OF EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA. 199 



is a firmness and vivacity displayed, which bespeak the 

 peculiar habitude of the species* The flight is not only 

 hawk-like, but is characterized by a noiselessness and si- 

 lence, which are truly remarkable. The presence of the 

 bird is onlv known by the movements of its shadow upon 

 the ground ; these movements are seemingly the exact coun- 

 terpart of some species of the FalconiddZ. In searching for 

 small animals, after dark, in low humid grounds, the most 

 perfect silence is maintained, for fear of startling its prey. 

 Although preferring to pounce down upon its victim whilst 

 sailing stealthily overhead, it is sometimes constrained to 

 resort to strategy in order .to effect its purpose. A scarcity 

 of appropriate diet stimulates to such a procedure. With this 

 intention in mind, it repairs to the favorite spot, conceals itself 

 in the shadow of a prostrate log, or behind a tussock of 

 grass ; and when its victim emerges from its retreat, rushes 

 out, and seizes it unawares. Most generally the talons are 

 the most available offensive weapons, although when the 

 prey is quite small, the bill is made the instrument of its 

 capture. Few species display greater dexterity and cunning 

 in the capture of game than the one under consideration. 

 Notwithstanding the immense good which this species ac- 

 complishes in the destruction of noxious animals, it possess- 

 es traits of character which render it an object of utter detes- 

 tation to farmers, and others, who are engaged in the raising 

 of poultry. Its natural penchant for the desolation of hen- 

 roosts, and poultry-yards where small chickens are confined, 

 has placed it under the ban of society, and its destruction 

 is sought with avidity by those who are the losers by its 

 wanton and wholesale pillages. Its fearlessness often leads 

 it into such places during the day. and, notwithstanding the 

 persecutions which it has suffered in some localities, it still 

 continues its devastations, utterly defying the power of man. 

 Again, there are other places, where it has apparently prof- 

 ited by the experience of the past, and has betaken itself to 

 safer quarters where it thrives equally as well, if not bettor. 



