rests. The greatest diameter of the cavity, which is about three-eighths of an inch below the rim, varies 

 from .90 to 1.25, average 1 inch. The diameter of the cavity at the rim is .20 to .30 smaller. The depth 

 of the cavity varies from .60 to 1.50 inches. The external dimensions are subject to considerable 

 variations, easily accounted for when we consider the various positions, the difference in skill of the 

 architects, and the amount of time at their disposal. An average specimen measures in depth 1.75 

 inches, and about the same in diameter. 



EGGS: 



The complement of eggs is two. The shell is dull white, unmarked. They vary but slightly in size 

 from .50 x .34 of an inch. The ends are similar in shape. 



DIFFERENTIAL POINTS : 



The small size of the nest and of the eggs will always insure identification. 



REMARKS : 



The nest illustrated Avas taken from the limb of an apple-tree near Gambier, in June, 1879. It con- 

 tained two fresh eggs. It is a beautiful specimen of Hummingbird architecture. The two eggs figured 

 represent the usual sizes and shapes. 



The Hummingbird's nest is very difficult to find, even when the actions of the birds designate the 

 tree on which it is built. When the locality in which the nest is placed is approached, both birds may 

 attack the intruder in the most savage manner; they never actually strike, but they dart at the trespasser 

 with such velocity that nothing can be seen but a hazy streak, while their buzzing wings and squealing 

 voice indicate their anger. About the time they seem to have given up the attack and deserted the place, 

 back they come with such suddenness as to startle any but the strongest nerves. 



The domestic life of the Hummingbird is a model in every respect, and in strict harmony with the 

 beautiful little home they occui3y. Dr. Brewer, in "North American Birds," says: "About thirteen days 

 elapse between the full number of eggs and the appearance of the young." Never having had the oppor- 

 tunity to observe the period of incubation, I can not verify the above. The period has been placed by a 

 recent writer at eight days. After the young are old enough to leave the nest, they follow their parents 

 for some days, seemingly taking instructions in the manner of gaining a living. Among their own 

 species, and even among larger birds, the males are very pugnacious. During their battles they utter 

 repeated squeaks in a threatening tone, and strike at each other in a violent manner, until one of the 

 combatants shows the white feather. 



In confinement the Hummingbird soon becomes tame, but always at a loss of health and spirits. In 

 1875 one came into my room through an open window, and was captured without injury in a butterfly- 

 net. A cage of mosquito-bar was constructed, and the little fellow was imprisoned. Here he remained 

 until the following winter, when he died, apparently of a broken heart. After a few weeks' confinement 

 he became so tame that at times the liberty of the room was given him. He knew his name, and would 

 come when called and perch upon my finger. One chilly winter day I found him unable to sit upon his 

 perch Pie had been rapidly losing vitality since the period of their migration had passed. I took him 

 from the cage and placed him in the warm palm of my hand, and procured some hot-house flowers for 

 him. The little fellow, though too weak to stand, endeavored to probe the flowers for their insects and 

 nectar. When removed from my hand he would crawl back with the most human expression of a broken 

 heart I have ever seen in a bird. In this position, chosen by himself, my hand warmed the little body 

 until it ceased to live. The amount of intelligence and feeling displayed by this bird was really sur- 

 prising—so much so that I resolved never again to rob one of that liberty which must be so dear and 

 pleasant. 



100 



