249 
Distinctions. The conspicuous dark patches at the sides of the chest and along the 
flanks, and the dark undertail coverts with white tips or broad inverted V marks near 
the tips will separate this species from the Phoebe which it resembles. The head and face 
are not noticeably darker than the back. At the sides of the lower back occasionally dis- 
played, though usually concealed by the closed wings, are patches of fine silk-like plumage 
of pure white or cream colour. These points will separate the Olive-sided from any of the 
other Flycatchers. 
Field Marks. In life, the Olive-sided Flycatcher looks more like a Kingbird with a 
dark coat partly closed over a white vest, than a Phoebe. When the white, silky feathers 
show over the wings just above the rump, as sometimes occurs, the species cannot be 
mistaken. The call notes are distinctive, though something like those of the Crested Fly- 
catcher. The most common is a loud, penetrating “Quick — three — beer;” the Alder 
Flycatcher has a note that may be syllabized like thelast two words, but it is low and sibi- 
lant and not loud and ringing. 
Nesting. Nest of twigs and bark strips lined with moss and grasses on coniferous 
lands, usually very high up. 
Distribution. North and South America. In Canada, across the continent, breeding 
in the northern evergreen forest. 
This is typically a bird of the burnt ridges. Its favourite perch is on 
the tip-top of a gaunt dead pine in the open, surrounded by second-growth 
and brfil6, from whence its clear penetrating demand can be heard far and 
wide. In migration, its route probably follows the timber east and west 
and it is not often seen in the open prairie country. 
461. Eastern Wood Pewee. Myiochanes virens. L, 6-50. A small, dull olive 
and whitish Flycatcher, similar in general coloration and design to a number of allied species. 
Very like Plate XLII A. 
Distinctions. Separated from the Phoebe and other Flycatchers except the Western, 
by short tarsi and long wings, the latter being decidedly longer than the tail. Differs 
from its close relative, the Richardson’s Pewee, which is specifically distinct, by a more 
olive back, crown darker in more distinct contrast with the body; and in having the breast 
less suffused with brownish-ash. These distinctions can only be determined by direct 
comparison of specimens, and even then are not always easy to see. 
Field Marks. The Peweee never flirts its tail as does the Phoebe. The sides of the 
breast are slightly darker, giving a better defined and narrower light median line. Its 
best identification mark, however, is its call-note which is much like that of the Phoebe 
but drawn out into a long “Pee-e-weee” without appreciable accent but with a risin 
inflexion at the end. The female varies the call by dropping the last note, making it 
“ Pee-e-e-e .” 
Probably best separated from the Richardson’s Pewee by this call, which is noticeably 
different from the note of that bird. 
Nesting. A well made but slight structure of fine fibres and rootlets, covered with 
lichens and saddled on a branch. 
Distribution. North and South America. In Canada, west at least to Manitoba. 
The long-drawn plaintive “Pee-e-we” of this bird is a characteristic 
sound of the open woodlands in the spring, and after other birds have 
relapsed into midsummer silence its mournful note may still occasionally 
be heard. 
Economic Status. The food of the Wood Pewee is similar to that of 
the other Flycatchers, but modified, of course, by its woodland habitat. 
As it is not retiring, and frequents open groves and orchards freely, it is 
of direct benefit to the agriculturist. 
462. Richardson’s Pewee. Myiochanes richardsoni, L, 6-50. Plate XLII A. In 
colour and form like the Eastern Wood Pewee, but darker. 
Distinctions. Separated from the Phoebe and other Flycatchers, except the Eastern 
Wood Pewee, by its short tarsi and long wings, the latter being decidedly longer than the 
tail. Differs from its close relative, the Eastern Wood Pewee, from which it is specifically 
