COOPER'S HAWK. 197 



birds probably gather when working their way round the west end 

 of the lake, in preference to going across. Although a few remain 

 during the winter, this species is mostly migratory, arriving in April 

 and leaving in October. 



This, and its near relative, the Sharp-shinned Hawk, are the two 

 which Dr. Fisher says are so destructive to small birds, and young 

 grouse and chickens, that they should be destroyed whenever it is 

 possible. 



Cooper's Hawk is the larger and stronger of the two. It is par- 

 ticularly fond of pigeons, and, if permitted, will return to the dovecot 

 day after day till the last pigeon is taken. 



It is a most active bird on the wing, the long tail, short rounded 

 wings, and quick sight enabling it to capture at will anything suitable 

 it may surprise while skimming over the meadows or through the 

 open woods. 



It is generally distributed throughout Ontario, but is more 

 common farther south. In Alaska it has not been observed. 



