The Nest-Hole of the Bluebird 



119 



and I noticed that the tail feathers were frayed and worn 

 at the points. 



The male during the 

 numerous visits which 

 followed came two or 

 three times and sat 

 above the door, but 

 never actually entered 

 it, and never brought 

 to the young a single 

 morsel of food in the 

 course of the entire day. 

 He would warble very 

 sweetly, however, and 

 probably encouraged 

 the exertions of his 

 mate. The next time 

 this bird appeared with 

 a grasshopper she did 

 not trust herself inside, 

 but stood at the en- 

 trance, put her head in 

 and as quickly drew 

 back to take another 

 glance around, then 

 leaned far down and fed 

 her clamoring brood. At 

 this moment a flock of 

 Goldfinches flew over- 

 head, and were heard 

 calling be-be ! be-be ! at 

 which the young Blue- 

 birds were instantly 

 aroused, and made the 

 old stump resound again 



With their cries. After Fi Z- 6 ^ 1 - Bluebi ' d engaged in nest-clean- 



ing, representing three visits, at each of which 

 many grasshoppers and food is served. Nearly one half life-size. 



