Birds laying indefinite numbers of Eggs. 143 



on the crown. I have frequently seen this woodpecker 

 capture insects on wing. The RED-HEADED WOODPECKER 

 (P. erythrocephalus) I have seen on wing ; it is rare, and per- 

 haps non-resident. Mr. Boardman states to me that any of 

 the above will lay an indefinite number of eggs provided one 

 nest egg is left ; and the same we have seen occur with the 

 sparrow-hawk of America, which likewise builds in holes in 

 trees. I have fancied that the darkness prevents their seeing 

 their eggs, and by trusting to touch they keep laying as long 

 as only one egg is felt. Should this be the case, it is probable 

 that the same may happen with other species which lay their 

 eggs in dark places. 



