8 
NBSTS AND EGGS OF 
the cavity, two and a half inches at the rim, and the central dejith about 
one inch. 
Having finished their home, only a day or so intervenes when ovi- 
position becomes the controlling instinct. The female now proceeds to 
deposit her complement of four eggs, which she does on consecutive days, 
at the rate of a single egg daily. This is followed, on the day suc- 
ceeding the last deposit, by the trying duty of incubation. Uj^on the 
female devolves this arduous and irksome labor. For about eleven days 
she is thus engaged, until her patience is finally crowned with success. 
Although the male takes no part in this duty, yet he contributes his 
share to the prosperity of the undertaking, by guarding his partner from 
danger, and supplying her with the essential articles of food. When his 
home is assailed by feathered enemies, if they are not more than a match 
for his strength, he is not slow to Avreak instant vengeance upon them. 
But in the case of human depredators, Avhere effort would he futile, no 
exertion is forth to cause desistance from any conteinj^lated assault, 
save a little scolding. 
The eggs are four in number, and resemble in configuration those of 
the common Phcebe-Bird. They are obtuse at one extremity, and slightly 
tapering at the other. The ground is a rich cream-color, and is diversi- 
fied about the larger end with a Avreath of purple and lilac sj)ots, Avhich 
are large, and occasionally confluent. In length, they measure .76 of an 
inch, and in Avidth .54. It is pretty Avell established that but a single 
set is deposited by any giAmn j)air of birds in a season. Nests with 
eggs, hoAvever, have been taken during the last of July, or the beginning 
of August; but Avhether a second laying or not, AAm cannot say — j^^ssibly 
the Avork of birds Avhose early efforts had been frustrated. 
