BIRDS OF THE BAHAMA ISLANDS. 5 1 



MIMUS CAROLINENSIS. {Linn.) 

 Catbird. 



Willie}' Plumage, Male. — Smaller and lighter colored than the 

 northern bird. Above, dark slate color; crown and tail, black; 

 under parts, pale slate color ; crissum, chestnut ; bill and legs, black. 

 The female does not differ from the male, but is somewhat smaller. 



Length about 7.90, wing 3.50, tarsus i, bill .66. 



The Catbird, although probably a regular winter visitant, is 

 not very abundant, and we obtained but few specimens. Its habits 

 appeared to me to be the same as when it visits the United States 

 in the summer season. It undoubtedly wanders all over the islands. 

 Dr. Henry Bryant obtained it at Inagua. This bird has received 

 its name from its peculiar notes, which somewhat resemble the cry 

 of a cat, and which it constantly utters while seeking for its food 

 among the thick underbrush. Its food consists of insects, and 

 berries of various kinds. 



Fig. Aud. Bds. N. A., Vol. II. pi. 140. 



