BIRDS, OF EASTERN MASSACHUSETTS. 145 



spot was not very bright, but, as it was quite dark by 

 this time, plainly perceptible. They presented a peculiar 

 .appearance as they walked about, and I watched them 

 with interest for some time. This singular light sur- 

 prised me much, as I had never heard of anything like it 

 before." 



It was in the autumn when Mrs. Farley observed this 

 striking and interesting phenomenon. 



212. Nyctherodius violaceus, REICH, Yellow- 

 .crowned Night Heron. Mr. Vickery informs me that he 

 shot a specimen in Lynn in 1865. The bird was flying 

 over his head at the time. 



213. Falcinellus Ordii, BON. Glossy Ibis. Acci- 

 dental or occasional Nuttall records one or two instances 

 of its capture ; Cabot, one or two ; none recently, however. 

 Mr. Vickery also informs me that he has seen a specimen 

 of this fine bird, that was taken, fifteen years ago, at or 

 near Stafford Ridge, New Hampshire. 



RALLID^E, THE RAILS. 



214. Rallus crepitans, GM. Clapper Rail, " Salt- 

 marsh Hen." Accidental. Mr. J. F. Le Baron informed me 

 that he shot a specimen, some years ago, at Ipswich. Also 

 one taken by Mr. S. J. Cabot. 



215. Rallus Virginianus, LINN. Virginia Rail. 

 Common summer resident. Frequents the bushy swamps. 

 Breeds early, nesting on some tussock. Have seen the 

 young running about by the first of June. 



216. Porzana Carolina, VIEILL. Carolina Rail, 

 " Sora Rail," " Ortolan." Common summer resident. Fre- 

 quents the wet, open meadows, where it breeds. Both of 

 these species are much more common ' than most collectors 

 or sportsmen are aware of. 1 have been in a swamp where 



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