THE BLACKBIRD FAMILY 123 



female from the female redwing that is conspicuously 

 streaked, but about the same size. 



In April, flocks of these birds may frequently be seen, 

 along sluggish, secluded streams in the woods, feeding upon 

 the seeds of various water or brookside plants, and prob- 

 ably upon insects also. At such times they often indulge 

 in a curious spluttering, squeaking, musical concert that 

 one listens to with pleasure. The breeding range is mostly 

 north of the United States. 



The Baltimore Oriole 



Length — 7 to 8 inches. About one fifth smaller than the 

 robin. 



Male — ^Head throat, upper part of back glossy black. 

 Wngs black, with white spots and edgings. Tail- 

 quills black, with yellow markings on the tips. Every- 

 where else orange, shading into flame. 



Female — ^Yellowish olive. Wings dark brown, and quills 

 margined with white. Tail yellowish brown, with ob- 

 scure, dusky bars. 



Range — The whole United States. Most numerous in 

 Eastern states below 55° north latitude. 



Migrations — ^EarlyMay. Middle of September. Common 

 summer resident. 



A flash of fire through the air — ^a rich, high, whistled song 

 floating in the wake of the feathered meteor — the Baltimore 

 oriole cannot be mistaken. When the orchards are in 

 blossom he arrives in full plumage and song, and awaits the 

 coming of the female birds, that travel northward more 

 leisurely in flocks. He is decidedly in evidence. No foli- 

 age is dense enough to hide his brilliancy; and his insistent 



