Gulf coast, where they place their nests, which 

 are platforms of sticks, in trees and bushes over 

 the water. They lay three eggs which are white, 

 and have a rough surface. Size 2.75x1.75. 



[189.] Jabiru. Jabiru mycteria. 



This large bird, which is the only true Stork 

 thai claim a place in our avifauna, is a native 

 of South and Central America, wandering north, 

 casually to Texas. Their nests are large plat- 

 forms of sticks in very high trees. 



BITTERNS and HERONS 

 Family ARDEIDAE 



Herons and Bitterns are long-legged waders, 

 having straight, pointed lulls, and with the head 

 feathered, except for the lores. 



190. Bittern. Bautaurus lentiginosus. 



Range. — United States and southern British 

 provinces,, breeding in the northern half of the 

 United States and wintering in the southern por- 

 tion. 



WADING BIRDS 



r.it tern 



Brownish drab 



This species, with its mottled rusty brownish plumage, is one of the best 

 known of the Heron family. It is known locally by a ureal many names, nearly 

 all of which have reference to the "booming" or "pumping" sound made during 

 the mating season. They build their nests in swampy or marshy places, plac- 

 ing them on the ground, frequently on a tussock, entirely surrounded by water. 

 The nesl proper is only a few grasses twisted about to form a lining to the 

 hollow. They lay from three to five eggs of brownish drab. Size L.95s L.50. 



Thej do not breed in colonies, generally, hut one or two pairs nesting in one 

 mar h. Data. Worcester, Alas-.. June 3, L897. four eggs laid in a ura>s lined 



hollow in middle Of a hummock of earth and urass. in middle of marsh. Col 



ir, .lames Jackson. 



119 



