86 BRIGHT FEA FAERS. 
which it makes, then closing it, and flirting it from side to side, just 
allowing the transparent beauty of the feathers to be seen for a moment. 
The wings are observed gently drooping during these motions, and its 
pleasing notes, which resemble the sounds of ¢eetee-whee, teetce-whee, 
are then emitted. Should it observe an insect on the wing, it immedi- 
ately flies in pursuit of it, either mounts into the air in its wake, or 
comes towards the ground spirally and in many zigzags. The insect 
secured, the lovely Redstart reascends, perches, and sings a different 
note, equally clear, and which may be expressed by the syllables wezz, 
wizz, wizz. While following insects on the wing, it keeps its bill con- 
stantly open, snapping as if it procured several of them on the same 
excursion. It is frequently observed balancing itself in the air, opposite 
the extremity of a bunch of leaves, and darting into the midst of them 
after the insects there concealed.”’ 
Dr. Coues, now makes reference to Prof. Gentry’s pleasing descrip- 
tion of the song of the Redstart, which together with a happy account 
of this bird’s actions and food, will give the reader a clear conception of 
its maneuverings and menu. I quote from Prof. Gentry: ‘The song 
of the Redstart resembles very closely that of the Black and White 
Creeper, but differs in being less prolonged, and in its quicker, sharper, 
intonation. It may be very appropriately represented by the syllables 
tsi-tst-triwe, the last ending rather abruptly. Its ordinary callis a simple 
ésich, which is heard at long and irregular intervals. Singular to say, 
these sounds are most frequent when the bird is most active, and not 
while in the enjoyment of the quietude which follows such a_ life. At 
such times our hitherto energetic friend maintains the utmost silence. 
Being an extremely early riser, it is in the cool, calm hours of the 
morning, ere all Nature is astir, that he regales the listening spirits of 
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