THE AMERICAN GOLDFINCH: 51 
while their busy wives are occupied with their home affairs. It would 
not be very far from the truth, to pronounce the American Goldfinch a 
persistently gregarious bird at all times and places. About the middle 
of June, though seldom at an earlier period, more often later, the happy 
couples are ready to receive ; their little neatly constructed dwellings 
are finished, their household affairs are wholly regulated, and their 
family responsibilities commence. The courtship and domestic arrange- 
ments of this bird are so admirably set forth by Mr. Ernest Ingersoll, 
that I cannot refrain from quoting at length from that high authority ; 
he says : 
“We ought to be well informed in regard to its breeding habits 
(as indeed we are) ; but in looking into the subject, I find several gaps 
in our knowledge—or, more accurately, perhaps, I find gaps in my 
knowledge, which I am in hopes of having filled by observers who may 
care to read a brief review of present information upon the subject.” 
‘Of the courtship of the Goldfinch Mr. Thos. Gentry paints a very 
pleasing picture. 
I quote ‘In the month of’ April the flocks dissolve into small parties 
preparatory to mating. It is quite common to see two males and one 
female together, the former lavishing the most endearing attentions 
upon the latter, and besides occasionally regaling her with the most 
delicious melodies. | Whimsical and exceedingly variable, she selects 
one suitor and almost the next moment discards him for the other, 
which at this moment is perched near by, pouring out his love in the 
most charming manner. This condition of things lasts during a couple 
of days before the final choice is made. It seems to require the utmost 
condescension, as wellas the greatest effort, for the successful suitor 
