512 The Hairy Woodpecker. [May, 
Jersey, which may assist in determining, at least for the locality 
whence they were taken, the comparative abundance of the species 
as resident; the date of nidification; the number of eggs con- 
stituting a set, and the value of the bird under consideration to 
the pomologist. 
We shall indicate certain facts brought to notice relative to our 
sturdy little friend, as we have seen and become intimate with him 
in his sylvan haunts in this State, while assuming domestic cares. 
The compilation of facts from the library, or the examination of 
the skins of defunct specimens in some museum, we generously 
consign to those who attach more importance to this popular 
method than we are wont to accredit to it. 
Ornithologists have assigned as the habitat of this species the 
Eastern section of the United States, though practically they differ 
as regards the abundance or even presence of the “hairy” in 
many sections of this district. We have found them moderately 
abundant here (New Jersey) in favorable localities, especially m 
the central portions of the State. The close resemblance exist 
ing between the hairy and the downy woodpecker (Picus pubescent 
Linnzus) in plumage, contour and habit has rendered thepresen 
of the former often unnoted. The exercise of proper care, oye 
by the beginner, will obviate such confounding of the cousms 
The former averages 9-10 inches in length, the latter only 6-64 
inches, so that one may quite readily detect the “ hairy” by his 
superior size. There are other well-defined distinctions, but that 
alluded to answers general purposes with little chance for errot 
Our experience during the past three seasons, making i entifica 
tion certain in each instance, has been the finding of almost T 
quite as many nests of the hairy as of the downy wooden 
though some may be disposed to question such a statement. © 
is a fact, however, for which we vouch, and can easily a 
proofs therefor. Se 
The date for nidification and the complement of eggs a ’ 
caused us considerable trouble and annoyance. Thus yee : 
wont to state “four to five eggs are laid about May rst- p i 
crediting which we sought to arrange our plans for the secu S q 
a šet of eggs for the cabinet, in accordance therewith. But ae 
of being crowned with success, all our efforts were abortive T 
were careful to secure date and number of eggs in rek a , 
several nests that we found, certain of which were as follows: ~ | 
