20 BIRDS OF SWOPE PARK 



The Chimney Swifts have deserted the hollow trees for the 

 chimneys. Martins and Wrens are almost entirely dependent 

 for nesting places provided for by man. 



In other cases the rule of the past is still the rule, with 

 only an occasional exception. For instance, the Carolina Wren 

 is still most frequently found nesting along wooded streams 

 in brush piles and old stumps, but I have found its nest in a 

 box of old junk in a w^agon shed near a farm house. The 

 Mourning Dove that usually nests in shrubs and trees, some- 

 times builds on the ground. I have found its nest on a project- 

 ing ledge of moss-covered rock. More unusual still, as it ap- 

 pears to me. is the case of a Prothonotary Warbler reported 

 by an observer, who found this bird starting a nest in a tin 

 can which was tacked above a rain barrel. The Prothonotary's 

 attempt, however, was a failure, for a wren appeared and was 

 too vigorous in his dispute over the nesting site. These ex- 

 ceptions and modifications could be extended to great length. 



Of more interest and concern to us. is the fact that some 

 species, like the Robin, Martin, House Wren, Bluebird, King- 

 bird. Mockingbird. Catbird. Red-headed W oodpecker, and 

 others, have left the woods and secluded regions to nest in 

 door yards and orchards near to human beings. 



While the choice of nesting sites is often a matter of con- 

 venience, and while the usual styles are modified in particular 

 instances, yet they are never completely revolutionized. The 

 Martin and the Wren and the Red-headed \^ oodpecker may 

 have a change of environment, but their nesting instincts are 

 not so completely changed that the Red-head will build an 



