KINGBiRD. 
444. Tyrannus tyrannus. 8% inches. 
Adults with a concealed orange crown patch; young 
with none. From the time of their arrival in May 
until they leave us in August, Kingbirds are much in 
evidence in farmyards and orchards. They are one 
of the most noisy birds, always quarreling about some- 
thing, and usually coming off victorious in whatever 
they may undertake. Crows are objects of hatred to 
them, and they always drive them from the neighbor- 
hood, vigorously dashing upon and picking them from 
above and often following them for a great distance. 
They have their favorite perches from which they watch 
for insects, usually a dead branch, a fence post, or a 
tall stalk in the field. 
Note.—A series of shrill, harsh sounds like “thsee,” 
“thsee.”” 
Nest.—Of sticks, rootlets, grass, string, etc., placed 
in orchard trees or open w oods at any height. Four or 
five creamy white eggs, specked and spotted with. red- 
dish brown (.95 x .70). 
Range.—Breeds from the Gulf to southern Canada. 
