May 



But one of the most delightful warblers in 

 every way is the " Canada." First, its form is 

 noticeable, being unusually slender and grace- 

 ful, and the coloring rich and peculiar — ashen 

 blue above, bright yellow beneath, with the 

 throat encircled by a black cord, fringed be- 

 low with black spots, looking like a broad 

 necklace of jet suspended from the neck. Its 

 song, too, is luscious and vivacious, and quite 

 distinct from all other warbler-music. (It is 

 chiefly the male sex that parades the necklace.) 



I am glad to speak in such unqualified praise 

 of the Canada flycatcher, for the next speci- 

 men candor compels me slightly to disparage, 

 having the same '' just-out-of-the-band-box " 

 appearance that is noticeable in a stufl'ed speci- 

 men of the species. This is the yellow-breasted 

 chat, so extremely spick and span as to pro- 

 duce the impression that there is little below 

 the surface. Those who know the bird better 

 will doubtless resent this imputation, for its 

 manceuvrings and vocaUzation are said to be 

 quite original; but there is something very 

 sleek and expressionless in its dress and manner 

 during migration. Above, it is bright olive- 

 green, throat and breast rich yellow, and it is 

 about seven inches long. Science is in doubt 

 i6i 



