DR [EKVED 
Se a 
The nest is coarser than that of a catbird, 
and with small pretence at lining, yet both 
male and female work assiduously in build- 
ing it. Usually it is well concealed; often 
in an evergreen, sometimes in fruit! thees, 
sometimes in tall hazel-bushes; but I have 
never found one inathorn-bush. Since the 
nest often resembles that of the thrasher 
and catbird in material used, it seems a little 
strange that their favorite nesting-places are 
so persistently shunned. Is it possible the 
dashing jay feels himself so able to defend 
that he scorns such artificial protection for 
his home? 
As soon as the young jays are large enough 
to leave the nest, they develop all the pug- 
nacity and fearlessness of their father. 
When scarcely able to balance on their un- 
certain little legs, they will meet any advance 
with a defiant peck. For several weeks 
they keep close to the father night and day, 
learning all his sly tricks and villanous 
ways. I have seen a whole family waiting 
on a tree for the tiny owners of a yellow 
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