FRINGILLIMR THE FINCHES. 287 



In southern Illinois the Swamp Sparrow congregates in immense 

 numbers perhaps exceeding those of any other species in the 

 sheltered swamps of the bottom-lands. It breeds in the northern 

 portion of the State, but how far southward its breeding range 

 extends is as yet undetermined. Mr. Nelson records it as being, in 

 Cook county, "an abundant summer resident, far outnumbering 

 M. meloclia, although to one who has not frequently visited its 

 favorite marshes at all seasons, this would seem improbable. Arrives 

 the last of March and departs the last of October." 



The habits of this species are in a great measure similar to those 

 of the Song Sparrow, although it is much less familiar than the 

 last-named species, preferring secluded swamps and marshes rather 

 than parks, gardens, and door-yards. In History of North American 

 Birds (Vol. II., pp. 35, 36), Dr. Brewer thus describes its song : 



"Except in regard to their song, Wilson's account of their habits, 

 so far as it goes, is quite accurate, although this bird really does 

 have quite a respectable song, and one that improves as the season 

 advances. At first it is only a succession or repetition of a few 

 monotonous, trilling notes, which might easily be mistaken for the 

 song of the Field Sparrow, or even confounded with the feebler 

 chant of the socialis, although not so raised as the former, and is 

 much more sprightly and pleasing than the other. Still later its 

 music improves, and more effort is made. Like the Song Sparrow, 

 it mounts some low twig, expands its tail-feathers, and gives forth 

 a very sprightly trill, that echoes through the swampy thicket with 

 an effect which, once noticed and identified with the performer, is 

 not likely to be ever mistaken. Nuttall calls this song loud, sweet, 

 and plaintive. It is to my ear more sprightly than pathetic, and 

 has a peculiarly ventriloquistic effect, as if the performer were at 

 a much greater distance than he really is." 



SUBFAMILY PASSERELLINJS. 



CHAR. Toes .and claws very stout; the lateral claws reaching beyond the middle of 

 the middle one ; all very slightly curved. 



"Bill conical, the outlines straight; both mandibles equal; 

 long, longer than the even tail, or slightly rounded, reaching nearly 

 to the middle of its exposed portion. Hind claw longer than its 

 digit ; the toe nearly as long as the middle toe ; tarsus longer than 



