272 



OHIO EXPERIMENT STATION. 



49. Ectopistes migratorius (LINN.). 

 Passenger Pigeon. 



This species is said to have been an abundant summer resident thirty years ago, 

 atlthat time there having been a large roost in Ne.vman's Swamp. By the clearing 

 of large portions of the swamp the Pigeons were driven away, but until about 1873 

 single pairs were to be found breeding in the vicinity of Orrville. During the past 

 twenty years the species has been of only casual occurrence, the most recent dates of 

 capture being September 19, 1888, and August 30, 1892; both of single birds. 



GENUS ZENAIDURA BONAPARTE. 



50. Zenaidura macroura (LINN.). 

 Mourning Dove. 



An abundant summer resident ; remaining in part over winter according to the 

 severity of the weather, being probably even in severe seasons to be found in suffi- 

 ciently sheltered localities, it moves more or less in at least small flocks at all times 

 of the year, but in fall and winter seldom to any extent otherwise. Four Mcurning 

 Doves were observed April 23, 1893, feeding in a meadow among a flock of domestic 

 pigeons. The same four individuals were subsequently seen upon the ground in the 

 midst of a flock of Red-winged Blackbirds. 



This species begins nest-building early in April, and the breeding season continues 

 at its height until June. The nest is placed almost anywhere; in trees or bushes, on 

 stumps, rail fences, but only occasionally on the ground. Of fifty nests examined, 

 only two were more than fifteen feet from the ground, while three-fourths of the 

 whole number were not at a greater altitude than ten feet. An old Robin's nest is 

 occasionally utilized as a foundation; and a Mourning Dove's nest was noted May 22, 

 1892, built upon the abandoned domicile of a Brown 'Ihrasher. 



The measurements of eight nests are as follows: 



Two eggs constitute of course the usual complement, but three eggs have twice 

 been found : April 27, 1890, and May 14, 1893. ^ the nest contain eggs or young the 

 parent bird often in her actions betrays great solicitude for the safety of her house- 

 hold, fluttering along on or near the ground for a considerable distance in the endeavor 

 to attract to herself the attention of the real or supposed intruder. 



