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} -span.attr { font-size:80%; font-family:sans-serif; } -span.pn { display:inline-block; width:4.7em; text-align:left; margin-left:0; text-indent:0; } -</style> -</head> -<body> - -<div style='text-align:center; font-size:1.2em; font-weight:bold'>The Project Gutenberg eBook of Illustrations of the Birds of California, Texas, Oregon, British and Russian America, by John Cassin</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -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 <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you -are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws of the -country where you are located before using this eBook. -</div> - -<p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Title: Illustrations of the Birds of California, Texas, Oregon, British and Russian America</p> - -<div style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Author: John Cassin</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Release Date: August 15, 2021 [eBook #66068]</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Language: English</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Character set encoding: UTF-8</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Produced by: Stephen Hutcheson and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net</div> - -<div style='margin-top:2em; margin-bottom:4em'>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ILLUSTRATIONS OF THE BIRDS OF CALIFORNIA, TEXAS, OREGON, BRITISH AND RUSSIAN AMERICA ***</div> -<div id="cover" class="img"> -<img id="coverpage" src="images/cover.jpg" alt="Illustrations of the Birds of California, Texas, Oregon, British and Russian America" width="500" height="723" /> -</div> -<div class="img" id="fig1"> -<img src="images/ppp00.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1183" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 1<br /><span class="ln2">The Mexican Jay</span><br /><span class="ln3">Cyanocorax luxuosus (<i>Lesson</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="box"> -<h1>ILLUSTRATIONS -<br /><span class="smallest">OF THE</span> -<br /><span class="larger">BIRDS</span> -<br /><span class="smallest">OF</span> -<br /><span class="small">CALIFORNIA, TEXAS, OREGON, BRITISH AND RUSSIAN AMERICA.</span></h1> -<p class="center"><span class="small">INTENDED TO CONTAIN DESCRIPTIONS AND FIGURES</span> -<br /><span class="smallest">OF ALL</span> -<br /><span class="larger"><i>North American Birds</i></span> -<br /><span class="smaller">NOT GIVEN BY FORMER AMERICAN AUTHORS,</span> -<br /><span class="smallest">AND A</span> -<br /><span class="small">GENERAL SYNOPSIS OF NORTH AMERICAN ORNITHOLOGY.</span></p> -<p class="tbcenter"><span class="smaller">BY</span> -<br /><span class="large">JOHN CASSIN,</span> -<br /><span class="smallest">MEMBER OF THE ACADEMY OF NATURAL SCIENCES OF PHILADELPHIA; OF THE AMERICAN PHILOSOPHICAL SOCIETY; OF THE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY OF PENNSYLVANIA; OF THE NATIONAL INSTITUTE; OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY; OF THE NEW YORK LYCEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY; OF THE NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY OF MONTREAL, ETC. ETC.</span></p> -<p class="tbcenter"><span class="small">1853 TO 1855.</span></p> -<p class="tbcenter"><span class="small">PHILADELPHIA:</span> -<br />J. B. LIPPINCOTT & CO. -<br />1856.</p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_ii">ii</div> -<p class="center smaller">Entered, according to the Act of Congress, in the year 1855, by -<br />JOHN CASSIN, -<br />in the Clerk’s office of the District Court of the United States for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_iii">iii</div> -<h2 id="c1"><span class="small">PREFACE.</span></h2> -<p>The natural history of North America has been regarded -with especial interest wherever the sciences have been cultivated -since the discovery of the continent. There never has been a -period, however, in which such extensive and productive research -has been carried on, as in that which commenced with the annexation -of Texas to the United States, and in which also California -and New Mexico have become parts of the Union. The extension -of the laws of the United States over these vast countries, and the -consequent protection and personal safety, have induced the visits -of scientific travellers;—numerous Government expeditions for the -purposes of exploration and survey have been necessary, and have -been despatched on such missions with the utmost promptness and -vigilance of the public good by all administrations of the General -Government, in the period to which we allude, and have almost -invariably been accompanied by officers specially charged with -making observations and collections in Natural History. The -Smithsonian Institution also has exerted an influence in the highest -degree favorable and important in the development of the Natural -History of this country, as in other departments of science and -literature.</p> -<p>These are the main and immediate causes of the great strides -that the knowledge of the natural productions of North America -has made within a period of little upwards of twenty years. There -are, of course, others, of which the general diffusion of knowledge -and attention to education in the United States especially, and in -fact throughout the civilized world, have been perhaps the most -efficient.</p> -<p>Since the time of the publication of the works of our predecessors -in American Ornithology, the additions of species and of information -in that department of our Zoology have been very large, -and being for much the greater part within our reach, we have -been induced to undertake the present work. It is to be regarded -<span class="pb" id="Page_iv">iv</span> -in some measure as an addition to the works of former authors in -American Ornithology, but at the same time complete in itself.</p> -<p>Our advantages for study have been much superior to those possessed -by former writers in America. There never was in the -United States, until within the last ten years, a library of Natural -History, approximating in any considerable degree to completeness, -nor affording the necessary facilities for the study of Ornithology. -Nor until within that period was there any collection sufficiently -comprehensive to answer the purposes of comparison and general -research. In various branches of Natural History, but especially in -Ornithology, these most important and desirable objects have been -fully accomplished in the formation of the Library and Museum -of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia,—a result for -which science is indebted, not to the Government, nor to public -patronage of any kind, but to strictly private enterprise and individual -scientific taste.</p> -<p>A new era in the history of the zoological sciences in the United -States commenced with the purchase and importation of the late -General Massena’s collection of Birds into this country in 1846, by -Thomas B. Wilson, M. D., of Philadelphia, and the commencement -at the same period of a library in Natural History by the same -gentleman and his brother, Mr. Edward Wilson, now residing in -England. Both have been continued without intermission to the -present time, and the results have been, so far as relates to Ornithology, -that a most extensive collection has been formed, now -numbering about twenty-five thousand specimens, and a Library -containing very nearly every book relating to this branch of natural -science, of which copies are to be obtained; and also, principally -through the personal exertions of the latter-named gentleman, in -the cities of Europe, many that are of exceeding rarity and value. -In several other departments, also, nearly or quite as complete collections -of books and specimens have been made. To Fossil -Remains, Conchology, and Crustacea, these remarks are especially -applicable.</p> -<p>Citizens who thus devote themselves to the advancement of -science and intellectual cultivation in their country,—whose exertions -tend so immediately to elevate it in the scale of civilization and -refinement, deserve to be ranked with its most illustrious scholars, -<span class="pb" id="Page_v">v</span> -statesmen, and soldiers, and are equally entitled to the national gratitude. -So long as the condition of, or progress in the arts and -sciences shall continue to characterize nations, the influence in the -United States of the gentlemen to whom we have alluded, must be -regarded as important in the highest degree, and their services -will be gratefully remembered by their countrymen so long as the -sciences are cultivated or appreciated. They have reared in their -native city a monument to Natural Science as endurable as its -influence in the minds of men, and more honorable to themselves -than the proudest obelisk or the richest memento of the conqueror’s -triumph.</p> -<p>With such facilities for study, we have necessarily had advantages -over other American Ornithologists. One object of our work -is to present a general revision of the Ornithology of the United -States, endeavoring to bring our subject nearer to the true state of -the science than has been previously attempted in this country. -In our Synopsis, the student will find many corrections and additions, -and will find himself, too, very probably introduced to names -both American and European, of the connection of which with -North American Ornithology, previous records are silent, quite -unjustifiably.</p> -<p>Our predecessors have not been well versed in the history and -bibliography of Ornithology, nor indeed have they professed such -information. It is in fact a description of knowledge to be attained -with difficulty in any country,—so great, indeed, that no one Ornithologist -has ever yet been completely acquainted with the bibliography -of his science.</p> -<p>To our publishers, Messrs. J. B. Lippincott & Co., is due our -gratitude for constant kindness and encouragement during the publication -of the present volume. Our treatment by the members -of this eminent firm has in fact most fully demonstrated to us their -deep interest in the Natural Sciences, as gentlemen of taste and -cultivation, quite irrespective, so far as relates to our work, of -merely business considerations.</p> -<p>To the kind friends whose contributions have added so much to -the interest of this volume, we have to express our sense of great -obligation, especially to Col. George A. McCall, Capt. J. P. McCown, -Capt. S. G. French, Dr. T. C. Henry, of the U. S. Army, to Mr. -<span class="pb" id="Page_vi">vi</span> -John G. Bell, Dr. A. L. Heermann, Dr. P. R. Hoy, Dr. S. W. Woodhouse, -Mr. John H. Clark, Dr. Charles Pickering, and Dr. C. B. R. -Kennerly.</p> -<p>To Dr. A. Hall, of Montreal, and Dr. R. Haymond, of Brookville, -Indiana, for much valuable information relating to the birds of their -districts.</p> -<p>To Professor J. P. Kirtland, Dr. Thomas M. Brewer, Professor -S. F. Baird, and Mr. Robert Kennicott, we have also to express our -gratitude for very important services, in facilitating the circulation -of our work, and for much information and assistance.</p> -<p>For facilities for the examination and comparison of specimens -we gratefully acknowledge our obligations to the gentlemen of the -Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia; to Professor Joseph -Henry and Professor S. F. Baird, of the Smithsonian Institution; -to the Natural History Society of South Carolina; to Mr. Edward -Harris, to the Rev. Dr. Bachman, to Mr. John Krider, to Mr. Geo. -N. Lawrence, and to Mr. J. P. Giraud.</p> -<p>Of the superior execution of the plates of our work, it is perhaps -unnecessary for us to speak, but in justice to Mr. J. T. Bowen, and -Mr. W. E. Hitchcock, we may be allowed to say that we regard -them as having in this volume fully established a degree of excellence -in the production of zoological plates, rarely excelled, if -equalled, in this country.</p> -<p>Though we hope and fully intend to proceed with a second series -of this work, as materials accumulate, especially as the present -volume has met with a degree of patronage much greater than -we had any right or reason to expect, we have to say to our -friends and patrons, that at present we have no definite prospect -of such continuation. Should we be favored with life and health, -we hope to present two additional volumes or series, each, like -the present, complete in itself, for which very nearly a sufficient -number of birds are now known as inhabiting the United States, -and which are not given by former authors on North American -Ornithology. At present, our engagements, we regret to say, render -such an undertaking quite impossible.</p> -<p><span class="lr"><span class="sc">John Cassin.</span></span></p> -<p><span class="small"><span class="sc">Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia</span>, <i>November, 1855</i>.</span></p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_vii">vii</div> -<h2 id="c2"><span class="small">CONTENTS.</span></h2> -<p class="center"><a class="ab" href="#index_A">A</a> <a class="ab" href="#index_B">B</a> <a class="ab" href="#index_C">C</a> <a class="ab" href="#index_D">D</a> <a class="ab" href="#index_E">E</a> <a class="ab" href="#index_F">F</a> <a class="ab" href="#index_G">G</a> <a class="ab" href="#index_H">H</a> <a class="ab" href="#index_I">I</a> <span class="ab">J</span> <span class="ab">K</span> <a class="ab" href="#index_L">L</a> <a class="ab" href="#index_M">M</a> <a class="ab" href="#index_N">N</a> <a class="ab" href="#index_O">O</a> <a class="ab" href="#index_P">P</a> <a class="ab" href="#index_Q">Q</a> <a class="ab" href="#index_R">R</a> <a class="ab" href="#index_S">S</a> <a class="ab" href="#index_T">T</a> <span class="ab">U</span> <a class="ab" href="#index_V">V</a> <span class="ab">W</span> <span class="ab">X</span> <span class="ab">Y</span> <span class="ab">Z</span></p> -<dl class="indexlr"> -<dt class="center b" id="index_A">A</dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Acanthylis, genus</span> <a class="sc" href="#Page_249">Page 249</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Accipiter, genus</span> <a href="#Page_94">94</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Ammodromus, genus</span> <a href="#Page_136">136</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> ruficeps</span> <a href="#fig20">pl. 20</a>, <a href="#Page_135">135</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> rostratus</span> <a href="#fig38">pl. 38</a>, <a href="#Page_226">226</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Antrostomus, genus</span> <a href="#Page_235">235</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Aquila, genus</span> <a href="#Page_109">109</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Archibuteo, genus</span> <a href="#Page_103">103</a>, <a href="#Page_161">161</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> ferrugineus</span> <a href="#fig26">pl. 26</a>, <a href="#Page_159">159</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Astur, genus</span> <a href="#Page_93">93</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Athene, genus</span> <a href="#Page_188">188</a></dt> -</dl> -<dl class="indexlr"> -<dt class="center b" id="index_B">B</dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Bernicla, genus</span> <a href="#Page_54">54</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> nigricans</span> <a href="#fig10">pl. 10</a>, <a href="#Page_52">52</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> leucopareia</span> <a href="#fig45">pl. 45</a>, <a href="#Page_272">272</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Bubo, genus</span> <a href="#Page_177">177</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Buteo, genus</span> <a href="#Page_97">97</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> Bairdii</span> <a href="#fig41">pl. 41</a>, <a href="#Page_99">99</a>, <a href="#Page_257">257</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> insignatus</span> <a href="#fig31">pl. 31</a>, <a href="#Page_102">102</a>, <a href="#Page_198">198</a></dt> -</dl> -<dl class="indexlr"> -<dt class="center b" id="index_C">C</dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Callipepla, genus</span> <a href="#Page_50">50</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> Gambelii</span> <a href="#fig9">pl. 9</a>, <a href="#Page_45">45</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> squamata</span> <a href="#fig19">pl. 19</a>, <a href="#Page_129">129</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Caprimulgidæ, family</span> <a href="#Page_235">235</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Carpodacus, genus</span> <a href="#Page_78">78</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> familiaris</span> <a href="#fig13">pl. 13</a>, <a href="#Page_73">73</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Cardinalis, genus</span> <a href="#Page_206">206</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> sinuatus</span> <a href="#fig33">pl. 33</a>, <a href="#Page_204">204</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Cardinella, genus</span> <a href="#Page_266">266</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> rubra</span> <a href="#fig43">pl. 43</a>, <a href="#Page_265">265</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Cathartes, genus</span> <a href="#Page_56">56</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Ceryle, genus</span> <a href="#Page_254">254</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Chamæa, genus</span> <a href="#Page_40">40</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> fasciata</span> <a href="#fig7">pl. 7</a>, <a href="#Page_39">39</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Chordeiles, genus</span> <a href="#Page_237">237</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Circus, genus</span> <a href="#Page_108">108</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Cotyle, genus</span> <a href="#Page_247">247</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Culicivora, genus</span> <a href="#Page_164">164</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> mexicana</span> <a href="#fig27">pl. 27</a>, <a href="#Page_163">163</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Cyanocorax, genus</span> <a href="#Page_5">5</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> luxuosus</span> <a href="#fig1">pl. 1</a>, <a href="#Page_1">1</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Cypselus, genus</span> <a href="#Page_248">248</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Cyrtonyx, genus</span> <a href="#Page_25">25</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> Massena</span> <a href="#fig4">pl. 4</a>, <a href="#Page_21">21</a></dt> -</dl> -<dl class="indexlr"> -<dt class="center b" id="index_D">D</dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Diomedea, genus</span> <a href="#Page_211">211</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> brachyura</span> <a href="#fig50">pl. 50</a>, <a href="#Page_289">289</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> nigripes</span> <a href="#fig35">pl. 35</a>, <a href="#Page_210">210</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Dryotomus, genus</span> <a href="#Page_287">287</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> imperialis</span> <a href="#fig49">pl. 49</a>, <a href="#Page_285">285</a></dt> -</dl> -<dl class="indexlr"> -<dt class="center b" id="index_E">E</dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Elanus, genus</span> <a href="#Page_106">106</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Emberiza, genus</span> <a href="#Page_153">153</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> bilineata</span> <a href="#fig23">pl. 23</a>, <a href="#Page_150">150</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Embernagra, genus</span> <a href="#Page_71">71</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> Blandingiana</span> <a href="#fig12">pl. 12</a>, <a href="#Page_70">70</a></dt> -</dl> -<dl class="indexlr"> -<dt class="center b" id="index_F">F</dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Failconidæ family</span> <a href="#Page_85">85</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Falco genus</span> <a href="#Page_85">85</a>, <a href="#Page_122">122</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> polyagrus</span> <a href="#fig16">pl. 16</a>, <a href="#Page_88">88</a>, <a href="#Page_121">121</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Fissirostres</span> <a href="#Page_235">235</a></dt> -</dl> -<dl class="indexlr"> -<dt class="center b" id="index_G">G</dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Geococcyx, genus</span> <a href="#Page_219">219</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> mexicanus</span> <a href="#fig36">pl. 36</a>, <a href="#Page_213">213</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Glaucidium, genus</span> <a href="#Page_189">189</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Gymnokitta, genus</span> <a href="#Page_167">167</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> cyanocephala</span> <a href="#fig28">pl. 28</a>, <a href="#Page_165">165</a></dt> -</dl> -<dl class="indexlr"> -<dt class="center b" id="index_H">H</dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Halcyonidæ, family</span> <a href="#Page_253">253</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Haliaetus, genus</span> <a href="#Page_37">37</a>, <a href="#Page_109">109</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> pelagicus</span> <a href="#fig6">pl. 6</a>, <a href="#Page_31">31</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Hierofalco, genus</span> <a href="#Page_89">89</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Hirundinidæ, family</span> <a href="#Page_242">242</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Hirundo, genus</span> <a href="#Page_242">242</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Hypotriorchis, genus</span> <a href="#Page_90">90</a></dt> -</dl> -<div class="pb" id="Page_viii">viii</div> -<dl class="indexlr"> -<dt class="center b" id="index_I">I</dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Icterus, genus</span> <a href="#Page_43">43</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> cucullatus</span> <a href="#fig8">pl. 8</a>, <a href="#Page_42">42</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> melanocephalus</span> <a href="#fig21">pl. 21</a>, <a href="#Page_137">137</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Ictinea, genus</span> <a href="#Page_106">106</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Insessores, tribe</span> <a href="#Page_235">235</a></dt> -</dl> -<dl class="indexlr"> -<dt class="center b" id="index_L">L</dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Larus, genus</span> <a href="#Page_29">29</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> Heermanni</span> <a href="#fig5">pl. 5</a>, <a href="#Page_28">28</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Lophophanes, genus</span> <a href="#Page_18">18</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> atricristatus</span> <a href="#fig3">pl. 3</a>, <a href="#Page_13">13</a>, <a href="#Page_19">19</a></dt> -</dl> -<dl class="indexlr"> -<dt class="center b" id="index_M">M</dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Melanerpes, genus</span> <a href="#Page_11">11</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> formicivorus</span> <a href="#fig2">pl. 2</a>, <a href="#Page_7">7</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> thyroideus</span> <a href="#fig32">pl. 32</a>, <a href="#Page_201">201</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Morphnus, genus</span> <a href="#Page_114">114</a></dt> -</dl> -<dl class="indexlr"> -<dt class="center b" id="index_N">N</dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Nauclerus, genus</span> <a href="#Page_105">105</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Nyctale, genus</span> <a href="#Page_68">68</a>, <a href="#Page_185">185</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> Kirtlandii</span> <a href="#fig11">pl. 11</a>, <a href="#Page_63">63</a>, <a href="#Page_187">187</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Nyctea, genus</span> <a href="#Page_190">190</a></dt> -</dl> -<dl class="indexlr"> -<dt class="center b" id="index_O">O</dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Ortalida, genus</span> <a href="#Page_270">270</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> poliocephala</span> <a href="#fig44">pl. 44</a>, <a href="#Page_267">267</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Otus, genus</span> <a href="#Page_181">181</a></dt> -</dl> -<dl class="indexlr"> -<dt class="center b" id="index_P">P</dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Pandion, genus</span> <a href="#Page_112">112</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Parinæ, sub-family</span> <a href="#Page_17">17</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Parus, genus</span> <a href="#Page_17">17</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> septentrionalis</span> <a href="#fig14">pl. 14</a>, <a href="#Page_80">80</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Petrochelidon, sub-genus</span> <a href="#Page_243">243</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Picolaptes, genus</span> <a href="#Page_157">157</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> brunneicapillus</span> <a href="#fig25">pl. 25</a>, <a href="#Page_156">156</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Pipilo, genus</span> <a href="#Page_126">126</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> fusca</span> <a href="#fig17">pl. 17</a>, <a href="#Page_124">124</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Plectrophanes, genus</span> <a href="#Page_230">230</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> McCownii</span> <a href="#fig39">pl. 39</a>, <a href="#Page_228">228</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Polyborus, genus</span> <a href="#Page_112">112</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Progne, genus</span> <a href="#Page_245">245</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Psaltria, genus</span> <a href="#Page_19">19</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Ptilogonys, genus</span> <a href="#Page_171">171</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> nitens</span> <a href="#fig29">pl. 29</a>, <a href="#Page_169">169</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Pyrocephalus, genus</span> <a href="#Page_128">128</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> rubineus</span> <a href="#fig18">pl. 18</a>, <a href="#Page_127">127</a></dt> -</dl> -<dl class="indexlr"> -<dt class="center b" id="index_Q">Q</dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Querquedula, genus</span> <a href="#Page_83">83</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> cyanoptera</span> <a href="#fig15">pl. 15</a>, <a href="#Page_82">82</a></dt> -</dl> -<dl class="indexlr"> -<dt class="center b" id="index_R">R</dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Recurvirostra, genus</span> <a href="#Page_233">233</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> occidentalis</span> <a href="#fig40">pl. 40</a>, <a href="#Page_232">232</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Rostrhamus, genus</span> <a href="#Page_107">107</a></dt> -</dl> -<dl class="indexlr"> -<dt class="center b" id="index_S">S</dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Sarcoramphus, genus</span> <a href="#Page_59">59</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Saxicola, genus</span> <a href="#Page_208">208</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> oenanthoides</span> <a href="#fig34">pl. 34</a>, <a href="#Page_207">207</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Scops, genus</span> <a href="#Page_179">179</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Strigidæ, family</span> <a href="#Page_175">175</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Strix, genus</span> <a href="#Page_176">176</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Surnia, genus</span> <a href="#Page_191">191</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Sylvicola, genus</span> <a href="#Page_281">281</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> olivacea</span> <a href="#fig48">pl. 48</a>, <a href="#Page_283">283</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> Kirtlandii</span> <a href="#fig47">pl. 47</a>, <a href="#Page_278">278</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Syrnium, genus</span> <a href="#Page_183">183</a></dt> -</dl> -<dl class="indexlr"> -<dt class="center b" id="index_T">T</dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Thalassidroma, genus</span> <a href="#Page_277">277</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> furcata</span> <a href="#fig46">pl. 46</a>, <a href="#Page_274">274</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Tinnunculus, genus</span> <a href="#Page_92">92</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Toxostoma, genus</span> <a href="#Page_263">263</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> rediviva</span> <a href="#fig42">pl. 42</a>, <a href="#Page_260">260</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Trochilus, genus</span> <a href="#Page_148">148</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> Alexandri</span> <a href="#fig22">pl. 22</a>, <a href="#Page_141">141</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Troglodytes, genus</span> <a href="#Page_175">175</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> mexicanus</span> <a href="#fig30">pl. 30</a>, <a href="#Page_173">173</a></dt> -</dl> -<dl class="indexlr"> -<dt class="center b" id="index_V">V</dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Vireo, genus</span> <a href="#Page_154">154</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> atricapillus</span> <a href="#fig24">pl. 24</a>, <a href="#Page_153">153</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Vireosylvia, genus</span> <a href="#Page_224">224</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl"><span class="ditto">“</span> altiloqua</span> <a href="#fig37">pl. 37</a>, <a href="#Page_221">221</a></dt> -<dt><span class="jl">Vulturidæ, family</span> <a href="#Page_56">56</a></dt> -</dl> -<div class="pb" id="Page_1">1</div> -<h1 title="">ILLUSTRATIONS -<br /><span class="smallest">OF</span> -<br /><span class="large">THE BIRDS</span> -<br /><span class="smallest">OF</span> -<br /><span class="smaller">CALIFORNIA, TEXAS, OREGON, AND BRITISH AND RUSSIAN AMERICA.</span></h1> -<h2 id="c3"><span class="small">CYANOCORAX LUXUOSUS.—(Lesson.)</span> -<br />The Mexican Jay. -<br />PLATE I.—Adult Male.</h2> -<p>The family of birds, familiarly known as Jays, is so extensively diffused, -that every country of the world produces species except Africa south of -the Great Desert, Australia, and the islands in the Pacific ocean.</p> -<p>The European species are few in number, but that which is the most -common and well known by the name from which has been derived the -popular appellation now applied to nearly all of its more or less nearly -allied relatives, is justly regarded as one of the most remarkable of the -birds of that continent. It is the only species of this family which inhabits -central Europe and the British Islands, and is much admired on account of -the beauty of its plumage, which is for the greater part of a very handsome -light reddish brown, with its wings richly colored of a beautiful light -blue and a deep black. It is a cunning, cautious bird, and possesses very -considerable powers of imitation and of voice in general. Nearly all the -European ornithologists relate instances of specimens which they had seen -in a state of domestication, some of which had been taught, not only to -articulate words but also to imitate various sounds and the cries of animals. -Bewick mentions one which would call a dog, and another which could -imitate the noise made by a saw. Others have heard it imitate the mewing -of a cat, the notes of other birds, and even the neighing of a horse. In -<span class="pb" id="Page_2">2</span> -Germany, where the taming and rearing of birds is made a matter of -business to a much greater extent than we have any examples of in the -United States, the Jay is a great favorite on account of this talent, or in -some measure for the same reason that the Mocking bird is in this country. -It does not appear, however, to possess the talent for accurate imitation, nor -the taste nor talent for combination which is shown in such an eminent -degree by the famous songster of this country, but to evince imitative -instincts more similar to those of the Parrots.</p> -<p>Other Jays, of very handsome plumage, inhabit Asia, from the northern -regions of which continent, as well as from northern Africa, a few species -visit Europe. They are not abundant in either of the first mentioned -continents.</p> -<p>The birds of this group are most numerous in America. In the higher -northern latitudes and in the eastern parts of the United States, a few -species only are found; several others, of which some account will be -found in the present work, and some of which are very handsome and -remarkable species have as yet to be regarded as exclusively western, -having only been observed in the countries on the Pacific seaboard. We -beg the liberty of saying, however, in passing, that it is as yet quite -impossible to define, in any reliable manner, the limits of the range of any -of the birds usually regarded as exclusively inhabiting the Western States -and territories of the United States, so vast a central region having been -but very imperfectly explored, and which yet presents to the enterprising -scientific traveller one of the most interesting regions for research on the -face of the globe. It comprises the entire range of country from the -Mississippi river to beyond the Rocky Mountains, from the northern to the -southern limits of the United States.</p> -<p>In Mexico and thence southward to Brazil and Patagonia, and, in fact, -throughout South America, many species of Jays are to be met with in -abundance, and of such beautiful plumage and variety of tints as far surpass -those of any other country. The prevailing hues of the plumage of the -greater number of the American species are the different shades of blue, -from the most delicate ultramarine or azure to deep indigo, generally -variegated, in a very agreeable manner, with white, black or yellow. -Amongst the most handsome of these birds we may mention the great -crested Jay of South America and the West Indies, <i>Cyanocorax pileatus</i>, -a large and very showy species, the Mexican painted Jay, <i>Cyanocitta</i> -<span class="pb" id="Page_3">3</span> -<i>ornata</i>, which has the entire plumage of a deep blue color beautifully -relieved by a large patch of very pale bluish white on the back part of the -head and neck. Others, such as Beechey’s Jay of California and Mexico, -<i>Cyanocitta Beechii</i>, of which we shall give a plate and description, have the -plumage of fine silky blue above, and deep black on the under part of the -body. There are a few species in which the prevailing color of the plumage -is violet, as the <i>Cyanocorax violaceus</i>, a native of the northern parts of South -America, and probably of Central America and Mexico. There are also a -few species of which the bird figured in our present plate is one, in which -the plumage is green, usually variegated with blue and yellow.</p> -<p>The Mexican species yet discovered are of very fine plumage, though -generally of smaller size than many of those of South America. Several -of the species of the southern portion of this continent are, in fact, so large -that they approach the stature of their relatives, the crows, though clothed -in a quite different style of vesture. In fact, some of the larger species are -known to collectors and travellers by such names as the Blue crow, the -Surinam crow, &c. The <i>Cyanocorax azureus</i> of South America is the -“Blue Crow,” and is one of the largest species of this family.</p> -<p>The Jays must be regarded as highly organized birds, and are possessed -of a superior order of instincts. However deficient in melody or compass -of voice, there are few other birds in which are found combined so many -characters or bird-like qualities. Delicacy of form, beauty of plumage, -vigorous and enduring powers of flight, are united with much liveliness of -disposition, unusual instincts of precaution and self-preservation, and the -ability to subsist on very diversified descriptions of both animal and -vegetable food. They are accordingly entitled to a superior position in -any system of classification, based, as all zoological systems should be, -on the knowledge of functional as well as of organic characters;—on the -observations of the naturalist in the field or forest, not less than on the -conclusions or discoveries of the anatomist.</p> -<p>Nearly all the species of this group of birds appear to partake to a -considerable extent of the cunning, though not unpleasant nor unsociable -habits of the Blue Jay of the United States, and like it they feed -indiscriminately on seeds or fruits, worms, insects, and even small -quadrupeds, or on other birds. They live principally in the forests, -though several of the fine species of South America and all the species -of North America frequently resort to the orchards and fields, or -<span class="pb" id="Page_4">4</span> -approach the habitations of men, and when captured young are readily -domesticated.</p> -<p>The very handsome bird which, in our first plate, we present to our -readers, is a recent addition to the Ornithology of the United States, -having been observed in Texas, though previously known as a bird of -Mexico. It is nearly related to the Peruvian Jay, <i>C. yucas</i>, Boddaert, or -<i>C. peruvianus</i>, Gmelin, which is a native of the countries of western -South America. It is, however, considerably smaller, and is differently -colored on the inferior parts of the body, having there a prevailing tint of -green instead of the clear yellow of that also handsome bird, and other -characters tending to establish a clear specific difference.</p> -<p>This bird is abundant in Mexico. It was observed to be quite numerous -on the <i>tierra templada</i> or table lands, and in the hills bounding the plains -of Perote and Puebla on the east, by Mr. William S. Pease, an enterprising -naturalist, who accompanied the army of the United States, under General -Scott, throughout its campaign in Mexico. Mr. Pease learned that it -lived on the sides of the hills throughout the year, and was called by the -inhabitants, the <i>pepe verde</i>. His collection, now included in that of the -Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia, contained very fine -specimens of both sexes, though his notes contain little information -respecting them.</p> -<p>M. Lesson, an eminent French naturalist, was the first to describe this -species. His description, from a Mexican specimen, is in the Révue -Zoologique for 1839, p. 100. (Paris.) The first published notice of it as a -Texan species is by Mr. Geo. N. Lawrence, in the Annals of the New -York Lyceum of Natural History, vol. v., p. 115.</p> -<p>The credit of having first discovered it within the limits of the United -States is due to Col. <span class="sc">George A. M‘Call</span>, Inspector General of the United -States Army, who sent specimens to the Philadelphia Academy, from -Texas, several years since, and who has most kindly favored us with the -following note:</p> -<p>“The first specimens of this Jay that I saw within the territory of the -United States, were in the forests that border the Rio Grande, on the -south-western frontier of Texas. There they were mated in the month -of May, and no doubt had their nests in the extensive and almost -impenetrable thickets of <i>Mimosæ</i>, which are commonly denominated -<i>Chaparral</i>. Of the number of their eggs, or the description of their -<span class="pb" id="Page_5">5</span> -nests, I learned nothing, not having been able to discover their abode, -precisely; but from the jealousy and pugnacity which they manifested on -the approach or appearance of the large boat-tailed blackbird of that -country (<i>Quiscalus macrourus</i>,) which was nesting in great numbers in -the vicinity, I felt satisfied that the Jays were, at the time, also engaged -in the duties of incubation and rearing their young. In character or -temperament they appeared to be very active and lively, though less noisy -than some other species of their family, and their gay plumage was exhibited -to advantage as they flitted from tree to tree, or dashed boldly in pursuit -of such of their more plainly attired neighbors as ventured to intrude upon -their domain.”</p> -<p>Captain J. P. M‘Cown, another accomplished officer of the United States -Army, also observed this bird in Texas, to the natural history of which -country he has contributed a large amount of most valuable information. -From the interesting memoranda which he has very generously and -promptly furnished for our use in the present work, we make the following -extract:</p> -<p>“During the several years that I was in Texas, I frequently saw this Jay, -but never above Ringgold Barracks or north of the woods which skirt the -Rio Grande. It appeared to prefer the Acacia groves which have sprung -up where the ground has been overflowed. Though I have shot numerous -specimens it is rather a cautious bird. I have seen nests high up in the -trees alluded to, and always supposed them to belong to this species, but -was never clearly satisfied, though I have no doubt that it breeds in -Texas.”</p> -<p>The figure in our plate is about three-fourths of the natural size.</p> -<p>The plant represented is the <i>Salvia coccinea</i>, which is a native of the -southern parts of North America.</p> -<h3 id="c4">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Cyanocorax</span>, Boie, in Oken’s Isis, 1826, part II., p. 977.</dt></dl> -<p>Bill rather large and strong, with the ridge of the upper mandible curved -gradually from the base to the point—ridge of the lower mandible curved -upwards. Nostrils at the base of the bill, in rather a large membrane, and -partially concealed by projecting feathers. Wings moderate, rather rounded, -fourth, fifth and sixth primaries usually longest; secondaries long, -<span class="pb" id="Page_6">6</span> -exceeding some of the shorter primaries. Tail rather lengthened and -rounded; tarsi robust, rather long; toes and claws strong. Head usually -with a crest or with the frontal plumes erect and crest-like. Plumage of -various colors, mostly with some part of greater or less extent, blue. -Exclusively American. Type <i>C. pileatus</i>. (Wagler.)</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Cyanocorax luxuosus.</span> (Lesson.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Garrulus luxuosus.</span> Lesson Revue Zoologique 1839, p. 100. (Paris.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Cyanocorax luxuosus.</span> (Less.) Du Bus, Esquisses Ornithologiques, part IV. pl. 18. (Brussels.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Feathers of the head in front or at the base of the upper -mandible, short, erect and rigid—other plumage of the head above somewhat -elongated; wings rather short, with the fourth and fifth quills slightly -longest; tail ample, and rather long, with the central feathers longest; bill -strong, tarsi and feet moderate, claws strong and curved.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span>—Total length (of skin) from the tip of the bill to the end -of the tail, about 10½ inches, wing 4¾, tail 5½ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span>—Short feathers at the base of the bill, blue, which color is -succeeded by a transverse band of bluish white; cheeks and head above, -pale azure blue; sides of the head in front of and behind the eyes, throat -and neck in front fine silky black, which forms a wide mask extending to -the breast.</p> -<p>Body above, wings and central tail feathers, fine parrot-like green, deepest -on the tail, entire inferior surface of the body pale yellowish green. -External tail feathers, pale yellow. Bill and feet dark colored. The green -feathers of the tail running into blue at their ends, and nearly black on -their under surface.</p> -<p>Sexes similar.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Habitat.</span> Mexico and Texas—Specimens in the Museum of the -Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Observations.</span> The present species we regard as deviating in some -degree from the characters of the typical species of this genus, as is the case -with other species to which it is nearly related. We do not at present, -however, consider them as presenting peculiar characters sufficient to -constitute a distinct genus, though that excellent ornithologist, the Prince -of Canino, has given to this group the generic name of <i>Xanthoura</i>, which -embraces the species now before us, <i>C. yucas</i> (Boddaert) and <i>X. quatimalensis</i>. -Bonap. (Consp. Av. p. 380.)</p> -<div class="img" id="fig2"> -<img src="images/ppp01.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1159" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 2<br /><span class="ln2">The Californian Woodpecker</span><br /><span class="ln3">Melanerpes formicivorus (<i>Swains.</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_7">7</div> -<h2 id="c5"><span class="small">MELANERPES FORMICIVORUS.—(Swainson.)</span> -<br />The Californian Woodpecker. -<br />PLATE II.—Male and female.</h2> -<p>The most richly colored Woodpeckers of North America, at least in our -Opinion, are two of the most abundant species. We allude to the bird now -before us, and to the well-known red-headed Woodpecker, <i>Melanerpes -erythrocephalus</i>, (Linn.) in both of which the prevailing colors are a -fine glossy black and a rich crimson.</p> -<p>Were the latter bird less common in the Atlantic States, his claims to -be considered one of our finest plumaged species would perhaps be more -distinctly recognised, and his very showy head of the finest crimson could -not fail to attract admirers. As, however, he has the disadvantage of an -attributed disposition to take liberties entirely forbidden by the farmer and -gardener, and is moreover to be seen in almost every woodland in the -summer season, his gay appearance is by no means duly appreciated, nor his -general character held in high estimation. He is however not so abundant -as formerly, and with the destruction of the large trees of the forest, which -is constantly carried on to make room for the increasing population in the -more densely settled States, the time may arrive when the sight of the -red-headed woodpecker, with his brilliant plumage, will be an unusual and -pleasing circumstance to the young, and serve to remind the aged of perhaps -long-forgotten incidents and associations of early life when remnants of the -forest yet flourished even in proximity to cities, or varied the aspect of -cultivated districts.</p> -<p>Our present species is one of the most abundant of the birds of -California. It appears to take the place of the red-headed woodpecker in -the countries west of the Rocky Mountains, extending its range from -Oregon into Mexico, and probably to Guatimala and other countries of -Central America. It is not inferior to that species in the beauty of its -colors, is quite as unwary and familiar in its disposition, and when the -<span class="pb" id="Page_8">8</span> -population of the great Western States shall have arrived at such a very -desirable stage of progress as to possess a generation of juvenile sportsmen, -our bird will no doubt be quite as great a favorite on holiday shooting -excursions.</p> -<p>Several species of woodpeckers have had ascribed to them the habit of -accumulating stores of provisions in anticipation of the approach of winter, -but we have no knowledge of this being done by any American species, -except that now before us. For it we can claim this degree of instinctive -prudence on undoubted evidence, and shall have the pleasure, in the present -article, of laying before our readers an account of it, which is not only a -remarkable illustration of instinct, but shows a singular method of mechanical -preparation and management.</p> -<p>Our valued friends, Mr. John G. Bell of New York, and Dr. A. L. -Heermann of Philadelphia, both of whom have made extended visits to -California for the purpose of investigating its Natural History, found this -woodpecker very abundant in all the parts of that country which either of -them visited.</p> -<p>The former gentleman has had the kindness to inform us, that he -considers it by far the most extensively diffused and common woodpecker of -that country. He represents it as somewhat disposed to gregariousness in -its habits, and has frequently seen individuals on the same tree so numerous -and so close together, that several might have been killed at a single -discharge. According to Mr. Bell, its note very considerably resembles -that of the red-headed woodpecker, which it much resembles also in flight -and other general characters. He observed it only on trees, particularly -on the pines; and upon examination found the contents of the stomachs of -all the specimens which were procured by him, to be composed principally of -ants, of which several of the species of California habitually frequent trees. -The large collection of birds brought home by Mr. Bell contained numerous -specimens of this species.</p> -<p>The account given by Dr. Heermann of this bird is of a highly interesting -character, and he has identified, for the first time, the species of woodpecker -of which previously nothing could be accurately made out from the -statements of travellers respecting a bird which possessed the provident and -curious instinct of storing away a supply of food for the winter in holes -made for that purpose in the bark of trees. His remarks are in his -“Notes on the Birds of California observed during a residence of three -<span class="pb" id="Page_9">9</span> -years in that country,” published in the Journal of the Academy of -Natural Sciences of Philadelphia, Vol. II. p. 270. (Quarto 1853,) from -which we transcribe the following:</p> -<p>“This is the noisiest and most abundant of the woodpeckers of California. -Perched on the topmost branch of a tree, it darts suddenly into the air in -pursuit of an insect, and having secured its object, soon again returns to -the same place, only to repeat this manœuvre in a few moments.</p> -<p>“In the fall season this species is busily engaged in digging small holes -in the bark of the pines and oaks, to receive acorns, one of which is placed -in each hole, and is so tightly fitted or driven in, that it is with difficulty -extracted. Thus the bark of a large pine, forty or fifty feet high, will -present the appearance of being closely studded with brass nails, the heads -only being visible. These acorns are thus stored in large quantities, and -serve not only the woodpecker during the winter season, but are trespassed -on by the jays, mice and squirrels.</p> -<p>“The nest of this bird is dug out in the body of a tree, and is from six -inches to two feet in depth. The eggs, four or five in number, are pure -white.”</p> -<p>The following graphic and intelligent account, to the same purpose, is -from Kelly’s Excursion to California, and is evidently from the pen of an -excellent observer and an agreeable writer:</p> -<p>“In stripping off the bark of this tree, I observed it to be perforated with -holes, larger than those which a musket ball would make, shaped with the -most accurate precision as if bored under the guidance of a rule and -compass, and many of them filled most neatly with acorns. Earlier in the -season I had remarked such holes in most of all the softer timber, but -imagining that they were caused by wood insects, I did not stop to examine -or inquire, but now finding them studded with acorns, firmly fixed in, which -I knew could not have been driven there by the wind, I sought for an -explanation, which was practically given me by Captain S——’s pointing -out a flock of woodpeckers, busily and noisily employed in the provident -task of securing the winter’s provision. For it appears that this sagacious -bird is not all the time thriftlessly engaged in ‘tapping the hollow -beach tree’ for the mere idle purpose of empty sound, but spends its -summer season in picking these holes, in which it lays its store of food for -the winter, where the elements can neither affect nor place it beyond their -reach, and it is regarded as a sure omen that the snowy period is -<span class="pb" id="Page_10">10</span> -approaching when these birds commence stowing away their acorns, which -otherwise might be covered by its fall. I frequently have paused from my -chopping, to watch them in the neighborhood, with the acorns in their bills, -half clawing, half flying around the tree, and have admired the adroitness -with which they tried it at different holes until they found one of its exact -calibre; when, inserting the pointed end, they tapped it home most -artistically with the beak, and flew down for another.</p> -<p>“But the natural instinct of this bird is even more remarkable in the -choice of the nuts, which are invariably found to be sound, whereas it is -an utter impossibility in selecting them for roasting, to pick up a batch that -will not have a large portion of them unfit for use, the most smooth and -polished frequently containing a large grub generated within. Even the -wily Digger Indian, with all his craft and experience, is unable to arrive at -any thing like an unerring selection, while in a large bag full, that we took -from the bark of our log, there was not one containing the slightest germ of -decay. These woodpeckers never encroach on their packed stores until all -the nuts on the surface of the ground are covered with snow, when they -resort to those in the bark, and peck them of their contents without -removing the shell from the hole. The bark of the pine tree, from its -great thickness, and the ease of boring, is mostly sought for by these birds -as their granary for the winter season.”</p> -<p>This extraordinary example of instinct is scarcely surpassed by any other -which has been observed in the animal kingdom, and it is to be hoped that -further accounts will be furnished by observers in the countries which it -inhabits, respecting the bird which is endowed with such interesting and -unusual habits.</p> -<p>This woodpecker is common in Mexico in woods on the table lands, and -was observed by Mr. Pease also in the upper part of the <i>tierra caliente</i>. It was -first introduced to notice from Mexican specimens received from the vicinity -of Real del Monte by Mr. Swainson, a distinguished English naturalist, -who first described it in the Philosophical Magazine, 1827, p. 439 (London.) -It was observed in California previous to that country having become a part -of the United States, by Mr. Nuttall, the eminent botanist and zoologist, -who gave it a place in his Manual of the Ornithology of the United States -and of Canada. Vol. I., p. 682 (Boston, 1840.)</p> -<p>Our figures are rather less than one-third of the size of life.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_11">11</div> -<h3 id="c6">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Melanerpes.</span> Swainson, in Fauna Boreali Americana, Birds, p. 316, and Lardner’s Cabinet Cyclopedia, Birds, Vol. II. p. 310. London, 1837.</dt></dl> -<p>Bill straight, rather wide at the base and somewhat cylindrical, ridge of -the upper mandible arched, and with a slightly developed lateral ridge on each -side, nostrils basal, nearly concealed by projecting plumes. Wings long, -first primary spurious, fourth and fifth usually longest, tail moderate, -composed of broad and strong feathers. Tarsi and feet moderate or rather -strong; two external toes before and behind, nearly equal. General form -short and robust; color black, varied with red and white. Type <i>M. -erythrocephalus</i>. (Linn.)</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Melanerpes formicivorus.</span> (Swainson.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Picus formicivorus.</span> Swainson in Taylor’s Phil. Mag., 1827, (p. 439,) London.</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Picus melanopogon.</span> Temminck, Pl. col. Vol. IV., pl. 451. Leyden, about 1829.</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Melampicos flavigula.</span> Malherbe in Rev. et Mag. de Zool., 1849, p. 542? (Paris.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Compact and rather robust; wing long, with the second and -third quills longest, and nearly equal; tail rather broad, and with the -feathers but moderately rigid at their ends, unless worn; feet moderately -robust; toes long; claws much curved. Rather larger than <i>Melanerpes -erythrocephalus</i>. (Linn.)</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> (Of a skin from California.) Total length from tip of -bill to end of tail, about 9½ inches; wing, 5¾; tail, 3½ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors. Male.</span> Short feathers immediately around the base of the bill, -black. Broad subfrontal band, pure white, which unites with a wide, -somewhat crescent-shaped mark of the same color, tinged with pale yellow -on the throat and neck in front. Large coronal and occipital space -immediately succeeding the white subfrontal band, fine light crimson, of -which color there is also a small, irregular spot or two in the centre of a -black band on the upper part of the breast.</p> -<p>Cheeks, back, wings, and tail fine deep black, with a greenish gloss. -Band of black across the breast, succeeded by another, in which the feathers -<span class="pb" id="Page_12">12</span> -are longitudinally marked with black and white; feathers of the flanks, and -under tail coverts, white, with black longitudinal stripes; middle of the -abdomen, rump, and spot at the base of the primaries, pure white. The -latter most readily observed on the inferior surface of the wing. Secondary -quills rather widely bordered with white on their internal edges. Bill -nearly black; legs and feet lighter. Female similar to the male, but with -a wide band of black on the top of the head.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> California and Mexico. Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Observations.</span> The bird described by Temminck as <i>Picus melanopogon</i> -is stated by him to have been received from Mexico, and his figure is -certainly the bird which is the subject of our present article. His -description and figure are in Livraison 76 of the Planches Colorices, which -was published about 1828 or 1829, but bears no date, and was anticipated -by Swainson’s publication in the Philos. Magazine.</p> -<p>In the Revue et Magazin de Zoologie, for 1849, p. 542, M. Alfred -Malherbe, who has devoted much attention to the study of the woodpeckers, -has named a species <i>Melampicos flavigula</i>, and has very carefully pointed -out differences which he considers sufficient to establish it as distinct from -<i>Picus melanopogon</i>. He relies almost entirely on the greater or lesser -extent and relative widths of the white, black and red spaces on their heads. -Notwithstanding the extensive knowledge which M. Malherbe undoubtedly -possesses from his great attention to this family of birds, I cannot see that -there are any characters given which may not be very properly attributed -to differences in age or sex, and I have accordingly felt myself justified in -suspecting it to be the same as the present species, having before me -specimens which I understand to represent both of them.</p> -<p>No dependence can be placed in the extent of the red color on the head, -as a character, so far as I have observed, in the woodpeckers of the United -States. In <i>Picus pubescens</i>, a common species in Pennsylvania, the young -male has the head above entirely crimson, which color in the adult is -restricted to a narrow occipital band. I do not know that the change in -others of our species is so decided, but the width of the occipital stripe is -much varied in different specimens of the same species, and my impression -is, that as a specific character this very ornamental portion of the plumage -of woodpeckers ought to be estimated with great caution.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig3"> -<img src="images/ppp02.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1193" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 3<br /><span class="ln2">The Black-crested Chickadee</span><br /><span class="ln3">Lophophanes atricristatus (<i>Cassin</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_13">13</div> -<h2 id="c7"><span class="small">LOPHOPHANES ATRICRISTATUS.—(Cassin.)</span> -<br />The Black-crested Chickadee. -<br />PLATE III.—Male and Female.</h2> -<p>The pleasant little birds of the same family as those known in Great -Britain as Tits or Tit-mice, have received in America, from the characteristic -notes of several of the species, the name of Chickadees. Popular names -being entirely of a local character and of little scientific value, we -invariably prefer to give those by which species are known in this country -instead of the names of birds allied to or resembling them which inhabit -Europe, though the latter are generally adopted by American writers.</p> -<p>The species of this family, which are permanent residents in the middle -and northern States, and especially the tufted or crested Chickadee (<i>L. -bicolor</i>,) are among the very first of the feathered inhabitants of our woodlands -to welcome the advent of spring, and to hail with their clear and -melodious notes the earliest tokens of the decline of winter. Even on fine -days in February or early in March, the crested Chickadee may often be -heard, apparently indulging himself in gratifying anticipations of the -approaching spring-time; or it may be, that not being instinctively weather-wise -like the beaver, and not at all versed in wise saws or modern instances, -he thinks that it has already come. Which conclusion, though sometimes -adopted quite as summarily by tidy house-keepers, is very apt to be -demonstrated by the storms of St. Patrick’s day to be entirely illusory.</p> -<p>The tits or chickadees are abundant birds in the temperate and northern -regions of both hemispheres, most so perhaps in Europe, though the -researches of ornithologists have added numerous species to those formerly -known to inhabit Asia and America. Several very handsome birds of this -family have been discovered, within a few years, inhabiting the Himalaya -mountains, and other parts of India, and in Japan. In North America the -species have increased from two only, which were figured by the celebrated -Wilson, to twelve, the additions having been principally from the Western -<span class="pb" id="Page_14">14</span> -States, and from Texas and Mexico, and there can be no doubt that in the -almost unexplored countries of North-Western America as well as in those -which have received a greater degree of the attention of zoological -travellers, such as Texas, California and Mexico, others yet remain to be -discovered.</p> -<p>There are about fourteen European species of this group of birds, and -about twenty which are exclusively Asiatic. A few species of allied -genera inhabit Africa and New Zealand, but none of near relationship -have yet been found in Australia nor in South America.</p> -<p>The species of all countries appear to be very similar in their habits, and -live almost entirely in the forests, subsisting exclusively on insects in the -summer, and in the winter partially substituting seeds and berries for their -more grateful food.</p> -<p>The black-crested chickadee is a native of Texas and probably also of -Mexico. It was discovered in the former country by Mr. John Woodhouse -Audubon, a son of the distinguished ornithologist, and was first described by -us in the Proceedings of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia. -It is very similar to the crested chickadee in form and general appearance, -but exhibits a striking difference in having the crest entirely black, by which -character it is distinguished from all others of the genus to which it -belongs.</p> -<p>The only information that we have obtained relative to its history has -been communicated to us by Samuel W. Woodhouse, M. D., who was -attached, as surgeon and naturalist, to a party under the command of -Captain Sitgreaves of the Topographical Engineers of the Army of the -United States, which surveyed the rivers Zunia and the Colorado of the -west, by order of the Government.</p> -<p>Dr. Woodhouse has had the kindness to allow us to copy the following -memoranda from his Journal, which will be published at an early period, -with the Report made by Captain Sitgreaves to the Topographical Department, -and will be an important contribution to the natural history of Texas -and New Mexico:</p> -<p>“While our party was encamped on the Rio Salado in Texas, near San -Antonio, in March, 1851, I observed this handsome little chickadee for the -first time. It was busily engaged in capturing insects among the trees on the -bank of the stream, and like the other species of its family, was incessantly -in motion and very noisy. At our camp at Quihi, on the eighth of May, I -<span class="pb" id="Page_15">15</span> -again found it very abundant among the oaks. The young males, which -were then fully grown, much resembled the adult females, both wanting the -black crest which characterizes the male. Afterwards I noticed this species, -occurring sparingly, along our route, as far as the head waters of the San -Francisco river in New Mexico.</p> -<p>“I observed it almost entirely in trees bordering streams of water, the -females and young males invariably having the crest of the same cinereous -color as their general plumage, but in the latter slightly tinged with brown. -It occurred in small parties, appeared to be very sociable and lively -in its habits, and in general appearance and in nearly all its notes -which I heard, it so very much resembled the common crested chickadee -of the Northern States as scarcely to be recognized as a distinct species at -a short distance.”</p> -<p>The collection made by Dr. Woodhouse contains fine specimens of this -bird, from a male and female of which, and from Mr. Audubon’s specimens, -our plate has been prepared. We have represented both sexes about three-fourths -of the natural size.</p> -<p>The plant figured is the <i>Phlox Drummondii</i>, a beautiful species which is -a native of New Mexico and California.</p> -<h3 id="c8">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Lophophanes.</span> Kaup Skiz. Entw. Eur. Thierw. (1829.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Lophophanes atricristatus.</span> (Cassin.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Parus atricristatus.</span> Cassin. Proc. Acad. Philada. Vol. V., p. 103, (Oct. 1850.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> With a high pointed crest, bill rather strong and acute. Wings -long, with the fourth and fifth primaries longest, and nearly equal; tail -rather long.</p> -<p>Dimensions of a skin from Quihi, Texas. Total length, from tip of bill -to end of tail, about 6 inches; wing 3; tail 2¾ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors. Male.</span> Crest, black; body, wings and tail above, cinereous; -darker on the latter, and with an olivacious tinge on the back. Front -and inferior surface of the body, ashy white; flanks, ferruginous. Shafts -of primaries, reddish at their bases; those of the tail feathers white -beneath; bill and legs black. Young male with the crest cinereous, shaded -with light brown.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_16">16</div> -<p><span class="sc">Female.</span> Similar to the male, but slightly smaller, and with the crest -cinereous.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Texas. Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This species is of the same general form and color as <i>Lophophanes -bicolor</i>, (Linn.,) and <i>Lophophanes inornatus</i>. (Gambel.) It is about the -size of the former, and larger than the latter, and may be readily -distinguished from either of those or from any other species known to me, -by its black crest.</p> -<p>Having access to specimens of all the known North American species -of this family, in the collection of the Academy of Natural Sciences of -Philadelphia, we beg the liberty of laying before our readers a synopsis -of these birds, with short descriptions, and of availing ourselves also -of the present occasion to express our grateful acknowledgments for the -facilities and privileges generously allowed us by the gentlemen of the -Academy.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_17">17</div> -<h2 id="c9"><span class="small">SYNOPSIS OF THE NORTH AMERICAN SPECIES OF THE SUB-FAMILY PARINÆ.</span></h2> -<h3 id="c10">I. GENUS PARUS. <span class="sc">Linnæus.</span> Syst. Nat. I. p. 340. (1766.)</h3> -<p>Not crested, bill short, rather strong, conic, entire, nostrils at the base of the bill and -concealed by projecting feathers. Wings moderate, with the first quill spurious, fourth and -fifth usually longest and nearly equal, tail rather long, legs and feet rather robust, claws -curved and sharp. Colors usually cinereous and black.</p> -<p>This genus originally included all the birds now usually regarded as constituting a family -of many genera, species of which inhabit nearly all the countries of the world. As restricted, -it appears properly to embrace numerous species without crests found in Asia, Europe, and -America; nearly all of which have the upper part of the head and throat black. A further -division has however been made by Professor Kaup, of Darmstadt; and all the American, with -some European and Asiatic non-crested species, form his genus <i>Pœcila</i>.</p> -<p>The American species are as follows:</p> -<p>1. <span class="sc">Parus atricapillus.</span> Linn. Syst. Nat. I. p. 341 (1766). The black-capped Chickadee.</p> -<p>Length (of skin) about 5 inches. Head and neck above and large space on the throat -black, cheeks and sides of the neck white, entire plumage of the body above cinereous, -slightly tinged with brownish olive, below ashy white tinged with brownish. Bill and feet -dark. Sexes alike.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Northern and Middle States of North America. Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -<p>2. <span class="sc">Parus carolinensis.</span> Audubon Orn. Biog. II. p. 341, (1834.) The Carolina Chickadee.</p> -<p>Length (of skin) about 4¼ inches. Head and neck above and large space on the throat -black, cheeks and sides of the neck white. Entire plumage of the body above cinereous, -slightly tinged with brownish olive, below ashy white tinged with brownish. Bill and feet -dark. Sexes alike.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Middle and Southern States of North America. Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> Very similar to the preceding, but easily recognized by its smaller size.</p> -<p>3. <span class="sc">Parus septentrionalis.</span> Harris, Proc. Acad. Philada. II. p. 300, (Dec. 1845.) The -long-tailed chickadee.</p> -<p>Length (of skin) about 6 inches. Head above and space on the throat black, cheeks and -sides of the neck white. Entire plumage of the body above cinereous, strongly tinged with -reddish brown, below ashy white, tinged with yellowish brown, especially on the sides and -flanks, external web of outer tail feathers nearly pure white. Bill and feet dark. Tail -comparatively longer than in either of the preceding species.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Missouri and the Rocky Mountains. Great Salt Lake. Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada. -and in the National Collection, Washington city.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_18">18</div> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> A species related to, but quite distinct from either of the preceding. It is larger, -and the specimens which I have seen have the bill longer and more pointed, the tail much -longer, the black space on the head more restricted, and the general coloring more tinged -with brown. The white outer edges of the external tail feathers is a well-marked -character.</p> -<p>4. <span class="sc">Parus montanus.</span> Gambel, Proc. Acad. Philada. I. p. 259, (April, 1843.)</p> -<p>Length (of skin) about 5 inches. Head and neck above, line through the eye, space on the -throat and upper part of the breast black. Line over the eye, large space on the cheeks and -side of the neck white. Body above cinereous, below ashy white tinged with brownish on -the flanks, bill and legs dark.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> California. Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This western species is readily distinguished from all others of North America by -the broad white line over the eye. Its bill is longer than in the typical species.</p> -<p>5. <span class="sc">Parus hudsonicus.</span> Forster, Philosoph. Trans. lxii. p. 430, (London, 1772.)</p> -<p>Length (of skin) about 5 inches. Head and neck above deep ferruginous brown, large -space on the throat brownish black, cheeks white. Body above brownish cinereous, below -ashy white, sides and flanks deep reddish chestnut brown, bill and feet lead colored. Sexes -very similar.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> British America, and Northern States of the Union. Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> Quite a distinct and well-marked species, erroneously supposed by some European -writers to be the young of <i>P. atricapillus</i>. It has been found breeding in the State of Maine, -by our friend Dr. Brewer of Boston.</p> -<p>6. <span class="sc">Parus rufescens.</span> Townsend Jour. Acad. Philada. vii. p. 190, (1837.)</p> -<p>Length (of skin) about 4½ inches. Head and neck above, large space on the throat and -breast deep blackish brown, cheeks and sides of the neck white, body above and sides -below bright chestnut, medial portion of the body below ashy white. Bill and legs lead -color.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Oregon and California. Spec. Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> A beautiful little species, which appears to inhabit a large extent of country west -of the Rocky Mountains. It is easily recognized by the bright chestnut color of the superior -parts of the body.</p> -<h3 id="c11">II. GENUS LOPHOPHANES. <span class="sc">Kaup.</span> Skiz. Entw. Eur. Thierw. (1829.)</h3> -<p>Crested, bill moderate, strong, conic, entire, upper mandible rather the longer and slightly -curved, nostrils basal, rounded and concealed by projecting feathers. Wings rather long, with -the fourth and fifth primaries usually longest, tail rather long, legs and feet robust, the latter -rather large, and provided with curved, strong and very sharp claws. Prevailing color of all -known American species, cinereous.</p> -<p>This genus comprises the crested species of Europe and America, which were formerly -included in the genus Parus, Linn., but which evidently form a natural and easily -characterized group, fully entitled to generic distinction.</p> -<p>1. <span class="sc">Lophophanes bicolor.</span> (Linn) The crested Chickadee.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Parus bicolor.</span> Linn. Syst. Nat. I. p. 340, (1766.)</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_19">19</div> -<p>Length about 6½ inches. Front black, crest and body above dark cinereous, tinged with -greenish on the back, below ashy white, flanks reddish brown. Bill and legs nearly black. -Sexes alike.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Eastern North America. Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -<p>2. <span class="sc">Lophophanes atricristatus.</span> (Cassin). The black-crested Chickadee.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Parus atricristatus.</span> Cassin, Proc. Acad. Philada. V. p. 103, (Oct. 1850.)</p> -<p>Length (of skin) about 6 inches. Male—front, ashy white, crest black, entire plumage -above cinereous, beneath ashy white, flanks reddish brown. Bill and legs black. Female, -with the crest ashy, not black. Young, like the female, but with crest tinged with brown.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Texas and Mexico. Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philad. and in the National Collection -Washington city.</p> -<p>3. <span class="sc">Lophophanes inornatus.</span> (Gambel). The plain-crested Chickadee.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Parus inornatus.</span> Gambel. Proc. Acad. Philada. II. p. 265, (Aug. 1845.)</p> -<p>Length about 5½ inches. Front, crest and entire plumage above cinereous, strongly -inclining to olive, below uniform whitish, cinereous. Bill and legs lead-colored. Sexes -alike.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> California. Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> A plainly-colored species abundant in California, easily recognized by the uniform -cinereous color of its plumage.</p> -<p>4. <span class="sc">Lophophanes Wollweberi.</span> Bonaparte, Comptes rendus, Acad. Paris, xxxi. p. 478. -(Sept. 1850.) The Texan Chickadee.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Parus annexus.</span> Cassin, Proc. Acad. Philada. V. p. 103. (Oct. 1850.)</p> -<p><span class="sc">Lophophanes galeatus.</span> Cabanis Cat. Heine’s coll. p. 90. (1851.)</p> -<p>Length (of skin) about 5 inches. Anterior feathers of crest, cinereous, succeeding and -most elongated, black, others margined with white, short occipital feathers black. Throat -black, line commencing behind the eye, thence curving and uniting with the space of the -same color on the throat, black. Line above the eye running into the crest and around on -the neck, white. Entire plumage above cinereous, tinged with olive, below ashy white, bill -and feet dark.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Texas. Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This species considerably resembles <i>Lophophanes cristatus</i>, (Linn.) a common -European bird. I have no doubt that the names given above are synonymous; that applied -by us being about one month later than the publication of the description by Bonaparte -as cited.</p> -<h3 id="c12">III. GENUS PSALTRIA. <span class="sc">Temminck.</span> Pl. Col. III.</h3> -<p>Bill very short, thick, upper mandible curved, entire, nearly of the same thickness as the -lower, nostrils basal, concealed by projecting feathers, wings rather short, first quill spurious, -fourth and fifth longest and nearly equal, tail long and slightly wedge-shaped. Tarsi long -and slender, feet rather strong, claws curved and acute, that on the posterior toe strongest. -Not crested, colors of all known species principally cinereous and white.</p> -<p>This genus was established by the celebrated naturalist Temminck, of Leyden, (in Planches -Coloriees, vol. iii.) with a little bird as its type named by him <i>Psaltria exilis</i>, which inhabits -<span class="pb" id="Page_20">20</span> -<span class="sc">Java</span>. The bird discovered by Dr. Townsend in Oregon, and now well known to American -Ornithologists as <i>Parus minimus</i>, Townsend, not only belongs to this genus, but only materially -differs in size from <i>Psaltria exilis</i>. Temm. Its colors and general appearance much -resemble it.</p> -<p>The American species are:</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Psaltria minima.</span> (Townsend) Townsend’s Chickadee.</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Parus minimus.</span> Townsend, Jour. Acad. Philada. vii. p. 199. (1837.)</dt></dl> -<p>Length (of skin) about 4 inches. Head above deep cinereous, inclining to purplish brown, -body above cinereous, with a tinge of olive. Throat and breast whitish, abdomen and flanks -cinereous, tinged with purplish brown, bill and feet black. Female rather smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Oregon and California. Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> As frequently turns out to be the case with birds to which such names as minor and -minimus are applied, this little bird is considerably <i>larger</i> than its near relative, <i>P. exilis</i>, Temm. -which otherwise it much resembles. It is now frequently brought in collections from -California.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>2. <span class="sc">Psaltria melanotis.</span> (Sanbach.) The black-eared Chickadee.</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Parus melanotis.</span> Sandb. Proc. Brit. Ass. for Adv. Sci. vi. p. 99. (1837.)</dt> -<dt>“<span class="sc">Parus melanotis.</span> Sandb.” Hartlaub, Rev. Zool. 1844, p. 216.</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Psaltriparus personatus.</span> Bonaparte, Comptes Rendus Acad. Paris, xxxi. p. 478. (Sept. 1850.)</dt></dl> -<p>Length (of skin) about 4 inches. Male, broad stripes on each side of the head under -the eye, and uniting on the occiput, deep black with a green metallic lustre. Head -above pale cinereous, body above cinereous brown, throat and neck white, below ashy -white, with a purplish tinge, bill and legs dark. Female, with the ears brown.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Texas and Mexico. Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This pretty little bird has the bill longer and more compressed than either the -preceding species, or <i>Psaltria exilis</i>, Temm. It is, however, we think, a true <i>Psaltria</i>, in -which respect we coincide with Prof. Westerman, who gives a description and excellent figure -of it in Contributions to Zoology, (Bijdragen tot de Dierkunden,) Amsterdam, 1851.</p> -<p>A few other names have been given to American species of the old genus <i>Parus</i> by the -earlier authors, all of which are undoubtedly synonymes for those of species previously -described, and which we have enumerated. We have in all cases given the authority for the -first description and its date.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Chamæa fasciata.</span> (Gambel) a bird of California—though described originally, but as Dr. -Gambel expressly states provisionally only, as a <i>Parus</i>, we regard as properly belonging to -the family of Wrens (Troglodytidæ.)</p> -<div class="img" id="fig4"> -<img src="images/ppp03.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="542" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 4<br /><span class="ln2">The Massena Partridge</span><br /><span class="ln3">Cyrtonyx Massena (<i>Lesson</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_21">21</div> -<h2 id="c13"><span class="small">CYRTONYX MASSENA.—(Lesson.)</span> -<br />The Massena Partridge. -<br />PLATE IV.—Male and Female.</h2> -<p>This singularly, we had almost said, fantastically colored, though very -handsome Partridge, is an inhabitant of Texas and Mexico. No other -species presents such a remarkable arrangement of colors, and the black -lines in the face of the male bird, as the eminent English Ornithologist, -Mr. Gould, very appropriately observes, “forcibly remind one of the painted -face of the clown in a pantomime.”</p> -<p>It has, until recently, been an exceedingly rare and highly prized bird in -collections, a few specimens only having reached Europe or the cities on the -Atlantic seaboard of the United States. Those have received names, and -have been described by various European authors, as will appear from -the synonymes included in the present article; but neither of them have -published any information relative to the habits or history of this curious -bird, nor have indicated the district of Mexico from which it had been -received. It has been known only as a museum species.</p> -<p>Since the commencement of the military operations of the United States -in Texas, New Mexico and California, and the subsequent incorporation of -those countries into this great Confederacy, their natural history has -attracted a large share of the attention of naturalists and students at home, -and also of many highly accomplished officers of the army. In fact, to the -latter gentlemen is to be awarded the high merit of having contributed, -notwithstanding the engrossing and deeply responsible character of their -professional duties, a large portion of all that is known relative to the -zoology of those vast, and especially in a scientific point of view, very -interesting regions.</p> -<p>A valuable notice of the Massena Partridge is given by our highly -esteemed friend, Col. McCall, in his “Remarks on the habits of birds met -with in Western Texas, between San Antonio and the Rio Grande, and in New -<span class="pb" id="Page_22">22</span> -Mexico, with descriptions of several species believed to have been hitherto -undescribed,” published in the Proceedings of the Philadelphia Academy, -V. p. 213, (June, 1851,) which we have taken the liberty of transferring -to our pages.</p> -<p>“This species was not seen before crossing the San Pedro, but it was -not long until it made its appearance in the waste and rocky region into -which we then entered. And from that time until we reached the Rio -Pecos, a distance of 140 miles, (westwardly by the route travelled,) it -was frequently seen, though I should not say it was very common. This -region is a desert of great length from north to south, our trail crossing -it at nearly right angles. The general face of the country is level, and -consists of either a crumbling argillaceous limestone, or a coarse grey -sand, producing nothing but a sparse growth of sand plants. Water is -found only at long intervals, and except at those points there is little -cover for game, and apparently less food,—the principal growth being -<i>Cacti</i>, of which the most common is <i>Cactus arborescens</i>; yet here, amongst -projecting rocks, or on the borders of dry gullies, or in loose scrub, I -found the Massena Partridge in all the beauty of his rich and varied -plumage.</p> -<p>“The habits of this species are different from those of any other species -of partridge that I have met with. They were in covies of from eight -to twelve individuals, and appeared to be extremely simple and affectionate -in disposition. In feeding, they separated but little, keeping up a social -<i>cluck</i> all the time. They were so gentle as to evince little or no alarm -on the approach of man; scarcely moving out of his way as he passed, -and only running off or flying a few yards, when perhaps half their -numbers were laid low by a shot. This inclined me to think they might -with little difficulty be domesticated, although I found them here in a -boundless, barren waste, and nowhere near the habitation of man. This -trait of gentleness is the very opposite of those strikingly manifested by -the scaly partridge, (<i>Callipepla squamata</i>,) which I always observed to -be, though found perchance in grounds as little frequented as these, -remarkably vigilant, shy, and difficult to approach. The call or signal -note of this species is peculiar. I never saw it after crossing the Pecos -river.”</p> -<p>Col. McCall’s observations on the habits of this bird confirm an opinion -expressed by Mr. Gould in his Monograph of American Partridges: “No -<span class="pb" id="Page_23">23</span> -account whatever has yet reached us of the habits and economy of this -species, which, judging from the comparative shortness of the toes, and the -great development of its claws, we may expect to be different from those of -other members of the family.”</p> -<p>The circular spots which are numerous on the inferior parts of the body -in this partridge, appear to indicate as a character an analogy to the Guinea -fowls, which is further sustained by its habit of uttering its note continually -when in company with its fellows, or when feeding. The Guinea fowls in -their native wilds also associate in small parties, and take wing only -reluctantly, and for short distances.</p> -<p>Capt. S. G. French, of the U. S. Army, has most kindly and very -opportunely presented us with fine specimens of this and other species -preserved in spirits, for which, as well as for some valuable memoranda, we -beg here to express our gratitude. He remarks, with reference to this -species: “It was in the summer of 1846, when crossing the then pathless and -untrodden plains or table lands which extend westwardly from San Antonio, -Texas, to New Mexico, that I first met with this beautiful partridge. On a -bright summer afternoon, I undertook the ascent of a high rocky mountain -for the purpose of obtaining a view of the valley through which the San -Pedro river takes its course, and when I had gained the summit I observed -several of these birds, a few feet only in advance of me, running -along over the fragments of rocks and through the dwarf bushes, which -grew wherever there was sufficient soil. Their handsome plumage and their -gentleness attracted my attention, and I felt many regrets that I had left -my gun behind me, thereby losing the opportunity of securing specimens -for examination.</p> -<p>“A few days afterwards, however, when encamped on the head waters -of the river, I found a covey, and succeeded in obtaining several specimens, -one of which I had skinned, but which was afterwards unfortunately lost. -From that point we occasionally met with these birds on the route to the -Pecos river, a distance of over one hundred miles. I did not see them -again until we came to the Eagle Springs, in a mountainous region about -twenty-five miles from the Rio Grande. Two covies were found there, and -several specimens were obtained.</p> -<p>“In the spring of 1851, I again passed over the same route in charge of -a military expedition, and on the way out, two of these birds only were -seen, one of which, (a female,) was killed by Major E. Backus, U. S. Army, -<span class="pb" id="Page_24">24</span> -and is now in the collection of Dr. Woodhouse, who was then going out -with a party of topographical engineers to which he was attached. When -returning in July last, I chanced to kill at an encamping ground near -Howard’s Springs, between the San Pedro and Pecos rivers, the specimen -which I now send you. It was the only one that I saw on the route as -I came back from New Mexico, and it is but fair to conjecture that these -birds are not at all numerous.</p> -<p>“They appear to inhabit the rocky sides of the mountains and hills in -that desolate region of elevated plains, west of the fertile portions of Texas, -living amidst the solitude that wraps them in silence, far from enemies -and the busy haunts of men. In no instance have I met with this species -near any settlements. The wild, rocky hill-sides in the lone wilderness, -seem to be their favorite resort; and there, where trees are almost unknown, -and vegetation is scant, and where hardly a living thing is seen, are these -fine birds found in all their beauty and gentleness. The covies of them -showed but little alarm at our approach, and ran along over the rocks, -occasionally attempting to secrete themselves beneath them, in which case -they would let a person approach within a few feet. When startled by the -firing of a gun, they fly but a few yards before again alighting, and exhibit -little of that wildness peculiar to all the other species of partridges with -which I am acquainted.”</p> -<p>In 1832 this bird was described under the name <i>Tetrao guttata</i>, by Don -Pablo de la Llave, in <i>Registro trimestre ó coleccion de Memorias de -Historia, Literatura, Ciencasóy Artes</i>, Vol. I. p. 145, Mexico, 1832, which -periodical, though little known, and discontinued, we believe, before the -completion of the second volume, contains several valuable papers by this -and other Mexican authors, relative to the natural history of their country. -The ornithological papers by Sr. De la Llave, evince much ability, and -contain very accurate observations and descriptions; and a tone pervades -them too, which proclaims him to be a true lover of nature. That in which -we are interested at present, is entitled, “Sobre tres especias neuvas del -genero <i>Tetrao</i>,” and consists of notices of birds of this genus, of which he -had living specimens at his residence in the city of Mexico, and descriptions -of three species, viz.: <i>Tetrao marmorata</i> (which is <i>Ortyx macroura</i>, Jardine -and Selby), <i>T. cristata</i>, (which is <i>O. squamata</i>, Vigors.) and <i>T. guttata</i>, -(which is <i>O. Massena</i>, Lesson.)</p> -<p>To the last bird he thus alludes: “It is only a few days since the third -<span class="pb" id="Page_25">25</span> -species has been brought to me. It is rather smaller than the former, and -its deportment is entirely different. It carries its head habitually resting -upon its shoulders, the neck being excessively <i>small</i> and deflexed, and -in every thing it shows an amiability, and so to speak, a kindness of -character (<i>una bondad de caracter</i>) which is not found in any other -species of this genus, and it is naturally so tame and domestic as to -permit itself to be caught with the hand. These birds are always united, -forming a covey, and whenever one is separated, the others follow it; they -do not, like others, wish to sleep on elevated places, but sit on the ground, -drawing very near together. Their notes, which are not varied, are -very low and soft, and I have never heard loud cries from the male. When -they are frightened, they show much activity and swiftness; at other times -their gait and movement are habitually slow and deliberate, carrying the -crest puffed up (<i>esponjada</i>).”</p> -<p>Sr. De la Llave gives as the locality of his specimens, the warm regions -near the city of Mexico.</p> -<p>These statements comprise all that is known at present of the Massena -Partridge.</p> -<p>The contents of the crop in Capt. French’s specimen consisted exclusively -of fragments of insects, pronounced by Dr. Leconte to be principally -grasshoppers, and a species of <i>Spectrum</i>. No trace whatever of food of a -vegetable character.</p> -<h3 id="c14">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Cyrtonyx.</span> Gould, Monograph of the Odontophorinæ (American Partridges) Introduction, p. 14, London, 1850. Folio.</dt></dl> -<p>Bill short, robust, ridge of the mandible curving downwards from its -base; lower mandible straight with two slight dentitions near its point; -nostrils large, covered and bordered with a membrane. Head crested, the -feathers inclining backward and forming a thick tuft on the occiput; wings -rather long, tertiaries pendant, longer than the primaries; tail short, and -composed of soft feathers. Tarsi rather long and robust; toes short, -hind-toe focal, nails large, long and curved. All the known species are -natives of America. Type <i>C. Massena</i>.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_26">26</div> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Cyrtonyx Massena.</span> (Lesson.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Ortyx Massena.</span> Lesson. Centurie Zoologique, p. 189. Paris, 1830.</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Ortyx Montezumæ.</span> Vigors. Zoological Journal, Vol. V., p. 275. London, 1830.</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Odontophorus Meleagris.</span> Wagler. Isis. Vol. XXV. p. 277. Leipzig, 1832.</dt> -<dt>“<span class="sc">Perdix perspicillata.</span> Lichtenstein in Mus. Berlin.” Gould in Monograph. <i>ut supra</i>.</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Tetrao guttata.</span> Llave Reg. trimestre, I. p. 145. Mexico, 1832.</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Compact and robust; plumage of the head above, elongated, and -forming a pendant thick tuft on the occiput. Wings rather long; tail -short, formed of weak feathers, and concealed by the superior coverts; tarsi -rather short, robust; toes short; claws long, curved.</p> -<p>Dimensions of Capt. French’s male specimen in spirits. Total length, -from tip of bill to end of tail, about 9 inches; wing 5; tail 2 inches. -Female. Dr. Woodhouse’s female specimen, (dried skin.) Total length -about 8¼ inches; wing, 4¾; tail, 2 inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> <span class="sc">Male.</span> General color of the sides of the head and throat, -white, with black stripes commencing at the base of the bill and curving -above and below the eye, forming a broad, abruptly terminated somewhat -triangular patch on the cheek, which is united to a wide longitudinal -mark on the throat;—the entire white space enclosed by an edging of -black.</p> -<p>Occipital tuft of crest-like feathers, buff yellow, frequently nearly white, -but varying in shade of color in different specimens. Head above with a -central black line commencing at the base of the bill, and running into -brownish and black, on the upper part of the head.</p> -<p>Upper surface of the body brown, inclining to reddish chestnut, every -feather having several transverse bars of black, and a narrow longitudinal -stripe of pale yellowish, nearly white in the centre; wing coverts and -tertiaries paler, and with the black bars much broader, and inclining to -form circular spots on some of the feathers. Primaries brownish black, -transversely barred with pale reddish yellow, especially on the outer webs.</p> -<p>Middle of the breast and abdomen fine deep chestnut, forming a wide -longitudinal stripe on those parts of the body; sides and flanks sooty black, -every feather marked with about six or eight circular spots of pure white; -ventral region, thighs, and under tail coverts, deep black. Tail and long -superior coverts same color as the wing coverts. Upper mandible nearly -black; under mandible lighter; tarsi pale colored.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_27">27</div> -<p><span class="sc">Female.</span> Head above, and occipital tuft and body above, pale reddish or -purplish brown, with a tinge of cinereous; every feather with transverse -irregular bars and lines of black, and with a conspicuous longitudinal -narrow stripe of yellowish white in the centre.</p> -<p>Throat pale white; inferior surface of the body pale purplish brown on -the belly and flanks, with irregular lines and minute spots of black.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Mexico and Texas. Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> The descriptions by M. Lesson and Mr. Vigors, as cited above, -were published nearly at the same time. That by M. Lesson appears to -have had a short period of priority, which entitles his name to preference.</p> -<p>In our article on another species, we propose to give a synopsis, with -descriptions of all the partridges inhabiting the continent of America.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_28">28</div> -<h2 id="c15"><span class="small">LARUS HEERMANNI.—Cassin.</span> -<br />The White-Headed Gull. -<br />PLATE V.—Adult Male and Young female.</h2> -<p>Amongst the many species of sea-birds which frequent the coast of the -American continent on the Pacific ocean, there is a race of Gulls with very -graceful forms, slender and brightly colored bills, and handsome plumage, -of which no immediate representatives have yet been discovered on the -eastern shores of this continent. The range of the species of this race -extends from Oregon to Cape Horn, and one species similar in general -characters inhabits the coasts of Australia and some of the islands in the -Pacific ocean.</p> -<p>This group appears to be characterized generally by the uniform lead-colored -plumage which prevails in several of the known species, and seems -to embrace <i>Larus Belcheri</i>. Vigors. <i>Larus fuliginosus.</i> Gould. <i>Larus -nova hollandiæ.</i> Stephens, the present species, and some others.</p> -<p>The bird, which is the subject of the present description, is one of the -most handsome of the numerous family to which it belongs, and of which -species are found on all the sea shores of the world. It is one of many -additions to the ornithological fauna of the United States, which have been -discovered by Adolphus L. Heermann, M. D., of Philadelphia, who has been -occupied for nearly three years in making researches and collections, with -excellent judgment and great enterprise, in California, and has now -succeeded in safely bringing home the most extensive collections ever made -in that country.</p> -<p>Dr. Heermann found this Gull occurring frequently on the coast of -California, but most numerous in the harbor of San Diego in the month of -March, at which time though it appeared to have attained its perfect -plumage in some instances, yet many specimens were clothed in that of -young birds. Both of these stages of plumage are represented in our -plate, and it is possible that the plumage assumed in winter, at all ages, may -be similar in most respects to that of the young.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig5"> -<img src="images/ppp04.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="483" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 5<br /><span class="ln2">The White-headed Gull</span><br /><span class="ln3">Larus Heermanni (<i>Cassin</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_29">29</div> -<p>It was observed, at the localities alluded to, usually flying in company -with the western Gull, <i>Larus occidentalis</i>, Audubon, a large and handsome -species, of which, in a future part of our work, we hope to have the pleasure -of presenting a figure and description to our readers. It appeared to be -engaged in the capture of small fishes, of which several species abound in -the harbor of San Diego, and also appeared to feed on the small maritime -animals of various classes, that inhabit the immense beds of <i>Kelp</i> which -occur on the coast, and are especially extensive off the harbor of San -Diego less than a mile from its mouth.<a class="fn" id="fr_1" href="#fn_1">[1]</a> The nests and eggs of both the -present species and of the western Gull were found by Dr. Heermann on the -Coronadoes islands which are situated a short distance below the mouth of -the harbor.</p> -<p>Our first notice of this bird which we regard as having been previously -undescribed, and which we dedicated to its discoverer, is in the Proceedings -of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia, Vol. VI. p. 187, -(October, 1852.) The figures given in the present plate are about one-sixth -of the natural size.</p> -<h3 id="c16">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Larus.</span> Linn. Syst. Nat. I. p. 224, (1766.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Larus Heermanni.</span> Cassin. Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci., Philada., Vol. VI. p. 187, (1852.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Bill rather long and slender; wings very long, extending beyond -the end of the tail; first primary longest; tail truncate or slightly emarginate.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <span class="sc">Adult.</span> Total length of skin from tip of the bill to the -<span class="pb" id="Page_30">30</span> -end of the tail, about 17½ inches; wing, 13½; tail, 5½; bill from the angle -of the mouth to the tip of the upper mandible 2½ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> <span class="sc">Adult.</span> Bill red, both mandibles tipped with black; feet and -legs dark; head white, which color gradually blends into an ashy lead -color enveloping the entire body above and below—darker on the back and -wings and paler on the abdomen. Secondary quills tipped with white, -forming an oblique bar when the wings are folded. Superior coverts of -the tail very pale cinereous, nearly white. Quills and tail feathers brownish -black, all of the latter narrowly tipped with white. Shafts of the two first -primaries white on the inferior surface of the wing.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Young.</span> Smaller, total length about 16 inches, wing 13, tail 5 inches. -Entire plumage brown, darker on the head and paler on the under surface -of the body; quills and tail feathers brownish black, the latter narrowly -tipped with white.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Coast of California. Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> We are acquainted with no species of Gull which intimately -resembles the bird now described. Judging from the only description extant -of <i>Larus Belcheri</i>. Vigors, which is in the Zoological Journal, Vol. IV. p. -358, and which is too short to be of service in this family of birds—it -appears to resemble that species to some extent. <i>L. Belcheri</i> is much -larger, and is described as having the entire plumage brownish lead-color, -and as being 21 inches in total length. It appears to be, however, the only -western American species with which our present bird can be confounded.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig6"> -<img src="images/ppp05.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1170" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 6<br /><span class="ln2">The Northern Sea Eagle</span><br /><span class="ln3">Haliaëtus pelagicus (<i>Pallas</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_31">31</div> -<h2 id="c17"><span class="small">HALIAETUS PELAGICUS.—(Pallas.)</span> -<br />The Northern Sea Eagle. -<br />PLATE VI—Female.</h2> -<p>The study of the rapacious birds of western and north western America -presents great attractions to the ornithologist, and a wide field for discovery.</p> -<p>Owing, principally, to the difficulties in obtaining, or even in observing the -shy and vigilant birds of this family, their investigation is of peculiar character, -and dependent on accidental opportunity in some measure every where, -but especially in countries where the primitive forests yet flourish in undisturbed -vigour, and which abound in unexplored and, as yet, inaccessible -mountains; or in plains of an extent only known to the adventurous hunter, -and traversed only by the wandering Indian, or by the pioneers of civilization: -the devoted missionary, or the enterprising and hardy emigrant. Such -is the character of the regions of that portion of North America, the visits of -naturalists to which have been too transient to afford proper opportunities -for the study of the rapacious birds, and the detached items of information -which have appeared from time to time are not sufficiently numerous to be regarded -as giving any clear insight into their history.</p> -<p>The naturalist, generally travelling expeditiously with a military or other -party on business for the government, or with a caravan of emigrants, may -get a glimpse of a Falcon of singularly novel and beautiful plumage as it darts -away into concealment; or may see, occasionally, an Eagle seated at ease, and -viewing the novel cavalcade leisurely, but beyond the range of his rifle; or as -he performs, in turn, his assigned duty, and guards his sleeping companions -in the encampment, his watch-fire may attract clamorous night birds of strange -forms whose cries are unfamiliar to him, but to his practised ear may present -unmistakable family relationship, yet it is readily demonstrable that the -proper study of those birds requires facilities of a description only attainable -in the course of more protracted residence and frequently recurring opportunities.</p> -<p>The discovery in western America of the Californian Vulture, second in -size only to the great Condor of the Andes; of the Ferrugineous Buzzard, -<span class="pb" id="Page_32">32</span> -<i>Archibuteo ferrugineus</i>, one of the handsomest of the American Falcons; of -the Burrowing Owl, a very remarkable species which lives in holes in the -ground; of the Little Californian Owl, <i>Athene infuscata</i>, the most diminutive -of its family yet discovered in the United States, and of other curious species, -may be regarded as affording an indication of the interesting results in this -group of birds which will reward the future labours of naturalists and travellers -in those vast and diversified regions.</p> -<p>The bird which is the subject of our present article is the largest and most -powerful of the Eagles. It is a native of the remote sea-coasts of northern -Asia and America, and has been especially observed in the group or girdle -of islands which extends from one continent to the other.</p> -<p>It also, very probably, extends its range into the interior of Russian America, -and possibly southward, in the winter season, into Oregon and California. -In size, and in the strength of its beak and talons, this gigantic Eagle far -surpasses any other of its tribe. The Golden Eagle, and the White-headed -Eagle, are comparatively insignificant; and if its habits correspond to its powerful -organization, as may safely be presumed, it is one of the most destructive -of the rapacious birds. It appears, however, like other species of its genus, -to prey principally on fishes, which are caught either by its own exertions, or -appropriated summarily by the right of the strongest, from the acquisitions -of more expert or more successful fishermen.</p> -<p>Though, like the White-headed or Bald Eagle, the range of this extraordinary -bird may be very extensive, yet the solitudes of the extreme northern -parts of the two continents appear to be its proper home; where, it has been -fully demonstrated, that although the resident animals of the land are necessarily -restricted in numbers, the sea teems with multitudes of inhabitants. -There, in the bleak regions of almost perpetual winter, the Great Sea Eagle -reigns, a mighty chieftain, without a competitor, and with power unrivalled: -finding ample subsistence in the arctic quadrupeds, and in the fishes of the -northern seas, or occasionally levying tribute from the hosts of feathered travellers -that make their annual pilgrimage to the places of their nativity, and -intrude on his domain. Even the famous Condor of the Andes, the largest -of Vultures, scarcely exceeds him in size, and in swiftness of flight, and power -of beak and talons, is much his inferior.</p> -<p>Pallas, a celebrated Russian naturalist, was the first who gave a satisfactory -and reliable account of this Eagle, in his Zoology of Asiatic Russia, I. p. 343, -(published at St. Petersburg in 1811, though printed many years previously,) -but it appears to have been previously noticed by the distinguished navigators, -Steller and Billings.</p> -<p>Before the time of Pallas, and, it may be added, since, also, various reports -<span class="pb" id="Page_33">33</span> -of remarkable and sometimes very large Eagles having been seen in different -parts of America, were from time to time made by travellers and voyagers. -In fact, some are carefully and credibly described which are yet unknown to -naturalists. Capt. Cook, in the account of his last voyage, or rather in that -part of it which was written by himself, states that several Eagles, one of -which is very remarkable, were seen at Kayes’ Island, on the northwest coast -of America, in latitude 59° 49′ N. “We saw,” he says, “flying about the -woods, a Crow, two or three of the white-headed Eagles, mentioned at Nootka, -and another sort full as large, which appeared also of the same colour, or -blacker, and had only <i>a white breast</i>.” Last Voyage, II. p. 352, quarto, -London, 1784. It is necessary for me to say only, that no species of Eagle -having a white breast is yet known as an inhabitant of any part of America.</p> -<p>In the History of the Expedition of Lewis and Clarke it is stated, that -“The Calumet Eagle sometimes inhabits this side of the Rocky mountains. -The colours are black and white, beautifully variegated. The tail feathers, -so highly prized by the natives, are composed of twelve broad feathers of unequal -length, which are white except within two inches of their extremities, -when they immediately change to a jetty black, the <i>wings</i> have each a large -circular <i>white spot</i> in the middle, which is only visible when they are extended.” -II. p. 188, Philada., 1814. This statement, though it appears to -have been usually regarded as referring to the Golden Eagle, does not apply -to any established species, but it is worth bearing in mind that in the number -of the feathers of the tail, the bird here alluded to agrees exactly with Audubon’s -Washington Eagle, (Orn. Biog. I. p. 63.)</p> -<p>The black-checked Eagle of Pennant, said to be from North America, (Arctic -Zoology, I. p. 227,) and which is <i>Falco americanus</i>, Gmelin, is described -as being “about the size of the Golden Eagle, but with the head, neck and -breast of a <i>deep ash colour</i>, each cheek marked with a broad black bar, passing -from the corner of the mouth beyond the ears; back, belly, wings and tail, -black.”</p> -<p>One of the most remarkable of these mysterious birds is the White Eagle, -represented by Du Pratz as inhabiting Louisiana, of whose description of -which the following is a translation: “The Eagle, the king of birds, is smaller -than the Eagle of the Alps, but it is much handsomer, being <i>almost entirely -white</i>, and having only the extremities of its wings black. As it is rather -rare, this is a second reason for rendering it esteemed amongst the people of -the country, who buy at a high price the feathers of its wings to make the -ornament of the symbol of peace, and which is the fan of which I have spoken -in giving a description of the Calumet.” Du Pratz, Histoire de la Louisiane, -II. p. 109, Paris, 1758. On the faith of this description, the species supposed -<span class="pb" id="Page_34">34</span> -to be alluded to has been named <i>Falco candidus</i> by Gmelin. If not an albino, -there is a possibility that it is a species of a group of white hawks, of rather -large size, which are principally found in South America, and one species of -which (<i>Buteo Ghiesbrectü Dubus</i>,) is known to inhabit Mexico. The latter -would agree very well with Du Pratz’s description, so far as it goes.</p> -<p>That excellent and reliable naturalist, the Prince Maximilian of Wied, -whose Travels in the interior of North America contain much valuable information -in nearly all departments of Zoology, mentions a “Grey Eagle of -enormous dimensions,” I. pp. 203, 214, (Raise in das innere Nord-America, -Quarto, Coblenz, 1839.)<a class="fn" id="fr_2" href="#fn_2">[2]</a></p> -<p>But there is no end to the accounts of strange Eagles given by travellers -and naturalists. Some of them may have reference to peculiar species which -have in later times escaped attention, but the probability is, that they more -frequently allude to accidental varieties, or that the authors describe from such -reports as they had heard at second hand, or fell into error from insufficient -personal observation.</p> -<p>Several of the naturalists who have recently visited California have informed -us that they saw occasionally large species of Eagles, or other large -rapacious birds, of which they did not succeed in procuring specimens, nor in -approaching within sufficiently short distance to be enabled to examine them -satisfactorily.</p> -<p>We have introduced the extraordinary bird which is the subject of our -present article, thus early into our work, for the purpose mainly of asking attention -to a most remarkable and interesting species heretofore apparently -entirely unknown to American Ornithological writers, and also on account of -its similarity, in some respects, to one of the most important of Audubon’s -discoveries, the Washington Eagle. This celebrated author was not acquainted -with the bird now before us.</p> -<p>The specimen of the Washington Eagle, described and figured by Audubon, -does not appear to have been preserved, or at any rate is not known to be -extant, nor does it appear that he ever procured more than one. His drawing, -however, with some others of species which he had met with but once, -appears fortunately to have escaped the destruction of his collection of pictures -of birds by rats, as described in his Ornithological Biography, Vol. I. Introductory -Address, p. 13, (Edinburg edition, 1831.)</p> -<p>We have no doubt that such a species exists, or in other words, that Audubon -is entirely correct in regarding his bird as a peculiar species; and we -think it quite impossible for his description and history to apply to the young -<span class="pb" id="Page_35">35</span> -of the common White-headed or Bald Eagle, as has been supposed by some -American, and by nearly all late European Ornithologists. But we are disposed, -at present, to question the correctness of his plate, and also his statement -that the bird represented was an “adult male” (Orn. Biog. I. p. 62). -We are aware, of course, that the plate may not be a fair representation of -the drawing, and in fact it has not been very carefully engraved. The tail -appears to be unfinished. Having, however, quite sufficient knowledge of the -difficulties in getting up correct plates of birds, we are enabled fully to appreciate -the disadvantages under which this distinguished Ornithologist, with all -his artistic knowledge and perseverance, must necessarily have laboured at the -commencement of his great work, and his plate of the Washington Eagle is -one of the earliest, being the eleventh of the series.</p> -<p>The bill, as represented in the plate, is shorter than we have ever seen in -any adult Eagle of this group (the fishing Eagles), and above all the arrangement -of the scales on the tarsi anteriorly, is such as we have never observed -in any rapacious bird whatever.</p> -<p>Notices of the Washington Eagle having been captured, have appeared -occasionally (as in Nuttal’s Manuel, I. p. 71, and the Boston Journal of Nat. -Hist. III. p. 72), and we have seen numerous specimens of Eagles of a size -so large that they could not, without much doubt, be referred to the common -white-headed species. But we have never seen nor heard of a specimen which -presented all the peculiar characters represented in Audubon’s plate, and -especially the anterior scales of the tarsus continued transversely so far down -to the toes. The pointed and slender feathers of the neck, the large size, and -in one specimen of a young bird, the short bill we have seen, and there are -specimens now in the collection of the Philadelphia Academy in which these -characters will be found, but not the peculiar arrangement of the scales of -the tarsus. All other species of fishing Eagles have the head more or less -marked with white in their mature plumage. In Audubon’s plate of the -Washington Eagle, the head is of the same deep brown as the other parts. -From analogy, therefore, it may safely be presumed that he was mistaken in -supposing his specimen to be that of an adult male bird.</p> -<p>An interesting feature in the large specimens to which we allude, is the -fact that they almost invariably have the ends of their tails broken as though -injured by alighting habitually on rocks, or on the ground, thus apparently -confirming Audubon’s statements. Young birds are however peculiarly liable -to such injury on account of their feathers not possessing the strength and -rigidity of more mature plumage.</p> -<p>Respecting the Washington Eagle, our conclusion is, therefore, after many -years of attention to American birds, and especially to obscure or little known -<span class="pb" id="Page_36">36</span> -species, that of the existence of such a species in North America as is described -by Audubon, in Ornithological Biography, I. p. 58, there can be no reasonable -doubt. But we are of opinion that when adult it is very probably a bird -with the head more or less white, and tail of the same colour; and we are -disposed to regard the plate in Birds of America as erroneous, for reasons -above intimated, or for others not at present demonstrable, and at all events -as representing a young specimen. Waiving the presence of the character -of the scales of the tarsi as above stated, we think that we have several times -seen the young of the Washington Eagle, and that specimens of it are now in -the collection of the Philadelphia Academy. It is not, however, so large as -the immense Eagle which in the present article, and accompanying plate, we -have the pleasure of presenting to the American public for the first time, but -it appears to us to be more nearly related to it than to any other species.</p> -<p>The Eagle mentioned in the History of the Expedition of Lewis and Clarke, -as cited in a preceding page, we are inclined to suspect to be the present -species, but should not be surprised if it should be ascertained by succeeding -naturalists to be the adult of the Washington Eagle.</p> -<p>The great Eagle now before us has never been observed as yet by an -American voyager, and few specimens only are contained in European museums. -The only specimen in the United States is that in the collection of -the Philadelphia Academy from which the drawing was made for the present -plate.</p> -<p>We have added as a suitable conclusion of our present article a translation -of the original account of this Eagle as given by Pallas, and which will be -found in his Zoology of Asiatic Russia, as cited above:</p> -<p>“Steller, worthy of a better fate, first observed this remarkable species, -and in his manuscripts briefly described it. Now, also, I have before me an -elegantly prepared specimen from my friend Billings, who, with the last navigator, -explored the ocean between Kamschatka and America. This very large -bird is frequent in the islands between Kamschatka and the American continent, -especially in the islands noted for the unfortunate shipwreck and death -of Bering. It appears very rarely in Kamschatka itself. In the highest rocks -overhanging the sea, it constructs a nest of two ells in diameter, composed of -twigs of fruit and other trees, gathered from a great distance, and strewed -with grass in the centre, in which are one or two eggs, in form, magnitude and -whiteness, very like those of a Swan. The young is hatched in the beginning -of June, and has an entirely white woolly covering. While Steller was cautiously -viewing such a nest from a precipice, the parents darted with such -unforeseen impetuosity as nearly to throw him headlong; the female having -been wounded, both flew away, nor did they return to the nest which was -<span class="pb" id="Page_37">37</span> -watched for two days. But, as if lamenting, they often sat on an opposite -rock. It is a kind of bird, bold, very cunning, circumspect, observant, and -of savage disposition. Steller saw a Fox (<i>Vulpes lagopodus</i>) carried off by -one and dashed upon the rocks, and afterwards torn in pieces. It lives also -on dead substances cast up by the sea, and various offscourings of the ocean.”</p> -<h3 id="c18">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Haliaëtus.</span> Savigny, Description of Egypt, Zoology, p. 85, (1809.)</dt></dl> -<p>Size, large. Bill, strong, straight at the base, hooked and very sharp at the -point, sides of the bill compressed, margin of upper mandible, slightly festooned. -Wings rather long and pointed, formed for rapid and vigorous flight; -tail moderate. Tarsi short, very strong, and with the toes, covered with -scales; claws very strong, curved and sharp. About ten or twelve species -known, which are scattered throughout the surface of the globe.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Haliaëtus pelagicus.</span> (Pallas.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Aquila pelagica.</span> Pallas, Zoographia Rosso-Asiatica, I. p. 343, (St. Petersburg, 1811, Quarto.)</dt> -<dt>“<span class="sc">Aquila marina.</span> Steller, MSS.” Pallas <i>ut supra</i>.</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Falco Imperator.</span> Kittlitz, Kupfertafeln zur naturg. der Vogel pt. I. p. 3, pl. 2, (Frankfurt, 1832.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Falco leucopterus.</span> Temminck. Pl. col. I. pl. 489.</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Haliaëtus pelagicus.</span> (Pallas.) Temm. & Schl. Fauna Japonica, Aves p. 10, pl. 4.</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Haliaëtus imperator.</span> (Kittlitz.) Bruch in Isis XXV. p. 1102, (1832.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Very large and powerful, tail rather short, wedge shaped, the -middle feathers being nearly four inches longer than the outer, which are -shortest, all of the fourteen feathers somewhat pointed, but the central four -lanceolate.</p> -<p>Bill strong, much compressed, very wide laterally or in altitude; upper -mandible with a slight festoon; gape rather wide, extending so far back as to -be immediately under the eye; cere large, in which at the distance of nearly -an inch from the frontal feathers, the nostrils are obliquely inserted, large -loral space bare, or with a few scattered bristles.</p> -<p>Wings rather short, third and fourth quills longest, but with the fifth little -shorter; secondaries abruptly acuminated, and some of them with their shafts -produced into filaments or thread-like appendages, exserted from the tips of -the feathers; secondaries and greater coverts very broad and strong.</p> -<p>Legs and feet rather short, but strong; tarsus feathered below the joint for -half its length, bare lower portion, with about five large frontal scales immediately -<span class="pb" id="Page_38">38</span> -succeeding the feathers; then to the toes in common with its entire -posterior part, covered with numerous scales, which are rounded or hexagonal: -the latter shape most readily observed behind; toes, with broad frontal scales; -claws large.</p> -<p>Feathers of the head and neck, narrow and pointed, or acuminated; those on -the breast and back, somewhat lanceolate, but broad, and sometimes abruptly -pointed. Tail coverts, both above and below, ample—extending to half the -length of the tail.</p> -<p>Dimensions of a skin from Behrings Straits. Total length from tip of bill -to end of tail, about 3 feet 8 inches; wing, 2 feet 2 inches; tail, 1 foot -4 inches; bill, from tip of upper mandible to angle of the mouth, 3¾ inches; -width of bill, laterally, at point of insertion of the nostrils, full 1¾ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colours.</span> Female, nearly adult? Tail, white, the two external feathers -having their outer webs, brownish black, mottled with white, and other feathers -slightly spotted with the same brownish black. Entire other parts, above and -below, very dark brownish black; lighter on the head and neck, and on which -parts every feather is lighter in the middle.</p> -<p>Primary quills, shining black; secondaries and tertiaries, white at their -bases, and brownish black at their ends; greater coverts narrowly tipped with -brownish white; lesser coverts whitish on both margins, especially at their -bases, terminated with brownish. Rump with the plumage white at the base.</p> -<p>Bill, yellow, (in skin,) feet, yellow.</p> -<p>Adult, as described by authors cited above. Large frontal space, commencing -at the base of bill, white, which is also the colour of the greater wing -coverts, the abdomen, and the tail. All other parts of the plumage blackish -brown; bill, cere, legs and feet, yellow.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Russian possessions in Asia and America. Spec. in Mus. Acad. -Philada.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> The largest of all known Eagles, and nearly related to <i>H. Washingtonii</i> -(Aud.). It differs from the latter, as described by Audubon, in -being larger generally, but has the wing shorter and the tail wedge shaped, -and containing fourteen feathers. We suppose <i>H. Washingtonii</i> to be the -young of a closely allied species, and that both are strictly congeneric with -<i>H. leucocephalus</i>, <i>H. albicilla</i>, <i>H. vocifer</i>, and others known as Fishing -Eagles.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig7"> -<img src="images/ppp06.jpg" alt="" width="771" height="1196" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 7<br /><span class="ln2">The Ground Wren</span><br /><span class="ln3">Chamaea fasciata (<i>Gambel</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_39">39</div> -<h2 id="c19"><span class="small">CHAMÆA FASCIATA.—(Gambel.)</span> -<br />The Ground Wren. -<br />PLATE VII.—Adult Male.</h2> -<p>This little bird was discovered in California, by William Gambel, M. D., -an enthusiastic and highly talented young naturalist, who, during an overland -journey across the North American Continent, made many discoveries, and -added much valuable information to several departments of Natural History, -and we regret to say, whose recent death, during a second expedition of the -same character, occurring, as it did, so early, and thus terminating so prematurely -a life of such promise, is to be deplored as a loss to science and to his -country.</p> -<p>Dr. Gambel’s account of this bird in the Proceedings of the Academy of -Natural Sciences of Philadelphia, II. p. 265, and in the Journal of the same -society, quarto, I. p. 34, which is the first and, as yet, the most satisfactory, -is as follows: “For several months before discovering the bird, I was attracted -in the fields of dead mustard stalks, the weedy margins of streams, low thickets -and bushy places, by a continued loud, crepitant, grating scold, which -I took for that of a species of Wren, but at last found it to proceed from this -Wren-tit, if it may be so called. It was difficult to be seen, and kept in such -places as I have described, close to the ground; eluding pursuit by diving -into the thickest bunches of weeds and tall grass, or tangled bushes, and -uttering its grating Wren-like notes whenever approached. But if quietly, -watched, it may be seen, when searching for insects, mounting the twigs and -dried stalks of grass sideways, jerking its long tail, and holding it erect like -a Wren, which, with its short wings in such a position, it much resembles.</p> -<p>“Sometimes it utters a slow, monotonous, singing chicadee note, like <i>pee, -pee, pee, pee, peep</i>; at other times its notes are varied, and a slow whistling -continued <i>pwit, pwit, pwit, pwit</i>, is heard. Again, in pleasant weather, -towards spring, I have heard individuals answering each other, singing in a -less solemn strain not unlike sparrows, a lively <i>pit, pit, pit, tr, r, r, r, r, r</i>, -but, if disturbed, they at once resumed their usual scold.”</p> -<p>Mr. Bell, whose collection contained numerous specimens of this bird, found -<span class="pb" id="Page_40">40</span> -it abundant in the neighbourhood of San Francisco, and has kindly allowed -us to use his memoranda: “I observed this bird in bushes and briers every -where along the roads, and in brush heaps on lands which had been recently -cleared, though it appeared rather to prefer damp places. It was very pert, -and not easily frightened, and as it moved about with its tail erect, uttered -several rather peevish notes, unlike those of any other bird with which I am -acquainted.</p> -<p>“The white iris of this bird, when in its native haunts, is quite readily -observed, and with its manners and the localities which it frequents, reminded -me, in some measure, of the white-eyed Vireo, (<i>V. noveboracensis</i>.) Its skin -is unusually strong for such a small bird, and it has a remarkable development -of the muscles of the thighs, and, in fact, unusual strength and firmness -of the muscular system generally.”</p> -<h3 id="c20">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Chamæa.</span> Gambel in Proceedings Acad. Philada. III. p. 154, Feb., 1847.</dt></dl> -<p>Bill short, slightly curved, rather acute, both mandibles entire, ridge of the -upper curving nearly from the base, depression for the nostrils large, oval and -exposed, nostrils opening beneath a membrane in the depression. Wings very -short, rounded; tail long, and graduated; tarsi long, and rather slender.</p> -<p>One species only known.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Chamæa fasciata.</span> (Gambel.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Parus fasciatus.</span> Gambel, Proc. Acad. Philada., II. p. 265. August, 1845.</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Body rather short and robust; wings short and rounded, with the -sixth and seventh primaries longest, and nearly equal; tail long and graduated, -external feathers about an inch and a half shorter than those in the -middle of the tail. Entire plumage of the body composed of long, silky, puff-like -feathers.</p> -<p>Dimensions of a skin from California. Total length from tip of bill to end -of tail, about 5½ inches; wing, 2½; tail, 3½ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colours.</span> <span class="sc">Male.</span> Head very dark cinerous, lighter on the cheeks and -sides of the neck; back, rump, external margins of the quills and tail feathers -olive brown. Wings and tail dusky brown; the latter with many crimp-like -transverse lines of darker, more distinct in some specimens than others; quills -also with similar lines on their inner webs, but frequently very obscure.</p> -<p>Beneath, from the base of the mandible to the abdomen, pale reddish, running -into olive on the flanks, and with many of the feathers on the throat and -<span class="pb" id="Page_41">41</span> -breast having longitudinal stripes of light cinereous olive; under tail coverts -brown.</p> -<p>A distinct ring around the eye, and spot on the nares, whitish cinereous.</p> -<p>Bill and feet, dark brownish black.</p> -<p>Iris, white.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Female.</span> Similar to the male, but with the colours rather less vivid.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> California. Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> We consider this bird as decidedly related to the Wrens, and as -forming a well characterized genus, of which it is, as yet, the only known -species. It is frequently brought in collections from Western America.</p> -<p>The plant represented in the plate is the <i>Eschscholtzia Californica</i>, a native -of California.</p> -<p>The figure in our plate is about three-fourths of the natural size.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_42">42</div> -<h2 id="c21"><span class="small">ICTERUS CUCULLATUS.—(Swainson.)</span> -<br />The Hooded Oriole. -<br />PLATE VIII.—Male and Female.</h2> -<p>Some of the most beautiful of the American Orioles are inhabitants of -Mexico. Of these, we present, in the plate now before the reader, one of -the smallest of the species, which, though it cannot compete with many others -of its more richly coloured relatives, is still entitled to make considerable -claims. The various shades of the richest yellow colours are almost exhausted -in the splendid species of these birds which are found in Mexico, and in South -America, and as an accompaniment to the luxuriant vegetation of those countries, -they form, necessarily, a most agreeable and interesting feature.</p> -<p>The birds of this family represented in the northern portion of this continent, -by the Baltimore Oriole, are remarkable for their skill in constructing -elaborately formed and pendent nests, frequently of large size. Several of -the South American species make them of grasses, intricately and substantially -woven, and shaped like a purse or bag, with the entrance sometimes -from the top, but more frequently ingeniously inserted in the side, near the -lower end. They are usually suspended from the pendent branches of trees, -and often near the habitations of men. The Baltimore Oriole builds a nest -sufficiently similar to afford an idea of the general character of the nests of -these birds, but those of several of the southern species are much more artfully -and elaborately constructed.</p> -<p>The handsome little bird at present before us, was first described from -Mexican specimens, by Mr. Swainson, in the Philosophical Magazine, 1827, -p. 436, (London.) It is an inhabitant, also, of Texas, where it was repeatedly -observed by our friends Col. McCall and Capt. McCown, the latter of -which gentlemen has most kindly communicated the following with other -valuable notices:</p> -<div class="img" id="fig8"> -<img src="images/ppp07.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1161" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 8<br /><span class="ln2">The Hooded Oriole</span><br /><span class="ln3">Icterus cucullatus (<i>Swainson</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_43">43</div> -<p>“This beautiful Oriole is quite common on the Rio Grande, where it raises -its young. When met with in the woods, and far away from man’s abode, it -is shy, and seems rather disposed to conceal itself, yet a pair were constant -visitors, morning and evening, to the vicinity of my quarters (an unfinished -building at Ringgold Barracks, Texas.) They became so tame and familiar -that they would pass from some ebony trees that stood near by, to the porch, -clinging to the shingles and rafters, frequently in an inverted position, prying -into the holes and crevices, apparently in search of such insects as could be -found there, which, I believe, were principally spiders. They would sometimes -desist for a moment from this occupation, to observe my movements, -and if I happened to be enjoying a cigar after dinner, seemed to watch the -smoke with great curiosity. I often offered them such hospitality as was in -my power, but could never induce them to touch any food, in which respect -they were very different from the large black birds, whose acquaintance I -also cultivated. I have seen the nests of this species, but never had an opportunity -to examine them.”</p> -<h3 id="c22">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Icterus.</span> Brisson Ornithologie, II. p. 85, (quarto, Paris, 1760.)</dt></dl> -<p>Bill, conic, straight, or slightly curved, and entering the frontal plumes, -point acute, nostrils basal partly covered by a membrane. Wings, rather -long and pointed; tail, long; tarsi moderate, slender, covered with scales. -Colours, generally yellow and black. About twenty-five species known, all -of which are natives of America.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Icterus cucullatus.</span> Swainson in Philos. Mag., 1827, p. 486.</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Slender and delicate; bill, very acute, curved; wing, rather short, -with the third quill longest; tail, rather long, graduated; tarsi and feet, -slender.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length (of skin) from tip of bill to end of tail, about -7½ inches; wing, 3½; tail, 4 inches; female, slightly smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colours.</span> <span class="sc">Male.</span> Narrow frontal band, throat and neck in front, and -space extending to the eye, back, wings and tail, glossy black. External -edges of the quills, and tips of wing coverts white, the latter forming two -white bars on the wing. Upper part of the head and neck, rump and upper -tail coverts, and all the under parts, fine golden yellow, paler on the abdomen. -Inferior wing coverts, and tail feathers at their basis, pale yellow. -Bill, bluish horn colour.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Female.</span> Entire upper parts, olive green, tinged with yellow on the head -and rump. Wings, pale brown; coverts, tipped with white, and quills narrowly -edged with white; tail, above, yellowish green. Entire under parts, -greenish yellow.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Texas and Mexico. Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_44">44</div> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This species does not intimately resemble any other of its group, -though partaking of their general style of colouring, and can be readily -recognized by the student. Very fine specimens were obtained in Texas by -Capt. McCown, which are now in the collection of Mr. George N. Lawrence, -of New York, to whom we are indebted for an opportunity to figure the -female. The latter does not resemble the male in colour.</p> -<p>Our figures are about two-thirds of the natural size.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig9"> -<img src="images/ppp08.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="527" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 9<br /><span class="ln2">Gambels Partridge</span><br /><span class="ln3">Callipepla Gambellii (<i>Nuttall</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_45">45</div> -<h2 id="c23"><span class="small">CALLIPEPLA GAMBELII.—(Nuttall.)</span> -<br />Gambel’s Partridge. -<br />PLATE IX.—Male and Young Female.</h2> -<p>Mexico and the adjacent parts of the United States are particularly productive -of game birds, and amongst them are several species of Partridges, -unrivalled in beauty of plumage by those of any other country of the world. -Of those, some prefer fertile valleys, or grounds under cultivation; others -appear to live almost entirely in the barren plains, or in the mountains.</p> -<p>Independently of the usefulness of those birds as food, to the citizens of -the States alluded to, and to those who, in future years, shall occupy with -their farms and homesteads districts yet unpeopled, the numerous game birds -must always be a source of constant interest and amusement. Like the Deer, -and like the Turkey, Grouse, and Partridge of other States, their pursuit is -not only an easily attainable amusement, but serves also for the cultivation of -a knowledge of, and expertness in the use of firearms, which are peculiarly -characteristic of our vigorous and successful population, and have contributed -in an important degree to the formation of the character of the world-renowned -citizen-soldier of the United States.</p> -<p>Experience in hunter life, and the incidental influences of its occupations -and associations, are no inconsiderable features in American education; and -the invigorating and healthful pursuits of the youthful hunter or trapper have -always appeared to us to be no unimportant agents in the development of his -physical and of his intellectual constitution. In large portions of every State -of the Union, the gun or the rifle is the favourite companion of almost every -boy from the earliest period of his competency for its management; and we -have seen abundant instances, in our early days, of very considerably forced -presumption of competency. In fact, the stranger, in very many of the rural -districts of the United States, might almost be tempted to conclude that the -famous ancient formula of early education had been adopted, with an addition: -“Learn to speak the truth and to swim”—and to shoot.</p> -<p>The beautiful Partridge now before us was discovered a few years since in -New Mexico, by Dr. William Gambel, in honor of whom it has been named. -<span class="pb" id="Page_46">46</span> -The first description of it is in the Proceedings of the Academy of Natural -Sciences of Philadelphia, I. p. 260, April, 1843, and afterwards was reprinted -in the Journal of the same society, I. p. 219, (Quarto.)</p> -<p>Since that period it has repeatedly been observed, and we have now the -gratification of being able to present to our readers a particular history of -this fine species.</p> -<p>Our friend, Captain S. G. French, of the United States Army, to whose -kindness we have previously been indebted, has favoured us with the following -interesting account:</p> -<p>“This species was found by me on the Rio Grande, some seventy miles -below El Paso; and from that point to the place just mentioned, the numbers -constantly increased. They seem to be partial to the abodes of man, and are -very numerous about the old and decayed buildings, gardens, fields, and vineyards -around Presidio, Isileta, and El Paso. During my stay there in the -summer of 1851, every morning and evening their welcome call was heard -around us, and at those early and late hours they were constantly to be found -in the sandy roads and paths near the villages and farms. In the middle of -the hot summer days, they rest in the sand, under the shade and protection -of the thick <i>chapparal</i>; and, when disturbed, they glide through the bushes -very swiftly, seldom resorting to flight, and uttering all the while a peculiar -chirping note, by which they appear to be enabled to keep together. The -parent birds would utter the same chirp whenever I endeavoured to capture -their young. The male and female were always found with the young birds, -and showed much affection for them, even endeavoring to attract my attention -to themselves by their actions and cries.”</p> -<p>Col. George A. McCall, the accuracy of whose knowledge of the birds of -Western America is unrivalled, gives an interesting account of this bird in his -“Remarks on the habits, &c., of Birds met with in Western Texas, between -San Antonio and the Rio Grande, and in New Mexico,” published in the Proceedings -of the Philadelphia Academy, V. p. 213, (June, 1851):</p> -<p>“After losing sight of the Massena Partridge, I did not fall in with the -present species until we reached the Limpia river, about 100 miles west of -the Pecos.</p> -<p>“This beautiful bird, whose habits, in some respects, bear resemblance to -the common partridge, like that, seems to prefer a more genial and hospitable -region. In this part of the country, the Mesquite tree (Acacia glandulosa) -is more or less common; and the Mesquite grass, and other plants bearing -nutritious seeds, are abundant. Here, this partridge increases rapidly in -numbers, and becomes very fat; and, as I afterwards ascertained, is much -disposed to seek the farms, if any be within reach, and to cultivate the -<span class="pb" id="Page_47">47</span> -acquaintance of man. About the rancho of Mr. White, near El Paso, I found -them very numerous; and here, in flocks of fifty or a hundred, they resort, -morning and evening, to the barn-yard, and feed around the grain stacks, in -company with the poultry, where they receive their portion, as it is scattered -amongst them by the hand of the owner. I found them distributed through -the country from the Limpia to the Rio Grande, a range from east to west -exceeding one hundred miles; and along the Rio Grande, from Eagle Spring -Pass to Don Ana, a distance of one hundred and twenty miles. North of -this I did not see them. I was not among them during the season of incubation.”</p> -<p>But the most comprehensive and complete account ever before published of -this Partridge, has been furnished by the same gentleman (Col. McCall) for -insertion into our present article; for which, and for many other similar favours -from him, we beg to tender our deep sense of obligation.</p> -<p>“Whilst in California, during the last summer, (1852,) I was enabled to -ascertain the western limit of this species as satisfactorily as I had previously -ascertained its eastern limit within the State of Texas. And, although the -extent of its range to the north is not yet clearly established, it may be said -that the portion of our territory inhabited by this beautiful bird is a rather -narrow belt of country, (say one thousand miles long by two hundred -broad,) embraced between the 31st and 34th parallels of north latitude, and -extending from the Pecos river in Texas to the Sierra Nevada and the contiguous -desert in California. Be it understood, however, that when I speak -of a narrow belt of country along a certain parallel, I do not intend to say -that the <i>habitat</i> of the species does not extend beyond this belt into <i>Mexico</i>; -but that the river Gila being our southern boundary through the greater part -of the region referred to, the portion of our own territory inhabited by this -bird is confined to such a belt as I have indicated.</p> -<p>“First, then, with respect to its western limit. This species was discovered -by Dr. Gambel, ‘on the eastern side of the Californian range of mountains, -in 1841.’ He did not meet with it on the western side; nor has it, as far as -made known, been found there since that time by others. During the last -summer, search was made for it by several gentlemen who were interested in -the subject, as well as by myself, in different localities from north to south -along the Pacific slope, but in every instance without success. Hence, the -inference must be that this Partridge has never crossed to the west of the -Sierra, where, as we well know, it is abundantly replaced by the closely allied -species, the ‘<i>California Partridge</i>.’ Following down the Sierra Nevada to -its junction with the coast-range, you come upon a desert of sand of vast -extent; and as the snowy peaks of the Sierra had stopped the march of this -<span class="pb" id="Page_48">48</span> -species above, so did the burning sands of the desert stop its progress below, -and effectually shut it out from the Pacific plain. It is true I found it at -<i>Alamo macho</i> (cottonwood grove), which is 44 miles west of the Colorado -river. Thus far it had penetrated into the dreary waste, and had managed -to find shelter and subsistence where there is little to support animal life. -But from this <i>oasis</i> to <i>Valle-cita</i> (little valley), it is seventy miles. In this -interval, a vast ocean of sand presents a formidable barrier, as is but too -plainly indicated by the bleached bones of horses and mules scattered along -the route—and this barrier effectually separates the two congenerous species -of partridge: the range of <i>Gambel’s Partridge</i> being confined to the east of -this desert, while the range of the <i>California Partridge</i> is confined to the -west of it—although on both sides they approach to the very edge, as I ascertained -from personal observation.</p> -<p>“In the second place, with respect to its eastern limit—I have to repeat -that I did not meet with this species in Texas, either in going or returning, -anywhere east of the Pecos river; nor was it found by either of three other -parties who explored those regions, both previously and subsequently, until -after they had passed to the west of that river. Here, again, a sandy desert, -between the Pecos and Devil’s river, is the barrier beyond which the species -under consideration has not extended its range to the eastward; and, as it is -replaced beyond the Sierra and the desert in the west by the <i>California -Partridge</i>, so is it replaced beyond the Pecos in the east by the <i>Massena -Partridge</i>.</p> -<p>“With regard to the northern and southern limits of this species, less is -known. I found it in 1850, on the Limpia creek, in N. Lat. 31°—thence to -the Rio Grande, and up that river to Don Ana, Lat. 33°. But I found it -nowhere beyond that point, either near the river or among the hills as far -back as the foot of the Sierra de los Mimbres, and I passed up and down -between El Paso and Santa Fe at different seasons of the year; yet through -all this country I met with the <i>Blue Partridge</i> (C. squamata). The species -in question, however, is known to be abundant in the country around the -sources of the Gila river. It has also been found along that river, from the -Pimo villages to its mouth; and there is no doubt it inhabits the entire valley -of the Gila. It was common along the Colorado river, as far up as Camp -Yuma (mouth of Gila), and it has been met with in that valley as high up as -Yampai creek, N. Lat. 34°, but I have no information of its having been found -north of that parallel.</p> -<p>“The habits of this species are, in most respects, similar to those of the -California Partridge; but it has always appeared to me less vigilant and wild. -I was not so fortunate, however, as to discover its nest; nor did I gather from -<span class="pb" id="Page_49">49</span> -others any information as to its eggs—their colour or their markings. I frequently -heard the call or song of the male bird during the period of nesting, -which, from some cause or other not apparent to me, was later than that of its -congener. As early as June 4th, I found covies of the young of the <i>California -Partridge</i> large enough to fly—say one-fourth grown; whilst all the birds of -this species (and I saw many,) as late as June 16th, were still without their -young. But the voice of the male, as I was about to remark, is, at this -season, strikingly rich and full. A very good idea may be formed of his cry -by slowly pronouncing, in a low tone, the syllables ‘<i>kaa-wale</i>,’ ‘<i>kaa-wale</i>.’ -These notes, when uttered close at hand, are by no means loud; yet it is perfectly -astonishing to what a distance they may be heard when the day is calm -and still. There was to me something extremely plaintive in this simple love-song, -which I heard for the first time during a day of burning heat passed -upon the desert. I had reached the well at <i>Alamo mucho</i> before noon, and -had halted to rest my jaded mules after their toilsome march. Here is, in -truth, a desert!—figure to yourself, if you can, a portion of this fair earth, -where, for some hundreds of miles, the whole crust seems to have been reduced -to ashes by the action of internal fires; behold a vast plain of desolation, surrounded, -and, at intervals, intersected by abrupt mountain ranges, which are -little better than gigantic heaps of scoria; imagine this scenery to be actually -glowing under the direct rays of a midsummer sun, and you may have some -idea of the prospect that meets the eye of the traveller who looks out upon -the desert from the well of the Alamo. You may perceive in his rear a few -stunted cottonwood-trees scattered along the edge of a channel, in which, -apparently, water once <i>was</i>, but now is not; whilst around him, here and -there, is a light-leafed mesquite that stretches forth its slender arms, and -appears to invite him to a shade which is but a mockery. Here it was that I -first heard the plaintive voice of this bird as he strove to cheer his mate whilst -occupied in the tedious task of incubation.</p> -<p>“I had passed the hours of noon stretched upon the sand near the well: the -thermometer, in the best shade to be obtained, indicating a temperature of 140° -to 150°, (<i>Fahrenheit</i>); and as the sun began to decline towards the horizon, -the first wakeful sound of animal life that greeted my ear was the soft ‘<i>kaa-wale</i>,’ -‘<i>kaa-wale</i>,’ of this beautiful bird. I turned towards a cluster of mesquite, -at the distance of some two hundred yards from which the call seemed to come, -but could discern no object in motion. This song was continued, at short -intervals, for about an hour; when, at last, one of the birds came forth upon -the sand, and was soon followed by its mate. They ran lightly over the sand, -and glided into the gully, where they began to search for their evening meal. -<span class="pb" id="Page_50">50</span> -I followed with my gun and secured them both—they were a male and female, -the skins of which I have preserved. This was June 8th.</p> -<p>“Later in the season, when a covey is dispersed, the cry for assembling is -‘<i>qua-el</i>,’ ‘<i>qua-el</i>.’ The voice at all seasons bears much resemblance to that -of the <i>California Partridge</i>—having, in its intonation, no similarity to the -whistle of the Virginia or common partridge.</p> -<p>“The crops of those killed at the Alamo, and thence to the Colorado, were -filled with the leaves of the mesquite, which seemed to be their principal food, -though in some were found remains of coleopterous insects. In some of those -killed near the river I found the wild gooseberry.</p> -<p>“The dimensions of this species, given by Gould in his ‘Odontophorinæ,’ -are, (? skin) length 9¾ inches; wing, 4½; tail, 4. By Dr. Gambel, (Proc. -Acad. Nat. Sci., Philada., I. p. 260,) length, over 10 inches; wing, 4½; -tail, 4½.</p> -<p>“Those I obtained in California were as follows, (measured immediately -when killed):</p> -<table class="center"> -<tr><td class="l">“♂ </td><td class="r">length, 10½ to 11⅜; </td><td class="r">wing, 4½; </td><td class="l">tail, 4½.</td></tr> -<tr><td class="l">“♀ </td><td class="r"><span class="ditto">“</span> 10⅜ to 10⅝; </td><td class="r">wing, 4½; </td><td class="l">tail, 4½.”</td></tr> -</table> -<p>The identical pair of birds alluded to in this excellent and satisfactory -history is represented in our plate; and the specimens, with many others -collected by this gentleman, are now in the collection of the Philadelphia -Academy.</p> -<p>Fine specimens of this bird are also now in the national collection at -Washington, and were collected by Dr. Woodhouse, while attached to the -party under command of Captain Sitgreaves, which surveyed the rivers Zunia -and the Colorado of the west.</p> -<h3 id="c24">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Callipepla.</span> Wagler in Isis, 1832, p. 277.</dt></dl> -<p>Head, with a crest of long feathers, either pendent or erectile, and recurved; -bill, short, with the upper mandible curved gradually from the base, under -mandible straight, and near the tip having generally two dentations, nostrils -rather large, basal, covered with a membrane. Wings, rather ample, concave, -quills rigid; tail, rather lengthened, strong; tarsi rather long and moderately -robust. About six species known, all of which inhabit Mexico, and the -adjoining parts of the United States and California, and are birds of beautiful -plumage.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>“<span class="sc">Lophortyx Gambelii.</span> Nutt.” Gambel. Proc. Acad. Philada., I. p. 260, (1843.)</dt></dl> -<div class="pb" id="Page_51">51</div> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> With an upright recurved crest of about six feathers, general form -robust, rather lengthened; wings, with the third, fourth and fifth quills nearly -equal and longest; tail, long; feet and legs robust. Feathers in front, at the -base of the bill very narrow and probably erectile.</p> -<p>Dimensions of skins, total length from tip of bill to end of tail, from 9¾ to -10½ inches; wing, 4½; tail, 4 to 4½ inches; of living or recent bird, according -to Col. McCall, as above, total length of male, 10½ to 11⅜ inches; of female, -10⅜ to 10⅝ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colours.</span> <span class="sc">Male.</span> Frontal feathers white, each having a narrow longitudinal -line of black, succeeding those a transverse band of white. Top of the -head, fine reddish chestnut, crest, brownish black. Throat, black, which colour -is completely enclosed by an edging of white.</p> -<p>Entire plumage of the upper parts of the body, neck, wings, and tail, light -bluish cinereous; feathers of the neck above, slightly marked in the middle -with dark chestnut; flanks and sides, dark chestnut, every feather with a longitudinal -strip of white; middle of the breast and abdomen white, with a large -black spot on the latter. Bill, dark.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Female.</span> Throat, ashy white, with no vestige of black, as in the male. -Head, above, plain cinereous, or with the colours of the male very faintly indicated; -other parts of the plumage similar, but more obscure and paler. Crest, -less fully developed.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Texas. Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada., and Nat. Coll. Washington city.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> Nearly related to, and, at first sight, bearing considerable resemblance -to, the California Partridge, (<i>C. Californica</i>.) From this, however, it -is easily distinguished by the entirely different colour of the inferior parts of -the body, and other characters easily discovered on the most superficial -examination.</p> -<p>According to the rule which has become part of the code of zoological -jurisprudence, which has gradually formed itself, and is now almost universally -adopted, the name properly to be cited as the authority for this species -ought not to be “Nuttall.” It was first described in a paper written by -Dr. Gambel himself, without allusion to his learned friend and patron, -Mr. Nuttall, as joint author, editor, or otherwise. Nevertheless, as we -happen to know that that distinguished gentleman did furnish the specific -name in question, and others in the paper alluded to, we, for the present, -acquiesce in the citation of his name. But under no circumstances can this -method be allowed as a general principle. No person is the authority for -a species unless he is the first to publish a description of it, and the citing -of a name as the authority for a species ought always to be based on that -fact, the neglect of which has caused much difficulty and confusion in -zoological nomenclature.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_52">52</div> -<h2 id="c25"><span class="small">BERNICLA NIGRICANS.—(Lawrence.)</span> -<br />The Black Brant. -<br />PLATE X.—Adult Male.</h2> -<p>This is a very remarkable and distinct species of Brant, first noticed by our -esteemed friend Mr. George N. Lawrence, an Ornithologist of great ability -and accuracy, of the city of New York. It was described by him in a paper -read before the Lyceum of Natural History of that city, and published in its -Annals, IV. p. 171, (1846.)</p> -<p>Mr. Lawrence states in the paper alluded to: “I have taken the above -description and figure from an adult female, procured at Egg Harbour, -N. J., in January. Since then two others have been obtained at the same -place, one of which I have in my possession. On dissection it proved to be a -male. It agrees in markings with the female, but is evidently a younger bird, -being somewhat lighter in the colour of its plumage. From this, I infer, they -become darker by age. It is a little larger than the female, the bill being -also stouter, measuring seven-eighths of an inch high at the base.</p> -<p>“When on a shooting excursion some years since at Egg Harbour, I noticed -a bird flying at some distance from us, which our gunner said was a Black -Brant. This was the first intimation I had of such a bird. Upon further -inquiry, he informed me that he had seen them occasionally, but that they were -not common. I have learned from Mr. P. Brasier, who has passed much time -at that place, that, speaking to the gunners about them, they said they were -well known by the name of Black Brant, and one of them mentioned having -once seen a flock of five or six together.</p> -<p>“From these facts it appears to be known to gunners, but has heretofore -escaped the notice of Ornithologists. With all my inquiries I have not been -able to procure a specimen before this winter. I think it a good and well -marked species.”</p> -<p>We have had the pleasure of seeing the specimen described by Mr. Lawrence, -and entirely coincide with him in his conclusion. It is precisely similar -to others that have come under our notice, and all presenting the same peculiar -specific characters.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig10"> -<img src="images/ppp09.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1168" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 10<br /><span class="ln2">The Black Brant</span><br /><span class="ln3">Bernicla migricans (<i>Lawrence</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_53">53</div> -<p>To the gunners of Philadelphia this bird is known by the same name, and -we have seen several specimens which have been shot in Delaware Bay, and -at various points on the sea-coast. Our friend Mr. John Krider, Gunsmith, -whose establishment is a favourite place of resort of the Ornithologists and -gunners of this city, and who is well acquainted with American birds, and -very successful in obtaining specimens of rare species, has had several specimens -of this Brant brought to him within the last two or three years. -It must, however, be considered as a species of rather unusual occurrence on -the Atlantic coast, but perhaps not more so than the Snow Goose, and others -which are well known. As is the case with the birds just mentioned, it is -probable, too, that the migration of this Brant does not commonly reach so -far southward as the latitude of either of the large cities on the Atlantic.</p> -<p>Several species of Geese, which appear to be unknown to Naturalists, have -been noticed by travellers in various parts of North America, but especially -in the northern and Arctic regions. Of these we shall give an account, somewhat -in detail in a succeeding article; at present, we are acquainted with one -allusion only, which we think it not improbable has reference to the species -now before us. It is in Sir John Richardson’s “Arctic Searching Expedition,” -a journal of a Boat voyage through Rupert’s land and the Arctic Sea, -in search of the discovery ships under command of Sir John Franklin, London, -1851, New York, 1852. In citing an account of the valley of the Yukon -river, in about lat. 66° north, long. 147° west, contained in a letter to him -from Mr. Murray, a resident in that country, the following statements occur -(American edition, p. 305): “White Geese (Snow Geese, <i>Chen hyperboreus</i>) -are also passengers here; and there are likewise <i>Black Geese</i>, which I presume -you have never seen. A few of them pass down Peel’s River, but they are -more abundant on the Yukon. They are very handsome birds, considerably -smaller than the White Geese, and have a dark brown or brownish black -colour, with <i>a white ring round the neck</i>, the head and bill having the shape -of that of the Bustard (the Canada Goose, <i>Anser Canadensis</i>). The Black -Geese are the least numerous, and the latest that arrive here. They fly in -large flocks with remarkable velocity, and generally pass on without remaining -as the others do, some days to feed. When they alight, it is always in -the water; and if they wish to land, they swim ashore. They are very fat, -and their flesh has an oily and rather disagreeable taste.</p> -<p>“Bustards, Laughing Geese, Ducks, and large Gulls, make their appearance -here from the 27th to the 29th of April; Snow Geese and Black Geese -about the 15th or 16th of May, when the other kinds become plentiful. They -have mostly passed by the end of the month, though some, especially the Bustards, -are seen in June. The White Geese and Black Geese breed only on -<span class="pb" id="Page_54">54</span> -the shores of the Arctic Sea. They return in September, and early in -October, flying high, and seldom halting.”</p> -<p>Sir John Richardson seems inclined to the opinion that the common Brant -is here alluded to; which, however, we cannot consider so probable as that it -is our present bird. So well acquainted with the water birds of Europe and -America as he is, it could scarcely have been supposed by Mr. Murray that -he had never seen so abundant a species as the common Brant. Besides, the -white ring round the neck, as described, is exactly applicable to the Black -Brant now before us, and its uniting on the front of the neck forms a peculiar -character sufficient to distinguish it from any other species.</p> -<h3 id="c26">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Bernicla.</span> Stephens, Continuation of Shaw’s Zoology, XII. p. 45, (1824.)</dt></dl> -<p>Bill, small, shorter than the head, upper mandible elevated at the base, tip -with a broad nail, margins of both mandibles finely serrated. Wings, long, -pointed; tail, very short, rounded; tarsi, moderate; toes, rather short. Probably -contains six or eight species, inhabiting various parts of the world.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Bernicla nigricans.</span> (Lawrence.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Anser nigricans.</span> Lawrence, Annals N. Y. Lyceum, IV. p. 171, (1846.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Bill and head, and feet, rather small; wings, with the second quill -longest; tail, short, composed of sixteen feathers; coverts, both above and -below, long, reaching almost to the end of the tail.</p> -<p>Dimensions, according to Mr. Lawrence. Total length 22½ inches, alar -extent 44, bill along the ridge 1³/₁₆, from gap 1⅜, lower mandible 1¼, length -of tarsus 2¼, middle toe 2, outer 1⅞, inner 1½, weight 3 lbs.</p> -<p>Total length of skin from Delaware Bay, from tip of bill to end of tail -about 22 inches, wing 13¾, tail about 5 inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colours.</span> <span class="sc">Male.</span> Neck almost completely encircled by a band of white, -broadest immediately in front, and narrowest behind. Head, neck, breast -and abdomen, glossy black, having on the latter a brownish tinge. Upper -parts of the body umber brown, nearly black on the rump, some of the feathers -with paler margins; quills and tail feathers brownish black. Feathers on the -sides and flanks tipped with white; upper and under tail coverts, and ventral -region, white. Bill and feet dark, nearly black.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Atlantic coast, New Jersey. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> The Black Brant is nearly related to the common Brant (<i>B. brenta</i>), -<span class="pb" id="Page_55">55</span> -but can readily be distinguished by the uniform black colour of the inferior -parts of the body, and the ring on the neck uninterrupted in front, and not -separated into two white patches on the sides of the neck, as in the common -species. It appears also to bear some resemblance to the <i>Bernicla glaucogastra</i>, -Brehm. Handb. Vogel Deutschlands, p. 849 (Ilmenau, 1831), but may -be distinguished from it also by the characters just mentioned.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_56">56</div> -<h2 id="c27"><span class="small">SYNOPSIS</span> -<br /><span class="smallest">OF THE</span> -<br /><span class="large">SPECIES OF BIRDS</span> -<br /><span class="smaller">INHABITING THE CONTINENT OF AMERICA, NORTH OF MEXICO.</span></h2> -<h3 id="c28">I. ORDER RAPTORES. THE RAPACIOUS BIRDS.</h3> -<p>General form, strong, muscular, and capable of vigorous and long continued -flight; bill and claws usually curved and strong, and adapted to the -destruction of other animals, or for preying on animals already dead. The -sense of sight in many species developed in a greater degree than in any -other group of the animal kingdom. Habits, in the majority of species, -solitary, cautious, and very vigilant. Female larger than the male. Inhabit -all parts of the world, and form a well defined and easily recognized order of -birds, strikingly analogous to the Rapacious Quadrupeds.</p> -<h3 id="c29">I. FAMILY VULTURIDÆ. THE VULTURES.</h3> -<p>Head and neck usually naked, and the former frequently more or less -carunculated, or with the skin wrinkled; bill, strong, rather lengthened and -strongly hooked; claws, usually moderate, and but slightly curved; wings, -usually long and powerful. Size, generally large; body, heavy. General -structure adapted to the destruction of dead animals exclusively, but a few -species do not hesitate to attack young or feeble animals when living.</p> -<p>Inhabit the temperate and the warm regions of the earth, but are much -more numerous in the latter. There are about twenty known species of -Vultures.</p> -<h4>I. GENUS CATHARTES. <span class="sc">Illigee Prodromus</span>, p. 236. (1811.)</h4> -<h5 id="c30">CATHARISTA. <span class="sc">Viellot Analyse</span>, p. 21. (1816.)</h5> -<p>Head and upper part of the neck, naked, or partially covered with short -downy feathers; the skin of the former generally wrinkled, or with wart-like -excrescences. Bill, rather long, straight, curved at the end; nostrils, large, -<span class="pb" id="Page_57">57</span> -open, and unprotected, inserted near the middle of the bill. Wings, long, -third and fourth primaries usually longest; tail, composed of twelve feathers, -usually slightly rounded; legs and feet, moderate, rather strong, covered with -scales, middle toe long, hind toe shortest; claws, rather strong, moderately -curved, obtuse at their points. Colour of all known species, black.</p> -<p>Of this genus, which is peculiar to America, there are seven species; four -of which are natives of the northern, and two of the southern portion of this -continent, and one of the West Indies. All of them much resemble each -other in their habits, and the two South American species are nearly related -to similar species of the North, as will be pointed out in descriptions of the -latter now to be given. In all its essential characters, this genus differs very -little from <i>Sarcoramphus</i>, which includes the <i>Condor</i> and the <i>King Vulture</i> -of South America.</p> -<h3 id="c31">A.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Cathartes aura.</span> (Linn.) The Turkey Buzzard. The Turkey Vulture.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Vultur aura.</span> Linn. Syst. Nat., I. p. 122. (1766.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Cathartes septentrionalis.</span> De Weid Reise, I. p. 162. (1839.)</dd></dl> -<p>Catesby Nat. Hist. Carolina, I. pl. 6. Vieill. Ois. d’Am. Sept. I. pl. 2. -Wilson Am. Orn. IX. pl. 75, fig. 1. Aud. B. of Am. pl. 151.</p> -<blockquote> -<p>Plumage, commencing on the neck with a circular ruff of rather long and projecting feathers. -Head and upper part of neck, naked, or with scattering, down-like feathers, especially on the -vertex, and with the skin wrinkled. Nostrils, large, oval, communicating with each other; tail, -rather long, rounded.</p> -<p>Entire plumage, brownish black, darkest on the neck, back and tail above; many feathers -having a purple lustre on the upper and under parts of the body, and with pale brownish -borders on the upper parts. Bill, yellowish white; wings and tail, paler beneath. Head and -neck, in living bird, bright red.</p> -<p>Total length of skin about 30 inches; wing, 23; tail, 12 inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> The entire territory of the United States—rare in New England. Wisconsin, (Dr. -Hoy,) Oregon, (U. S. Ex. Exp. Vincennes.) New Mexico, (Dr. Henry.) California, (Dr. Gambel.) -Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This species is abundant in the Southern, and of quite frequent -occurrence in the Middle States of the Union; but it rarely visits the northeastern, -or on the Atlantic, is seldom met with north of New Jersey. In the -southern part of the State of Delaware, and in Maryland, it is very abundant, -migrating farther south in the winter. It subsists entirely on dead animals, -which it devours in every stage of decomposition or putridity.</p> -<p>A South American species, long considered as identical with the present -bird, is now well ascertained to be distinct, and is the <i>Vultur jota</i>. Molina. -<span class="pb" id="Page_58">58</span> -This name has been erroneously applied to the Carrion Crow or Black Vulture -of the United States. The South American species is the smaller, is more -slender in all its members, and all the specimens that we have seen have been -of a more uniform clear black colour.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>2. <span class="sc">Cathartes atratus.</span> (Bartram.) The Carrion Crow. The Black Vulture.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Vultur atratus.</span> Bartram Travels, p. 289. (1791.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Vultur urubu.</span> Vieill. Ois. d’Am. Sept., p. 53. pl. 2. (1807.)</dd></dl> -<p>Wilson Am. Orn. IX. pl. 75, fig. 2. Aud. B. of Am. pl. 106.</p> -<blockquote> -<p>Plumage commencing higher on the back of the neck than on its sides or in front, and there -consisting of short feathers. Head and naked portion of the neck, warted or corrugated, and -thinly covered with short hair-like feathers, bill rather long, nostrils large, and communicating -with each other; tail, even; legs, rather long.</p> -<p>Entire plumage, deep uniform black, with a bluish gloss; under surface of primaries nearly -white.</p> -<p>Total length (of skin) about 23 inches, wing 16½; tail 8½ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Southern States, Texas (Audubon), California, Oregon (U. S. Ex. Exp. Vincennes). -Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> Abundant in the Southern States, and gregarious, congregating in -large numbers in the cities, where they are of service in the destruction of all -descriptions of rejected or waste animal matter.</p> -<p>The South American bird usually regarded as identical with this bird, is -the <i>Vultur brasiliensis</i>. Ray. It is considerably smaller, and otherwise -quite distinct.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>3. <span class="sc">Cathartes californianus.</span> (Shaw) The Californian Vulture.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Vultur californianus.</span> Shaw, Nat. Misc. IX. p. 1, pl. 301. (1797.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Vultur columbianus.</span> Ord. Guthries’ Geog. II. p. 315. (1815.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Cathartes vulturinus.</span> Temm. Pl. col. I. pl. 31. (1820.)</dd></dl> -<p>Aud. B. of Am. pl. 411. Gray Gen. of B. pl. 2. Licht. Trans. Berlin -Acad. 1838, pl. 1.</p> -<blockquote> -<p>Size, large. Plumage commencing on the neck near the body, with a ruff of long, lanceolate -feathers, which are continued on the breast. Head and neck bare, or with a few short feathers -on the vertex, and at the base of the upper mandible; bill rather long, nostrils small, communicating -with each other; wings long, primaries pointed; tail long, slightly rounded; tarsi and -feet very strong.</p> -<p>Entire plumage black, many feathers narrowly tipped with brown, secondary quills with a -grayish tinge, greater coverts tipped with white, which forms a transverse bar on the wing. -Bill, yellowish white. Iris, carmine. Head and neck, in living bird, orange yellow. (Gambel.)</p> -<p>Total length (of skin) about 45 inches, wing 31, tail 15 inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> California, Oregon. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<div class="pb" id="Page_59">59</div> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This large Vulture is inferior only in this family to the Condor of -South America. It is restricted to the countries west of the Rocky mountains, -where in the vicinity of rivers it is occasionally abundant, living principally on -dead fishes. It appears to be, however, more cautious and timid in its habits -than the other birds of this group, and constructs its nest in the remote -recesses of the mountains.</p> -<h3 id="c32">B. -<br /><span class="small">SPECIES PROBABLY OCCURRING IN THE UNITED STATES.</span></h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Cathartes burrovianus.</span> Cassin, Proc. Acad. Philada. II. p. 212, (1845.) Burrough’s Vulture.</dt></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Resembling <i>C. aura</i>, but much smaller. Plumage on the neck ascending behind, as in <i>C. -atratus</i>; bill, rather short; tail, rounded; tarsi, rather long. Entire plumage, deep uniform -black, without brown edgings.</p> -<p>Total length of prepared specimen, from tip of bill to end of tail, about 22 inches, wing 18, -tail 8½ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Mexico, Vera Cruz (Dr. Burrough), Mazatlan (Dr. Gambel). Spec. in Mus. Acad., -Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This is the smallest of all known Vultures, and though strictly of the -same genus as <i>C. aura</i>, may readily be recognized by its small size. It is -very probably to be found in California, and the late Dr. Gambel thought that -he had seen it in that country, and at Mazatlan. (Jour. Acad. Philada. I. -p. 26, quarto.)</p> -<h4>II. GENUS SARCORAMPHUS. <span class="sc">Dumeril Anal.</span> p. 32, (1806.)</h4> -<h5 id="c33">GYPAGUS. <span class="sc">Vieill, Anal.</span> p. 21, (1816.)</h5> -<p>Head and neck naked, the former with an elevated fleshy caruncle. In all -other characters much resembling <i>Cathartes</i>.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>2. <span class="sc">Sarcoramphus sacer.</span> (Bartram) The Sacred Vulture.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Vultur sacra.</span> Bartram, Travels in Florida, p. 150, (1791.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Original description.—“The bill is long, and straight almost to the point, where it is hooked -or bent suddenly down, and sharp; the head and neck bare of feathers nearly down to the -stomach, when the feathers begin to cover the skin, and soon become long and of a soft texture, -forming a ruff or tippet, in which the bird, by contracting his neck, can hide that as well as -his head; the bare skin on the neck appears loose and wrinkled, which is of a bright yellow -colour, intermixed with coral red; the hinder part of the neck is nearly covered with short stiff -hair; and the skin of this part of the neck is of a dun purple colour, gradually becoming red -as it approaches the yellow of the sides and forepart. The crown of the head is red; there are -lobed lappets of a reddish orange colour, which lay on the base of the upper mandible. The -plumage of the bird is generally white or cream colour, except the quill feathers of the wings -<span class="pb" id="Page_60">60</span> -and two or three rows of the coverts, which are beautiful dark brown; the tail, which is rather -large and <i>white</i>, is tipped with this dark brown or black; the legs and feet of a clear white; -the eye is encircled with a gold coloured iris, the pupil black.” Bartram, as above, p. 150, 151.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> The identification of the bird here described, may be considered as -one of the most important services to be performed in North American Ornithology. -Its occurrence has never been noticed since the time of the accurate -and veracious naturalist who first described it, and his careful description -above quoted seems to clearly indicate it to be a species entirely unknown. -The white tail especially is characteristic, and establishes a clear distinction -from any other known species. It is related evidently to the King Vulture, -(<i>S. papa</i>,) but that species has a black tail, and in case of mistake or misprint -in Bartram’s description, it may be presumed at any rate to relate to an occurrence -of that species within the United States. There is no more inviting -nor more singular problem in North American Ornithology.</p> -<h3 id="c34">C. -<br /><span class="small">SPECIES, THE OCCURRENCE OF WHICH IN THE UNITED STATES IS DOUBTFUL.</span></h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Sarcoramphus gryphus.</span> (Linn.) The Condor.</dt></dl> -<p>Bonap. Am. Orn. IV. pl. 22. Temm. pl. col. 133, 408, 464. Zool. Voy. -Bonité, Birds, pl. 2, (Paris, 1841.)</p> -<blockquote> -<p>Size, large. Head, neck, and large space on the breast, bare. Plumage, black, with a white -space on the wing; neck, with a collar or ruff of white downy feathers; plumage of the back, -the quills and tail frequently with a gray tinge. Head above with a large caruncle or comb, -and others on the sides of the head and neck.</p> -<p>Total length of skin, about 4 feet, wing about 2 feet 6 inches, tail about 15 inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> South America.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> The famous Condor of the Andes, though it has been admitted as a -North American bird into the works of Bonaparte and Nuttall, cannot at -present, in our opinion, be so regarded. The description in the History of -the Expedition of Lewis and Clarke, which was supposed to relate to this bird, -and has been the sole authority for its introduction by the authors just mentioned, -very probably applies to the Californian Vulture. No other travellers -have seen the Condor, either at the localities mentioned by Lewis and Clarke, -or elsewhere in North America. It is common in the western parts of South -America. The most complete descriptions with which we are acquainted are -by Humboldt, in Zoological Observations, I. p. 26, (Recuil d’Observationes -de Zoologie et d’Anatomie comparée Paris, 1811, quarto,) and by Darwin in -<span class="pb" id="Page_61">61</span> -Zoology of the Voyage of the Beagle, Birds, p. 3, (London, 1841,) and by the -same author in Voyage of a Naturalist, I. p. 234, 238, (American edition, -New York, 1846, duodecimo.)</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>2. <span class="sc">Sarcoramphus papa.</span> (Linn.) The King Vulture.</dt></dl> -<p>Spix. Av. Bras. pl. 1. Buff. Pl. Enl. 428. Vieill. Gal. pl. 3.</p> -<blockquote> -<p>Plumage on the neck, dusky cinereous; wings and tail, glossy black; all other parts, fine -pale fulvous. Head and upper part of neck naked, the former with an elevated and conspicuous -caruncle arising from the cere.</p> -<p>Total length of skin about 28 inches, wing 18, tail about 9 inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> South and Central America. Mexico.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> The King Vulture is the most handsome bird of its family. Though -admitted by Nuttall as a bird of the United States (Manuel, I. p. 40, Boston, -1840,) no instance is recorded, or has otherwise come to our knowledge, of -its having been observed north of Mexico. It is not improbable, however, -that it may yet be found in Texas or in California, or possibly in Florida. -It is described by Hernandez as an inhabitant of Mexico, in his “New History -of the Plants, Animals, and Minerals of Mexico,” p. 319, (Nova, plantarum, -animalium et mineralium Mexicanorum, Historia, Rome, 1651, folio,) and has -found a place in the works of all authors on general Ornithology, and been -noticed by many travellers.</p> -<p>The above comprise all the Vultures which have been hitherto known or -supposed to inhabit America, north of Mexico. There are three other species -which appear to be peculiar to South America and the islands of West Indies, -(particularly the more southern of them,) all of which more or less intimately -resemble our species of the North. They are <i>Cathartes jota</i> (Molina), described -in Geog. Nat. and Civil Hist. of Chili, American edition, I. p. 185, (Middletown -Conn. 1808, octavo,) <i>Cathartes Brasiliensis</i>, Bonaparte Consp. Av. p. 9, -and <i>Cathartes urbicola</i>, Des Murs Rev. and Mag. de Zool. April, 1853. The -latter is a large and very remarkable species which has only recently been -ascertained to frequent the cities of several of the West Indies.</p> -<p>Nearly all of the American Vultures are remarkable for a disposition manifested, -in a greater or less degree, to resort to cities, or even more isolated -abodes of men, for the purpose of procuring food. In the southern cities of -the United States, the Black Vulture congregates in large numbers; its relative -of South America (<i>Cathartes Brasiliensis</i>) possesses the same habit, and -is exceedingly abundant in the cities of the countries that it inhabits. Even -the gigantic Condor does not hesitate to make its appearance in the vicinity -of villages or dwellings in the western countries of South America for the -<span class="pb" id="Page_62">62</span> -same purpose. In this respect these birds resemble the most common European -bird of their family which inhabits southern Europe, and also Asia and -northern Africa; the <i>Neophron percnopterus</i> or Egyptian Vulture. The -latter is, however, very different in colour, being nearly white when adult, and -<i>clean</i>, which is an important consideration in a bird of habitually filthy habits.</p> -<p>Travellers have represented the male of the Condor as larger and as having -more handsome plumage than the female. We hope to be excused for here -asking attention to this point, should opportunity occur to any of our readers. -It is the only known or supposed instance in the order of Rapacious Birds, of -the male being the larger, and, if true, of course establishes an exception hitherto -not recognized by naturalists. In these birds, and especially in the Falcons -and Eagles, the difference in the size of the sexes of the same species is -often very remarkable, but the larger is invariably the female.</p> -<p>Further experiments and observations by persons having suitable opportunities -and facilities are very desirable for the purpose of ascertaining the -degree of development of the senses of sight and smell in the Vultures. Eminent -authors have maintained quite opposite views on this subject, some attributing -the fact that they perceive objects suitable for their food from a distance, -to the acuteness of their sight and others to their power of smelling. -This is yet an open question, though there is a very considerable amount of -evidence on each side, and may be regarded as presenting an interesting field -for further investigation.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig11"> -<img src="images/ppp10.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1180" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 11<br /><span class="ln2">Kirtland’s Owl</span><br /><span class="ln3">Nyctale Kirtlandii (<i>Hoy</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_63">63</div> -<h2 id="c35"><span class="small">NYCTALE KIRTLANDII.—(Hoy.)</span> -<br />Kirtland’s Owl. -<br />PLATE XI.—Adult Male.</h2> -<p>Having in the eastern portion of the United States no traditions nor architectural -remains which date beyond the first settlement of the white man, our -people are but little prone to many of the superstitions which have prevailed -in the old world. In the absence of the ruined monastery or crumbling -abbey, of the ivy-covered baronial castle and haunted tower, local and -legendary superstitions especially, have found no considerable nor permanent -place in the popular mind.</p> -<p>Some reliance in the influence of the moon, and a small degree of attention -to the aspect of the sign of the zodiac according to the time-honored -frontispiece in the almanac, both materially lacking in the important requisite -of full and trusting faith, are very nearly the only mysteries which can be -regarded as having acquired a practical adoption in any appreciable degree. -Others, as the witchcraft of former and the Spiritualism of latter times, as -in other countries, have temporarily assumed aspects of more or less importance, -but have either disappeared, or, awaiting the certain test of Christian -enlightenment and unprejudiced examination, have taken the form of religious -faith, and are held in conscientious veneration. An occasional exception -may be found, too, in the local transplanting of an European, or perhaps of -an African tradition, but many superstitions of the old world are almost -absolutely unknown; the evil Banshee, the gentler Brownie, Puck and -Oberon, Mab and Titania have no local habitation, though well beloved as -beautiful accessories in the immortal productions of the poets, or as told by -an humble mother to her children in tales of remembrance of her native -land.</p> -<p>In the higher order of legends—in those which record facts or dim -histories of exceeding antiquity, or in which are embalmed the deeds of the -remote hero, though even more faded than his features on the mouldering -<span class="pb" id="Page_64">64</span> -wall or the faded marble—young America pleads her youth. But not -without product—and as that which has been shall be again, as legends and -traditions like to those of other nations will very probably be amongst the -results of American mind, there is one American name, perhaps as yet one -only, which may become mythical or even now is. When thousands of years -shall have rolled away, and the annals of the present age shall be known -only to the scholar and the antiquary of those times in precious scraps and -fragments, the adjusting of which shall require the skilfulness of learning, -some future Lepsius or Layard may recognise in a wise Minos or in a just -Nemesis, the American Washington.</p> -<p>The Republic of the United States has acquired its position as a nation, -and in fact has existed only in an age of enlightenment, and the universal -attention to education and the diffusion of general knowledge which happily -has ever prevailed in a degree not exceeded in any country, has necessarily -prevented in a great measure the forming of orally transmitted histories or -of legendary fables, and there being no ruins of buildings nor other evidences -of the decay of past ages, our people do not associate with ideas of desolation, -animals which might have found suitable habitations in such localities, nor -have they attributed traditional associations or characters.</p> -<p>We have no birds of ill omen, and even the long-defamed Owl has escaped -his usual reputation; not that he is regarded with favor, rather the reverse; -but for other reason than attributed connexion with supernatural agents; nor -is his appearance in the neighborhood of the farm-house or the settler’s -cabin regarded as at all ominous, except of immediate danger to whatever of -the domestic poultry may have attracted his attention, or in any degree foreboding, -unless of his own abrupt demise in case he happens to be observed -by the proprietor, having at hand his trusty rifle or fowling-piece. The owl -takes the greater risk in such an adventure.</p> -<p>On account, in some measure, of their peculiar forms, particularly their -large heads and staring eyes, their nocturnal habits, and their habitually -resorting in the day-time to secluded haunts in the forest or other little-frequented -localities, no animals have been more invariably regarded as of -evil portent than owls. And in this character they have found a place in -the literature, and especially the poetry, of nearly all nations ancient and -modern. The Latin writers seldom fail to mention the appearance of the -owl among the omens and prodigies which they frequently enumerate as -having preceded disasters to the state or to distinguished personages. Pliny -<span class="pb" id="Page_65">65</span> -in his Natural History, gravely devotes a chapter to Inauspicious Birds, and -gives the owl a post of distinction in this manner: “The owl, a dismal bird, -and very much dreaded in public auguries, inhabits deserts which are not -only desolate, but dreary and inaccessible: it is a monster of night, nor does -it possess any voice but a groan. Thus, when it is seen in towns or in daylight, -it is an omen to be dreaded.” Book x., chapter 12. The poets give him -the same reputation, but perhaps only in the legitimate exercise of their art. -The poet is privileged in the entire domain of nature, and Virgil and -Shakspeare have forever commemorated, though somewhat infamously, the -Owl. The former alludes to it as one of numerous precursors of the death -of Dido:</p> -<div class="verse"> -<p class="t0">“Solaque culminibus ferali carmine bubo</p> -<p class="t0">Sæpe queri, et longas in fletum ducere voces.”</p> -</div> -<div class="verse"> -<p class="t0">“Whilst lonely on the roof, night’s bird prolongs</p> -<p class="t0">The notes of woe, and shrieks funereal songs.”</p> -</div> -<p>Shakspeare uses the Owl in the same capacity of direful portent. Thus -Casca, in allusion to omens preceding the death of Cæsar:</p> -<div class="verse"> -<p class="t0">“And yesterday, the bird of night did sit</p> -<p class="t0">Even at noon-day upon the market-place</p> -<p class="t0">Hooting and shrieking:”</p> -</div> -<p>and in Macbeth he introduces its cry as an accompaniment of the murder -of Duncan:</p> -<div class="verse"> -<p class="t0">“Hark! Peace! It was the owl that shrieked,</p> -<p class="t0">The fatal bellman, which giv’st the stern’st good-night.</p> -<p class="t0">He is about it:”</p> -</div> -<p>and again in Henry the Sixth:</p> -<div class="verse"> -<p class="t0">“The owl shriek’d at thy birth; an evil sign;</p> -<p class="t0">The night-crow cried, aboding luckless time,</p> -<p class="t0">Dogs howl’d, and hideous tempests shook down trees.”</p> -</div> -<p>Shakspeare has various other passages of much the same tenor, and so have -many other poets of the English and other languages; but, as we can say truly -with Cowper (in Task):</p> -<div class="verse"> -<p class="t0">“The jay, the pie, and e’en the boding owl,</p> -<p class="t0">That hails the rising moon, have charms for <i>us</i>,”</p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_66">66</div> -<p>we have no intention at all of making out a strong case of bad reputation -against him, even from the poets. We ought to say, though, that he has -borne this reputation much more recently than the time of Pliny, and in -some countries of the old world has scarcely yet attained a character of entire -respectability. There might be a difficulty, however, in deciding which is -the more remarkable, the things said of him, or the gravity of the sayer. A -writer, cited in Brand’s Popular Antiquities, says to the point: “In the year -1542, at Herbipolis or Wirtzburg, in Franconia, this unlucky bird by his -screeching songs affrighted the citizens a long time together, and immediately -followed a great plague, war, and other calamities. About twenty years ago, -I did observe that in the house where I lodged, an Owl groaning in the window -presaged the death of two eminent persons who died there shortly after.” -Another, bringing the matter to a more general bearing, says: “If an owl, -which is reckoned a most abominable and unlucky bird, send forth its hoarse -and dismal voice, it is an omen of the approach of something: that some dire -calamity and some great misfortune is near at hand.” And amongst many -similar stories, it is related by an old author, that when a Duke of Cleves -was suffering with the disease of which he afterwards died, an Owl was seen -and heard frequently upon the palace of Cleves in the day-time, and could -scarcely be driven away. Very wonderful, but not calculated for the present -meridian, and happily rather out of date generally. It would scarcely suit -the citizens of our frontier States to regard in any such aspect the nightly -serenades of the Great Horned Owl, though performed in a style entirely -appropriate.</p> -<p>Other nations, and some more ancient than the Romans, also regarded the -Owl with various degrees of superstition. In Egypt, at one period, an image -of an Owl transmitted by the supreme authority to a subject, was an intimation -in established form, that the latter would particularly oblige his sovereign -by immediately committing suicide. With which civil invitation, compliance, -at earliest convenience, appears to have been necessary, not entirely as a -matter of mere politeness, but to save himself from aspersions as a man of -honor and a gentleman. An instance is related by Diodorus Siculus, in -which a person placed in such a dilemma and manifesting some repugnance -and uncourtly backwardness, was put to death by one of his parents to save -their house from disgrace.</p> -<p>But the people of the present day have been favored to live in an age -characterized in all Christian countries by the diffusion of truth and the -<span class="pb" id="Page_67">67</span> -progress of intellectual cultivation, and in which, as a peculiar feature, the -physical sciences especially have tended to dispel the mists of ages. In -accordance with the spirit of it, modern writers rarely resort to the adoption, -even in poetic composition, of ungrounded popular errors. Thus, with no -such implication, Coleridge, in Christabel, introduces the Owl in an opening -chorus:</p> -<div class="verse"> -<p class="t0">“’Tis the middle of the night by the castle-clock,</p> -<p class="t0">And the owls have awakened the crowing cock.</p> -<p class="t0">Tu—whit!—tu-whoo!</p> -<p class="t0">And hark again! the crowing cock</p> -<p class="t0">How drowsily he crew.”</p> -</div> -<p>And beautiful too is the allusion to the Owl by Longfellow, in Hyperion: -“For the owl is a grave bird; a monk who chants midnight mass in the great -temple of Nature.”</p> -<p>Kirtland’s Owl, which we present to our readers in the plate now before -us, is one of the most recent additions to the Ornithological Fauna of this -country, and was first brought to notice by Philo R. Hoy, M. D., an eminent -naturalist and physician of Racine, Wisconsin, who has ascertained its occurrence, -and has succeeded in obtaining several specimens in the neighborhood -of that city.</p> -<p>It appears, however, to be by no means a common species, though having -been observed in the season of incubation, as well as in the winter, it may be -presumed to be a constant resident, and further investigation may bring to -light full details of its history. It belongs to a group composed of several -species of small owls, found in the northern regions of both continents, the -most common of which, in this country, is the little Acadian Owl (<i>Nyctale -acadica</i>), a curious and rather handsome little species not very well known -in the rural districts, but sometimes occurring, and also occasionally captured, -in the cities. It is the least of the owls of the Atlantic States. Another -species is known as Tengmalm’s Owl (<i>N. Tengmalmii</i>), which inhabits the -higher northern latitudes of America and Europe.</p> -<p>Like the other small species of its family, the present Owl probably subsists -on the smaller birds and quadrupeds and on insects. The last form no -inconsiderable portion of the food of the smaller Owls. We have repeatedly -found the remains of insects in the stomachs of several species; and in 1851, -during the period of the appearance of the Seventeen-year Locust (<i>Cicada -septemdecim</i>) in the neighborhood of Philadelphia, we enjoyed an opportunity, -<span class="pb" id="Page_68">68</span> -in company with several members of the Academy of Natural Sciences -of this city, of observing the common Red Owl (<i>Ephialtes asio</i>) while engaged -in feeding on insects of that remarkable species. It captured them principally -in an apple-tree in which it was first noticed, but occasionally pursued its -object to the ground, and with a degree of adroitness and avidity which fully -evinced that it had been accustomed to similar occupation.</p> -<p>Dr. Hoy’s description of the species now before us was first published in -the Proceedings of the Philadelphia Academy, VI. p. 211, (Dec. 1852,) from -which we make the following extract:</p> -<p>“But two specimens of this bird have been taken, to my knowledge; the -first was captured in October 1851, and kept until winter, when it made its -escape; the second, that from which the above description was taken, flew -into an open shop, July 1852. It is strictly nocturnal, utters a low tremulous -note, and is an active and efficient mouser.”</p> -<p>We have been informed by Dr. Hoy that during the past summer (1853,) -he had succeeded in obtaining another specimen which proved to be a female. -It is slightly larger than the male, but similar in all other respects.</p> -<p>The figures in our plate represent the male bird, and are about two-thirds -of the size of life.</p> -<h3 id="c36">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Nyctale.</span> Brehm, Handb. Nat. Vog. Deutschlands, p. 111, (1831.)</dt></dl> -<p>Size, small. Bill rather weak and almost concealed by projecting plumes -at its base, strongly curved and sharp. Wings moderate, rounded, with the -third and fourth quills nearly equal and longest; tail moderate, tarsi short, -and with the toes densely clothed with hair-like feathers; claws rather long, -slender, and very sharp. Type N. <i>Tengmalmii</i> (Gmelin).</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Nyctale Kirtlandii.</span> Hoy, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci., Philada., VI. p. 210, (Dec., 1852.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Small, but compact, wing with the fourth quill slightly longest, -tarsi and toes fully feathered, claws slender, sharp.</p> -<p>Dimensions of a skin from Dr. Hoy. Male, total length from tip of bill -to end of tail, about 7 inches; wing, 5¼; tail, 3 inches. “Extent of wings, -16 inches,” (Dr. Hoy.) Female, rather larger.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> <span class="sc">Male.</span> Head and upper portion of breast, and entire upper -parts dark chocolate-brown; front and eye-brows white, and a line of the -same color extending downwards from the base of the lower mandible; ear -<span class="pb" id="Page_69">69</span> -feathers behind the eye darkest; primaries with white spots on their outer -margins forming three irregular bars, and with circular spots of white on -their inner webs; tail rather darker than the back, narrowly tipped with -white, and having two bands composed of spots of white.</p> -<p>Entire under parts of the body, tarsi and toes, reddish-ochre-yellow; bill -and claws black, iris-yellow.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> State of Wisconsin. Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada., and in Dr. -Hoy’s coll. Racine, Wisconsin.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This little Owl is strictly congeneric with <i>Nyctale Harrisii</i> Cassin. -Proc. Philada. Acad. IV. p. 157, (Feb. 1849,) and Journal of the same -society, Quarto II., plate V., but different in size and color. <i>N. Harrisii</i> -is the same as <i>Ciccaba gisella</i> Bonaparte, Cons. Av. p. 44, (1850.)</p> -<p>The present bird also resembles, in some degree, <i>Strix frontalis</i> Lichtenstein, -described in a Fauna of California, in Transactions of the Berlin -Academy, 1838, p. 430.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_70">70</div> -<h2 id="c37"><span class="small">EMBERNAGRA BLANDINGIANA.—(Gambel.)</span> -<br />Blanding’s Finch. -<br />PLATE XII.—Adult Male.</h2> -<p>Blanding’s Finch was discovered in the Rocky mountains by Dr. Gambel, -and named by him in honor of one of the most universally respected of -American naturalists and friends of science, William Blanding, M. D., -formerly a resident of Philadelphia, but now of Providence, Rhode Island. -During many years of previous residence in South Carolina, Dr. Blanding -omitted no opportunity of facilitating by observation and active exertion in -contributing to collections, the advancement of the interests of Natural -Science in all its departments, and he has been deservedly complimented by -naturalists whose studies he has been the means of promoting, and with -whom personally he has for many years maintained relations of the most -friendly character. Many of the cultivators of Natural History in America -owe much to the advice and encouragement of Dr. Blanding, and among -such we gratefully include ourselves.</p> -<p>This bird belongs to a group of which several species are known to inhabit -Mexico and South America, and of which one other species is a summer -visitor to Texas. All of them are birds of handsome and even elegant -general appearance and color of plumage, and partake much of the inoffensive -habits of other birds of the family to which they belong, and which includes -the Finches and Sparrows. Subsisting for the greater part on seeds, much -of their time is passed on the ground, or in undergrowths of shrubbery in -the immediate vicinity of fields and meadows, or other grass-bearing -localities.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig12"> -<img src="images/ppp11.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1171" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 12<br /><span class="ln2">Blanding’s Finch</span><br /><span class="ln3">Embernagra Blandingiana (<i>Gambel</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_71">71</div> -<p>We regard the present species as the handsomest Bird of the family of -Sparrows yet discovered in the United States, and regret that it is not in -our power to lay before our readers an account of it at all full or satisfactory, -little having been placed on record, or having otherwise come to our -knowledge, beyond the fact that it inhabits sparingly the Rocky mountains, -California and northern Texas. It is probably one of the many species -which migrate in summer to those countries from Mexico, and even further -southward, as is the case with the greater part of the numerous species of -birds which are summer-residents in the eastern portion of this continent. -Not more than three specimens of this bird have been brought home in the -many extensive collections made by the various naturalists who have visited -the countries where it is found, from which we must necessarily infer at -present that it is one of the rarest of the birds of California and the Rocky -mountains, though more abundant in Texas.</p> -<p>From Dr. Gambel’s paper containing his description of this bird, published -in the Proceedings of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia, -I. p. 260, (April 1843,) and subsequently in the Journal of the same society, -I. p. 51 (Quarto), we extract the following:</p> -<p>“Of this new and singularly marked species, I procured a single specimen -only, in September, on the bank of a small stream in the Rocky mountains, -about half-way between New Mexico and the Colorado of the West. It kept -in low bushes, in company with <i>Fringilla guttata</i>, and <i>F. graminea</i>, occasionally -uttering a single chirp. The throat and breast of this species very -much resemble those of <i>Fringilla Pennsylvanica</i>.”</p> -<p>Dr. Woodhouse procured, also, one specimen, only, during Capt. Sitgreaves’ -Expedition to the Zuñi, and Colorado rivers, respecting which he observes: -“Whilst encamped on the Rio Salado, near San Antonio, Texas, in the -beginning of April, I procured a solitary specimen of this beautiful and -interesting bird. Its favorite haunts seemed to be the low bushes in the -vicinity of the creek; this was the only one that I observed east of the Rio -Grande. In the Zuni mountain, and in the vicinity of the <i>pueblo</i> of Zuñi, -it was quite abundant.” (Report of an Expedition down the Zuñi and -Colorado rivers, by Capt. L. Sitgreaves, of the Topographical Engineer -Corps, U. S. Army, Washington, 1853. Zoology, p. 85.)</p> -<p>It was also seen by Dr. Heermann, in California.</p> -<p>Our figure is that of a male, and is about two-thirds of the natural size.</p> -<p>The plant represented, is <i>Nuttallia digitata</i>, a native of California.</p> -<h3 id="c38">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Embernagra.</span> Lesson Traité d’Orn, p. 465, (1851.)</dt></dl> -<p>Bill, moderate, conic; wings, short, rounded, usually with the fifth and -<span class="pb" id="Page_72">72</span> -sixth quills slightly longest; tail, lengthened, rounded at the tip; tarsi and -toes, lengthened, strong; claws, short, curved. A genus of birds related to -<i>Zonotrichia</i>, and containing several species, all of which are American.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Embernagra Blandingiana.</span> (Gambel.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Fringilla Blandingiana.</span> Gamb., Proc. Acad. Philada. I. p. 260, (April, 1843)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Fringilla chlorura.</span> Aud. Orn. Biog. V. p. 336?</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Rather robust, bill strong, wing short, second, third and fourth -quills nearly equal, third slightly longest, tail rather long, legs and feet -strong, claws well developed, that on the hind toe large.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <span class="sc">Adult.</span> Total length (of skin) from tip of bill to end of -tail, about 7 inches; wing, 3⅛; tail, 3¼ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> Head, above, fine rufous chestnut. All other upper parts, -yellowish green, tinged with ashy. Throat, white, which color is bordered on -each side by a line of ashy black. Sides of the neck, the breast and sides -of the body, and flanks, light cinereous, tinged with ochre on the latter and -under tail coverts. Middle of the lower part of breast, and of the -abdomen, white. Wing, at its flexure and under wing coverts, yellow. -Quills and tail-feathers, light greenish yellow on their outer webs.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> California and Texas. Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada., and Nat. -Mus. Washington.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This species resembles somewhat several others which are natives -of the Southern extreme of North America, though not sufficiently to be -readily confounded with either of them.</p> -<p>The description of <i>Fringilla chlorura</i>, Aud. in Orn. Biog. V. p. 336, -consists of extracts of letters from Dr. Townsend, in which a bird is described, -of which he procured no specimens, but evidently like the present, in some -respects, but not with sufficient precision to be determined. He represents it -as “a true <i>Fringilla</i>. The head of light brownish color spotted with dusky, -back varied with dusky and greenish olive, rump brownish spotted with -dusky, &c.” Our present bird is by no means a true Fringilla, nor does -the description otherwise apply to it with such degree of probability as to be -relied on.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig13"> -<img src="images/ppp12.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1172" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 13<br /><span class="ln2">The American House Finch</span><br /><span class="ln3">Carpodacus familiaris (<i>M‘Call</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_73">73</div> -<h2 id="c39"><span class="small">CARPODACUS FAMILIARIS.—M‘Call.</span> -<br />The American House-Finch. -<br />PLATE XIII.—Male and Female.</h2> -<p>When the winter of our northern climes has abated its rigors, and the -season of brighter skies and returning flowers approaches, none of its early -tokens are welcomed with more pleasing associations, than the reappearance -of those familiar birds, which, like the Wren, the Blue Bird, and the Pewee -Flycatcher, come pleasantly into the immediate vicinity of our dwellings, to -select accommodations for the construction of their nests, and for rearing -their young. They share the hospitality of the splendid mansion and the -humble cottage, and are made welcome alike in each.</p> -<p>Of birds of this description, no species is more remarkable for its confiding -disposition, than the little Finch now before the reader, and which is a native -of the western countries of North America. It not only approaches the -abodes of men without hesitation, and occupies habitually the suitable parts -of houses and other buildings, but resorts in large numbers to such uncongenial -localities as one might think them, as towns and cities. In several -of those in New Mexico, and California, this bird is very abundant, and is a -great favorite.</p> -<p>Several species of the same genus to which the present belongs, all of -which present considerable similarity, inhabit northern countries of this -continent, and others are found in the same latitudes of the old world. -The males of all the species are clothed in plumage of fine crimson, or of -purple of various and delicate shades, when they have attained maturity. -The females are however of much plainer appearance, and generally present -little similarity of color to their more gay consorts. The Purple Finch -(<i>Carpodacus purpureus</i>) is the best-known American bird of this group. It -is common as a winter visitor in the middle and southern States, and at -that season its habits are such only as are adapted to a roving life in the -woods. It retires in the spring to the northern states, and the mountains of -<span class="pb" id="Page_74">74</span> -Pennsylvania, and is there regarded with much favor on account of the -beauty of its plumage and its agreeable song.</p> -<p>A species of the old world (<i>C. erythrinus</i>), which is one of several that -are natives of northern Russia, of Siberia and Kamtschatka, is very similar -in its general appearance to the Purple Finch, and, like it too, it has an -extensive range of migration, appearing throughout European and Asiatic -Russia, and the northern countries of India. Of the Asiatic species, one -is remarkable for having been discovered on Mount Sinai, by an European -naturalist, and in reference to that fact, has been named by him the Sinai -Finch (<i>Carpodacus sinaiticus</i>.)</p> -<p>Our present bird appears to be the species alluded to by Dr. Gambel as -the crimson-fronted Finch, <i>Erythrospiza frontalis</i> (Say), in the Journal of -the Philadelphia Academy, Quarto, I. p. 53, in the following passage: “This -handsome songster we first observed in New Mexico, particularly about -Sante Fé, where it is an abundant and familiar resident, keeping about the -<i>corrals</i> and gardens, and building its nest under the portals and sheds of the -houses. In July the young were ready to fly, which must have been a -second brood, or else they begin to lay much later than in California. -Under a long shed or <i>portal</i>, in the Plaza or Square of Sante Fé, they had -a great many nests; and the old birds would sometimes fly down about our -feet while sitting at the doors, to pick up crumbs, &c. for their young.</p> -<p>“In California, it is also an extremely abundant and familiar resident, and -is called by the inhabitants <i>Buriones</i>. During winter they assemble in -flocks, frequenting the bushy plains and hill-sides, hedges, vineyards and -gardens, living on the various kinds of seeds which are so abundant, and also -sometimes doing considerable damage among the grapes. Early in March -they commence pairing, and soon are busy building their nests; placing -entire confidence in man (which is but too often misplaced) they persist in -building about the houses; on the projecting planks under the portals, under -the eaves, in sheds, boxes or in any nook they can find. I once found a -nest in a small box of seeds which had been stuck up over a door. They -will also build on the horizontal branch of a tree in the garden, and a great -many nests are made in the willow hedges of the vineyards, but they prefer -by far the rafters under the sheds and houses, repaying the inmates for -the privilege, with their most melodious song, which is continued during -summer, from the roof near the nest. The nest is made of small sticks, or -stems of weeds, willow catkins and down of the willow, and lined with horse-hair. -They usually lay five eggs, sometimes of a plain bluish white color -<span class="pb" id="Page_75">75</span> -only, but generally having a few scattering streaks and specks of dark brown -on the larger end. Some nests are made principally of feathers, cotton or -wool, with a few sticks and dried grass, and lined with horse-hair. Frequently -only four eggs are found in the nest, and they often have a very few -specks or streaks on one side only.</p> -<p>“It would be impossible, with words, to describe the song of this western -Orpheus; and although California contains many song-birds, among others -the Mocking-Bird, yet there is none more exhilarating to the feelings, or -melodious and tender to the ear, than the song of this Finch.”</p> -<p>This bird was first described satisfactorily as a distinct species, by Col. -M‘Call, in the Proceedings of the Philadelphia Academy, VI. p. 61, (April -1852.) In a previous paper in the same periodical, V. p. 219 (June 1851) -he thus alludes to it:</p> -<p>“I found this charming little Finch abundant at Sante Fé, where it commenced -nesting in March, although the weather was still wintry, and so -continued, with frequent snow-storms, for more than a month. Notwithstanding -this, the song of the male failed not to cheer his mate during -incubation, with the liveliest melody. The notes often reminded me of -the soft trill of the house-wren, and as often of the clear warble of the -canary. The males of the last year, though mated and apparently equally -happy and quite as assiduous as their seniors, were not yet in full plumage, -having little or nothing of the red colors that mark the adult birds.</p> -<p>“The nests, which were stuck into every cranny about the eaves and -porticoes of the houses throughout the town, were variously composed of dry -grass, fine roots, horse-hair, long pieces of cotton twine, or strips of old -calico; in fine, of countless odds and ends, that were picked up about the -yards;—these were curiously and firmly interwoven, so as to make a warm -and comfortable abode for the new-comers. Eggs, four or five, pale blue, -slightly marked on the larger end. The young were able to fly by the -middle or latter part of April. A second brood, and in some cases, I believe -a third was raised during the summer, as not a few of them continue to -incubate until some time in the month of August. Before the latter part of -September, however, nearly all of them had disappeared from about Santa -Fé.”</p> -<p>For the following additional account of this species, prepared expressly for -the present article, we are also indebted to Col. M‘Call:</p> -<p>“Whilst residing in New Mexico, I always remarked a gentle amity in the -<span class="pb" id="Page_76">76</span> -character of this lively little songster which failed not to bespeak for him the -kindly regard of all with whom he made his abode, whether the wealthy -proprietor of the manor-house, or the humble <i>peon</i>, whose miserable hut -stood aloof from the mansion. For, the same cheerful melody that soothed -the noontide of the former while idly swinging in his hammock, welcomed -the appearance of the latter as he came forth at the dawn of day to resume -his toil; the same confiding familiarity was observable in his approach to -both, and the same merry pranks were played, whether feeding on the -bounty of the one, or gleaning a more scanty meal near the ill-furnished -table of the other. It was this pleasing trait in his character which -prompted me in the choice of his name.</p> -<p>“His disposition also towards other birds, appeared to be mild and peaceful, -as I had many opportunities to observe. I will mention one instance: In -the piazza of the house I occupied, quite a colony of these birds had their -nests: here the work of building and incubation had gone on prosperously -for several weeks, although the weather at times was stormy and cold, and -ere the genial warmth of spring was fairly felt, the colony might have been -said to be fully established. As the season advanced and birds of less hardy -nature began to arrive from the south, a pair of Barn-Swallows (<i>H. rufa</i>) -made their appearance, and forthwith entered the territory of the Finches. -And here they at once, very unceremoniously, began to erect their domicil. -This act of aggression would have been fiercely resented by most birds, and -violent measures would have been promptly resorted to, to eject the intruders. -The conduct of the little finches was quite different: at first they stood aloof -and seemed to regard the strangers with suspicion and distrust, rather than -enmity. In the mean time the swallows went quietly to work, without -showing any inclination to intermeddle; and in a day or two [their mud-walls -all the time rapidly advancing] they gained the confidence of their neighbors, -and finally completed their work unmolested. Indeed, a perfect harmony was -established between the parties, which I never saw interrupted by a single -quarrel during the time they remained my tenants.</p> -<p>“This incident, and I would mention others were it necessary, illustrates -the character of this species in strong contrast with that of its relative, the -Purple-Finch, (<i>C. purpureus</i>,) which both Wilson and Audubon agree in -representing, from personal observation, as quarrelsome, tyrannical and -domineering in the extreme. This species may, moreover, be considered as -a more southern bird than the Purple-Finch, its northern range probably not -<span class="pb" id="Page_77">77</span> -extending much beyond the limits of New Mexico, on the eastern slope -of the Rocky mountains; while that of the other stretches to the Fur -countries.</p> -<p>“On the western slope, it is common throughout California, but not in -Oregon. At the Missions of San Diego and San Gabriel it nested in the hedge-rows, -as well as in the buildings. I often saw it in numbers on the edges of -the immense fields of wild mustard, a plant which, introduced by the early -Spanish missionaries, now overruns whole districts of that country, and in -size and vigor of growth is almost arborescent; but whether it nested in -these thickets or not, I did not ascertain. Yet I found the nests of the -Red-winged Black-bird (<i>A. phœniceus</i>) in numbers, placed at the distance of -6 or 8 feet from the ground, in the branches of the wild mustard.</p> -<p>“The food of this species, like its congeners, consists at different seasons of -buds, fruits, the seeds of various grasses and wild plants, which it often -plucks from the capsules while hanging inverted or sidewise on the -bending stalk. Insects are also eaten, I believe, at all seasons. But in -its half-domesticated condition at Santa Fé, nothing edible seemed to be -amiss.”</p> -<p>This species appears to congregate into flocks at the close of the summer -season, and to adopt the wandering habits of its near relative the Purple-Finch -previously alluded to in this article. They migrate at that period and -during the winter to Mexico, and probably to the countries of Central -America. The following notice is from Dr. Heermann’s Notes on the Birds -of California, (Jour. Philada. Acad. Quarto, II. p. 267,) and relates to this -bird:</p> -<p>“Very abundant and found in large flocks in the fall season, feeding on -the buds of young trees. I found this species abundant at Guaymas, where -it breeds under the eaves of houses, in the branches of the small cactus -plants; and one nest I discovered in a deserted woodpecker’s hole, made in -the body of an upright cactus, one and a half feet in diameter and about -fifteen feet high, with which species of plants the country near Guaymas is -covered. In California I found its nest on the dwarf oaks, composed of -coarse grasses and lined with fine hair. The eggs, from four to six in -number, are pale blue, marked with spots and delicate lines of black.”</p> -<p>Dr. Woodhouse also notices this bird as abundant in New Mexico and -California, (Sitgreaves’ Report, Zoology, p. 88.)</p> -<p>The figures in our plate are about two-thirds of the size of life.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_78">78</div> -<h3 id="c40">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Carpodacus.</span> Kaup Nat. Syst., p. 161. (1829.)</dt></dl> -<p>Bill short, conical, wide at base, wings long, pointed, second and third -quills longest, tail moderate or rather short, tarsi and feet strong, colors in -males usually purple, size small.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Carpodacus familiaris.</span> M‘Call, Proc. Acad. Philada. VI. p. 61. (April 1852.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Generally similar to that of <i>Carpodacus purpureus</i> (Gm.), but -smaller than either that species or <i>Carpodacus frontalis</i>. (Say.) Bill short, -strong; shorter, more curved above and more turgid than that of <i>C. purpureus</i>. -Wing rather long, with the first, second and third quills longest and -nearly equal, secondaries truncate and emarginate, tail slightly emarginate -only, not forked as in <i>C. purpureus</i>, legs, feet and claws moderate.</p> -<p>Dimensions of a skin from California: Total length from tip of bill to -end of tail about 5½ inches, wing 3¼, tail 2¾ inches. Col. M‘Call gives the -total length of the recent bird as 6 inches, 1 line and alar extent 10 -inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> <span class="sc">Male.</span> Head entirely, back, rump, superior tail-coverts, neck -before and breast, brownish red, inclining to crimson, most clear and distinct -on the rump, superior tail-coverts and front immediately at the base of the -bill, and most obscure on the back.</p> -<p>Wings and tail, blackish brown, every feather having paler edgings.</p> -<p>Abdomen and inferior tail-coverts, white, every feather having a longitudinal -stripe of brown.</p> -<p>Bill, pale yellowish brown, lighter on the lower mandible.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Female.</span> Without red on any part of the plumage. Body above, dark -brownish, every feather having a longitudinal central stripe of a darker shade -of the same color, and edged with lighter inclining to cinereous. Body -beneath, sordid white, longitudinally dashed with brown.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Young Male.</span> Much resembling the female, but with the red color -appearing on the front at the base of the bill, on the neck and rump.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> New Mexico and California. Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada., and -Nat. Coll. Washington.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This bird bears considerable resemblance to <i>Carpodacus purpureus</i>, -but is smaller, and has occasionally been mistaken for <i>Carpodacus frontalis</i>. -<span class="pb" id="Page_79">79</span> -The latter is a distinct and very handsome Western American species, the -young of which only has been figured, but of which adult specimens have -been brought home by Mr. Bell and others.</p> -<p>It is possible that the present is the bird alluded to by Swainson as -<i>Fringilla purpurea?</i> in Fauna Boreali Americana, II. p. 264, and by Sir -William Jardine in his edition of Wilson’s American Ornithology, I. p. 121, -(London and Edinburgh, 1832, 3 vols. octavo). The <i>Fringilla hæmorrhoa</i>, -Wagler Isis, XXIV. p. 525, appears to be too large for this bird and more -like the common <i>C. purpureus</i>.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_80">80</div> -<h2 id="c41"><span class="small">PARUS SEPTENTRIONALIS.—Harris.</span> -<br />The Long-tailed Chickadee. -<br />PLATE XIV.—Male Adult.</h2> -<p>The form and general appearance of this little bird resemble those of its -congeners, the Black-capped Chickadee (<i>P. atricapillus</i>) and the Carolina -Chickadee (<i>P. carolinensis</i>). It is, however, larger than either of those -species, and presents other characters which not only fully demonstrate it -to be entitled to specific distinction, but, very probably, to possess features -in its history different in some respects from any of its relatives.</p> -<p>Its bill is longer and more strongly developed, indicating perhaps a -different race of insects as its food. Its tail is unusually long, and its entire -organization stronger and larger than either of the species above mentioned, -with the larger of which (<i>P. atricapillus</i>), it has erroneously been considered -identical by some European authors.</p> -<p>This little bird is strictly a western species, and for its discovery and the -first description of it, we are indebted to Edward Harris, Esq., of New -Jersey, well known as one of the most eminent cultivators of Zoological -science in America. It was discovered by Mr. Harris during a visit to the -Upper Missouri and Yellow Stone rivers, in company with the late Mr. -Audubon, and which was the last journey ever performed by the latter -distinguished gentleman. The description, with some valuable observations -on other species of the genus <i>Parus</i>, was first published in the Proceedings -of the Philadelphia Academy, Vol. II. p. 300, (Dec. 1845,) from which we -make the following extract:</p> -<p>“A single specimen of this bird was procured on the 26th of July on the -Yellow Stone river, about thirty miles above its junction with the Missouri. -It is evidently a bird of the season, with immature plumage, to which may -be attributed the dullness of the black on the head and throat. On comparison -of this bird with <i>P. carolinensis</i> and <i>P. atricapillus</i>, it will be -perceived that, beginning with the smallest bird, the parts which are black, -decrease, and the white parts increase in size and intensity, in ascending. -In <i>septentrionalis</i> the outer web of the lateral tail-feather is entirely white, -except a small portion at the base, where there is a slight tinge of grey next -the shaft; and the quills, secondaries and all the tail-feathers are margined -more broadly and with a purer white than in the other species.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig14"> -<img src="images/ppp13.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1167" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 14<br /><span class="ln2">The Northern Chickadee</span><br /><span class="ln3">Parus septentrionalis (<i>Harris</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_81">81</div> -<p>“The note of this bird is similar to that of <i>P. atricapillus</i>, but its voice more -liquid and less harsh and querulous in the utterance. Bill longer and stouter.”</p> -<p>This bird has been received at the Philadelphia Academy in a collection -made by Mr. Edward M. Kern, while attached as Artist to the exploring -party commanded by Col. Frémont in 1846. A very fine specimen is in the -collection made by the surveying party under the command of Capt. Stansbury -in the vicinity of the Great Salt Lake of Utah, and is noticed in Prof. -Baird’s Zoological appendix to Capt. Stansbury’s Report, p. 316. (June 1852.)</p> -<p>Our figure is of the size of life, and the plant represented is <i>Microsperma -Bartonioides</i>, a native of Western America.</p> -<h3 id="c42">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Parus.</span> Linnæus, Syst. Nat. I. p. 340, (1766.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Parus septentrionalis.</span> Harris, Proc. Acad. Philada., II. p. 300, (1845.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> The largest species of typical Parus yet discovered in America. -Wing with the fifth primary longest; tail, long, somewhat fan-shaped; tarsi -and toes, rather strong; claws, large, flattened, sharp.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length (of skins) 5½ to 6 inches; wing, 2¾; tail, 2¾ -to 3 inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> Head above and space on the throat, black; cheeks and sides -of the neck white, the latter color nearly meeting on the back of the neck. -Entire plumage above cinereous with a brownish tinge, plumage beneath only -white, with touches of yellowish brown on the sides and flanks. Quills edged -externally with white, outer tail-feathers edged also with the same color, -which on the external feather occupies the entire outer web. Bill and feet dark.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Missouri and Utah, Rocky mountains. Spec. in Mus. Acad. -Philada., and Nat. Coll. Washington.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This is the largest American species of the genus Parus (as -restricted by late naturalists), and is particularly remarkable for its -lengthened tail. It is a distinct and well-marked species, related to -<i>P. atricapillus</i> and <i>P. carolinensis</i>, but easily distinguished from either by -the characters above mentioned.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_82">82</div> -<h2 id="c43"><span class="small">QUERQUEDULA CYANOPTERA.—Vieill.</span> -<br />The Red-breasted Teal. -<br />PLATE XV.—Male and Female.</h2> -<p>This handsomely colored and elegant little Teal, is of frequent occurrence -in Western America, though first noticed as a North American species in -Louisiana, by E. Pilaté, M. D., a physician and naturalist, residing at -Opelousas in that State. In a communication to us accompanying one of -the first specimens obtained by him and intended for the collection of the -Philadelphia Academy, that gentleman mentions having occasionally seen it -in company with other species of ducks, but regards its appearance as -unusual in Louisiana. The specimen alluded to, which is that of a male -in very fine spring plumage, is now in the collection of the society -mentioned. According to Dr. Pilaté, who has paid much attention to -Natural History, this bird associates with other small species of water-birds, -and appears to possess, in the migrating season, similar habits, and frequents -the same places of resort, though rather unusually shy and vigilant.</p> -<p>Our valued friends Capt. Howard Stansbury, of the U. S. Topographical -Engineers, in his able Report of a Survey of the valley of the Great Salt -Lake of Utah, and Prof. Spencer F. Baird, of the Smithsonian Institution, -in a valuable Zoological appendix to that Report, allude to this Duck as -commonly met with in Utah, and especially in the vicinity of the Great Salt -Lake. It was observed frequenting the rivers and small streams. The -collection brought home by Capt. Stansbury containing many objects of the -highest interest and scientific value, which are described with his usual great -accuracy in Prof. Baird’s Appendix, is now in the National Museum at -Washington city. The specimens of the present bird were obtained in the -river Jordan, a stream emptying into the Lake, and so named by the settlers -in that region, who are principally of the religious denomination of -Mormons.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig15"> -<img src="images/ppp14.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="568" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 15<br /><span class="ln2">The Red-breasted Teal</span><br /><span class="ln3">Querquedula cyanoptera (<i>Vieillo</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_83">83</div> -<p>It visits South America in the course of its winter migration, and is -frequently to be met with in the western countries of that portion of this -continent. The extensive collection in all departments of Natural History -made by the party under the command of Lieut. J. M. Gilliss, of the U. S. -Navy, during the performance of several years’ duty in making geographical -explorations and astronomical observations in Chili and other countries of -South America, by order of government, and which is now a portion of the -National Museum, contains numerous specimens of the bird now before us. -We have seen it, in fact, in all the various collections from western South -America that have recently come under our notice.</p> -<p>Dr. Woodhouse represents this species as very abundant in western Texas -and New Mexico. (Sitgreaves’ Report, Zoology, p. 103.)</p> -<h3 id="c44">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Querquedula.</span> Stephens, Continuation of Shaw’s Zoology, XII. p. 142, (1824.)</dt></dl> -<p>Size small, bill rather long, straight, of nearly equal width throughout its -length, lamellæ well defined, wings moderate, pointed, with the second quill -usually longest, tail moderate, pointed, tarsi short, toes fully webbed.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Querquedula cyanoptera.</span> (Vieill.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Anas cyanoptera.</span> (Vieill.) Nouv. Dict., V. p. 104, (1816.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Anas Rafflesii.</span> King, Zool. Jour., IV. p. 97, (1828.)</dt> -<dt>“<span class="sc">Pterocyanea cœruleata.</span> (Licht.)” Gray, Gen. of Birds, II. p. 617, (1845.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Small; wing rather long, with the second quill distinctly longest; -tertiaries and scapulars, long; two central tail-feathers pointed; bill, rather -long.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length (of skin), about 15 inches; wing, 8; tail, 3½ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> <span class="sc">Male.</span> Top of the head, chin and under tail-coverts, brownish -black; head, neck and entire under parts, deep purplish chestnut; abdomen -with a large spot of brownish black; back, scapulars, rump and upper tail-coverts, -brownish black, edged with dull chestnut; large space on the -shoulder and lesser wing-coverts, light sky-blue, succeeded by a transverse -band of white, speculum brilliant grass-green; a portion of the two first -scapulars blue, and all with a central stripe of pale reddish chestnut. Bill -dark; feet yellow.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_84">84</div> -<p><span class="sc">Female.</span> Shoulders blue as in the male, but no trace of the chestnut -color which prevails in the latter, that being replaced by a mottled yellowish -and brown, very similar to the females of several other species of ducks. -Head above brownish black.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Utah, California, Louisiana, Chili. Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada., -and Nat. Mus. Washington.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This very handsome species does not resemble any other species -likely to be confounded with it. With other species of Teals, it has been -placed in a distinct genus under the name <i>Pterocyanea</i>, Bonaparte, in -which, however, we fail to perceive sufficient characters to warrant a -separation from <i>Querquedula</i>.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_85">85</div> -<h2 id="c45"><span class="small">SYNOPSIS</span> -<br /><span class="smallest">OF</span> -<br /><span class="large">NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS.</span></h2> -<h3 id="c46">II. FAMILY FALCONIDÆ. THE FALCONS, HAWKS, EAGLES, KITES.</h3> -<p>Head and neck usually covered with feathers, but in a few instances -partially naked; bill, usually very strong, curved and very sharp; tarsi and -toes, generally strong and muscular; claws, curved, sharp; wings, various, -but usually large, and adapted to swift and vigorous flight. Size, very much -varied, body generally very compact, and organized for strength and -activity of habits, and for the destruction of living animals. Female larger -than the male.</p> -<p>Inhabit all parts of the world, numerous in the temperate and torrid -regions.</p> -<h3 id="c47">I. SUB-FAMILY FALCONINÆ. THE TYPICAL FALCONS.</h3> -<p>Bill, short, hooked, upper mandible always furnished with a well defined -tooth; head, rather large; feet and tarsi, very strong; toes and claws, -long, the latter very sharp and strong; wings, long, pointed; tail, rather -lengthened.</p> -<p>Embracing about fifty species, inhabiting all parts of the earth, and may -be regarded as presenting the highest organization of the Rapacious form -of Birds.</p> -<h3 id="c48">A.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt>I. <span class="sc">Genus Falco.</span> Linnæus Syst. Nat., I. p. 124. (1766.)</dt></dl> -<p>General form, robust and powerful; bill, short, with the upper mandible -curved, and with a distinct tooth; nostrils, circular, with a central tubercle. -Wings, long, pointed, formed for vigorous and rapid flight; tail, rather long; -tarsi, short, robust, covered with rounded or hexagonal scales; middle toe -long, claws large, curved, and very sharp. This genus, as restricted, contains -<span class="pb" id="Page_86">86</span> -from fifteen to twenty species, found in various parts of the world, several -of which more or less intimately resemble the <i>Falco peregrinus</i> of Europe, -and the <i>Falco anatum</i> of America. They are remarkable for exceedingly -rapid flight, and great boldness in attacking animals on which they prey.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Falco anatum.</span> Bonap. Comp. List p. 4. (1838.)</dt> -<dd class="t">“<span class="sc">Falco peregrinus Gm.</span>” Wilson, Audubon and other authors.</dd></dl> -<p>Edwards’ Birds, I. pl. 3, 4. Wilson Am. Orn. IX. pl. 76. Aud. B. of -Am. pl. 16, octavo edition, I. pl. 20. De Kay, Nat. Hist. State of New -York Birds, pl. 3. fig. 8. Lembeye B. of Cuba, pl. 1. fig. 2.</p> -<blockquote> -<p>Bill, rather short, strong, very sharp, with a well defined tooth in the upper mandible; -wings long, legs strong, middle toe long, claws curved, sharp.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Adult.</span> Frontal band white; top of the head, back, wing-coverts and rump, bluish -cinereous; every feather crossed transversely with bands of brownish black; rump and -lower part of the back lighter, and with the dark bands less numerous.</p> -<p>Throat, sides of the neck and upper part of the breast white, with a tinge of buff -without spots, other under parts same color, with a deeper shade, and with cordate or -rounded spots of black on the lower breast and abdomen, and transverse bars of the -same black on the sides, under tail-coverts and tibiæ. Quills, brownish black, with -transverse bars of yellowish white on their inner webs. Tail, brownish black, with -transverse bars of cinereous, very pale and nearly white on their inner webs, and -narrowly tipped with white.</p> -<p>Cheeks with a patch of black most narrow and clearly defined in the adult bird, and -separated from the color of the back of the head by a white space; back of the neck, -mixed with yellowish feathers, forming an irregular collar. Bill, light bluish horn color, -paler at the base; legs and feet fine yellow. Sexes alike.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Younger.</span> Entire plumage above, brownish black; nearly uniform on all parts, and -with little or no appearance of the bars which are seen in the adult. Tail, uniform -dark brown, with spots or irregular transverse stripes of reddish white frequently only -on the inner webs. Frontal spot of white obscure, large space on the cheek, black not -separated posteriorly from the same color of the head above. Under parts, white and -yellowish white, every feather, except on the throat, with a wide <i>longitudinal</i> stripe of -dark brown; the latter color prevailing on the sides and abdomen. Throat, white, nearly -every feather with a very narrow central line of black. Tarsi and feet, bluish lead color.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Female, total length 19 to 20 inches; wing, 14½ to 15; tail, 7½ to 8 -inches. Male and young smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> The entire eastern portion of North America, and perhaps western; Greenland? -Oregon? (U. S. Ex. Exp.) Jamaica, (Mr. Gosse.) Cuba, (Mr. Lembeye.) Bermuda, -(Sir W. Jardine.) Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> In the adult of this species, there is a white frontal band as in the -adult of the European <i>F. peregrinus</i>.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_87">87</div> -<p>It is very similar in color and general characters to that species, but is -larger, and the young differ.</p> -<p>Audubon’s figures represent the dark-colored plumage described above as -that of young or immature birds. Wilson’s figure is that of a more adult -specimen, with the frontal band partially produced; but the bird in completely -mature plumage, has never been figured.</p> -<p>This bird frequently appears in the United States, generally on the sea-coast -in the autumn and winter, at which seasons, also, according to Mr. -Lembeye, it visits the island of Cuba. It flies with extraordinary vigor and -rapidity, and is remarkable for its bold and destructive habits.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>2. <span class="sc">Falco nigriceps.</span> Cassin,<a class="fn" id="fr_3" href="#fn_3">[3]</a> <i>new species</i>. The Western Peregrine Falcon.</dt></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Very similar to the preceding, but smaller, and with the bill disproportionately weaker. -Very similar, also, to <i>Falco peregrinus</i>, but differing from both in the colors of the young -bird, and in other characters. <span class="sc">Adult.</span> Frontal band of white, very narrow. Head and -neck above, and cheeks, clear black, with a tinge of cinereous; other upper parts, bluish -cinereous, every feather having transverse bands of brownish black, lighter on the -rump and upper tail-coverts.</p> -<p>Throat and breast, pale reddish white; other under parts, lighter, with rounded spots -and transverse bands of black, and with a tinge of cinereous on the flanks and abdomen. -Tail above, pale bluish cinereous, with transverse bars of brownish black, and narrowly -tipped with white. Patch of black on the cheek, very large, and scarcely separated from -the same colors of the back of the head and neck.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, females (of skin) about 17 inches, wing 13 to 13½, tail 6 -to 6¾ inches; males, total length 14½, wing 11½ to 12, tail 5½ to 6 inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Younger.</span> Entire plumage above, dark brown; many feathers, especially on the rump, -tipped with rufous; tail above, brown, with a tinge of ashy, and barred with rusty on the -inner webs. Under plumage pale reddish ferruginous, paler on the throat, all the -feathers with broad longitudinal stripes of black, and many, also, with irregular transverse -stripes of the same color, which predominates on the flanks and under wing-coverts, and -which are marked with reddish white bars and circular spots. Tibia, with transverse -bars of brownish black.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Female (of skin), total length about 17 inches, wing 12, tail 6½ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Bear creek, California, (Mr. E. M. Kern.) Coast of Lower California, (Dr. -Heermann.) Chili, (Lieut. Gilliss.) Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada., and Nat. Mus. -Washington.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This bird, of which we have seen numerous specimens, appears to -be distinct from <i>Falco anatum</i>. It is uniformly smaller than either that -species or <i>F. peregrinus</i>, but resembles Indian or other Asiatic specimens of -the latter strongly. The young differ from the young of the species just -<span class="pb" id="Page_88">88</span> -mentioned, especially in the deeper and different red color of the under parts -of the body. In this character they more resemble <i>Falco peregrinator</i> of -India, <i>Falco puniceus</i> of Africa, <i>Falco melanogenys</i> of Australia. It has -also generally the cheeks as strongly marked with a black patch as the -latter, and can, by that character, be distinguished from either <i>F. anatum</i> or -<i>F. peregrinus</i>.</p> -<p>This species appears to inhabit the western portion of America as far -south as Chili.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>3. <span class="sc">Falco polyagrus.</span> Cassin, <i>new species</i>. The American Lanier Falcon.</dt></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>General form robust; bill, rather short, very strong; tooth, prominent; wing, long, -second and third quills longest, and nearly equal; tail, rather long. Female nearly -adult. Narrow frontal band; line over the eye, cheeks and entire under parts, white; -narrow stripe from the corner of the mouth, dark brown; some feathers on the breast and -abdomen, with longitudinal stripes and spots of brown, which color forms a large spot -on the flank, plumage on the sides also with spots of brown. Entire plumage of the upper -parts, brown, many feathers with rufous edgings; paler on the rump; tail above, grayish -brown, with transverse bars of white, and narrowly tipped with the same color. Quills, -dark grayish brown, with numerous bars of white on their inner webs; under wing-coverts, -dark brown, edge of wing at the shoulder and below, white, spotted with brown. The -brown of the back extending somewhat on to the breast at the wing-joint. Bill, bluish -horn color, under mandible yellow at its base. Large space around the eye, bare, with a -narrow edging of brown on the first plumage encircling it.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Younger Female.</span> Entire plumage brownish black, throat white, and many feathers -on the under parts with edgings and circular spots of white; under wing-coverts, also, -with circular spots of white; under tail-coverts with wide transverse stripes of white. -<span class="sc">Young Male?</span> Frontal band nearly obsolete; entire upper parts, uniform brown, with -narrow rufous stripes on the head; under parts, white, with a tinge of reddish yellow, -and nearly every feather with a narrow longitudinal stripe of blackish brown; large -spaces on the flanks brown. Tarsi and feet lead colored.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Female (of skin), total length about 20 inches, wing 14, tail 8 inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Sources of the Platte river, (Dr. Townsend.) California, (Dr. Heermann.) -Puget’s Sound, (U. S. Ex. Exp. Vincennes.) Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada., and in Nat. -Mus. Washington.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> Very similar, in the two first stages of plumage above described, to -<i>Falco jugger</i> of India, (Gray’s Illustrations of Indian Zoology, II. pl. 26, -and Jerdon’s Illustrations of Indian Ornithology, pl. 44,) but larger. We -have, however, never seen the young of <i>F. jugger</i> in the plumage of the -young of our species as described above, from Dr. Heermann’s Californian -specimens. This is the first species of this group of Falcons (the Laniers -and Juggers) yet discovered in America, and is especially remarkable on -account of its near affinity to the Asiatic species.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_89">89</div> -<h4>II. GENUS HIEROFALCO. <span class="sc">Cuvier, Reg. An.</span> I. p. 312, (1817.)</h4> -<p><span class="sc">Size</span>, large. Bill, short, thick, distinctly toothed, and with a slight -festoon; wings rather shorter than in <i>Falco</i>; tarsi and toes shorter, the -former covered with small circular scales. Color of adult usually white. -Contains several species inhabiting the northern regions of both continents, -nearly all of which where regarded with great favor for the purposes of -Falconry.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Hierofalco sacer.</span> (Forster.) The American Gyr Falcon.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco sacer.</span> Forster, Phil. Trans. London, LXII. p. 423. (1772.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco fusca.</span> Fabricius Fauna Grœnlandica, p. 56, (1780,) not Gmelin, (1788.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco cinereus.</span> Gmelin, Syst. Nat. I. p. 267. (1788.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco grœnlandicus.</span> Turton, Syst. Nat. I. p. 147. (1806.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco labradora.</span> Audubon, B. of Am. p. 196, (name on plate pub. about 1834.)</dd> -<dd class="t">“<span class="sc">Falco candicans.</span> Gmelin.” Bonap. Cons. Av. p. 23.</dd> -<dd class="t">“<span class="sc">Falco grœnlandicus.</span> Turton,” Hancock in Ann. and Mag., Nat. Hist. II. p. 249.</dd> -<dd class="t">“<span class="sc">Falco islandicus.</span> Lath.” Aud. Orn. Biog. II. p. 552.</dd></dl> -<p>Edwards’ Birds, II. pl. 53, young. Aud. B. of Am. pl. 196, young, (but -not pl. 366 which represents another species.) Schlegel, Traité de Fauconnerie, -pl. (no number,) adult. Ann. & Mag. Nat. Hist. II. pl. 10, (feathers.)</p> -<blockquote> -<p>Form strong, and robust; second and third quills (in the young bird) longest and -nearly equal. Adult, according to Hancock as cited above, “ground of the plumage -pure white, upper parts elegantly marked with arrow shaped spots of a dark gray; -under parts and head streaked with the same; wings reaching to within two inches of the -end of the tail; second primary the longest.”</p> -<p><span class="sc">Young.</span> Entire plumage, brown, tinged with cinereous on the upper parts. Throat, -dull white; all the plumage of the under parts edged with and having circular spots of -dull yellowish white, the rounded spots more apparent on the tibia and under tail-coverts. -Quills, mottled with the same white on their inner webs; tail, with numerous (about -thirteen) irregular bars of the same. “Bill and cere, pale blue; iris, brownish black. -Feet, grayish blue; the under parts of the toes greenish yellow; claws dusky.” -(Audubon.)</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Northern America. Greenland, (Fabricius, Hancock,) Hudson’s Bay, (Richardson,) -Labrador, (Audubon,) Louisville, Kentucky, (Mr. C. W. Webber.) Spec. in -Mus. Nat. Hist. Soc. Charleston, S. C.</p> -</blockquote> -<div class="pb" id="Page_90">90</div> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> The Gyrfalcon is of very rare occurrence in the United States, -though not unfrequent in the northern regions of this continent.</p> -<p>Mr. Hancock, whose opportunities were ample, fully demonstrates (as cited -above) that the <i>Falco grœnlandicus</i> of Greenland, which is the present -species, and the <i>Falco islandicus</i> of Iceland, are distinct, which appears to be -assented to by all late writers. The bird, figured by Mr. Audubon as the -adult of the species of which the young bird was obtained by him in -Labrador, was an Iceland specimen, (Orn. Biog. IV. p. 476,) and therefore -not correctly given as the American bird. We have never had the satisfaction -of seeing the adult of this species; but for an opportunity of examining one -of Mr. Audubon’s Labrador specimens, we are indebted to the Rev. John -Bachman, D. D., of Charleston, S. C., who, with that disposition to advance -the interests of Zoological Science which has always characterized him, most -kindly forwarded it at our request.</p> -<p>Turton’s description above cited, is copied by him from Pennant’s Greenland -Falcon, Arctic Zoology, I. p. 257.</p> -<h4>III. GENUS HYPOTRIORCHIS. <span class="sc">Boie Isis</span>, p. 976. (1826.)</h4> -<h5 id="c49">DENDROFALCO. <span class="sc">Gray list</span>, p. 3. (1840.)</h5> -<p><span class="sc">Size</span> small, tarsus lengthened and rather slender. In all other characters -much like typical Falco. Toes long, slender and furnished with sharp, -curved claws. This genus includes about ten or twelve small species found -in various parts of the world, and for the greater part dark colored, like the -species of typical <i>Falco</i>.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Hypotriorchis columbarius.</span> (Linn.) The Pigeon Hawk.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco columbarius.</span> Linn. Syst. Nat. I. p. 128. (1766.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco intermixtus.</span> Daudin, Traité d’Orn. II. p. 141. (1800.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco temerarius.</span> Aud. B. of Am. I. p. 381. (1831, plate pub. 1829)</dd> -<dd class="t">“<span class="sc">Falco æsalon.</span> Temm.” Rich. and Sw. Faun. Bor. Am. Birds, p. 37.</dd></dl> -<p>Cat. Car. pl. 3. Vieill. Ois. d’Am. Sept. pl. 11. Wils. Am. Orn. II. -pl. 15, fig. 3. Faun. Bor. Am. Birds, pl. 25. Aud. B. of Am. pl. 75, 92. -Oct. ed. I. pl. 21. De Kay, Nat. Hist. N. Y. pl. 4, fig. 9.</p> -<blockquote> -<p>Small, head and body broad and strong, bill short, wing pointed with the second and -third quills longest, tail slightly rounded, tarsi and toes slender. <span class="sc">Adult male.</span> Entire -<span class="pb" id="Page_91">91</span> -plumage of the upper parts dusky slate color, inclining to bluish, every feather with a -black longitudinal line. Forehead and throat white, other under parts pale yellowish or -reddish white, every feather with a narrow longitudinal stripe of brownish black, plumage -of the tibia, light rusty red, with narrow stripes of black. Quills black, with -transverse bands of white on their inner webs, and narrowly tipped with ashy white, -tail above light bluish cinereous tipped with white, and with a wide subterminal band of -black, and with several other narrower bands of black, inner webs nearly white. Cere and -feet yellow, bill blue.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Middle age or winter plumage?</span> Entire upper plumage, brownish black, slightly -mixed with rufous on the head and neck behind, white of the face, and under parts more -deeply tinged with reddish yellow, dark stripes wider, plumage of the sides, with wide -transverse bands of brownish black, predominating on some feathers, and the yellowish -white, assuming the form of circular spots. Tail dark brown, nearly black tipped, and -with four bars of white, upper tail coverts with spots of white at their bases. Feet -yellow.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Younger and adult female?</span> Entire upper plumage, dusky brown, quite light, and -with a tinge of ashy in some specimens. Head above with narrow stripes of dark -brown and rusty red, and in some specimens, many irregular spots and edgings of the -latter color, on the other upper parts. Forehead and entire under parts white, with -longitudinal stripes of light brown. Plumage of the sides and flanks light brown, with -pairs of circular spots of white, tibia white, with dashes of brown, tail above and below -pale brown, with about six bands of white. Neck behind with a distinct band of white.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length (of skin,) females, 12 to 14 inches, wing, 8 to 9, tail, 5½ -inches. <span class="sc">Male.</span> Total length, 10 to 11 inches, wing, 7½ to 8, tail, 5 inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> North and South America. Wisconsin, (Dr. Hoy.) California, (Mr. J. G. Bell.) -Oregon, (Col. M’Call, Dr. Townsend.) Cuba, (M. de Sagra.) Jamaica, (Mr. Gosse.) -New Granada, (M. Parzudaki.) Bermuda, (Sir. W. Jardine.) Spec. in Mus. Acad. -Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> The adult of this species is with difficulty distinguishable from the -European <i>H. æsalon</i>, but we have never seen the latter in the nearly black -plumage, which we regard as characterizing the young or winter plumage, -of the American bird. The light, “liver brown” plumage, represented by -European authors as the female of <i>F. æsalon</i>, frequently occurs in this bird, -and is given by Rich. and Swains. in Fauna Boreali Americana, Birds, pl. -25. The adult which appears to be <i>Falco temerarius</i>, Aud., is figured in B. -of Am. pl. 75, the other figures by Aud. pl. 92, and Wilson’s plate, represent -this bird in the dark plumage as described above.</p> -<p>Adult specimens from Western America, even more closely resemble the -European species, but differ from the Eastern American only in small and -scarcely describable particulars, as the slightly greater extent of the white -front, or the greater purity of the white of the throat and breast. We -<span class="pb" id="Page_92">92</span> -regard the stage of plumage above described as that of the female, (and -as figured by Rich. and Swains.) principally on account of its analogy to -the female of the nearly allied European species.</p> -<p>This bird is of frequent occurrence in the United States. The largest -specimens that we have ever seen are from Oregon, and may prove to be of -a distinct species, though we cannot at present, determine.</p> -<h4>IV. GENUS TINNUNCULUS. <span class="sc">Vieill. Ois.</span> d’<span class="sc">Am. Sept.</span> I. p. 39. (1807.)</h4> -<dl class="undent"><dt>CERCHNEIS. <span class="sc">Boie Isis</span>, p. 976. (1826.)—POECILORNIS. <span class="sc">Kaup</span> Class. der Savg. und Vog, p. 108. (1844.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Size</span> small, tarsus and toes lengthened, slender. Colors generally more -or less rufous and white. In all other respects similar to typical <i>Falco</i>. -This genus comprises about twelve very handsome species of small size, inhabiting -various countries.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Tinnunculus sparverius.</span> (Linn.) The Sparrow Hawk.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco sparverius.</span> Linn. Syst. Nat. I. p. 128. (1766.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco dominicensis.</span> Gm. Syst. Nat. I. p. 285. (1788.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco gracilis, cinnamominus</span> and <span class="sc">isabellinus</span>. Sw. Cab. Cy. p. 281. (1838.)</dd></dl> -<p>Vieill. Ois. d’Am. Sept. pl. 12, 13. Cat. Car. pl. 5. Buff. Pl. Enl. -465. Wilson Am. Orn. II. pl. 16, fig. 1, and IV. pl. 32, fig. 2. Faun. -Bor. Am. Birds, pl. 24. Aud. B. of Am. pl. 42. Oct. ed. I. pl. 22. Nat. -Hist. N. Y. Birds, pl. 7, fig. 16.</p> -<blockquote> -<p>Small, wings moderate, tail rounded. <span class="sc">Adult Male.</span> Frontal band, space including -the eyes and throat, white; spot on the neck behind, two others on each side of the neck, -and line running downwards from before the eye, black. Head above, and wing coverts, -bluish cinereous, the latter usually spotted with black. Spot on the top of the head, the neck -behind, back, rump, and generally the tail above, light rufous or cinnamon red. Under -parts generally a pale shade of the same color, frequently nearly white, but sometimes -nearly as dark as the back, and always with more or less numerous circular, or oblong -spots of black. Quills brownish black, with white bars on their inner webs. Tail tipped -with white, sometimes tinged with rufous, and with a broad subterminal band of black, -frequently with several of the outer feathers, white tinged with ashy, and barred with -black. Bill blue, legs and feet yellow. Back generally with more or less numerous -transverse stripes of black. Rufous spot on head, much varying in size, and sometimes -wanting.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Female.</span> Upper parts as above, and wing coverts, and tail rust red, with numerous -transverse bands of brownish black, under parts with numerous longitudinal stripes, and -on the sides and flanks, with transverse bands of the same color, external feathers of the -<span class="pb" id="Page_93">93</span> -tail palest, broad subterminal band on the tail, obscure or wanting. <span class="sc">Young Male.</span> -Wing-coverts, dark bluish cinereous with large circular spots, and with bands of brownish -black, all the rufous parts with broad bands of the same color, under parts with large -circular spots, and wide traverse bands of black on the sides and flanks.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, 11 to 12 inches, wing 7 to 7½, tail 5 to 5½ inches. Sexes -nearly alike in size.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> The entire continent of America. California, (Mr. Bell.) Mexico, (Mr. Pease.) -Cuba, (M. de Sagra.) Bermuda, (Sir W. Jardine.) Chili, (Lieut. Gilliss.) Patagonia, -(Ex. Exp. Vincennes.) Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This elegant little Hawk, is one of the most handsomely colored -of the Rapacious Birds of North America, and is frequently met with.</p> -<p>It is widely diffused, being common to all parts of the United States, and -we have seen numerous specimens brought in collections from various parts -of South America. The young bird has never been figured. Specimens -from all parts of America are very similar, and we have seen the stages of -plumage, which have been considered as indicating distinct species by eminent -authors, but they do not appear to be constant, nor peculiar to any -locality.</p> -<h3 id="c50">II. SUB-FAMILY ACCIPITRINÆ. THE HAWKS.</h3> -<p>Bill short, hooked, upper mandible lobed, but not toothed. Wings rather -short, tail long, and rather wide, tarsi rather long and slender, toes and -claws long, the latter curved and sharp. Embraces forty to fifty species, -amongst which are birds of all countries. They are very vigilant and active -and swift of flight, and have as a peculiar character amongst the <i>Falconidæ</i>, -the habit of pursuing their prey into woods and forests.</p> -<h4>I. GENUS ASTUR. <span class="sc">Lacepede Mem. Inst.</span> III. p. 506.</h4> -<h5 id="c51">SPARVIUS. <span class="sc">Vieill, Anal.</span> p. 24, (1816.) <span class="sc">Leucospiea. Kaup, Class</span>, p. 118, (1844.)</h5> -<p>General form, strong, but somewhat slender; bill short, curved, festooned; -nostrils large, somewhat ovate, inserted in the cere. Wings moderate; tail, -long and broad. Tarsi rather lengthened; covered in front with rather wide -transverse scales; toes and claws, rather long, the latter sharp. This genus -contains about twelve species of all countries.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_94">94</div> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Astur atricapillus.</span> (Wilson.) The Goshawk. The Black-capped Hawk.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco atricapillus.</span> Wilson Am. Orn. VI. p. 80. (1812.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco regalis.</span> Temm. P. col. I. (liv. 84 about 1827.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Dædalion pictum.</span> Less. Traité d’Orn. I. p. 67. (1831.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Wilson Am. Orn. VI. pl. 52, fig. 3. Faun. Bor. Am. Birds, pl. 26. -Jard. and Selby, Ill. Orn. pl. 121. Aud. B. of Am. pl. 141, Oct. ed. I. pl. -23. Temm. Pl. col. 495.</p> -<p>Large, general form, rather slender; wings, short. <span class="sc">Adult.</span> Head above, neck behind -and stripe from behind the eye, black, generally more or less mixed with ashy; other -upper parts bluish cinereous, with the shafts of the feathers black; a conspicuous stripe -over the eye, and an obscure collar on the back of the neck white. Entire under parts -white, every feather with a longitudinal line of brownish black, and several transverse -narrow and usually irregular bands of ashy brown. Quills, brown, with bands of a -deeper shade of the same color, and with mottled white bands on their inner webs. Tail, -dark brownish cinereous, with irregular bands of brownish black, and narrowly tipped -with white; under surface very pale, nearly white; under tail-coverts pure white. -<span class="sc">Young.</span> Head above and other upper parts, dark brown mixed with rufous, especially -on the head and neck. Under parts, white, tinged with fulvous, with large oblong and -circular spots of deep brown.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, female, 22 to 24 inches, wing about 14, tail 10½ to 11 inches; -male, 19 to 20 inches, wing 13, tail 9½ to 10 inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Northern and eastern North America. Spec. Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> Resembles to some extent the Goshawk of Europe, (<i>Astur palumbarius</i>,) -with which it has been confounded by some American authors. It -is about the same size, but may easily be distinguished by its lighter color, -and by its much narrower and more numerous bands on the inferior parts -of the body. It is in all respects a distinct species, as described by -Wilson and by Temminck.</p> -<p>The young male of this bird may readily be mistaken for the young -female of the succeeding species, (<i>Accipiter Cooperi</i>,) but can be distinguished -by the different color and markings of the under parts of the body. In -some specimens of this species, the transverse bands on the under parts are -so irregular or broken, as to present a nearly uniformly mottled aspect. -This stage of plumage is represented in Audubon’s plate, but is not the most -common.</p> -<h4>II. GENUS ACCIPITER. <span class="sc">Brisson, Orn.</span> I. 310. (1760.)</h4> -<h5 id="c52">NISUS. <span class="sc">Cuvier, Regne An.</span> I. p. 321, (1817.) <span class="sc">hieraspiza.</span> <span class="sc">Kaup Class.</span> p. 116, (1844.)</h5> -<p>General characters very similar to those of <i>Astur</i>, but the species are -generally more slender and much smaller. Wings short, with the fourth -<span class="pb" id="Page_95">95</span> -quill usually slightly longest, shorter than in <i>Astur</i>; tail long; tarsi rather -long and slender, and frequently with the scales of the tarsi nearly obsolete. -Contains about twenty species of all countries, many of which bear more or -less resemblance to the <i>Accipiter nisus</i> of Europe.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Accipiter fuscus.</span> (Gmelin.) The Sharp-shinned Hawk. The Chicken Hawk.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco fuscus, and dubius.</span> Gm., Syst. Nat. I. p. 280, 281. (1788.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Accipiter striatus.</span> Vieill, Ois. Am. Sept. I. p. 42, (1807.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco velox, and Pennsylvanicus.</span> Wilson Am. Orn. V. p. 116, and VI. p. 13, (1812.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Sparvius lineatus.</span> Vieill. Ency. Meth. III. p. 1266. (1823.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Nisus Malfini.</span> Less. Traité I. p. 58. (1831.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Accipiter fringilloides.</span> Vig. Zool. Jour. III. p. 434.? (1827.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Temm. Pl. col. 67. Vieill, Ois. d’Am. Sept. pl. 14. Wilson, Am. Orn. V. pl. 45, fig. 1, -VI. pl. 46, fig. 1. Aud. B. of Am. pl. 374, Oct. ed. I. pl. 25.</p> -<p>Small, tail rather long, with the end nearly even; tarsi and toes slender. Adult, -entire upper parts dark brownish black tinged with ashy, occiput mixed with white. -Throat, and under tail-coverts, white, the former with very fine lines of black on the -shafts of the feathers; other under parts, fine light rufous, deepest on the tibia, and with -transverse bands of white; shafts of the feathers with lines of dark brown. Tail, ashy -brown, tipped with white, and with about four bands of brownish black. Quills, -brownish black, with bands of a darker shade, and of white on their inner webs; -secondaries and tertiaries, with large partially concealed white spots. Shafts of quills -tinged with reddish. <span class="sc">Young.</span> Entire upper parts umber brown, tinged with ashy; -neck behind mixed with white; greater wing-coverts and shorter quills, with large -white spots partially concealed. Under parts white, with longitudinal stripes and circular -spots of reddish brown, changing into transverse bands on the flanks and tibiæ; under -tail-coverts, in many specimens, pure white.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, female, 12 to 14 inches, wing 7½; to 8, tail 6½ to 7 inches; -male, total length 10 to 11, wing 6 to 6½, tail 5 to 5½ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Throughout North America. Hudson’s Bay, (Richardson,) Wisconsin, (Hoy,) -Texas, (Audubon,) California, (Heermann,) New Mexico, (M‘Call,) Mexico, (Pease.) -Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This little Hawk is one of the most common of the North American -species. It is very similar, when adult, to the <i>Accipiter nisus</i> of Europe, -but the young differ, as is the case with nearly all our Hawks which resemble -birds of the old world. We have never seen a specimen of <i>A. fuscus</i> with -the transverse bands on the under parts regular and unbroken, as is commonly -met with in the young female of <i>A. nisus</i>.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_96">96</div> -<p>Though we regard the law of priority as of great importance, we have in -the case of this species continued Gmelin’s specific name <i>fuscus</i>, (1788,) -though it had been previously used by Fabricius, (1780; see <i>Hierofalco sacer</i> -in this synopsis.) We know of no practical benefit, however, that would -now result from the alteration of this long established name, especially as -the <i>fuscus</i> of Fabricius is a synonyme itself. Any naturalist, however, -being so moved, may call this bird <i>Accipiter dubius</i>, if he chooses, and shall -not be molested by us.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>2. <span class="sc">Accipiter Cooperii.</span> (Bonaparte) Cooper’s Hawk.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco Cooperii.</span> Bonap. Am. Orn. II. p. 1. (1828.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco Stanleii.</span> Aud. Orn. Biog. I. p. 186. (1831.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Bonap. Am. Orn. pl. 1, fig. 1, young. Aud. B. of Am. pl. 36, 141, fig. 3; Oct. ed. I. -pl. 24, adult and young.</p> -<p>Larger than the preceding; slender; wings short; tail rounded. Adult, head above -brownish black, mixed with white on the occiput; other upper parts dark ashy brown, -with the shafts of the feathers brownish black; an obscure rufous collar on the neck -behind. Throat and under tail-coverts white, the former with lines of dark brown; -other under parts transversely barred with light rufous and white; tail, dark cinereous, -with four wide bands of brownish black, and tipped with white; quills ashy brown, -with darker bands, and white marks on their inner webs. <span class="sc">Young.</span> Head and neck -behind yellowish white tinged with rufous, and with longitudinal oblong stripes of brown; -other upper parts light umber brown, with large partially concealed spots and bars of -white; upper tail-coverts tipped with white; under parts white, with narrow longitudinal -stripes of light brown; tail as in adult.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Female, total length 18 to 20 inches, wing 10 to 11, tail 8½; male, 16 to -17, wing 9½ to 10, tail 8 inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> The entire territory of the United States. Chili, (Gay.)</p> -<p>Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> Rather a difficult species to the ornithologist, on account of the -great variations in its colors, and in size also. It is, in fact, unusual to find -two alike in a dozen specimens. Very similar when adult to <i>A. fuscus</i>, but -much larger. The adults of both sexes are the same in color. We have -latterly suspected that the smaller specimens usually considered as young -males of this bird, are really the young of the species next below, (<i>A. Mexicanus</i>.)</p> -<p>This bird is of frequent occurrence in the United States.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>3. <span class="sc">Accipiter Mexicanus.</span> Swainson. The Mexican Black-capped Hawk.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Accipiter Mexicanus.</span> Swains. Faun. Bor. Am. Birds p. 45, (1831,) not figured.</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<div class="pb" id="Page_97">97</div> -<p>Smaller than the preceding; tail long, rounded. Adult, head above black; other -upper parts dark brownish black, with a tinge of cinereous, darkest on the back. Throat -and under tail-coverts white; other under parts fine light rufous, deepest on the tibiæ, -and barred and spotted with white nearly obsolete on the breast, sides and tibiæ, the -longitudinal dark lines on the shafts of the feathers, (conspicuous in <i>A. Cooperii</i>,) barely -discernible on the breast. Quills, dark brown, edged exteriorly with ashy, and with -bands of darker brown and white on their inner webs; tail, dark cinereous, tipped with -white, and with four bands of brownish black, that near the base of the tail obscure. -Young, head and neck behind, and upper part of the back, dark rufous, striped with -brownish black; other upper parts umber brown; under parts white, with longitudinal -narrow stripes of brown; wings and tail as in adult; upper tail-coverts tipped with -white. “Iris, carmine,” Dr. Gambel.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, male, 15 inches, wing 9, tail 8 inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> California (Dr. Gambel, Mr. Bell); Mexico (Mr. Pease); Eastern? Spec. in Mus. -Acad. Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> Similar for the greater part, to <i>A. Cooperii</i>, but smaller, and with -the tail and tarsi comparatively longer, and with the fine red of the under -parts more uniform, the white stripes being nearly obsolete. Several -specimens of both adults and young were brought in the fine collection made -in California by Mr. J. G. Bell, of New York, and it was previously brought -from the same country by Dr. Gambel, and from Mexico by Mr. Pease.</p> -<h3 id="c53">III. SUB-FAMILY BUTEONINÆ. THE BUZZARDS.</h3> -<p>Bill short, strong, upper mandible curved, and with its edges festooned; -wings long and broad; tail moderate, rather short; legs and feet moderate; -toes rather short. General form heavy; flight vigorous, and capable of being -long continued, but not so swift as in preceding sub-families. This group -comprises about twenty-five species of all countries.</p> -<h4>I. GENUS BUTEO. <span class="sc">Cuvier, Reg. An.</span>, I. p. 323. (1817.)</h4> -<h5 id="c54">PŒCILOPTERNIS. <span class="sc">Kaup, Isis</span>, 1847, p. 329.</h5> -<p>Bill short, wide at base, edges of upper mandible festooned; nostrils large, -ovate; wings long, wide, fourth and fifth quills usually longest; tail moderate, -rather wide; tarsi rather long, and having transverse scales before and behind, -but laterally small circular scales; toes moderate, rather short; claws strong. -Comprises about twenty species, inhabiting all countries.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Buteo borealis.</span> (Gmelin.) The Red-tailed Hawk. The American Buzzard.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco borealis, leverianus</span> and <span class="sc">jamaicensis</span>. Gmelin, Syst. Nat., I. p. 266. (1788.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco aquilinus.</span> Bartram, Trav., p. 290. (1791.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Buteo ferruginicaudus.</span> Vieill., Ois. d’Am. Sept., I. p. 32. (1807.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Accipiter ruficaudus.</span> Vieill., Ois. d’Am. Sept., I. p. 43. (1807.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Buteo fulvus</span> and <span class="sc">americanus</span>. Vieill., Nouv. Dict., IV. pp. 472, 477. (1816.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<div class="pb" id="Page_98">98</div> -<p>Vieill., Ois. d’Am. Sept., I. pl. 6, 14; Wils., Am. Orn., VI. pl. 52, figs. 1, 2; Aud., B. of -Am., pl. 51, oct. ed., I. pl. 7; Gosse, Ill. B. of Jamaica, pl. 2; Lembeye, B. of Cuba, -pl. 1. fig. 1.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Adult.</span> Tail bright rufous, narrowly tipped with white, and having a subterminal -band of black. Entire upper parts dark umber-brown; lighter, and with fulvous edgings, -on the head and neck; scapulars, with a generally concealed basal portion, white, with -brown bands; upper tail-coverts generally yellowish white, but frequently on their inner -webs of the same rufous as the tail, and with brown spots and bands. Throat white, with -brown longitudinal stripes; other under-parts yellowish-white or fawn color, with many -longitudinal lines and spots of reddish-brown, tinged with fulvous, most numerous on the -breast, and an irregular band across the abdomen of oblong longitudinal spots and narrow -transverse bars; under tail-coverts and tibiæ generally immaculate, but the latter frequently -spotted, and transversely barred with light rufous. Under surface of the tail -silvery white. <span class="sc">Young.</span> Tail, in many specimens, pale-brown, with numerous bands of a -deeper shade of the same color, and tipped with white; upper tail-coverts white, banded -more or less regularly with dark-brown; other upper parts dark umber-brown, many -feathers narrowly edged with white and with partially concealed spots of white. Entire -under-parts white, sides of the breast with large oval spots of brown, and a wide -irregular band on the abdomen composed of similar spots of the same color; tibiæ and -under tail-coverts with irregular bands and sagittate spots of brown.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Female</i>—total length, 22 to 24 inches; wing, 15½ to 16; tail, 8½ inches. -<i>Male</i>—19½ to 21 inches; wing, 14; tail, 7½ to 8 inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Eastern North America; Fur-countries (Richardson); Wisconsin (Hoy); Florida -(Bartram); Jamaica (Gosse); Cuba (Lembeye).</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> One of the most common and easily recognized of the North American -species. It is diffused throughout the eastern portion of the continent, -but in the west appears to be replaced by the succeeding.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>2. <span class="sc">Buteo Swainsoni.</span> Bonaparte, Comp. List, p. 3. (1838.) The Western Buzzard.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Buteo montana.</span> Nutt., Man. Orn., I. p. 112. (1840.)</dd> -<dd class="t">“<span class="sc">Buteo vulgaris.</span>” Rich. and Sw., Faun. Bor. Am. Birds, p. 47.</dd> -<dd class="t">“<span class="sc">Falco buteo. Linn.</span>” Aud., Orn. Biog., IV. p. 508.</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Faun. Bor. Am. Birds, pl. 27; Aud., B. of Am., pl. 372, oct. ed., I. pl. 6.</p> -<p>General form and appearance very similar to <i>B. borealis</i>, but rather larger, and with -the wings longer; neck and upper part of the breast brown; tibiæ light rufous, with -transverse bars of a deeper shade of the same. Tail bright rufous, narrowly tipped with -white, and with a subterminal band of black; upper tail-coverts rufous and white; entire -other upper parts dark umber-brown, with partially concealed ashy-white and pale fulvous -bands and spots on the scapulars and shorter quills. Lower breast white, tinged and with -irregular transverse bands of pale-rufous; abdomen with a broad irregular transverse -band composed of longitudinal lines and oblong spots of brown, and tinged with rufous. -This abdominal band nearly obsolete in some specimens. Under tail-coverts yellowish-white; -under surface of the tail silvery-white, with a reddish shade.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Young.</span> Upper parts dark-brown, edged and spotted with white tinged with rufous; -tail above ashy-brown, with dark-brown bands, and tipped with white. Under parts white, -on the sides and abdomen with large oblong spots of brown; tibiæ and under tail-coverts -white, with transverse bars and large spots of brown.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_99">99</div> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Female</i>—total length, 23 to 26 inches; wing, 16½ to 17; tail, 9 to 10 -inches. <i>Male</i>—smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Northern and western regions—Rocky Mountains and Oregon (Dr. Townsend); -California (Mr. Bell); Wisconsin (Dr. Roy); Mexico (Rivoli collection).</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> Nearly related to <i>B. borealis</i>, and much resembling it. We have -never seen, however, specimens of the latter with the brown space on the -neck and breast so extensive as in specimens of the present species brought -from California by Mr. Bell, nor with the transverse bars on the abdomen, -as is usual in this species, and as represented in the plate in Fauna Boreali -Americana. It is brought frequently in collections from Western America; -and the young may be <i>Buteo ventralis</i>. Gould.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>3. <span class="sc">Buteo lineatus.</span> (Gmelin.) The Red-shouldered Hawk. The Winter Falcon.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco lineatus</span> and <span class="sc">hyemalis</span>. Gm., Syst. Nat., I. pp. 268, 274. (1788.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco buteoides.</span> Nutt., Man., I. p. 100. (1st edition, 1832.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Vieill., Ois. d’Am. Sept., pl. 5; Wils., Am. Orn., pl. 53, fig. 3; Aud., B. of Am., pl. 56, -71, oct. ed., I. pl. 9; Nat. Hist. N. Y., pl. 6, fig. 13.</p> -<p>Smaller than the preceding. <span class="sc">Adult.</span> Wing-coverts, from its flexure to the body, fine -bright rufous; breast and other inferior parts paler rufous; many feathers with narrow -lines of black on their shafts, and spotted and barred transversely with white; the latter -color predominating on the under tail-coverts. Entire upper-parts brown; on the head -and neck much mixed with rufous, and with white spots on the wing-coverts and shorter -quills and rump; quills brownish-black, spotted with white on their outer webs, and with -bars of a lighter shade of the same color and of white on their inner webs; tail brownish-black, -with about five transverse bands of white, and tipped with white. <span class="sc">Younger.</span> Under -parts with large sagittate spots and wide bars of rufous, tinged with brown. <span class="sc">Young.</span> -Entire under-parts yellowish-white, with longitudinal stripes and oblong spots of brown; -throat brown; upper parts brown, with partially concealed spots and bars of white; quills -dark-brown, with wide bars of rufous, and white on both webs; tail brown, with many -bands of pale brownish and rufous-white; tail beneath silvery-white.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Female</i>—total length, 22 to 24 inches; wing, 14; tail, 9 inches. <i>Male</i>—total -length, 18 to 20 inches; wing, 11½ to 12; tail, 8 inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> North America; Oregon (Townsend); California (Heermann); Wisconsin (Hoy); -South Carolina (Gibbes).</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> An abundant and rather difficult species to the student. The young -bird, which is <i>Falco hyemalis</i> Gm., is the more usually met with, and bears -very little resemblance to the adult.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>4. <span class="sc">Buteo Bairdii.</span> Hoy, Proc. Acad. Philada., VI. p. 451. (1853.)</dt></dl> -<blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Female.</span> Rather smaller than <i>B. lineatus</i>; wings long and pointed; third primary longest; -tail moderate, rounded. Entire upper-parts dark brown, with a purplish-bronze lustre, -especially on the primaries; plumage of the head and neck behind, and some feathers on -the back, edged and tipped with yellowish-white; upper tail-coverts yellowish-white, with -transverse bars of brown. Tail above brownish-cinereous, and having about ten narrow -<span class="pb" id="Page_100">100</span> -bands of brownish-black, and tipped with white. Under parts pale yellowish-white, or -fawn color, with a few sagittate spots of brown on the sides, and a stripe of brown running -downwards from the corner of the mouth. Forehead white; under wing-coverts -yellowish-white. Cere, legs, and irides, yellow.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Younger?</span> Upper parts very dark-brown, or nearly black, with purplish lustre. Under -parts with almost every feather having a large spot of brownish-black, which color predominates -on the breast, so as to present a nearly uniform color with the upper parts; -throat with narrow stripes of the same color. Flanks and inferior wing-coverts with circular -and oval spots of white. Tibiæ dark-brown, with transverse bars and circular and -oval spots of reddish-white. Upper tail-coverts reddish-white, with their outer edges brown, -and with transverse stripes of the same. Under tail-coverts yellowish-white, with transverse -stripes of brown. Forehead white; cheeks yellowish-white. Stripes from the corners -of the mouth wide and conspicuous. Sex unknown.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Female</i>—total length (of skin), 19½ inches; wing, 15; tail, 8 inches, -and about an inch longer than the folded wings.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Wisconsin. Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This is a well-marked species, especially in the stage of plumage -described above as probably the younger, in which the nearly uniformly -brownish-black breast and large spots of the same color on the other under-parts, -are striking characters. The first-described plumage resembles that -of <i>B. pennsylvanicus</i>. We have seen only the two specimens now described, -both of which are from the State of Wisconsin.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>5. <span class="sc">Buteo pennsylvanicus.</span> (Wilson.) The Broad-winged Hawk.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco pennsylvanicus.</span> Wils., Am. Orn., VI. p. 92. (1812.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco latissimus.</span> Wils., Am. Orn., VI. p. 92. (1812. Copies printed later than those containing the preceding name.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Sparvius platypterus.</span> Vieill., Ency. Meth., III. p. 1273. (1823.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco Wilsonii.</span> Bonap., Jour. Acad. Philada., III. p. 348. (1824.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Wils., Am. Orn., VI. pl. 54, fig. 1; Aud., B. of Am., pl. 91, oct. ed. I. pl. 10; Nat. Hist. -N. Y. Orn., pl. 5, fig. 11.</p> -<p>Smaller than either of the preceding. <span class="sc">Adult.</span> Entire upper-parts dark umber-brown; -feathers on the back of the neck white at their bases. Throat white, with narrow longitudinal -lines of brown, and with a patch of brown on each side, running from the base of -the lower mandible; breast with a wide band composed of large cordate and sagittate -spots and transverse stripes of reddish-ferruginous tinged with ashy; other under-parts -white, with numerous sagittate spots disposed to form transverse bands on the lower part -of the breast, flanks, abdomen, and tibiæ. In some specimens, in winter plumage, the -ferruginous color predominates on all the under parts, except the under tail-coverts, and -all the feathers have large circular spots on each edge; under tail-coverts white. Tail -dark-brown, narrowly tipped with white, and with one broad band of white and several -other narrower bands nearer the base. Quills brownish-black, widely bordered with pure -white on their inner webs. <span class="sc">Young.</span> Plumage above umber-brown, edged on the head and -back of the neck with fulvous, and with many feathers on other upper-parts edged with the -same color and ashy-white; upper tail-coverts spotted with pure white. Under-parts -white, generally tinged with yellowish, many feathers having oblong and lanceolate longitudinal -stripes and spots of brown; a stripe of brown on each side of the neck from the -base of the under mandible. Tail brown, with several bands of a darker shade of the -same and of white on the inner webs of the feathers and narrowly tipped with white.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_101">101</div> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Female</i>—total length, 17 to 18 inches; wing, 11; tail, 6½ to 7 inches. -<i>Male</i>—smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Eastern North America; Florida (Abadie); Long Island (Giraud); Wisconsin -(Hoy). Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This handsome little species is of rather unusual occurrence in the -middle and southern States, though according to Dr. Hoy it is abundant in -Wisconsin. It is an easily recognized species, though presenting considerable -variations in color, according to age and season.</p> -<p>The names <i>Falco pennsylvanicus</i> and <i>Falco latissimus</i> occur in different -copies of the sixth volume of the original edition of Wilson (1812), and the -probability is that the latter was substituted by the author, in the later printed -copies, after he had noticed that he had previously applied the name <i>pennsylvanicus</i> -to another species. Of the last three volumes only second editions -were published under the editorship of Mr. Ord; the seventh and eighth in -1824, and the ninth in 1825. The statement in Hall’s edition, I. p. 92 (Philadelphia, -1828), that the name <i>latissimus</i> was given by Mr. Ord, is therefore -incorrect. That gentleman, now President of the Philadelphia Academy, and -of whose advice and instruction we have the great advantage and gratification, -informs us that he had nothing to do with either of the names to which we -here allude.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>6. <span class="sc">Buteo Harlani.</span> (Aud.) Harlan’s Buzzard. The Black Warrior.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco Harlani.</span> Audubon, Orn. Biog., I. p. 441. (1831. Plate pub. 1830)</dd> -<dd class="t">“<span class="sc">Buteo borealis.</span>” Gray, Catalogue of Birds in British Museum, Accipitres, p. 34.</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Buteo albonotatus.</span> Gray, Cat. Brit. Mus., Accipitres, p. 36; Kaup, Isis, 1847, pp. 329, 369?</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Aud., B. of Am., pl. 86, oct. ed. I. pl. 8.</p> -<p>“Head very large; neck short; body robust. Feet of ordinary length; tarsus a little -compressed, scutellate before and behind, reticularly scaly on the sides; toes scutellate -above, scaly on the sides, tubercular and scabrous beneath; claws curved, roundish, very -acute. Plumage compact; feathers of the head and neck short and rounded; tibial feathers -elongated, and loose at the tips. Wings long; first quill short, third and fifth equal; -first primaries cut out on the inner web towards the end. Tail longish, ample, of twelve -broad, rounded feathers. Bill light-blue, black towards the end; cere and angles of the -mouth yellowish-green. Iris light yellowish-brown. Feet dull greenish yellow; claws -black.</p> -<p>“The general color of the plumage is deep chocolate-brown; the under-parts lighter, the -feathers there being margined with light-brown. Tail lighter than the back, and rather -narrowly barred with brownish-black, the tips brownish-red. Under wing-coverts whitish, -spotted with deep-brown. Length, 21 inches; extent of wings, 45; bill, along the back, -1½; along the gap, from the tip of the lower mandible, 1½; tarsus, 1¾.” (Aud., as above.)</p> -<p><span class="sc">Adult?</span> Brownish-black, with a purplish lustre; occipital feathers white at base, and -a few white feathers in front at the base of the bill. Under wing-coverts black, with circular -<span class="pb" id="Page_102">102</span> -spots and irregular bars of white. Quills white on their inner webs for about two-thirds -of their length, and transversely barred with pale ashy-brown. Tail above brownish -black, tinged with ashy, and with about six to eight bars of black, the widest of which -is next to the tip, which is white. Inner webs of the tail-feathers, except the two in the -middle, white, mottled with ashy, and with the transverse bars conspicuous; tail beneath -ashy-white. Plumage of the back and entire under-parts of the body white at base, and -having concealed pairs of circular and oval spots of white most obvious on the abdomen -and under tail-coverts. Bill and legs light-colored.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length (of skin), 20 inches; wing, 16½; tail, 9½ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Louisiana (Audubon); Mexico? Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> The only bird that we have ever seen which appeared to be this -species is that described above as probably the adult. It is one of two or -three species of black Buzzards which inhabit Mexico and Central America, -and we suspect it of being identical with <i>B. albonotatus</i> (Gray, as above), -though of that species there is no sufficient description published.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>7. <span class="sc">Buteo insignatus.</span> Cassin. <i>New species.</i> (March, 1854.) The Canada Buzzard.</dt></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Form robust; wings rather long, third quill longest, secondaries emarginate at their -tips; quills unusually broad; tail rather short, slightly rounded; tarsi feathered in front -below the joint, naked behind, and having in front about ten transverse scales. Under -wing-coverts and under tail-coverts white, the former striped longitudinally with pale-ferruginous, -and some of them transversely with dark-brown, the latter with transverse -stripes of pale reddish-brown. Plumage of the tibiæ dark-ferruginous mixed with brown. -Throat and a few feathers in front white, with narrow lines of black. Entire other plumage -above and below dark-brown, nearly every feather having a darker or nearly black -line on its shaft. Quills above brown, with a purple lustre, beneath pale-ashy, with their -shafts white, and irregularly barred with white near their bases. Tail above dark-brown, -with an ashy or hoary tinge, and having about ten obscure bands of a darker shade of the -same color, beneath nearly white, with conspicuous bands of brown, the widest of which -is next to the tip, which is paler. Tarsi and feet yellow. Sex unknown.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length (of skin), 17 inches; wing, 14½; tail, 7½ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Canada (Dr. M’Culloch). Spec. in Mus. Nat. Hist. Soc. of Montreal, Canada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> Of this very remarkable little Buzzard one specimen only has come -under our notice, and is that above described. It belongs to the collection -of the Natural History Society of Montreal, by whom it was most kindly -sent to Philadelphia for examination at our request, through the good offices -of M. M’Culloch, M. D., a distinguished physician and naturalist of that city.</p> -<p>In color, though a true <i>Buteo</i>, this bird differs from any known American -species, and more resembles in that respect some stages of the young plumage -of <i>Circus hudsonius</i> or <i>C. æruginosus</i>. It was captured in the vicinity of -Montreal.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_103">103</div> -<h4>II. GENUS ARCHIBUTEO. <span class="sc">Brehm</span>, <span class="sc">Isis</span>, 1828, p. 1269. -<br />TRIORCHIS. <span class="sc">Kaup</span>, <span class="sc">Syst. Eur. Thier.</span>, p. 84. (1829.) -<br />BUTAETES. <span class="sc">Less.</span>, <span class="sc">Traité</span>, p. 83. (1831.)</h4> -<p>General characters very similar to those of <i>Buteo</i>, but with the tarsus -densely feathered to the base of the toes, but more or less naked on the hind -part. Toes short; claws moderate; wings rather long. Contains about six -species, of both continents.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Archibuteo sancti-johannis.</span> (Gmelin.) The Black Hawk. The Rough-legged Buzzard.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco sancti-johannis</span> and <span class="sc">NOVÆ-TERRÆ</span>. Gm., Syst. Nat., I. pp. 273, 274. (1788.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco niger.</span> Wils., Am. Orn., VI. p. 82. (1812.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Buteo ater.</span> Vieill., Nouv. Dict., IV. p. 482. (1816.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco spadiceus.</span> Gm., Syst. Nat., I. p. 273?</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Wilson, Am. Orn., VI. pl. 53, figs. 1, 2; Faun. Bor. Am., Birds, pl. 28; Aud., B. of -Am., pl. 422, oct. ed. I. pl. 11.</p> -<p>Large, and rather heavy; wings long; tarsi feathered, a narrow space naked behind; -toes naked, and rather short. <span class="sc">Adult.</span> Entire plumage glossy black, in many specimens -with a brown tinge; forehead, throat, and a large space on the head behind, mixed with -white. Tail with one well-defined band of white, and irregularly marked towards the -base with the same color. Quills with their inner webs white, most readily seen on the -under-surface of the wing. Some specimens have several well-defined bands of white in -the tail. Others have the entire plumage dark chocolate-brown, with the head more or -less striped with yellowish-white and reddish-yellow. Cere and legs yellow.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Younger.</span> Upper-parts light umber-brown, with the feathers more or less edged with -yellowish-white and reddish-yellow; abdomen with a broad transverse band of brownish-black; -other under-parts pale yellowish-white, longitudinally striped on the neck and -breast with brownish-black; wings and tail brown, tinged with cinereous; quills for the -greater part of their length white on their inner webs; tail-feathers white at their bases. -Plumage of the tibiæ and tarsi pale reddish-yellow, spotted with brown. Other specimens -have the throat and breast with the black color predominating.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Young male?</span> Entire upper-parts light ashy-brown, more or less mixed with white, -especially on the head and fulvous; under-parts yellowish white and dark-brown, the latter -assuming the form of longitudinal stripes on the breast, and narrow transverse stripes on -the abdomen; tarsi and tibiæ dark-brown, striped with dull-white and reddish; greater -part of quills and tail white. Cere and legs yellow.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, <i>female</i>, 22 to 24 inches; wing, 17 to 17½; tail, 9 inches. -<i>Male</i>—total length, about 20 to 21 inches; wing, 16 to 16½; tail, 8 to 8½ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Entire North America; Oregon (Townsend). Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This is one of the most abundant of the birds of this family, in all -the States on the Atlantic, and is one of the most variable in plumage. Two -stages of plumage—the adult black bird and the young, when the wide abdominal -band of black is well defined—are easily recognized; but there are a -variety of other plumages which are difficult to refer to their proper age, sex, -<span class="pb" id="Page_104">104</span> -or season. Although the stage of plumage described above as perhaps that of -the young male (figured by Wilson, pl. 53, fig. 2, and Aud., pl. 422, fig. 2) may -be correct, we regard it as by no means established, and in fact are inclined -to suspect that there are two distinct species confounded.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>2. <span class="sc">Archibuteo lagopus.</span> (Gm.) The Rough-legged Buzzard.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco lagopus.</span> Gmelin, Syst. Nat., I. p. 260. (1788.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Wils., Am. Orn., IV. pl. 33, fig. 1; Aud., B. of Am., pl. 166; Gould, B. of Eur., I. pl. 15.</p> -<p>Very similar in general form to the preceding. Above light umber-brown; many feathers, -especially of the head and neck behind, edged with yellowish white and fulvous. -A wide transverse band or belt on the abdomen brownish-black; other under-parts yellowish-white, -with a few longitudinal lines and spots of brownish-black; quills ashy-brown, -with a large basal portion of their inner webs white; tail at its base white, which is also -the color of the greater part of the inner webs of its feathers almost to the tip; terminal -portion light umber-brown; tip white. Plumage of the tibiæ and tarsi pale reddish-yellow, -striped longitudinally with brown.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Female</i>—total length, 21 to 23 inches; wing, 16 to 17; tail, 9 inches. -<i>Male</i>—smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> All of North America; Europe; California (Mr. Bell); Wisconsin (Dr. Hoy). -Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> The bird here inserted as identical with the European <i>Archibuteo -lagopus</i> has been usually regarded, by late naturalists, as the young of the -species immediately preceding. Such may be the truth of the case, and our -only reason for giving it thus is, that after careful comparison and examination -of numerous specimens, we find it absolutely impossible to distinguish it, -by any character whatever, from the European bird. Whether two birds can -be exactly the same in all their characters, so far as presented by specimens, -and yet be distinct in species, is a question that we are not prepared at present -practically to decide. We regard it as quite possible, however, that the -present may be the young of <i>A. sancti-johannis</i>. It is one of the most common -species of its family. Mr. Bell’s specimens from California are, so far -as we can see, exactly the same as the European bird, differing from eastern -specimens only in very unimportant characters.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>3. <span class="sc">Archibuteo ferrugineus.</span> (Licht.) The Western Rough-legged Buzzard,</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Buteo ferrugineus.</span> Lichtenstein, Trans. Berlin Acad., 1838, p. 428.</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Archibuteo regalis.</span> Gray, Genera of Birds. I. pl. 6. (1849, plate only.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Larger than either of the two preceding. Bill wide at base; wings long; tarsi feathered -in front to the toes, naked and scaled behind. <span class="sc">Adult.</span> Tibiæ and tarsi bright ferruginous, -with transverse stripes of black, irregular and indistinct on the latter. Entire upper-parts -striped longitudinally with dark-brown and light-rufous, the latter color predominating -on the rump and lesser wing-coverts. Quills ashy-brown, lighter on their outer -webs, and with the greater part of their inner webs white; tail above reddish-white, mottled -with ashy-brown; tail beneath pure yellowish-white. Under-parts of the body white, -<span class="pb" id="Page_105">105</span> -with narrow longitudinal lines and dashes on the breast of reddish-brown and narrow -irregular transverse lines of the same color, and black on the abdomen; flanks and axillary -feathers (under the wing) fine bright-ferruginous.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Young.</span> Entire upper-parts dark umber-brown, very slightly mixed with fulvous; upper -tail-coverts white, spotted with brown; entire under-parts pure white, with a few narrow -longitudinal lines and dashes of brown on the breast, and arrow-heads of the same color -on the sides and abdomen, larger and more numerous on the flanks; tibiæ white; tarsi -dark-brown, mixed with white; under wing-coverts and edges of wings white.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Female</i>—total length, about 23 to 25 inches; wing, 17 to 17½; tail, 9 -inches. <i>Young</i>—smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> California (Mr. E. M. Kern); Sacramento valley (Dr. Heermann). Spec. in Mus. -Acad., Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This is one of the handsomest of the American Falconidæ. It is -also one of the largest of the Buzzards, and easily distinguished from the -preceding species. Of the recent American travellers, Mr. E. M. Kern was -the first who brought home this fine species; since which adults, young birds, -and eggs, have been collected by Dr. Heermann. It is not rare in California.</p> -<h3 id="c55">IV. SUB-FAMILY MILVINÆ. THE KITES.</h3> -<p>Size various, usually medium or small. Bill short, weak, hooked, and acute; -wings and tail usually long; tarsi and feet slender, frequently short. The -birds of this sub-family habitually feed on reptiles and other small animals, -and are deficient in the strength and courage of those of the other sub-families. -About thirty-five species of all countries belong to this group.</p> -<h4>I. GENUS NAUCLERUS. <span class="sc">Vigors</span>, <span class="sc">Zool. Jour.</span>, II. p. 386. (1825.)</h4> -<h5 id="c56">CHELIDOPTERYX. <span class="sc">Kaup</span>, <span class="sc">Class.</span>, p. 112. (1844.)</h5> -<p>Bill short and weak; wings and tail very long, the former pointed, the -latter deeply forked. Tarsi very short; toes short. Contains not more -than three species, two of which are American, and the other African.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Nauclerus furcatus.</span> (Linn.) The Swallow-tailed Hawk.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco furcatus.</span> Linn., Syst. Nat., I. p. 129. (1766.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Cat. Car, pl. 4; Buff., Pl. Enl., 72; Wilson, Am. Orn., VI., pl. 51, fig. 3; Aud., B. of -Am., pl. 72, oct. ed. I. pl. 18; Gould, B. of Eur., 1. pl. 30; De Kay, Nat. Hist. N. Y., -Birds, pl. 7, fig. 15.</p> -<p>Wings and tail long, the latter deeply forked. Head and neck, inferior wing-coverts, -secondary quills at their bases, and entire under-parts, white. Back, wings, and tail, -black, with a metallic lustre, purple on the back and lesser wing-coverts, green and blue -on other parts. Tarsi and feet greenish-blue; bill horn color.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Female</i>—total length, 23 to 25 inches; wing, 16 to 17½; tail, 14 inches. -<i>Male</i>—rather smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Southern States on the Atlantic, and centrally northward to Wisconsin; Texas -(Mr. Audubon); South Carolina (Prof. Gibbes); Wisconsin (Dr. Hoy); Pennsylvania -(Mr. A. F. Darley); Jamaica (Mr. Gosse). Accidental in Europe. Spec. in Mus. Acad., -Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<div class="pb" id="Page_106">106</div> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This very handsome Hawk is especially abundant in the Southern -States. It cannot readily be confounded with any other North American -species, though we have not been able to compare it with the <i>Elanoides yetapa</i>, -Vieill., of South America, with which it is either identical or very similar.</p> -<h4>II. GENUS ELANUS. <span class="sc">Savigny</span>, <span class="sc">Nat. Hist. Egypt</span>, I., 97. (1809.)</h4> -<p>Bill short, compressed, hooked; wings long, pointed; tail moderate, generally -emarginate; tarsi short. Contains four species only, much resembling -each other; one of which is American, one African, and two Australian.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Elanus leucurus.</span> (Vieill.) The Black-shouldered Hawk. The White-tailed Hawk.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Milvus leucurus.</span> Vieill., Nouv. Dict., XX. p. 563. (1818.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco dispar.</span> Temm., Pl. Col., I. (Liv. 54, about 1824.)</dd> -<dd class="t">“<span class="sc">Falco melanopterus.</span> Daud.” Bonap., Jour. Acad. Philada., V. p. 28.</dd> -<dd class="t">“<span class="sc">Falco dispar.</span> Temm.” Aud., Orn. Biog., IV. p. 367.</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Bonap., Am. Orn., II. pl. 11, fig. 1; Temm., Pl. col. 319; Aud., B. of Am., pl. 352, -oct. ed. I. pl. 16. Gay’s Chili Orn., pl. 2.</p> -<p>Head above, entire under-parts, and tail, white, the middle-feathers of the latter usually -tinged above with ashy, and the head posteriorly tinged with the same color, which gradually -shades into a fine light-cinereous, which is the color of the upper-parts of the body, -quills, and greater wing-coverts. Lesser wing-coverts glossy black, which forms a large -oblong patch; inferior wing-coverts white, with a smaller black patch. Bill dark; tarsi -and feet yellow.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Female</i>—total length, 15½ to 17 inches; wing, 12; tail, 7½ inches. -<i>Male</i>—smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Southern States; California (Dr. Heermann); South Carolina (Prof. Gibbes); -Chili (Lieut. Gillis). Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> An abundant species in the Southern and South-western States. -It is larger than the African <i>E. melanopterus</i>, with which it has been confounded, -but considerably resembling it and the Australian species in form -and general characters.</p> -<h4>III. GENUS ICTINIA. <span class="sc">Vieill.</span>, <span class="sc">Analyse</span>, p. 24. (1816.)</h4> -<h5 id="c57">NERTUS. <span class="sc">Boie</span>, <span class="sc">Isis</span>, 1828, p. 314. -<br />PŒCILOPTERYX. <span class="sc">Kaup</span>, <span class="sc">Class.</span>, p. 112. (1844.)</h5> -<p>Bill short, tip emarginated; wings long, pointed; tail rather short; usually -emarginated; tarsi short. Two American species constitute this genus.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Ictinia mississippiensis.</span> (Wilson.) The Mississippi Kite.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco mississippiensis.</span> Wilson, Am. Orn., III. p. 80. (1811.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco ophiophagus.</span> Vieill., Nouv. Dict., XI. p. 103. (1817.)</dd> -<dd class="t">“<span class="sc">Ictinia plumbea.</span> Gm.” Aud., Orn. Biog., II. p. 108.</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Vieill., Gal., I. pl. 17; Wilson, Am. Orn., III. pl. 25, fig. 1; Aud., B. of Am. pl. 117, -oct. ed. I. pl. 17.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_107">107</div> -<p>Head, exposed ends of secondary quills, and entire under-parts, light-cinereous, palest -and nearly white on the tips of the secondaries. Back, wing-coverts, and rump dark -lead-color; primaries and tail brownish-black, the latter with a tinge of bluish. Bill -dark; tarsi and feet lighter.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, <i>female</i>, about 15 inches; wing, 11 to 11½; tail, 6½ inches. -<i>Male</i>—smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Southern States; Texas (Mr. Audubon); South Carolina (Prof. Gibbes). Spec. -in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This bird is quite different from the South American <i>I. plumbea</i>, for -which it has been mistaken by American naturalists; in fact, it is so little -like it, that a comparison of specimens of the two species would render a -suspicion of their identity quite impossible.</p> -<h4>IV. GENUS ROSTRHAMUS. <span class="sc">Lesson</span>, <span class="sc">Traité d’Orn.</span>, I. p. 55. (1831.)</h4> -<p>Bill long, very slender, hooked, and sharp at the tip; wings long, -pointed; tail rather long, emarginate; tarsi and toes rather long; claws -very long, slender, acute. The present is the only species.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Rostrhamus sociabilis.</span> (Vieill.) The Hooked-billed Hawk.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Herpetotheres sociabilis.</span> Vieill., Nouv. Dict., XVIII. p. 318. (1817.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Cymindis leucopygius.</span> Spix, Av. Bras., I. p. 7. (1824.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Rostrhamus niger.</span> Less., Traité, I. p. 56. (1831.)</dd> -<dd class="t">“<span class="sc">Falco hamatus.</span> Illiger.” Lesson, as above.</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Temm., Pl. col. I. 61, 231; Spix, Av. Bras., I. pl. 2; Guerin, Mag. de Zool., 1834, -pl. 20.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Adult</span>. Tail at base, and under tail-coverts, white; all other parts black. Naked -space before the eye yellow, which is also the color of the feet; bill and claws black. -Tail usually tipped with pale-cinereous. <span class="sc">Younger.</span> Throat and line over and behind -the eye yellowish-white; general plumage brownish-black, mixed with yellowish-white -on the under-parts of the body. <span class="sc">Young.</span> Forehead—stripe behind the eye and throat -reddish or ferruginous-white; upper-parts brown, many feathers edged with pale-ferruginous; -under-parts yellowish, with longitudinal stripes of black; tail at tip and base, -and under tail-coverts, yellowish-white. Legs yellowish-green.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Female</i>—total length (of skin), 16 inches; wing, 14; tail, 7½ inches. -<i>Male</i>—smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Florida (Mr. Harris, Dr. Heermann). Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This bird is remarkable for its slender and hooked bill, unlike that -of any other Falcon. It is well known as a South American bird, and was -first noticed in Florida by Mr. Edward Harris; subsequently by Dr. Heermann. -Both these gentlemen having obtained specimens of young birds, it -is probably a constant resident of that State.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_108">108</div> -<h4>V. GENUS CIRCUS. <span class="sc">Lacepede</span>, <span class="sc">Mem. d’Inst.</span>, III. p. 506. (1803.)</h4> -<h5 id="c58">STRIGICEPS. <span class="sc">Bonap.</span>, <span class="sc">Comp. List.</span>, p. 5. (1838.)</h5> -<p>Size medium; head rather large; face partially encircled by a ring or ruff -of short projecting feathers (as in the Owls). Bill rather short, compressed, -curved from the base; nostrils large; wings long, pointed; tail long, wide; -tarsi long and slender, compressed; toes moderate; claws long, rather slender. -Embraces about fifteen species, of all parts of the world.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Circus hudsonius.</span> (Linn.) The Marsh Hawk. The Harrier.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco hudsonius.</span> Linn., Syst. Nat., I. p. 128. (1766.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco uliginosus.</span> Gm., Syst. Nat., I. p. 278. (1788.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco europogistus.</span> Daudin, Traité, II. p. 110. (1800.)</dd> -<dd class="t">“<span class="sc">Falco uliginosus.</span>” Wilson, Am. Orn., VI. p. 67.</dd> -<dd class="t">“<span class="sc">Falco cyaneus.</span> Linn.” Aud., Orn. Biog., IV. p. 396.</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Edw., Birds, VI. pl. 291; Vieill., Ois. d’Am., pl. 9; Wilson, Am. Orn., VI. pl. 51, fig. 2; -Bonap., Am. Orn., II. pl. 12; Aud., B. of Am., pl. 356, oct. ed. I. pl. 26; Faun. Bor. Am., -Birds, pl. 29; De Kay, Nat. Hist. N. Y. Orn., pl. 3, figs. 6, 7.</p> -<p>Form slender; tarsi long; ruff very distinct on the neck in front. <span class="sc">Adult.</span> Upper-parts, -head, and breast, pale grayish-cinereous, generally more or less tinged with fuscous, -and on the back of the head mixed with dark fulvous; upper tail-coverts white. Under-parts -white, usually with many small cordate or hastate spots of light-ferruginous; quills -brownish-black, with their outer webs tinged with ashy, and a large portion of their inner -webs white; tail light-cinereous, nearly white on the inner webs of the feathers, and with -obscure bands of brown; under-surface white; inferior wing-coverts white; secondaries -tipped with dark-brown. <span class="sc">Young.</span> Entire upper-parts dark umber-brown, mixed with -fulvous, and white on the occiput and neck behind; upper tail-coverts white. Tail reddish-brown, -with about three broad bands of dark-fulvous, paler on their inner webs. -Under-parts rufous, with stripes of brown on the breast and sides; tarsi and feet yellow. -In younger birds, on the under-parts the brown stripes are more numerous.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Female</i>—total length, 19½ to 21 inches; wing, 15½; tail, 10 inches. -<i>Male</i>—total length, 16 to 18 inches; wing, about 14; tail 8½ to 9 inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> All of North America; California (Col. M‘Call); Oregon (U. S. Ex. Exp. Vincennes); -Cuba (M. de Sagra, M. Lembeye). Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> Resembles to some extent the <i>Circus cyaneus</i> of Europe, but is -easily distinguished from it by its colors and rather larger size. The adults -and young of this species present great differences in color and general -appearance.</p> -<h3 id="c59">V. SUB-FAMILY AQUILINÆ. THE EAGLES.</h3> -<p>Size usually large. Bill large, compressed, straight at base, curved and -acute at the tip; wings long, pointed; tail ample, generally rounded at the -end; tarsi moderate or rather long, strong; toes long, strong; claws very -strong, curved, acute. This sub-family includes about seventy species, of all -countries.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_109">109</div> -<h4>I. GENUS AQUILA. <span class="sc">Mœhring</span>, <span class="sc">Av. Gen.</span> p. 49. (1752.)</h4> -<p>Large, bill large, strong, compressed, and hooked at the tip; wing long, -pointed, very strong; tarsi moderate, feathered to the base of the toes. Tail -rather long, rounded or wedge-shaped; toes and claws long; the latter very -sharp and curved. Contains about twenty species, which are regarded as the -true Eagles.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Aquila chrysaetos.</span> (Linn.) The Golden Eagle. The ring-tailed Eagle.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco chrysaetos</span> and <span class="sc">fulvus</span>. Linn., Syst. Nat., I. p. 125. (1766.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco canadensis.</span> Linn., Syst. Nat., I. p. 125. (1766.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Aquila nobilis.</span> Pallas, Zoog. Ross. As., I. p. 338. (1811.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco niger.</span> Gm., Syst. Nat., I. p. 259. (1788.)?</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Edw., Birds, pl. 1; Brown, Ill., pl. 2; Buff. Pl. Enl. 409, 410; Wils. Am. Orn., pl. 55, -fig. 1; Aud. B. of Am., pl. 181; oct. ed. 1, pl. 12.</p> -<p>Very large; tarsi densely feathered to the toes. <span class="sc">Adult.</span> Head above and behind and -neck behind light-brownish fulvous, much varying in shade in different specimens. Base -of the tail pure white, which color varies in extent in different specimens, but generally -occupies the greater part of the tail; remaining portion glossy black. All other parts -rich purplish-brown, very dark, and nearly black on the under-surface. Primary quills -shining black, secondaries purplish-brown, with a violet tinge; tibia and tarsi brownish-fulvous, -tinged with ashy; toes yellow. <span class="sc">Younger.</span> Entire plumage mixed with fulvous, -and with the under-surface of the body paler.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Female</i>—total length, 33 to 40 inches; wing, about 25; tail, about 15 -inches. <i>Male</i>—smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Whole of North America; Oregon (Dr. Townsend). Spec. in Mus. Acad., -Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> We are not without doubts as to the specific identity of the American -and the European Golden Eagles. All the American specimens that we have -examined are smaller, the bill shorter, and the plumage much darker than -those of Europe. We have not at present, however, a sufficient number of -either continent, and it unfortunately happens that nearly all our European -specimens are young birds, while the American are adults. Mr. Audubon’s -plate represents this bird in nearly mature plumage.</p> -<h4>II. GENUS HALIAETUS. <span class="sc">Savigny</span>, <span class="sc">Hist. Nat. d’Egypt</span>, I. p. 85. (1809.)</h4> -<p>Size large; tarsi short, naked, or feathered for a short distance below the -joint of the tibia and tarsi, and with the toes covered with scales. Bill large, -strong, compressed; margin of upper mandible slightly festooned; wings -rather long-pointed; tail moderate; toes rather long; claws very strong, -curved, sharp. This genus contains about ten species of all parts of the -world, all of which prey more or less on fishes, and are known as Fishing or -Sea Eagles.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_110">110</div> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Haliaetus pelagicus.</span> (Pallas.) The Northern Sea Eagle.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Aquila pelagica.</span> Pallas, Zoog. Rosso-Asiat., I. p. 343. (1811.)</dd> -<dd class="t">“<span class="sc">Aquila marina.</span> Steller, MSS.” Pallas as above.</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco imperator.</span> Kittlitz., Kupf. Nat. Vog., pt. I. p. 3. (1832.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco leucopterus.</span> Temm., Pl. col. 1. p. (no page.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Kittlitz Kupf., pl. 2; Temm., Pl. col. I., pl. 489. Cassin. B. of California and Texas, -I., pl. 6.</p> -<p>The largest of the Eagles. Wings rather shorter than usual in this genus; tail wedge-shaped, -and composed of fourteen feathers. <span class="sc">Adult.</span> Large frontal space, greater wing-coverts, -abdomen and tail white; all other parts of the plumage dark brown or brownish-black; -bill and legs yellow. <span class="sc">Younger.</span> Tail white, more or less marked with brownish-black. -All other parts brownish-black, lighter on the head and neck. Quills black, -secondaries and tertiaries white at their bases; bill and feet yellow.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Female</i>—total length, 3 feet 8 inches; wing, 2 feet 2 in.; tail, 1 foot 4 -inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Russian-American Islands (Pallas); Japan (Temminck & Schegel). Spec. in -Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This very large and powerful bird inhabits north-eastern Asia and -the islands between that continent and America, and probably other parts of -Russian-America. It is the largest of the Eagles, and appears to be related -to the species immediately succeeding.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>2. <span class="sc">Haliaetus Washingtonii.</span> (Aud.) The Washington Eagle.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco Washingtonii.</span> Aud. Orn. Biog., I. p. 58. (1831, plate pub. 1827)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco Washingtoniana.</span> Aud. Louden’s Mag., I. p. 115. (April, 1828)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Aud. B. of Am. pl. 11; oct. ed. I., pl. 13.</p> -<p>Large, “bill shortish, very deep, compressed; feet rather short, with the leg long; the -tarsus short, rounded, anteriorly covered with transversely-narrow sentella, posteriorly -with small tuberculous scales; feathers of the head, neck and breast narrow and pointed; -wings long, second quill longest; tail of ordinary length, rounded, extending considerably -beyond the tips of the wings, of twelve broad acute feathers.”</p> -<p>“Bill bluish-black, the edges pale, the soft margin towards the commissure, and the -base of the under-mandible yellow; cere yellowish-brown; lore light greenish-blue; iris -chestnut-brown; feet deep yellow; claws brownish-black; upper part of the head, hind -neck, back, scapulars, rump, tail-coverts and posterior tibial feathers blackish-brown, -glossed with a coppery tint; throat, fore-neck, breast and belly light brownish-yellow, -each feather marked along the centre with blackish-brown; wing-coverts light grayish-brown, -those next the body becoming darker and approaching the color of the back; -primary quills dark-brown, deeper on their inner-webs; secondaries lighter, and on their -outer-webs of nearly the same tint as their coverts; tail uniform dark-brown; anterior -tibial feathers grayish-brown.”</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> “Length, 3 feet 7 inches; extent of wings, 10 feet 2 inches; bill, 3¼ inches -along the back; along the gap which commences directly under the eye to the tip of the -lower mandible, 3¼ and 1¾ deep; length of wing when folded, 32 inches; length of tail, -15 inches; tarsus, 4½; middle toe, 4¾; hind claw, 2½ inches.” Audubon as above.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Kentucky (Audubon); Western and Eastern? Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.?</p> -</blockquote> -<div class="pb" id="Page_111">111</div> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> The above description we regard as that of the young bird, and -consider the adult as yet unknown. No specimen precisely corresponding to -Mr. Audubon’s bird, has been obtained since its discovery, and it has latterly -been looked upon by Naturalists, especially in Europe, as an unusually large -specimen of the young white-headed Eagle. It is probably a western species, -and would be readily recognized by the transverse scutellæ of the tarsi which -are continued to the base of the toes.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>3. <span class="sc">Haliaetus albicilla.</span> (Linn.) The Gray Sea Eagle. The European Sea Eagle.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Vultur albicilla.</span> Linn., Syst. Nat., I. p. 123. (1766.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco ossifraga et melanaetos.</span> Linn., Syst. Nat., I. p. 124. (1766.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Haliaetus grœnlandicus.</span> Brehm, Vog. Deuts., I. p. 16. (1831.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Buff., Pl. Enl., 112, 415; Selby, Ill. Brit. Orn., pl. 3; Gould, B. of Eur., I. pl. 10.</p> -<p>Large, bill large, much hooked; wings long; tail moderate. <span class="sc">Adult.</span> Tail white; head -and neck pale yellowish-brown, in some specimens very light; all other parts of the -plumage dark umber-brown; quills nearly black; bill, feet and irides yellow. <span class="sc">Younger.</span> -Bill brownish-black; irides brown; entire plumage dark-brown, with the tail mottled -with white, much varying in extent; throat paler, and in some specimens nearly white.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Female</i>—total length, about 3 feet to 40 inches; wing, 2 feet 3 inches; -tail, 1 foot. <i>Male</i>—smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Greenland (Fabricius, Holboll). Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This Eagle, which is common in Europe, and breeds in cliffs on the -sea-shore, we give as an inhabitant of Greenland. We have to say, however, -that the only specimen from that country which we have ever seen, and which -is a young bird, presents considerable variations from European specimens, -and we consider it quite possible that Dr. Brehm is right in giving it specific -distinction. The young of this bird resembles that of the succeeding species -(<i>H. leucocephalus</i>), and the most readily-detected difference is its larger size -and longer tarsi. The adults are, however, entirely dissimilar.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>4. <span class="sc">Haliaetus leucocephalus.</span> (Linn.) The Bald Eagle. The White-headed Eagle.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco leucocephalus.</span> Linn., Syst. Nat., I. p. 124. (1766.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco pygargus.</span> Daud., Traité, II. p. 62. (1800.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco ossifragus.</span> Wilson, Am. Orn., VII. p. 16. (1813.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Cat. Car., I. pl. 1; Buff., Pl. Enl., 411; Vieill., Ois. d’Am., Sept., I. pl. 3; Wils., Am. -Orn., IV. pl. 36; VII. pl. 55; Aud., B. of Am., pl. 31, 126; oct. ed., I. pl. 14.</p> -<p>Large, but smaller than either of the preceding Eagles; bill large, strong, much hooked -and sharp; wings long; tail moderate; tarsi rather short. <span class="sc">Adult.</span> Head, tail and its -upper and under coverts white; entire other plumage brownish-black, in some specimens -with the edges of the feathers paler; bill, feet and irides yellow. <span class="sc">Younger.</span> Entire -plumage dark brown; throat paler; abdomen frequently with fulvous edgings on many -feathers; bill brownish-black; iris brown; tail more or less mottled with white, which -color in a more advanced stage extends over a large portion of the tail, especially on the -inner webs of the feathers.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_112">112</div> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Female</i>—total length, about 3 feet; wing, about 23 inches; tail, about -14 inches. <i>Male</i>—smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> All of North America; Oregon (Townsend); Florida (Bartram); Accidental -in Europe. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This handsome bird, which has had the honor of being adopted as -the emblem of the United States, inhabits the whole of North America. It -is very easily recognized when adult, and the young is not readily mistaken -for that of any other American species except the immediately preceding.</p> -<h4>III. GENUS PANDION. <span class="sc">Savigny</span>, <span class="sc">Nat. Hist. Egypt</span>, I. p. 95. (1809.)</h4> -<p>Bill short, curved from the base, hooked, compressed; wings very long; -tarsi short, very thick and strong, and covered with small circular scales; -claws large, curved very sharp; tail moderate. Contains about three or four -species nearly allied, inhabiting various parts of the world.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Pandion carolinensis.</span> (Gen.) The Fish Hawk. The Osprey.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco carolinensis.</span> Gm., Syst. Nat., I. 263. (1788.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Aquila piscatrix.</span> Vieill., Ois. d’Am. Sept., I. p. 29. (1807.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Pandion americanus.</span> Vieill., Gal., I. p. 33. (1825.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Vieill., Ois. d’Am. Sept., I. pl. 4; Cat. Car., I. pl. 2; Wilson, Am. Orn., V. pl. 37; Aud., -B. of Am., pl. 81; oct. ed., I. pl. 15; Nat. Hist. N. Y. Birds, pl. 8, fig. 18.</p> -<p>Legs, feet and claws very strong. <span class="sc">Adult.</span> Head and entire under-parts white; wide -stripe through the eye downwards, longitudinal stripe on the top of the head and occiput -and entire upper parts of the body, wings and tail, deep umber-brown, generally with the -feathers more or less edged with lighter brown; tail with about eight bands of blackish-brown, -and with the greater parts of the inner-webs of its feathers white; breast with -numerous cordate and circular spots of pale yellowish-brown; bill and claws bluish-black; -tarsi and toes greenish-yellow. <span class="sc">Young.</span> Similar to the adult, but with the upper -plumage edged and tipped with pale-brownish, nearly white.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Female</i>—total length (of skin), about 25 inches; wing, 21½; tail, 10½ -inches. <i>Male</i>—smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Throughout North America; Texas (Woodhouse); Oregon (U. S. Ex. Exp. -Vincennes). Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> The American Osprey is very similar to that of the old continent -(<i>P. haliaetus</i>), and specimens from Western America even more intimately -resemble it. It is, however, larger, and retains in all the specimens that we -have seen, differently-formed spots on the breast, being heart-shaped and -circular, instead of narrow and lanceolate, as in the. European species. The -Fish Hawk is abundant on the sea-coasts of the United States, and is one -of the few rapacious birds of this country which are not molested.</p> -<h4>IV. GENUS POLYBORUS. <span class="sc">Vieillot</span>, <span class="sc">Analyse</span>, p. 22. (1816.)</h4> -<h5 id="c60">CARACARA. <span class="sc">Cuvur. Reg. An.</span>, p. 316. (1817.)</h5> -<p>Size smaller than the preceding; bill long, compressed, wide laterally; -cere large; wings long, pointed; tail moderate, or rather long; tarsi long, -<span class="pb" id="Page_113">113</span> -rather slender, covered in front with large hexagonal and irregular scales, -and laterally and horizontally with smaller; claws long, slightly curved, rather -weak; space in front of and below the eye naked. Two species only form -this genus, both of which are abundant birds of South and Central America.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Polyborus tharus.</span> (Molina.) The Caracara Eagle. The Mexican Eagle.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco tharus.</span> Molina, Sagg. Stor. Nat. del Chili. (1782.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco cheriway.</span> Jacquin, Beytr. Gesch. der Vogel, p. 17. (1784.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco brasiliensis.</span> Gmelin, Syst. Nat., I. p. 262. (1788.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco plancus.</span> Miller, Cimelia Physica.</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Polyborus vulgaris.</span> Vieill., Nouv. Dict., V. p. 257. (1816.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Jacq. Vog., pl. 4; Miller & Shaw, Cim. Phys., 2d ed., pl. 17; Vieill., Gal., I. pl. 7; -Spix., B. of Bras., I. pl. 1, <i>a</i>; Aud., B. of Am., pl. 161; oct. ed., I. pl. 4; Swains. Zool. -Ill., I. pl. 2; Gay’s Chili Orn., pl. 1.</p> -<p>Legs long; occipital feathers somewhat elongated. <span class="sc">Adult.</span> Head above, back, rump, -wings, broad abdominal belt and tibiæ brownish-black; neck before and behind, sides of -the head behind the eye, breast, upper and under tail-coverts yellowish-white; on the -breast and neck behind finely barred transversely with black; tail for about two-thirds -of its length white, with numerous narrow bars of black, and widely tipped with black; -bill at base bluish; tip yellowish-white; tarsi and toes yellow. <span class="sc">Younger.</span> Head above -dark-brown; other upper parts pale-brown, with paler edgings to many feathers; under-parts -dark-brown, nearly all the feathers having longitudinal central stripes of dull white; -throat yellowish-white; tail for the greater part and its coverts above and below white, -with numerous transverse bands of pale ashy-brown, and tipped with brownish-black.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Female</i>—total length (of skin), about 26 inches; wing, 17; tail, 10 -inches. <i>Male</i>—larger?</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Southern North America; Florida (Audubon); Texas; Mexico (McCall). -Abundant in South America. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> The Caracara Eagle has been observed in Florida, and is an inhabitant -also of Texas and Mexico. It walks on the ground with facility, and -otherwise resembles the Vultures in its habits; and, like them, lives on dead -animals for the greater part. The original edition of Molina, in which a -scientific name is given to this bird for the first time since the adoption of the -binomial nomenclature, we have not seen; but in his second edition, Preface, -p. 1 (Bologna, 1810), it is stated to have been published in 1782. His name -undoubtedly has priority.</p> -<p>We are inclined to the opinion that this bird, and several more or less -nearly allied species of South America, belong properly to the family of -Vultures;—of all the habits of which they partake. This opinion is supported -somewhat by Molina’s statement, that of the present species the -female is the smaller (2d ed., p. 221), as Humboldt and others have observed -of the Condor, and as appears to be the case in the family of Vultures, but -not in that of the Falcons.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_114">114</div> -<h4>V. GENUS MORPHNUS. <span class="sc">Cuvier</span>, <span class="sc">Regne. Animal</span>, I. p. 317. (1817.) -<br />URUBITINGA. <span class="sc">Less.</span>, <span class="sc">Rev. Zool.</span>, 1839, p. 132. -<br />SPIZOGERANUS. <span class="sc">Kaup</span>, <span class="sc">Class.</span>, p. 120. (1844.)</h4> -<p>Size medium; bill rather long, abruptly curved at the tip, which is acute; -edges of upper mandible festooned; wings and tail long; legs long; tarsi -and toes strong, the former with wide transverse scales in front; claws -strong. A genus of American species, inhabiting the southern portion of -the continent.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Morphnus unicinctus.</span> (Temm.) Harris’ Buzzard.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco unicinctus.</span> Temm., Pl. col., I. p. (no page—livraison 53, about 1827.)</dd> -<dd class="t">“<span class="sc">Falco anthracinus.</span> Licht.” Gray, Genera, I. p. 27.</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Buteo Harrisii.</span> Aud., Orn. Biog., V. p. 30. (1839.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Polyborus tæniurus.</span> Tschudy, Wiegm. Archiv., X. p. 263. (1844.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Temm., Pl. col., 313; Aud., B. of Am., pl. 392: oct. ed., I. pl. 5; Tschudy, Fauna -Peruana Orn., pl. 1.</p> -<p>Legs long, and with the feet robust; wings rather short; tail long. <span class="sc">Adult.</span> Shoulders, -wing-coverts and tibia chestnut-red or bay; other parts very dark umber-brown; upper and -under tail-coverts white; tail white at its base, and tipped with white; middle portion -presenting the appearance of a very wide band, dark brownish-black, with a reddish or -violet tinge. <span class="sc">Younger.</span> Upper-parts umber-brown, much mixed with fulvous; shoulders -chestnut-red, with dark-brown spots; quills dark-brown; secondaries tipped with yellowish-white; -entire under-parts yellowish-white, many feathers on the breast, sides and -abdomen, with large oblong and circular spots of brown; tibiæ yellowish-white, with -transverse irregular lines of light brownish-red; upper and under tail-coverts white; tail -brown, with many bands of a deeper shade of the same color, and with the inner-webs -yellowish and reddish-white, and having many narrow bands of dark-brown; base and -tip of the tail yellowish-white.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Female</i>—total length, 22 to 24 inches; wing, 15; tail, 10 inches. <i>Young -male</i>—total length, 20 inches; wing, 13; tail, 9½ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Southern States; Mexico, abundant; Texas, frequent (Col. McCall); Mississippi, -rare (Dr. Jenkins); Peru; Chili (Lieut. Gilliss); Chili, abundant (Gay, Fauna -Chilena). Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> Col. McCall, who has seen this bird in large numbers in Texas, -represents it as habitually frequenting the ground in the vicinity of water, -and especially abundant on both sides of the Rio Grande. It is slow and -heavy in flight, and a dull, sluggish bird in all its habits, partaking in these -respects of the general characters of the Vultures.</p> -<p>The affinities of this species we regard at present as uncertain, and arrange -it provisionally only in the present genus and sub-family, but by no means -agreeing in our views with late European ornithologists.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_115">115</div> -<p>The foregoing are all the birds of this family which can be regarded as -well-established species inhabiting that portion of North America, within our -prescribed limits.</p> -<p>Respecting their history, one of the most important questions to the -naturalist is, the change of plumage from young to mature age, and another -change which takes place in assuming their spring or summer and their winter -liveries. The latter change is by no means well understood in many species, -and to ascertain it completely in any one would yet be an interesting contribution -to its history.</p> -<p>A few species are known only as of exceedingly rare occurrence in the -United States, but the larger number are sufficiently numerous to be investigated -without difficulty. Of the former, the Washington Eagle (<i>Haliaetus -Washingtonii</i>), Harlan’s Buzzard (<i>Buteo Harlani</i>), the Black Hawk, the -Rough-legged Hawk (<i>Archibuteo sancti-johannis</i> and <i>lagopus</i>,) and nearly -all the Western species, may be regarded as particularly requiring further -research.</p> -<p>In the winter season, various species resort to the sea-coast, and others to -the margins of bays and rivers in considerable numbers. In the vicinity -of the cities these have, however, greatly diminished since the introduction -of steamboats and railroads. Steam-engines, and especially locomotives, are -innovations for which the Eagles and Hawks evidently have no fancy. To -the markets appropriated to the accommodation of farmers and traders from -the rural districts in all the cities on the Atlantic seaboard, specimens are -frequently brought for sale, a demand, reliable to some extent, having arisen -from collectors and amateurs.</p> -<p>Occasionally an immense multitude of Hawks soaring high in the air, and -in company, has been observed. This curious phenomenon has been seen by -our friends, Professor Baird, of the Smithsonian Institution, Washington -city; Dr. Hoy, of Racine, Wisconsin; and by ourselves. It occurs in autumn, -and is probably incidental to migration; but its exact character and object is -unknown, and involves an interesting inquiry. It is necessarily temporary, -as the procuring of suitable food by such a large number of rapacious birds -would be impossible.</p> -<p>In the western and northern regions of North America, the birds of this -family are particularly worthy of the attention of the traveller and naturalist, -and would undoubtedly well repay him in the discovery of unknown -species. This is the case also in the States of Florida and Texas, to the -latter of which, very probably, some of the many Mexican species are visitors, -that have not yet been noticed.</p> -<p>In Oregon and Russian-America, there are also very probably species -which have not been recognized as inhabitants of this continent, though well -known as birds of Northern Asia, and others entirely unknown to naturalists.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_116">116</div> -<h3 id="c61">B.</h3> -<p>Doubtful and obscure species which have been described as inhabiting -North America.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Falco americanus.</span> Gm., Syst. Nat., I. p. 257. (1788.) The Black-cheeked Eagle. Pennant, Arctic Zoology, I. p. 227.</dt></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>“With a dusky and blue-bill; yellow cere; head, neck and breast of a deep ash-color, -each cheek marked with a broad black bar passing from the corner of the mouth beyond -the eyes; back, belly, wings, and tail, black; legs yellow; feathered below the knees. Is -about the size of the last (the Golden Eagle) North America,” (Pennant, as above.)</p> -</blockquote> -<p>Of this bird, Gmelin gives a short abstract of Pennant’s description, and -applies a scientific name. Naturalists relying solely on that abstract, have -erroneously considered the species meant as the Golden Eagle (<i>A. chrysaetus</i>), -and the name <i>Falco americanus</i> has accordingly been usually quoted as a -synonyme. Though “feathered below the knees” is somewhat indefinite, -yet, taken in connexion with “legs yellow,” it is clear that this cannot be the -Golden Eagle, which has the tarsus densely feathered. There is no North -American species known to which the original description applies.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>2. <span class="sc">Falco candidus.</span> Gm., Syst. Nat., I. p. 258. (1788.) The Louisiana White Eagle. Lath., Syn., I. p. 36. Du Pratz, Hist. Louisiane, II. p. 109.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco conciliator.</span> Shaw, Gen. Zool. Aves., VII. p. 77. (1809.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>White; tips of the wings black. Smaller than the Golden Eagle.</p> -</blockquote> -<p>This bird is represented by Du Pratz as held in high estimation by the -aborigines of Louisiana, who used its feathers for ornamenting the calumet or -symbol of peace. It may have been an albino of a known species, or distinct -and now unknown. The description applies to a beautiful Mexican species, -<i>Buteo Ghiesbrectii</i> (Dubus), which is about the size of the Red-tailed Hawk -(<i>B. borealis</i>), and should it ever be observed in Louisiana, the question may -be considered as settled.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>3. <span class="sc">Falco variegatus.</span> Gm., Syst. Nat., I. p. 267. (1788.) The Speckled Buzzard. Lath., Syn., I. p. 97.</dt></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>“Length more than 12 inches; in shape like our common buzzard. The bill is dusky; -the whole head and neck as far as the shoulders whitish; the shaft of each feather blotched -irregularly with rusty-brown; back and wing-coverts brown, several of the feathers, especially -on the wing-coverts, are spotted with white; tail dark brown, crossed with several -bars; but these are nearly obsolete, appearing on close inspection; the quills are very -dark, almost black; the under parts from the breast are white; down the shaft of each -feather is a blotch of brown; these marks spread out larger and broader as they proceed -downwards to the belly; thighs pretty much the same; vent plain white; legs yellow; -claws black. A fine specimen of this bird is in the Leverian Museum, which came from -North America.” (Latham, as above.)</p> -</blockquote> -<div class="pb" id="Page_117">117</div> -<p>Generally cited as a synonyme for the Marsh Hawk, <i>Circus hudsonius</i>, -with, as we think, but a small degree of propriety. It appears to us to be -the young of either <i>Buteo pennsylvanicus</i> or <i>Accipiter cooperii</i>, or an unknown -bird.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>4. <span class="sc">Falco albidus.</span> Gm., Syst. Nat., I. p. 267. (1788.) The Buzzardet. Penn., Arct. Zool., I. p. 245.</dt></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>“With dusky bill; head, cheeks, neck, breast and belly white, marked with large brown -spots more sparingly dispersed over the breast and belly; lesser coverts brown; the -others colored like the head; primaries dusky; thighs white, with small sagittal spots of -brown; tail dusky, barred and tipped with white; legs yellow. Length, 15 inches. It -has much the habit of the Buzzard, but the legs in proportion are rather longer. In the -Leverian Museum. Except in the almost uniform color of the tail, Mr. Latham’s species, -p. 97, No. 83, agrees with this (which is the preceding <i>F. variegatus</i>). North America.” -(Pennant, as above.)</p> -</blockquote> -<p>Probably the same as the preceding.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>5. <span class="sc">Falco obsoletus.</span> Gm., Syst. Nat., I. p. 268. (1788.) The plain Falcon. Penn., Arct. Zool., I. p. 242.</dt></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>“Bill black; head dusky; nape spotted with white; back and coverts of the wings and -tail of an uniform deep brown; under-side of the neck, breast, belly and thighs deep -brown, slightly spotted with white; primaries dusky; inner webs marked with great oval -spots of white, mottled with brown; middle feathers of the tail plain brown; inner webs -of the rest mottled with white; exterior webs and ends slightly edged with the same; legs -strong; wing reaches near the length of the tail. Length, from bill to tail, 2 feet 1 inch. -Inhabits Hudson’s Bay.” (Pennant, as above.)</p> -</blockquote> -<p>We are acquainted with no bird to which this description and measurement -apply.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>6. <span class="sc">Falco spadiceus.</span> Gm., Syst. Nat., I. p. 273. (1788.) The Chocolate-colored Falcon. Penn., Arctic Zool., I. p. 234, pl. 9.</dt></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>“With a short and black bill, and yellow cere. The whole plumage of a deep bay or -chocolate color, in parts tinged with ferruginous; primaries black; the lower exterior -sides of a pure white, forming a conspicuous spot or speculum; the wings reach to the -end of the tail; the exterior sides of the five outermost feathers of the tail dusky; their -inner sides blotched with black and white; the two middle black and cinereous; the legs -<i>and toes</i> feathered, the last remarkably short. Length, 1 foot 10 inches. Inhabits -Hudson’s Bay and Newfoundland. Preys much on ducks. Sits on a rock and watches -their rising, when it instantly strikes at them.” (Pennant, as above.)</p> -</blockquote> -<p>Regarded by authors as a synonyme for the Black Hawk (<i>Archibuteo -sancti-johannis</i>), but the description suits better the Ferruginous Buzzard -(<i>A. ferrugineus</i>). Neither of these has, however, the <i>toes</i> feathered, nor -otherwise entirely agrees with the description. It may be an unknown -species.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_118">118</div> -<dl class="undent"><dt>7. <span class="sc">Falco obscurus.</span> Gm., Syst. Nat., I. p. 281. (1788.) The Dusky Falcon. Penn., Arct. Zool., I. p. 248.</dt></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>“With a bluish bill; upper mandible armed with a sharp process; yellow cere; head, -neck and coverts of the wings and tail dusky brown, slightly edged with ferruginous; -hind part of the neck spotted with white; primaries dusky; inner webs marked with -oval spots of a pale rust color; tail short, tipped with white, and barred with four broad -dusky <i>strokes</i>, and the same number of narrow ones of white; the hind part of the head -spotted with white; from the chin to the tail whitish, streaked downwards with distinct -lines of black; legs deep yellow. Inferior in size to the last (<i>F. dubius</i> or <i>fusca</i>). Inhabits -the province of New York.” (Pennant, as above.)</p> -</blockquote> -<p>Cited by authors as a synonyme for the sharp-skinned Hawk (<i>Accipiter -fuscus</i>), which seems to be erroneous, though correct enough if reference -only be made to Gmelin’s compilation of Pennant’s description. The latter, -as quoted above, and which is the original, appears to apply to <i>Falco columbarius</i> -(Linn.), but not with sufficient accuracy to be without doubt, and we -know of no bird at present inhabiting “the province of New York” that it -entirely suits.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>8. <span class="sc">Aquila maculosa.</span> Vieill., Ois d’Am. Sept., I. p. 28, pl. 3 bis. (1807.)</dt></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Upper part of the head, nape, neck, and mantle, black; eyebrow white, bordered by a -black line from the eye; space between the bill and eye and cere blue, the former with -scattered hairs; iris yellow; throat and breast white, every feather with a longitudinal -central stripe of black; abdomen black, many feathers having circular spots of white; -tibia and under tail-coverts ferruginous, with central spots of brownish; rump and upper -tail-coverts white, with transverse stripes of black; quills and tail leaden gray above, light -bluish-gray beneath; feet orange; claws blackish. Total length, about 25 inches; wing, -16; tail, 10 inches.</p> -</blockquote> -<p>An excellent figure of this bird is given by Vieillot, as above, but which -represents no species with which we are acquainted. In general appearance -it resembles <i>Phalcobænus carunculatus</i>, Des Murs (Rev. et Mag. de Zool., -April, 1853, p. 154), a South American species, of which specimens are in -the collection of the Philadelphia Academy. Though given by Vieillot as a -bird of North America (as above, and in Nouv. Dict., XXXII. p. 56), we -suspect that he was mistaken.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>9. <span class="sc">Sparvius ardosiaceus.</span> Vieill., Ency. Meth., III. p. 1274. (1823).</dt></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Body above, bluish slate color; beneath, ferruginous, with transverse white bands; -chin white; bill bluish-black; feet orange; cere and edges of the mouth dull green; -quills and tail brownish-black; eyebrows dull white; tail slightly forked. North -America.</p> -</blockquote> -<p>Possibly <i>Accipiter fuscus</i>, but we regard it as quite remarkable that -Vieillot, at so late a date, should have again described that species, being -undoubtedly well acquainted with North American birds. We recollect no -bird which exactly suits this description.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_119">119</div> -<dl class="undent"><dt>10. <span class="sc">Falco Bachmanii.</span> Aud., Orn. Biog., V. p. 334. (1839, the date on the title-page of this volume is erroneously printed 1849.)</dt></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>“I have several times seen in South Carolina a Hawk flying, equal in size to <i>Falco -lineatus</i>, and remarkable for the great breadth of its wings. It was of a uniform brown -color, excepting the tail, which was barred with white. The same bird has also been -repeatedly observed by my friend, Dr. <span class="sc">Bachman</span>, who feels assured of its being distinct -from any other Hawk hitherto found in North America.” (Audubon, as above.)</p> -</blockquote> -<p>This is the entire and only description published and the species alluded -to has never been identified, to our knowledge.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>11. <span class="sc">Milvus leucomelas.</span> Rafinesque, Annals of Nature, part I. p. 4. (1820.)</dt></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>“White, unspotted; top of head and part of the back, wings, tail, and bill, black; feet -yellow. It is found in West Kentucky and Illinois; it feeds on fishes, and is therefore -called Fishing Hawk. Size small, tail quite forked.” (Raf., as above.)</p> -</blockquote> -<p>This is a puzzler. If any such bird exists, it has escaped late researches, -though we very much suspect that Rafinesque ventured a description on -reports, rather oddly confounding the Forked-tailed Hawk (<i>Nauclerus</i>) and -the Osprey, or Fish Hawk (<i>Pandion</i>).</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>12. <span class="sc">Aquila dicronyx.</span> Rafinesque, Atlantic Journal, p. 63. (1832.)</dt></dl> -<p>The specimen described under this name was the same that is alluded to -by Mr. Audubon in his article on the White-headed Eagle, in Orn. Biog., II. -p. 163, as being kept in captivity in the suburbs of Philadelphia, and this -description and its author he also alludes to. We mention this bird for the -purpose of facilitating the student who may not have access to the works of -Rafinesque, and for the purpose of pointing out a curious error into which -Mr. Audubon and Dr. Harlan, as quoted by him, seem to have fallen, in -regarding it as the White-headed or Bald Eagle (<i>Haliaetus leucocephalus</i>). -It is expressly stated by Rafinesque to have been brought from “near -Buenos Ayres,” and was evidently, from his description, the <i>Circaetus coronatus</i> -of South America. This name is therefore by no means to be cited as -a synonyme for <i>Haliaetus leucocephalus</i>.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>13. <span class="sc">Falco doliatus.</span> Shaw, Gen. Zool., Aves., VII. p. 77. (1809.)</dt></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>“Length ten inches; bill violet; cere, irides, and legs, yellow; tail marked with whitish -bars more apparent beneath than above; under tail-coverts and flanks brown, with two -or three round white spots on each side of the shaft; thighs ferruginous, with black -shafts. Inhabits Carolina, observed by Bosc.” (Shaw, as above.)</p> -</blockquote> -<p>Probably the young of either <i>Hypotriorchis columbarius</i> or <i>Accipiter -fuscus</i>, but quite impossible to identify from such a meagre description.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_120">120</div> -<dl class="undent"><dt>14. <span class="sc">Falco glaucus.</span> Bartram, Travels, p. 290. (1791.) Barton, Fragments of the Nat. Hist. of Penna., p. 11. (1799.)</dt></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>“The sharp-winged hawk, of a pale sky-blue color, the top of the wings black.” -(Bartram, as above.)</p> -</blockquote> -<p>This insufficient description has been supposed to be intended for the adult -of the Marsh Hawk (<i>Circus hudsonius</i>), but Barton (as above) applies it to -the <i>Nauclerus furcatus</i>. It is probably one or the other.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>15. <span class="sc">Falco subceruleus.</span> Bartram, Travels, p. 290. (1791.)</dt></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>“The sharp-winged hawk, of a dark or dusky blue color.” (Bartram, as above.)</p> -</blockquote> -<p>Impossible to identify, from its brevity. It may be either the Mississippi -Kite (<i>Ictinia mississippiensis</i>), the Fork-tailed Hawk (<i>Nauclerus furcatus</i>), -or the adult Marsh Hawk (<i>Circus hudsonius</i>).</p> -<p>16. The following names have been given without descriptions, by the -authors cited:—</p> -<dl class="undent"><dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco regalis.</span> The great Gray Eagle. Bartram, Trav., p. 290. Barton, Frag. Nat. Hist. Penna., p. 11.</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco gallinarius.</span> The Hen Hawk. Bartr. Trav., p. 290.</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco pullarius.</span> The Chicken Hawk. Bartr. Trav., p. 290.</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco ranivorus.</span> The Marsh Hawk. Bartr. Trav., p. 290.</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco piscatorius.</span> The Fishing Eagle. Bartram, Trav., p. 290. Barton, Frag. Nat. Hist. Penna., p. 2, 17.</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Falco cæsius.</span> The Blue Hawk. Ord., Zool. N. A., in Guthrie’s Geog, I. p. 315.</dd></dl> -<p>The above embrace all the names and descriptions of birds of this family -that have come under our notice, except those of such as are now well ascertained -to inhabit other countries exclusively, and for which nearly allied -species of North America have been mistaken. Of the latter we may more -particularly mention the European <i>Falco rusticolus</i> (Linn.), which is given -by Fabricius as a bird of Greenland, but stated by Holboll to have been the -young of <i>F. anatum</i>, and <i>Buteo vulgaris</i> and <i>Hypotriorchis æsalon</i>, both of -which are also European species, and have never been found in America to -our knowledge, though there are species which are nearly related to them.</p> -<p>The student may advantageously bear in mind that of those above, which -were originally described by Pennant, in English, abstracts or compilations -only, in Latin, are given by Gmelin in his edition of the Systema Natura of -Linnæus. These abstracts are mostly very short, and not always to be -relied on as conveying strictly the sense of the originals. Nor are they at -all improved by Turton in his edition of Linnæus, in which, so far as relates -to these species, he merely retranslates into English the Latin text of Gmelin -without reference to Pennant. In the study of the obscure species alluded -to, the original descriptions only can be consulted without risk of error.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig16"> -<img src="images/ppp15.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1057" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 16<br /><span class="ln2">The American Lanier</span><br /><span class="ln3">Falco polyagrus (<i>Cassin</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_121">121</div> -<h2 id="c62"><span class="small">FALCO POLYAGRUS.—Cassin.</span> -<br />The American Lanier Falcon. -<br />PLATE XVI.—Male and Female.</h2> -<p>The researches of late naturalists have tended to demonstrate that the -animals of Western North America have a more intimate relationship with -those of Asia and the old world generally than those of the Eastern portion -of this continent. Nor is this affinity restricted, apparently, to any one -class, or to such as might have migrated, but is found to exist in a greater or -less degree in classes of animals, as that of reptiles, possessing powers of -locomotion too limited to admit of such supposition. When, too, we have -had our attention directed to the family of Sparrows and Finches, to the -beautiful Jays and Magpies, or the various species of Grouse, Partridges, and -many other families, we have been almost persuaded to entertain the opinion -that the birds of Western America are of a higher grade of organization -than those of the Atlantic States. Whether such is the case in other classes -of animals, we are not prepared to say, but, if true, it is singularly accordant -with the fact that, of the aboriginal American races of men, the West has -produced the superior. And it is remarkable, too, that there are Western -tribes which very intimately resemble the Mongolian variety of the human -race, if they do not really belong to it; thus connecting themselves with the -Chinese and Japanese, and other nations of Northern Asia.</p> -<p>The remarkable Falcon which we now have the pleasure of introducing -to the reader, is one of the species that show close affinity to an Asiatic -congener. It is so much like a common Falcon of India, a bird much used -for the purposes of falconry, and known by the name of the <i>Jugger</i>, in the -valley of the Indus and other parts of India (<i>Falco jugger.</i> Gray, Ill. of -Indian Zoology, II. pl. 26, and Jerdon, Ill. Indian Orn., pl. 44), that it can -scarcely be distinguished from it by any character, except size. It is in fact -one of the most remarkable instances of close proximity to an Asiatic relative -to be found in American birds. It is larger than the Indian <i>Jugger</i>, -and more powerful and robustly organized.</p> -<p>Though trained for the chase, the Asiatic bird alluded to is not held in as -high estimation as several others; the greatest favorites being the Peregrine -Falcon (<i>Falco peregrinus</i>), nearly related to the Duck Hawk of the Atlantic -coast of America (<i>F. anatum</i>), and the Indian Goshawk (<i>Astur palumbarius</i>), -which is also a relative of an American species. Falconry, though now little -cultivated in Europe, is yet a much-pursued and favorite pastime in several -countries of the East. In addition to the Hawks just mentioned, several -others, a few of which are more or less nearly related to species of this -<span class="pb" id="Page_122">122</span> -country, are employed. Some of the smaller Hawks of India are so easily -trained that they are set free at the close of a hunting season, the Falconer -not considering them of sufficient value to induce him to keep them until -another.</p> -<p>The home of the bird now before us, appears to be the mountainous regions -of Oregon and California, from which it descends in the winter season to the -lower districts, in the valleys of the rivers, and on the shores of the Pacific. -In the former country, near the sources of the Platte river, the first specimen -that we ever saw, was obtained by the late Dr. John K. Townsend during -his trip across the continent in the year 1834, and in whose collection, now -belonging to the Philadelphia Academy, it yet remains. Since that period -it has been observed in the Rocky Mountains and on the Columbia river, by -the naturalists attached to the United States Exploring Expedition, in the -Vincennes and Peacock. In the fine zoological collection made by this expedition, -is preserved the only female specimen, in the dark plumage, described -below, yet known to have been brought to the attention of naturalists. In -California, Dr. Heermann particularly noticed this bird, and his collection -contains several specimens which he obtained in the plains near Sacramento -city.</p> -<h3 id="c63">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Falco.</span> <span class="sc">Linnæus</span>, Syst. Nat., I. p. 124. (1766.)</dt></dl> -<p>General form compact and strong; bill strong, short, with a distinct and -sharp tooth in the upper mandible; wings long, pointed; tail moderate, or -rather long; tarsi short, robust; toes long, claws large, curved, sharp; tarsi -covered with hexagonal or circular scales. A genus of birds remarkable -for their courage and very rapid flight, species of which are found in all -countries.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Falco polyagrus.</span> Cassin, Birds of California and Texas, I. p. 88. (1853.)</dt></dl> -<p>Form robust; wings rather long, second and third quills longest, and nearly -equal; tail rather long; bill short, rather wide at base; tooth in the upper -mandible prominent.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <span class="sc">Female.</span> Total length of skin, about 20 inches; wing, 14; -tail, 8 inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> <span class="sc">Female nearly adult.</span> Narrow frontal band, line over the -eye, and entire under parts white; narrow stripe from the corner of the -mouth running downwards, dark brown; some feathers on the breast, and -abdomen with longitudinal stripes and spots of brown, which color forms a -large and conspicuous spot on the flank. Entire upper parts brown, paler on -the rump, many feathers with rufous edgings; tail above pale grayish-brown, -with transverse bars of white, and narrowly tipped with white; quills dark -grayish-brown, with numerous bars of white On their inner-webs; under -<span class="pb" id="Page_123">123</span> -wing-coverts dark brown; edge of the wing at the shoulder and below, white, -spotted with brown. The brown of the back extending somewhat on to the -breast at the wing. Bill, bluish horn color, under mandible yellow at its -base. Large space around the eye, bare, with a narrow edging of brown on -the first plumage by which it is encircled.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Younger female.</span> Entire plumage above and below, brownish-black; -throat white; many feathers on the under parts with edgings and circular -spots of white; under wing-coverts also with circular spots of white, and -the under tail-coverts with wide transverse stripes of the same.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Young male?</span> Frontal band nearly obsolete; entire upper parts uniform -pale brown, with narrow rufous stripes on the head; under parts white, with -a tinge of fulvous, and nearly every feather with a narrow longitudinal stripe -of blackish-brown; large spaces on the flanks, brown; tarsi and feet, lead-colored.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Oregon and California. Spec. in Nat. Mus., Washington; and -Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This is the only American Falcon yet discovered, which belongs to -the group forming the sub-genus <i>Gennaia</i>, Kaup., which contains <i>Falco -laniarius</i>, Linn., (Gould, B. of Eur., I. pl 20); <i>Falco biarmiaus</i>, Temm., -(Pl. col., 324); <i>Falco jugger</i>, Gray, and several other species. It especially -resembles the last, but is larger, and we are at present of opinion that the -young of the two species differ in the colors of their plumage.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_124">124</div> -<h2 id="c64"><span class="small">PIPILO FUSCA.—Swainson.</span> -<br />The Cañon Finch. -<br />PLATE XVII.—Adult Male.</h2> -<p>This plain-plumaged and sober-looking bird is another of the feathered -inhabitants of the mountainous wilds of California and New Mexico. Numerous -specimens have been brought in the various collections which have been -made in those countries, and it may be regarded as one of the most abundant -of the peculiar species of Western America.</p> -<p>It was first described, however, by Mr. Swainson, from Mexican specimens.</p> -<p>Our friend, T. Charlton Henry, M. D., of the United States Army, a -zealous and talented young naturalist, who has been for some years in New -Mexico, has noticed this bird at all seasons in that country. For much -valuable and satisfactory information relating to the birds to be included in -the present work, we are indebted to this gentleman, amongst whose notes -in our possession we find the following, relating to the species now before the -reader:—</p> -<p>“This bird is common in New Mexico during both summer and winter, and -so far as I have observed, lives almost entirely in the mountains. It is very -retiring in its habits, and seems to prefer the cañons; indeed, I have seldom -observed it far from some shady gorge, where, like its relative of the Eastern -States, the Towhe-Bunting (<i>Pipilo erythropthalma</i>), it passes the greater part -of its time on the ground, and is generally accompanied by its congener, the -Arctic Ground Finch (<i>Pipilo arctica</i>). When disturbed, it seeks the thickest -cover, though it is by no means shy nor difficult to approach. Its nest is -usually constructed in the thick branches of a cedar or dwarf oak, and I am -not aware of its producing more than a single brood in a season.</p> -<p>“The only note that I have ever heard this bird utter, is a simple chirp, -somewhat resembling that of the Fox Sparrow (<i>F. iliaca</i>), but more subdued. -It is usually to be met with in pairs, at all seasons.”</p> -<p>Col. McCall observed this bird to be abundant also in California, and with -his usual kindness, has furnished a notice of it for our present article.</p> -<p>“The <i>habitat</i> of this species, I am inclined to believe, extends throughout -California, as I met with it from the upper waters of the Sacramento river -to the mouth of the Gila, the former having its origin in the north, the latter -debouching at the extreme southern boundary of the State; yet, it is by far -the most abundant from Santa Barbara southwardly.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig17"> -<img src="images/ppp16.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1059" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 17<br /><span class="ln2">The Cañon Finch</span><br /><span class="ln3">Pipilo fusca (<i>Swainson</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_125">125</div> -<p>“The habits and manners of this species differ somewhat from those of its -relatives, the Towhe and the Arctic Finch (<i>P. erythropthalmus</i>, and <i>P. -arctica</i>). Its flight is more even and regular, as it is without that violent -jerking of the tail from side to side which gives such singularity and appearance -of awkwardness to the movements of the Towhe. It is also less shy -and suspicious than the Arctic Finch, which I occasionally met with in the -same regions. The latter I had previously observed with attention in New -Mexico, where I procured specimens; and all my observations lead me to -pronounce the present species less decidedly a <i>Ground Finch</i> than either of -the others, although all are doubtless closely allied.</p> -<p>“The favorite abode of this species appeared to be the vicinity of water-courses, -where it was generally seen singly or in pairs, though I have at -times surprised eight or ten together, under the shade of a large bush, at -noon in a summer-day; and at such times I had no difficulty in procuring, -with my gun, three or four specimens before the party was dispersed. In -fact, it appeared at all times a familiar bird, boldly coming into the roads to -feed, and permitting the close approach of a person either mounted or on -foot. If compelled to retreat, it darted suddenly into the thicket, but -returned again as soon as the cause of alarm had disappeared. Near Santa -Barbara, in the month of July, I found thirty or forty of these birds dispersed -over an old field of some five acres in extent, lying contiguous to the -sea-beach, and through which a small stream of fresh water trickled as it -crept silently away to the sea. Here they were feeding on the ground, -sheltered by a rank growth of weeds; and when I flushed one of them as I -walked along, he almost invariably flew into a neighboring tree, instead of -seeking shelter again in the weeds at a little distance.</p> -<p>“At this time, the birds of the year were fully fledged, and scarcely -differed in the color of their plumage from the adults. The rufous tints of -the head, the wing-coverts, and the lower parts generally, being only rather -more bright and distinct in the old birds than in the others.”</p> -<p>The collections made in California by both Mr. Bell and Dr. Heermann, -contained many fine specimens of this species. According to the latter (in -Journal of the Philadelphia Academy, quarto, II. p. 267), it builds its nest -always in a bush or tree, in which respect it differs from the Arctic Ground -Finch (<i>Pipilo arctica</i>), another Western species, which builds on the ground, -and from others of the same genus, in this respect confirming the observation -of Dr. Henry, as given in a preceding page. Dr. Heermann’s observations -possess an especial interest, from his having so carefully stated the peculiarities -of the construction of the nests and other facts relating to the nidification -of many species. He says, respecting the present bird: “I found one -nest built in a grape-vine, overhanging the Sacramento river, and all that I -have seen were placed in the immediate vicinity of water. The nest is composed -of coarse twigs and grasses, and lined with fine roots. The eggs, four -in number, are of a pale blue color, dashed with black spots, and interspersed -with a few faint neutral tint blotches, which are more abundant at the larger -end.”</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_126">126</div> -<p>The name Cañon Finch we have taken the liberty of adopting from Dr. -Henry’s manuscript notes in our possession: it was very appropriately given -by him with reference to the localities which he has observed to be the -favorite haunts of this bird in the mountains of the Far West.</p> -<h3 id="c65">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Pipilo.</span> Vieillot, Analyse, p. 32. (1816.)</dt></dl> -<p>Form lengthened, but rather robust; bill short, conical, strong; wings -short, rounded, the fourth primary usually longest, but little longer than the -third and fifth; tail long, wide, much rounded at the end; tarsi and toes -strong, compressed. An American genus, comprising several species of both -divisions of this continent.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Pipilo fusca.</span> Swainson. Philos. Mag., 1827, p. 434.</dt></dl> -<p>Form large for this genus; bill rather longer than in other species; tail -long, and composed of broad feathers.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length (of skin) from tip of bill to end of tail, about -9 inches; wing, 4⅛; tail, 4⅝ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> Entire upper parts olive-brown, with a rufous tinge on the head, -and ashy on the scapulars and wing-coverts. Nares, circle around the eye -and throat, pale rufous; the latter spotted with black. Breast, sides, and -flanks, cinereous; middle of the abdomen white, with a tinge of fulvous; -under tail-coverts bright fulvous. Quills and tail-feathers brown, the former -edged exteriorly with ashy, the latter with olive. Bill and feet light. Sexes -very nearly alike.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> California and New Mexico. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This bird resembles no other species of its genus, except <i>Pipilo -Aberti</i>, Baird, (Stansbury’s Report of a Survey of the Valley of the Great -Salt Lake of Utah, Zoology, p. 325, 1852). From this it differs in the color -of the throat, that of the latter being uniform with the other inferior parts -of the body, and in other characters.</p> -<p>The figure in our plate represents the adult male about two-thirds of the -natural size.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig18"> -<img src="images/ppp17.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1152" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 18<br /><span class="ln2">The Scarlet-crowned Flycatcher</span><br /><span class="ln3">Pyrocephalus rubineus (<i>Boddaert</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_127">127</div> -<h2 id="c66"><span class="small">PYROCEPHALUS RUBINEUS.—Boddaert.</span> -<br />The Scarlet-crowned Flycatcher. -<br />PLATE XVIII.—Adult and Young Males.</h2> -<p>This bright-plumaged little bird is a summer visitor to Texas and New -Mexico, in which countries it rears its young, and appears to be an inhabitant -also not only of Mexico, but of nearly the whole of Central and South -America. It has been long known as a bird of the last-named division of -this continent, though but recently ascertained to be a resident within the -limits of the United States, having been first observed in Texas by Captain -J. P. McCown, of the United States Army, in 1850, and announced as an -addition to the ornithology of North America, by Mr. Lawrence, in the -Annals of the New York Lyceum of Natural History, V. p. 115. In some -interesting notes on the birds of Texas, by Capt. McCown, published in the -same journal, VI. p. 12, we find the following in reference to the present -species:</p> -<p>“This beautiful little Flycatcher is seldom seen. I did not notice over a -dozen of them while in Western Texas. I always found them near the ponds -along the Rio Grande, and generally on a tree or stake near the water. The -only nest I ever found was built upon a <i>retama</i> (a variety of acacia), over the -water, and I was not able to procure it. The female is quite a plain bird.”</p> -<p>Our friend, Lieut. D. N. Couch, one of the several officers of the Army -who have greatly contributed to the knowledge of the Natural History of -little-explored portions of this country, and the results of whose observations -have most generously been placed at our disposal, met with this bird in small -numbers in Northern Mexico. From many valuable papers, which will add -much to the interest of the present work, and for which we are indebted to -this gentleman, we make the following extract:</p> -<p>“This bird was first seen at Charco Escondido, in Tamaulipas, on the tenth -of March. The male had evidently preceded the female in his arrival, as the -latter was not observed until several weeks afterwards. Early in the morning, -and again about sunset, he came to the artificial lake that is constructed here -for the supplying of water to the inhabitants, and appeared to be of a very -quiet and inoffensive disposition, usually sitting on the upper branches of the -trees, occasionally uttering a low chirp. Subsequently, it was met with in -Nueva Leon, though I had little opportunity of observing its habits. It -appeared, however, to be in some respects similar in its manners to the smaller -species of the Northern Flycatchers.”</p> -<p>Dr. Henry has also met with the present bird in the vicinity of Fort -Webster, New Mexico. He represents it, however, as of exceedingly rare -<span class="pb" id="Page_128">128</span> -occurrence, so far as he has observed, and fully confirms the statements given -above, respecting its partiality for the neighborhood of water. His first -specimen, a male in full plumage, was obtained on the Rio Miembres, near -Fort Webster, in the month of March, 1853.</p> -<h3 id="c67">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Pyrocephalus.</span> Gould, Zool. Voy. Beagle, Birds, p. 44. (1841.)</dt></dl> -<p>General form compact and rather heavy; bill depressed, wide at base, -rather long, acute, with an indentation near the tip of the upper mandible, -and with several pairs of bristles at its base; wing long, the second and third -quills longest, and nearly equal; tail ample, wide; tarsi rather long, slender; -toes moderate or short. The species generally have the feathers of the head -above lengthened and crest-like, and with other parts of the plumage of a -fine scarlet color. An American genus of Flycatchers inhabiting the southern -portion of the northern and nearly the whole of the southern division of this -continent.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Pyrocephalus rubineus.</span> (Boddaert.)</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Muscicapa rubineus.</span> Bodd., Tab. dez Pl. Enl. Buff., p. 42. (1783.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Muscicapa coronata.</span> Gm., Syst. Nat., II. p. 932. (1788.)</dd></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Head above, from the base of the bill to the occiput, with long -crest-like feathers. General form rather broad and robust; wings and tail -long; legs slender.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <span class="sc">Male.</span> Total length (of skin), about 5½ inches; wing, 3¼; -tail, 2½ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> <span class="sc">Adult Male.</span> Long feathers of the head above, and entire -under parts, fine scarlet; brightest on the top of the head, palest on the -under tail-coverts. Upper parts of the body, line from behind the eye, wings -and tail, sepia brown; bill and feet dark. Under wing-coverts frequently -edged and tipped with pale red.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Female.</span> Entire upper parts plain sepia brown; under parts yellowish-white, -with a few longitudinal lines of brown.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Young Male.</span> Similar to the female, but with the flanks tinged with -pale red.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Texas and New Mexico. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> On comparison of our specimens from Texas with others from various -parts of South America, we cannot at present find differences sufficient to -induce us to regard them in any other light than as one species. The present -is the first bird of its genus which has been observed within the limits of the -United States.</p> -<p>The sexes of this species are quite unlike each other, the female having -none of the brilliant color of her companion.</p> -<p>The figures in our plate represent the adult and young males about two-thirds -of the natural size.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig19"> -<img src="images/ppp18.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="547" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 19<br /><span class="ln2">The Blue Partridge</span><br /><span class="ln3">Callipepla squamata (<i>Vigors</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_129">129</div> -<h2 id="c68"><span class="small">CALLIPEPLA SQUAMATA.—(Vigors.)</span> -<br />The Blue Partridge. The Scaly Partridge. -<br />PLATE XIX.—Male and Female.</h2> -<p>This is another of the fine game birds that inhabit the countries on the -southwestern frontier of the United States, and the adjoining regions of -Mexico. Though not presenting such gay colors in its plumage as the two -other Partridges which we have previously figured in the present work, it is -by no means destitute of claim to respect in personal appearance, and in -gracefulness and delicacy of form is not at all their inferior. We have -always particularly admired its ample and curious crest, which is possessed -by both male and female, and, though admitting of being flattened so as to -lie close on the head, is usually to be seen erect, and gives it an air unusually -spirited and striking. It is remarkable for great swiftness in running, and is -more of an insect-eater than is usual in this family of birds. It is abundant -in Texas and New Mexico.</p> -<p>Specimens of this bird had reached Europe as early as 1830, in which year -it was first brought to the notice of naturalists by Mr. Vigors, one of the -founders of the Zoological Society of London, and one of the most profound -naturalists of the only school of systematic Zoology, the Circularian and -Quinarian, which Anglo-Saxon mind has yet produced, a consideration one -would think not slightly to be regarded. His description is in the Zoological -Journal, V. p. 275. It has, however, always, until within a few years, been -of great rarity in collections, and nothing was known of its history or habits -until the publication of the valuable contributions to Natural History which -have been made by officers of the Army of the United States.</p> -<p>The Blue Partridge was first noticed within the territory of the United -States, by Lieut. J. W. Abert, a son of the distinguished officer who presides -over the Topographical Department of the Army. In Lieut. Abert’s very -able and valuable “Report of an examination of New Mexico in the years -1846-7,” made as an officer of Topographical Engineers, and which, besides -its great military and geographical usefulness, contains much information -relating to the natural history of that country, we find several notices of this -bird, one of which, occurring under date of twelfth of November, 1846 (p. 497), -we take the liberty of transferring to our pages:—</p> -<p>“After passing through the little town of Las Canas, we encountered -another hill of sand, very difficult of ascent, and after we reached the top, we -commenced the descent through a crooked ravine that was strewed with fragments -of rocks. On the way, we saw several flocks of crested quails, which -<span class="pb" id="Page_130">130</span> -were running along with great rapidity among the clumps of the Kreosote -plant (<i>Larrea mexicana</i>). We procured one of them; at the report of the -gun, only three or four rose up; they seemed to depend more on their fleetness -of foot than swiftness of wing. This bird proved to be the <i>Ortyx -squamata</i>. The size, contour, and general character, greatly resemble the -common quail (<i>O. virginiana</i>); the plumage is of soft, silvery gray, the iris -hazel, and the crest fringed with white. On opening the stomach, I found it -filled with grass seeds and insects of the order Hemiptera.” This is the -earliest record of this bird having been observed within the limits of the -United States; subsequently, it has been noticed by others.</p> -<p>Capt. S. G. French, of the United States Army, to whom we are indebted -for fine specimens of this and other birds of Western America, has also -favored us with the following note:—</p> -<p>“It was in 1846 that I first met with this bird near Camargo, on the Rio -Grande. At Monterey, none were to be found; but on the plains at Agua -Nueva, a few miles south of Saltillo, I observed them in considerable numbers.</p> -<p>“Since then, I have met with them occasionally on the Upper Rio Grande, -in the vicinity of El Paso, and some seventy miles down the river from that -place. They inhabit the same section of country with Gambel’s Partridge, -though I have never seen them associated together in the same covey. Their -favorite resorts are the sandy chaparral and mesquite bushes, through which -they run with great swiftness, resorting to the wing only when suddenly -alarmed by finding themselves too nearly approached.</p> -<p>“They appear to be very shy, and but seldom are found near habitations, -though I once saw a large covey run through my camp in the suburbs of El -Paso.</p> -<p>“The bird that I sent you was killed on the Rio Grande, below El Paso, -in July last (1852).”</p> -<p>Col. McCall, in his “Remarks on the habits, &c., of birds met with in -Western Texas,” in Proceedings of the Philadelphia Academy, V. p. 222, -thus alludes to the Blue Partridge:—</p> -<p>“This species I have met with, at different times, throughout a more -extended region than either of the former (the Massena Partridge and Gambel’s -Partridge), viz.: from Camargo on the lower Rio Grande, to Santa Fé. -On the present occasion, they were more numerous between the latter point -and Don Ana than elsewhere. They seem to prefer the vicinity of the -greater water-courses to interior tracts. They are much more wild than -either of the preceding, and being extremely watchful and swift of foot, they -elude pursuit with surprising skill, scarcely resorting to flight even in comparatively -open, sandy ground. They do not approach the settlements as -much as the last.</p> -<p>“For the table, all these species, however, possess in a high degree the -requisites of plump muscle and delicate flavour. Massena is, perhaps, the -best.”</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_131">131</div> -<p>The following more extended and beautiful sketch, referring to this Partridge, -has been very kindly furnished by the same gentleman (Col. McCall), -for our present article:—</p> -<p>“The <i>habitat</i> of this species, as I have remarked elsewhere, embraces an -extensive region, the limits of which, though not yet positively defined with -any degree of accuracy, may, at least with reference to our own territory, be -asserted to lie principally within the valley of the Rio Grande or Rio del -Norte of Mexico. This valley, although comparatively narrow, contains a -country of great extent from north to south; and embraces, in its stretch -between the Rocky Mountains and the Gulf of Mexico,—every variety of -climate, from the extreme of cold to that of tropical heat. This entire region, -not even excepting the narrow mountain-valleys, covered in winter with deep -snows, is inhabited by the species under consideration. I have met with it -on the Rio Grande and its affluents, from the 25th to the 38th degree of north -latitude—that is to say, from below Monterey, in Mexico, along the borders -of the San Juan river to its junction with the Rio Grande; and at different -points on the latter as high up as the Taos and other northern branches, -which gush from the mountain sides. I have also found it, though less frequently, -near the head of the Riado creek, which likewise rises in the Rocky -Mountains and flows eastwardly to the Canadian; further north than this my -examinations did not extend.</p> -<p>“Now, as the Partridge, wherever found, is always <i>resident</i>, there is in -the extensive distribution above noted, good proof of a hardiness of constitution -possessed by no other species of American Partridge, except the common -or Virginia Partridge; for no other species has been found in regions as cold -and inhospitable as those I have named. Again, arguing from analogy, if -the plainer plumage is always found in birds inhabiting more northern latitudes, -my opinion is strengthened when I look upon the plain and sober hues -of the <i>Blue</i> Partridge as contrasted with the bright and more decided colors -of the <i>Massena</i>, <i>California</i>, and <i>Gambel’s</i> Partridges, all of which prefer the -milder regions, and shun those of snow.</p> -<p>“The habits, moreover, of this species are more like those of the common -Partridge than either of the others. I have shot these birds over a pointer -dog, and at times found them to lie sufficiently close to afford good sport; -this, however, it must be admitted, was not often the case, and never, unless -the cover was remarkably good; for, in general, they are vigilant and wild, -making their escape by running on the first approach of danger. In swiftness -of foot none of the family can compete with them. When running, they keep -the body erect and hold the head high; and in this attitude they seem fairly -to skim over the surface of the ground. On such occasions the white plume -is erected and spread out like a fan, or rather like an old fashioned <i>chapeau -de bras</i>, worn fore and aft: this gives them a trim, jaunty air, that is peculiarly -pleasing and attractive. I remember once being particularly struck -<span class="pb" id="Page_132">132</span> -with the beautiful appearance thus presented by a large covey that I came -upon suddenly in open sandy ground. It was in the month of February, just -at sunrise; I was half asleep on my horse, and thoroughly benumbed with -cold (having been in the saddle since two hours before daybreak, in order to -reach Eagle Spring by breakfast time), when a sudden start of my horse -roused me into wakefulness. On looking up, I beheld about twenty of these -birds in the trail a few yards in advance. Contrary to their usual manner, -they were strutting along, or rather slowly walking away; and with their -white <i>chapeaux</i> spread out to the full extent, they glanced over their shoulders -and clucked to each other as if uncertain whether danger threatened or not. -I drew up my horse and looked on with delight, until the little fellows finally -took to their heels and swiftly glided away to the nearest cover. This little -incident having restored me to full consciousness, I cast my eyes around, and -never shall I forget the sublime prospect that then burst upon my enchanted -gaze.</p> -<p>“A more glorious, a more heavenly dawn of day than this, it is impossible -to conceive! The heavy dew of the preceding night has been congealed, and -the whole country is white with frost. The rising sun casts his broad beams -over the vast plain, and in an instant its surface is brilliant with sparkling -crystals.</p> -<p>“The abrupt and isolated peaks, whose soft parts the frosts and storms of -past ages have loosened and swept away, seem in the distance to rear still -higher their lofty summits, now crowned with glittering diadems. On all -sides, to the farthest extent of my powers of vision, the varied prospect is -open to my view—hereaway, strongly defined, I behold the bold outline of -the Apache mountains; yonder, I regard, with admiration growing as I gaze, -the countless undulations of the prairie, each as it succeeds the other diminishing -in the distance until the last faint wave is blended with the blue horizon. -Still admiring as I turn, I find my horse at last fairly faced about; and now -another view, the grandest, the strangest of all, is presented to my almost -bewildered senses. It is the <i>mirage</i>! Wonderful illusion, cruel mockery—how -often hast thou deceived the famished wanderer of the plains with the -semblance of water; leading him on farther and farther, and leaving him at -last sinking and exhausted in the midst of the desert!</p> -<p>“Behold! I clearly see a broad lake of bright water, with noble trees -growing on either hand; and nothing but the positive knowledge that this -counterfeit lake lies directly across the road over which I have just passed, -and the perfect certainty under which I rest, from actual examination, that -neither wood nor water is to be found in that direction within thirty miles, -can persuade me that what I now look upon is not real! But I will return -from this digression—yet, if this page ever meets the eyes of my two companions -on that expedition (Lieutenants B—— and M——, of the 3d), they -will remember the glorious sunrise, the mirage, and finally, the covey of -Partridges to which I have here alluded.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_133">133</div> -<p>“This species is found farther to the south on the Mexican side of the Rio -Grande than on our own, owing probably to the rugged character of the -country there, for I never met with it anywhere in low grounds. The first -appearance it makes in Texas is a little above Rhinosa, on the first highlands -on this side encountered in ascending the river from its mouth. Thence up -to the Rocky Mountains, the birds of this species may be considered denizens -of the United States, being about equally distributed on both sides of the -great river.”</p> -<p>In a paper in the “Registro Trimestre,” I. p. 144 (Mexico, 1832), Don -Pablo de la Llave, an able Mexican naturalist, gives a description of this bird, -and names it <i>Tetrao cristata</i>. He had kept it, with other species, in captivity, -and of his notice of it we give the following translation: “The second -species is considerably smaller than the preceding,” (<i>Tetrao marmorata</i>, -Llave, which is <i>Ortyx macroura</i>, Jardine and Selby). “It has on its head a -crest of feathers very erect and soft, bill black, the neck moderate, body -elongated, much compressed, feet robust, gray or blackish, small, and have, -more than in <i>Tetrao</i>, the appearance of the Larks or Buntings. It is almost -entirely of a lead color, with the feathers of the breast speckled with black, -and those of the sides with many longitudinal bands of white. Its voice is -very much varied, and that of the male is loud, sounding like a castanet, at -the same time raising and depressing its head.</p> -<p>“I have not observed in this bird any courage;—it is very timid; all its -movements are rapid, and notwithstanding that I have fed my specimens for -a long time, every day they become more wild and intractable.</p> -<p>“It inhabits the <i>Mezquite</i> regions in Northern Mexico.”</p> -<p>The contents of the stomachs of Capt. French’s specimens were hemipterous -insects, some of which were very minute, with a few seeds and pods.</p> -<p>Our plate represents the male and female, which are nearly alike in plumage, -about two-thirds of the size of life.</p> -<h3 id="c69">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Callipepla.</span> Wagler in Isis, 1832, p. 277.</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Callipepla squamata.</span> (Vigors.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Ortyx squamatus.</span> Vig. Zool. Jour., V. p. 275. (1830.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Callipepla strenua.</span> Wagler, Isis, XXV. p. 278. (1832.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Tetrao cristata.</span> Llave, Registro Trimestre, I. p. 144. (1832.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Robust, body compressed; head with long, erectile, crest-like -feathers; bill rather strong, curved; wings short, with the fourth quill -slightly longest, tertiaries long; tail rather long, ample, rounded; legs and -feet moderate; tongue pointed, very acute at the tip; nostrils large.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length of skins, 8½ to 9 inches; of specimens in -spirits (from Capt. French), 10 inches; wing, 4½; tail 3¼ inches.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_134">134</div> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> Head light yellowish cinereous, with a tinge of brown; feathers of -the crest broadly tipped with white. All other parts of the plumage light -bluish ash color, paler on the under parts and nearly white on the abdomen; -nearly every feather of the under parts and of a wide ring around the back -of the neck, with a central arrow-head, of brownish black, and with a narrow -but very distinct edging of the same. Flanks with longitudinal central -stripes, and in some specimens with circular spots of white. Middle of the -abdomen frequently with a large spot of pale chestnut; under tail-coverts -nearly white, with longitudinal stripes of dark ash and brown. Quills light -ashy-brown; shorter tertiaries frequently edged with yellowish-white on their -inner webs; bill, black; irides, hazel; tarsi, brownish lead-colored. The -width of the white tips of the feathers of the crest varies in different specimens. -Sexes very nearly alike; female slightly paler, and not so fully -crested.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Texas and New Mexico. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada., and Nat. -Mus., Washington.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This species does not resemble any other at present known, and is -therefore easily recognized. It is the type of Wagler’s genus <i>Callipepla</i>, in -which are also arranged the California Partridge and Gambel’s Partridge.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig20"> -<img src="images/ppp19.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1087" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 20<br /><span class="ln2">The Brown-headed Finch</span><br /><span class="ln3">Ammodromus ruficeps (<i>Cassin</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_135">135</div> -<h2 id="c70"><span class="small">AMMODROMUS RUFICEPS.—Cassin.</span> -<br />The Western Swamp Sparrow. -<br />PLATE XX.—Adult Male.</h2> -<p>The only information that we can present to the reader respecting the -bird now before him, is, that specimens were brought from California in the -collections made by Mr. Bell and Dr. Heermann. It appears to have been -overlooked by all other naturalists,—a circumstance probably not to be -attributed to its rarity in its native country, so much as to the character of -the localities in which it lives during the greater part of the year, in common -with other species of the same family.</p> -<p>The little birds of the group to which this species belongs, of which there -are several, are all of humble and unpretending appearance, and live in the -vicinity of the shores of the ocean and the margins of streams of fresh water, -and hence have been designated Swamp Sparrows. The <i>flats</i>, or other low -and level tracts, overgrown with reedy or sedgy vegetation, in the vicinity of -the sea-shore, are the favorite resorts of two or three species throughout a -large portion of the entire extent of the Atlantic coast of the United States; -while somewhat similar localities along rivers or smaller streams, or even -swamps and marshes in the interior, afford appropriate habitations for others. -In these they subsist mainly on seeds of grasses and such other plants as -usually abound in those situations, and occasionally on insects. The Swamp -Sparrow, first described by the celebrated ornithologist, Wilson (<i>Ammodromus -palustris</i>), is the best known of these birds, and is abundant in all suitable -localities, during the summer season, throughout the greater part of the -older States of the Union. In winter, it migrates southward, and is found in -large numbers along the Mississippi river in the south, and other streams in -the southern States. The Swamp Sparrows have no song, other than a few -rather remarkable and not unmusical notes.</p> -<p>Dr. Heermann remarks of this bird: “In the fall of 1851, I met with a -single specimen of this bird, in company with a flock of Sparrows of various -kinds. In the spring of 1852, I found it quite abundant on the Calaveras -river, where I procured several specimens. Its flight appeared feeble, and -when raised from the ground, from which it would not start until almost -trodden upon, it would fly a short distance, and immediately drop again into -the grass. Its notes are a ditty, resembling that of our Chipping Sparrow -(<i>E. socialis</i>), and were heard towards the spring season.”</p> -<p>In our plate this bird is represented of the size of life.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_136">136</div> -<p>The plant is a western species of <i>Ipomea</i>, which was raised from the seed -by our esteemed friend, Mr. Robert Kilvington, of Philadelphia, to whose -kindness we are indebted for the privilege of figuring it and other plants for -the plates of the present work.</p> -<h3 id="c71">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Ammodromus.</span> Swainson, Zoological Journal, III. p. 348. (1827.)</dt></dl> -<p>Size small; bill lengthened, pointed; tip of upper mandible slightly curved -downwards; wings very short; the first primary shorter than the succeeding -four or five, which are nearly equal; tail moderate, or rather long, with its -feathers narrow; tarsi and toes rather long, slender. An American genus, -containing six or seven species.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Ammodromus ruficeps.</span> Cassin, Proc. Acad., Philada., VI. p. 184. (Oct., 1852.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Bill shorter than usual in this genus; wings short, rounded; tail -long; tarsi lengthened, slender.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length of skin, about 5¾ inches; wing, 2½; tail, 2¾ -inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> Head above chestnut-brown, which is also the prevailing color of -the back and rump, the feathers of both the latter edged with pale cinereous, -tinged with olive. Spot in front of the eye white, forming a partial superciliary -line. A narrow stripe of black from each side of the lower mandible -running downwards, above which is a stripe of white; intermediate space on -throat nearly white; other under parts pale ashy, with a tinge of olive; -quills brown; primaries edged externally with ashy; secondaries with pale -chestnut-brown; tail reddish-brown, with crimped obscure transverse lines; -bill dusky horn-color; feet pale.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> California. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> Resembles in some measure <i>A. palustris</i>, but can be easily distinguished. -It appears to be restricted to California, not having been observed -in New Mexico or Texas. Ammodramus is the original orthography of the -name of this genus given by Swainson as cited above, but that here given is -universally adopted, and is much the most usual in generic names of similar -derivation.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig21"> -<img src="images/ppp20.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="971" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 21<br /><span class="ln2">The Black-headed Oriole</span><br /><span class="ln3">Icterus melanocephalus (<i>Wagler</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_137">137</div> -<h2 id="c72"><span class="small">ICTERUS MELANOCEPHALUS.—(Wagler.)</span> -<br />The Black-headed Oriole. -<br />PLATE XXI.—Adult Male.</h2> -<p>Again we portray an inhabitant of the land of the Mesquite and Mimosa. -This handsome, though plain Oriole, when compared with some of its brilliant -relatives of the same countries, is found throughout nearly the whole of -Mexico, and extends its range northwardly into Texas and New Mexico. Mr. -Pease, who accompanied the Army of the United States under General -Scott, in Mexico, in 1847, observed it at Jalapa, and in the neighborhood of -the city of Mexico, in considerable numbers.</p> -<p>As a bird of Texas, this species was first brought to notice by Mr. Jacob -P. Giraud, Jr., of New York, who received it in a collection of birds from that -State, in 1834, and published a description of it in his “New Species of -North American Birds,” p. 1 (1841). Since that time it has been found -within the limits of the United States by several naturalists, but especially by -Mr. John H. Clark, who, while attached as zoologist to the commission for -running the boundary line between the United States and Mexico, neglected -no opportunity of making investigations which have contributed much to the -natural history of the regions necessarily passed through, and whose collection -contained specimens of this species. To Mr. Clark we are indebted for the -following note respecting this species:</p> -<p>“Approaching the lower Rio Grande from New Mexico, the Black-headed -Oriole was first seen near Ringgold Barracks, but not in abundance; and, -although of rich plumage, its quiet manners and secluded habits prevented it -from being very conspicuous. It was noticed most frequently while feeding -on the fruit of the hackberry; but whenever exposed in picking off the berries, -it always showed signs of uneasiness, and would immediately seek refuge in -places affording greater concealment.</p> -<p>“Usually, pairs were to be seen keeping close together, and they seemed -to prefer the thick foliage which occurs on the margins of the ponds or in the -old bed of the river. They did not appear to communicate with each other -by any note; indeed, I was struck with their silence, though my opportunities -for observation were limited. Their habits seemed to be very different -from those of any other Oriole with which I am acquainted.”</p> -<p>This observation, by so accurate and careful an observer as Mr. Clark, -deserves especial attention. It is quite probable that this bird is the type -of a distinct group or sub-genus.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_138">138</div> -<p>In the papers of Lieut. Couch, most kindly placed by him at our disposal, -we find the following in relation to the bird now before us:—</p> -<p>“The Black-headed Oriole was seen for the first time on the third of -March, 1853, at Santa Rosalio rancho, eight leagues west of Matamoras. -It had paired, and both male and female were very shy and secluded, seeking -insects on the <i>nopal</i> (a species of prickly pear), or among the low mimosa -trees, never seeming to be at rest, but constantly on the look-out for their -favorite food.</p> -<p>“At Charco Escondido, farther in the interior of Tamaulipas, this bird -was well known to the <i>rancheros</i>, who were disposed to give it a bad reputation, -stating that it often came to the rancho to steal the freshly-slaughtered -beef, hung up to dry in the sun. Whether this was true or not, I had no -opportunity of ascertaining; but my acquaintance with the Black-headed -Oriole, at this place, I have a particular reason for remembering. Early one -morning, an old man, who had daily called on me, with his wife and six nude -pickaninnies, presented himself, and wished as usual to take me to a spot -where great numbers of rare birds were to be found. Gladly assenting, we -were out of sight of the rancho at sunrise of one of the magnificent mornings -only known in tropical latitudes. It was the day after a severe <i>norther</i>, and -the whole feathered kingdom was in motion. My guide soon called my -attention to two <i>calandrias</i>, as these birds are called by the Mexicans, which -were quietly but actively seeking their breakfast. The male having been -brought down by my gun, the female flew to a neighboring tree, apparently -not having observed his fall; soon, however, she became aware of her loss, -and endeavored to recall him to her side with a simple <i>pout pou-it</i>, uttered in -a strain of such exquisite sadness, that I could scarcely believe such notes to -be produced by a bird, and so greatly did they excite my sympathy, that I felt -almost resolved to desist from making further collections in natural history, -which was one of the principal objects of my journey into the country.</p> -<p>“Another species that takes the place of this bird, west of Monterey, has -a more powerful, varied, and artistic song, but I have never heard the lay -of any songster of the feathered tribe expressed more sweetly than that of -the present Oriole. At Monterey, it is a favorite cage-bird. The notes of -the male are more powerful than those of the female.</p> -<p>“My stay in Mexico was not sufficiently protracted to enable me to study -the habits of this interesting bird as fully as I could have wished. Generally, -its flight is low and rapid, and it seemed to prefer the shade of trees. -It was observed almost invariably in pairs, and the male and female showed -for each other much tenderness and solicitude. If one strayed from the other, -a soft <i>pou-it</i>, soon brought them again together.”</p> -<p>Nature has, for much the greater part, denied to birds of brilliant plumage -any remarkable powers of melody, and there are many birds of great beauty, -in which the voice is harsh and uninviting, if not absolutely disagreeable. -<span class="pb" id="Page_139">139</span> -Occasional exceptions occur, particularly in the families of Grosbeaks and -Finches, species of which are capable of producing short, though expressive -and musical notes, sometimes uttered in connection with each other, and -forming a partial song. Such is the case, too, with a few of the Orioles; but we -should infer from the interesting statement of Lieut. Couch, that the bird -now before us is, at least, one of the most gifted of its family, and we shall -look forward to his further investigations in Mexico, which he is now about -commencing, hoping for additional information in relation to this remarkable -species.</p> -<p>All the most celebrated songsters of the feathered kingdom are birds of -very plain plumage. The Nightingale, famed in all ages, and universally -admitted to be the most superior in vocal ability of all the birds of the world, -would attract no attention whatever from the general observer, so modest and -unpretending is its appearance. The Mocking Bird of the United States, -properly regarded as second only to the Nightingale, is scarcely less so, and -our other Thrushes, and the little <i>Vireos</i>, very respectfully to be mentioned -as vocalists, partake of the same character.</p> -<p>Mr. Pease noticed the Black-headed Oriole not only at Jalapa, but also on -the <i>tierra caliente</i>, between that city and Vera Cruz. At the season when -observed by him, it fed principally on fruits, as noticed by Mr. Clark, which -fact does not conflict with Lieut. Couch’s statement, that it is an insect-eater; -as all the birds of the family to which this species belongs, subsist on both -fruits and insects, or are what are termed omnivorous. At Jalapa, it was -called by the Mexicans, <i>Calandria iquimite</i>, the latter word being the name -of a tree, of the fruit of which it is said to be particularly fond.</p> -<p>Our plate represents the adult male, which is but little different from the -female. The figure is two-thirds of the natural size.</p> -<h3 id="c73">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Icterus.</span> Brisson, Orn., II. p. 85. (1760.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Icterus melanocephalus.</span> (Wagler.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Psaracolius melanocephalus.</span> Wagler, Isis, 1829, p. 756.</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Icterus Audubonii.</span> Giraud. New species N. A. Birds, p. 1. (1841.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Rather robust; bill strong, high at base; wings rather short; third -and fourth quills longest; tail graduated; central feathers longest; legs and -feet large and strong.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length of skin, from tip of bill to end of tail, 8¾ -inches; wing, 4; tail, 4¼ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> Head black, which color has a semicircular termination on the -breast. Entire under parts and neck behind, bright yellow; back and rump -yellowish-green; wings black; quills edged externally with ashy white; tail -black; bill bluish-black, lighter at the base of the lower mandible; tarsi and -<span class="pb" id="Page_140">140</span> -feet lead-colored; irides brown. Sexes nearly alike; female with the yellow -parts of the plumage less vivid, and the tail in some specimens edged and -tinged with greenish.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Texas, Mexico. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.; and Nat. Mus., -Washington city.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This bird resembles no other in any considerable degree; and is, -therefore, to be easily distinguished. It seems to belong to some one of the -subdivisions of the old genus <i>Icterus</i>, or of <i>Xanthornus</i>, which are so variously -and confusedly given by professed systematists, that we have no faith -in any of them; which declaration, by the way, we have no objection to -embrace the present opportunity of extending to late <i>opinionative</i> classifications, -in a manner rather general and comprehensive. It is about full time -for a true zoologist to appear, who shall be capable of systematizing—of -reducing to order and symmetry the vast fund of facts and detached knowledge -in natural history, which the present age has accumulated. In our happier -day-dreams, we have deemed it inevitable that such a one must shortly appear. -The great Anglo-Saxon zoologist is yet to come.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig22"> -<img src="images/ppp21.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1117" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 22<br /><span class="ln2">The Purple-throated Humming Bird</span><br /><span class="ln3">Trochilus Alexandri (<i>Bourcier</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_141">141</div> -<h2 id="c74"><span class="small">TROCHILUS ALEXANDRI.—Bourcier and Mulsant.</span> -<br />The Purple-throated Humming Bird. -<br />PLATE XXII.—Adult Males.</h2> -<p>The Humming Birds are peculiar to America. Until within a comparatively -recent period, about one hundred species were known to naturalists,—that -being the then considered large number enumerated in works published -as lately as within about twenty years. Discoveries of previously unknown -species in this family of birds have been numerous beyond precedent or comparison -with any other, notwithstanding the zeal and ability which ornithology -has commanded within the period mentioned. At present, there are nearly -three hundred ascertained species of Humming Birds. The large and recent -additions have resulted, in a great measure, from the exploration of regions -previously little visited or inaccessible, principally in the northern part of -South America, but also in Central America and Mexico.</p> -<p>That portion of the continent of America between the Amazon as a southern -boundary, and the Rio Grande and Gila as a northern, embracing New -Grenada and Guiana, the whole of Central America and Mexico, to which -may be added the West India Islands, appears to be the most productive of -Humming Birds. Within that range, but especially in the Republic of New -Grenada, these splendid little birds are much the most abundant, and it -embraces nearly all of the most remarkable in form and most beautiful in -plumage. Southward into Brazil and Peru, and other countries of South -America, a considerable variety of species are also found; but, in the north, -that is to say, north of the line between Mexico and the United States, we -have few species of Humming Birds, and even those give us but an imperfect -idea of the gorgeous tints of their relatives of the tropical regions of this -continent.</p> -<p>Of the natural productions of America, these birds have attracted the most -universal admiration. Nor has it been, by any means, without foundation. -Nature appears to have exhausted herself in the lavish profusion of colors -of every tint and shade with which she has adorned these gems of the -animal world. They are the most splendidly colored and at the same time -the most diminutive of birds. Almost every color known in art is to be met -with in the plumage of some one or other of the Humming Birds, and usually -with a lustre more resembling that of the most highly finished workmanship -in metal, or of the most exquisite precious stones, than the transient or easily -destroyed appendages of a delicate animal organization.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_142">142</div> -<p>There are, however, some species which are quite plain in their appearance, -and present little or no trace of metallic or other brilliant colors. Of these, -one large species is perfectly black; others are reddish-brown, or fulvous and -plain dark green.</p> -<p>In size, the Humming Birds vary much. The Giant Humming Bird of -Brazil, which is the largest, though one of the plainest, is about the size of -the Chimney Bird of the United States, and several fine species of the later -discoveries in this group are but little smaller. Several species are quite as -large as the House Wren. On the other hand, there are Humming Birds -little larger than the Humble Bee of our meadows; and there are many -species of Beetles and other coleopterous insects, that are much larger. The -common ruby-throated Humming Bird of the United States, is a medium-sized -species, and of respectable dimensions when compared with some of his -pigmy brethren of the far South.</p> -<p>In form, too, they vary exceedingly. Some are very slender, and apparently -feebly constituted; others are comparatively quite robust. There are -species which have bills excessively long, the <i>Sword-bearer</i> (<i>Trochilus -ensiferus</i>), which is about the size of the House Wren, has a bill longer -than its body. So entirely disproportionate does the bill of this species -appear to be, that few persons, on seeing specimens for the first time, can -avoid a suspicion that it has been artificially lengthened; and we have more -than once heard it suggested on such an occasion that this remarkable appendage -could readily have been drawn out by processes used by comb-makers. -This exceedingly long bill is, however, no inconvenience whatever to the gay -little individual who is responsible for it, luckily for him;—in fact, it assists -him admirably in procuring an entirely honest subsistence amongst the large -trumpet-flowers, and others with long tubular corollas, abundant in tropical -countries. No other known species has this organ of a length so disproportionate, -though there are several in which it is unusually long for birds of -such size. The bill is, however, scarcely of the same form and shape in any -two species. In some, it is perfectly straight and very short; in others, as we -have already observed, it is very long. Numerous others have the bill curved -downwards, or scythe-shaped, and a few species have it turned upwards, presenting -a very singular appearance.</p> -<p>Other curious appendages are to be met with in species of this family. -One group has exceedingly long tails, three or four times the length of the -body. Several Humming Birds have the outer feathers of the tail long, and -though narrow for the greater part of their length, suddenly expanded at the -end like a paddle or a spoon. These seem to form a group or sub-genus of -their own, and are also remarkable for having the upper part of the leg (the -<i>tibia</i>, and sometimes part of the <i>tarsus</i>) covered with a thick mass of white -downy feathers, presenting one of the many instances of phenomena to -which it appears almost impossible in the present state of our knowledge, -<span class="pb" id="Page_143">143</span> -to assign a use in the economy of the species. The wings in all Humming -Birds are large, when compared with those of many other birds, and are -formed for long-continued and rapid flight.</p> -<p>The food of the Humming Birds is now well ascertained to be principally -insects. We regard the conclusion, also, as unavoidable, that the moisture -contained in flowers is their drink only, and not capable alone of supporting -life. The tongue appears to be the principal organ used both in capturing -insects and in procuring the fluid portion of their subsistence, and is constructed -in a manner peculiarly adapted to these purposes. It is long, and -composed of two parallel tubes (like a double-barrelled gun), furnished with -the necessary apparatus of muscles for sucking, and thus enabling the bird -to reach the drops of moisture or the fluid secretions contained very frequently -in the corollas of flowers, more abundant in some species than others. -The tongue is flattened, and sometimes barbed towards the end, or margined -with fringe-like appendages, evidently designed to be of material service in -feeding on minute flies or other small and soft insects. It admits, too, of -being darted outwards, like that of the woodpeckers, and in the manner thus -indicated it is very probable that their food is secured.</p> -<p>A large space on the throat is generally the most beautiful part of the -plumage of the birds of this family. Frequently, however, the top of the -head and the entire under parts of the body are clothed in colors of the most -surpassing brilliancy. The upper parts are usually plainer.</p> -<p>In the countries where these birds are most abundant, and even in others -of South America, some species of Humming Birds are spread over a vast -extent of territory;—other species are well known to be peculiar to quite -restricted localities. Many inhabit only the warmest districts;—others are -found only in mountain-valleys, thousands of feet above the level of the sea. -One of the most beautiful Humming Birds, the Polytmus (<i>Trochilus polytmus</i>), -a large species, having the plumage mainly of a most exquisite green, with -the top of the head jet black, and with the tail excessively long, inhabits only -the island of Jamaica, and it is quite probable that every island of the West -Indies produces species which are to be found in no other. In some sections, -they are exceedingly numerous. Mr. Gosse, in his valuable volume on the -Birds of Jamaica, mentions having seen “no less than a hundred come successively -to rifle the blossoms within the space of half as many yards in the -course of a forenoon.” We have been informed of instances of the ruby-topaz -Humming Bird (<i>T. moschitus</i>) having occurred in the island of Trinidad -in even greater abundance.</p> -<p>In allusion to the general abundance of these birds in the countries where -they abound, and as a sketch of their habits, we transcribe the following from -“A Voyage up the Amazon,” from an excellent observer and agreeable -writer, our friend, Mr William H. Edwards, of New York:</p> -<p>“Wherever a creeping vine opens its fragrant clusters, or wherever a tree-flower -<span class="pb" id="Page_144">144</span> -blooms, may these little birds be seen. In the garden, or in the woods, -over the water, everywhere, they are darting about;—of all sizes, from one -that might easily be mistaken for a different variety of bird, to the tiny -Hermit (<i>Trochilus rufigaster</i>), whose body is not half the size of the bees -buzzing about the same sweets. Sometimes they are seen chasing each other -in sport with a rapidity of flight and intricacy of path the eye is puzzled to -follow. Again circling round and round, they rise high in mid-air, then dart -off like light to some distant attraction. Perched upon a little limb, they -smooth their plumes and seem to delight in their dazzling hues; then starting -off leisurely, they skim along, stopping capriciously to kiss the coquetting -flowerets. Often, two meet in mid-air and fight furiously, their crests and -the feathers on their throats all erected and blazing, and altogether pictures -of the most violent rage. Several times we saw them battling with large -black bees, who frequent the same flowers, and may be supposed to interfere -often provokingly. Like lightning, our little heroes would come down, but -the coat of shining mail would ward of their furious strokes. Again and -again would they renew the attack, until their anger had expended itself by -its own fury, or until the apathetic bee, once roused, had put forth powers -that drove the invader from the field.”</p> -<p>The Mexican Humming Birds have been, until recently, but little attended -to, and even at this time are by no means well known. In an interesting -volume by Mr. William Bullock, a Fellow of the Linnean Society of London, -“Six Months Residence and Travels in Mexico” (London, 1824), a work -that contains much information on the natural history, and especially the -ornithology, of that country, there is a chapter exclusively devoted to the -Humming Birds. From it, we make the following extract, which may be -regarded as the more interesting, as some of the species alluded to may be -found hereafter in those parts of the United States contiguous to Mexico:</p> -<p>“In Mexico, the species of Humming Birds are numerous. Near the -capital, on my arrival, scarcely one was to be seen; but in the month of May -and June, numbers were found in the Botanic Garden, in the centre of the -city; and, by offering a reward to the Indians, many were brought to me -alive. I had nearly seventy in cages, which, with attention and care, I kept -living for some weeks; and could I have devoted my whole attention to them, -I have no doubt of the possibility of bringing them alive to Europe.</p> -<p>“It is probable the whole of them feed on insects; numbers I am certain -do so, having watched them attentively in the Botanic Garden at Mexico, in -pursuit of their minute prey; and in the yard of the house in which I -resided at Themascaltepec, where one of them took entire possession of a -pomegranate tree in blossom, on which he sat the whole day, catching the -small flies that came to the flowers.</p> -<p>“Although, like the Robin and other birds of Europe, in a state of nature, -they are extremely tenacious of any intrusion of their own species on their -dominions, yet, in captivity, when several kinds have been confined together, -<span class="pb" id="Page_145">145</span> -I never observed the least inclination to quarrel, but have seen the smaller -take what appeared to be unwarrantable liberties with those of five times -their size and strength;—thus, when the perch has been occupied by the -great blue-throated one, the diminutive Mexican Star has settled on the long -beak of the former, and remained perched on it some minutes, without its -offering to resist the insult.</p> -<p>“Europeans who have seen only the stuffed remains of these little feathered -gems in museums, have been charmed with their beautiful appearance; but -those who have examined them whilst living, displaying their moving crests, -throats, and tails, like the peacock in the sun, can never look with pleasure -on their mutilated forms. I have carefully preserved about two hundred -specimens, in the best possible manner, yet they are still but the shadow of -what they were in life. The reason is obvious; for the sides of the laminæ, -or fibres of each feather, being of a different color from the surface, will -change when seen in a front or oblique direction; and as each lamina or fibre -turns upon the axis of the quill, the least motion, when living, causes the -feathers to change suddenly to the most opposite hues. Thus the one from -Nootka Sound (<i>T. rufus</i>) changes its expanded throat from the most vivid -fire color to light green; the topaz-throated does the same, and the Mexican -Star changes from bright crimson to blue.</p> -<p>“The sexes vary greatly in the plumage in many species, so much so, that -it is with difficulty we recognize them. The male and female of the Mexican -Star (<i>Cynanthus Lucifer</i>) could not have been known had they not been -seen constantly together, and proved to be so by dissection. They breed in -Mexico in June and July, and the nest is a beautiful specimen of the architectural -talent of these birds; it is neatly constructed with cotton or the -down of thistles, to which is fastened on the outside, by some glutinous substance, -a white flat lichen resembling ours. The female lays two eggs, perfectly -white, and large for the size of the bird, and the Indians informed me -they were hatched in three weeks, by the male and female sitting alternately. -When attending their young, they attack any bird indiscriminately that -approaches the nest. Their motions, when under the influence of anger or -fear, are very violent, and their flight rapid as an arrow; the eye cannot -follow them, but the shrill, piercing shriek which they utter on the wing, may -be heard when the bird is invisible, and often led to their destruction by -preparing me for their approach. They attack the eyes of the larger birds, -and their sharp needle-like bill is a truly formidable weapon in this kind of -warfare.</p> -<p>“Nothing can exceed their fierceness when one of their own species -invades their territory during the breeding season. Under the influence of -jealousy, they become perfect furies; their throats swell, their crests, tails, -and wings, expand; they fight in the air (uttering a shrill noise), till one falls -exhausted to the ground. I witnessed a combat of this kind near Otumba, -<span class="pb" id="Page_146">146</span> -during a heavy fall of rain, every separate drop of which I supposed sufficient -to have beaten the puny warriors to the earth.</p> -<p>“In sleeping, they frequently suspend themselves by the feet, with their -heads downwards, in the manner of some parrots.</p> -<p>“These birds were great favorites with the ancient Mexicans. They used -the feathers as ornaments for their superb mantles in the time of Montezuma, -and in embroidering the pictures so much extolled by Cortez. Their name -signifies, in the Indian language, beams or locks of the sun. The feathers -are still worn by the Indian ladies as ornaments for the ears.”</p> -<p>It may be properly remarked here that the statement made by Mr. -Bullock, of the habit of these birds sleeping with their heads downwards, has -attracted considerable attention, and it has been thought probable that he -may have been mistaken, or misinformed, not having been confirmed by -subsequent naturalists. It may, however, apply only to some species.</p> -<p>The pugnacity of these little birds is almost universally alluded to by -writers who have enjoyed opportunities of observing them in the countries -where they abound. A Humming Bird of any size, even the smallest, is not -on that account less a fighting character, and jealous of whatever rights and -privileges he considers himself entitled to. But as both of the authors above -quoted, have alluded to this point, we beg the indulgence of the reader to lay -before him another extract especially relating to this hostility of disposition, -and happily illustrative of the fights and feuds of the Humming Birds. It is -from the very pleasant and valuable little work, previously mentioned, on the -Birds of Jamaica, by Mr. Philip Henry Gosse; and the species alluded to, -the Mango Humming Bird (<i>T. mango</i>), is one which is considerably larger -than the common ruby-throated species of the United States. It is abundant -in the West Indies, and in some parts of South America, and it occasionally -visits the shores of Florida. It is figured by Mr. Audubon:—</p> -<p>“A Mango Humming Bird had, every day, and all day long, been paying -his <i>devoirs</i> to these charming blossoms” (the Malay apple, <i>Eugenia malaccensis</i>). -“On the morning to which I allude, another came, and the -manœuvres of these two tiny creatures became highly interesting. They -chased each other through the labyrinth of twigs and flowers, till, an opportunity -occurring, the one would dart with seeming fury upon the other, and -then with a loud rustling of their wings, they would twirl together, round -and round, until they nearly came to the earth. It was some time before I -could see, with any distinctness, what took place in these tussles; their twirlings -were so rapid as to baffle all attempts at discrimination. At length, an -encounter took place pretty close to me, and I perceived that the beak of the -one grasped that of the other, and thus fastened, both whirled round and -round in their perpendicular descent, the point of contact being the centre -of the gyrations, till, when another second would have brought them both to -the ground, they separated, and the one chased the other for about a hundred -<span class="pb" id="Page_147">147</span> -yards, and then returned in triumph to the tree, where, perched on a -lofty twig, he chirped monotonously and pertinaciously for some time;—I -could not help thinking, in defiance. In a few minutes, however, the banished -one returned, and began chirping no less provokingly, which soon -brought on another chase and another tussle. I am persuaded that these -were hostile encounters, for one seemed evidently afraid of the other, fleeing -when the other pursued, though his indomitable spirit would prompt the chirp -of defiance; and, when resting after a battle, I noticed that this one held -his beak open, as if panting. Sometimes they would suspend hostilities to -suck a few blossoms, but mutual proximity was sure to bring them on again -with the same result. In their tortuous and rapid evolutions, the light from -their ruby necks would now and then flash in the sun with gem-like radiance; -and as they now and then hovered motionless, the broadly-expanded tail,—whose -outer feathers are crimson-purple, but when intercepting the sun’s -rays, transmit orange-colored light—added much to their beauty. A little -<i>Banana Quit</i> (<i>Certhiola flaveola</i>), that was peeping among the blossoms in -his own quiet way, seemed now and then to look with surprise on the combatants; -but when the one had driven his rival to a longer distance than usual, -the victor set upon the unoffending Quit, who soon yielded the point, and -retired, humbly enough, to a neighboring tree. The war, for it was a -thorough campaign, a regular succession of battles, lasted fully an hour, and -then I was called away from the post of observation. Both of the Humming -Birds appeared to be adult males.”</p> -<p>In the United States, there have been discovered as yet not more than five -species of Humming Birds, including that which is presented to the reader -in our present plate. They are the ruby-throated Humming bird (<i>Trochilus -colubris</i>), which is the much-admired little species everywhere common in the -summer-time, in the States on the Atlantic; the Mango Humming Bird -(<i>T. mango</i>), an abundant South American and West Indian species that -occasionally visits Florida, as above stated; the Anna Humming Bird -(<i>T. Anna</i>), a species of California and Mexico, the most beautiful of the -northern species, and which derives additional interest from the fact that it -was named by an eminent French naturalist, in honor of Anna, Duchess of -Rivoli, whose husband, General Massena, Duke of Rivoli, the distinguished -officer of the armies of the Emperor Napoleon I., founded the ornithological -collection which now belongs to the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia. -In addition to these, are the rufous-throated or Northern Humming -Bird (<i>T. rufus</i>), a western species, which extends its range on the Pacific -coast to a high northern latitude, and the bird now before us. Another -species or two have been named as inhabiting California, without it being -stated whether the upper or lower divisions of that country was intended. -They are not known to inhabit that portion which is one of the States of this -Union, though it is quite probable that others of the numerous Mexican -<span class="pb" id="Page_148">148</span> -species will be found extending their range into the western and southwestern -territories.</p> -<p>Within the limits of the United States, the Humming Bird now before the -reader, has been noticed only by Dr. Heermann, whose fine collection made -in California contained numerous specimens. He detected it in one locality -only, which was the burying-ground at Sacramento city. There several pairs -remained during the season of incubation, and reared their young, finding -suitable food and protection amongst the flowering plants, with which, with -great feeling and propriety, that last resting-place of the emigrant and -stranger has been adorned.</p> -<p>Dr. Heermann represents the nest as composed of fine mosses, lined with -the feathery down of various seeds, and containing two white eggs. He saw -this bird also at Guaymas, in Mexico.</p> -<p>The figures in our plate are of the size of life, and represent adult males. -The plant represented is <i>Odontoglossum Cervantesii</i>, a native of Mexico.</p> -<h3 id="c75">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Trochilus.</span> Linnæus, Syst. Nat., I. p. 189. (1766.)</dt></dl> -<p>Size small, in some species diminutive, and the smallest of birds; bill -slender, frequently straight, and also frequently curved, acute; wings comparatively -large, generally pointed and formed for rapid flight; quills flattened, -first primary longest, and curved inwards; tail various; legs and feet -very short and feeble. The birds of this group are exclusively American.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Trochilus Alexandri.</span> Bourcier and Mulsant, Annals of the Royal Society of Physical and Natural Sciences of Lyons, IX. p. 330. (1846.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Small; bill long; nearly straight; wings rather short; first quill -longest, and somewhat curved; tail rather short, marginated, with its feathers -narrow and pointed; legs and feet very short and weak.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length of skin, about 3¼ inches; wing, 2¹/₁₀; tail, 1 -inch.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Color.</span> Entire upper parts golden green; dark on the head; wings and -tail brownish-black, except the central feathers of the latter, which are green; -throat brilliant purple, with violet reflections, which color is succeeded by a -broad transverse band of white; other under parts golden green, mixed with -pale brownish and ashy; bill and feet dark.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> California and Mexico. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This bird is about the size of, or slightly larger than the ruby-throated -Humming Bird (<i>T. colubris</i>) of North America, and resembles it in -the general distribution of its colors. Those of the throat are, however, -entirely different. The two species belong evidently to the same subdivision -of the old genus <i>Trochilus</i>, which is, however, given so differently by late -<span class="pb" id="Page_149">149</span> -authors, that we have not at present determined the relative claims of either. -It is given by one as belonging to the genus <i>Mellisuga</i>, and by another as -<i>Trochilus</i> proper, in a restricted sense.</p> -<p>The study of the Humming Birds, now difficult, will be rendered easy by -Mr. Gould’s great work on these birds, now in the course of publication. All -the known species are to be figured of the size of life; and in the parts already -published, the drawing and coloring is exceedingly accurate, and magnificent -beyond any precedent in the literature of ornithology.</p> -<p>In the old world, the Humming Birds are represented by the Sun Birds -(genus <i>Cinnyris</i>, Cuvier; <i>Nectarinia</i> of some authors), numerous species of -which inhabit Africa and Southern Asia. They partake in some measure of -the habits of the Humming Birds, and also of their lustrous colors, many of -the species being very beautiful.</p> -<p>Several naturalists and admirers of ornithology have formed special collections -of Humming Birds, and there are now extant several which contain -very nearly all the known species, of which may be mentioned those of Mr. -Edward Wilson, and Mr. John Gould, in England, and of Messrs. Edward -and Jules Verreaux, in Paris. That of the first named, who is an American -gentleman resident in England, is the most extensive and complete, and -includes several of the only specimens known of the species which they represent. -This gentleman and his brother, Dr. Thomas B. Wilson, of Philadelphia, -have won for themselves the imperishable respect and gratitude of -American naturalists, by forming in their native city the most extensive -library and collections in natural history in America, and, in some departments, -unrivalled by any in the old world. For these, now constituting, mainly, -the magnificent museum and library of the Academy of Natural Sciences of -Philadelphia, it is indebted to the distinguished patrons of zoological science -whom we have just mentioned.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_150">150</div> -<h2 id="c76"><span class="small">EMBERIZA BILINEATA.—Cassin.</span> -<br />The Black-throated Finch. -<br />PLATE XXIII.—Adult Male.</h2> -<p>This curious little Finch was discovered in Texas, in 1849, by Mr. John -W. Audubon, a son of the celebrated ornithologist, and himself a naturalist -and zoological draughtsman of high merit and accomplishments.</p> -<p>It appears to be extensively diffused throughout Mexico, Texas, and New -Mexico, and in the former country is a common species. In the States last -mentioned, it has been noticed by nearly all the naturalists who have visited -them; though, as a bird of the United States, little beyond the fact of its -existence in those regions has been placed on record, or has otherwise come -to our knowledge.</p> -<p>In Mexico, this bird was found by Lieut. Couch to be numerous in some -parts of Tamaulipas, Nueva Leon, Coahuila, and other States on the Rio -Grande, immediately south and west of the limits of the territory of the -United States. For our present article, this gentleman has very kindly furnished -the following interesting communication, for which and other similar -favors we beg to tender our grateful acknowledgments:—</p> -<p>“This bird was first seen at Santa Rosalio, and specimens were obtained. -Though a month had been spent at Brownsville, in Texas, only about twenty -miles distant, it had not been observed. At Charco Escondido, forty miles -farther in the interior, it was very plentiful, and early in March, seemed to -have already reared a breed of young; one specimen procured, having the -appearance of being a young bird but a few weeks old.</p> -<p>“Its favourite home appears to be the scattered Mesquite or Acacias that -sprinkle the plains east of the Sierra Madre. Like many other birds of its -family, it does not seek the shade during the warmer hours of mid-day, -but may always be found chirping and hopping from one bush to another, -apparently as much for the pleasure of enjoying the society of its fellows as -to seek for food.</p> -<p>“After striking south from Cadorcita, this little bird suddenly disappeared, -much to my regret, as I had become so accustomed to seeing it constantly -during my daily marches, that I almost regarded it as a travelling companion. -But after nearly a month’s absence, I again recognized it among some flowering -<i>Leguminosa</i>, between Pesqueria and Rinconada. I afterwards ascertained -that it would thus be entirely absent from districts of considerable -extent, but always reappeared again throughout my journey, and was always -welcome.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig23"> -<img src="images/ppp22.jpg" alt="" width="772" height="1200" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 23<br /><span class="ln2">The Black-throated Finch</span><br /><span class="ln3">Emberiza bilneata (<i>Cassin</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_151">151</div> -<p>“The usual note of this bird at the season in which I saw it, is a simple -chirp; but one day, having halted during a <i>norther</i>, in the State of Tamaulipas, -I amused myself watching a party of adult and young birds of this -species, in the neighboring bushes. One gay little black-throated fellow, who -was probably the father, showed unusual uneasiness at my presence, which -fact led me particularly to observe him. After carefully reconnoitering and -apparently satisfying himself that there was no immediate danger, he flew -off a few yards to the top of a yellow mimosa then in bloom, and, regardless -of the bitter wind still blowing, gave utterance to a strain of sprightly and -sweet notes, that would have compared favorably with those of many a more -famed songster of the feathered race. This was the only time that I ever -heard this species indulge in anything more than a single chirp.”</p> -<p>This little Finch was observed at various localities in Texas by gentlemen -attached to the commission for running the boundary line between the United -States and Mexico.</p> -<p>The figure in our plate, which is that of an adult male from Lieut. Couch’s -collection, is about two-thirds of the size of life.</p> -<p>The plant represented is <i>Spirea Douglasii</i>, a native of western North -America.</p> -<h3 id="c77">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Genus Emberiza.</span> Linnæus, Syst. Nat., I. p. 308. (1766.)</p> -<p><span class="sc">Emberiza bilineata.</span> Cassin, Proc. Acad., Philada., V. p. 104. (Oct. 1850.)</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Rather short and compact; fourth quill slightly longest, but -nearly equalled by the third and fifth; legs rather long and robust; tail -moderate.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, about 5⅛ inches; wing, 2½; expanse from tip -to tip, 8; tail, 2⅜ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> <i>Adult.</i>—Superciliary stripe over the eye, and another from the -corner of the lower mandible, white. Large space on the throat and neck -before black, which is also the color of the lores. Cheeks and entire upper -parts brownish-cinereous, darker, and tinged with olive on the back; quills -hair-brown, with nearly white external edgings; tail feathers brownish-black, -the two central palest, and the external feather, with its outer web, white, and -with a large spot of white on its inner web, near the tip,—in some specimens -the two outer tail feathers are largely tipped with white. Entire under parts -white, tinged with ashy and olive, especially on the sides and flanks; bill -dark bluish or horn color; feet dark. <i>Young.</i>—Throat and other under -parts white, with some longitudinal stripes of brownish-black; upper parts as -in adult, but more tinged with brown; wing-coverts edged with brownish-white.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> New Mexico and Texas; Mexico. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada., -and Nat. Mus., Washington city.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_152">152</div> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This Finch resembles no other species known to us, in such a degree -as would render it liable to be confounded with it. It may be easily recognised -when adult by its black throat, bordered on each side by a conspicuous -white stripe, and having also another equally conspicuous and well-defined -stripe over the eye. In the young there is no vestige of the black throat, -that part being of a uniform color with the under parts of the body, but -bears a strong general resemblance to the adult. It is related to the group -designated <i>Euspiza</i> by authors, though it is probably the type of a distinct -subdivision.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig24"> -<img src="images/ppp23.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1118" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 24<br /><span class="ln2">The Black-headed Vireo</span><br /><span class="ln3">Vireo atricapillus (<i>Woodhouse</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_153">153</div> -<h2 id="c78"><span class="small">VIREO ATRICAPILLUS.—Woodhouse.</span> -<br />The Black-headed Flycatcher. -<br />PLATE XXIV.—Adult Male.</h2> -<p>On account of their modest attire and sylvan habits, the birds of the group -to which the present species belongs, are seldom noticed by the general -observer, though some of them are to be met with commonly during the -summer, in nearly all parts of the United States. But though inconspicuous -in appearance, they make ample compensation by the loudness of their notes, -which, after the early love-songs of the Thrushes, and other of our songsters -of spring, have subsided into the more serious duties of parental responsibility, -are to be heard above those of any other of our resident birds. They are -active insect-catchers, and may be seen at nearly all hours of the day, -patiently searching amongst the leaves and branches of the trees in almost -every woodland, hopping from branch to branch, or sometimes making short -sallies in pursuit of fugitive moths or butterflies, and occasionally pausing to -refresh themselves with a rather quaint but very melodious warble, lengthened -in the spring into a cheerful and agreeable song.</p> -<p>The red-eyed Flycatcher (<i>V. olivaceus</i>) is the most numerous, and not -only is constantly to be met with in the woods, but ventures confidently into -the public squares or parks, and the yards and gardens of the cities. In many -such localities in Philadelphia, several of which are in the denser parts of the -city, this little warbler rears its young, and pipes out his sprightly song, in -entire security, and apparently feeling himself as much at home as if in the -recesses of the most remote forest. The warbling Flycatcher (<i>V. gilvus</i>) is -another pleasing singer, though in our opinion but an indifferent performer -compared with the preceding. A species common in the West Indies, and -which has been found in Florida, has some very singular notes, from one -combination of which he has had assigned to him a name quite as singular, -the “Whip Tom Kelly” (<i>V. altiloquus</i>).</p> -<p>The immediate relatives, however, of the little species before the reader in -the present plate, are birds that rarely venture far from the woods. One of -them, the White-eyed Flycatcher (<i>V. noveboracensis</i>), has a partiality for -marshes and low grounds producing thick growths of vines and shrubbery; -and although the smallest of his tribe has some quite remarkable notes, and -so loud, that a person not sufficiently acquainted with him to recognise his -voice, would be surprised to find such a high-sounding solo proceed from such -a diminutive performer.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_154">154</div> -<p>The species represented in our present plate is an inhabitant of Texas, but -it has as yet been only observed in a very limited district. It was discovered -by S. W. Woodhouse, M. D., of Philadelphia, while attached to Capt. Sitgreave’s -Surveying party. It is the handsomest bird of this group.</p> -<p>The following notice of this bird by Dr. Woodhouse, we take the liberty -of extracting from Sitgreave’s report of an expedition down the Zuñi and -Colorado rivers:</p> -<p>“On the twenty-sixth of May, 1851, while encamped on the Rio San -Pedro, within about ten miles of its source, I was out in pursuit of specimens. -Wandering about the hills among some cedars (<i>Juniperus</i>), my attention was -first attracted by a singular note, which I am unable to describe; on looking, -I discovered this beautiful little bird, which I at first took to belong to that -interesting family of fly-catching warblers, <i>Sylvania</i>, it being constantly in -motion. It was with the greatest difficulty that I could procure specimens; -two, however, I secured, both of which, on dissection, proved to be males.”</p> -<p>Mr. John H. Clark, zoologist attached to the Mexican boundary commission, -who observed this species in Texas, and near the same locality at which -it was found by Dr. Woodhouse, has very obligingly made for us the following -note from his journal:</p> -<p>“My attention was drawn to this bird by a shrill, discontented chirp which -accompanied its incessant motion in pursuit of insects. Three specimens -only were seen, and all of them at one locality, near the head of the Rio San -Pedro, or Devil’s River, to the valley of which it appeared to be confined, -for, being aware of its novelty to the fauna of the United States, I kept a -strict look-out, but did not meet with it elsewhere.</p> -<p>“It was not at all shy, showing no concern when approached within a few -rods. The procuring of a specimen was, however, a matter of some difficulty, -as its constantly hopping or flying from branch to branch rendered an unobstructed -shot the next thing to an impossibility. It was found in June, and -the specimen obtained by me, now in the collection of the commission, is that -of a male.”</p> -<p>Our figure is of the natural size.</p> -<h3 id="c79">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Vireo.</span> Vieillot, Ois d’Am., Sept. I, p. 83. (1807.)</dt></dl> -<p>Size small; bill rather short, strong, wide at base, compressed towards the -point, which is curved downwards, and sharp; upper mandible with distinct -notches near the point; nostrils basal, large; wing moderate or rather short, -with the third and fourth quills usually longest; tail rather short; legs long, -rather slender. An American genus, containing six species. The Red-eyed -Flycatcher (<i>V. olivaceus</i>), and others of the long-billed species, are not -included, but have properly been embraced in a new group, <i>Vireosylvia</i>, -Bonaparte.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_155">155</div> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Vireo atricapillus.</span> Woodhouse, Proc. Acad., Philada., VI. p. 60. (April, 1852.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Small, but compact, and rather broad; bill rather short, acute; -wing with the third and fourth quills equal; tail rather short, even at the -end, or slightly emarginate.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Male.</i>—Total length, 7½ inches; Wing, 2¼; tail, 1¾; expanse -of Wings, 7¼.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Color.</span> <i>Male.</i>—Head above and cheeks black; stripe before the eye, and -entire under parts, white, tinged with greenish-yellow on the sides and flanks; -back, rump, and upper tail-coverts, dark olive-green; quills brownish-black, -with a greenish tinge, and edged externally with greenish-yellow; wing-coverts -tipped with greenish-white; tail feathers brownish-black, edged externally -with greenish-yellow; bill and feet dark; iris light red.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Texas. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada., and Nat. Mus., Washington -city.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This is a very distinct and peculiar species of this genus, not at all -resembling any other, and readily distinguished by its black head. It belongs, -however, strictly to the same group as <i>V. flavifrons</i>, <i>V. solitarius</i>, <i>V. noveboracencis</i>, -and others, and is one of the most interesting of the more recent -additions to the ornithology of the United States.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_156">156</div> -<h2 id="c80"><span class="small">PICOLAPTES BRUNNEICAPILLUS.—La Fresnaye.</span> -<br />The Brown-headed Creeper. -<br />PLATE XXV.—Adult Male.</h2> -<p>This is a species belonging to a large family of birds, very numerous in -the tropical and southern regions of the American continent, though of which -not more than two species are known to venture so far north as to come -within the limits of the United States. They subsist on insects, which they -capture on the trunks and branches of trees, or, in the countries where such -plants abound, on the large species of <i>Cactus</i>, and others of a similar -character.</p> -<p>Some of the larger birds of this group have very long and singularly curved -bills, which it is supposed are peculiarly adapted to searching for insects in -the deep furrows or interstices of the rough barks of trees. All have more -or less strong feet and claws, designed for their manner of creeping on trees, -somewhat similar to that of the Woodpeckers, but more like the Nuthatches, -or little Sapsuckers, as they are commonly designated in the United States, -and the Brown Creeper of our woods (<i>Certhia americana</i>). The latter is in -fact the only northern representative of the family to which our present -species belongs, but so small, that it conveys but a faint idea of the form and -colors of these birds generally. They are, however, for the greater part, -birds of plain colors, frequently brown of various shades, or snuff-colored.</p> -<p>The bird figured in the present plate was first noticed in Texas, by Capt. -J. P. McCown, of the United States Army, and is given by Mr. Lawrence as -an addition to the ornithology of the North in the Annals of the New York -Lyceum of Natural History, V. p. 114 (1851), but with no account of its -habits. Since that time, it has been again observed by Mr. Clark at several -localities in Texas, and is known to be of frequent occurrence in the States -of Mexico immediately south of the Rio Grande, and in other parts of the -same country.</p> -<p>The Brown-headed Creeper was seen by Dr. Heermann in Mexico, and -in his paper in the Journal of the Philadelphia Academy, II. p. 263, he thus -mentions it:—</p> -<div class="img" id="fig25"> -<img src="images/ppp24.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1087" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 25<br /><span class="ln2">The Brown-headed Creeper</span><br /><span class="ln3">Picolaptes brunneicapillus (<i>La Fresnaye</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_157">157</div> -<p>“I found this bird in the arid country back of Guaymas, on the Gulf of -California. The country itself is the picture of desolation, presenting a -broken surface, and a confused mass of volcanic rocks, covered by a scanty -vegetation of thorny bushes and <i>cacti</i>. In this desert I found several interesting -species, which enter into our fauna as birds of Texas, and this species -was one of the number. It appeared to be a lively, sprightly bird, uttering -at intervals a clear, loud, ringing note. The nest, composed of grasses, and -lined with feathers, was in the shape of a long purse, laid flat between the -forks or on the branches of a <i>Cactus</i>. The entrance was a covered passage, -varying from six to ten inches in length. The eggs, six in number, are of a -delicate salmon color, very pale, and often so thickly speckled with ash and -darker salmon-colored spots, as to give a rich cast to the whole surface of the -egg.”</p> -<p>In the original description of this bird by the Baron La Fresnaye, an eminent -French ornithologist, in Guerin’s Magazine of Zoology, 1835, p. 61 -(Paris), his specimen is represented as being probably from California. It -has not been noticed in that country by either of our American naturalists, -though found by Dr. Heermann, as above stated, near Guaymas, in Northern -Mexico.</p> -<p>Our figure is rather less than two-thirds of the size of life.</p> -<h3 id="c81">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Picolaptes.</span> Lesson, Traité d’Ornithologie, I. p. 313. (1831.)</dt></dl> -<p>Bill moderate, or rather long, curved, rather wide at base, but compressed -towards the end; apertures of the nostrils large; wings rather short, rounded; -first quill short; fourth, fifth, and sixth, usually longest and nearly equal; -tail moderate, or rather long, soft at the end; legs and feet rather large and -robust; claws curved, sharp. An American genus, nearly allied to others, -and containing numerous species.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Picolaptes brunneicapillus.</span> La Fresnaye, Guerin’s Mag. de Zoologie, 1835, p. 61.</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Bill curved; culmen distinct; wings short; tail rather long; tarsi -and toes strong, and covered with scales; tail wide, with its feathers broad -and soft.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length of skin, about 8¼ inches; wing, 3½; tail, 3½ -inches. Female rather smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> Entire plumage above, brown, darkest and unspotted on the -head; but on other upper parts with every feather having a central stripe or -oblong spots of white, disposed to form longitudinal stripes; quills with -numerous spots of white on the edges of their outer webs, forming somewhat -regular oblique stripes, and on their inner webs with regular transverse stripes -of white; tail, with its central two feathers, grayish-brown, transversely -barred with brownish-black; other tail feathers brownish black, with irregular -wide transverse bands of white, more numerous on the two outermost -feathers.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_158">158</div> -<p>Under parts white, tinged with fulvous on the flanks and abdomen; feathers -of the throat and neck before tipped with black; those of other under parts -with circular or oblong spots of black, large on the under tail-coverts; bill -and feet horn-color. Sexes alike.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Texas and Mexico. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada., and Nat. Mus., -Washington.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This bird somewhat resembles several of its genus, but is not difficult -to distinguish. In many specimens, especially of the male bird, the -black predominates on the throat and neck before, so as to present an almost -uniform color.</p> -<p>Several late writers have placed this species in the genus <i>Campylorhynchus</i> -(Spix).</p> -<div class="img" id="fig26"> -<img src="images/ppp25.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1158" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 26<br /><span class="ln2">The Ferruginous Buzzard</span><br /><span class="ln3">Archibuteo ferrugineus (<i>Lichtenstein</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_159">159</div> -<h2 id="c82"><span class="small">ARCHIBUTEO FERRUGINEUS.—(Lichtenstein).</span> -<br />The Ferruginous Buzzard. -<br />PLATE XXVI.—Adult and Young.</h2> -<p>This is one of the largest and most handsomely plumaged of the Rapacious -birds of North America, though belonging to a division characterized by -heavy and comparatively slow flight, and not manifesting any considerable -degree of that courage and cunning which are generally so remarkable in this -great group of the ornithological kingdom. In fact, on examination of the -fine bird now before us, or of the Black Hawk of the Atlantic States, which -is nearly related to it, one would scarcely infer that the object of such an -admirable organization is nothing more important than the destruction of the -smallest and most defenceless of quadrupeds or of reptiles. Yet such is -apparently the case; many of the birds of this group, though powerful in -structure, and furnished with the usual apparatus of strong and sharp bills -and claws, and other accompaniments of predatory habits, rarely attack any -animal more formidable than a mouse or ground-squirrel, or in some cases a -frog or other of the weaker species of reptiles.</p> -<p>It is, however, entirely erroneous to attribute a noble or generous character -to any of the predatory animals, though from an early period of history -several species have been so regarded. On the contrary, there is in all these -classes, whether of birds or of other animals, a marked absence of the very -traits which are in some measure assigned to them, and even more unmistakably -so in some of the more celebrated, as the Eagles and Lions, than in -the more humble species. Yet the rapacious animals present a study in -natural history of deep interest. Owing the sustaining of their existence -for the greater part to rapine and violence, yet holding an important place -in the great design of the physical universe, they appear to personate a principle, -if we may be allowed to use the expression, involving one of the most -momentous and mysterious of problems, the existence of evil in the world. -The prowling and treacherous Lion, and the robber Wolf, have unfortunately -but too strong analogies in that race which is the head of the visible creation, -and they and their kind everywhere present the same intrinsic meanness -which is characteristic of violence and injustice, of vice and of crime amongst -men.</p> -<p>The bird now before the reader is, so far as known, exclusively a Western -species. It was first made known to American naturalists by Mr. Edward -<span class="pb" id="Page_160">160</span> -M. Kern of this city, who, when attached as artist to Colonel Frémont’s -Expedition of 1846, obtained it in California and brought home specimens in -a collection made by him, of the birds of that country. It had however been -previously noticed and described as a bird of California by Professor Lichtenstein, -a distinguished European naturalist, in a paper on the natural history -of that country, in the Transactions of the Royal Academy of Berlin (1838, -p. 428).</p> -<p>Since Mr. Kern, the only American naturalist who has noticed this bird is -Dr. Heermann, who has met with it during both of his visits to California, but -especially during his connection with a party under command of Lieut. Williamson, -of the U. S. Topographical Engineers, which has recently completed an -examination and survey for a route for a Railroad to the Pacific Ocean through -the southern portion of the territory of the United States. For our present -article, Dr. Heermann has with great kindness allowed us to make the following -extract from his journal, kept during the survey to which we have -alluded:</p> -<p>“During a previous visit to California, I had seen this species in the -valley of the Sacramento river, and had considered it as rare in that section -of the country, but during the recent survey in which I have been engaged -in the southern part of the state, I found it very abundant, and on one -occasion saw five or six individuals in view at the same moment, in the mountains, -about sixty miles east of San Diego. It was there much more frequently -seen than any other species.</p> -<p>“As large tracts of that country inhabited by this bird are often entirely -without trees, it alights on the ground or on some slightly elevated tuft of -grass or a stone, where it sits patiently for hours watching for its prey. Its -food, on dissection, I found to consist almost entirely of small quadrupeds, -principally various species of mice, and in one instance the crop was filled -with the remains of a ground-squirrel. In plumage it appears to vary as -much as its allied species, <i>A. sancti-johannis</i>. One specimen, which was shot -by a soldier attached to our party, had the tail strongly tinged with the red -color which characterizes that appendage in the red-tailed Hawk, (<i>B. borealis</i>).</p> -<p>“I have several times seen a bird sailing over the prairies, about the size -of the present species, but with its entire plumage deep-black and of heavy -and continued flight. It was I think certainly of this genus; but never having -been so fortunate as to have procured a specimen, I am unable to decide -whether it was this bird, the Black Hawk (<i>A. sancti-johannis</i>), or a new -species to add to this group. My impression is that it was the Black Hawk, -but it may have been the present in a stage of plumage yet undescribed.</p> -<p>“The nest and eggs of the present bird I procured on the Consumnes -river, in 1851. The nest was in the forks of an oak and was composed of -coarse twigs and lined with grasses; the eggs, two in number, were white, -marked with faint brown dashes. This nest was placed in the centre of a -<span class="pb" id="Page_161">161</span> -large bunch of <i>Misletoe</i>, and would not have been discovered, but having -occasion to climb the tree to examine some Magpie’s nests, the Hawk in flying -off betrayed her retreat. The eggs of this species are quite different from -those of the European <i>A. lagopus</i>, but with those of <i>A. sancti-johannis</i>, I -have never had an opportunity of comparing them.”</p> -<p>Mr. Kern’s specimens are marked as having been procured in the Tulavie -valley, California, in January, 1846. He observes, in his notes in our possession, -that finding this bird remarkably fat and in excellent general condition, -some of the party shot it for the mess-kettle whenever opportunity -offered, and found it “very good eating.” Possibly under stress of capital -appetites.</p> -<h3 id="c83">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Archibuteo.</span> Brehm. in Oken’s Isis, 1828, p. 1269.</dt></dl> -<p>Tarsi feathered in front to the toes, but more or less naked behind. -General form, compact and heavy; wings, long and broad, formed for long-continued -but not very rapid flight; bill, short, curved, edges of the upper -mandible festooned; tail, moderate, wide, tarsi rather long; toes, short; -claws, moderately strong, curved, very sharp. Contains about six species, -three of which are American.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Archibuteo ferrugineus.</span> (Lichtenstein.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Buteo ferrugineus.</span> Licht. Trans. Berlin Academy, 1838, p. 428.</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Archibuteo regalis.</span> Gray, Genera of Birds, 1 pl. 6 (1849, plate only).</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Robust and compact; bill, rather large; wings, long, with the -third quills longest, all the primaries more or less incised on their inner webs -near the end; tarsi feathered in front to the toes, naked and scaled behind; -toes, short; claws, strong.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length (of skin), female, about 22 inches; wing, 16½ -to 17; tail, 9 inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Color.</span> <i>Adult.</i>—Tibiae and tarsi bright ferruginous, with transverse -stripes of brownish-black, irregular and indistinct on the latter. Entire -upper parts with irregular longitudinal stripes of dark-brown and light ferruginous, -the latter color predominating on the shoulders and rump. All the -upper plumage white at the bases of the feathers, and on the back with concealed -irregular transverse stripes of brownish-black. Quills, ashy-brown, -lighter on the outer webs, and with a part of the inner webs white, and with -obscure brown bands. Tail, above, ashy-white, tinged with pale ferruginous, -and mottled obscurely with ashy-brown, in some specimens narrowly tipped -with black; tail, beneath, yellowish-white, unspotted. Entire under parts -of the body white, slightly tinged with yellowish, with narrow longitudinal -lines and dashes of reddish-brown on the breast, and narrow irregular transverse -lines of the same color, and others of black, on the sides, flanks, and -<span class="pb" id="Page_162">162</span> -abdomen; under tail coverts, white; axillary feathers and some of the inferior -coverts of the wing, bright ferruginous; toes, yellow; bill and claws, dark.</p> -<p><i>Young.</i>—Entire upper parts dark umber-brown, a few feathers edged and -tipped with pale ferruginous; upper coverts of the tail white, spotted with -dark-brown; entire under parts pure white, with a few longitudinal lines and -dashes of dark brown on the breast, and arrow-heads or irregularly shaped -spots of the same color on the sides and abdomen, larger and more numerous -on the flanks. Tibiæ and tarsi white, irregularly spotted with dark-brown; -axillary feathers, white, with large subterminal spots of brown; under wing -coverts and edges of the wings white, with a few brown spots; under tail -coverts, white.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> California. (Mr. Kern, Dr. Heermann.) Spec. in Mus. Acad., -Philada.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This very distinctly characterized species somewhat resembles some -stages of plumage of the Rough-legged Hawk and of the Black Hawk -(<i>Archibuteo lagopus</i> and <i>sancti-johannis</i>) but not sufficiently to render it -necessary to point out differences. It has, as yet, only been observed in California, -but will, very probably, like many other species of Western birds, be -found to inhabit also the northern regions of this continent.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig27"> -<img src="images/ppp26.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1067" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 27<br /><span class="ln2">The Black-headed Gnat-catcher</span><br /><span class="ln3">Culicivora atricapilla (<i>Weill</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_163">163</div> -<h2 id="c84"><span class="small">CULICIVORA MEXICANA.—Bonaparte.</span> -<br />The Black-headed Gnat-catcher. -<br />PLATE XXVII.—Male and Female.</h2> -<p>This delicate little bird is an inhabitant of Texas, where it was first -noticed by Capt. J. P. McCown, of the U. S. Army. He obtained it near -Ringgold Barracks, in 1850, since which period specimens have been brought -in the collections of various other officers and naturalists. It is also known -as a bird of Mexico.</p> -<p>This species belongs to a small group of little fly-catching birds, of which -several others are found in America, though two of them only come within -the limits of the fauna of the United States. Of these, one, the little blue -gray Flycatcher (<i>Culicivora cœrulea</i>), has been long known as a summer -resident in the woods and forests of the Middle and Northern States, and is -one of the earliest to return, from its winter journey in the south, to its -northern home. The other is the bird now before the reader.</p> -<p>These little Flycatchers are amongst the smallest of our native birds. -They almost exclusively inhabit the woods, and are constantly seen actively -engaged in the capture of the minute insects on which they feed, in pursuit -of which they search very industriously, not only shrubbery, but trees of -the greatest height. The present is the smaller of the two northern species, -and is represented in our plate of the size of life.</p> -<p>For the following memorandum relating to this little bird we are again -indebted to the kindness of Dr. Heermann:</p> -<p>“I first met with this species near San Diego, California, in 1851, and -during the recent survey found it abundant in the vicinity of Fort Yuma. -Its habits much resemble those of the Blue-gray Gnat-catcher of the Eastern -States (<i>Culicivora cœrulea</i>), it is very quick in its movements, searching -actively for food, preferring, apparently, the low trees and bushes, and at -times darting about in the air in pursuit of small insects. The only note -that I ever heard it utter was a chirp, so feeble in its tone that it could be -heard but a short distance.</p> -<p>“The last specimen procured by me was shot in a hedge bordering a field -cultivated by the Pimos Indians, whose village is situated about two hundred -miles above the junction of the Gila and Colorado rivers.”</p> -<p>The figures in the present plate, which we regard as those of adult male -and female, are of the size of life.</p> -<p>The plant is <i>Zauschneria californica</i>, a native of California.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_164">164</div> -<h3 id="c85">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Culicivora.</span> Swainson, Zoological Journal, III., p. 359. (1827.)</dt></dl> -<p>Small, bill rather long, compressed towards the tip, wider at base, upper -mandible somewhat curved, base with about five pairs of rather long, weak -bristles; wing, moderate or rather short, first quill very short, fourth and -fifth, longest and nearly equal; tail, long, with the feathers graduated, outer -shortest; legs, long, slender; toes, rather short. Colors usually cinereous -and black. A genus exclusively American and containing several species.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Culicivora Mexicana.</span> Bonap. Cons. Av., p. 316. (1850.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Small and slender; bill, moderate, rather long; wings, moderate; -tail, long, several of the central feathers equal, others shorter and graduated, -outer feathers shortest; legs and feet, long and slender.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length (of skin) about 4¼ inches; wing, 12¾; tail, 2¼; -inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> <i>Male.</i>—Head, above, glossy black; upper parts of the body and -wings, grayish-cinereous or lead-colored; lower parts very pale ashy-white, -deeper on the sides and flanks; quills, brownish-black, edged externally with -ashy-white; tail, black, the two outer feathers tipped with white, having their -outer webs of that color, the next two also edged on their outer webs with -white and tipped with the same, readily seen on the inferior surface of the -tail; bill and legs, dark. <i>Female</i>, with the head above uniform with the -other parts—not black—otherwise, like the male.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Texas, Mexico. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada., and Nat. Mus., -Washington city.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This species very much resembles the South American <i>Culicivora -leucogastra</i>, De Wied, (which is <i>C. atricapilla</i>, Swainson,) but is smaller. -We have never seen specimens of the present species with the under parts -of such a clear white as is usual in the larger bird just mentioned, though it -may assume it in its perfectly mature plumage. The South American bird -measures in total length about five inches.</p> -<p>The Prince of Canino’s description of <i>Culicivora mexicana</i> as cited above, -we regard as applicable to the female of the present species. All the species -of this genus more or less resemble each other, and now require careful -revision, having the appearance to us of being rather confused than otherwise, -and but imperfectly described.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig28"> -<img src="images/ppp27.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1182" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 28<br /><span class="ln2">The Prince Maximilian’s Jay</span><br /><span class="ln3">Gymnokitta cyanocephala (<i>DeWied</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_165">165</div> -<h2 id="c86"><span class="small">GYMNOKITTA CYANOCEPHALA.—(De Wied.)</span> -<br />The Prince Maximilian’s Jay. -<br />PLATE XXVIII.—Adult Male.</h2> -<p>We have the pleasure of presenting to the reader, in the plate now before -him, one of the most singular of the birds of the family of Crows and Jays -yet known to inhabit North America.</p> -<p>This bird was discovered in the Rocky Mountains, by that learned and -enthusiastic naturalist, Maximilian, Prince of Wied, who in the course of -travels in North America, and especially in the interior, contributed a large -amount of valuable information relating to the natural history of the northern -portion of our continent, as he had previously to that of South America. -Few books, in fact, contain more important observations in the various -departments of North American Zoology than the work of that nobleman, -“Travels in the Interior of North America,—edition in German, Coblenz, -1839;” but, unfortunately, and certainly without his approbation, nearly -everything relating to natural history is omitted in the English edition, -London, 1843. In Ornithology, the works of the Prince Maximilian are -particularly valuable, and in that relating to North America, there are many -notices of little known and interesting species, and the first descriptions of -some which have since been regarded as previously unknown by American -writers.</p> -<p>The present bird differs in generic as well as specific characters from all -other forms of the family to which it belongs. Its short, heavy figure -approximates it somewhat to the Nut-crackers of the old world (<i>Nucifraga</i>), -and to Clark’s Crow of Western America (<i>Picicorvus columbianus</i>), and its -habits, so far as known, are in some respects similar to those of the latter. -It does not appear, however, to be in any considerable degree a fruit-eater, -but is decidedly carnivorous, and almost rapacious; preying on Reptiles, particularly -the various species of <i>Phrynosoma</i>, or Horned Frogs, as they are -called with but little propriety, which abound in Western North America. -It appears, in fact, to resemble in habits, to some extent, the reptile-eating -Kingfishers (<i>Genus Todiramphus</i>) of Asia, the Pacific islands and Australia, -and if not absolutely allied, is certainly a strongly analogous representative -of those curious birds.</p> -<p>The first specimens of this bird which were brought to the attention of -American naturalists, were sent to the Philadelphia Academy, by Mr. Edward -<span class="pb" id="Page_166">166</span> -M. Kern, who procured them during his connection with Col. Frémont’s -Expedition of 1846; and previously no others appear to have reached Europe, -than those of its discoverer, the Prince Maximilian.</p> -<p>More recently it has been observed by several of the naturalists who have -visited Western America. Our friend, T. Charlton Henry, M. D., of the -United States’ Army, has noticed it repeatedly in the vicinity of Fort Webster, -in New Mexico. To him we have the pleasure of expressing our obligations -for the following interesting notes relating to this bird, as well as for -many others:</p> -<p>“This singular and handsome Jay, I first met with near San Miguel, in -July, 1852, where I observed a party of some twenty or thirty specimens -flitting through the cedars along the roadside. They were mostly young -birds, and constantly alighted on the ground, for the purpose, as I ascertained, -of capturing lizards, which they killed with great readiness and devoured.</p> -<p>“Since that time, I have frequently observed this bird in the winter only, -in the neighborhood of Fort Webster, and always in flocks of about forty or -fifty; indeed I am not sure that I have not repeatedly fallen in with the same -flock, and it may not therefore be as abundant as I am inclined to suppose. -Here they evince an exceeding wariness and are very difficult to approach; -I have chased a flock for hours without succeeding in getting within gun-shot.</p> -<p>“Almost invariably a flock alights near the summit of a hill, and passes -down its side rapidly, all the birds keeping quite near to each other, and individuals -frequently alighting on the ground, when their attention is attracted -by their favorite food. They appear to be very social and keep up a continued -twittering note. I have occasionally seen them flying in close flocks, -high in the air, and apparently passing from one mountain or hill to another.</p> -<p>“This bird, so far as I have seen, is exclusively a mountain species, as I -have never observed it in the plains or the bottom lands, which are the usual -haunts of its relatives, Steller’s and the California Jay. It differs, however, -from them in many respects, and is the only species of these birds that I have -never met with singly or in parties of half-a-dozen individuals only. I have -always seen it in large flocks. Its food appears to be exclusively reptiles.”</p> -<p>C. B. R. Kennerly, M. D., a young naturalist of great promise, who was -attached as Zoologist to Lieut. Whipple’s party, for surveying a route for a -railroad to the Pacific Ocean, brought fine specimens of the bird now before -us, in the large and highly interesting collection of birds made by him in the -countries traversed by the expedition. To Dr. Kennerly we are indebted for -the following notice of this species:</p> -<p>“During the march of our party from the Rio Grande to the Sierra Madre, -we saw this bird nearly every day. At that season, which was November, -large flocks were constantly found in the vicinity of the running streams, -which on being frightened from the low bushes, circled around, loudly uttering -their peculiar cry, and rising higher and higher, until they reached the summit -<span class="pb" id="Page_167">167</span> -of some tree on the rocky hills. When settled, they continued their discordant -notes, which somewhat resemble some of those of the common Cat-bird -(<i>Mimus felivox</i>).”</p> -<p>The Prince Maximilian’s specimens of this bird were obtained on Maria’s -river, one of the tributaries of the Upper Missouri, in the northern part of -the possessions of the United States in Western America, and much farther -north than it has been observed by either of the late naturalists. It probably -inhabits a very extensive district, the limits of which cannot at present be -conjectured.</p> -<p>The figure in the present plate is that of the adult male, and is about two-thirds -of the natural size.</p> -<h3 id="c87">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Gymnokitta.</span> De Wied in Bonap. Consp. Av., p. 382. (1850.)</dt></dl> -<p>General form, rather short, robust; bill, straight, wide at base, somewhat -rounded and flattened at the point, ridge of the under mandible (or gonys) -very distinctly ascending; wings, rather long, first quill very short, fourth, -longest, but only slightly longer than the third and fifth; tail, moderate, -containing twelve feathers; legs and feet, strong.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Gymnokitta cyanocephala.</span> (De Wied).</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus.</span> De Wied, Travels in North America (1839, Coblenz).</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Cyanocorax Cassinii.</span> McCall, Proc. Acad. Philada., V. p. 216. (1851.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Bill, straight, wide at base, blunt and rounded, and somewhat -flattened towards the point; wings, rather long, secondaries, broad and -mostly obtuse at their ends; tail, moderate, tarsi rather long, moderately -robust, and with the toes distinctly scaled; claws, curved, rather strong and -sharp.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length (of skin), about 10 inches; wing, 6; tail, 4½; -bill, from gape, 1½ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> <i>Adult.</i>—Throat, white, tinged with bluish running into stripes -on the neck before. Entire other plumage, above and below, ashy-blue, -much darker and clearer on the head, palest on the abdomen, tibiæ and -under wing coverts. Cheeks and frontal feathers, pale ultramarine; bill and -claws dark; irides, light-brown—sexes alike.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> New Mexico, Nebraska. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada., and Nat. -Mus., Washington city.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This species does not resemble any other in such degree as to readily -lead to confusion, and as yet stands alone in its genus.</p> -<p>The bird described by Col. McCall, as above, and to which he did us the -honor to apply our name, he has since ascertained to be the present species, -<span class="pb" id="Page_168">168</span> -of which, at the time of the publication of his description, no specimen was -exhibited in the nearly complete collection of Jays in the museum of the -Philadelphia Academy, nor had it ever been mentioned by any American -ornithologist. He observed it in the vicinity of Santa Fé, in considerable -numbers.</p> -<p>Although as we have said above, nearly the whole of the valuable Zoological -notes in the German edition of the Prince Maximilian’s Travels, are -omitted in the English translation; two notices of the present species may -be found in the latter, pp. 287, 297, the last of which is the description, and -seems to have accidentally escaped the singular want of judgment which -induced the omissions to which we allude.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig29"> -<img src="images/ppp28.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1164" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 29<br /><span class="ln2">The Black Flycatcher</span><br /><span class="ln3">Ptilogonys nitens (<i>Swainson</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_169">169</div> -<h2 id="c88"><span class="small">PTILOGONYS NITENS.—Swainson.</span> -<br />The Black Flycatcher. -<br />PLATE XXIX.—Adult Male and Female.</h2> -<p>This gracefully formed, but sombre-colored little bird was first added to -the Ornithological fauna of the United States, by our valued friend, Colonel -George A. McCall, Inspector General in the Army of the United States, who -observed it, and obtained numerous specimens, while on a tour of duty in -California, in 1852. It had previously been known as a Mexican species, -having been described by Mr. Swainson, in 1838, from specimens sent from -that country.</p> -<p>This bird belongs to a small group of Fly-catchers, containing not more -than five or six species, all of which are inhabitants of either Western North -America, Mexico, or the southern portion of this continent. They appear to -possess the habits of true Fly-catchers, and are remarkable for their slender -but active forms, in which the long and ample tail and the elongated feathers -of the head, capable of being erected into a handsome crest, are generally -conspicuous. The best known North American species is <i>Ptilogonys obscurus</i>, -La Fresnaye (which is <i>Ptilogonys Townsendii</i>, Audubon), a bird that -is now brought from the far west by nearly all collectors.</p> -<p>Respecting the curious little species which is the subject of our present -article, we have the pleasure of laying before the reader the following notes -very kindly furnished by Col. McCall.</p> -<p>“The first opportunity that I had for observing the manners of this bird, -was afforded me in 1852, while travelling from <i>Valle-cita</i> to <i>El Chino</i>, in -California. On that occasion, as I left the country bordering the desert, and -began to ascend the hills, my route followed the course of a mountain brook, -whose clear waters were at intervals shaded with gnarled and scrubby oaks. -In approaching one of these clumps of trees, I remarked a number of dark-colored -birds, which afterwards were found to belong to this species, darting -upwards from the topmost branches, and after diving and pitching about in -the air for a moment, returning again to the dead branches with the lively -port that proved them to be engaged in the agreeable pastime of taking their -insect prey. A nearer approach showed them to be light and graceful on -the wing; but less swift and decided in their motions than most of the true -Fly-catchers. There were about a dozen in company, and they presented a -pleasing sight, as three or four together were constantly either pitching -upwards to a considerable height in the air, or gliding silently back to their -<span class="pb" id="Page_170">170</span> -perches. In these ærial evolutions, the bright spot on the wing, which is -formed by broad patches of white on the inner webs of six or seven of the -quill feathers, and is visible only when the wing is spread, gleamed conspicuously -in the sunshine, and formed a fine contrast with the glossy black -of the general plumage. I sat upon my horse, watching their movements -for some time, and I now perceived that two of their numbers were of a dusky -hue, and without the wing spot to which I have referred; but I could discover -no difference in their manners or their style of flight. I, therefore, had little -doubt of their being adult females; for although at that period of the year, -(June 20) the young birds might have been well grown, yet there is generally -a want of decided character in the unpractised flight of young birds, which -betrays them to the Sportsman’s eye. In fact, these birds agreed with -Swainson’s description of the female in general terms; and my only regret -is that I was not able to satisfy myself by dissection whether these to which -I now refer were in reality adult females, or young males in their first -plumage.</p> -<p>“However, on my attempting to approach still nearer, these birds became -alarmed, and winging their way to the hill-side, alighted on the scraggy -bushes scattered among large projecting rocks, where they resumed their -sport, rising lightly into the air and darting about after insects, which -seemed to be abundant. I followed—but they were now on the <i>qui vive</i>, and, -without permitting me to get within gun-shot, flew from bush to bush, as I -advanced, keeping all the while in a loose irregular flock, and still pursuing -their sport of fly-catching. In this way they continued to ascend the hills, -until the broken character of the ground abruptly stopped my horse. Having, -however, dismounted, I clambered over the rocks, and at last succeeded in -killing two of them. These were alike in plumage—black, with the wing -spot; and one of them, which I dissected, proved to be a male.</p> -<p>“As I journeyed on towards the Sierra Nevada, I met, during several -days succeeding, these birds, either in small companies, or singly; and subsequently -I found a few individuals between <i>El Chino</i> and <i>Los Angeles</i>; but -they were invariably black, with the white wing spot. And I never on any -occasion, except the one I have referred to, saw one of those clad in dusky -garments, which I had supposed were females.</p> -<p>“The localities in which I found these birds, were either on the mountainsides, -or in the timbered borders of mountain streams.</p> -<p>“The measurements of the fresh specimen were as follows—length, -8 inches; wing, 3½; tail, 3½.</p> -<p>“The figure slender—the feet rather strong.”</p> -<p>This bird has also been noticed by Dr. Heermann, in various parts of California, -and by Dr. Henry, and Dr. Kennerly, in New Mexico. To the -former gentleman, we are indebted for the following contribution, intended -for our present article:</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_171">171</div> -<p>“This bird is seldom found in the northern part of California, though I -procured both adults and young on the Consumnes river, in 1851. Since -then, however, a naturalist and friend of mine residing there has not seen a -single other specimen, though giving much of his attention to ornithology, -and to the migratory habits of such birds as pass through that section of -country.</p> -<p>“I was therefore surprised to meet with this species after sixty miles of -travel on the Colorado desert near the Little Lagoon. It was perched on a -<i>Mesquite</i> tree, jerking its tail almost incessantly, as do various other species -of Fly-catchers, and dashing occasionally in irregular curves and angles high -into the air in pursuit of insects. On approaching the Colorado, this Fly-catcher -became quite abundant, as I frequently saw companies of twenty or -thirty together, many of which would be on the wing at the same time, -engaged at their usual employment. At Fort Yuma, this species was also -met with in considerable numbers late in November, when they were migrating -southward. Its note is a low, plaintive whistle. This bird undoubtedly -incubates in California, as I have seen specimens which were certainly very -young birds, though I have not been so fortunate as to discover its nest.”</p> -<p>Near Fort Webster, in New Mexico, Dr. Henry has seen this bird, though -he considers it of rather rare occurrence. Dr. Kennerly noticed it in abundance -during the months of February and March, on the route of Lieut. -Whipple’s party, from the Big Sandy creek to the Great Colorado river.</p> -<p>Our plate represents the adult male and female about two-thirds of the -size of life.</p> -<h3 id="c89">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Ptilogonys.</span> Swainson, Zool. Jour. III. p. 164. (1827.)</dt></dl> -<p>Bill, moderate, wide at base, upper mandible curved towards the end, and -distinctly notched; wings, moderate or rather long, first primary very short, -or rudimentary; tail, long; legs and feet, moderate. General form, rather -slender; head frequently with elongated crest-like feathers. Contains several -species of birds, all of which are American.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Ptilogonys nitens.</span> Swainson. Lardner’s Cab. Cy. Birds, Pt. III. p. 285. (1838.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Slender; crest-like feathers of the head much elongated; wings -with the fifth and sixth quills longest and nearly equal; tail, long, graduated.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length (of skin) about 7½ inches; wing, 3¾; tail, 4 -inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> <i>Male.</i>—Entire plumage glossy black, with a greenish lustre, -except a spot on the inner web of each primary quill, occupying about the -middle third of its length, which is pure white. Bill and feet, black.</p> -<p><i>Female.</i>—Entire plumage, except the tail, cinereous, tinged with olive on -<span class="pb" id="Page_172">172</span> -the back and abdomen; superior wing coverts, and inferior tail coverts, edged -and tipped with white. Quills, dark-brown—secondaries edged with white; -tail, black, without lustre. <i>Young</i>—like the female; but in the males, with -the spot on the primaries discernable, though more or less obscure.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> California, New Mexico and Mexico. Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada., -and Nat. Mus., Washington city.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> A remarkable resemblance exists between the bird now before us -and two other species of Fly-catchers of another genus, <i>Fluvicola comata</i> -(Licht.), and <i>Fluvicola nigerrima</i> (Vieill), both of which are natives of South -America, and we have seen the latter also from Mexico. The three birds -resemble each other in general form in a very considerable degree, and in -colors are almost absolutely the same, the prevalent black of the plumage -differing only in shade. Generic and specific distinctions can, however, -readily be made out on comparison of specimens. <i>Fluvicola</i> has the bill -longer and not so wide at the base and with much stronger bristles; the -wings are differently constructed, the first primary being long and well -developed, not short or rudimentary as in <i>Ptilogonys</i>. In those two species -of <i>Fluvicola</i>, which differ from each other materially only in size, the white -spot is more at the base of the wing feathers than in <i>Ptilogonys nitens</i>, in -which it occupies the middle third of the primaries. <i>Fluvicola comata</i> is the -same as <i>Blechropus cristatus</i>, Swainson, in Naturalist’s Library, Flycatchers, -p. 99, plate 7. No other species of <i>Ptilogonys</i> is black.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig30"> -<img src="images/ppp29.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1040" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 30<br /><span class="ln2">The Mexican Wren</span><br /><span class="ln3">Troglodytes mexicanus (<i>Swainson</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_173">173</div> -<h2 id="c90"><span class="small">TROGLODYTES MEXICANUS.—(Swainson.)</span> -<br />The White-throated Wren. -<br />PLATE XXX.—Adult Male.</h2> -<p>In the United States, the little House Wren is associated with so many -pleasing recollections, and possesses such pre-eminently social and familiar -habits, that one almost expects in all birds bearing the name of wrens, to find -similarity of disposition, and perhaps similar regard from the people of other -lands. But this is by no means the case. There is really but one House -Wren, and that is the little fellow who comes punctually in the early spring, -and evidently without a doubt of his being welcome to take possession of the -box or other habitation of the previous season, perhaps of many seasons. -And forthwith he commences housekeeping, which usually, if no accidental -discouragements intervene, is very successful, as one may judge from the -number of little heads soon to be seen by peeping in at the door of his -domicile.</p> -<p>The Wren is, in this country, nearly as much of a household bird as the -Robin, of Europe, and more than any other, not even excepting the Martin, -is universally regarded with favor. He is, however, the only one of the -numerous species of American Wrens that shows any disposition to cultivate -the acquaintance of mankind, or at all to accept of any proffered hospitalities. -Though the Carolina Wren and Bewick’s Wren both venture occasionally -into the garden or orchard, they are comparatively shy and apprehensive, -apparently, of there being danger in too great familiarity.</p> -<p>The large species represented in our present plate is a native of Mexico -and California, and lives exclusively in localities remote from the habitations -of man. Though known as a bird of Mexico, it is not represented as an -abundant species in that country, and within the limits of the United States -has been observed only by Dr. Heermann, and Dr. Kennerly.</p> -<p>In his notes on the Birds of California, in the Journal of the Philadelphia -Academy, II. p. 263, Dr. Heermann’s observations on the present bird are -as follows, and contain the first notice of this species as an inhabitant of the -United States:</p> -<p>“I first met with this bird in the fall of 1851, on the Consumnes river, -but in the spring of 1852, I procured three specimens on the Calaveras river. -It is an active bird, having a loud sprightly song, that is heard at a considerable -distance, and which it repeats at short intervals. I found it occupied -in searching for insects between and under the large boulders of rock which, -along some portions of this river, are thrown together in confused masses, as -if by some terrific convulsion of nature.”</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_174">174</div> -<p>Dr. Kennerly, during the survey recently completed by Lieut. Whipple’s -party, noticed this Wren in New Mexico, and obtained specimens now deposited -in the National Museum at Washington city. For our present article he has -very kindly favored us with the following note:</p> -<p>“This active little bird was observed only among the hills along the head -waters of Bill Williams’ fork. In the most rugged and inaccessible places it -was generally found busily engaged in searching for food, rapidly passing -around and among the rocks with great activity, and accompanying its movements -with its short and peculiar chirp. It is so constantly in motion that -specimens can only be obtained with difficulty.”</p> -<p>This species was described by Mr. Swainson, from specimens sent to -Europe from Real del Monte, in Mexico, and we have seen others from -various parts of that country.</p> -<p>The figure in the plate now before the reader, is that of an adult male, -and is about two-thirds of the size of life.</p> -<p>The plant represented is <i>Nemophila insignis</i>, a native of California.</p> -<h3 id="c91">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Troglodytes.</span> Vieill, Nouv. Dict., XXXIV. p. 505. (1819.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Troglodytes mexicanus.</span> (Swainson.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Thryothorus mexicanus.</span> Swainson, Zool. Ill., 2d series, I. p. (none), pl. 11.</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Bill, long, slender and curved; wings, short, rounded, with the -fourth and fifth quills longest; tail, rather long; legs and feet, moderately -strong; claws, large.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length (of skin) about 5½ inches; wing, 2½; tail, 2 -inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> Throat and neck before, silky-white. Entire upper parts, -reddish-brown, with minute circular or irregularly shaped spots of pure white, -which are inserted in others of very dark-brown, nearly black; quills, dark-brown, -spotted on their outer webs with ferruginous; tail, bright ferruginous, -with about eight regular transverse bands of black. Entire under parts -(except the throat and neck before, as above), bright ferruginous, rather -darker than that of the tail, nearly every feather having a small irregularly -shaped spot of white, joined to another of black; bill, light at the base, -darker towards the tip. Sexes very nearly alike.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> California, New Mexico, Mexico. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada., -and Nat. Mus., Washington city.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This very handsome Wren is not properly to be regarded as a true -<i>Troglodytes</i>, but belongs to a small group or sub-genus, to which M. Cabanis -has given the name <i>Salpinctes</i>. It does not particularly resemble any other -species.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_175">175</div> -<h2 id="c92"><span class="small">SYNOPSIS</span> -<br /><span class="smallest">OF</span> -<br /><span class="large">NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS.</span></h2> -<h3 id="c93">III. FAMILY STRIGIDÆ. THE OWLS.</h3> -<p>General form short and heavy, with the head apparently disproportionately -large, and frequently furnished with ear-like tufts of feathers. Cavity -of the ear, large; eyes, usually large, directed forwards, and in the greater -number of species formed for seeing by twilight or in the night; bill, nearly -concealed by projecting bristle-like feathers; wings, usually, rather long and -formed for rather slow and noiseless flight, outer edges of primary quills -fringed; tail, various, usually short; legs, generally, rather short, and in all -the species, except those of the Asiatic genus <i>Ketupa</i>, Lesson, more or less -feathered to the toes, generally densely; face surrounded by a more or less -perfect disc or circle of short rigid feathers, which circle, with the large -eyes directed forwards, gives to these birds an entirely peculiar and cat-like -expression, indicative of their analogy to the <i>Feline</i> quadrupeds.</p> -<p>Female larger than the male. General organization adapted to the destruction -of living animals in the night, or in the morning and evening -twilight—midnight appears to be the noon of these birds, at which they are -not disposed to activity.</p> -<p>Species of owls inhabit all parts of the world, most abundantly in America -and Asia. There are about one hundred and forty described species, of which -number, specimens of about one hundred and twenty are in the collection -of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia. The species inhabiting -the continent and islands of America are about forty.</p> -<h3 id="c94">A.</h3> -<h3 id="c95">I. SUB-FAMILY STRIGINÆ. THE TRUE OR TYPICAL OWLS.</h3> -<p>Head, large; facial disc, perfect; bill, rather long; eyes, of moderate -size; wings, long; tail, moderate; legs, rather long, clothed with short -feathers; toes, long—size, medium, never very large; colors of plumage in -the greater number of species, yellowish-fawn color and white.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_176">176</div> -<h4>I. GENUS STRIX. <span class="sc">Linnæus Syst. Nat.</span>, I. p. 131. (1766.)</h4> -<p>Head, large, without ear-tufts; cavity of the ear, large; bill, rather long, -covered at the base by projecting, bristle-like feathers; eyes, rather small, -and surrounded by radiated feathers; facial disc, perfect; wings, very long, -pointed, and with the outer edges distinctly fringed; tarsi, long, thinly -covered with feathers; toes, long, more or less covered with bristles; claws, -long, moderately strong, curved, very sharp; tail, moderate, or rather long. -Contains about twelve species of all parts of the world, nearly all of which -resemble in a greater or less measure <i>Strix flammea</i>, of Europe, and <i>Strix -pratincola</i>, of North America.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Strix pratincola.</span> Bonap. Comp. List., p. 7. (1838.) The Barn Owl.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix americana.</span> Aud. Orn. Biog. II. p. 421 (1834, but not of Gmelin, 1788).</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Wilson Am. Orn., VI. pl. 50., fig. 2. Aud. B. of Am. pl. 171, octavo edition, I. pl. 34. -Nat. Hist. State of New York Birds, pl. 13, fig. 28.</p> -<p>Typical, and strictly exhibiting the generic characters.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Adult.</span> Entire plumage above, pale fawn color, or tawny brownish-yellow, in some -specimens nearly white, mottled with dark-gray and white, especially on the back and -wing coverts and outer webs of the quills, which mottling gives the predominating color -of those parts to many specimens; nearly every feather with a small subterminal black -spot succeeded by another of white. Quills, fawn-colored, or pale reddish-yellow, varying -much in shade in different specimens, and fading into nearly white on the inner webs; -primaries with about five irregular transverse bars of brownish-black. Under parts, -generally pale fawn color, but in some specimens, pure white, with small sagittate, -lanceolate or circular spots of brownish-black; tibiæ and tarsi similar in color to the other -under parts, but frequently unspotted and pure white; inferior coverts of the wing and -tail, white; tail, same color as quills and crossed by four or five bars of dark-brown; -face, white, with central spots of dark-chestnut nearly encircling the eyes, disc feathers -tipped with dark fawn-color and brownish-black, forming a very conspicuous margin, -especially on the lower part of the face; bill, toes and claws, light-yellowish; irides, -brown. Distinctive colors of sexes not well understood, but they are, probably, nearly -alike.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Female</i>, total length, about 16 inches; wing, 13; tail, 5½ inches. <i>Male</i>, -smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> The whole of North America, except the northern regions; more abundant in -the south. Wisconsin (Dr. Hoy), Vermont (Dr. Brewer, Mr. Z. Thompson), Massachusetts -(Dr. Emmons), Oregon (U. S. Ex. Exp., Vincennes), California (Dr. Heermann), -New Mexico (Dr. Henry), South Carolina (Mr. Audubon, Prof. Gibbes), Texas, Mexico -(Lieut. Couch). Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This handsome species of Owl may be regarded as most properly a -southern and western species, being of rather rare occurrence north of Virginia, -though it breeds occasionally in the Northern States. It is nearly -related to <i>Strix flammea</i> of Europe, but is larger. It very much resembles -also several other species of various parts of the world, such as <i>S. perlata</i> -<span class="pb" id="Page_177">177</span> -of South America, <i>S. furcata</i> of the island of Cuba, and others. Naturalists -have, in fact, established species on very slender characters, amongst the -owls of this group. It is a very harmless bird, resorting in the south to -buildings and outhouses, and subsisting on small animals. Different specimens -vary considerably in shade of color and somewhat in dimensions.</p> -<h3 id="c96">II. SUB-FAMILY BUBONINÆ. THE HORNED OWLS.</h3> -<p>Size, various, in some species very large, in others, small; head, large, -always furnished with conspicuous ear-tufts, facial disc incomplete in the -upper part; legs, feet and claws usually strong. This division contains -numerous species of all parts of the world, except Australia.</p> -<h4>I. GENUS BUBO. <span class="sc">Cuvier</span>, <span class="sc">Regne Animal</span>, I. p. 331. (1817.)</h4> -<p>Size, large; general form, very robust and strong; head, large, with prominent -ear-tufts; eyes, very large; wings, long, wide; tail, moderate; tarsi -short, and with the toes densely feathered; claws, very strong, curved; bill, -rather short, curved from the base, strong, covered at base by projecting -plumes. This genus contains the large horned Owls of which there are about -fifteen species, the greater part being peculiar to Asia and Africa.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Bubo virginianus.</span> (Gmelin.) The great horned Owl. The Cat Owl.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix virginiana.</span> Gm. Syst. Nat. I. p. 287. (1788.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix pythaules.</span> Bartram Trav. p. 289. (1791.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Bubo ludovicianus.</span> Daudin Traité d’Orn. II. p. 210. (1800.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Bubo pinicola.</span> Vieill. Ois. d’Am., Sept., I. p. 51. (1807.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Edward’s Birds, II. pl. 60. Vieill., Ois. d’Am., Sept., I. pl. 19. Wilson, Am. Orn., VI. -pl. 50. fig. 1. Aud., B. of Am., pl. 61, Oct. ed., I. pl. 39. Nat. Hist. N. Y., pl. 10, fig. 22.</p> -<p>Large, adult, entire plumage above, dark-brown, every feather mottled, and with irregular -lines of ashy-white and reddish fulvous, the latter being the color of all the plumage -at the bases of the feathers. Ear-tufts, dark-brown, nearly black, edged on their inner -webs with dark fulvous, a black spot above and extending somewhat in front of the eye, -radiating feathers behind the eye, dark reddish fulvous, feathers of the facial disc tipped -with black; throat and neck before, white; breast, with wide longitudinal stripes of black; -other under parts finely variegated with white and fulvous, and every feather having -transverse narrow lines of dark-brown. In many specimens, the middle of the abdomen -is pure white; legs and toes light fulvous, generally unspotted, but in some specimens, -with transverse narrow bars of dark-brown; quills, brown, with wide transverse bands -of cinereous, tinged on the inner webs with pale fulvous; tail, the same, with the pale -fulvous predominating in the outer feathers; iris, yellow; bill and claws, dark.</p> -</blockquote> -<p>The colors of the plumage, and the size also, in this species, vary materially. -There may be distinguished the following varieties, which appear to be -permanent in individual specimens, and are to some extent geographical. -Though at present, with a large number of specimens before us, we are of -opinion that they are all of one species, it may be that they are distinct:</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_178">178</div> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Variety</span>, <i>atlanticus</i>.</dt></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>The common species as just described. Feathers of the face behind the eye, always -bright reddish fulvous, and the entire plumage more marked with that color than in the -others, as below. This variety inhabits the eastern and northern portion of North -America.</p> -</blockquote> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Variety</span>, <i>pacificus</i>.</dt></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Feathers of the face, behind the eye, ashy, generally faintly tinged with fulvous. -General plumage with the fulvous color paler than the preceding.</p> -<p>This variety appears to be restricted to the west, and nearly all the specimens that we -have seen are of a smaller size than it is usual to find in the eastern bird, though we -have seen specimens of the latter which were not larger.</p> -</blockquote> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Variety</span>, <i>arcticus</i>.</dt> -<dd><span class="sc">Bubo arcticus.</span> Swainson, Faun. Bor. Am. Birds, p. 86, pl. 30. (1831.)</dd> -<dd><span class="sc">Bubo sub-arcticus.</span> Hoy, Proc. Acad., Philada., VI. p. 211. (Dec. 1852.)?</dd> -<dd><span class="sc">Bubo septentrionalis.</span> Brohm., Vog. Deutschl., p. 120. (1831.)?</dd> -<dd><span class="sc">Strix scandiaca.</span> Linn., Syst. Nat., I. p. 132. (1766.)?</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Feathers of the face, pure white, or very pale cream color. General plumage, of a -predominating pale yellowish-white, or cream color, of various shades in different specimens, -sometimes nearly pure white, especially on the under parts, and always marked -with brown, frequently very pale and indistinct, in the same general manner as in characteristic -specimens of <i>B. virginianus</i>, var., <i>atlanticus</i>, but with the lines and stripes -much less numerous and paler; tarsi and toes, nearly pure white. Size, in some specimens, -quite as large as in the common variety, and the plumage with more on less of the -same reddish fulvous at the bases of the feathers.</p> -<p>Of the specimens of this bird that we have seen, one is Dr. Hoy’s original, and another -was brought from California, by Mr. Bell. The latter is the smaller, and is probably a -male. Dr. Hoy’s specimen, which appears to be a large female, has the upper mandible -with a more prominent lobe than is usual in specimens of this species.</p> -</blockquote> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Variety</span>, <i>magellanicus</i>.</dt> -<dd><span class="sc">Strix magellanicus.</span> Gm., Syst. Nat., I. p. 286. (1788.) Buff. Pl. Enl., I. pl. 385.</dd> -<dd><span class="sc">Strix nacurutu.</span> Vieill., Nouv. Dict., VII. p. 44. (1817.)</dd> -<dd><span class="sc">Bubo ludovicianus.</span> Daudin, Traité d’Orn, II. p. 210?</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Very similar to the common bird of eastern North America, and has all the plumage -at base fulvous, very variable in color, frequently lighter than the common variety, -but sometimes very dark; plumage behind the eyes, generally pale cinereous, but in some -specimens more or less tinged with fulvous.</p> -<p>This variety inhabits, apparently, the whole of South America, and, probably, also -southern North America.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Female.</i>—Total length, 22 to 25 inches; wing 15 to 16; tail, 10 inches. -<i>Male</i>, total length, 19 to 21 inches; wing, 14 to 15; tail, 9 inches. The western and -southern varieties producing smaller specimens than the eastern and northern.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_179">179</div> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> The whole of North America, western South America; Hudson’s Bay (Richardson); -Canada (Dr. Hall); Wisconsin (Dr. Hoy); Washington territory (Dr. Cooper); Minnesota -(Mr. Pratten); Vermont (Mr. Thompson); Oregon (Dr. Townsend); California (Dr. -Heermann); Texas (Mr. Schott); Indian territory (Dr. Woodhouse); Mexico (Lieut. -Couch). Breeds in Pennsylvania and northward. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> With numerous specimens before us from various parts of America, -we are unable to recognise any differences sufficient to establish specific distinctions, -and we have therefore provisionally designated the above four -varieties. All of them vary considerably in shade of color in different -specimens.</p> -<p>This is the largest owl of North America, except one, the Great Cinereous -Owl (<i>Syrnium cinereum</i>) and, like several other species of large birds, -retreats before the progress of the settlement of the country. Formerly -abundant, it is now comparatively rare in the more thickly populated states, -and appears almost entirely as a wanderer in winter.</p> -<p>Specimens are not frequently seen so dark nor so large as represented in -Mr. Audubon’s plate.</p> -<h4>II. GENUS SCOPS. <span class="sc">Savigny</span>, <span class="sc">Nat. Hist. Egypt</span>, I. p. 105. (1809.)</h4> -<h5 id="c97">EPHIALTES. <span class="sc">Keyserling and Blasius</span>, <span class="sc">Wirbelth. Eur.</span> p. 33. (1840.)</h5> -<p>Size, small; head, large, with conspicuous ear-tufts; facial disc, imperfect -above the eyes; bill, short, curved, nearly covered by projecting feathers; -wings, long; tail, short, and generally slightly curved inwards; tarsi, rather -long, and more or less covered; toes, long, partially covered with hair-like -feathers; claws, rather long, curved, strong. General form short and compact. -A genus containing about twenty-five species of small Owls of all parts of -the world, except Australia.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Scops asio.</span> (Linn.) The Mottled Owl. The Red Owl. The Screech Owl.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix asio.</span> Linn. Syst. Nat., I. p. 132. (1766.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix nævia.</span> Gm., Syst. Nat., I. p. 289. (1788.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Bubo striatus.</span> Vieill., Ois d’Am. Sept., I. p. 54. (1807.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Catesby’s Carolina, I. pl. 7. Vieill., Ois. d’Am. Sept., I. pl. 21. Temm., Pl. Col. 80. -Wilson, Am. Orn., pl. 19, fig. 1.; pl. 42, fig. 1. Aud., B. of Am., pl. 97. Oct. ed., I. pl. -40. Nat. Hist. N. Y., pl. 12, figs. 25, 26.</p> -<p>Short and compact; head, large; ear-tufts, prominent; wing, with the fourth quill -slightly longest; tail, short, somewhat curved inwards; tarsi, long, fully clothed with -feathers; toes, hairy. <span class="sc">Adult.</span> Entire plumage above, pale ashy-brown, nearly -every feather with a longitudinal line, or stripe of dark brown, nearly black, and -irregularly mottled, and with irregular transverse lines of brown, more or less tinged -with ashy. Under parts, ashy-white, every feather with a longitudinal stripe of brownish -black and with transverse lines of the same color; face and throat and tarsi ashy-white, -irregularly lined and mottled with pale brownish; quills, brown, with transverse bands, -nearly white on the outer webs, and pale ashy brown on their inner webs; tail, pale -ashy-brown, with about ten transverse narrow bands of pale cinereous with a tinge of -reddish; under wing-coverts, white, the larger tipped with black; bill and claws, light -<span class="pb" id="Page_180">180</span> -horn-color; irides, yellow. <span class="sc">Younger.</span> Entire upper parts, pale brownish-red, some -feathers, especially on the head and scapulars, having longitudinal lines of brownish-black; -under parts, white, some feathers with longitudinal stripes and lines of reddish-brown; -feathers before the eyes, throat, under wing-coverts, and tarsi, white, frequently -with a tinge of reddish; quills, reddish-brown, with transverse bands rufous on the outer -webs, ashy on their inner; tail, rufous, with brown bands deeper on the inner webs. -<span class="sc">Young.</span> Upper parts, except the head, rufous; head and entire under parts transversely -striped with ashy-white and pale brown. <span class="sc">Very Young.</span> Entire plumage transversely -striped with ashy-white and pale brown, tinged with rufous on the wings and tail; white -nearly pure on under surface of the body.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, 9½; to 10 inches; wing, 7; tail, 3½ inches. Male but -slightly smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> The whole of North America; Greenland (Fabricius); Canada (Dr. Hall); -Minnesota (Mr. Pratten); Ohio (Prof. Kirtland); Oregon (Dr. Townsend); California -(Dr. Heermann); Long Island (Mr. Giraud); South Carolina (Prof. Gibbes); Indian -Territory (Dr. Woodhouse). Breeds in Pennsylvania. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This is one of the most abundant of the Owls inhabiting the States -on the Atlantic seaboard. It presents two constant varieties of plumage, -which have been regarded as distinct species; the mottled or gray described -above as the adult, and the red described as younger. These two varieties -appear to be very similar to those of the European <i>Syrnium aluco</i>, and to -some other species.</p> -<p>The Rev. Dr. Bachman, of Charleston, S. C., has fully established the -identity of the two, and we have fully confirmed the accuracy of his observations -(in Aud. Orn. Biog., V. p. 392). The young birds, as stated by him, -are red when fully feathered, or nearly so; but we have observed that previously -they are transversely striped with brown and white, with but little -tinge of red, and presenting a general appearance somewhat like the adult -mottled bird. They pair and breed in the red plumage, and it is not unusual -to find a mottled male and red female associated, or the reverse. According to -Dr. Bachman, the perfect plumage is assumed at the age of two years. Intermediate -specimens, impossible to be referred absolutely to either of the -plumages, are not uncommon.</p> -<p>This bird holds its place throughout the country in spite of the constant -destruction of the woodlands; and though universally known and scarcely -regarded favorably by our people, is seldom molested. Its food is principally -insects.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>2. <span class="sc">Scops McCallii.</span> Cassin. <i>New species.</i> (July, 1854.) The Western Mottled Owl.</dt></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>In form and general appearance like the preceding (<i>S. asio</i>), but much smaller; short -and robust; wing with the fourth quill longest; tail short, slightly curved inwards; -tarsi rather long, fully covered; toes partially covered with long hair-like feathers. -<span class="sc">Adult.</span> <i>Male.</i>—Much resembling in color the adult of the species immediately preceding, -but darker; entire plumage above, ashy-brown, nearly every feather with a longitudinal -stripe of brownish-black, and with numerous irregular transverse lines and points of the -same; under parts, ashy-white, every feather with a longitudinal stripe of brownish-black, -<span class="pb" id="Page_181">181</span> -and with well-defined but irregular transverse lines of the same; flanks and sides -tinged with pale fulvous; quills brown, with several transverse bands of pale reddish-white, -assuming the form of quadrangular spots on the outer webs, and pale reddish -ashy on the inner webs; tail, ashy-brown, with about ten narrow transverse bands on -all except the two central feathers, well defined on the inner webs; scapular feathers and -some of the greater coverts of the wings, edged with white; bill greenish horn-color, -light yellowish at the tip; irides, yellow.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, 7½ to 8 inches; wing, 6; tail, 3 inches. <i>Male.</i></p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Texas (Mr. Schott); Northern Mexico (Lieut. Couch). Spec. in Mus. Acad., -Philada., and Nat. Mus., Washington city.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This species very considerably resembles the adult or grey plumage -of the <i>Scops asio</i>, but is uniformly much smaller and darker in color. The -transverse lines on the under surface of the body are better defined and more -numerous. It also somewhat resembles <i>Scops choliba</i> of South America, -under which name we suppose the female of the present bird to be alluded -to by Mr. Lawrence, in Annals N. Y. Lyceum, VI. p. 4.</p> -<p>This interesting species we have taken the liberty of dedicating to our -esteemed friend, Col. McCall, as a slight memento of long-continued and -unbroken friendship, and in testimony of our high appreciation of him as a -naturalist, who has contributed much of interest and importance, especially -to the ornithology of Western America.</p> -<h4>III. GENUS OTUS. <span class="sc">Cuvier</span>, <span class="sc">Regne Animal</span>, I. p. 327. (1817.)</h4> -<p>Head moderate, furnished with erectile ear-tufts, varying in size in different -species; bill rather short, nearly concealed by projecting bristle-like feathers, -curved from the base; facial disc more perfect than in the two preceding -genera; wings rather long, with the second and third quills longest; tail -moderate; legs long; tarsi and toes densely covered with feathers; claws -long, curved, very acute; eyes rather small, and surrounded by radiating -feathers; facial disc nearly perfect. Contains about ten species of various -parts of the world.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Otus Wilsonianus.</span> Lesson, Traité d’Orn., I. p. 110. (1831.) The long-eared Owl.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Otus americanus.</span> Bonap., Comp. List., p. 7. (1838.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix americana.</span> Gm., Syst. Nat., I. p. 288. (1788)? Bonap., Cons. Av., p. 50.</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix peregrinator.</span> Bartram, Trav., p. 289. (1790)?</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Wilson, Am. Orn., VI. pl. 51, fig. 1. Aud., B. of Am., pl. 383, octavo ed., I. pl. 37. -Nat. Hist. N. Y., pl. 11, fig. 24.</p> -<p>Ear-tufts long and conspicuous; wings long; tarsi and toes densely feathered. Adult. -Entire plumage above mottled with very dark brown (nearly black), ashy-white and -fulvous, the former color, brown, predominating; breast pale fulvous, every feather with -a wide longitudinal stripe of brownish-black; abdomen white, every feather with a wide -longitudinal stripe, and with transverse stripes of brownish-black; legs and toes pale -<span class="pb" id="Page_182">182</span> -fulvous, usually unspotted, but in some specimens with irregular transverse narrow -stripes of dark brown; eye nearly encircled with black, radiating feathers of the face -in front of the eye ashy-white, with minute black lines, behind the eye deep fulvous, and -narrowly tipped with black; throat white; feathers of the disc tipped with black; ear-tufts -brownish-black, edged with ashy-white and fulvous; quills pale fulvous at their -bases, with irregular transverse bands of brown, terminating portions brown, with yellowish, -ashy, irregular bands, which are mottled with brown; inferior coverts of the -wings pale fulvous, in some specimens nearly white, the larger inferior coverts widely -tipped with brownish-black, forming a conspicuous transverse band on the under surface -of the wing; tail brown, with several irregular transverse bands of ashy fulvous, which -bands are mottled as on the quills; bill and claws dark; irides yellow. Sexes probably -alike at the same ages.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Female.</i>—Total length, about 15 inches; wing, 11½; tail, 6 inches. -<i>Male.</i>—Smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Northern and Eastern North America. Breeds in Pennsylvania. Hudson’s -Bay (Richardson and Swainson); Canada (Dr. Hall); Oregon (Dr. Townsend); Washington -Territory (Dr. Cooper); Nebraska (Dr. Suckley); Massachusetts (Dr. Emmons); -Long Island (Mr. Giraud).</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This is one of the commonest species of Owls in the Northern and -Eastern States on the Atlantic. It much resembles the European <i>Otus -vulgaris</i>, with which American authors have generally considered it identical, -but it is larger and darker colored. It is a shy and secluded species, seldom -venturing far from the woods, and appears to be a constant resident in the -middle and northern States.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>2. <span class="sc">Otus brachyotus.</span> (Forster.) The Short-eared Owl. The Marsh Owl.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix brachyotos.</span> Forster, Philos. Trans. London, LXII. p. 384. (1772.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Brachyotus palustris americanus.</span> Bonap., Cons. Av., p. 51. (1849.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Otus galapagoensis.</span> Gould, Proc. Zool. Soc., London, 1837, p. 10?</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Wilson, Am. Orn., IV. pl. 33, fig. 3. Aud., B. of Am., pl. 410; Oct. ed., I. pl. 38. -Nat. Hist. N. Y. Birds, pl. 12, fig. 27.</p> -<p>Ear-tufts very short and inconspicuous; bill short, curved, nearly concealed by projecting -feathers; wings rather long, second quill longest; tail moderate; tarsi and toes -densely feathered. <span class="sc">Adult.</span> Entire plumage buff or pale fulvous, every feather with a -wide central longitudinal stripe of dark brown; under parts pale buff color, striped longitudinally -with brown, more sparingly on the flanks and abdomen; legs and toes buff, -usually of a deeper shade than the under parts of the body; wing-coverts and secondary -quills brown, with large ovate or circular spots of pale reddish fulvous on their outer-webs; -primaries pale reddish fulvous at their bases, brown at their ends, with wide irregular -bars, and large spots of reddish fulvous; tail pale fulvous, with about five irregular -transverse bands of brown, which color predominates on the two central feathers; outermost -feathers palest; under tail-coverts nearly pure white; throat white; eyes surrounded -by large black spots; radiating feathers in front of the eyes white, behind the eyes -fulvous, with delicate lines of black on the shafts of the feathers; ear-tufts brown, widely -edged with pale fulvous; bill and claws dark; irides yellow. Sexes alike.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_183">183</div> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Female.</i>—Total length, about 15 inches; wing, 12; tail, 6 inches. -<i>Male.</i>—Smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> The whole of North America and Western South America. Greenland (Prof. -Holboll); Canada (Dr. Hall); Washington Territory (Dr. Cooper); California (Dr. -Heermann); Chili (Lieut. Gillis); Bermuda (Sir W. Jardine); Cuba (Mr. Lembeye).</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This Owl is of frequent occurrence, especially in the winter season, -throughout the Eastern States of the Union, and appears to prefer meadows -and marshes along the course of rivers or other streams of water. We have -met with it, too, occasionally in straggling bushes in fields remote from such -localities.</p> -<p>This bird has been almost universally considered identical with the bird -known by the same name, which is found throughout Europe and Asia; but -it is nearly or quite as distinct as some other American birds of this family -recognised on all hands as separate species. On comparison of series of specimens -of the two, it will be found that the American are larger, and for -much the greater part darker colored, especially the females. The name -<i>brachyotus</i> is, however, applicable to the American species only, having been -first applied by Forster to an American specimen in his “Account of the -Birds sent from Hudson’s Bay, with observations relative to their Natural -History,” in the Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society, London, -1772.</p> -<p>We have had no facilities for comparing the stages of plumage of the young -of the American and European or Asiatic species, but have no doubt they -will be found to present sufficient distinctive characters. We have omitted -the many synonymes of the European bird, for reasons above intimated.</p> -<p><i>Otus galapagoensis</i>, Gould, is scarcely to be distinguished from our present -bird. Admitting the genus <i>Brachyotus</i>, Gould, we think it very probable -that the name of the present species ought to stand <i>Brachyotus galapagoensis</i> -(Gould).</p> -<p>Very fine specimens of this Owl are contained in the large and highly -interesting collection of birds made in Chili, by Lieut. Gilliss, of the United -States Navy. It appears to inhabit the plains on the Pacific, and nearly all -the specimens are of a deeper shade of fulvous than is usually met with in -those of the North, though we have seen specimens of the latter precisely -similar to them.</p> -<h3 id="c98">III. SUB-FAMILY SYRNIINÆ. THE GREY OWLS.</h3> -<p>Head large, with very small and concealed ear-tufts, or entirely without; -facial disc nearly complete; eyes rather small; wings rather short; tarsi -and toes generally fully feathered. Size various.</p> -<h4>I. GENUS SYRNIUM. <span class="sc">Savigny</span>, <span class="sc">Nat. Hist. Egypt</span>, I. p. 112. (1809.)</h4> -<p>Size usually large; head large, without ear-tufts; facial disc nearly perfect; -bill rather strong, wide at base, curved from its base; wings long, -somewhat rounded, fourth and fifth quills longest; tail long, wide, rounded; -<span class="pb" id="Page_184">184</span> -legs moderately long, robust; tarsi and toes densely covered with short -feathers; claws long, curved, very sharp. A genus containing fifteen to -twenty species of various parts of the world, principally northern.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Syrnium cinereum.</span> (Gm.) The Great Gray Owl. The Cinereous Owl.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix cinerea.</span> Gmelin, Syst. Nat., I. p. 291. (1788.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix lapponica.</span> Retzius, Faun. Suec., p. 79. (1800.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix fuliginosa.</span> Shaw, Gen. Zool., VII. p. 244. (1809.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix barbata.</span> Pallas, Zool. Ross., I. p. 318. (1811.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix acclamator.</span> Bartram, Trav., p. 289. (1790.)?</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Fauna., Bor. Am. Birds, pl. 31. Aud., B. of Am., pl. 351: Oct. ed., I. pl. 35. Nat. -Hist. N. Y. Birds, pl. 13, fig. 29. Pallas, Zool. Ross., Birds, pl. 2. Gould, B. of Europe, -I. pl. 42.</p> -<p>Large; head very large; eyes small; tail long. <span class="sc">Adult.</span> Entire upper parts smoky-brown, -nearly every feather more or less mottled and transversely barred with ashy-white; -under parts smoky-brown; feathers on the breast edged with ashy-white, and on -the abdomen edged and transversely barred with ashy-white, in some specimens all the -feathers are ashy-white, with wide longitudinal stripes of smoky-brown; legs brown, with -numerous ashy-white transverse stripes; quills brown, with about five wide irregular -transverse bands of ashy-white, in some specimens tinged with reddish-yellow, these -bands mottled with brown; tail brown, with about five wide irregular bands of ashy-white, -which bands are mottled with brown; throat black; discal feathers on the neck -tipped with yellowish-white; eye nearly encircled by a black spot; radiating feathers -around the eye with regular transverse narrow bars of dark brown and ashy-white; bill -pale yellow; claws pale, dark at their tips. Sexes alike.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Female?</i>—Total length, 26 inches; wing, 18; tail, 12 inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Northern North America. Northern Europe and Asia. Breeds in the vicinity -of Montreal, Canada (Dr. Hall); Wisconsin (Dr. Hoy); Oregon (Dr. Townsend); Vermont -(Mr. Thompson). Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This is the largest known species of the Owls which inhabit North -America, and is restricted on the Atlantic to the Northern States. In -Western America its range is not known, but it was brought from Oregon by -Dr. Townsend. In the valuable “Sketch of the Zoology of the vicinity of -Montreal, Canada,” by Archibald Hall, M. D., the manuscript of which has -been kindly and most opportunely placed in our hands by that gentleman, it -is stated that this fine bird is a resident species in that district.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>2. <span class="sc">Syrnium nebulosum.</span> (Forster.) The barred Owl.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix nebulosa.</span> Forster. Trans. Philos. Soc., London, LXII. p. 386, 424. (1772.)</dd> -<dd class="t">“<span class="sc">Strix varius.</span> Bartram, MSS.” Barton, Frag. Nat. Hist. Penna, p. 11. (1799.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix chichictli.</span> Gm., Syst. Nat., I. p. 296. (1788.)?</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix fernandica.</span> Shaw, Gen. Zool., VII. p. 263. (1809.)?</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Vieill., Ois. d’Am., Sept., pl. 17. Wilson, Am. Orn., IV. pl. 33, fig. 2. Aud., B. of -Am., pl. 46; Oct. ed., I. pl. 36. Nat. Hist. N. Y. Birds, pl. 10, fig. 21. Gould. B. of -Europe, I. pl. 46.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_185">185</div> -<p>Smaller than the preceding; head large; tail moderate or rather long. <span class="sc">Adult.</span> Entire -plumage above light ashy-brown, in some specimens with a tinge of fulvous, every feather -with transverse narrow bands of white, wider on the back and most numerous on the -head and hind part of the neck; plumage of the breast with transverse bands of brown -and of white; flanks and abdomen ashy-white, every feather with a longitudinal central -stripe of brown; tarsi and toes ashy-white, tinged with fulvous, frequently unspotted, but -in some specimens mottled and transversely striped with dark brown; quills brown, with -about six or seven transverse bars nearly pure white on the outer webs, and on the inner -ashy fulvous; tail light brown, with about five transverse bars of white, generally tinged -with reddish-yellow; a black spot in front of the eye; discal feathers tipped with white, -and finely barred with black, radiating feathers around the eye ashy-white, with stripes -of brown behind the eye; throat dark brown; bill pale yellow; claws horn-color; irides -bluish-black. Sexes alike.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Female.</i>—About 20 inches; wing, 13½; tail, 9 inches. <i>Male.</i>—Smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> The whole of North America. Accidental in Northern Europe. Canada (Dr. -Hall); Minnesota (Mr. Pratten); Texas, New Mexico (Dr. Woodhouse); South Carolina -(Prof. Gibbes); Florida (Mr. Audubon). Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> A species frequently met with in nearly all parts of the United -States, especially in the winter. Occasionally we have seen specimens in -the woods, that showed no signs of alarm whatever on being approached, and -apparently not at all familiar with man nor with the sound of the gun. -During some winters it is abundant in Pennsylvania, probably having -migrated from farther north. When wounded, this species seeks safety by -hopping away quite awkwardly, showing nothing of the courage of the Great -Horned Owl, or even of the comparatively small long-cared species (<i>Otus -Wilsonianus</i>), both of which will stand up manfully and defend themselves -to the best of their ability, while life lasts.</p> -<h4>II. GENUS NYCTALE. <span class="sc">Brehm</span>, Isis, 1828, p. 1271.</h4> -<h5 id="c99">SCOTOPHILUS. <span class="sc">Swains.</span> <span class="sc">Lardner’s Cab. Cy. Birds</span>, II. p. 217. (1837.)</h5> -<p>Size small; head large, with no visible ear-tufts; bill moderate, nearly -concealed by projecting plumes; facial disc nearly perfect; wings moderate -or rather long; tail short; tarsi and toes short and fully feathered. A -group containing not more than five species of small Owls, four of which are -American, and the other European.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Nyctale Richardsoni.</span> Bonap. Comp. List., p. 7. (1838.) Richardson’s Owl.</dt> -<dd class="t">“<span class="sc">Strix Tengmalmi.</span> Gm.” Aud., Orn. Biog., IV., p. 559, and other American authors.</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Fauna, Bor. Am. Birds, pl. 32. Aud., B. of Am., pl. 380, figs. 1, 2; Oct. ed., I. pl. 32.</p> -<p>The largest of this genus; wings rather long, third quill longest; tail rather long. -<span class="sc">Adult.</span> Entire upper parts pale reddish-brown, tinged with olive, nearly all the feathers -having large partially concealed spots of white, especially on the back part of the head, -neck behind, scapulars, and rump; head in front with numerous spots of white; face -<span class="pb" id="Page_186">186</span> -white, a black spot in front of the eye; throat with brown stripes; under parts ashy-white, -every feather with a longitudinal stripe of pale reddish-brown, on the breast some -irregular transverse stripes of brown, and in some specimens the white on the sides and -flanks assuming the form of large circular spots; legs and toes pale yellowish, nearly -white, sometimes irregularly barred and spotted with brown; quills brown, with small -spots of white on their outer edges, and large spots of the same on their inner-webs, somewhat -disposed to form transverse stripes, very obvious when seen from below; tail brown, -every feather with about ten pairs of white spots; bill light yellowish horn-color; claws -dark; iris yellow.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Male.</i>—Total length, 10½ inches; wing, 7½; tail, 4½ inches. <i>Female.</i>—Larger.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Northern North America. Maine (Mr. Audubon); Canada (Dr. Hall); Wisconsin -(Dr. Hoy); Oregon (Dr. Townsend). Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada., and Nat. -Mus., Washington city.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> Entirely a northern species, which, though common in the vicinity -of Hudson’s Bay, and on the Saskatchewan, may be regarded as of rare -occurrence within the limits of the eastern United States. It is, however, -found more frequently on the Pacific. We have never known an instance -of this bird having been captured in Pennsylvania. It much resembles the -European <i>Nyctale funerea</i> (which has also been extensively called <i>Strix -Tengmalmi</i>), but is larger and different in other respects.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>2. <span class="sc">Nyctale acadica.</span> (Gmelin.) The Acadian Owl. The Saw-Whet.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix acadica.</span> Gm., Syst. Nat., I. p. 296. (1788.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix acadiensis.</span> Lath., Ind. Orn., I. p. 65. (1790.)</dd> -<dd class="t">“<span class="sc">Strix passerina.</span> Linn.” Wilson, Am. Orn., IV. p. 66.</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix Dalhousiei.</span> Hall MSS. Macgillivray ed. of Cuv. Reg. An. Birds, pl. 8, fig. 3, name on plate (Edinburg, 1839).</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Lath., Gen. Syn., I. pl. 5, fig. 2. Wilson, Am. Orn., IV., pl. 34, fig. 1. Aud., B. of -Am., pl. 199; Oct. ed., I pl. 33. Nat. Hist. N. Y. Birds, pl. 11, fig. 23.</p> -<p>Small; wings long; tail short; claws slender. Resembles the preceding, but is much -smaller. Entire upper parts reddish-brown, tinged with olive, on the head in front with -fine central longitudinal lines of white, and on the neck behind, scapulars and rump with -large concealed spots of white: face ashy-white; throat white; under parts white, nearly -every feather having a wide longitudinal stripe of pale reddish-brown; under coverts of -the wings and tail white; quills brown, with small spots of white on their outer edges, -and large spots of the same on their inner-webs, very conspicuous when viewed from -below; tail brown, with about three pairs of white spots; bill and claws dark; iris -yellow.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, 7½ to 8 inches; wing, 5½; tail, 2¾ to 3 inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> The whole of North America. Canada (Dr. Hall); Wisconsin (Dr. Hoy); -Northern Ohio (Prof. Kirtland); Oregon (Dr. Townsend); California (Dr. Gambel); -Kentucky, Louisiana (Mr. Audubon). Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This is the smallest Owl that inhabits the eastern and middle -States of North America, and is of rather frequent occurrence as far south -as Pennsylvania. Repeated instances of this little bird having been captured -<span class="pb" id="Page_187">187</span> -alive in the city of Philadelphia, have come to our knowledge. It appears to -be strictly nocturnal, and when discovered in the daytime, is generally quite -bewildered, if disturbed, and apparently nearly incapable of seeking safety -by flight. The first specimen that ever we met with, we killed with our gun -ramrod. That was long ago, in the bright days when natural history was -the dream of our youth.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>3. <span class="sc">Nyctale albifrons.</span> (Shaw.) The White-fronted Owl. Kirtland’s Owl.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix albifrons.</span> Shaw, Nat. Misc., V. p. (not paged.) (1794.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix frontalis.</span> Lichtenstein, Trans. Berlin Acad., 1838, p. 430.</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Nyctale Kirtlandii.</span> Hoy, Proc. Acad., Philada., VI. p. 210. (1852.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Cassin, B. of Texas and Cal., I. pl. 11. Shaw, Nat. Misc., V. pl. 171.</p> -<p>Small; wing rather long, fourth quill longest; tail short. <span class="sc">Adult.</span> Head and upper -portion of breast and entire superior parts dark chocolate brown; front and eyebrows -white; throat, and a line on each side running downwards from the base of the under -mandible, white; radiating feathers behind the eye dark brown; primaries dark brown, -with small spots of white on their outer edges, and large spots of the same on their inner -webs; tail dark brown, narrowly tipped with white, and with two bands of the same; -entire under parts of the body, legs and toes reddish ochre-yellow; bill and claws dark; -iris yellow.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, about 8 inches; wing, 5¼; tail, 3 inches. <i>Female.</i>—Larger.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Wisconsin (Dr. Hoy); Canada, near Montreal (Dr. Hall); Western?</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> Within the limits of the United States, this handsome little Owl -has, as yet, only been observed by Dr. Hoy, whose specimens were obtained -at Racine, Wisconsin. It is alluded to as <i>Strix acadica</i>, and accurately -described by Dr. Hall in his MSS. “Sketch of the Zoology of the district -of Montreal,” though represented as of rare occurrence. It is probably a -northern and northwestern species.</p> -<p>In the paper cited above, Prof. Lichtenstein regards this bird as the adult -<i>Nyctale acadica</i>, and this appears to be the opinion also of the Prince of -Canino (Cons. Av., p. 54). It is about the size of <i>N. acadica</i>, but of the -numerous specimens of that species which have come under our notice, not -one has presented intermediate characters, or has otherwise excited a suspicion -that the two species were identical. We at present consider them as -distinct species.</p> -<p>We have no doubt that this bird is the <i>Strix albifrons</i>, Shaw, a species -which has been lost sight of for upwards of fifty years; but for the gratification -of students who may not have access to the necessary books, we append -the original descriptions:—</p> -<blockquote> -<p>“Ferruginous brown Owl, paler beneath, with the forehead white, and the remiges -barred with black and white.</p> -<p>“The very curious and diminutive species of Owl here represented in its natural size, -has perhaps never been either figured or described. It is a native of North America, and -particularly of Canada. The supposed female is destitute of the white forehead, which -<span class="pb" id="Page_188">188</span> -forms so conspicuous a character in the male. It belongs to the division of smooth or -hornless Owls.”—Shaw’s Naturalist’s Miscellany, V. text, not paged, accompanying pl. -171. (1794.)</p> -</blockquote> -<p>The same species, and probably the same specimen, is described by -Latham, in General Synopsis of Birds, Supplement II. p. 58 (1801).</p> -<blockquote> -<p>“White-fronted Owl, <i>Nat. Mis.</i>, pl. 171. Size of the <i>Little Owl</i>. Length eight inches; -general color of the plumage on the upper parts brown; the circle of the feathers round -the eyes dark, fringed at the back part with white; between the eyes and over the bill -and the chin white; the under parts from thence yellow buff; across the breast a pale -brown band; on the wing-coverts a spot or two of white; the first five quills marked with -a white spot on the outer, and the second quills with the same on the inner margins; the -first quills serrated on the outer edge the whole length; the second quill the same, half-way -from the tip; tail marked as the quills; legs feathered; bill black; toes dusky.</p> -<p>“This was brought from Quebec, by General Davies, in 1790, and with it another much -smaller, which he had in his possession alive; it differed in being more dusky, and the -circles of the face not fringed on the back part; otherwise so like, as to be supposed -merely differing in age or sex. The General observed to me that this bird frequently -erected two feathers over the eye; but although I inspected the specimens very narrowly, -I could not observe any feathers longer than the rest; which circumstance is also noticed -in respect to the <i>Short-eared Owl</i>.” (Latham, as above.)</p> -</blockquote> -<h3 id="c100">IV. SUB-FAMILY ATHENINÆ. THE BIRD OWLS.</h3> -<p>Size small; facial disc nearly or quite obsolete; tarsi generally partially -or but thinly clothed with feathers; head without ear-tufts. A numerous -group of species, which are generally small and not so nocturnal as those of -the preceding sub-families.</p> -<h4>I. GENUS ATHENE. <span class="sc">Boie</span>, Isis, 1822, p. 549.</h4> -<p>Size small; head moderate, without ear-tufts; wings long, with the third -and fourth quills usually longest; tail moderate; facial disc, nearly obsolete; -bill short; upper mandible curved from the base, nearly concealed by projecting -feathers; tarsi long, thinly covered with feathers; toes naked or with -a few hair-like feathers. A genus containing about forty species of small -Owls of all quarters of the globe.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Athene hypugœa.</span> (Bonap.) The Burrowing Owl.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix hypugœa.</span> Bonap., Am. Orn., I. p. 72. (1825.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Athene socialis.</span> Gambel, Proc. Acad., Philada., III. p. 47. (1846.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Bonap., Am. Orn., I, pl. 7, fig. 2. Aud., B. of Am., pl. 432, fig. 1. Oct. ed., pl. 31?</p> -<p>Small; head moderate; tarsi long; slender, thinly covered in front only with hair-like -feathers; naked and scaled laterally and behind; toes with a few scattered hairs; claws -curved, rather slender. <span class="sc">Adult.</span> Entire upper parts light yellowish-brown, every feather -more or less spotted with white, and on the neck behind, and back, with large partially -concealed spots of white; throat white, a narrow band of mottled brown and white on the -neck before, succeeded by a large patch of white; other under parts white, with wide -transverse bands of reddish-brown, varying in shade in different specimens; legs and -under tail-coverts white; quills light brown, with yellowish-white spots on their outer -edges, and reddish-white bands on their inner webs; tail pale brown, with about six -<span class="pb" id="Page_189">189</span> -irregular bands of yellowish-white; face yellowish-white; bill light yellow and horn-color; -irides yellow. <span class="sc">Young.</span> Entire plumage much darker than the adult, and with -transverse narrow bands and lines of dark brown.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Male.</i>—Total length, 9 to 10 inches; wing, 7; tail, 4 inches. <i>Female.</i>—Larger.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Western North America. Oregon (Dr. Townsend); Nebraska (Dr. Suckley); -Arkansas, Texas, New Mexico (Col. McCall); Great Salt Lake (Capt. Stansbury); California -(Dr. Heermann); Mexico (Lieut. Couch). Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada., and Nat. -Mus., Washington city.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This curious Owl is very abundant in some localities in Western -America, where it lives in communities in burrows in the ground. It is -nearly related to several South American species, especially to <i>Athene cunicularia</i>, -which is a native of the western countries of that portion of this -continent.</p> -<p>We have doubts that fig. 1 of Mr. Audubon’s plate 432 represents this -bird, but think it probable that it represents one of the South American -species, which fig. 2 of the same plate clearly does. Dr. Townsend’s collection, -specimens from which were figured by Mr. Audubon, contained birds -of Chili and Peru, as well as of North America, from which circumstance the -error may have occurred.</p> -<h4>II. GENUS GLAUCIDIUM. <span class="sc">Boie</span>, Isis, 1826, p. 970.</h4> -<p>Size small; head moderate, without ear-tufts; wings moderate, fourth -quill usually longest; tail rather long; tarsi fully feathered; facial disc -obsolete; bill short, strong, rather wide at base; claws long, curved, very -sharp. This genus contains a few species, amongst which are the smallest -birds of this family.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Glaucidium infuscatum.</span> (Temm.) The pigmy Owl.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix infuscata.</span> Temm., Man. d’Orn., I. p. 97. (1820.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Glaucidium gnoma.</span> Wagler, Isis, XXV. p. 275. (1832.)</dd> -<dd class="t">“<span class="sc">Strix passerinoides.</span> Temm.” Aud., Orn. Biog., V. p. 271; Oct. ed., I. p. 117.</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Aud., B. of Am., pl. 432, fig. 4, 5; Oct. ed., I. pl. 30.</p> -<p>Very small, the smallest Owl yet discovered in North America; head moderate; outer -three quills sinuated on their inner edges, fourth quill longest; tail rather long; tarsi -densely feathered; toes partially covered with long hairs. <span class="sc">Adult.</span> Entire upper parts -brownish-olive, on the head with numerous circular spots of dull white; a partially concealed -white band around the neck behind, succeeded by another of black; scapulars -and superior coverts of the wings with white spots; throat white; a narrow band of -mottled brownish-olive across the neck before; other under parts white, with longitudinal -stripes of dark olive-brown on the flanks and abdomen; quills dark brown, with small -spots of white on their outer edges, and large circular spots of the same on their inner -webs; tail dark brown, with five or six pairs of circular or oval spots of white on every -feather, larger on the inner webs; bill light yellowish; irides yellow.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, 6½ to 7 inches; wing, 3¾; tail, 3 inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Oregon (Dr. Townsend); California (Mr. Bell, Dr. Heermann.)</p> -</blockquote> -<div class="pb" id="Page_190">190</div> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This minute species of Owl is exclusively Western, having as yet -only been noticed in California. It much resembles the European <i>Glaucidium -passerinum</i>, and is about the same size. The most readily detected -differences are the nearly naked toes of the present bird, and the absence of -the decided reddish tinge which prevails in the color of the European species. -It also resembles <i>G. passerinoides</i> of South America, but differs also from -that species in color and other particulars.</p> -<p>This is the least of the species of Owls inhabiting North America, and has -never been observed east of the Rocky Mountains. It lives on insects.</p> -<h3 id="c101">V. SUB-FAMILY NYCTEININÆ. THE DAY OWLS.</h3> -<p>Head moderate, without ear-tufts; wings rather long, wide; tail rather -long, ample; tarsi strong, and with the toes densely covered with hair-like -feathers; claws strong, sharp; plumage very thick and compact. This sub-family -includes only the two species now about to be described, both of which -are common to the Arctic regions of America, Europe, and Asia, migrating -southward in the winter. They are the least nocturnal of all the birds of -this family.</p> -<h4>I. GENUS NYCTEA. <span class="sc">Stephens</span>, Cont. of Shaw’s Gen. Zool., XIII. p. 62. (1826.)</h4> -<p>Size large; head large, without ear-tufts; no facial disc; bill short, very -strong, nearly concealed by projecting feathers; wings long, wide, third quill -longest; tail moderate or rather long, broad; legs short, and with the toes -densely covered with feathers, almost concealing the claws, which are long, -curved, and strong; general form compact and robust, and thickly feathered. -This genus contains only the species described below.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Nyctea nivea.</span> (Daudin.) The Snowy Owl. The White Owl.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix nivea.</span> Daudin, Traité d’Orn., II. p. 190. (1800.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix nyctea.</span> Linn., Syst. Nat., I. p. 132. (1766.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix candida.</span> Lath., Ind. Orn., Supp., p. 14. (1801.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix erminea.</span> Shaw, Gen. Zool., VII. p. 251. (1809.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix arctica.</span> Bartram, Trav., p. 289 (1791, but not of Sparrman, 1789.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Large; eyes large; bill nearly concealed by projecting feathers; tarsi and toes densely -covered with hair-like feathers, nearly concealing the claws. <span class="sc">Adult.</span> Entire plumage -white, in some specimens with a few spots only on the upper parts of dark brown, and -on the under parts with a few irregular transverse bars of the same; quills and tail with -a few spots or traces of bands of dark brown. In other specimens every feather except -on the face and neck before, is distinctly banded transversely with brown, and in some -specimens that color predominates on the upper parts; quills and tail with regular transverse -bands of dark brown; plumage of the legs and feet pure white; bill and claws dark -horn-color; irides yellow.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Female.</i>—Total length, 24 to 26 inches; wing, 17; tail, 10 inches. <i>Male</i>, -smaller.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_191">191</div> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Northern North America. Northern Europe and Asia. Greenland (Prof. Holboll); -Hudson’s Bay (Mr. Hearne); Canada (Dr. Hall); Vermont (Mr. Thompson); Oregon -(Dr. Townsend); Kamschatka (Pallas); Ohio (Prof. Kirtland); South Carolina, Kentucky -(Audubon); Bermuda (Sir W. Jardine). Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This large and handsome Owl is abundant in the Arctic regions of -America, and has been observed at the highest northern latitude yet reached -by voyagers. In the winter, it migrates southward over the greater part of -Asia, Europe, and North America. It is to be met with every winter in the -Northern and Middle States of the Union, though greatly varying in numbers -in different years. We have known it to be so abundant in Pennsylvania and -New Jersey, as to be brought commonly by the farmers to the market in -Philadelphia, and sold for a trifle.</p> -<p>According to Dr. Hall, this fine species breeds in the vicinity of Montreal, -making its nest on the ground. Mr. Audubon’s plate represents this bird -unusually dark.</p> -<h4>II. GENUS SURNIA. <span class="sc">Dumeril</span>, Zoologie Analytique, p. 34. (1806).</h4> -<p>Size medium or small; head moderate, without ear-tufts; facial disc obsolete; -bill moderate, strongly curved, with projecting plumes at base; wings -long, third quill longest; tail long, graduated, broad; legs short, and with -the toes densely feathered. General form rather lengthened, but moderately -robust. This genus includes the Hawk Owl of the Arctic regions and two -other species of South Africa.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Surnia ulula.</span> (Linn.) The Hawk Owl. The Day Owl.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix ulula.</span> Linn., Syst. Nat. I., p. 133. (1766.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix uralensis</span> and <span class="sc">hudsonia</span>. Gm., Syst. Nat. I., p. 295. (1788.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix doliata.</span> Pallas, Zool. I., p. 316. (1811.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Surnia borealis.</span> Less., Traité d’Orn. I., p. 100. (1831.)</dd> -<dd class="t">“<span class="sc">Strix funerea.</span> Linn.” Audubon and other authors.</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Buff., Pl. Enl. 463; Edward’s Birds, pl. 62; Wilson, Am. Orn. VI., pl. 50, fig. 6; -Aud., B. of Am., pl. 378; Oct. ed. I., pl. 27; Nat. Hist. N. Y. Birds, pl. 9, fig. 19.</p> -<p>Size medium; first three quills incised on their inner-webs; tail long, with its central -feathers about two inches longer than the outer; tarsi and toes thickly feathered. -<span class="sc">Adult.</span> Entire upper parts fuliginous brown; the head and neck behind with numerous -small circular spots of white; scapulars and wing-coverts with numerous partially-concealed -large spots of white; face silky grayish-white; throat mixed dark brown and -white; a large brown spot on each side of the breast; all the other under parts transversely -lined or striped with pale brown; quills and tail brown, with white stripes; bill -pale yellowish and horn color; irides yellow; color of upper parts darkest on the head, -and the white markings on the head and body varying somewhat in different specimens.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Female.</i>—Total length, 16 to 17 inches; wing, 9; tail, 7 inches. <i>Male</i> -smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Northern regions of both continents. Montreal (Dr. Hall); Maine, Massachusetts -(Dr. Brewer); Wisconsin (Dr. Hoy); Northern Ohio (Prof. Kirtland); Vermont -(Mr. Z. Thompson); Hudson’s Bay (Dr. Richardson); New Jersey (Mr. Harris). Spec. -in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<div class="pb" id="Page_192">192</div> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This remarkable species, which partakes of the characters of both -an Owl and a Hawk, is of very rare occurrence in the Middle States of this -Union, though abundant in the northern regions of America, and occasionally -met with in the Northern States. It is in a great measure diurnal in its -habits, venturing abroad boldly in daylight.</p> -<p>Careful examination of numerous American and European specimens has -not enabled us to detect any differences.</p> -<p>This bird was undoubtedly meant by Linnæus in his description of <i>Strix -ulula</i>. The name applied to it by various authors, <i>Strix funerea</i>, is properly -applicable to the European species, to which Gmelin gave the name -<i>Strix Tengmalmi</i>.</p> -<p>The descriptions now given embrace all the species of Owls the existence -of which in America north of Mexico is satisfactorily demonstrated; though -in the succeeding pages various others will be enumerated as obscure or little -known.</p> -<p>All the species enumerated in the preceding synopsis, except <i>Nyctale -albifrons</i>, are known to be of common occurrence in some part of that portion -of this continent included in our limits; and specimens of a majority of them -can be obtained generally in the course of a single winter in the markets of -either of the larger cities, being brought for sale from the country, as is the -case with the Falcons, and also all the larger and most common wading and -swimming birds. The study of the habits of Owls is, however, attended with -peculiar difficulties, on account of their nocturnal habits; and it is not therefore -remarkable that questions respecting common species are yet to be -regarded as unsettled. The identity, for instance, of <i>Scops asio</i> and <i>Scops -nævia</i>, is by no means universally admitted; nor, if identical, is the change -in the colors of their plumage sufficiently well understood. Gentlemen well -acquainted with American ornithology, and in whose opinions we have the -highest confidence (as, for instance, Thomas B. Wilson, M. D., and Samuel -W. Woodhouse, M. D., of Philadelphia), are strongly disposed to doubt that -they are identical.</p> -<p>Specimens of Owls to be met with in North American collections are very -generally in winter plumage; and the procuring of several of the species in -the spring or during the summer, is comparatively of unusual occurrence. -The fully ascertaining of the seasonal changes in any species is yet desirable, -even if only confirming previously known facts, or the statements of authors. -It is possible that <i>Nyctale albifrons</i> is the adult of <i>Nyctale acadica</i>. This -we give as an example illustrative of the importance of further observations, -and may be allowed to add that, of several American species nearly related -to others of Europe and Asia, the comparison of specimens of similar ages -and in similar seasonal plumage, is only satisfactory and reliable.</p> -<p>In Western North America, it is exceedingly probable that species of this -family exist which are yet unknown to naturalists. In Texas, species known -as inhabitants of Mexico may yet be detected.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_193">193</div> -<p>All the Owls found in the northern portion of the United States, are in -some measure migratory, and some species appear to travel in large bands, -scattered over a considerable extent of country. The Snowy Owl is sometimes -abundant for a few days, and then will suddenly disappear from a -district, perhaps soon to appear again. The Marsh Owl appears along the -river Delaware occasionally in considerable numbers, and staying but a short -time, or leaving apparently only a few stragglers. We once saw what was -very nearly a flock of this species, on a shooting excursion in “the Neck,” -as it is called, or the point of land below Philadelphia, formed by the -junction of the Delaware and Schuylkill rivers, the larger portion of which is -wholly devoted to the cultivation of culinary vegetables for the market of the -city. On getting over the fence into a small field, in which a crop of cabbages -had been raised, the smaller <i>heads</i> of many of which remained, we -were surprised to see a large number of stalks ornamentally surmounted by -Owls. They soon, however, dispersed in all directions.</p> -<p>The Barn Owl (<i>Strix pratincola</i>), as well as the Marsh Owl (<i>Otus brachyotus</i>), -we have known to occur in open fields, where but little concealment was -possible.</p> -<p>The Red or Mottled Owl is very persistent in its locality, and the same -pair probably returns to the woods that it has previously occupied in preceding -seasons, in some measure disregarding encroachments on its extent. In -a small tract of timbered land at Powelton, the hospitable residence of John -Hare Powel, Esq., surrounded by villages constituting a portion of the -suburbs of Philadelphia, a pair of this species continued to appear and to -raise broods of young until within a period of only two or three years past, -notwithstanding constantly occurring chances of molestation.</p> -<p>An interesting fact relating to the species just mentioned (<i>Scops asio</i>), has -recently been communicated to us by our esteemed friend, Mr. William Kite, -of Chester county, Pennsylvania, a careful observer, much attached to the -pursuit of natural history. He made the singular discovery that in this -species the early ceremonies in the association of a pair about to assume the -duties of incubation were for the greater part performed on the ground, and -were accompanied invariably by unusual and continued cries, thus illustrating -in a striking manner the strong analogy of these birds to the cat-like quadrupeds. -This remarkable circumstance we regard as new in the history of -this family of birds, and the observation of other species would be in a high -degree interesting.</p> -<p>Further investigations and collections in this family are particularly -desirable in the western and northwestern regions of North America, and -will very probably result in the discovery of species not now known to -naturalists.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_194">194</div> -<h3 id="c102">B.</h3> -<p>Doubtful and obscure species which have been described as inhabiting -America north of Mexico:—</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Strix wapacuthu.</span> Gm., Syst. Nat. I., p. 291. (1788.) Pennant, Arctic Zoology I., p. 268. Rich. and Sw. Fauna Boreali Americana, Birds, p. 86, 99.</dt></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>“The Spotted Owl (<i>Wapacuthu</i>) weighs five pounds, and is two feet long and four -broad; the irides bright yellow; bill and talons shining black, and much curved, the -former covered with bristly hairs projecting from the base; space between the eyes, the -cheeks, and throat, white; on the top of the head, and on each side of the concha, the -extreme parts of the feathers are dusky black; concha dirty white; scapularies, with the -lesser and greater coverts of the wings, white, elegantly barred with reddish dusky spots -pointing downwards; the quill feathers and tail are irregularly barred and spotted with -pale red and black; back and coverts of the tail white, with a few dusky spots; under -coverts and vent feathers white; the breast and belly dusky white, crossed with an -infinite number of narrow reddish bars; the legs are feathered to the toes; the latter -covered with hairs like those of the bill, but not so strong.</p> -<p>“This bird is an inhabitant of the woods, makes a nest in the moss on dry ground, -lays from <i>five to ten</i> white eggs in May, and the young fly in June, and are entirely white -for some time after. They feed on mice and small birds, which they generally kill themselves. -Hutchins’ MSS., p. 99.” Fauna. Bor. Am., Birds, p. 99.</p> -</blockquote> -<p>This species, if distinct from the Snowy Owl, is absolutely unknown to -naturalists, never having been noticed by any traveller since Mr. Hutchins. -Though, from the description above quoted, apparently a peculiar species, -the same name is given by the natives in the vicinity of Hudson’s Bay, to -the Snowy Owl, according to Mr. Hearne (Journey to the Northern Ocean, -p. 402. London, 1795, quarto); and it, too, makes its nest on the ground. -With so little positive information, it is impossible to form more than conjectures -respecting the bird alluded to in the description, and it must be left as -an interesting matter of inquiry for future explorers and naturalists.</p> -<p>It may be observed with reference to Mr. Hearne’s statement, that if the -bird he alluded to was really an Owl, it differs from any other American -species in laying from “five to ten eggs.” Careful and evidently accurate -statements respecting the incubation of nearly all the northern species, are -given by Dr. Hall, in his “Sketch of the Zoology of the District of Montreal” -(manuscript in our possession); and no species is represented as producing -more than “four to five eggs,” except the Mottled Owl (<i>Scops -nævia</i>), which lays “five to six.” The Snowy Owl, it is stated by Dr. Hall, -lays “two white eggs.”</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_195">195</div> -<dl class="undent"><dt>2. <span class="sc">Otus mexicanus.</span> (Gm.)</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix mexicana.</span> Gmelin, Syst. Nat. I., p. 288. (1766.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Bubo clamator.</span> Vieill., Ois d’Am., Sept. I., p. 52, pl. 20. (1807.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix longirostris.</span> Spix Av. Bras. 1., p. 20, pl. 9 a. (1824.)</dd></dl> -<p>This Owl, which is a rather common South American species, is stated by -Vieillot to inhabit America from Cayenne to Hudson’s Bay. His remarks -apply, however, to the <i>Scops asio</i> in mottled plumage; though a good plate -is given by him of the bird, of which the name is above cited, no specimen -of which has ever come under our notice, captured in any part of the United -States.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>3. <span class="sc">Strix Georgica.</span> Lath., Gen. Syn. Supp., p. 15. (1801.)</dt></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>“Size of the Barn Owl; length sixteen inches and a half; bill yellow; the plumage -on the upper parts of the bird is brown, banded with yellowish; throat and breast pale -brown, crossed with whitish bands; belly yellowish white, marked with longish red -brown streaks; thighs and legs woolly, whitish or very pale in color, varied with small -blackish spots; quills and tail feathers brown, crossed with four or five white bands.</p> -<p>“I met with this specimen in the collection of Mr. Humphries, said to have come from -several miles within <i>South</i> Georgia, in America.” (Latham, General Synopsis of Birds, -Supplement II., p. 64.)</p> -</blockquote> -<p>This bird is placed by Latham, in his division of Owls, “with smooth -heads,” and probably refers to the Short-eared Owl (<i>Otus brachyotus</i>). The -description is not, however, entirely applicable. This name may, however, -be entitled to precedence as the proper name of that species in the genus -<i>Brachyotus</i>; and, as an aspirant to such honors, we recommend it to the -favorable notice of enterprising ornithologists; and also, while our hand is -in, respectfully suggest that as a name for the allied European species, <i>arctica</i>, -Sparrmann, which dates 1789 (Mus. Carls., pl. 51), might do as well as -<i>palustris</i>, and have the advantage of more mature age.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>4. <span class="sc">Strix forficata.</span> Aud., Orn. Biog. V., p. 334. (1839.)</dt></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>“I shot this bird in the vicinity of Green Bay, when on my way across to the Mississippi; -but the drawing which I made of it on the spot has been lost. It was about the -size of <i>Strix acadica</i>, of a dark grey color, with the tail long and deeply forked; but I -am unable to describe it more particularly, the Journal in which it was noticed having -been, along with others, destroyed by the great fire which happened in New York some -years ago.” (Audubon, as above.)</p> -</blockquote> -<p>The bird here alluded to has never again been observed so far as we have -learned. The description probably applies to an unknown species, and certainly -to one not known as an inhabitant of the United States.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>5. “<span class="sc">Strix passerina.</span> Gmel.” Aud., Orn. Biog. V., p. 269. (1839.)</dt></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Aud., B. of Am., pl. 432, fig. 3; Oct. ed. I., pl. 29.</p> -<p>“Bill greyish, its ridge and tip greyish yellow; iris dark; claws brownish black, -lighter at the base; the general color of the upper parts is chocolate brown; the feathers -<span class="pb" id="Page_196">196</span> -of the head have an oblong white median mark, and, as they are small, this part is -marked with numerous spots; on the hind neck the white spots are very large, forming -a conspicuous patch; on the back most of the feathers have a single large subterminal -roundish spot, which is also the case with the scapulars and wing coverts, some of which, -however, have two or more spots; all the quills have marginal reddish-white spots on -both webs, the third quill with six on the outer and four on the inner, with two very faint -pale bars toward the end; the tail is similarly marked with four bands of transversely-oblong -reddish-white spots; on the anterior part of the disc, the feathers are whitish, -with black shafts, on the lower part whitish, on the hind part brown, tipped with greyish-white; -a broad band of white crosses the throat and curves upward on either side to the -ear; there is also a patch of white on the lower part of the fore-neck, and between them -is a brownish-grey band; the general colour of the lower parts is dull yellowish-white, -each feather with a broad longitudinal band of chocolate-brown; the abdomen and lower -tail coverts unspotted; the tarsal feathers dull white.”</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Length, to end of tail, 10½ inches; to end of wings, 10; wing, from -flexure, 6¼; tail, 3½; tarsus, 1¼ inches. (Aud., as above.)</p> -</blockquote> -<p>The bird here described is stated by Mr. Audubon to have been procured -near Pictou, Nova Scotia; and he appears to have been confident that it was -identical with the European <i>Strix passerina</i>. It is, however, clearly not that -species. We would suppose it to be the young of <i>Nyctale Richardsoni</i>, were -it not described as having the “iris dark.” It may be a small and curious -new species of <i>Syrnium</i>, or perhaps <i>Nyctale</i>, and the procuring of specimens -would be in a high degree interesting. We have no knowledge of it ever -having been observed since the publication of the above description by Mr. -Audubon.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>6. <span class="sc">Syrnium aluco.</span> (Linn.)</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix aluco.</span> Linn., Syst. Nat. I., p. 132. (1766.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Strix stridula.</span> Linn., Syst. Nat. I., p. 133. (1766.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Selby, Brit. Orn., pl. 25; Gould, B. of Eur. I., pl. 47.</p> -</blockquote> -<p>This well known European species is given by Mr. Nuttall, in his “Manual -of the Ornithology of the United States and Canada” (I., p. 135), and is -stated by him to have been found in the northern regions of this continent. -Such is probably the case; but no American specimen has ever come under -our notice.</p> -<p>This species exhibits very nearly the same variety of plumage as the -American Red and Mottled Owls (<i>Scope asio</i> and <i>nævia</i>), and has been -described repeatedly under different names.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>7. <span class="sc">Strix peregrinator.</span> The Sharp-winged Owl. Bartram, Travels, p. 285. (1793.)</dt></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>With the head eared and the body variegated in color.</p> -</blockquote> -<p>Impossible to determine from the brief description, though being given as -a species inhabiting Pennsylvania, probably applicable to the Long-eared -Owl (<i>Otus Wilsonianus</i>).</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_197">197</div> -<dl class="undent"><dt>8. <span class="sc">Strix diurnalis.</span> The Short-winged Day Owl. Barton, Fragments of the Nat. Hist. of Penna., p. 9. (1799.)</dt></dl> -<p>Stated by Professor Barton to have been observed by him in Pennsylvania -on the 15th of December, 1791, but of the species he gives no description.</p> -<p>The names and descriptions now given comprise all that have come under -our notice, represented as inhabiting North America within our limits.</p> -<p>Of the birds of this family, the names proposed by the older American -naturalists and others, are not numerous; and though the group may be -regarded as presenting some difficulties to the student, the correct nomenclature -of North American species is not difficult to determine. Bartram enumerated -six species (Travels, p. 285), to all of which, except one, he gives -names for the first time employed to designate the birds to which he alludes, -and to a few of which he attaches sufficient descriptions. All of his species -had, however, been previously described, and we have, we believe, cited his -names as synonymes, so far as they can be ascertained.</p> -<p>The greatest difficulty in the study of the Owls of North America will be -found in the intimate resemblance that a few species bear to others of Europe -and Asia, and, we may add, in the examination of the birds which we have -given in the preceding pages as varieties of the Great-horned Owl (<i>Bubo -virginianus</i>). The variations that we have noticed, and especially those of -color, may be ascertained by subsequent observation to be so uniform and -constant as to constitute specific distinction, though at present we cannot so -regard them.</p> -<p>In the Owls of other countries there are several groups in which it is very -difficult to determine the species, on account of their resemblance to each -other. This is especially the case with the small species of the genus <i>Scops</i>, -which inhabit India and other countries of Asia; and there are, too, many -of the birds of this genus, of all countries, that are exceedingly perplexing. -In fact, we would hardly recommend a student in natural history to begin -General Ornithology with the Owls.</p> -<p>With this family we conclude the rapacious Birds.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_198">198</div> -<h2 id="c103"><span class="small">BUTEO INSIGNATUS.—(Cassin.)</span> -<br />The Brown Buzzard. -<br />PLATE XXXI.—Adult Male and Young Female.</h2> -<p>One of the most remarkable facts in the geographical distribution of the -birds of western and northwestern North America is, that many species -extend their range in northern latitudes almost or quite to the shores of the -Atlantic ocean, while not a single instance is on record of the same species -having been observed in either of the middle or southern States of the Union. -The Magpie, which on the Pacific is commonly found southwardly as far as -Mexico, has been noticed by Dr. Hoy, at Racine, in the State of Wisconsin. -The Lark Bunting (<i>Emberiza grammaca</i>), another western bird, has also -been ascertained by the same gentleman to be abundant in the State just -mentioned; and the only specimen that we have ever seen of the Stone Chat -of America (<i>Saxicola œnanthoides</i>), a bird discovered some years since on -the coast of Oregon, was obtained in the vicinity of Halifax, Nova Scotia.</p> -<p>Many instances tending to demonstrate this extensive and remarkable -migration might be produced, but we have unfortunately to acknowledge -ourselves unable to offer a theory or even hypothesis attempting to account -for it, and must regard the facts as remaining among many in natural history -with which naturalists are for the present under the necessity of resting, -without inference or application to any established general principles. Important -results will yet reward American naturalists who may engage in this -interesting field of scientific research.</p> -<p>Instinct is little or nothing more than inherited memory. But we are by -no means satisfied that any definition which we have yet met with of the -faculty known by the latter name is strictly correct. Whatever memory is, -that inherited we are disposed to regard as instinct. And that the impressions -on this faculty are transmissable in animals from parents to their offspring, -we regard the migration of young birds, particularly those of a first -brood, when the parents remain to attend to a second, as clearly substantiating.</p> -<p>The bird now before the reader is a species that appears to perform the -extended northward migration to which we have alluded, and is one of the -most remarkable instances that has come to our knowledge. It was first -described by us from a specimen obtained in the vicinity of Montreal, Canada, -and the only instance of its having been observed since, has been by Dr. -Heermann, in California; though if ever occurring in the middle or southern -States on the Atlantic, in the same latitude as on the Pacific, it has escaped -the researches of all previous naturalists or travellers.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig31"> -<img src="images/ppp30.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1190" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 31<br /><span class="ln2">The Brown Hawk</span><br /><span class="ln3">Buteo insignatus (<i>Cassin</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_199">199</div> -<p>Adult and young birds of this species were observed, and specimens were -obtained by Dr. Heermann, who ascertained that it reared its young in -California.</p> -<p>For an opportunity to examine the specimen originally described by us in -the present volume (<a href="#Page_102">p. 102</a>), we are indebted to our lamented friend and correspondent, -M. McCulloch, M. D., a naturalist of extensive acquirements, -and an eminent physician, late of Montreal, but, we much regret to add, now -recently deceased, and to John Pangman, Esq., of Grace Hall, in the vicinity -of that city. Mr. Pangman had the kindness to interest himself, in conjunction -with Dr. McCulloch, so much as to obtain the loan of the specimen from -the Natural History Society of Montreal, in the museum of which it was -deposited, and to bring it for our inspection to Philadelphia, and we shall not -soon forget his evident and enlightened gratification, nor our own great -pleasure, when we assured him that it was a bird hitherto unknown as an -inhabitant of North America, and, as we then supposed, very probably an -undescribed species, which we subsequently ascertained to be the case.</p> -<p>This is one of the most remarkable of the rapacious birds which have been -recently added to the ornithological fauna of the United States. It differs -entirely in color from any previously-known American species, unless it may -be supposed to approximate in that character to the little-known Harlan’s -Buzzard of Audubon. It bears also some distant resemblance to one stage -of plumage of the Black Hawk.</p> -<p>The only information relative to the habits of this bird that we have in -our power at present to lay before the reader, is the following from the -Journal of Dr. Heermann:</p> -<p>“I first remarked this species at the crossing of Graysonville ferry, on the -San Joaquim river, California, and continued to meet with it occasionally until -we had crossed Kern river. Owing to the lateness of the season, I was able -to ascertain but little respecting its propagation; the only nests which were -found having been forsaken some time previously by the young. These nests, -composed externally of coarse sticks, and lined with roots, were built in the -topmost branches of oaks, which grow abundantly on the banks of the large -water-courses.</p> -<p>“This bird, like the rest of its genus, appears sluggish in its habits, perching -for hours in a quiescent state on some tall tree, and permitting the hunter -to approach without showing any signs of fear. This apparent stolidity may, -however, be owing to the fact that it is seldom molested, and has not yet -learned to mistrust a gun, as do the birds of prey in more settled portions of -the country.”</p> -<p>The specimens brought by Dr. Heermann are now in the national collection -at Washington city.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_200">200</div> -<h3 id="c104">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Buteo.</span> Cuvier, Regne Animal, I., p. 323. (1817.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Buteo insignatus.</span> Cassin, Birds of California and Texas, I., p. 102. (1854.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Short and robust; wing long; third quill longest, secondaries -emarginate at their tips; quills wide; tail moderate or rather short, somewhat -rounded; under coverts of the tail long; tarsi rather short, feathered -in front below the joints, with the tibiæ naked behind, and having in front -about ten transverse scales; claws rather long, moderately curved; bill short; -upper mandible slightly festooned.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Adult male.</i>—Total length of skin, 17 inches; wing, 14½; -tail, 7½ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> Under coverts of the wing and tail white, the former striped -longitudinally with pale ferruginous, each feather having a central dark line, -and the latter transversely with reddish-brown; edges of wings at the shoulders -nearly pure white; plumage of the tibiæ rufous, mixed with brown; -throat and a few feathers of the forehead white, each feather having a line -of dark brown, nearly black; entire other plumage above and below dark -brown, nearly every feather having a darker or nearly black central line; -quills above brown, with a slight purple lustre, beneath pale cinerous, with -their shafts white, and with irregular and indistinct transverse bands of white; -tail above dark brown, with an ashy or hoary tinge, and having about ten transverse -bands of a darker shade of the same color; beneath nearly white, with -conspicuous transverse bands of brown, the widest of which is subterminal; -tip paler; bill dark; cere, tarsi, and feet yellow. <i>Adult male.</i></p> -<p><span class="sc">Young.</span> Entire upper plumage dark brown; on the back of the head and -neck white at base, and edged with reddish; scapulars and greater coverts -of the wing with large partially-concealed rufous spots; under parts reddish-white, -every feather with a large terminal oblong spot of dark brown, and on -the abdomen and tibiæ with numerous transverse bands of the same color; -under tail coverts very pale reddish-white, with a few transverse spots and -lines; inferior coverts of the wing pale reddish-white, with large brown spots.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Canada and California. Spec. in Nat. Mus., Washington city.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> There is no other North American Buzzard with which there is -any probability of the present bird being confounded by the student, on -account of the peculiarity of its colors. In this character it bears a resemblance -to some stages of plumage of <i>Circus hudsonius</i>, or to the European -<i>Circus æruginosus</i>. It also is somewhat similar in colors, especially those -of the young bird, to <i>Buteo pennsylvanicus</i>, but is much larger, and readily -distinguished.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig32"> -<img src="images/ppp31.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1048" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 32<br /><span class="ln2">The Black-breasted Woodpecker</span><br /><span class="ln3">Melanerpes thyroideus (<i>Cassin</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_201">201</div> -<h2 id="c105"><span class="small">MELANERPES THYROIDEUS.—(Cassin.)</span> -<br />The Black-breasted Woodpecker. -<br />PLATE XXXII.—Male.</h2> -<p>The species of Woodpeckers are more abundant in the regions on the -Pacific Ocean or west of the Rocky mountains than in any other part of North -America. Several of them inhabiting those countries are, too, amongst the -handsomest birds of this family, as, for instance, Lewis’s Woodpecker (<i>Melanerpes -torquatus</i>), a species now brought in almost every collection from -California; the Red-breasted Woodpecker (<i>Melanerpes ruber</i>), a beautiful -little species, with the head, neck and breast brilliant carmine; the Californian -Woodpecker (<i>Melanerpes formicivorus</i>), figured in plate 2 of the present -volume; and various others, attractive on account of either the beauty or the -singularity of their colors.</p> -<p>The extensive and but partially-explored forests of Northern California and -Oregon are peculiarly well adapted to the habits of this group of birds. This -is, however, not solely the reason that they are found there; but there are -principles involved which are at present beyond the deepest reasoning of -zoologists, and are as yet subjects of theory only. All that we can positively -advance is, that of the Woodpeckers of North America, the greatest number -of species, and of more handsome plumaged forms, than elsewhere in our -portion of the continent, are inhabitants of California and Oregon; and that -whatever causes have tended to the development of this family of birds, they -have been more efficient in the regions alluded to, than elsewhere in North -America.</p> -<p>Philosophic zoology is yet in its infancy. Extreme conservatism in science -fondly rests satisfied with present knowledge, and visionary speculators raise -mountains of opinionative systems and theories, which must be cleared away -to allow real progress. Between the two classes of operators, the true man -of science may have a difficult time of it. Of sawing the air there is abundance, -but much as elsewhere very little is done in zoology with due emphasis -and discretion.</p> -<p>In addition to the species alluded to above, there is found in the forests of -Oregon and the Rocky Mountains, the largest of all the Woodpeckers, a magnificent -species related to the Ivory-billed Woodpecker of the Southern States, but -much larger, and which has up to this period escaped the observation of any -American naturalist, except Dr. Townsend, who saw it, but did not procure -specimens. It is the <i>Dryocopus imperialis</i>, first described by Mr. Gould, a -distinguished English ornithologist. This fine bird will be figured in a subsequent -part of the present volume.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_202">202</div> -<p>The bird now before the reader was discovered in California by Mr. John -G. Bell, of New York, deservedly well known as a naturalist, and beyond -comparison the most skilful preparer of birds and quadrupeds and general -taxidermist in the United States. Mr. Bell was the first naturalist who -visited California after it became a portion of the United States; and during -his stay in that country, made a large and highly interesting collection, in -which was the present and other new species. He observes in his notes now -before us, that he found this bird in one locality only, and observed but two -specimens, both of which he obtained.</p> -<p>Subsequently this Woodpecker has been found in California by Dr. Heermann, -and in New Mexico by Dr. Henry; but is stated by both to be of rare -occurrence. The former of these gentlemen observes:—</p> -<p>“I procured this bird three years since in the southern mines of California, -where it frequents more especially the pine trees. I never saw it alight on -the oaks, although abundant in that locality. It is one of the most rare of -the Woodpeckers of that country.”</p> -<p>Dr. Henry states: “Of this bird I know nothing farther than that I procured -a single specimen in the mountains near Fort Webster, in the winter -of 1852-3. I shot it from near the summit of a tall pine tree, and was not -aware until I obtained it, that it was different from any other species that I -had ever seen. My efforts to find it again have been unremitting, but without -success; and I regard it as a rare bird in this district. The specimen in -my collection is an adult male.”</p> -<p>The figure in our plate is two-thirds of the size of life.</p> -<p>The plant represented is <i>Habrothamnus fasciculatus</i>, a native of Mexico.</p> -<h3 id="c106">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Melanerpes.</span> Swainson, Fauna Boreali Americana, Birds, p. 316.</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Melanerpes thyroideus.</span> (Cassin), Proc. Acad. Philada., V., p. 349. (1851.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Short and compact; bill moderate, strong; upper mandible with -the ridge (or culmen) very distinct, and short ridges over the apertures of the -nostrils; wing rather long; third primary longest; tail moderate, graduated, -with all its feathers somewhat rigid; two middle feathers longest.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length of skin, about 8¾ inches; wing, 5¼; tail, 3¾ -inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> <i>Male.</i>—Breast with a large semi-circular patch or transverse -belt of black; middle of the abdomen yellow; head above and throat pale -brown, with obscure longitudinal lines and spots of black; back, wing coverts, -sides of the body, and inferior coverts of the tail, transversely striped with -white and black, the former tinged with obscure yellowish; rump and superior -coverts of the tail white; a few feathers of the coverts with irregular -bars of black on their outer webs; quills black, with spots of white on both -<span class="pb" id="Page_203">203</span> -edges; tail black, with irregular spots of white; bill and tarsi dark. -<i>Female.</i>—Similar to the male, but with the colors more obscure, and the -black of the breast of less extent and not so deep in shade.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> California and New Mexico. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada., and -Nat. Mus., Washington city.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> Somewhat resembles in form only the Red Woodpecker of western -North America (<i>Melanerpes ruber</i>), but is larger and differently colored. It -also in some respects resembles the yellow-bellied Woodpecker (<i>Picus varius</i>), -but not so much as to render it necessary for differences to be specially designated. -It is possible that this species, when perfectly mature, or in spring -plumage, may assume more brilliant colors, as do others of its genus.</p> -<p>We regard this bird as singularly blending the characters of genera which -in typical species are very distinct and easily defined. It is of the general -form of <i>Melanerpes</i>, though not strictly; while in some other respects, especially -in colors, it shows an alliance to that group of typical <i>Picus</i>, which -includes <i>Picus varius</i>, and several other American species. Our present -arrangement or generic designation is provisional only.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_204">204</div> -<h2 id="c107"><span class="small">CARDINALIS SINUATUS.—Bonaparte.</span> -<br />The Texan Cardinal Bird. -<br />PLATE XXXIII. Male and Female.</h2> -<p>In our present plate we present to the reader one of the most delicately -colored of the many fine-plumaged birds which inhabit the southwestern countries -of this Republic, and it is another of the birds of Mexico whose range of -locality northwardly extends to within the limits of the United States. Our bird -is, however, resident in Texas, or of but limited migration during the coldest -season. It has occasionally been observed in considerable numbers; but is -as yet to be met with in comparatively few collections, and is much valued -by collectors.</p> -<p>Though not very closely resembling the beautiful Cardinal bird of the -Northern States (<i>Cardinalis virginianus</i>), its general form, particularly its -lengthened and handsome crest and long tail, are strictly similar, and its -habits are of the same general character. The bill, however, in the present -species will be found to be singularly different from that of any other bird -of this genus.</p> -<p>The group of birds to which that now before us belongs, is composed of -four or five species remarkable for their graceful forms and very showy colors, -all of which inhabit North and Central America. In addition to the attractions -of their plumage, these birds possess very considerable powers of voice, -though by no means entitled to be ranked as songsters. The Cardinal bird, -known also by the names of Virginia Nightingale and Red Bird, is the only -species inhabiting the States north of Texas, and is frequently met with at -all seasons in the States on the Atlantic. It inhabits, for the greater part, -low and damp woods, in which there is a profuse undergrowth of bushes, and -is particularly partial to the vicinity of water-courses. The male, on account -of the splendid vermilion of his plumage, always attracts attention; and -though rather shy and careful in exposing himself, is frequently shot by -gunners for no other purpose than the possession of such a handsome bird.</p> -<p>The colors of our northern Cardinal bird are vermilion, with the throat -black. In Mexico, there is found another beautiful species, singularly -resembling in form and color that to which we have just alluded, but wanting -the black throat. It differs also in the shape of the bill and some minor -characters.</p> -<p>The bird now before the reader was originally described as a bird of -Mexico, in the Proceedings of the Zoological Society of London, by Charles -Lucian Bonaparte, Prince of Canino, one of the most accomplished zoologists -of Europe, and held in deservedly high estimation in this country, on account -of his splendid volumes on American Ornithology. His specimens were -obtained near the city of Mexico.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig33"> -<img src="images/ppp32.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1168" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 33<br /><span class="ln2">The Texan Cardinal bird</span><br /><span class="ln3">Cardinalis Sinuatus (<i>Bonaparte</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_205">205</div> -<p>Within the limits of the United States, this species was first observed by Capt. -J. P. McCown, of the United States Army, at Ringgold Barracks, in Texas. -Since that period, it has been noticed and specimens brought in collections -by several of the naturalists, who have accompanied expeditions sent by the -government, though never, so far as we have learned, out of the State of -Texas.</p> -<p>To Captain McCown we are indebted for the following note respecting -this species, for which and many similar favors we beg to tender our -acknowledgements.</p> -<p>“This handsome species was occasionally seen on the Rio Grande, having -apparently a strong partiality for damp and bushy woods; and in fact so far -as I observed never venturing far from the river. I cannot speak positively, -but am under the impression that it remains in Texas during the whole year, -having seen it so late in the fall, and again so early in the Spring, that if not -constantly resident, its migration must at any rate be very limited. It is a -gay, sprightly bird, generally seen in company with others of the same -species, frequently erecting its crest, and calling to its mate or comrades, -though rather shy and not easily approached. Its voice and general habits -appeared to me as very similar to those of the common species of the Northern -States. I never saw its nest, though it undoubtedly breeds in Texas.”</p> -<p>During his late connection with Lieut. Williamson’s expedition, this bird -was noticed by Dr. Heermann, from whose beautiful specimens, through his -kindness, our plate has been prepared, and who has allowed us to make the -following extract from his Journal:—</p> -<p>“After leaving Teusoa, we observed the first specimen of this bird but -little beyond the crossing of the San Pedro river. It was in a dry caignau, -perched on a bush, and seemed weary and lost, and was probably a wanderer, -as no more were observed until we reached El Paso. At this place, in the -vicinity of the habitations of man, we found it quite common, frequenting the -hedges and trees, and continued to see it occasionally on our road until we -left civilization behind us. Raising its crest erect as it moves actively about -in search of food, it emits at intervals a clear, plaintive whistle, varied by a -few detached notes. It is said to be quite common on the Rio Grande river -and in Mexico.”</p> -<p>This species was also found in Texas by Mr. John H. Clark, zoologist, -attached to the Mexican boundary surveying party. In Mexico, particularly -in the States of Tamaulipas and Nueva Leon, Lieut. Couch observed it in -considerable numbers.</p> -<p>Our figures, which are those of the adult male and female, are rather less -than two-thirds of the size of life.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_206">206</div> -<h3 id="c108">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Cardinalis.</span> Bonaparte, Comp. List., p. 35. (1838.)</dt></dl> -<p>Bill short, very thick at base; culmen advancing on the forehead; wing -moderate; fourth and fifth quills longest and nearly equal; tail long, slightly -rounded; tarsi rather long; middle toe long, others moderate; general form -robust; tail long; and head above with elongated crest-like feathers on all -known species. A genus containing five or six species of handsome birds, -peculiar to America.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Cardinalis sinuatus.</span> Bonaparte, Proc. Zool. Soc., London, p. 111. (1837.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> About the size or rather larger than <i>Cardinalis virginianus</i> of North -America; not strictly exhibiting the characters of this genus; bill short; -lower mandible much thicker than the upper; gonys ascending abruptly; -upper mandible curved; wings short; third, fourth and fifth quills nearly -equal and longest; tail long; tarsi moderate; head with a conspicuous crest -of lengthened erectile feathers.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length of skin, about 8 inches; wing, 3¾; tail, 4¼ -inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> <i>Male.</i>—Plumage encircling the base of the bill; longer feathers -of the crest, wide medial longitudinal band on the under parts, tibiæ, and -under coverts of the wings, fine crimson; entire upper parts light cinerous, -which is the color also of the sides and flanks; quills ashy brown, both webs -edged with crimson; tail above and below dark crimson, tinged with brown; -abdomen and under tail coverts pale rosy white, the feathers of the latter -crimson at their bases; plumage of the breast edged and tipped with pale -ashy; bill and tarsi pale yellowish.</p> -<p><i>Female.</i> Under wing coverts, edges of quills, crest, and tail, pale crimson, -the last shaded with brown; entire plumage above cinerous, below yellowish-cinerous; -no crimson on the forehead or on the throat or other under parts.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Texas, Mexico. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada., and Nat. Mus., -Washington city.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This beautiful species, though in general form and appearance presenting -the characters of <i>Cardinalis</i>, is quite different in the form of the bill, -and has been placed by the distinguished and accomplished naturalist who -first described it (the Prince of Canino) in a subdivision which he names -<i>Pyrrhuloxia</i> (Conspectus Avium, p. 500).</p> -<p>It appears to be restricted to Mexico and the southern part of Texas, -though its northern range may yet be ascertained to extend farther than at -present known. It does not resemble any other species sufficiently to lead -to confusion.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig34"> -<img src="images/ppp33.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="526" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 34<br /><span class="ln2">The American Stone Chat</span><br /><span class="ln3">Saxicola œnanthoides (<i>Vigors</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_207">207</div> -<h2 id="c109"><span class="small">SAXICOLA ŒNANTHOIDES.—Vigors.</span> -<br />The American Stone Chat. -<br />PLATE XXXIV.—Adult.</h2> -<p>The Stone Chats and Wheat Ears, which are the English names of birds -of the genus <i>Saxicola</i>, are abundant in the old world, though the greater -number of the species appear to be restricted to Africa. The few that are -natives of Europe are numerous throughout the greater part of that continent. -They are birds of plain but agreeable colors, and inhabit fields and other open -grounds or plains covered with shrub-like vegetation, running with facility, -and making their nests on the ground, or in holes beneath the surface. These -are curiously constructed by some species of this group, and very carefully -concealed, though frequently in situations much exposed. There are nearly -forty species of this group of birds composing the present and a nearly allied -genus.</p> -<p>Though there are so many species of these genera, the bird now before us -is the only one that appears to be peculiar to the continent of America. One -other, the <i>Saxicola œnanthe</i>, a common European bird, is, however, a visitor -to this continent. We have seen undoubted specimens from Greenland, and -occasionally it strays so far southwardly as New York, in the vicinity of -which city a few specimens have been captured, one of which is in the -collection of our friend, Mr. George N. Lawrence.</p> -<p>The present bird was originally described in the Zoology of the Voyage of -the Blossom, from specimens obtained on the western coast of North America; -but apparently the naturalists attached to the party which performed that -voyage, had no opportunities of acquiring any information respecting its -history or the district that it inhabits. Nor have others been more successful; -no American naturalist or traveller having noticed it again in Western -America, notwithstanding the researches which have been carried on in that -portion of this continent.</p> -<p>The only specimen that we have ever seen of this bird is in the collection -of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia, to which it was presented -by our intimate and valued friend, Thomas M. Brewer, M. D., of the -city of Boston, one of the most eminent of American ornithologists, and now -particularly devoted to the investigation of the nidification and oology of the -birds of this country, the results of which we hope soon to see published. -Dr. Brewer obtained the specimen alluded to in Nova Scotia, but could -procure no account of it beyond the fact that it was considered as of unusual -occurrence in that province.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_208">208</div> -<p>This bird is very closely allied to the Wheat Ear of Europe (<i>S. œnanthe</i>), -and is in all probability of very similar habits. In the absence of positive -information we can only suppose it to be an inhabitant of the countries north -of the limits of the United States, in which there is a vast extent of territory -well adapted to the habits of birds of this group. It is also probably not an -abundant species, or it would have been noticed more frequently during its -winter migration. But of the ornithology of all the northern portion of the -United States from the ninetieth degree of longitude to the Pacific Ocean, or -west of the Mississippi river, too little is known to justify any conclusions. -Many species of Northern and Western America, of which little or nothing -was previously known, have within a few years been demonstrated to be -abundant, and such may hereafter prove to be the case with the bird which -is the subject of our present article.</p> -<p>The figure in our plate is about two-thirds of the size of life.</p> -<p>The plant represented is <i>Abronia umbellata</i>, a native of western North -America.</p> -<h3 id="c110">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Saxicola.</span> Bechstein, Ornithologisches Taschenbuch, p. 216. (1802.)</dt></dl> -<p>Bill straight, with the culmen distinct and somewhat ascending into the -feathers of the forehead; a few short and weak bristles at the base of the -upper mandible, which is rather wide; wing rather long; first quill spurious, -third and fourth longest, and nearly equal; tail moderate, wide, truncate; -legs long, rather slender. General form adapted to living on the ground.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Saxicola œnanthoides.</span> Vigors, Zool. Voy. Blossom, Ornithology, p. 19. (1839.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Rather larger than <i>Saxicola œnanthe</i>, but very similar to that -species in form and general characters and appearance; wing long; second -primary longest; tail moderate or rather short; legs, especially the tarsi, -long; bill moderate, rather wide at base.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length of skin, about 6½ inches; wing, 4⅛; tail, 3; -tarsus, 1¼ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> Narrow line through the eye, enlarging on the ears, black, which -is the color also of the wings; forehead ashy white, fading into the cinerous -of the head above; back cinerous; upper coverts of the tail white; under -parts white, tinged with pale fulvous, darker on the breast; two middle -feathers of the tail white at base; terminal two-thirds of their length black; -other feathers of the tail white, tipped with black; bill and legs dark.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Northern America, Nova Scotia, Oregon. Spec. in Mus. Acad., -Philadelphia.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_209">209</div> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> We are not without doubts that the bird now before us is really -distinct from <i>Saxicola œnanthe</i> of Europe, but having unfortunately a single -specimen only, we cannot make an examination or comparison in all -respects satisfactory. Our specimen is uniformly larger than either of the -numerous specimens of the European species in the collection of the Philadelphia -Academy, and is, as an especial character, longer in the tarsi. Its -measurements do not, however, correspond with those given in the original -description in Voy. Blossom; but it is expressly stated that the specimens -described were in bad condition, and may not be entirely reliable. It is, at -any rate, very closely allied to the European species that we have just -mentioned.</p> -<p>With special reference to the present bird, we shall look with much interest -for the results of future zoological investigations in the northwestern territories -of the United States. There is at the present time no field more inviting -to the American naturalist. While much has been done in California, New -Mexico, and Texas, the extensive regions which we have above designated -have scarcely been entered upon, and will yet contribute much to the fauna -of our country.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_210">210</div> -<h2 id="c111"><span class="small">DIOMEDEA NIGRIPES.—Audubon.</span> -<br />The Black-footed Albatross. -<br />PLATE XXXV. Adult Male.</h2> -<p>Those birds whose homes are the sea-coasts and islands, and whose lives -are spent in gleaning a subsistence amongst the billows or by the shores of -the ocean, have always been objects of interest both to the naturalist and the -general observer. Idly reposing on the rocky crag or the sand-bank, or -boldly sweeping the surface of the waters alike in the calm and amidst the -fury of the tempest, few having the opportunity have failed to mark the sea-birds -as a feature in the wild scenery peculiar to the localities for which they -are fitted by nature, and perhaps to associate them with the adventurous -character of our useful fellow-men whose profession it is, in the beautiful -language of the liturgy, to “go down upon the deep.”</p> -<p>The large majority of the many birds that derive their subsistence from -the productions of the Ocean, live habitually on its shores, or venture only -short and easily-regainable distances from the land. This is the case with -the numerous genera comprising the Ducks, Swans, and Geese, as well as the -Pelicans, Cormorants, Penguins, and others. These, for the greater part, -frequent the margins of the bays and estuaries, and many of them are almost -as much birds of the land as of the sea. The Penguins in fact having but -rudiments of wings, and incapable of flight, are necessarily restricted, though -performing very remarkable migrations by swimming. These extraordinary -birds are peculiar to the southern hemisphere, and have been met with amongst -the ice and snow of the highest latitudes which navigators have succeeded in -reaching within the Antarctic circle.</p> -<p>The bird which is the subject of our present article, is one of a group of -species which, possessing great powers of flight and swimming with facility, -do not content themselves with the vicinity of the coast, but venture boldly -out to sea. The largest and best known species, the Wandering Albatross, -has been observed by voyagers at a distance of two thousand miles or upwards -from land; and it is even supposed that it performs a flight across the Atlantic -from Cape Horn, or about its latitude, to the Cape of Good Hope. The -smaller species, of which the present is one, do not venture on so long flights, -but several voyagers have recorded their having been seen at two to five -hundred miles out at sea.</p> -<p>On the sea-coast of America, on the Atlantic, the Albatrosses are found -inhabiting only a portion of the shores of the southern division of this continent -north of Cape Horn, but on the Pacific they are abundant throughout -the extent of the continent.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig35"> -<img src="images/ppp34.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="492" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 35<br /><span class="ln2">The black-footed Albatross</span><br /><span class="ln3">Diomedes nigripes (<i>Audubon</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_211">211</div> -<p>The species that we present to the reader in the present plate, was discovered -on the coast of California by the late John K. Townsend, M. D., and -was first brought to notice by Mr. Audubon, in his Ornithological Biography, -V., p. 327, but the specimen appears to have been accompanied by no notice -of its history.</p> -<p>Since the period of its discovery, this bird has been again observed only -by Dr. Heermann, who has kindly furnished the following note from his -Journal:—</p> -<p>“The Black-footed Albatross abounds on the coast of California and -southward, as do several other species of this genus. It is commonly to be -seen skimming over the waves in its flight, and following in the wake of -vessels, to pick up the refuse scraps thrown overboard. With the voracity -characteristic of these birds, it seizes with little discrimination on whatever -is thrown into the water, and of this propensity advantage may be taken by -baiting a hook, by which, when seized, the bird is easily secured. From the -stern-ports of our ship, during a voyage by sea to California, I have thus -captured eight or ten specimens of this and other species of this genus in a -single morning. All the species much resemble each other in habits, so far -as my observations extend.</p> -<p>“On the coast of California, I observed a White Albatross much smaller -than the large <i>Diomedea exulans</i>, but not having succeeded in procuring it, -I cannot designate the species.”</p> -<p>The small white species alluded to by Dr. Heermann, is probably new -to the ornithology of North America. Of the species known as inhabitants, -we may say of the Pacific ocean, several have not heretofore been noticed by -naturalists on the shores of the United States.</p> -<h3 id="c112">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Diomedea.</span> Linnæus, Syst. Nat. I., p. 214. (1766.)</dt></dl> -<p>Size large; general form short and compact; wings very long; bill straight, -much compressed, hooked at the tip; both mandibles usually with lateral -grooves; apertures of the nostrils tubular; first primary longest; secondaries -short; tail short; legs moderate; feet large.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Diomedea nigripes.</span> Audubon, Ornith. Biog. V., p. 327. (1839.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Medium sized or rather small for a bird of this genus; bill straight, -hooked at the tip; upper mandible expanded on the forehead, its basal edge -forming a crescent very distinct from the frontal feathers; tubular nostrils -prominent; wing long; first quill longest; tail short, nearly square at the -tip; tarsi short; feet large; tibia naked above the joint with the tarsus.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length of skin, 26 inches; wing, 19; tail, 5 inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> Plumage at the base of the bill pale brownish-white, of which -color there is also a spot behind and under the eye; entire other plumage -<span class="pb" id="Page_212">212</span> -above and below sooty brown, darkest on the back and wings, lighter on the -under parts, and having a gray tinge on the breast; bill dark; tarsi and feet -black.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Western Coast of North America. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This species much resembles in colors and general appearance the -Dusky Albatross (<i>Diomedea fuliginosa</i>, Gm., which is <i>D. fusca</i>, Aud.), but -may at once be distinguished by the color of the feet, which in the present -bird are black, and in the other yellow. In <i>D. fuliginosa</i>, the tail is much -longer and wedge-shaped, and the upper mandible extends in a point into -the plumage of the head in front, instead of being as above described in the -species now before us.</p> -<p>It is a species apparently peculiar to the western coast of America; but as -illustrative of the very extensive range of these birds, we may mention that -several species, which are common on the Pacific coast of this continent, are -also met with on the shores of Australia. The Great Wandering Albatross, -the Dusky Albatross, and the Yellow-nosed Albatross (<i>D. exulans fuliginosa</i> -and <i>chlorhynchus</i>), are given as birds of that continent in Mr. Gould’s magnificent -work, “The Birds of Australia,” and are now well known to be inhabitants -of the western shores of the continent of America.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig36"> -<img src="images/ppp35.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="470" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 36<br /><span class="ln2">The Ground Cuckoo</span><br /><span class="ln3">Geococcyx mexicanus (<i>Gmelin</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_213">213</div> -<h2 id="c113"><span class="small">GEOCOCCYX MEXICANUS.—(Gmelin.)</span> -<br />The Ground Cuckoo. The Prairie Cock. The Paisano. The Corre-camino. -<br />PLATE XXXVI. Adult Male.</h2> -<p>Of the many birds of Western America, the history of which has been -brought to light by the recent researches of our countrymen and fellow-laborers -in the great field of zoological science, that now before the reader is -one of the most curious and interesting. Its existence has been known to -naturalists since the time of Hernandez, who, as early as 1651, in his “New -History of the Plants, Animals, and Minerals of Mexico,” gives a short -account of it, as one of the most remarkable of the birds that came under his -observation. Though partially known for so long a period, and having -received various names from European naturalists, who have described specimens -met with in museums, there was extant no satisfactory account of this -bird previous to the incorporation of countries which it inhabits with the -confederacy of the United States, and the consequent facilities afforded to -the investigations of American naturalists.</p> -<p>This bird is especially remarkable for great swiftness of foot, and in fact -appears to be almost unrivalled in that respect by any other of our North -American species, not even excepting the Grouse, Partridges, or any other of -the smaller gallinaceous birds. These, though possessing the ability to run -short distances very swiftly, are incapable of sustaining a protracted chase -like the present bird. In Mexico, and the adjacent portions of the United -States, it is not unusual, as a matter of amusement, to try the speed of our -bird by pursuing him on horseback, or by chasing him with dogs, under which -severe test of his fleetness, he acquits himself very creditably, and makes, as -we shall see presently, a longer race than is usually expected by his pursuer. -He evidently possesses both speed and bottom, unrivalled by any fair competition -in ornithological pedestrianism, so far as its annals are chronicled, or -the present writer’s information on that subject extends.</p> -<p>Clothed in plumage of agreeable and unusual colors for a Northern species, -and habitually frequenting the ground, walking or running with its long tail -carried erect, and assuming a variety of grotesque attitudes, it is not surprising -that this bird has attracted the attention of nearly all our naturalists -and travellers who have visited its native regions. Through their exertions, -it is now to be found in nearly all our museums and private collections, and -many facts respecting it have been placed on record.</p> -<p>Though terrestrial in its habits, and exhibiting in some degree the manners -and habits of the gallinaceous birds (the Pheasants, Partridges, Grouse, &c.), -<span class="pb" id="Page_214">214</span> -this bird is by no means to be classed in that division of the ornithological -kingdom. It is a Cuckoo, and a relative of the celebrated bird of Europe so -long known as to have become classic, and of the unobtrusive and plain-plumaged -little birds of the United States, of the genus <i>Coccyzus</i>, popularly -known by the name of Cow-birds, or Rain-birds. Our present bird is a representative -of the gallinaceous form, in the family of Cuckoos. Throughout -the animal and vegetable kingdoms, and in every division or subdivision of -whatever character, five primary groups or forms present themselves. In -birds and all their groups, these are: the typical, or bird-like form; the predatory, -or rapacious; the gallinaceous, or walking; the grallatorial, or wading; -and the natatorial, or swimming form. In the group of Cuckoos, which is -quite extensive, and species of which are found in nearly all parts of the -world, the bird now before us belongs to the subdivision comprising the gallinaceous -or walking Cuckoos, and is a striking example of that peculiar form -in the great circle of birds, and of the prevalence of a law which is universal, -and not difficult to demonstrate.</p> -<p>The first American naturalist who observed the bird now before the reader, -was Dr. William Gambel, and a description by him will be found in the Proceedings -of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia, Vol. II., p. -263. (1845). Subsequently, it has been noticed by nearly all naturalists who -have visited California, New Mexico, or Texas, and interesting contributions -to its history are contained in their publications relating to the ornithology -of those countries.</p> -<p>Our esteemed friend, Col. George A. McCall, with his usual clearness and -scientific accuracy, gave the first satisfactory account of this bird, in the -Proceedings of the Philadelphia Academy, III. p. 234 (July, 1847.):</p> -<p>“Although the toes of this bird are disposed in opposite pairs, as in other -species of his family, yet the outer toe being reversible, and of great flexibility, -is in either position aptly applied in climbing or perching, as well as on -the ground. Thus he at times pitches along the ground in irregular but -vigorous hops; and again, when the outer toe is thrown forward, he runs -smoothly, and with such velocity, as to be able to elude a dog in the <i>chaparral</i>, -without taking wing. He feeds on <i>coleoptera</i>, and almost every description -of insects, and near the river Nueces, where the snail (<i>Lynnæus stagnalis</i>) -abounds, it is also greedily eaten. These he snatches from the ground, or -plucks from the low branch of a bush; and as he rarely wanders far from his -abode, the prize is carried to a particular spot, where the shell is broken with -his strong bill, and the animal devoured. Piles of these shells are often found -that would fill half a hat crown.</p> -<p>“Although dwelling principally on the ground, he is ready and expert in -catching his prey in the air, in which act his movements are full of animation,—bounding -from the ground with a sudden impulse to the height of -eight or ten feet; his wings and tail are seen expanded for a scarcely appreciable -<span class="pb" id="Page_215">215</span> -instant, and his bill is heard to snap as he takes his prey, when he -drops as suddenly to the spot from which he sprang. Here he will stand for -a moment, his legs apart, and his tail flirted on one side with a wild and -eccentric expression of exultation in his attitude, before he scampers off -under cover of the thick <i>chaparral</i>. At first, I thought,—as is the general -impression among the Mexicans,—that his powers of flight were extremely -limited; but he will, when suddenly alarmed in open ground, rise with a light, -quick motion, and continue his flight over the bushes for some hundred yards, -apparently with an ease that would argue the ability to sustain a longer -flight.</p> -<p>“Though fond of solitude and shade, he will, at an early hour in the morning, -climb to the top of a straight leafless branch, there to sit and enjoy the -first rays of the sun.</p> -<p>“He is said by the Mexican rancheros to build his nest of loose sticks, -either in a low, thick bush, or in close cover on the ground. The eggs are -said by them to be two or three in number, and of a whitish color.”</p> -<p>We have again to express our obligations to Col. McCall for the following -contribution to our present article:—</p> -<p>“I never was so fortunate as to find the nest of this bird, yet I had frequent -opportunities of witnessing its manners and habits in Texas, in New Mexico, -and in California, between the years 1846-52.</p> -<p>“Of shy and retiring disposition, the <i>G. viaticus</i> is most often met with -singly. I have, however, frequently seen the male and female associated -during the later period of the year, as well as in spring and summer; the -former, at all seasons, being easily distinguishable by his larger size and more -brilliant plumage. Whether the pairs I thus met were mated for life, or for -the year, or were merely accidentally living in company, I am unable to say—I -simply state the fact; and I well recollect my fruitless efforts, in Texas, -for several successive days in autumn, to secure a pair that inhabited a large -<i>chaparral</i> near which I happened to be encamped at the time. The male -was a remarkably fine bird, but evidently an old and cautious fellow; he -would come just without the thicket, followed by the female—and there, with -neck outstretched, cast a searching glance around; then, if an enemy -appeared, even in the distance, he would instantly retreat to his impenetrable -abode trebly fenced with thorns. In a little while, he would re-appear at -another point, where, if the coast seemed clear, he would, closely followed by -his mate, begin to search for grass-hoppers and other insects, but never venture -more than a few paces from the border of the thicket. Thus it was -impossible to approach him in open ground; and such was his constant -caution and vigilance that, although I more than once lay in wait for the -couple, which I regularly saw in the morning hours, I never succeeded in -getting within gunshot.</p> -<p>“When suddenly surprised, I have seen this bird rise on wing and fly considerable -distances, in order to gain close cover, the flight being effected by -<span class="pb" id="Page_216">216</span> -regular flappings, and executed, apparently, with ease; though the bird did -not rise more than six or eight feet from the ground.</p> -<p>“The individuals that I killed in the fall and winter seasons, invariably -were excessively fat, and their crops were usually filled with snails and various -coleoptera. I do not recollect that I ever found in their stomachs the remains -of lizards or other reptiles.</p> -<p>“The <i>Paisano</i> (countryman), as this bird is called by the Mexicans, or -<i>Corre-camino</i> (run-the-road), as the native Californians designate it, is often -met in the unfrequented roads that traverse forests of low brushwood, being -enticed from its sombre retreats to the openings, in search of its favorite -food. And here is often afforded the traveller an opportunity of witnessing -its surpassing swiftness of foot. I have several times tested its speed with a -good horse under me, and I have in truth been astonished at the almost -incredible rate at which it passed over the ground. On one occasion, when -approaching Limpia creek (W. Texas), with a small party, on my way to -El Paso, I discovered a fine male <i>Paisano</i> in the open road, about one hundred -yards in advance. For amusement, I put spurs to my horse and dashed -after him, followed by one of my men. For full four hundred yards, I ran -him along a road level and smooth as a floor; and over which, with straightened -neck and slightly-expanded wings, he swiftly glided, seeming scarcely to -touch the ground. And when, at last, he deemed it prudent to seek shelter -in the thicket alongside, I had not reduced the distance between us more -than fifty yards.</p> -<p>“I was told on the frontier that the Mexican rancheros do sometimes run -down and capture the <i>Paisano</i> when they find him wandering on more open -ground; and such I think is probable, for the one to which I have just -referred was going, even to the moment at which he <i>took cover</i>, at a rate of -speed that could not possibly have been much longer sustained; nor could -he, I think, when so nearly ‘blown,’ have risen on wing. Such, at least, is -the case with the wild turkey, which I have repeatedly captured in the same -way, although his power of flight is greater than that of the <i>Paisano</i>.”</p> -<p>Capt. John P. McCown, of the United States Army, also observed the -<i>Paisano</i> in Texas; and in his observations on the birds of that State, in the -Annals of the New York Lyceum of Natural History, VI. p. 9, we find the -following:—</p> -<p>“Often in my wanderings through the <i>chapparel</i> on the Rio Grande, I -observed piles of broken snail shells, and always near some hard substance, -such as a bone, or hard piece of wood, which had evidently been used in -breaking the shells. I made many conjectures as to the probable animal, -but never suspected that a bird had left these evidences of its peculiar habits. -I heard, also, at times, generally in the morning or evening, a sound very -similar to that made by some Woodpeckers, rapidly beating their bills upon -an old dry tree. This was also a mystery, as I could find no Woodpeckers -<span class="pb" id="Page_217">217</span> -near the place where the sound came from. Upon inquiry of a Mexican, I -was told that it was the <i>Paisano</i> breaking the snail-shells to get at the snail, -which explained at once both the noise and the mutilated shells. I was afterwards -so fortunate as to see a bird so occupied. It took the snail in its bill -and beat it upon the hard substance, striking faster and faster, until the -shell broke.</p> -<p>“A few of these birds are to be found on the Rio Nueces. They run with -great speed, seldom taking to wing. I have seen them on trees apparently -observing the vicinity. I had a young bird of this species, about half-grown, -but it refused to eat, and soon died; and I have seen some in coops, and have -been informed that they have been tamed.</p> -<p>“When approached, this bird runs very swiftly until near cover, when it -stops and reconnoitres the intruder, gives its tail a flirt, and away it goes -again.</p> -<p>“In 1846, on the mountains between Monterey and Saltillo, I saw a pair -of birds much like these, but much smaller. I observed them for some time, -and feel satisfied that they were another species. The snail that seems to -form the principal food of these birds is found sticking to almost every bush, -and some are literally covered with them.”</p> -<p>In California, this bird was frequently noticed by Dr. Heermann, from -whose manuscripts in our possession we have permission to make the following -extract:—</p> -<p>“We found this bird throughout California inhabiting the most arid portions -of the country. It often crossed our path, or ran before us for a short -distance on the road, dashing, when alarmed, immediately into the <i>chapparel</i>, -in which its swiftness of foot enabled it to readily elude pursuit. It may, -however, be overtaken when followed on horseback over the vast open plains -in which it is found, if no friendly bush offers it a shelter. When closely -chased, if on an elevated point, it will sometimes fly, but appears to prefer -sailing downwards. I once saw a specimen captured by a couple of dogs, -their appetites whetted by recent success in overtaking and bringing down a -Prairie wolf, or cayote.</p> -<p>“The stomachs of all the specimens that I examined of this bird were filled -with the grass-hoppers and large black beetles found on the plains. The -nest, built on the branches of the cactus, is formed of loose sticks, thrown -negligently together, in the same manner as that of the yellow-billed Cuckoo -of the United States (<i>Coccyzus americanus</i>). It contains two large, nearly -spherical, white eggs.</p> -<p>“I have never witnessed the following, but was gravely assured of its truth -by several old Californians: It is said that this bird, on perceiving the -rattlesnake coiled up asleep, will collect the cactus and hedge him around in -a circle, out of which he is prevented from escaping by the prickly points -<span class="pb" id="Page_218">218</span> -opposing him on every side; and becoming enraged, strikes himself, and dies -from the effects of his self-inoculated venom.</p> -<p>“This bird is common in Western Texas and on the Rio Grande.”</p> -<p>This remarkable bird has been found in the vicinity of Fort Webster, New -Mexico, by Dr. Henry, and was also noticed in that country and in Texas by -Mr. Clark, Mr. Schott, and Dr. Kennerly, and in Mexico by Lieut. Couch.</p> -<p>Though neither of the authors above cited have mentioned that this bird -devours reptiles as well as insects and snails, that fact is stated by Dr. Gambel -in his paper on the Birds of California, in the first volume of the quarto Journal -of the Philadelphia Academy, and it is so represented in some spirited sketches -by Mr. Arthur Schott, now attached to the United States and Mexican Boundary -Surveying party, whose drawings of this bird made in its native wilds -are in the possession of our valued friend, Professor Baird, of the Smithsonian -Institution. It is probable that although it may prefer insects, other small -animals afford suitable food.</p> -<p>Lieut. D. N. Couch, of the U. S. Army, to whom we have been indebted -for other valuable contributions, has, with his usual kindness, added to our -present article the following interesting notice of this bird as an inhabitant -of Northern Mexico:—</p> -<p>“This bird was first met with in Southwestern Texas, near the Rio Grande, -where it is called ‘Prairie Cock’ by the inhabitants. Few or no opportunities -occurred for me to observe it carefully, until I found myself in the -dreary chapparel districts of Tamaulipas, and next beyond the Sierra -Madre.</p> -<p>“The chapparel is its home. Equally avoiding the forests of high trees -or the open prairies,—in the former of which its short wings would preclude -an easy flight to the branches, and in the latter, for the same reason, it would -be unable to escape from the numerous hawks of various species that are ever -hovering over the arid wastes of that region. Once only I saw it perched -near the top of a stout Mesquite tree, though not many feet from the -ground.</p> -<p>“So far as I have observed, this bird rarely takes to wing, but with head -lowered and tail nearly horizontal; crouching to the ground, it runs without -using its wings, with incredible swiftness; stopping suddenly, its long and -beautiful tail is raised and depressed with as much grace as a fan in the hand -of an accomplished senorita.</p> -<p>“In one of my excursions, I saw a wolf chase a hare (<i>Lepus texianus</i>), but -was distanced in a few seconds, in the short race, a bird of this species was -started, and the wolf in turn tried its fleetness, with the same result very distinctly -arrived at. Apparently much disappointed, he looked at me for a -moment, with an expression that seemed to say, “I have half a mind to try -you;” but he turned off sulkily and trotted away, leaving me quite satisfied -with his conclusion.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_219">219</div> -<p>“Pa-i-san-o is the name by which this bird is known to the Mexicans. -They hold it in high estimation on account of its enmity to the rattlesnake, -which it usually succeeds in killing in fair combat. Notwithstanding that it -is by no means deficient in courage, there is scarcely one of the feathered -tribe that is so quiet and harmless in its habits. I have never noticed any -note except a weak scream, and that very seldom. It is apparently not -social, never occurring in flocks, not a wanderer to much extent, and though -almost a hermit, is the most pleasing and friendly-looking inhabitant that -lives only in the chapparel.”</p> -<h3 id="c114">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Geococcyx.</span> Wagler, Isis, 1831, p. 524.</dt></dl> -<p>General form lengthened and rather slender; bill long, straight, strong, -compressed, curved at the tip; wings short, rounded; fourth and fifth primaries -longest; first short; tail long, graduated; legs long, especially the -tibiæ; tarsi covered with wide transverse scales, very distinct in front; toes -moderate, covered with scales; claws curved, flattened laterally. An American -genus, containing two or three species only, all of which inhabit California, -Texas, and Mexico.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Geococcyx mexicanus.</span> (Gmelin.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Phasianus mexicanus.</span> Gm., Syst. Nat., II. p. 741. (1788.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Geococcyx variegatus.</span> Wagler, Isis, 1831, p. 524.</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Diplopterus viaticus.</span> Boie, Isis, 1831, p. 541.</dt> -<dt>“<span class="sc">Cuculus viaticus.</span> Licht. Mus. Berol.” Wagler and Boie, as above.</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Saurothera marginata.</span> Kaup, Isis, 1832, p. 991, pl. 26.</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Saurothera californiana.</span> Less, Ann. du Mus., Paris, 1835, p. 121, pl. 9.</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Leptostoma longicauda.</span> Swains., Cab. Cy. Birds, II. p. 325. (1837.)</dt> -<dt>“<span class="sc">Saurothera Bottæ.</span> Blainville.”</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Upupa mexicana.</span> Gm., Syst. Nat., I. p. 467?</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Head above with elongated, erectile, crest-like feathers. A large -bare space around and behind the eye extending towards the occiput; wings -short; tail long; legs long, stout; tarsus with about eight or nine wide and -strong scales in front.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Male.</i>—Total length of skin, about 22 inches; wing, 6½; -tail, 11 inches. <i>Female</i>, smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> <i>Male.</i>—Space around and behind the eye, in the living bird, yellow, -with a large red spot on its most posterior part; plumage of the head above -dark blue, with a metallic lustre, every feather edged with reddish fulvous -and white; entire other upper parts dark metallic green, darkest on the neck -behind and on the back; lightest on the wings and central feathers of the -tail; all the upper plumage edged with white, and very narrowly with pale -fulvous; primary quills dark brown, with a green metallic lustre, and edged -<span class="pb" id="Page_220">220</span> -with white on their outer webs; upper coverts of the tail and two central -tail feathers green, with metallic lustre, and edged with white; other feathers -of the tail deep shining blue, narrowly edged, and widely tipped with white, -and having in some lights a green lustre; under parts white, slightly tinged -with ashy and very pale yellowish; and on the throat and neck before with -longitudinal stripes of dark greenish-brown; bill and feet light bluish. -<i>Female</i> similar, but with the colors less vivid.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> California, New Mexico, Texas, and Mexico. Spec. in Mus. Acad., -Philada., and in Nat. Mus., Washington city.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> As the reader will have discovered from our preceding synonymes, -an unusual superabundance of names has been proposed for this bird. We -have no doubt, however, that it is the <i>Hoitlallotl</i> of Hernandez (Nova, plantarum, -animalium et mineralium Mexicanorum, Historia, p. 25. Folio, Rome, -1651), whose description is cited by both Buffon and Latham. On the faith -of the notice by the latter (Synopsis of Birds, II. p. 723), Gmelin gave the -name <i>Phasianus mexicanus</i> as cited above. The description by Hernandez -is short and not very accurate; but we could mention many species of birds, -the original descriptions of which are quite as much so, both ancient and -modern. Prof. Wagler, in his description of <i>Geococcyx variegatus</i>, above -alluded to, expresses the opinion that his bird is the same as that described -by Hernandez; and Mr. Strickland, in Ann. and Mag. of Nat. Hist., VIII. -p. 544 (1842), arrives at the same conclusion.</p> -<p>We regard it as at least possible, too, that this bird is the <i>Upupa mexicana</i> -(Gmelin, Syst. Nat., I. p. 467), which is the “Mexican Promerops” (Latham, -Syn., II. p. 691). The descriptions are founded on a figure in Seba (pl. 45, -fig. 3), that about as accurately represents this species as any other; which -can also be said of his description. In Seba’s figure it will be observed that -three toes are directed forward, which might appear to be a difficulty; but in -reference to that point we ask attention to Col. McCall’s valuable contribution -in a preceding page. There is, too, some peculiarity intended or -attempted to be represented in the figure to which we allude.</p> -<p>The sexes of this bird differ in size very considerably; and there are, also, -variations in size and measurements, such as comparative lengths of their -bills and tails between different specimens. We have seen a large number -of specimens, from various localities, but of one species only. Though we -have been constantly on the watch for it, we have never detected the smaller -species alluded to by Captain McCown, which is very probably <i>Geococcyx -affinis</i>, described by Dr. George Hartlaub, of the State Museum of Bremen, -one of the most learned and accurate of European ornithologists. That -species may be more an inhabitant of the mountainous or hilly country than -the subject of our present article.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig37"> -<img src="images/ppp36.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1130" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 37<br /><span class="ln2">The Whip-Tom-Kelly</span><br /><span class="ln3">Vireosylvia altiloqua (<i>Vieillot</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_221">221</div> -<h2 id="c115"><span class="small">VIREOSYLVIA ALTILOQUA.—(Vieillot.)</span> -<br />The Long-billed Flycatcher. The Whip-tom-kelly. The John-to-whit. -<br />PLATE XXXVII. Adult Male.</h2> -<p>This little bird is very similar in form and general appearance to the Red-eyed -Flycatcher (<i>Vireosylvia olivacea</i>), of the United States, but is larger, -and is distinctly characterized by the dark line on the side of the neck. It -appears to possess much the same habits as the common species just mentioned, -and others that inhabit the northern division of the continent of -America. Passing its life, for the greater part, searching for insects amongst -the thick foliage of the forest, in which its color favors concealment, it utters -its peculiar notes, evidently of the same general character, but much louder -and quite different from those of either of its northern brethren.</p> -<p>Though long known as a bird of the West Indies, and represented by Mr. -Gosse to be abundant in the Island of Jamaica, it has but recently been discovered -within the limits of the United States. Vieillot, it is true, gave it -as a North American species, and in his fine work, which is of standard value -in the history of our birds, figures it accurately, but from specimens obtained -in the West Indies. It was first ascertained to be a summer visitor in Florida, -by Dr. A. L. Heermann, who observed it in considerable numbers in that -State, at a season when it was certainly engaged in the duties of incubation; -but it has as yet never been noticed in any other part of the United States. -It is probable, too, that it inhabits Cuba, but the several able naturalists of -that Island have not detected it, or at least have not stated it to be different -from the common Red-eyed Flycatcher.</p> -<p>For our article on this bird, Dr. Heermann has, with great kindness, -furnished the following notice:—</p> -<p>“Charlotte Harbour is situated on the Gulf of Mexico, and is studded with -numerous small islands or keys, as they are called, on which grows the cocoa-nut, -said to be brought hither from the West Indies by the tides, and being -thrown on the shore, takes root and flourishes. Some of these islands, during -my visit, I may say almost swarmed with Herons, Cormorants, Snake-birds, -Spoonbills, and Pelicans, engaged in attending to their nests, and raising -their young. The wild fig, orange, lemon, palmetto, and pine, abound—the -first of which is the principal food of several species of birds, while the large -numbers of fishes everywhere in the surrounding waters afford ample subsistence -to those that I have mentioned. On the sand-bars, various species -of Terns were to be found in abundance, also engaged in incubation, while -<span class="pb" id="Page_222">222</span> -the Fish Crow, ever on the alert to seize the eggs or young, or the captured -prey of any of these species when left unguarded, was ever to be seen on the -wing, and at a distance, and not to be approached easily, I have frequently -seen flocks of Flamingoes dredging perseveringly for shell-fishes, or standing -in groups, looking almost like files of soldiers in red uniforms.</p> -<p>“I mention these birds because, like the little Long-billed Flycatcher, and -like the cocoa-nut, too, if the prevailing belief is correct, they appear to be -visitors only from a more southern clime. They seem to have reached Florida -in the course of a northern migration, and although remaining for a season, -retire periodically, again to appear in due time.</p> -<p>“In this vicinity, I met with the Long-billed Flycatcher, which, coming -with his larger and more conspicuous fellow-travellers, to which I have -alluded, appears to be a more transient visitant, performing the duties of -incubation on this the northern district of his range, and soon retiring southwardly -to the West Indies. This bird much resembles in manners and -appearance the Red-eyed Flycatcher of the Northern States, but is not, I -think, its equal as a vocalist. His notes, at the season when I heard them, -were not as numerous, nor his song so long-continued. They are quite -different from those of the Red-eye, but clear and musical, and very distinctly -uttered. He is constantly on the search for insects, and appeared to me to -be more active than either of the northern species, darting about amongst -the foliage, or peering into a crevice or recess in a branch, or a spider’s -web, with his back downwards, like the warblers,—or occasionally chasing a -flying insect, in the manner of the Pewee Flycatchers. These actions were -usually accompanied by his song, as is the case with the Red-eye and the -Warbling Flycatchers. This species was not abundant, though I saw it frequently, -and obtained several specimens.”</p> -<p>The name, “Whip-tom-kelly,” is applied to this bird in Brown’s Jamaica, -one of the standard authorities on that Island (the Civil and Natural History -of Jamaica, by Patrick Brown, M. D., London, 1789, folio), as its popular -appellation, and has been transferred to the works of various authors. Mr. -Gosse, however, in his pleasant volume on the Birds of Jamaica, mentions -that he had never heard this designation.</p> -<p>The naturalists of Jamaica and Cuba appear to have considered this bird -as identical with the Red-eyed Flycatcher. The latter may be a visitor, most -probably, in the winter, to these islands, but the present is undoubtedly the -resident summer species, at least in Jamaica. The figure in Edward’s Gleanings -of Natural History (V. pl. 253), is particularly stated to have been made -from Dr. Brown’s specimen brought from Jamaica, and clearly represents the -present bird. Mr. Swainson, in Fauna Boreali Americana, Birds, p. 237, in -his description of <i>Vireo longirostris</i>, which is this bird, mentions having -received specimens from the Islands of Jamaica and St. Vincent.</p> -<p>As a bird of Jamaica, this little Flycatcher is described in his usually -<span class="pb" id="Page_223">223</span> -agreeable manner, by Mr. Gosse, in his work above alluded to. Holding -ourselves in duty bound, we take the liberty of transcribing from his pages -as followeth, premising that he calls this bird the “John-to-whit:”—</p> -<p>“Much oftener heard than seen, though not unfamiliar to either sense, this -sober-colored bird is one of those whose notes have such a similarity to articulations -as to procure them a common appellation. The Flycatchers, in -general, are not very vociferous, but this is pertinacious in its tritonous call, -repeating it with energy every two or three seconds. It does not ordinarily -sit on a prominent twig, or dart out after insects, though I have seen one in -eager but unsuccessful pursuit of a butterfly (<i>Terias</i>); but it seems to love -the centre of thick woods, where it sits announcing its presence, or flits from -bough to bough as you approach, so that it is not easy to get a sight of it.</p> -<p>“This bird does not winter with us, but leaves with the Grey Petchary -(<i>Tyrannus Dominicensis</i>), at the beginning of October. It returns early—and -like the bird just named, evidently makes an eastward progress, arriving -at the southwest end of the island first. On the 26th of March, on my return -to Bluefields, after a visit to Spanishtown, I heard its well-known voice, but -my lad had noticed it a week before. From this time, every grove, I might -almost say every tree, had its bird, uttering, with incessant iteration and untiring -energy, from its umbrageous concealment, ’<i>Sweet-John!—John-to-whit!—Sweet-John-to-whit!—John-t’-whit!—Sweet-John-to—whit!</i>’ -I can -scarcely understand how the call can be written ‘Whip-tom-kelly,’ as the -accent, if I may so say, is most energetic on the last syllable. Nor have I -ever heard this appellation given to it in Jamaica. After July, we rarely -hear ‘<i>John-to-whit</i>’—but, ‘<i>to-whit—to-whoo</i>,’ and sometimes a soft, simple -chirp, or <i>sip, sip</i>, whispered so gently as scarcely to be audible. This, however, -I have reason to believe is the note of the young, for I have heard -young ones repeatedly utter it, when sitting on a twig, receiving from time -to time, with gaping beak and quivering wing, the food contributed by the -dam.</p> -<p>“The food of the John-to-whit is both animal and vegetable. In March, -I have found in its stomach the seeds of the tropic birch, and in April, the -berries of sweet-wood, in an unripe state. In the same month, I observed -one hunting insects by the borders of Bluefields rivulet, in which I was -bathing, and so intent was it upon its occupation, that it allowed me to -approach within a foot of it before it flew. It sought insects successfully -among the grass and low herbage, perching on the stalks of the weeds, and -jumping out after stationary, as well as vagrant, prey. I observed it eat -two spider’s nests, which it masticated as if peculiarly savory. As it sat, it -vomited a little white body, which I found to be the globose seed of the -misletoe berry.</p> -<p>“Incubation takes place in June and July. The nest is rather a neat structure, -though made of coarse materials. It is a deep cup, about as large as -<span class="pb" id="Page_224">224</span> -an ordinary tea-cup, narrowed at the mouth, composed of dried grass, intermixed -with silk-cotton, and sparingly with lichen and spiders’ nests, and -lined with thatch-threads. It is usually suspended between two twigs, or in -the fork of one, the margin being over-woven so as to embrace the twigs. -This is very neatly performed. Specimens vary much in beauty,—one before -me is particularly neat and compact, being almost globular in form, except -that about one-fourth of the globe is wanting, as it is a cup. Though the walls -are not thick, they are very firm and close, the materials being well woven. -These are fibres of grass-like plants, moss, a few dry leaves, flat papery -spiders’ nests, with a little cotton or down for the over-binding of the edges. -It is lined smoothly with fibres, I know not of what plant, as slender as -human hair. Another nest, similarly formed, has the cavity almost filled with -a mass of white cotton, which looks as if thrust in by man, but that those -filaments of the mass that are in contact with the sides, are interwoven with -the other materials. As it is picked cotton, it must be a bit stolen from some -house or yard, not plucked by the bird from the capsule. The eggs, commonly -three in number, are delicately white, with a few small red-brown spots -thinly scattered over the surface, sometimes very minute and few. Their form -is a somewhat pointed oval, measuring nine-tenths of an inch by rather less -than thirteen-twentieths.”</p> -<p>Our figure is about three-fourths of the size of life, and represents the -adult male from one of Dr. Heermann’s specimens obtained in Florida.</p> -<h3 id="c116">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Vireosylvia.</span> Bonaparte, Geog. and Comp. List of the Birds of Europe and North America, p. 26. (1838.)</dt></dl> -<p>Size small, but with the general form compact and stout; bill straight, -rather long, wide at base; upper mandible slightly notched near the point; -gonys slightly ascending; wing long, second quill usually longest; tail rather -short, even; legs and toes moderate in length, slender. A genus containing -five or six species, all of which are American. Colors in all known species -olive green, narrowly shaded and tinged with yellow.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Vireosylvia altiloqua.</span> (Vieillot.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Muscicapa altiloqua.</span> Vieill., Ois. d’Am., Sept. 1, p. 67, pl. 38. (1807.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Vireo longirostris.</span> Swains., Fau. Bor. Am., II. p. 237. (1831.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Phyllomanes mysticalis.</span> Cabanis, Erichson’s Archiv., 1837, p. 348?</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Turdus hispaniolensis.</span> Gm., Syst. Nat., I. p. 822?</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Bill long, strong, wide at base, with a few pairs of short, weak -bristles; wing long; second quill longest; tail moderate, truncate; legs -rather long, slender.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length of skin, 5½ inches; wing, 3½; tail, 2¼ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> A narrow line of black running downward on each side of the -neck, from the base of the lower mandible; head above ashy-olive; other -<span class="pb" id="Page_225">225</span> -upper parts olive-green, tinged with yellowish; quills and tail olive-brown, -edged outwardly with greenish-yellow; a line of yellowish-white running from -the nostril over the eye; between the eye and the bill dark olive; under -parts white, nearly pure on the throat, and on the other parts tinged with -ashy and greenish-yellow, especially on the sides; bill light corneous; irides -red.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Florida, West Indies, and South America. Spec. in Mus. Acad., -Philada.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> We consider it quite probable that this species is the <i>Turdus hispaniolensis</i> -of Gmelin, as above, which is the Hispaniola Thrush of Latham. -The figure in Buffon, Pl. Enl. 273, fig. 1, may represent the same.</p> -<p>This bird may readily be distinguished from all other species by the dark -lines on the neck, which seem to be present at all ages.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_226">226</div> -<h2 id="c117"><span class="small">AMMODROMUS ROSTRATUS.—(Cassin.)</span> -<br />The Long-billed Swamp Sparrow. -<br />PLATE XXXVIII. Adult Male.</h2> -<p>Of this bird we can give but a very imperfect history. It is one of a -group of Sparrows, of which other species inhabit North America, characterized -in some measure like the present, by the length and large size of their -bills, and their partiality for the vicinity of salt water. Two species, the -Sea-side Finch, and the Sharp-tailed Finch (<i>Ammodromus maritimus</i> and -<i>caudacutus</i>), are of frequent occurrence on the shores of the Atlantic, almost -throughout the extent of the coast of the temperate regions of North America,—and -in New Jersey may be met with in the summer season in considerable -numbers, wherever there are salt marshes, or that description of -vegetation peculiar to the shores of the ocean, or within reach of its tides. -In those localities, frequently of difficult access, these birds rear their young -in comparative safety, subsisting on seeds and insects, and seldom attracting -attention. They may occasionally be seen, too, on the bare sands of the -beach, searching for small marine animals thrown up by the waves.</p> -<p>The present bird is a representative of this group on the shores of the -Pacific, and from the notice by its discoverer, which we shall give directly, it -appears to be very similar in its habits. It was first observed by Dr. Heermann, -near San Diego, California, during his first visit to that country, and -has since that time been again noticed only by him. Specimens in excellent -plumage and preservation, from his collections, are in the National Museum, -Washington city, and in the collection of the Academy of Natural Sciences -of Philadelphia.</p> -<p>This bird was first described in the Proceedings of the Philadelphia -Academy, VI. p. 184 (Oct., 1852). For our present article, Dr. Heermann -has kindly permitted us to make the following extract from his Journals, kept -during his former and recent visits to California:—</p> -<p>“In 1851, I procured this bird on the shores of the Bay of San Diego, -where, in company with other species, it appeared to be engaged in searching -for grass-seeds. During the late Pacific Railroad survey by the party under -command of Lieut. Williamson, I again saw it in considerable numbers at -Santa Barbara and San Pedro. At the latter places, as at San Diego, it -frequents the low, sandy beach, and the heavy sedge-grass which abounds on -the shores, feeding on marine insects and seeds thrown up by the tides on the -former, and in the latter, finding quick and easy concealment when alarmed -or pursued. It appears to be a quiet, unsuspicious bird, and I heard it utter -only a short, sharp chirp during the limited time that I had to observe it.”</p> -<div class="img" id="fig38"> -<img src="images/ppp37.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1166" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 38<br /><span class="ln2">The Long-billed Marsh Sparrow</span><br /><span class="ln3">Ammodromus rostratus (<i>Cassin</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_227">227</div> -<p>At present, nothing further is known of this species. The figure in our -plate is that of an adult male, and is of the size of life.</p> -<h3 id="c118">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Ammodromus.</span> Swainson, Zool. Jour. III. p. 348. (1827.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Ammodromus rostratus.</span> (Cassin.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Emberiza rostrata.</span> Cassin, Proc. Acad., Philada., VI. p. 184. (1852.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Short, and rather heavy; bill lengthened, strong; wings with the -first, second, and third quills longest, and nearly equal; tail rather short, -emarginate; legs and feet moderately strong.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length of skin, about 5¼ inches; wing, 2¾; tail, 2 -inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> Entire plumage above dull-brownish and cinereous, every feather -longitudinally marked with the former, and tipped and edged with the latter, -the brown stripes being most strongly marked on the head and back; narrow -superciliary lines ashy-white; throat and entire under-parts white, with longitudinal -stripes, and arrow-heads of brown on the breast and flanks; stripes -of this character forming lines on the sides of the neck from the lower mandible, -above which are stripes of white; abdomen and under tail-coverts dull -white; wings and tail brown, edged with paler shades of the same color, -nearly white on the outer-webs of the external feathers of the tail, deeper -and tinged with rufous on the wing-coverts and exposed edges of the secondaries; -bill and feet light-colored, the former brownish above (in dried skin).</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> California. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada., and Nat. Museum, -Washington.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> We are acquainted with no species which this bird resembles in any -considerable degree, though its general characters are similar to the birds -that we have mentioned in the present article. Its bill is remarkably large -and strong, and its entire organization robust.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_228">228</div> -<h2 id="c119"><span class="small">PLECTROPHANES McCOWNII.—Lawrence.</span> -<br />McCown’s Bunting. -<br />PLATE XXXIX. Adult Male and Female in Summer Plumage.</h2> -<p>It is not only in the spring, or at the advent of the month sung by the -poets as the real birth of the year, that everywhere in the temperate regions -of North America, hosts of feathered travellers arrive, either to remain for a -season, or to continue their journey to more northern countries. In the -autumn and winter, also, troops of them constantly appear, succeeding each -other in some measure according to the earlier or later setting in of winter, -or the greater or less severity of that season. Nearly all of the autumnal -species, like our summer visitors, proceed to the South to spend the winter—others, -coming later, remain during the whole of the winter, and are constantly -recruited by new comers of the same species, but at the first opening -of spring, return to their homes. Some, as the Purple Finch and the little -Snow-bird, come every winter—others, as the Pine Grosbeak, the Northern -Linnet, and the two species of Crossbills, only occasionally. Though abundant, -perhaps, for one season, years may elapse before either of the birds -last mentioned will be seen again by the most diligent collector. At the -time of writing the present article (December, 1853), both the White-winged -Crossbill and the common Crossbill (<i>Loxia leucoptera</i> and <i>americana</i>), are -abundant in the neighborhood of Philadelphia, the former of which has not -before been seen here since the winter of 1835-6. The latter appears more -frequently.</p> -<p>In addition to these, we are visited by flocks of several species that are to -be found here rearing their young in the summer; but while our bird reared -in Pennsylvania has taken an excursion to the South, so his Northern namesake, -reared, perhaps, at Hudson’s Bay, has done the same, and made Pennsylvania -the limit of his journey. The Robin (<i>Merula migratoria</i>) is an -instance of this description of migration. This bird, in large flocks, is to be -met with almost every winter, especially in New Jersey, and wanders much -further southwardly and westward. We fancy that we can distinguish a -stranger of this species from one “native and to the manor born.” The -Northern Robin is slightly a larger bird than our summer resident; his colors -are a shade darker, and his bill decidedly a clearer yellow. Though not -presenting characters sufficient at all to raise a suspicion of distinction in -species, the northern bird is clearly of a different race. And so it is, too, -with the Red-winged Blackbird, the Meadow Lark, the Golden-winged and -the Red-headed Woodpeckers, and other species, all of which come here in -the winter from more northern latitudes, and in most of which close observation -will detect small characteristics of difference in race.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig39"> -<img src="images/ppp38.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="510" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 39<br /><span class="ln2">M<sup>c</sup>Cown’s Bunting</span><br /><span class="ln3">Plectrophanes M<sup>c</sup>Cownii (<i>Lawrence</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_229">229</div> -<p>The spring migration is confined to birds that pass the winter in the South, -in many cases not beyond the limits of the United States; but there are -birds that extend their journey to the islands of the West Indies, to Mexico, -and to Central America, and in some instances to South America. Many of -the Warblers, several of our common Thrushes and Finches, and various -others of our well-known North American species, visit Cuba and Jamaica in -the course of the winter, and in both those islands some of them make their -appearance while yet the season is not so far advanced in the United States -as to incommode them either by the cold or an abridged supply of their -favorite food.</p> -<p>The migration of these birds is a curious problem, and regulated by laws -entirely independent of the considerations of climate and supply of food. -One cannot readily find a reason why a bird that has passed the winter in a -tropical or southern latitude, should leave for the North at the coming of -spring, when a more plentiful supply of food than has sufficed for its winter -support is about to be presented. And then, too, why should birds proceed -so far to the North?—to the very confines of the Arctic circle, as many -small species do, when the great forests of the middle and northern States -offer ample accommodation, and supplies of food certainly equal to those in -which they will at last terminate their journey. There are questions here -difficult to answer. It would appear that the existence of an animal is predicated -on its performance of certain functions antecedently involved in its -organization. That its entire history, we may say, is but an answer to the -calls of organization. That the organization and the performance of its indicated -functions are strictly exponents of each other, the latter modified by -circumstances, and the relations of species to each other, dependent in some -measure on circumstances, but not produced by them, no more than forms or -other physical characters. No feature in the history of an animal is absolutely -produced by circumstances. There is, too, the consideration of inherited -instincts, and if the faculty of memory, and impressions on it, are -transmissible, nearly the whole phenomena of instinct may be explained.</p> -<p>In the western and southwestern countries of North America, within the -limits of the United States, various species of northern birds appear in winter -that have never been noticed on the Atlantic seaboard. The handsome little -bird that we present to the reader in the plate now before him, is one of that -description. It appears to be a native of the extensive and little-known -regions of northwestern America, migrating in the winter to California, New -Mexico, and Texas, where it has been seen by several of our naturalists.</p> -<p>There are several species in Western America of the group to which this -bird belongs, all characterized by agreeable and somewhat similar colors. In -the States on the Atlantic, the Snow Bunting (<i>Plectrophanes nivalis</i>) is their -only relative that is of usual occurrence,—though another, the Lapland -<span class="pb" id="Page_230">230</span> -Longspur (<i>Plectrophanes Lapponica</i>), occasionally appears, and of the -capture of which, in the neighborhood of Philadelphia, several instances have -come to our knowledge.</p> -<p>Capt. McCown, who discovered this present species in Texas, gives no -further account of it than that he shot it in company with a flock of Shore -Larks. His notice is in the Annals of the New York Lyceum of Natural -History, VI. p. 14. Dr. Henry has obtained it in the vicinity of Fort -Thorne, New Mexico. These, with Dr. Heermann, are the only naturalists -that have as yet noticed this bird in its native wilds.</p> -<p>During the survey for a route for a railroad to the Pacific, by Lieut. Williamson’s -party, to which Dr. Heermann was attached, he met with this bird -in large numbers, and his collection contains numerous specimens in various -stages of plumage. From these we have selected adults of both sexes, from -which the plate now before the reader has been prepared. In Dr. Heermann’s -manuscripts, kindly placed at our disposal for the purposes of our -present work, we find this bird thus noticed:—</p> -<p>“I found this species congregated in large flocks with the chestnut-collared -Lark Bunting (<i>Plectrophanes ornatus</i>), and engaged in gleaning the seeds -from the scanty grass on the vast arid plains of New Mexico. Insects and -berries also form part of their food, in search of which they show considerable -activity, running on the ground with ease and celerity.</p> -<p>“We found this bird, as well as various other species, particularly abundant -whenever we struck on the isolated water-holes that occur in this region, -these being the only spots for miles around where water can be obtained. -When fired at, or otherwise alarmed, they rise as if to fly away, but seem to -be irresistibly impelled by thirst to return to the only localities where relief -is to be obtained, and where, if the hunter is so inclined, large numbers -of this handsome little bird, and others, may be slaughtered with little -exertion.</p> -<p>“From Dr. T. C. Henry, of the U. S. Army, I learned that in the spring, -large flocks of this species appear at Fort Thorne, apparently on their return -to the North, having migrated southwardly the fall previous, and that they -leave on the return of mild weather. In several flocks of these birds I noticed -also the Shore Lark (<i>Alanda alpestris</i>), but it formed a small proportion -of the numbers.”</p> -<p>The figures in our plate are about two-thirds of the size of life.</p> -<h3 id="c120">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Plectrophanes.</span> Meyer, Taschenbuch der deutschen Vögelkunde III. p. 56. (1822.)</dt></dl> -<p>Bill short, conical, strong; nostrils basal, partially concealed; wing rather -long; first, second, and third quills longest; tail moderate, or short, usually -<span class="pb" id="Page_231">231</span> -even at the end, or emarginate; legs and feet moderately strong; hind toe -with the claw long, somewhat like that of the Larks (<i>Alauda</i>).</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Plectrophanes McCownii.</span> Lawrence, Annals of the New York Lyceum of Natural History, VI. p. 122. (1851.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Bill very strong, wide, and somewhat tumid at base; wing long; -secondaries emarginate; tertiaries longer than secondaries; second primary -longest; tail rather short, slightly emarginate; legs moderate; hind claw -long; coverts of the tail long.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <i>Male.</i>—Total length of skin, 5½ inches; wing, 3½; tail, 2¼ -inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> <i>Male.</i>—Head above, from the base of the bill, stripe on each -side of the neck from lower mandible, and wide transverse band on the breast, -black; lesser coverts of the wing chestnut; neck behind and body above dark -brown and brownish-ashy, every feather with a central stripe of the former -and edged with the latter; under-parts (except the breast) white, all the -feathers, with a basal portion, ashy-black, particularly observable immediately -below the black of the breast; quills brown, edged outwardly with yellowish -cinereous, on their inner-webs with white; two central feathers of the tail -brown, others white, tipped with brown; bill and feet light-colored. <i>Female.</i>—Entire -plumage above dark brown and brownish-ashy; beneath white, tinged -with dull yellowish on the throat and breast; no black on the head or breast.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> California, New Mexico, Texas. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada., -and Nat. Mus., Washington.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This little species is strictly of the same group as <i>Plectrophanes -ornatus</i> and <i>pictus</i>, and, like them, appears to be exclusively western. It -does not resemble those species in such degree as to be liable to be mistaken -for either of them.</p> -<p>The original description of this bird by Mr. Lawrence, as above cited, -appears to have been made from its winter plumage. Its dedication to Capt. -McCown, we regard as a highly appropriate acknowledgement of his valuable -services in the investigation of the ornithology of the southwestern regions -of the United States.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_232">232</div> -<h2 id="c121"><span class="small">RECURVIROSTRA OCCIDENTALIS.—Vigors.</span> -<br />The Western Avocet. The White Avocet. -<br />PLATE XL. Adult Male.</h2> -<p>This is a second American species of this singular group of birds, and is -as yet only known as an inhabitant of the regions of the far west. This -apparent restriction in the locality of the present bird is the more remarkable, -as the previously-known species, distinguished as the American Avocet -(<i>Recurvirostra americana</i>), is widely diffused, having been ascertained to be -abundant in the vicinity of Hudson’s Bay in the summer season, and thence, -through a wide central region of North America, to Texas. Occasionally it -is noticed on the coast of the Atlantic, sparingly north of New Jersey, but -becoming more numerous southwardly.</p> -<p>This species was discovered at San Francisco, California, by the naturalists -attached to H. B. M. ship Blossom, then on a voyage of discovery in the -Pacific ocean; and although that occurred about the year 1825, it has been -again noticed only by Col. McCall and Dr. Heermann, both of whom, however, -represent it as being by no means a rare bird.</p> -<p>With his usual kindness, Col. McCall has furnished the following notice -of this bird for our present article:—</p> -<p>“At the village of San Elizario, 22 miles south of El Paso, on the 16th -October, 1851, I found small flocks of the Western Avocet feeding along the -banks of the Rio Grande, and frequenting the sloughs and pools in its -vicinity, whilst moving to the South in the course of their regular autumnal -migration. They were tame and unsuspicious, and evidently ignorant of the -destructive character of the gun, for its report seemed to create little alarm, -even when the discharge carried death into their ranks. To illustrate this, I -need only mention the fact that the first flock which came immediately under -my observation alighted within twenty yards of the piazza where I was sitting -on the morning after my arrival. They waded at once into the shoal water -of a ‘<i>cut-off</i>’ from the river which passed immediately in front of the house, -and began to feed. I was near enough to see them immerse their bills into -the water, and search the soft mud below for their prey; and as they, from -time to time, were scattered, and again assembled in a group, I had ample -time and an excellent opportunity to note their manner of feeding. I was -soon satisfied that in this respect their habits did not differ from those of -<i>R. americana</i>, which I had previously seen in great numbers, and closely -observed on the borders of the Oso river, in southern Texas. After watching -them for some time, I took my gun, and at a single discharge, secured five -of the dozen that composed the flock. The remainder flew the distance of a -stone’s throw, and alighting in shoal water, began to feed again without -appearing to notice the loss of their companions. I followed them, and in a -few minutes procured three more within one hundred yards of the house. -During that day, and several successive days that I remained at the post, I -saw flocks of from six to ten on their feeding grounds, both morning and -afternoon. I shot them, as well as ducks and snipe, daily; and at no time -that I recollect, had I any difficulty in approaching within easy gun-shot.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig40"> -<img src="images/ppp39.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1170" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 40<br /><span class="ln2">The White Avocet</span><br /><span class="ln3">Recurvirostra occidentalis (<i>Vigors</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_233">233</div> -<p>“A few days previously, I had seen a very large flock of these birds near -<i>Val Verde</i>, some 170 miles further up the river. This flock contained fifty -or sixty birds; they rose near me as I fired at a flock of Teal, and circled -round in very compact order, presenting the beautiful contrast of their white -and black markings, and at length settled on the opposite side of the pond, -where they were beyond pursuit. The occasions here mentioned are the only -ones on which I have met with <i>R. occidentalis</i>.</p> -<p>“On the wing, the flocks were usually closely compacted; the flight was -buoyant, and with little exertion of muscular force.”</p> -<p>Dr. Heermann found this bird in California, and procured numerous specimens, -now in the National Museum, Washington, and in the Museum of the -Philadelphia Academy. In his manuscripts We find the following:—</p> -<p>“This species was observed in various parts of California, resorting to the -shallow pools, in which it waded breast-deep, usually finding on the soft -muddy bottom a plentiful feast of insects and snails. Although partially -web-footed, it does not swim, so far as I have noticed, unless wounded, when -it takes immediately to the deep water, swimming with great celerity, soon -getting beyond range, if not at once disabled by a second shot. I have noticed -this bird in abundance on the borders of the reedy swamps which cover -a large portion of the lower part of the Sacramento valley.”</p> -<p>The upward curve of the bill in the birds of this group, though very singular -and characteristic, has not been ascertained to be indicative of any -peculiarity of habits.</p> -<h3 id="c122">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Recurvirostra.</span> Linn., Syst. Nat, I. p. 256. (1766.)</dt></dl> -<p>Bill depressed, smooth, recurved; wing rather long, pointed; first quill -longest; tail short; legs long, moderately strong; toes rather short, partially -webbed. A peculiar and somewhat isolated genus, of which a few species -only are known, though inhabiting nearly all parts of the world.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Recurvirostra occidentalis.</span> Vigors, Zool. Journal, IV. p. 356. (1829.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> General form rather robust; bill depressed, soft at the tip; wing -with the first quill longest; tertiaries longer than secondaries; tail quite -<span class="pb" id="Page_234">234</span> -short; legs long; tibia feathered nearly one-half of its length; tarsus covered -with scales.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length of skin, from tip of bill to end of tail, about 16½ -inches; Wing, 9; tail, 3; tarsus, 3½; bill, 3½ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> Back and upper surface of wings brownish black, lightest on the -tertiaries, and darkest on the primaries; all other parts white, slightly tinged -with ashy on the head above and neck behind; secondary quills white; -greater coverts of the wing widely tipped with the same.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> California. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada., and Nat. Museum, -Washington.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This strongly-marked species bears some resemblance to the European -Avocet, and in fact is more closely allied to it than to the only -American species previously known. It is, however, a well characterized and -distinct bird.</p> -<p>The sexes of this species differ somewhat in size, the female being slightly -the smaller; and in the male, the dark tints are stronger. The latter is -represented in our plate.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_235">235</div> -<h2 id="c123"><span class="small">SYNOPSIS</span> -<br /><span class="smallest">OF</span> -<br /><span class="large">NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS.</span></h2> -<h3 id="c124">II. ORDER INSESSORES. THE PERCHING BIRDS.</h3> -<p>A group containing much the greater number of all known birds, almost -impossible to characterise in general terms. The birds of this order are, -however, generally organized for perching or living in trees, and have the -legs and feet moderately developed and formed for grasping. In this group -is found the highest development of the bird-like form of animal life.</p> -<h3 id="c125">I. TRIBE FISSIROSTRES. THE GOATSUCKERS, SWALLOWS, KINGFISHERS, &c.</h3> -<p>Bill wide at base; gape very large; feet small, weak; general form adapted -to the capture of insects on the wing, and in some of the families to rapid -and long-continued flight. This group contains the Goatsuckers (<i>Caprimulgidæ</i>), -the Swallows (<i>Hirundinidæ</i>), the Trogons (<i>Trogonidæ</i>), the Bee-eaters -(<i>Meropidæ</i>), and the Kingfishers (<i>Halcyonidæ</i>).</p> -<h3 id="c126">I. FAMILY CAPRIMULGIDÆ. THE GOATSUCKERS.</h3> -<p>Plumage soft, blended, and owl-like. Species generally nocturnal in their -habits, or venturing abroad only in the twilight or in the night.</p> -<p>Bill small, weak, generally furnished at the base with projecting bristles; -gape very wide; feet usually slender and weak; wings generally long, adapted -to long-continued flight. This family is represented in all temperate and -tropical regions of the world.</p> -<h3 id="c127">A.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Genus Antrostomus.</span> Gould, Nuttall. Manual of the Ornithology of the United States and Canada, I. p. 739 (second edition, 1840).</dt></dl> -<p>General form plump and robust; head large; bill short, weak, opening to -beyond the eyes; gape very large; nostrils basal, oval, prominent; eyes -large; wing long; somewhat pointed; second and third quills longest; legs -and toes short, feeble; claw of the middle toe pectinated; tail moderate, -wide, generally even at the end; bristles at the base of the bill rigid, long, -<span class="pb" id="Page_236">236</span> -usually curved at their ends; throat in males with an uninterrupted collar -of white; quills with bars of rufous. An exclusively American genus containing -six or seven species, more nearly related to typical Caprimulgus than -any other birds of this family inhabiting this continent, and almost nocturnal -in their habits, venturing abroad only by twilight or in the night.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Antrostomus carolinensis.</span> (Gm.) The Chuck-wills-widow. The great Carolina Goatsucker.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Caprimulgus carolinensis.</span> Gm., Syst. Nat., II. p. 1028. (1788.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Caprimulgus lucifugus.</span> Bartram, Travels, p. 292. (1793.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Caprimulgus rufus.</span> Vieill., Ois. d’Am., Sept. 1, p. 57. (1807.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Caprimulgus brachypterus.</span> Stephens, Gen. Zool., X. p. 150. (1817.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Catesby’s Carolina, I. pl. 8; Vieill., Ois. d’Am., Sept. 1, pl. 25; Wilson, Am. Orn., VI. -pl. 54, fig. 2; Aud., Birds of Am., pl. 52, Oct. ed., I. pl. 41.</p> -<p>Largest of the North American species. General form broad and robust; wing long; -second quill longest; tail ample; legs short; bristles at the base of the bill strong; each -one ciliated; entire upper parts dark brown, minutely dotted with reddish fulvous, and -with many of the feathers having large, longitudinal stripes of black; inferior parts -similar to the upper, but more minutely marked with black, and marked with circular -fulvous spots; throat with an uninterrupted collar of white, running into a collar of fulvous -on the neck behind; quills with irregular alternate bars of reddish fulvous and -brownish-black; middle feathers of the tail reddish fulvous, mottled with, and with -irregular bars of black; other feathers of the tail similar, but tipped with silky white, -frequently tinged with reddish fulvous on their outer-webs. Female like the male, but -without white on the tail-feathers.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, about 12 inches; wing, 8½; tail, 5¾ to 6 inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Southern United States. South Carolina (Gibbes); New Mexico (McCall); -Cuba (Lembeye); Florida (Bartram). Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This fine species is frequently met with in the southern and southwestern -States, and is much the largest of the North American birds of this -family.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>2. <span class="sc">Antrostomus vociferus.</span> (Wilson.) The Whip-poor-will.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Caprimulgus vociferus.</span> Wilson, Am. Orn., V. p. 71. (1812.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Caprimulgus clamator.</span> Vieill., Nouv. Dict., X. p. 234. (1817.)</dd> -<dd class="t">“<span class="sc">Caprimulgus virginianus.</span> Linn. Gm.” Vieill., Ois. d’Am., Sept. 1, p. 65.</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Caprimulgus macromystax.</span> Wagler, Isis, 1831, p. 533?</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Vieill., Ois. d’Am., Sept. 1, pl. 23; Wilson, Am. Orn., V. pl. 41; Aud., Birds of Am., -pl. 82; Oct. ed., I. pl. 42; Nat. Hist. N. Y. Birds, pl. 27, fig. 39.</p> -<p>Smaller than the preceding; wing with the third quill slightly longest; tail ample, -rounded; neck with an uninterrupted collar of white before and fulvous behind; head -above ashy-gray, with a longitudinal stripe of brownish-black; back and rump dark -brown, with minute points and irregular lines of cinereous; under-parts mottled with -pale reddish-white and brownish-black, the latter most conspicuous on the breast, the -former on the abdomen and under tail-coverts; four middle feathers of the tail mottled -with gray and brownish-black, the latter forming irregular bands; external feathers of -<span class="pb" id="Page_237">237</span> -the tail brownish-black, widely tipped with silky white, and with traces of rufous bars -towards the base; quills brownish-black, with interrupted bars of rufous; exposed ends -of primaries same as the back. Female rather smaller than the male, with the white -collar on the neck tinged with fulvous, which is also the color of the tips of the external -tail-feathers.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, about 9½ inches; wing, 6½; tail, 5 inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Eastern North America. Western? Canada (Dr. Hall); Cuba (Mr. Lembeye); -Florida (Bartram). Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This species is of common occurrence in the States on the Atlantic, -and is universally known from its loud and often-repeated notes in the season -of pairing and incubation. It is not recorded by our late naturalists and -travellers to have been observed in the western regions of this continent, but -the specimens described by Wagler as above were from Mexico, and were -either this species, or a near relative. To <i>Caprimulgus macromystax</i> we -shall more particularly allude under the head of obscure species of this -family.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>3. <span class="sc">Antrostomus Nuttallii.</span> (Aud.) Nuttall’s Whip-poor-will.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Caprimulgus Nuttallii.</span> Aud., Orn. Biog., V. p. 335. (1839.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Aud., B. of Am., Oct. ed., VII. pl. 495.</p> -<p>Small, aberrant; wing long; third quill longest; legs rather long; tail moderate; -upper-parts brownish-black, mottled and spotted with ashy white and reddish fulvous; -wing-coverts tipped with pearly ashy white; under-parts with transverse stripes of -brownish-black and yellowish-white; under tail-coverts pale reddish fulvous; quills with -alternate transverse bars of brownish-black and handsome reddish fulvous; middle -feathers of the tail same colors as other upper parts; other tail feathers brownish-black, -with irregular bars and lines of dark cinereous, and widely tipped with silky white; -collar on the neck before silky white. Female similar, but with the colors paler, and the -white of the throat and tail tinged with pale fulvous.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, about 7 inches; wing, 5¾; tail, 3¼ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Western North America, Rocky Mountains (Audubon); Oregon (U. S. Ex. -Exp. Vincennes); Washington Territory (Dr. Cooper); Texas (Mr. J. H. Clark). Spec. -in Mus. Acad., Philada., and Nat. Mus., Washington.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This handsome species, which is the smallest of the birds of this -family yet discovered in North America, appears to be a rather common bird -in the countries above mentioned. It varies in some degree from the characters -of the typical species, and with a small South American bird (<i>A. ocellatus</i>), -may form a distinct group. Nothing is recorded of its habits.</p> -<h3 id="c128">II. GENUS CHORDEILES. <span class="sc">Swainson</span>, Fauna Boreali Americana, Birds, p. 496. (1831.)</h3> -<p>Bill small and weak; gape very wide, without bristles; wing long, pointed, -with the first and second quills longest; tail moderate or rather long, usually -emarginate; legs short, weak; tarsus usually partly covered with short feathers; -toes rather long, slender; claw of the middle toe pectinated. General -form stout and heavy, broad. A genus containing about six species, inhabiting -North and South America, the North American species of which are less nocturnal -in their habits than those of the preceding genus.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_238">238</div> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Chordeiles virginianus.</span> (Brisson.) The Night Hawk.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Caprimulgus virginianus.</span> Briss., Orn., II. p. 477. (1760.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Caprimulgus popetue.</span> Vieill., Ois. d’Am., Sept. 1, p. 56. (1807.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Caprimulgus americanus.</span> Wilson, Am. Orn., V. p. 65. (1812.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Edwards, Birds, II. pl. 63.; Catesby, Carolina, II. Appendix, pl. 16; Vieill., Ois. d’Am., -Sept. 1, pl. 24; Wilson, Am. Orn., V. pl. 40; Aud., B. of Am., pl. 147; Oct. ed., I. pl. -43; Nat. Hist. N. Y. Birds, pl. 27, fig. 60.</p> -<p>Bill short, weak; gape very wide; wing long, pointed; first and second quills longest, -and nearly equal; tail emarginate; legs short; tarsus feathered below the joint, with the -tibia; bare part covered with scales; middle toe long, partially united to the outer toe -by a web, and with its claw distinctly pectinated. <span class="sc">Male.</span>—Throat white; entire upper -parts brownish black, every feather more or less mottled and spotted with ashy white and -reddish fulvous, the former most conspicuous on the secondaries and wing-coverts, and -the latter on the back; neck behind with an irregular collar of reddish; quills brownish-black, -with a wide bar of white about their middle, forming a conspicuous transverse bar -on the wing; tail feathers brownish-black, all, excepting the two central, with a wide -subterminal transverse band of white, and with other irregular transverse narrow bands -of ashy white; breast brownish-black, with rounded and irregular spots of ashy white and -reddish fulvous; abdomen with transverse bars of ashy white and dark brown; under -tail-coverts white. Female with the white stripe on the wing much narrower, and in -some specimens confined to the inner-webs; white of the throat less pure, and tinged with -reddish-yellow; general plumage paler, and more tinged with ashy and reddish fulvous.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, 9 to 9½ inches; wing, 7½; tail, 4½ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> All of temperate North America, New Mexico (McCall); Oregon (Townsend); -California (Heermann); Canada (Hall); Mexico (Rivoli collection); Nicaragua (Barruel); -Cuba (Lembeye); Jamaica (Gosse). Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> An abundant species everywhere in the United States.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>2. <span class="sc">Chordeiles sapiti.</span> Bonaparte, Cons. Av., p. 63. (1849.)</dt></dl> -<p>Not figured.</p> -<blockquote> -<p>Very similar in form and general appearance to the preceding, but smaller, and with -all the colors paler; bill very short and weak; gape large; wing long; first quill slightly -longest; tail moderate, emarginate; tarsus feathered in front somewhat below the point -with the tibia; throat white; entire upper plumage brownish-black, mottled, and variegated, -with very pale cinereous, which predominates on the back, rump, and coverts of -the wings; under-parts with transverse narrow bands of dark brown and yellowish-white; -quills brownish-black, with a wide transverse band of white at the distance from their end -of about one-third their length, and also with some irregular spots and pairs of spots of -rufous in their basal halves. Female paler, and with the white of the throat tinged with -pale reddish fulvous.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, about 8½ inches; wing, 7¼; tail, 4½ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Texas (Mr. Clark, Capt. McCown); New Mexico, Central America. Spec. in -Mus. Acad., Philada., and Nat. Mus., Washington.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This species is nearly allied to the preceding, and also to <i>Chordeiles -brasilianus</i>, from both of which it differs in some particulars of form, and -also in having its colors much paler. In the latter character it somewhat -resembles the <i>C. acutipennis</i> of South America. We regard this bird provisionally -under the name above given, but the description as cited is too brief -<span class="pb" id="Page_239">239</span> -to be satisfactory. It is, however, the only species known to us that can be -referred to it.</p> -<p>This bird is abundant in Texas during the summer.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>3. <span class="sc">Chordeiles Henryi.</span> <i>nobis</i> (new species, January, 1855).</dt></dl> -<p>Not figured.</p> -<blockquote> -<p>Larger than either of the two preceding species; wing long; second quill longest; tail -rather long; emarginate; legs and feet short; tarsus feathered in front slightly below the -joint with the tibia; bare part of the tarsus and the toes with very distinct scales; entire -upper parts variegated with dark brown and pale reddish fulvous, every feather being -tipped and spotted with the latter, which predominates on the back, rump, wing-coverts, -and tertiaries; some spots on the tertiaries rufous; breast dark brown, every feather -tipped with dull reddish fulvous; abdomen white, tinged with pale reddish-yellow, every -feather with transverse stripes of brownish-black; under-coverts dull reddish white, with -transverse lines of brownish-black; neck with a large band of white in front; quills -brownish-black, tipped with dull reddish-white; primaries with a wide transverse band -of white at about half their length; tail with alternate irregular stripes of brownish-black -and pale reddish fulvous, the latter mottled with black; under wing-coverts pale reddish-white, -with bands and spots of brownish-black. <span class="sc">Female.</span> Colors paler, and white of the -neck obscure.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length of skin, about 10 inches; wing, 8; tail, 4½ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> New Mexico (Dr. Henry, Lieut. Gunnison). Spec. in Nat. Mus., Washington, -and Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -</blockquote> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This bird may be distinguished from other American species by its -color, which is lighter and of a different style of variegation, the prevailing -tone being a dull, pale reddish and yellowish, somewhat approaching what is -called buff or drab color. It is larger than <i>Chordeiles virginianus</i>.</p> -<p>Specimens of this interesting species have been procured at Fort Webster, -New Mexico, by Dr. Henry, and by the unfortunate party under command -of the late Lieut. Gunnison.</p> -<p>As a token of respect for T. Charlton Henry, M. D., of the United States -Army, whose exertions in the investigation of the natural productions of New -Mexico, now continued for several years, and the formation of large collections -in various departments, which attest his zeal and attachment to zoological -science, we propose the specific name above given.</p> -<h3 id="c129">B. -<br /><span class="smaller">OBSCURE OR LITTLE KNOWN SPECIES OF THIS FAMILY.</span></h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Caprimulgus macromystax.</span> Wagler, Isis, XXIV. p. 533. (1831.)</dt></dl> -<p>This species is noticed by Wagler, as above, from a Mexican specimen, and -his description is essentially a comparison with the <i>Caprimulgus europæus</i>. -It is stated that the bristles at the base of the bill are very long, or “nearly -as long as the head without the bill,” and the plumage generally bearing a -resemblance to the European species mentioned.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_240">240</div> -<p>There is in the collection of the Philadelphia Academy, a specimen from -Mexico, and another from California, differing in shade of color only from -the <i>Antrostomus vociferus</i>, and from which the distinctive characters are too -slight to establish a separate species. We regard these specimens as <i>C. macromystax</i>. -The length of the bristles in Wagler’s description applies as well -to <i>A. vociferus</i>, and we think it probable that his name is a synonyme.</p> -<p>The following is a translation of Wagler’s description or notice as above -cited, and is at the end of an elaborate and valuable paper, in which he -describes several new American species of birds:—</p> -<p>“At the conclusion of these descriptions of birds, I will yet remark that -we have received from Mexico, also, a Caprimulgus (which specimen unfortunately -is without the tail), that nearly resembles ours in size and color, but -which nevertheless may be distinguished at a glance; the tarsi on their upper -sides are hardly feathered to the middle, and the bristles on both sides of -the upper mandible are uncommonly stiff, and longer than in any other -American Night Swallow, nearly as long as the head without the bill, and are -turned <i>rake-like</i> obliquely downwards. I have named it, therefore, <i>Caprimulgus -macromystax</i>. The feet are short, as in ours; also as in ours, the -claw of the middle toe on its inner border is pectinated, the primaries are -small, the second, third, and fourth, externally from their middles to their -ends, are strongly sinuated; they are brown-black, without white spots, but -have internally and externally rust-red angular dots.”</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>2. <span class="sc">Caprimulgus minor.</span> Forster. Catalogue of the Animals of North America, p. 13. London, 1771.</dt></dl> -<p>A name given without being accompanied by a description, though probably -applicable to <i>Antrostomus vociferus</i>, which was known to some of the older -naturalists, and, previous to the introduction of the binomial nomenclature, -was called <i>minor</i>, in distinction from the <i>Caprimulgus europæus</i>.</p> -<p>The catalogue by Forster above referred to is a pamphlet, and is, so far as -We know, the first attempt at an enumeration of the species of all classes of -animals inhabiting North America. There is also a catalogue of the Plants -of North America by the same author.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>3. <span class="sc">Antrostomus californianus.</span> Bonaparte, Cons. Av. p. 61. (1849.)</dt></dl> -<p>The description by the Prince of Canino, as above, is as follows:—</p> -<p>“(Confer Capr. nuttalli, Aud. Am. Orn., 2d edit., t. 495,) ex California, -Vix Turdi magnitudine. Mas. Griseus, nucha fulvescenti, abdomine cervino, -nigro undulato; gula macula utrinque alba nigro terminata: remigibus fuscis, -macula mediana alba, rectricibus lateralibus nigricantibus, extima late ad -apicem candida.”</p> -<p>The characters here given differ so essentially from those of any other -species of <i>Antrostomus</i>, that we much suspect that the bird alluded to neither -belongs to this genus, nor is an American species.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_241">241</div> -<dl class="undent"><dt>4. <span class="sc">Caprimulgus europæus.</span> Linn.</dt></dl> -<p>This name occurs in several of the older authors on American Natural -History, which is to be attributed to the fact that the <i>Whip-poor-will</i> (<i>Antrostomus -vociferus</i>) was regarded by Linnæus as a variety only of the European -Goatsucker. President Jefferson, in Notes on the State of Virginia, p. 117 -(London edition, 1787), gives both of the then known North American birds -of this group as two varieties only of the European bird. Professor Barton, -in Fragments of the Natural History of Pennsylvania, p. 14, under the head -of <i>Caprimulgus europæus</i>, says: “This, or a variety of it, is certainly a -native of Pennsylvania. So that now all the fifteen species of this genus -(mentioned by Gmelin) are known to be natives of America.” Both of these -distinguished and venerated fathers of American zoological science adopted -the opinion of Linnæus, and the name of the European bird is given also on -the same authority by some others of the earlier American writers.</p> -<p>The European Goatsucker has never been observed on the continent of -America.</p> -<p>Professor Barton’s observation above quoted is singularly suggestive. -Linnæus, at the date of his last edition of the Systema Naturæ, knew <i>two</i> -species only of the genus <i>Caprimulgus</i>. Gmelin, in the edition of the same -work, edited by him, and published in 1788, extended the list to <i>fifteen</i> -species, and was, when Professor Barton wrote, in 1799, recent and high -authority. So greatly has the knowledge of species of birds been extended, -that at this time (1855) there are at least ninety known birds of the family -<i>Caprimulgidæ</i>, all of which would have been regarded by Linnæus and -Gmelin as belonging to the genus <i>Caprimulgus</i>. There are seventy-four -species of this family in the collection of the Philadelphia Academy. Though, -as Professor Barton observes, all of those known to Gmelin (except <i>Caprimulgus -europæus</i>), are American, others are now ascertained to inhabit all -the temperate and tropical regions of both of the great divisions of the globe, -and the whole of Australia.</p> -<p>Of this family of birds, the only species that have been ascertained or supposed -by naturalists to inhabit that part of North America within our limits, -are given in the preceding pages. The group is, however, represented in -South America not only by other species of the genera above given, but by -various other genera and species, amongst which are some curious and interesting -forms. The genus <i>Steatornis</i>, containing a single species, first brought -to notice by the celebrated Humboldt (<i>Steatornis caripensis</i>, Humboldt), is -remarkable for its near approach to the Owls, and would, to a casual observer, -scarcely be regarded as belonging to any other than that family. The genus -<i>Nyctibius</i>, which is also South American, contains some species as large as -the Crow of the United States, and which are amongst the largest birds of -this group. Another genus, <i>Hydropsalis</i>, or the Scissors-tailed Goatsuckers, -as they are termed by Azara (an enthusiastic and accurate Spanish writer on -<span class="pb" id="Page_242">242</span> -South American Natural History), are remarkable for having tails of singular -forms, and of great length in some species. <i>Hydropsalis torquatus</i> has the -two outermost feathers of its tail long, and the two middle feathers also long, -leaving the intermediate comparatively short. <i>Hydropsalis lyra</i>, Bonaparte, -has the outermost feathers of the tail very long, and curved inwards at their -ends. Two species, first described by us, <i>Hydropsalis limbatus</i> and <i>segmentatus</i> -(in Proc. Acad., Philadelphia), have that appendage several times the -length of their bodies.</p> -<p>About thirty-five species of <i>Caprimulgidæ</i> inhabit South and Central -America and Mexico. The largest birds of this group are natives of Australia.</p> -<p>We are inclined to the opinion that this family (and the Swallows also) -properly belong to the circle of rapacious birds in which they have been -arranged by Prof. Reichenbach, in Avium Systema Naturale (Dresden and -Leipsic, 1850).<a class="fn" id="fr_4" href="#fn_4">[4]</a></p> -<h3 id="c130">II. FAMILY HIRUNDINIDÆ. THE SWALLOWS.</h3> -<p>Plumage compact; size generally small; bill small, much depressed, very -wide at base, and suddenly compressed to the tip, giving it a somewhat -triangular shape; wings long; tail various, frequently forked; legs and feet -short and weak.</p> -<p>These birds form a peculiar and easily-recognized family, species of which -inhabit all parts of the world, and in civilized countries are generally regarded -with favor. The Swallows are eminently social and gregarious, being almost -constantly seen in companies even in the breeding season, and are amongst -the comparatively few birds whose numbers are not diminished by the progress -of the settlement and cultivation of countries. They subsist exclusively on -insects captured on the wing, in the pursuit of which they exhibit extraordinary -powers of flight.</p> -<h3 id="c131">A.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Genus Hirundo.</span> Linn., Syst. Nat. I. p. 343. (1766.)</dt></dl> -<p>Bill depressed, wide at base, compressed to the end, nostrils basal; wing -long, pointed, first primary usually longest, secondaries short; legs and feet -short and weak; tail moderate, forked or emarginate. General form rather -broad, robust; flight protracted, rapid.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_243">243</div> -<h4>1. <span class="sc">Sub-genus Hirundo.</span></h4> -<p>Tail with the two external feathers disproportionately long; others -graduated.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Hirundo rufa.</span> Gmelin, Syst. Nat. I. p. 1018. (1788.) The Barn Swallow.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Hirundo horreorum.</span> Barton, Frag. Nat. Hist. of Penna. p. 17. (1799.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Hirundo americana.</span> Wilson, Am. Orn. V. p. 34. (1812.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Hirundo erythrogaster.</span> Boddaert, Tab. Pl. Enl. p. 45. (1783.)?</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Hirundo cyanopyrrha.</span> Vieill., Nouv. Dict. XIV. p. 510. (1817.)</dd> -<dd class="t">“<span class="sc">Hirundo rustica.</span> Linn.” Aud. Orn. Biog. II. p. 413.</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Wilson, Am. Orn. V. pl. 38, fig. 1, 2; Aud., B. of Am. pl. 173, Oct. ed. I. pl. 48; Nat. -Hist. N. Y. Birds, pl. 29, fig. 64; Buff., Pl. Enl. 724, fig. 1?</p> -<p>Wings long; tail deeply forked with the two outer feathers much the longest; forehead, -throat, and neck in front, chestnut, which color is separated from the paler color -of the breast by a partial or rarely perfect collar of dark steel blue; entire upper parts -steel blue, with a purple lustre, inclining to green on the wings and tail; breast, abdomen, -and under tail coverts, chestnut, very pale in some specimens, but generally darker -on the tail coverts; tail with a large spot of white on the inner web of every feather, -except the middle two; bill and feet black; sexes very nearly alike.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, 7 inches; wing, 4½; tail, 3½. Female smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Throughout North America. Canada (Dr. Hall); Oregon (Dr. Townsend); -Texas (Dr. Woodhouse); Santa Fé (Col. McCall); Indiana (Dr. Haymond); Long Island -(Mr. Giraud); Cuba (Mr. Lembeye).</p> -</blockquote> -<p>This is one of the most abundant of the birds of the United States, and -known to all classes and ages of the population. It is nearly related to the -European House Swallow (<i>Hirundo rustica</i>), but can readily be distinguished -on comparison. The European is rather the larger, the under-parts are -darker, and the collar on the neck in front complete. In the present bird -this collar is imperfect, with very rare exceptions.</p> -<h4>2. <span class="sc">Sub-genus Petrochelidon.</span></h4> -<p>Tail moderate or short, emarginate, but slightly forked.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>2. <span class="sc">Hirundo lunifrons.</span> Say., Long’s Exp. to the Rocky Mts. II. p. 47. (1823.) The Cliff Swallow.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Hirundo opifex.</span> Clinton, Ann. N. Y. Lyceum I. p. 161. (1824.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Hirundo respublicana.</span> Aud., Ann. N. Y. Lyc., I. p. 164. (1824.)</dd> -<dd class="t">“<span class="sc">Hirundo fulva.</span> Vieill.” Aud., Orn. Biog. V. p. 415, and Clinton, as above.</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Bonap., Am. Orn., 1. pl. 7, fig. 1; Aud., B. of Am., pl. 68, Oct. ed. I. pl. 47; Nat. Hist. -N. Y. Birds, pl. 30, fig. 64.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_244">244</div> -<p>Bill very wide at base, short; wings long; tail rather short, emarginate; forehead -white, nearly pure in some specimens, but generally tinged with reddish chestnut; head -above and back bluish-black, with a purple lustre; plumage of the back usually edged -and streaked with grayish white; rump pale chestnut; throat dark brownish chestnut, -which color extends upwards and forms a complete collar around the neck behind; lores -and large spot on the neck in front black; entire other under-parts ashy-white, tinged -with pale chestnut, especially on the breast; under tail coverts with a green lustre, and -tipped with pure white; wings and tail brownish-black; bill and feet dark; sexes very -nearly alike.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, 5½ inches; wing, 4⅜; tail, 2 inches. Female rather -smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Throughout North America. Oregon (Dr. Townsend); California (Dr. Heermann); -New Mexico (Col. McCall); Texas (Dr. Woodhouse); Indiana (Rufus Haymond, -M. D.); Canada (Dr. Hall).</p> -</blockquote> -<p>This handsome species is now well known throughout almost the whole of -the United States, but is said to have appeared for the first time in the States -on the Atlantic seaboard within the memory of persons now living. It builds -a curiously-formed nest of the shape of a gourd, faithfully represented in Mr. -Audubon’s plates, cited above.</p> -<p><i>Hirundo fulva</i>, Vieill., is an allied species, but much smaller, and not -ascertained to inhabit any part of North America. It is best known as a -bird of the Island of Jamaica.</p> -<p>The paper referred to above, in which this bird is named <i>Hirundo opifex</i>, -possesses additional interest, from the fact that it was written by the late -De Witt Clinton, formerly Governor of the State of New York, who had -given particular attention to American Natural History.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>3. <span class="sc">Hirundo bicolor.</span> Vieill., Ois. d’Am., Sept. 1, p. 61. (1807.) The White-bellied Swallow.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Hirundo viridis.</span> Wilson, Am. Orn. V. p. 44. (1812.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Hirundo leucogaster.</span> Stephens, Gen. Zool. X. p. 106. (1817.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Vieill., Ois. d’Am., Sept. 1, pl. 31; Wilson, Am. Orn. V. pl. 38, fig. 3; Aud., Birds of -Am., pl. 98, Oct. ed. I. pl. 46; Nat. Hist. N. Y. Birds, pl. 29, fig. 1.</p> -<p>Wings long, exceeding the tail, pointed; tail deeply emarginate; entire upper parts -uniform dark green, changing to blue in some lights, very glossy; wings and tail brownish-black, -slightly tinged with green; entire under-parts silky-white, generally with a -tinge of cinereous; bill black; feet yellow; sexes alike, but the female with the colors -duller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, male, 5½ inches; wing, 4¾; tail, 2¼ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Throughout North America. Canada (Dr. Hall); Oregon (Dr. Townsend); -California, Texas (Dr. Woodhouse); Cuba (Mr. Lembeye); Wisconsin (Dr. Hoy); Northern -Ohio (Prof. Kirtland); Long Island (Mr. Giraud).</p> -</blockquote> -<p>When in full plumage, this is one of the handsomest of the Swallows of -the United States. It is quite abundant everywhere in the States on the -Atlantic during the summer.</p> -<p>Specimens from California present some points of difference from the bird -<span class="pb" id="Page_245">245</span> -of Pennsylvania, being apparently more tinged with blue, and having the -bill perhaps slightly large. We regard the two, however, as specifically the -same.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>4. <span class="sc">Hirundo thalassina.</span> Swains., Philos. Mag., 1827, p. 366.</dt></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Aud., B. of Am., pl. 385, fig. 4, 5, Oct. ed. I. pl. 49.</p> -<p>Wings long, exceeding the tail, which is rather short and emarginate; entire upper-parts -rich grass-green, very glossy, and shaded with purple, especially on the head, and -in some specimens approaching to carmine on the back, rump, and upper tail-coverts; -entire under-parts silky-white, generally with a tinge of cinereous; bill and feet dark. -Female, less glossy, and with the purple generally tinged with brown.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, male, 5 inches; wing, 4½; tail, 2 inches. Female, -smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Western North America. Oregon (Townsend); California (Gambel); Mexico -(Swainson); New Mexico (Woodhouse).</p> -</blockquote> -<p>This is the most beautiful of the North American birds of this family. It -is exclusively an inhabitant of the countries west of the Rocky Mountains -and of Mexico.</p> -<h4>II. GENUS PROGNE. <span class="sc">Boie</span>, Isis, 1826, p. 971.</h4> -<p>Form robust and compact; bill wide at base, compressed suddenly to the -tip, rather strong; upper mandible overlapping the under; wings long, -pointed; first and second primaries longest; tail moderate, rather wide, -usually deeply emarginate; tarsi and feet larger and stronger than usual in -this family.</p> -<p>Size, largest of American birds of this family. This genus contains about -five or six American species, several of which are nearly related to each other, -and not well understood, and probably one other (<i>Hirundo borbonica</i>, Gm.), -which is a native of Madagascar, and of the Island of Bourbon. All the -species, except the last, considerably resemble each other, and are difficult to -distinguish in some stages of plumage.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Progne purpurea.</span> (Linn.) The Purple-Martin. The House Martin.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Hirundo purpurea et subis.</span> Linn., Syst. Nat. I. p. 344. (1766.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Hirundo violacea.</span> Gm., Syst. Nat. I. p. 1026. (1788.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Hirundo cœrulea.</span> Vieill., Ois. d’Am., Sept. 1, pl. 57. (1807.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Hirundo versicolor.</span> Vieill., Nouv. Dict. XIV. p. 509. (1817.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Hirundo ludoviciana.</span> Cuv., Reg. An. I. p. 374. (1817.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Catesby, Carolina I. pl. 51; Vieill., Ois. d’Am., Sept. 1, pl. 26, 27; Buff, Pl. Enl. 722; -Wilson, Am. Orn. V. pl. 30, fig. 2, 3; Aud., B. of Am., pl. 22, Oct. ed. I. pl. 45; Nat. -Hist. N. Y. Birds, pl. 28, fig. 61.</p> -<p>Bill moderately wide at base, rather strong, curved; wings reaching about to the end -of the tail, which is deeply emarginate; legs short; toes rather long. <span class="sc">Male.</span>—Entire -plumage above and below deep black, with a purple and blue silky lustre; quills and tail -<span class="pb" id="Page_246">246</span> -less lustrous, and in many specimens plain brownish-black; bill and feet black. <span class="sc">Female.</span> -Upper-parts same as in the male, but paler; under-parts ashy-brown, dark on the throat -and breast; paler and sometimes nearly white on the abdomen; under tail coverts dark -brown, every feather edged with ashy-white.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, male, 7½ inches; wing, 5¾; tail, 3 inches. Female slightly -smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Eastern North America. Canada (Dr. Hall); Oregon (Dr. Townsend); Texas -(Dr. Woodhouse); Cuba (Mr. Lembeye); Florida (Mr. John Lee Williams).</p> -</blockquote> -<p>In mature plumage, a beautiful species. This bird is common throughout -the eastern United States, and comes with much punctuality in the spring to -take possession of the boxes prepared for its accommodation in the rural districts, -and occasionally in the cities. Our esteemed friend, Mr. Thomas -Fisher, an eminent mathematician of this city, has been annually visited by -a colony of this species for several years, though his residence is in one of the -most dense parts of Philadelphia.</p> -<p>This bird is nearly allied to several species of South America and the -West Indies. In fact, the genus <i>Progne</i> is one of the most difficult of the -family of Swallows.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>2. <span class="sc">Progne chalybea.</span> (Gmelin.) The Western Martin.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Hirundo chalybea.</span> Gm., Syst. Nat. I. p. 1026. (1788.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Buff, Pl. Enl. 545, fig. 2.</p> -<p>Size smaller than that of the preceding; bill very wide at base, much longer than in -the preceding, gradually compressed to the tip, curved; wings reaching about to the end -of the tail, which is deeply emarginate; under tail coverts long; legs short. <span class="sc">Male, -adult?</span> Plumage of the upper parts dusky black, with a dark green lustre; throat and -breast ashy white, running into light smoky brown on the sides of the neck, breast, and -flanks; abdomen and under tail-coverts pure white, many feathers having dark lines on -their shafts; under wing-coverts and axillaries fuliginous brown. <span class="sc">Female?</span> Similar to -the male, but less lustrous on the upper parts, and with the entire plumage more tinged -with fuliginous; under tail-coverts pure white, many feathers with dark shafts; bill and -feet dark.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, about 6¾ inches; wing, 5¼; tail, 3 inches. Female slightly -smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Western North America. South America, California, Panama (Mr. Bell).</p> -</blockquote> -<p>This species, long known as a bird of South America, was first ascertained -to be entitled to a place in the ornithological fauna of the United States by -Mr. John G. Bell, of New York, who noticed it in California, and previously -at Panama. We have since seen specimens from various parts of California, -and suspect that it is abundant in that and probably in other countries of -Western America.</p> -<p>Though closely related to other South American species, the present bird -may be distinguished very easily from the Purple Martin of the United States -(<i>P. purpurea</i>), by the greater width and much greater length of the bill, and -it is smaller in size. We are not confident that we have ever seen the perfectly -plumaged adults of this bird, though the specimens above described -<span class="pb" id="Page_247">247</span> -were obtained by Mr. Bell in the spring, and have the general appearance -of maturity, except that the lustre of the plumage is but faint. Little or -nothing is known of its habits or history.</p> -<h4>III. GENUS COTYLE. <span class="sc">Boie</span>, Isis, 1822, p. 350.</h4> -<p>Bill small, weak, wide at base, compressed to the tip; wing long, pointed, -first and second quills longest; secondaries short, truncate, and emarginate; -tail moderate, wide, even or slightly emarginate; legs short, slender; toes -rather long, slender; colors dull, usually fuliginous brown of various shades; -size of American species smaller than those of either of the preceding -genera.</p> -<p>This genus contains about twelve species, inhabiting various regions of -both continents, and all, so far as known, more or less terrestrial in their -habits. In addition to those about to be described, there are three other -American species restricted to the southern division of this continent.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Cotyle riparia.</span> (Linn.) The Bank Swallow. The Sand Martin.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Hirundo riparia.</span> Linn., Syst. Nat. I. p. 344. (1766.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Hirundo cinerea.</span> Vieill., Nouv. Dict. XIV. p. 526.</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Wilson, Am. Orn. V. pl. 38, fig. 4; Aud., B. of Am., pl. 385, Oct. ed. I. pl. 50; Nat. -Hist. N. Y. Birds, pl. 28, fig. 62.</p> -<p>Bill weak; wing long; first primary longest; tail emarginate; legs short; tarsus with -a tuft of short downy feathers near the insertion of the hind toe; entire upper parts and -wide band across the breast light fuliginous or grayish brown; quills and tail brownish -black; throat, abdomen and under tail coverts white; under wing coverts light fuliginous; -bill and feet dark.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, 5 inches; wing, 4; tail, 2 inches. Female slightly smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> The whole of North America. Oregon (Dr. Townsend); California (Mr. Bell); -Indiana (Dr. Haymond); Cuba (Mr. Lembeye); Indian Territory, New Mexico (Dr. -Woodhouse); Florida (Mr. William Bartram).</p> -</blockquote> -<p>Frequently met with, and remarkable for constructing its nest in a hole -in the ground, usually by the side of a quarry or stream of water. This -is one of the few American birds that appear to be absolutely identical with -European species. On close comparison, we can discover no characters -in the present sufficient to raise a probability of specific distinction.</p> -<p>Specimens from California, that we have examined, present slight variations -from those of the Eastern States. The bill appears to be smaller, and -the tail not so deeply emarginated.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>2. <span class="sc">Cotyle serripennis.</span> (Audubon.) The Rough-winged Swallow.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Hirundo serripennis.</span> Aud., Orn. IV. p. 593. (1838.)</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Aud., B. of Am., Oct. ed. I. pl. 51.</p> -<p>Larger than the preceding; wing long; first primary longest; tail emarginate; legs -short; outer edge of the first primary furnished throughout its length with a row of -reversed hooked bristles, easily apparent to the touch; entire upper parts light ashy -white, darker on the breast and flanks, lighter on the throat and middle of the abdomen; -<span class="pb" id="Page_248">248</span> -under-coverts of the tail white; under-coverts of the wing ashy brown; bill and feet -dark. Female lighter in all the colors.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, male, 5½ inches; wing, 4½; tail, 2¼ inches. Female -slightly smaller.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Louisiana, South Carolina (Mr. Audubon); Pennsylvania (Prof. Baird); California -(Dr. Heermann).</p> -</blockquote> -<p>This remarkable species is easily distinguished from any other North -American Swallow by the recurved and stiff bristles of the outer edges of the -first primary quills. There is a South American species which has, however, -the same character (<i>Cotyle flavigastra</i>).</p> -<p>The present bird considerably resembles that immediately preceding, but is -larger, and is quite distinct. It was regarded as a rare southern species, -until demonstrated by Professor Spencer F. Baird, then of Dickinson College, -Carlisle, Pennsylvania, to be of frequent occurrence in the interior of that -State. Dr. Heermann states that it is not uncommon in California. Ornithologists -generally, however, have not noticed it, and in the vicinity of -Philadelphia, it has been entirely overlooked, or does not inhabit this -district.</p> -<h3 id="c132">II. SUB-FAMILY CYPSELINÆ. THE SWIFTS.</h3> -<p>Bill less flattened than in the preceding sub-family, very wide at base, -short, curved; wings very long, somewhat falcate, flattened; tail short; legs -and toes short, strong; claws strong; general form adapted to very swift -and vigorous flight, and the capture of insects on the wing.</p> -<h4>I. GENUS CYPSELUS. <span class="sc">Illiger</span>, Prodromus, p. 229. (1811.)</h4> -<h5 id="c133">APUS. <span class="sc">Scopoli.</span> MICROPUS. <span class="sc">Wolf.</span></h5> -<p>Bill wide at base, curved; nostrils basal, with large membrane; wings -very long; pointed shafts of the primaries strong and rigid; first and second -primaries longest; secondaries short; tail moderate, with the shafts of its -feathers strong and rigid; legs short, strong; tarsus usually feathered; toes -short, strong; claws strong, curved, and sharp; hind toe very short, reversible; -general form robust; head broad.</p> -<p>This genus includes about twenty species, which are inhabitants of the -countries of the old world, except six American and one Australian species. -They are remarkable for great swiftness of flight, and live habitually in the -crevices of rocks, in caverns, or in hollow trees. The bird now about to be -described is the only species of this genus yet observed within the limits of -the United States, the others of this continent being confined to South -America.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Cypselus melanoleucus.</span> Baird, Proc. Acad., Phila., VII. p. 118. (1854.)</dt></dl> -<p>Not figured.</p> -<blockquote> -<p>Wings very long, exceeding the tail; second primary longest; first primary tapering -towards the end; secondaries short, obliquely incised at their ends; tail moderate, emarginate; -<span class="pb" id="Page_249">249</span> -shafts of the tail-feathers very stiff at their bases; tarsi and toes feathered, short, -and very strong; entire plumage above dark fuliginous, paler on the head, nearly black -on the back and rump; throat, breast, wide longitudinal stripe down the middle of the -abdomen, and large spot on the flank, pure white; sides and under-coverts of the tail dark -fuliginous, which is also the color of the plumage of the tibiæ, tarsi, and toes; wings and -tail dark fuliginous; secondaries tipped with white; wings at the shoulders edged with -white; under-wing-coverts ashy fuliginous; claws light-colored.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length of skin, from tip of bill to end of tail, about 5½ inches; wing, -5½; tail, 2½ inches. Female very nearly the same.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> New Mexico (Dr. Kennerly, Dr. Heermann).</p> -</blockquote> -<p>Only noticed, as yet, by the two naturalists just mentioned. This is a -handsome bird, and an interesting addition to the ornithology of the United -States, being the first species of the genus <i>Cypselus</i> discovered within our -limits. According to the gentlemen above mentioned, this bird habitually -frequents the crevices in rocks, in which it builds its nest and rears its young. -Its flight is represented to be exceedingly rapid and long-continued.</p> -<p>This bird is evidently of the same group of species as <i>Cypselus montivagus</i>, -D’Orbigny, Voyage dans L’Amerique Meridionale, Ois., p. 357, pl. 42, fig. -1 (Paris, 1844), which inhabits the mountains of Bolivia. The white stripe -down the middle of the abdomen distinguishes the present bird.</p> -<h4>II. GENUS ACANTHYLIS. <span class="sc">Boie</span>, Isis, 1826, p. 971.</h4> -<h5 id="c134">CHÆTURA. <span class="sc">Stephens.</span> HIRUNDAPUS. <span class="sc">Hodgson.</span></h5> -<p>General characters similar to the last genus, but with the shafts of the tail-feathers -prolonged beyond the webs, and forming strong thorn-like points; -tarsi and toes naked; bill small, curved, wide at base; wings long; tail -usually short; legs short, rather slender; claws curved, strong; general -form plump and robust. Of this genus there are about fifteen species, -two only of which are known to inhabit the United States, though several -are natives of South America. Like the birds of the preceding genus, they -possess great rapidity of flight, and live in similar situations.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Acanthylis pelasgia.</span> (Linn.) The Chimney Bird. The American Swift.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Hirundo pelasgia.</span> Linn., Syst. Nat. I. p. 345. (1766.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Hirundo cerdo.</span> Bartram, Trav., p. 292. (1791.) Barton, Frag., p. 18.</dd> -<dd class="t">“<span class="sc">Cypselus acutus.</span> Temm., Mus. Lugd.” Bonap., Consp. Av., p. 64.</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Vieill., Ois. d’Am., Sept. 1, pl. 33; Wilson, Am. Orn., V. pl. 39, fig. 1; Aud., B. of -Am., pl. 58, Oct. ed., I. pl. 44; Nat. Hist. N. Y. Birds, pl. 27, fig. 58.</p> -<p>Wings very long, extending beyond the tail, flattened, somewhat falcate; shafts of primaries -rigid; tail short; exserted spines sharp, elastic; tarsi and toes naked; entire -plumage above and below fuliginous brown, darkest on the upper parts, and with a slight -greenish lustre on the head and back (in mature specimens), much paler on the throat and -<span class="pb" id="Page_250">250</span> -neck before; quills dark fuliginous; tail lighter; spot in front of the eye black, a very -narrow superciliary line ashy-white; shafts and spines of the tail-feathers black; bill and -feet dark.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, male, from tip of bill to end of tail, 4¾ to 5 inches; wing, -5¼; tail, 1¾ inches. Female very nearly the same.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Throughout North America. Canada (Dr. Hall); Florida (Mr. Williams); -Indiana (Dr. Haymond); Indian Territory, Texas, New Mexico, California (Dr. Woodhouse).</p> -</blockquote> -<p>The Chimney bird is abundant in all the States on the Atlantic, and, -according to Dr. Woodhouse, equally so in Texas. It possesses powers of -sustaining protracted and rapid flight, perhaps not equalled by any other bird -of North America, though characteristic in some measure of all the birds of -this family. In Europe, birds of genera nearly allied to the present have -received the name of “Swifts” from this fact.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>2. <span class="sc">Acanthylis Vauxii.</span> (Townsend.) Vaux’s Swift.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Cypselus Vauxii.</span> Towns., Jour. Acad., Philada., VIII. p. 148. (1839.)</dd></dl> -<p>Not figured.</p> -<blockquote> -<p>Smaller than the preceding, but very similar to it in form and general appearance; -wings very long, exceeding the tail, which is short; exserted spines of the tail-feathers -sharp, slender, and not so rigid as in the preceding species; tarsi and toes rather slender, -naked; plumage above fuliginous brown, lighter on the rump and upper tail-coverts, -darker, and tinged with greenish on the head and back; quills dark fuliginous, with a -greenish lustre; tail lighter fuliginous; under-parts pale fuliginous, nearly white on the -throat, darkest on the abdomen; shafts and spines of the tail-feathers black; bill and -feet dark.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length of skin, sex unknown, 4¼ inches; wing, 4½; tail, 1½ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Columbia River, Oregon (Dr. Townsend).</p> -</blockquote> -<p>This species, though apparently totally distinct from the common Chimney -bird of the United States, has never been noticed since its discovery by Dr. -Townsend. It is probably a bird exclusively inhabiting the countries west -of the Rocky Mountains. The original specimen brought by Dr. Townsend -remains unique in the collection of the Philadelphia Academy.</p> -<p>The name of this species was given in honor of Mr. William S. Vaux, of -this city, and is a just compliment to one of the most active and valuable -members of the Academy.</p> -<h3 id="c135">B. -<br /><span class="smaller">OBSCURE AND DOUBTFUL SPECIES OF THIS FAMILY.</span></h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Hirundo unalaschkensis.</span> Gm., Syst. Nat. I. p. 1025. (1788.)</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Hirundo aoonalaschkensis.</span> Lath., Ind. Orn., II. p. 577. (1790.)</dd></dl> -<p>Originally described by Latham from a specimen in the Leverian Museum, -as follows:—</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_251">251</div> -<p>“Length four inches and a half; bill very short, dusky; the plumage -above dull black, without gloss; beneath and sides of the head dusky ash -color, the last darkest; rump dirty white; tail forked, each feather round at -the end; legs dusky. Inhabits Aoonalashka.” Gm., Syn. II. p. 571.</p> -<p>This species is unknown to ornithologists of the present day, and from the -above description and the evident similarity of the bird to other small species -of this family, would not be recognized without difficulty, unless obtained in -the locality as given. It appears to belong to the genus <i>Collocalia</i>, Gray, a -very remarkable group of small Swallows, that inhabit caves, and are found -in several islands in the Pacific Ocean. A species of this genus is the Esculent -Swallow of authors (<i>Collocalia esculenta</i>), the nests of which are so highly -esteemed as an article of food by the Chinese, and are the principal constituent -in the somewhat celebrated “Bird’s-nest soup,” a prominent feature in -Chinese entertainments. It is probable, too, that the nests of other species -of these birds are used for the same purpose.</p> -<p>No species of the genus alluded to has been discovered on the continent of -America, nor in either of the American islands, except the above.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>2. <span class="sc">Hirundo phenicephala.</span> Rafinesque, Annals of Nature, p. 4. (Lexington, Kentucky, 1820.)</dt></dl> -<p>“Head scarlet; back grey; belly white; bill and feet black. A fine and -rare Swallow, seen only once by Mr. Audubon, near Hendersonville, in Kentucky; -it must have been a wanderer, and is probably a native of Louisiana -or Mexico.”</p> -<p>“Head scarlet”—enough said; Professor Rafinesque brings our ornithological -ideas to a stand immediately. We never heard of a Swallow with the -head of that color, exactly. But as Mr. Audubon’s name is brought in as -authority, we think it possible that the bird alluded to in this description may -have been a straggling specimen of a South American species, which has the -head of a rufous color (<i>Cortyle fucata</i>, Temm., Pl. Col. 161, fig. 1). Rafinesque -apparently gave his description and name without ever having seen -the bird, or made further inquiry, and probably misunderstood or partly -forgot the statement of Mr. Audubon respecting the color of the head.</p> -<p>Several instances of South American birds having been captured in the -United States have come to our knowledge. We ought to have said, though, -previously, that many more South American birds inhabit Mexico than are -recorded in the books. Several specimens of <i>Crotophaga sulcirostra</i> have -come under our notice, the last one of which was shot on an island in the -Delaware, opposite to the northern portion of this city. Its plumage was -perfectly mature and uninjured, showing evidently that it had never been -caged.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_252">252</div> -<dl class="undent"><dt>3. <span class="sc">Acanthylis saxatilis.</span> Woodhouse, Sitgreave’s Report of an Expedition down the Zuni and Colorado Rivers, Zoology, p. 64 (Washington, 1853).</dt></dl> -<p>“Head and rump white; back, tail, wings, and side, black; beneath white; -upper tail-coverts black; under tail-coverts white. About the size of <i>A. -pelasgia</i>, and in its mode of flight the same.”</p> -<p>“This beautiful Swift I saw whilst encamped at Inscription Rock, New -Mexico. Being on the top of this high rock at the time without my gun, I -was unable to procure specimens. I had a fair view of the birds at this time, -as they flew close to me. I descended immediately and procured my gun, -but the birds by this time flew too high for me to be able to procure a shot -at them. They were breeding in the crevices of the rocks. I was still in -hopes of seeing them again along our route, but I had not that pleasure, it -being the only place that I have observed them.”</p> -<p>This bird has not been noticed since the publication of the above description -by Dr. Woodhouse.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>4. <span class="sc">Hirundo cinerea.</span> “The Ash-bellied Swallow.” Ord, in Guthrie’s Geography, II. p. 317. (1815.)</dt></dl> -<p>This name occurs, without a description, in Mr. Ord’s Catalogue of the -Birds of North America, in Guthrie’s Geography, as above.</p> -<p><i>Hirundo cinerea</i>, Gmelin, is a native of Tahiti and of the Marquesas -Islands, but has not to our knowledge ever been detected on the continent of -North America. It belongs to the genus <i>Collocalia</i>, Gray. The Bank -Swallow (<i>Cotyle riparia</i>) also was named <i>Hirundo cinerea</i> by Vieillot, but is -given in Mr. Ord’s list as distinct from the present.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>5. <span class="sc">Hirundo rupestris.</span> “The Rock Swallow.” Ord, in Guthrie’s Geog., II. p. 317. (1815.)</dt></dl> -<p>This name also occurs in Mr. Ord’s Catalogue, cited above. <i>Hirundo -rupestris</i>, Scopoli, inhabits Europe and Asia, but we have never been informed -of its appearance in America. It is a <i>Cotyle</i>.</p> -<p>We have now given all the species of Swallows known or supposed to -inhabit the continent of America, north of Mexico.</p> -<p>As stated in a preceding page, Swallows are found in all countries -except the Arctic regions, and are, so far as known to naturalists, birds of -very considerable similarity of habits and of general characters. The various -groups usually regarded as sub-families and genera are perhaps as easily distinguished -in this family as in any other of the entire class of Birds, and it is -one in which it is remarkable that almost every country produces species -which belong to the genus (<i>Hirundo</i>) which is the type and apparently primary -form of the family, besides forms peculiarly its own.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_253">253</div> -<p>The types of great groups apparently more pre-eminently characterize -the ornithology of Europe than that of any other division of the globe. In -other words, Europe appears to produce the greatest number of species of -birds exhibiting the fullest development of the especial characters of the -groups to which they belong. It is very remarkable, too, that species are -found almost throughout the world slightly aberrating, as it were, from European -forms, or as though a typical form was produced with a greater or less -degree of imperfection. Of this description of birds, the various species -nearly allied to the House Swallow of Europe (<i>Hirundo rustica</i>), are a -striking illustration. The American <i>Hirundo rufa</i>, and several Asiatic and -African species, are only distinguished from that bird by characters of inferior -value in specific identification. Australia, too, produces species, which, -though apparently farther removed, are still similar. There are many other -European birds which appear to occupy the same relative positions. The -Goatsucker, Raven, Crow, Jay, and Peregrine Falcon, are instances. Of the -European Conisostral birds, nearly every species has nearly allied forms in -other regions.</p> -<p>In connection, however, with this subject, there are two considerations by -no means to be lost sight of: Firstly, the extent to which the entire science -of ornithology may be regarded as having been derived from European birds; -those having been studied, and ornithological science being in some measure an -induction from them by the fathers and founders of this branch of Zoology. -Secondly, whether in reality the production of the higher developments in -birds is not peculiar to the western portions of the two great hemispheres, at -least in the northern regions of these divisions of the globe. We regard it -as evidently the case in the Old World, and not less so in America. That the -ornithology of western North America produces the highest developments of -forms in this class of animals that are to be found on this continent, we think -fully demonstrable. But at present we regard it as true that Europe produces -marked ornithological types of divisions strictly natural.</p> -<p>There are about one hundred known species of Swallows, of which eighty-five -are in the collection of the Philadelphia Academy. The South American -birds of this family, for the greater part, belong to genera represented in -North America. Of the genus <i>Progne</i> there are several species peculiar to -that portion of this continent, several of which possess habits and manners -very similar to those of the Purple Martin. The same may be said of several -species of <i>Acanthylis</i>, two or three of which considerably resemble our Chimney -Bird. Of the Bank Swallows (<i>Cotyle</i>), there are also several South -American species.</p> -<h3 id="c136">III. SUB-FAMILY HALCYONIDÆ. THE KING-FISHERS.</h3> -<p>General form short, thick, and robust; bill usually long, sharp, and -adapted to striking and seizing their prey, which, in the greater part of the -<span class="pb" id="Page_254">254</span> -species, consists of fishes; wings generally long, and adapted to quick though -not long-continued flight; tail usually short; legs short, frequently very -strong; toes long, frequently partially joined together and flattened on the -soles.</p> -<p>Of this extensive family, species are distributed throughout all the temperate -and tropical regions of the world, though much more abundant in the -latter. Many species habitually frequent the vicinity of the water, and -subsist on fishes and small aquatic animals of other classes, but there are -birds of this family that are found in the recesses of forests and other comparatively -dry localities.</p> -<p>Two species only of King-Fishers have as yet been discovered in the -United States.</p> -<h4>I. GENUS CERYLE. <span class="sc">Boie</span>, Isis, 1828, p. 312.</h4> -<p>Form stout and strong; head large; bill long, straight, wide at base, and -suddenly compressed to the point, which is sharp; aperture of the nostrils -large; wings long; second and third quills usually longest; tail rather short, -wide; legs short; tarsi very short; toes moderate, united at their bases, flattened -and padded beneath.</p> -<p>The two species which inhabit North America within the limits of the -United States belong to this genus, and it contains also various others of -different parts of the world. They are, however, most numerous in South -and Central America and Mexico.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>1. <span class="sc">Ceryle alcyon.</span> (Linn.) The Belted King-Fisher.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Alcedo alcyon.</span> Linn., Syst. Nat., I. p. 180. (1766.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Ispida ludoviciana.</span> Gm., Syst. Nat., I. p. 452. (1788.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Alcedo jaguacati.</span> Dumont, Dict. Sci. Nat., I. p. 455. (1816.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Alcedo guacu.</span> Vieill., Nouv. Dict., XIX. p. 406?</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Buffon, Pl. Enl., 593, 715; Catesby’s Carolina, I. pl. 69; Wilson, Am. Orn., III. pl. -23, fig. 1; Aud., B. of Am., pl. 77, Oct. ed. IV. pl. 255.</p> -<p>Form robust; head large, with the feathers of the crown and occiput lengthened, crest-like -and erectile; wings long; second quill longest; tail moderate; tarsus very short; -tibia longer; entire upper-parts, cheeks, and a wide transverse band or belt on the breast, -light ashy-blue, generally with minute white spots on the wing-coverts and secondaries; -throat and abdomen, and a small spot before the eye, white; flanks, and frequently the -sides, ashy-blue, with white spots; quills black, more or less marked with white on their -inner webs; secondaries widely edged on their outer webs with ashy-blue, uniform with -other upper parts, and tipped narrowly with white; tail bluish-black, outer feathers -edged externally with light ashy-blue, and middle feathers almost entirely of that color, -and all having about ten to twelve narrow transverse bands of white, and narrowly tipped -with white; under wing-coverts white. Younger, with the pectoral band light reddish -chestnut, and frequently with a second and sometimes with a third band across the abdomen, -and the sides and flanks of the same color; bill and feet dark. Sexes alike? Specimens -occur with the wide pectoral band in all stages of change, from the light red to -light ashy-blue.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, male, about 12 inches; wing, 6¼; tail, 3⅓ inches.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_255">255</div> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Throughout North America. Oregon (Dr. Townsend); California (Dr. Heermann); -Texas (Dr. Woodhouse); Canada (Dr. Hall); Florida (Mr. Williams).</p> -</blockquote> -<p>Frequently met with in all parts of the United States, frequenting streams -of water. It is a sprightly and handsome bird, and was until recently considered -as the only North American species of the extensive family of King-Fishers. -That honor must now, however, be partially shared with the succeeding.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt>2. <span class="sc">Ceryle americana.</span> (Gmelin.) The Texan Green King-Fisher.</dt> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Alcedo americana.</span> Gm., Syst., I. p. 451. (1788.)</dd> -<dd class="t"><span class="sc">Alcedo viridis.</span> Vieill., Nouv. Dict., XIX. p. 413. (1818)?</dd></dl> -<blockquote> -<p>Buff., Pl. Enl. 591.</p> -<p>Much smaller than the preceding; bill straight; wing rather long, third quill longest; -tail moderate; tarsus very short; legs rather slender; two outer toes united at base; -entire plumage above dark shining green, darker and generally tinged with brownish on -the head, and with numerous very small spots or points of white on the forehead; quills -brownish-black, edged with green on their outer-webs; secondaries white at their bases, -and all the quills with white spots on their outer-webs, regularly disposed, and forming -three transverse bands on the wing; outer feathers of the tail white, irregularly marked -on both webs with green; middle feathers green; breast bright reddish chestnut, forming -a wide transverse band; throat, and ring around the back of the neck and abdomen, -white; sides, flanks and under tail-coverts spotted with green; inferior wing-coverts -white, with green spots; bill dark; feet lighter. Younger or female? Like the preceding, -but with the pectoral band green, uniform with the color of the upper parts; -white of the throat tinged with dull yellow.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length of skin, 7¼ inches; wing, 3¼; tail, 2½ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Texas, Rio Grande (Capt. McCown, Mr. Clarke); Mexico (Lieut. Couch); South -America.</p> -</blockquote> -<p>This handsome little King-Fisher, though well known as a bird of South -America, has, within the limits of the United States, only been observed on -the Rio Grande in Texas. Several naturalists, however, mention having -heard of a small species of King-Fisher in Southern California, and it is -probable that the present bird will yet be found inhabiting that State.</p> -<p>This bird may very readily be distinguished from the common species of -the United States by its small size and different colors; but there are other -South American species of the same genus which it resembles. There is a -group of these birds, the species of which, in fact, bear so great similarity to -each other in form and in colors also, that they can be distinguished specifically -mainly by their size. This group embraces <i>Ceryle amazona</i>, <i>inda</i>, -<i>superciliosa</i>, <i>Cabanisii</i>, and the bird now before us. The first is as large as -our Belted King-Fisher (<i>Ceryle alcyon</i>), and has been found in Mexico. All -of these species are colored very much like the present bird, though, as above -intimated, presenting marked difference in size.</p> -<p>The King-Fishers are most abundant in the southern regions of the world, -and the preceding two species are all that have ever been noticed within the -limits of the United States, though several others inhabit Mexico. Two -<span class="pb" id="Page_256">256</span> -species also are known as birds of Europe, though one of them (<i>Ceryle rudis</i>), -like our second species in the United States, is a visitor only in the southern -countries of that division of the globe.</p> -<p>In Asia and the Asiatic islands, and in Australia, numerous species of -these birds are found. Some of the Australian species are the largest of this -family, being of the size of or larger than the Crow of the United States, -and are remarkable for their loud and discordant voices. They belong to the -genus <i>Dacelo</i> of naturalists. Great diversity of size occurs in this family. -There are other species (of the genera <i>Ispidina</i> and <i>Ceyx</i>), which are not -larger than the Chipping Sparrow of this country, though, to all intents and -purposes, regularly established King-Fishers, and probably preying on fishes -of a size accordingly.</p> -<p>Though many of the birds of this family are partially aquatic in their -habits, and subsist exclusively on fishes, there are species principally inhabiting -the islands in the Pacific, and Australia, which are stated to live habitually -in forests, subsisting on reptiles and small terrestrial animals of other -classes. These birds belong to the genera <i>Todiramphus</i> and <i>Dacelo</i> of -authors.</p> -<p>Naturalists enumerate about ninety species of King-Fishers, of which -specimens of seventy-seven are in the collection of the Philadelphia Academy.</p> -<p>We find recorded no species of King-Fishers to be considered as doubtful -or obscure birds of that portion of North America within our prescribed -limits.</p> -<p>With this family we close that division of the Perching Birds classed by -ornithologists as <i>Fissirostres</i>. Two other families, the <i>Trogonidæ</i> and the -<i>Meropidæ</i>, are not represented by species inhabiting the United States or the -more northern countries of this continent. Of the <i>Trogonidæ</i>, however, -several species are found in Mexico, one of which (<i>Trogon mexicanus</i>) was -observed by Lieut. Couch, in the northern part of that country, and will very -probably yet be found within the present limits of this confederacy. All the -American <i>Trogons</i> are birds of remarkable beauty, and one of them (<i>Calurus -resplendens</i>) can scarcely be surpassed in any country. It inhabits Central -America, and is the sacred bird of the aborigines, and mentioned by Mr. -Stephens and other travellers in the countries which it inhabits. Its plumage, -and that of many other American species, is of fine metallic golden green -and scarlet.</p> -<p>Of the <i>Meropidæ</i>, or Bee-eaters, no species inhabits America. Those birds -are almost restricted to Asia and Africa, one species only being European.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig41"> -<img src="images/ppp40.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1161" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 41<br /><span class="ln2">Baird’s Buzzard</span><br /><span class="ln3">Buteo Bairdii (<i>Hoy</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_257">257</div> -<h2 id="c137"><span class="small">BUTEO BAIRDII.—Hoy.</span> -<br />Baird’s Buzzard. -<br />PLATE XLI. Adults?</h2> -<p>Of the several new species of rapacious birds of North America, which -have been discovered within a few years, the bird now before the reader is -one of the most interesting. It is the second species now ascertained to -inhabit this continent, of a group constituting the typical genus <i>Buteo</i> of -naturalists, which until a recent period was supposed to be peculiar to the -Old World, the previously known American species being Swainson’s Buzzard -(<i>Buteo Swainsonii</i>), a bird of the northern regions, little known and nearly -lost sight of until recently by ornithologists.</p> -<p>The birds of this group are more active and Falcon-like in their habits -than the other species of the North American Buzzards, all of which have been -classified in other sub-genera. They also appear to be more strictly predatory -in their habits.</p> -<p>The present species was discovered by P. R. Hoy, M. D., an active and -enthusiastic naturalist of Racine, Wisconsin, who first observed it and -obtained specimens in the vicinity of that city. In the same State, it has -also been observed by the Rev. A. O. Barry, of Racine, and Mr. William -Dudley, of Madison, both naturalists of extensive acquirements, who have -done much to elucidate the zoology of that district. All of those gentlemen -concur, however, in representing it as very probably a visitor only in Wisconsin, -and migrating to more northern regions of the continent of America. -In addition to their specimens, we have seen one other only, which is contained -in a collection now deposited in the National Museum, Washington, -and was obtained near the Great Salt Lake, Utah Territory, by Lieut. E. G. -Beckwith, of the United States Army, in whose charge a party surveyed one -of the proposed routes for a Railroad to the Pacific Ocean.</p> -<p>We have to express our obligations to Dr. Hoy for his kindness in furnishing -the following notice of this bird for our present article:—</p> -<p>“Although never numerous, this fine Hawk is not unfrequently met with -during the fall and spring, especially in the vicinity of Racine, but is exceedingly -wary and difficult to approach, and as it is here an inhabitant almost -exclusively of the prairies, the procuring of specimens even by an experienced -hunter or collector, is almost entirely dependant on encountering it -accidentally within gunshot.</p> -<p>“This bird may be readily known, though seen at a considerable distance or -heighth in the air, by its long pointed wings and rapid flight; in the last -respect somewhat resembling the Duck Hawk (<i>Falco anatum</i>), and in fact -<span class="pb" id="Page_258">258</span> -looking somewhat like that species when on the wing. I witnessed not long -since, a bird of this species flying rapidly, but he wheeled about suddenly and -struck into a covey of Partridges with wonderful celerity of movement, and -bore off in his talons sufficient evidence that his exploit had been fully successful. -This bird possesses much greater activity of habits than any other -of our Hawks of the same genus (<i>Buteo</i>), and its mode of flight is quite -different.</p> -<p>“The favorite haunts of this species are the broad prairies, over which it may -be seen generally flying or coursing around in quest of its prey, or occasionally -perched in repose, but very carefully keeping out of the range of the -gun. It is one of the most shy of our Hawks, and I have never known an -instance of its visiting the vicinity of the farm-house, or disturbing the domestic -poultry, as is done by nearly all other of our birds of the Falcon kind, -much to the disadvantage of their reputation with our farmers and housewives. -The present bird at least saves his character in that respect, for he -never comes near, and prefers also that no one shall come near him.</p> -<p>“The prey of this species is principally Grouse, Quails, and other birds; -but when opportunity offers, he does not disdain field-mice, or even snakes. -The Pinnated Grouse, or Prairie Hen, as it is universally called in our region -of country (<i>Tetrao cupido</i>), is his most common food, which, frequenting the -prairies habitually, his pursuit of this bird is the cause of his being so constantly -seen in such localities. Usually he has little difficulty in procuring a -supply sufficient for his wants. I am under the impression that this bird -does not rear its young in this part of Wisconsin, as I have never known its -nest to be found, though I have of various other species. I have never seen -this bird soar in the manner of other Buzzards. It is apparently a visitor -only to this part of the State of Wisconsin.”</p> -<p>The specimens obtained by Dr. Hoy, one of which is represented in the -upper figure in our plate, present considerable similarity in colors; but we -have seen one other, which had the colors much darker, and the under-parts -especially much marked with black. The latter specimen is represented in -our lower figure, and was obtained in the neighborhood of Madison, Wisconsin, -by Mr. William Dudley, Secretary of the Wisconsin Natural History -Society. The specimen from Utah Territory is almost precisely identical -in color with those obtained by Dr. Hoy.</p> -<p>We have no further information respecting this interesting species.</p> -<h3 id="c138">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Buteo.</span> Cuvier, Regne Animal, I. p. 323. (1817.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Buteo Bairdii.</span> Hoy, Proc. Acad., Philadelphia, VI. p. 451. (1853.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Rather smaller than <i>Buteo lineatus</i>; compact and robust; wings -long, and pointed; third primary longest; tail moderate, rather wide, -rounded.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_259">259</div> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Female, total length of skin, 19½ inches; wing, 15; tail, 8 -inches, and about an inch longer than the folded wings.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> Female (Plate XLI., upper figure), entire upper parts dark brown, -with a purplish bronzed lustre, especially on the wings; plumage of the head -and neck behind, and some feathers on the back edged and tipped with yellowish -white; upper tail-coverts yellowish white, with transverse bars of -brown; tail above brownish cinereous, and having about ten narrow bands of -brownish black, and tipped with white; under parts pale yellowish white or -fawn color, with a few sagittate spots of brown on the sides, and a stripe of -dark brown running downwards on each side from the corners of the mouth; -cere, legs, and irides yellow.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Younger?</span> (Plate XLI., lower figure.) Upper parts very dark brown or -nearly black, with a purplish lustre; under parts with almost every feather -having a large spot of brownish black, which color predominates on the breast, -presenting a nearly uniform color with the upper parts; throat with narrow -stripes of the same color; flanks and inferior wing-coverts with circular and -oval spots of white; tibiæ dark brown, with transverse bars and circular and -oval spots of reddish white; upper tail-coverts reddish white, with their outer -edges brown, and with transverse stripes of the same; under tail-coverts -yellowish white, with transverse stripes of brown; forehead white; cheeks -yellowish white; stripes from the corners of the mouth wide and conspicuous. -Sex unknown.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Wisconsin (Dr. Hoy, Rev. Mr. Barry, Mr. Dudley); Utah Territory -(Lieut. Beckwith). Spec. in Nat. Mus., Washington, and Mus. Acad., -Philadelphia.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This bird does not intimately resemble any other of the American -Falconidæ at present known, and is a well marked species, especially in the -plumage above described as probably the younger. In this the nearly uniform -brownish black breast and large spots of the same color on the other -under parts are strongly characteristic. The plumage of the first described -above bears some resemblance to the young of <i>Buteo lineatus</i>, and also to the -young of <i>Buteo pennsylvanicus</i>, but not sufficient to require especial consideration.</p> -<p>To us it is a point of high interest that the present bird bears the name -of one with whom our relations have been intimate and of the most pleasant -character almost since boyhood. One who is a most competent and efficient -officer of the first Institution in America for the diffusion of knowledge—one -who has gained a rank amongst the first American zoologists; and better, no -man lives who is more conscientious in the discharge of his duties, more -respectful of all that renders life agreeable, or more faithful in his friendships, -than <span class="sc">Spencer F. Baird</span>, of the Smithsonian Institution.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_260">260</div> -<h2 id="c139"><span class="small">TOXOSTOMA REDIVIVA.—(Gambel.)</span> -<br />The Curved-billed Thrush. -<br />PLATE XLII. Adult Male.</h2> -<p>The bird now before the reader is one of the most admired songsters of the -western countries of North America. By competent judges, as we shall see -in the course of the present article, he has been pronounced worthy of favorable -mention, even when compared with our great sylvan vocalists, the Mocking -Bird, and the Rufous Thrush, to both of which he can claim relationship, -not distant.</p> -<p>Viewed as the representatives of principles embodied, as it were, in the -various forms or rather classes of animal life, a consideration by no means to -be overlooked in the present age of zoological science, birds are the especial -exponents of the principles of the beautiful, and, of all classes of animals, -appeal most directly to the higher faculties of the human mind. Entire symmetry -and elegance of form, gracefulness of motion, agreeable and varied -colors, and the fact that of the vast circle of animal life, they alone possess -vocal powers which are musical, have recommended this class, and tended to -perpetuate its high estimation in all civilized countries.</p> -<p>The flight of birds, never yet successfully imitated by the ingenuity of man -(unlike in that respect the motions of fishes in their element), is a means of -locomotion so entirely peculiar as always to have attracted attention, and, in -past ages, wonder, even to such extent as to have assumed an aspect of superstition, -not entirely ignorant nor reprehensible, because founded on facts of -nature, manifesting itself in auguries and divinations, which commanded -respect for centuries erroneously, but expanded into truth at last by the aid -of the light of Inductive science. The conclusions of the learned and cultivated -nations of antiquity, however apparently erroneous, are rarely without -some foundation in and relation to truth, and in many cases are the origin of -modern science. So the augurs were the first ornithologists, as the astrologers -were the first astronomers.</p> -<p>The poets have found in birds the most attractive of animals. There is -scarcely one from the great Grecian era of taste and poetry to the present -day, in whose productions passages do not occur, recognised as beautiful and -deriving their essential character from this class of objects. Hebrew and -Greek were alike in this respect, whether in the derivation of sacred symbols -or of imagery in poetic allusion; the Dove of the former is of the same -general character as the Peacock of Juno, or the Sparrows of Venus, poetic -and truthful to nature and of the same origin. The Greek poets found in -birds suitable accompaniments for the most sublime creations of their genius, -their Deities. The greatest of Hebrew poets rejoices in the assurance that -“the time of the singing of birds is come, and the voice of the Turtle is heard -in the land.”</p> -<div class="img" id="fig42"> -<img src="images/ppp41.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1171" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 42<br /><span class="ln2">The Curved-billed Thrush</span><br /><span class="ln3">Toxostoma rediviva (<i>Gambel</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_261">261</div> -<p>Singing birds belong exclusively to the class of Insessores or Perching -birds. One Falcon only (an African species, <i>Falco musicus</i>), is said to possess -a musical voice, not making, though we much suspect, any considerable -figure in that line. No wading, swimming, or gallinaceous bird makes any -pretensions.</p> -<p>The song was long considered as entirely the expression of love during the -season, which has its most pleasant analogy in the spring-time of life, but that -conclusion admits of some exceptions. Many birds sing in autumn apparently -without the pleasant incitement of either actual or prospective attachment. -Cases occur, too, as we have sometimes witnessed, of a bird having, to all -appearance, failed in securing the object of his choice, remaining alone and -solacing himself with a song occasionally for the balance of the season;—possibly -somewhat of the nature of deriving comfort from “ends of verse and -sayings of philosophers.”</p> -<p>Our present bird belongs to the family of Thrushes, but to a genus -which can scarcely be said to be represented in the States on the Atlantic; -though the Rufous Thrush (<i>Mimus rufus</i>) is very nearly related to it, if not -actually belonging to the group. This bird has been observed by nearly all -the naturalists who have visited western North America, and its history is -comparatively well known. To our friend, Col. McCall, we have to acknowledge -our obligations, as on many former occasions, for a contribution intended -for our present article:—</p> -<p>“This remarkable bird, whose dulcet notes, flowing with exquisite smoothness, -place him almost beyond rivalry among the countless songsters that -enliven the woods of America, or indeed of the world at large, is as retired -and simple in his manners as he is gay and brilliant in song. In his ordinary -hearing, as well as in the very marked character of his flight, he exhibits a -strong resemblance to our humble and unobtrusive, though always welcome -vocalist, the Ferruginous Thrush (<i>M. rufus</i>); while in the faculty of modulating -sweet sounds he is scarcely surpassed by the dashing, ambitious, and -ever-animated Mocking Bird (<i>M. polyglottus</i>). His resemblance to the Ferruginous -Thrush in the particulars above mentioned, forcibly impressed itself -upon me the first time I saw the California bird. This was on the banks of -the Rio Colorado, below the mouth of the Gila, where, in the month of June, -the shade and seclusion afforded by the cotton-wood and the willow seemed to -be a favorite abode of the species. I saw many individuals in the course of a -ride of fifteen miles through this wild region. In one quiet nook I met with -a pair ‘in love and mutual honors joined,’ who evidently had some dear little -‘pledges of peace’ secreted in the dense foliage around. They were greatly -excited by my approach, deprecating the unlooked-for intrusion with abundant -<span class="pb" id="Page_262">262</span> -energy and vehemence. It was then that their harsh, scolding notes, their -motions, and all their attitudes, reminded me most forcibly of my old friends -of the Atlantic groves, although, under other circumstances, the resemblance -was sufficiently obvious. But, besides their traits of character, there is a -striking resemblance in the organization of the two species; the bill, for -instance of <i>M. rufus</i>, when compared with the bills of its congeners, <i>M. polyglottus</i>, -<i>M. carolinensis</i>, and others, is found to be greatly elongated and -much curved, and in this lengthened and curved bill (to say nothing of the -shorter wings and longer tail) may easily be discerned a decided approach to -the remarkable form developed in <i>T. rediviva</i>, and other closely allied species. -This coincidence of a similarity of organization with a similarity of manners -is, I think, sufficiently marked to show a close relationship between the two -species; or, in other words, to indicate <i>M. rufus</i> as the connecting link -between these two distinct genera.</p> -<p>“The song of the California bird is far superior to that of the Thrush,—though -it must be admitted that he has not the powerful voice of our Mocking -bird, that prince of songsters, nor his imitative powers; but he certainly has -a liquid mellowness of tone united with clearness of expression and volubility -of utterance that cannot be surpassed. On the first occasion on which it was -my good fortune to hear this bird fairly tune his pipes to sound a roundelay, -the performer was perched upon the bare branch of an ancient oak, and his -farewell carol to the departing day was delivered with a warmth and pathos -so truly wonderful as to fill me with admiration and delight; and though I -was then anxious to procure birds for the Museum of the Philadelphia -Academy, I scarcely thought of molesting him whose vesper chaunt had just -enlivened that wild, secluded vale! I cannot, even now, without a tweak of -contrition and self-reproach, acknowledge that the desire to procure a ‘specimen’ -prompted me, some time afterwards, to shoot a bird of this species.</p> -<p>“This almost sacrilegious act, I feel bound to confess, met with a just -reward; for, having placed my prize on the branch of a neighboring tree, in -order to preserve its plumage unruffled, while I continued my pursuit after -game (for the larder as well as for the cabinet) I had the mortification, on my -return, to find that some savage wild animal, as little impressed by soul-stirring -music, I might almost say, as myself, had made a hasty supper off -my divine songster, feathers and all.”</p> -<p>Dr. Heermann, in his manuscript notes, through his kindness now in our -possession, thus mentions the present bird:—</p> -<p>“This bird is abundant. I have not only seen it in Northern California, -but also as far south as Texas, on the borders of the Rio Grande. It is shy -and retiring in its habits, and when startled, flies low for some distance, and -plunging into a thicket, alights on the ground, and so conceals itself, that it -is not again easily found. It runs or hops on the ground with considerable -facility and speed.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_263">263</div> -<p>“Among the feathered songsters of Western America, this bird is the most -superior, and its song is a striking feature in the localities where it is found. -Its notes are equal in harmony to those of the Mocking bird of the United -States, though not so varied. To the miners it is well known by the name -of the California Mocking bird, and it is with them a great favorite.</p> -<p>“It incubates in California, but the only nest that I ever found contained -young in the month of July. This nest was composed of coarse twigs and -lined with slender roots, not very carefully constructed, and resembling somewhat -those of some other of the Thrushes.”</p> -<p>Dr. Henry has also observed this bird in the vicinity of Fort Fillmore, -rather abundantly, particularly during the months of October and November. -It has been noticed, too, by nearly all the other naturalists who have visited -California and New Mexico.</p> -<p>The figure in our plate is rather less than half the size of life.</p> -<p>The plant represented is a species of <i>Vernonia</i>, from the neighbourhood -of Santa Fé, New Mexico, and was raised from the seed by Mr. Robert -Kilvington, of this city.</p> -<h3 id="c140">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Toxostoma.</span> Wagler, Isis, 1831, p. 528.</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Harpes.</span> Gambel, Proc. Acad., Philada., II. p. 264. (1845.)</dt></dl> -<p>Bill long, much curved, somewhat depressed, blunt; ridges of both mandibles -strongly defined; wings short, rounded; first quill short, fourth and -fifth and sixth longest; tail long; legs robust; toes rather long; claws large, -strong; plumage of the upper parts loose; feathers of the rump lengthened. -A genus containing four or perhaps five species, all of which inhabit the -western and southwestern countries of North America.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Toxostoma rediviva.</span> (Gambel.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Harpes rediviva.</span> Gamb., Proc. Acad. Philada., II. p. 264. (1845.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> The largest of the genus; bill long, curved; wings short, rounded, -first quill subspurious, fifth and sixth slightly longest and nearly equal; tail -long, graduated; outer feathers about one inch shorther than those in the middle; -tarsi strong; toes long; claws, especially of the hind toes, large, strong.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, male, about 11½ inches; wing, 4; tail, 5¼; -bill, 1¾; tarsus, 1½ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> Entire upper parts light brown, slightly tinged with rufous on -the rump; quills brownish black, edged on their outer webs with lighter; tail -brownish-black, with a reddish tinge, lighter on the under surface; an obscure -ashy white superciliary line; auricular feathers dark brown, with central -white lines; throat white; breast and sides light brown, tinged with ashy -and fulvous; middle of the abdomen, flanks and under tail-coverts rufous, -darker on the last; bill black; tarsi lighter; “irides hazel.” Sexes alike?</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_264">264</div> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> California. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philadelphia, and Nat. Mus., -Washington.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> There are two other species of this genus, both of which the present -bird somewhat resembles, but it can easily be distinguished on comparison by -its larger size. From the published descriptions the different species cannot -be distinguished so readily, on account of their similarity of form and general -characters.</p> -<p>Dr. Gambel regarded this bird as identical with a species mentioned and -figured by the distinguished, though unfortunate navigator, La Perouse, and -published in “Voyage de La Peyrouse autour du Monde,” Atlas, pl. 37 -(Paris, 1797), under the name of “Promerops de la California Septentrionale.” -Under this impression, Dr. Gambel gave this bird its specific -name, <i>redivivus</i>.</p> -<p>Whether it is the fact, however, that the figure in La Peyrouse represents -the present bird, admits of some doubt. To us it is much more like <i>Toxostoma -curvirostris</i>, a smaller species.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig43"> -<img src="images/ppp42.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1076" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 43<br /><span class="ln2">The Vermilion Flycatcher</span><br /><span class="ln3">Cardellina rubra (<i>Swainson</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_265">265</div> -<h2 id="c141"><span class="small">CARDELLINA RUBRA.—(Swainson.)</span> -<br />The Vermilion Flycatcher. -<br />PLATE XLIII. Males.</h2> -<p>Of this brilliant-plumaged little Flycatcher, we have, we regret to say, -but little information. It has been known as a Mexican bird since 1827, -when specimens were sent to Europe for the first time by Mr. William -Bullock, a Fellow of the Linnæan Society of London, who was then resident -in Mexico, but has as yet been obtained once only within the limits of the -United States. It was received in a collection made in Texas, and containing -many interesting species, by Mr. J. P. Giraud, an accomplished and -active ornithologist of the city of New York, and was by him first introduced -as entitled to a place in the ornithological fauna of this country. Since that -period no one of the several American naturalists who have visited Texas, -has had the good fortune to meet with it.</p> -<p>This bird was first described by Mr. Swainson, in the Philosophical Magazine, -new series, I. p. 367, but little or nothing more is said of it than on the -authority of Mr. Bullock, it is stated to be an inhabitant of the table lands, -and that the specimens in his collection were obtained in the vicinity of -Valladolid. Mr. Bullock himself, in his interesting book, “Six Months in -Mexico,” does not allude to it.</p> -<p>Nor is there, in a more elaborate paper, in which this bird is described by -the Baron de la Fresnaye, in Guerin’s Magazine of Zoology (as cited below), -a much more explicit or satisfactory history. Its habits, it is stated, resemble -those of the Tits (Genus <i>Parus</i>), and it has a feeble cry like the syllables -<i>pe-pe-pe</i>. Mons. de la Fresnaye’s specimens were from Jalapa, and were -killed in August.</p> -<p>This bird belongs to a group of Flycatchers of small size, of which various -species inhabit the warmer parts of America, and are represented in the North -only by the Redstart (<i>Setophagha ruticilla</i>), a common and well known bird -of the United States. Nearly all the species are remarkable for the gay and -showy colors of their plumage; but the bird now before us is certainly entitled -to precedence on such foundation for pretensions. It is not equalled by -any other species of its group, and is in fact one of the most beautiful of the -smaller birds of North America.</p> -<p>Our figures, which represent adult males, are about two-thirds of the size -of life, and were drawn from specimens obtained in Mexico, now in the -collection of the Philadelphia Academy.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_266">266</div> -<h3 id="c142">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Cardellina.</span> Bonaparte, Cons. Av. p. 312.</dt></dl> -<p>General form rather lengthened and slender; bill moderate, with several -pairs of slender bristles at the base of the upper mandible; wings rather -long, with the third quill longest; tail long; tarsi and toes moderate, rather -slender, the latter rather short; colors bright and showy. Two American -birds only are classed in this genus.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Cardellina rubra.</span> (Swainson.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Setophaga rubra.</span> Swainson, Philos. Mag. I., new series, p. 367. (1827.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Sylvia miniata.</span> La Fresnaye, Guerin’s Mag. de Zool., 1836 (not paged).</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Parus leucotis.</span> Giraud, Sixteen new species N. A. Birds, 1841 (not paged).</dt> -<dt>“<span class="sc">Sylvia argyrotis.</span> Illiger.” Bonap. Cons. Av. p. 312.</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Bill somewhat subulate, sharp; wing with the third quill longest; -tail long, emarginate; tarsi slender; toes rather short; claws fully curved, -compressed, acute.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length of skin, male, 5 inches; wing, 2½; tail, 2¾ -inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> <span class="sc">Male.</span>—A well-defined large space behind the eye, fine silky -white; quills and tail-feathers light hair-brown, with a tinge of cinereous and -margined externally with dark red; entire other plumage above and below -bright vermilion, lighter on the under-parts, and tinged with purple on the -back; inferior coverts of the wings and axillary feathers pale reddish white; -bill and tarsi light colored (yellow?).</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Texas and Mexico. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> This little Flycatcher is of the same general form as the Redstart -(<i>Setophaga ruticilla</i>) of the United States, and evidently belongs to the same -family, though apparently presenting sufficiently distinct generic characters. -It has nearer relatives than our northern species, inhabiting Mexico and -Central America, very nearly all of which are clothed in plumage of gay and -beautiful colors.</p> -<p>This bird does not resemble any other species with which we are acquainted -in such degree as to render especial comparison necessary, and is very easily -recognised.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig44"> -<img src="images/ppp43.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="499" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 44<br /><span class="ln2">The Texan Guan</span><br /><span class="ln3">Ortalida poliocephala (<i>Wagler</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_267">267</div> -<h2 id="c143"><span class="small">ORTALIDA POLIOCEPHALA.—(Wagler.)</span> -<br />The Texan Guan. -<br />PLATE XLIV. Adult Male.</h2> -<p>This bird is the only one yet discovered in the United States, of a family -of Gallinaceous Birds, of which numerous species are found in the warmer -countries of America. Various species inhabit Mexico and Central America, -some of which, including that now before us, appear to be readily domesticated, -and in Mexico especially, may frequently be seen amongst the usual -feathered denizens of the farm-yard.</p> -<p>The birds of this group, known by the names of Guans, Curassow birds, and -Mexican Turkeys, and the Turkeys proper, are two families of the Gallinaceous -birds that are peculiarly American, and not distantly related to each -other. Of the Turkeys, two species are known, the most numerous of which -is the Wild Turkey of North America. The other, even more handsome in -its plumage than the former, has as yet only been found in Central America, -and is known as the Honduras Turkey. It is by no means well established -that the Domestic Turkey is descended from the wild species of North America. -Its origin probably has not yet been discovered.</p> -<p>The family to which our present species belongs (<i>Cracidæ</i>), contains birds -that for the greater part live in the forests, and are remarkable for habitually -frequenting trees to a much greater extent than is usual amongst the -larger Gallinaceous birds, and constructing their nests in the branches much -in the same style as the smaller perching birds. Several species, amongst -which is the bird now before us, have very loud and discordant voices.</p> -<p>The Curassow Birds (Genus <i>Crax</i>) are the best known of this family. -They are generally of black or dark red plumage, more or less varied with -white, and have very curious and handsome crests, of stiff, recurved feathers. -These birds are frequently domesticated in Mexico and the other countries -that they inhabit, and a species or two are contained in almost every menagerie -of any considerable pretensions in the United States.</p> -<p>The species now before us was first noticed as a bird of the United States, -by Col. McCall, who observed it in Texas. Since that period, it has been -repeatedly obtained by American naturalists either in that country or in New -Mexico.</p> -<p>With that ability and courtesy which has added so much to the interest -of the present volume, Col. McCall has furnished the following for our -article on this interesting bird:—</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_268">268</div> -<p>“This very gallant-looking and spirited bird I saw, for the first time within -our territory, in the extensive forest of <i>chaparral</i> which envelopes the <i>Resaca -de la Palma</i>, a stream rendered famous in the history of our country by the -victory achieved by the American forces under Gen. Taylor. Here, and for -miles along the lower Rio Grande, the <i>poliocephala</i> was abundant; and -throughout this region, the remarkable and sonorous cry of the male bird -could not fail to attract and fix the attention of the most obtuse or listless -wanderer who might chance to approach its abode.</p> -<p>“By the Mexicans it is called <i>Chiac-chia-lacca</i>, an Indian name, and -doubtlessly derived from the peculiar cry of the bird, which strikingly resembles -a repetition of those syllables. And when I assure you that its voice in -compass is equal to that of the Guinea-fowl, and in harshness but little inferior, -you may form some idea of the chorus with which the forest is made to -ring at the hour of sunrise. At that hour, in the month of April, I have -observed a proud and stately fellow descend from the tree on which he had -roosted, and mounting upon an old log or stump, commence his clear shrill -cry. This was soon responded to, in a lower tone, by the female, the latter -always taking up the strain as soon as the importunate call of her mate had -ceased.</p> -<p>“Thus alternating, one pair after another would join in the matinal chorus, -and before the rising sun had fairly lighted up their close retreat, the woods -would ring with the din of an hundred voices, as the happy couples met after -the period of separation and repose.</p> -<p>“When at length all this clatter had terminated, the parties quietly betook -themselves to their morning-meal. If surprised while thus employed, they -would fly into the trees above, whence, peering down with stretched necks -and heads turned sideways to the ground, they would challenge the intruder -with a singular and oft-repeated croaking note, of which it would be difficult -to give any adequate idea with words alone.</p> -<p>“Indeed, the volubility and singularity of voice of the <i>poliocephala</i> is -perhaps its most striking and remarkable trait—at least, it so appeared to me. -In illustration of which I will state that, while on the march from Matamoras -to Tampico, we had encamped on the 30th December, at the spring of -<i>Encinal</i>, whence, a short time before sunset, I rode out in company with an -officer in search of game. We were passing through a woodland near the -stream, when our ears were saluted with a strange sound that resembled -somewhat the cry of the panther (<i>Felis onca</i>). We stopped our horses and -listened—the cry was repeated, and we were completely at a loss to what -animal to ascribe it. I dismounted, and having crawled cautiously through -the thicket for some distance, came upon an opening where there were some -larger trees; from the lower branches of one of which I now ascertained that -the sound proceeded. In a moment or two I discovered a large male <i>poliocephala</i> -ascending towards the top of the tree, and uttering this hitherto -<span class="pb" id="Page_269">269</span> -unheard sound as he sprang from branch to branch in mounting to his roost. -He seemed to be much occupied with his own thoughts, and did not observe -me; and therefore I was enabled to watch his movements. In a few moments -his call was answered from a distance, and soon afterwards he was joined by -a bird of the year. Others followed, coming in from different quarters; and -there were, in a little while, five or six of them upon the tree. One of these -now discovered me, and the alarm was given. The singular cry of the old -bird ceased, and they all began to exhibit uneasiness and a disposition to fly; -whereupon I shot the old bird, as I had resolved to secure him at all events. -On rejoining my companion, he could not at first believe me to be serious, -when I told him the sound we had heard had proceeded from the old cock -that I presented to him, and who had been calling his family together at the -close of day in the manner I have described. On my return to camp, I -entered in my note-book the following description which I took from this -bird:—</p> -<p>“Length 23 inches, 6 lines; alar stretch, 26 inches; tail, 11 inches; tarsus, -2 inches, 7 lines. The bill similar to that of the common fowl, but longer on -the ridge and more curved at the point; the upper mandible light slate blue, -the lower yellowish, but brown near the base; legs and feet blackish slate -color; the nails black; the irides dark hazel; the chin devoid of feathers, -and its skin, which is of an orange-red color, approximating in looseness to -the gills of the common fowl; general color above, a brownish olive, with -dark green reflections, deepest on the head; breast and belly light rufous, -with whitish longitudinal pencillings; tail (of twelve feathers) darker than -the back, and with a broad terminal band of dull white; wings dusky olive. -A male; a very fine specimen, killed near Encinal, Dec. 30, 1846.</p> -<p>“A remarkable feature in the <i>poliocephala</i> is the eye, which in the living -bird is full of courage and animation—it is equal, in fact, in brilliancy to that -of the finest game cock.</p> -<p>“I frequently noticed this bird domesticated by the Mexicans at Matamoras, -Monterey, &c., and going at large about their gardens. I was assured -that in this condition it not unfrequently crossed with the common fowl; but -I did not see the progeny.</p> -<p>“In the wild state, the eggs are from six to eight, never exceeding the -last number. They are white, without spots; and rather smaller than a -pullet’s egg. The nest is usually made on the ground, at the root of a large -tree, or at the side of an old log, where a hole several inches deep is scratched -in the ground; this is lined with leaves, and the eggs are always carefully -covered with the same when the female leaves them for the purpose of feeding. -If disturbed while on her nest, she flies at the intruder with all the -spirit and determination of the common domestic hen, whose retreat has been -invaded.”</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_270">270</div> -<p>This species has been noticed by several of the naturalists who have -recently made such important contributions to the ornithology of the southwestern -frontier of the United States. Specimens brought by Mr. John H. -Clark, were obtained near Ringgold Barracks, Texas. The fine collection -made in Texas and Mexico, by Lieut. D. N. Couch, of the United States -Army, contained specimens obtained in the State of New Leon, in the latter -country.</p> -<h3 id="c144">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Ortalida.</span> Merrem, Icones et Desc. Av. p. 40. (1786.)</dt></dl> -<p>General form rather slender and lengthened; bill short, curved, rather -wide at base; aperture of the nostril large; wings short, rounded; fourth, -fifth, and sixth quills longest; tail long; tarsi moderate, rather robust; -colors usually plain. A genus of American birds, containing about fifteen -species.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Ortalida poliocephala.</span> (Wagler.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Penelope poliocephala.</span> Wagler, Isis, 1830, p. 1112.</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Bill short, curved; wing short, rounded; first quill short, sixth -slightly longest; secondaries long and broad; tail long, graduated; external -feathers nearly three inches shorter than those in the middle; tarsi moderate, -rather robust, and having in front about ten wide transverse scales; a bare -space on each side of the throat from the corners of the lower mandible; feathers -of the middle of the throat stiff and bristle-like; plumage of the head above -somewhat elongated and erectile, and with the shafts of the feathers slightly -rigid and hair-like, especially in front.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <span class="sc">Male.</span>—Total length of skin, about 21 inches; wing, 8; -tail, 10; tarsus, 2½ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> Head above and neck dark greenish cinereous, the shafts of the -feathers in front black; back, rump, wing-coverts, and exposed portions of -quills, dark olive, slightly tinged with ashy; quills brownish black, widely -edged on their outer web with olive; tail dark glossy bluish green, widely -tipped with white; plumage of the middle of the throat black, bare spaces on -each side reddish orange; breast, sides, flanks, and tibiae, dull yellowish -green, very pale, and in some specimens nearly white on the middle of the -abdomen, and frequently tinged with rufous on the flanks and tibia; under -tail-coverts dark rufous, frequently tinged with green; bill dark, light at the -tip, especially of the under mandible; tarsi light.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Texas. Mexico. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philad., and Nat. Mus., -Washington.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_271">271</div> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> There is a general resemblance of several species of this genus to -each other, almost impossible to be pointed out in the limits of our present -article. The bird now before us may be recognised, however, without difficulty, -by its comparatively large size and the dark cinereous color of its head -and neck.</p> -<p>Specimens of this bird in adult plumage are yet rarely brought in collections, -and we suspect is only attained in several years.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_272">272</div> -<h2 id="c145"><span class="small">BERNICLA LEUCOPAREIA.—(Brandt.)</span> -<br />The White-necked Goose. -<br />PLATE XLV. Adult Male.</h2> -<p>On the western coast of North America, this is one of the most abundant -of the species of Geese. In California it appears regularly in the course of -its migrations in the spring and autumn, and at both seasons is brought to -the market in San Francisco, in large numbers.</p> -<p>This bird is a near relative of Hutchins’ Goose, a well known species, -though not of common occurrence on the Atlantic coast. It is more frequently -met with in the larger rivers of the interior. From that species our -present bird may be easily distinguished by the white ring around the neck, -a character not mentioned in the descriptions given by authors, nor represented -in the plate in Mr. Audubon’s Birds of America, of Hutchins’ Goose. -The plate alluded to is the only one of the species which has come under our -notice, and is given with that eminent naturalist’s usual great accuracy, but -may not, we suspect, represent a bird in mature plumage. This suspicion -we have been induced to entertain from an examination of the specimen -figured by Mr. Audubon, for an opportunity to make which we are indebted -to the kindness of our friend, Mr. J. P. Giraud, of New York, to whose fine -collection it belongs.</p> -<p>We are not, however, sufficiently familiar with Hutchins’ Goose, to feel -qualified to decide respecting the identity of the present species.</p> -<p>This bird was first described by Prof. Brandt, a distinguished Russian -naturalist, who ascertained it be an inhabitant of the coasts of Russian America. -This author, and various others of Russia, have done much towards -elucidating the Natural History of Northwestern America, and in some -instances names given by them will be found to anticipate those of Americans, -especially in ornithology.</p> -<p>As a species occurring on the coast of California, our present bird was -first observed by Mr. John G. Bell, of New York, whose collection made in -that country contained numerous specimens. Since that period, it has been -noticed by nearly all our naturalists, though nothing is recorded of its habits -or history. In fact, the water-birds of Western America have by no means -received sufficient attention, and contributions to their history would be -important additions to American ornithology.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig45"> -<img src="images/ppp44.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="512" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 45<br /><span class="ln2">The White-necked Goose</span><br /><span class="ln3">Bernicla leucopareius (<i>Brandt</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_273">273</div> -<h3 id="c146">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Bernicla.</span> Stephens, Cont. of Shaw’s Zool. XII. p. 45. (1824).</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Bernicla leucopareia.</span> (Brandt.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Anser leucopareius.</span> Brandt, Bulletin Acad., St. Petersburg, I., p. 37. Desc. et Icones Animalium Rossicorum novorum. Aves, p. 13, pl. 2, (1836.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Anser Hutchinsii.</span> Richardson, Fauna Boreali Americana, Birds, p. 470? (1831.)</dt> -<dt>“<span class="sc">Anser canadensis. Brisson.</span>” Pallas, Zoographia Rosso-Asiatica, II., p. 230.</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Bill small, short, wide vertically at base; wing long, second quill -longest; tail short; legs short; toes moderate, fully webbed. A protuberance -on the edge of the wing near the shoulder. One of the smallest of the species -of this genus.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length, male (of skin) about 23 inches, wing 15, tail -5½ inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> Head and neck glossy black; a large somewhat reniform patch -on each cheek, white, and a ring around the neck of the same (white) at the -termination of the black part. Entire upper parts fuscous, lighter on the -back, and with the feathers edged with paler and very dark, nearly black on -the rump; upper tail coverts white; quills and tail brownish-black; secondaries -edged outwardly with pale brown; breast and abdomen glossy yellowish ashy, -with transverse stripes of brown on the sides; ventral region and under tail -coverts, white; bill and feet dark; under wing coverts and axillaries light -ashy brown; the white ring around the neck more or less interrupted behind; -the white patches on the cheeks separated by a narrow longitudinal band on -the throat.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> California. Russian America. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philad.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Obs.</span> As stated in the preceding pages, this bird much resembles, if it is -not identical with, the species known as <i>Bernicla Hutchinsii</i>, from which the -most essential distinctive character is the white ring around the neck. If -identical, we have, at any rate, the gratification of being the first to represent -that species, in mature plumage. At present we regard it as a distinct, though -nearly allied bird.</p> -<p>The date of the publication of Prof. Brandt’s first description we have not -succeeded in ascertaining, not having access to the Bulletin of the Academy -of St. Petersburg. The reference to the volume and page we copy from his -own citation, in his work above quoted, in which, however, the date is not -stated.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_274">274</div> -<h2 id="c147"><span class="small">THALASSIDROMA FURCATA.—(Gmelin.)</span> -<br />The Gray Storm Petrel. -<br />PLATE XLVI. Adults.</h2> -<p>The little birds of the group to which that now before the reader belongs, -are known to seamen, wherever the English language is spoken, as Storm -Petrels, or “Mother Carey’s Chickens,” and have too, a reputation, not without -a tinge of superstition, of being the harbingers of the storm and of maritime -disaster.</p> -<p>Of the many birds adapted by their organization to a life of adventure on -the ocean or its tributaries, and of which in fact during a large portion of -their lives they are almost as much inhabitants as fishes, the Albatrosses and -the Storm Petrels, or Mother Carey’s Chickens, venture the most boldly. -The birds of both these genera, though one contains the largest and the other -the smallest of marine birds, are alike in this particular character, and are -also alike known as inhabitants of shores very remote from each other, and -as wanderers over immense extents of the ocean.</p> -<p>Boldly directing their course far out on the sea, like their gigantic relatives -the Albatrosses, our present little birds are frequently to be met with in -nearly all latitudes usually traversed by navigators, and are generally tempted -to remain for a time in the wakes of vessels, and about them, by the fragments -of food to be gleaned from refuse thrown overboard. Flitting as it -were before the gale, with it, the appearance of these birds may readily be -coincident, or premonitory of its coming, thus acquiring, and perhaps in some -degree justly, the attributed character of precursors.</p> -<p>Several species of these birds are found on the coasts of the United States. -The most abundant and best known is Wilson’s Storm Petrel (<i>Thalassidroma -Wilsonii</i>), a bird which is perhaps to be regarded as more nearly cosmopolite -than any other, so extensive are its wanderings over the surface of the ocean. -It is of common occurrence throughout the whole extent of the eastern shores -of the continent of America, and it has been repeatedly noticed and captured -at various points on the coasts of Europe and Africa, thus demonstrating a -range over nearly the entire Atlantic Ocean. In the Pacific also it is well -known, though it is not so abundant. Mr. Gould gives it as a bird of Australia; -and the naturalists of the United States’ Exploring Expedition in the -Vincennes and Peacock, record its appearance at various other points in the -Pacific Ocean.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig46"> -<img src="images/ppp45.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="484" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 46<br /><span class="ln2">The Gray Petrel</span><br /><span class="ln3">Thalassidroma furcata (<i>Gmelin</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_275">275</div> -<p>The histories of this, and of other American species of Storm Petrels, are -perhaps as well known as those of the sea-birds generally, and much that is -interesting may be found in the articles on them in the works of our predecessors -in American Ornithology; but we cannot allow the present occasion -to pass without availing ourselves of the kindness of our friend, Charles -Pickering, M. D., of Boston, one of the naturalists attached to the Exploring -Expedition, and justly ranked with the most eminent of American Zoologists.</p> -<p>With his characteristic liberality, Dr. Pickering has placed at our disposal -much valuable information relative to birds observed during the voyage of -the Expedition, especially on the western coast of North America, and in other -localities of interest, with reference to American species. From his manuscript -we copy the following in relation to Wilson’s Petrel, which occurs under date -of October 24th, 1838, and from the latitude and longitude given, the nearest -land was the coast of Africa:</p> -<p>“A stormy Petrel taken, which proved to be <i>Thalassidroma Wilsonii</i>, and -although this species and others of its genus have been constantly seen during -the voyage of the Expedition, this is the first specimen that has been captured -without having been injured, thus affording whatever facilities can be obtained -on shipboard for observing its manners.</p> -<p>“I was rather surprised to observe that this bird was not only entirely -incapable of perching, but even of standing upright like birds in general, and -as I have seen birds of this genus represented, unless by the aid of its wings. -In standing, or rather sitting, the whole of the <i>tarsus</i> (commonly mistaken -for the leg) rests on the ground, and it walks in the same awkward position, -frequently being obliged to balance itself with its wings. By a more powerful -exertion of its wings, however, it was enabled to run along on its toes in the -same manner as it does over the surface of the waves. The absence of a -hind toe, the nails being but slightly bent and flat, and perhaps I may add, -its evidently being unaccustomed to this description of locomotion, seemed to -be the causes of its helplessness on its feet.</p> -<p>“These birds have been numerous about us for some days past, and their -coursing over the water with flitting wings remind me of the actions of -butterflies about a pool. One of them was seen swimming, or at least resting, -on the surface. We have seen this species very frequently, indeed almost -daily, since leaving America, and scarcely any other sea-birds, except in the -immediate vicinity of the islands. It would seem that it scarcely ever visits -the land, except for the purposes of incubation, and there can hardly be a -better comment on its untiring power of wing than the popular fable amongst -seamen that it carries its egg and hatches its young while sitting in the water. -It does not sail in the continued manner of the gulls and some other sea-birds, -but moves by rapidly flexing its wings something like a bat, and was -continually coursing around and in the wake of the vessel, generally in considerable -numbers, during much the greater part of the time that the Expedition -was in the Atlantic Ocean.”</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_276">276</div> -<p>The curious fact that this bird cannot stand upright we do not remember -ever before having seen noticed. Of the specimen alluded to, Dr. Pickering -gives notes of a minute and evidently very careful anatomical examination, -which the limits of our present article will not allow us to insert. They are, -however, confirmatory, in most respects, of the account of the anatomy of -this species, given by Mr. Audubon, in Ornithological Biography, V., p. 645.</p> -<p>The bird before the reader in the present plate is an inhabitant of the -Northern Pacific Ocean, and is an interesting addition to the ornithological -fauna of the United States, made by the naturalists of the Exploring Expedition, -under command of Captain Charles Wilkes, to which we have previously -alluded. Though long known as a bird of the coasts of Asiatic -Russia and of Russian America, it had never before been noticed on the -more southern coast of Oregon, where it was found in large numbers by the -Expedition, and specimens then obtained are now in the National Museum at -Washington.</p> -<p>This bird was first noticed by the celebrated Pennant, in Arctic Zoology, -Vol. II., p. 255, who called it the “Fork-tailed Petrel.” An accurate description -is given by him, but no further account of it than merely stating -“taken among the ice between Asia and America.” On the faith of this -description, Gmelin, in <i>Systema Naturæ</i>, as cited below, gave the scientific -name. Subsequently, Pallas mentions it as an inhabitant of the coasts of -Unalaschka and of the Kurile Islands. It is also mentioned in the Zoology -of the Voyage of the Sulphur, (London, 1844,) and very handsomely figured -from specimens obtained at Sitka in Russian America.</p> -<p>To the journal of Dr. Pickering we have again to acknowledge our obligations -for a notice of this bird. First recording its occurrence on the 26th of -April, 1840, at sea, the distance from the coast of Oregon being about 200 -miles, he subsequently mentions it under date of 29th of the same month, as -follows:</p> -<p>“In sight of the coast of Oregon. Great numbers of the gray <i>Thalassidroma</i> -are to-day flitting around and in the track of the vessel, very actively -engaged in searching for particles of food thrown overboard. Generally, this -bird reminds us of <i>T. Wilsonii</i>, but the wings seem longer, and its movements -appear to be more rapid, and in fact more like that of the larger Petrels, -(<i>Procellaria</i>.) It occasionally sails in its flight, but for the greater part -moves by very rapidly flexing its wings in the same manner as the species -mentioned.</p> -<p>“These birds proved not difficult to capture, and several specimens were -taken with a hook and line. They would dive a foot or two after the bait, -and made use of their wings in and under the water, from which they apparently -had not that difficulty in rising observable in the Albatrosses. Though -their powers of swimming seemed rather feeble, they alighted in the water -without hesitation. The dead body of one of their companions being thrown -<span class="pb" id="Page_277">277</span> -overboard, they clustered around it with as much avidity as around any other -food.</p> -<p>“The specimens obtained agree generally in color of plumage, being nearly -a uniform pale gray, with the abdomen sometimes paler or nearly white, and -generally showing a lighter bar across the wing, when expanded. Uttered a -faint note when taken on board.”</p> -<p>At present we have no further information relating to this interesting -species.</p> -<h3 id="c148">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Thalassidroma.</span> Vigors. Zool. Jour. II., p. 405. (1825.)</dt></dl> -<p>Size small; bill rather wide at base, compressed towards the end, and abruptly -hooked; lower mandible shorter; nostril elevated, tubular; wings -long, pointed, second quill usually longest; tail moderate, rather wide, usually -emarginate or forked; legs long, slender; tibiæ more or less naked above the -joint with the tarsi; toes rather short, fully webbed. A genus comprising -about twelve species, all of which are strictly marine, and inhabit the various -oceans of the world.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Thalassidroma furcata.</span> (Gmelin.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Procellaria furcata.</span> Gm. Syst. Nat. I., p. 561. (1788.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Procellaria orientalis.</span> Pallas. Zoog. Ross. As. II., p. 315. (1831.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Thalassidroma cinerea.</span> Gould.</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Wing long; second quill longest; tail forked; legs shorter than -usual in this genus; under coverts of the tail long.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length (of skin) about 8 inches; wing 6; tail 4 -inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> Entire plumage light cinereous or lead color; lighter, and in -some specimens, nearly white on the abdomen and under tail coverts; lesser -wing coverts darker; in some specimens nearly black; quills and tail slightly -tinged with brown; greater wing coverts and secondaries pale on their outer -edges; primaries nearly white on their inner edges; bill and feet black.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Coasts of Oregon, Russian America, Northeastern Asia, and the -Pacific Ocean. Spec. in Nat. Mus., Washington, and Mus. Acad., Philad.</p> -<p>This bird belongs to a group of the genus <i>Thalassidroma</i>, of which <i>T. marina</i> -is the best known species, an inhabitant of the Southern Pacific Ocean, -and figured by Mr. Gould as a bird of Australia.</p> -<p>All the species of this group are characterised by cinereous plumage, a -strong distinctive character from the greater part of the birds of this genus, -which are of dark colors, and in some species nearly black. The present -bird does not, in any considerable degree, resemble any other American species, -and may be easily recognised.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_278">278</div> -<h2 id="c149"><span class="small">SYLVICOLA KIRTLANDII.—Baird.</span> -<br />Kirtland’s Warbler. -<br />PLATE XLVII. Adult.</h2> -<p>Of the smaller birds of North America, no group exceeds that of the -Warblers, in variety and richness of color. It is, too, one of the largest of -the groups of our birds, embracing not less than forty species, besides several -which are South American.</p> -<p>Migrating in the spring, and again in the autumn, these little birds are -known in the Middle and Southern States, for the greater part as visitors -only, though various species are residents during the summer, which have -been supposed to continue their journey much further north, before undertaking -the duties of incubation. The Blackburnian Warbler (<i>Sylvicola -Blackburniæ</i>), the Chestnut-sided (<i>S. icterocephala</i>), the Yellow-backed (<i>S. -Americana</i>), and several others, breed in the mountains of Pennsylvania. -The Prairie (<i>S. discolor</i>), the Blue-winged (<i>Helinaia solitaria</i>), and two or -three other species, are to be met with every summer in the neighborhood of -Philadelphia. The greater number of species proceed further north, but -much the majority of all known as North American rear their young within -the limits of the United States, as well as in more northern countries; but -by no means exclusively in the latter, as is to be inferred from the representations -of various authors. The Black-poll (<i>S. striata</i>), raises its young in -the State of Maine.</p> -<p>These birds are great favorites with collectors. Coming northward, as -many species do in the months of April and May, when excursions to the -woods are attended with such agreeable accompaniments, the short period of -their stay is the most deeply interesting of the ornithological season, whether -the object be to study birds in the fields and woods, or only to procure choice -specimens for the cabinet. In either case, the observer or collector will find -himself greatly tempted by these attractive little birds, to the exclusion, probably, -of others, not so gay, perhaps, in plumage, but equally interesting in -other respects.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig47"> -<img src="images/ppp46.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1198" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 47<br /><span class="ln2">Kirtland’s Warbler</span><br /><span class="ln3">Sylvicola Kirtlandii (<i>Baird</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_279">279</div> -<p>Bird-collecting is the ultimate refinement,—the <i>ne plus ultra</i> of all the -sports of the field. It is attended with all the excitement, and requires all -the skill, of other shooting, with a much higher degree of theoretical information -and consequent gratification in its exercise. Personal activity, not -necessarily to be exerted over so great a space as in game-bird shooting, -but in a much greater diversity of locality, coolness, steadiness of hand, -quickness of eye and of ear, especially the latter;—in fact, all the accomplishments -of a first-rate shot, will be of service; and some of them are indispensable -to successful collecting. The main reliance is, however, on the -ear, for the detection of birds by their notes, and involves a knowledge, the -more accurate and discriminating the better, which can only be acquired by -experience, and always characterizes the true woodsman, whether naturalist -or hunter.</p> -<p>This ability is of incomparable value to the collector. Whether in the -tangled forest, the deep recesses of the swamp, on the sea-coast or in the -clear woodlands, on the mountain or in the prairie, it advises him of whatever -birds may be there, or affords him a higher gratification, announcing the presence -of a bird that he does not know. We recognise no more exquisite -pleasure than to hear a note that we are not acquainted with in the woods. -It is in the latter case, too, that the cultivated quickness of eye of the experienced -collector is especially important, and his coolness and steadiness of -nerve is fully tested. It will not do to be flustered. But in fact all these -qualities must be possessed for the acquirement of the smaller species of birds -found in the woodlands. Some species of Warblers, for instance, are constantly -in motion in the pursuit of insects, and are most frequently met with -in the tops of trees, and are, moreover, only to be killed with the finest shot, -or they are spoiled for specimens. The obtaining of these little birds often -requires the most accurate and skilful shooting.</p> -<p>There are comparatively few superior ornithological woodsmen, though we -are inclined to believe more amongst the naturalists of this country, than of -any other. There are some who never learn, though shooting for years; and -passages constantly occur in the works of authors, notwithstanding their professions, -and however honestly such may have been made, exciting immediate -suspicion that they were really little skilled in woodcraft. We know men who -have long been bird-collectors, but who have never acquired the ability to distinguish -species by their notes, nor in fact otherwise to any considerable extent. -On the other hand, we have gone repeatedly on excursions of several miles, in -company with naturalists and accomplished woodsmen, for the sole purpose -of hearing the note of a single species with which they had not before had -an opportunity of becoming acquainted. This has been especially the case -with reference to the Prairie Warbler (<i>Sylvicola discolor</i>), which is always to -be met with in the summer, in the sandy thickets and in neglected fields in -New Jersey, and has several notes very peculiar and characteristic.</p> -<p>It is by no means desirable, however, to be exclusively a naturalist of the -woods, and in fact the greatest degree of accomplishment that can be acquired -in this line, entitles one to but a very humble rank as a cultivator of Zoology. -There must be a combination of theoretical and practical acquirements, and -the gratification of the practical naturalist or the collector will be exactly in -<span class="pb" id="Page_280">280</span> -proportion to his scientific or systematic information, to be obtained only in -the museum and the library. There is an indescribably pitiful display of -ignorance and meanness of idea in arrogating, as some writers have done, a -superior position for the “field-naturalist” over the “closet-naturalist.” As -well might he who navigates a ship presume on being the greatest of astronomers, -or the practical gauger pretend to be the only mathematician. Great -is life in the woods, say we, and the greatest of all sports is bird-collecting; -but, to become a scientific ornithologist, is quite another business, and a very -much more considerable consummation. But we have digressed from the -Warblers.</p> -<p>In the neighborhood of the cities, and in fact throughout the Middle and -Northern States, during the last of April and the whole of May of every -year, numerous species of Warblers are to be found in abundance. It happens -occasionally though, that a species, usually common, is scarcely to be seen in -the whole season, and sometimes is rare for several seasons in succession. -The Black-throated blue Warbler (<i>Sylvicola canadensis</i>), for instance, is -generally very abundant in Pennsylvania in May, and so is the Chestnut-sided -(<i>S. icterocephala</i>); but we have noticed seasons in which all the collectors -of Philadelphia would scarcely obtain a specimen of either. It sometimes -happens, too, that a species makes its appearance in considerable numbers, -and then is of much less common occurrence for years. This was the case -with the Blackburnian Warbler in May, 1840. That beautiful little bird was -so abundant, that our early and intimate friend, the late Mr. William R. -Spackman, then anxious to collect for the purposes of general study and for -exchanges, shot upwards of twenty specimens during a morning’s excursion -in company with us near Kaighn’s Point, New Jersey; and had they been -wanted, could readily have obtained a much larger number in the afternoon, -or, as termed by bird-collectors in common with sportsmen, during “the -evening fly.” It continued very plentiful through the entire spring migration, -but we have not seen it so abundant more than once since, though fifteen -years have elapsed.</p> -<p>Very erroneous impressions relative to the rarity of several species of -Warblers, have been created by statements which have found their way into -the works of both Wilson and Audubon. For instance, the former of these -celebrated authors says of the Chestnut-sided Warbler:—“In a whole day’s -excursion it is rare to meet with more than one or two of these birds;”—the -latter, at the time of the publication of the first volume of his Ornithological -Biography (1831), had met with this bird once only (Orn. Biog. I., p. -306), and so it stands printed in his octavo edition of “The Birds of America,” -(II., p. 35, 1840.) These rather extraordinary statements have caused -the useless destruction of very many specimens of this little bird, particularly -by young collectors, under a false estimate of its scarcity in collections, or -value for the purposes of science. There have been few months of May in -<span class="pb" id="Page_281">281</span> -the last twenty years, in which any person of moderate skill as a collector of -birds, could not have obtained, in the vicinity of Philadelphia, as many specimens -of the Chestnut-sided Warbler as would have supplied all the Museums -in the world.</p> -<p>Again, in the months of September and October, Warblers are abundant -in our woods, but the plumage of many species is materially altered from that -of Spring. The student of ornithology must by no means, however, neglect -to become acquainted with it, and will find this knowledge exceedingly valuable -and interesting, as he advances in this branch of science.</p> -<p>The bird represented in the plate now before the reader, is one of the -rarest as yet of the North American species of Warblers. Like several others -that are well established as species, it has been obtained once only, which was -in the vicinity of Cleveland, Ohio, by Professor J. P. Kirtland, of that city, -who presented it to Professor Baird, by whom its discovery was first announced -in the Annals of the New York Lyceum, as cited below.</p> -<p>This species is related to the Yellow-crowned Warbler, or Myrtle Bird, as -it is sometimes called (<i>Sylvicola coronata</i>), a common species of the United -States, and to Audubon’s Warbler (<i>S. Auduboni</i>), a Western species, but -differs from them in strong and unmistakable characters. It is probably -a species inhabiting the more Western regions of the continent of North -America.</p> -<p>We are informed by Prof. Kirtland, that the specimen alluded to was shot -in the woods near Cleveland, and, so far as observed, was not noticed to differ -in habits essentially from <i>S. coronata</i>, or other of our species of Warblers -usually found migrating in the Spring. Though it was captured in the Spring -of 1852, and the species has been carefully looked for ever since at the same -season, it has never again been observed.</p> -<p>The figure in our plate is about two-thirds the size of life.</p> -<p>The plant represented is a species of <i>Penstemon</i> from Texas, raised in the -Horticultural establishment of Mr. Robert Kilvington, of this city.</p> -<h3 id="c150">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Sylvicola.</span> Swainson. Faun. Bor. Am. Birds, p. 204. (1831.)</dt></dl> -<p>Size small; bill moderate, slightly curved, tapering gradually to the tip, -slightly notched; wings rather long; second and third quills usually longest; -tail moderate, or rather long, usually emarginate; legs rather long, slender. -An American genus, embracing a large number of species, nearly all of which -are of bright or gay colors.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Sylvicola Kirtlandii.</span> Baird. Ann. Lyc. Nat. Hist., N. Y., V., p. 218. (1852.)</dt></dl> -<div class="pb" id="Page_282">282</div> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> About the size of <i>S. coronata</i>. Rather large for this genus; bill -straight; wing moderate; third quill slightly longer than the second; tail -rather long, emarginate; legs slender.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length (of skin) male, 5½ inches; wing 2¾; tail 2½ -inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> Entire upper part, bluish-ashy; on the head and back nearly -every feather having a longitudinal line of black; front and space before and -under the eye, black; quills dark-brown, paler on their outer edges; tail -brownish-black, several of the outer feathers having a white spot each on their -inner webs; entire under parts pale-yellow, with small spots of black most -numerous on the breast and sides, and obsolete on the throat and middle of -the abdomen; under tail coverts nearly white; bill and feet dark.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Northern Ohio.</p> -<p>This bird bears an evident relationship to <i>Sylvicola coronata</i>, and to <i>S. -Auduboni</i>, from either of which it may at once be distinguished by the entire -absence of the yellow rump which characterises both the species mentioned. -It does not, however, resemble either of them to such extent as to render a -minute statement of comparative characters necessary. The specimen above -described is not in entirely mature plumage.</p> -<p>We most cordially concur in the justice of naming this handsome little bird -in honor of our friend, Professor Jared P. Kirtland, M. D., of Cleveland, -Ohio; a gentleman who, to a reputation in private life most exemplary and -unexceptionable, adds high distinction as a naturalist and pioneer of the -Zoological Sciences in the Western United States.</p> -<p>To our friend, Thomas M. Brewer, M. D., of Boston, we are indebted for -much valuable information on the incubation and breeding places of many of -the Warblers of the United States. This interesting department of Ornithology -has been a special matter of research with Dr. Brewer for many -years; and we are happy to learn that his great work on the Oology of North -America is shortly to appear under the auspices of the Smithsonian Institution. -We venture to say that no more valuable contribution to American -Zoology has ever appeared.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig48"> -<img src="images/ppp47.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1175" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 48<br /><span class="ln2">The Orange-breasted Warbler</span><br /><span class="ln3">Sylvicola olivacea (<i>Giraud</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_283">283</div> -<h2 id="c151"><span class="small">SYLVICOLA OLIVACEA.—(Giraud.)</span> -<br />The Orange-breasted Warbler. -<br />PLATE XLVIII. Adult.</h2> -<p>Of this handsome and peculiar-looking Warbler, unfortunately we can say -very little. It is known as a bird of Mexico, but has been noticed within the -limits of the United States, as yet, in one instance only, having been received -from Texas by our friend, Mr. Jacob P. Giraud, Jun., of New York. At the -period of its receipt it was unknown to ornithologists, and it was accordingly -described by Mr. Giraud, with other new and interesting species, in his “New -Species of Birds of North America.”</p> -<p>Since the time of the discovery of this bird, we have looked for it, with -constant interest, amongst the many new and little-known birds collected by -American naturalists in Texas, but in vain. It has not yet appeared again, -and is to be regarded as one of the now numerous birds of our country, of -which the history remains to be written by the future naturalist.</p> -<p>The Baron Du Bus, an ornithologist of Belgium, has received this bird from -Mexico; and specimens, also from that country, are in the collection of the -Philadelphia Academy. The short notice of it by the author just mentioned -in the Bulletin of the Royal Academy of Brussels, contains no account of its -history or of its habits; nor have we any information from other sources. -From the fact of its visiting Texas in the summer, however, we infer that it is -a species of which the Southern range probably extends into Central or perhaps -South America.</p> -<p>In general appearance, this bird somewhat resembles the Prothonotary -Warbler (<i>Helinaia protonotaria</i>), of the United States, but is much darker -colored, and it does not belong to the same group or sub-genus.</p> -<p>The figure in our plate is about two-thirds the natural size.</p> -<p>The plant represented is a species of <i>Asclepias</i> from Texas, raised from the -seed by our friend, Mr. Kilvington.</p> -<h3 id="c152">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Sylvicola.</span> Swainson. Faun. Bor. Am. Birds, p. 204. (1831.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Sylvicola olivacea.</span> (Giraud.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Sylvia olivacea.</span> Giraud. New species of N. A. Birds, p. 14, pl. 7, fig. 2. (1841.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Sylvia tæniata.</span> Du Bus. Bull. Acad., Brussels, XIV., p. 104. (1847.)</dt></dl> -<div class="pb" id="Page_284">284</div> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> About the size of <i>Sylvicola æstiva</i>. Bill slender; wing rather -long, pointed; second and third quills longest, and nearly equal; tail moderate, -emarginate; tarsi long, slender.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length (of skin) about 4¾ inches; wing 3¼; tail 2¼ -inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> Entire head, neck, and breast, dark orange, inclining to rufous, -lighter on the throat; through the eye to the ear, a band of black; back and -rump ashy-olive; quills brownish-black, edged on their outer webs with yellowish-olive, -and on their inner webs with white; tail brownish-black, the outer -feathers with a spot of white on their inner webs near the end; wing coverts -brownish-black tipped with white, forming two conspicuous bars on the wing; -abdomen and under tail coverts, pale greenish-ashy, nearly white in the middle -of the former; under wing coverts white, tinged with ashy; bill dark, lighter -at base of under mandible; tarsi dark.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Texas. Mexico. Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -<p>This bird presents some affinities and resemblance to the <i>Sylvicola protonotarius</i> -of the Southern United States, but is much darker colored, and may -readily be distinguished from that or any other species with which we are -acquainted.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig49"> -<img src="images/ppp48.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="1120" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 49<br /><span class="ln2">The Great-crested Woodpecker</span><br /><span class="ln3">Dryotomus imperialis (<i>Gould</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_285">285</div> -<h2 id="c153"><span class="small">DRYOTOMUS IMPERIALIS.—(Gould.)</span> -<br />The Great-crested Woodpecker. -<br />PLATE XLIX. Adult Male.</h2> -<p>Though not clearly made out as a bird entitled to a place in the ornithological -fauna of the United States, we have given the plate now before the -reader on grounds regarded as sufficient for the introduction of descriptions -of this magnificent species into the works of other American authors, though -it has never before been figured.</p> -<p>This is the largest of all known Woodpeckers, and is one of the most beautiful -in plumage. It belongs strictly to the same group or genus as other -large American species.</p> -<p>Though originally described by Mr. Gould as from California, and subsequently -supposed by Dr. Townsend and Mr. Audubon to have been seen by -the former in the Rocky Mountains, it has escaped the attention of all recent -American travellers and naturalists. The specimens in the collection of the -Philadelphia Academy are labelled as having been collected in Mexico. It -is probable that this fine bird is an inhabitant of the dense forests, the trees -of which attain such enormous dimensions in the western regions of North -America, a supposition coinciding with Dr. Townsend’s observations on the -species seen by him, from which we shall present an extract in the course of -the present article.</p> -<p>In the immense forests which skirt the slopes of the Rocky Mountains in -the possessions of the United States, and of the Sierra Madre in Mexico, we -find a congenial locality for this giant of his tribe. In those regions the trees -are not less gigantic, travellers of unquestioned veracity having given two -hundred and fifty to three hundred and fifty feet as a heighth frequently to -be observed.</p> -<p>The first notice of this bird by an American naturalist is in Mr. Audubon’s -Ornithological Biography, V., p. 313, who merely publishes a note from Dr. -Townsend, which was his only information respecting it, except Mr. Gould’s -description. It will be seen that Dr. Townsend did not succeed in obtaining -specimens, though it is in all respects probable that the species now before us -is alluded to by him in the following, which we take the liberty of copying -from Mr. Audubon, as above:</p> -<p>“On the 14th of August, 1834, I saw several specimens of a large black -Woodpecker, about the size of <i>Picus principalis</i>. A broad band of white -<span class="pb" id="Page_286">286</span> -appeared to extend transversely across the wings and back. It inhabited the -tall pine trees, and was very shy. The note was almost exactly that of the -Red-headed Woodpecker; so nearly, that at first Mr. Nuttall and myself -were both deceived by it.</p> -<p>“I lingered behind the party, which at that time was travelling rapidly, -and at last got a shot at one of them with slugs, my large shot having been -entirely expended. The bird fell wounded in a thicket at a considerable distance. -I searched for an hour without finding it, and was at last compelled -to relinquish it and follow the party, which had been leaving me at a rapid -trot, to find my way as I best could, and keep out of the reach of Indians, -who were dogging us continually.”</p> -<p>On reference to Dr. Townsend’s Narrative, (p. 123,) it will be seen that -this incident occurred on the Mallade River, in the Rocky Mountains. Though -he states that the bird mentioned by him was “about the size of <i>Picus principalis</i>,” -which is the Ivory-billed Woodpecker of the Southern States, it -must be borne in mind that he saw it at a distance only, and was therefore -readily mistaken. The present bird is very considerably larger than that -species.</p> -<p>In Dr. Pickering’s notes we find one allusion which is very probably to this -bird:—“A very large Ivory-billed species of <i>Picus</i> was spoken of by Dr. -Marsh as having been occasionally seen by him. It is larger, he says, than -any other Woodpecker of the United States, and is very difficult to approach. -It is probably the new California species described by Mr. Gould a few years -since.”</p> -<p>This memorandum occurs in that portion of Dr. Pickering’s journal kept -in California, and we have no doubt relates to the bird now before us. To the -gentleman mentioned, Dr. Marsh of San Joaquim, California, Dr. Pickering -frequently acknowledges his obligations for information, which is often of -high value, and is of evident reliability.</p> -<p>We have now given the only two instances, mere glimpses as it were, in -which this large Woodpecker has come under the notice of American travellers -or naturalists in its native localities. It is to be regretted that such is the -case, and perhaps somewhat extraordinary, on account of its conspicuous size -and colors; but it is expressly stated to be of a shy disposition, and difficult -to obtain. Its well known existence in California, and the fact that so few -of our naturalists have observed or heard of it, is additional evidence of the -yet partial character of our knowledge of the ornithology of that country.</p> -<p>Mr. Gould’s description of this bird is in the Proceedings of the Zoological -Society of London for 1832, p. 140; and, with the statement accompanying -it, is the only notice of this species that has yet appeared in Europe. The -latter is as follows:—</p> -<p>“Specimens were exhibited of a species of Woodpecker hitherto undescribed, -which has recently been obtained by Mr. Gould, from that little explored district -<span class="pb" id="Page_287">287</span> -of California which borders the territory of Mexico. The exhibition -was accompanied by a communication from Mr. Gould, in which, after some -general remarks on the <i>Picidæ</i> and their geographical distribution, he referred -to the species before the Committee as possessing the characters of the -genus <i>Picus</i> in their most marked development, together with the greatest -size hitherto observed in that group. In this respect it as far exceeds the -<i>Ivory-billed Woodpecker</i> of the United States <i>Picus principalis</i>, as the latter -does the <i>Picus martius</i> of Europe.</p> -<p>“This species is readily distinguishable from the <i>P. principalis</i>, by its -much larger size, by the length of its occipital crest, the pendent silky feathers -of which measure nearly four inches, by the absence of the white stripe -which ornaments the neck of that bird, and by the bristles which cover its -nostrils being black, whereas those of the <i>Picus principalis</i> are white.”</p> -<p>These notices comprise, at present, all that is known of the largest and one -of the handsomest of Woodpeckers. Its history, yet to be written, will be a -highly interesting contribution to the ornithology of the United States.</p> -<p>Several specimens of this bird, in the collection of the Philadelphia Academy, -are stated on their labels to be from Mexico, without other note or -indication. All of them were obtained in Europe by our distinguished patrons, -Messrs. Thomas B. and Edward Wilson.</p> -<p>The adult male is represented in the present plate. The female differs -essentially only in having the crest black instead of scarlet.</p> -<h3 id="c154">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Dryotomus.</span> Swainson. Lardner’s Cyclopedia, Birds, II., p. 308. (1837.)</dt></dl> -<p>Size large; bill straight, long, wide at base, very strong; wings long, third -and fourth quills usually longest; tail long, graduated, rigid; legs short; -tarsi distinctly scaled; toes rather long, outer hind toe longest, claws strong, -compressed; feathers of the head behind elongated and crest-like; colors -generally black, white, and scarlet; contains species of both the old and new -world, amongst which are the largest of the <i>Picidæ</i>.</p> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Dryotomus imperialis.</span> (Gould.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Picus imperialis.</span> Gould. Proc. Zool. Soc., London, 1832, p. 140.</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> The largest of Woodpeckers; bill long, wide at base, three distinct -ridges on the upper mandible; wing long, primaries narrow, third and fourth -longest; tail rather long, graduated, middle feathers longest; all the feathers -of the tail narrow, rigid; tarsi moderate, strong, scales in front very distinct; -toes long, claws strong, curved, compressed; general organization very strong; -crest-like feathers long.</p> -<div class="pb" id="Page_288">288</div> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> <span class="sc">Male.</span> Total length (of skin) about 23 inches; wing 12½; -tail 9½; bill to the corner of the mouth 4; tarsus 2 inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> <span class="sc">Male.</span> Elongated feathers of the head or crest, bright scarlet; -interscapular feathers, outer two-thirds of secondaries, and inner edges of -shorter primaries, white; under wing coverts white; all other parts of the -plumage deep black, with a greenish lustre; bill yellowish-white; tarsi and -toes dark; secondaries at their bases black; bristle-like feathers at the base -of upper mandible black. Female similar to the male, but rather smaller, -and with the crest black.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Oregon. California. Mexico. Spec. in Mus. Acad., Philada.</p> -<p>This gigantic Woodpecker is strictly of the same generic group as the well -known Ivory-billed Woodpecker of the forests of the Southern States of this -Union, and in some measure resembles it, but not in such degree as to be -readily confounded. The present bird is considerably the larger, and is without -the white stripes on the neck which are to be found in the Ivory-billed. -In both species, the females have the elongated or crest-like feathers black.</p> -<p>It is quite remarkable that this fine species has not been brought by any -of the naturalists or travellers who have visited, or at least passed through -its native forests. This fact tends to demonstrate the truth of our views, -occasionally expressed in the present volume, that we have much yet to learn -of the Ornithology of Western America.</p> -<div class="img" id="fig50"> -<img src="images/ppp49.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="484" /> -<p class="pcap">Plate 50<br /><span class="ln2">The Short-tailed Albatross</span><br /><span class="ln3">Diomedea brachyura (<i>Temminck</i>)</span></p> -</div> -<div class="pb" id="Page_289">289</div> -<h2 id="c155"><span class="small">DIOMEDEA BRACHYURA.—Temminck.</span> -<br />The Short-tailed Albatross. -<br />PLATE L. Adult Male.</h2> -<p>This Albatross is the adult of the bird represented in <a href="#fig35">plate 35</a>, (the -Black-footed Albatross, <i>Diomedea nigripes</i>, Aud.) of the present volume. -At the time of the publication of the plate alluded to, and our article accompanying -it, we were not aware of this identity; but having had our attention -called to it by a distinguished European ornithologist, we have, on careful -re-examination and comparison, fully confirmed its truth. So great a change -taking place, however, in this bird, from early age to maturity, the two figures -only fairly represent the species, of which that formerly given, as above, is -the young bird.</p> -<p>The common occurrence of this species on the coasts of California and -Oregon, was ascertained by the naturalists of the Exploring Expedition in -the Vincennes and Peacock, under command of Captain Charles Wilkes, of -the United States’ Navy; and its addition to the ornithology of North America -is one of many services to Zoology performed by that celebrated and -most important Expedition. In fact, of the many similar undertakings of -governments for the purposes of exploration and scientific research within -the present century, the expedition alluded to stands pre-eminent in its contributions -to Geographical and Zoological Science, a result to be attributed -to the enlightened and judicious exertions of its distinguished Commander, -and to the fact that it numbered amongst its naturalists several of the most -accomplished Zoologists of America.</p> -<p>This Albatross probably inhabits the entire extent of the Pacific Ocean, -from the northern coasts of America and Asia to Australia. It is given by -Mr. Gould as a bird of the coast of Australia, though somewhat doubtfully, -and is very probably the species sometimes mistaken for the Great Wandering -Albatross (<i>D. exulans</i>), and found abundantly in the vicinity of the Kurile -Islands and the coast of Kamtschatka, and other more southern coasts of -Asia. It is smaller than the species just mentioned, but otherwise much resembles -it. That species, though abundant in the southern hemisphere, does -not apparently venture so far north as the present bird.</p> -<p>In a volume on Quadrupeds and Birds, by Mr. Titian R. Peale, which was -printed and partially distributed as one of the valuable series of works on -<span class="pb" id="Page_290">290</span> -the scientific results of the Exploring Expedition of the Vincennes and Peacock, -we find the following in relation to the bird now before us:—</p> -<p>“Numbers of the Short-tailed Albatross were observed by the Expedition -on the Northwest coast of America, and this species is believed to be a common -inhabitant of all the Pacific Ocean, north of the Tropic of Cancer. -Specimens vary as much, or perhaps more, from each other, than in the -Wandering Albatross (<i>Diomedea exulans</i>), of the Southern Ocean, and require -several years to attain to their perfect dress. The changes are regularly -progressive. Until the second year the plumage remains of a dark -sooty-brown color, with black feet, and dirty flesh-colored bills (which become -black when the skins are dried), and in this state this bird pairs and raises its -first young; after this, cloudy-white spots appear about the base of the bill, -and white spots over and under the eyes; the rump begins to show a conspicuous -spot of the same; and the bill turns yellow, with a tinge of carmine; -the tip bluish; the legs are then flesh-colored; and, finally, the back, wings, -and tail, become cinereous-brown; rump, head, and all the under parts pure -white; a white margin shows along the back-edge of the wing in flight; and -a cloudy-black spot generally remains in front of the eye. Thus, in some -years, the plumage of the body is changed from nearly black to a pure snow-like -white.</p> -<p>“On the 20th of December we found this species breeding on Wake’s Island. -The single egg of each pair was laid on the ground, in a slight concavity, -without any lining material; both sexes take turns in the duties of incubation, -and neither the male nor the female abandoned the nest on our approach, but -walked around us in a very dignified manner, and made but a few demonstrations -of defence with their beaks, when taken up in our arms. The eggs are -white, of an oblong figure, nearly alike at both ends, and measure four and -two-tenths inches long, and two and six-tenths inches in diameter.</p> -<p>“The two sexes are alike in plumage, and do not vary much in size, though -the male is rather the larger.</p> -<p>“This bird is usually silent, but sometimes quarrels with its fellows over the -offal thrown from ships, when it “brays” in much the same tone as a jackass. -It is easily caught with a hook and line, but owing to its thick plumage and -tenacity of life, it is difficult to kill it with shot.</p> -<p>“It was not our fortune to observe more than this one species of Albatross -in the North Pacific. It is subject to great variations of plumage, as stated -above, but is very distinct from the species of the Southern Hemisphere. -The Wandering Albatross (<i>D. exulans</i>), and the Yellow-nosed (<i>D. chlororhynchus</i>), -both of which, it has been asserted, have been sometimes found in the -Northern Oceans, we believe, on the contrary, to be entirely restricted to the -Southern hemisphere, or else they would sometimes be seen in crossing the -intermediate tropical region. We saw both of those species, and also the -Sooty Albatross (<i>D. fusca</i>), as far south as latitude 57° 41′, which appeared -<span class="pb" id="Page_291">291</span> -to be nearly their southern limit. Their northern limit of migration on the -Atlantic shores of South America is somewhere about the River La Plata, -and on the Pacific coasts about the southern parts of Peru.”</p> -<p>In Dr. Pickering’s Journal this bird is alluded to frequently, and especially -as occurring at sea north of the Hawaiian Islands, and on the coast of -Oregon. His observations agree with those by Mr. Peale, above quoted.</p> -<p>This species is given by Messrs. Temminck and Schlegel, as a bird of Japan, -in their Fauna Japonica, and is well figured in its young plumage, but they -give no account of its manners or history.</p> -<p>The figure in our plate represents the adult male, and was made from a -specimen obtained on the coast of Kamtschatka, now in the Museum of the -Philadelphia Academy, but precisely similar to others in the collection of the -Exploring Expedition in the National Museum, Washington city.</p> -<h3 id="c156">DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL OBSERVATIONS.</h3> -<dl class="undent"><dt><span class="sc">Genus Diomedea.</span> Linnæus. Syst. Nat., I., p. 214. (1766.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Diomedea brachyura.</span> Temm. Pl. col., V., p. (liv. 75, about 1828.)</dt> -<dt><span class="sc">Diomedea nigripes.</span> Aud. Orn. Biog., V., p. 327. (1839.)</dt></dl> -<p><span class="sc">Form.</span> Very similar to <i>Diomedea exulans</i>, but much smaller; bill rather -long, strong, abruptly hooked at the end; wings long, pointed, first quill -longest; tail short; legs strong; toes long, fully webbed.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Dimensions.</span> Total length (of skin) about 28 inches; wing 20; tail 6 -inches.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Colors.</span> Adult. Primaries, greater wing coverts, tips of secondaries -and tertiaries, and upper edge of the wing brownish-black; tail white, tipped -with dark brown. All other parts, including the head and entire body, white, -usually in adult specimens tinged with pale yellow on the head and neck. -Under wing coverts white; bill pale reddish-yellow (in prepared and dried -specimen pale, dull yellow); legs pale flesh-color.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Young.</span> Entirely sooty-brown; lighter on the inferior parts of the body; -bill and feet dark; in more advanced plumage, variously spotted with white, -generally most observable around the base of the bill and on the rump.</p> -<p><span class="sc">Hab.</span> Western coast of North America. Spec. in Mus. Acad. Philada.</p> -<p>Of the smaller species of the Albatrosses, this is the largest and next in -size to the large <i>D. exulans</i>, which it much resembles in general appearance. -It may always, however, be readily distinguished from any other species by -the characters given above. Specimens occur in which the pale yellow tinge -of the head and neck is not distinguishable, but usually it is a strongly marked -character.</p> -<p>It was by our friend, that distinguished ornithologist, Gustav Hartlaub, -M. D., Director of the Museum of the city of Bremen, that our attention -<span class="pb" id="Page_292">292</span> -was first called to the fact of this bird and the Black-footed Albatross being -identical, and a re-examination suggested. Not for this only are we indebted -to the same gentleman, but for much advice and instruction most encouraging -and valuable, and a constant assurance of good feeling, uninterrupted for -years. Naturalists of all climes should work out their mission in harmony -and fellowship. It is often not so,—would that all like Hartlaub cultivated -and understood, as well as Science, kindness, friendship, justice.</p> -<p class="center"><span class="gs">* * * * * * *</span></p> -<p>But we are at the close of our volume. Like the traveller at the end of -his day’s journey, or the husbandman when the sun has sunk behind the hills, -we willingly stop for repose, not without thoughts mainly, and perhaps necessarily, -retrospective, but agreeable.</p> -<p>Reader! our barks have glided together for a period on the great stream -which carries us alike to our future destiny. Thou hast been to me as a -companion most pleasant, and an encourager. We have chatted, not always, -perhaps, with sufficient reverence, or possibly sometimes frivolously, of the -magnificence of our pathway,—of the mountain and the forest,—even of the -birds that sing in the branches. By no means without dignity of subject,—the -highest dignity attaches to all created things as the realized ideas of -Omnipotence.</p> -<p>We could wish that some passages in our book were more clearly stated; -but there is little that we would erase. We aspire to no perfection, much less -have we accomplished any. Imperfection is a characteristic of mankind. -Man exists in this world as an intellectual being, in a rudimental condition -only.</p> -<p>Trust not too implicitly in the delights of the wilds, nor of solitude. They -are temporary, and only to be as a teacher,—we must return ever to social life -as the ark of safety, bringing, we may hope, the olive-branch of peace with -knowledge. For all that I have said, or that any one else has said, our -greatest and truest interests are in society. There only we acquire true -cultivation and elevation. Science, Literature, Art, the great civilizers, -there only flourish. Betake thyself not to the wilderness, or for a period -only, and never longer than forty days,—never!—if there is any help -for it.</p> -<p>We part now,—I would that it may be lover-like, oft promising to meet -again, and hoping ever,—parted already, as it were, and distant, perhaps, -by the length and breadth of our native land, or by the wide waters of the -Atlantic,—from my heart I waft to thee a blessing and a farewell.</p> -<h2 id="c157"><span class="small">FOOTNOTES</span></h2> -<div class="fnblock"><div class="fndef"><a class="fn" id="fn_1" href="#fr_1">[1]</a>This name <i>Kelp</i> is applied -to species of marine plants of the genus <i>Macrocystis</i> which -grow profusely in the sea on the Pacific coast of the American continent. The species -particularly alluded to as abounding on the coast of California is one of the most gigantic of -plants, having been observed upwards of three hundred feet in length, and occurs in such -immense and dense masses as to present formidable difficulties to the navigator. For -this reason many localities of this extraordinary plant have been carefully marked in the -charts containing the results of the Coast Survey now being made by order of the Government -of the United States. All the recent travellers in California represent it as being cast on the -shore in large quantities by the action of the sea, and it could probably be as readily applied -to the production of Barilla (carbonate of soda) as any other marine species of the -vegetable kingdom from which, in other countries, this important article of commerce is -manufactured. -</div><div class="fndef"><a class="fn" id="fn_2" href="#fr_2">[2]</a>Nearly the whole of the Zoological portion of this important work is omitted in the English -edition (Quarto, London, 1843.) -</div><div class="fndef"><a class="fn" id="fn_3" href="#fr_3">[3]</a>Dec. 1853. -</div><div class="fndef"><a class="fn" id="fn_4" href="#fr_4">[4]</a>The works of this naturalist (who is Director of the Zoological Museum in Dresden) -are in the highest degree important, and in fact indispensable to the ornithologist. In -his great work, “The Complete Natural History” (Die Volstandigate Naturgeschichte, -Dresden and Leipsic, now in the course of publication in parts), he has undertaken to -give plates of all known species of birds, and has already published several thousand -figures. -</div> -</div> -<h2 id="trnotes">Transcriber’s Notes</h2> -<ul> -<li>Silently corrected a few typos.</li> -<li>Retained publication information from the printed edition: this eBook is public-domain in the country of publication.</li> -<li>In the text versions only, text in <i>italics</i> is delimited by _underscores_.</li> -<li>Left, unresolved, the confusion between “Brown-headed Finch” and “Western Swamp Sparrow”.</li> -<li>This attribution, with minor orthographic variations, appears on all plates:</li> -</ul> -<p class="center smaller">Drawn on Stone by W<sup>m</sup>. E. Hitchcock -<br />Geo. L. White, del. <span class="hst">Lith<sup>d</sup>. printed and Col<sup>d</sup>. by J. T. Bowen, Philad<sup>a</sup>.</span></p> -<div style='display:block; margin-top:4em'>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ILLUSTRATIONS OF THE BIRDS OF CALIFORNIA, TEXAS, OREGON, BRITISH AND RUSSIAN AMERICA ***</div> -<div style='text-align:left'> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Updated editions will replace the previous one—the old editions will -be renamed. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -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. Special rules, set forth in the General Terms of Use part -of this license, apply to copying and distributing Project -Gutenberg™ electronic works to protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG™ -concept and trademark. 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