SAYORNIS FUSCUS — PEWEE, OR PHCEBE BIRD. 285 



about half the culmen. Tail broad, long, slightly forked, 

 equal to the wings, which are moderately pointed, and 

 reach to the middle of the tail. First primary shorter than 

 the sixih. 



There are three species of this genus described, that in- 

 habit the United States. The S. nigricans is found on the 

 California coast, the Gila River valley, Upper Rio Grande 

 and New Mexico. The S. sayus is found in Missouri, west 

 to the Rocky Mountains, and south to Mexico. 



Sayornis Fuscus, Baird. — Pewee, or Phcebe Bird. 



Audubon's Birds of America, Octavo edition, L, plate 63. 



A common species throughout the United States. It 

 ranges from the Gulf of Mexico to Newfoundland and 

 Labrador. 



In the spring they are quite numerous, while passing 

 through the State northward. From the time of their arri- 

 val their call of phoehe may be heard in 11 sorts of places, 

 and the bird itself is seen perched either on some tree, low 

 shrub, or in the orchard, near the farm house, and it is also 

 quite commonly seen on the shade trees lining the streets 

 of our cities. The nest may also be found in all these differ- 

 ent localities, and also among rocks, the latter locality 

 being quite a favorite retreat for this bird. 



At no time does this species appear to be very sliy. It 

 will sit on a tree, a few yards from the person observing 

 it, utter its plaintive call and dart off in pursuit of its insect 

 prey- It soon becomes familiar with those it sees often, 

 and will allow their approach without manifesting fear. 

 We have known them to breed in Cleveland, building their 

 nests in the vicinity of one of our most common thorough- 

 fares. 



