106 
NESTS AND EGGS OE 
ronments all operate to prevent the assumption of matrimonial relations as 
early as in semi-tropical climes. 
Upon arrival, they seem to abandon their gregarious habits, and 
appear only in pairs, seldom more than a half-dozen paired individuals 
being found in any square mile of territory. During the short period 
which elapses before building operations are begun, which lasts from three 
to four weeks, they occupy the time in feeding, in dusting themselves by 
the roadside, or in the enjoyment of each other’s society. 
Few species disj^lay, Avhere undisturbed, greater confidence in man. 
It visits the farm-yard and consorts with the poultry, partaking of their 
food, and even repairs to the drinking-places of the cattle for water. In 
many localities it courts rather than shuns human society, and exists in a 
semi-domesticated state. AVhile some of these birds thus deport themselves, 
others manifest much shyness, and keep away from the habitations of man. 
But these will mostly be found to be young birds, which have not been 
able to fling off the timidity which they have probably inherited. 
A few years ago, in Eastern Pennsylvania, it w^as a rare occurrence 
to find a nest of this species in close proximity to houses. Nowadays it is 
seldom that one can be found remote therefrom. The kindly s^hrit which 
the humane farmer has been wont to show towards the species has doubt- 
less been productive of these happy results. It is an astonishing fact, and 
one that is worthy of being recorded, that mischievous boys who have 
a penchant for disturbing the homes of other birds, for some nnac- 
conntable reason, permit these gentle creatures to pursue their household 
duties without fear or trouble. Perhaps their unassuming, trustful dispo- 
sition, placid demeanor, and winning ways, have the effect of softening 
rugged human natures, and thus securing them deserved resj)ect. AA^hen the 
subject of our sketch is better known, it is gratifying to think, that much 
of the same spirit of kindness and mercy will he evinced elsewhere. 
Having spent a few weeks in luxurious living and pleasure, and the 
season of house-keeping being nigh at hand, these birds forsake their 
