2OO LIFE-MISTORIES OF WRDS 



who often erected very costly buildings for their 

 accommodation. At last the Blue Birds came upon 

 the scene in great numbers, and being possessed of 

 superior courage, and being more pugnacious and 

 quarrelsome, the Martins were driven away, never 

 to return. 



Few species are more eminently sociable and 

 confidential, and manifest greater pleasure in man's 

 society, where suitable building conveniences are 

 provided, then the subject of this sketch. In 

 Bridgeton, Cumberland Co., N. J., it appears in 

 immense numbers, reminding- us of our childhood 

 days. 



Constant association with man for many years, 

 has worught a wonderful change in its character 

 and habits. Except in special cases, nidification 

 no longer takes place in hollow trees in secluded 

 situations, but is now accomplished \vithin our gar- 

 dens and lawns. In the selection of a place this bird 

 is not very particular ; an old tin can, or a perforated 

 gourd, is as truely acceptable as the most costly 

 structure which affluence can affect. When there 

 is a scarcity of boxes, &c., it does not hessitate to 

 dispute the right of another species ; even the mis- 

 chievous little wren often finds its efforts to bar 

 out intruders completely foiled. What this species 

 cannot accomplish individually, it effects by com- 

 bination ; for in union there is strength. 



o 



Like Sialia sialis it lias a strong- attachment to 

 the scenes of past associations, and frequents the 

 same localities year after year, unless driven away. 



