OF EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA. 2r,;', 



scope of vision. But when a swamp or marsh is chosen 

 us its foraging grounds, anv low object is available. In 

 such localities, they frequently conceal themselves behind 

 a tussock of grasses, or a prostrate log, from which they 

 rush out and strike their quarry before it has had time for 

 reflection. 



Its flight is lofty and very irregular, and quite protracted. 

 When searching for food, it often skims athwart a meadow, 



O 



just above the tallest grasses, but should an object stir, it is 

 instantlv perceived by its keen eye, and clutched up with 

 unerring precision. During the middle of the day, it 

 displays its highest sailing, which is evidently accom- 

 plished for pleasure. At this time it moves in spiral 

 circles, which it gradually exchanges for a gliding move- 

 ment, the wings being apparently motionless. In the 

 midst of these evolutions, it often descends headlong to the 

 earth, with remarkable rapidity, as if to strike an object ; 

 but just as it neari aie ground, checks its speed in a most 

 singular manner, and courses away to a distance, either to 

 continue its aerial manoeuvres, or to rest awhile upon some 

 commanding eminence. When on its perch, on the look- 

 out for prey, it occasionally flaps its wings several times in 

 rapid succession, flirts its tail, or quickly depresses it, as if 

 to plume itself for instant flight. It will then stretch to its 

 full height, and give its head a more erect and nobler bearing. 

 Unless disturbed, these birds will occupy the same perch 

 for hours together, patiently waiting for game, or digesting 

 a meal. Ever on the alert, nothing escapes their eager atten- 

 tion. While thus occupied, they remain perfectly still, 

 and do not so much as utter a feeble cry, for fear of alarming 

 the wary creatures which contribute so largely to their diet. 

 But when unduly surprised, they utter a harsh scream, and 

 seek safety in flight. They are less quarrelsome with other 

 birds of their family, than most other species. When 

 wounded, they generally fly to an immense distance, and 

 only drop when their strength has become perfectly exhaus- 



