234 PROCEEDINGS: BOSTON SOCIETY NATURAL HISTORY. 
the following graphic description by Townsend, as quoted, with 
subjoined comment, by Scudder (23d Rept. Ent. Soc. Ontario, 
1892, p. 77) :— 
"On the 14th of August last, in the afternoon, I saw one of this 
species fly up from the drj'^ parched grass, and remain nearly 
stationary about two feet in the air for some time, by means of a 
rapid beating of the wings. Presently it flew back to the ground. 
In a few minutes another one, which had witnessed the perform- 
ance at a short distance, flew quickly over and alighted by the 
side of the performer. They ran by each other several times, 
occasionally touching each other, but did not make any other 
manifestations, and finally the last one flew away, leaving the 
other motionless in the withered grass. Though it is probable 
that the females are attracted by these performances of the males, 
and that the males vie with each other in their exhibitions, still I 
think that the two just spoken of were both males, and were 
disposed to fight from a feeling of rivalry, the one that flew off 
having been beaten. 
" On the 24th of the month I noticed the same thing over again. 
An individual performed three times in succession, and then 
another alighted on the ground by its side; they ran by each other 
several times, apparently clasping, probably in conflict, for I am 
quite sure 'that they were both males. At last one of them flew 
away, and the other soon after renewed the performing. I regret 
to say that I did not capture specimens to ascertain the sex; but, 
judging from size, I do not think I have seen any but the males 
taking active part in the aerial exhibitions. In going through 
with the performance they rise at first generally about three or 
four feet, making a light purring or beating sound, and then, 
rising higher, change the motion of the wings, when a curious, 
sharp, see-sawing sound is produced. Some rise even higher 
than six feet in the last act; others rise only one or two feet. Of 
course some excel others in the beauty and ease with which they 
accomplish the feat; many do not remain in just the same place 
while hovering, but vary, falling or jerking about while endeavor- 
ing to keep the same point in the air. I am of the opinion that the 
females are sensitive to the grace with which this is performed." 
— (Townsend). 
" I have repeatedly witnessed this ascent from a single spot, and 
