ii'l:!M itii iillills i &l'i-^>': ;>i>;'i;''. FORTHE PEOPLE FOR EDVCATION FOR SCIENCE LIBRARY OF THE AMERICAN MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY Bound at A.M.N.H, 1922 The Oologist -for the- STUDENT OF BIRDS THEIR NESTS AND EGGS VOLUME XXXVIII ALBION, N. Y. and LACON, ILL, R. MAGOON BARNES, Publisher 1921 ZZ'^OOKC^ ^, ^ ILLUSTRATIONS BIRDS NEST AND EGGS "Billy," First Snow Goose Raised in Confinement 12 Young Cooper Hawk 18 21 Swan on J. O. Jackson's Place, Colo Honduras Turkey Mounted for U. S. National Museum 58 Brood of Wild Canada Geese. . . 73 Brood of Wild Mallard Ducks. . . 79 Gambel's Partridge in Captivity, Mesa, Ariz 134 Inca Dove at Nest, Mest, Ariz.. 134 Young Lesser Snow Goose Raised at Editor's Home 151 How a Blue Bird Comes to its Nest 163, 165, 167, 169 NESTS Great Horned Owl's Nest 36 Nest of the Sharp-tailed Grouse 39 Nest Site of Gila Woodpecker at Mesa, Ariz 130 Great Horned Owl's Nest atid Eggs 31 Nest of King Rail Eggs 43 Wild Mallard Duck's Nest and Eggs 62 Nest and Eggs of Inca Dove 130 Nest and Eggs of Texas Meadow Lark 147 Nest and Eggs of Black Throat- ed Warbler 155 EGGS Kites in Case of T. H. Jackson. 4 PORTRAITS Editor and Wife 13 Gerard A. Abbott 85 A Young Oologist ^ 89 John Lewis Childs and His Friends in Florida 103 John Lewis Childs 105 CONTRIBUTORS Abbott, G A. Along the Mason Dixon Line... 86 Feathers in Blue Grass 90 Abbott Still Ends 'Em 91 A Valuable Factor in Conserva- tion and Protection of Ground Nesting Birds 164 Allen, Lawrence Marshall Co., la. Raptores 156 Bailey, H. H. European Starling in Va 57 J. L. Childs 102 Congratulations 129 Save the Flamingoes 148 Barker, W. H. H. Horned Lark 71 Birds Killing Themselves 99 Notes from Kansas 133 Blocher, A. A New Way 80 Freak Sparrow Egg 129 Brannon, P, A. Notes of Birds Observed in Lowndes Co., Ala 98 Brooks, C. M. Birds of North Hero Island, Ver- mont 117 THE OOLOGIST Barnes, R. M. 1921 2 March Oologist 11 Notice 11 "Billie" 12 Books Received. ..24, 46, 65, 78, 108 136, 156 New Catalog 37, 53, 69, 80, ll3 J. L. Childs 44 Personal News 47 A New Oologist 47 Our Printer 47 Building 47 Coopers Club 48 Cassina 55 H. H. Bailey 61 Trumpeter Swan 64 Early 65 Horicon Marsh, Wis 67 Lesser Snow and Blue Goose... 70 Sickness 78 A Word Personal 89 An Unusual Quail 92 Newspaper Ornithology 97 More Honecker Fraud 119 Correction 129 Report of the Chief Game Guard- ian, Canada 136 Journal of Museum or Compara tive Oology 136 Bird Houses for 1922 116 Bowles, J. H. New Catalog 37 Carryl, F. M. How Do They Get That Way. . . 2 Cole, A. A... The Prairie Chicken in Central Iowa 40 Cole, J. L. Prairie Lark's Nest Snowed Un- der 51 Cook, G. L. Spotless King Bird's Eggs 40 Danforth, S. T. Brunswick, N. J. Migration Rec- ord 7 Bird Notes from the Pine Bar- ren, N. J 7 Daniel, V. Texas Notes 92 DuBois, A. D. King Rail's Nest in Satigamon Co., Ill 43 Evans, L. I. An Airplane Tripp 83 Fredricks, K. W. Chicago Birds 48 P'uller, R. Snow and Eggs 172 Gill, G. More Housing Problems 49 Gillin, J. R. An Outrage 162 Goelitz, W. A. Nesting of the Great Horned Owl in Vicinity of Rochester, N. Y. 8 Graham, R. Why So Many Rats 41 Inca Dove 41 Ground Dove 41 Cow Birds 41 Bartramian Sandpiper 41 Great Tailed Crackle 42 Corpus Christi Bay Bird Life. . . 46 List of Breeding Birds of Tar- rant Co., Texas 93 Texas Migration Notes 133 Sense or Instinct 135 Road Runner's Curiosity 13t) Texas Notes, 1921 176 Green, H. O. Hints for Beginners 28 Harden, M. G. Mississippi Birds 17 Harlow, J. E. Return of the Birds 46 A Day Afield 6 ? Harrison, H. M. Pileated Woodpecker 114 Hastings, H. E. Michigan Observations 54 Hembree, D. V. Notes from Georgia 93 Henderson, A. D. Notes from the Sharp-tiled Grouse 3s Keen Eye Sight in Northern Raven 82 Hess, I. E. Old Friends 77 Holbrook, W. B. Pink Crow's Eggs 152 THE OOLOGIST Howes, P. G. Results 138 Hurley, G. B. Birds of Yakima Co., Wash 14 Jacobs, J. W. Sequel of the Death of a Wan- dering Snowy Owl 24 There is Something in the Study of Birds' Eggs 106 Jackson, T. H. Long Eared Owl 77 Johnson, H. H. The Great Horned Owl a The Barn Swallow 125 Keesler, R. L. Birds 170 Lunsford, I. C. Hawk Feed 70 Maxon, G. E. Another Swan Murdered 40 Swan Killing Not Profitable 149 Waxwings 173 The Turkey and Black Vulture. 177 Marshall, B. C The Ruby Throat's Song 152 Miller, R. F. Ornithological Questions 121 Some Misnamed Birsd 158 Miller, L. V. Notes 123 On the Great Lake 132 The Chestnut-sided Warbler 154 Moffat, E. E. Carolina Chickadee 57 More, R. L. Caracara Following Prairie Chicken 67 Morse, G. W. Observations from a a Cab Win- dow of a Locomotive 65 Neff, Johnson Rare and Uncommon Birds, Law- rence Co., Mo 23 Addenda 24 Norman, E. S. Nesting of American Hawk Owl 27 Pahrman, C. F. Red Shouldered Hawk 174 Peabody, P. B. Preparation of Far Incubated Eggs 26 A New Method in Oology 74 The Maynard Series 162 Peck, G. D. Memories 114 Peters, A. S. A Minnesota Afternoon 56 Pierce, F. J. Buchanan Co., Iowa, Birds 4 Biography of the American Crow 109, 122 Kingfisher and Mourning Doves Winter in Winthrop, la 173 Pilquist, S. E. A Boy's Contribution 82 Do Red Shouldered Hawks Mi- grate? 152 Potter, A. J. Hot Weather Ornithology 97 Roberts, P. Winter Birds of Perry Co., Ala.. 17 Rounds, Dr. W. Egg Collecting 175 Sanborn, C. S. An Osprey that Swallowed an Eagle 131 Simpson, R. B. Birds Freezing 135 The Brown Creeper 153 Shufeldt, R. W. Passing of the Great Bird Taxi- dermist 59 Skinner, K, L. Books Received 48 Spaulding, N. G. A Peculiar Accident 92 Strong, W. A. To Pack a Large Shipment of Birds' Eggs 38 Feeding Prairie Chickens 39 California Observations 54 Albino Quail Found 65 Light Blinds Birds 81 Magpies Attack Cattle 81 One Snowy Owl Saved 154 Stone, C. F. Gleanings From My Bird Journal 8 Stone, D. D. Truck Trip 55 Stoner, E. A. California Shrike 2, 59 Barn Owl at Benicia, Cal 60 Carquinez Straits, Cal. Notes... 94 Newspaper Ornithology 150 Vos Burgh, G. W. Old Water Color Plates 47 Wisconsin 76 Notes 78 Wild Duck Speed 119 Wisconsin Notes, 1920 173 Vars. H. M. Florida Sunshine 142 Walker, Alex Some Notes on the Preparation of Mammals' Skins 166 Warner, C. D. Another Attack 60 Wheeler, E. A. Birds Observed at East Ran- dolph, N. Y 20 Sparrow Hawk Lays In Captivity 45 Wolfe, L. R. A Record 11 INDEX Albatross Sooty 75 Anhinga 158 Auks Razor-billed 74 Avocet American 114 Bittern 56, 86 American 5, 20, 114 Least 20, 114 Blue Throat 75, 164 Bobolink 6, 17, 22, 86, 94, 115 118, 121, 132 Bobwhite 5, 17, 18, 20, 51, 92, 93 94, 97, 115, 117, 173 Texas 14, 19 Black Bird 10, 57, 108, 150 Bicolored 16, 54, 115 Brewer's ..11, 16, 17, 54, 74, 95, 115 Redwing 6, 7, 10, 16, 19, 22, 43 56, 74, 75, 86, 93, 115, 118, 162 Northwestern Redwing 115 Rusty 6, 10, 22, 115, 132 Tricolored 16 Yellow-headed 115 Bluebird ...7, 9, 17, 23, 49, 86, 91, 93 96, 117, 119, 121, 125, 170, 171, 172 Mountain 17, 117 Western 17, 54, 117 Bush Tit 116 Bushtit 116 Bunting Snow 9 Indigo 6, 17, 22, 86, 97, 116 Luzuli 16, 116 Painted 93 Buzzard 102 Turkey 46, 67, 91, 96, 158 "Belled" 41 Cat Bird 6, 11, 17, 22, 50, 56 81, 86, 90, 94, 96, 118, 121 Chat 9, 86, 87 Yellow-breasted 11,17,86, 93 94, 116 Long-tailed 17, 116 Cardinal 6, 17, 19, 67, 86, 87 90, 93, 96, 116, 135 Chaffinch 164 Chickadee 3, 19, 23, 49, 67 81, 86, 91, 118, 121, 153 Black-capped 7, 55, 78 Carolina 7, 57, 93 California 54 Chestnut-backed 116 Oregon 17, 116 Mountain 116 Plumbeous 57, 93 Caracara Audubon 55, 67 Coot 86, 108 American 5, 14, 20 Chewink 87, 91 Chuck Will's Widow 94, 97 Cow Bird ...6, 9, 10, 11, 22, 41 86. 93, 115, 118, 129, 154 Crane 47 Sand Hill 23, 48 White 97 Creeper 158 Brown 6, 19, 22, 55, 96 116, 121, 153 California 116 Crow 3, 17, 78, 91, 97, 117 120, 121, 122, 123, 129 132, 144, 152, 174 Black 78 Carrion 158 American 6, 19, 22, 55, 93 94, 109, 115, 121 Northwest 115 Cross-bill 135 American 116, 120 White-winged 116, 173 Cuckoo 158 California 115 Black-billed 5,22, 56,115 120, 173 Yellow-billed 5, 7,22, 93, 94 96, 115 Dickcissel 6, 17, 86, 96, 115 Dove Mourning ..5, 10, 15, 18, 20, 41, 46 67, 77, 86, 90, 93, 94, 99, 115, 173 Inca 41 Ground 41, 115 Duck 5, 46, 108, 117, 119, 173 Brant 61, 108 Black 20, 114. 119, 138 Baldpate ...14, 20. 23, 46, 114, 133 Golden Eye 14. 54. 55, 119 Eider 119 Baldpate 133 Buffle Head 14, 20, 54, 55 114, 133 Canvas Back 14, 20, 114 Gadwell 20, 46, 114 Harlequin 14 THE OOLOGIST Mallard 14, 18, 20, 61 119, Merganser American Merganser. .. .20, Red-breasted Merganser. 14, 55, Hooded Merganser.. .14, 75, Old Squaw Pintail 14, 20, 46, American Scaup. 20, 54, 55, Lesser Scaup 14, Shoveller Scooter Red-headed ' Scooter, White-winged Scooter, Surf "Ruddy 20, >■ Cinnamon Teal 14, .i>> Bule-winged Teal 20, f.r Green-winged Teal... 14, 20, ;t. Wood 14, 20, 46, 75, - Wicjgeon 46, 61, *Dipper i " American , 63, 114 133, 177 14, 121 54, 55 114, 135 20, 54 114, 133 114 133 14, 20 61, 74 114, 132 114, 133 48, 74 14, 114 .... 20 .... 114 .... 20 .... 20 114, 133 46, 114 46, 114 46, 114 114, 133 114, 133 tEagle f,. -Bald 5, 9, 51, 56, 108, ':., Golden 15, Emu 17 150 115, 143 108, 115 .... 61 Egret White 8 . - American 23, 138, 149 Snowy 23 Finch ■House 16, 75, 115 . Purple 6, 19, 115 California Purple 115 , Cassin's Purple 115 Falcon Prairie (See Hawlts) -Flamingo 75, 118 Flicker (See Woodpecker) .Flycatcher 63, 76 156, 162 Alder 22 Ash-throated 115 Crested 5, 22, 86, 91, 93, 94 115, 117, 125 Least 22, 56, 74, 117 Green Crested 22, 94 Olive-sided 115 Trails 16, 115 Yellow-billed 22, 115 Western 15 Scissor-tailed 93 Geese 5, 46, 67, 108 Canada' 14, 20, 61, 77 114 Blue 12, 70, 114 Lesser Snow 12, 14. 23, 70, 76 White-fronted 55, 114 Gallinule 86 Florida 5, 20 Godwit 4 Marbled 114 Goldfinch 56, 86, 118, 120, 132 American ...6,19,22, 54, 55,116 Arkansas 116 California 54 Pale 116 Western 116 Goshawk (See Hawks) Gnatcatcher Blue-gray 86, 88, 93, 116 Western 116 Grackle 10, 11, 17, 81, 90 Bronz 19, 22, 56, 86, 118, 120 Boat-tailed 93, 115 Great-tailed 42 Purple 6, 7, 93, 115 Grebe Eared 14 Horned 20 Pied-billed 14, 20, 86, 114 Western 14, 114 Grosbeak 67 Black-headed 16, 116 Blue 17, 93, 94 Evening 115, 173 Pine 173 Rocky Mountain Pine 115 Rose-breasted 6,22,23, 86 116, 121 Western Evening 115 Western Blue 116 Grouse Canada Ruffed 15 Ruffed 3,20, 38, 55, 56, 86 108, 115, 120, 158 Sharp-tailed 38 Sage 14, 115 Sooty 115 Oregon Ruffed 115 Gull 2, 63, 138 Bonapart 20 Franklin a Herring 20, 54, 55, 117, 132, 133 Ring-billed 54, 55, 132 Laughing 143 Hawks ..55, 71, 97, 111, 114, 122, 129 Broad-winged 94, 115 Cooper's ...15, 20, 67, 86, 93, 94 115, 120. 156 Duck 115 Goshawk 61, 115 Western Goshawk 17 Harris 93, 115 Marsh 15, 20, 54, 67, 86, 115 THE OOLOGI8T Pigeon Prairie Falcon Red Shouldered... 3, 82, 93, 94, 152, 156, Red-tailed 5, 9, 46, 67, 93, 94, Sharp-shinned Sparrow .20, 45, 67, Desert Sparrow . . . Swainson's Western Red-tailed. White-tailed 117. 156, 173 15, 115, 156 54, 115, 162 20, 32, 67 115, 117, 120 172, 174, 175 10, 15, 20 115, 156, 174 15, 20, 91 94, 115 86, 94, 95 115, 138, 156 15, 54, 115 15, 115 54, 115 67 Hen Heath 121 Heron 8, 47, 132 Black Crowned Night. 5, 7, 14 20, 78, 114, 137 Great Blue 5,14, 56, 66, 94 99, 114, 117, 143 Great White 75 Green ...5, 20, 78, 82, 91, 92, 93 94, 114, 123, 138 Little Blue 8 Night 143 Snowy 94 Ward's 145 Humming Birds 9, 86, 123 Alleris 115 Anna 95 Calliope 115 Ruby-throated 5, 10, 17, 22 86, 93, 115, 117, 120, 152 Ibis White-faced Glossy 114 Jay Black-headed 15, 115 Blue 6, 17, 19, 22, 55 67, 77, 82, 86, 90, 93, 96 115, 117, 120, 132, 151 California 54, 94, 115 Rocky Mountain 115 Steller's 115 Oregon 115 Junco 9, 11, 67, 81, 121, 132 Oregon 54 Shufeldt's 16 Slate-colored 6, 19, 22, 15 94 Killdeer (See Plover) King Bird.... 5, 15, 22, 40, 56, 74 91, 93, 96, 115, 117, 120, 156 Arkansas 115 Kingfisher ...18,56,94, 97,121,122 Belted ...5, 15, 22, 93, 115, 117, 173 Texan 102 Kinglet 153 Golden-crowned 7, 23, 116, 121 Ruby-crowned 7,19, 23,116 Western 116 Kite Swallow-tailed 114, 115 Lark Horned 22, 71, 132 Dusky Horned 16 Prairie-horned 5,22,51, 78 86„ 115, 132 Ruddy-horned 115 Meadow 6, 7, 22, 67, 81, 86 90, 93, 96, 99, 115, 118, 120, 156 Limpkin 75, 145 Long Spur Lapland 115 Loon 20, 56, 114 Pacific 14 Red-throated 23, 54, 55 Magpie, American 16, 81, 115 Martin 91, 138 Purple 6, 7, 17, 22, 77, 86 93, 94, 96, 116, 118 Mocking Bird 17,19,59 86 90, 93, 96 Murres 74, 75 Nutcracker Clark's 16 Nut-hatch 153 Brown-headed 19, 94 White-breasted 6, 22, 55, 67 94, 116, 118, 121 Red-breasted 3 6, 23, 116 Slender-bill 116 Nighthawk 5, 8, 22, 86, 93, 115 158, 173 Western 15, 115 Oven Bird 6, 11, 22, 94, 116 Osprey, American 15, 20, 56 115, 121, 131 Ostrich 61 Oriole 156 Baltimore 6, 17, 22, 56, 61, 86 96, 115, 118 Bullocks 16, 115 Orchard ...4,6,17,22,75, 86, 93 115, 138 Hooded 115 Owl 2, 111, 121, 129, 145 American Barn 93, 115 American Hawk 27 Barn 60, 67, 81, 94, 156 Barred 5,18.22, 93, 97,115 120, 156, 178 Burrowing 15, 115 California Pigmy 115 10 THE OOLOGIST Great Horned 2, 9, 10, 22 60, 65, 78, 93, 94, 98, 115 117, 120, 156, 173, 174, 178 Pigmy 15 Screech ....2, 5, 11, 22, 60, 93 94„ 97, 115, 117, 120, 156, 173 McFarlane's Screech 15 Kennicott's Screech 115 Short Eared 15, 22, 23, 115 156, 173 Snowy 4, 5, 15, 22, 24, 154, 156 Western Horned 15, 55, 115 Saw-whet 20, 115 Partridge 158 California 54 Hungarian 14, 108 Quail ....67, 83, 86, 95, 99, 108, 135 Albino Quail 65 Mountain Quail 14 Valley Quail 14, 115 Paraquet 75 Pelican Brown 23, 46, 177 White 46, 177 Petrel 61 Pgwgg Wood 5, 10, 11, 22, 74, 86 94, 115, 120 Phalarope Wilson 14, 114 Pheasant Chinese 15 Phoebe 5,7,17,22,56, 77, 86 90, 93, 115, 129 Black 115 Say's 15, 115 Western 15, 54 Pigeon Band-tailed 115 Passenger 75, 115 White-crowned 147 Pipit, American 6, 24,116 Prairie Chicken 5, 38, 39 40, 61 67, 81, 99, 115, 173 Plover, Kill Deer 5, 7 , 14 18, 20, 56, 60, 67, 81, 86, 88 90. 91, 93, 97, 108, 115, 138, 143, 158 Bartramian 97 Black-bellied 20 Golden 20, 115 Mountain 75 Ringed 115 Semipalmated 20 Snowy 115 Upland 86 Quail (See Partridge) Rail King 20, 43, 114 Sora 7, 20, 56, 108, 114 Virginia 14, 20, 23, 114, 143 Yellow 74, 114, 162 Wayne Clapper 143 Raven American j^l6 Northern 82, 83 Red Start, American. 9, 17, 22, 116, 118 121, 132 Red Poll 116, 171 Robin, American 7, 19, 23, 46, 49 54, 55, 56, 77, 78, 80, 81, 86 90, 109, 119, 121, 138, 158, 173 Western 17, 54, 117 Roadrunner 93, 115 Sand Piper 143, 158 Bartranian 20, 41, 173 Pectoral 20, 114 Red-backed 20 Solitary 20, 114 Semipalmated 20 Spotted 5, 14, 20, 56, 63, 66 86, 94, 114, 115, 117 Western 20 Sanderling 20 Shrike 96, 158 California 2, 54, 59, 95, 116 Loggerhead 6, 17, 19 Northern 10, 11, 22, 116 Migrant 22 White-rumped 16, 116, 172 Snipe Wilson 5, 14, 20, 108, 114 Sapsucker Red-naped 15, 67, 115 Yellow-bellied 5,19, 22, 96 115, 120 Siskin, Pine 115, 120, 135 Snowflake 22, 55, 115 Sparrows 10, 129 Ba'chman 94 Bell's 116 Cassins 93 Chipping 6, 7, 19, 22, 86 91, 94, 118 Clay-colored 116 English 6, 17, 50, 77, 81, 93 96, 129, 170 Field 9, 17, 19, 22, 78, 81 86, 91, 93, 94 Fox 7, 9, 19, 22, 94 House 22, 121 Gambel's 116 Golden-crowned 16, 54 Grasshopper 22, 86, 93, 116 Harris 116 THE OOLOGIST 11 Lark 86, 93 Lincoln 10, 116 Merril's Song 16, 116 Oregon Vesper 116 Rusty Song 116 Sage 16, 116 Savana 22, 86 Seaside 129 Slate Colored Lot 116 Song 6, 19, 22, 56, 63, 67, 81 86, 91, 94, 96, 118, 121, 132 Tree 19, 22, 132, 171 Townsend, Lot 116 Vesper 6, 9, 19, 22, 74, 86 94, 118, 121 Western Chipping 16 Western Lark 16 Western Savanah 116 White Crowned 6, 9, 16, 22 54, 116 White Throated... 6, 7, 9, 22, 91 94, 118, 121, 132 Starling 57, 117 Stilt, Black-necked 114 Swallow 96 Batik 16, 22, 86, 121 Barn 6, 16, 22, 77, 86, 118 125, 126, 127, 128, 132 Cliff 16, 22, 48, 77, 118 Northern Violet Green 16, 56 Tree 6, 22, 116, 118, 125, 127 Rough Winged 6, 63, 93,121 Violet Green 116 Sea 158 Swift Chimney 5, 22, 86, 94, 96, 133 Swan 40, 149 Trumpeter 19, 23, 64 Whistling 14, 20 Solitare Townsend 116 Tanager Scarlet ...6, 22, 86, 90, 94, 116, 121 Summer 17, 86, 90, 93 Western 16, 116 Teal (See Ducks) Tern 20, 74, 132, 158 Arctic* 74 Black ........ ...5, 14, 20, 23, 56 114, 132, 173 Cabot 74 Caspiaa 54, 55 Forster 5, 74 Least 23 Roseate 74 Thrasher Brown 6,19,22, 81, 86 90, 93, 96, 118, 162 Curved-billed 116 Sage 116 Thrush 158 Hermit 7, 23, 118, 132 Dwarf Hermit 117 Olive Backed 116 Russet-backed 17, 116 Varied 54, 117 Wilson's 7,11,21, 23 116 Wood 6, 11, 23, 67, 86, 93, 116 Tit-mouse 158 Plain 54, 95, 116 Tufted ....6, 19, 86, 88, 93, 116, 135 Tropic Red-billed 102 Turkey 51 Wild 12, 15, 82, 115, 177 Water 158 Towhee 6, 7, 9, 11, 22, 56, 74 86, 87, 94, 116, 118, 121 California 54 Canon 116 Green-tailed 116 Oregon 116 Spurred 16, 54 Turnstone 20 Vireo Anthony's 116 Bell's 93, 116 Blue-headed 6, 116 Red Eyed ...22„ 86, 91, 94, 116, 121 Warbling 22, 86, 116, 118 Yellow-throated 10, 22, 96, 116 White-eyed 86, 93, 94 Western Warbling 116 Vulture 121, 144, 158 Black 17, 18, 65, 67, 92, 93 94, 115, 177 California , 61 Turkey 8, 15, 18, 67, 82 93, 94, 102, 115, 116, 177, 178 Warblers Audubon's 17, Bachman Bay-breasted 22, Blackburnian . 11, 22, Black Poll 6, Black and White.... 6, 7, 9, 93, Black-throated Green 6, 24, 94, Black-throated Blue Black-throated Gray Brewster's Blue Winged 8, 93 Canadian 24 Cairn's Cape May Cerulean 11, 22. 54, 116 . ... 171 94, 116 116, 121 22, 116 11, 22 116, 121 11, 22 116, 121 22, 94 116, 121 . ... 116 94, 116 94, 116 ... 34 . .. 116 94, 116 IS THE OOLOGIST Golden 116 Chestnut-sided ....6. 9, 22, 116, 154 Golden Winged 8, 22,121 Hooded 93, 96 Lutescent 116 Kentucky 86, 87, 88, 94, 116 MacGillivray 116 Magnolia 6, 11, 22, 156 Mourning 86, 88, 116 Myrtle 6, 9, 19, 22, 94 116, 118, 132 Nashville 22, 116, 132 Orange Crowned 94, 116 Palm 6, 121, 132 Pileolated 16, 116 Pine 11, 94, 116, 132 Parula 24, 116 Northern Parula 121 Prairie 7 Prothonatary 86 Swainson 24 Townsend 116 Tennessee 22, 116 Yellow 17, 22, 86, 96, 116 Water Thrush 22, 116 Louisiana 86 Northern 6 Wilson 6, 116 Worm Eating 9 Yellow 56, 118 Wax Wing 91, 173 Cedar 16,17,19, 22, 48, 65 86, 116, 118, 121 Bohemian 48, 116 Willet 115 Whip-poor-will 5,11, 22, 56 86, 93, 94, 97, 115, 121 Poor Will 92 Woodcock 25, 48, 75, 86, 108, 172 American 18, 20, 114 Woodpecker 2, 5, 7, 9, 67, 81 93, 94, 95, 115 California 54, 115 Downey 3, 22, 48, 55, 67 77, 86, 90, 115, 117, 12a, 132 Gardiner Hairy 5, 18, 22, 48, 77, 94, Harris Ivory-billed Lewis Great Black Pileated 8, 12, 19, 94, 114, 115, 121, Northern Pileated 15, Red Bellied 9, 17, 19, 93, 94, Red-headed . . .5, 17, 19, 22, 90, 94, 96, Northern Flicker 22, North Western Flicker.... Arctic Three-toed Red Shafted Flicker 15 Southern Downey.. 5, 17, 18 White-headed Southern Flicker 15, 115 55, 67 115, 120 54, 115 75 . ... 15 . . . . 27 82, 93 129, 171 22, 120 22, 86 114, 115 67, 86 120, 138 117, 120 15, 115 48, 55 , 54, 115 , 93, 94 . . . . 15 . . . . 19 Wren Bewick 86, 93 Cactus 116 Carolina 19, 86, 93 House 6, 19, 22, 46, 49, 56 67, 86, 96, 116 Marsh 86, 88 Long-billed Marsh 22 116 Parkman's 116 Rock 116 Seattle 116 Short-billed Marsh 22, 116 Tule 17 Winter 116, 121 Western Winter 116 Western 6, 19, 119 Western House 17 Worthington Marsh 143 Yellow Legs 20, 108, 114 Greater 14, 20, 114 Lesser 4, 5 Yellow Throat Maryland 6, 17, 86, 116, 118 Western 17 Northern 22 Pacific 116 The Oologist. BIRDS-NESTS-EGGS TAXIDERMY Vol. XXXVIII. No. 1. ALBION. N. Y., Jan. 1, 1921. Whole No. 405 '^,\.-f w^:^ ■'^i^. THE OOLOQIST Bliiar SPBOSAL. AN2VOUIVCBMSNTS Wanted, Exchange, F«r Sale, Btc, inserted In this depaitineot at li oenta for each 25 words for one Issue; each additional word 1 cent. Ne notltt !■- serled for less than 25 cents. We will advertise the skins, nests, eggs, or mounted specimens of North Amer- ican Birds for sale for persons having a lawful authority under the law to !•'. MlLLElt, 2526 North Second SI.. IMiiladclphia, Pa. FOR BEST CASH OFFER — Cones Key l''ifth Edition, 12 Vols, like new, .\. C. DYKE, Bridgewater, Mass. MAKE MO.XlOV — Vcni can handle and tan .\(Mir own furs and skins, hair on 111- (iff. Vou can make up-to-date lined I'm- nii;s with mounted heads; open iu(Mi(li linish. My tan formulas and 11 MIC and lal)<)r-sa ving methods enable .\(>u lu do this iirofitable work at small cost. Xo former experience necessary. You are certain of success; no spoiled skins. Complete formulas and instruc- tions, onl.\- $M.on jiostpaid, dutv free. lOhWIN DiXO.V, Taxidermist, Union- ville, Ont. BUTTERFLIES^I wish to corres- pond with collectors with a view to purchase or exchange. Dr. T. W. Rlota- ards, U. S. Navy, Naval Hospital, Anna- polis, Maryland. THE BAILEY MUSEUM of NATUR- AL HISIORY, Newport News, Va.. de- sires to secure through exchange or purchase, small mammal skins, and a collection of bird skins and eggs. Sub- mit lists and price. H. H. BAILEY, Newport News, Va. l<"OR DISPOSAL — A collection of choice cabinet sets and sets with nests from Europe and America with full and accurate data. Send 2 cent stamp for complete lists. Satisfaction guaran- teed. DR. M. C. CLECKLEY, Augusta, Georgia. "TECCOBS" wants correspondents to exchange ornithological observations and experiences. Address Geoffrey Gill, Sea Cliff, Long Island. New Y'ork. Western Correspondents address Theo- dore Greer, Sheridan, Illinois. TO KX(^HANGE — Many complete and incomplete \olumes and odd numbers of l)ird magazines. U. S. Reports, etc. for llowei- plants and bulbs. A. K. SCHl'TZE, Box 302, Austin. Texas. R. R. 1. Miami Beach. Florida. WANTED — Correspondence with par- ties desiring to exchange gootl st>eci- mens, ornithological publications, pho- tographs, etc. B. S. BOWDISH, Demar- est, N. J. I''i)i; DISPOSAL — l''our volumes of The Oolo.gist. 1;>16-1"I19. inclusive, with October, 191S, supplement. Make offer. H. M. HOLLAND, Galesburg, 111. l<-OIi SALE — Vol. VI, VII, VIII, Birds of North and Middle America, E. K. SCHLEICHEIT. Mathias Point, Va. AI.,L WHO ABE WILLING to pay cash ft)!' mounted birds and bird skins write to me at once. Satisfaction guar- anteed. D. V. HEMBREE, Roswell, Ga. von EXCHANGE — A. O. U. 77, 408, 113, 560a and 6S3a. Can use any com- mon sets. ,TOHN B. HURLEY, Yakima, Wash. WAXTI'n) — Mountable skins of coon, opossum. Swift Fox, civet, ringtail and wild cats, Mt. Beaver, badger, white and fox s(|uirrels. all colors, western hares and rabbits, gophei-. ermine, and pi-aii-ie dog. Will exchange or buy at reason.ililr piices. Squirrels wanted especially. IJ.VROLD X. VARS. Plain- field, Conn. The Oologist. Vol. XXXVIII. No. 1 Albion, N. Y., Jan. 1, 1&21. Whole No. 405 Oioned and Published Monthly, by R. M. Barnes, Albion, N. Y., and Laean, III. TAKE (NOTICE. SUBSCRIPTION, 50 CENTS PEK YEAR Examine the number on the wrapper of your Oolopist. It denotes the time your sub- scription expires. Remember we must be notified if you wisli it discontinued and all arreara8;es must be paid. 37s your subscription expires with this issue. 377 your subscrip- tion expired with December issue 1918. Other expirations can be computed by intermedlllTO ntimbers at the rate of one number per month. Entered as second-class matter December 21, 1903, at the post offlee at Albion, N. Y., under the Act of Congress of March 3, 1879. LookllirouoW^uv nole-book anA wile u^ ^ome- l\\mg.0iijmis,lav<^esels,unus3lncsUtij5iles,Vtrcl^ rare U v^urlacoUiv, liatlU OD5erYcd,iri\grab0i\$,eU., att iViiu J^ \\\A Inkrc^l every olUer reaien If we del onelelter oJonW :2.5oword3 JroweacK, IKc eliUr wonl bvc U mokean olW ciljor cJC3n THE OOLOQIST 1921 To our hundreds of subscribers, we wish each and every one a Happy Prosperous New Year. Very many of you liave remembered us with Holiday Greetings, wliich we mucli appreciat- ed, and the only reason we have not replied in each instance in kind, is the fact that we have been engaged most of the month of December, in trying a desperately fought lifw suit, or rather a criminal case in which six lawyers were engaged. When one gets mixed up in that sort of melee, there is little time for anything else. We look forward to a pleasant and successful year oologically, and trust the same will be the portion of each one of The Oologist's large family. If we all push a little we can put the necessary pep into the game and bring oology up to the desired stand- ard, and amid the desired enthusiasm. There are two things to do requiring immediate, attention, and the very first is for everyone to renew your subscription to the only oological pub- lication in America, The Oologist, the next is to secure your permits with State and Federal. R. M. Barnes. HOW DO THEY GET THAT WAY? Some of us keep liens, and if we only knew how, we would get eggs, at least more than we do. Most field men know tliat many birds will, if their eggs are taken, at once nest again. Owls will for at least three times. Flickers will by the season. Gulls will, and so on. Normally these birds will nest but once in a season, yet when robbed can and do at once nest again. I have taken Screech Owl sets of five and within two weeks more a third set of two well in('u))atpd. How do they do it? It would help us a lot with our hens if we could know. Does anyone know? I don't, and 1 have spent many liours and many seasons trying to find out. F. M. Carryl. CALIFORNIA SHRIKE This member of the butcher-bird family is one of the familiar birds in the vicinity of Benicia, California Our California Shrike has the same relish for small birds, mice and grasshoppers and other insects as its eastern rela- tives, the loggerhead and Northern. In this vicinity it nests in scrubby trees, frequently in a row of trees along the roadside, though sometimes in a lone tree in a field. The locust is a favor- ite tree with them. In construction the nest is rather bulky and the in- terior is lined with- any soft material, including feathers, hair, wool, etc., gathered from the barnyard. The eggs number five to seven, — I find sets of seven common. The best sea- son for eggs is during April and the forepart of May. One of my prettiest specimens of nests is one of this bird taken with seven eggs on May 9thtli, 1919 along the Benicia-Vallejo road. This nest is espec;ially well rounded and softly lined. It was placed eight feet from the ground in a small lone locust tree which was in full bloom. Emerson A. Stoner, Benicia, Calif. THE GREAT HORNED OWL .I5y H. H. .Johnson. Pittsfield, Maine. Who-who, Who-who, Who-who, ho; thus was I greeted this spring, when I commenced operations in my sap berth making maple syrup. Just a might startling to the nerves to be re- quested sometime in the middle of the night to explain "Who" I was and my business there in that man's wood at that time of night. I commenced to tap the twentieth of March this year; there had been a fine run of sap for a few days, and that I might keep THE OOLOQI8T abreast of the flow with my evaporat- ing I was running the fire nights. The only birds I had noted at tliis time had been a Downy Woodpecker, Chicka- dees, a Red-bellied Nuthatch and a Ruffed Grouse. It was near one o'clock. The moon was up and quite l)rii;lit. I was alone, busy cutting up wood for the fire, when, Who-who- Who-who, Who-whoo, he rang out from way up in the trees, just over my head. I will admit I jumped. This Owl often commenced to hoot just be- fore sundown, though one dark cloudy day he was heard at various times throughout the day; usually the hoot- ing stopped at sunrise. The first hoot- ing always came I noted from a cer- tain point in the wood then passed to other parts as his hunt for supper, or perhaps it was called breakfast since he worked nights, progressed. I judged by the excited cawing of the Crows that he was often mobbed, but this soon stopped as darkness came. Once about two o'clock in the morn- ing, while yet very dark there being no moon, there was a great outburst from the Crows, who spent the night in the trees at no great distance from the camp. I judged from the sound that the Owl had caught one of his persecuters, having chanced upon the roost, and the Crows had fled in every direction. It was as though each startled Crow awoke with a yell; there was much excited cawing for a' time. The night the Owl made my camp a visit, I had been hearing the calls at a distance, thus I knew he was abroad, but I neither heard the sound of his arrival, and although I watched and listened carefully I could hear no sound as he took wing again The flight through the limbs and tree trunks was as swift and sure as a Partridge in the day time. My time was so taken up with syrup making and other farm work that I did not lo- cate the nest, though I felt sure it was not far away. Often I would hear an answer, Who-who, Who-who, Who- whoo as he called in his hunting and this answer always came from the section of the wood whence the first calls of the night came; these answers coming as I thought from his mate on the nest. This nest I judged to be in an old Red-Shouldered Hawk's nest. From this hawk's nest, which has been used yearly for a number of years, I on the 5th of May, this year, 1920, took a set of three eggs. While part way up this tree after the hawk's eggs there again came the question, Who-who, Who-who, Who-who, Whoo, twice repeated, from just a few rods away, then it passed to another part of the wood, but I was up a tree and not in position to follow as I would have liked, this was about one o'clock of a bright sunny day, yet some peo- ple say Owls cannot see in the day time. This Owl appeared to wish to know why I took such an interest in his old home, since he had broken up house-keeping and let the place to Mr. Red-shouldered Hawk for the summer; said hawk to keep the place in repair as rental. The Great Horned Owl is given a bad reputation and to some extent no doubt deserves it. I know it is not adverse to making a meal from a farmer's poultry, Mrs. .John- son having found one which had just killed a young four pound rooster when she went to close up the chicken house after dark one night, and would I come quickly with the gun and avenge the death of the poultry. Like Caesar, "I came, I saw, I con- quered," at least I ate the chicken. Mr. Owl had departed. I am also quite sure that the Skunk is favorite food for the Great Horned Owl. This spring I picked up one that a sportsman had sliot and then thrown away and it was strongly impregnated with the odor THE 00L0QI8T Kites in Case of T. H. Jackson or Ihal animal, and I have noted this odor at other times in connection with this Owl. January 3-4th, The Editor enjoyed an afternoon and overnight visit from Frank H. Willard, foinierly of Gales- hur.u, Illinois, and Tucson, Arizona, and now of T^ong Island, N. Y. He is I he same enthusiastic Oologist of yore — and one of the best in America. Ir was Ions in I he night when we closed I he last drawer of eggs and quit, to steal a little sleep before dawn. The visit was enjoyed as only such can be when two egg cranks (exchange ex- periences over a lot of specimens. Here's hoping he will come again. Buchanan County, Iowa, Birds l!y Fred .T. Tierce. I was much interested in Mr. John Coles' list of "Story County, Iowa Birds," which was printed in the Jan. 1920 number of THE OOLOGIST (page 11). Below^ is a list of the birds I have positively identified in Buchan- an County, all of which have been seen in 1919 or 1920, with the excep- tion of the Lesser Yellow-legs, Snowy Owl, and the Orchard Oriole. It must not be presumed that this list contains the approximate number of birds to be found in this county, for my limited time has prevented an extensive study of the birds of this county, and my observations have been confined large- ly to a region along Buffalo Creek near my home. Therefore this list includes only a fair per cent of the birds to be found in Buchanan County, migrating or resident. Many other l)irds are often reported by friends, but in the following list only those THE 00L0QI8T 6 that have been seen by the writer are g'iven. A. O. U. 59. Franklin Gull. Very rare tran- sient visitant. ()!). Forster Tern. Very rare tran- sient visitant. 77. Black Tern. Rare transient visi- tant. Wild Ducks. Common visitants. Wild Geese. Once a common transient but growing rare in later years. 1!I0. American Bittern Rare spring visitant. 1!)4. Great Blue Heron. Rare spring and fall visitant. 201. Great Heron. Rather common summer resident. 202. Black-crowned Night Heron. Rather common summer resi- dent. 219. P^lorida Gallinule. Very rare transient visitant. 221. American Coot. Rather rare vis- itant which probably nests in suitable parts of the county. 230. Wilson Snipe. Rather common in spring and fall. 255. Lesser Yellow-legs. Very rare visitant. Seen in 1918 only. 26o. Spotted Sandpiper. Rather com- mon. Known chiefly as a spring migrant. 273. Killdeer. Common summer resi- dent. 289. Bob-White. Permanent resident almost exterminated a few years ago but the 5 year closed shooting season (expiring 1922) has made them quite common again We need another 5 year period to make them abundant enough to withstand the gun- ners. 305. Prairie Hen. Once a common permanent resident but now very rare. A farmer of my ac- quaintance thinks that the ad- vent of the barbed wire fence, on the prairie lands in Iowa, did as much to exterminate the Prairie Hen, as the gunners did. According to him, a covey of these birds fly low and are im- paled on the wires. He says he has often seen their dead bodies on the wires. Perhaps this is a new theory but it sounds quite reasonable. 316. Mourning Dove. Very comiiioii permanent resident. 337. Red-tailed Hawk. Rather com- mon permanent resident. There are a good many species of Hawks to be found here, but I have not identified them posi- tively. 352. Bald Eagle Excessively rare visitant. Onlv one seen, May G, 1919. 3GS. Barred Owl. Once rather com- mon but now very rare. 373. Screech Owl. Rather common permanent resident. ■'76. Snowy Owl. Very rare visitant. Only one seen during a snow- storm, Nov. 22, 1918. 387. Yellow-billed Cuckoo. Summer resident Cannot be called com- mon. 388. Black-billed Cuckoo. Rare sum- mer resident. 390. Belted Kingfisher. Common summer resident. 393. Hairy Woodpecker. Rather common permanent resident. 394. Southern Downy Woodpecker. Common permanent resident. 402. Yellow-bellied Sapsucker. Rather common in the fall. 406 Red-headed Woodpecker. Very common summer resident. 412. Flicker. Permanent resident. Very common in summer. 417, Whip-poor-will. Rather common summer resident. More often heard than seen. 420. Nighthawk. Summer resident. Common some summers, rare others. 423. Chimney Swift. Common sum- mer resident. 428. Ruby-throated Hummingl)ird. Rare summer resident. 444. Kingbird. Very common sum- mer resident. 452. Crested Flycatcher. Rather common summer resident. 456. Phoebe. Common summer resi- dent. 461. Wood Pewee. Summer resident. Less abundant than the preced- ing. 4 74B Prairie Horned Lark. Very com- mon in summer, but I have not made enough o])servations to determine whether it is a per- manent resident in this locality or not. THE OOLOOItT 477. 488. 494. 495. 498. r.oj . .50G. 507. 510. 511. 517. 529. 540. 554. 558. 560. 567. 581. 587. 593. 595. 598. 604. 608. liU. Blue Jay. Permanent resident. Very ('ommon in summer. American Crow. Very common permanent resident. Bobolink. Very common sum- resident. Cowbird. Very common summer resident. Red-winged Blackbird. Very common summer resident. Meadowlark. Very common sum- mer resident. Orchard Oriole. Rare summer resident. Not seen since 1918. Baltimore Oriole. Common sum- mer resident. Rusty Blackbird. Very common spring migrant. Purple Grackle. Very common summer resident. Purple Finch. Very rare spring visitant. American Goldfinch. Permanent resident. Very common in sum- mer. English Sparrow. Very common permanent resident. Extending its nesting range into the open, away from buildings. Vesper Sparrow. Very common summer resident. White-crowned Sparrow. Rare summer resident. Whire-ihroated Sparrow. Com- mon summer resident. Chipping Sparrow. Summer res- ident. Not common here. Slate-colored Junco. Common during spring migration. Song Sparrow. Common sum- mer resident. Towhee. Rare summer resident. Often common during spring mi- grations. Cardinal. Very rare summer resident on Buffalo Creek, but rather more common on the Maquoketa River near Manches- ter, la. (in an adjoining county). Rose-breasted Grosbeak. Rare summer resident Indigo Bunting. Rather rare summer resident. Dickcissel. Common summer resident. Scarlet Tanager. Rare summer resident. Seen only during spring migralions usually. Purple Martin. Sunmier resi- dent. Common in towns but not 6i:!. 614 617. 622. 629. found in the country around Buffalo Creek. Barn Swallow. Very common summer resident. Tree Swallow. Rather rare sum- mer resident. Rough-winged Swallow. Very common summer resident. Loggerhead Shrike. Rather common summer resident. Blue-headed Vireo. Very rare visitant. Seen only in the fall of 1919. THE WARBLERS With the exception of Maryland Vellow-throat, all of the Warblers are seen only as transient visitants, al- though doubtlessly some of them re- main to nest. With the exception of the Myrtle Warbler which is always very common in migration, they all seem to appear in about the same de- gree of abundance; some springs cer- tain species are rare or missing al- together, and the next spring they are common. 636. Black and White Warbler. 655. Myrtle Warbler. 657. Magnolia Warbler. Chestnut-sided Warbler. Black-poll Warbler. Black-throated Green Warbler. Palm Warbler. Oven-bird. Northern Water Thrush. Maryland Yellow-throat. Com- mon summer resident. Wilson Warbler. American Redstart. American Pipit. Very rare visi- tant. 704. Catbird. Common summer resi- dent. Brown Thrasher. Common sum- mer resident. House Wren. Very common summer resident. Winter Wren. Rather common visitant and perhaps a resident. Brown Creeper. Rather com- mon (permanent?) resident. White-breasted Nuthatch. Com- mon permanent resident. Red-breasted Nuthatch. Rare permanent resident. Tufted Titmouse. Rare. Seen during migration only, as a rule. 659 661. 667. 672. 674. 675. 681. 685. 687. 697. ?05. 721. r26. 728. 31. THfe 00L0QI6T 735. Com- Black-capped Chickadee, mon permanent resident. Golden-crowned Kinglet. Rather rare spring visitor. Ruby-crowned Kinglet. Rather common in summer. Wood Thrush. Rare summer resident. Veery. Rather common summer resident. . VGOB. Hermit Thrush. Rare spring visitant. American Robin. Very common summer resident. Bluebird. Very common sum- mer resident. May 22, 1920. Note. — The plates illustrating this article were published in the Decem- ber number. — Editor. 748. 749. 755. 756. 7(il. 766. SOME NEW BRUNSWICK, N. J. MI- GRATION RECORDS. This year, 1920, probably on account of the mild fall and early winter, many birds have stayed much later than usual. Some of the most notable of these have been the Purple Martin, which stayed until Oct. 20; the Phoebe, Oct. 30; the Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Oct. 30; the Towhee, Dec. 30; the Prairie Warbler, Nov. 14; Black- crowned Night Heron, Nov. 19; Blue- bird, Nov. 24; Chipping Sparrow, Dec. 4; Purple Grackle, Dec. 20; Killdeer, Dec. 25; Sora Rail, Dec. 24. Red- winged Blackbirds seem to be winter- ing, along with Meadow Larks, Robins, White-throated and Fox Sparrows. Stuart T. Danforth. SOME BIRD NOTES FROM THE PINE BARRENS OF NEW JERSEY The country in wliich these obser- vations were made is typical pine bar- ren country lying about four miles southeast of Browns Mills, N. J. The soil consists of pure white sand with pine trees twelve to fifteen feet high growing everywhere, and almost every- where there is a more or less thick undergrowth of various shrubby and lierbaceous plants. The country is not nearly as barren as is often supposed, and it is a wondreful place for flower- ing plants, including the Pyxie or flowering moss, and many other plants that are peculiar to the pine barren region. Here and there are iiupciie- trable cedar swamps, wliicli ar;- the sources of all the streams in I he region. The waters are often dammed up, and used as reservoirs for cran- berry bogs. In June I had my first encounter with a real Jersey cedar owamp. It was several square miles in area. The edge was sharply de- fined, forming an impassable wall. The cedar swamp was composed mainly of white cedars about 20 feet tall, and swamp magnolias about 6 feet high, with a conglomerate mass of under- growth, and underneath all a knee- deep layer of soaking wet sphagnum moss. The whole formed a jungle so thick that it was a wonder to me that bird or insect could find room to move in it, yet a loud bird chorus came from within the swamp, and as for insects, well, it seemed as though evry kind of noxious Diptera ever invented was present by the hundreds of millions, including everything from Iiorseflies and deer-flies to mosquitoes and midges. But as the bird fauna was al- so very abundant I endured these pests for awhile, and even forced my way a few feet within the swamp, though vegetation was too dense to see much in there. Blue Jays, which are rare or absent at this time of year in most of the sur- rounding pine barren district, were breeding abundantly in the cedar swamp. The Carolina Chickadee was also found commonly in the swamp, although it was not noted in the sur- rounding region until after the breed- ing season. The notes of the Black and White Warbler issued from within the swamp, indicating that it was breeding in there. Flickers and Mary- land Yellowthroats abounded, and I THE OOLOaiST am almost certain that I heard tlie call of the Pileated Woodpecker. Tur- key Vultures and Nighthawks were flying around overhead. About the middle of August a group of about twenty herons appeared at the cedar swamp, and were seen there and at the adjacent cranberry reservoir daily until 1 left the region in Septem- ber. They were probably immature Little Blue Herons, as the color of legs of the individuals I had close views of more resembled that of the Little Blue Herons than of the Egrets, but as I did not obtain specimens the identification is not quite positive. On the whole, if it were not for the hordes of biting insects and the im- penetrableness of the .iungle, the cedar s^amp would be a' great place for bird observation, as it contains many forms not observed in the sur- rounding country, and appears to be a regular bird paradise. A common and interesting breeder of the pine barren region, outside of the cedar swamps, is the Blue-winged Warbler. It nests especially near the scrub oak trees which are frequently interspersed with the pine trees. At several times during the summer I had opportunity to observe the inter- esting hybrid known as Brewster's Warbler. It was found in the same lo- cality as the Blue-winged, but it puzzled me for sometime. However, I finally ascertained it to be this hybrid. It would sing sometimes like the Gol- den-Avinged Warbler, and sometimes like the Blue-winged, but its appear- ance was more like that of the latter. Stuart T. Danforth GLEANINGS FROM MY BIRD JOUR- NAL Many years ago I recorded in The Oologist some bird observations un- der the title of "Gleanings From My Note Book." In the present article 1 am venturing to offer similar notes on birds in the hope that they might help appease The Oologist cry of alarm for "More Copy." We have taken The Oologist ever since the beginning- of our Oologicai dream. I feel sure that not one of the wliole bunch wish to travel the remain- ing thousand miles (not guaranteed) of our life journey without the little Oologist. Therefore, fellow oologists, just dig up tliat bird journal and tell us what there was so important that caused you to write up nine full pages al)out that collecting trip or Iiitherto unknown bird fact. That is what The Oologist wants and what we want to know. The Lake Keuka region of Western New York is famous not only for the multitude of birds but great variety of species. There are more birds to the square mile than almost any other por- tion of Western New York, for we have a wonderfully wide range of bird haunts not only Lake Keuka surround- ed by mountainous hills but large for- ests of cattail swamps, deep cool and picturesque hemlock clad gullies, well as the famous Gvyanoga Valley where that renowned Indian Chieftain "Red Jacket" used to "whoop," eat venison, and formulate treaties for the Six Nations. His Indian name of "Sa-go- ye-wa-tha" signifies "he keeps them awake." That Red Jacket used to "whoop" in the beautiful Gvyanoga Valley is proven by the fact that even in this day the inhabitants of that old Indian valley refer to it as "Up the Holler." Also within this region that ought to be bird sanctuary is the wilderness of Potter swamp where 87 species of birds find congenial nesting haunts. In this Keuka region we have 217 species that occur during their proper season and 115 are known to breed liere. Of this number 30 are Warblers THE OOLOQI8T 9 with 21 species known to breed. We liave the boldest bird that tlies. The Ruby-throated Humming Bird, to the regular midsummer visitors, and the comparatively timid Bald Eagle. On Oct. 15 is recorded a great wave of migrating birds at Patter Swamp. Here we found hundreds of birds but most remarkable of all was the great wave of Bluebirds They swarmed on tlie ground, on weed stalks, in tree tops, bathed in the stoney brook and warbled excitedly in the barren hushes on their journey to the south- ern climes. Here I spied a Red-bellied Wood- pecker and desiring it to adorn my col- lection I shot and brought it down in a heap. But when I went to pick it up it uttered a shriek flying to a lofty stub top. I hit it again but life was dear, and the Woodpecker clung to a tuft of twigs in a crotch and fluttered and uttered such gasping choking sounds that it quite hoodooed me all day. I do not wish to witness the dy- ing agony of another Woodpecker. I would remark here that I do not want to skin another Woodpecker either, for this one was hide bound from one end to the other. With this army of Bluebirds were hundreds of White-crowned, White- throated Vesper, Fox and Field Spar- rows, Juncos and Myrtle Warblers. The dense fog that lasted all forenoon caused these migrating hosts to con- gregate and tarry for several hours. On a certain March 17th I went in (juest of a nest of Great Horned Owl. Upon my return I wrote "1 am still (luesting." On the way of the slope I noted dozens of Bluebirds as they flitted along stumps, fences and warbled from upturned prongs. The fields were quite barren of snow and tlie warbling Bluebirds made it seem spring-like, but over the crest of the liills it was mid-winter in aspect, with snow two or three feet deep. And in keeping with this wintry altitude were large flocks of Snow Bunting, dasliing about in the storm from field to field. Their flight is peculiar. Tlicy give several energetic flips then closc- their wings. Doing this causes their flight to be undulatory like the Flick- er, except it is more zigzag. Again on March 31, I made this same four mile hike, recalling an old nest that a Red- tailed Hawk had built many years be- fore I visited it. It looked too small and shaky for an Owl to stand on, say nothing about rearing young ones. While I stood knee deep in the water near the big elm tree not a sign of old Bobo could I discover except a downy feather signal fluttering on a branch and that was there on March 10th. However that little feather kept up such a vigorous flutter that I decided to climb up. With the flrst climber ja:b I was greeted with pleasure, for out went a scared Bobo., with con- siderable more haste than dignity. The two eggs were fresh and lay on a fragile nest bottom of twigs with downy feathers stuffed in the cracks to keep the wind out. The nest was old and weather worn, measured but four inches thick, the bowl being 9 inches in diameter. One day in June while in a hillside clearing full of Warblers, Towhees and Chats, I discovered a nest of the Chestnut-sided Warbler full of one Cowbird, and when I lifted him from the nest which flitted him so snugly, his peevish cries caused to gather around me all the Warblers that lived near by, — many Crestnut-sided, Red- starts, a pair of Black and White and a female Worm-eating Warbler. I could not but be astonished that this juvenile Cowbird uttered the genine "chip" of the Chestnut-sided which indicates that they learn the notes and cries of their foster parents. 10 THE OOLOQI8T However, after these elevating warb- ler environment they revert back to the well-known parasitic habits of all Cowbirds Nearby, while endeavoring to locate a nest of the Yellow-throated Vireo I heard in a distant part of the woods a Wood Pewee making a great fuss, snapping her bill which sounded like a toy pistol. I soon found the Pewee chasing a red squirrel away from her nest. The attack was so vigorous that the red squirrel did not get the three fresh eggs, but I know who did. I remember the incident well even if it was 19 years ago. A little later while sauntering through an oak woods listening for Hummers, I was suddenly confronted by one who buzzed into a tangle of spider webs near the ground after which she darted straight to the nest a hundred feet away. I was about to follow when the male Ruby-throat went through the same procedure as the female. The tiny nest was not so easily found owing to the protective coloration beside the female suddenly took a notion to preen herself while ■ perched on a delicate dead branch. The nest was about thirty feet up in the bend over top of a small oak situ- ated on a long slender branch. I could just reach the nest by standing in the top of a stubby pine. There being but one egg I left it. The female resumed the nest as soon as I descended. I must have mussed her nest of down and lichens for she kept turning around and around poking the rim out here and tucking it in where she imagined it was not just so. The following October 13th the thickets bordering the cat-tail swamp was full of all kinds of Sparrows and in the edge of the cat-tails a strange Sparrow came out in a very mouse- like fashion. Here is an instance where 1 felt justified in obtaining the bird for it was new to me. It proved to be Lincoln's Sparrow and in fine feather. Rusty Black Birds were almndant and they congregated to roost with the thousands of Red-wings, Cowbirds and Grackles. The babble of Blackbirds' voices is something wonderful to hear in the early morn- ing or at evening. As a result of this immense blackbird roost the cat-tails are a broken down and tangled mass. November 6th. The great army of Blackbirds left here sometime in the night of November 4th. I did not see them go but on the morning of the 5tli all was quiet dowm in the cat-tails and none gathered here at night. It was easy to know when the night had ar- rived for their departure for there is an unusual hubbub, and many sky- larking flights by first one portion and then the other in the gathering dark- ness. March 9th. Although it was a cold, foggy day I made my annual hike al- ter a set of Great Horned Owl. I found her nesting in a swampy wilderness, the nest being an old one of the Red tailed Hawk's and about 65 feet up and eight feet out on a limb of a large elm. The two were nearly fresh As the moss covered bark was soaked with rain and fog it was a cold and slipping climb, something like climb- ing an icicle. On my way home- ward I spied a Northern Shrike but he spied me too, so he just silently fluttered away and was lost to view and to science. April 21. For the past week about 100 animated Old Squaws have been in lake close to town and their inces- sant gossip can plainly be heard. 1 don't understand what they can be gabbing so noisily about, however, 1 have decided to agree with them. Dur- ing the past two or three nights I have been hearing Mourning Doves and THE OOLOGI8T 11 Crackles sing at about midnight, not onre but many times. How deliglit- lully soothing is the oft repeated "Coo- coo-cooing" of Mourning Doves at midnight. Talk about Screecli Owls. In vain I listened for the screech of the owl but like myself he was prob- ably wondering "What mournful sounds are these I hear? What being comes the gloom to cheer?" Last evening just after dusk 1 flushed sev- eral Juncos from their retreat in huckleberry vines where they huddled on the dead leaves at the base of the vines. My passage through their night retreat nearly caused them to flutter to one side and dodge into another tangle of huckleberries. May 21. While searching for nest of Whip-poor-will my attention was at- tracted by the queerest, most comical conglomeration of bird notes coming from a tree top 45 feet up. It sound- ed so happy go lucky, so deliberate, with short interval between each utter- ance and what a great variety of imitation changing from Vireo, the Wood Thrush, the Towhee, the Cat- bird and the whistle-like trills of the Northern Shrike. I soon detected the yollnw banner of the Yellow-breasted Chat and learned that this jovial bird rises to high tree tops at early dawn to pour forth its borrowed "Gab fest" from its woodland neighbors. Close l)y I found the Chat's in a thorn bush in an open sort of place. There were but two eggs and one of the ever pres- ent Cowbirds. Wilson's Thrush and Ovenbird were in full melody but the plaintive Wood Pewee made one feel like resting in some woodland dell and dream the time away. Their's is a "Sedative" kind of voice anyway. In tills hillside woodland I detected the songs of Blackburnian, Cerulean, Pine, Magnolia, Black-throated Green, and the Black and White Warblers. At dusk the AVhip-poor-wills left the woods and went down on the flats when I saw him laying lengthwise a rail as I rode by and not even a break in his oft repeated threat to whip-poor- will. This derisive bird (for I failed to find the nest) was so desirous of keeping me company that he followed me to the suburbs of Branchport — nearly a mile from his nesting place. Clarence F. Stone. THE MARCH OOLOGIST We propose to devote most of the March issue to hints, suggestions, and directions useful to oologists and or- nithologists. If you can favor us with any that you think will be beneficial to the fraternity please send them on at once. R. M. Barnes. NOTICE When this issue reaches our read- ers the editor will be in Hollywood, California, at the bedside of a sick mother. If your correspondence is neglected that will be the cause, and we know you will overlook the delay with patience. R. M. Barnes. A RECORD In the spring of 1917 I was stationed at Collinsville, Illinois, and, of course, did the usual field and collection trips when ever possible. On May 3, 1917 I collected near Collinsville a set of five eggs of the Brewer's Blackbird. Nowhere am I able to find any refer- ence of this bird breeding that far east. I would like to inquire as to whether this bird is known to be a summer resident of Illinois or was this unusual? L. R. Wolfe, 1st Lieutenant 64th U. S. Infantry. The Brewer's Black Bird has never before nested in Illinois so far as wo know. R. M. Barnes. 12 THE OOLOGIST "Billy", The First Snow Goose ever Ra.ised in Confinement, and His Nurse Lizzie Lynch. — Photo by Jay Myers "BILLIE" The above is a picture of Billie. He is the first Blue Goose ever raised in confinement. It was talien at the ad- vanced age of about six weeks. Billie owes his life to the careful nursing of IVliss Lynch, for whom he formed the closest friendship. It was with much ph'asnre that we noted the first moult of I his \inusual l)ird. The first white feathers began to show on the head in hite December, and it was mostly a white head and neck tliat he took out into pasture April 1st, though there is still a streak of dark feathers run- ning lip tiie back of the neck to the to]) of his head, even at this late day. hue, we think that the little Oologist may perhaps be excused for an oc- casional delay of a few weeks. Only publishers know what those engaged in such undertakings have l)een up against since 1915. Tiiis issue of Cassina No. XXI II- liHt), is good as usual — a splendid por- ti-ait of Wni. L. 15ail(>y, Sr., is the first offering followed by a short oc- count of his life by his nephew, Wm. L. Bailej', which is a very entertain- ing sketch covering 12 pages; this issue also includes half-tones of a nest and 13 eggs of the Wild Turkey in Situ and a PileatedWoodpet^ker, at its nest hole, and a fine paper on tlic latter bird by Samuel Scoville. Jr. .\n exaustive report tabulating the Mi- gration Schedules of 46 observers fol- lowed by an abstract of the proceed- ings of the D. V. O. C. for 1919. A Bibliography of Papers relating to the Birds of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Deleware, in which The Oologist often appears. This followed by a list of Club Members and an Index to Species, complete this most excellent issue. He never seemed to associate with the other Wild Geese much but stayed mostly with the ducks, a trait 1 have noticed also in a Lesser Snow Goose that we raised. Billie is now, .hin. 1. 19:21, IS months old and per- fectly healthy. Editor. THE OOLOQItT h'oil EXCHANGE — Nice set Golden lOnsh' 1/2 1/1. Can use sets of 9, 10, ML' 113. 204, 240, 2S8, 328, 351, 356 or ,,llier rare sets. ROBERT F. BACKUS, j'loi-ence, Colorado. SOMETHING NEW — Solid silver tip to tit (ivei- tlie point of any Blowpipe. Gives a very fine stream for blowing small eggs and can be removed in an instant for larger ones. Price 50 cents. I'. .\1. ("AltRYL, Xo. 1 Princeton Street, Nil I ley, N. J. l''()U EXCHANGE — One Taylor Smoke l(iri)e(lo. one Mandelette, one minute Camera. Wanted — Butterfles. W. J. IbillaiuVs Moth Book. D. GOLDBERG, U. i;. ;i. Uoclvville. Connecticut. l-'OR EXCHANGE — I still have a lot i<( Bird and Oological Magazines to ex- cliange for Natural History specimens. Ml-: BOS HATCH, Oakfleld, WMs. WANTl'^D FOR CASH — "Bendire's Bile lli.stories, Vol. 2". "Bent's Life His- Idiies." ROSWELL S. WHEELER, 166 .\thol Ave,, Oakland, Calif. WANTED — To correspond with par- tics in Southern States who could get me fresh skins suitable to mount of Dark Faced and Black Fox Squirrel. (), S. BIGGS, San Jose, 111, 1 am always willing to purchase 'liuUetin of the Cooper Ornithological CI all," Vol. 1, Complete or old num- bers. W, E, CHAMBERS, Eagle Rock, Calif. 1 have stones, gems and eggs from (i\er the U, S, What have you to trade? Give exact description. ROBERT IIA'CCIIKS, Victor, Colo, l'"<)U SALE — Live Opossuuis. Also Iresli skins of Opossum, J'\>.x and Gray Si|iiiiiels for mounting. Want several volumes of the Condor. ALBERT LANO, l'"a.\ettcville, Arkansas. W.AN'I'ED — For cash or exchange, lirst class sets, with full data. Send list at once. D. B, Bull, Route A. Box l.')S, San .Jose, California. J''OU SALE Oli EXCHANGE — The Museum, complete by Webb; Wild U'ings, by Job; Names and Portraits of Birds, by Trumbell; Birds of Alaska, !)>• Nelson; Birds of Connecticut, by Sage; Birds of Wyoming, by Knight; Birds of Colorado, 3 Parts, by Cooke; Tlie Oologist, 35 Volumes; Tlie Orni- thologist & Oologist, Vols, 7-18; Bird Lore, Vols, 17, IS, 19, 20; 50 Singles; American Ornithologist, Vols, 1-2. C. M. CASE, 30G Blue Hills Ave,, Hartford, <" S. COOMBS, 243 Franklin St„ Boston, Mass, I Wish to Buy single eggs, of a num- ber of species. Imperfect eggs accept- able, of rarer kinds. Say what you have. Still in hand a number of me- dium value negatives at sixty-five cents per dozen. Quantities of bird maga- zines at low prices, P, B, PEABODY, Blue Rapids, Kansas, MAMMALS — I want skins of North American Weasles, Will give in ex- change skins of Mountain Beaver or mammals on Bird materials. Nothing but A No, 1 skins desired or sent out, 1 also want North American Fauna Numbers 4, 50, 7, 16, 19, 20, 23, 25, 28, 30, Cash or exchange for same. ALEX WALKER, Blaine, Ore, Can use two copies of the A, O. U., 1910 check list. Barrows' Birds of Micliigan, and these magazines; Bit- tern, Vol, 1, No. 3; Condor, Vol, v, Nos, 4, 5, 6; Hawkeye O, and O,, Vol, 1, all; Vol. II, 1 to 5; Journal Maine, Vol, iv, Nos, 2 and 33; Iowa Ornithologist, Vol, 1, No, 1; Museum, Vol. 1, No. 3; Oregon Naturalist, Vol. 1, No. 2; O. and C, Semi Annual, Vol, 1, No, 1; Vol, 11, No. 1; Vol HI, No, 2; Western Ornithologist, Vol, I, No. 3; Nidologist, Vol. I. Nos, 2 and 6; Wilson Bulletin, Nos. 1 to 85; Auk, 1908 to 1917 inclusive. Offer for above, cash, old bird magazines, sets nr skins. ALBERT 1<\ G.\N1ER, 2507 AshWdiid .\\-e.. Nashville, Temi. NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS EGGS For Exchange 1 have on hand, to offer for exchange for specimens desired by me, two hun- dred and eighty different varieties of birds eggs. Of some species I have but one set, of others considerable series. Send me a list of what you have for exchange and if it contains anything I want I will send you my list in reply. Some specimens that I have for ex- change are very rare and hard to get, and others are of the common va- rieties. This is an unusual opportunity to secure new specimens or to enlarge series in your collection. R. M, BARNES, Lacon, 111. THE OOLOQIST ORNITHOLOGICAL. PUBLICATIONS WANTRD by H. H. Johnson, Pittsfleld, Me.; American Ornithologry, Vol. VI, l-:<-4-G-7; Hii-fl Lore, Vol. I, 3; II. 1; IH, 1-2-3; IV, 1-2; VII. 1; IX. 5 and in- dex; X. 4-5-6 and index; XIII, 4. Orni- tholoi!ist & Oolog-ist. Vol. VI complete; VTl. cuinplete; XI. 2-3-4-5-6; XII, 10. FOii SALE or Exchange — Many odd niunbers and some complete Vols, of Am. Ornithology, Condor, Journal Main Orn. Soc. Oregon Naturalist, Notes on Uhode Island Ornithology, Oologist (lltica), Oologist (Albion), Ornitholo- gist and Oologist. Osprey, Warbler, Wilson Bulletin, and Nature Ornitholo- gical magazines. BENJ. ADAMS, Wethersfleld, Conn. WANTED— A good pair, each of Black and Yellow Rails for which I will give good exchange. O. C. HAST- INGS. 207 Denver Ave., Bridgeport, Conn. WANTED — First Class sets from re- liable collectors. Especiallv sets con- taining Cowbird eggs. G. B. REGAR, 1000 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, Pa. ALL PERSONS having A-1 aklna In pairs of any of the North American Jays send list. I will pay the hlgheat price for those that I need. K. M. BARNES, Lacon, 111. T M E "Blue-Bird'' Is now published monthly, the year 'round, with new and inter- esting departments, features and contests, and At No Additional Cost to Subscriber! OfflcUl Organ of the Claveland Bird Loveri' Association. SEND 20 CT8. FOR SAMPLE COPY Annual Snbacriptlon, $2.00 AGENTS WANTED EVERYWHERE 'THE BLUE-BIRD," 1»10 EutUd Ay*. CLEVELAND, OHIO NEW SUBSCRIBERS This is an appeal to each one of our sn))scribers to pick out some likely young student of birds and scud him "Tlic Oologist" for 1^21. Surely our older subscribers have interest eiM)ugh in spread- ing the influence of this Journal to do this. THE OOLOGIST. The OOlogist. BIRDS-NESTS-EGGS TAXIDERMY Vol. XXXVIII. No. 2. ALBION. N. Y., Feb. 1, 1921. Whole No. 406 THE OOLOQI8T BRIBF SPHOIAL. AIVNOUNCBIHBNTS Wanted. Exchange, Far Sale, Etc., inserted In this dapaitment at U ceDts for each 25 words for one issue; eaeh additional word 1 cent No notice ««- ^erled for less than 25 cents. We will advertise the skins, nests, eggs, or mounted specimens of North Amer- ican Birds for sale for persons having a lawful authority under the law to deal '.n the same. These columns are for the use of those desiring to make bona flde exchanges of such specimens for scientific collecting purposes only. — EDITOR. in answering advertisements in these columns mention "The Oologist," ani thereby help us, as well as the advertiser and yourself. Send me the list of A 1 Bird Skins that you have to dispose of by exchange or otherwise. R. M. BARNES. Lacon. 111. ENTIRE COLLECTIONS — Will pay spot cash for entire collections of North American birds eggs. Send lists. B. R. BALES, M.D., Circleville, Ohio. WANTED — First class showy singles for Exhibition collection. Will ex- change sets from this locality. RAMON GRAHAM, Box 136, Route 2, Ft. Worth, Texas. WANTED — To Trade birds eggs in sets — almost any kind. Also will buy birds eggs in sets. Sejir lists right away. ARTHUR BLOCKER, Box 404, .\inbGy, Illinois. WANTED — Complete set of "Con- dor". I have a small collection of sea birds' eggs, excellent for duplicates, that I am offering for this set. THEO- DQHE R. GREElt. Sheridan, ill. DA'l'A BLANKS — I will send 500 standard data blanks with your name lirinled on them for $1.25. No less than 500 done. EDW. S. COOMBS, 243 Frank- lin St., Boston, MasS; COR R E S POND E "nCE and Exchange wanted with Butterliy and Moth col- lectors. Especially in the West, the Gulf States and Canada. A. E. BROW- P:H. Will.ird. Mo. COltRESPONDENCE desired with parties having sets of any of the Gyr- falcons to .spare. ERNEST S. NOR- MAN, Kalsvala, Manitoba, Canada. TEACHERS WANTED for schools and Colleges — big salaries — write or wire. National Teachers Agency, Syra- cuse, N. Y. WANTED — "Birds of Pennsylvania," by Warren. 1st and 2nd editions. RICH- ARD F. MILLER, 2526 North Second St., Philadelphia, Pa. FOR BEST CASH OFFER— Cones Key Fifth Edition, 12 Vols, like new, A. C. DYKii), Bridgewater, Mass. MAKE MONEY — You can handle and tan your own furs and skins, hair on or off. You can make up-to-date lined fur rugs with mounted heads; open mouth finisli. My tan formulas and time and labor-saving methods enable you to do this profitable work at small cost. No former experience necessary. You are certain of success; no spoiled skins. Complete formulas and instruc- tions, only $3.00 postpaid, duty free. EDWIN DIXON, Taxidermist, Union- ville, Ont BUTTERFLIES — I wish to corres- pond with collectors with a view to purchase or exchange. Dr. T. W. Rich- ards, U. S. Navy, Naval Hospital, Anna- polis, Maryland. F(Jli EXCHANGE — Eggs in full sets from Southern California for those of Other localities. Must be from reliable collectors and in good condition. JOHN BURNHAM, Timken Building, San Diego. California. FOR DISPOSAL — A collection of choice cabinet sets and sets with nests from Europe and America with full and accurate data. Send 2 cent stamp for complete lists. Satisfaction guaran- teed. DR. M. C. CLECKLEY, Augusta. Georgia. "TECCOBS" ^'ants correspondents to exchange ornithological observations and experiences. Address Geoffrey Gill, Sea Cliff, Long Island. New York. Western Correspondents address Theo- c'ore Greer, Sheridan, Illinois. TO EXCHANGE — Many complete and incomplete volumes and odd numliers of bird magazines, U. S. Reports, etc. for flower plants and bulbs. A. E. SCHU'I ZE, Box 302. Austin, Texas. R. ]l. 1. Miami Beach, Florida. T^^ ANTED — Correspondence with par- ties desiring to exchange good speci- mens, ornitliological publications, pho- tographs, etc. B. S. BO'^^DISH, Demar- est, N. J. l'"OR DISPOSAL — Four volumes of 'i'he Oologist, 1916-1919, inclusive, with October, 191S, supplement. Make offer. H. M. HOLLAND. Galesburg, 111. FOR SALE — Vol. VI, VII, VIII, Birds of North and Middle America, E. K. SCHLEICHEIT, Mathias Point, Va. ALL WHO ARE WILLING to pay cash for mounted birds and bird skins write to me at once. Satisfaction guar- anteed. D. V. HEMBREE, Roswell, Ga. FOR EXCHANGE — A. O. U. 77, 408, 413. 560a and 683a. Can use any com- mon sets. ,TOHN B. HURLEY, Yakima, Wash. WAN'I'EI) — Mountable skins of coon, opossum. Swift i*'ox, civet, ringtail and wild cats. Mt. Beaver, l^adger, white and fox s(|uirrels, all colors, western hares and ral)bits. gopher, ermine, and prairie dog. Will exchange or buy at reasonal)le prices. Squirrels wanted especially. HAROLD N. VARS, Plain- field, Conn. The OoLOGiST. Vol. XXXVIII. No. 2 Albion, N. Y., Feb. 1, 1921. Whole No. 406 Owned and Published Monthly, by R. M. Barnes, Albion, N. Y., and Loam, III. TAKE NOTICE. SUBSCRIPTION. 50 CENTS PER YEAR Examine the number on the wrapper of your Ooloeist. It denotes the time your sub- scription expires. Remember we must be notified ii you wish it discontinued and all arrearages must be paid. 378 your subscription expires with this issue. 377 your subscrip- tion expired with December isane 1918. Other expirations can be computed by intermediate numbers at the rate of one number per month. Entered as second-class matter December 21, 1903, at the post ofHce at Albion. N. Y., under the Act of Congress of March 3, iS79. Ye Editor and His Better Half at Home. Queen Cactus with 24 Blooms. — Photo by Virginia Lane. BIRD LISTS This issue of The Oologist is given over to the publication of Bird Lists, "with malice afterthought." The reason being that the collecting season is now rapidly approaching and we believe that the publication (if a wisely selected series of Bird Lists, from various parts of the country would be of benefit to the collectors in the field, and would enable them to avoid taking more specimens of the common species than would be needed for their own collection. A bird that may be rare in one territory may be quite common in another and eggs of the common varieties of birds are of no value com- mercially, and have no demand for exchange, hence it is well to examine all lists and take duplicates only of those that are generally rare and not merely locally uncommon. — R. M. B. 14 THE OOLOQItt BIRDS OF YAKIMA COUNTY, WASH. By John B. Hurley, Yakima, Wash. A. O. U. 1. Western Grebe. One record in winter of 1917. 4. Eared Grebe. A pair observed on May 27, 1920. No specimens secured. 6. Pied-billed Grebe. Fairly com- mon in summer and fall. 10. Pacific Loon. Rather rare. Sev- eral specimens secured. Regular migrant in fall. 77. Black Tern. Summer resident. Small colony breeding. 129. Merganser. Regular winter mi- grant. 130. Red-breasted Merganser. Breeds in mountains. Last specie to leave in winter. 131. Hooded Merganser. Fairly com- mon in fall and winter. 132. Mallard. Regular resident and migrant. Breeds over the coun- ty. 137. Bald Pate. Regular migrant and probably breeds. 139. Green-winged Teal. Regular mi- grant and resident Breeds. 141. Cinnamon Teal. Regular mi- grant and resident. Breeds. 142. Shoveller. Fairly common. Breeds. 143. Pintail. One pair observed June 10, 1920. No specimens secured. 144. Wood Duck. Rare. Fall mi- grant and probably breeds. 147. Canvas-back. Rare. One speci- men taken 1915. 149. Lesser Scaup Duck. One speci- men (female) taken in fall of 1919. 151. Golden-eye. Fairly common late in fall. One of the last species to leave. 153. Buffle-head. Not common. One pair taken in fall of 1913. 154. Old Squaw. Rare. A male taken in fall of 1919. Probably driven over mountains by severe storm on Pacific coast. 155. Harlequin Duck. A pair taken on mountain lake in 1912. 169. Snow Goose. Several flocks seen. Probably of this spe cie. 172. Canada Goose. Regular migrant limited numbers. 180. Whistling Swan. Rare. One specie taken in fall of 1919. Fed- eral Government prosecuting of- fender at present writing. 194. Great Blue Heron. Summer resi- dent. One small colony reported. Breeds on ground and in trees. 202. Black Crowned Night Heron. Rare. Probably breeds in some localities. 212. Virginia Rail. Not common. Breeds in suitable localities. 221. American Coot. Common. Breeds extensively in all parts of the country. i;24. Wilson's Phalarope Rare. Three birds of this specie observed on May 27, 1920. A female secured. 230. Wilson Snipe. Fairly common resident and migrant. Breeds. 254. Greater Yellow-legs. Rare. A few specimens observed in fall and spring. No egg records. 263. Spotted Sandpiper. Fairly com- mon. Breeds over all the coun- ty. 273. Killdeer Common. Breeds ex- tensively and along water courses. 289. Texas Bob-white. Common. In- troduced by county game com- missioners. 292. Mountain Quail. Once fairly plentiful but now rare. Intro- duced by County Game Commis- sion. 294a. Valley Quail. Common. Intro- duced by County Game Commis- sion. 1. S. Hungarian Partridge. Common. THE 00L0QI8T 15 Introduced by County Game o73h. Commission. 1. S. Chinese Pheasant. Common. In- troduced by County Game Com- 375a. mission. About 15,000 birds killed every year during open season. 376. 300a. Canada Ruffed Grouse. Fairly common. Protected in this 378. county for several years yet. 309. Sage Grouse. Fairly common. Breeds in suitable localities. 379. Protected. 310a. Wild Turkey. Three pairs plant- ed by County Game Commission 390. No record of them since plant- ing. 394a 316. Mourning Dove. Common. Nest- ing in trees and on the ground, 399. open season on them in fall. 325. Turkey Vulture. Not commt^n. Breeds on cliffs above the city in limited numbers. 402a. 331. Marsh Hawk. Not common. Probably breeds but no egg rec- 405a. ord. 332. Sharp-shinned Hawk. Fairly 408. common. Breeds. 333 Cooper's Hawk. Not common. 413. Probably breeds. 337b. Western Red-tail. Common. Breeds over all of county. Eggs range from two to five in set. 413a. 342. Swanson Hawk. Not common. Breeds in limited numbers in certain parts of county. 349. Golden Eagle. Rare. Reported 420a. to breed in mountains. 357. Pigeon Hawk. Rare. One bird taken in 1912. 360a. Desert Sparrow Hawk. Common. 444. Breeds over all of county. 3664. Osprey. Not common. Prob- 457. ably breeds. 366. Long-eared Owl. Not common. Breeds. A set of eggs taken by 462. Mr. Fred Weber of this city. 367. Short-eared Owl. Fairly com- 464. mon. Breeds. MacParlanes Screech Owl. Com- mon. Breeds over all the coun- ty. Western Horned Owl. Not com- mon. Breeds in certain locali- ties. Snow Owl Rare. Several spec- imens secured in late years. Burrowing Owl. Common sum- mer resident. Breeds over whole county. Pygmy Owl. A pair taken in 1910 that was probably of this specie. Belted Kingfisher. Common res- ident at all seasons of the year. Gardiner Woodpecker. Fairly common. Breeds. White-headed Woodpecker. Fair- ly common in mountains. Un- doubtedly this specie breeds here, have no egg record. Red-naped Sapsucker. Breeds in mountains. Not common. Northern Pileated Woodpecker. Rare. One bird taken in 1912. Lewis Woodpecker. Common. Breeds over entire county. Red-shafted Flicker. Common summer resident. Nests placed from sixty feet from ground to almost level with ground. Northwestern Flicker. Rare. Two records of birds but none of its nesting although it probably does. Western Nighthawk. Common summer resident. Breeds in mountains and in sage brush hills. Kingbird. Fairly common sum- mer resident. Say Phoebe. Fairly common resident. Nests chiefly about old buildings. Western Pewee. Common sum- mer resident. No egg record. Western Flycatcher. Several pairs observed. No egg record. 16 THE 00L0QI8T 466. Trains' Flycatcher. Several pairs noted One set of eggs taken July 8, 1920. 474i. Dusky Horned Lark. Common summer resident. Breeds. 475. American Magpie. Common res- ident at all times of the year. Are on the bounty list as des- tructive to game birds' eggs. 478c. Black-head Jay. Common resi- dent in mountains. Breeds. 485a. Gray Jay. Rare. Several small flocks observed in mountains. No egg record. 488b. Western Crow. Common sum- mer resident. Large flocks gather in early fall. 491. Clarke's Nutcrackers. Rare. Several birds reported from mountains. Common summer residents. Breeds in small colonies on al- kali swamps. 498. Red-winged Blackbird (Authori- ty Dawson & Bowles Birds of Washington). Common summer resident. 499. Bi-colored Blackbird. This specie and the nest seem to merge in No. 498 although sev- eral birds have been taken that show clear markings of No. 498 and No. 499 and No. 500. 500. Tricolored Blackbird. See notes on 499. 501.1. Western Meadow Lark. Com- mon summer resident. All nests secured have been exceedingly well hidden. 508 Bullock Oriole. Common sum- mer resident. Seems to prefer cotton woods over-hanging water for nesting sites. 510. Brewer Blackbird. Common sum- mer resident. Gather in large flocks in fall. 519. House Finch. Fairly common summer resident. 529a. Pale Goldfinch. Fairly common summer resident. 552a. Western Lark Sparrow. Fairly common summer resident. 554 White-crowned Sparrow. Rare spring migrant. 557. Golden Crowned Sparrow. Rare spring migrant. 560a. Western Chipping Sparrow. Common summer resident. Breeds in orchards and along river bottoms. 567b. Shufeldts Junco. Fairly com- mon summer resident. Breeds mainly in mountains. 5741. Sage Sparrow. Uncommon sum- mer resident. One set of eggs taken June 6, 1913, 581k. Merrils Song Sparrow. Com- mon resident at all seasons of the year. 588a. Spurred Towhee. Fairly com- mon summer resident. 596. Black-headed Grosbeak. Com- mon summer resident. 599. Lazuli Bunting. Common sum- mer resident. 607. Western Tanager. P"'airly com- mon summer resident. Reported to breed in mountains. 612. Cliff Swallow. Common summer resident. Breeds in large col- onies. 613. Barn Swallow. Common sum- mer resident. 615. Northern Violet Green Swallow. Several pair observed. Set of eggs taken May 6, 1920. 616. Bank Swallow. Common sum- mer residents. Breeds in small colonies in suitable localities. 619. Cedar Waxwing. Common mi- grant and young birds observed in summer so they probably breed. 622a. White-rumped Shrike. Fairly common summer resident. No egg record but young birds re- ported. THE OOLOQI8T 17 652. Yellow Warbler. Common sum- mer resident. 656. Audubon Warbler. Rare spring migrant. 681a'. Western Yellow-throat. Fairly common summer resident 6S3a. Long-tailed Chat. Common sum- mer resident. 685a. Pileolated Warbler. Rare. One pair observed April 19, 1920. No egg record. 701. American Dipper. Uncommon summer resident. Reported to breed in mountains. 721a. Western House Wren. Common summer resident. 725a. Tule Wren. Uncommon summer resident. No egg record. 735b. Oregon Chickadee. Common summer resident. 758. Russet-backed Thrush. Not com- mon summer resident. 761 Western Robin. Common sum- mer resident. Comes early in spring and leaves late in fail. 767. Western Bluebird. Common summer resident Prefers woods to nest in. 768. Mountain Bluebird. Common summer resident. Builds in bird houses, mail-boxes, etc. I. S. English Sparrow. Numerous. A nuisance and a pest. Build in crevices of trees, walks, electric signs, under awnings, etc. Are spreading out even in rural dis- tricts. Errata: 334a'. Western Goshawk. Resident in mountains of county. Reported to breed but no record MISSISSIPPI BIRDS A. O. U. Common Name No. Seen 326 Black Vulture.. 3, overhead flying 387 Yellow-billed Cuckoo 1 394 So. Downy Woodpecker 1 406 Red-head Woodpecker 5 409 Red Bellied Woodpecker 2 428 Ruby Throat 1, unusual to us 456 Phoebe 1 477 Blue Jay Numerous 488 Crow 1 flew over 494 Bobolink. Hundreds feeding in Vetch. Migratory only. 498 Red-wing Blackbird ..Numerous 501 Meadowlark Numerous 506 Orchard Oriole Several 507 Baltimore Oriole Numerous 511b Bronzed Grackle Hundreds 593 Cardinal 4 597 Blue Grosbeak 2 598 Indigo Bunting Several 604 Dickcissel. Numerous partly mi- gratory for scarce in nesting sea- son. 610 Summer Tanager 2 611 Purple Martin Numerous 619 Cedar Waxwing. Numerous, mi- grating North. 6622 Logger Head Shrike 1 681 Maryland Yellow-throat. Several 683 Yellow Breasted Chat 2 687 Redstart 1, male 703 Mocking Birds 3 704 Catbird 2 766 Blue Birds 3 563 Field Sparrow Several 1 saw some two or three different species of Sparrows but am not posi- tive of their identity. The above list of birds seen on April 8 1920. M. G. Harden, Rosemont, Miss. • m ' SOME WINTER BIRDS OF PERRY COUNTY, ALABAMA The following list is not as notable for the birds which are included as for those which are omitted. There are a great number of birds whose winter range is given as from Ken- tucky southward which are not noted. With the exception of the water birds the following list is complete for the section around Marion, Ala., as walks were taken almost daily during the months of January and February, and 18 THE 00L0QI8T Young Cooper Hawks — Photo by T. H. Jacksou daily lists were made from which the following is made. The opportunity for observing the water birds was limited as there are no large creeks or lakes near Marion. 132. Mallard. Fairly common during January. None observed in Feb. American Woodcock. Several observed on the flat places in the open part of the swamps dur- ing both months. Killdeer. Common all winter. Bob White. Very common now but will probably become scarcer as Alabama' has a four months season or did have two years ago. Mourning Dove. Large bunches are seen feeding in the stubble fields all during the winter. A 228. 273, 289 316 much hunted game bird in Ala- bama. 325. Turkey Vulture. See next. 326. Black Vulture. There is hardly a time when several of these and the above cannot be seen sailing in the air. Probably not so common as the Turkey Vul- ture. 368. Barred Owl. Common in all the swamps. In the larger swamps are liable to be heard at any hour of the day. Begin nesting .January. 390. Kingfisher. 393b. So. Hairy common. 394b. So. Downy common. Not common. Woodpecker. Not Woodpecker. Very THE OOLOQI8T 19 402. Yellow-bellied Sapsucker. Not common. 405. Pileated Woodpecker. Not com- mon, but occuring in all tbe large swamps. 406. Red-headed Woodpecker. Very common. 409. Red-bellied Woodpecker. Not common. 412. So. P^licker. Very common. The northern form probably occurs as large bunches were seen mi- grating early in March, but no specimens were taken. 477. Blue Jay. Common. 488. Am. Crow. Very common, oc- curing in immense droves. 490. Ruby Crowned Kinglet. Very common among the thickets in all the swamps but does not oc- cur in large numbers as when mi- grating. 498. Red-winged Blackbird. Was not observed until late in February when the northbound migration had begun. 501c. So. Meadowlark. Very common. It is probable that the No. Meadowlark also occurs. 511b. Bronzed Grackle. Fairly com- mon. 517. Purple Finch. Occuring in large droves, periodically, all winter. 529. Am. Goldfinch. Common. 540. Vesper Sparrow. Not common. 558. White-throated Sparrows. With the exception of the English Sparrow, the commonest of the Sparrows. 559. Tree Sparrow. Not common. 560. Chipping Sparrow. Not com- mon. 563. Field Sparrow. Occurs in large numbers. 567. Slate Colored Junco. Very com- mon. Leaves late in February. 581. Song Sparrow. Common. 585. Fox Sparrow. Only a few ob- served, 587. 593. 619. 622. 655. 703. 705. 718. 721 722 726 729 731 736 761 766. Towhee. Very common Cardinal. Very common. Cedar Waxwing. Occurs period- ically in droves of from one to two hundred. The negroes are fond of Cedar bird pie, and large numbers are killed. Loggerhead Shrike. Only two observed in two months. Myrtle Warbler. Fairly com- mon. Mockingbird. Very common. Hardly a yard in the town but what have from one to three pairs of Mockingbirds. Brown Thrasher. Very common. An early nester. Carolina Wren. Very common around the edges of the swamps. Nests early in March. House Wren. Not common. Winter Wren. Only one ob- served. Brown Creeper. Not common, but occurs regularly. Brown-headed Nuthatch. Com- mon. Nests early in March. Tufted Titmouse. Observed three or four times. Carolina Chickadee. Very com- mon. American Robin. Very common. Can be seen early in March gathering in large droves prepar- atory to their northward journey. Bluebird. Common along the creeks where cleared. Prewitt Roberts, Conway, Missouri. Olar Columbianus The last native Wild Swan was shipped a short time ago to J. O. Jack- son, of Denver, Colorado, in an effort to mate the same with a male of the same species, which Mr. Jackson has on his grounds there. It is to be hoped that this effort will not result as did the effort to mate the last Trumpeter 20 THE OOLOQI8T Swan, of a female of the same species in the Zoological Garden, at Washing- ton, D. C. TEXAS NOTES Texas Bob White While on the Elkhart Dairy on ranch out from San Antonio, Texas, my wife and I were getting material for some stories and also taking bird notes. 1 could hear Quail, Bob Whit- ing in the hay fields near the house. The Johnson grass was all mowed down and I thought these Quail lost their eggs, by horses or cattle tramp- ing on them. But after a few weeks the grass was ready to cut again, so I was running the mowing machine I had about six acres cut down and was finishing up on my last round when up jumped Mrs. Quail and about fif- teen little ones just big enough to fly. It sure was a fluttering sight to see them make their first flight and they were lucky to be alive after the grass being cut where the nest was situated. BIRDS OBSERVED AT EAST RAN- DOLPH, N. Y. (B) indicates Breeding Birds of this area. Horned Grebe Pied Billed Breeds Loon Herring Gull Breeds Bonapart Gull Common Tern Black Tern Breeds American Merganser Red Breasted Merganser. Mallard Breeds Black Duck Breeds Gadwall Baldpate Green Winged Teal Blue Winged Teal Pintail Wood Duck Breeds Canvasback Scaup Duck Buffle Head Old Squaw American Scooter White Winged Scooter Surf Scooter Ruddy Duck Canada Goose Whistling Swan American Bittern Breeds Least Bittern Breeds Great Blue Heron Breeds Green Heron Breeds Black Crowned Night Heron (B) King Rail (B) Virginia Rail (B) Sora Rail (B) Florida Galinule (B) American Coot (B) American Woodcock (B) Wilson Snipe (B) Pictoral Sand Piper Least Sandpiper Red Backed Sandpiper Sempal Mated Sandpiper Western Sandpiper Sanderling Greater Yellow Legs Yellow Legs Solitary Sandpiper Spotted Sandpiper (B) Bartramian Sandpiper (B) Black Bellied Plover Golden Plover Killdeer (B) Semipalmated Plover Turnstone Bobwhite (B) Ruffled Grouse (B) Mourning Dove (B) Marsh Hawk (B) Sharp Shinned Hawk (B) Cooper's Hawk Breeds American Goshawk Red Tailed Hawk (B) Red Shouldered Hawk (B) American Sparrow Hawk (B) American Osprey American Long-eared Owl (B) THE 00L0QI8T 21 22 THE 00L0QI8T American Short-eared Owl Barred Owl (B) Saw-whit Owl Screech Owl (B) Great Horned Owl (B) Snowy Owl Yellow Billed Cuckoo (B) Black Billed Cuckoo (B) Pelted Kingfisher (B) Hairy Woodpecker (B) Downy Woodpecker (B) Yellow Bellied Sapsucker (B) Red Headed Woodpecker (B) Red Bellied Woodpecker Northern Pileated Woodpecker Northern Flicker (B) Whippoorwill (B) Night Hawk (B) Chimney Swift (B) Ruby Throated Hummer (B) King Bird (B) Crested Flycatcer (B) Phoebe (B) Wood Pewee (B) Alder Flycatcher (B) Yellow Bellied Flycatcher Green Crested Flycatcher Least Flycatcher (B) Horned Lark Prairie Horned Lark Blue Jay (B) American Crow (B) Bobolink (B) Cowbird (B) Red Winged Blackbird (B) Meadow Lark (B) Orcard Oriole (B) Baltimore Oriole (B) Rusty Blackbird Bronzed Grackle (B) House Sparrow (B) Purple Finch (B) American Goldfinch (B) Snowfiake Vesper Sparrow (B) Savanna Sparrow (B) Grasshopper Sparrow (B) White Crowned Sparrow White Throated Sparrow Tree Sparrow Chipping Sparrow (B) Field Sparrow (B) Slate Colored Junco (B) Song Sparrow (B) Swamp Sparrow (B) Fox Sparrow Towee (B) Rose Breasted Grosbeak (B) Indigo Bunting (B) Scarlet Tanager (B) Purple Martin (B) Cliff Swallow (B) Barn Swallow (B) Tree Swallow (B) Bank Swallow (B) Cedar Waxwing (B) Northern Shrike Migrant Shrike (B) Red-eyed Vireo (B) Warbling Vireo (B) Yellow Throated Vireo (B) Black and White Warbler (B) Golden Winged Warbler (B) Nashville Warbler (B) Tennessee Warbler CB) Yellow Warbler (B) Black Throated Blue Warbler Myrtle Warbler Magnolia Warbler (B) Cerulean Warbler (B) Chestnut Sided Warbler (B) Bay Breasted Warbler Black Pall Warbler Blackburnian Warbler Black-Throated Green Warbler Oven Bird (B) Water Thrush (B) Northern Yellow Throat (B) American Redstart (B) Catbird (B) Brown Thrasher (B) House Wren (B) Short-billed Marsh Wren Long Billed Marsh Wren (B) Brown Creeper White Breasted Nuthatch (B) THE OOLOQI8T 23 Red Breasted Nuthatch Chickadee (B) Golden Crowned Kinglet Ruby Crowned Kinglet Wood Thrush (B) Wilson Thrush (B) Hermit Thrush American Robin (B) Blue Bird (B) Earl A. Wheeler. RARE AND UNCOMMON BIRDS Lawrence County, Mo. Notes By Johnson Neff Down here in Southwest Missouri, where it seems that hills and prairies merge together, we sometimes find-un- common birds, sometimes rare ones in our state, many times rarer to our vi- cinity. A partial list follows: 11. Red-throated Loon. Very un- common visitant. One bird was ob- served by myself on a large body of water, eleven miles east and south of Marionville, on May 11th, 1918. 74. Least Tern, August 10th, 1917. 77. Black Tern, August 10th, 1917. My first and last acquaintance with these birds. The birds were flying over the pond mentioned above and these were in all probably 80 individu- als. 125. White Pelicans. Fall of 1919. For several weeks during September and October reports came to me from people living about ten miles south of a fiock of Pelicans which were stray- ing first to the river then back to the pond in the hill regions. But it was not my good fortune to be able to see the birds. 137. Bald-pate. Fall 1919. First time I had ever been lucky enough to collect a specimen of this common duck. Was found feeding in a puddle of water in a wheat field. 169. Snow Goose. (Lesser Snow Goose in all probability. — Ed.). Have seen several geese flying over which are called Snow Geese, but a neighbor was lucky enough to kill one out of a fiock of ten which were feeding on his wheat field in October 1919. 181. Trumpeter Swan. (Possibly Whistling Swan. — Ed.). A very ob- servant farmer living on the James River about 35 miles south reported a Swan, or rather a pair of Swans which remained on the river for weeks in the fall of 1917. After looking through some bird books to which he had ac- cess he named it a Trumpeter, al- though one more reliable might have been able to distinguish which it was, this species or the Whistling Swan. 196. American Egret. The "Snowy Egret" is becoming more and more common here on the rivers, as a few years ago none were seen. I also saw one specimen sitting on a log in the Missouri River, East of Macon on September 6th, 1918, as 1 passed on a Wabash train. 212. Virginia Rail. Found one specimen with a broken leg, in 1910. 206. Sandhill Crane. I saw one specimen of the Sandhill Crane near the James River in July 1914. It was sailing in circles high over the hills but with a good field glass I was able to identify it. For weeks one lone Crane fed about over the prairies within sight of Marionville during December and January, 1919 and 1920, until the owners of the farm it fre- quented heard some town hunters planning to kill it. He and his neigh- bors tried to scare the bird away but could not so at last killed the bird to save it, and it is now in the hands of an expert taxidermist. 228. Woodcock. Possibly once a year I hear from various sources that Woodcock have been killed, but I have never found any very reliable traces. Have seen many Woodcock in Wisconsin but none here. 367. Short-Eared Owl. My only ^4 tHE OOLOQISt acquaintance with tlie species is one individual found dead in the woods about five miles south of nay home on Nov. 15th, 1916. 595. Rose Breasted Grosbeak. Have seen only two specimens of this beauti- ful bird. One was in 1909, the other was on May 1st, 1917, a very clear and distinct view. 638. Swainson's Warbler. Have seen two of these birds. One was at Brown Spring Lake, Aug. 10th, 1917, the day I found the Black Tern. The other specimen was observed on the James River near Galena, Mo., in the rank growth near the water's edge on July 18, 1917. (Identity very doubtful. —Ed.) 648. Parula Warbler. Have seen only two Instances of this bird. One was an adult male April 15, 1917, at Browns Mill Pond, six miles southeast. The other was a pair with nest of per- haps from young about seventy feet above James River, in a Sycamore tree, July 16, 1917. The latter were very tame and were closely examined. 697. American Pipit. I saw one specimen of this northern bird while plowing, Feb. 19th, 1917. The bird was not wild but remained for hours following the plow. It was observed from all distances and angles and can- not be mistaken. ADDENDA Since writing my list of Sw. Mo. Warblers I have added two more species to my list. Both are common birds according to Widmann, but 1 have had much trouble in finding them — Addenda. 667. Black-throated Green Warbler. Seemingly rather common here but was first seen in the College Campus of Marionville College, by the Biology Class which I had charge of for field bird-study. On April 22, 1920 I found a pair with two full-grown young on James River. 686. Canadian Warbler. I just al- most fell over one of these Aug. 22nd, 1920 as I went through a small group of oak trees on the edge of my lawn. This is the only one of the kind I have seen here. Johnson Neff, Marionville, Mo. The Sequel of the Death of a Wander- ing Snowy Owl J. Warren Jacobs This little nine page publication is a poem brought forth by the death of a Snowy Owl, near the home of J. Warren Jacobs, December 9, 1918, and is credible to the author. It is written in truly Jacobs style — R. M. B. "Economic Books Received" "Economic Value of The Starling in the United States." United States De- partment of Agriculture, Bull. No. 868 Professional Paper January 10, 1921, by E. R. Kalmback and I. N. Gabriel- son. This paper consisting of 66 pages contains an exhaustive review of the present status of the Starling in the United States, and all its habits, food, and the conclusion arrived at is that most of the Starling food habits have been demonstrated to be either bene- ficial to man or of a neutral character. Furthermore, it has been found that the time the bird spends in destroying crops, or in molesting other birds is extremely short compared in the end- less hours it spends searching for in- sects or feeding on wild fruits. Nevertheless new policies would be warranted which would give the birds absolute protection and afford new re- lief to the farmer, whose crops are threatened by local abundance of this species. — R. M. Barnes. THE OOLOQISt FOR EXCHANGE — Nice set Golden Eagle 1 /2. 1 /I. Can use sets of 9, 10, 112, 113, 204, 249, 2SS, 328, 351, 356 or other rare sets. ROBERT F. BACKUS, I'Morence, Colorado. SOMETHING NEW — Solid silver tip to fit over the point of any Blowpipe. Gives a very fine stream for blowing small eggs and can be removed in an instant for larger ones. Price 50 cents. I'\ M. CARRYL, No. 1 Princeton Street, Nutley. N. J. I<'OR EXCHANGE — One Taylor Smoke torpedo, one Mandelette, one minute Camera. Wanted^ — Butterfles. W. J. Holland's Moth Book. D. GOLDBERG, II. R. 3, Rockville, Connecticut. I'^OK EXCHANGE — I still have a lot of Bird and Oological Magazines to ex- cliange for Natural History specimens. DE LOS HATCH, Oakfleld, Wis. WANTED FOR CASH — "Bendire's IJfe Histories, Vol. 2", "Bent's Life His- tories." ROSWBLL S. WHEELER, 166 Athul Ave., Oakland, Calif. WANTED — To correspond with par- ties in Southern States who could get me fresli skins suitable to mount of Dark Faced and Black Fox Squirrel. O. S. BIGGS, San Jose, 111. I am always willing to purchase "Bulletin of the Cooper Ornithological Club," Vol. 1. Complete or old num- bers. W. E. CHAMBERS, Eagle Rock, Calif. 1 have stones, gems and eggs from over the U. S. What liave you to trade? Give exact description. ROBERT HATCHES, Victor, Colo. i<"OR SALE — Live Opossums. Also fresh skins of Opossum, Fox and Gray .S(|uirrelH for mounting. Want several volumes of the Condor. ALBERT LANO, 1' a.Netteville, Arkansas. WANTED — For cash or exchange, first class sets, with full data. Send list ;it once. D. B. Bull, Route A, Box 15iS, San Jose. California. FOR SALE OR EXCHANGE — The Museum, complete by Webb; Wild Wings, by Job; Names and Portra,its of Birds, by Trumbell; Birds of Alaska, by Nelson; Birds of Connecticut, by Sage; Birds of Wyoming, by Knight; Hirds of Colorado, 3 Parts, by Cooke; Tlie Oologist, 35 Volumes; The Orni- thologist & Oologist, Vols. 7-lS; Bird Lore, Vols. 17, 18, 19, 20; 50 Singles; American Ornithologist, Vols. 1-2. C. M. CASE, 306 Blue Hills Ave., Hartford, Connecticut. FOR SALE — The Insect Book, by L. O. Howard (cloth), $1.50; American Animals, Stone and Cram (cloth), $1.50; Fishes of North and Middle America, Vol. 4, with 392 plates (paper), $2.00; Reed's P^lower Guide, 25c; North Ameri- can Fauna, Nos. 10, 12, 13, 15, at 30c each. Aboxe prices postpaid if ordered at once. EMERSON A. STONER, Box 444, Benicia, Calif. WANTED — Bird Lore, Vol. I, 3-4; II, 1; III, 1-2-3; VII, 1; X, 6 andindex.Orni- thologist and Oologist Vol. VI and VII complete, Vol. XII, 10. The Warbler, 1st series complete. Wilson Bulletin com- plete file. H. H. JOHNSON, Pittsfield, Maine. FOli EXCHANGE — About one hun- dred mounted birds each witli full data; including Hawks, Owls, Eagles, Water Birds, etc. Also several finely mounted Deer heads. Want first class bird skins only. Send your list and get mine. WHARTON HUBER, 225 St. Mark's Square, Philadelphia, Pa. I'^On EXCHANGE— Full sets of the following: 12, 13a, 14, 15, 16, 20, 21, 25, 27, 28, 29, 30. 31, 31a, 32, 83, 81, 82, 82-1, 86, 86f, 86-1, 89, 90, 93, 101, 103, 104, 105, 105-1, 105-2, 106, 107, 108, 108-1, 114, 114-1, 115, 116-1, 116, 194a 1-4, 194f 1-4, 355 1-5, 357 1-4, 348 1-7, 364 3-3, 389, for sets of equal value or will sell. E. A. WHEELER, B. Randolph, N. T. WANTED — To correspond with col- lector who can furnish any of the water liirds, shore birds, and waders, all num- bers from 1 to 392 desired. Offer good exchange or cash. E. A. WHEELER, East Randolph, N. Y. Collection of Ignited States Stamps (in part or wliole) for sale or exchange for eggs in sets. G. B. REGAR, 1000 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, Pa. FOR EXCHANGE — Bausch and Lomb microscope, a fine instrument. Ideal for student doing dissecting. In wooden case. Can use sets or anything useful. EARL WHEELER, E. Pamdolph, N. Y. WANTED — Volume 2, complete or in parts, bound or unbound, of The Auk. Will pay a good price for it to fill my file of The Auk. W. OTTO EMERSON. Hayward, R.F.D. No.l, B. 30, California. WANTED — Two pair of climbers, must l)e in good condition. State price in first letter. RAYMOND BEARDS- T>I':Y, East Claridon, Ohio. THE WILSON BULLETIN A QUARTERLY .lOURNAL OP ORMTIIOI.OGY l°:iyiiiK' |i:irticiilsir :itteiiti4»u to Ifielil S■■ > '\iyA ^^ LA Great Horned Owl Nest. — Walter A. Goelitz THE OOLOQI8T ' FOR EXCHANGE — Nice set Golden, Eagle 1/2. 1/1. Can use sets of 9, 10,! 112, 113, 204, 249, 28S, 328, 351, 356 or other rare sets. ROBERT F. BACKUS, Florence, Colorado. SOMETHING NEW — Solid silver tip to fit over the point of any Blowpipe. Gives a very fine stream for blowing small eggs and can be removed in an instant for larger ones. Price 50 cents. F. M. CARRYL,, No. 1 Princeton Street, Nutley, N. J. FOR EXCHANGE — One Taylor Smoke torpedo, one Mandelette, one minute Camera. Wanted — Butterfles. W. J. Holland's Moth Book. D. GOLDBERG, R. R. 3, Rockville, Connecticut. FOR EXCHANGE— I still have a lot of Bird and Oological Magazines to ex- change for Natural History specimens. DE LOS HATCH, Oakfield, Wis. WANTED FOR CASH — "Bendire's Life Histories, Vol. 2", "Bent's Life His- tories." ROSWELL S. WHEELER, 166 Athol Ave., Oakland, Calif. "WANTED — To correspond with par- ties in Southern States who could get me fresli skins suitable to mount of Dark Faced and Black Fox Squirrel. O. S. BIGGS, San Jose, 111. I am always willing to purchase "Bulletin of the Cooper Ornithological Club," Vol. 1. Complete or old num- bers. W. E. CHAMBERS, Eagle Rock, Calif. I have stones, gems and eggs from over the U. S. What have you to trade? Give exact description. ROBERT HATCHES, Victor, Colo. FOR SALE — Live Opossums. Also fresli skins of Opossum, Fox and Gray Squirrels for mounting. Want several volumes of the Condor. ALBERT LANO, Fayetteville, Arkansas. WANTED — For cash or exchange, first class sets, with full data. Send list at once. D. B. Bull, Route A, Box 158, San Jose, California. FOR SALE OR EXCHANGE— The Museum, complete by Webb; Wild Wings, by Job; Names and Portraits of Birds, by Trumbell; Birds of Alaska, by Nelson; Birds of Connecticut, by Sage; Birds of Wyoming, by Knight; Birds of Colorado, 3 Parts, by Cooke; The Oologist, 35 Volumes; The Orni- thologist & Oologist, Vols. 7-18; Bird Lore, Vols. 17, 18, 19, 20; 50 Singles; American Ornithologist, Vols. 1-2. C. M. CASE, 306 Blue Hills Ave., Hartford, Connecticut. MAMMALS — I want A No. 1 scienti- fic skins of North American Weasels for which 1 will exchange skins of Mountain Beaver or other mammals or birds. I also want Ridgeway's "Birds of North and Middle America," parts I and II; also North American Fauna, Nos. 23, 25. 2 1 and 28, for which I will pay cash. Alex Walker, Blaine, Oregon. . WANTED — Bird Lore, Vol. I, 3-4; II, 81; 111, 1-2-3; VII, 1; X, 6 and index.Orni- Sthologist and Oologist Vol. VI and VII complete. Vol. XII, 10. The Warbler, 1st 'series complete. Wilson Bulletin com- plete file. H. H. JOHNSON, Pittsfield, Maine. FOR EXCHANGE— About one hun- dred mounted birds each with full data; including Hawks, Owls, Eagles, Water Birds, etc. Also several finely mounted Deer heads. Want first class bird skins only. Send your list and get mine. WHARTON HUBER, 225 St. Mark's Square, Philadelphia, Pa. FOR EXCHANGE— Full sets of the following: 12, 13a, 14, 15, 16, 20, 21, 25, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 31a, 32, 83, 81, 82, 82-1, 86, 86f, 86-1, 89, 90, 93, 101, 103, 104, 105, 105-1, 105-2, 106, 107, 108, 108-1, 114, 114-1, 115, 116-1, 116, 194a 1-4, 194f 1-4, 355 1-5, 357 1-4, 348 1-7, 364 3-3, 389, for sets of equal value or will sell. E. A. WHEELER, E. Randolph, N. T. WANTED — To correspond with col- lector who can furnish any of the water birds, shore birds, and waders, all num- bers from 1 to 392 desired. Offer good exchange or cash. E. A. WHEELER East Randolph, N. Y. Collection of United States Stamps (in part or whole) for sale or exchange for eggs in sets. G. B. REGAR, 1000 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, Pa. FOR EXCHANGE— Bausch and Lomb microscope, a fine instrument. Ideal for student doing dissecting. In wooden case. Can use sets or anything useful. EARL WHEELER, E. Randolph, N. Y. ^VANTED — Volume 2, complete or in parts, bound or unbound, of The Auk. Will pay a good price for it to fill my file of The Auk. W. OTTO EMERSON, Hayward, R.F.D. No.l, B. 30, California. "U'ANTED — Two pair of climbers, must be in good condition. State price in first letter. RAYMOND BEARDS- LEY. East Claridon, Ohio. THE WILSON BULLETIN A <1UARTERLY JOURNAL OF ORXITHOLOGY Payins particular attention to Field Studies of Rirds in Middle North America. Now in its 28th year. 48 pages or more of readable matter K'ith illustrations. Indispensable to all ictive field workers. One dollar per year, 30 cts per copy. Official Organ of THE WILSON ORNITHOLOGICAL CLUB Address A. F. GANIER, Secretary, 2507 Ashwood Avenue Nashville, Tennessee. THE 00L0GI8T ORNITHOLOGICAL, PUBLICATIONS WANTED by H. H. Johnson, Pittsfield, Me.; American Ornithology, Vol. VI, 1-3-4-6-7; Bird Lore, Vol. I, 3; II, 1; III, 1-2-3; IV, 1-2; VII, 1; IX, 5 and in- dex; X, 4-5-6 and index; XIII, 4. Orni- thologist & Oologist, Vol. VI complete; VII, complete; XI, 2-3-4-5-6; XII, 10. FOR SALE or Exchange — Many odd numbers and some complete Vols, of Am. Ornithology, Condor, Journal Main Orn. Soc, Oregon Naturalist, Notes on Rhode Island Ornithology, Oologist (Utica), Oologist (Albion), Ornitholo- gist and Oologist, Osprey, Warbler, Wilson Bulletin, and Nature Ornitholo- gical magazines. BENJ. ADAMS, Wethersfleld, Conn. WANTED — A good pair, each of Black and Yellow Rails for which I will give good exchange. O. C. HLA.ST- INGS, 207 Denver Ave., Bridgeport, Conn. WANTED — First Class sets from re- liable collectors. Especially sets con- taining Cowbird eggs. G. B. REGAR, 1000 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, Pa. ALL PERSONS having~A-l skins in pairs of any of the North American Jays send list. I will pay the highest price for those that I need. R. M. BARNES, Lacon, 111. THE "Blue-Bird" Is now published monthly, the year 'round, with new and inter- esting departments, features and contests, and At No Additional Cost to Subscribers Official Organ of the Cleveland Bird Lovers' Association. 8END 20 OTS. FOR SAMPLE COPY Annual Sulwcriptlon, $2.00 AGENTS WANTED EVERYWHERE "THE BLUE-BIRD," 1010 Euclid Ave. CLEVELAND, OHIO NEW SUBSCRIBERS This is an appeal to each one of our subscribers to pick out some likely young student of birds and send him "The Oologist" for 1921. Surely our older subscribers have interest enough in spread- ing the influence of this Journal to do this. THE OOLOGIST. The Oologist. BIRDS-NESTS-HGGS TAXlDERIS/l Y Voh. XXXVIII. No. 4. ALBION, N. Y., April 1, 1921. Wholk No. 4C8 =S THE OOLOGI8T BRIBF SPBCIAr AXNOU NCEME31VTS Wanted, Exchange, F»r Sale, Etc., inserted in this departnienl at Z6 cent» for each 25 words for one issue, each additional word 1 cent. No notice In -eileil for less than 25 cents. We will advertise the skins, nests, eggs, or mounted specimens of North Amer- ican Birds for sale for persons having a lawful authority under the law to deal 'n the same. These columns are for the use of those desiring to make bona fl4e exchanges of such specimens for scientific collecting purposes only. — EDITOR. in answering advertisements in these columns mention "The Oologlst," an* thereby help us. as well as the advertiser and yourself. Send me the list of A 1 Bird St:ins that you bave to dispose of by exchange or otherwise. R M. BARNE.S, Lacon, III. ENTIRE COLLECTIONS — "Will pay spot cash for entire collections of North American birds eggs. Send lists. B. R. BALES, M.D., Circleville, Ohio. WANTED — Sets of No. 190, 208, 211, 212, 214, 263, 273, 387, 619, in Exchange or will purchase same. Henry W. Davis, Box No. 8 4 4. Atlantic, N. J. I would like to correspond with active Oologists and Collectors. "Write me for information of Birds and Eggs of Michigan. Jame Wood, Taxiderinist & Collector, Northville, IMicliigan. Box 592. WANTED — To purchase or exchange for sets of 289-, 308b, 310a, 325, 349, 352, 484, 486, 491, 492. First Class only. W. H. Over, Vermillion, S. D. DATA BLANKS — 1 will send 500 standard data blanks with your name printed on them for $1.25. No less than 500 done. Edw. S. Coombs, 243 Frank- lin St., Boston, Mass. WANTED — St'ts with down and nest feathers, Ducks & Geese, especially Nos. 131, 139 137, 140, 149, 153, 157, 162, 166, 169, 169a, 173, 174; cash. Bunyard, 57 Kidderminster Ud., Croydon, Eng- land. EGGS OF THE FRINGILLIDAE — I am prepared to buy or give good ex- change for any eggs of the finches and buntings, a group in whicli I specialize. I will also be pleased to do all I can to help other specialists who will co- operate with me in securing finch eggs. Kenneth L. Skinner, Brooklands Estate Office, Weybridge, England. WANTED — Egg Cabinet, upright drawer. Casli or Exchange. Send full description. W. B. Purdy, Milford, Micliigan. WOULD like to correspond with all active Oologists with view of exchange. Would like to buy good photographs of birds nests and eggs, what have you? "Walter E. Hastings, South Lyon. Mich. BIRDS. Animals. Fish and Game Heads, Mounted I<"urs and Hides, Tan- ned and made into Rugs and Robes. Mearl B. Wheeler, Randolph, N. Y. FOR SALE — One good coyote hide, tanned and made up in floor rug style, with open mouth mount, felt lining, best of workmanship. This fur came from Yellowstone Park and is extra light phase of color customary of furs from that locality. A fine first class piece. Fred Dille, Valentine, Nebraska. ARTISTIC BASES — Made to order. Something far above the ordinary. Can- not be duplicated anywhere. Write for description and prices. L. W. Speer, Taxidermist, Sac City, Iowa. STAMPS WANTED — Have you a col- lection or odd lot to dispose of? If so write us about it. Offer cash or ex- change in ornithological publications. Ithaca hammerless, 12 gauge shotgun, and "Game Getter," collecting gun and rifle. Also have stamps for sale or exchange. Reference, Editor of Oolo- glst. Franklin's, Box 292, Annapolis, Md. T. W. Richards. ALL PERSONS having A-1 skins in pairs of any of the North American Jays send list. I will pay the highest price for those tliat I need. R. M. Barnes, Lacon, Illinois. FOR SALE — Seven copies of The Oologist magazine, year 1919; eight copies of The Oologist magazine, year 1920. at 4c each, postpaid. A. M. Nel- son. Jr.. Lake Providence, La. EXCHANGE — History of the Birds of Kansas-Goss; Catalogue of the Birds of Kansas with descriptive notes of their nests and eggs-Goss; Animal Guide — Reed; 6 1-2 power Army field- glasses: The Oologist for 1910-1911- 1912; Want Fishers Hawks and Owls of the U. S. ; and good sets. Lieut. L. R. Wolfe, 64th Infantry, Camp Meade, Md. FOR TRADE — Bird-Lore Vol. XII, Nos. 3, 4, 5, 6. Wanted, Bird-Lore, Vol. XVII, Nos, 3, 4, 5, 6; XVIII, Nos. 5; XIX, Nos. 4, 5, 6; XX, Nos. 3, 5. 6; XXI, Nos. 2, 3, 5; XIV, Index, 1912. Will pay cash or Vol. XII, Nos. 3, 4, 5, 6 in trade. Fred Matthews, 70 Whittingham St., West Orange. N. J. FOR EXCHANGE — European & Asia- tic eggs in sets for North American species and skins. Address, C. W. Chamberlain. 36 Lincoln St., Boston, Mass. FOR EXCHAXC.l': — 1 have the largest (•xchange list of North American Birds' eggs in existence, and will he glad to exchange with i-eliable collectors for speci- mens they need, and I am willing to purchase for cash those that I want and for wliich 1 do not have duplicates, that the ownei- of the specimens that I need are willing to exchange for. Send me your list of duplicates. R. M. BARNES, Lacon, Illinois. The OoLOGiST. _ Vol. XXXVIII. No. 4 Albion, N. Y., April 1, 1921. Whole No. 408 Owned and Published Monthly, by R. M. Barnes, Albion, N. Y., and Lacam^ lU. TAKE NOTICE. SUBSCRIPTION, 50 CENTS PER YEAR Kxaniine tlie number on the wrapper of your Oologist. It denotes the time your sub- scription expires. Remember we must be notified u you wish it discontinued and all arrearages must t)e paid. 378 your subscription expires with this issue. 37? your subscrip- tion expired with December issue 1918. Other expirations can be computed by intermediate numbers at the rate of one number per month. Knte'od as second-class matter December 21. 1903, at the post office ai Albion, N". Y., under the Act of Congress of March 3, 1879. THE NEW CATALOGUE The following communication, Dated Marcli 15, 1921, from J Hopper Bowles, Chairmati of the Final Committee of Re- view, selected by the full Committee of twenty-five, who have charge of the new price list, shows that some progress is being made in the production of this Catalogue for wliich all Oologists are indeed truly thankful. The Editor stands ready to arrange for the publication of this, as soon as the manuscript is delivered to him, and we had hoped to get it off the press in tima to be used for the 1921 exchanges. — R. M. BARNES, Editor "I am glad to be able to report that I finished averaging the price lists for the final values of the new egg catalog some days ago, and have sent them on to Messrs. Harlow and Wil- lard for their consideration. We have been very greatly de- layed by the slowness in which the committeemen sent in their valuation lists, but that is all over now and I am most en- thusiastic over the prospects for the catalog, which 1 am sure will please all except the few who always want to get rare eggs for little or nothing. We have felt that a good price ought to be put on especial rarities so as to induce collectors to go after them. The whole country is put on an even basis, and not one-sided as has been the case with most catalogs." —J. HOOPER BOWLES. 38 THE OOLOGIST NOTES ON THE SHARP-TAILED GROUSE Though the Sharp-tailed Grouse is one of our best known Alberta birds, it was not until the present season 1920 that I had the pleasure of ex- amining two nests of this fine game bird. This season the birds are more numerous than they have been for many years, and I have heard of sev- eral other nests being found in the neighborhood. The Ruffed Grouse is also very plentiful. After a season or two of great abundatice, the Sharp-tails disappear excepting a few birds, and probably migrate to other parts of their range. This bird is the Prairie Chicken of Alberta, commonly known as "Chicken" and the Ruffed Grouse as "Partridge" to sportsmen. The Cree name of this Grouse is Pee-hue and this seems to have been extended to include the Ruffed Grouse. This name is simply the call note of the birds, a clear musical whistle, used principally when the flock gets separated in the long grass and brush They also have a number of other notes, rattling and guttural croaks, used chiefly on clear frosty mornings. and on their dancing grounds. These dancing grounds are usually situated on top of a hill or knoll with short grass growth. Here they wear a net- work of little paths resembling rabbit runways where they perform the antics known as dancing in the spring mornings and evenings. And here also their enemies take toll. Hawks killing many and Indians and half- breeds more. Their method is to bend a willow in- to the shape of a croquet hoop and stick the two ends into the ground, forming an arch over the path and at- tacking a hanging snare to the center of the arch. Most dancing grounds close to a trail were decorated with these yellow croquet hoops when I first came to the country twenty-two years ago, but now are seldom seen. The birds appear rather stupid on the dancing ground and will remain there after a hawk has captured one of their number and devours it a short distance a\vay. The Sharp-tailed Grouse is a plump, compact bird and my wife described them rather aptly on a recent motor trip when we were continually flush- ing them along the road by remarking "There goes another fatty." They fly straight away when flushed and make an easy wing shot. When well start- ed their flight is slightly undulating and consists of a succession of rapid wing strokes and sails. They like to perch in the tops of the populars when the leaves have fallen on frosty fall mornings, and many are picked off with 22 rifles. They are fond of grain, wheat pre- ferred, also different kinds of wild berries, and I have found their crops full of grasshoppers well on into win- ter when the ground has been free from snow and it would be almost im- possible for a human to find a single grasshopper. They also feed in the birches in winter and 1 have often seen small birches literally full of them. The first nest examined by me on June 2nd contained fifteen eggs, and was located in a patch of wild roses on a hillside. The nest was a hollow in the ground, lined with dry grass and a few feathers, at foot of rose bushes. This is the nest in the photo- graph. The second nest visited on .June 9th was similar, a hollow in the ground at foot of a rose bush, lined with dry grass and a few feathers, sit- uated in burnt off timber. This nest contained thirteen eggs. A. D. Henderson, Belvedere, Alberta. THE OOLOQI8T 39 NEST OF THE SHARP-TAILED GROUSE — A. D. Henderson, Belvedue, Alberta. TO PACK A LARGE SHIPMENT OF BIRDS' EGGS Secure a chicken egg crate and re- move all the card-board, then line the crate with a sheet of newspaper, cut to fit, then place a thick layer of cot- ton in the bottom and a sheet of paper between each layer of eggs and be sure and nail a good stout cover on top when the crate is packed. In 1916 Mr J. Claire Wood of Detroit, Michigan, sent me over seven hundred sets packed in four crates and only two eggs in the entire lot were broken. In 1919 1 received a shipment of over seven hundred sets packed in small boxes placed in larger boxes and more than ten eggs were broken, most- ly In the largest sets, and another lot of over four hundred sets and nearly fifty eggs were broken in this lot, mostly in the best sets. It would be a good plan to work on half a criitc of eggs on this plan, chicken egs crates are not handled so roughly. W. A. Strong, San Jose, Cal. FEEDING PRAIRIE CHICKENS Many North Dakota farmers have been feeding Prairie Chickens during the past winter as a means of conserv- ing what is considered the most im- portant bird in the state. Spaces about one hundred feet square were kept clean of snow, comparatively close to houses and barns, and table crumbs, screenings and grain scatter- ed thereon daily, and the wild birds were fed as regularly as barnyard fowl. Steward Lockwood, of the faculty of the North Dakota Agricul- tural College, made an investigation and determined that the Prairie Chicken annually eats many times its 40 THE OOLOQI8T weight in insects. — Western Story Magazine. — W. A. Strong, San Jose, Cal. AN EARLY 1921 RECORD February 2nd, 1921, born to Mr. and Mrs. Emerson A. Stoner, Benicia, Cali- fornia, a nine pound girl, Jean Muriel. THE PRAIRIE CHICKEN IN CEN- TRAL IOWA The year 1921, we think will pass without a Prairie Chicken being seen in Story County, Iowa. Who of us would, in the 70's, and early 80's, have dreamed it would be exterminated from our prairies? In the early 70's, I doubt if there was a' forty acre tract of prairie land in the county, that did not contain from one to a half dozen nests in the proper season, and I remember of see- ing one spring, no less than six nests containing roasted eggs, where a prairie fire had swept over, burning out the old grass; and all these were noted in walking across a section of land in ati almost straight line. In winter, they would congregate in enormous droves, and it was then that the settlers would trap them by the barrel, and sell them to the poultry dealers, to be shipped east. They used to be considered a good weather barometer too, for after a few days of clear cold weather, and the sky would begin to get gray and threaten another snow and blizzard, they would gather by the hundreds in the trees along the streams and in the groves, and cackle or sing, that I have never heard described by those who write of the bird. After all, it was not the trapping, the gun nor the prairie fires that caused his destruction, but simply because there are no places left for them to nest undisturbed. In this locality we will never be able lo see them congregate on seme knoll, of an early spring morning, and hear that wonderful "boom," that to one who was "raised up" with them, looks so funny in print by those who try to describe it. A. A. Cole, Nevada, Iowa. Another Swan Murdered In a local paper dated about the first of January appeared an article stating that two well known ranch- men in San Angelo, Texas, had killed a most wonderful bird that had all the natives guessing as to its identity, it was snow white, long neck, some tihree feet long, black feet like a goose, black bill like a duck and swam on the water like a duck, with a wing spread of seven feet, and when held up by its bill at full lengths its feet touched the ground. I cut the notice out and' sent it to the U. S. Deputy game warden for our state, in hopes (hat he might enlighten them on the identity of our friend the SWAN, I re- ceived a letter in reply and thanks from him .'^tating that he had investi- gated the case and enlightened them to the extent that they had killed a SIBERIAN SWAN? Would liked to have seen that bird myself having never heard of that specie of Swan around here. Have any of the read- ers? Geo. E. Maxon. Ft. Worth, Texas. Spotless Kingbirds' Eggs In the summer of 1916 while a friend and I were out in search for Crows' nests one afternoon, I had a very pleasant surprise in finding a Kingbird nest which held two spotless eggs. This was on June 20th. I left the nest and eggs hoping to get a com- plete set later. Examining the nest again on June 24th but there were still only two eggs and fearing that something disastrous might happen to THE OOLOQIST 41 them if I left them any longer I took the two eggs, which I still have in my collection. I have examined a good many Kingbird nests since hoping to find some more spotless eggs but so far these are the only ones that 1 have ever come across. Geo. L. Cook, Bashaw, Alberta TEXAS NOTES "The Belled Buzzard Is Dead" In 1917, 1 reported in The Oologist about seeing the famous Belled Buz- zard. This Buzzard being a Turkey Vulture, flew over my Camp at Lake Worth, Texas. It was noticed several times. Now 1 pick up a Chicago news- paper and it reports the Famous Belled Buzzard, of War times, is dead. It was belled with a small bell and leather collar around its neck. When flying and twisting its head, you could hear the tingle of the little bell. Pyrrhuloxia Observed In my travels along the trails and roads from San Antonio on to the Mexican border, I found this bird very plentiful, even right around San An- tonio tliey can be seen along tlie road, in Mosquete trees. Why So Many Rats? All over the farm country of Texas, I can hear the farmers and ranchmen say, "Why so many rats?" I just reply, "Well, stop this willful slaughter of hawks and owls, then you won't have to ask, "Why so many rats?" I have been yelling "Protect the Hawks and Owls in newspaper articles for some time. No one paid any attention. Now they yell "why so many rats?" Protect Hawks and Owls and there won't be any rats. The rats are eat- ing up the corn in this part of the country. R. Graham, Fort Worth, Texas. Inca Dove August 2, 1920, while taking Bird Notes on the Eckhart Dairyland Ranch, I discovered my first Inca Dove nest, although I have observed plenty of the birds in Bexar County and the surrounding country, I have never dis- covered a nest. I found this nest in a Mosquite tree, ten feet up, on an over- hanging limb. The nest was built of grass, straw and a few feathers. The birds are about eight inches long The nest was larger than a Mourning Dove's, atid contained one half-grown young. The female was on the nest and stayed by her young until I near- ly touched her. I made some close observations of her. She had a black bill, eyes and feet were red, the head and body were checked with black and brown feathers, primaries chestnut, long tail with white feathers mixed with gray- ish ones. Ground Dove I have notice in my travels the Ground Dove, along the roads and trails from here to Mexico. They are small, about six inches long and quick in flight. The tail, unlike other Doves, is short. The feathers are bluish gray, the underneath parts are brown, near- ly red. The bill, feet and eyes are red. This Dove is the smallest Dove I ever saw, no longer than a Sparrow. To date I have not discovered a nest. "Cowbirds" Cowbirds are found around the Acime Dairy here. There is bunch after bunch, some feeding around the cows, some setting on top of the cows. I have noticed to my surprise that there is on an average of ten female to every male bird. Bartramian Sandpiper August 11, 1920, marked the first ar- rival of this well known Sandpiper. 1 42 THE OOLOQI8T heard them as they whistled in the air, now and then one or two of them alighting on the prairies. This bird is being rapidly killed out faster than they are breeding. This is what 1 prophesied a few years ago. They come in from the North in large bunches, stopping on the prairies to feed on grasshoppers, and the hunters would hunt them from a buggy, as you could get close to them in that way and thousands were slaughtered every year. Now six or seven is con- sidered a large number in this state. Great Tailed Crackle Very Tame This extra large Grackle, which is twice the size of the Purple and Boat- tailed Grackles is found to be plentiful in and around San Antonio, Texas, where I have found them breeding. These birds are very tame and will come up close and let you feed them. Many people call them crows, as they are so large. One old Grackle with his tail pulled out by some boy, was on a lawn, jumping up and down as if he were having a fit. He kept this up until nearly all of the Grackle inhabitants of the park had crowded around him, then they danced around and left. They must have been hav- ing a meeting to figure out what went on with the Bob-tailed Grackle's tall. R. Graham, Ft. Worth. Texas. RICHARD C. HARLOW INJURED A press dispatch in "The Buffalo Courier," March 9, 1921, comes to us which is published below. Mr. Harlow is one of America's leading, if not the leader of Field Oology. No man is bet- ter known as a collector, and no col- lector's specimens stand higher. We extend to Bro. Harlow our sin- cere sympathy, having been through the mill several times as the result of our love for tliis character of speci- mens, we know whereof we speak. — R. M. B. State College, Pa., March 9.— Dick Harlow, coach of the Penn State box- ing team and assistant football coach, had a narrow escape from serious in- jury or possible death today while con- ducting a search for rare birds' eggs over in the fourth range of the Seven Mountains. Only his presence of mind and great strength saved him when he went over the side of a ninety foot cliff and landed with a crash at the bottom. Harlow is one of the leading authori- ties on bird lore in the United States and every summer he has been em- ployed by the Smithsonian institute on expeditions Into northern Labrador in search of rare birds' eggs. Swing Over Cliff In order to inspect a nest of ravens, the Penn State coach, who stands over six feet tall and weighs in the neigh- borhood of 250 pounds, was forced to swing himself over the cliff, slide down a rope, and then swing in under the over-hang to where the nest was located on a six-inch ledge. When about mid-way down the rope, a loose rock dislodged itself up above and came hurling down on Harlow's head. Stunned by the blow, he managed to retain his hold on the rope as he went sliding to the bottom, and thus broke the worst of his fall. After lying unconscious for about a half hour, Harlow managed to make his way to Coburn, where he found a conveyance to bring him back to State College. One hand was cut to the bone and the other badly seared by the rope, his head was severely bruised, and his body was a mass of cuts and biuises, but fortunately no bones were broken. THE OOLOGI8T 43 A Nest Full of King Rails Eggs, Situated Beside a Railroad Track — Photo by A. D. Du Bois A KING RAIL'S NEST IN SAN- GAMON COUNTY, ILLINOIS There is doubtless nothing unusual about the occurrence of tlie King Rail in central Illinois. That is why I was struck by the novelty of a field-note which I found recently in running through an old bird journal. It is my only record of the King Rail in my native county. Sangamon County is a highly developed farming area and embraces no marshes of an extent which one might consider adequate for the nesting of Rails. The note is dated May 14, 1908. I had been on a field trip west of Spring- field and was "counting the ties" toward liome on the B. & O. R. R. track, when I found a marshy spot in the right-of-way, where several Red- winged Blackbirds were nesting in the cat-tails. Upon exploring this little marsh, which was probably fifty by one hundred feet in extent, I flushed a 44 THE OOLOQIST King Rail. Further searcli led to the discovery of a nearly completed nest among the cat-tails. On May 29, I revisited the place with the expectation of finding a set of eggs. The nest was empty and had been overflowed; but to my great sur- prise I found another nest containing thirteen eggs. This nest was well con- cealed in a clump of coarse marsh grass near the edge of the little marsh, where the ground was wet though not covered with water. The base of the nest was made up of dead sedges but the superstructure consisted chiefly, and the lining entirely, of green sedges or grasses. The eggs were far ad- vanced in incubation; a circumstance indicating that the nest contained eggs at the time of my first visit and that the empty nest found at that time was a dummy or supernumerary nest. In order to photograph this "nest- full" of eggs the vegetation was pressed aside and the camera was set up at the foot of the slight railroad embankment. An attempt was made to photograph the bird but I became convinced that no amount of patience would accomplish it without first get- ting her accustomed to a dummy camera. Although the nest was only a few paces from the railroad rails, whence the passing trains must have presented a terrifying sight, yet this bird found the camera and the man at the end of its thread too dangerous to contemplate. Near Elkhart, in the county adjoin- ing Sangamon on the north, I had noticed a small marshy creek and, prompted by this new experience with Rails, I made a special trip to investi- gate it. The cat-tails along the border of the stream were carefully explored (on May 21st) and I found one nest, only partially finished, which was ap- parently the work of a King Rail. Alexander D. Du Bois, April, 11, 1920. Chicago. JOHN LEWIS CHILDS A communication from W. Lee Chambers of California, under date of March 7th, advises us. "I was shocked today to read in 'The Times' that my good friend, John L. Childs, had died suddenly on his way home. He was out to the house Sun- day, Feb. 28th and started for home the following Tuesday. He died just before he reached home. We can never tell who will be next " With the passing of Mr. Childs, American oology loses one of its best men and most ardent devotees. Be- ginning about 1895 and for the follow ten years there were few, if any, men in North America who gave more at- tention to amassing a representative collection of North American Oology, and a library covering the Birds of North America. The corner stone of Mr. Child's col- lection was Miss Gene Bell's collection of Philadelphia, which was purchased and upon which, up to that time, had been spent probably as much money as upon any collection in America. Mr. Childs entered enthusiastically into en- larging this collection with the view of ultimately building up a complete representation of the eggs of all species and sub-species of North American Birds included in the A. O. U. list. For years he prosecuted this work with energy and brought to it the business acumen which had made the John L. Childs seed and flower business known from one end of the land to the other. Being a man of very abundant means Mr. Childs was not handicapped in this undertaking, and the result is that at the time of his death, leaves what is known as one of the most complete, if not in fact, the most complete collection of this kind in existence. It was not his purpose to build up a large series, but to acquire one, two or three typical sets of the eggs of each THE OOLOQI8T 45 variety of birds together with a nest in situ, and a pair of each variety of birds mounted, as well as a pair of skins, and in this undertaking he suc- ceeded most admirably. One example of the thoroughness of his method was the sending of guides and a com- plete equipment into the wilds of Flor- ida after a set of eggs and the nest in which they were laid, of the Ivory- billed Woodpecker. For many years this collection has been noted as con- taining some of the rarest specimens of North American bird eggs known In addition to these specimens Mr. Childs gathered together one of the most expensive and complete libraries on the subject of North American Or- nithology in existence. Some years ago in 1906 he published a complete catalogue of his mounted birds, skins, nests, and eggs, and at another time of his library, which cer- tainly disclosed a wonderful array of these things. Mr. Childs was a large man physical- ly, with mental equipment fully up to his physique. His disposition was cheery and his mannerisms those of a gentleman, born and bred. In busi- ness he was an exceptional success amassing an estate which is counted in seven figures. The Editor visited at the home of Mr. Childs in 1913 and inspected his specimens and library, the latter con- taining some of the rarest books on the subject of American birds known. At that time Mr Childs seemed to take more pride in a volume on the subject of "The Birds of Floral Park," which was the name of the suburb in which his home was located, in the midst of his many nursery, flower and seed producing acres, than in any other single item in his possession. This volume Mr. Childs was the author of, and it was illustrated from nature by W. L. Brownell, and was unique in that but one copy of the same ever had come from the press. Of late years Mr. Childs had not taken so much interest in oology, but nearly every season went to California where under the guidance of his friend Chambers, the old love never failed to shine; and that at these times he en- joyed trips into the mountains and fields as of yore, though it was a very great physical effort to Mr. Childs to travel far on foot. He had too many pounds to carry for that. During the years 1905-6 he published a monthly magazine of high standard, devoted to his hobby of oology, "The Warbler," files of which are now eagerly sought for by libraries and or- nithological students in all places. By the death of Mr. Childs, North American Ornithology loses one of its most interesting figures and bird stu- dents of their most prized ornitholo- gists, and in his death, his personal friends, their associates and family have received an irreparable blow. — R. M. B. SPARROW HAWK LAYS IN CAP- TIVITY On May 30th of last year a young man brought me a Sparrow Hawk (Falco sparverius) and two of its eggs. He told me that he had seen it enter a hole in a pine tree and climbed up and caught it on the nest. Well, I got a shoe box and placed Mrs. Hawk in it intending to keep her a few days. You may imagine my sur- prise when I looked in the box next day to see a nice fresh egg. To make a long story short, she laid three, and then 1 set her free. E. A. Wheeler, East Randolph, N. Y "Your valuable publication helps to keep me interested in my old hobby." A. M. Ingersoll, 46 THE OOLOQI8T "Food Habits of Seven Species of American Shoal-water Ductcs" "Food Habits of Seven Species of American Slioal-water Ducks." U. S. Dept. of A G. R. Bull. 862. Profes- sional paper Dec. 1920, by Douglas C. Mabbott. This review of the food habits of the Gadwell, Baldpate, European Widgeon, Green-winged Teal, Blue Winged Teal, Cinnamon Teal, Pin-tail Wood Duck, is t:n exhaustive compilation of the knowledge, at present available on this subject and the results obtained are surprising in several instances. The total number of stomachs examined was 2888, and, in each specie the dif- ferent foods consumed are reduced to decimal fractions. It is Illustrated by some not overly good plates, but the scientific portion of the work is excel- lent.—R. M. B. A LIST OF THE BIRDS OF JAMAICA This publication is created from "The Hand Book of Jamaica for 1920." Outram Bangs and Frederic H. Kennard are the authors which fact vouches for its reliability, 219 species and sub-species are noted, of which 26 are doubt fal records or escapes from captivity. 81 are migrants of winter visitors from the North 5 are summer visitors, some breeding, but going South in winter and 52 are resi- dent breeding species, not wholly con- fined to the island of which 5 are now supposed to be extinct. The introduc- tion of the Mongoorse into the islands is supposed to account for these ex- tinctions as well as the near extinction of other species and the great reduc- tion in numbers of many other va- rieties. As no list of the birds of this island is available since Sclater's list of 1910 the present paper is timely. — R. M. B. Henry W. Shoemaker, of McElhat- tan. Pa., author of "Pennsylvania Deer and Their Horns, Etc.", member of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, and Vice-President of "Wild Life League of Pennsylvania," who is now located at 71 Broadway, New York City, N. Y., sends us the following publications of which he is the author. "1. A Pennsylvania Bison Hunt. — 1915. 2. Pennsylvania Wild Cats. — 1916. 3. Pennsylvania's Grandest Cavern. The History, Legends and Descrip- tion of Pennsylvania Cave, in Center County, Pennsylvania. — 1919. South Mountain Sketches — 1920." These books are a desirable addition to any library having to do with Pennsylvania Natural History. They are written with a purpose and not too technical a style, rare and yet con- tain a great fund of really scientific information. — R. M. B. THE RETURN OF THE BIRDS The first 15 days of February have been like spring, and many of the mi- gratory birds have been seen in small numbers. I have seen the following: Feb. 5th. A pair of Red-tailed Hawks, and heard their low cry. Feb. 6th. Six Robins. Feb. 7th. Two House Wrens. Feb. 7th. Fourteen Wild Geese Feb. Sth. Nine Robins. Feb. 9th. Four Red-tailed Hawks. Feb. 14th. One Turkey Buzzard. Feb. 15th. Two Mourning Doves. J. Earl Harlow, Texico, Illinois CORPUS CHRISTI BAY, BIRD LIFE While out at Flower Bluff near Cor- pus Christi, Texas, on the Bay, I was surprised to see the large amount of water birds. Pelicans, both Brown and White were plentiful, shore birds of all discriptions, not so many Ducks, THE OOLOGIST 47 many Cormorants, Cranes, Herons. I got some fine pictures while on tlie bay, also many notes of tlie birds. The birds are pretty well protected on the bay. A man was fined for shooting a Pelican We caught lots of fish from the rough waters such as fiounders, gar, tarpon, stingeree, shark and catfish, also caught some crabs, shrimps, etc. I almost forgot to tell you the mos- quitoes were biting fine. Everything was fine and dandy during the day time, but oh boy! after the wind ceased I thought they would carry wife and I and Tin Lizzie all away. R. Graham, Ft. Worth, Texas. OLD WATER COLOR PLATES It may be interesting to some reader of The Oologist, who own hand- colored plates of birds to know that some of the plates in some old book is not today agreeing with the descrip- tion given in the text owing to deteri- oration in the scarlet pigment. Ver- milion, where it should be vermilion, it is probably lead color or nearly black, especially is it apt to be so in a very old book. I have a five volume work on birds, one hundred and twenty five years old, with one hundred and twenty-five exquisite, hand colored plates, of the highest type, but in all cases where vermilion comes in the subject is heavy lead color or near black. Vermilion is composed of mercuric sulphide, H g S. may be pure bright colored portions of the native ore cin- nabar, or artificially by subliming mer- cury and sulphur. Chinese Vermilion, a superior kind, is made by digesting precipitated mercuric sulphide with an alkaline sulphide for some hours. Geo. W. H. vos Burgh. in P^ort Worth, Texas, this year, as we have received this day an an- nouncement of the birth of Ramon Graham, Jr., March 13, 1921. Weight 8 pounds We hope he will grow up and become as enthusiastic an Oolo- gist as liis daddy, and likewise be as thoughtful in furnishing copy for this magazine. — R. M. B. PERSONAL NEWS Do you know that The Oologist pub- lishes every year more personal news items, relating to the bird enthusiastics of the country, and the oologists than all other bird publications in the United States combined? We do this in the hope of keeping members of the Fraternity in touch with each other. — R. M. B POETRY We have accumulated quite a con- siderable number of poetical effusions in the copy box of The Oologist, and it is our purpose to display these in our columns probably in the coming July issue. If any of our readers have any further contribution to make in the future, of copy of the same character, we would appreciate it if they would get it to us reasonably soon. — R. M. B. A NEW OOLOGIST The Birds seem to be nesting early OUR PRINTER A card dated March 11th from St. Augustine, Florida, advises us that "Our Printer," A. M. Eddy, who has printed The Oologist from Volume I, to date was on that day at Miami, Flordia, and would leave that day for Cuba". He says among other things "Miami seems to equal California," for which unguarded observation, should he be later caught within the state of Cali- fornia, he probably would be hung to a tree, quartered and buried at the cross-roads, by the outraged citizens of the Golden State.— R. M. B 4d THE OOLOGI8T BUILDING The mail brings information tliat Ralph J. Donahue, of Bonner Springs, Kansas, one of the oologists of that territory, is doing like the other mem- bers of the Aves family viz: Building a nest in the Spring. In other words erecting a neat little home for his bride of a few months. — R. M. B. m CHICAGO BIRDS In looking over my field notes for 1&20, I thought the following might be of interest to some of the readers of The Oologist. Jan. 25, 1920, Bohemian Waxwing (10) Niles, 111. (Rare). Mar. 23, 1920, Sandhill Crane (6) Or land, 111. (Rare.) May 16, 1920, Cedar Waxwing (15) Tessbille, 111. (Early?) May 23, 1920, Cliff Swallow (1) Taken Beach, 111. (Rare.) May 31, 1920, Lesser Scaup (7) Slo- cum Lake, 111. (Late.) June 13, 1920, Hairy Woodpecker, Grass Lake, III. Pair breeding. June 13, 1920, Downy Woodpecker, Grass Lake, 111. Pair breeding June 27, 1920, Woodcock (young in down), Niles, 111. (Late.) Oct. 31, 1920, Artie, 3-toed Wood- pecker, Taken, Tessville, 111. (Rare.) George W. Friedrich, Chicago, 111. THE COOPER CLUB Wliile in California in January, ye Editor had the pleasure of attending a monthly meeting of the Southern Di- vision of the Cooper Club as is his custom while in that territory. It is a pleasure to renew our acquaintance with the best lot of ornithologists that we come in contact with at such times. The Southern California bird men are not surpassed in personal charm, and ornithological equipment by any we have met anywhere. A sadness, however, entered our mind in noting the absence of Frank Daggett, Curator of the splendid museum at Los Angeles, and most en- thusiastic member of this organization, whom the editor in his many different years visiting in California had learned to admire. We were pleased to meet Dr. Louis B. Bishop, of New Hazen, Conn., at this meeting. He is spending the win- ter in Hollywood. The main subject of discussion at this meeting was some far reaching and fundamental changes in the con- stitution of the Club. If these are ad- ministered in the spirit in which they seem to have been proposed and dis- cussed and adopted, they will be bene- ficial. However, on the other hand they open a wide door to narrowness and abuse. — R. M. B. BOOKS RECEIVED "Territory In Bird Life" being a brief review of a new book fraught with absorbing interest to the oologist by H. Elliot Howard. Pub- lished by John Murray, London, 21s. Not since the far-reaching dis- coveries of Darwin and Wallace were first announced to an astonished world has any new theory been enunciated, at least so far as birds are concerned, so revolutionary as that contained in Mr. Howard's great work. Mr. Howard tears to pieces the older theories in regard to bird warfare in the spring It is well known of course that the males of most migrating species arrive in advance of the fe- males and he would have it that each male, on arrival, possesses himself of a small territory from which he assidu- ously expels all instruders of his own species, and, singing lustily, proclaims himself owner and lord. His song serves another purpose and attracts the females when they, in turn, arrive THE OOLOGIST 49 from overseas. Later, when the be- trothal has taken place, both male and female fight to preserve the sanctity of their small domain, cocks fighting cocks and hens fighting hens. And the object of it all is clear. It is to secure to each pair sufficient food to sustain themselves and their young in order that they may fulfill nature's greatest law — race preservation. All nature lovers are under a great debt to Mr. Howard whose work is the result of most painstaking obser- vation. To no section is the matter more engrossing than to oologists and for them it will make many things clear that have hitherto been puzzling and invest their work with yet another new aspect of most absorbing inter- est. Working in the light of Mr. How- ard's theory they will be able now to watch and see to what extent their own observations can corroborate and, perhaps, elaborate his. Kenneth L. Skinner_ MORE HOUSING PROBLEMS By Geoffrey Gill Some years ago, while I was still in High School, the Manual Training class had to construct bird houses These houses, when finished, looked very much like the kennel in which we kept our little fox terrier, Jim, be- fore he met his untimely death under the cruel wheels of a rambling Ford. Of course, the houses were much smaller; and the front door, so to speak, was under the peak of the roof instead of on the ground as in the late Jim's abode. This hole or door was about on© and one-half inches in diameter and was well rounded with a file so as to insure an easy passage for the future feathered tenants. These houses were especially adapted for the well-known spring friend of ours, the Bluebird, so the instructor said. When they were put together they though any dark color will do just as well. These were polished up and put on shelves for the exhibition at the end of the term in January, and then distributed to their respective owners. There were two or three that remained unclaimed, so I asked for these and after a little persuading on my part I at last carried them home. One Saturday afternoon, late in April, I went to see a kind neighbor, who had a fairly large garden. After much promising not to do this and not to do that, I finallly was given permis- sion to climb a few trees and place my little bird homes. You must be very particular concerning the future site of all your different little wooden bird bungalows if you wish to get the best results, as all birds do not like the same thing. Bluebirds like their nests from ten to twelve feet high, in orchards, but will sometimes build a nest in a house attached to a building if it is properly protected. A House Wren, that tiny bubbling spring of song, is not at all particular and has been known to build its nest and raise its ycung in the pocket of an old coat that a gardener had left in a tool house. Chickadees prefer swampy woodland at the height of five or six feet. Robins will build in little open porches or shelves placed anywhere from six to sixteen feet high and so it goes with them all. You can't ex- pect to know these right away, but after you have given much attention to the subject it will be easy to study out such matters. When I first put up houses I didn't know these little ins and outs, but just placed them in the trees as best I could. In the middle of May I visited this place again and peeked up at the little houses now partly hidden by leaves. I passed under each one, and could not see any signs of occupancy 50 THE OOLOGIST in any of them: but the garden was such a delightful spot that I lingered around, examining the many flowers that were beginning to bloom I took a seat in one corner of the grounds and gazed around. Imagine my sur- prise and delight when I saw a bird pick up a small piece of dead grass and fly to a tree in which I had placed one of the houses. Full of expectancy and not a little awed, I stealthily stalked up under the tree and peered eagerly among the branches. Yes, sure enough he was living in the house, for I saw him hop out of the entrance. He looked around, gave a short chirp and flew away. I stayed under the tree, knowing that he would be soon returning with more furniture. I had not long to wait, for he was soon back carrying some feathers from a nearby chicken coop, I suspected. He looked around and boldly entered the door. I watched him and his mate, identifying them as the English Sparrow, carry on this performance for quite a while. I then walked away, fearing they would discover my presence and go away for good. These were my first bird tenants. It was nearly two weeks later be- fore, happening along that way again, I heard a terrible commotion up in the trees that was fast becoming a riot. My mind flew at once to that ever- menacing enemy of all our feathered neighbors, the cat. I hurried in, jump- ing over the gate in my haste. There was a' small riot, but from circum- stances of which I had never dreamed. It seems that a pair of bustling House Wrens had moved into one of my other houses located in an old and weather-beaten crabapple tree. This was where the whole commotion centered. The Sparrows, disliking their new neighbors, were boldly and impolitely trying to drive them away; but the Wrens were just as deter- mined to stay They were telling the fact to the whole world in general, and the Sparrows in particular, in very strong bird language. The whole bird population within hearing distance came over to listen. There were saucy Catbirds agreeing with every word every one said. Dainty yellow Warb- lers nodded their heads. Two or three pairs of Robins and numerous other birds came out. If they were looking for a sensation they certainly saw it. The Wrens were darting at the invaders of their home, and the Sparrows darting at the Wrens, al- ways manoeuvering to get them away from their home so that they could rush in and tear it to pieces; but one of the Wrens always stayed near their front porch, I couldn't be sure, but 1 think it was Mrs. Wren. The door had been made a great deal too large even for a bluebird, and as the Wrens al- ways like a very small entrance it was way too large for them. Not daunted by this small oversight though, they had cunningly barricaded it with stout twigs until only a small place at the top was left open. This proves that something more than just instinct shows them to build their homes. How did they know enough to make the entrance smaller? They must have some brains, yet greater men than I have said they do every- thing by instinct. Much as I disliked doing it, with a few well-directed stones I drove my first tenants away from the immediate surroundings of my new friends. I had studied the Sparrows' cnaracters, and found that they didn't have a very good reputation. They have a bad habit of fighting and driving our own native and more beneficial birds away. With one factor of the excite- ment out of the way things soon be- gan to become normal again, and I sat down and quietly watched the Wrens THE OOLOGIST 51 go about their business. I could only see one corner of their home up among the branches and was very much tempted to go up the tree and examine it, but after the excitement they had just gone through I hardly thought it fair or wise. Four days later, when I thought both of the House Wrens were away, I scaled the tree to examine the barri- cade There was such a tangle of branches up there that it necessitated my putting my head within a foot of the door. As I peered into Madame Wren's front parlor, bedroom and kitchenette combined, I was nearly startled off my perch. A living bullet shot from inside and stung me square- ly between the eyes, far worse than any bumble-bee's sting that I have encountered. I caught my balance just in time and half jumped and half fell from the tree. The Wrens, both of them now, began furiously scolding me and I soon made myself scarce be- fore I brought the whole bird popula- tion after me. Ever since I have never disturbed nests of any sort and House Wrens especially, for this incident taught me a lesson. I, unlike some landlords, have never had any trouble collecting the rent, although I have a multitude of these tiny tenants since these first two of mine. They have an original but very beneficial way of squaring their debt, and that is by keeping the gardens and trees free from hosts of pests. On January 24th of this year I was in Stafford Co., Va., in a wild piece of the country between Aquia and Po- tomac Creek. I sat for a while on a steep hillside watching a pair of Bald Eagles repairing their nest. A move- ment of the bushes on the opposite hillside caught my eye and pretty soon six wild turkeys came in sight. a fine big male bird with five turkey hens. I watched them for twenty or thirty minutes until they went over to the top of the hill. The next day I was on the other side of Aquia creek walking down a deep gully that led to the creek which is very wide at this point. Almost on the bank of the creek I jumped two turkey hens and they started to fly straight across. I watched them and saw one hit the ice and start running for the woods. The other bird tired before it reached the ice and fell in the open water, about forty feet short of safety. I got a boat as soon as I could and started after the bird in the water but when I reached her she was dead. She was very fat for this time of the year and weighed 8V^ lbs. If the creek had not been frozen for a quarter of a mile out I don't think the other bird could have made it. I once saw nine ±3obwhites try and fly across this creek and all of them fell in the water. I was in a speed launch at the time and succeeded in saving four of the birds. The side from which I started the pair of tur- key hens is not near as wild as the opposite shore and I never heard of turkeys being seen there before. I think this pair belongs to the flock I saw the day before atid had come across when the entire creek was frozen or had flown across at a point where it was much narrower. II is hard to tell how many birds die in this manner. E. A. Sikkem, Hyattsville, Md. PRAIRIE HORNED LARK'S NEST SNOWED UNDER The Prairie Horned Lark is a com- mon resident of our fields and prairies throughout the central part of the state. This species is more or less migratory, but on almost any winter THE OOLOGIST day when the ground is not covered with snow you may see from tliree to ten or a dozen in a flock along the road or in the ploughed fields, meadows or pastures. In February you can always look for them in larger flocks. I have often seen them in late February in flocks of fifty or more. On February 5th of this year as I was driving the car to town I saw no less than six bunches ranging in number from seven to eighteen in a flock, but the next day it snowed all day and I have not seen any from that date to the pres- ent time (Feb. 10th). The Prairie Horned Lark is an early breeder here with us, as it often nests eajly in March. On March 11th, 1909 as I was walking through a pasture which had grown up well to blue grass the fall before I found a nest of the Prairie Horned Lark on the ground in the blue grass. It was composed of grass and weed stems and a very few pieces of corn husks, lined with fine grass. The snow was not entirely gone, there being long narrow strips of snow scattered all over this 180 acre pas- ture where it had drifted during the previous storm some two weeks be- fore. The nest was situated well down on a long south slope near a ditch, and was not more than twenty feet from snow which was three feet deep, the nest contained two eggs so I carefully marked the nest so that 1 could find it. The day was raw and cold and cloudy and that night it snowed about three inches of very heavy wet snow, and arriving at the nest next day I found it covered with snow and no larks in sight that day. 1 carefully removed the snow from the nest with my hands and found that the nest con- tained three egss, these 1 packed in my collection box, and then gathering up the water soaked nest 1 took it home and dried it and then mounted it on a stand. This is the earliest record which I have of this species nesting in central Iowa. 1 have found the nests from March 11th to Aug. 17th, the latter date is my latest record. By far the largest number of nests found are by hills of growing corn, placed usually on the north side of the plant, and ea'ch day that the weather will permit the farmers to cultivate their corn many thousands of their nests are destroyed by the corn plough. Most authors state that the number of eggs laid by this species is from three to five usually four, in fully 75 per cent of the nests which I have found contained three eggs. I have never yet been able to find a set of five out of the hundreds of sets which I have found. There is a great vari- ation in the size and color of the eggs. See article in December 1920 Oolo- gist by Mr. Fred J. Pierce, on the flight of the Prairie Horned Lark. This is the best article on the flight and song of this bird that 1 have ever read. Note — Let each and all of us put our shoulder to the wheel and send in an article to the Oologist. We need the Oologist and it needs us to help. Let us hear more from the fellows in the Northwest and Canada John L. Cole, Nevada, Iowa. The editor seconds the motion. All in favor will vote by sending us the copy showing that you each have "put your shoulder to the wheel." — R.M.B. 'The paper improves every year." E. W. Kelly. "I find much of interest in your little magazine and I hope it a very success- ful year." Wm. L. G. Edson. THE 00L0QI8T FOR EXCHANGE — Nice set Golden Eagle 1 /2. 1 /I. Can use sets of 9, 10, 112, 113, 204, 249, 288, 328, 351, 356 or other rare sets. ROBERT P. BACKUS, Florence, Colorado. SOMETHING NEW — Solid silver tip to tit over the point of any Blowpipe. Gives a very fine stream for blowing small eggs and can be removed in an instant for larger ones. Price 50 cents. F. M. CARRYL, No. 1 Princeton Street, Nutley, N. J. FOR EXCHANGE — One Taylor Smoke torpedo, one Mandelette, one minute Camera. Wanted — Butterfles. W. J. Holland's Moth Book. D. GOLDBERG, R. R. 3, Rockville, Connecticut. FOR EXCHANGE — I still have a lot of Bird and Oological Magazines to ex- change for Natural History specimens. DE LOS HATCH, Oakfleld, Wis. WANTED FOR CASH — "Bendire's Life Histories, Vol. 2", "Bent's Life His- tories." ROSWELL S. WHEELER, 166 Athol Ave., Oakland, Calif. WANTED — To correspond with par- ties in Southern States who could get me fresh skins suitable to mount of Dark Faced and Black Fox Squirrel. O. S. BIGGS, San Jose, 111. I am always willing to purchase "Bulletin of the Cooper Ornithological Club," Vol. 1. Complete or old num- bers. W. E. CHAMBERS, Eagle Rock. Calif. I have stones, gems and eggs from over the U. S. What have you to trade'; Give exact description. ROBERl HATCHES, Victor, Colo. FOR SALE — Live Opossums. Alsc fresh skins of Opossum, Fox and Graj Squirrels for mounting. Want severa volumes of the Condor. ALBERT LANO 1' ayetteville, Arkansas. WANTED — For cash or exchange, first class sets, with full data. Send list at once. D. B. Bull, Route A, Box 158, San Jose, California. FOR SALE OR EXCHANGE — The Museum, complete by Webb; Wild Wings, by Job; Names and Portraits of Birds, by Trumbell; Birds of Alaska, by Nelson; Birds of Connecticut, by Sage; Birds of Wyoming, by Knight; Birds of Colorado, 3 Parts, by Cooke; The Oologist, 35 Volumes; The Orni- thologist & Oologist, Vols. 7-18; Bird Lore, Vols. 17, 18, 19, 20; 50 Singles; American Ornithologist, Vols. 1-2. C. M. CASE, 306 Blue Hills Ave., Hartford, Connecticut. MAMMALS — I want A No. 1 scienti- fic skins of North American Weasels for which 1 will exchange skins of Mountain Beaver or other mammals or birds. I also want Ridgeway's "Birds of North and Middle America," parts I and II; also North American Fauna, Nos. 23, 25, 27 and 28, for which I will pay cash. Alex Walker, Blaine, Oregon. WANTED— Bird Lore, Vol. I, 3-4; II, 1; III, 1-2-3; VII, 1 ; X, 6 and index.Orni- thologist and Oologist Vol. VI and VII complete. Vol. XII, 10. The Warbler, 1st series complete. Wilson Bulletin com- plete file. H. H. JOHNSON, Pittsfleld, Maine. FOR EXCHANGE — About one hun- dred mounted birds each with full data; including Hawks, Owls, Eagles, Water Birds, etc. Also several finely mounted Deer heads. Want first cleuss bird skins only. Send your list and get mine. WHARTON HUBER, 225 St. Mark's Square, Philadelphia, Pa. FOR EXCHANGE — Full sets of the following: 12, 13a, 14, 15, 16, 20, 21, 25, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 31a, 32, 83, 81, 82, 82-1, 86, 86f, 86-1, 89, 90, 93, 101, 103, 104, 105, 105-1, 105-2, 106, 107, 108, 108-1, 114, 114-1, 115, 116-1, 116, 194a 1-4, 194f 1-4, 355 1-5, 357 1-4, 348 1-7, 364 3-3, 389, for sets of equal value or will sell. E. A. WHEELER, E. Randolph, N. Y. THE OOLOGISTS' RECORD A quarterly subscribed to by the lead- ing oologists of tlie world. Published 1st March, 1st June, 1st September and 1st December. Subscriiition $1.25 per annum. (All subscriptions run for the full calendar year). THE OOLOGISTS' EXCHANGE AND MART Issued as a supplement to the above for tlie purpose of promoting inter- ciiange amongst collectors direct. New subscribers are only admitted on the recommendation of an existing sub- scriber and no dealers are eligible. Most of tlae leading collectors in the U. S. A. subscribe. The O. E. and M. can only be taken by those who already subscribe to the Oologists' Record, the extra subscrip- tion for the fornaer being 60 cents per annum, i. e. $1.85 for the two papers. All communications about eitlier of above papers should be addressed to: KENNETH L. SKINNER UiVMikliuulN E.«itate Office, AVeybriilge, Eng:Ian^. THE WILSON BULLETIN A QUARTERLY JOURNAL, OF ORNITHOLOGY Paying particular attention to Field Studies of Birds in Middle North Auierlca. Now in its 28th year. 48 pages or more of readable matter rt'ith illustrations. Indispensable to all ictive field workers. One dollar per year, 30 cts per copy. Oflficial Organ of THE WILSON ORNITHOLOGICAL CLU? "Address A. F. GANIER, Secretary, 2507 Ashwood Avenue Nashville, Tennessee The oologist WANTED — Ornithological publica- tions; Bird Lore, Vol. I, 3-4 index; II, 1; III, 1-2-3; VII, 1; X, 6-index. Warb- ler, 1st series complete. Wilson Bulle- tin complete; Vols. Birds of Eastern North America, Maynard; Birds of On- tario, 2nd edition, Mcllwraith. For Ex- change or sale: Economic Value of Predaceous Birds etc., A. K. Fisher, 3 col. pi. by Fuertes, 1908. Fifty Com- mon Birds of Farm and Orchard, Hen- shaw, 50 col. vl. by Fuertes, 1913. Hawks and Owls from the Standpoint of the Farmer. A. K. Fisher, ill. 3 pi. by liidgway, 1895; Birds as Weed De- stroyers, Judd, ill. 1 pi. by Ridgway. 1898. H. H. Johnson, Pittsfleld, Maine. WANTED — A good pair, each of Black and Yellow Rails for which I will give good exchange. O. C. HAST- INGS, 207 Denver Ave., Bridgeport, Conn. WANTED — First Class sets from re- liable collectors. Especially sets con- taining Cowbird eggs. G. B. REGAR, 1000 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, Pa. ALL PERSONS having A-1 skins in pairs of any of the North American Jays send list. I will pay the highest price for those that I need. R. M. BARNES, Lacon, 111. THE 44 Blue-Bird" Is now published monthly, the year 'round, with new and inter- esting departments, features and contests, and At No Additional Cost to Subscribers Official Organ of the Cleveland Bird Lovers' Association. SEND 20 CTS. FOR SAMPLE COPY Annual Subscription, $2.00 AGENTS WANTED EVERYWHERE "THE BLUE-BIRD," 1010 Euclid Ave. CLEVELAND, OHIO 1921 CPKIXG is now here and the Collecting Season is now on. Let every reader on '\'The Oolo- gist" select some young man, who would be inter- ested, and send ns his name and we will be glad to forward him sample copies of "The Oologist." THE OOLOGIST The Oologist. BIRDS-NESTS-EGGS TAXIDERMY Vol. XXXVIII. No. 5. ALBION, N. Y., May 1,1921. Whole No. 409 THE 00L0GI8T BRIHF SPBCIAI. ANNOL I> CESMENTIi \V for eac