OF EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA. HI 



position which is so characteristic of minimus^ has no part 

 . of its being. When approaching its perch, attracted by its 

 loud and distinct, vet monotonous, trill. \ve have always beer 

 compelled to observe the utmost caution and silence, for fear 

 of creating unnecessary alarm ; the bird being exceedingly 

 shv and suspicious. Even while busv in the procurement 

 of food, it seems to be on the alert, ever and anon remitting 

 its task to take a careful survey of the surrounding prospect. 

 The merest rustle of the leaves by the wind, or a squirrel, 

 awakes a momentary surprise, which, in some instances, 

 amounts to an utter stampede, when the cause thereof is not 

 apparent. Rut, usually, a few hast\ glances reveal the cause 

 of the noise, and, if danger is not imminent, it goes on feed- 

 ing as though nothing had happened. 



Whilst foraging, it is never found upon the topmost 

 branches of trees, but seems to prefer the low branches. 

 We have occasionally observed it upon the ground, in active 

 pursuit of insects, which contribute to its bill of fare. Like 

 all the EmpidonaceS) it has the peculiar habit of flirting its 

 tail, after it has made a capture, which is either intended to 

 show its delight and satisfaction, or impatience, in not finding 

 a readier and fuller supply. 



We have often been greeted with its song, in our reconnois- 

 sances. which is heard at comparatively regular periods, in 

 the intervals of feeding. From early morning until sunset, 

 it is a vigorous feeder, and during the livelong day we enjoy 

 its simple, pleasing, yet trirlingly monotonous ditty. Its syl- 

 labic language may be happily expressed by pea-wavk* pea 

 wa\ot\ repeated with moderate softness, and with a somewhat 

 pleasing intonation. 



The plight of this species is never protracted whilst feed- 

 ing : even when fleeing from the- pursuit of an enemy, it 

 makes short yet rapid Mights from tree to tree. The same 

 general flight, with its slight undulating movements, is char- 

 acteristic of the entire family of Flycatchers. 



The- food of this species consists of beetles, orthoptera. 

 1 I 



