54 THE BIRDS ABOUT Us. 



CHAPTER VII. 



THE CUCKOOS, ETC. 



WHAT of our Cuckoos ? There is found in 

 " Northern Mexico and contiguous portions 

 of the United States, north to Western Indian Territory 

 and Kansas, Southern Colorado, and California," a 

 very curious and interesting bird known as the Road- 

 runner. As the name suggests, it is a ground-cuckoo, 

 and except that it occasionally perches upon a low 

 bush, is seldom seen except on foot. It is very fleet 

 and is often chased by men on horseback, and gives 

 evidence of excellent endurance, not being readily 

 overtaken. 



It is an expert fly-catcher, and feeds also upon 

 lizards and mice. It is easily tamed, and under this 

 artificial restraint proves to be an intelligent and 

 amusing pet. The nest is loosely built of twigs in a 

 low bush. 



Very different are the two common cuckoos of the 

 Eastern States : different in appearance, in all habits, 

 and strictly arboreal. I can recall no birds that so 

 seldom leave the trees, and have no recollection of 

 ever seeing one upon the ground. These two cuckoos 

 are known as the " Yellow-billed" and " Black-billed" 

 Cuckoos ; but probably a more common name is 

 " Rain Crow," and a more absurd one would be 



