PERCHERS. 



87 



or decaj.'ed tree near the water, it watches intently for 

 fish ; and at the proper moment it plunges into the 

 water, seizes its \'ictim, flies to a tree, swallows the fish, 

 and is immediately on the lookout for another. 



Flycatchers. 



There are about thirty kinds of these Birds in North 

 America. The bill is broad and bent down at the tip, 

 and the sides of the mouth have stiff bristles. The 

 Kingbird, Pewees, and Great-crested Flycatcher are 

 some of the most common and best kno\\-n species. 

 The Kingbird is somewhat smaller than a Robin, and 



Fig. 119. — Kingbird. 



is dark above and white below, with a hidden crest of 

 orange, vermilion and white. It is common in open 

 fields and orchards, where it is seen perched upon a 

 stake, tall weed, or low tree, watching for insects, upon 

 which it darts with sure aim. It is \'ery courageous, 

 eagerly attacking crows, hawks, and other large birds. 

 The Pewee, or Phoebe Bird, is smaller than the King- 

 bird, and its color is dark above and 3'ellowish below. 



