OF EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA. 5 



and moss, which is lined with finer mosses, and, sometimes, 

 with hair. This difference of structure and of composing- 

 materials, is certainly due to the difference of enmroiniioit. 

 The site of the nest depends upon circumstances. When 

 the birds are encouraged and unmolested, they have been 

 known to nidificate in close proximity to human habitations, 

 thus manifesting confidence and a friendliness of disposition. 

 In Eastern Pennsylvania, places but seldom frequented bv 

 man, are chosen for building. This shyness is due to the un- 

 warranted persecution which the species has been subjected 

 to through the ignorance of man. 



On the day succeeding nest-completion, oviposition com- 

 mences. This requires fiom three to four days, according to 

 the number of eggs which is to constitute the sitting. But 

 a single egg is deposited daily. The period of incubation 

 varies slightly from eighteen days. 



While the female is incubating, for the labor is entirely borne 

 by her, the male is extremely vigilant and attentive. On 

 the approach of danger, he does not unmanfully sneak away 

 and leave his partner to the cruel mercies of a relentless en- 

 emy, but, like a faithful husband, he battles for their com- 

 mon rights, and does not yield the struggle until disabled, 

 unless he has repelled the invader. He is not only a gallant 

 and able defender, but is also a most willing provider. Dur- 

 ing the long and arduous task which his mate has voluntarily 

 imposed upon herself, he encourages her by his presence, 

 and repays her services by some dainty article of diet. 



When with young, the jealousy and watchfulness of the par- 

 ents, know no bounds. No intrusion is permitted save at the 

 peril of the intruder. Both parents vie with each other in the 

 most endearing attentions, and even imperil their own lives in 

 their efforts to contribute to their suitable maintenance. Then- 

 dietary consists of frogs, mice, earthworms, lan:v of Lach- 

 nosterna quercina, Anisopteryx vernaia, Gortyua ;r<c. 

 and mature forms of Acheta vigra, (Edipoda nebulosa, 

 CE. sulphured, Caloptenus fem*r-rubrwn, Spilosomavir- 



