The Turnstones 



early August almost before we have had time to miss them. The nuptial 

 finery has been laid aside, and although the prevailing blackish of upper- 

 parts and breast is still highly diversified by white edgings, there is no 

 hoydenish chestnut, and we get the impression of a sober, modest, and 

 companionable bird. 



In their local rangings, sand beaches have first choice, and to see 

 the pied pipers pattering after the retreating wave, or else submitting 

 to its playful buffeting, is indeed a pretty sight. Here also the birds 



•#■• 



2ft- 



Taken at Sandyland 



RUDDY AND BLACK TURNSTONES 



Photo by the Aulhor 



scratch, after the manner of chickens, earning thereby the name Chicken 

 Plover. Or if they tire of the sand, they patter among the pebbles, 

 upsetting industriously those which are likely to harbor hidden sweets 

 of bug or worm. Rough, tide-washed rocks come in for second choice; 

 and although the birds cannot do any stone-turning here, they take 

 toll of the clinging creatures, limpets and holothurians and cirripeds, 

 which require a poke and a pry to convince them. They mingle here 

 with their cousins, the Black Turnstones; and although I have seen a 

 large company of the latter receive a brighter pair with some show of 

 haughtiness, there seems to be, for the most part, a pleasant understanding 

 between them. 



I340 



