600 
SWALLOW TRIBE. 
tering, sufficient, near the dwelling, to awaken the sound- 
est sleeper. His early vigils are scarcely exceeded by 
the domestic cock ; the industrious farmer hears the 
pleasing call to labor, and associates with the favorite 
bird the idea of an economical, cheerful, and useful guest. 
In the Middle States, from the 15th to the 20th of 
April, the Martins begin to prepare their nest, which is 
usually made of small green or dry leaves, straws, hay, 
and feathers, laid in considerable quantities. The eggs, 
pure white, are from 4 to 6, and without spots. They 
rear two broods in the season. Several pairs also dwell 
harmoniously in the same box. The male, very atten- 
tive to his sitting mate, also takes part in the task of in- 
cubation ; and his notes at this time have apparently a 
peculiar and expressive tenderness. 
The food of the Martin is usually the larger winged 
insects ; as wasps, bees, large beetles, such as the com- 
mon Cetonias or goldsmiths, which are swallowed whole. 
His flight possesses all the swiftness, ease, and grace of 
the tribe. Like the Swift, he glides along, as it were, 
without exertion. Sometimes he is seen passing through 
the crowded streets, eluding the passengers with the 
rapidity of thought ; at others he sails among the clouds 
at a dizzy height, like something almost ethereal. 
This species is about 8 inches in length, and 16 in alar extent. 
Tail considerably forked. 
