BIRDS OF EASTERN MASSACHUSETTS 145 



spot was not very bright, but, as it was quite dark by 

 this time, 'plainly perceptible. They presented a peculiar 

 appearance as they walked about, and I watched them 

 with interest for some time. This singular light sur- 

 prised me much, as I had never heard of anything like it 

 before." 



It was in the autumn when Mrs. Farley observed this 

 striking and interesting phenomenon, 



212. Nyctherodius violaceus, Reich, — Yellow- 

 crowned Night Heron. — Mr. Vickery informs me that he 

 shot a specimen in Lynn in 1865. The bird was flying 

 over his head at the time. 



213. Falcinellus Ordii, Bon. — Glossy Ibis. Acci- 

 dental or occasional Nuttall records one or two instances 

 of its capture ; Cabot, one or two ; none recently, however. 

 Mr. Vickery also informs me that he has seen a specimen 

 of this fine bird, that was taken, fifteen years ago, at or 

 near Stafford Ridge, New Hampshire. 



RALLIDiE, — The Rails. 



214. Rallus crepitans, Gm. — Clapper Rail, (i Salt- 

 marsh Hen." Accidental. Mr. J. F. Le Baron informed me 

 that he shot a specimen, some years ago, at Ipswich. Also 

 one taken by Mr. S. J. Cabot. 



215. Rallus Virginianus, Linn. — Virginia Bail. 

 Common summer resident. Frequents the bushy swamps. 

 Breeds early, nesting on some tussock Have seen the 

 young running about by the first of June. 



216. Forzana Carolina, Vieill. — Carolina Rail, 

 " Sora Rail," "Ortolan." Common summer resident. Fre- 

 quents the wet, open meadows, where it breeds. Both of 

 these species are much more common than most collectors 

 or sportsmen are aware ol. 1 have been in a swamp where 



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