THE SHARP-SHINNED HAWK. 353 



leisure. In addition to the small birds thus taken on the 

 wing, it may pounce on one larger and heavier than itself, 

 or it may swoop down upon the small quadrupeds, or, after 

 the manner of the smaller Hawks in general, make its repast 

 even on insects. As with birds of prey in general, the surest 

 way of escaping its clutches is by soaring; the thickets, into 

 which the smaller birds generally dive when pursued, 

 affording but little obstruction to its penetrating flight. Its 

 note, which is but seldom heard, is sharp and shrill. 

 Ranging over all North America, it may be found in New 

 York and Massachusetts during mild winters. 



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