266 
NESTS AND EGGS OF 
We are first apprised of the coining of this species into our midst by 
the peculiar notes which it emits. These sound like the syllables koo-koo- 
koo. As they are probably more frequently uttered on the approach of 
falling weather than at any other time, both it and its nearest relation — 
the Black-billed Cuckoo — have received the vulgar appellation of “ Rain 
Crow for the same uncouth guttural notes are uttered, in the same 
plaintive manner, and on similar occasions, by both birds, with this ex- 
ception, however, that the Yellow-billed is noisier, and more forcible in 
its expressions. 
From its first advent late in April, or early in May, until it 
takes up the line of flight southward in September, this bird startles us 
by its eccentric behavior. Though remarkably shy and unsociable, it is 
less so than its congener. In Eastern Pennsylvania, it seldom inhabits 
high, open woods, for which the latter has a fondness, but manifests a 
strong preference for low hedges along the borders of fields and public 
roads, or an isolated pine or apple tree in orchard or garden. In the 
latter place it is as often seen in the lower, as in the u|iper, branches. 
Places remote therefrom, in other States, show a marked change in this 
respect. Not only does it betray an instinctive dread of man, by seeking 
the summits of the tallest trees in loose woods, or those of large shade- 
trees in our city parks, but it also studies how best to conceal itself from 
his gaze. Though ordinarily hidden birds, but when in search of the 
various winged insects which contribute to their sustenance, they show 
rather conspicuously. But they are oftener heard than seen. When ready 
to change their position, they maintain a long silence, and being assured 
that the coast is clear, stealthily glide from their perches, and on rapid, 
noiseless pinions, wend their flight to the coveted spot. On attaining 
which, they stand like statues for a long time, utter their famous cry, and 
when surfeited with the sights about them, renew their flight. Thus they 
keep it up until called to desist therefrom by household duties. 
Few species manifest more strongly the faculty of curiosity. When 
nestled in umbrageous security, so artfully concealed as to elude the keen 
