TWENTY-SIX COMMON BIRDS. 
i 5 
groves of young trees and rocky glens, particularly if there is a 
stream near by. The pair, which resemble each other, reach 
New England in the first week in May, and have finished their nest 
by the end of the month. The nest resembles that of the Robin, 
but is often composed of less coarse material, and is generally 
placed in the fork of a low tree. The four eggs are of the same 
shade of blue as those of the Robin. During the early morning 
and again toward evening, the male mounts some bough and pours 
forth his rich notes. In cloudy weather or deep woods the Thrush 
sings all day. The form of the song differs from that of either 
the Hermit Thrush or of the Veery, in its greater range. The last 
note of the opening phrase, ee-o-lee , is high and is often followed 
by a phrase which descends to a very low note. The call note is an 
unmusical guttural chatter. The Wood Thrush destroys many 
insects, and in the fall resorts to the wild cherry, viburnum, and 
other fruit, leaving for the south in September. On the ground 
this Thrush shows his relationship to the Robin, by his attitude in 
running and by his manner of feeding. 
AMERICAN ROBIN* 20. 
f MERULA MIGRATORIA.] 
This well known and favorite bird, though a Thrush, received 
its name from a fancied resemblance to the European Robin. 
The arrival of the first Robin in March is one of the eagerly 
awaited signs of Spring, for though small flocks winter in the 
cedar groves even as far north as Massachusetts, the appearance 
of the males in the yards where they were bred, marks the end of 
winter. The song is familiar and, though not of the first order, is 
from its cheerfulness and the freedom with which it is delivered, 
deservedly popular. The Robin has besides, a loud pip, pip , or 
peep , peep , given singly or rapidly repeated, and a faint lisp 
like the Cedarbird’s note. The females arrive soon after the males, 
and may be distinguished by their brown heads and duller breasts; 
