Congdowr—Saskatchewan Birds . 
613 
the edge of sloughs serving the purpose of nesting sites. The 
nest is a bulky, rather rough looking affair composed of weeds 
and grass, frequently with a layer of mud in the walls. The 
hollow is lined with finer grasses. The Grackle is an early 
nester. A nest observed June 17, near Water-hen Lake, held 
four young birds almost large enough to leave the nest. 
529. American Goldfinch. 
Astragalinus tristis (Linn.). 
The bright-colored little Goldfinch, or Wild Canary as it is 
often called, was occasionally seen during the summer but no 
nests were found. 
534. Snowflake. 
Passerina nivalis (Linn.). 
Several small flocks of Snow Birds were observed during the 
first two weeks of May. Specimens were taken on May 8, and 
13, but none were seen after the 13th of May, they having de¬ 
parted for their northern home. The specimens taken were not 
in the pure white dress, the upper parts and wings being marked 
with brown and blackish. 
538. Chestnut-collared Longspur. 
Calcarius ornatus (Towns.). 
Three birds which were probably Longspurs were seen, but 
not positively identified. ~Ro nests were found. 
558. WHITE-THROATED SPARROW. 
Zonotrichia albicollis (Gmel.). 
The clear, whistling note of this bird was often heard ringing 
through the woods. This Sparrow is a common bird in the 
more wooded portions. It was frequently observed quietly 
scratching away on the ground beneath the underbrush, search¬ 
ing for food. The note is usually given when the bird is high 
up in a tree. These birds are seen throughout the summer and, 
though no nests were found, doubtless breed in this locality. 
