382 SINGING BIRDS. 
This species, according to Richardson, inhabits the dense 
white spruce forests of the fur countries, feeding principally on 
the seeds of the cones. It ranges through the whole breadth 
of the continent, and probably up to the 68th parallel, where 
the forests terminate. It is usually seen in the upper branches 
of trees, and when wounded still clings so fast as to remain 
suspended after death. In September, collecting in small 
flocks, they fly from tree to tree in a restless manner and make 
a chattering noise ; and in the depth of winter they retire from 
the coast to seek shelter in the thick woods of the interior. 
This interesting bird must still be written “irregular” in its oc- 
currence in this State, though usually more or less abundant in 
winter down to the 4oth parallel. 
It is partially sedentary in northern New England and the Mari- 
time Provinces of Canada, though much more abundant in winter 
than during the warm weather. The nest is built in January and 
February, — I have known of numerous nests being discovered in 
New Brunswick in those months, —and it is probable that both 
-young and old retire farther northward after the young birds are 
able to fly. 
