26 The Ottawa Naturalist. [May 



found in the marsh several years ago and it is probable that the 

 American coot breeds there also 



Of the shore birds, the spotted sandpiper is the only species 

 which has been found breeding on the Farm. For the past three 

 years a pair has built in the fruit plantations, which are nearly or 

 quite three-quarters of a mile from a pond or stream. In the 

 years 1901 and 1902 the nest was built in the strawberrry planta- 

 tion, it being placed in the row of plants and well hidden by them. 

 In 1902 the nest was built in the middle of the orchard. The 

 newly hatched young have been found running about in the fruit 

 plantations. Nests have also been found on the high land in the 

 arboretum. 



None of the hawks or owls have been found breeding, though 

 it is possible that in the Farm woods near St. Louis dam, the 

 sharp-shinned hawk has had its nest as the nest of this bird has 

 been found just across the canal in Dow's swamp. 



The black-billed cuckoo has bred for several years in the 

 forest belts, but in 190 1 a nest with eggs was found in an apple 

 tree in a thickly planted part of the orchard. The cuckoo does 

 not build in the open but seeks a secluded place for its nest. It is 

 one of the last birds to arrive and hence breeds late. Its peculiar 

 note in early summer is often puzzling to those not familiar with 

 the habits of the bird. 



The only woodpecker which has been found breeding is the 

 flicker. This bird is very common. A nest was found in a hollow 

 basswood stump in the arboretum in 1902, but as the hole was 

 only about six feet from the ground it was easily discovered by 

 boys and robbed. This bird shows little tact in selecting a site 

 for its nest and the large hole which it makes can be seen at a 

 glance. 



The nighthawk has been breeding en the Farm for the past 

 fifteen or sixteen years, and several nests have been found. Many 

 eggs must have been destroyed by the horse and cultivator, as the 

 bird will lay its eggs where cultivation must be done. The eggs, 

 which are two in number, are laid in the open in a shallow depres- 

 sion on the ground, The soil which becomes hottest seems to be 

 preferred. 



