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diff --git a/old/62490-0.txt b/old/62490-0.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 84f870f..0000000 --- a/old/62490-0.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,2208 +0,0 @@ -The Project Gutenberg EBook of Introduction to Our Bird Friends, Volume 2, 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 2 - -Author: Lenwood Ballard Carson - -Illustrator: Orville O. Rice - -Release Date: June 26, 2020 [EBook #62490] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK OUR BIRD FRIENDS *** - - - - -Produced by Stephen Hutcheson and the Online Distributed -Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net - - - - - - - - - - INTRODUCTION TO OUR BIRD FRIENDS - VOLUME 2 - - - Text by L. B. Carson - Illustrations by Orville O. Rice - - Copyright, 1957 - BY CAPPER PUBLICATIONS, INC. - - Printed in the United States of America - - - - - 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 second booklet 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 2 - Capper Publications, Inc. - 8th and Jackson Streets - Topeka, Kansas - - -White Pelican -_Pelecanus erythrorhynchos_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Soaring overhead during migration, a flock of White Pelicans is a -magnificent sight. These great birds weigh as much as 15 pounds, have a -wingspread of 9 feet and a total length of more than 5 feet. Their legs -are sturdy but short, the toes fully webbed. The bill is long and flat -with a pouch beneath the lower mandible. Three contrasting colors make -this bird easily identified. The bird is white except for the outer -two-thirds of the wings where the end and rear half is black. The bill, -pouch and feet are yellow or reddish-yellow. - -The head is carried well back, which rests the bill and pouch on the -shoulders. They float high on the water and when surrounded by ducks and -grebes, they look like aircraft carriers with a destroyer escort. - -Unlike the smaller Brown Pelican, these birds do not dive for their -food, but form a line, drive the fish to shallow water, where their -built-in landing nets ladle the small fry out of the water. Many -“crawdads” find that an open pouch is no place to hide when these birds -wave their open beaks back and forth in shallow water. - -Pelicans must have originated the game of “follow the leader,” for in -flight, whatever the leader does, each bird follows in turn. - - On mammoth wings - They wend their way, - On silent flight, - Across the bay. - - -Snowy Egret -_Leucophoyx thula_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Like ghosts from a bloody past, Snowy Egrets have returned to add their -beauty to American bird life. Woman’s vanity and man’s desire for money -once brought these beautiful herons almost to the point of extinction. -The dainty recurved plumes, which formed a part of the breeding plumage -of the birds, were known as “cross aigrettes,” when they were sold by -milliners. Women bought, men slaughtered, and egrets died, not only for -the plumes; but the nestlings starved after the adults were killed. -Plume hunters have departed and the birds are now found in their -favorite swamps. - -This bird has a length of 20 to 25 inches, white with black bill and -legs. The feet are yellow, giving it the nickname of “the bird with the -golden slippers.” The young of the Little Blue Heron are also white but -have greenish legs, while the bill is 2-tone, blue with black tip. The -American Egret is much larger and shows a yellow bill. - -The Snowy Egret formerly nested in the Deep South, but is gradually -extending its range to include more northern areas. They are prone to -wander widely after the breeding season. Western birders will find the -Brewster’s Snowy Egret in their area. - - With yellow slippers - And spotless plumes, - Which are more charming - The brides or grooms? - - -Green Heron -_Butorides virescens_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Anyone who spends time near a lake, pond or stream will find this small -heron, for it is there that he secures the minnows, frogs and crayfish -which form the major portion of his diet. His favorite method is to -stand quietly on a partly submerged log where fish are feeding within -reach of his long neck and bill. A quick thrust and one course is -served. At other times you will see him sneaking carefully up to the -water’s edge, where some slight ripple indicates the movement of fish or -frogs. - -This bird is small, measuring only 16 to 22 inches in length, but -appears even smaller until he extends his long chestnut-colored neck. At -a distance he appears to be black but a closer view shows a bluish or -greenish tinge to the feathers, depending on lighting conditions. His -legs are short and range from greenish to almost orange in color, -depending on the season. - -The Green Heron builds a loosely-constructed nest, usually not more than -20 feet above the ground, but often some distance from water. They are -inclined to nest singly, but may form loose colonies when abundant. The -3 to 5 eggs are greenish in color and can usually be seen thru the frail -structure which these birds consider home. - - Sometimes they’re green - And sometimes blue - When reflected light - Plays tricks on you. - - -Canada Goose -_Branta canadensis_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -There is something about the Canada Goose that demands respect. Farmers -see him as a weather prophet for his fall flight indicates that winter -is on the way, while his spring migration tells them that warmer days -will follow. Hunters see him as the prize game bird, worthy of their -best efforts. Others point to this bird as a model for man, for his -strength, courage and fidelity leave little to be desired. Even the -newsboy stops selling papers to watch and listen as these great birds -pass over the cities. - -Americans are fortunate, for at least one of the 5 sub-species of Canada -Geese is found in all areas. They range from the Cackling Goose, a small -dark sub-species not much larger than a Mallard and weighing around 3 -pounds, to the huge Western Canada and the Common Canada with weights of -10 pounds or more. Richardson’s Goose at 4 pounds and the Lesser Canada -at 5 pounds are two smaller sub-species both lighter in plumage like the -Common Canada. - -All show the same pattern: black head, neck, tail, feet and bill with a -white cheek patch and light belly. Back and wings are brownish-gray. The -cheek patch in most types is joined beneath the chin. The white of the -belly extends around the tail, making the black tail feathers -distinctive. The gray shows a barred effect. - - He comes in various sizes, - And raises quite a din, - But you can always know him - By the strap beneath his chin. - - -American Pintail -_Anas acuta_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -This duck has the widest nesting range of any species in the northern -hemisphere. An American Pintail looks much the same whether you find him -in Hawaii, Europe, Asia, Alaska, Canada, Mexico or on either coast of -the United States. The drake is a large gray-backed, white-breasted -duck. The white of the breast extends up the long neck to a point back -of the brown head; gray feathers extend up the back of the neck to the -head. The tail gives a clue to the name, for the 2 center feathers are -long, black and pointed. The female is a mottled brown and shows a long, -thin neck, bluish-gray feet and a pointed but not elongated tail. - -These birds are strong fliers and do much of their courting on the wing, -the female leading a convoy of males, each trying to outdo the others. -Perhaps she chooses the strongest flier for her mate. The male has a -whistled note while the female utters a muffled quack. - -Pintails feed in shallow water where their long necks give them some -advantage over the shorter-necked puddle ducks which enjoy the same -habitat. Nests are placed on dry ground and are usually a deep hollow -lined with grasses and down. The site is variable and might be near or -far from water, but the American Pintail will go all out to protect her -young. - - A flock of “sprigs,” - The hunters say, - As these flash by - At break of day. - - -Blue-winged Teal -_Anas discors_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Some people call this bird the “Summer Duck.” The fact he arrives late -in spring and departs for his winter home before the heavy frosts -indicates a desire to evade cold weather. Most of these ducks are well -on their way to Mexico or South America when other species begin to -arrive from the nesting grounds. Early migration saves the lives of many -Blue-wings for hunters prefer this duck for eating. Their speedy flight, -their erratic twisting and turning, their tendency to decoy—all offer a -challenge to the nimrod. - -The blue wing patch, from which this duck derives its name, also is -shared by the Cinnamon Teal which replaces this bird in western areas. -Shovellers also carry a similar marking. The reddish color of the male -Cinnamon Teal and the huge bill of the Shoveller help distinguish the -birds. In the eclipse plumage, both male and female Blue-wings are much -alike, but by the latter part of October the male assumes the dark head -and tail, a crescent before the eye, brown speckled body, back -gray-brown, white patch on each flank with dull yellow feet. The bill is -bluish-black. The female is brownish-gray in all plumages. Both sexes -show the blue wing patch in any plumage. - - He likes to muddle every puddle - This handsome little teal. - You’ll see him dredge along the sedge - For there he finds a meal. - - -Ruddy Duck -_Oxyura jamaicensis_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -This little duck is known by almost 100 different names in the areas -where he is found. But no matter what you call him or where you find -him, he is distinctive. No other duck except the Masked Duck, which is -found in the West Indies, has the stiff tail which often is carried -erect and fanned like a miniature sail. The male has a black or -blackish-brown crown and nape, depending on the season, whether breeding -or winter. The bright-blue bill, rich reddish-chestnut body and white -cheek patch make the male a beautiful bird in breeding plumage. In -winger the male assumes the grayish-brown coloring of the female, both -showing the light cheek patch with darker crown and nape. The head, neck -and feet are large for so small a bird. - -These ducks are much like grebes in that they can dive or sink into the -water, are almost helpless on land, and patter some distance over the -water before taking into the air. - -Ruddy ducks conceal their nests in reeds or bulrushes over water. Eggs -are larger than one would expect to find from so small a mother. The -male, unlike most ducks, seems proud to lead his little family on their -quest for food and remains near while the female incubates. - -Everything about a Ruddy sets him apart from other ducks. - - No matter what you call him - He’s nothing like the rest. - And when it comes to diving - He ranks among the best. - - -American Merganser -_Mergus merganser_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Many birds have developed beaks which help them secure their food. The -American Merganser is no exception. His beak is long and narrow and both -mandibles are edged with sharp, pointed teeth which are inclined -backward. The tip is covered by a nail or hook designed for catching and -holding fish which form the major portion of this duck’s food. These -birds are expert divers and the entire flock soon joins one of its -members which has located a school of fish. Both rough and game fish are -relished. - -The male is a beautiful bird with his red bill, greenish-black head, -black back fading to an ashy-gray rump and tail. The chest, sides and -breast are white and often show a pinkish-salmon tint. Wings show a -black and white pattern and the feet are red. A large streamlined duck -sitting low in the water with a white body and black trim is -descriptive. The female has a reddish-brown head with an elongated -brushy crest, ashy-gray back and white belly. They can be confused only -with the Red-breasted Merganser, but in this case, both male and female -are crested and the male shows a white collar and reddish upper chest. - -American Mergansers are rugged and linger as far north as open water -will permit securing of food. - - Like arrows winging - From giant bow, - You see them flying - Straight and low. - - -Marsh Hawk -_Circus cyaneus_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -The Marsh Hawk is often called “Harrier,” and his method of hunting -would justify such a name. They cover a field like a well-trained dog, -back and forth, here and there, cruising slowly with a deliberate flap -or a slow sail on wings tipped a little above the horizontal. A slight -movement, a quick pounce, and another field mouse has joined his -ancestors. The white rump patch makes a good field mark, either on the -gray-plumaged male or the brownish feathers of the female or young. The -long wings and tail make these birds appear larger than their length of -19 to 22 inches. - -Marsh Hawks feed heavily on rodents but include insects, frogs or birds -in the diet. Dead animals or birds are not overlooked, thus causing the -Marsh Hawk to be blamed for kills which he did not make. - -Harriers seem to take pleasure in diving at each other, and the larger -buteos, eagles, vultures, prairie chickens or flocks of ducks. - -Nests are placed on the ground and are hidden by shrubs, weeds or marshy -growth. The female spends much of her time with or near the young while -the male is kept busy hunting food for his growing family. The usual -clutch contains 5 white or pale-blue eggs, lightly marked with brown -spots. - - On tireless wings - They scan your fields - In search of rodents - Which cut your yields. - - -Bobwhite -_Colinus virginianus_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -This chunky little brown quail is popular in every region where he -resides. Hunters spend thousands of dollars each year in pursuit of this -feathered bombshell. Farmers appreciate having such an active ally in -their fight against the hordes of insects which menace their crops. They -enjoy hearing his cheerful whistle as they go about their daily chores. -Birders are happy to know this is one bird which offers no problem for -they can list him by either sight or sound. Anyone can point with pride -to this bird’s good character for the male can, and often does, take -charge of the brood, teaching them how to exist in a hostile world. - -The male shows a white throat and line over the eye, while the female is -content to wear buffy feathers which make her only a little less -colorful. Bobwhites nest and roost on the ground and will spend their -entire lives in a limited area if shelter, food and water are available. -Many farmers co-operate with their little neighbors by planting -blackberries, multiflora rose, or raspberries along their fences, not -farming the last inch of every corner of the field. Some even leave a -little milo or other grain unharvested near the edge of their fields. -Such practices pay dividends in the harvest of insects consumed by -Bobwhites. - - Some like to shoot - And watch him fall, - While others like - To hear his call. - - -Wilson’s Snipe -_Capella gallinago_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Wilson’s Snipe, frequently known as a “Jack Snipe,” is the most common -of 3 species which have extremely long, straight bills. All feed by -probing in soft mud where their sensitive bills soon locate and obtain -their food. This bird prefers marshy areas near streams or ponds. When -disturbed, he leaves the scene so rapidly that you might miss the -erratic, zig-zag flight, the pointed wings, the stripes on his head, the -brownish-striped plumage. You might even miss the orange tail, but you -probably will hear the rasping note which he usually utters when he -departs. The Woodcock, a similar species, feeds in dense cover and has -bars across his crown, rounded wings and a chunky build. A third -long-billed bird is the Dowitcher, which feeds in open, shallow water -and is found often in small flocks. - -Many birds are noted for unusual sounds which they make. Wilson’s Snipe -is no exception; however in his case it is not a vocal effort for he -ranks low as a singer. This bird uses a flight pattern which causes a -vibration of feathers as the bird plunges diagonally downward. Observers -have noticed the 2 outer feathers of the tail seem to be separated while -on such flights; perhaps this is the clue to the unusual sound. - - His king-size beak - Is a handy tool, - As he probes the mud - ’Round each grassy pool. - - -Upland Plover -_Bartramia longicauda_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -The Upland Plover is a confusing bird. Ornithologists still are arguing -about what he should be called—a sandpiper or a plover. He formerly was -known as a Bartramian Sandpiper. Now the trend seems to indicate that -Upland Sandpiper is a name which fits his habits better than Upland -Plover. Altho he has legs long enough for wading, he uses them for -traveling thru grasses, not water. When alighting, he holds his wings up -momentarily before folding them; in fact most of his actions seem more -like a plover. Whatever you call him, he still will be found on prairies -and grasslands; marshes and mud flats have no appeal to this bird. - -The Upland Plover is slightly larger than a Killdeer and is buffy brown -in color. His long neck, small head with rather short beak, long tail, -hovering flight, but most of all his prolonged call, make identification -easy. His long-drawn, mournful whistle seems to blend with breezes which -blow above the prairies, and once heard, is not easily forgotten. - -These birds once were scarce due to heavy shooting by market hunters, -who slaughtered them in great numbers. They now are protected in much of -their range, but unfortunately this protection does not extend to their -winter home in South America. - - We hear your clear - But mournful cry, - As you go tip-toeing - Thru the sky. - - -Greater Yellow-legs -_Totanus melanoleucus_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Sandpipers can be confusing, especially in fall plumage. Mixed flocks -require special checking even by experts, but not the Greater -Yellow-legs. His large size, slender build, yellow legs, gray upper -parts, white tail coverts and under parts can be confused only with the -Lesser Yellow-legs (Totanus flavipes). When together, there is no -problem for the latter measures 9½ to 11 inches while the Greater -Yellow-legs runs from 13 to 15 inches in length. The small, slim beak of -the Lesser is straight, whereas the heavier bill of the Greater seems to -be slightly upturned. The call is different, for the larger bird uses a -loud 3 or 4 note whistle. The smaller uses less volume in his 1 or 2 -note effort. - -This sandpiper prefers mud flats and his long legs permit him to feed in -deeper water where he adds minnows and crayfish to his diet. He can -swallow small fish but occasionally lands one which must be reduced to -bite size. However, the bird is persistent and soon completes his meal. - -The Greater Yellow-legs migrates thruout the United States and may be -seen around any suitable habitat. It nests as far north as Alaska and -Labrador and may winter far into South America; however many remain -along our southern shores and bayous. - - They could not miss - When naming you. - Those yellow legs - Gave them the clue. - - -Avocet -_Recurvirostra americana_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -The black and white plumage of this medium-size shore bird is -distinctive. A closer inspection will show long, blue legs, a thin, -upturned bill and in breeding plumage, a rusty neck and head with white -before the eye. In winter, the rusty markings are replaced by a gray -wash. European birds lack the colorful neck and head markings, but show -the black and white pattern and often are called Awl-birds. The bill -gives the clue to such a name. - -The Avocet feeds by wading in shallow water and swinging his bill back -and forth; flocks often advance and feed in unison. These birds also are -capable swimmers and have been observed while feeding like puddle ducks, -tipping up and extending their heads far under water in search of -insects and small crustacea. - -Avocets formerly nested as far east as New Jersey but now favor the -shores of ponds, lakes and sloughs in the western areas. Sun-dried mud -or alkaline flats often bring loose colonies of these birds, anywhere -from Southern Texas to Alberta and British Columbia. When disturbed, -they circle overhead, utter a series of yelping calls or feign a broken -wing in order to lure you away from their nesting sites. - - The upturned beak, - The legs so blue, - The black and white - All point to you. - - -Wilson’s Phalarope -_Steganopus tricolor_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Phalaropes are unique. Unlike most birds, the female is more colorful, -does most of the courting, leaves nest building, incubating and rearing -of young to the long-suffering male. Her lone contribution to the -rearing of the family is laying eggs. She does deserve some credit, -however, for she remains in the area and will join the male in circling -overhead when the nest is disturbed, both uttering a sort of nasal, -trumpet-like toot. - -Wilson’s Phalarope is not only the largest phalarope, but prefers inland -marshes, while the Red Phalarope and Northern Phalarope spend more time -at sea. In breeding plumage, the female shows a distinctive black line -down the side of the neck, starting in front of the eye and blending -into a chestnut wash on the shoulders. Under parts and throat are white, -wings gray with a gray line extending thru the cinnamon buff of the -back. The male is grayer with a cinnamon wash on the neck. In fall, both -birds show dark wings, white rump patch and light plumage. The long, -needle-like bill and the whirling motion when swimming are good clues to -identification in any season. When feeding in shallow water, these birds -are active, always in a hurry and running from place to place. - - You’re just a sissy, - That we know, - For you let Mama - Steal the show. - - -Ring-billed Gull -_Larus delawarensis_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Audubon, in 1840, referred to this species as the common American gull, -but due to the change in habitat and increase in population, these birds -have departed from many of their former nesting areas. However, next to -the larger Herring Gull, it still is one of the most widely distributed. -These birds form breeding colonies on islands in Northern United States -and Southern Canada, often sharing these sites with the Cormorant and -the Common Tern. Like other gulls, they are not to be trusted around -unprotected nests of other species, for eggs are considered quite a -delicacy in a gull’s diet. - -The black ring near the end of this bird’s bill is not a good field mark -unless you are near or use powerful glasses to check the specimen. It -looks much like a Herring Gull, except for the smaller size (18-20 -inches), as compared with the 23-26 inches of the Herring Gull. The -Ring-billed shows greenish-yellow legs, whereas the Herring has -flesh-colored ones. Both birds show a gray mantle with black wing tips -surrounding a white spot. The Herring shows a little more white in this -respect. Young of the Ring-billed are a lighter buff than most other -species and show a black band near the end of the tail. - - That little ring you’re wearing, - Tho faint, still gives a clue, - When with other gulls you’re flying, - We know it’s really you. - - -Great Horned Owl -_Bubo virginianus_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -The Great Horned Owl, largest of the eared owls, is found over a wide -area and may be either light or dark in color, depending on the area -where he is found. All specimens show a white throat, ear tufts and -yellow eyes. This bird is almost 2 feet in length and can handle -fair-sized animals when pressed by hunger. The hoot of this bird is -deeper, slower and more uniform than that of the Barred Owl, and often -can be heard as a sort of conversational note between 2 birds in the -same area. It is given as a 2-note “Who-who,” and answered by a similar -call from another bird some distance away. These calls are given on a -different pitch. - -These owls nest early and often use old structures which were built by -hawks, crows or eagles. Hollow trees or stone ledges furnish desirable -locations. They are good parents and defend their home and young against -all comers, including men. Crows and jays take delight in heckling these -owls, but are careful to keep a safe distance, for Great Horned Owls see -well in bright sunlight, altho they do most of their hunting in -darkness. Their diet includes almost any type of animal life available, -but rabbits, rats, squirrels and mice seem to be preferred. Some feed on -starlings and pigeons which they find around city buildings. - - “Who-who?” you ask - In querulous tone, - When folks invade - Your woodsy home. - - -Yellow-shafted Flicker -_Colaptes auratus_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -People once called this bird a Yellow-hammer. Lots of folks still do, -and it’s but one of the many names applied to this beautiful woodpecker. -His brown-barred back, black crescent on the throat, spotted breast, -white rump patch and bounding flight, his large size, his loud drumming, -his posturing and his loud calls all point to this bird or, if you live -in the west, the Red-shafted Flicker. The latter shows a reddish tint to -the wings and tail where this bird shows yellow. Heads of males are -marked differently, in that the western bird shows a red line extending -down from the mouth, while the Yellow-shafted shows black lines. - -A flicker prefers ants to any other food, and nature has equipped him -with a long, sticky tongue which permits him to explore anthills or -tunnels in trees where these insects might be lurking. When ants are not -available, he turns to other insects, fruit or berries, one of his -favorites the seeds of the poison ivy. - -Flickers usually excavate their homes in the trunks of dead trees, the -entrance about 3 inches across and extending downward to as much as 24 -inches. Both birds apply themselves to this task, leaving small bits of -wood in the bottom in lieu of other nesting material. - - Sometimes he will surprise you - By feeding on your lawn. - But there you’re apt to find him - Until the ants are gone. - - -Red-bellied Woodpecker -_Centurus carolinus_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -If you look for a red belly on this bird, you might miss him entirely. -Look instead for the red crown and nape, the heavily-barred back and -wings and grayish-white under parts. The female lacks the red crown, -only the nape showing this brilliant coloring. These birds are about the -same size as Hairy Woodpeckers (9 to 10½ inches) and are rather shy, -spending much of their time in wooded areas. Bird feeders supplied with -corn and nut meats with ample pieces of suet will bring them to your -yard. Their natural food consists of beetles and other insects, together -with a generous helping of wild fruits, seeds, acorns and when -available, some corn. It also relishes both juice and pulp of oranges. - -Like other woodpeckers, the Red-bellied excavates nesting holes in trees -where their 3 to 5 eggs are laid. Starlings often are waiting to take -over these newly-constructed homes and form a real menace to these -hard-working birds. - -Red-bellied Woodpeckers seem to be permanent residents in suitable -locations, not migrating like flickers and Red-headed Woodpeckers. -However, they usually are more common in southern areas with a northern -limit of Southern Minnesota and Delaware. - - In deepest woods - Or near our door, - You seem quite happy - With your chore. - - -Red-headed Woodpecker -_Melanerpes erythrocephalus_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -If all birds wore contrasting colors like the Red-headed Woodpecker, -identifying birds would be easy. You just can’t miss on this one—the red -head and neck, white under parts, blue-black back and tail, black wings -with a broad white patch. The young show a grayish-brown head but the -white wing patch gives you the clue. - -These beautiful birds once were common and nested from the Gulf of -Mexico to the southern edge of some Canadian provinces. Recent years -have shown a decline in their numbers, probably due to Starlings taking -over their nesting cavities before the woodpeckers can rear their -broods. Another factor is their destruction by speeding automobiles. -These birds feed on flying insects, and often drop down on our highways -in pursuit of grasshoppers. Motor cars and some drivers have no respect -for wildlife, no matter how beautiful or beneficial. - -Beechnuts, acorns, pecans and various fruits and berries are consumed in -quantity, and a good supply often will hold these birds far north of -their usual winter range. Most Red-headed Woodpeckers migrate, and like -flickers, sometimes fly at night, as both species have been recovered -after hitting television towers. - - They like to build - Their cozy homes - In poles equipped - For telephones. - - -Crested Flycatcher -_Myiarchus crinitus_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Flycatchers can be, and often are, noisy birds. They seem to enjoy life -and want the world to know how they feel about it. The Crested -Flycatcher is no exception. To hear this bird at his best, stroll -quietly thru some heavily-wooded area. You scarcely are aware of the -flute-like tones of the Wood Thrush in the distance, drum of the Downy -Woodpecker, the bubbling tones of the Carolina Wren. All is serene. -Suddenly a loudly-whistled “wheeep,” followed by a series of equally -loud rolling notes, shatters the air. That is the Crested Flycatcher. - -You might see him sitting quietly, peering intently at every leaf and -branch, slowly moving his head so nothing will be missed. Then you will -see the rufous tail, yellow belly, olive head and back, grayish throat -and 2 wing bars. You might see the slight crest from which he gets his -name. He is a trim bird almost robin size. - -These flycatchers will nest in most any type of hole or cavity, even -bird houses when available. They prefer heavily-wooded areas. They have -the habit of using snakeskins either in the nesting material or draped -into the entrance. Perhaps it makes them feel secure. Since Americans -are prone to leave wax paper and cellophane around picnic areas, these -birds find such materials a good substitute for snakeskins. - - Sometimes he is a rowdy; - More often he’s demure. - And drapes his home with snakeskins - To make him feel secure. - - -Eastern Wood Pewee -_Contopus virens_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Some early morning in May, when the trees are filled with migrants, take -a stroll thru the woods! The world is filled with bird notes and you -listen to the symphony of sound. Then you hear a questioning whisper -“pee-a-wee,” as if some stranger wondered if he should or could make -himself heard. Finally you locate the bird with the plaintive note and -find a little flycatcher, but since he is sitting on a well-shaded limb, -you have trouble with the markings. Eventually you see that he is about -sparrow-size, is a dusky olive-brown above with whitish under parts, -lacks an eye ring but shows 2 distinct wing bars. That is the Eastern -Wood Pewee. - -Western observers will find the Western Wood Pewee to be a bird with -nearly the same markings and habits. However, the western bird has a -more nasal, single note song. Tho both birds place their nests on tops -of limbs, the Eastern Wood Pewee builds a shallower structure, well -covered with lichens and cobwebs, giving it the appearance of a knot on -the limb. Both nest in rather open situations. Both birds feed heavily -on insects and spiders, including many harmful weevils, flies and -beetles. Unfortunately they draw no distinction between useful parasites -and pests. - - On summer breeze - We hear your call, - You speak your name - But with a drawl. - - -Tree Swallow -_Iridoprocne bicolor_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -The frost hardly has left the ground, or the peepers and cricket frogs -assembled their chorus, when flocks of these swallows can be seen -winging their way northward. First flights include only the rugged males -which arrive well in advance of their mates. They also are one of the -last species of swallows to migrate in the fall. These birds show -whitish under parts, while the upper parts are a greenish steel-blue. -Western observers might confuse this bird with the Violet-green Swallow -but remember that the latter shows a conspicuous white patch on each -side of the rump. - -Tree Swallows prefer a location near water and soon will occupy holes in -stumps so located: however, bird houses are acceptable. They do not -choose to nest in colonies and will defend their nesting site with -vigor. Those who erect nesting boxes for these swallows might find it -necessary to help them evict House Sparrows which often take a liking to -their homes. Flying insects form the major portion of this bird’s food. -These include numerous mosquitoes and other insects which hatch on or -near water, for that seems to be their favorite feeding ground. Other -foods include bayberry and wax myrtle berries, which are sought during -migration. - - A flash of white - With glimpse of blue, - We see you’re back - And welcome you. - - -Cliff Swallow -_Petrochelidon pyrrhonota_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Cliff Swallows may be found in almost any part of North America but the -west offers more overhanging cliffs where they assemble in large -colonies. Their one requirement is an ample supply of mud for their use -in building the jug-shaped structure which they attach to buildings, -under bridges or overhanging cliffs. Mud reinforced with a few straws, -makes a sturdy home, and when lined with feathers, what more could a -Cliff Swallow want? House Sparrows also find these little adobe houses -inviting, but are not popular neighbors. - -This species is easily recognized by the buffy rump patch. Other -markings include: a dull white patch above the bill, crown and back of -head blue-black, nape brownish gray, back blue-black striped with gray, -chestnut over cheek and eye, black patch on lower throat, with chest -flanks and sides grayish-brown with rest of under parts white. These -birds show more of an assortment of colors than other species. - -It is interesting to watch these birds gathering mud for their nests. -Always they hold their wings high above their backs and trip daintily -around until they get a mouthful of mud, but hesitate to get either -their feet wet or their wings soiled. - - With buffy rump - And tail so square, - We have no doubt - That you are there. - - -White-breasted Nuthatch -_Sitta carolinensis_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Nuthatches are one of the few “upside-down” birds. Chickadees and -titmice sometimes feed by hanging below a cone or some limb which they -want to explore; woodpeckers and Brown Creepers may brace themselves -beneath a limb, but nuthatches seem to feel more at ease, when coming -down a tree headfirst. That must be an advantage for they may see food -which the climbers overlook. It is amazing to see the ease with which -they travel, never using their tails as props. - -The White-breasted Nuthatch, largest of the family, is about -sparrow-size (6 inches), and shows a bluish-gray back, white under parts -with blackish crown and nape. Beady black eyes are noticeable since they -are surrounded by the white cheeks. These birds seem to favor deciduous -trees rather than evergreens, the preferred habitat of the smaller -Red-breasted Nuthatch. - -A supply of nut meats and suet on your feeder seems to attract these -birds. You might decide, after watching them for a short time, that such -a small bird could not eat such a quantity of food. A further check will -show that he is thrifty, making trip after trip to hide choice morsels -for future use. He is never sure how long the supply will last. - - I watch you coming - Down a tree, - But why you should - Amazes me. - - -Carolina Wren -_Thryothorus ludovicianus_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Americans are fortunate. There are a lot of reasons, but one is the fact -that we have several species of wrens. There is something about these -birds that demands immediate attention. It might be their size, for most -are small. It might be their songs, for most are good singers. It might -be their trim, sleek-looking jauntiness—some might even call it -cockiness. These birds are popular around mansions or weather-beaten -shacks. - -For those of us who live south of the area of severe winters, and east -of the plains, the Carolina Wren might be classed as a favorite bird. -Any wooded area, especially one with small streams running thru it, -makes ideal habitat for this songster. The more tangles and brushy -undergrowth, the better he will like it. - -If you don’t happen to recognize any of his numerous songs, his size and -coloring will lead to his identity. He is as large as a small sparrow -(5½ to 6 inches), rufous red above with buffy under parts. He shows a -white line over the eye and faint wing bars. The Bewick’s Wrens and -Long-billed Marsh Wrens show a line over the eye, both are smaller. -Bewick’s has white tips on the tail feathers, while the latter shows -distinct stripes down the back. - - That cheerful song, - Your roundelay, - Rings thru the woods - ’Most every day. - - -Brown Thrasher -_Toxostoma rufum_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -This long-tailed bird (with the rufous-brown color, white wing bars, -curved bill, striped breast and yellow eyes) welcomes spring with a loud -and cheerful song. You will see him sitting at the top of some tall -tree, throwing all his efforts into loud, clear notes. You will notice a -wide variety of tones but all seem to run to couplets and triplets, not -like the steady tempo of the Mockingbird or the more subdued tones of -the Catbird, both of which are near relatives. - -The next time you see him, he is likely to be under a hedge or around a -brushy area, busily engaged in moving any leaves or other rubbish which -might hide a lurking insect. Another favorite habitat is along the -less-traveled country roads, where he always seems to think he should be -on the opposite side and makes a quick, running flight to get there. - -Brown Thrashers are found in suitable habitat anywhere east of the Rocky -Mountains and sometimes spend the winter far north of their usual -southern range. Sennett’s Thrasher is similar but is found in the -southern parts of Texas. Brown Thrashers are often called “Brown -Thrushes,” but thrushes have short tails, a different type of song, and -prefer a different habitat. - - You pair your notes, - Then triple some, - Which lets us know - That spring has come. - - -Wood Thrush -_Hylocichla mustelina_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -To know the Wood Thrush is to love him. Unfortunately he seldom visits -cities unless parks or other heavily-wooded areas are found within the -borders. Forests, with a plentiful undercover, offer the seclusion which -this bird demands. There you will hear the flute-like tones which make -this bird famous as a singer. It is not a continued effort; each series -of notes is followed by a rest, allowing you to absorb the full beauty -of the rounded tones—then another, but completely different series, -sometimes higher, sometimes lower, but always the same pure quality. -Some think the Hermit Thrush is a better singer, but the Wood Thrush is -a close competitor. - -When you invade his domain he will greet you with a series of scolding -notes, but that gives you a chance to see him. You will notice he is -slightly smaller than a Robin, has a heavily-spotted breast and a rufous -head, the back wings and tail more of a reddish cinnamon-brown. They -nest rather low and use either mud or leaf mold in building a sturdy -structure. This is an eastern bird but ranges from Minnesota, Ontario -and New Hampshire south almost to the Gulf. A few winter around the Gulf -of Mexico but most prefer the more southern areas of Mexico, Central -America and Panama. - - If mortals had - Your gift of song, - Some popular tunes - Would seem less long. - - -Olive-backed Thrush -_Hylocichla ustulata_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -The Olive-backed Thrush and the Gray-cheeked Thrush are similar. Both -show olive-brown backs, light under parts and lighter spots than the -Wood Thrush. The Olive-backed is slightly smaller and shows a more -distinct eye ring, buffier cheeks and breast. This bird’s song is a -series of flute-like tones which spiral upward. A. D. DuBois (M.S. -quoted by Bent in Bulletin 196-1949-P. 184) thinks of it as saying -“whip-poor-will-a-will-a-zee-zee-zee.” The Veery’s song starts high and -runs down the scale, while the Gray-cheeked Thrush’s song, tho similar -in quality, shows less variation and ends on a slightly higher note. - -Except a narrow range west of the Cascades and Sierra Nevada mountains, -occupied by a western race, the Russet-backed Thrush, Olive-backs can be -found from Northern North America to Central South America, depending on -the season of the year. One of the nice things about this bird is that -he sings during migration, giving bird lovers a chance to hear his song -without traveling to the land of spruce, fir and birch, which is a -favorite nesting area. - -More than 63 per cent of this bird’s food is animal matter and includes -many beetles. Wild, soft-skinned fruits with occasional seeds complete -the diet. - - A swirl of notes - Ascending high - Like whirlwinds - That reach the sky. - - -Blue-gray Gnatcatcher -_Polioptila caerulea_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -This tiny bird, smaller than a chickadee, never seems to have a quiet -moment. On first sight, one is reminded of a Mockingbird, but not from -his color, for he is blue-gray above and whitish below. It might be the -long tail with the black center and white sides or perhaps it is the -trim build. There is a narrow, white eye ring, and the male shows a dark -line above the bill. These marks are sometimes difficult to see due to -the bird’s restlessness. The tail seems to be constantly in motion. Both -birds utter call notes, a thin “spee” or “zpee” sound. His song itself -is faint and seldom heard. - -These birds range from Southern Canada to Guatemala and are permanent -residents in some states bordering the Gulf, but sporadic in their -northern range. - -The Gnatcatcher is an early migrant and can be found well into his -nesting range by the middle of April. Nests sometimes are constructed in -advance of egg-laying dates. Perhaps the bird is taking advantage of a -supply of building materials which are seasonal. It frequently -dismantles the first nest, using the contents in the construction of -another nest in a more favorable location. It is built of plant down and -other materials, bound with webs and covered with lichens. - - A whispered “spee” - From yonder tree, - Gives us a clue - That it is you. - - -Ruby-crowned Kinglet -_Regulus calendula_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -When you hear this bird sing, you are impressed by the beauty of clear, -but variable notes. When you check the source, you are surprised to see -a tiny bird with such a big voice. His short tail might lead you to -believe he is even smaller than the 3¾ to 4½ inches which he measures. -His coloring is not impressive, being an olive-gray. You might notice -the distinct eye ring or the prominent wing bars. If he is excited by -your close inspection, he might flash the ruby crown feathers, from -which he gets his name. - -In fall you might think this bird was a warbler for he has some of the -warbler actions. He constantly flicks his wings and tail in a nervous -manner, but you will miss the tail markings of the warblers. The -Golden-crowned Kinglet is similar in size and general markings, but both -male and female show distinctive gold crown patches. The Golden-crowned -seems a little more rugged and spends his winters farther north. - -These birds nest in the spruce belt of Canada and spend the winter in -Southern United States with scattering records as far north as Iowa. The -Western Ruby-crowned Kinglet is similar in appearance but has a slightly -different song. It frequently nests as far south as New Mexico. - - We look at you, - A tiny thing, - And marvel at - The way you sing. - - -Cedar Waxwing -_Bombycilla cedrorum_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Waxwings are the nomads of the bird world; like gypsies, they come and -go. Apparently they drift southward in the fall and northward in the -spring, but have no regular migration. They range from Southern Canada -to Central America but might leave when it frosts or stay thru the -winter. Unlike some “Knights of the Road,” they present a neat -appearance. In fact the soft, brownish-gray plumage, fading into lighter -under parts, the slate-colored tail with the yellow tip, the jaunty -crest, the black eye mask, the reddish spot on the wing, the sleek, -streamlined stance—all mark him as an aristocrat. - -Waxwings like companions and travel in flocks. Where you find one, you -might find a dozen or more than one hundred. Whether feeding or resting, -you will hear them conversing in a high-pitched, wheezy note which is -difficult to describe. Some refer to it as a hiss, others as a whine. - -When an ample supply of food is available, Cedar Waxwings gorge -themselves until they seem rather listless. Various fruits and berries -are relished, but insects and cankerworms are taken in season. - -The Bohemian Waxwing is slightly larger, grayer and shows more white on -the wing and brown under-tail coverts. - - You’re just a glutton, - That we know, - For you’re not one - To eat and go. - - -Warbling Vireo -_Vireo gilvus_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -The Warbling Vireo is not colorful. If you happen to see his back, you -will see he is a grayish olive-green, slightly grayer on the head. When -looked at from below, and that is the way you generally see him, you may -see a tinge of yellow on the white under parts. A white line over the -eye is the only other marking. But don’t give up; you will note the -slow, deliberate vireo movement. He loves to sing and soon you will hear -a pleasing series of notes, all connected but each note on a different -pitch; a wave of bird notes, not hurried but clear and musical. This -song could be confused with that of the Purple Finch but the latter is -slightly higher in pitch and faster. - -Unlike other vireos, he likes to nest in the high, deciduous trees which -line the streets of cities and towns. Parks and farm homes also offer -suitable habitat. The nest is a neat structure, placed near the end of a -drooping branch on some well-developed tree; one which is growing in the -open, for these small birds like plenty of room around their homes. The -male is so proud of his home he often sings while taking his turn with -the incubating. - -The Western Warbling Vireo has a similar song, seems inclined to nest -nearer the ground, but shuns evergreens. - - His note is just a warble. - You cannot write it down. - But you are bound to hear it - If you walk ’round the town. - - -Black and White Warbler -_Mniotilta varia_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Warblers are an unusual family of birds. Some act like flycatchers and -often feed on flying insects. Others join the vireos in searching for -larvae in the thick foliage of higher trees. A few mingle with -sandpipers and find their food along the banks of some small stream, -while the ground-dwelling contingent share choice morsels with thrushes. -The Black and White Warbler is different, for while nesting on or near -the ground, he feeds on the trunk or larger limbs of trees, combining -the upward movement of the Brown Creeper with reverse actions of -nuthatches. His is more of a swing movement, quickly switching as if -undecided whether to go up or down. Various beetles, ants, weevils, -plant lice and larvae are included in his diet. - -This bird can be distinguished from the similar Black-polled Warbler by -the white stripe down the center of the crown and the white line over -the eye. Their habits and songs are different. - -Due to its feeding habits, the Black and White Warbler does not depend -on extensive foliage to furnish a supply of caterpillars, and migrates -earlier than many of this colorful family. Fall migration may find him -lingering well into October, before departing for his winter home. - - He’s black and white, - As you can see - When he climbs ’round - That rough-barked tree. - - -Yellow Warbler -_Dendroica petechia_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -The Yellow Warbler, commonly called “Wild Canary,” is the best-known -member of the warbler family. Its breeding range extends from the -northern part of Alaska, thru Canada, United States and into Mexico, and -from coast to coast. It winters as far south as Peru. Unlike most -warblers, this friendly little bird seems to enjoy being near people and -may nest in some shrub or bush near your home. - -You will recognize him instantly for he is the yellowest of all our -warblers, even in confusing fall plumage. The male shows pale, chestnut -streaks on the throat, breast and sides. The female may show a few -obscure markings, but not the distinct pattern worn by her mate. - -Yellow Warblers build a compact little nest using grasses, plant down, -wool, cotton, hair or feathers, depending on available materials. Nests -range from 3 to 60 feet above ground, with a tendency to build them low -when suitable sites are found. Cowbirds are this bird’s worst enemy for -one or more Cowbird eggs can be found in most Yellow Warbler nests. They -have learned to combat this menace by adding another story to their -structure, thereby covering unwanted eggs with a new layer of nesting -material. In some instances as many as 6 stories have been added. - - A sunbeam marked - With heavier ray - Flits ’cross the yard - Each summer day. - - -Northern Water-thrush -_Seiurus noveboracensis_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -It is easy to see why these warblers are called water-thrushes. They -resemble thrushes and usually are found near water. When you see him -walking down a half-submerged log or wading along the edges of a pool, -you will find he teeters like a Spotted Sandpiper. You also will notice -the dark, olive-brown back, yellowish stripe over the eye, the throat -and under parts buffy-yellow streaked with dark olive. The slightly -larger Louisiana Water-thrush shows a white line over the eye, white or -buffy-white under parts, unmarked white throat with duller streaks under -the body. The Ovenbird, a near relative, shows an eye ring, -reddish-orange crown and lacks the line over the eye. Western observers -will find that Grinnell’s Water-thrush is slightly larger with lighter -eye lines and under parts. - -During migration, the Northern Water-thrush might appear in your yard or -garden, but edges of swamps, ponds or streams appeal to him most. To see -him at his best it is necessary to invade secluded areas around cool -bogs, mountain streams or northern lakes. There you will hear the loud -song, a series of clear but emphatic notes. His well-hidden nest may be -found by stumps or roots or moss-covered logs. - - This funny little warbler - Likes water on his feet, - And when it comes to singing - He’s really hard to beat. - - -Yellow-breasted Chat -_Icteria virens_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -The Yellow-breasted Chat is not only the largest, but the most -unwarbler-like of this colorful family. If you live near thickets of -dense shrubbery, where brier tangles and brushy, low bushes grow in -profusion, there you will find this bird. He prefers low, damp ground -but does not overlook similar habitat on dry hillsides. His loud and -varied song will let you know when he arrives. Each series of notes is -followed by a long pause, and then another series, but on an entirely -different pitch; clear-whistled notes, low grating tones, caws or -reed-like tones all find a place in this bird’s song. - -When you invade his territory, you will find he is elusive, but a little -patient waiting on your part will bring him out. Then you can check the -olive-brown back and rich, lemon-yellow breast fading to white beneath -the tail. The white line just above the eye combines with an eye ring, -as if he were wearing spectacles. You might even see the short, stout -bill or the rounded wings. Its long tail gives this bird a length of 7½ -inches. He might entertain you with his clown-like antics by fluttering -into the air with his head down and feet dangling, but accompanied by -some of his sweetest music. - - A clown at heart, - He lets you know - That he is pleased - To steal the show. - - -Wilson’s Warbler -_Wilsonia pusilla_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -When you make this bird’s acquaintance, you will wonder why he was not -called a “Black-capped Warbler,” for no name would be more fitting. In -fact, many ornithologists now refer to him by that name. Those who do -their birding in the Western United States might feel the same about the -Pileolated Warbler, which is similar. Both birds show olive-green above -and yellow below, with no wing marks or other distinguishing features, -except the black cap worn by the males. Some females carry this mark -faintly outlined, but it is lacking on the young. The western bird is -slightly larger. - -During migration this warbler seems to prefer low bushes and shrubs to -the higher trees and is found around parks or bushes bordering streams. -They seem friendly but move so rapidly that you may miss the black cap. -They combine the usual warbler antics with those of small flycatchers by -capturing many flying insects; however, they are not inclined to return -to the same perch, but hurry on their way. - -The song is a rapid series of notes with little variation except the -last tones, which are slightly lower in pitch. They nest on the ground -near water or swampy areas such as sphagnum bogs of the north or alder -and willow valleys of the west. - - That little cap - Upon your head - Gives us the clue, - Or so we’ve read. - - -Yellow-headed Blackbird -_Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Eastern birders are unfortunate for only on rare occasions do they have -a chance to see and study this handsome bird. He is larger than the -Red-winged Blackbird, with which he often is associated, but smaller -than the Grackles. During migration, they join other members of their -family in feed lots, pastures or fields and any mixed flock is worth -inspecting. They are identified easily for no other bird has the black -body, white wing patch and yellow head and breast. The female lacks wing -markings and shows dusky, grayish-brown coloring with a yellowish tinge -on lighter head markings. They walk with almost a strut, as if they were -proud of their brilliant plumage. - -Yellow-headed Blackbirds nest in colonies and affix their bulky nests to -tules and other vegetation which grow in the center of marshes and -swamps in western areas. There seems to be a tendency to move eastward, -for a few are nesting in the marshes of the upper Mississippi valley. - -Their song is distinctive and consists of a series of chuckles, squeaks -and grating notes, all produced by what seems to be a great physical -effort. The results hardly justify such a strain. - - Your favorite call, - So loud and harsh, - Would scare the frogs - In any marsh. - - -Baltimore Oriole -_Icterus galbula_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Most people are attracted to birds by one of 3 things—their brilliant -plumage, a beautiful song or the way they build their nests. The -Baltimore Oriole scores in every department. Few birds are more colorful -than an adult male, perched on the top of some tall tree, in full -sunlight. The rich-orange body glows like a living ember. When you add -the black of the head, back, wings and central tail feathers, the white -wing bar and feather edging on the wings and the orange outer feathers, -near the end of the tail, the contrasting pattern is unique. The female -and young are less colorful with dull black and yellowish-orange -markings and 2 distinct wing bars. - -The Baltimore Oriole’s song is a rich melodious whistle which varies -slightly when given by different birds, but retains the oriole quality. -It could be confused with songs of some of the grosbeaks, but the latter -use more “chip” notes with their whistles. Western birders will find a -similar quality in the songs of Bullock’s and Scott’s Orioles. - -For nesting sites, they choose a spot near the end of some drooping -branch, where they construct a deep, well-woven, gourd-shaped structure -which swings in the breeze. Grasses and string furnish building -material. - - A lot of grass - And bits of string, - Will make their home - A wondrous thing. - - -Bronzed Grackle -_Quiscalus quiscula_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Almost everyone who lives or has traveled any place east of the Rocky -Mountains has seen this bird. The chances are they call it a blackbird, -for most people do. From his appearance, they are right. Since there are -a number of different species of blackbirds, this one should be examined -more closely. When you see him walking around your yard, you will notice -he is larger than a Robin, has a wedge-shaped tail and yellow eyes. The -male often shows a keel-shaped tail, when flying. The plumage is -iridescent and may show green, blue or purple. Those who live along the -Atlantic coast refer to these birds as Purple Grackles, a name which is -becoming popular for both the eastern and western types. - -Grackles gather in huge flocks and can do much damage to unharvested -crops. In mixed flocks, grackles show a more even flight pattern than -most blackbirds. - -Other birds are not happy when grackles nest in their area for these -birds are inclined to add both eggs and young of smaller birds to their -diet. Credit must be given the grackle, however, for he mixes numerous -insects with his diet of fruit and grain. - - We watch you dunking - Crusts so thick, - And wonder where - You learned the trick. - - -Blue Grosbeak -_Guiraca caerulea_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Many birders seem to have trouble in listing the Blue Grosbeak. One -reason is the size, for they are smaller than most members of this -family. Another reason is that light conditions often make them appear -black. A third reason might be their choice of habitat. They prefer -brushy areas near some stream, but may be found along woodland borders -or hedges, where ample brush is found. They usually nest in low trees or -shrubs. There you probably will find the male as he sings from the top -of some bush or even utility wire which crosses his territory. You can -see he is a deep, but rather dull blue, with 2 chestnut wing bars. The -female is brown and shows 2 buffy wing bars. Both show a heavy beak -which gives them their name. - -Blue Grosbeaks nest from Maryland to California but shun the northern -states. They winter as far south as Honduras and are fonder of warm -weather than most members of their family. - -The Blue Grosbeak has a beautiful finch-like song, using a short series -of notes which rise and fall into a sweet warble. It is slower than the -song of the Purple Finch and does not carry like the usual grosbeak -song. Their food consists of insects and small seeds or grain. - - The male is blue, - His mate is brown. - But neither likes - To live in town. - - -Pine Siskin -_Spinus pinus_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Pine Siskins are unpredictable. Some years they are numerous, while -others produce few, if any, in the same area. Food supply is not -necessarily the answer, for they are erratic wanderers. These small -finches seem to prefer conifers for nesting. They build a neat -structure, using grass, bark or moss with a lining of finer materials. -Their home is well hidden by the heavy foliage near the end of a limb. -The eggs are a pale bluish-green, dotted with brown or black markings, -more colorful than the pale blue eggs of the American Goldfinch. - -Siskins resemble goldfinches in their notes, flocking habits and size, -but can be identified by the uniform, striped appearance. They have -semi-concealed yellow patches near the body on both wings and tail. -Goldfinches show clear breasts in any plumage. Birders have found the -best clue to the identity of this bird is the long buzzy note which -forms a part of his song. His notes are husky in quality. - -In winter siskins mingle with other finches in harvesting weed seeds. -Other food consists of seeds of various trees such as ash, birch or -elms, together with leaf buds. Most of their summer is spent in -evergreens which offer not only the nesting sites but food necessary for -growing families. - - That buzzy note - Makes it a cinch - To know you’re not - Another finch. - - -Red-eyed Towhee -_Pipilo erythrophthalmus_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Towhees inhabit thickets, bushes and brushy areas, and spend most of -their time scratching thru litter which covers the ground in such -locations. When disturbed, they usually utter the call note which gave -them their name. Opinions differ as to sounds made, so these birds are -referred to as “Towhees,” “Jorees” or “Chewinks.” Some call them “Ground -Robins,” since they feed on the ground and a part of their plumage -resembles that of our Robins. - -Towhees are smaller than Robins. The male shows 3 distinct colors; the -head, throat, back, wings and tail are black; sides are rusty, and the -belly, outer tips of the tail and wing spots are white. The female is -browner but easily identified by the color pattern. Western birds are -called Spotted Towhees, since their wings and backs show more white -feathers. Both have red eyes. Those who do their birding along the coast -from South Carolina to Florida will find birds with lighter irises and -referred to as White-eyed Towhees. - -These birds nest on the ground but do most of their singing from tops of -trees. Songs vary and may include a series of notes or 1 or 2 notes -followed by a trill. - - When he’s near you will hear - A loud rustling sound, - For he rakes as he takes - Choice food from the ground. - - -Vesper Sparrow -_Pooecetes gramineus_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Several kinds of sparrows can be found in open fields, along roadside -fences and hedgerows, but the Vesper Sparrow is easiest to identify. If -you should miss the chestnut patch on the bend of the wing or the white -belly, bordered by fine lines, you still will notice the white -outer-tail feathers. The back is a light grayish-brown with dark -stripes. - -Juncos and pipits also have white outer-tail feathers, but adult juncos -show no stripes and pipits walk instead of hop. Western Vesper Sparrows -show less brown in their plumage, some being almost a light gray, but -still show darker lines on their backs, sides and breasts. - -These birds use grass and small roots in building their nests, which -usually are in or near a clump of grass. Their eggs are grayish white, -heavily marked with brown. - -Vesper Sparrows are good singers. Their best efforts seem to be late in -the evening, when dusk replaces the fleeting shadows; their musical -notes add a fitting benediction to the dying day. This chorus accounts -for the name. Songs vary, but usually start with 2 pairs of long -melodious notes, the second pair higher in pitch, then a series of rapid -notes beginning still higher, then coming down the scale to end in a -soft warble. - - You might have been a junco - From markings on your tail, - But you prefer the prairies - Where breezes never fail. - - -Lark Sparrow -_Chondestes grammacus_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -These large sparrows are easily identified. No other sparrow has a white -border around the tail or the distinctive chestnut and white head -pattern. Another mark is a distinct, dark spot on the breast. -Clay-colored Sparrows show a similar head pattern but lighter parts are -grayer and the cheek patch is duller, more brown than chestnut. The -latter-named bird has no spot on the breast. - -Lark Sparrows prefer open areas along country roads, old orchards or -pastures with scattered trees or bushy hedges. Such habitat furnishes -nesting sites and a plentiful supply of insects, small seeds and grit -for their use. Altho usually a common species within its range, these -birds are inclined to be erratic and might be scarce one season and -abundant the next, with no apparent reason. - -They nest on or near the ground but like to sing from a more elevated -perch such as a fence, bush or tree. Some sing while hovering in the -air. They cover a wide range but populations vary from year to year. - -Their song is a series of melodious notes, varying in pitch but seeming -to include a few “churrs” which are quite distinctive. Songs vary -between birds, each bird giving a wide variety of notes in a short -period of time. - - You like the pastures - With scattered trees, - Where you can live - A life of ease. - - -Chipping Sparrow -_Spizella passerina_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Chipping Sparrows are not only the friendliest, but one of the -best-known American sparrows. The reason is apparent, for yards, gardens -and parks furnish ideal habitat for these birds. They often nest in -vines or bushes just outside your window. Nesting materials include -grasses, rootlets and hairs, horsehair being used extensively, when -available. Their fondness for a horsehair lining in the nest sometimes -leads to casualties when either parents or young become entangled. - -Chippies derive their name from their songs, a series of chip notes -which they utter. This is a rapid, unmusical series of notes, all on the -same pitch. They frequently join the Robins to start the day with song. -Juncos and some of the warblers also use a series of chip notes in their -songs, but with more variations and more musical in quality. - -They feed heavily on insects and larvae, including various caterpillars, -beetles, ants and plant lice. Vegetable food amounts to a little more -than half their diet and includes seeds from grasses and weeds. Crab -grass seeds seem to be a favorite. - -Western Chipping Sparrows are slightly larger and paler but show the -rusty cap, black beak and other markings which are distinctive. - - That chestnut cap, - White line below, - Black thru the eye, - That’s you, we know. - - -White-crowned Sparrow -_Zonotrichia leucophrys_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -White-crowned Sparrows are known only as migrants or winter residents to -birders living east of the Great Plains. Westerners are more fortunate -for White-crowns and the similar Gambel’s and Nuttall’s Sparrows nest in -much of their area. When flushed from their feeding grounds, these birds -will impress you by their alert appearance. The habit of erecting the -crown feathers makes the head appear round and puffy, and brings out the -beauty of the broad black and white stripes which surround the white -crown. - -These birds have a gray throat and breast, 2 wing bars, grayish-brown -backs with darker stripes. The feet and bill are pinkish. A white line -over the eye of the White-crowned Sparrow does not extend to the beak, -as it does on Gambel’s and Nuttall’s. Nuttall’s Sparrow has a yellow -bill. - -White-throated Sparrows often are found in mixed flocks with -White-crowns, but the former show a distinct white throat patch, have -flatter heads, and a yellow spot between the bill and eye. The beak is -dark. - -White-crowned Sparrows are good singers. Their songs vary but usually -start with a clear but plaintive whistle. Western varieties sing -differently but have a similar quality. - - When winter takes - An angry mood, - You visit us - In search of food. - - -Song Sparrow -_Melospiza melodia_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Song Sparrows literally sang themselves into a name, for few birds sing -so persistently. To Thoreau these birds seemed to say: “Maids! maids! -maids! hang up your teakettle-ettle-ettle.” To you it may sound -differently, but you still will hear the sharp notes with which he -starts his song. These are on the same pitch with a slight pause between -each note. From there, the song is variable and may contain trills or -assorted notes on various pitches. One bird may produce several -different songs. - -These birds prefer brushy or weedy areas near water but may nest near -your home if a bird bath is handy. No other bird seems to take as much -pleasure from bathing. - -There are numerous geographic forms of this bird, which accounts for -wide variation in colors and sizes. The Desert Song Sparrow is light -while others are almost as rusty as Fox Sparrows. All Song Sparrows are -heavily striped, and show a distinct spot in the center of the breast, -and a dark line on each side of the throat. There is a gray stripe thru -the crown and a broader line over the eyes. - -They usually migrate in March and October but wintering birds often are -found in the nesting range. - - It’s plain to see - Why you’re so clean. - You take a bath - In every stream! - - -Lapland Longspur -_Calcarius lapponicus_ - - [Illustration: {uncaptioned}] - -Lapland Longspurs are birds of the far north, nesting as they do in the -arctic and sub-arctic regions of both eastern and western hemispheres. -They visit us only in the winter when deep snow and bitter cold drive -them from their homes. Flocks of these sparrow-sized birds may be found -in open fields, prairies and pastures, feeding on whatever seed or small -grain is available. They run rapidly, ever on the search for more food, -and may be joined by Horned Larks at good feeding spots. - -They seem nervous and take wing frequently, circle here and there and -often return to the same location. They have a rolling, erratic flight -which reminds one of blowing leaves. - -In breeding plumage these birds display a lot of color. The male has a -black head and chest, rufous nape, back and sides heavily striped and a -white belly. A buffy stripe behind the eye drops down the neck and -backward along the sides of the chest. In winter you will see a brownish -bird with blackish streaks and white under parts. - -In their eagerness to return to their northern homes, Lapland Longspurs -often suffer heavy losses because of wet spring snows. Their song is -varied and sweet. - - Like blowing leaves, - You come and go - Across the prairies - Flecked with snow. - - INDEX PAGE WHEN THE BIRDS MAY BE SEEN - Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May. Jun. Jul. Aug. Sep. Oct. Nov. Dec. - - Avocet 7 .. .. .... .... .. - Blackbird, 20 .. ... - Yellow-headed - Bobwhite 5 oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo - Chat, 19 oooo oooo oooo .... .... . - Yellow-breasted - Duck, Ruddy 4 .... .... ..oo oooo o... ...o oooo .... - Egret, Snowy 1 .. .... . - Flicker, 9 oooo oooo oooo XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX oooo oooo oooo - Yellow-shafted - Flycatcher, 11 .o oooo oooo oooo oooo .. - Crested - Gnatcatcher, 15 .ooo oooo oooo oo.. .... - Blue-gray - Goose, Canada 2 .... .... .ooo oo.. ... .... .... - Grackle, Bronzed 21 .... .... oXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXoo oo.. .... - Grosbeak, Blue 21 .... .... .... - Gull, Ring-billed 8 .... .... .ooo oooo o. .... .ooo oo.. .... - Hawk, Marsh 5 XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX oooo oooo oooo XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX - Heron, Green 2 . ..oo XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX oooo .. - Kinglet, 16 .... .... ...o oooo oo. .oo oooo .... .... - Ruby-crowned - Longspur, Lapland, 25 oooo oooo oo.. ..oo oooo - Merganser, 4 XXXX XXXX XXXo oo.. . . ..oX XXXX - American - Nuthatch, 13 .... .... .... .... .... . . .... .... - White-breasted - Oriole, Baltimore 20 .o XXXX XXXX XXXX oooo o. - Owl, Great-horned 9 XXXX XXXX XXXX XXoo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo ooXX XXXX - Pelican, White 1 ..oo oo.. .... .. .. oooo oo.. - Pewee, Eastern 11 .ooo oooo oooo oooo .... - Wood - Phalarope, 8 .. oo. . ... - Wilson’s - Pintail, American 3 oooX XXXX XXXo oooo .. . .... .ooo XXXX oooo - Plover, Upland 6 ... oooo oooo oooo oooo . - Siskin, Pine 22 .... .... .... oooo o. .... .... - Snipe, Wilson’s 6 .. ...o oooo . .. .... .... - Sparrow, Chipping 24 . oooo XXXX XXXX XXXX oooo .... .. - Sparrow, Lark 23 . .ooo XXXX XXXX XXXX ooo. - Sparrow, Song 25 XXXX XXXX XXXX Xoo. ... ooXX XXXX XXXX - Sparrow, Vesper 23 .... .... .... .XXX . oooo .... .... - Sparrow, 24 .... .... .... ..oo Xo.. .... .... .... - White-crowned - Swallow, Cliff 12 .oo XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXo .... .. - Swallow, Tree 12 oooo o.. . .... ... - Teal, Blue-winged 3 ..oo XXXX XXXX oo.. .o XXXX XXXo .. - Thrasher, Brown 14 .... .... .... oXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX oooo oooo oo.. .... .... - Thrush, 15 .o XXXo . ... .. - Olive-backed - Thrush, Wood 14 . oXXX XXXX Xo.. .... .... . - Towhee, Red-eyed 22 .... .... .... oooo oooo oooo oo.. .... .... .... .... .... - Vireo, Warbling 17 .o XXXX XXXX oo.. .... .... - Warbler, Black 17 .o oooo .. .. - and White - Warbler, Wilson’s 19 .oo. .... - Warbler, Yellow 18 .o XXXX XXoo oo.. ... .. - Water-thrush, 18 . oooo . ... ... - Northern - Waxwing, Cedar 16 oooo XXXX oo.. .... .... .... .. .... ..oo oooo - Woodpecker, 10 XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX - Red-bellied - Woodpecker, 10 .... .... .... ..oo XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXo .... .... .... - Red-headed - Wren, Carolina 13 oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo oooo - Yellow-legs, 7 .oo XXXX Xo. . oooo oooo oo.. . - Greater - - . The dot or period indicates the bird is seen occasionally. - o The small o shows the bird is seen more frequently. - X The capital X shows the bird is seen commonly. - -For example, during January and February, the Bronzed Grackle is seen -rarely. The first week in March, it is seen more frequently, after which -it is seen commonly until the middle 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 - 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 2, by Lenwood Ballard Carson - -*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK OUR BIRD FRIENDS *** - -***** This file should be named 62490-0.txt or 62490-0.zip ***** -This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: - http://www.gutenberg.org/6/2/4/9/62490/ - -Produced by Stephen Hutcheson and the Online Distributed -Proofreading Team at https://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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