several hundred may be seen together feeding upon weed seeds remain- 
ing above the snow. 
For some reason the goldfinch does not begin housekeeping so early 
as most birds, seldom building before July or August. The nest is 
usually lined with thistle down, making a soft, fluffy and beautiful struc- 
ture. Possibly the bird waits until the desired material may be obtained. 
VESPER SPARROW— (Poocatcs gramineus.) 
Upper parts brown streaked with dusky; reddish brown patch on 
the wings; tail dusky, outer feathers of the tail showing white in flight; 
under parts white; breast and sides streaked with brown. 
Length about six inches. 
Arrival. April 5 to 25. 
Favorite Haunts. The roadsides, fields and pastures. 
Field Marks. A brown bird showirig white outer tail feathers in 
flight. 
37 
