Nests in Holes in Trees, Stumps, or Logs 
upper part of breast. Extreme gray phase: Upper parts 
cold gray, with black streaks; under parts almost white, 
with black streaks and cross-markings. These birds have 
pronounced ear tufts, sometimes called horns, and an irregu- 
Jarly defined black circle round the face ; eyes various shades 
of light yellow; feet nearly covered with fine hair-like 
feathers. Length—g. 4o. 
Breeding Range—Throughout the Eastern States from Georgia 
northward. 
The eggs are generally to be found in the hollow of a tree, 
rarely in a barn or outhouse. There is practically no nest, but a 
few feathers, together with some small chips, rotten wood, rarely 
leaves and sticks, serve the purpose. 4 to 6 and sometimes 8 
white eggs are laid. Size—1.45 x 1.22. 
An old apple orchard is by far the most likely place for the 
Screech Owl's nest, and the most likely orchard is one situated 
near a farm where mice are plentiful. The hole selected for the 
nest may be within five or six feet of the ground or up high in 
the tree. Before examining the inside of a hole, much unneces- 
sary trouble may be avoided by noticing whether there is a cob- 
web over the entrance ; if there is, it shows that the hole is 
uninhabited by any bird. 
The breeding season begins about the end of March or the 
first week in April. The young birds can be easily reared, but 
do not make good pets, as they show a most unamiable disposi- 
tion, and do not become really tame. The fact that they practise 
cannibalism is also somewhat against keeping them as pets. 
373a. Florida Screech Owl: M.a. floridanus Ridgw. 
These resemble the common screech owl, but are rather 
smaller and darker in colour. Nesting habits probably identical. 
Breeding Range—Florida, northward to the southern part of South 
Carolina. 
382. Carolina Paroquet: Conurus carolinensis (Linn.) 
Eggs white. 
See Page 134, Chapter VIII. 
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