382 SINGING BIRDS. 



This species, according to Richardson, inhabits the dense 

 white spruce forests of the fur countries, feeding principally on 

 the seeds of the cones. It ranges through the whole breadth 

 of the continent, and probably up to the 68th parallel, where 

 the forests terminate. It is usually seen in the upper branches 

 of trees, and when wounded still clings so fast as to remain 

 suspended after death. In September, collecting in small 

 flocks, they fly from tree to tree in a restless manner and make 

 a chattering noise ; and in the depth of winter they retire from 

 the coast to seek shelter in the thick woods of the interior. 



This interesting bird must still be written " irregular " in its oc- 

 currence in this State, though usually more or less abundant in 

 winter down to the 40th parallel. 



It is partially sedentary in northern New England and the Mari- 

 time Provinces of Canada, though much more abundant in winter 

 than during the warm weather. The nest is built in January and 

 February, — I have known of numerous nests being discovered in 

 New Brunswick in those months, — and it is probable that both 

 young and old retire farther northward after the young birds are 

 able to fly. 



