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NON-MUSICAL BIRDS 197 
has a way of giving a little variety to its simple attempt at voice 
expression. 
CHIMNEY SWIFT. 
Chaetura pelagica. 
This curious species, whose days are spent speeding through 
space, utters a note that has the quality of speed as its most 
marked characteristic. In the evening, swifts often fly about 
buildings in great numbers, always heard as well as seen. 
KINGFISHER. 
Ceryle alcyon. 
This large species of lakes and rivers has a note that has 
been very aptly compared with the noise made by a fisherman’s 
reel when casting. If the noise of the reel were multiplied many 
times over, this description of the Kingfisher’s_ note would be 
more correct. | 
WHIPp-POOR-WILL. 
Antrostomus voctferus. 
Just after sundown the note of the Whip-poor-will is heard 
and continues for about an hour. Later the note is uttered inter- 
mittantly throughout the night. When repeated slowly, the note 
is very distinct and agreeable; but like other species, the bird 
sometimes mars its efiort by a too rapid repetition. 
SPOTTED SANDPIPER. 
Actilis macularia. 
This common species of our lakes and rivers has a very high 
note, which can be imitated by the syllables peet-weet. Often 
only the note represented by peet is heard. The sandpiper usually 
utters its note when on the wing and when startled. 
NIGHTHAWK. 
Chordeiles virginianus. 
When the beautiful evenings of June come round, a large 
bird of irregular flight may be seen flitting high overhead, and 
now and then uttering a strange note. When once seen or heard, 
you will know that this species is the Nighthawk. 
LOon. 
Urinator umber. 
This large species, which is found on most of our inland 
lakes, is an ornament sufficiently important to secure better 
