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ZOOLOGY BIRDS. 



In 1872, numerous specimens were obtained of this species, which was first 

 seen near Rush Lake, Utah, October 5. It was observed in small migratory 

 companies of from three to ten, frequenting the sage brush on desolate 

 plains. Very shy, and was most often seen running with great agility among 

 the bushes ; its motions being so quick that it might readily be mistaken for 

 a mouse. In running, its long tail is carried in a perpendicular position; in 

 this respect greatly resembling the wrens. No notes were heard save its 

 single sparrow like chirp. 



Very abundant in the valleys of the San Pedro and Gila Rivers, Arizona, 

 in which Territory, as also New Mexico, this as well as several other species 

 winter, corning from farther north in early fall. A rather exclusive inhabitant 

 of the open plains, where its habits are quite terrestrial. Taken in San Luis 

 Park, Colorado, by Mr. C. E. Aiken, where not common 



Poospiza belli. 



[In Smithsonian collection.] 



Poospiza belli var. nevadensis. 



