JOURNAL OF MAINE ORNITHOLOGICAL SOCIETY. ^3 



Notes and observations upon bird life within our State are earnestly desired from all our readers 

 for publication in this column, and should be sent to the Editor, W. H. Brownson, 85 Market 

 street, Portland, Maine. 



We note with much satisfaction the increasing frequency with 

 which the members of our society report to this Journal their 

 ornithological observations. This is an important part of our duties, 

 one to another, and should be shared in by all interested in bird 

 life. The Journal's columns are always open to contributors of 

 items of general interest relating to Maine birds, and we trust our 

 members will, through this medium, disseminate such knowledge as 

 they personally possess. 



Notes From Yarmouth. — From frequent reports it would 

 seem that the small wooden boxes first used for the R. F. D. were 

 very attractive to Bluebirds. One which I have observed has been 

 besieged every year by a pair vainly endeavoring to find a crevice 

 which might admit of an opening for nesting. Last spring their 

 perseverance was rewarded. One of the metal mail boxes was pur- 

 chased, and the other prepared for tenants. It was divided into two 

 parts, and a hole made in each end, over which a piece of tin, cut 

 in saw teeth, was placed, that no cat's paw might enter. The cover 

 was securely fastened. When finished, the Bluebirds immediately 

 took possession, very plainly showing their delight. Three days 

 were spent in deciding which apartment best suited their needs ; 

 they would go into one, then the other, sticking out their heads, look- 

 ing all about, and keeping up a constant chatter. Finally the north- 

 east end was chosen, and furnishing commenced. Sticks were first 

 taken in, and occasionally one longer than usual gave trouble. The 

 maneuverings to get it through the small opening were very inter- 

 esting and amusing. If unsuccessful it was dropped, and the next 

 one was sure to be short. One day a pair of Swallows started to 

 build in the other side of the box, but the Bluebirds objected, and 

 after a hard fight, lasting all day, succeeded in driving them off, 

 and they were not again disturbed. Four young birds were reared, 



