unusual trait of leaving the nest that has been handled and of carrying the eggs 

 or young birds to a new location, using its great mouth for the purpose. The bird's 

 habit of seizing flying insects while in full flight itself and swallowing them while 

 in motion requires a large mouth with which to make sure of its prey, and this 

 is well fitted in that respect. 



As stated, the Nighthawk rarely flies in daylight. ( hie such flght was 

 observed a few years ago on a rainy afternoon in mid-summer when suddenly a 

 great flock, apparently numbering hundreds, appeared and flew across the sky 

 from north to south and returned, making their well-known sudden side flights 

 after insects, but keeping largely in the one direction. After twice crossing the 

 sky in this way they seemed to continue on and to disappear entirely from sight 

 in the locality where observed. This flight in flocks is very unusual, as each bird 

 seems to be looking after its own afTairs even though a dozen or more be in sight 

 at one time during a summer evening. 



The Nighthawk somewhat resembles the Whip-poor-will in size and color 

 as well as in its habit of appearing only at night. By some people they are mis- 

 taken for the same bird, but by scientists they are classed in entirely different 

 bird "families."' The Whip-poor-will is not a bird of extended flight and is rarely 

 seen to fly higher than the top rail of a wood-lot fence or into a low shrub. 



The only sound the Nighthawk is capable of making is a sort of hiss or 

 squeak and a deep, hollow sound likened to that produced by blowing across the 

 mouth of a large empty bottle. It is an interesting bird to watch and a useful 

 one in its habits of securing food. 



The Song of Birds 



The birds of morning rise and shake 

 The music from their souls again ; 

 I hear them in the tangled brake ; 



They warble down the shadowy glen : 

 And still to me 

 They seem to be 

 Forever fluting out the call, 

 "Come up ! Come up ! 

 The royal feast 

 Is spread for man and bird and beast. 

 With peace on earth, good will to all." 

 — Benjamin S. Parker. 



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