BIRDS OF EASTERN MASSACHUSETTS 145 
‘spot was not very bright, bet, as it was quite dark by 
this time, plainly perceptible, They presented a peculiar 
appearance as they walked about, and I watched them 
with interest for some time. This singular light sur- 
prised me much, as I had never heard of anything like it 
before.” 
It was in the autumn when Mrs. Farlzy observed this 
striking and interesting phenomenon. 
z12. Nyctherodius violaceus, Rricu. — Yellow- 
crowned Niyht dderua.— My. Vickery informs me that he 
shot a specimen in Lynn in 1865. The bird was flyiag 
over his head at the time. 
213. Faleinellus Ordii, Bon. — Glossy Ibis. Acci- 
dental or occasional. Nuttall records onc or two instances 
of its capture ; Cabot, one or two ; none recently, however. 
Mr. Vickery also informs me that he has seen a specimen 
of this fine bird, that was taken, fifteerr years ago, at or 
near Stafford Ridge, New Hampshire. 
RALLIDA, — Tue Rats. 
214. Rallus crepitans, Gm. —- Clapper Rail, “ Salt- 
marsh Hen.” Accidental. Mr. J. F. Le Baron informed me 
that he shot a specimen, some years ago, at Ipswich. Also 
one taken by Mr. S. J. Cabot. 
215. Rallus Virginianus, Linn. — Virginia Rail. 
Common summer resident. Frequents the bushy swamps. 
Breeds early, nesting on some tussock Have seen tho 
young running about by the first of June. 
216. Porzana Carolina, Viritu.— Carolina Rail, 
“ Sora Rail,” “Ortolan.” Common summer resident. Fre- 
quents the wet, open meadows, where it breeds. Both of 
these species are much more common than most collectors 
or sportsmen are aware of. 1 have been in a swamp where 
7 J 
