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THE AUTUMNAL WARBLER. 



Sylvia autumnalis^ Wils. 



PLATE LXXXVIII. Male and Female. 



The Autumnal Warbler was so named by Mr Wilson, on account 

 of its appearing in the neighbourhood of Philadelphia, where only it was 

 seen by that writer, during its migration from the Northern States, where 

 it breeds, to the confines of Mexico, its winter residence. 



This species makes its appearance in great numbers, in the lower parts 

 of Louisiana, early in March, and remains there for a few days along with 

 many others. At this season, it passes from the high top of one tree to 

 that of another, with great activity. In about a week after its first ap- 

 pearance, none are to be seen. It moves towards the northernmost of our 

 Eastern Districts, as the season advances, and does not stop until it 

 reaches the remote parts of the State of New York, many individuals, 

 however, forcing their way still farther. 



I have found it breeding in the immediate vicinity of the Cayuga 

 Lakes, and on the borders of Lake Champlain, in retired parts of the 

 woods, which it seems to prefer during the summer months. I have also 

 found it in the lofty forests of that portion of Pennsylvania usually called 

 the Great Pine Swamp. The nest, Uke that of many other Sylvia, is 

 partially conical and pensile, and is formed of the soft bark of vines, 

 lined with the down of various plants. The eggs are from four to six, 

 of a white colour, tinged with red, and sprinkled with brownish dots at 

 the larger end. The nest is usually placed in the slender fork of a low 

 bush. I have found the female sitting as late as the 20th of August, and 

 therefore conclude that this species raises two broods in the season, al- 

 though I have had no opportunity of finding the nest and eggs at an 

 earlier period. 



The food of the Autumnal Warbler consists of small insects, many of 

 which it procures whilst on wing. It also searches with gi-eat industry 

 among the leaves and along the twigs. Its habits are precisely similar 

 to those of other Warblers. Its flight is short, unequal, and yet quick. 

 It rises in the air to some distance, and returns towards the spot which it 



