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SUBSPECIES . The Eastern Ruby-crowned Kinglet Regulus calendula calendula 
extends west to the east slope of the Coast range in British Columbia. West of this, on the 
coast, is the Sitka Kinglet Regulus calendula grinneUi, of a slightly warmer buff below; 
and the green above lighter and more extensive. 
This species is so nearly like the Golden-crowned Kinglet that little 
further discussion of either habits or economic status is necessary. Its song, 
however, is one of nature's surprises and warrants special mention. It is 
so loud and clear and full throated, that one can but wonder at so much 
volume proceeding from such a tiny being. It vies in strength and carry- 
ing power with that of the Purple Finch and when first heard is likely to be 
ascribed to some of the larger Sparrows. A very characteristic song may 
be rendered — “ Peedle-edle-edle-edle — Wheedle-wheedle ” — preceded by a low 
preliminary warble. The last words are accented and loud and ringing, 
the first syllables are lower and without pronounced carrying power. 
Like that of other species the song of this Kinglet seems subject to numerous 
local variations. 
Economic Status. The Kinglets are so largely insect-eaters that 
they may be looked upon as most beneficial. They are small, but their 
numbers, when they occur, more than make up for their small size, and 
what is said of the Chickadee in this respect applies equally well to them. 
FAMILY — TTJRDIDAE. THRUSHES AND ALLIES 
This is a nearly cosmopolitan group systematically separated with 
difficulty from the last family, though the individuals described in the 
following pages are strongly marked enough to be easily recognizable. 
In western Canada two subfamilies are represented. 
Subfamily — Myadestinae. Solitaires 
A peculiarly New World subfamily of thrush -like birds. There is only 
one species in Canada. It is best characterized under its species. 
754. Townsend’s Solitaire. Myadestes townsendi . L, 8. Plate LXXX A. A little 
smaller than a Robin. Nearly solidly grey or brownish grey, with outer tail feathers 
largely white; semi-concealed tawny spots on flight feathers. The body-feathers of 
young birds, shortly from nest, have large white centre spots and dark borders producing 
an effect of a suit of silver scales. 
Distinctions. More like a Catbird than anything else it is likely to be confused with, 
but without black cap or chestnut undertail-co verts; grey-brownish instead of slaty, 
and large amount of white in outer tail feathers. A fine white circle about the eye and the 
tawny spo + s on the flight feathers make the species very distinctive. The Dipper is a 
solidly grey bird of about similar size, but has a short, stubby tail and none of the above 
distinctive details. 
Field Marks. A quiet acting, comparatively large, dull-grey bird with considerable 
white on the outer edges of the tail. Looks more like a female or juvenile Bluebird than 
anything else, but larger, without any vague breast striping, no glint of blue anywhere, 
a long ample tail, and actions somewhat like a Flycatcher. In flight the tawny wing patches 
are quite conspicuous. 
Nesting. In hollow under bank, crannies in rock, or upturned root. Nest of sticks, 
weeds, and waste vegetation lined with rootlets. 
Distribution. Western North America. In Canada, British Columbia north through 
the Yukon, east to the Alberta foothills and occasionally to Saskatchewan and Manitoba. 
A bird typical of the high mountain solitudes, well named Solitaire. 
Its unobtrusive dull grey colour, glorious song, and romantic habitat and 
name, surround it with an air of mystery that piques the imagination. 
