176 



ORNITHOLOGY AND OOLOGY. 



hole, in a martin's box, or in a knot-hole in a fence-post. 

 The materials used in its construction are generally soft 

 grasses, feathers, and wools: these are thrown together 



witiiout any great care, the object being to get comfort and 

 warmth in the early season in which the first litter of eggs 

 is laid. The eggs are either four or five in luimber : they 

 are of a light-blue color, with a very faint greenish tint. 

 Five specimens, taken at random from a great number, 

 exhibit the following measurements : .86 by .62 inch, .85 

 by .62 inch, .84 by .61 inch, .82 by .60 inch, .80 by .60 

 inch. This species raises two broods, usually in the same 

 nest, in the season. 



The Blue-bird's habits are pretty well known ; and its 

 insectivorous character, and social and happy disposition, 

 have established it as a great favorite. 



