GROUND WOODPECKERS. 



261 



penetrate decayed or dead branches in search of wood-hce and 

 the larva; of insects. They Hve Hkewise on fruits, seeds, and 

 grains. Their flight is strong and prolonged. They propel them- 

 selves by numerous beats of the wings, with short intervals of 

 sailing, during which they generally keep in a straight line. The 



'iS^^ 



Fig. 135.— The Golden-winged Woodpecker {Colaptes auratus). 



nature of their food causes them often to migrate from place to 

 place. The female lays six eggs, which she deposits in the hole 

 of a tree, on chips and dust of wood. The young soon leave the 

 nest, and are enticed by the parents to the highest branches, where 

 they are assiduously fed. 



The type of this sub-family is — 



The Golden-winged Woodpecker {Colaptes aiiratns). 



