114 Lhe Spotted Flycatcher. 
some winged insect, and, after perceiving it, glide 
from its resting-place, with a certainty in view, for the 
capture of the small discovered fly is sure; and, after 
having caught it, it returns to the same spot again, or 
a similar place close by, keeping a sharp look-out for 
another. This is the conduct of the Spotted Flycatcher 
during the whole time it is not employed with its nest. 
When in search of food, either for itself or its young, 
it continues this routine of life. It is a summer bird, 
and arrives here in May, leaving us again in Septem- 
ber. It has no song, and its call-note is very faint. 
Every person is sure to sce this bird, as it is not shy, 
and will perform these active movements within a few 
yards of any one; it is likewise easily seen when 
stationary, for its upright manner, when sitting, shows 
its light breast off to perfection, making it appear 
very conspicuous. The Spotted Flycatcher, perhaps, 
prefers a wall which a grape-vine, pear, plum, or any 
tree of that description covers, for the purpose of 
establishing its nest; this is the reason, I have no 
doubt, why country people call it the ““Wall-bird.” Its 
nest is composed of twigs and small roots, built up 
