THE PERCHING BirDs. 5, 
fair to class one above the other in merit, it is unques- 
tionably true that we often find individual thrushes 
of one species the equals of the species considered, or, 
as a whole, superior. JI am confident that no hermit 
in the wilds of Maine ever excelled a wood-thrush 
that for four consecutive summers nested in an apple- 
tree in my lane. Its song was more prolonged and 
varied than any description of such vocal efforts by 
Nuttall, Cheney, or other authors. This thrush dif- 
fered from his fellows in another way. He came 
earlier in the spring, bringing a mate with him, and 
stayed nearly a month later. I never quite fathomed 
the cause, but suspect that it had something to do 
with the fact that the old tree was one great insec- 
tarium, and the supply of white ants, among other 
forms, was apparently limitless. That it was the same 
thrush each year was apparent; that it came early in 
April, mated, was significant, and I quote Nuttall to 
that effect : 
“ Conjugal fidelity and parental affection are among the most con- 
spicuous traits of the feathered tribes. The pair unite their labors in 
preparing for the accommodation of their expected progeny; and 
during the time of incubation their participation of the same cares 
and solicitudes continually augments their mutual attachment. When 
the young appear, a new source of care and pleasure opens to them, 
still strengthening the ties of affection; and the tender charge of 
rearing and defending their infant brood requires the joint attention 
of both parents. The warmth of first affection is thus succeeded by 
calm and steady attachment, which by degrees extends, without 
suffering any diminution, to the rising branches of the family. 
“This conjugal union in the rapacious tribe of birds, the Eagles 
and Hawks, as well as with the Ravens and Crows, continues com- 
monly through life. Among many other kinds it is also of long 
endurance, as we may perceive in our common Pewee and the Blue- 
