>r>2 LIFE-HISTORIES OF BIRDS 



found in the fur regions according to Richardson, and unfike 

 its nearest kin, is a non-resident of the West India Islands. 



In Eastern Pennsylvania, it is by no means as plentiful 

 as borealis, and does not affect similar situations. It prefers 

 the vicinity of large streams, and extensive ponds, occasion- 

 ally being found in low marshy grounds of considerable ex- 

 tent, in out-of-the-way places. Occasionally during the 

 winter, individuals are met with in sheltered localities. 

 Equally as courageous and spirited as its nearest relative, 

 it manifests less shyness and timidity, often visiting orchards 

 and farmyards, where it occasionally makes considerable 

 havoc among the younger poultry. It seemingly defies 

 man's authority, and after being driven from these coveted 

 quarters, it is certain to return as soon as an opportune mo- 

 ment presents itself. Even when wounded, it fails to learn 

 experience from the past, but returns to practise its wanton 

 devastations. It differs still more from boreaUs in being 

 more open and ingenuous in its action, seldom resorting to 

 strategic and stealthy movements in the accomplishment 

 of its often well-laid schemes. 



During its autumnal visit, the male is sometimes accom- 

 panied by his partner, the two often being seen hunting to- 

 gether, or roosting upon the same perch. But when food 

 becomes scarce, particularly during very rigorous winters, 

 they mutually dissolve partnership, each taking divergent 

 directions, and restricting its foraging to completely isola- 

 ted territories. But on the first approach of fine weather, 

 they again unite, and if it proves lasting, continue together, 

 and thus repair to their more northern breeding-quarters. 

 The most perfect good-will prevails at all times, thus con- 

 trasting quite markedly with the selfishness and jealousy 

 which characteri/e its nearest relative. 



Like the latter, it seldom captures its prey on the wing, 

 preferring to swoop down upon it from the summit of a tall 

 tree, or from any object which gives it a commanding posi- 

 tion. High eminences are preferable, as they give a wider 



