142 POPULAR OFFICIAL GUIDE. 
ing mostly to the deep forests, and feeding on grouse, rab- 
bits, ete. It is unusually long-lived in captivity, and breeds 
freely. 
The Milky Eagle Owl, (Bubo lactcus), has the same gen- 
eral characters as its congener, but its feathers are of a 
beautiful, soft gray. It is very rare in collections. 
The Great Horned Owl, (Bubo virginianus).—These noc- 
turnal birds of prey inhabit heavily wooded regions, feed- 
ing on mice, and poultry when it is obtainable. The bright 
yellow iris, the conspicuous feather horns, and the appar- 
ently pivoted neck are curious features of these birds. 
Their reputation for wisdom is founded only on their ex- 
ternal appearance, for in reality they are rather dull birds. 
The Snowy Owl, (Nyctca nyctea), of the Arctic regions, 
migrating in winter to the northern United States, some- 
times remains for several seasons in succession so far north _ 
that no specimens are obtainable. During 1899, 1900, and 
the first half of 1901, not one specimen could be procured, 
but in the late autumn of 1901 a southward migration be- 
gan. On June 1, 1911, the Park exhibited six fine speci- 
‘mens, one of which was almost pure white. During the 
three hottest months of summer, these birds would suffer 
considerably, so during this period they are confined in a 
cool, dark cellar, thus keeping in perfect health and comfort 
throughout the year. 
The Screech Owl, (Otus asio).—This little horned owl is 
our commonest species, and frequents the neighborhood of 
dwellings and orchards. Being nocturnal it is more com- 
mon than is generally supposed, and its curious ery, which 
is not a screech, but a musical, quavering series of notes, is 
the cause most frequently leading to its discovery. Its two 
phases of plumage, red and gray, occur independently of 
sex, age or season. Its food consists of mice and insects. 
The Barred Owl, (Syrniwm varium)—This owl is more 
diurnal than its nearest relatives, and often hunts its prey 
in bright moonshine. Its deep, penetrating call, ‘‘woo-o-o. 
whoo-o-o,’’ is one of the most weird and striking cries of the 
bird world. Another peculiarity, common to all owls, but 
more noticeable in this less nocturnal species, is the absolute- 
ly noiseless flight. The soft, downy feathers of the owl 
permit it to wing its way through the air with as little noise 
as a falling leaf. 
