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PAUTIMOR^ OR\Olt. 



(Icterus Galhula,) 



There are few birds more handsome both in plumage 

 and song than this gay summer visitor of ours. They 

 make their appearance in spring about blossom time, 

 when, with the preceeding species, they search out the 

 insects ; at the same time pouring forth their charming 

 and melodious notes. Their plumage is a bright orange 

 yellow and black, which makes them very conspicuous. 

 The nests are almost as attractive as their owners, art 

 and skill being displayed in their structure, — the arti- 

 cles used being wool, rags, cotton and all soft materials 

 it can find; but great care is taken to have all the col- 

 ors plain, so as to keep their home from being so easily 

 seen. The entrance is woven nearly together and 

 the nest formed into a cup shape cradle, which is sus- 

 pended from some lofty branch of a tree by being sewed 

 or woven to it with threads and strings, or whatever 

 comes handy. Eggs, four; roundish, of a light green 

 color, curiously marked with black. This bird has been 

 given quite a number of names in regard to color and 

 habits, such as Fire-hang bird. Golden Robin and oth- 

 ers. The nests are not very easily secured, on account 

 of being placed so high and hung so far out on the 

 branch, this being a natural instinct for the protection 

 of their handsome home and family world. 



