OF EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA. 1 43 



aces, constitute a permanent part of its diet. To 

 cure which, the birds will often wade in the water 

 ) to the tibiee. 



Building operations usually commence during 

 e latter part of May, but not later than the first 

 ' June. Both birds labor in th^ construction of 

 iC nest almost continually for three days. 



cavity in a decayed log is occasionally selected 

 r the site, but, ordinarUy, the nest is placed upon 

 le ground within a dense growth of underbrush, 

 he leaves which are abundant in such places, 

 aterially aid concealment. It is composed of 

 lOsses, leaves, stems pf grasses, and rootlets, ex-' 

 Tnally, and has the inner structure mainly lined 

 ith various mo^es. It is a beautiful fabric, but 

 laracterized by a notable . flatness and shallow- 

 ess. 



A wonderful degree of affection and solicitude is 

 lanifested by the male-bird for his partner. During 

 icubation when approaching footsteps lead himto 

 ispect danger, he endeavors by feint or stratagem, 

 » decoy the intruder from the place of the nest. 

 I this he is singularly successful. 



Incubation speecily follows nest-completion, and 

 sts for 10 days. While the female is thus occupied, 

 ir the task devolves exclusively upon her, the 

 ale-bird remains in the immediate vicinage ready 

 I obey the slightest call, or to guard against en- 

 ■oachment or assault. 



The yotmg are objects of the most devoted 

 irental care. The mutual labors of the parents 



