list were followed and one were invariably called the American Goldfinch, and the other 
the Yellow Warbler. 
Although the American Goldfinch is a resident species, and has representatives here 
both Summer and Winter, as Autumn progresses it will be gradually lost sight of by the 
observer who is a beginner. But as the Goldfinch has faded from sight, an unfamiliar 
bird, apparently a new comer, will have challenged attention—a small bird, yellowish- 
white beneath and with a greenish-brown back. It will be difficult to believe that this 
soberly attired bird is the same smart little fellow who was seen in Summer in livery of 
brightest black and yellow. But so it is ; he has laid aside all brilliancy of plumage. No 
black remains, and but little yellow. To the superficial observer he is no longer the Gold- 
finch, but, an unknown, insignificant, uninteresting little brownish bird. 
Through the Winter he wears this inconspicuous suit. He remains in flocks. He 
roves about, now here now there, where facilities for obtaining food tempt him. But in 
Spring, when the dandelions show yellow, so does he. Then he no longer roves in 
flocks, but pairs and builds his nest. Travelling some unfrequented country road you will 
come across him swaying on a thistle-top in the Summer breeze ; or. bounding before 
you in graceful curves through the air, he will precede you with several short successive 
flights as you saunter along ; 
g ; no brighter, cheerier, prettier creature alive than he. 
