186 BIRDS 



of chickens as, with their little feet, they threw the leaves 

 and grass in all directions, examining the ground, all the 

 while keeping a close watch for possible dangers from 

 the air. 



I was in no hurry to flush them so I remained be- 

 neath the edge of the creek bank, patiently observing 

 the actions of the birds. One of their number flew to a 

 limb of a nearby tree and such sweet singing one rarely 

 hears in the early days of March in that locality. I was 

 entranced by the vocal artist and its solo. Long may its 

 kind return and pause with us each spring on its north- 

 ward journey ! A hearty welcome awaits its return. 



