RAPTORES. 107 



an evergreen near the main walk leading from the Library 

 to the Chapel building. His presence would never be sus- 

 pected if the Blue Jays would mind their own business in- 

 stead of his. This pair rears its brood in the loft of either 

 French Hall or the Chapel.* 



This little- owr may be known by its conspicuous ear tufts 

 and reddish or grayish mottled plumage. Its quavering 

 call is often heard during the spring months. 



"Their food consists of a great variety of animal life, 

 including mammals, birds, reptiles, batrachians, fish, crus- 

 taceans, and insects Their economic relations, there- 

 fore, are of the greatest importance, particularly on account 

 of the abundance of the species in many of the farming 

 districts, and whoever destroys them through ignorance or 

 prejudice should be severely condemned." (Fisher.) 



144. (375.) Bubo virginianus (Gmel.). 159. 

 Great Horned Owl. 



Synonyms: Strix virginanus. 



Hoot Owl, Cat Owl, Hooter. 

 Wilson, Am. Orn., 1812, 52. 



This is the largest of our "horned" owls, and is generally 

 reported as fairly common but disappearing near the large 

 cities. It is rare in Lorain county, but three individuals 

 being known in the western half of the county. Its large 

 size should make it a conspicuous bird. I have found it 

 only when crows and hawks have routed it from its retreat. 

 It inhabits the larger, heavier woods, and is hardly more 

 than semi-nocturnal, sometimes feeding by day. It nests 

 indifferently in open nests or hollow trees. 



It may be known at a glance by its white throat patch, 

 large ear tufr---., and powerful build. 



"The food of this species is of great variety ; birds and 

 mammals as well as reptiles, fish, crustaceans, and insects 

 contribute to its fare. Among the birds most often taken 

 may be mentioned all kinds of poultry (including half- 



* Since the above v/as written the chapel has burned. I am 

 glad to report that the owl escaped unscorched. 



