YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT— VIREOS 205 



A distinguishing field-mark of the Parula Warbler 

 is the triangular patch of greenish-yellow on the fore 

 part of the back. The throat and breast are yellow, 

 and there is a dark band across the breast, usually 

 blackish or reddish. The Northern Parula has a 

 wider breast-band, and there is more reddish in the 

 plumage. 



The Chestnut-sided Warbler has reddish-brown 

 sides, greenish-yellow back streaked with black, black 

 on cheeks and sides of throat. This bird is found 

 along the borders of woodlands and in scrubby under- 

 growth, and its markings differ considerably from 

 those of other species, so that it is comparatively easy 

 to recognise. 



The Yellow-breasted Chat has the distinction of 

 being the largest of all our Warblers, as well as the 

 most eccentric in behaviour. The back of this bird is 

 olive-green, like that of so many of the family; the 

 throat and breast are brilliant yellow, and over the 

 eye and at the edge of the throat is a conspicuous 

 white line. It is a common summer resident in many 

 of our Eastern States. It is a very shy bird, and when 

 approached, especially during the nesting-time, goes 

 through with many strange performances in the air. 

 Mr. Chapman says, "After an acquaintance of many 

 years, I frankly confess that his true character is a 

 mystery to me. . . . But that there is method in his 

 madness no one who studies him closely can doubt." 



The Oven-bird, or Golden-crowned Thrush, is one 

 of the Ground Warblers, that in appearance resembles 

 a small Thrush, having a white breast marked with 

 brownish spots. It is olive-green above, without white 



