GREAT CRESTED FLYCATCHER. 369 



row strip next the shaft; outer web of onter feathers edged with yellowish; the middle 

 feathers, outer webs of the rest, and wings, except as stated, dusky brown. Very 

 young birds have rufous skirting of many feathers, in addition to the chestnut above 

 described, but this soon disappears. Length, &J-9i ; wing and tail about 4 ; bill and tar- 

 sus, each, f . 



Habitat, Eastern United States and British Provinces, but rarely beyond the Connecti- 

 cut Valley ; west to Eastern Kansaa and Indian Territory. Guatemala, Costa Rica. 



Common summer resident from May 1st to September. Breeds. Fre- 

 quents open woodlands, orchards, and shrubbery. 



In this species the courage which the King-bird displays in defending 

 its nest is converted into a quarrelsomeness, which vents its spleen upon 

 its own kindred. Its harsh, defiant notes are heard in nearly every grove 

 and orchard, and frequent contests may be seen between members 

 of this species. 



This is the only species of the family, breeding with us, which finds a 

 nesting place in cavities of trees. It is noted for using the cast off 

 skins of snakes in the construction of its nest. Whether this strange 

 custom is simply an eccentric fancy or a defensive proceedure is not 

 known. 



In this city these birds have, within a few years, taken up their sum- 

 mer abode in moderate numbers, choosing for a nesting site a box put 

 up for Bluebirds or Martins, and from which they have been known to 

 expel settled occupants. This new habit is no doubt owing to the 

 destruction of favorite breeding spots, and the increased supply of food 

 which the city afgjrds, by reason of the abundant water supply. In the 

 cases which I have observed, these birds broke and carried out eggs of 

 Bluebirds, making use of their nests, simply adding a few straws and 

 shavings. The nest is usually placed in a natural cavity of the trunk 

 or one of the larger limbs, sometimes, however, in the deserted hole 

 of a Woodpecker. Into this they carry large quantities of leaves^ 

 straw, and rootlets, which they line with feathers. In all nests which 

 I have seen, except those in boxes, snake skins were present, placed 

 about the rim. 



The eggs are remarkable for their coloration. They are light hu&y 

 brown, streaked longitudinally by lines and markings of purplish and 

 darker brown. They measure 1. by .75. 



Genus SATORNIS. Bonaparte. 



Head moderately crested. Middle toe scarcely longer than hind toe, shorter than tar- 

 sus. Wings moderately pointed, e^ual to the broad, slightly forked tail. First primary 

 shorter than sixth, 



24 



