Birds. 6705 



Length 5 inches 3-tenlhs ; extent of wings l\ inches ; from flexure, 

 2 inches 7 -tenths. 



Yellowbellied Woodpecker {Picus varius). April 5th. Shot a 

 handsome male. Believe it to be rather an uncommon species in 

 this part of the country. 



Barn Swallow (Hirundo americana). April 6th. Saw several ; 

 shot three. This species, unlike the purple martin, avoids towns and 

 villages, and frequents isolated barns and out-buildings. Its tail is 

 forked ; and this bird, in shape, colour, and manner of flight, bears so 

 strong a resemblance to the chimney swallow of Europe that even an 

 ornithologist might be excused for mistaking it on the wing. 



American Crossbill (Loxia curvirostra). April 6th. Procured a 

 specimen. They are, I believe, permanent residents, though I did 

 not fall in with them during the winter ; but unless specially sought 

 for they might not be noticed, as they feed on the upper branches of 

 the pines, among the dense foliage that crowns the perpendicular 

 trunks. 



American Snipe (Scolopax gallinago). April 7th. Shot a bird of 

 this species, weighing five ounces. Although darker, and I think 

 somewhat larger, it closely resembles the common European snipe. 



Redwinged Starling (Icterus predatorius). April 7th. Procured a 

 specimen. Had observed one on the 3rd. Although a common 

 bird it is one of the most beautiful in the country, the glossy red and 

 black plumage of the male making it very conspicuous. It is to be 

 seen perched on the reeds and bull-rushes. Its constantly-reiterated 

 song is plaintive, but monotonous. They are restless, and perpetually 

 flitting about, making short excursions into the bush bordering the 

 marsh, where they are easily approached. 



Purple Finch (Fringilla purpurea). April 7th. Shot a handsome 

 male. This is a common species, occasionally frequenting the gar- 

 dens in the town. 



Blackcapped Titmouse (Par us atricapilla). April 7th. Observed 

 a few of these common birds, which are, I believe, winter residents. 



Goldwinged Woodpecker (Picus auratus). April 9th. Found two 

 of these splendid birds, male and female ; secured them both, but the 

 latter, being merely w r inged, ran up a tree, and was caught with dif- 

 ficulty. It was put into a room with a few logs of wood, up which it 

 was constantly climbing, but when disturbed would conceal itself 

 between them. It fed well, and I was in hopes of preserving it, but 

 after a few days' confinement it pined away and died, when T found 

 it had been wounded in the body as well as in the wing. 



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