The Singing of Birds. E.P.Bicknell. 
Astragalinus tristis. American Goldfinch. 
A wide variation in the time of the beginning of song with this 
species in different years is doubtless attributable to the same , 
causes that produce like results in the case of the Purple Finch. 
My records show that at any time between March 16 and April 17 
it is not unusual for singing to begin. March 3 (in the preco- 
cious season of 1878*) is an exceptionally early date; April 23, 
1883, an exceptionally late one. In the spring and early summer 
singing is likely to be inconstant ; doubtless for the reason that the 
birds are not disposed to stay long at any locality when not under 
the restraint of domestic duties, and while wandering about in 
flocks they seem disinclined to sing. 
Final songs are sung at the last of August (20th and 26th to 
30th) ; though I have no record for 1881 later than August 8, 
notwithstanding that the birds were present through the month ; 
possibly observation was at fault. 
After the close of summer their song is not again heard until 
the following spring. Singing begins in the spring before the 
perfect summer plumage is assumed ; but for that matter many of 
the birds are to be seen even so late as mid-May with a dusky 
tarnish still marring their golden coats. The Goldfinch often sings 
while on the wing. Auk, I, Oct. , 1884, p, 3 • 
*See a paper by the writer in ‘The Country’ for March 31, 1878, ‘On the Animal and 
Vegetable Life of the Past Winter.’ 
