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diff --git a/old/61319-0.txt b/old/61319-0.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 3ac5488..0000000 --- a/old/61319-0.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2242 +0,0 @@ -The Project Gutenberg EBook of Introduction to Our Bird Friends, Volume 1, by -Lenwood Ballard Carson - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most -other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of -the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at -www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have -to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook. - -Title: Introduction to Our Bird Friends, Volume 1 - -Author: Lenwood Ballard Carson - -Illustrator: Orville O. Rice - -Release Date: February 5, 2020 [EBook #61319] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK INTRO TO OUR BIRD FRIENDS, VOL 1 *** - - - - -Produced by Stephen Hutcheson and the Online Distributed -Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net - - - - - - - - - - INTRODUCTION TO OUR BIRD FRIENDS - - - Text by L. B. Carson - Illustrations by Orville O. Rice - - Copyright, 1954 - BY CAPPER PUBLICATIONS, INC. - - Printed in the United States of America - - Published August 1954 - Second Printing (Revised), December 1954 - Third Printing, April 1955 - Fourth Printing, January 1956 - Fifth Printing, May 1956 - Sixth Printing, May 1957 - - - - - FOREWORD - - -More and more people are turning to the outdoors and the enjoyment of -nature. Many great Americans have been students of wild birds. This is -not accidental, for few forms of outdoor recreation offer so much -pleasure. - -The _season_ of the year will in some cases determine what birds are in -your area. _Color_ is important in identifying species. Look carefully -at the _silhouette_ or _shape_; is it slender or chunky, is the tail -short or long? Compare its _size_ with a bird with which you are more -familiar. _Habitat_ is important, too. One learns to look for Red-winged -Blackbirds in wet marshes; for a meadowlark in pastures and fields. -_Behavior_ is a clue. Does it walk or hop; does it soar, does it walk -headfirst down a tree, as is the habit of the nuthatch, or scratch among -leaves like the towhee? Listen to the bird’s _song_ and _call note_. -With a little experience, distinctive songs may be identified. Each bird -has its characteristic song. - -Bird study can be pursued with as much effort as the watcher cares to -exert. Birds need food, water and protection from their natural enemies. -You can provide these in your own yard. Some birds will be attracted and -you can study them at your leisure. Other species, those which live in -swamps, for example, must be searched for aggressively. - -A bird guide is a splendid investment, considering the hours of pleasure -it will bring you. Binoculars are a help, too, in studying the size, -shape, beak, legs and color pattern. - -Make written notes of what you see and hear, or a dated list of species -and numbers of each. Records will add to your own pleasure and add to -the sum of knowledge on birds in general. - -This is the first of two booklets on common birds of the United States -published by Capper Publications, Inc. Each of the two volumes -illustrates and describes 50 different species. Additional copies -(specify whether volume I or II is desired) may be ordered for 25 cents -each as follows: - - Bird Book Department 1-6 - Capper Publications, Inc. - 8th and Jackson Streets - Topeka, Kansas - - -Pied-billed Grebe -_Podilymbus podiceps_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -It makes little difference to this bird whether you call him -“Water-witch, Hell-diver, Dabchick or Pied-billed Grebe,” for these are -only a few of the names by which he is known. His only concern is -finding a pond, lake or other water, well supplied with crayfish, -minnows or insects on which he feeds. Leeches are a favorite morsel. - -The short, thick bill of this grebe is distinctive, even in winter when -the black encircling band from which it gets its name, is missing. -General appearance is brown, being brownish-black above, lighter brown -and white below. On water the short tail usually is carried high enough -to show the white under-tail coverts. - -This grebe is perfectly adjusted to water and can swim, dive or lower -his body in water just as far as desired with little effort, often -showing only bill and eyes above the surface. This protects him from -predators or hunters who might mistake him for a duck. Even his nest is -a floating structure so placed that he can gain the safety of his -natural element. - -Wet pavements are hazardous for they resemble water and if the -Pied-billed Grebe lands there, he is helpless. His legs are placed too -far back on his body for walking and he finds it difficult to regain the -air except by skittering over water. - - He sinks or dives - Without a care, - For water hides - His daily fare. - - -Great Blue Heron -_Ardea herodias_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Altho protected by the Federal Migratory Bird Treaty, this heron often -finds himself the target for thoughtless hunters. Not that he would make -a tasty dish, but any bird which stands 4 feet high with a wing spread -of almost 70 inches is in constant danger. His favorite feeding grounds -are wet meadows or pastures, ponds, lakes or streams. Most of his food -consists of rough fish which he catches expertly, either standing -patiently in shallow water until a fish appears, or walking slowly along -the edge of some shallow pond until he discovers his prey. Snakes, -frogs, insects, mice, eels, or even small birds are not safe from a -hungry heron. - -Unlike cranes, which fly with necks outstretched, herons fold their -necks back as if resting their heads on their shoulders. Their flight is -a slow, measured beat which carries them to their destination. These -birds seem to prefer tops of tall trees, such as sycamores or -cottonwoods, either in isolated locations or on islands. Favorite sites -are used year after year and nests often cover as much as 3 feet in -space and are placed well out on limbs. A colony of Great Blue Herons is -frequently joined by herons of other species. Such a colony of -fish-eating birds is both noisy and odorous. - - If, when he flies - He folds his neck, - The heron is - The bird to check. - - -Snow Goose -_Chen hyperborea_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -This medium-size goose is the most abundant member of the family and can -be identified by white plumage and black wing tips. He is often called -“wavy,” in the northern part of his range, while southern hunters refer -to him as a “white brant.” His Latin name describes him as “a goose -beyond the north wind.” We see him only as a migrant, either going to -nesting grounds in Northern Canada or returning to his winter home on -the coast of Louisiana and Texas. A somewhat larger relative known as -the Greater Snow Goose, nests in Northern Greenland and winters along -our Atlantic coast. - -This bird feeds on roots and bulbs of water plants found in his -wintering area. Grasses, grains or other vegetation bring huge flocks -where they can be seen grazing like tame geese. Feeding flocks are not -welcome to the wheat grower who has fields near lakes which are used as -resting places for migrating birds. - -Snow Geese often travel with their near relatives, the Blue Geese. The -gray body and white head of the latter give a color contrast which is -apparent in a mixed flock. These birds interbreed frequently and their -offspring are confusing but usually show more white on the breast than -the Blue Goose parent. - - Like mammoth flakes of drifting snow - We see you come, we watch you go - We hear your call like trumpet’s blare - Which guides the flock in upper air. - - -Common Mallard -_Anas platyrhynchos_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -The Mallard drake with green head, purple chestnut breast, reddish feet, -white collar, black and white tail with a curled feather, combine to -make a colorful duck. The female, more in keeping with her motherly -duties, is content to wear a trim suit of buffy gray, streaked with -brown. The orange to greenish-olive bill and pale orange-red feet give -perfect clues to her identity. - -Any pond, puddle, lake or stream is not overlooked by this bird and he -is especially fond of shallow water where he can secure food by tipping -up and extending his neck to muddy bottoms. These ducks are good divers -but if not closely pressed, seem to dive only for pleasure. - -The Mallard is not a good father, but leaves his mate soon after she has -started to incubate her eggs. Her nest is well hidden and often found -some distance from water. Her downy young soon can travel and the proud -mother leads them to the nearest body of water as soon as possible. -These trips are hazardous, for predators relish such dainty morsels. -Turtles and fish also take their toll. - -Hunters look forward to the fall flight of these ducks for they furnish -a major portion of the annual duck harvest. They soon learn that guns -are dangerous and often feed at night. - - Oh, green-head, with your yellow bill, - Your rapid flight gives us a thrill - And when we hear your mate’s loud quack - We’re always glad that you are back. - - -Turkey Vulture -_Cathartes aura_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Vultures play an unusual part in nature’s drama. They, along with Sexton -Beetles, other insects and animals, form the sanitary unit. When we -consider the heavy toll of wildlife along our highways, we can -appreciate the usefulness of such a unit. Lacking talons, vultures are -not equipped to catch their prey, but feed on whatever nature provides. - -This vulture is almost eagle size, with a wingspread of 70 inches and -can be identified by his long tail, small head, 2-toned wings, and habit -of soaring, the wings forming a dihedral or open V-shape. On close -inspection, you will find the head bare and a reddish color. The young -have blackish heads which is one of the marks of the Black Vulture, but -the latter is smaller with a square tail and shows white spots under the -wing when flying. This is a southern cousin. - -No other land bird soars so gracefully. Every air current carries this -bird with little effort on his part. From high in the air, he scans vast -areas for food, not forgetting to check his neighbors who are riding -other currents in like manner. When one bird descends, every vulture in -the air soon joins him. - -Whether you call him “Turkey Buzzard, Carrion Crow or Turkey Vulture,” -you will admire his flight. - - Black omen floating far o’erhead, - Your mission, to remove the dead. - A useful bird, we must agree - Whate’er the cost, you’ve earned your fee. - - -Red-tailed Hawk -_Buteo jamaicensis_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Red-tails, like other hawks, show a great variation in plumage. The dark -phase of a Western Red-tail compares favorably with the plumage of an -adult Golden Eagle, but the smaller size and the reddish upper tail -surface which reflects the sun as the bird soars, furnishes the clue. -Typical plumage shows a dark belly-band with bright, reddish upper tail, -while some birds show a light breast and belly. - -This bird prefers open woodlands or a dead tree with fields adjoining. -There he may sit for hours, but ever watchful for some movement which -might indicate the presence of a gopher, field mouse, rat or even a -snake. All add to his varied menu. Rodents soon become pests when these -hawks are scarce. This bird often is killed by farmers and poultry -raisers when the real culprit, the Cooper’s Hawk, lives on to enjoy the -flock. - -The Red-tail’s size and habit of perching in exposed places make him a -ready target for anyone who carries a gun. Slow flight combined with his -habit of soaring also add to his high death rate. - -He adds a few sprigs of green foliage to the mass of sticks, which goes -to make his nest, usually placed in a tall tree near the edge of timber. - - Your great broad wings, red, fan-shaped tail, - The ease and power with which you sail, - We recognize a noble clan - Which spends its life in helping man. - - -Sparrow Hawk -_Falco sparverius_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -This little falcon, about the size of a Robin, is also known as Kestrel. -Calling him a Sparrow-hawk is misleading, for insects and spiders, along -with a generous portion of mice, go to make up his daily fare. -Grasshoppers seem to be a special delicacy. Like other birds, he feeds -on whatever is available. In cities, this includes English Sparrows. - -The smallest of the hawk family can be found along highways where he -uses telephone poles, wires or dead trees, while scanning the fields and -fence rows for prey. Dressed in colorful plumage with spotted breast, -slate-blue wings, red-brown back and tail, with head showing 2 black -lines and a dot, he easily is seen and readily identified. The female is -slightly larger, shows more banding on the tail and lacks the blue -wings, hers being browner. - -These birds nest in holes in trees or around buildings and join the -Kingbirds, Chimney Swifts and Martins in chasing other predators out of -the neighborhood. Their rapid swallow-like flight makes them a mean -contender in any aerial joust. - -The Sparrow Hawk ranges as far north as Southern Canada and winters from -the central states south into South America. - - Your high-pitched call, - Your rapid flight, - A friend to man, - From dawn ’til night. - - -Prairie Chicken -_Tympanuchus cupido_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Those who live near prairies and brushy grasslands have a chance to -become acquainted with this brown hen-like bird which formerly ranged -over much of the middle west. Cultivation and hunters have reduced the -numbers until they no longer are common. The large size, the short, -dark, rounded tail, the heavily barred underparts, the rounded wings, -all are descriptive of this bird. In flight he reminds you of king-size -Meadow Larks, flapping then sailing, as he journeys to and from favorite -feeding grounds. - -In early spring these birds gather in a selected location known as a -“booming ground”; there the males defend a certain area against other -males, yet welcome the hens by strutting, inflating their yellow throat -sacks and erecting the feathers over their heads until they resemble -ears. These antics are accompanied by clucks and a series of 3-noted -hoots which make up their love songs. The males often engage in fighting -to protect their area. - -Their food includes insects such as crickets, grasshoppers and beetles -with plenty of roughage such as leaves, seeds and berries. Waste corn, -wheat, rye or sorghums are relished in season. Heavy snows drive the -birds to sumacs and elm buds. - - We hear your call in early morn - Like measured toots on mellow horn, - We watch your rhythmic flap ... then sail - As you descend from hill to vale. - - -American Coot -_Fulica americana_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -This slate-gray bird with white bill and white patch under the tail, -belongs to the rail family but spends more time with ducks. He swims -with a jerky motion of the head, dives like a grebe, walks out on the -shore and eats grass like a goose. Yes, the “mudhen,” for that is what -he is commonly called, is quite versatile. When taking flight, he either -runs into the breeze or skitters across the water for a short distance -until he can gain sufficient speed to gain altitude, then away to -safety. - -Coots feed largely on underwater vegetation and prefer algae or musk -grass. Small fish or other aquatic animals are eaten on occasion while -grass, grain or weeds are not overlooked. When diving for food, these -birds often are robbed by the American Widgeon, or Baldpate, which -relishes such juicy morsels but does not dive. Coots take such invasions -as a matter of course. - -They build nests of dried leaves of marsh plants, usually on a floating -structure, either well hidden or rather open, depending on the habitat -available. - -Coots have large, greenish feet, with long-lobed toes, not webbed like -ducks or geese, but just as useful for walking or swimming. - - He feels at home - Where’er he goes - But likes a pond - Where algae grows. - - -Killdeer -_Charadrius vociferus_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -The killdeer is the common plover which we see in pastures, meadows, -fields or on shores of ponds and lakes. Freshly mown alfalfa fields, -short grass or stubble, even newly plowed fields attract them. They -gather in loose flocks to feed on exposed insects or worms. Their usual -pace consists of a short run, a quick stop to check for some juicy -morsel, then another short run. All stops are accompanied by a jerky -movement as if undecided whether to spring into the air or stay on the -ground. Even the spindly legged young have this bobbing habit. - -This bird is only a little bigger than the Robin, but longer legs and -tail make him appear larger. White collar with 2 black bands across the -lower neck and upper breast, chestnut back and tail, white lines in the -wings in flight, all make this plover easily identified. If there is any -doubt you will soon hear his “kill-dee,” or “kill-deer” notes, for he is -a noisy bird, quick to resent any intrusion in his territory. These -calls alert other birds, much to the disgust of duck hunters who are -trying to make a quiet approach to their blinds. - -Nests are placed in open spots on the ground and lined with pebbles or -grasses. Eggs are protectively colored and not easily found. - - Two black bands, on breast so white - Rusty tail, which shows in flight, - That you would kill a deer’s absurd - But that is what you say, I’ve heard. - - -Spotted Sandpiper -_Actitis macularia_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Any pond, lake or stream will be visited sooner or later by these little -sandpipers. You find them teetering along shores, picking up insects and -small crustacea which form the diet. Mud banks, sandy shores, pebbly -mountain streams, half-sunken logs, all furnish happy hunting grounds. - -The teetering tail is distinctive and no other sandpiper has the round -black spots on his breast and none has the fluttering flight. They seem -to tip-toe thru the air with very short wingbeats. Young and adults in -winter plumage do not show the spots but continue to teeter. They often -show a white spot just above the bend of the wing when in this plumage. -Their usual note is a 2-tone “peet-weet,” which it utters when flushed -from its feeding ground. - -These birds nest in a variety of places, sometimes well hidden but often -in more open situations but always in a slight depression in the ground. -Their 4 eggs are protectively colored and are sometimes found some -distance from water. The young teeter to the closest stream, led by the -ever-watchful mother. There you will find them busily engaged in -gathering food. They can swim or even dive, if necessary. - - Wee wader with the spotted breast - We wonder if you ever rest, - “Peet-weet,” is what you seem to say - As you go bobbing on your way. - - -Black Tern -_Chlidonias niger_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -This tern is distinctive, especially in summer plumage when the black -head and body, short, slightly notched tail, slate-gray wings, combined -with the erratic flight, tells us it has to be a Black Tern. In winter -plumage these birds have white heads and bodies with backs and wings -darker than other terns. They show dark spots around the eyes and back -of neck. In fall migration you find birds of this species in various -stages of dress, but there are usually a few which carry enough black to -give a clue to their identity. - -They nest in inland marshes and around lakes, forming loose colonies on -favorite nesting sites. Floating vegetation, muskrat houses, in fact -most any structure strong enough to support a nest is used. - -Black Terns feed on larger insects such as moths, grasshoppers, -dragonflies and water insects which they obtain from the air or by -gliding down and picking them from the water. They can be seen flying -over the fields like swallows or nighthawks, feeding as they go. When -flying over lakes, they often hover then glide to the surface for -minnows or insects. - -These terns spend the winter in South America and migrate earlier than -some species. They also arrive later from their winter homes. - - What are those birds, we’d like to know, - Which fly like swallows, black as crow? - Twisting, turning, then a glide, - To pluck some morsel which they’ve spied. - - -Mourning Dove -_Zenaidura macroura_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -There is something about a dove which makes you want to know him better. -Could it be his low mournful call? (And why do we call it mournful? -Someone described it in that manner, and while it is not as colorful as -other bird notes, it has a restful and pleasing quality.) Could it be -the graceful flight which shows the pointed tail with the white -trimming? Could it be dainty steps which seem to fit his personality? -Perhaps the way he drinks by inserting his bill and swallowing water -until he has his fill. It might be the way he builds his nest: no time -wasted when this bird constructs a home. It might even be the way he -jerks his head, as if trying to get a better focus on the sights of the -world. - -Some call him brown; if so, where did we get the description, “dove -colored”? In good light, the head and neck have a rich sheen which -blends with the rest of the body. All in all, he is a beautiful bird. - -He nests in almost any spot which suits his fancy, on the ground, in -evergreens, around buildings, well out on a limb or in the crotch of a -tree, but always in a loosely constructed home, unless he takes over -some well constructed nest, made by others. - -His food consists mostly of weed seeds. - - Altho you make a mournful sound - We’re glad to know that you’re around. - We like your shy confiding way - And only hope you’re here to stay. - - -Yellow-billed Cuckoo -_Coccyzus americanus_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -This slim, long-tailed bird is far more common than people suspect for -he seldom is seen. He prefers to move slowly thru the heavy foliage, -peering under each branch and leaf for the leaf-eating worms which form -his diet. Wooly worms, which other birds seem to shun, are relished by -him. His long bill is a perfect tool for breaking into webs where he -creates havoc with the wiggly inhabitants. - -Cuckoos are larger than Robins and their long tails make them look even -longer than the 12¼ inches which they measure. They fly directly from -the center of one tree to the next, thus giving us a chance to check the -rufous coloring of the wings and the large white spots on the ends of -their black tails. The back is dark gray while the breast and belly are -white. The yellow lower bill, the rufous wings and larger white spots on -the tail are the main difference between this and the slightly smaller -Black-billed Cuckoo. Both have a series of clucking notes but the -Yellow-billed Cuckoo song gets slower, then runs down the scale, -different from his relative’s long efforts. - -Unlike the Old-World cuckoos which depend on other birds to rear their -young, the Yellow-billed builds a nest, altho it is flimsy. There, the 3 -or 4 young get their start in life. - - Slow moving, with a watchful eye, - Straight as an arrow, when you fly, - You’re seldom seen, but often heard, - Elusive for so large a bird. - - -Screech Owl -_Otus asio_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -The Screech Owl is the smallest of the eared owls, about robin size. In -fact he often nests in holes built by larger woodpeckers such as -flickers. Like other owls, he hunts at night when his quavering call -blends with the murmur of the night breeze. Mice, shrews, beetles, -moths, crayfish, frogs and small birds seem to furnish a well-rounded -diet. - -These small owls have 2 distinct color phases, one a rich brown, the -other a soft gray. Both blend with the bark of trees thus giving them -protection. This is one of the mysteries of the bird world. Just why do -these owls wear different colors? Both colors are often found in the -same brood. - -Even tho small, they give a good account of themselves and soon let you -know when they have young in the vicinity. The parents defend their -young against all comers and often surprise innocent persons who may -stroll too close to the young only to be attacked by the irate parents. - -This bird prefers open woodlands, orchards and clearings and often -spends the day in the same cavities which are used for nesting. Some -even spend the day in evergreens, but soon attract the attention of -other birds which hate all owls and soon make their feelings known. - - Mysterious birds - In every way, - Sometimes they’re brown, - Sometimes they’re gray. - - -Nighthawk -_Chordeiles minor_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -He’s not a hawk, but like other members of the Goatsucker family, often -feeds at night. This gray-brown, robin size bird with white bars across -the wings, often is called a “bull-bat.” Early morning and late evenings -seem to be favorite feeding times for then insects on which he feeds, -are on the wing. During the day you will find him sitting horizontally -on some sheltered limb, his colors blending perfectly. He looks more -like a knot or broken stub than a bird. He leaves his resting place with -a glide and then goes into his distinctive flight. - -The Nighthawk often ascends high in the sky with a series of quick wing -beats, each accompanied by his call of a nasal “peent.” When the desired -height is attained, he folds his wings slightly and dives with a booming -sound. This is a part of the breeding display. - -Nests are no problem, for this bird prefers a graveled flat roof or some -similar open space where a slight depression furnishes ample protection -for the eggs. The mother shelters her eggs and young from the blistering -sun which beats down. - - We watch your flight on white-barred wing - And hear the notes, you try to sing, - But there’s one thing, we’d hate to try - Your way of diving from the sky. - - -Chimney Swift -_Chaetura pelagica_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Unlike swallows which bend their wings, this bird holds his wings -straight, but the natural curve gives the appearance of a bow. The long -wings make him appear larger than the small sparrow size which he -attains. This sooty-black swift is the only member of his family which -visits the eastern part of America and since he has adopted chimneys as -his favorite nesting and roosting sites, he is not hard to find. - -Few birds seem so perfectly fitted for living in the air and except when -nesting or roosting, there is where he will be found. When flying, he -looks almost like a bird without head or tail but if you will examine -him closely you will find a short tail with spines which combined with -his sharp claws, help anchor him to the flat inner surface of chimneys. -Nests consist of small twigs which he snaps off the end of some dead -limb while flying by, then glues to the chimney with saliva. This does -not make an imposing structure, but is ample for safety of eggs and -young. - -The swift is a fast flier and combines long circular glides with quick -wing beats and sharp turns, this erratic flight accompanied by a series -of sharp, clicking notes which aids in identification. While drinking or -bathing each bird glides down, each hitting the water in turn. - - “Cigar with wings,” - You hear folks say, - As he darts past - On summer’s day. - - -Ruby-throated Hummingbird -_Archilochus colubris_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -This, the smallest bird found in the area, can be confused only with -large moths such as the sphinx or hawk moths. Both the moths and -hummingbirds like to feed on deep-throated flowers such as honeysuckles, -petunias and trumpet-vines but the moths prefer late evening or early -morning while the hummer never passes up a chance to explore such -flowers with his long brush-like tongue with which he gathers nectar. -This combined with small insects and spiders goes to make up his diet. -Brightly colored phials filled with sugar water will attract him to your -yard. - -Hummingbirds are among the best fliers of the bird world and can hover, -fly backward or forward or straight away, whatever meets their fancy. -The male has a green back and in some lights the throat patch looks -black only to flash ruby red when the bird changes position so the light -is reflected. The female is duller and has white feather tips on the -tail. - -The female builds one of the daintiest of nests on top of some sloping -branch, using lichens and spider web to attach the cup to the limb. This -little nest which is only 1½ inches in diameter is not often found for -it has the appearance of being only a part of the branch. Two young -constitute the usual family. - - A little jewel - With buzzy wings, - He only squeaks - Whene’er he sings. - - -Belted Kingfisher -_Megaceryle alcyon_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Rarely in the bird world, is the female more colorful than the male. The -Belted Kingfisher is one example, for the female sports brown flanks and -breastband in addition to the blue-gray belt worn by her mate. These -birds, larger than Robins, can be confused only with the Blue Jay; -however, their plumage is blue-gray. Near creeks, ponds, lakes or other -bodies of water they may be seen flying low over the water or hovering -momentarily before plunging after some minnow, crayfish or other food -which has attracted their attention. They have choice perches over the -water and fly from one spot to another, always on the lookout for unwary -prey. They are rather solitary in habits, each pair defending its -territory against all comers. - -The large head and beak, uneven crest, habit of flapping and sailing, -the series of call notes often referred to as a rattle, are distinctly -kingfisher. Nesting holes are dug in steep banks and extend several feet -before ending in an enlarged space which holds the eggs and young. Both -birds help with the digging using their strong bills to loosen the dirt -and their flatly constructed feet to kick it out. - -Kingfishers eat small fry which abound in such numbers that a natural -check is desirable. - - Up and down - The creek he goes. - With rattled call - To warn his foes. - - -Downy Woodpecker -_Dendrocopos pubescens_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -The sparrow-size Downy Woodpecker resembles his robin-size cousin, the -Hairy Woodpecker, but his notes are a little softer and his tapping a -little faster for his short bill can produce no such wallop as the -heavy-billed Hairy. The outer tail feathers are barred, instead of the -black and white pattern of the latter. Both males show a red spot on the -nape which is lacking on the females. General coloring is black and -white. - -While this friendly little woodpecker relishes suet, he does not let his -visits to your feeder interfere with his constant search for the larvae -which he finds in galls, cornstalks, weed stems or the bark of trees. He -makes a small opening into the tunnel where the larvae are hiding, then -inserts his long tongue and spears the worm. Nature has provided him -with a barbed spear on his long tongue and he uses it constantly in -protecting our trees. - -Spring brings much activity for a nesting site must be found, then the -labor of digging a cavity from 8 to 12 inches deep in a post, dead limb -or tree trunk. The home may be near the ground or high in some tree and -often is found with the entrance beneath a limb. There the young are -protected until they can join their parents in their search for insects. - - It seems absurd for such a bird - To work so hard, we know - But every worm must learn to turn - If he expects to grow. - - -Eastern Kingbird -_Tyrannus tyrannus_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -The Eastern Kingbird, altho slightly smaller than a Robin, is “monarch -of all he surveys,” and is ready and willing to defend his territory -against all comers. His happiest moments seem to be spent in chasing -hawks, crows, herons or vultures and he is the first to see their -approach and give the alarm. Then, like a fighter-plane, he speeds high -in the air and dives on the intruder. Such aerial attacks are of short -duration for the larger bird soon escapes to a safer location. He then -drops back to his favorite perch, often using such quick wing-beats that -he seems to be tip-toeing thru the air. - -This flycatcher with his white breast, dark head, back and wings, and -black tail with white terminal band, is identified easily. He likes to -nest around farm homes or other open country but wants a few open spots -where he can perch while waiting for passing insects. People who raise -bees often refer to him as a “bee-martin,” and accuse him of eating -honeybees. There is little ground for this accusation for only 22 -stomachs of 634 examined showed a total of 61 bees eaten and 51 of the -total were drones. On the other hand, this bird eats robber flies which -catch and destroy bees. Eighty-five per cent of his food consists of -insects which includes grasshoppers, crickets and cutworms. - - He tiptoes thru the ozone - Demure in black and white, - Let other birds take warning - For he is dynamite. - - -Eastern Phoebe -_Sayornis phoebe_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Unlike many of the flycatchers, this bird which is only a little larger -than the English Sparrow, is easily identified. His black bill, lack of -wing bars or eye ring is distinctive but his habit of jerking or waving -his tail is conclusive. The habit of repeating his name over and over in -a low but emphatic tone gives little doubt of his presence. Some people -might confuse this call with the high notes of the Black-capped -Chickadee but when once learned there is little resemblance. - -The Phoebe is one of the hardiest of his clan, often wintering in the -southern portion of its nesting range and returning in spring so early -that we often wonder how he can find sufficient flying insects to -sustain life. - -The Phoebe likes to place his well-built nest under some sort of a -shelter. Any overhanging cliff, under bridges, even rafters or window -sills are not overlooked as long as some projecting surface furnishes a -place to start the foundation. Mud and moss are the main materials used -for building and this bird knows that such a nest will not stand too -much rough weather. - -Two broods usually are raised during the summer and it takes a lot of -small flying insects to keep these healthy youngsters happy, so you are -lucky if he decides to be your neighbor. - - ’Neath bridges or on sheltered walls - They like to build their nests, - Then sally forth to catch the bugs - Which we consider pests. - - -Horned Lark -_Eremophila alpestris_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -A sparrow-size bird with black tail, which flushes from the road while -you travel along, is the Horned Lark. When you travel slower you will -find that he walks when he moves around, never hopping like birds which -prefer trees. Other marks to look for are a black crown, black line -extending from the beak, curving back and down over the cheek and a -black patch below the white or yellow throat. A white or yellow line, -depending on the subspecies of the bird you see, separates the crown -from the black facial pattern. The horns, from which the bird gets his -name, consist of 2 tufts of feathers extending up from the crown, but -sometimes are hard to see. Body color is brownish above with light -belly. - -Horned Larks prefer short-grass country with barren hills or other open -spots such as the sandy shoulders of highways. There you will find them -walking or running in their search for small seeds or insects. When snow -covers the ground they flock to the highways where graders and snowplows -have removed the icy covering. - -This, our only true lark, nests early in spring when late snows make -life hazardous. Then you will hear his twittering call as it floats in -on the chilly breeze. - - On barren ground or highway - He walks with dainty step, - He dines on seeds and insects - That’s why he’s full of pep. - - -Barn Swallow -_Hirundo rustica_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -This friendly bird discovered long ago that barns or sheds made -excellent cover for its adobe nest and now you often will find from one -to several of these mud structures neatly plastered on the beams of -buildings. This is a happy arrangement for both the tenant and landlord, -for the swallow more than pays the rent on the space used, not in cash -but in the thousands of insects which make up his food. The swallow gets -whatever protection is offered. - -A Barn Swallow is identified easily. No other swallow has the steel-blue -back, the brown spot above the bill with brown throat and belly nor the -deeply forked tail showing white beneath. Another good field mark is the -way he flies with wings bent so the long pointed primaries point back. -He is a swift but erratic flier and it is a pleasure to watch him as he -darts across a field, pond or pasture, searching for flying insects. - -His song is a series of twittering notes, rather musical and when once -learned will be easily remembered. Many of the notes have a liquid or -bubbling sound which is distinctive. - -Two broods of 4 or 5 young usually are raised during the summer. Fall -brings huge but loose flocks, headed south and feeding as they go, all -headed for South America for the winter. - - The tiny space - Required by you, - Seems little pay - For what you do. - - -Purple Martin -_Progne subis_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -This, the largest member of the swallow family, has adopted the -many-roomed apartments which man is glad to furnish. For there are few -people who do not take pleasure in watching the graceful flight of this -bird as he flaps and sails above your trees. His low-pitched, gurgling -notes help to identify him. - -They arrive from their winter homes rather early in spring and often are -heard or seen by the latter part of March. Heavy mortality can result -when late snows or icy rains cut down the quota of flying insects which -are his food. As soon as family cares are over, they gather in huge -flocks and soon leave for their winter home in South America. They -usually are gone by the last of August. - -The male is entirely blue-black which may look purple in some lights, -while the female and young birds show lighter breasts with duller head -and back. - -A Purple Martin is a social bird and likes to nest in colonies. A series -of gourds, boxes or a fancy many-roomed martin house all seem to offer -an equal appeal to this bird; however, he prefers they be placed on a -pole well above the ground and in an open space where he can come and go -without dodging limbs. A pond or lake in the neighborhood is desirable. - - He flaps and sails, - Goes here and there - To catch the bugs.... - His daily fare. - - -Blue Jay -_Cyanocitta cristata_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -You may admire him greatly or hate him intensely. It depends on what he -is doing when you form your opinion. A flock of these blue and white -birds with large crests and black chin-straps, add color and cheer as -they pass thru the timber. They often are conversing in a series of soft -musical tones which are pleasing to the ear when all is serene. Moments -later they discover a sleeping owl, cat or snake and the flock changes -into a group of loud-mouthed bullies. Such is the way of a Blue Jay. - -During the nesting season, this bird which is larger than a Robin, shows -the darker side of his character, for then he destroys the homes of many -nesting birds, eating both eggs and young of the smaller species. You -can hate him and all of his kin for such habits, but this is nature and -nature is never mild. Later you will find him hiding pecans, acorns or -sunflower seeds under leaves, sticks or moss. Then you will learn that -he does a lot of good, for many of these seeds are never eaten but grow -into new trees or bushes. It is just as natural for Blue Jays to hide -these acorns as it is for squirrels to do the same thing. His alarm -notes often save animals and birds for they have learned to heed his -warning call. - - He dresses like a dandy - With chin-strap from his crest.... - Sometimes you must admire him, - At times he is a pest. - - -Common Crow -_Corvus brachyrhynchos_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -In many areas there is no other with which this 19-inch all-black bird -could be confused. His steady wing beat, his characteristic call of -“caw” or “ca-ah,” his flocking habits in fall and winter help to -identify him. Along the Atlantic and Gulf shores, the smaller Fish Crow -is found, while on the western prairies the White-necked Raven which is -slightly larger, may be confused with the Crow. Mountainous areas and -seacoasts also have the Common Raven, which is much larger, but all show -the color pattern of the Common Crow. The last 3 birds have different -calls and all are more inclined to mix a lot of sailing in their flight. - -But what about the crow? We know he robs nests of eggs and young, we -know that he eats corn, peanuts, pecans, in fact anything he can lay his -beak on, and he is cunning enough to get his share. But do we give him -credit for the huge crop of grasshoppers, crickets, moths and weed seeds -he consumes? We may be blaming him unduly, for many of his food habits -are beneficial. - -In winter they gather in huge roosting flocks and can be seen going to -and from these roosts. They co-operate with each other both in finding -food and seeking protection. Their system must be admired for they are -doing all right. - - We feel quite sure - That you all know - If he says “Caw” - He is a crow. - - -Black-capped Chickadee -_Parus atricapillus_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Altho smaller than a sparrow, this little bird is hardy. He does not -leave his summer home and move to a warmer climate just to dodge the -snow and sleet. You will find him feeding just as happily in a snowstorm -as on a warm spring day, always consuming small insects, their eggs or -larvae. Exploring the trunks of trees, hanging upside down on the end of -a limb, or hunting larvae on tender leaves, it makes no difference to -this sharp-eyed bird. Those of you who feed birds will find the -chickadee one of your friendliest customers, for he relishes peanut -butter, suet, sunflower seeds or doughnuts and often gets tame enough to -eat from your hand. - -He shows a whitish line on the edge of his wing which is lacking on the -slightly smaller Carolina Chickadee which has a southern range. The -latter bird uses a 4-note call “fe-be-fe-bay,” while the black-capped -uses only “phe-be.” The normal chick-a-de-de-de call of the black-capped -seems a little lower and slower than that of his southern cousin. - -Both birds nest in cavities in stumps or trees, some being old nesting -sites of the Downy Woodpecker, while others are prepared by the -chickadees themselves. This seems quite a task for so small a bird. - - A friendly little urchin - With black on cap and chin. - He will become quite chummy - If you are kind to him. - - -Tufted Titmouse -_Parus bicolor_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -This sparrow-size cousin of the chickadee has a tuft of feathers which -gives him a striking appearance. The tuft, nape, back, wings and tail -are slate gray, while the cheek, throat, breast and belly are white with -a pinkish-brown patch just below the wing. Habits are similar to -chickadees and he often can be found feeding in loose flocks with these -and other small birds such as Downy Woodpeckers, nuthatches and Brown -Creepers. Together they form a useful team for what one species misses -by his method of feeding, one of the others will find by a slightly -different method. - -They nest in holes in trees or even a bird box to their liking. They are -noisy birds and their song is much louder and clearer than you would -expect to hear from such small singers. The song consists of a series of -whistled notes which sound like “pet-er” or “pet-o,” the first note -usually slightly higher. Other notes remind you of a Carolina Wren or a -Kentucky Warbler but the phrasing and tempo soon lead you to proper -identification. - -A titmouse enjoys a well-stocked feeder and is a nice neighbor for he -enjoys singing and the clear whistled notes add a touch of nature to a -cold winter day. - - How can a bird - As small as he - Sing half so loud? - We cannot see. - - -Brown Creeper -_Certhia familiaris_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -There is no other bird quite like the Brown Creeper. He is well named -for his brown plumage with lighter stripes gives him perfect protection -as he climbs spirally up some rough-barked tree. His curved bill, sharp -claws and long tail, all serve a distinct purpose in helping him find -his food. Hackberries or other rough-barked trees serve as his hunting -grounds and there you will find him checking the cracks and crevices as -he starts from the base and works upward, sometimes checking the larger -limbs, but often dropping down to the base of the next tree after -reaching the lower limbs. Insects, their eggs and larvae form the major -portion of his diet but he will not spurn suet on your feeder. - -Brown Creepers are found in this area only in winter, when they can be -found in loose flocks along with kinglets, chickadees, nuthatches, Downy -Woodpeckers and titmice, all working together to rid the trees of the -insects which are wintering there. - -His note is a weak lisp which can be confused only with the series of -similar notes uttered by the Golden-crowned Kinglet. He nests under a -strip of loose bark or occasionally in knotholes or well-hidden spots -around larger trees. - - His brown-striped coat - Is hard to see, - As he climbs spirally - Up your tree. - - -House Wren -_Troglodytes aëdon_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Most Americans seem to have fallen in love with the House Wren. It could -not be his beauty for he lacks the distinctive markings found on other -birds, even other wrens. Even in good light you see only a small -grayish-brown bird with lighter underparts. It is surely not his size -for he is smaller than a sparrow. His song is a sort of spontaneous -outburst of notes which give you more quantity than quality, with a -liberal helping of scolding notes, so it is not his vocal efforts. He is -not a good bird neighbor for he often punctures the eggs of other -nesting birds in his area. It must be his independence that has won him -favor. - -No other bird finds such an assortment of nesting boxes, all sizes, -shapes and colors, some homemade, others purchased. Some he will use, -while others offer no attraction. He may pass up a well-placed wren -house to build in the pocket of an old coat hung in a shed. He likes -boxes 8 to 10 feet above ground, not hidden by limbs. - -He prefers low shrubs, piles of brush or wood, or even open spots in -heavy timber, for there he finds the insects and small spiders which -form the major part of his food. Most of his hunting is either on or -near the ground while nesting sites are seldom above 12 feet. He runs to -large families and more than one brood is reared. - - His brownish hue, his bubbling song, - His impish little ways, - You like to have him ’round your home - To gladden summer days. - - -Mockingbird -_Mimus polyglottos_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -A trim, robin-size pale gray bird which shows extensive white patches on -the wings and outer tail when in flight. These markings will identify -this bird in winter when you find him feeding on whatever fruits or -berries he can locate. He does not choose to migrate when a good supply -of red cedar, bush honeysuckle, multiflora rose, persimmon, bittersweet -or other such seeds are available. Raisins or currants will entice him -to your feeder but he is too big a bully to make a good guest for he -chases other birds away. - -In summer he adds other little habits which soon bring him to your -attention. First, his song, a medley of rich notes which include not -only his own song, but a mimicked version of other songs and sounds -which he has heard. These are usually repeated 2 or 3 times and then he -goes to a new series, which may be harsh or pleasing. His song has more -variety of notes than the Brown Thrasher or Catbird. He prefers high -perches when singing, such as aerials, chimneys, windmills, trees, -buildings or water towers. He always is doing unusual things like -leaping into the air or going thru other antics which show his -well-marked plumage. - -He likes to nest in arbors, shrubs or trees which offer protection to -his bulky home which is often only a few feet above the ground. - - With clearest tone or rasping call, - With notes unheard in music hall - They form the mocker’s roundelay - On moonlight night or sunny day. - - -Catbird -_Dumetella carolinensis_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -This trim member of the mocker family leaves no doubt as to his -identity. No other bird has a uniform slate-gray plumage with a black -cap and rusty brown under-tail coverts. It makes little difference if -you miss the rusty marking under the tail, or even see the bird, for he -soon discloses his identity by his song. The normal song consists of a -series of musical phrases, well seasoned with catlike mews, often heard -coming from some concealed perch in shrubs or low bushes, for there is -the favorite home of the catbird. - -Altho slightly smaller than a Robin, he consumes many insects while -waiting for the small fruit and berries to ripen. Mulberries and wild -cherries are relished in season, while strawberries, blackberries or -grapes are not overlooked. - -He prefers low shrubbery or vines for nesting and builds rather a bulky -structure of sticks, twigs, paper, rags or leaves, lined with finer -material. Two broods during the summer keep the parents busily engaged. - -When trying to impress his mate, he often fluffs his feathers out until -he looks much larger, sticks his head up with mouth open and struts -around like a clown. It is just a part of nature. - - In brushy thickets or some low tree - A slate-gray bird is what we see. - And oft we listen, wondering how - He can repeat the cat’s me-ow. - - -Robin -_Turdus migratorius_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -There is no reason to tell you this bird is robin-size except that we -would like you to remember he is 10 inches long. This helps when making -a comparison with other birds. This medium-size member of the thrush -family makes himself at home on your lawn, in your garden, pastures or -fields. There you will see his reddish breast, dark head and back, all -distinctive in sunlight or shadow. Yes, you can spot a Robin anywhere. -The young have spotted breasts which is typical of the thrush family. - -Robins are early risers and start singing as soon as the first faint -glow shows the approach of a new day. Robins do most of their feeding on -the ground. There you will see them making a short run, then stop, look -and listen. They seem to be able to hear their prey, for you will notice -them digging worms and insects from depths which would make them -impossible to see. These birds sometimes add small snakes, minnows or -frogs to their diet of worms, insects and fruit. Hackberries, persimmons -and red cedar seeds help carry them thru the winter. - -Robins often winter rather far north and are one of the first migrants -to make an appearance in spring. - - Your travels bring you wide acclaim - For everyone can call your name. - They count the days ’til you appear - For then they feel that spring is near. - - -Eastern Bluebird -_Sialia sialis_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -This small thrush, only slightly larger than an English Sparrow, is held -in high esteem by those who have made his acquaintance. Unlike the -Hermit and Wood Thrushes which sing in the seclusion of deep forests, -the Bluebird prefers open country with scattered trees. Old apple -orchards make choice locations for usually they have a number of old -woodpecker holes for nests. - -Unlike most thrushes, he is not noted for his song, however his -frequently heard “tur-wee,” gives a restful assurance that all is well. -The male has bright blue upper parts with reddish-brown breast. The -female is duller with only the wings and tail showing blue with duller -brown breast. The young have spotted breasts like others of the thrush -family. - -Bluebird houses will help bring this bird to your community but remember -that the opening should be smaller than 1½ inches which will admit -Starlings, while low sites such as fence posts discourage the English -Sparrow. These birds cover a large area in their search for food so -houses should be spaced accordingly. - -Grasshoppers, crickets, cutworms and other insects form a major portion -of the food while small fruits and berries also are relished. Like the -Robin, he often spends his winters with us. - - A little bit of heaven - Seems a part of your array, - So blue above with brownish breast - How can you dress so gay? - - -Golden-crowned Kinglet -_Regulus satrapa_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Energetic little birds, smaller than House Wrens, the Golden-crowned -Kinglets spend the winter busily engaged in searching the twigs and -branches for insect eggs or larvae. There they join mixed flocks of -chickadees, Brown Creepers, nuthatches and Downy Woodpeckers, all -working together to protect our trees. He is easily identified for he -has the habit of flicking his wings as he moves thru the branches. His -short, slightly forked tail, white line over the eye, distinct wing -bars, all seem dull when compared to the golden crown, edged with black. -This gives an artistic touch to his olive-gray plumage. The female shows -a yellowish crown. The only bird with which he can be confused is the -Ruby-crowned Kinglet which shows a distinct eye ring. He flashes his -ruby crown only when excited. - -Like the Brown Creeper, this bird has a faint lisping call which usually -is given in a series of from one to 3 notes, not the single note of the -creeper. - -They often feed in low bushes or shrubs, sometimes on the ground and -seem to have little fear of man and will permit a close inspection. When -feeding high in the trees, their small size gives you a clue to their -identity. - - Oh, little king with crown of gold - How do you stand the winter’s cold? - If I were small as you, I know - I’d travel south and miss the snow. - - -Loggerhead Shrike -_Lanius ludovicianus_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -A gray bird with a black mask over the eyes, black wings which show a -white patch when flying, and a black tail with white margins, all help -identify this shrike. His head seems large when compared to his trim -body, he has a hooked beak, the under plumage is white. If there is any -doubt, watch him fly from one perch to another. He drops down near the -ground, flies rapidly and then zooms up to his next location. Another -habit is flicking his tail like a Phoebe when he alights. - -This bird likes open fields, pastures, grassy or weedy grounds with -handy perches where he can get a good view of his surroundings. He has -good eyes and any small snake, mouse or grasshopper will cause him to -investigate. He often hovers before striking and catches his prey with -his strong beak, for his feet are not equipped with heavy claws like -most predators. This also makes it necessary for him to impale his prey -on thorns, barbed wire or some other pointed object where he can cut it -with his sharp bill. - -Shrikes seem to prefer thorny trees for nesting, but will use whatever -is available. Most nests are rather low and are bulky structures. - -These birds kill more food than they consume and would be held in better -repute except for the habit of killing other birds. - - A “butcher-bird,” you hear folks say - For you use thorns to hang your prey. - Now we don’t mind, your catching mice, - But killing songbirds isn’t nice. - - -Starling -_Sturnus vulgaris_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Previous to 1890, this bird was unknown in America. Then a few pairs -were released in New York City and now look at them! Starlings are -everywhere. When walking around your yard or field he appears to be -black with a short tail, pointed wings and a sharp pointed beak which is -yellow in summer and brownish-black in winter. On closer inspection you -will find that he is a little smaller than a Robin, greenish with -speckled plumage in fall and winter, which develops into greenish-purple -in spring. In flight he flaps and sails much like a Meadowlark but his -short tail and wing pattern are distinctive. The young are brownish with -lighter throats. - -Many of the Starling’s feeding habits are beneficial for he eats many -worms and insects which he finds by turning over leaves or probing with -his sharp bill. The fact that he likes fruit on occasion is not in his -favor for he likes to travel in flocks and it takes a lot of fruit to -feed a flock of Starlings. - -Starlings have not learned to migrate and large flocks often gather -about buildings to roost, and what noisy, dirty lodgers they are. -Perhaps the worst habit is that of taking over all the available nesting -sites before our native birds arrive in spring. Every hole, crack or -cranny is occupied, so where are they to go? - - When foreigners invade our land - They sometimes get clear out of hand. - So leave them all where they belong - And then you’ll know they’ll do no wrong. - - -Red-eyed Vireo -_Vireo olivaceus_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Unlike some of his relatives which prefer low bushes and shrubs, the -Red-eyed Vireo prefers heavily-wooded areas. Where forests occur, he is -the commonest bird. Clearing of timber reduced much of his habitat, but -any grove of trees will furnish a home for this species. His numbers are -limited only by the area of the wooded section. - -Vireos are more often heard than seen for they feed slowly thru the tops -of high trees, but have an endless series of notes and sing during the -hot summer days when other birds seek shelter. The song consists of a -series of short phrases sometimes rising, sometimes falling, as if the -bird were talking to himself, even answering his own questions, with a -distinct pause between. Some of these notes have a robin or tanager-like -quality, but the repeated song soon places the bird. - -When you see this sparrow-size bird, you will find that he has a clear -white line over the eye, bordered with black. This is his only -outstanding mark for he has no wing bars. His general appearance is -greenish-gray above, white below with a greenish-yellow tinge on the -sides and flanks. His red eye is not distinct enough to make a good -field mark. His main diet consists of leaf-eating worms. - - With others hushed - By summer’s sun - He still sings on - As tho ’twere fun. - - -Myrtle Warbler -_Dendroica coronata_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -The Myrtle Warbler is a member of a colorful family of American birds -most of which are smaller than sparrows, have thin pointed bills, are -more active than vireos. They are often referred to as the butterflies -of the bird world. The Myrtle Warbler is presented because he is the -first to arrive in spring, often before the leaves arrive to hide him -from view. This 5½-inch bird has 4 yellow marks which will identify him: -the crown, rump and each side of the breast. He appears darker than most -warblers, being blue-gray above, white below with black marks across the -breast and back beneath the wings. The white throat and 2 white wing -bars offer contrast. Females and young lack the brilliant markings of -the male, but the yellow rump patch will identify the birds. The white -throat distinguishes this from other warblers which show a yellow rump. - -This bird is a migrant since he prefers to nest in the evergreens of -Northern United States and Canada. He feeds on insects and larvae which -infest our trees but captures many flying insects when available. Often -he winters farther north than you would expect to find warblers and then -feeds on small berries. Myrtle or bayberries are a favorite food and the -name of the bird indicates its fondness for these berries. - - The first to greet us in the spring, - The last to leave in the fall, - Four yellow spots before your eyes - Is proof he’s paid a call. - - -Yellowthroat -_Geothlypis trichas_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -The adult male of this species wears a black mask over his eyes and is -only 5¼ inches long. The female lacks the mask but has a yellow throat, -white belly and olive-brown head, back, wings and tail which identify -the birds. - -They nest over a wide area, favorite habitat being bushy thickets near -water. He is quick to resent any invasion of his privacy and uses a -variety of scolding notes to let you know how unhappy he is. His -movements are wren-like and hurried and his black eyes fairly sparkle to -show his excitement. He soon vanishes into the undergrowth but you will -have a chance to learn his call which sounds like “witchity, witchity, -witchity,” or “witcheree, witcheree, witcheree,” usually repeated 3 -times. - -While all warblers are beneficial, the Yellowthroat perhaps leads the -list for he feeds over a large area and in a variety of places. -Cankerworms in your orchard will soon bring this bird for they along -with fall webworms, are his favorites. Other caterpillars, plant lice, -leaf-hoppers, grasshoppers, flies and beetles add variety to his menu -and protection to the farmer. - -They nest on or near the ground, the female builds the nest and hatches -the young, but he is a devoted father and helps gather juicy worms to -feed the offspring. - - A singing bandit he might be - Who seems to say just “witchity.” - Near wooded draws he likes to stay - And there he spends the summer’s day. - - -House Sparrow -_Passer domesticus_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Whether you call him an English Sparrow or a House Sparrow, makes little -difference. He is not a sparrow, nor can we blame the English for the -vast population of these birds found within our borders. The fact that -it is a weaver-finch would indicate that Africa was the original home of -this species. This bird has been introduced into many countries and he -soon adapts himself to any surroundings. The record shows that 8 pairs -were introduced in Brooklyn in 1850 but did not survive. Two years -later, more were imported and now they are at home over a wide range. - -Since we have referred to this bird for comparative size, it is well -that we keep him in mind. His length runs from 5½ to 6¼ inches with a -wingspread of 9½ to 10 inches. The male is rather colorful with his gray -crown, chestnut nape, white cheeks, black throat and chest, brown back -and gray-white belly. The thick finch-like bill, the slightly notched -tail which they flick often, the habit of hopping when feeding on the -ground—all help in identification. The young and winter males resemble -the female which is a dull-brown above with gray-white below and a pale -stripe over the eye. - -They consume quantities of insects but will eat almost anything -available. - - He sits and chirps all day long - With what to him must be a song, - He thinks your home a place to nest, - Which wins for him, the name of pest. - - -Eastern Meadowlark -_Sturnella magna_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -This chunky robin-size bird is perfectly at home in fields and pastures. -There he is easily recognized as a plump brown-streaked bird with yellow -underparts and a black crescent on the breast like a black V. The short -tail shows white on each side and is flicked nervously. The crown shows -black and white stripes. They fly low over the fields with a series of -flaps and sails and walk around short-grass meadows in their search for -insects. - -They are not larks but are closely related to Starlings, as shown by -their scientific name and their resemblance to the invading flocks of -these aliens. Unlike their relatives, Meadowlarks have no bad habits and -feed largely on cutworms, grasshoppers and beetles which are found in -their chosen habitat. - -The Eastern Meadowlark has a loud clear song often referred to as -“spring is here,” while his western cousin, slightly smaller in size, -produces a series of whistled notes and warbles which is quite pleasing -to the ear. Both have a series of chattering notes which is typical. -Neither is hesitant about singing and they add much to their -surroundings by the quality of song. - -They not only should be protected but encouraged to nest around farms -for they more than pay their way. - - With yellow breast and black cravat - Whoever asks, “What bird is that?” - For meadowlarks range far and near - And sweetly whistle, “spring is here.” - - -Red-winged Blackbird -_Agelaius phoeniceus_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -A black bird with a bright red shoulder patch identifies the adult male. -Females and young are a heavily streaked gray-brown while young males -are brown with an orange wing patch. In fall and winter the brilliant -red shoulder patch is not so apparent, sometimes reduced to only a line. - -These numerous birds are slightly smaller than Robins and are abundant -along ditches, ponds, lakes or other marshy areas where they nest in -rushes, cattails or small bushes surrounding water. Irrigation has -increased their habitat until they are one of our common birds. Vast -flocks spend the winter in southern marshes. - -While nesting in swamps or other low areas, they range widely in search -of insects and larvae and account for many which would be injurious to -crops. In fall they feed heavily on weed seeds and waste grain. Huge -flocks are not welcomed in the unharvested rice fields of the south. - -Feeding habits make him a good neighbor to everyone in his northern -range before he joins the flocks of Starlings and other birds which -flock to the southern areas. - -The male is a bigamist on occasion and often entices more than one mate -to share his chosen marsh. - - A flash of red - You’re bound to see - And then you’ll hear - His “oka-l-e-e-e.” - - -Brown-headed Cowbird -_Molothrus ater_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -The coffee-brown head and black body of the male are distinctive, but in -fall the brown head shows more of a purplish tinge. The young, while -larger than sparrows, could be confusing since they are olive-brown -above with a buffy scaled appearance. The underparts show brown -streaking. The female is dusky gray. - -They feed near grazing animals and consume quantities of insects which -are disturbed by the herds. In winter they join other flocking birds for -migration. Then they feed on small seeds. - -They build no nest but lay eggs in the nests of vireos, warblers, -sparrows or flycatchers and depend on the foster parents to rear the -young. The white, evenly speckled-with-brown egg usually hatches before -the eggs of the rightful owner and the young Cowbird immediately tries -to push the other eggs or young out of the nest. He wants all the food -for himself. Some birds destroy the unwanted eggs, others desert their -own nest or build a new structure which covers the eggs, but most -species raise the young Cowbird. Such habits are not condoned in the -best bird circles. - -Gurgling notes of the male offer a soothing note to nature, when flocks -of these birds join other blackbirds in the treetops. The female has a -chattering note which is distinctive. - - “No moral standards” - Man would say, - But nature governs - And birds obey. - - -Summer Tanager -_Piranga rubra_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -The rosy red plumage of the male Summer Tanager is helpful in -identification for he is smaller than the Cardinal and lacks the tuft -and black face patch of the latter. Females, which resemble orioles, do -not have the sharply pointed bill of the oriole and are richer colored -than the female Scarlet Tanager, being almost an orange-yellow below. -She is olive-yellow above with no wing bars. The wings are greener than -those of her near relative. Young males often show a mottled pattern of -reds and yellows before attaining the rosy red hue of the adult. - -They prefer a rather open forest such as is found on hillsides. A dead -treetop makes an ideal perch while singing or catching insects on the -wing. The song is a rather melodious series of notes which reminds one -of a Robin. Alarm notes are a distinctive series of chippy-tuk-tuk -notes. - -These birds feed rather deliberately thru the trees and destroy many -insects and leaf-eating larvae which they encounter. Their nest is -usually far out on the limb and at least 10 feet above the ground. They -spend winters in South and Central America. The breeding range does not -extend as far north as that of the Scarlet Tanager. - - We like your color, rosy red - We like to hear you, overhead. - In open woods, we know you’ll rest - For there your mate conceals her nest. - - -Cardinal -_Richmondena cardinalis_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Most folks call him a “redbird,” which is only natural. The male is -entirely red except for the black face. No other redbird shows a tuft or -has such a heavy, orange bill. The female is dressed more in keeping -with family duties for yellowish-brown plumage offers more protection to -her and the secluded nest. She always shows a reddish tinge especially -on the crest, wings and tail. These markings combined with the conical -reddish beak, leave little doubt as to identity. The young resemble the -female. - -The Cardinal, slightly smaller than a Robin, can be found in almost any -area which includes thickets or tangled vines for protected nesting -sites. Hedges, plum thickets, woodland borders, city parks, swamps or -around your home, any or all are used on occasion. He likes to feed on -small seeds which means he must venture into the open, but he wants -cover handy, when predators arrive. - -In summer the Cardinal feeds heavily on insects and larvae but seeds and -small fruit form the major portion of his diet. He is fond of sunflower, -melon or squash seeds and will be among the first to visit your feeder -when these seeds are offered. If no regular feeder is available, he will -accept food when placed on the ground or snow. - - With brilliant coat and whistled song, - A thing of beauty all day long. - A joy forever you will find, - If you will keep his wants in mind. - - -Dickcissel -_Spiza americana_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -This sparrow-size finch is not too easy to describe for plumage varies. -There is no doubt about the singing male for he gets his name from his -song and reminds you every few seconds that he is a Dickcissel. He shows -a yellow breast with a black spot and except for size resembles a -meadowlark. Telephone wires, fences or weeds offer good perches and -there you will find him with head back and tail hanging down as he -repeats his song. A reddish-brown wing patch is a good field mark in -some seasons. The female is much like the female English Sparrow but is -lighter with a tinge of yellow and a lighter eye-line. - -Dickcissels are common around fields or meadows and seem to be -especially fond of alfalfa fields for they offer a good assortment of -beetles, bugs and hoppers on which the bird thrives. Larvae and small -seeds round out the diet and make this bird a useful neighbor on any -farm. - -They nest on or near the ground. This makes them victims of various -predators which range thru such areas. Cowbirds seem to rely on these -birds to raise their young for they are often found feeding the young -imposters. They wander widely in both nesting and winter range and -frequently appear where least expected. - - In summer when the days are long - You’re bound to hear his cheerful song. - In open fields, he likes to stay - And calls his name thruout the day. - - -American Goldfinch -_Spinus tristis_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -The American or Common Goldfinch often is called “wild canary.” Altho he -is not a canary, his small size, color and twittering notes remind -people of their pets. While smaller than sparrows, these birds are -rugged and winter over much of their nesting range. Their habit of -flocking and tendency to feed on weed seeds makes them easily found. - -The male of this species is a rich lemon yellow with a small black mark -above the bill, black wings and tail. The wings show distinct white bars -especially in winter when the yellow has faded to the more somber hue of -the female. The tail is forked with white tips on the outer feathers and -coverts. The bill is yellow. - -Goldfinches are noted for their cheerful dispositions. A feeding flock -can be heard uttering twittering conversational notes even in winter. -Spring brings the notes of their beautiful but varied song which usually -can be identified as “tzee,” or “per-chic-o-ree,” which is the song -heard when the birds pass overhead. - -Goldfinches nest late in the season and use quantities of thistle down -or similar fiber in building their compact homes. Fondness for thistles, -both seeds and down, often gives him the name “thistle-bird,” and many -artists picture him perched on this colorful weed. - - He’s never happy when alone - But with the flock is prone to roam. - You often hear his questioning “tzeee” - In flight he says, “per-chic-o-ree.” - - -Slate-colored Junco -_Junco hyemalis_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -The sparrow-size Slate-colored Junco or the “snowbird,” as he frequently -is called, is only a winter visitor in most areas. But what a welcome -guest he is! The white belly and outer tail feathers add distinctive -marks to his slate-gray plumage. The bill is pinkish white. Females and -immature birds are duller and sometimes show a pinkish-brown tinge on -their backs and sides. - -Juncos can be found around weed patches, hedges or sheltered corners of -fields, where they spend much time in feeding on weed or grass seeds -which provide their winter diet. Even fallen seeds are not overlooked -for these birds do much of their feeding on the ground. They sleep in -evergreens, sheds or other protected areas which shelter them from the -cold and snow. They often visit feeders for small seeds provided by bird -lovers. - -Their notes are hard to describe but have a musical smacking or clinking -note or series of notes which once learned, are easily remembered. Their -song is a series of chipping notes much like those of a Chipping -Sparrow, but with more variation and more of a musical quality. This -song is heard when the first warm days of spring arrive. They nest in -either mountainous or northern regions for they enjoy cool climates. - - Slate-gray above and white below, - Reminds us of a winter’s snow. - The leaden clouds we see o’erhead - Bring flaky snow, thru which we tread. - - INDEX PAGE WHEN THE BIRDS MAY BE SEEN - Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May. Jun. Jul. Aug. Sep. Oct. Nov. Dec. - - Blackbird, 22 ..oo XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX ooo. .. - Red-winged - Bluebird, Eastern 18 .... ..oo XXXX oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo ooXX XXXX oooo .... - Cardinal 24 XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX - Catbird 17 .. oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oo. - Chickadee, 14 oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo - Black-capped - Coot, American 5 .... .. oXXX XXXX XXoo oooo .. .. ooxx XXXX oooo .... - Cowbird, 23 .... ...o XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX oooo .... - Brown-headed - Creeper, Brown 15 oooo oooo oooo o.. ..oo oooo oooo - Crow, Common 14 XXXX XXXX XXoo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo ooXX XXXX XXXX - Cuckoo, 7 . oooo oooo oooo oooo oo.. . - Yellow-billed - Dickcissel 24 .. ooXX XXXX XXXX Xooo oo.. . - Dove, Mourning 7 .... .... ooXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXoo oooo oo.. .... - Goldfinch, 25 oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo - American - Goose, Snow 2 .o XXXX oo.. . XXX oo. - Grebe, Pied-billed 1 .. oooo .. ..o oooo oooo oooo oo.. .... - Hawk, Red-tailed 3 oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo - Hawk, Sparrow 4 oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo - Heron, Great Blue 1 ... oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo .... . - Hummingbird, 9 .. oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo . - Ruby-throated - Jay, Blue 13 oooo oooo oooo ooXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXoo oooo oooo oooo - Junco, 25 XXXX XXXX XXXX XXoo oooX XXXX XXXX - Slate-colored - Killdeer 5 . ...o oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oXXo oooo oo.. .... - Kingbird, Eastern 11 .oo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo - Kingfisher, Belted 10 .... .... oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo .... - Kinglet, 18 oooo oooo oo.. ... ... oooo oooo - Golden-crowned - Lark, Horned 12 oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo - Mallard, Common 2 XXXX XXXX XXXX oooo ... ...o oooo XXXX XXXX - Martin, Purple 13 oo oooo oooo ooXX XXXX XXoo .. - Meadowlark, 22 .... .... oooo XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXoo oooo oooo oooo .... - Eastern - Mockingbird 16 .... .... ..oo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo .... .... - Nighthawk 8 o XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXo o - Owl, Screech 8 oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo - Phoebe, Eastern 11 oo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo o.. - Prairie Chicken 4 oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo - Robin 17 oooo oooo ooXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXoo oooo oooo - Sandpiper, Spotted 6 .. oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo o. - Shrike, Loggerhead 19 oooo oooo oooo oooo XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX oooo oooo oooo - Sparrow, House 21 XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX - Starling 19 XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX - Swallow, Barn 12 ooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo .. - Swift, Chimney 9 ooX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX oo - Tanager, Summer 23 oooo oooo oooo .... .... - Tern, Black 6 oXXX XXoo ooX XXXX oo - Titmouse, Tufted 15 oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo - Vireo, Red-eyed 20 .o oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oo - Vulture, Turkey 3 . oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo .... - Warbler, Myrtle 20 .ooo Xoo oooo . - Woodpecker, Downy 10 oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo - Wren, House 16 .ooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo .. - Yellowthroat 21 oo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oo - - . The dot or period indicates the bird is occasionally seen. - o The small o shows the bird is more frequently seen. - X The capital X shows the bird is commonly seen. - -For example, during the first 2 weeks of February, the Red-winged -Blackbird is rarely seen. During the last 2 weeks of February, it is -seen frequently, after which it is commonly seen until the end of -October. The table is based on bird census figures collected within a -radius of 50 miles of Topeka, Kansas. Your area may show different -results. - - - Kansas Farmer - Missouri Ruralist - The Topeka Daily Capital - WIBW - WIBW-TV - The Kansas City Kansan - THE TOPEKA STATE JOURNAL - CAPPER’S WEEKLY - Michigan Farmer - _The Ohio Farmer_ - PENNSYLVANIA FARMER - HOUSEHOLD - Capper’s _Farmer_ - - - Capper Publications, Inc. - EIGHTH AND JACKSON STREET, TOPEKA, KANSAS - - - - - Transcriber’s Notes - - -—Silently corrected a few typos. - -—Retained publication information from the printed edition: this eBook - is public-domain in the country of publication. - -—In the text versions only, text in italics is delimited by - _underscores_. - - - - - - - -End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Introduction to Our Bird Friends, -Volume 1, by Lenwood Ballard Carson - -*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK INTRO TO OUR BIRD FRIENDS, VOL 1 *** - -***** This file should be named 61319-0.txt or 61319-0.zip ***** -This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: - http://www.gutenberg.org/6/1/3/1/61319/ - -Produced by Stephen Hutcheson and the Online Distributed -Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions will -be renamed. - -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United -States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. 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