The Sunfisb Family 63 



As might be inferred from its extensive range, 

 its coloration varies greatly. In large and old 

 examples it is sometimes of a uniform slaty hue 

 with purplish reflections. In others it is olive- 

 green or bluish green, darker above, with the 

 breast and belly coppery red. Young specimens 

 are more brilliantly colored, with silvery reflec- 

 tions and various chainlike markings. It thrives 

 alike in stream, pond, or lake, adapting itself to 

 almost any environment. It feeds on insects 

 and their larvae, very small minnows, and other 

 small aquatic organisms. It spawns in the 

 spring and early summer, and its manner of 

 nesting and guarding its young is similar to 

 that of the other members of the family. It 

 grows to six or eight inches in length usually, 

 but often to a foot, especially in large waters. 

 It is quite a favorite game-fish in most localities, 

 and with such tackle as recommended for the 

 rock-bass it gives considerable sport, especially 

 in localities that are lacking in larger and better 

 game-fishes. It rises well to the fly, and will take 

 any of the baits recommended for the other sun- 

 fishes. 



In those states of the Middle West, where the 

 brook-trout does not exist, the " blue gill " is 



