THE NORTHERN SHRIKE. 287 



trees, especially apple. In their nesting they are usually half gregarious, so 

 that a small orchard may contain a dozen nests, while another as good, a 



Photo by J. B. Parker. 

 CANNING SEASON. 



THE FEMALE CEDAR-BIRD IS FEEDING THE YOUNG RIPE CURRANTS. 



little way removed, has none. During the breeding season the birds are un- 

 usually silent, but when discovered stick closely to their nests even to the point 

 of being taken by the hand. It is on this account, as well as for their sleek- 

 ness, that they are favorite birds with the photographer. 



No. 127. 



NORTHERN SHRIKE. 



A. O. U. No. 621. Lanius borealis Vieill. 



Synonyms. GREAT NORTHERN SHRIKE; BUTCHER-BIRD. 



Description. Adult : Upper parts clear, bluish gray, lightest almost 

 white on upper tail-coverts; extreme forehead whitish; wings and tail black, 

 the former with a conspicuous white spot at base of primaries, the latter with 



