OF EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA. 95 



habits of the ParidcB, in the comparative ease with 

 which it moves along the trunks and branches of 

 trees, and the gracefulness and freedom with 

 which it suspends itself from a swaying bough. ' 



Few species display less timidity and suspicion. 

 During the month of May when our ordinary 

 Pyrus malus is in bloom, it leaves its accustomed 

 haunts for our gardens and orchards, where it 

 derives an ample subsistence. 



Mr. Audubon in speaking of this bird, alludes 

 to its habit of flitting over humid localities, the 

 borders of ponds, and small streams, in. quest of 

 prey which it pursues with considerable ardor. 

 This allusion would aptly apply to the little 

 Maryland Yellow Throat in every particular, but 

 has never been observed in our study of the 

 species under consideration. It is impossible to 

 say what course of action a change of environment 

 would determine. 



During its .vernal stay, we have never heard its 

 song, although our opportunities have been many 

 and frequent. From beginning to end it remains 

 the same songless but energetic little creature. 



Its flight is generally lofty, quick, and moder- 

 ately sustained. Its movements whilst feeding 

 are characterized by wonderful agihty. 



Insects constitute its principal diet; but the 

 pollen with the disruptured anthers of apple and 

 pear blossoms, and others, form an important part. 

 The following list is but a small fraction of its volum- 

 inous bill of fare -.—Feronia chalcites, Platynus cupri- 



