BIRDS OF PEASEMARSH 



Blackbird is one of the worst nest robbers we 

 have, and so we shall read of him in the chapter 

 on bird enemies. The smaller Blackbird nests 

 farther north, and is only a visitor here. The 

 Redwinged Blackbird is not a nest robber, but 

 in some ways a beneficial bird. Of late it has 

 not been so numerous as one might wish, prob- 

 ably because the marshes where it likes to nest 

 are being cleared and drained. It is one of the 

 earliest arrivals, and also has the distinction of 

 being one of the most dramatic of the feathered 

 folk. All through the early part of the season 

 it sings in strong, liquid notes, accompanied 

 by twists and turns and graceful bows. 



The Cowbird, another member of this 

 family, is most undesirable, as it builds no nest, 

 but lays its eggs in the nest of another bird, 

 usually one smaller than itself, and pays no 

 more attention to it. The small owners of the 

 nest are forced to feed the young Cowbirds, 

 which usually manage to get all the food and 

 crowd out the little birds. The Cowbird is also 

 mentioned in the chapter on bird enemies. 

 Thus we see invaluable Meadowlarks and 

 Bobolinks and Orioles have some relatives of 

 very uncertain character. 

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