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ter of ornament by collectors, as well as by persons who ensnare 

 them for cages ; while the female, from its humble attire and quiet 

 manners, is left to rear its brood in safety. 



The Indigo Bird arrives on Long Island in the month of May. 

 and retires southward in the month of September. It frequents the 

 gardens and fields, and is often seen perched on fences by the road- 

 side ; or mounted on the higher branches of a small tree, it war- 

 bles forth its charming notes, some of which are quite loud, while 

 others are performed on so low a key as to be scarcely audible 

 even at a short distance. 



With us it is a common species, and is very generally distributed 

 throughout the United States during summer. About the end of 

 June it commences building its nest, which is usually placed in some 

 low bush or shrub ; the eggs, usually five in number, are of a blu- 

 ish color. It is a sprightly bird, and feeds chiefly on insects and 

 seeds. 



