are should not be better known ! The Ruby-crown is even less conspicious than the Golden-crown. Geog. Dist. — North America. W. Ya. Dist. — Yery common in orchards and open woodlands in the time of spring and fall migrations. The best time to become acquainted with this little Kinglet is in the last days of April when apple trees are in full bloom. Several are sure to be foun