280 Life and Fnmortality. 
by what appeared to be the feeble tones of a distant bell. 
But in nearing the spot whence the sounds emanated, they 
apparently shifted from point to point, being heard at one 
time close by, and at the next moment in the distance, now on 
the left, then on the right, and as often in the rear as in the 
front. Finally the author of these sounds was discovered at 
the entrance of his burrow in a birch-tree. Stationing him- 
self at the base of the tree in full view of the bird who 
was calling to his partner, Mr. McCullock had a splendid 
opportunity of observing an exhibition of his singular and 
exceptional ventriloquial powers. 
Smooth, gliding and noiseless is the flight of this Owl, 
and but slightly elevated and protracted. When seeking 
for food he may be seen sailing over low meadows in the 
neighborhood of his accustomed haunts, or, perched upon a 
stump or fence-rail adjoining thereto, quietly gazing in every 
direction for whatever of life may chance to manifest itself, 
which he seizes with remarkable adroitness, even sometimes 
venturing to assail prey larger than himself. The smaller 
birds, awakened from their perch by his cries, fall ready vic- 
tims to his rapacity. 
Hollow trees, or the deserted nests of other species, are 
selected for breeding-quarters. The eggs, varying from four 
to six in number, are pure white, sub-spherical, of crystalline 
clearness, and measure one and one-eighth by one and seven- 
eighths inches. The food of this interesting little Owl, 
which is not so large as a robin, though appearing bulkier, 
consists of small quadrupeds and birds, but chiefly of 
various species of insects. 
When taken quite young, and held in confinement, this 
Owl becomes quite tame, permitting strangers as well as his 
keeper to handle him with the utmost freedom, without so 
much as resenting such familiarity. But a greater attach- 
ment is manifested towards the master whom he is able to 
recognize by the sound of his voice, and in whose presence 
he is peculiarly fascinating and agreeable. 
