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176 ORNITHOLOGY AND OCLOGY. 
hole, in a martin’s box, or in a knot-hole in a fence-post. 
The materials used in its construction are generally soft 
grasses, feathers, and wools: these are thrown together 
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without any great care, the object being to get comfort and 
warmth in the early season in which the first litter of eggs 
is laid. The eggs are either four or five in number: they 
are of a light-blue color, with a very faint greenish tint. 
Five specimens, taken at random from a great number, 
exhibit the following measurements: .86 by .62 inch, .85 
by .62 inch, .84 by .61 inch, .82 by .60 inch, .80 by .60 
inch. This species raises two broods, usually in the same 
nest, in the season. 
The Blue-bird’s habits are pretty well known; and its 
insectivorous character, and social and happy disposition, 
have established it as a great favorite. 
