198 AMERICAN MIDLAND NATURALIST 
protection for it from the vandalism of the ubiquitous hunter. 
Its loud, plaintive note is a characteristic sound in lake regions. 
PHOEBE BIRD. 
Sayornts phoebe. 
The note of this species has suggested its name, but the 
similarity between name and note isnot so clear as in the case 
of the Wood Pewee. ‘The Phoebe’s call-note is somewhat 
like the chirp of the English Sparrow. 
KINGBIRD. 
Tyrannus carolinensis. 
The usual note of this well-known species is one of the least 
pleasing of bird-utterances: Unlike most birds, the Kingbird 
has no agreeable note at all. A feature that adds to this unpleasant- 
ness of the bird’s notes is its habit of uttering them during its 
frequent quarrels. 
CRESTED FLYCATCHER. 
Myarchus crinitus. 
There is a suggestion of weirdness in the loud and not un- 
pleasant note of this species. The bird’s habit of keeping to un- 
frequented woods as well as the quality of the note give the 
observer this strange inpression. In spring, when the flycatcher 
does not confine itself in woods, its oft-repeated note may be heard 
in any grove or orchard. 
SCREECH OWL. 
Megascops asio. 
The very plaintive note of this our commonest owl may be 
heard in town or country—wherever there are trees. By some 
the bird’s note is thought to be the saddest sound in nature. To 
FLICKER. 
Colaptes auratus. 
The usual note of this species is a series of loud, rapid calls, 
all in the same pitch. Besides the ordinary note, the bird has 
many other curious utterances, some resembling the cries of 
babies or puppies. After the nesting season, when families of 
Flickers are found in our groves, these curious cries are common. 
RED-HEADED WOODPECKER. 
Melaner pes erythrocephalus. 
The loud, harsh call of this species is a common sound in 
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