CROWS, JAYS, MAGPIES 



comparatively smaller groups. Although on 

 the blacklist in many states because of the 

 damage it does to crops, a recent announce- 

 ment from the Agricultural Department 

 would indicate that it does not do the amount 

 of harm imputed to it. In all events it is one 

 of the most interesting birds that we have, 

 and a pet crow will keep one busy w^ith its sly 

 tricks and knowing ways. 



Clarke nutcracker, Nucifraga colum- 

 ^^^ biana. 12.50 



Distribution : Coniferous forests of western 

 North America from Alaska to Mexico, 

 casually eastward to the states of Kansas, 

 Missouri and Arkansas. 



The Clarke nutcracker, Clarke crow, pine 

 crow, gray crow or big camp robber lives 

 along the crests of the ranges in the high 

 mountains. It is a frequenter of stunted 

 pine and fir and a characteristic feature of 

 mountain scenery. It is a combination of all 

 the traits of both crow and jay, and in size 

 and color is between the two. It is an in- 

 dei)endent and positive bird, and with its 

 clear-cut plumage of ashy gray, and the con- 

 trast of black and white in wings and tail it 

 makes a fine picture as it sails along or pitches 

 headlong down a thousand feet or more 

 117 



