OF EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA. 27!) 



occurred where they were twiee that height. It is a remark- 

 able fact that the trees which support, these nests are always 

 dead, and generally placed in the midst of marshy grounds. 

 cither completely isolated, or surrounded by a dense growth 

 of bushes. At all events, they present a rather conspicuous 

 appearance. It is highly probable that the excrement, of 

 the birds, or the saline character of their food, has much to 

 do with killing the nesting-trees. Trees which seemed quite 

 thrifty at first, after a year's occupancy, manifested unmis- 

 takable signs of death. Mr. W. II. Edwards discovered a 

 nest of this species built on a tall cliff', on the banks of the 

 Hudson River, which projected over the water. It was 

 observed in the vicinity of West Point. 



The nest is composed externally f large sticks piled to a 

 height varying from two to five feet, and measures fully 

 three feet in diameter. Occasionally, corn-stalks, mullein 

 stalks, and bark, are intermingled therewith. Internally, 

 there is a rather profuse lining of sea-weed, and the long- 

 grasses which grow so luxuriantly in salt-water marshes. 

 The cavity ranges from fourteen to fifteen inches in diameter, 

 and is unusually shallow in proportion to the size of the 

 nest. 



So bold and confiding is this Hawk, that it often places 

 its nest by frequented roads, and so low down upon the 

 trees, as to be readily accessible from the ground. But. 

 generally, in the midst of an almost impenetrable swamp, 

 which, though tempting to the sight of the oologist. is often 

 beyond his ability to reach. 



Ovi position proceeds at the rate of one egg a day, either 

 on consecutive, or alternate davs. The usual complement is 

 three, although two are sometimes laid, and rarely four. 

 Incubation follows close upon the last deposit. The task is 

 begun by the female, and devolves principally upon her. 

 The male occasionally takes the nest, and thus gives the fe- 

 male a brief recreation. Whilst she is incubating, he is a 

 most jealous husband and faithful provider. The choicest 



