I30 BIRD PARADISE 



easily they could pass and repass on the shifting 

 element under their feet. Eising to go, my 

 shadow was thrown across the brook and in- 

 stantly the spiders dropped to the bottom and 

 disappeared among the stones. 



I notice that the hawks of different species 

 seem to enjoy the swamp scenery better than 

 that of any other locality in our hill country ; at 

 least their action seems to warrant that conclu- 

 sion. Yesterday I saw a pair leisurely tossing 

 about over the marsh just east of the village. 

 They belonged to the species known as marsh- 

 hawks, in some respects the most interesting of 

 the large hawk family. How easily and grace- 

 fully they move to and fro on their broad wings. 

 It certainly looked like an hour of pastime, though 

 there was every indication that they had an eye 

 for business. Quite a variety of food was pre- 

 sented for their choice and they improved the 

 opportunity offered to the best of their ability. 

 I am quite sure they picked up some frogs and 

 in one instance a field-mouse was added to the 

 menu for the day. I fancy the hawks really 

 enjoy their hunting expeditions. Success quick- 

 ens the blood in hawks as well as in men. Espe- 

 cially so when the effort is stimulated by hunger. 



