256 THE BIRDS 
ing of feathers, completes it; in which are laid from four 
to five creamy-white eggs, spotted and specked with 
reddish-brown and lilac, being indistinguishable from 
those of the Barn Swallow, both in size and color. Size, 
.80x.55. Fresh eggs May 3rd. Occasionally a second 
brood. A most interesting sight is to sit by the well or 
pump and watch them procure mud from a wet spot 
caused by the overflow from the horse trough, carry it 
to the near-by building, and attach it to the side of the. 
rafter, adding to it bit by bit until the half circle is 
complete. Often a long spell of wet weather keeps the 
mud from drying out and hardening, causing it to break 
away from the rafters and come tumbling down, thus 
compelling the birds to start all over once again; or, if 
a dry spell comes during nest building, the season is thus 
postponed until mud can be procured, lengthening out 
their breeding season. They are an interesting bird to 
have around one’s premises, the constant twittering being 
kept up until they depart in company with the Barn 
Swallows, about August 8th. Large flocks of these mixed 
birds from the north continue to pass through until the 
middle of September. They are of much benefit around 
the premises, gathering in numerous varieties of insects 
while in flight, especially flies from around the barns and 
stables. 
GENUS HIRUNDO. 
[613]. Hirundo erythrogastra (Boddaert). Barn 
Swallow. 
Raxezr—North America. Brecds from northwestcrn 
Alaska, northern Mackenzie (Great Bear Lake), southern 
Manitoba, and southern Ungava south to southern Cali- 
