8 LIFE-HISTORIES OF BIRDS 



and stupid in nature. Granting the existence of 

 such classes, for the sake of argument, may Ave 

 not assume with some show of reason that those 

 structures which deviate materfelly from the typi- 

 cal form, are the workmanship of unskilled 

 mechanics. 



Oviposition commences on the third da)' sub- 

 sequent to the completion of the nest. But a single 

 egg is deposited daily. Whilst the female is en- 

 gaged in incubation, which shortly ensues, the 

 male is extremely devoted ^and attentive. He 

 stations himself upon an adjoining tree or bush, 

 when not. engaged in supplying her physical 

 wants, in full view of the nest. Ever on- the alert 

 he permits no intrusion within the territory over 

 which he has chosen to exercise jurisdiction. 

 When his dominions are encroached upon by any 

 of his feathered brethern, with almost deafening 

 clamor he repels the»intruder. On the approach 

 of human footsteps he instantly sounds the alarm, 

 beats around the head of the supposed enemy 

 with his pinions, taking due care to keep at a safe 

 distance, and with loud and rapid cries of mingled 

 complaint and fear, endeavors to cause him to 

 desist from any contemplated annoyance. 



This watchfulness is mainly relaxed when the 

 nest is placed beyond the reach of danger. 

 Whilst writing (May 12th), a nest very snugly 

 reposes upon the window-ledge of a neighborino- 

 dwelling. But three days were spent in its con- 

 struction. Subsequent to receiving its plaster of 



