s, 
rid 
Birds of Massachusetts. 69 
as Massachusetts; but we have Nuttall's high au- 
thority for saying that a pair is occasionally seen 
within our borders. In the days of falconry, this 
fine bird was employed for striking the larger prey, 
which it did by out-soaring and pouncing upon 
them with great rapidity and power. ‘There is 
much variety in its markings, and some specimens 
are found to be nearly white; which is believed to 
be an indication of age, its whiteness increasing 
with years. 
Tue American SPAnROoWHAWE, Falco sparverius, 
a beautiful little falcon, which is said to be rare in 
the maritime parts of our State, is not at all uncom- 
mon in the inland villages, where it comes fearlessly 
into cultivated enclosures, and pursues its prey with- 
out regard to those who pass by. The blue jays have 
a bitter aversion to it, probably, because it interferes 
with their own piratical expeditions. Whenever it 
appears, they follow it with loud and abusive lan- 
guage, mocking its cry with ridiculous exactness, 
till the hawk, who, in general, seems rather enter- 
tained with the exhibition, at last, stunned with 
their noise, and provoked at their impudence, seizes 
the foremost of their number; without, however, 
putting a stop to their persecutions. 
This bird is partial to the southern climates : 
some few remain in New York during the winter, 
but the ordinary cold of New England at that season 
is too severe. Still, it is seen here in cold weather, 
perched on some tree or stake which commands an 
open view, where it watches for mice or any smaller 
