WESTERN BIRDS Sparrow 



there be found each to have its own form of Song Spar- 

 row. Such strictly non-migratory species are continu- 

 ally subjected to the influences of their environment, 

 which are heightened by permanent isolation." 



GENUS MELOSPIZA: SONG SPARROW. 



Song Sparrow: Melospiza tnelodia melodia. 

 {Eastern.) 



FAMILY— FINCHES, SPARROWS, ETC. 



The eastern Song Sparrow is about six and one-half 

 inches long and is a study in browns, his back being 

 striped in two shades, his crown being a warm brown 

 with a light gray streak through the middle and over 

 each eye; a dark line through the eye and two each side 

 the throat, together with the black button on the white 

 breast, and the brown-streaked sides, are distinctive 

 markings. The tail is long and rounded and is usually 

 carried well up, but is a very expressive attribute, being 

 pumped up and down in time of excitement. 



They are fond of water and usually several pairs may 

 be seen in the underbrush or rank growths in moist 

 places. While one never sees Song Sparrows in flocks, 

 as we find Linnets or Goldfinches, yet they are com- 

 panionable birds that live near each other. 



Wherever found, whether in garden or woodland, they 

 are welcome adjuncts that bring life to any locality, for 

 they are the j oiliest of birds. In winter or summer, sun- 

 shine or shower, their merry, cheery songs peal forth in 

 musical cadence. It is not a long song, but it is given 

 with a vim that makes one feel that, after all, things 

 might be worse. The common note is a metallic chip. 



In my own garden in Los Angeles, California, several 

 Song Sparrows, probably Melospiza melodia cooperi, are 



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