60 LIFE-HISTORIES OF BIRDS 



while foraging, and even in isolated pairs. The 

 Kinglets and our common Chickadee very often 

 travel and feed in pairs ; but the Cedar Bird which 

 is a common as well as a variable species, often 

 collects in flocks of fifties and sixties; but this is 

 an exceptional illustration. Where food is 

 abundant, this disposition to flock is easily ac- 

 counted for; but when there is a scarcity, and 

 only obtainable under great difficulties, it is not 

 strange a solitary life should be preferred. 



So extremely shy is this species, that even the 

 slightest rustling of the forest leaves will inspire 

 fear and lead to its hasty departure. When 

 wounded or in danger of being captured, the most 

 determined opposition is exhibited. With glisten- 

 ing eyes of anger and extended claws, it bids 

 defiance to its assailants. 



Its lack of song while dwelling in our midst, 

 may possibly be attributed to the life of solitude 

 which it leads. , Later, when the benignant influ- 

 ences of returning spring sends the blood tingling 

 through its accustomed channels, this Titmouse 

 will frequently pause from its insect-pursuing 

 labors, and essay a few notes which are uttered in 

 aloud distant manner, and resemble peto-peto-peto. 

 We have never heard its full song which it prob- 

 ably utters in its more northern habitat, where it 

 delights to nidificate. Mr. Nuttall describes it as 

 representing the syllables whip-tom-killy-killy-day- 

 day-da-it-tschica-dee-dee varied with kal-tee-did-did- 

 did, etc. 



