:W WAKHJJ'IR S()N(ivS. 



fairly satisfactory group, and as to quality of tone there is evi- 

 dent correspondence, but beyond these it is an unsatisfactory 

 arrangement. The four species which sing alike in many 

 waj'S may perhaps be sub-grouped by themselves, leaving the 

 remaining four in another sub-group. 



This type of song has a marked singleness and eaniestness 

 of purpose which at once arrests attention. The song is not 

 given as a sort of afterthought, or a thing of secondary im- 

 portance, but it requires a pause in the other activities until 

 the lay is finished. The syllables are clear cut, and the song- 

 has a distinct beginning and as distinct an end. It is complete 

 in itself. The earnestness of utterance often becomes vibra- 

 tory, approaching the passionate, yet distinctly non-passionate 

 in style. 



All of the songs are high pitched, but clear and smooth, 

 just too high to be called a shrill whistle. They are simple 

 songs, every one, yet with a distinct touch of sweetness that 

 makes them prett}'. Perhaps no better idea of the style of 

 this song-type can be given than by a careful description of 

 the song of the 



Yellow Warbler, [^endroica (csfiva. ()')2. 



While there is no little variability there is little likelihood 

 of confounding any of the variations with other species. Now 

 it is sweet siveet szveet siveet siveeter sweeter, now siuect siveef 

 sweet sweetie, again zvee-chee, zae-chee, zvee-i-u; once more wee- 

 chee, e/ice, ehce, ehur-zvee. Over all presides the bird's distinct 

 individuality. In all the variations 1 have heard the penulti- 

 mate syllable is at a higher pitch, if the last phrase be three 

 syllabled, lower if the last phrase be two syllabled. There is 

 also a tendenc}^ to an increase in cadence to the last. The 

 whole song is forcible and loud, but smooth and pleasing. It 

 will be seen that in each variation there are two parts, though 

 the last ma}' be but a double s^'llable. 



There is no second song period, because singing does not 

 cease until the last of July or the first week in August. It 

 should be remarked, however, that there is a marked decrease 

 in singing after the middle of July, at least in northern Ohio. 

 Sometimes individuals are heard singing after the middle of 

 August for a few days. 



