60 THE WEST VIRGINIA 
ridges. I secured three fine specimens, one adult and two 
young, on Rich mountains near the head-waters of Middle 
Fork River in August. Idid not observe any below an altitude 
of 1,500 feet. The stomachs of those killed contained remains of 
Quail ( Colinus virginianus), Cedar Waxwing (Amfelts cedro- 
rum), Cardinal Grosbeak ( Cardinalis cardinalis) and Chip- 
munk ( Zamias striatus). They also feed upon ducks, poultry, 
and game birds. 
64. SPARROW HAWK. 
Falco sparverius Linn. 
Resident; abundant throughout all sections visited. It breeds 
in holes in trees, often selecting one in close proximity to farm 
buildings. This active little bird is familiarly known by every 
one, and the countless numbers of injurious insects and mice 
it destroys should command for it the respect and protection of 
every farmer. Itis said to take young chickens occasionally, but 
of this we have no evidence. Even if this be true it repays ten- 
fold the mischief done in that way by clearing out the noxious 
vermin that infest barns, outbuildings, and meadows, It feeds 
principally upon grasshoppers and mice. Stomachs of speci- 
men secured contained grasshoppers, crickets, and katy-dids, 
65. OSPREY 5 PisH Was VV ke 
Pandion halizetus carolinensis (Gmel.) 
Summer resident; common. Most plentiful along the larger 
streams during spring and fall migrations. It is known by the 
name of Fish Hawk. 
66. BARN OWL, 
Strix pratincola Bonap. 
Resident; common, I found this species in the mountain dis- 
tricts where it frequents the small meadows and river bottoms, 
remote from towns. I have frequently found it feeding in the 
day time. Aug. 23 I killed one which had just captured a 
Chipmunk. 
