



PLATE LX. CHICKADEE. BLACK-CAPPED TITMOUSE. 



Par us atricapillus. 



Prevailing color gray-brown ; crown and throat black ; cheeks white ; 

 breast and belly dull white ; tail nearly square ; Length, 5.25 inches. 



Resident. Nests in holes in trees or stumps. Flight wavering. A nervously active 

 little fellow, constantly in motion. Fearless and confiding, it will pursue its avocations in 

 close proximity to an observer, apparently unconscious of his presence. Its familiarity 

 with man and confidence in him are very touching, and this trait, no less than its cheery 

 call and industrious habits, endears it to all bird-lovers. It is often observed in company 

 with Wrens and Nuthatches. In Fall and Winter the Chickadee is one of the most abund- 

 ant birds we have, and it is then, perhaps, more frequently seen than any other kind. Its 

 Summer call is cbick-a-dee-dee-dee-dee, and that of Winter is day-day-day. 



