BIRDS OF THE UNITED STATES. 
197 
not extend for any great distance along tlie peripheral walls. In some 
instances the materials constituting their bed are thrown promiscuously 
into the hollow. 
Having provided herself with comfortable quarters, the female com- 
mences to deposit her eggs, one a day, until the number is reached which 
is to constitute her charge. Incubation at once ensues, and continues for 
fifteen days. This is chiefiy the labor of the female, although the male 
sometimes relieves her when she is in quest of food. When with eggs or 
young the approach of an enemy is greeted with a sort of hissing sound, 
and the protrusion of the hand into the nest meets Avith a sharp recep- 
tion. If surprised in the daytime, these birds are such stupid, sleepy 
creatures that your approach is scarcely noticed. A sort of vacant stare, 
with occasional rapid blinkings, save when partially aroused to conscious- 
ness by a sudden thrust with the finger, is the only recognition which 
they give. But when disturbed with such rudeness they open wide the 
eyes in a staring manner, throw back the head, and utter a loud hiss of 
indignation or disgust, which is quickly folloAved by the elevation and 
protrusion of the claws of the right foot. All this is of momentary dura- 
tion, and is quickly succeeded by the same stolid indifference as manifested 
before. 
The young are vigorous feeders, and tax the time and energies of the 
parents to the utmost in the procurement of suitable nourishment. All 
night long the latter are constantly on the go, both birds being frequently 
absent together upon this important mission. Small quadrupeds, birds, 
lizards and insects are a few of the articles which contribute to their fare. 
At fiist these are torn into ]Dieces by the parents, and fed to them, but 
as they increase in age, the entire animal is deposited in the burroAV. 
Mr. Nuttall cites a case where a full supply of Bluebirds, Blackbirds, and 
Sparrows was thrown info the nest— a striking illustration of the provident 
habits of the parents. When five weeks old the young leave the nest and 
receive their rations while clinging to the tree-branches. A fortnight 
later they are able to hunt for themselves, but at the dawn of morninsr 
to 
