62 HOME STUDIES IN NATURE. 



come the notes from the two actors, until they are so 

 blended that we can scarcely distinguish one from the 

 other. The birds approach each other squatted to the 

 ground. Their feet have disappeared. When the cli- 

 max is reached, like Junco they leave the stage in a 

 twinkling. 



Usually the actors are of the same species, but occa- 

 sionally Junco and Zonotrichia enliven the drama, each 

 acting his part with his own individual characteristics. 

 Junco chattel's and bows to Zonotrichia, who cowers ap- 

 parently at his feet, meanwhile entertaining his audi- 

 ence with his long, musical notes. And now, while 

 Junco is straightened to his utmost height, hurling his 

 rapid invectives, Zonotrichia leaps up like a flash and 

 strikes him in the breast, with sufficient force to hurl 

 him across the stage. But Junco is not always taken 

 by surprise and kicked from the stage in this ingloiious 

 fashion. Although the smaller bird, he is occasionally 

 victorious. 



I would not have it understood that these small act- 

 ors are entirely given to theatricals; there are times 

 when they are quiet and orderly, and seem to be enjoy- 

 ing one another's society. 



My favorite among them all is Spizella monticola. 

 He comes to us towards the end of October, and re- 

 mains until April. The crown of his head is a bright 

 chestnut, and upon his shoulders are chestnut epaulets ; 

 his breast is a soft ashy color, with a dark blotch in the 

 centre; the back of his coat is streaked with black, 



