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Birds of Massachusetts. 119 
colors; sometimes it starts up to catch an insect 
flying over; then it may be seen balancing itself in 
the air, looking sharply into a bunch of leaves. It 
flies with the mouth open, and its success is known 
by the snapping of its bill. When it tries to seize a 
wasp, the insect presents its sting in so formidable 
a manner, that the redstart dares not catch it, and 
moves after some less dangerous prey. 
In the cold weather in June, 1832, when so many 
birds were found lying dead, in all parts of the coun- 
try, one of these birds came, for several days in suc- 
cession, up tomy study window, and there employed 
himself in catching insects, within a few feet of the 
place where I was writing. He frequently watched 
me, but finding that I did not trouble him, he dis- 
missed his reserve and seemed to be on familiar 
terms. When the weather changed, he disappeared, 
and I never saw one in the same place again. 
The nest is generally on a low bush or tree, and 
appears as if hanging by the twigs. It is composed 
of various materials, fastened together with saliva. 
The eggs are a soft white, sprinkled with yellow- 
ish brown. The parents are anxiously watchful for 
the safety of their young. These birds come to us 
in May, and, at the last of September, retire beyond 
on nes of the Union. 
| B eres Fiycatcuer, Muscicapa mi- 
sa p first discovered by Audubon. Lit- 
t known concerning it, though ornithologists 
E 
ver informs me that it has been fou 
en acquainted with it for a cone Me ‘ 
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