THE VERVAIN HUMMING-BIRD. 



347 



none of the ruby patches on the head, but retains a little of the topaz 

 on the throat. 



The Ruby-throated Humming-bird inhabits North America, and 

 derives its name from the brilliant ruby hue of the feathers that adorn 

 its throat. It is one of the com 

 nionest as well as the most beau- 

 tiful of this lovely group. 



The beautiful little Vervain 

 Humming-bird is one of the mi- 

 nutest examples of feathered life 

 that are at present known to zoolo- 

 gists. In total length this bird does 

 not measure three inches ; while, 

 as the tail occupies nearly an inch 

 and the head half an inch, the act- 

 ual length of the body will be 

 seen to be not quite an inch and 

 a half. It is a native of Jamaica, 

 and has been admirably described 

 by Mr. Gosse while treating of the 

 birds which inhabit that island. 



The name of Vervain Hum- 

 ming-bird has been given to this 

 tiny creature because it is in the 

 habit of feeding on the blossoms 

 of the AVest Indian vervain, but it 

 is also known under a variety of 

 other titles, and has been de- 

 scribed by many scientific writers 

 under different uames. 



The general color of this beautiful little bird is a brilliant metallic 

 green, the wings being, as usual, purple-brown, and the tail deep black. 

 The throat and chin are white, sprinkled profusely with little black 

 spots, and the breast is pure white. The abdomen is also white, but 

 diversified with a slight green tip to each feather, and the flanks are 

 bright metallic green, nearly as resplendent as upon the back. The 

 under tail-coverts are white, with a few very pale green spots. The 

 colors of the female are rather more dull than those of her mate, the 

 green being tinged with yellow, and the under parts without the green 

 spots. The first half of the tail is yellowish green, and all the feathers 

 of the tail, with the exception of the two central feathers, are furnished 

 with white tips. 



The nest of the Vervain Humming-bird is very small, in accordance 

 with the dimensions of the architect, is round and cup-like in shape, 



The Ruby and Topaz Humming-bird 



{Chrysolampis moschitus). 



