122 BIRDS OF THE BAHAMA ISLANDS. 



The Yellow-bellied Woodpecker becomes abundant in the neigh- 

 borhood of Nassau during the winter season. We often observed 

 them clinging to the trunks of the trees, or flying over the road 

 during our excursions to and from different parts of the island. It 

 did not appear to show any decided preference for any particular kind 

 of tree, as has been stated by some writers ; but seemed to wander 

 aimlessly about in search of its food, which consists of insects and 

 berries, although it often eats the sap of the trees, which it procures 

 by drilling holes through the bark with its strong, sharp bill, in 

 many cases killing the tree. 



Fig. Aud. Bds. N. A., Vol. IV. pi. 267. 



