3894 +  LAND-BIRDS AND GAME-BIRDS 
it is more neatly constructed, being frequently lined with 
strips of bark, and is often built in more open or busby places. 
The egos average about 1:20 X 1:00 of an inch, are somewhat 
pointed, and are white (often slightly stained but not strictly 
spotted). They are laid in the latter part of May, and there 
are sometimes, according to Wilson, twenty-four in the same 
nest, in which case two or three females probably contribute to 
the laying. 
(c). The Quail are abundant in the three Southern States of 
New England, except in 
the colder and more hilly 
portions. They are not 
found much to the north 
or east of Boston, in the 
neighborhood of which, 
however, they are resident 
throughout the year. Our 
observations on them natu- 
rally begin at that season 
of the year when they re- 
linquish their habits of ex- 
treme cunning and vigil- 
ance for ‘those of confi- 
= . dence in man’s respect for 
domestic life, that is in 
= the early part of summer. 
Though among the hardiest 
and most active of feath- 
ered creatures, they are prudent in spring, and do not commit 
themselves to the risks of incubation until they have received full 
assurance of fitting weather. In this respect they differ from the 
feebler but more venturesome Woodcock, whose premature en- 
deavors, founded upon the first deceptive smile of spring, to 
raise a family, are often defeated by an unexpected snow-storm. 
The Quail do not begin until May, when they announce the 
fact to all their neighbors within half a mile by their lond, 
frank, and cheery whistle, which is generally translated into 
ee 
Fig. 21. Quail (4). 
