up insects, as in most insectivorous region the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker is 



birds. ^ replaced by the red-napcd sapsucker, 



The note of this Woodpecker is said which has similar tree-girdling habits, 



to resemble the low mew of a cat, and Another common western form is the 



it is most often heard in the spring, red-breasted sapsucker, which is common 



This is in great contrast with the loud in Oregon and California, 

 rattle-like cry of its relative the red- Collins Thurber. 



headed woodpecker. In the Pacific coast 



THE OPTIMISTIC GOLDENROD. 



"The splendid glow of my yellow hair 



Is faded now," said the Goldenrod, 

 "To fluffy greyness so soft and fair, 



And I am still thankful that from the sod 

 I sprang a stately, dominant weed 

 To cheer the land when late summer comes ; 

 My sunny warning the birds all heed 



And seek the south ere the winter's drums 

 Are beating a sleety reveille. 

 I do not mind that my hair is grey, 

 I have been beautiful in my day — 

 Gold-haired or silver, my heart is gay," 

 Said the cheerful Goldenrod. 



"Pansies and roses and lilies rare, 



Gorgeous poppies in ruffled silk. 



Mystic moonflowers, white as milk — 

 All have shone in their beauty fair. 



Filled with enchantment the days and nights. 



Flowery pageant of sweet delights. 

 Then I, unloosing my hair of gold. 



On hill and roadside my glory shed, 

 And light so cheering it plainly told 



Never are beautiful things all dead. 



"If you are thinking I look forlorn. 

 Faded, forsaken, of beauty shorn — 

 Don't you feel sorry. I shall be born 

 Again, some misladen August morn," 

 Said the cheerful Goldenrod. 



— Belle A. Hitchcock. 



