96 Mr. Nuttall?s Remarks and Inquiries 
This largest and rarest of American owls (probably also a 
native of arctic Lapland) is better than two feet long. An indi- 
vidual was caught dozing on a wood-pile last February at Mar- 
blehead, and is now dead and deposited in the Salem Museum. 
Has this bird been seen in other parts of the state, and under 
what circumstances? Its cry and general habits are nearly 
unknown. It has heretofore been met with in no part of the 
United States nearer than the shores of Lake Superior. 
Lanius septentrionalis, (Great American Shrike.) JL. excubitor 
of Wilson. This bird is known to mimic the notes of other 
birds, and to possess also something of a song. To what extent 
is this mimicry carried, and does it appear really to be used for 
any sinister purpose of decoying its prey? or is it the effect of 
mere caprice? They occasionally breed in this part of New Eng- 
land. How, and of what materials, is the nest formed, and at what 
time of the year? Some of these questions, indeed, appear to 
be already answered, but all doubt is not removed. 
rarrulus canadensis, (Canada Jay.) This bird, no doubt, 
regularly visits, if it does not breed, in Maine or New Hampshire. 
Any particulars concerning its note, food, nest, or habits, would 
fill up a blank, and remove a doubt from its history. 
Quiscalus ferrugineus, (Rusty Blackbird.) This species 
probably breeds in the most northern States, and in similar 
places with the common Blackbird. What are its musical powers 
at the period of incubation? What other particulars can be 
given concerning its nest and habits, as yet a desideratum in its 
history ? 
Coccyzus americanus, (American Cuckoo.) Does this bird 
extend its migrations much beyond the limits of the state of 
Massachusetts ? 
