260 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 



BIRDS OF PREY. 



The Jer-falcon, Falco Islandicus, el bold and graceful bird, 

 is seldom found wandering far from the icy latitudes in which 

 it dwells, and it is only in the depth of winter, that it is ever 

 seen as far south as Massachusetts ; but we have Nuttall's 

 high authority for saying that a pair is occasionally seen with- 

 in our borders. In the days of falconry, this fine bird was em- 

 ployed for striking the larger prey, which it did by out-soaring 

 and pouncing upon them with great rapidity and power. 

 There is much variety in its markings, and some specimens are 

 found to be nearly white ; which is believed to be an indica- 

 tion of age, its whiteness increasing with years. 



The American Sparrowhawk, Falco sparverius, a beautiful 

 little falcon, which is said to be rare in the maritime parts of 

 our State, is not at all uncommon in the inland villages, where 

 it comes fearlessly into cultivated enclosures, and pursues its 

 prey without regard to those who pass by. The blue jays have 

 a bitter aversion to it, probably, because it interferes with their 

 own piratical expeditions. Whenever it appears, they follow it 

 with loud and abusive language, mocking its cry with ridicu- 

 lous exactness, till the hawk, who, in general, seems rather en- 

 tertained with the exhibition, at last, stunned with their noise, 

 and provoked at their impudence, seizes the foremost of their 

 number ; without, however, putting a stop to their persecu- 

 tions. 



This bird is partial to the southern climates : some few re- 

 main in New York during the winter, but the ordinary cold of 

 New England at that season is too severe. Still, it is seen 

 here in cold weather, perched on some tree or stake which 

 commands an open view, where it watches for mice or any 

 smaller game, not being particular, and caring more for the 

 quantity than the quality of its food. It is easily tamed, and 

 would be an amusing companion, were it not for its taste for 



