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BABY PATHFINDER TO THE BIRDS 
 
 ILLUSTRATED 
 
 A Pocket Guide to One Hundred and Ten Land Birds of New England 
 With Blank Pages for Notes 
 
 BY 
 
 HARRIET E. RICHARDS AND EMMA G. CUMMINGS 
 Members of American Ornithologists'* Union 
 
 W. A. BUTTERFIELD, PUBLISHER 
 
 59 Bromfield St., Boston, Mass. 
 
 1904 
 
Copyright, 1904 
 By EMMA G. CUMMINGS and HARRIET E. RICHARDS 
 
 
PREFACE 
 
 L'i \ 
 nnHIS little guide has been prepared primarily for New England, 
 
 but should be of service in New York, New Jersey and Penn- 
 sylvania. Birds of prey, game and water birds are not included. 
 The descriptions are based on the general appearance of adult birds 
 as seen in the field. The small size and blank pages for notes com- 
 mend the book for use out of doors, to be supplemented at home 
 with reference to more elaborate works. 
 
 Persons interpret bird songs differently. Therefore it is difficult to 
 put on paper the translation of a song for the use of another, but in 
 cases where it seems distinctive we have given it. Many birds 
 
 535 
 
have more than one song and more than one call note, and different 
 birds render them differently. 
 
 The American Ornithologists' Union check list number precedes the 
 scientific name. Use it instead of the index when consulting Chap- 
 man's Manual. When naming a new bird, locate it in its family; 
 then look for conspicuous points, wing bars, etc., and often by de- 
 ciding what it is not, you will follow down to the correct clue. If 
 it is an immature bird or a female, it will be more difficult to 
 identify. 
 
 Conspicuous markings are printed in italics. The measurements 
 given are approximate only. Remember that a song sparrow is 
 six inches long, about the size of an English sparrow, and that a 
 robin is ten inches long. 
 
CUCULIDAE 
 
 387. Coccyzus americanus 
 YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO. 12 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above olive-brown, color brightest 
 on wings ; upper half of bill black, lower half yellow. Below white ; 
 tail long, rounded ; outer feathers black, with big 
 white spots like thumb marks. 
 
 A slender, shy bird. These birds are closely re- 
 lated to the European cuckoo, which like our cow- 
 bird lays its eggs in the nests of other birds. Ar- 
 rives in Massachusetts about the middle of May. 
 Note. Somewhat resembling the syllables cue, cue, 
 cue, cue, keow, keoW) keow, also single coos. 
 Nest. In low shrubbery, loosely made. 
 Breeds. In southern New England. 
 
388. Coccyzus erythrophthalmus 
 BLACK-BILLED CUCKOO. 12 inches 
 
 Similar in appearance to the Yellow-billed Cuckoo, but distin- 
 guished from it by a red eye ring ; an all black bill ; uniform color 
 above and outer tail feathers tipped with white instead of the large 
 spots. 
 
 Both cuckoos feed on berries and insects, chiefly caterpillars. 
 Arrives in Massachusetts about the middle of May. 
 Note. Cue, cue, cue, kow, kow, kow, also coos in groups of twos, 
 threes or fours. 
 
 Nest. Better constructed than that of the preceding and in simi- 
 lar locations. 
 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 5 
 
ALCEDINJDAE 
 390. Ceryle alcyon 
 
 BELTED KINGFISHER. 
 Male. Above slate-blue ; wings and tail spot- 
 ted with white ; head large, nearly surrounded 
 by a white band ; long thin crest ; large black bill. 
 Below white ; bluish band across breast. Female. 
 Similar, but with chestnut markings on the breast. 
 Sits erect ; feeds on fish. Arrives in Massachu- 
 setts early in April. 
 
 Note. A loud, harsh rattle, given on the wing. 
 Nest. In a hole in a bank. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 6 
 
 13 inches 
 
PlCIDAE 
 
 WOODPECKERS 
 
 The Woodpeckers are usually seen climbing about 
 the trunks and branches of trees searching for their 
 insect food. Their tails are rigid and pointed at 
 the tip, making a support for the body while 
 they hammer the bark with their chisel-like bills. 
 They dig out holes in trees for their nests. Their 
 notes are loud and shrill. Their flight is undulat- 
 ing. 
 
 7 
 
393. Dryobates villosus 
 HAIRY WOODPECKER. 9 1-2 inches 
 
 Male. Above black and white spotted ; white down the middle 
 
 of the back ; also white above and below the eye and on outer 
 
 tail feathers ; red patch on back of the head. Below white. 
 
 Female. Similar, but without the red patch. 
 
 A bird fond of the deep woods. Resident in Massachusetts 
 
 through the year. 
 
 Note. Chink, like noise of a chisel in drilling. 
 
 Nest. In a hole in a tree. 
 
 Breeds. Throughout New England, sparingly in the southern 
 
 part. 
 
394<:. Dryobates pubescens medianus 
 
 DOWNY WOODPECKER. 6 inches 
 
 Male and Female. Same coloration as the Hairy Woodpecker. 
 The best distinction between the two is difference in size. The 
 Downy is more common about houses. Resident in Massachusetts 
 throughout the year. 
 
 Note. Chink, like the Hairy's, but not as loud. 
 
 Nest. In a hole in a tree. 
 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
402. Sphyrapicus varius 
 YELLOW-BELLIED SAPSUCKER. 8 1-2 inches 
 
 Male. Above black and yellowish ; crown red ; broad patch of 
 white on the wings. Below, throat red ; breast black ; belly yellow- 
 ish. Female. Similar, but throat white. 
 
 Feeds on insects and sap of trees. Their tapping is slower and 
 more irregular than the other woodpeckers. The rows of holes 
 around old apple trees are made by these birds. Spring and 
 autumn migrant in Massachusetts in April and October. 
 
 Note. Loud and squealing. 
 Nest. In a hole in a tree. 
 Breeds. In northern New England. 
 
 10 
 
406. Melanerpes erythrocephalus 
 RED-HEADED WOODPECKER. 9 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above, blue-black and white ; whole 
 head red. Below, throat and upper breast red ; belly white ; broad 
 patch of white on the wings. 
 Rare and local in Massachusetts. 
 
 Note. A rolling note, similar to a tree toad's ker-ruck. 
 
 Nest. In a hole in a tree. 
 
 Breeds. In New England, irregularly and locally. 
 
 11 
 
4120. Colaptes auratus luteus 
 NORTHERN FUCKER. 12 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above brown, barred with black ; red 
 patch on back of head ; rump white, conspicuous in flight. Below 
 lighter brown spotted with black ; broad black crescent across 
 breast ; yellow under the wings and tail. 
 
 Called Golden-winged Woodpecker, etc. Often seen on the ground 
 searching for ants, a favorite food. Common in Massachusetts 
 through the year. 
 
 Note. Wick, wick, wick, many times rapidly repeated. 
 
 Nest. In holes in trees. 
 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 12 
 
CAPRIMULGIDAE 
 417. Antrostomus vociferus 
 
 WHIP-POOR-WILL. 10 inches 
 
 Male. Above and below brown and yellow mottled; outer^tail 
 feathers white ; band across the throat white ; mouth large. 
 Female. Similar, but markings less distinct. (J J""^ 
 
 The mottled browns and yellows of its back are almost indistin- 
 guishable from the dry leaves of the wood path, where it often 
 builds its nest. It flies low after sunset in search of food, and 
 spends the day on the ground or perched lengthwise on a shaded 
 branch. Common in Massachusetts. Ar- 
 rives last week in April. 
 Note. Whip-poor-will, whip-poor-will, 
 rapid and continuous. 
 Nest. On the ground in the woods. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 13 
 
420. Chordeiles virginianus 
 
 NIQHTHAWK. 10 inches 
 
 Male. Above dark brown mottled; wings and tail with broad 
 white band. Below barred brown and buffy. A white band across 
 the throat ; wings longer than forked tail. Female. Similar, but 
 throat band yellow. \ 
 
 Perches lengthwise on a limb. Flight 
 high and circling, late in the afternoon and 
 in the evening in search of food. Common 
 in Massachusetts. Arrives second week in 
 May. 
 
 Note. Peent, uttered on the wing. 
 Nest. On a low flat rock in open fields, 
 also on gravel roofs of houses. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 14 
 
MlCROPODIDAE 
 
 423. Chaetura pelagica 
 CHIMNEY SWIFT. 5 1-2 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above dark brown. Below dusky, lighter 
 on the throat; tail short and spiny tipped; wings very long. 
 These birds are often confounded with the swallows. Food, insects 
 caught on the wing; flight fluttering. Common in Massachusetts. 
 Arrives the last week in April. 
 
 Note. A loud chip and twittering. 
 
 Nest. Usually in chimneys, made of twigs glued together with 
 the birds' saliva. 
 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 15 
 
TROCHILIDAE 
 428. Trochilus colubris 
 
 RUBY-THROATED HUMMING-BIRD. 3 1-2 inches 
 Male. Above metallic green. Below gray, ruby throat ; bill long 
 and needle shaped. Female. Less brilliant, without ruby on the 
 throat. 
 
 Food, honey and small insects found in trumpet-shaped flowers. A 
 buzzing made by the rapid motion of the wings reveals its 
 presence. This is the only hummer occurring east of the Rocky 
 Mountains. Common in Massachusetts. 
 Arrives about May 15. 
 Note. Sharp squeak. 
 Nest. On a branch covered with li- 
 chens, resembling a knot. 
 Breeds, Throughout New England. 
 
 16 
 
TYRANNIDAE 
 FLYCATCHERS 
 
 Birds of plain coloring, large heads, short legs and strong 
 
 individuality. They lack a true song, but each 
 
 species has a characteristic note. They may be 
 
 recognized in general by their habit of perching 
 
 in exposed situations to watch for insects. 
 
 They make a sudden dart into the air 
 
 and return to the same perch, repeating 
 
 the operation again and again. The 
 
 snap of the bill in flight is often heard ^ 
 
 as it closes upon its prey. 
 
 17 
 
444. Tyrannus tyrannus 
 
 KINGBIRD. 8 1-2 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above slate, a concealed patch of orange 
 on top of the head. Below grayish white ; tail with white band 
 across the tip. 
 
 Usually sit erect on fence or dead twig watching for food, which is 
 always caught on the wing ; sometimes they hover near the ground. 
 Very common in Massachusetts. Arrives the first week in May. 
 Note. A sharp dzee, repeated often and irregularly. 
 Nest. On a branch in a somewhat exposed situation. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 18 
 
452. Myiarchus crinitus 
 CRESTED FLYCATCHER. 9 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above brownish olive ; tail rusty ; head 
 
 crested. Below, throat and breast gray ; belly yellow. 
 
 Usually perch high in open deciduous woods ; a frequenter of 
 
 orchards. Not common in Massachusetts. Arrives the second 
 
 week in May. 
 
 Note. Loud whistle. 
 
 Nest. In a hole in a tree, generally with a piece of snake skin. 
 
 Breeds. Locally throughout New England. 
 
 19 
 
456. Sayornis phoebe 
 
 PHOEBE. ^7 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above olive-brown ; head large, some- 
 what crested ; indistinct white markings on wings. Below yellowish 
 white. 
 
 Seen about barnyards. Common in Massachusetts. Arrives the 
 last of March. 
 Note. A nasal phoe-bee. 
 
 Nest. On a beam under abridge or shed, made of grass and moss 
 cemented with mud. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 20 
 
459. Nuttallornis borealis 
 OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER. 8 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above olive-brown. Below, throat, 
 
 breast and belly yellowish white ; sides darker. 
 
 Perch high on a dead branch, preferably in coniferous growth. 
 
 Rare migrant in Massachusetts. Arrives last of May. 
 
 Note. Eh ! phoebe in a loud tone. 
 
 Nest. On rather a high branch, loosely made of twigs. 
 
 Breeds. In northern New*England and on Cape Cod. 
 
 21 
 
461. Contopus virens 
 WOOD PEWEE. 6 1-2 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above olive-brown ; two white wing bars. 
 Below, throat grayish white; breast much darker, shading to yellow 
 on the belly. 
 
 Not exclusively an inhabitant of the woods. Common in Massa- 
 chusetts. Arrives about May 20. 
 Note. Pee-a-wee, plaintive, slow and long drawn out. 
 Nest. In trees some distance from the ground, firmly built and 
 decorated with lichens. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
463. Empidonax flaviventris 
 YELLOW-BELLIED FLYCATCHER. 5 1-2 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above olive, eye ring and wing bars 
 white. Below light yellow. 
 
 Shy birds found in northern forests, perch rather low. Rare mi- 
 grant in Massachusetts. ' Arrives the last of May. 
 Note. " Killic " and "puee? 
 Nest. On the ground in soft or spongy growth. 
 Breeds. In northern New England. 
 
 23 
 
467. Empidonax minimus. 
 
 '.LEAST FLYCATCHER, s 1-2 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above dull olive ; eye ring and wing bars 
 white. Below grayish white. 
 
 Also called Chebec. The smallest of the flycatchers. Common 
 about houses and orchards, jerks its tail and throws its head back 
 while uttering its note, che-bec. Very common in Massachu- 
 setts. Arrives early in May. 
 
 Note. Che-bec ! che-bec ! incessantly, as many as sixty times a 
 minute. 
 
 Nest. In the fork of a branch, often in old orchards. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 24 
 
ALAUDIDAE 
 474. Otocoris alpestris 
 
 HORNED LARK. 7 1-2 inches 
 
 Male. Above brown mottled ; forehead yellow ; black barton 
 forepart of crown extended on either side into little tufts of feathers, 
 giving effect of horns ; tail black with white edgings. , Below 
 whitish ; throat yellow ; black patch on breast and under eye. 
 Female. Similar, but markings less distinct. 
 A near relative of the European skylark. In 
 flocks on the Massachusetts coast in autumn 
 and winter, usually on the ground, running and 
 walking among the dead grass and weeds, the 
 seeds of which are their principal food. 
 Note. A whistle. 
 Nest. On the ground. 
 Breeds. North of the United States. 
 
 25 
 
CORVIDAE 
 
 477. Cyanocitta cristata 
 
 BLUE JAY. 12 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above blue ; wings and 
 tail barred with black and tipped with white; head 
 crested. Below grayish white ; black collar around 
 the neck. 
 
 Direct, strong flight. Permanent resident in Massa- 
 chusetts. 
 
 Note. Jay, jay, arid other calls. 
 Nest. In the crotch af a limb. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 26 
 
488. Corvus americanus 
 AMERICAN CROW. 19 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above and below black with a bluish 
 
 tinge. 
 
 They are walkers. Live in flocks and roost in large colonies. 
 
 They nest in April and May. Food in winter, seeds and refuse, 
 
 near the coast, fish and waste. In summer, insects, field mice, grain 
 
 and refuse. Common and permanent resident in Massachusetts. 
 
 The Blue Jay and Crow are generally disliked, yet are birds of high 
 
 mental development. 
 
 Note. Caw. 
 
 Nest. In trees, pretty high up. 
 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 27 
 
ICTERIDAE 
 
 BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES, ETC. 
 
 An interesting group possessed of marked individuality. They are 
 closely related to the European starling, which was introduced into 
 New York City in 1890. 
 
 28 
 
494. Dolichonyx oryzivorus 
 
 BOBOLINK. 7 inches 
 
 Male. Above, head black ; back black and white ; rump white ; 
 wings and tail black ; yellow patch on back of neck. Below black. 
 Female. Above striped olive-brown like a sparrow ; two broad 
 dark stripes on the head. Below yellowish. 
 
 Flight labored. Locally common in Massachusetts. Arrives sec- 
 ond week in May. 
 
 Song. Joyous carol on the wing, ending in delicate harplike notes 
 Nest. On the ground in hayfields and meadows. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 29 
 
495. Molothrus atei 
 
 COWBIRD. 8 inches 
 
 Male. Above and below metallic black ; whole head rich brown. 
 Female. Above brownish gray, lighter below. 
 Is also called Cow Bunting. A walker, often seen in open pastures 
 following cattle to get insect food, hence its common name. Large 
 flocks frequently perch in the tree tops. Common in Massachu- 
 setts. Arrives the last week in March. 
 Note. A whistle and a few short, harsh notes. 
 Nest. None ; lays its eggs in the nests of other birds. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 30 
 
498. Agelaius phoeniceus. 
 RED-WINGED BLACKBIRD. 9 1-2 inches 
 
 Male. Above and below black ; scarlet patch edged with buff on 
 
 shoulder. Female. Above mottled brown and buff; shoulder 
 
 patch indistinct. Below heavily striped. Looks like an overgrown 
 
 sparrow. 
 
 Large flocks often seen in spring walking on the newly ploughed 
 
 land. Common in Massachusetts. Arrives in March. 
 
 Song. O-ka-lee. Call notes, a chuck and long whistle. 
 
 Nest. Among reeds or in a tussock or a bush, near water. 
 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 31 
 
501. Sturnella magna 
 MEADOW LARK. 10 1-2 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above brown and buff mottled; broad 
 dark stripes on the head ; outer tail feathers white. Below bright yel- 
 low; sides white, spotted with black ; black crescent on the breast. 
 Flight straight but heavy, hovering as it alights. Walks and is 
 much on the ground. Common in Massachu- 
 setts. Arrives about the middle of March. 
 Song. Liquid and plaintive. Also has chuck- 
 ling notes. 
 
 Nest. On the ground partially covered, in 
 hayfields or pastures. 
 
 Breeds. In southern New England, sparingly 
 north of Massachusetts. Often winters near the 
 coast. 
 
 32 
 
506. Icterus spurius 
 ORCHARD ORIOLE. 7 inches 
 
 Male. Above, head, wings, upper back and tail black ; lower back 
 
 and shoulders chestnut ; wing bars white. Below, throat black ; 
 
 breast and belly chestnut. Female. Above olive-green ; wings 
 
 darker, with white bars. Below, yellowish. 
 
 Frequents orchards as well as trees about houses. Not common in 
 
 Massachusetts. Arrives the last of May. 
 
 Song. Similar to the Purple Finch's. 
 
 Nest. Basket like, of grass, in fork of twigs in orchard. 
 
 Breeds. In southern New England. 
 
 33 
 
507. Icterus galbula 
 BALTIMORE ORIOLE. 8 inches 
 
 Male. Above, head, upper back, wings and middle of the tail 
 black ; wing bars white ; rump and outer tail feathers orange. Be- 
 low, throat black, the rest orange. Female. Above olive, wings 
 and tail brown ; wing bars white. Below yellowish. 
 Called Golden Robin, Hangnest, etc. A slender, graceful bird, 
 flight easy and direct. Common in Massachusetts. Arrives about 
 May 10. 
 
 Song. Clear whistled notes, loud and continuous, suggesting the 
 Robin and the Rose-breasted Grosbeak. 
 Nest. Hanging near the extremity of a limb. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 34 
 
509. Scolecophagus carolinus 
 
 RUSTY BLACKBIRD. 9 1-2 inches 
 
 Male. Above and below, uniform shining bluish black. Female. 
 Plain rusty black and of smaller size. Migrant in Massachusetts. 
 Arrives first of April. 
 
 Song. A confused whistle. Call note, a cluck. 
 Nest. In a bush or low evergreen, near water. 
 Breeds. In extreme northern New England. 
 
 35 
 
511. Quiscalus quiscula 
 CROW BLACKBIRD, CRACKLE. 13 inches 
 
 Male. Above and below iridescent tints of purple and bronze ; 
 long, rounded tail. Female. Much duller ; a browner and a 
 smaller bird. 
 
 Sub-species ; Bronzed and Purple Crackles, habits of the two identi- 
 cal. Bronzed has more metallic lustre than the Purple. They 
 walk, feed on grubs, caterpillars, army worms, etc. Notice their 
 flight; it is straight and direct, and the tail is used as a rudder. 
 Bronzed is more common in Massachusetts and northward. 
 Arrives in March. 
 Note. A creaking, grating call. 
 Nest. Usually in an evergreen in gardens. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 36 
 
FRINGILLIDAE 
 
 4 
 
 FINCHES, SPARROWS, ETC. 
 
 The Finches have stout blunt bills, are seed-eating birds and are for 
 the most part good singers. In autumn and winter often found in 
 flocks. 
 
 The mature males of the Grosbeaks and Finches are usually bright 
 colored. 
 
 The Sparrows, male and female, are more or less striped gray and 
 brown, and, as they stay much on the ground, their colors afford 
 them good protection. Their flight is short and labored. They are 
 difficult to identify and require patience. Note the general colora- 
 tion and the breast, whether streaked or plain. 
 
 37 
 
515. Pinicola enucleator leucura 
 
 PINE GROSBEAK. 9 inches 
 
 Male. Above and below crimson flecked with gray ; wings and 
 
 tail brown; wing bars white; bill short and thick. Female. 
 
 Above and below gray ; head and rump brownish green ; wings and 
 
 tail brown ; wing bars white. 
 
 They visit Massachusetts occasionally in winter, when they are 
 
 seen in flocks feeding on seeds, notably ash and sumach. The 
 
 young males resemble the females in appearance, so that in a flock 
 
 only a few birds may be brilliantly colored. 
 
 Note. Mellow whistle. 
 
 Nest. In conifers, not very high up. 
 
 Breeds. Chiefly north of New England. 
 
 38 
 
517. Carpodacus purpureus 
 
 PURPLE FINCH. 6 inches 
 
 Male. Above crimson, streaked with brown, brightest on rump : 
 bill thick and rounded ; tail notched. Below crimson, shading to 
 gray on the belly. Female and young males. Above and below 
 brown, streaked like sparrows. 
 
 May be recognized by a thick rounded bill and the fact of living 
 among high branches in contrast to sparrows nearer the ground. 
 Common in Massachusetts where a few winter. The migrants 
 arrive in March. 
 
 Song. Joyful, rich warble from the tree top, also on the wing. 
 Nest. Preferably in coniferous trees. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 39 
 
521. Loxia curvirostra minor 
 AMERICAN CROSSBILL. 6 inches 
 
 Male. Above and below red, brightest on rump; back flecked 
 
 with brownish gray; wings and tail brown; no wing bars; bill 
 
 crossed at tip. Female. Above and below olive-green flecked with 
 
 brown ; wings and tail brown. 
 
 They visit Massachusetts occasionally in winter, live in flocks and 
 
 feed on the seeds of cones. Their presence here, as is that of 
 
 the White-winged Crossbill, is dependent upon 
 
 the scanty supply of cones at the north. 
 
 Note. Chirp or whistle as they work and as 
 
 they fly. 
 
 Nest. In conifers, of twigs and bark. 
 
 Breeds. Northern New England. 
 
 40 
 
522. Loxia leucoptera 
 WHITE-WINGED CROSSBILL. 6 inches 
 
 Male. Above and below crimson, brightest on rump ; wings black 
 with two broad white bands ; tail black ; bill crossed at tips. 
 Female. Above dull olive ; rump olive-green ; wings and tail as 
 in male. Below grayish olive, mottled. 
 
 They visit Massachusetts occasionally in winter. Habits resemble 
 those of the American Crossbill. 
 
 Note. A chirp very similar to that of the American Crossbill. 
 Nest. In trees, well made of bark and sticks. 
 Breeds. Chiefly north of New England. 
 
 41 
 
528. Acanthis linaria 
 
 REDPOLL. 5 1-2 inches 
 
 Male. Above brown, much streaked ; crown red ; bill sharply 
 pointed; tail forked. Below gray, with pink tinge ; brown spot on 
 the throat. Female. Similar, no bright color except on the head. 
 They visit Massachusetts occasionally in winter, keeping in flocks 
 and feeding principally on weed and birch seeds. 
 Note. Mellow call note like that of the Goldfinch and Siskin. 
 Nest. Not far from ground. 
 Breeds. Far north. 
 
 42 
 
529. Astragalinus tristis 
 AMERICAN GOLDFINCH. 5 inches 
 
 Male. Above bright yellow crown, wings and tail black ; wing 
 bars and spots on tail white. Below yellow. Female. Above 
 brownish olive ; wings and tail brown ; wing bars and spots on tail 
 white ; no black cap. Below yellowish. Winter plumage of the 
 males is like the females, excepting the wings and tail, which are 
 black. 
 
 Usually in flocks except at nesting time. Flight undulating, often 
 singing as they go. Common and permanent resident in Massa- 
 chusetts. 
 
 Song, Canary-like, also a sweet call note pe-e-e. 
 Nest. In a bush or tree. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 43 
 
533. Spinus pinus 
 PINE SISKIN. 5 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above olive-brown, fstreaked like a 
 sparrow ; bill sharply pointed ; yellow tints on wings and tail ; wing 
 bars yellow. Below lighter, streaked with brown. 
 Distinguished from sparrows by yellowish tints and habit of eating 
 seeds of cones. Flight undulating. Like the Crossbill, Pine Gros- 
 beak and Redpoll is an irregular winter visitor in Massachusetts. 
 
 Note. Resembles that of the Goldfinch and Redpoll. 
 Nest. In trees, of bark and weeds. 
 Breeds. Northern New England. 
 
 44 
 
534. Passerina nivalis 
 SNOW BUNTING. 7 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Winter plumage, above yellowish 
 
 brown, streaked with black and white ; wings white tipped with 
 
 black ; outer tail feathers white, inner ones black. Below white, 
 
 with a yellowish brown collar. In summer the plumage is mostly 
 
 white. Also called Snowflake. 
 
 In winter large flocks visit Massachusetts, particularly the seacoast. 
 
 They are running, seed-eating birds, often associating with Shore 
 
 Larks. 
 
 Note. A clear whistle. 
 
 Nest. On ground, of grasses. 
 
 Breeds. Far north. 
 
 45 
 
540. Pooecetes gramineus 
 VESPER SPARROW. 6 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above light and dark brown, heavily 
 streaked ; chestnut or bay spot on shoulder ; outer tail feathers 
 white. Below dusky white streaked with brown. 
 Usual haunts, roadsides and fields. Common in Massachusetts. 
 Arrives the first week in April. 
 
 Song. Similar to Song Sparrow, but more plaintive. 
 Nest. On the ground in pastures and fields. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 46 
 
541. Passerculus princeps 
 IPSWICH SPARROW. 6 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above fawn, streaked with brown. Be- 
 low white, streaked with brown ; indistinct patch on breast. Nearly 
 as large as the White-crowned and White-throated. Lightest colored 
 of the sparrows, color blending with the beach grass which it fre- 
 quents. 
 
 A difficult bird to approach and to identify. Visits Atlantic sea- 
 coasts in winter. 
 
 Song. Much like the Savanna Sparrow's. 
 Nest. In a little cavity in the ground, made of mosses. 
 Breeds. On Sable Island, its only known breeding ground. 
 
 47 
 
542. Passerculus sandwichensis savanna 
 
 SAVANNA SPARROW. 5 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above brownish striped ; line*pvet >Jke 
 eye yellow. Below white, much streaked with brown. c_,~.; 
 Familiar haunts, meadows and salt marshes, running in the giass 
 or keeping near the ground. Locally common in Massachusetts. 
 Arrives the middle of April. 
 
 Song. Low and sweet, ending in a trill, rather insignificant. 
 Nest. On the ground in marshes and wet fields. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 48 
 
546. Coturniculus savannarum passerinus 
 
 GRASSHOPPER SPARROW. 5 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above dark brown mottled ; bend of 
 wing yellow ; line over the eye and on head yellow ; tail feathers 
 about equal length, pointed. Below grayish white, not streaked. 
 Called Yellow- winged Sparrow. One of the smallest of the family. 
 Does not fly until almost stepped upon and easily passed by on ac- 
 count of its insect-like note. Frequents waste fields. Locally com- 
 mon in Massachusetts. Arrives the middle of May. 
 
 Song. A thin grasshopper-like note. 
 
 Nest. On the ground well under the dry grass in old fields. 
 
 Breeds. In southern New England. 
 
 49 
 
549. Ammodramus caudacutus 
 ;SHARP-TAILED SPARROW, s 1.2 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above grayish brown ; wings and tail 
 reddish brown, below the eye a patch of gray surrounded by yel- 
 low ; tail narrow, feathers sharply pointed. Below buff y, conspicu 
 ously streaked with brown. 
 
 One of the darkest colored of the sparrows. A birdj of the'salt- 
 water marshes. Arrives in Massachusetts in May. 
 Song. A low twitter. 
 
 Nest. On the ground, hid in grass just above tide water. 
 Breeds. Along the marshy coast of New England. 
 
 50 
 
554. Zonotrichia leucophrys 
 WHITE-CROWNED SPARROW. 6 1-2 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above, crown conspicuously striped black 
 and white ; neck gray ; back gray and brown streaked ; wing bars 
 white. Below light gray not streaked. Resembles the White- 
 throated, but has no yellow on head or wings. 
 A rare migrant in Massachusetts. Arrives the middle of May. 
 Song. A clear, sweet whistle, suggesting the White-throated 
 Sparrow's. 
 
 Nest. In a low bush or on the ground. 
 Breeds. North of New England. 
 
 51 
 
558. Zonotrichia albicollis 
 WHITE-THROATED SPARROW, Peabody Bird. 6 1-2 in. 
 
 Male. Above, head black and white striped ; line in front of the 
 
 eye and bend of wing yellow; back reddish brown striped with black ; 
 
 wing bars white. Below grayish ; throat white. Female. Similar, 
 
 markings less distinct. 
 
 A large, handsome sparrow. A few winter in Massachusetts. 
 
 Common migrant spring and autumn. Arrives the last week in 
 
 April. 
 
 Song. Clear, plaintive whistle of five to eleven notes, the first 
 two the longest, "pea, pea, peabody , peabody, peabody" 
 Nest. Chiefly on the ground, in woodlands and bushy places. 
 Breeds. In northern New England. 
 
 52 
 
559. Spizella monticola 
 TREE SPARROW. 6 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above, crown chestnut; back brown 
 streaked with black and buff ; two white wing bars. Below light 
 gray to white ; faint spot on the breast. 
 
 Called Winter Chippy, but is larger than Chipping Sparrow ; often 
 in flocks in old weedy fields. Common winter resident in Massa- 
 chusetts. 
 
 Song. Sweet. 
 
 Nest. Near the ground, of grasses. 
 
 Breeds. Far north. 
 
 53 
 
560. Spizella socialis 
 CHIPPING SPARROW. 5 1-2 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above, crown chestnut ; back streaked 
 brown and buff ; rump gray; wing bars faint ; bill black. Below 
 grayish white, not streaked. 
 
 A sociable, familiar bird about houses. Common in Massachu- 
 setts. Arrives about the middle of April. 
 
 Song. A dry, strong trill on one note. 
 
 Nest. In vines, bush or tree lined with hair, near houses. 
 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 54 
 
563. Spizella pusilla 
 
 FIELD SPARROW. 5 1=2 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above, crown chestnut; back rusty red 
 streaked with black; wing bars faint; bill light. Below white 
 tinged with buff, not streaked. 
 
 Might be mistaken for Chippy. Look for light bill and reddish 
 back ; notice haunt and song, and you will not mistake them. 
 Usually in old fields and scrub pastures. Arrives in Massachu- 
 setts about April 15. 
 
 Song. A very sweet, bell-like trill preceded by a few slow-whistled 
 notes. 
 
 Nest. In low bush or on the ground in scrubby pastures. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England, sparingly in the northern 
 part. 
 
 55 
 

567. Junco hyemalis 
 JUNCO, SNOWBIRD. 6 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above uniform slate color ; bill horn 
 color ; outer tail feathers white, conspicuous in flight. Below breast 
 slate, sharply divided from white belly. 
 A winter resident in Massachusetts. 
 
 Song. A trill, much like the Pine Warbler's. Call note, a metallic 
 
 chip. 
 
 Nest. On the ground, usually in the open. 
 
 Breeds. In northern New England.^ 
 
 56 
 
581. Melospiza cinerea melodia 
 
 SONG SPARROW. 6 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above, top of head striped gray and 
 reddish brown; back heavily striped gray and brown; tail long 
 and thin. Below white, heavily streaked with brown ; 
 a spot on centre of breast. 
 
 A bird of the bushy pasture and roadside, usually 
 near water ; a very constant singer. W inters sparingly 
 in Massachusetts. Common after middle of March. 
 Song. Two or three clear, sweet notes followed by 
 a descending trill. 
 
 Nest. On or near the ground by roadsides, in pas- 
 tures or meadows. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 57 
 
5S4. Melospiza georgiana 
 SWAMP SPARROW. 6 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above crown chestnut ; back striped 
 browns and black ; upper part of wings chestnut. Below, throat 
 white ; breast gray faintly streaked with brown. 
 May be recognized by its chestnut head, wings and tail. A bird of 
 swampy thickets. Common in Massachusetts in bushy marshes. 
 Arrives early in April. 
 
 Song. A trill resembling that of the Chipping Sparrow, but 
 slower and more musical. 
 
 Nest. On the ground in a tussock, in meadow or bushy swamp. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 58 
 
585. Passerella iliaca 
 
 FOX SPARROW. 7 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above chestnut and gray striped, bright- 
 est on rump and tail. Below white streaked with chestnut. 
 The largest and reddest of the sparrows ; often flock with other 
 sparrows. They live mostly on the ground and scratch among the 
 dead leaves for food. A common spring and autumn migrant in 
 Massachusetts. Arrives last of March. 
 
 Song. One of the most beautiful of sparrow songs, rich, full and 
 
 sweet. 
 
 Nest. Near the ground. 
 
 Breeds. Far north. 
 
 59 
 
587. ^Pipilo erythrophthalmus 
 
 ^OWHEE, CHEWINK. 8 inches 
 
 Male. Above black, outer tail feathers tipped with white. Below, 
 throat and breast black ; belly white ; sides chestnut. Female. 
 Brownish where male is black. 
 
 A bird of swampy thickets, much on the ground scratching and 
 rustling among the leaves, frequently calling chewink; mounts a tree 
 to deliver its song. Common in Massachusetts. Arrives in latter 
 part of April. 
 
 Song. " Tee-hoo, pill-ill-ill-ill-ill." *\Y 
 Nest. On the ground in scrubby woodlands. 
 Breeds. In southern New England. 
 
 60 
 
595. Zamelodia ludoviciana 
 ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK. 8 inches 
 
 Male. Above, head and back black ; horn color bill thick and stout; 
 
 rump, spots on the wings and on outer tail feathers white. Below, 
 
 throat black; breast and under the wings rose color; belly white 
 
 Female. Above brownish. Below streaked; yellow under wings, 
 
 no rose color. Common in Massachusetts. Arrives about May 20. 
 
 Song. A loud warble, suggesting the Robin 
 
 and the Oriole, preceded by a sharp chip. 
 
 Nest. Of twigs and rootlets in a bush or 
 
 low tree. 
 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 61 
 
598. Cyanospiza cyanea"S5 
 
 INDIGO BIRD. 5 1-2 inches 
 
 Male. Above and below rich indigo blue ; wings and tail brown- 
 ish. Female. Above olive-brown. Below, breast dingy white, 
 slightly streaked. 
 
 Also called Indigo Bunting. A dainty bird of the roadside, fields 
 and orchards. Common in Massachusetts. Arrives about the 
 middle of May. 
 
 Song. " Che-ree' , che-ree* \ che-ree' , che-ree 1 , che-rah' , rah-rup 1 ." 
 Call note, a metallic " cheep" 
 Nest. Well hidden in a low bush. 
 Breeds. Throughout New -England. 
 
TANAGRIDAE 
 
 608. Piranga erythromelas 
 SCARLET TANAQER. 7 inches 
 
 Male. Above and below scarlet ; wings and tail black. Female. 
 Above and below olive-green ; wings and tail brownish. 
 Frequents open deciduous woods. Common in Massachusetts. 
 Arrives about May 15. 
 
 Song. Loud, cheery carol, suggesting a hoarse Robin. Call 
 note, " chip-churr" 
 
 Nest. Near the end of the lower branches, loosely built. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 63 
 
* I (HlRUNDINIDAE 
 
 SWALLOWS 
 
 The Swallows are known the world over. They have a wide 
 mouth ; long, strong wings ; tail more or less forked ; feet small 
 and weak ; plumage lustrous with metallic shadings. 
 Flight circling. They feed on insects caught in the air. Perch 
 often on telegraph wires, seldom alight on the ground. Nest and 
 migrate in flocks. 
 
611. Progne subis 
 PURPLE MARTIN. 7 inches 
 
 Male. Above and below lustrous blue-black; very long wings 
 
 and forked tail. Female. Above dull black. Below grayish brown. 
 
 Feeds on insects. Locally distributed in Massachusetts. Arrives 
 
 about May 1. 
 
 Note. Usually like " peuo, peuo,peiio" 
 
 Nest. In boxes put up by man for 
 
 their use. 
 
 Breeds. Locally throughout New Eng- 
 land. 
 
 65 
 
612. Petrochelidon lunifrons 
 
 HAVE SWALLOW. 5 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above steel-blue; rump chestnut'; 
 forehead whitish ; chestnut collar all around the neck. Below, throat 
 dark chestnut, with a steel-blue spot ; breast light brown ; tail 
 square. 
 
 Also called 'Cliff Swallow. This species alights on the ground 
 about muddy places for nesting material. Arrives in Massachu- 
 setts about May 1. 
 
 Note. A twittering. 
 
 Nest. Bottle-shaped, of mud, under eaves of buildings. 
 
 Breeds. Locally throughout New England. 
 
 66 
 
613. Hirundo erythrogastra 
 
 BARN SWALLOW. 7 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above steel-blue ; forehead chestnut. 
 Below, throat chestnut ; belly buff y ; long wings ; tail deeply forked, 
 with white spots. 
 
 These beautiful skimmers of the 
 farmyard and pastures are the 
 most familiar of the family. Ar- 
 rives in Massachusetts about last 
 of April. 
 
 Song. " A low chattering trill." 
 Nests. Of mud, on rafters of old 
 buildings. 
 
 Breeds. Throughout New Eng- 
 land. 
 
 67 
 
614. Iridoprocne bicolor 
 TREE SWALLOW. 6 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above metallic green. Below clear 
 
 white ; tail slightly forked. 
 
 Also called White-bellied Swallow. Ar- 
 
 rives in Massachusetts the first week 
 
 in April. 
 
 Note. A twittering. 
 
 Nest. In holes in trees or in bird boxes. 
 
 Breeds. Locally throughout] New 
 
 England. 
 
 68 
 

616. Riparia riparia 
 
 BANK SWALLOW. 5 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above brown. Below white, with a 
 
 brown band across the breast ; tail forked. 
 
 The smallest of the swallows. Breeds in colonies. Arrives in 
 
 Massachusetts about May 1. 
 
 Note. A twittering. 
 
 Nest. In a hole in a sand bank. 
 
 Breeds. Locally throughout New England. 
 
 69 
 
AMPELIDAE 
 619. Ampelis cedrorum 
 
 CEDAR BIRD. 7 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above brownish ; smooth plumage ; head 
 crested ; forehead and eye line black ; red spots like sealing wax on 
 wings ; tail tipped with yellow. Below olive-brown, shading to yel- 
 low on belly. 
 
 Also called Cedar Waxwing. 
 
 Dignified, affectionate birds, often seen in flocks in 
 thickets of cedar and sumachs feeding on the berries. 
 Winters sparingly in Massachusetts. A common sum- 
 mer resident. 
 
 Calls. A few lisping notes. Also a " hushed whis- 
 tle." 
 
 Nest. In tree, a deep cup built late in the season. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 70 
 
LANIIDAE 
 
 621. Lanius borealis 
 NORTHERN SHRIKE, BUTCHER BIRD. 10 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above gray ; black bar on side of head 
 
 and through eye; wings and tail black, spotted with white ; black 
 
 hawk-like bill. Below light gray with wavy lines. 
 
 A bird having the characteristics of a hawk ; 
 
 swift, strong flight ; feeds on mice and young 
 
 birds ; is usually alone or in pairs. Winter 
 
 visitor in Massachusetts. 
 
 Song. A rich continuous warble, heard 
 
 in early spring. 
 
 Nest. Near the grojind, of grasses. 
 
 Breeds. Far north. 
 
 71 
 
VlREONIDAE 
 
 VIREOS 
 
 The Vireos are small insect-eating birds, yet 
 larger than the warblers, with slender beaks and 
 greenish gray plumage. They frequent the outer 
 branches of deciduous trees, yet keep well hid- 
 den among the leaves, singing as they work. 
 Some of the species are good singers, all have 
 a petulant call note like the word min-u-eet' . 
 They build a neat cup-shaped nest, hung from 
 a crotch in a twig. 
 
 72 
 
624. Vireo olivaceus 
 RED-EYED VIREO. 6 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above olive-brown ; a black line above a 
 white line over the bright red eye ; no wing bars. Below white. 
 A bird of roadsides and the open woods. Feeds on insects, largely 
 caterpillars. Common in Massachusetts. Arrives about May 12. 
 Song. Loud and clear, delivered in conversational style all day 
 and all summer long ; might be described as a query of three syl- 
 lables in rising inflection, are you there ? then in falling inflec- 
 tion the answer, we are here. 
 
 Nest. At the fork of a branch, a dainty hanging cup. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 73 
 
627. Vireo gilvus 
 WARBLING VIREO. 5 1-2 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above olive-brown ; no wing bars. Be- 
 ow dull white, tinged with yellow on sides. 
 
 Frequents tall trees of the village and roadside, also in open wood- 
 lands ; prefers the upper branches and is a constant singer. Com- 
 mon in Massachusetts. Arrives about May 5. 
 Song. A rich, mellow warble, suggesting the Purple Finch's. 
 Nest. A tiny hanging cup on a forked branch high up in a tree. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England, more common in southern 
 part. 
 
 74 
 
628. Vireo flavifrons 
 YELLOW-THROATED VIREO. 6 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above olive-green ; rump gray ; wing 
 
 bars white. Below, throat and breast yellow ; belly white. 
 
 A bird of the open woods and orchards, a persistent destroyer of 
 
 caterpillars' nests. Common in Massachusetts. Arrives about 
 
 May 5. 
 
 Song. Sweet and rich in quality, in form much like the Red-eyed 
 
 Vireo's, but slower and lower in pitch. 
 
 Nest. A little cup decorated with lichens, hanging at the fork of 
 
 a branch, not very high up, often in orchards. 
 
 Breeds. In southern New England. 
 
 75 
 
629. Vireo solitarius 
 BLUE-HEADED VIREO. 5 1-2 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above olive-green ; head bluish gray ; 
 eye ring and line to bill white ; wing bars white. Below white ; 
 greenish yellow on sides. 
 
 A confiding bird of the woods ; also called the Solitary Vireo 
 Arrives in Massachusetts about April 25. 
 
 Song. Resembling Red-eyed Vireo's, but richer and sweeter. 
 Nest. A pretty cup hanging from a forked branch low down. 
 Breeds. In northern New England. 
 
 76 
 
631. Vireo noveboracensis 
 WHITE-EYED VIREO. 5 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above olive-green ; eye ring white ; wing 
 bars white. Below white, shading to yellow on sides. 
 A bird of the low growths. Locally common in southern New 
 England. Arrives about May 10. 
 
 Song. Short and emphatic " chip-a-weeo" 
 
 Nest. A hanging cup from the forked branch of a low tree or 
 
 bush. 
 
 Breeds. In eastern Massachusetts and southward. 
 
 77 
 
MNIOTILTIDAE 
 WARBLERS 
 
 The Warblers are small, active, insect-eating birds. Their songs are 
 generally sharp and wiry, lacking form and rhythm. The species 
 that live in the trees do not sing as well as those that live on or 
 near the ground. They are more brilliantly colored and generally 
 have dark legs and bills. They feed among the thick foliage, 
 often near the tree tops. The females are 
 much duller colored, frequently lacking 
 the bright conspicuous marks of the male, 
 and so are puzzling birds to identify. The 
 species that live near the ground have 
 white or pink legs and bills. 
 
 78 
 
636. Mniotilta varia 
 BLACK AND WHITE WARBLER. 5i-2inches 
 
 Male and Female similar. Above and below black and white 
 streaked; bill and feet black ; wing bars white ; outer tail feathers 
 spotted with white. 
 
 Also known as the Black and White Creeper. A bird of the wood- 
 lands, seldom perching, most of the time creeping over the trunks 
 and branches of trees, searching for insects. Coloring suggests 
 Blackpoll Warbler. Common in Massachusetts. Arrives about 
 May 1. 
 
 Song. "Scis-sors, scis-sors, scis-sors" 
 Nest. On the ground, usually near the stump of a tree. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 79 
 
642. Helminthophila chrysoptera 
 GOLDEN- WINGED WARBLER. 5 inches 
 
 Male. Above blue-gray ; crown and patch on wings bright yellow. 
 Below white ; a patch of black on throat and through eye ; outer 
 tail feathers with white spots. Female. Similar, without the 
 black. 
 
 A bird of swampy woodlands. Summer resident in eastern Massa- 
 chusetts. Arrives about May 10. 
 
 Song. Quality of tone like the Black-throated Green Warbler's 
 song. 
 
 Nest. On the ground. 
 
 Breeds. In southern New England. 
 
 80 
 
645. Helminthophila rubricapilla 
 
 NASHVILLE WARBLER, s inches 
 
 Male and Female similar. Above olive-green ; head gray with 
 chestnut spot on crown ; no wing bars ; no white spots on tail. 
 Below yellow. 
 
 A bird of the scrub and lower growths. Coloring suggests the 
 Pine Warbler. Uncommon summer resident in Massachusetts. Ar- 
 rives about May 5. 
 
 Song. Resembling that of the Yellow Warbler and the Chestnut- 
 sided, but ending in a loud trill which makes it distinctive. 
 Nest. On or near the ground. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 81 
 
648. Compsothlypis americana usneae 
 NORTHERN PARULA WARBLER. 4 1-2 inches 
 Male. Above gray-blue ; yellowish patch on back ; wing bars and tail 
 spots white. Below, throat and breast yellow, with dark band 
 across breast ; belly white. Female. Similar, colors duller, often 
 without dark band on breast. 
 
 Also called Blue Yellow-backed. It frequents the tops of the trees, 
 but during migrations is often found in orchards and park shrubbery. 
 Arrives in Massachusetts about May 12. 
 
 Song. Starts with a buzz and ends in a husky warble like p-r-i-t 
 with a strong accent. 
 
 Nest. Suspended from a branch in orchards or on edges of woods, 
 made of usnea moss. 
 Breeds. In New England in localities where there is usnea moss. 
 
 82 
 
652. Dendroica aestiva 
 YELLOW WARBLER. 5 inches 
 
 Male. Above yellow. Below bright yellow, with streaks of 
 chestnut on the breast. Female. Similar, but no chestnut streaks 
 on breast. 
 
 Suggests a Canary, but has a small dark bill. Commonest of the 
 warblers, known as Summer Yellowbird. Arrives in Massachusetts 
 about May 1. 
 
 Song. Loud, nervous and continuous sweet, sweet, sweet-ee' . 
 Nest. In a shrub, closely built of plant down and grasses. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England, local in the northern part. 
 
 83 
 
654. Dendroica caerulescens 
 BLACK-THROATED BLUE WARBLER. 5 inches 
 
 Male. Above dark grayish blue; white patch on wings and white 
 spots on tail. Below, throat and sides black ; breast white. Female. 
 Above dark olive. Below yellowish white ; wing patch white. 
 A bird of the woods. Migrant in Massachusetts. Arrives about 
 May 10. 
 
 Song. Zee, zee, zee, loudly and slowly on an upward scale. 
 Nest. In bushes near the ground in dense woods. In elevated 
 portions of southern New England it nests in mountain laurel. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England, very sparingly in the south- 
 ern part, and only where there is mountain laurel. 
 
 84 
 
655. Dendroica coronata 
 
 MYRTLE WARBLER, s 1-2 inches 
 
 Male. Above gray-blue streaked with black ; wing bars and tail 
 spots white ; crown patch, rtimp and sides of breast yellow. Below, 
 throat white ; breast streaked with black. Female. Similar, but 
 with indistinct brownish coloring. 
 
 Also called Yellow-rumped Warbler. Food, insects and berries, 
 especially bayberries. A bird of the scrub pastures and roadsides, 
 often in flocks. Abundant migrant in Massachusetts; sometimes 
 winters near the coast. Arrives about April 20. 
 
 Song. Chewy, chewy, chewy, repeated on the same note. 
 Nest. In conifers, not far from the ground. 
 Breeds. In northern New England. 
 
 85 
 
657. Dendroica maculosa 
 MAQNOLIA WARBLER. 5 inches 
 
 Male. Above black ; crown blue-gray; yellow rump ; white wing 
 patch ; tail black at end, with white band across middle. Below 
 yellow, heavily streaked vt\fa black on the breast. Female. Simi- 
 lar, but colors duller. 
 
 This bird is also called the Black and Yellow Warbler. It is often 
 seen on the lower branches of evergreens, searching for insects. 
 Migrant in Massachusetts. Arrives about the middle of May. 
 
 Song. A few clear notes. 
 
 Nest. In conifers, not far from the ground. 
 
 Breeds. In northern New England. 
 
 86 
 

659. Dendroica pensylvanica 
 CHESTNUT-SIDED WARBLER, s inches 
 
 Male. Above black and gray, streaked ; crown yellow ; black line 
 over eye ; white patch under eye ; wing bars and tail spots white. 
 Below white ; sides chestnut. Female. Similar, but colors duller. 
 A bird of the scrub and swampy open woodlands. Common in 
 Massachusetts. Arrives about May 5. 
 
 Song. Five or six musical notes, suggesting the Yellow Warbler 
 
 Nest. In low, dry scrub. 
 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 87 
 

660. Dendroica castanea 
 BAY-BREASTED WARBLER. 5 1-2 inches 
 
 Male. Above brown, streaked with black ; crown chestnut; fore- 
 head and sides of head black ; wing bars and tail spots white. 
 Below, throat, breast and sides chestnut; belly pale yellow. Female. 
 Similar, but colors duller. 
 
 A rare migrant in Massachusetts. Arrives about the middle of 
 May. 
 
 Song. A fine, hurried z-e-e. 
 
 Nest. In conifers. 
 
 Breeds. In northern New England. 
 
 88 
 
661. Dendroica striata 
 BLACKPOLL WARBLER. 5 1-2 inches 
 
 Male. Above black and white, streaked ; crown black; white patch 
 
 under the eye ; wing bars and tail spots white. Below white, 
 
 streaked with black on sides. Female. Similar, with yellowish 
 
 tinge. 
 
 A bird of the woods and tall trees. Suggests the Black and White 
 
 Creeper. A common migrant in Massachusetts. Arrives about 
 
 the middle of May. 
 
 Song. Similar to the Black and White Creeper's, but faster and 
 in higher key. 
 Nest. In conifers. 
 
 Breeds. In northern New England, on high mountains. 
 
 89 
 
?, ,fl3J*- 
 
662. Dendroica blackburniae 
 BLACKBURNIAN WARBLER, s inches 
 
 Male. Above black streakeS with white ; head striped orange and 
 
 black ; black line under and through eye; wing patch and tail spots 
 
 white. Below, throat orange; sides yellow streaked with black. 
 
 Female. Similar, but much duller colors. 
 
 A bird of the high open woods, usually in conifers. Sings from 
 
 the tree tops. Migrant in Massachusetts. Arrives about May 10. 
 
 Song. Rather long, ending high and wiry. 
 
 Nest. In conifers. 
 
 Breeds. In northern New England. 
 
 90 
 
667. Dendroica virens 
 BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLER. 5 inches 
 
 Male. Above olive-green ; sides of head yellow ; wing bars and 
 tail spots white. Below, throat and breast black ; belly white. 
 Female. Similar, but colors duller ; no black on the throat. 
 Common in Massachusetts in pine woods. Arrives about May 1. 
 Song. " Trees, trees, murmuring trees" given rapidly. 
 Nest. In an evergreen tree in the woods. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 91 
 
671. Dendroica vigorsii 
 
 PINE WARBLER. 5 1-2 inches 
 
 Male. Above olive-green ; wing bars and tail spots white. Below 
 yellow. Female. Similar, but colors duller. 
 
 Resembles the Nashville; look for white markings on Pine War- 
 bler. Common in Massachusetts, in pitch pine woods. Arrives 
 about April 10. 
 
 Song. A loud trill suggesting the Chipping Sparrow, but it has 
 a richer quality. 
 
 Nest. Usually near the end of a pine tree branch. 
 Breeds. In southern New England. 
 
 92 
 

Dendroica palmarum hypochrysea 
 YELLOW PALM WARBLER. 5 1-2 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above olive, brighter on rump ; yellow 
 
 line over eye; crown chestnut; no wing bars; tail spots white. 
 
 Below yellow, streaked with chestnut on the sides. 
 
 More like a sparrow than a warbler in its habit of frequenting fields 
 
 and open places, much on the ground, flirts its tail. Migrant in 
 
 Massachusetts. Arrives about the middle of April. 
 
 Song. A thin, light trill on one note. 
 
 Nest. On the ground. 
 
 Breeds. Sparingly in eastern Maine, but chiefly north of New 
 
 England. 
 
 93 
 
673. Dendroica discolor 
 PRAIRIE WARBLER. 4 1-2 inches 
 
 Male. Above olive-green ; chestnut markings on back; yellow 
 line over eye ; wing bars yellow ; tail spots white. Below 
 yellow, sides streaked with black. Female. Similar, but often 
 lacks the chestnut markings on the back. 
 
 A bird of the scrub oaks and old pastures. Common in Massachu- 
 setts near the coast. Arrives about May 10. 
 Song. Zee, zee, zee, zee, on an ascending scale. 
 Nest. In pastures or scrub not far from the ground, made of 
 grass and roots. 
 
 Breeds. In southern New England, rarely north of Massachu- 
 setts. / 
 
 94 
 
674, Seiurus aurocapillus 
 
 OVENB1RD. 6 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above olive-brown ; crown striped orange 
 and black. Below white, streaked with brown. No wing bars nor 
 tail spots. 
 
 Known also as the Golden-crowned Thrush. A little old-fashioned 
 bird usually found in scrubby woodlands, walking on the ground 
 or on a tree branch, constantly flirting its tail. Common in Massa- 
 chusetts. Arrives about May 1. 
 
 Song. " Teacher, teacher, teacher, teacher, TEACHER." 
 Nest. On the ground, often roofed over, in the woods. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 95 
 
675. Seiurus noveboracensis 
 
 WATER THRUSH. 6 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above olive brown ; no wing bars nor 
 
 tail spots. Below dull white, streaked with brown. 
 
 Known also as the Water Wagtail and Northern Thrush. A 
 
 bird of low, swampy ground ; a walker. Migrant in Massachusetts. 
 
 Arrives about May 10. 
 
 Song. Loud and clear. 
 
 Nest. Near the ground, in a swamp or near water. 
 
 Breeds. In northern New England. 
 
 96 
 
Geothlypis trichas brachydactyla 
 NORTHERN MARYLAND YELLOWTHROAT. 5 inches 
 
 Male. Above olive-green ; forehead and band through eye black ; 
 no wing bars nor tail spots. Below bright yellow. Female. Sim- 
 ilar, but no black on head and yellow breast paler than the male's. 
 A little flirt of the brookside and spring pasture, often on the 
 ground. Common in Massachusetts. Arrives about May 1. 
 Song. " Wichity, wichity" 
 Nest. On the ground, in swampy tussocks. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 97 
 
683. Icteria virens 
 YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT. 7 1-2 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above olive-green ; white line over the 
 
 eye ; no wing bars nor tail spots. Below brilliant yellow. 
 
 An inhabitant of low bushy places. Rare summer resident in 
 
 Massachusetts. Arrives about the middle of May. 
 
 Song. Loud, mimicking and rollicking, suggesting the Catbird's 
 
 Nest. Near the ground in a thicket. 
 
 Breeds. In southern New England. 
 
 98 
 
685. Wilsonia pusilla 
 WILSON'S WARBLER. 5 inches 
 
 Male. Above bright olive-green; head yellow, with black cap. 
 Below yellow; no wing bars nor tail spots. Female. Similar, 
 but lacks black cap. 
 
 Also called Wilson's Blackcap. Active birds found in the under- 
 brush, flycatcher manner. A migrant in Massachusetts. Arrives 
 about May 10. 
 
 Song. A few weak, rapid notes. 
 Nest. Of leaves and grasses, on the ground. 
 Breeds. Northern New England and eastern Maine. 
 
 99 
 

686. Wilsonia canadensis 
 CANADIAN WARBLER. 5 1.2 inches 
 
 Male. Above blue-gray ; black spots on top of head ; no wing 
 bars nor tail spots. Below yellow black line under eye and down 
 sides of throat; a band of 'black spots across the breast. Female. 
 Similar, but markings dusky instead of black. 
 
 An active bird of the underbrush, flycatcher habit. Migrant in 
 Massachusetts. Arrives about May 20. 
 
 Song. A few hurried notes ending abruptly with a rising in- 
 flection. 
 
 Nest. On the ground, in woods near water. 
 Breeds. In New England, sparingly in the southern part. 
 
 100 
 

687. Setophaga ruticilla 
 AMERICAN REDSTART. 5 inches 
 
 Male. Above black ; large wing patch and tail blotches orange. 
 Below black ; belly white ; sides of breast orange. Female. 
 Greenish gray where the male is black, and yellow where it is 
 orange. 
 
 An inhabitant of the maples and elms of the roadside, also found in 
 open woodlands. It is a gay little flycatcher, and in flight suggests 
 a miniature Baltimore Oriole. Common in Massachusetts. Arrives 
 about May 5. 
 
 Song. " Weechee, weeche, weeche" thin and wiry on a rising scale 
 Nest. In a crotch not very high up. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 101 
 
MOTACILLIDAE 
 
 697. Anthus pensilvanicus 
 AMERICAN TITLARK OR PIPIT. 6 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above brown, faintly streaked ; wings 
 and tail darker; outer tail feathers marked with white. Below 
 buffy ; breast and sides streaked with brown. Frequents, in scat- 
 tering flocks, recently ploughed fields and pastures ; is a walker and 
 has a habit of jerking its tail; flight undulating. Migrant in 
 Massachusetts. Arrives about April 10. 
 Song. A faint note uttered on the wing. 
 Nest. On the ground, made of grass. 
 Breeds. Far north. 
 
 102 
 
TROGLODYTIDAE 
 THRASHERS, WRENS, ETC. 
 
 The Wrens are energetic little creatures, always ready to show fight 
 if their rights are intruded on. They have barred and mottled 
 plumage, short tails, which they often bend forward or keep erect. 
 They creep over the branches and grasses searching for insect food. 
 The Catbird and Brown Thrasher, though much larger, are closely 
 related, and the whole group take high rank as singers. The 
 Wrens have astonishingly loud voices for such tiny birds ; the 
 quality is clear and sweet, except in the case of the Short-billed 
 Marsh Wren. 
 
 103 
 
704. Galeoscoptes carolinensis 
 
 CATBIRD. 8 1-2 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above and below slate colored ; crown 
 black; a chestnut spot under the tail. 
 
 A bird of the shrubbery, usually near water, often on the ground. 
 Notice their tails ; they flirt them a good deal, droop them when 
 singing and spread them wide when flying. Common summer resi- 
 dent in Massachusetts. Arrives early in May. 
 
 Song. Full, loud and happy, quite like the Brown Thrasher's. 
 Common note, a " mew " like a cat. 
 Nest. In a thicket near the ground. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 104 
 
705. Toxostoma rufum 
 
 BROWN THRASHER. 11 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above cinnamon brown ; white wing 
 bars. Below white, heavily spotted with dark brown ; very long 
 tail, which it flirts in an energetic manner. 
 
 Is also called the Brown Thrush. Large birds of the scrub oaks 
 and thickets ; much on the ground, rustling among the leaves ; 
 usually in pairs. Common summer resident in Massachusetts. 
 Arrives early in May. 
 
 Song. Rich, full and varied ; seems to be full of conversation 
 and mimicry, easily mistaken for the Catbird's. 
 Nest. In a shrub a few feet from the ground. 
 Breeds. Southern New England. 
 
 105 
 

721. Troglodytes aedon 
 
 HOUSE WREN. 5 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above reddish brown ; wings and tail 
 finely barred ; tail usually held erect. Below grayish, indistinctly 
 barred. 
 
 A brave little bird of the orchard, singing merrily through the day 
 Formerly they were common in southern New Eng- 
 land, now rare except in a few localities. Arrives 
 in Massachusetts about May 1. 
 
 Song. A loud, clear, ringing warble. 
 Nest. In hole in tree or in a bird box. 
 Breeds. Sparingly throughout New England. 
 
 106 
 
722. Olbiorchilus hiemalis 
 
 WINTER WREN. 4 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above reddish brown ; tail short and 
 often carried erect ; wings and tail finely barred. Below yellowish 
 brown, finely barred. 
 
 A tiny, spirited bird of the deep woods, fond of the brush heap 
 and old dead log. Migrant in Massachusetts. Arrives in April. 
 Is more abundant in the autumn than in the spring migration. 
 
 Song. A rapid, rippling melody, rich and ringing in quality. 
 Nest. In a stump or the roots of a tree. 
 Breeds. In northern New England. 
 
 107 
 

724. Cistothorus stellaris 
 
 SHORT-BILLED MARSH WREN. 4 1-2 inches 
 Male and Female alike. Above brownish ; tail and wings barred. 
 Below brownish gray ; throat lighter. 
 
 Both species, Nos. 724 and 725, are tiny mouse-like birds, difficult 
 to discover, as they creep along the reeds and weed stalks hunting 
 for spiders and insects. They live in colonies and inhabit open, 
 swampy places. Locally common in Massachusetts. Arrives 
 about the middle of May. Song. Short and unmusical. Nest. 
 In the grass. Breeds. In southern New England. 
 
 725. Telmatodytes palustris 
 LONG-BILLED MARSH WREN. 5 inches 
 
 Appearance, range and habit much like No. 724, but has a longer 
 bill and is a little larger. Song. A bubbling melody. Nest. 
 Attached to reeds a few feet from the ground. Builds false nests. 
 
 108 
 
CERTHIIDAE 
 726. Certhia familiaris americana 
 
 BROWN CREEPER. 5 1-2 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above mottled, brown and white ; long 
 bill ; tail feathers stiff pointed. Below white. 
 A bird of the tree trunks, twisting slowly up, up in search 
 of insect food, then when it has made the ascent it flies 
 to the foot of the tree and starts up again, frequently 
 uttering a squeaky skeep, skeep. Common in Massachu- 
 setts in the winter. 
 
 Song. A few weak but musical notes, seldom heard ex- 
 cept in the breeding season. 
 
 Nest. On the trunks of trees, behind a loose piece of 
 bark. 
 Breeds. In northern New England. 
 
 109 
 
PARIDAE: SITTINAE 
 727. Sitta carolinensis 
 
 WHITE-BREASTED NUTHATCH. 6 inches 
 Male. Above blue-gray ; top of head black ; the sides white ; 
 long black bill ; wing bars and tail spots white ; tail very short and 
 square. Below white. Female. Similar, but has little black on head. 
 A bird of the tree trunks and branches, 
 usually seen head downwards poking in the 
 crevices of the bark for its insect food, is 
 also fond of nuts and table bits that thought- 
 ful persons furnish it. Common in Mas- 
 sachusetts in autumn and winter. 
 Song. A prolonged ha-ha-ha-ha, also a 
 nasal note likejytf /, yank, yank. 
 Nest. In a hole in a tree. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 
 110 
 
I AH 
 
 
728. Sitta canadensis 
 RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH. 4 12 inches 
 
 Male. Above blue-gray ; top of head black, the sides white ; 
 broad black line through eye ; bill long and black. Below, throat 
 white; breast chestmit ; tail short and square, with white spots. 
 Female. Similar, but little black on the head. 
 Distinguished from White-breasted by its red breast and smaller 
 size. An uncommon winter visitor in Massachusetts. 
 
 Song. Similar to the White-breasted but sharper and higher 
 
 pitched. 
 
 Nest. In hole in tree. 
 
 Breeds. In northern New England. 
 
 Ill 
 
PARIDAE: PARINAE 
 735. Parus atricapillus 
 
 CHICKADEE. 5 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above blue-gray; top of head black, 
 sides white. Below yellowish white ; throat black. 
 This dainty, much-loved creature often merrily calls its name just 
 outside the window on cold winter mornings. In February it 
 begins to whistle its sweet, clear " Phoebe " notes that some- 
 times cause the young bird student to confound it with the 
 flycatcher Phoebe that normally does not reach Massachusetts till 
 late in March. Common in Massachusetts, in autumn and winter. 
 Song. Chick-a-dee, dee, dee, chick-a-dee, 
 dee, dee, and a clear whistled Phoebe, " rep- 
 resented by G and F on the piano." 
 Nest. Of warm material, in holes in trees 
 and stumps. 
 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 112 
 
SYLVIIDAE: REGULINAE 
 748. Regulus satrapa 
 GOLDEN-CROWNED KINGLET. 4 inches 
 
 Male. Above olive-gray ; crown gold ; bordered with black 
 
 stripe ; white line around the eye ; wing bars white. Below gray. 
 
 Female. Similar, but the crown yellow, 
 
 bordered with black stripe. 
 
 Winters in Massachusetts. 
 
 Note. In winter a weak, wiry tzee, tzee, tzee. 
 
 Nest. In conifers, usually pensile. 
 
 Breeds. In northern New England. 
 
 113 
 
749. Regulus calendula 
 RUBY-CROWNED KINGLET. 4 inches 
 
 Male. Above olive-gray ; scarlet crest displayed at will ; wing 
 bars tinged with yellow. Below gray. Female. Similar, no crest. 
 A spring and autumn migrant in Massachusetts. Arrives in April. 
 Song. Rich and loud, suggesting a wren. 
 Nest. In conifers, usually pensile. 
 Breeds. North and east of New England. 
 
 114 
 
TURDIDAE 
 
 THRUSHES, BLUEBIRDS 
 
 The Thrushes are large brownish birds with speckled breasts. 
 
 They keep near the ground, feed largely 
 
 on insects and berries, and are perhaps 
 
 our finest singers. 
 
 Notice that the color of the Wood Thrush 
 
 is reddish on the head, that of the Veery 
 
 and Olive-backed is uniform, and that of 
 
 the Hermit is reddish on the tail. 
 
 115 
 
755. Hylocichla mustelina 
 
 WOOD THRUSH. 8 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above olive-brown ; headreddish. Below 
 
 white, heavily spotted with brown. 
 
 Found in open, damp woods where there is underbrush. Common 
 
 summer resident in Massachusetts. Arrives about May 10. 
 
 Song. Rich, liquid flute quality, divided into three phrases. 
 
 Nest. Eight or ten feet from the ground in open woodlands, also 
 
 by the roadside. 
 
 Breeds. In southern New England. 
 
 116 
 
756. Hylocichla fuscescens 
 VEERY, WILSON'S THRUSH. 7 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above uniform olive-brown. Below 
 cream, lightly spotted with brown. 
 
 A shy bird of open wet woods and thickets, often walking and 
 running on the ground. Common summer resident of Massachu- 
 setts. Arrives about May 10. 
 
 Song. Weird and ringing, divided in three parts, sounding some- 
 what like vee-a-ry, vee-a-ry. This interpretation has given it one of 
 its common names. 
 Nest. On or near the ground. 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 117 
 

7580. Hylocichla ustulata swainsoni 
 
 OLIVE-BACKED THRUSH. 7 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above uniform olive-brown. Below 
 cream, spotted with brown. 
 
 Its summer home is in the evergreen woods of northern New Eng- 
 land. Migrant in Massachusetts. Arrives about May 15. 
 
 Song. Clear and ringing, easily confounded with the Hermit's 
 
 song. 
 
 Nest. In a bush or low tree. 
 
 Breeds. In northern New England. 
 
 118 
 
759. Hylocichla guttata pallasii 
 
 HERMIT THRUSH. 7 inches 
 
 Male and Female alike. Above olive-brown ; tail reddish. Be- 
 low white, heavily spotted with brown. 
 
 The Hermit has a habit of jerking its tail, which helps to distin- 
 guish it from the Olive-backed, which it so much resembles in looks 
 and song. Migrant in Massachusetts (except on Cape Cod, where 
 it breeds). Arrives about the middle of April. 
 
 Song. Clear and ringing, given on a descending scale. 
 
 Nest. On the ground. 
 
 Breeds. In northern New England and on Cape Cod. 
 
 119 
 
761. Merula migrator ia 
 AMERICAN ROBIN. 10 inches 
 
 Male. Above brownish gray ; head and tail black. Below chest- 
 nut ; throat streaked with black and white. Female. Similar, 
 but colors duller. 
 
 Robins migrate and roost in flocks. Hop and run ; flight straight 
 and strong. Common summer resident in Massachusetts, some 
 winter in cedar swamps. Arrives in March. 
 
 Song. A loud, happy, vuhere-are-you ? where-are-you ? repeated 
 and interspersed with whistles. 
 
 Nest. In trees or bushes not very high up, made of mud, grasses, 
 etc. 
 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 120 
 
766. Sialia sialis 
 
 BLUEBIRD. 7 inches 
 
 Male. Above bright blue. Below chestnut. Female. Browner 
 and duller colors. 
 
 A bird beloved by the New England farmers ; feeds on insects and 
 berries. A rhythmic, undulating flight, often seen in flocks in the 
 autumn. Common in Massachusetts. Arrives early in March. 
 
 Song. A low, sweet warble. 
 
 Nest. In a bird house or a hole in a tree. 
 
 Breeds. Throughout New England. 
 
 121 
 
INDEX 
 
 Blackbird, crow 36 
 
 red-winged 31 
 
 rusty 35 
 
 Blackbirds 28 
 
 Bluebird 121 
 
 Bobolink 29 
 
 Butcherbird 71 
 
 Catbird 104 
 
 Cedarbird 70 
 
 Chat, yellow-breasted 98 
 
 Chewink CO 
 
 Chickadee 112 
 
 Cowbird. 30 
 
 Creeper, brown 109 
 
 Crossbill, American 41 
 
 " white-winged 4o 
 
 Crow 27 
 
 Cuckoo, black-billed 6 
 
 yellow-billed 4 
 
 Finch, purple 39 
 
 Finches 37 
 
 Flicker 12 
 
 Flycatcher, crested 19 
 
 least 24 
 
 olive-sided 21 
 
 yellow-bellied 23 
 
 Flycatchers 17 
 
 Goldfinch 43 
 
 Crackle, bronzed 36 
 
 " purple 36 
 
 Grosbeak, pine 38 
 
 " rose-breasted 61 
 
 Humming-bird 16 
 
 Indigo bird 62 
 
 122 
 
INDEX. Continued. 
 
 Jay, blue 26 
 
 Junco 56 
 
 Kingbird 18 
 
 Kingfisher, belted .6 
 
 Kinglet, golden-crowned 113 
 
 " ruby-crowned 114 
 
 Lark, horned 25 
 
 " meadow 32 
 
 Martin, purple 65 
 
 Maryland yellowthroat 97 
 
 Meadow lark..- 32 
 
 Nighthawk 14 
 
 Nuthatch, red-breasted Ill 
 
 11 white-breasted 110 
 
 Oriole, Baltimore 34 
 
 " orchard 33 
 
 Ovenbird 95 
 
 Peabody bird 52 
 
 Pewee, wood 22 
 
 Phoebe 20 
 
 Pipit, American 102 
 
 Redpoll 42 
 
 Redstart, American 101 
 
 Robin 120 
 
 Sapsucker, yellow-bellied 10 
 
 Shrike, northern 71 
 
 Siskin, pine 44 
 
 Snowbird 56 
 
 Snow bunting 45 
 
 Snowflake 45 
 
 Sparrow, chipping 54 
 
 field 55 
 
 fox 59 
 
 " grasshopper 49 
 
 Sparrow, Ipswich 47 
 
 " savanna 48 
 
 123 
 
INDEX. Continued. 
 
 Sparrow, sharp-tailed 50 Thrush, golden-crowned 95 
 
 ' song 57 '' hermit 119 
 
 " swamp 58 ' olive-backed 118 
 
 tree 53 " water 96 
 
 " vesper 46 " Wilson's 117 
 
 ' ' white-crowned 51 " wood 116 
 
 " white-throated 52 Thrushes 115 
 
 Sparrows 37 Titlark, American 102 
 
 Swallow, bank 69 Towhee 60 
 
 " barn 67 Veery 117 
 
 cliff 66 Vireo, blue-headed 76 
 
 " eave 66 " red-eyed 73 
 
 " tree. 68 " solitary 76 
 
 " white-bellied 68 " warbling 74 
 
 Swallows 64 white-eyed 77 
 
 Swift, chimney 15 " yellow-throated 75 
 
 Tanager, scarlet 63 Vireos 72 
 
 Thrasher, brown 105 Warbler, bay-breasted 88 
 
 124 
 
INDEX. Concluded. 
 
 Warbler, black and white 79 Warbler, yellow 83 
 
 blackburnian 90 yellow palm .93 
 
 " blackpoll 84 " yellow-rumped 85 
 
 " black-throated blue 89 Warblers 78 
 
 " black-throated green 91 Whip-poor-will 13 
 
 Canadian 100 Woodpecker, downy 9 
 
 chestnut-sided 87 golden-winged 12 
 
 '* golden-winged 80 hairy.... 8 
 
 " magnolia 86 red-headed 11 
 
 " Maryland yellowthroat. .97 Woodpeckers 7 
 
 " myrtle 85 Wren, house 106 
 
 " Nashville 81 " long-billed marsh 108 
 
 " parula 82 " short-billed marsh 108 
 
 " pine 92 " winter 107 
 
 >rairie 94 Wrens 103 
 
 ilson's 99 
 
 125 
 
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