372 University of California Publications in Zoology. [Vol. 7 



were not shy. They were heard to utter but one call-note. It 

 is probable that the birds had bred at Big Creek Ranch. 



The point nearest to the Pine Forest Mountains mentioned 

 by the American Ornithologists' Union (1910, p. 208) in its 

 definition of the range of Tyrannus tyrannus is central Oregon 

 on the north, and northern New Mexico on the southeast. Ridg- 

 way (1877, p. 532) noted this bird in the valley of the Truckee, 

 western Nevada. This fact, together with our records, would 

 seem to indicate that the Great Basin should be included in the 

 range of the species. 



Two specimens ( nos. 8607, 8608) were secured. 



Tyrannus verticalis Say 

 Western Kingbird 



Distribution. — Typically a bird of the desert flat below 5000 

 feet altitude. Observed at Quinn River Crossing (4100 feet), 

 Wheeler Creek (4300 feet), Big Creek Ranch (4350 feet), and 

 Alder Creek Ranch (5000 feet), all the localities being in Upper 

 Sonoran zone. 



Habits. — The warlike nature of Tyrannus verticalis is indi- 

 cated by. the fact that five individuals were seen simultaneously 

 fighting in air, and that one kingbird was observed giving 

 vigorous pursuit to a Bullock oriole. 



At Quinn River Crossing about May 20 two pairs were seen 

 performing amorous antics, and shortly a nest was discovered in 

 process of building on a fence rail near the river. By June 5 

 it was completed, and there were five eggs. It was saddled on 

 the rail between two posts and built of strings and plant fibers. 

 Long pieces of string and rags dangled from the nest. The 

 site was on a hill-slope, there being no large trees nearby. The 

 male (as was later proved) was bolder than his mate, who, 

 instead of approaching very closely, hovered overhead during 

 the examination of the nest. After the killing of the male 

 another kingbird made its appearance, but was apparently 

 driven away by the remaining bird. 



Two kingbirds were seen on May 26 on Wheeler Creek, evi- 

 dently mating. The species was quite commonly observed at Big 

 Creek Ranch. A nest with five eggs was found at this locality 



