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 hke it 

 before." 



It was in the autumn when Mrs. Farby observed this 

 striking and interesting phenoinenoUo 



212. Nyctherodius violaceus, Reich. — Yellow- 

 crowned Niyht 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 Stafibrd Ridge, New Hampshire. 



RALLID.E, — The Rails. 



214. Rallus crepitans, Gm. — Clappjer Bail, "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 Rail. 

 Common summer resident. Frequents the bushy swamps. 

 Breeds early, nesting on some tussock. Have seen tho 

 young running about by the first of June. 



216. Porzana 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 of. 1 have been in a swamp where 



7 J 



