114 
NESTS AND EGGS OF 
On the approach of winter these birds desert the northern and middle 
sections of our country, and mostly retire to warm southern latitudes be- 
yond Virginia. According to Mr. Samuels, they are permanent residents 
of the lower districts of New England, although but slightly so in cold 
weather, if the observations of other writers of equal prominence are to he 
relied upon. In Florida they are found at all seasons, but mostly in the 
higher latitudes of the State during the breeding-season. West of the 
Rockies, and in the region watered by the “Father of Waters” and its 
numerous tributaries, they are probably but transient occupants; yet there 
seems to be no strong reason why they should not find comfortable winter- 
quarters in Southern California and in the regions situated between the 
same isothermal lines. When the Western history of this species has been 
more closely studied, this will doubtless jjrove the case. 
The period of migration in the Middle Atlantic States seems dependent 
upon climatic influences. "When the season is tardy by reason of long, 
cokT winters, the birds do not arrive until after the middle of Aj^ril ; but 
when the weather is fine, and the prospect favors a continuance thereof, 
they ordinarily make their aj^pearance early in the month. In New 
England, doubtless somewhat later, if the time of laying forms any argu- 
ment upon wliich to base a conclusion. 
Upon its arrival in the vicinity of Philadelphia, the species takes up its 
abode in old orchards chiefly, where it can be convenient to the homes of 
man. While here it destroys immense numbers of fleld-mice and noxious 
insects, and is certainly one of our foremost feathered benefactors. To be 
sure it will destroy a few young chickens occasionally, by way of changing 
the monotony of its life, but the immense good which it otherwise accom- 
plishes, should induce humanity to throw a veil over its thoughtlessness 
and imprudence, and extend to it a cordial welcome. So small a bird 
could hardly j^erpetrate much mischief, and therefore should not be 
dreaded. Its many visits to the farm-yard are not made solely with the 
view of depredating upon the poultry, but for the purpose of feeding upon 
the vermin which infest the out-buildings, and which are so destructive to 
