STARLING 47 



the northern limit of its range. Pound throughout Florida, but 

 elsewhere usually not far from tidal water, if 



Washington, rather common P. R. Cambridge, A. V., one 

 record, Mch. 



In life the Fish Crow may be distinguished from the 

 common Crow by its smaller size and hoarser voice. The 

 difference in size, however, is evident only when the two 

 are together, but once the cracked, reedy tar (not caw) of 

 the Fish Crow has been learned the species may always 

 be identified when heard. It is somewhat like the note 

 of a young Crow, but less immature. The nest and eggs 

 are much like those of the common Crow. The eggs are 

 laid in May. 



STARLINGS. FAMILY STURNID^J 



X STARLING 

 Sturnus vulgaris. Case 2, Figs. 24, 25/" 



In winter conspicuously dotted with whitish; in summer with 

 but few dots and a yellow bill; at all times with a short tail and 

 long wings. L 8 J. 



Range. Introduced from Europe into Central Park, New York 

 City, in 1890, now more or less numerous from Virginia to Maine; 

 occasional west of the Alleghanies. It is a quick, active bird, 

 probing the ground now this side, now that, as it walks rapidly 

 over our lawns. The short tail and long wings are most notice- 

 able in the air and distinguish the Starling from our other black 

 birds. 



A long-drawn whistle, such as one calls to a dog, is the 

 Starling's most common note, but it has many others. 

 It nests in April, often after quarreling with Flickers for 

 possession of a nest-hole in which to lay its pale bluish 

 eggs. The young appear in mid-May and their harsh, 

 rasping food-call is a common note for several weeks; 

 then the birds begin to gather in companies which, later, 

 form flocks of thousands. 



