116 TRANSACTIONS OF THE [1891 



summer advances it becomes less numerous than most of our 

 other warblers. In the fall, and especially towards the time of 

 its departure, near the end of October, it once more becomes 

 numerous. Both in the spring and fall, the writer found this 

 species in barren grounds and fields, overgrown with small 

 pines, such localities, without doubt, being preferred by it. 

 Nevertheless, we obtained specimens in shrubbery and under- 

 growth, as well as in some woods, destitute of coniferous trees. 

 During the period of migration, it gathers together in flocks, 

 composed of a dozen or more individuals, which alight on the 

 small pines and at times are also seen on the ground. Except a 

 chirp, common to most of the smaller birds, the writer has never 

 heard it utter a sound which might be called a song. 



Sdurus aurocapillus (Linn.). Oven Bird. 



One of the most common birds to be found in the woods dur- 

 ing the summer is this species, better known under the name 

 of "Golden-crowned Thrush." Soon after its arrival, which is 

 about the 20th of April, the woods almost ring with its loud 

 voice. The song consists of but one syllable or tone, frequently 

 and rapidly repeated. This song, if once heard, can with ease 

 be always distinguished from that of other birds. In sunshine 

 or rain, even during thunder and lightning, the loud notes of this 

 species have been heard. It delights to run on the ground 

 among the leaves, after the manner of the <( towhee," and the 

 "red thrasher." This warbler is distinctively a woodland 

 bird, and is seldom, if ever, observed outside of such places. 



The nest is placed on the ground and is usually covered, and 

 has an opening on one side. This mode of construction of the 

 nest has caused the bird to be called " oven bird." About the 

 middle of October it leaves us, the 18th being the latest that it 

 has been observed, but long before that time it has become silent 

 and retired. 



Seiurus motacilla (Viell.). Louisiana Water Thrush. 



According to our observations, this is a rather rare species 

 around Baltimore. The few that have been noticed have been 



