118 TRANSACTIONS ©F THE [1891 



Sylvania canadensis (Linn.). 



This is one of our rarer summer birds, which during the 

 spring and fall migration is not at all uncommon in its favorite 

 localities. The disposition of the bird is quiet and retired, 

 dwelling in trees and busying itself in the catching of various 

 kinds of insects. It is most common during the first and second 

 weeks in May; after that time the number becomes gradually 

 smaller, and, as a rule, not many remain with us during the 

 summer. In September again it becomes more numerous, but 

 soon leaves us for the winter. The writer has had no oppor- 

 tunity of hearing the song, and consequently can make no 

 remarks upon it. 



Setophaga rutidUa (Linn.). American Hedstart. 



From the latter part of April until early in October this 

 species is a constant and common inhabitant of our woods. The 

 habits of this bird are the same as those of a flycatcher, while 

 on the wing constantly pursuing little insects, and diving, so to 

 speak, after them in all directions. The notes are meagre, and 

 it is almost impossible to imitate or represent them by words or 

 syllables. Sometimes notes are uttered which sound like the 

 noise made by the smacking of the tongue. 



Vireo olivaceus (Linn.). Red-eyed Vireo. 



Of the three species of Vireos that the writer has observed 

 near Baltimore during summer, this one is by far the most com- 

 mon. This agreeable little bird may be met with almost any- 

 where except in coniferous woods, which it does not frequent. 

 Its appearance the latter part of April is soon recognized by the 

 pleasant and continuous warble. Owing to its plumage, which 

 the name bespeaks, the bird is well protected by the green foliage 

 of the trees which it inhabits, and for this reason is easily over- 

 looked as it becomes silent on the approach of September. It 

 does not leave us until the close of that month, and has been 

 observed as late as October 5th. The nest is pensile, is placed 

 in a small oak, and is attached to two twigs, which are some- 

 times, but not always, forked. In appearance it is basket-like, 



