44 A NATURALIST IN THE MAGDALEN ISLANDS. 



32. MELOSPIZA MELODIA, (Wils) Bd. 

 (Soxo SPARROW ) 



It cannot be considered as common ; only two specimens 

 were taken, but I have no doubt that it is a regular summer 

 visitor, and breeds here. 



33. JUNCO HYEMALIS, (L.) Scl. 

 (SNOWBIRD.) 



An abundant species. They were very tame, and came 

 around the house fearlessly. On July 18 I discovered a nest 

 containing young birds nearly able to fly. The old birds 

 showed their anxiety as I approached by flitting from one 

 branch to another, sometimes almost within reach of my 

 hand, continually uttering a short, clear " chip " of alarm. 



In a series of specimens measured, I found quite an 

 appreciable difference in size ; some adult birds were darker 

 than others. 



