360 University of California Publications in Zoology. [Vol. 7 



of the open space in the marsh grass occupied by the nest was 

 57 mm. (2"i/4 inches) by 76 mm. (3 inches). The whole structure 

 was damp. 



At Thousand Creek a phahirope was observed carrying a 

 worm in its beak. At the same location, on another occasion, 

 the birds followed and swooped at persons crossing the meadows. 

 It is altogether likely that they were breeding in this locality 

 as well as at Quinn River Crossing. In all, twelve individuals 

 were secured (nos. 9111-9119, 9303-9305). 



Recurvirostra americana Gnielin 



Avocet 



Distribution. — Seen at Quinn River Crossing, Virgin Valley^ 

 and along Thousand Creek. 



Habits. — The birds were undoubtedly nesting along the Quinn 

 River. Whenever the hunter invaded the precincts of the moist 

 wild-hay meadows two to seven avocets appeared and betrayed 

 the greatest excitement. They circled about him, uttering wild 

 cries somewhat resembling ' ' clai ! clai ! clai ! ' ' and voiding excre- 

 ment at intervals. 



The same "bobbing" or "bowing" trait observable in so 

 many waders was very evident in the avocets. One was noted 

 sitting on the water of a lagoon tributary to the Quinn River. 

 The bird in a truly ludicrous manner jerked its head up and 

 down, abruptly thrusting it under water at intervals. 



Difficulty of approach varied with the individual. Some 

 birds were exceedingly shy, while others were not so much so. 



Avocets evidently share with most other birds a dislike of 

 owls. Three were seen pursuing a Spcotyto over a wild-hay 

 meadow. 



Two specimens (nos. 9103, 9318) were preserved, 



Actitis macularius (Linnaeus) 



Spotted Sandpiper 



On May 11 one was noted on the Humboldt River near Win- 

 nemucca. Later at Quinn River Crossing single birds and flocks 

 of as many as four individuals were fre(|ueiitly noted on the- 



