91 



quently be seen in the air at once, as they perform these evolu- 

 tions. At this time, also, hovering at a much lower height is 

 frequently indulged in. With a few quick strokes of his wings, 

 the male vaults from his post into the air, and with quivering 

 wings and flaming shoulders, gives vent to his pent-up passion 

 in the '^ scolding song" described above. After mating has 

 taken place and family cares have begun, song gradually 

 diminishes, although it is still frequently heard from some 

 individuals until late in July. 



As before stated, the arrival of the first resident females 

 arouses the males to a sort of frenzy, and whenever one appears 

 in sight, it is pursued and driven from the neighborhood. A 

 migrating female immediately leaves the vicinity, but a 

 resident bird returns to the same spot. With a few birds 

 mating occurs at once, so that the first nests are started by the 

 beginning of the third week of April. Normally, however, 

 the male continues to drive away the female for a week or 

 more after her first appearance. But she clings to the spot, 

 and eventually his attitude changes. Instead of pursuing her, 

 he follows her around while she feeds about the debris upon 

 the water. Actual mating may not occur, however, for a 

 week or two after the female has made her choice of a future 

 mate. Meanwhile she spends the middle of the day on the 

 uplands, while the male remains in the marsh. After mating 

 and before nest-building, she spends the entire day in the marsh 

 and only occasionally leaves, accompanied by her mate. After 

 the nest is commenced and through the egg-laying period, both 

 birds ordinarily spend the middle of the day on the uplands; 

 particularly is this true of those nesting during the earlier part 

 of the season. 



Nuttall states that "a concubinage rather than any regular 

 mating seems to prevail among the species," and there is very 

 good ground for the belief, although there seems to be a great 

 deal of individual variation in this respect. Certain pairs 

 have been observed throughout the season, and found to be 

 mated as steadfastly as are most birds, while in others the 

 tie seems to bind only so long as the male is watchful and able 

 to exert his lordship in driving away other males. A female 

 7 



