OF EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA. 287 



the Middle, Western, Southern and Northwestern States. 

 From Lower California to Washington Territory along the 

 Pacific, numerous parties attest to its common occurrence. 

 In the West Indies, these Vultures are found in Cuba, Ja- 

 maica, and Trinidad, being particularly abundant on the 

 last island. In both Honduras and Guatemala, they are by 

 no means uncommon ; and even in the Falkland Islands, 

 off the South-east coast of Patagonia, they are quite com- 

 mon residents throughout the entire year. 



In Eastern Pennsylvania, these birds are by no means 

 scarce during the summer. Great numbers have been fre- 

 quently seen, high up in the air, moving in large circles, 

 apparently exploring the ground below, from their lofty 

 height, for their favorite articles of diet. In rural districts, 

 they are more frequently seen, than in the vicinity of densely 

 populated towns. The greater abundance of carrion which 

 necessarily exists in the former, is the cause of this prefer- 

 ence. However, in California and Oregon, according to 

 Dr. Newberry, they are quite common near towns, and about 

 the large rivers. In the Southern states they visit cities and 

 large villages, and play the part of scavengers, in company 

 with C. atratus. In Kingston, Jamaica, they are so tame and 

 unsuspicious, accordingto Mr. G.C. Taylor, thattheyare found 

 either on the house-tops, or in the streets preying on carrion. 

 In country places they, however, manifest as little timidity, 

 as in the places just mentioned. Whilst feeding they are so 

 intent upon their task as scarcely to notice the presence of 

 human beings, and when compelled to forsake their treasure, 

 repair very demurely to a short distance, and, subsequently, 

 resume their feeding, when the danger has disappeared. 

 We have observed the Common Crow to gather around the 

 same carrion, and the utmost good feeling prevailed. The 

 near approach of a dog, save one of a vicious nature, does 

 not disturb their enjoyment. We have seen a small flock 

 settle down upon a dead horse, around which several dogs 

 had gathered. When they approached too closely to their 



