/ 
 
 LIBRARY 
 
 UNIVERSITY OF 
 \CAIIFORNIA 
 
 BIOLOGT LIBS. 
 
 
 THE LIBRARY 
 
 OF 
 
 THE UNIVERSITY 
 OF CALIFORNIA 
 
 Biology Library 
 
 BEQUEST OF 
 
 Theodore S. Palmer 
 

 
 1, 'fat 
 
CHECK LIST 
 
 OF THE 
 
 Vertebrates of Ontario and Catalogue of 
 
 Specimens in the Biological Section 
 
 of the Provincial Museum 
 
 BIRDS 
 
 c 
 
 DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION 
 TORONTO 
 
CHECK LIST 
 
 OF THE 
 
 Vertebrates of Ontario and Catalogue of 
 
 Specimens in the Biological Section 
 
 of the Provincial Museum 
 
 BIRDS 
 
 DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION 
 TORONTO 
 
 
 
 TORONTO 
 
 Printed and Published by L. K. CAMERON. Printer to the King 
 
 1905 
 
ilOLOGY LIBB. 
 
 WARWICK BRO'S & RUTTER, Limited, Primers 
 TORONTO 
 
BIOLOGY 
 
 LIBRARY 
 
 HONORABLE R. A. PYNE, M.D., 
 
 Minister of Education : 
 
 SIR, The following- check list and catalogue of biological specimens 
 now in the Provincial Museum has been prepared under your authority 
 and direction by Mr. C. W. Nash, Lecturer on Biology for the Ontario 
 Department of Agriculture. 
 
 There is reason to believe that the presentation of these lists will 
 greatly facilitate the study of animal life on the part of our people, and 
 especially of the young, whether they are pursuing systematic studies in 
 natural history, or merely from a desire to acquire casual information 
 relating to the subject. 
 
 The economic importance of knowledge concerning all forms of life 
 is especially valuable in this Province, where so much depends on the 
 science of agriculture. 
 
 I have the honor to be, Sir, 
 
 Yours respectfully, 
 
 DAVID BOYLE. 
 
 Superintendent. 
 
 [3] 
 
 812 
 
PREFACE. 
 
 In the following Check List I have endeavoured to include all the 
 birds which have been positively known to occur in the Province of 
 Ontario. 
 
 In cases where I have no personal knowledge of the record I have 
 given the authority for it. 
 
 The nomenclature adopted is that of the Check List of the Ameri- 
 can/ Ornithologists' Union, and the number in the margin opposite the 
 specific name corresponds with the number on the label of each specimen 
 of that species, in the Biological Section of the Provincial Museum. 
 
 Species marked (*) are wanting to complete the collection. 
 
 C. W. NASH. 
 TORONTO, Ontario, November i5th, 1905. 
 
 [5] 
 
CHECK LIST 
 
 OF THE 
 
 BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 
 
 AVES (The Birds). ^ , 
 
 A bird may be defined as an air-breathing vertebrate with a covering 
 of feathers; warm blood; a complete double circulation; the two anterior 
 limbs (wings) adapted for flying or swimming, the two posterior limbs 
 (legs) apadted for walking or swimming ; respiration never effected by gill, 
 or branchiae, but after leaving the egg by lungs, which are connected with 
 air cavities in various parts of the body. Reproduction by eggs which 
 are hatched externally, either by incubation, or exposure to the heat ui 
 the sun; the shell calcareous, hard and brittle. 
 
 Order PYGOPODES. (Diving Birds.) 
 
 Feet palmate or lobate; tibia feathered, included in the skin nearly 
 to the heel joint, hence the legs set far back so that the birds are scarcely 
 able to walk at all on land ; hind toe small and elevated or wanting ; bill 
 horny, not lamellate or serrate ; no gular pouch ; wings very short ; tail 
 very short or rudimentary. All are water birds, expert divers, feeding 
 chiefly on fistrs. 
 
 FAMILY PODICIPID^E (GREBES). 
 
 Head with crests or ruffs in the breeding season except in Podilym- 
 bus. Under plumage dense, lustrous, mostly white. Wings very short; 
 tail rudimentary, without distinct quills. Feet lobate, toes flattened, 
 provided with flat claws resembling human nails, tarsus scutellate, 
 compressed. All are aquatic. 
 
 GENUS COLYMBUS. 
 
 (2) Holbcell's Grebe. 
 
 (Colymbus holbcelli.) 
 
 A regular, but never a common, spring and autumn visitor to the 
 waters of southern Ontario. Probably breeds in the northern part of the 
 Province. 
 
 [7] 
 
CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 (3) Horned Grebe. 
 
 (Colymbus auritus.) 
 
 Abundant on the great lakes and all large bodies of water through- 
 out the Province in spring and autumn; breeding in the large marshes. 
 A few remain on Lake Ontario through the winter. 
 
 GENUS PODILYMBUS. 
 
 (6) Pied-billed Grebe. (Hell Diver.) 
 
 (Podilymbus podiceps.) 
 
 A common summer resident in marshes all over the Province, breed- 
 ing throughout its range. Arrives early in April, departs about the 
 middle of October. 
 
 FAMILY GAVIID^. (THE LOONS.) 
 
 Bill long-, strong, tapering, acute, wholly hard ; nostrils linear. Head 
 densely and evenly feathered, without ruffs or naked spaces ; eye large. 
 Feet palmate ; tarsus reticulate, strongly compressed ; wings strong. 
 Tail short but well developed. Birds of large size, with strong powers 
 of flight and pre-eminent in swimming and diving, but scarcely able to 
 walk. Their notes are curiously loud and wild, according well with 
 their usual surroundings. They feed on fishes. 
 
 GENUS GAVIA. 
 
 (7) Loon. 
 
 (Gavia imber.) 
 
 Common on all large bodies of water in spring and autumn, breed- 
 ing about the lakes and marshes of the interior. Some few remain on 
 the great lakes all through the winter, but the bulk go south during the 
 coldest part of the season. 
 
 (*) (9) Black-throated Loon. 
 
 (Gavia arctica.) 
 A very rare winter visitor. 
 
 (M) Red-throated Loon. 
 
 (Gavia lumme.) 
 
 A common spring and autumn visitor to our waters, breeding in the 
 far north and retiring southward as its haunts freeze up. 
 
 FAMILY ALCID^E. (THE AUKS, MURRES, ETC.) 
 
 Feet palmate, three-toed ; tarsus reticulate or partly scutellate ; 
 claws ordinary ; tail perfect of few feathers ; legs set far back. All our 
 species fly well and swim on, or under water with equal ease. They feed 
 on fishes. 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 
 
 GENUS FRATERCULA. 
 (13) Puffin. 
 
 (Fratercula arctica.) 
 
 Common in the Arctic regions and the islands of the North Atlantic. 
 A bird of the ocean. One specimen has been recorded, taken on the 
 Ottawa River. 
 
 GENUS CEPPHUS. 
 
 (27) Black Guillemot.* 
 
 (Cepphus grylle.) 
 
 Like the last, a bird of the ocean, which occasionally has wandered 
 up to Lake Ontario. Mr. John Maughan, jr., has a specimen taken near 
 Toronto, and Mr. Mcllwraith mentions one taken on Burlington Bay 
 many years ago. 
 
 GENUS URIA. 
 
 (31) Brunnich's Murre. 
 
 (Uria lomvia.) 
 
 Common on the Atlantic coast and an occasional winter visitor to 
 Lake Ontario. 
 
 During the winter of 1893 a large number of these birds appeared on 
 Lake Ontario, and each season since that time, a few have been seen 
 there. 
 
 GENUS ALCA. 
 
 (32) Razor-billed Auk. 
 
 (Alca torda.) 
 
 Another ocean bird which has found its way up Lake Ontario oc- 
 casionally in late autumn or early winter. 
 
 GENUS ALLE. 
 
 (34) Dovekie. (Little Auk.) 
 
 (Alle alle.) 
 
 Common on some parts of the North Atlantic coast. One specimen 
 taken by Mr. John Maughan on Lake Ontario. 
 
 Order LONGIPENNES. (Long-winged Swimmers.) 
 
 Feet palmate ; tibia feathered ; legs inserted near the centre of equi- 
 librium, so that the birds stand with the axis of the body nearly hori- 
 
10 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 zontal ; hind toe small and elevated (wanting in Rissa). Bill usually long, 
 horny, not serrate, nor lamellate ; no gular pouch. Wings very long and 
 pointed ; tail well developed. Water birds, of great powers of flight ; 
 feeding on fishes and floating garbage. 
 
 FAMILY STERCORARIIDiE. (THE J^GERS.) 
 
 Gull-like birds with the bill hooked and cered ; tail square with the 
 middle pair of feathers long-exserted ; tibia naked below; tarsus scutel 
 late in front, granular behind. Voracious birds, which frequently live 
 by tormenting the Gulls and Terns and compelling them to disgorge 
 their food. Plumage dark above. 
 
 GENUS STERCORARIUS. 
 
 (*) (36) Pomarine Jaeger. 
 
 (Stercorarius pomarinus.) 
 An occasional visitor to the great lakes. 
 
 (37) Parasitic Jaeger. 
 
 (Stercorarius parasiticus.) 
 An occasional spring and autumn visitor to the great lakes. 
 
 FAMILY LARID^E. (THE GULLS.) 
 
 Long-winged swimmers. Bill long, horny, not serrate nor lamel- 
 late ; no gular pouch. Feet palmate ; tibia feathered ; legs near centre 
 of equilibrium ; hind toe elevated, small (wanting in Rissa). Wings very 
 long and pointed. Tail well developed. General colour usually white, 
 with a darker mantle of a slaty bluish tint and commonly some black mark- 
 ings. Sexes alike in colour, but the plumage varying very much with 
 age and season. Possessed of wonderful power of flight. Food, fishes 
 and floating garbage. The birds are the scavengers of the waters. 
 
 GENUS PAGOPHILA. 
 
 (*) (39) Ivory Gull. 
 
 (Pagophila alba.) 
 
 A regular but not a common winter visitor to Lake Ontario. It prob- 
 ably occurs on the northern lakes also, but as yet I have not heard of it. 
 
 GENUS RISSA. 
 (40) Kittiwake Gull. 
 
 (Rissa tridactyla.) 
 A regular, but not common, winter visitor to the great lakes. 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 11 
 
 GENUS LARUS. 
 
 (42) Glaucous Gull. 
 
 (Larus glaucus.) 
 A regular, but not common, visitor to the great lakes. 
 
 (43) Iceland Gull. 
 
 (Larus leucopterus.) 
 
 Mr. Kay reports having taken one at Port Sydney, Muskoka, April 
 6th, 1898, and Mr. J. H. Ames has one taken at Toronto. 
 
 (47) Great Black-backed Gull. 
 
 (Larus marinus.) 
 
 A regular, but not abundant, winter visitor to the great lakes, more 
 frequently observed than either of the preceding species, perhaps because 
 it is more readily distinguishable when flying. 
 
 (51) American Herring Gull. 
 
 (Larus argentatus.) 
 
 A very common resident, frequenting the great lakes at all seasons, 
 but most abundant in winter. It breeds regularly on many of the lakes 
 and marshes of the interior. It formerly bred on the islands and in the 
 marshes of Lake Ontario and some may yet do so, in secluded places. 
 
 (54) Ring-billed Gull. 
 
 (Larus delawarensis.) 
 
 A very common resident; like the last, most abundant in winter. 
 Breeds in the lakes and marshes of the interior. 
 
 (*) (58) Laughing Gull. 
 
 (Larus atricilla.) 
 An accidental visitor in summer 
 
 (59) Franklin's Gull. 
 
 (Larus franklinii.) 
 
 A rare summer visitor, occasionally straggling here from the prairie 
 sloughs where they are abundant. Breeds in nearly all the large marshes 
 of Manitoba. 
 
 (60) Bonaparte's Gull. 
 
 (Larus Philadelphia.) 
 
 A common spring and autumn visitor to the great lakes, arriving in 
 April and departing at the end of November. It is possible that some 
 breed in the northern part of the Province, but its principal breeding 
 grounds are north and west of Ontario. 
 
12 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 SUBFAMILY STERNIN^. (THE TERNS.) 
 
 GENUS STERNA. 
 (64) Caspian Tern. 
 
 (Sterna caspia.) 
 
 A regular but not common spring and autumn visitor to the great 
 lakes. 
 
 (*) (67) Cabot's Tern. 
 
 (Sterna sandvicensis acufluvida.) 
 
 The capture of a specimen of this Tern in the spring of 1882, at 
 Lucknow, is recorded by Mr. Mcllwraith. 
 
 (69) Forster's Tern. 
 
 (Sterna fosteri.) 
 
 A rather uncommon summer visitor, breeds in the larger marshes 
 throughout its range. 
 
 (70) Common Tern. 
 
 (Sterna hirundo.) 
 
 A regular summer visitor, breeding at several places near the lakes. 
 Not uncommon in spring and autumn. 
 
 (74) Least Tern. 
 
 (Sterna antillarum.) 
 
 An accidental visitor. Breeds on the Atlantic coast. Mr. John 
 Maughan has a specimen, taken at Toronto in 1897. 
 
 GENUS HYDROCHELIDON. 
 
 (77) Black Tern. 
 
 (Hydrochelidon nigra surinamensis.) 
 
 This Tern is common in some of the large marshes throughout the 
 Province during the summer, but it is not generally distributed. Breeds 
 where it occurs. 
 
 FAMILY PROCELLARIID^E. (THE PETRELS.) 
 GENUS ^STRELATA. 
 
 (*) (98) Black-capped Petrel. 
 
 (^Estrelata hasitata.) 
 One found dead on the shore of the Island at Toronto. 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 13 
 
 Order STEGANOPODES. (The Totipalmate Swimmers.) 
 
 Swimming birds with all four toes fully webbed; hind toe lengthened, 
 scarcely elevated; tibia feathered; bill horny, not lamellate; nostrils very 
 small or abortive ; a prominent gular pouch ; tarsus reticulate. All our 
 species are large aquatic birds, feeding on fish, of which they consume 
 great quantities. 
 
 FAMILY SULID^. (THE GANNETS.) 
 
 Bill long, cleft to beyond eyes, very stout at base, the tip not hooked ; 
 the edges irregularly serrate ; a nasal groove but the nostril abortive ; 
 gular sac small, naked ; wings long, pointed ; tail long and stiff, with 
 pointed feathers; feet stout. Body heavy, the tissues under the skin 
 with air chambers. 
 
 GENUS SULA. 
 
 (117) Gannet. 
 
 (Sula bassana.) 
 
 An accidental visitor from the Atlantic coast, which has been met 
 with on Lake Ontario three or four times. 
 
 FAMILY PHALACROCORACID^:. (THE CORMORANTS.) 
 
 Bill slender, compressed, strongly hooked, the cutting edges un- 
 even; gular pouch small; wings short; tail large, of very stiff feathers, 
 often used to partially support the body ; legs set far back ; a nasal groove 
 with abortive nostrils. 
 
 GENUS PHALACROCORAX. 
 
 
 
 (119) Cormorant. 
 
 (Phalacrocorax carbo.) 
 
 An uncommon spring and autumn visitor to the larger bodies of 
 water. Breeds along the North Atlantic coast. 
 
 (120) Double-crested Cormorant. 
 
 (Phalacrocorax dilophus.) 
 
 A regular but not a common spring and autumn visitor to our lakes ; 
 probably breeds about the waters of the northern part of the Province, 
 as it does commonly in Manitoba and Assiniboia. 
 
14 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 FAMILY PELECANID^E. (THE PELICANS.) 
 
 Bill very long, straight grooved throughout, with a claw-like hook 
 at the end; the broad space between the branches of the lower mandible 
 occupied by a large membraneous sac; nostrils abortive; wings very 
 long ; tail very short ; feet short and stout. 
 
 GENUS PELECANUS. 
 
 (*) (125) American White Pelican. 
 
 (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos.) 
 
 An accidental visitor to the great lakes. They breed commonly in 
 Northern Manitoba and the Western Provinces. 
 
 Order ANSERES. (The Lamellirostral Swimmers.) 
 
 Swimming birds with feet four-toed, palmate, hind toe small, ele- 
 vated. Bill lamellate ; no gular pouch. Legs short. 
 
 This order contains nearly all the water-fowl which are valued in 
 domestication, or as game birds. 
 
 FAMILY ANATID^E. (DUCKS, GEESE AND SWANS.) 
 
 Bill laminate, i.e. furnished along each cutting edge with a regular 
 series of tooth-like processes, which correspond to certain laciniate pro- 
 cesses of the fleshy tongue, which ends in a horny tip ; bill large, thick, 
 high at base, depressed towards the end, membraneous except at the 
 obtuse tip, which is occupied by a horny nail. Body heavy, flattened 
 beneath. Head high, compressed, with sloping forehead; eyes small. 
 Tail short, except in the full plumaged males of Dafila and Harelda, 
 both of which have the central tail feathers much prolonged. Legs and 
 feet short, the anterior toes full webbed. Tibia feathered. All are good 
 swimmers and, with us, more or less migratory. 
 
 SUBFAMILY MERGING. (THE MERGANSERS.) 
 GENUS MERGANSER. 
 
 (129) American Merganser. (Goosander.) 
 (Merganser americanus.) 
 
 A common resident, breeding in the northern part of the Province 
 and spending the winter on the open water of the lakes and rapid rivers 
 near our southern boundary. 
 
 These birds are very destructive to our fisheries. 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 
 
 15 
 
 (130) Red-breasted Merganser. 
 
 (Merganser serrator.) 
 
 A common resident, more abundant than the last and equally de- 
 structive to fish. Breeds in the interior of the Province and winters 
 wherever there is open water. 
 
 GENUS LOPHODYTES. 
 
 (131 Hooded Merganser. 
 
 (Lophodytes cucullatus.) 
 
 A tolerably common summer resident, breeding- throughout the in- 
 terior of the Province and retiring southward as ice forms. 
 
 SUBFAMILY ANATIN/E. (THE RIVER DUCKS.) 
 
 Mallard. 
 
 GENUS ANAS, 
 
 (132) Mallard. 
 
 (Anas boschas.) 
 
 Common summer resident of the western part of the Province, less 
 abundant in the east, retires southward as the shallow waters it frequents 
 become frozen over. Breeds throughout its range. 
 
 (133) Black Duck. 
 
 (Anas obscura.) 
 
 A very common summer resident, breeding in all suitable places 
 throughout the Province. It is more abundant in the east than in the 
 west, and is only a rare visitor in Manitoba. 
 
16 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 (i33a) Red=legged Black Duck. 
 
 (Anas obscura rubripes.) 
 
 Frequently met with in late autumn.. Its breeding range is not pos- 
 itively known, but probably includes the Hudson Bay region. 
 
 GENUS CHAULELASMUS. 
 (135) Gadwall. 
 
 (Chaulelasmus streperus.) 
 
 A very rare summer resident. Breeds commonly in Manitoba and 
 adjoining Provinces westward. 
 
 GENUS MARECA. 
 (137) Baldpate. 
 
 (Mareca americana.) 
 
 A fairly common migrant, probably breeds regularly in the interior. 
 1 have occasionally found it as a summer resident in the marshes of 
 Lakes Erie and Ontario. It breeds commonly in the Western Provinces. 
 Arrives in April and leaves with the first sharp frost. 
 
 GENUS NETTION. 
 
 (139) Green=winged Teal. 
 
 (Nettion carolinensis.) 
 
 Common in the spring and autumn migrations, breeding in the north 
 from Labrador to the Pacific coast. Arrives as soon as the marshes are 
 open and leaves about the end of October. 
 
 GENUS QUERQUEDULA. 
 
 (140) Blue=winged Teal. 
 
 (Querquedula discors.) 
 
 Common summer resident, breeding in all suitable places through- 
 out the Province. Arrives in April and leaves about the end of Sep- 
 tember. 
 
 GENUS SPATULA. 
 
 (142) Shoveller. 
 
 (Spatula clypeata.) 
 
 A regular but uncommon summer resident, breeds throughout its 
 range. Very abundant on the prairie sloughs of Manitoba. 
 
 GENUS DAFILA. 
 
 (143) Pintail. 
 
 (Dafila acuta.) 
 
 A common spring and autumn visitor to southern Ontario, occa- 
 sionally breeding in the marshes about Lake Erie and probably regu- 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 17 
 
 larly breeding in the interior of the Province. It is a common summer 
 resident of Manitoba. 
 
 Arrives as soon as the marshes open and leaves when they freeze up. 
 
 GENUS AIX. 
 
 (144) Wood Duck. 
 (Aix sponsa.) 
 
 Formerly, an abundant summer resident, breeding everywhere 
 throughout the Province ; it is still common, but its numbers are fast 
 decreasing. 
 
 Arrives as soon as the ice is out of the marshes, departs about the 
 end of September. 
 
 SUBFAMILY FULIGULIN^. (THE SEA DUCKS.) 
 
 GENUS AYTHYA. 
 
 (146) Redhead. 
 
 (Aythya americana.) 
 
 A common spring and autumn migrant. They breed from the great 
 lakes northward and abundantly in Manitoba and the Prairie Provinces. 
 
 The bulk of them retire southward when their haunts are frozen 
 over. In some seasons a considerable number spend the winter on Lake 
 Ontario. 
 
 (147) Canvas=back Duck. 
 
 (Aythya vallisneria.) 
 
 A regular, but not generally a common spring and autumn migrant 
 in Ontario. It breeds commonly in the marshes of the North- West Pro- 
 vinces. 
 
 (148) American Scaup Duck. (Blue-bill.) 
 
 (Aythya marila.) 
 
 The great majority of these birds are spring and autumn visitors to 
 southern Ontario, but they do not go very far north to breed, and a 
 great many spend the winter along the shores of Lake Ontario. 
 
 (149) Lesser Scaup Duck. (Little Blue-bill.) 
 
 (Aythya affinis.) 
 
 Like the last, the great bulk of these ducks are transient visitors in 
 spring and autumn, but some breed in all the large marshes throughout 
 the Province, even along our southern boundary where protected. For- 
 merly they bred regularly in the marsh near Hamilton, and also in that 
 near Toronto. 
 
 2 B. 
 
CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 (150) Ring=necked Duck. 
 
 (Aythya collaris.) 
 
 Less abundant than the last, with which it is generally confused. 
 It probably breeds throughout its range, for I have often seen it here 
 in summer, though I never found its nest. In eastern Manitoba it breeds 
 regularly. 
 
 GENUS CLANGULA. 
 
 (151) American Golden-eye. (Whistler.) 
 
 (Clangula clangula americana.) 
 
 Common winter visitor and probably breeds in the northern part of 
 the Province, as it regularly does so in all the wooded parts of southern 
 Manitoba. 
 
 The bulk arrive in southern Ontario about the end of October and 
 remain until the ice breaks up in the spring. 
 
 (*) (152) Barrow's Golden-eye. 
 
 (Clangula islandica.) 
 An occasional viskor in winter. 
 
 GENUS CHARITONETTA. 
 
 (153) Buffle-head. 
 
 (Charitonetta albeola.) 
 
 Common spring and autumn visitor throughout the Province, breed- 
 ing at some points in southern Ontario, and probably doing so regularly 
 in the more northern portions. 
 
 They arrive as soon as the ice goes out in spring and remain in the 
 autumn until their haunts are frozen over. 
 
 GENUS HARELDA. 
 
 (154) Long-tailed Duck. (Coween.) 
 
 (Harelda hyemalis.) 
 
 A very abundant winter resident on the lakes, arriving about the 
 beginning of November and departing at the end of April. Breeds along 
 the Arctic coast. 
 
 GENUS HISTRIONICUS. 
 
 (155) Harlequin Duck. 
 
 (Histrionicus histrionicus.) 
 A very rare visitor. 
 2a B 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 19 
 
 GENUS SOMATERIA. 
 (160) American Eider. 
 
 (Somateria dresseri.) 
 
 An occasional winter visitor. All the specimens of this duck taken 
 here were in immature plumage, so far as I have been able to leara. 
 Breeds L"i the North Atlantic coast. 
 
 (162^ King Eider. 
 
 (Somateria spectabilis.) 
 
 Occurring- more frequently than the last, but still only an occasional 
 winter visitor. Breeds on the North Atlantic coast. Adult specimens of 
 this duck in full plumage have several times been taken on our lakes in 
 late autumn and early spring. 
 
 GENUS OIDEMIA. 
 
 (163) Black Scoter. (American Scoter.) 
 
 (Oidemia americana.) 
 
 A regular winter visitor on the great lakes, sometimes moving 
 southward for a short time if the weather is very severe. Breeds in the 
 Arctic regions. 
 
 (165) White-winged Scoter. 
 
 (Oidemia deglandi.) 
 
 A common winter resident, frequenting the great lakes. Breeds 
 about the northern lakes from Labrador to British Columbia. 
 
 (166) Surf Scoter. 
 
 (Oidemia perspicillata.) 
 
 A regular visitor to our lakes in spring and autumn, probably some 
 remain throup-h the winter, though I have never observed it here in the 
 coldest part of the season, 
 
 GENUS ERISMATURA. 
 
 (167) Ruddy Duck. 
 
 (Erismatura jamaicensis.) 
 
 Common in spring and autumn. Breeds from our southern bound- 
 ary northward. 
 
 SUBFAMILY ANSERINE. (THE GEESE.) 
 GENUS CHEN. 
 
 (*) (1693) Greater Snow Goose. (Wavey.) 
 (Chen hyperborea nivalis.) 
 
 A rare visitor to the western part of this Province. Breeds in the 
 barren grounds along the Arctic coast. 
 
CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 (*) (169.1) Blue Goose. 
 
 (Chen caerulescens.) 
 
 An accidental visitor, which has been met with two or three times 
 in this Province. 
 
 GENUS ANSER. 
 
 (*) (171) White-fronted Goose. 
 
 (Anser albifrons g-ambeli.) 
 Of ve'ry rare occurrence. Breeds in extreme North- West. 
 
 Canada Goose. 
 GENUS BRANTA. 
 
 (172) Canada Goose. 
 
 (Branta canadensis.) 
 
 A regular spring and autumn visitor to our marshes, but not nearly 
 so abundant now as formerly. Mr. John Maughan informs me that even 
 recently Geese have nested in the preserved marshes of Lake St. Clair 
 and some probably breed in the unfrequented marshes of the northern 
 part of the Province. They breed commonly in the Prairie Provinces. 
 
 (*) (i72a) Hutchin's Goose. 
 
 (Branta canadensis hutchinsii.) 
 An occasional spring and autumn visitor, 
 shore of the Arctic Sea. 
 
 Breeds chiefly on the 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO 21 
 
 (173) Brant. 
 
 (Branta bernicola.) 
 A rare visitor. Breeds on the shores of the Arctic Sea. 
 
 SUBFAMILY CYGNIN^E. (THE SWANS.) 
 GENUS OLOR, 
 
 (*) (180) Whistling Swan. 
 
 (Olor columbianus.) 
 
 Of somewhat irregular occurrence; generally a few are seen in the 
 spring. Breeds on the shores of the Arctic Sea. 
 
 (*) (181 Trumpeter Swan. 
 
 (Olor buccinator.) 
 
 Like the last, rarely seen now. Breeds on the barren grounds and 
 in the* marshes of the far north. 
 
 Order HERODIONES. (Herons, Ibises, etc.) 
 
 Wading birds with compressed bodies, long legs and long neck; 
 tibia naked below, feet not palmate ; toes long and slender, cleft or 
 slightly webbed, the hind toe long and usually not elevated, provided 
 with a large claw. Wings broad, rounded, tail short. Head contracted 
 to the stout base of the bill, which is long and usually hard and acute, 
 with sharp cutting edges; nostrils small. They feed upon fish, frogs, 
 mice, and such young birds as may fall in their way. 
 
 FAMILY IBIDID^. 
 
 Bill very long and slender, compressed, cylindric, curved through- 
 out, the upper mandible with a deep groove reaching nearly or quite to 
 the tip; legs rather long, the toes slightly webbed at base'. Head more 
 or less naked; wings broad; .tail short; tarsus scutellate in front. 
 
 GENUS PLEGADIS. 
 
 (*) (186) Glossy Ibis. 
 
 (Plegadis autumnalis.) 
 
 An accidental visitor. Mr. Mcllwraith records the capture of two 
 near Hamilton in 1857. I have not heard of any others. 
 
 FAMILY ARDEID/E. (THE HERONS, ETC.) 
 
 Bill straight, longer than the head, compressed, acute with sharp 
 cutting edges; upper mandible grooved; nostrils linear; lores naked, the 
 
CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 bill appearing to run directly to the eyes, rest of head feathered; parts 
 of the body with ' 'powder-down tracts" strips of short, dusty, or 
 greasy down-like feathers usually three pairs of these strips, i.e., on 
 the back -hove the hips, on the belly under the hips and on the breast; 
 usually long plumes from the back of head in the breeding season. 
 Wings broad. Tail very short. Tibiae largely naked below; toes long 
 and slender, hind toe on a level with the rest, its claw longer than middle 
 claw; middle claw pectinate. WaHIng birds, feeding on fishes, frogs 
 and any animal small enough for them to swallow. 
 
 SUBFAMILY BOTAURIN^. (BITTERNS.) 
 
 GENUS BOTAURUS. 
 
 (190) American Bittern. 
 
 (Botaurus lentiginosus.) 
 
 A common summer resident, breeding throughout its range in the 
 Province. 
 
 Arrives about the middle of April, departs about the middle of, 
 October. 
 
 GENUS ARDETTA. 
 
 (191) Least Bittern, 
 
 (Ardetta exilis.) 
 
 An abundant summer resident of the larger marshes of southern 
 Ontario, breeding throughout its range. 
 
 Arrives about the middle of May and leaves early in September. 
 
 (191.1) Cory's Least Bittern. 
 
 (Ardetta neoxena.) 
 
 This species seems now to be a regular though very rare summer 
 visitor to the marsh near Toronto. During the last few yeas over a 
 dozen specimens have been taken there. I have not heard of its capture 
 in any other part of the Province. 
 
 SUBFAMILY ARDEIN^E. (HERONS.) 
 GENUS ARDEA. 
 
 (194) Great Blue Heron. 
 
 (Ardea herodias.) 
 
 A common summer resident, breeding in communities in the interior 
 of the Province. 
 
 Arrives early in April, departs about, the middle of September. 
 
BIKDS OF ONTARIO. 23 
 
 GENUS HERODIAS. 
 
 (*) ( J 9 6 ) American Egret. 
 
 (Herodias egretta.) 
 
 A wanderer from the south. About half a dozen specimens have 
 been taken at various points in the Province. 
 
 GENUS EGRETTA. 
 
 (*) ( 1 97] Snowy Heron. 
 
 (Egretta candidissima.) 
 An accidental visitor to our southern border. 
 
 GENUS BUTORIDES. 
 
 (201) Green Heron. 
 
 (Butorides virescens.J 
 
 A regular though never a common summer resident of Ontario. It 
 appears to be generally distributed, but is more frequently found breed- 
 ing in the swamps near Lake Erie than elsewhere. 
 
 GENUS NYCTICORAX. 
 
 (202) Black-crowned Night Heron. 
 
 (Nycticorax nycticorax naevius.) 
 
 A regular and in places a common summer resident. They breed in 
 the interior of the Province in communities. 
 
 As they are quite nocturnal in their habits, they are not often ob- 
 served even where they are common. 
 
 GENUS NYCTANASSA, 
 
 (203) Yellow-crowned Night Heron. 
 
 (Nyctanassa violacea.) 
 One taken at Toronto by Mr. John Maughan. 
 
 Order PALUDICOL^. (Cranes, Rails, etc.) 
 
 Wading- birds. The head rather compressed than globose. Bill 
 hard and not sensitive, not adapted for probing in the mud. The hind 
 toe little elevated. Omnivorous feeders. 
 
 FAMILY GRUID^. (THE CRANES.) 
 
 Very large birds, with the legs and neck extremely long. Winy? 
 large, rather short. Tail short. Head more or less naked, with scattered 
 hairlike feathers. Plumage compact without downy tracts. Bill as long- as 
 
24 OilECK LIST OF THE 
 
 longer than head, straight and slender; tibia extensively naked; tarsus 
 scutellate; toes rather short, hind toe highly elevated. 
 
 GENUS GRUS. 
 (*) (204) Whooping Crane. 
 
 (Grus americana.) 
 
 A bird of the West which has once straggled into this Province. 
 Mr. Mcllwraith records the capture of a specimen in the County of Ad- 
 dington in September, 1871. 
 
 (206) Sandhill Crane. 
 
 (Grus mexicana.) 
 
 An accidental visitor from the western prairies, which has been met 
 with five or six times, in our Province. It is probable that some, if not 
 all, of the specimens taken here should be referred to G. canadensis. 
 
 FAMILY RALLID^E. (THE RAILS, COOTS, ETC.) 
 
 Birds of medium or small size, with compressed bodies and large 
 muscular legs. Wings short, rounded and concave; tail very short. 
 Hind toe rather short, a little elevated ; front toes very long. Bill not 
 sensitive at tip. All the species skulk in swamps and marshes, usually 
 keeping well under cover. They feed upon insects and such seeds as are 
 produced in their haunts. 
 
 SUBFAMILY RALLIN^E. (THE RAILS.) 
 
 GENUS RALLUS. 
 
 (208) King Rail. 
 
 (Rallus elegans.) 
 
 A regular summer resident of the marshes of the western end of 
 Lake Erie. I have not heard of its occurrence elsewhere. 
 
 (212) Virginia Rail. 
 
 (Rallus virginianus.) 
 
 An abundant summer resident of the marshes of Ontario, breeding 
 throughout its range. 
 
 Arrives about the middle of April and leaves early in October. 
 
 GENUS PORZANA. 
 (214) Carolina Rail. 
 
 (Porzana Carolina.) 
 
 Very abundant summer resident of the marshes all over the Prov- 
 ince, breeding throughout its range. 
 
 Arrives about the middle of April, departs about the end of October. 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 
 
 (215) Yellow Rail. 
 
 (Porzana noveboracensis.) 
 
 A regular, but not a common, summer resident of our marshes. I 
 have found it in all large marshes from the St. Clair River, east to 
 Toronto. 
 
 (*) (216) Black Rail. 
 
 (Porzana jamaicensis.) 
 
 Very rare, probably a summer resident where it occurs. Dr. Cottle 
 of Woodstock recorded the capture of a specimen at Ingersoll in 1856. 
 In August, 1874, I took four at the upper end of the Dundas marsh and 
 saw others. These birds are very secretive and it requires good dogs to- 
 flush them from the rank vegetation in which they skulk. 
 
 SUBFAMILY GALLINULIN^. (GALLINULES.) 
 GENUS IONORNIS. 
 
 (218) Purple Gallinule. 
 
 (lonornis martinica.) 
 
 Of accidental occurrence here. One was taken in the marsh on the 
 Rouge River east of Toronto in 1892, 
 
 GENUS GALLINULA. 
 
 (219) Florida Gallinule. 
 
 (Gallinule galeata.) 
 
 A common summer resident o the marshes of southern Ontario,, 
 breeding throughout its range. 
 
 Arrives about the middle of April, departs towards the end of Oc- 
 tober. 
 
 SUBFAMILY FULICIN^. (THE COOTS.) 
 
 GENUS FULICA. 
 (221) American Coot. 
 
 (Fulica americana.) 
 
 Common summer resident; breeding sparingly in our southern 
 marshes and more abundantly northward. 
 
 Order LIMICOL^. (The Shore Birds.) 
 
 Tibia more or less naked below, legs long, hind toe free and ele- 
 vated, sometimes wanting. Head globose, abruptly sloping to the base 
 of the bill ; completely feathered (except in the case of Pavoncella) ; gape 
 short; bill weak, flexible, more or less soft skinned and sensitive at tip 
 in most cases, adapted for probing in the mud; nostrils slit-like, sur- 
 rounded by soft skin. 
 
CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 The Limicolae are all birds of small or medium size, frequenting sandy 
 shores and the mud flats of marshes ; the Woodcock alone being found in 
 the woods. 
 
 FAMILY PHALAROPODID^E. 
 
 Small sandpiper-like birds, with the toes lobed, as in the Coots and 
 Grebes, but the lobes narrower. Body depressed, the lower plumage 
 thick as in the ducks, and capable of resisting water; wings long, tail 
 short; tarsus much compressed. 
 
 GENUS CRYMOPHILUS. 
 
 (222) Red Phalarope. 
 
 (Crymophilus fulicarius.) 
 An irregular spring and autumn visitor ^f rare occurrence. 
 
 GENUS PHALAROPUS. 
 
 (223) Northern t*halarope. 
 
 (Phalaropus lobatus.) 
 An irregular spring and autumn visitor of rare occurrence. 
 
 ' GENUS STEGANOPUS. 
 
 (224) Wilson's Phalarope. 
 
 (Steganopus tricolor.) 
 
 An irregular spring and autumn visitor, but rather more frequently 
 met with than either of the preceding Phalaropes. 
 
 FAMILY RECURVIROSTRID/E. 
 
 Birds with excessively long legs and the bill very slender, long, 
 acute, and in our species curved upward. 
 
 GENUS RECURVIROSTRA. 
 
 (*) (225) Avocet. 
 
 (Recurvirostra americana.) 
 
 An accidental visitor fron? the prairies of the North- West, where it 
 is common. 
 
 FAMILY SCOLOPACID^E. (SNIPES, SANDPIPERS, ETC.) 
 
 Bill elongated, usually longer than head, if short not Plover-like, 
 being soft-skinned throughout; nasal grooves in the form of narrow 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 27 
 
 channels, ranging from half to nearly the whole length of the bill ; sides 
 of lower mandible usually also grooved; nostrils narrow exposed slits; 
 head feathered. Wings usually thin and pointed; tail short and soft. 
 Tibia rarely entirely feathered; hind toe present (except in Calidris); 
 front toes cleft or slightly webbed. Birds of small or medium size. Sexes 
 alike or female slightly larger. Seasonal changes in plumage often 
 strongly marked. Eggs usually four, placed with the small ends together 
 in a slight nest or depression in the ground. 
 
 Woodcock. 
 GENUS PHILOHELA. 
 
 (228) Woodcock. (American Woodcock.) 
 (Philohela minor.) 
 
 Formerly an abundant summer resident of our swampy woods, but 
 now becoming scarce. Breeds throughout its range. 
 
 Arrives about the end of March and departs in November, usually 
 remaining until the first severe frost. 
 
 GENUS GALLINAGO. 
 
 (230) Wilson's Snipe. 
 
 (Gallinago delicata.) 
 
 Abundant in spring and autumn, the majority going north to breed. 
 Some, however, raise their young in all the larger marshes throughout 
 the Province, from our southern border northward. 
 
 The first arrivals in spring generally appear before the end of March 
 and in the autumn the last stragglers remain until the marshes freeze up. 
 
28 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 GENUS MACRORHAMPHUS. 
 
 (231) Dowitcher. 
 
 (Macrorhamphus griseus.) 
 
 Formerly this bird was not uncommon on the shore of Lake Ontario 
 during the migrations, but now it is a rather rare spring and autumn 
 visitor. 
 
 GENUS MICROPALAMA. 
 
 (*) ( 2 33) Stilt Sandpiper. 
 
 (Micropalama himantopus.) 
 
 A rare visitor. I have never met with this species in its spring mi- 
 gration northward, but have several times taken it, on its return in July 
 and August. 
 
 GENUS TRINGA. 
 
 (234) Knot. 
 
 (Tringa canutus.) 
 
 In the neighbourhood of Toronto and Hamilton I have found this 
 species abundant from the twenty-fifth of May to the end of the first 
 week in June. In the autumn it is seldom seen. Two or three times I 
 have taken specimens in immature plumage in August, but that is all. 
 Breeds in the Arctic regions. 
 
 GENUS ARQUATELLA. 
 
 (235) Purple Sandpiper. 
 
 (Arquatella maritima.) 
 
 A very rare visitor from the northern sea coast, usually occurring 
 late in autumn. Breeds on the shores of the Arctic Ocean. 
 
 GENUS ACTODROMAS. 
 
 (239) Pectoral Sandpiper. 
 
 (Actodromas maculata.) 
 
 A common visitor to our marshes and sandbars. Not observed by 
 me in the spring. 
 
 Arrives in July and departs about the end of October. 
 
 (240) White=rumped Sandpiper. 
 
 (Actodromas fuscicollis.) 
 
 Rather an uncommon species. Possibly breeding, as I have found 
 them here, from the middle of June to the middle of October. 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 29 
 
 (241) Baird's Sandpiper. 
 
 (Actodromas bairdii.) 
 
 A regular and not uncommon visitor in the neighbourhood of To- 
 ronto and at Dundas. Not seen in spring. 
 Arrives in July, departs early in October. 
 
 .(242) Least Sandpiper. (Stint.) 
 (Actodromas minutilla.) 
 
 Common spring and autumn visitor, arriving about the twentieth of 
 May, departing early in September. 
 
 The bulk of these birds go north to breed, but I think some nest 
 throughout their range in this Province, for some few pairs are always 
 to be found on our sandy beaches all through the summer. 
 
 GENUS PELIDNA. 
 
 Red-backed Sandpiper. (Black-heart Plover.) 
 (Pelidna alpina sakhalina.) 
 
 A very abundant visitor in the spring, arriving about the twentieth 
 
 of May and departing northward about the end of the first week in June. 
 
 In the autumn they are much less abundant, the bulk of them going 
 
 south by another route. The first arrive early in Octoberand by the end 
 
 of the first week in November the last has gone. 
 
 GENUS EREUNETES. 
 
 (246) Semi=palmated Sandpiper. (Stint.) 
 (Ereunetes pusillus.) 
 
 Very abundant from about the twentieth of May to the end of the 
 first week in June and from the middle of July until the end of the first 
 week in September. 
 
 The bulk of them go further north to breed, but I have always found 
 some pairs here during the summer. 
 
 GENUS CALIDRIS. 
 
 (248) Sanderling. 
 
 (Calidris arenaria.) 
 
 Very abundant in spring and autumn along the lake shores. Arrive 
 about the tenth of May, depart in October. They spend the summer 
 on their breeding grounds in the far north. 
 
80 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 GENUS LIMOSA. 
 
 (*) (249) Marbled Godwit. 
 
 (Limosa fedoa.) 
 A very rare visitor. Breeds in the North- West. 
 
 (*) (251) Hudsonian Godwit. 
 
 (Limosa haemastica.) 
 
 Rather more frequently seen than the last. Breeds on the barren 
 grounds. 
 
 GENUS TOTANUS. 
 
 (254) Greater Yellow-legs. 
 
 (Totanus melanoleucus.) 
 
 Common in spring from early in April, until the first week in May. 
 In the autumn sometimes abundant; arriving towards the end of 
 July and remaining until the end of October. 
 Breeds in the far north. 
 
 (255) Yellow-legs. 
 
 (Totanus flavipes.) 
 
 Not common in spring ; abundant in autumn. Its movements in the 
 spring correspond with those of the last species. 
 
 In the autumn migration, it arrives early in July and leaves before 
 the middle of September. Breeds in the barren grounds. 
 
 GENUS HELODROMAS. 
 
 (256) Solitary Sandpiper. 
 
 (Helodromas solitarius.) 
 
 Generally distributed throughout the Province, but nowhere abund- 
 ant. 
 
 In their spring migration these birds do not seem to visit southern 
 Ontario, for only once have I seen it at that season, viz., May 6th, 1900. 
 * n July, after breeding, it may be found along the margins of our streams 
 or upon muddy flats in the marshes. It departs about the end of Sep- 
 tember. 
 
 Dr. C. K. Clarke, of Kingston, has reported finding a nest of this 
 Sandpiper near that town, and no doubt it breeds in the interior of the 
 Province, as it is said to be a regular summer resident of Muskoka and 
 Parry Sound. 
 
 GENUS SYMPHEMIA. 
 (258) Willet. 
 
 (Symphemia semipalmata.) 
 A rare visitor. Breeds in the North-West. 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 31 
 
 GENUS PAVONCELLA. 
 (*) (260) Ruff. 
 
 (Pavoncella pugnax.) 
 
 A specimen of this European bird in some way wandered to Toronto 
 and was taken there in 1882. There are a few other records of its oc- 
 currence in America, but it can only be regarded as a straggler on this 
 continent. 
 
 GENUS BARTRAMIA. 
 
 (261) Bartramian Sandpiper. (Upland Plover.) 
 
 (Bartramia longicauda.) 
 
 This is a bird of the prairie and is of rare and local occurrence here. 
 I have found it breeding in the Counties of Brant and Norfolk, and Dr. 
 K. Clarke reports it as regularly nesting near Kingston. 
 
 GENUS TRYNGITES. 
 
 (262) Buff=breasted Sandpiper. 
 
 (Tryngites subruficollis.) 
 
 A rather rare and irregular visitor to Ontario during the autumn 
 migration. I have usually found it in August. 
 
 Mr. Mcllwraith, on the authority of Dr. Macallum, records the 
 discovery of a nest and eggs of this species near Dunnville. 
 
 GENUS ACTITIS. 
 
 (263) Spotted Sandpiper. 
 
 (Actitis macularia.) 
 
 An abundant summer resident, breeding throughout the Province, 
 Arrives about the first of May, departs about the middle of Sep- 
 tember. 
 
 GENUS NUMENIUS. 
 
 (*) (264) Long-billed Curlew. 
 
 (Numenius longirostris.) 
 
 A very rare visitor, usually in the spring. Breeds in Assiniboia, Al- 
 berta and westward. 
 
 (265) hudsonian Curlew. 
 
 (Numenius hudsonicus.) 
 
 ^ An ^regular visitor, sometimes occurring in large numbers in 
 spring; m the autumn it is rarely seen. Breeds on the barren grounds 
 west of Hudson's Bay. 
 
32 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 (*) (266) Eskimo Curlew. 
 
 (Numenius borealis.) 
 A very rare visitor. Breeds on the barren grounds. 
 
 FAMILY CHARADRIID^. (THE PLOVERS.) 
 
 Head rather large, nearly globose; bill of moderate length, shaped 
 somewhat like a pigeon's bill, with a constriction behind the horny term- 
 inal portion ; nasal fossae lined with soft skin, through which the, slit-like 
 nostrils open. Wings long and pointed, usually reaching beyond the 
 tip of the short tail. Toes, three in all our species (except Squatarola, in 
 which the hind toe is present, but very small) ; tarsus reticulate ; tibia 
 naked below. Sexes similar, but seasonal changes of plumage great. 
 Birds of this family frequent the open fields, sandy shores, or mud flats. 
 
 GENUS SQUATAROLA. 
 
 (270) Black-bellied Plover. 
 
 (Squatarola squatarola.) 
 
 Common spring and autumn visitor, passing through in the spring 
 migration between the twentieth of May and the end of the first week 
 in June. They return 'from the north in August and remain until about 
 the middle of October. Breeds in the Arctic regions. 
 
 GENUS CHARADRIUS. 
 
 (271) Golden Plover. (American Golden Plover.) 
 
 (Charadrius dominicus.) 
 
 I have never found the Golden Plover in Ontario in the spring. Dr. 
 C. K. Clarke informs me that it sometimes occurs near Kingston at that 
 season. 
 
 In the autumn it is generally fairly abundant in most parts of the 
 country, visiting the newly ploughed fields, the muddy flats of marshes 
 and the sand bars of the lakes. 
 
 It arrives from the north towards the end of August and departs 
 about the middle of October. Breeds on the barren grounds west of 
 Hudson's Bay. 
 
 GENUS OXYECHUS. 
 (273) Killdeer. 
 
 (Oxyechifs vociferus.) 
 
 A common summer resident, generally distributed over the Province, 
 breeding throughout its range. 
 
 Arrives about the end of March, departs early in October. 
 
WRDS OF ONTARIO. 33 
 
 GENUS ^GIALITIS. 
 
 (274) Semipalmated Plover. (Ring Plover.) 
 
 (^Egialitis semipalmata.) 
 
 Common in spring from about the middle of May to the end of the 
 first week in June, when it goes north to breed. In July they return and 
 are again abundant until the end of September, sometimes remaining 
 even later. It has occasionally been found nesting in this Province. 
 
 (277) Piping Plover. 
 
 ^Egialitis meloda.) 
 
 A regular but not a common summer resident. 
 
 They arrive early in May and probably leave as soon as the young 
 can fly, for I have never found them in the autumn. 
 
 A somewhat doubtful variety of this species, A^. m. circumcincta, 
 has been taken in Toronto occasionally. 
 
 (*) (278) Snowy Plover. 
 
 (^gialitis nivosa.) 
 
 Only two specimens have been taken in the Province to my know- 
 ledge. One mentioned by Mr. Mcllwraith and the other now in the 
 possession of Mr. J. H. Ames, of Toronto. 
 
 FAMILY APHRIZID^E. (THE TURNSTONES.) 
 
 Toes four, not webbed, the hinder short, well developed ; tarsus 
 scutellate in front ; legs rather long ; wings long and pointed ; tail short ; 
 bill rather short. 
 
 GENUS ARENARIA. 
 
 (283) Turnstone. (Redshank.) 
 (Arenaria interpres.) 
 
 Very abundant at some points along the lake shores in spring; par- 
 ticularly so in some seasons on the sandbar near Toronto and on Bur- 
 lingtori Beach near Hamilton. 
 
 Arrives about the twenty-fifth of May and remains until the middle 
 of June. In the autumn they are never common. A few in immature 
 plumage return this way about the first of August and remain until the 
 middle of September. Breeds on the Arctic coast from Hudson's Bay 
 westward. 
 
 Order GALLING. (The Gallinaceous Birds.) 
 
 Bill short, stout, convex, horny, not constricted, nostrils scaled or 
 feathered; cutting edge of upper mandible overlapping the lower. Head 
 often partly or wholly naked, sometimes with fleshy processes. Legs 
 S B 
 
34 
 
 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 stout, hind toe elevated, smaller than the other toes. Tarsus broadly 
 scutellate, sometimes feathered, occasionally spurred in the males ; claws 
 blunt, not much curved. Wings short, strong, concave. Terrestrial in 
 habit 
 
 A large order, including the chief game birds of the world, as well 
 as most kinds of domesticated poultry. 
 
 FAMILY TETRAONID^. (GROUSE, PARTRIDGES, ETC.) 
 
 Hind toe small, short; tarsus without spurs; head nearly or quite 
 feathered. 
 
 SUBFAMILY PERDICIN^. (PARTRIDGES.; 
 
 Quail. 
 GENUS COLINUS. 
 
 (289) Quail. (Bob White.) 
 (Colinus virginianus.) 
 
 A common resident in the south-western counties of Ontario, some- 
 times ranging east to the County of Ontario. A valuable game bird and 
 one of the farmer's best friends. 
 
 3a B. 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 35 
 
 Few birds are of greater utility than this. Its whole life is spent 
 among the crops we cultivate, and its food consists during the summer 
 months almost entirely of the insects which are injurious to plants. Dur- 
 ing the winter it consumes great quantities of weea seeds, a large por- 
 tion of which are gathered from fence corners and other neglected parts 
 of the farm lands. It is from these places that the cultivated fields are 
 regularly seeded down with weeds every season, and the Quail is an im- 
 portant factor in keeping them in check. 
 
 SUBFAMILY TETRAONIN^. (THE GROUSE.) 
 GENUS CAN^CHITES. 
 
 (298) Canada Grouse. (Spruce Partridge.) 
 
 ' (Canachites canadensis.) 
 
 Common resident in the northern districts. It formerly ranged much 
 further south than it does at present, but its tameness has led to its ex- 
 termination in the settled parts of the country. 
 
 GENUS BONASA. ' t 
 
 (300) Ruffed Grouse. (Partridge.) 
 
 (Bonasa umbellus.) 
 
 A common resident in woodlands throughout the Province. 
 Three sub-species have been separated from the typical form, all of 
 which are found here with endless intermediate variations. 
 
 GENUS LAGOPUS. 
 
 (301) Willow Ptarmigan. 
 
 (Lagopus lagopus.) 
 
 A regular winter visitor to the northern parts of the Province, some- 
 times coming as far south as Sault Ste. Marie, Lake Superior. 
 
 Mr. J. H. Ames, of Toronto, has one, which was taken near Whitby 
 on Lake Ontario. 
 
 GENUS TYMPANUCHUS. 
 
 (305) Pinnated Grouse. (Prairie Hen, Prairie Chicken.) 
 
 (Tympanuchus americanus.) 
 
 Formerly a resident of the open country along our south-western 
 border, but now extinct there. 
 
 GENUS PEDICECETES. 
 
 (308) Sharp-tailed Grouse. (Prairie Chicken.) 
 
 (Pedioecetes phasianellus.) 
 
 A scarce resident of the north-western part of the Province. During 
 the last few years several of these birds have strayed into Parry Sound 
 
36 
 
 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 and Muskoka. It is possible that as these districts are cleared and become 
 more prairie like, the Sharp-tail may find them adapted to its require- 
 ments and become more abundant there. 
 
 FAMILY PHASIANID^E. (THE PHEASANTS, TURKEYS, ETC.) 
 
 The chief family of the Gallinae, differing as a whole from the Tetra- 
 onidae in having the tarsus in the male armed with a spur. In many 
 species the head is naked, in others the tail is long and vaulted or other- 
 wise oeculiar. 
 
 Wild Turkey. 
 
 SUBFAMILY MELEAGRIN^. 
 GENUS MELEAGRIS. 
 
 (*) (sioa) Wild Turkey. 
 
 (Meleagris gallopavo silvestris.) 
 
 Formerly common in all the south-western counties, ranging east 
 into Wentworth. There may still be a few left in that district, but I 
 have not heard of any for several years. 
 
 Resment wherever found. 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 
 
 37 
 
 Order COLOMBO. (The Pigeons.) 
 
 Bill straight, compressed, the horny tip separated by a constriction 
 from the soft part. Nostrils opening beneath a soft, humid membrane 
 or cere, at base of bill. Frontal feathers sweeping in a strongly convex 
 outline across base of upper mandible. Hind toe on a level with the 
 others. Tail in our species long, wedge shaped, the feathers pointed. 
 
 FAMILY COLUMBID^. (PIGEONS.) 
 
 Wings long, pointed ; plumage compact, the feathers loosely in- 
 serted. 
 
 Passenger Pigeon. 
 GENUS ECTOPISTES. 
 
 (315) Passenger Pigeon. 
 
 (Ectopistes migratorius.) 
 
 Formerly a very abundant summer resident, occurring in flocks of 
 countless thousands, but now very scarce. 
 
 Dr. C. K. Clarke informs me that he found a small colony breeding 
 in eastern Ontario in 1898. 
 
 GENUS ZENAIDURA. 
 
 (316) Mourning Dove. 
 
 (Zenaidura macroura.) 
 
 A common summer resident, but somewhat locally distributed. 
 Breeding throughout its range. 
 
38 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 The great majority of these birds are migrants, arriving here in 
 April and leaving in October, but during the last few years small flocks 
 have been seen in several localities, all through the winter. 
 
 Order RAPTORES. (The Birds of Prey.) 
 
 Carnivorous birds, often of large size and great strength. Bill 
 strong, cered at base, hooked at the end. Claws very strong, except in 
 the Vultures. Tibia, and often the tarsus, feathered. Hind toe devel- 
 oped, elevated or not. 
 
 Some of them feed upon carrion, others upon reptiles or fishes, but 
 the most of them upon small mammals, birds and insects. 
 
 This order includes a large number of very useful birds, while a 
 few of them may be considered injurious by reason of their raids upon 
 domestic fowls. 
 
 FAMILY CATHARTID^. (AMERICAN VULTURES.) 
 
 Head and part of neck bare Eyes lateral ; ears small. Bill length- 
 ened, comparatively weak and but little hooked ; nostrils perforate. 
 Wings^ very long and strong, giving a strength and grace of flight 
 which is not excelled by any other birds. Hind toe short and elevated ; 
 front toes long, somewhat weDDe3, with rather weak and straightish 
 claws. Large, slovenly looking birds, without the strength and spirit 
 of the Hawks and Owls. They are voracious consumers of carrion and 
 animal refuse of all kinds, and hence are valued as scavengers in the 
 warm countries where they most abound. 
 
 GENUS CATHARTES. 
 
 (*) (3 2 5) Turkey Vulture. 
 
 (Cathartes aura.) 
 
 A great wanderer, which is of occasional occurrence in Ontario, 
 specimens having been taken at various places from the eastern bound- 
 ary to the west, where it was formerly not uncommon. 
 
 FAMILY FALCONID./E. (FALCONS, HAWKS, EAGLES, ETC.) 
 
 Head fully feathered ; no ear tufts. Eyes lateral ; eyelids provided 
 with lashes ; usually a projecting bony eyebrow ; no complete facial disk. 
 Toes always naked ; tarsus naked also except in Aquila and Archibuteo. 
 Hind toe not elevated. Bill stout, strongly hooked, its base not hidden 
 by feathers. Claws very strong and sharp, the hind claw not shorter 
 than the others. 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 
 
 39 
 
 SUBFAMILY ACCIPITRIN^E. (KITES, HAWKS, EAGLES, ETC.) 
 GENUS ELANOIDES. 
 
 (327) Swallow-tailed Kite. 
 
 (Elanoides forficatus.) 
 
 Mr. Mcllwraith records the occurrence of this species in western 
 Ontario and also at Ottawa, and it is quite likely to be seen here again, 
 as it is a great wanderer. 
 
 V 
 
 
 
 Marsh Hawk. 
 
 GENUS CIRCUS. 
 (331) Marsh Hawk. 
 
 (Circus hudsonius.) 
 
 Very common summer resident, breeding- in secluded marshy places 
 throughout the Province. Arrives early in April, departs about the end 
 of October. One of our most useful Hawks, feeding principally upon the 
 destructive meadow mouse. This Hawk may readily be distinguished 
 from all others by its low skimming flight, as it works over the meadows 
 in search of its favorite food, anci also by the white patch at the base of 
 its tail, which is very conspicuous. A heavy penalty should be inflicted 
 on persons who destroy these birds. 
 
40 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 GENUS ACCIPITER. 
 
 (332) Sharp-shinned Hawk. 
 
 (Accipiter velox.) 
 
 Common summer resident, breeding throughout its range. Arrives 
 early in April. The bulk depart about the middle of September, but 
 stragglers often remain until the end of October. 
 
 This bird is very destructive to young poultry and the small insec- 
 tivorous birds. 
 
 (333) Cooper's Hawk. 
 
 (Accipiter cooperi.) 
 
 A summer resident, but not nearly so abundant as the last. Breeds 
 in the interior of the Province. 
 A very destructive hawk. 
 
 (334) Goshawk. 
 
 (Accipiter atricapillus.) 
 
 (A winter visitor to southern Ontario. Resident and breeding in 
 the interior. 
 
 This hawk is capable of killing fullgrown fowls and does so at every 
 opportunity. 
 
 GENUS BUTEO. 
 
 (337) Red-tailed Hawk. 
 
 (Buteo borealis.) 
 
 A common summer resident, breeding in the interior. Arrives early 
 in March, departs at the beginning of November. A few have been 
 seen in winter. 
 
 A dark form of this hawk now given sub-specific rank as the West- 
 ern Red-tailed Hawk, B. b. calurus, has been occasionally taken in On- 
 tario. 
 
 This is one of the most useful species, feeding largely upon meadow 
 mice, grasshoppers, and frogs. 
 
 (339) Red-shouldered Hawk. 
 
 (Buteo lineatus.) 
 
 Common summer resident. Less frequently seen than the last, or 
 perhaps more local in its distribution. Breeds in the interior. Arrives 
 a little later than the Red-tail and leaves towards the end of October. I 
 have seen specimens in winter, but not often. 
 
 A very useful hawk, feeding chiefly on mice, reptiles and grass- 
 hoppers. 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 
 
 41 
 
 (*) (342) Swainson's Hawk. 
 (Buteo swainsoni.) 
 
 A rare visitor from the western prairies, where it is abundant. 
 
 (343) Broad-winged Hawk. 
 
 (Buteo platypterus.) 
 
 A common summer resident, breeds throughout its range. A useful 
 species. 
 
 American Rough-legged Hawk. 
 GENUS ARCHIBUTEO. 
 
 (347) American Rough=legged Hawk. 
 
 (Archibuteo lagopus sancti-johannis.) 
 
 A common visitor in spring and autumn, probably a summer resident 
 in the northern portion of the Province. 
 
 They arrive early in April and the bulk have departed by the end of 
 November. 
 
 One of our most beneficial birds, its food consisting almost entirely 
 of mice and grasshoppers. 
 
 I have found as many as eight meadow mice in the stomach and 
 crop of one of these birds. 
 
42 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 GENUS AQUILA. 
 (*) (349) Golden Eagle. 
 
 (Aquila chrysaetos.) 
 
 An irregular visitor to southern Ontario, probably resident in the 
 unsettled north country. 
 
 GENUS HALI^ETUS. 
 (352) Bald Eagle. 
 
 (Haliaeetus leucocephalus alascanus.) 
 
 A resident species which until a few years ago regularly bred in 
 certain localities along the shores of our lakes, but which has now re- 
 tired to the quiet of the interior to raise its young, visiting southern On- 
 tario in winter. 
 
 SUBFAMILY FALCONING. (FALCONS.) 
 
 GENUS FALCO. 
 
 1(353) White Gyrfalcon. 
 
 (Falco islandus.) 
 An accidental visitor. 
 
 (354) Gray Gyrfalcon. 
 
 (Falco rusticolus.) 
 As rare as the last. 
 
 (356) Duck Hawk. 
 
 (Falco peregrinus anatum.) 
 
 A regular, but not a common, autumn visitor to southern Ontario. 
 Rarely seen in spring. Has been found breeding in eastern Ontario and 
 also in Muskoka. 
 
 (357) Pigeon Hawk. 
 
 (Falco columbarius.) 
 
 Not often seen in the spring, but common in autumn. I have occa- 
 sionally seen it in winter. The great majority go south about the end of 
 September. 
 
 It breeds in the unsettled districts of the interior from Muskoka 
 northward. 
 
 (360) Sparrow Hawk. 
 
 (Falco sparverius.) 
 
 A common summer resident, breeds throughout its range. Arrives 
 early in April, departs about the end of September. 
 
 A very useful bird, feeding on mice and insects chiefly. Two or 
 three times when I have taken these Hawks in early summer, I have found 
 their stomachs filled with cutworms and at the same time noticed that 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 43 
 
 their feet were covered with mud. Just how they obtain these under- 
 ground larvae I have not been able to ascertain, but it would seem that 
 they either scratch them out or are able in some way to locate the spot 
 at which they are hidden and can then capture them by thrusting their 
 claws into the moist soil. 
 
 GENUS POLYBORUS. 
 
 (362) Audubon's Caracara. 
 
 (Polyborus cheriway.) 
 
 Mr. G. E. AtKinson has recorded finding a dead specimen washed up 
 on the north shore of Lake Superior on the i8th of July, 1892. 
 
 SUBFAMILY PANDIONIN^E. (OSPREYS.) 
 GENUS PANDION. 
 
 (364) American Osprey. (insh Hawk.) 
 (Pandion haliaetus carolinensis.) 
 
 A common summer resident, breeding in suitable places through the 
 Province. Its nesting places now are in the unsettled parts of the in- 
 terior, where the lakes are still surrounded by trees sufficiently large to 
 meet the bird's requirements. 
 
 Arrives in April, departs at the end of September. 
 
 SUBORDER STRIGES. (OWLS.) 
 FAMILY STRIGID^. (THE BARN OWLS.) 
 
 A small family comprising those owls which have long faces, the 
 facial disk being complete and subtriangular. The middle and inner 
 toes are about equal in length and the middle claw is pectinate below. 
 
 GENUS STRIX. 
 
 (*) (3 6 5) American Barn Owl. 
 
 (Strix pratincola.) 
 
 A rare visitor from the south. Five or six specimens of this bird 
 have been met with in southern Ontario. 
 
 FAMILY BUBONID^. (THE HORNED OWLS, ETC.) 
 
 Head very large, shortened lengthwise, and greatly expanded later- 
 ally, the eyes directed forwards and partly surrounded by a more or less 
 complete circular disk of radiating feathers of peculiar texture ; loral 
 feathers antrorse, long and dense ; feathers on the sides of forehead 
 often elongated into earlike tufts. Plumage very soft and lax, rendering 
 the flight almost noiseless ; its colours blended and mottled so as to baffle 
 description. External ear very large, often provided with a movable 
 
44 
 
 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 flap. Outer toe reversible; claws very sharp, long, and strong; inner 
 toe shorter than middle; middle claw not pectinate. All our species are 
 nocturnal except Nyctea and Surnia. 
 
 GENUS ASIO. 
 
 (366) American Long-eared Owl. 
 
 (Asio wilsonianus.) 
 
 A fairly common summer resident, breeding throughout its range 
 in the Pfovince, wherever there are woods. More frequently seen in the 
 autumn than at any other season. 
 
 Feeds almost entirely upon meadow mice and large insects. I have 
 examined a great many of these birds and so far have never found any- 
 thing else in their stomachs ; never even the trace of a feather. 
 
 Short-eared Owl. 
 
 (367) Short=eared Owl. (Marsh Owl.) 
 
 (Asio accipitrinus.) 
 
 This Owl is sometimes very common in the autumn, about the low 
 meadows and marshes. In such places I have found them also during 
 the winter at times. Its movements seem to depend altogether upon the 
 food supply. When meadow mice are abundant and available the owls 
 will remain and feed upon them, but if the snow becomes deep so that 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 45 
 
 the mice are entirely protected by it, then the owls go south. This bird 
 is peculiarly adapted to act as a check upon the undue increase of field 
 mice. It lives and breeds entirely in the places most frequented by 
 them, and so long as these destructive creatures can be obtained, the 
 Owl will feed upon them ; apparently preferring them to any other food. 
 When the supply of mice fails, however, these Owls will feed upon such 
 small birds as may be found in their haunts, and will at times kill more 
 than they can devour. 
 
 Dr. C. K. Clarke informs me that it has been found nesting in the 
 marsh near Kingston, and as I have seen it during the summer months 
 in other marshes, no doubt it breeds sparingly in southern Ontario and 
 more abundantly in suitable places in the northern part of the Province. 
 
 If these Owls were less persecuted than they are, they would cer- 
 tainly breed here whenever their favourite food was abundant, as they do 
 in Great Britain, and we should then hear less about the damage done to 
 grain and fruit trees by meadow mice. 
 
 GENUS SYRNIUM. 
 (368) Barred Owl. 
 
 (Syrnium varium.) 
 
 This bird is generally distnouted through the Province, as far north 
 as Lake Superior and the Ottawa River, but is not common anywhere; 
 there are certain places at which it appears regularly every autumn, 
 while in other localities it is rarely, if ever, seen. Nests have been found 
 all through its range. 
 
 " It is not sufficiently abundant to be of importance from an agricultural 
 point of view. Those I have taken here always contained mice, but to 
 the south of us, where the poultry are allowed to roost on trees,, it is 
 accused of killing half-grown chickens. 
 
 GENUS SCOTIAPTEX. 
 
 (370) Great Grey Owl. (Cinereus Owl.) 
 
 (Scotiaptex nebulosa.) 
 
 An irregular winter visitor, occasionally occurring in considerable 
 numbers and a few are found here nearly every season. Breeds in the 
 Arctic regions. 
 
 GENUS CRYPTOGLAUX. 
 
 (*) (37 1 ) Richardson's Owl. 
 
 (Cryptoglaux tengmalmi richardsoni.) 
 
 A winter visitor from the far north, seldom seen in southern Ontario. 
 
 (372) Saw-whet Owl. 
 
 (Cryptoglaux acadica.) 
 
 Although this little Owl is a resident of Ontario, it is peculiar in 
 its distribution. It is most frequently seen in winter and will in some sea- 
 
46 
 
 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 sons be quite common in a locality for a time and may not again be seen 
 there for several years. Like all other birds of prey, it is attracted to 
 places where food is abundant. It breeds sparingly in southern Ontario 
 and probably commonly in the undisturbed woods of the interior. 
 
 Its food consists almost entirely of mice ; when these are scarce, an 
 occasional insect or small bird is taken. 
 
 Screech Owl. 
 
 GENUS MEGASCOPS. 
 (373) Screech Owl. 
 
 (Megascops asio.) 
 
 A common resident in southern Ontario, breeding throughout its 
 range. 
 
 A particularly useful bird and one which, if left unmolested, will 
 become almost domesticated. It will take up its abode in and about the 
 barns and outbuildings and soon becomes comparatively tame. It is the 
 most indefatigable mouser we have, for not only does it kill mice to sup- 
 ply its immediate wants, but also for the pleasure of hunting them. Be- 
 sides this, it also does useful work in keeping the common House Sparrow 
 within proper limits. 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 47 
 
 GENUS BUBO. 
 
 (375) Great Horned Owl. 
 
 (Bubo virginianus.) 
 
 A common resident, breeding throughout its range. The strongest 
 and most courageous of our birds of prey. Commonly considered to be 
 injurious to the farmer, because it occasionally kills poultry. No doubt 
 it will do this in winter, when its natural food is difficult to get ; but the 
 farmer who leaves his fowls to roost out and unprotected on cold nights 
 cannot find them very profitable and certainly deserves to lose them. As 
 against this, should be set off the value of the bird's services in keeping 
 in check the rats, mice, crows and other injurious creatures; ev.en skunks, 
 often fall victims to the Horned Owl's strength and rapacity. 
 
 GENUS NYCTEA. 
 
 (376) Snowy Owl. 
 
 (Nyctea nyctea.) 
 
 A winter visitor, occurring in varying numbers almost every season. 
 This is a diurnal species, hunting its prey much after the fashion of 
 the falcons. 
 
 Breeds in the Arctic regions. 
 
 GENUS SURNIA. 
 
 (377) Hawk Owl. (American Hawk Owl.) 
 
 (Surnia ulula caparoch.j 
 
 A regular winter visitor in northern Ontario, not often seen in the 
 southern portions of the Province. 
 
 It is diurnal, and when hunting adopts much the same methods as 
 our Sparrow Hawk. In northern Manitoba, where it is rather common 
 in winter, I frequently saw it hovering over the snow-covered plains just 
 as our little Hawk does over the fields in summer. 
 
 Breeds in the far north. 
 
 Order COCCYGES. (Cuckoos and Kingfishers.) 
 
 This order is not very largely represented in Canada. The families 
 comprised in it have but little in common so far as outward appearance 
 is concerned, but the characteristics of each are well marked. 
 
 SUBORDER CUCULI. (CUCKOOS.) 
 FAMILY CUCULID^. (CUCKOOS.) 
 
 Bill gently curved, lengthened, without rectal bristles or nasal tufts. 
 Tongue not extensible. Tarsus long, nearly naked. Toes not webbed, 
 cleft to base ; two in front, two behind. Tail long in our species. 
 
 Arboreal birds of great economic value, feeding almost entirely on 
 insects. They devour great numbers of tent caterpillars and the various, 
 hnirv hirvae, which are rejected by most birds. 
 
48 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 SUBFAMILY COCCYZIN/E. (AMERICAN CUCKOOS.) 
 GENUS COCCYZUS. 
 
 (387) Yellow=billed Cuckoo. 
 
 (L/occyzus americanus.) 
 
 A regular, but not a common, summer resident; breeding through- 
 out its range. 
 
 (388) Black-billed Cuckoo. 
 
 (Coccyzus erythrophthalmus.) 
 
 A common summer resident, breeding throughout its range. 
 Arrives about the twentieth of May, departs about the end of Sep- 
 tember. 
 
 SUBORDER ALCYONES. (KINGFISHERS.) 
 
 FAMILY ALCEDINID/E. (KINGFISHERS.)' 
 
 Head large ; bill long, straight and strong ; gape deep, edges net ser- 
 rate. Wings long ; tail short. Tarsus very short. Toes three in front, one 
 behind, the outer and middle toes united half their length, with a con- 
 tinuous sole beneath. 
 
 We have but one species. 
 
 GENUS CERYLE. 
 (390) Belted Kingfisher. 
 
 (Ceryle alcyon.) 
 
 A common summer resident, breeding throughout its range. 
 
 Arrives about the beginning of April, departs early in October. I 
 have several times found these birds spending the winter on rapid 
 streams in southern Ontario, and once near Bala in Muskoka. 
 
 Order PICI. (Woodpeckers, etc.) 
 
 Feet zygodactyle, i.e., having the toes in pairs two forward ard 
 two behind (except in Picoides, in which the hind toe is wanting). Tail 
 feathers pointed and with strong shafts ; used as a prop to assist the 
 birds in supporting themselves against the trunks of trees. 
 
 FAMILY PICID^E. (WOODPECKERS.) 
 
 Bill stout, usually straight, with the tip distinctly truncate (except 
 in Colaptes), adapted for hammering or boring into wood. Tongue long, 
 flattish, barbed, capable of great protrusion, adapted for securing insects 
 (except in Sphyrapicus.) Hyoid process peculiar, the horns generally very 
 long, curving up around the skull behind and over forward again to the 
 ear, or beyond. Claws compressed, sharp and strong. 
 
 All are chiefly insectivorous, the majority of them obtaining their 
 food by boring into the trunks of trees and extracting the larvae which 
 feed upon the cambium. 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 
 
 49 
 
 These birds are of great economic value to the farmer, fruit-grower 
 and forester, and should be strictly protected by everyone having the 
 slightest interest in trees. 
 
 GENUS DRYOBATES. 
 
 (393) Hairy Woodpecker. 
 
 (Dryobates villosus.) 
 
 A common resident, breeding throughout the Province. The variety 
 D. v. leucomelas, is the form chiefly found in southern Ontario. 
 
 Downy Woodpecker. 
 
 (394) Downy Woodpecker. 
 
 (Dryobates pubescens.) 
 
 A common resident, breeding throughout the Province. Our form 
 is chiefly D. p. medianus. 
 
 GENUS PICOIDES. 
 
 (400) Arctic Three-toed Woodpecker. 
 
 (Picoides arcticus.) 
 
 Common resident in the northern part of the Province, rare winter 
 visitor in the southern part. 
 
 Breeds in the northern part of its range. 
 4 B. 
 
50 
 
 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 (*) (401) American Three=toed Woodpecker. 
 
 (Picoides americanus.) 
 
 Resident in the northern part of Ontario, but much less abundant 
 than the last. Occasionally wanders into southern Ontario during the 
 winter. 
 
 GENUS SPHYRAPICUS. 
 
 (402) Yellow=bellied Woodpecker. (Sapsucker.) 
 (Sphyrapicus varius.) 
 
 A common summer resident, breeding throughout its range in the 
 Province. 
 
 Arrives about the middle of April, departs about the middle of Sep- 
 tember. 
 
 It is this species only which bores holes in the bark of trees for the 
 purpose of obtaining the sap. 
 
 Pileated Woodpecker. 
 GENUS CEOPHLCEUS. 
 
 (405) Pileated Woodpecker. (Cock of the Woods.) 
 (Ceophlceus pileatus.) 
 
 Resident, but restricted to that part of the country still covered with 
 heavy timber. Breeds throughout its range in the Province. 
 
 Our form is C. p. abieticola. 
 
 4a B. 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 51 
 
 GENUS MELANERPES. 
 
 (406) Red-headed Woodpecker. 
 
 (Melanerpes erythrocephalous.) 
 
 A summer resident, still common, but much less abundant than it 
 was a few years ago. Breeds throughout its range. 
 Arrives early in May, ueparts early in September. 
 
 GENUS CENTURUS. 
 
 (*) (409) Red-bellied Woodpecker. 
 
 (Centurus carolinus.) 
 
 Rare summer resident in the south- western counties; occurring 
 regularly as far east as the County of Wentworth. Breeds throughout its 
 range in the Province. 
 
 GENUS COLAPTES. 
 
 (412) Flicker. (Golden-winged Woodpecker, High-holer.) 
 (Colaptes auratus.) 
 
 Common summer resident. Breeds throughout the Province. 
 
 Arrives about the middle of April, departs early in October. 
 
 Our form is C. a. luteus. 
 
 Though classed amongst the Woodpeckers, by reason of certain 
 similarities of structure, it does less wood-pecking than any other of its 
 family, its beak not being so well fitted for that operation as the beaks 
 of the others. It is chiefly a ground feeder, ants forming a large portion 
 of its food. For the purpose of enabling it to capture these insects in 
 their underground burrows, its tongue is peculiarly specialized. 
 
 Order MACROCHIRES. (Goatsuckers, Swifts and Humming Birds.) 
 
 W T ings very long and pointed. ^arsus short; feet small and weak, 
 with three toes in front, one behind. The hind toe usually somewhat ele- 
 vated. 
 
 FAMILY CAPRIMULGID^. 
 
 Mouth highly specialized, the gape enormously wide, beak short. In 
 Antrostomus the rectal bristles are long and coarse, very distinct. 
 Plumage soft in texture, much marbled and mottled with black, brown, 
 grey and yellowish white, the combination forming a splendid example 
 of protective coloration. The middle claw pectinate. Largely nocturnal. 
 Entirely insectivorous, obtaining their food while on the wing. 
 
52 
 
 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 GENUS ANTROSTOMUS. 
 
 (417) Whip=poor=will. 
 
 (Antrostomus vociferus.) 
 
 A common resident in the woods. Breeds throughout its range in 
 the Province. 
 
 Arrives early in May, departs early in October. 
 
 Whip-poor-will. 
 
 GENUS CHORDEILES. 
 
 (420) Night Hawk. 
 
 (Chordeiles virginianus.) 
 
 An abundant summer resident. Breeds throughout its range in the 
 Province. 
 
 Arrives about the middle of May, departs early in September. 
 
 SUBORDER CYPSELI. (SWIFTS.) 
 
 FAMILY MICROPODID^. L OWIFTS.) 
 
 SUBFAMILY CH^ETURIN^E. (SPINE-TAILED SWIFTS.) 
 
 Bill weak and small, gape large, deeply cleft. Wings very long, 
 thin and pointed ; secondaries very short. Feet small, weak, toes com- 
 pletely cleft ; middle claw not pectinate ; no rectal bristles. In our species 
 tail rounded, its feathers with the shaft spinous, projecting beyond the 
 plumage ; the salivary glands are highly developed and their secretion 
 is used as a glue in the construction of the nest. 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 
 
 53 
 
 GENUS CH^TURA. 
 (423) Chimney Swift. (Chimney Swallow.) 
 
 (Chaetura pelagica.) 
 
 An abundant summer resident. Breeds throughout its range in the 
 Province. Formerly nested in hollow trees, but has abandoned them 
 and now takes up its residence in chimneys and barns. 
 
 Arrives early in May, departs at the end of August or early in Sep- 
 tember. SUBORDER TROCHILI. (HUMMING BIRDS.) 
 FAMILY TROCHILID^E. (BUMMING BIRDS.) 
 
 Bill long, pointed, awl-shaped. Tongue capable of great protru- 
 sion. Wings long and pointed ; secondaries short. Feet very small, 
 with long, sharp claws. Smallest of all our birds. Feeds largely upon 
 small insects and the nectar from flowers. It usually obtains its food 
 while hovering about the blossoms of plants. 
 
 Ruby-throated Humming Bird. 
 
 GENUS TROCHILUS. 
 (428) Ruby=throated Humming Bird. 
 
 (Trochilus colubris.) 
 
 A common summer resident. Breeds throughout its range in the 
 Province. Arrives about the middle of May, departs about the middle 
 of September. 
 
54 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 Order PASSERES. (Perching Birds.) 
 
 Toes always four ; feet fitted for perching ; the hind toe always on a 
 level with the rest; its claw at least as long as that of the middle toe; 
 none of the toes versatile and none webbed ; wing coverts few, chiefly 
 in two series. 
 
 SUBORDER CLAMATORES. (SONGLESS PERCHING BIRDS.) 
 FAMILY TYRANNID^E. (TYRANT FLYCATCHERS.) 
 
 Bill typically broad, triangular, depressed, abruptly hooked and 
 notched at tip, with long rectal bristles ; commissure nearly straight ; 
 nostrils small, usually partly concealed. Tarsus with its back and sides 
 as well as the front covered with scutella, so that there is no undivided 
 ridge behind, as in most other Passeres. 
 
 All our species are insectivorous, capturing their food by darting 
 upon it from some elevated perch. The whole family are decidedly bene- 
 ficial to agriculture. Some of them have very pleasant notes, but none 
 of them are songsters. 
 
 GENUS TYRANNUS. 
 
 (444) Kingbird. 
 
 (Tyrannus tyrannus.) 
 
 An abundant summer resident; breeds throughout its range in the 
 Province. 
 
 Arrives about the tenth of May, departs about the end of August. 
 
 GENUS MYIARCHUS. 
 
 (452) Crested Flycatcher. 
 
 (Myiarchus crinitus.) 
 
 Common summer resident, breeding in woods and orchards through- 
 out its range in the Province. 
 
 Arrives about the middle of May, departs about the end of August. 
 
 GENUS SAYORNIS. 
 
 (456) Phoebe. 
 
 (Sayornis phcebe.) 
 
 An abundant summer resident, breeding about farm buildings and 
 bridges throughout its range in the Province. 
 
 Arrives early in April, departs early in October. 
 
 A most useful bird and one that will return year after year to its 
 nesting place on the farm, if not molested. 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 
 
 GENUS NUTTALLORNIS. 
 
 (459) Olive-sided Flycatcher. 
 
 (Nuttallornis borealis.) 
 
 A regular but uncommon visitor to southern Ontario. I have found 
 one or two each spring for several years, but have not seen it at any 
 other season. It is said to be common and breed in the Muskoka and 
 Parry Sound Districts. 
 
 GENUS CONTOPUS. 
 (461) Wood Pewee. 
 
 (Contopus virens.) 
 
 Common summer resident, breeding in woods throughout its range 
 in the Province. 
 
 Arrives about the middle of May, departs about the middle of Sep- 
 tember. 
 
 GENUS EMPIDONAX. 
 
 (463) Yellow-bellied Flycatcher. 
 
 (Empidonax flaviventris.) 
 
 A rather uncommon visitor. I have seen a few each spring, but 
 never later than June. 
 
 It breeds regularly in the wooded parts of the interior. 
 
 (466) Traill's Flycatcher. 
 
 (Empidonax trailli.) 
 
 The eastern form, E. t. alnorum, is a regular visitor, generally dis- 
 tributed, but never common. It frequents low grounds where alders and 
 willows flourish. Breeds in the interior. 
 
 (467) Least Flycatcher. 
 
 (Empidonax minimus. 
 
 Common summer resident, breeding in orchards, shrubberies and 
 woodlands throughout its range in the Province. 
 
 Arrives about the middle of May, departs at the end of August. 
 
 SUBORDER OSCINES. (SONG BIRDS.) 
 FAMILY ALAUDID^. (THE LARKS.) 
 
 Tarsus obtuse and scutellate behind as well as in front. Bill short ; 
 nostrils concealed by tufts of antrorse feathers ; hind claw very long and 
 nearly straight ; inner secondaries lengthened and flowing. Our species 
 have a little tuft of lengthened black feathers over each ear and the tail 
 not forked. 
 
56 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 GENUS OTOCORIS. 
 (*) (474) Horned Lark. (Shore Lark.) 
 
 (Otocoris alpestris.) 
 
 This form of the Shore Lark is a winter visitor and is rarely seen 
 now. 
 
 Twenty-five years ago it was common here in severe weather, fre- 
 quently with the Snow Buntings. I have never found it breeding in the 
 Province. Its summer home is in the far north. 
 
 (4740) Prairie Horned Lark. 
 
 (Otocoris alpestris praticola.) 
 
 This sub-species is now a common summer resident, breeding in 
 open fields wherever it occurs in the Province. 
 
 It appears to have extended its range from the prairies as the timber 
 has been cleared off and the land brought under cultivation. 
 
 Arrives about the tenth of February, departs late in November. In 
 the south-western counties it is resident, large numbers remaining there 
 all through the winter. 
 
 FAMILY CORVID^]. (THE CROWS AND JAYS.) 
 
 Bill long and strong, usually notched, its commissure not angulated ; 
 nostrils usually concealed by tufts of bristly feathers, which are branched 
 to their tips. Tarsus sharp behind, its sides undivided and separated 
 from the scutella in front by a groove, which is either naked or filled in 
 with small scales. Voice usually harsh and unmusical. 
 
 GENUS CYANOCITTA. 
 (477) Blue Jay. 
 
 (Cyanocitta cristata.) 
 A common resident, breeding throughout its range in the Province. 
 
 GENUS PERISOREUS. 
 (484) Canada Jay. 
 
 (Perisoreus canadensis.) 
 
 A common resident in the northern part of the Province. Breeds 
 in the northern part of its range. 
 
 SUBFAMILY CORVINE. (CROWS.) 
 
 GENUS CORVUS. 
 (486a) Northern Raven. 
 
 (Corvus corax principalis.) 
 
 Tolerably commop in the interior of the Province. Probably breeds 
 in the remote forests towards James Bay. 
 
 (488) Common Crow. 
 
 (Corvus brachyrhynchos.) 
 
 Abundant resident in southern Ontario, summer resident in the 
 northerly portions of the Province. Breeds throughout its range. 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 
 
 57 
 
 FAMILY ICTERID/E. (THE AMERICAN ORIOLES AND BLACKBIRDS.) 
 
 Bill with the commissure angulated, usually lengthened, rarely 
 shorter than head, straight or gently curved, without notch or rictat 
 bristles ; culmen usually extending upon the forehead, dividing the frontal 
 feathers. Legs stout, adapted for walking in all our species, except 
 those in Icterus. 
 
 Doliconyx and Molothrus are somewhat Finch-like, having the bill 
 shorter than head. 
 
 GENUS DOLICHONYX. 
 (494) Bobolink. 
 
 (Dolichonyx oryzivorous.) 
 
 Abundant summer resident. Breeds in the hay meadows through- 
 out its range, which does not extend north of the cultivated country. 
 
 Arrives about the tenth of May, departs about the end of August. 
 
 Cowbird. 
 
 GENUS MOLOTHRUS. 
 (495) Cowbird. 
 
 (Molothrus ater.) 
 
 An abundant summer resident, deposits its eggs in the nests of other 
 small birds. Breeds throughout its range. 
 
58 
 
 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 Arrives about the first of April and departs early in October. 
 This is the most injurious bird we have, as each egg deposited by it 
 means the destruction of a whole brood of one of our beneficial species. 
 
 GENUS XANTHOCEPHALUS. 
 
 (497) Yellow-headed Blackbird. 
 
 (Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus.) 
 A very rare summer visitor from the western prairies. 
 
 GENUS AGELAIUS. 
 
 (498) Red=winged Blackbird. 
 
 (Agelaius phoeniceus.) 
 
 A very abundant summer resident, breeding in marshes or clover 
 fields throughout its range. 
 
 Arrives about the middle of March, departs about the middle of 
 October. 
 
 Meadowlark. 
 
 GENUS STURNELLA. 
 (501) Meadowlark. 
 
 (Sturnella magna.) 
 
 A common summer resident in southern Ontario, gradually extend- 
 ing its range northward as the land is cleared. 
 
 Breeds on the ground in meadows throughout its rang-e. 
 
 Arrives towards the end of March, departs late in October or early 
 in November. 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 59 
 
 In mild seasons these birds stay very late, and I have on several 
 occasions found small parties of them spending the winter here. 
 
 This species is of great value to the farmer, as it lives almost entirely 
 in the cultivated fields and with us feeds upon the insects most injurious 
 to the crops. The western form, S. m. neglecta, has been taken by Mr. 
 White at Ottawa. 
 
 GENUS ICTERUS. 
 
 (*) (56) Orchard Oriole. 
 
 (Icterus spurius.) 
 
 A regular, but not common, summer resident in the south-western 
 counties, breeding in orchards and shrubberies. I found it every season in 
 Haldimand and Norfolk and of late years a few pairs have regularly bred 
 near Toronto. 
 
 (507) Baltimore Oriole. 
 
 (Icterus galbula.) 
 
 A common summer resident, breeding throughout its range in the 
 Province. 
 
 Arrives early in May, departs about the end of August. 
 
 GENUS EUPHAGUS. 
 
 (509) Rusty Blackbird. 
 
 (Euphagus carolinus.) 
 
 A common migrant through Ontario, it arrives in spring about the 
 middle of April and passes northward without much delay ; about the 
 end of September they return and soon become abundant in the marshes, 
 where they remain until the end of October. 
 
 Probably breeds in the northern part of the Province. 
 
 GENUS QUISCALUS. 
 
 (51 ib) Bronzed Grackle. 
 
 (Quiscalus quiscula aeneus.) 
 
 A common summer resident, breeding- in colonies throughout its 
 range in the Province. 
 
 Arrives about the middle of March, departs early in October. 
 
 FAMILY FRINGILLID^. (FINCHES, SPARROWS, ETC.) 
 
 Bill cone shaped ; the commissure angulated. Nostrils high up, ex- 
 posed, or, in some northern species, partly covered by a ruff of small 
 feathers. Tarsus scutellate in front with an undivided ridge behind. 
 
 All the Finches are granivorous, -feeding largely on seeds when 
 adult. None of them, however, reject insects whenever they can be ob- 
 
60 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 tained, and the young while in the nest are fed entirely upon insects which 
 are carried to them by their parents. If there is any exception to this rule 
 it will be in the genera Astragalinus and Spinus. 
 
 GENUS HESPERIPHONA. 
 
 (514) Evening Grosbeak. 
 
 (Hesperiphona vespertina.) 
 An accidental visitor from the west, sometimes occurring in winter. 
 
 GENUS PINICOLA. 
 
 (515) Pine Grosbeak. 
 
 (Pinicola enucleator leucura.) 
 
 An irregular winter visitor to southern Ontario ; in some seasons 
 quite common, in others entirely absent. 
 
 Probably breeds in the extreme north of the Province. 
 
 GENUS CARPODACUS. 
 
 (517) Purple Finch. 
 
 (Carpodacus purpureus.) 
 
 Common resident; breeds throughout its range in the Province. 
 Most frequently noticed in early spring when the flocks move out of 
 their winter quarters and visit the budding hardwood trees. 
 
 GENUS PASSER. 
 
 House Sparrow. 
 
 (Passer domesticus.) 
 
 An importation from Europe, now an abundant resident, breeding 
 wherever it occurs. 
 
 GENUS LOXIA. 
 
 (521) American Crossbill. 
 
 (Loxia curvirostra minor.) 
 
 A regular and sometimes an abundant winter visitor. 
 
 As I have found representatives of this species in southern Ontario 
 in nearly every month of the year, I think they breed throughout the 
 Province, wherever there are pine forests still standing. 
 
 (522) White-winged Crossbill. 
 
 (Loxia leucoptera.) 
 
 An irregular winter visitor to southern Ontario, never abundant. 
 Of regular occurrence in the nothern part of the Province, where it 
 is said to be resident. 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 61 
 
 GENUS ACANTHIS. 
 
 (*) (5 2 7) Greenland Redpoll. 
 
 (Acanthis hornemannii.) 
 
 Probably occurs as a winter visitor, but I have no record of it other 
 than that given by Mr. Mcllwraith. 
 
 (*) (5 2 7 a ) Hoary Redpoll. 
 
 (Acanthis hornemannii exilipes.) 
 
 A somewhat irregular winter visitor, occurring in varying numbers 
 at any time between September and May. 
 
 (528) Common Redpoll. 
 
 (Acanthis linaria.) 
 
 Generally common in winter, but sometimes entirely absent. 
 Breeds in the far north; commonly near Hudson's Bay. 
 
 {*) (528a) Holbcell's Redpoll. 
 
 (Acanthis linaria holbceli.) 
 Occurs in winter sparingly with the other Redpolls. 
 
 (*) (528b) Greater Redpoll. 
 
 (Acanthis linaria rostrata.) 
 Occurs in winter sparingly with the other Redpolls. 
 
 GENUS ASTRAGALINUS. 
 
 (529) American Goldfinch. 
 
 (Astragalinus tristis.) 
 
 A common resident in southern Ontario, more abundant in summer 
 than in winter, a large number gofng south at the approach of cold 
 weather. 
 
 GENUS SPINUS. 
 
 (533) Pine Siskin. (Pine Finch.) 
 
 (Spinus pinus.) ' 
 
 A regular and sometimes an abundant winter visitor, which some- 
 times remains during the summer and breeds here. Nests have been found 
 in many localities. 
 
 GENUS PASSERINA. 
 
 (534) Snow Bunting. (Snowbird.) 
 
 (Passerina nivalis.) 
 
 A common winter visitor. Arrives about the end of October, departs 
 about the middle of March. 
 
 Breeds in the Arctic regions. 
 
62 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 GENUS CALCARIUS. 
 (536) Longspur. 
 
 (Calcarius lapponicus.) 
 
 An irregular winter visitor most frequently found in late autumn and 
 early spring. 
 
 Breeds in the Arctic regions. 
 
 GENUS POGECETES. 
 
 (540) Vesper Sparrow. (Bay wing.) 
 (Pooecetes gramineus.) 
 
 An abundant summer resident. Breeds throughout its range in the 
 Province. 
 
 Arrives about the middle of April, departs early in October. 
 
 GENUS PASSERCULUS. 
 
 (542a) Savanna Sparrow. 
 
 (Passerculus sandwichensis savanna.) 
 
 A common summer resident, breeding throughout its range in the 
 Province. 
 
 Arrives about the middle of April, departs early in October. 
 
 GENUS COTURNICULUS. 
 
 (*) (546) Grasshopper Sparrow. 
 
 (Coturniculus savannarum passerinus.) 
 
 A regular, but not a common summer visitor to south-western On- 
 tario which has, on two occasions, been taken as far east as Toronto. 
 
 GENUS AMMODRAMUS. 
 
 (*) (547) Henslow's Sparrow. 
 
 (Ammodramus henslowii.) 
 
 This bird has been recorded by Mr. W. E. Saunders as a summer 
 resident of south-western Ontario, and by Mr. Fleming as occurring and 
 apparently breeding near Lake Joseph, Muskoka. 
 
 (*) (54 8 ) Leconte's Sparrow. 
 
 (Ammodramus leconteii.) 
 
 An accidental visitor from the western prairies. 
 Mr. J. H. Ames has a specimen which was taken at Toronto. 
 
 (549.1) Nelson's Sparrow. 
 
 (Ammodramus nelsoni.) 
 
 A regular, but not a common, visitor in autumn to the neighbour- 
 hood of Toronto. Rare in spring. 
 
 (*) (549- Ia ) Acadian Sharp-tailed Finch. 
 
 (Ammodramus nelsoni subvirgatus.) 
 An accidental visitor to the eastern part of the Province. 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 
 
 GENUS CHONDESTES. 
 
 (*) (55 2 ) Lark Sparrow. 
 
 (Chonaestes grammacus.) 
 
 A regular, but not a common, summer resident of some localities in 
 southern Ontario. I find a few pairs near Toronto every season. 
 Breeds where it occurs. 
 
 GENUS ZONOTRICHIA. 
 
 (554) White=crowned Sparrow, 
 
 (Zonotrichia leucophrys.) 
 
 A common migrant, arriving about the tenth of May and soon pass- 
 ing northward, returning towards the end of September and departing 
 southward late in October. 
 
 Breeds in the far north. 
 
 White-throated Sparrow. 
 
 (558) White=throated Sparrow. (Peabody.) 
 (Zonotrichia albicollis.) 
 
 Very abundant during the migrations and a regular, though not a 
 common, summer resident in southern Ontario, where a few pairs always 
 remain to breed. 
 
 Arrives about the end of April, departs southward early in October. 
 
64 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 GENUS SPIZELLA. 
 
 (559) Tree Sparrow. 
 
 (Spizella monticola.) 
 
 A common winter visitor. Arrives early in October, departs late in 
 April. 
 
 Breeds from our northern limit northwards. 
 
 (560) Chipping Sparrow. (Hairbird.) 
 
 (Spizella socialis.) 
 
 An abundant summer resident. Breeds throughout its range in the 
 Province. 
 
 Arrives about the middle of April, departs in September. 
 
 (*) (561) Clay=coloured Sparrow. 
 
 (Spizella pallida.) 
 
 One specimen recorded by Mr. Saunders as having been taken by 
 him near London. I found it abundant on the scrubby prairie of Mani- 
 toba, which is its proper habitat. 
 
 (5 6 3) Field Sparrow. 
 
 (Spizella pusilla.) 
 
 A common summer resident in suitable places in southern Ontario. 
 Breeds throughout its range. 
 
 Arrives about the middle of April, departs early in October. 
 
 GENUS JUNCO. 
 (567) Junco. 
 
 (Junco hyemalis.) 
 
 A common resident. Breeds throughout its range in the Province, 
 but is most abundant in the spring and late autumn migrations. 
 
 GENUS MELOSPIZA. 
 (581) Song Sparrow. 
 
 (Melospiza cinerea melodia.) 
 
 Art abundant summer resident ; breeds throughout "its range in the 
 Province. 
 
 Arrives about the middle of March, departs late in October. 
 
 Some few always remain through the winter in sheltered places 
 along- our southern border, but as at that season they are very quiet, they 
 are not often observed. 
 
 (583) Lincoln's Sparrow. 
 
 (Melospiza lincolni.) 
 
 A regular, but never a common visitor ; perhaps breeds here, but so 
 far I have never found it between May and September. It frequently 
 accompanies the White-crowned Sparrows. 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 65 
 
 (584) Swamp Sparrow. 
 
 (Melospiza georgiana.) 
 
 A very abundant summer resident in marshes ; breeds throughout its 
 range in the Province. 
 
 Arrives about the middle of April, departs early in November. 
 
 GENUS PASSERELLA. 
 
 (585) Fox Sparrow. 
 
 (Passerella iliaca.) 
 
 A very rapid migrant. Large numbers pass through southern On- 
 tario about the middle of April, seldom resting here for more than a day 
 or two. In the autumn a few are always to be found, but they are not 
 common at that season. Breeds in the far north. 
 
 This is one of the most beautiful songsters that visit us. 
 
 GENUS PIPILO. 
 (587) Towhee. 
 
 (Pipilo erythropthalmus.) 
 
 An abundant summer resident in the woods of southern Ontario and 
 one which is extending its range as the land is brought under cultivation. 
 Breeds wherever it occurs. 
 
 Arrives about the end of April, departs early in October. 
 
 GENUS CARDINALIS. 
 (593) Cardinal. 
 
 (Cardinalis cardinalis.) 
 
 A rare summer resident of the south-western counties. Stragglers 
 have been taken at various places as far east as Toronto. 
 
 GENUS ZAMELODIA. 
 
 (595) Rose=breasted Grosbeak. 
 
 (Zamelodia ludoviciana.) 
 
 A tolerably common summer resident. Breeds in the woods through- 
 out its range in the Province. 
 
 Arrives about the middle of May, departs towards the end of August. 
 This is one of the few birds that will eat the Colorado Potato-beetle. 
 
 GENUS CYANOSPIZA. 
 (589) Indigo Bunting. 
 
 (Cyanospiza cyanea.) 
 
 A common summer resident ; breeding throughout its range in the 
 Province. 
 
 Arrives early in May, departs about the end of August. 
 
 5 R 
 
66 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 GENUS SPIZA. 
 (*) (604) Dickcissel. 
 
 (Spiza americana.) 
 
 Mr. Saunders has recorded the occurrence of this bird in south- 
 western Ontario as a summer resident, and I have heard of it at other 
 points along our southern boundary. 
 
 FAMILY TANAGRID^E. (THE TANAGERS.) 
 
 Bill in our species stout, finch-like, considerably longer than broad, 
 and more or less evidently toothed near the middle of upper mandible. 
 Tarsus scutellate ; legs short, claws long. Colours brilliant in the males. 
 
 GENUS PIRANGA. 
 (608) Scarlet Tanager. 
 
 (Piranga erythromelas.) 
 
 Tolerably common summer resident ; breeding throughout its range 
 in the Province. 
 
 Arrives early in May ; departs towards the end of August. 
 
 (*) (610) Summer Tanager. 
 
 (Piranga rubra.) 
 
 A very rare visitor to the south-western part of the Province. Strag- 
 glers have been taken at various places as far east as Toronto. 
 
 FAMILY HIRUNDINID^E. (THE SWALLOWS.) 
 
 Bill short, broad, triangular, depressed, the gape wide and about 
 twice as long as the culmen, reaching to about opposite the eyes, similar 
 in its form to that of the Swifts and the Goatsuckers, with which birds, 
 however, the Swallows have no affinity. Rictus without bristles ; wings 
 very long and pointed, secondaries very short. Tail more or less forked. 
 Feet weak; tarsus scutellate. Plumage compact, and more or less 
 lustrous. 
 
 All are remarkably strong on the wing, and while with us entirely 
 insectivorous. 
 
 The economic importance of these birds is very great ; without them 
 the smaller winged insects would multiply to such an extent as to become 
 an unbearable nuisance to men and animals ; for it is, I believe, to these 
 birds chiefly that we are indebted for our freedom, in the cleared and 
 cultivated parts of the country, from the swarms of midges, black flies, 
 and gnats of various kinds that so abound in the woods. 
 
 These birds seem to have a great predilection for the society of men, 
 partly because the clearing he makes in a forest country opens up to 
 them the necessary space for feeding grounds and partly because the 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 67 
 
 buildings he erects afford them convenient nesting-places, of which the 
 House Sparrow unfortunately is dispossessing them. 
 
 GENUS PROGNE. 
 
 (611) Purple Martin. 
 
 (Progne subis.) 
 
 A common summer resident ; breeding throughout its range in the 
 Province. 
 
 Arrives about the fifteenth of April, departs early in September. 
 This is one of the birds which appears to be rapidly decreasing in 
 southern Ontario and increasing northward and in Manitoba as the land 
 is settled. 
 
 GENUS PETROCHELIDON. 
 
 (612) Cliff Swallow. 
 
 (Petrochelidon lunifrons.) 
 
 A regular summer resident, somewhat irregularly distributed, being 
 abundant at some points and absent from others. 
 
 Breeds in colonies under the eaves of barns, etc., throughout its 
 range in the Province. 
 
 Arrives early in May, departs in August. 
 
 GENUS HIRUNDO. 
 
 (613) Barn Swallow. 
 
 (Hirundo erythrogaster.) 
 
 A common summer resident, breeding in barns and outhouses 
 throughout its range in the Province. 
 
 Arrives about the end of April, departs early in September. 
 
 GENUS IRIDOPROCNE. 
 
 (614) White-breasted Swallow. (Tree Swallow.) 
 
 (Iridoprocne bicolor.) 
 
 A common summer resident, breeding in holes in the side of build- 
 ings, nest boxes, etc., throughout its range in the Province. 
 
 Arrives quite early in April, departs about the end of September. 
 
 GENUS RIPARIA. 
 
 (6 1 6) Bank Swallow. (Sand Martin.) . 
 (Riparia riparia.) 
 
 An abundant summer resident, breeding in colonies in holes in sand- 
 banks, throughout its range in the Province. 
 
 Arrives about the beginning of May, departs abouf the middle of 
 September. 
 
68 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 GENUS STELGIDOPTERYX. 
 
 (*) (617) Rough-winged Swallow. 
 
 (Stelgidopteryx serripennis.) 
 
 A rare summer resident of our southern border, where it has been 
 found as far east as Toronto. 
 
 FAMILY AMPELIDyE. (THE VV/AXWINGS.) 
 
 Bill stout, triangular, depressed, decidedly notched and hooked, with 
 the gape very wide. Tarsus short, with the lateral plates more or less 
 subdivided. 
 
 Our species are both crested birds with soft plumage of a beautiful 
 cinnamon drab colour ; sometimes the ends of the secondaries and of the 
 tail feathers also, are tipped with horny appendages, looking like red 
 sealing wax. These appendages are no indication of age or sex. 
 
 They feed on insects and soft fruits. 
 
 SUBFAMILY AMPHELIN^. (WAXWINGS.) 
 GENUS AMPELIS. 
 
 (618) Bohemian Waxwing. 
 
 (Ampelis garrulus.) 
 
 An irregular winter visitor, never abundant. Breeds in the north- 
 west. 
 
 (619) Cedar Waxwing. (Cherry Bird.) 
 
 (Ampelis cedrorum.) 
 
 A resident species, common and generally distributed in summer; 
 irregular in winter, its movements at that season probably depending 
 upon the food supply. 
 
 Breeds throughout its range in the Province. 
 
 FAMILY LANIID^. (THE SHRIKES.) 
 
 Bill hawklike, very strong, the upper mandible toothed and abruptly 
 hooked at the tip ; both mandibles distinctly notched. Wings short, 
 rounded. Tail long. Tarsus scutellate on the outside as well as in front. 
 
 Their habits corresponding with the form of the bill, are similar to 
 those of birds of prey. They have a remarkable habit of impaling small 
 animals on thorns and leaving them there. 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 
 
 69 
 
 (621 
 
 GENUS LANIUS. 
 Northern Shrike. 
 
 (Lanius borealis.) 
 
 A regular, but not abundant, winter visitor. The bulk of them breed 
 in the north, but nests have been found at various places in southern 
 Ontario. 
 
 Arrives in October, departs in April. 
 
 
 Migrant Shrike. 
 
 (6226) Migrant Shrike. 
 
 (Lanius ludovicianus migrans.) 
 
 A- regular but not abundant summer resident. Breeds throughout 
 its range in the Province. 
 
 Arrives early in April, departs about the end of August. 
 
 FAMILY VIREONID^E. (VIREOS.) 
 
 Bill shorter than head, stout, compressed, decidedly notched and 
 hooked. Rictus with bristles. Nostrils exposed, overhung by a scale, 
 reached by the bristly frontal feathers. Tarsus scutellate ; toes joined 
 at base for the whole length of basal joint of middle one, which is united 
 with the basal joint of the inner and the two basal joints of the outer. 
 All are insectivorous. 
 
 GENUS VIREO. 
 (624) Red-eyed Vireo. 
 
 (Vireo olivaceus.) 
 
 A common summer resident in woods and orchards. Breeds through- 
 out its range in the Province. 
 
 Arrives early in May ; departs towards the end of September. 
 
70 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 (626) Philadelphia Vireo. 
 
 (Vireo philadelphicus.) 
 
 Tolerably common summer resident ; breeds throughout its range in 
 the Province. 
 
 Arrives about the middle of May, departs at the end of September. 
 
 (627) Warbling Vireo. 
 
 (Vireo gilvus.) 
 
 Common summer resident ; breeds throughout its range in the Pro- 
 vince. 
 
 Arrives about the middle of May; departs in September. 
 
 This species seems to prefer shrubberies and shade trees in city 
 streets to the seclusion of the woods. 
 
 (628) Yellow=throated Vireo. 
 
 (Vireo flavifrons.) 
 
 An uncommon summer visitor which probably breeds with us, though 
 I have no actual record of the discovery of its nest here. 
 -. ' Arrives about the beginning of May, departs early in September. 
 
 (629) Blue-headed Vireo. (Solitary Vireo.) 
 
 (Vireo solitarius.) 
 
 A regular migrant in spring and autumn. Probably breeds in the 
 interior. 
 
 Arrives early in May, departs at the end of September. 
 
 (*) (631) White=eyed Vireo. 
 
 (Vireo noveboracensis.) 
 
 Mr. W. L. Kells has recorded the capture of one specimen near 
 Listowel, in the middle of October, 1890, and Mr. Hobson has taken an- 
 other near Woodstock. I have heard of no others. 
 
 FAMILY MNIOTILTID^E. (WOOD WARBLERS.) 
 
 Bill usually rather slender, notched or not ; the commissure not angu- 
 lated at base as in Fringillidae, nor toothed in the middle ; the end not 
 notched and abruptly hooked, as in Vireonidae ; the gape not broad 
 and reaching to the eyes, as in Hirundinidae. The Warblers are all small 
 birds, usually of brilliant colouration, but the sexes are unlike and the 
 variations due to age and season are great, so that the identification of 
 immature birds is sometimes troublesome. 
 
 All are insectivorous and of great value to the horticulturist, as they 
 glean their insect food chiefly from the foliage and twigs of trees. 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 71 
 
 GENUS MNIOTILTA. 
 
 (636) Black and White Warbler. 
 
 (Mniotilta varia.) 
 
 A very common summer resident, breeding throughout its range in 
 the Province. 
 
 Arrives about the first of May, departs early in September. 
 
 GENUS PROTONOTARIA. 
 
 (*) (637) Prothonotary Warbler. 
 
 (Protonotaria citrea.) 
 
 Mr. Mcllwraith has recorded the capture of one specimen near Ham- 
 ilton in May, 1888, which is all I have heard of. 
 
 GENUS HELMINTHOPHILA. 
 
 (*) (642) Golden=winged Warbler. 
 
 (Helminthophila chrysoptera.) 
 
 A rare summer visitor recorded from several places in the southern 
 and western counties and Mr. Keils reports having found it breeding near 
 Listowel. 
 
 (645) Nashville Warbler. 
 
 (Helminthophila rubricapilla.) 
 
 A common migrant. Breeds sparingly in southern Ontario and no 
 doubt regularly in the interior. 
 
 Arrives early in May, departs early in v^ctober. 
 
 (*) (646) Orange-crowned Warbler. 
 
 (Helminthophila celata.) 
 A rare summer visitor. 
 
 (647) Tennessee Warbler. 
 
 (Helminthopmla peregrina.) 
 
 A regular, but not a very common, visitor in spring. I have not 
 found it at any other season. 
 
 Arrives about the middle of May. 
 
 GENUS COMSOTHLYPIS. 
 
 (648) Parula Warbler. 
 
 (Compsothlypis americana usnese.) 
 
 A common spring and summer migrant. Probably breeds in the 
 interior. 
 
 Arrives about the fifteenth of May, departs towards the end of Sep- 
 tember. 
 
72 
 
 CHECK LIST OF THK 
 
 GENUS DENDROICA. 
 
 (650) Cape May Warbler. 
 
 (Dendroica tigrina.) 
 
 A rare summer visitor; most frequently seen in the spring. About 
 three years ago I met with rather a large flock of them in the autumn 
 migration, the only time I have seen them at that season. Probably 
 breeds in the interior, as nests have been found in New Brunswick and 
 in Maine. 
 
 Yellow Warbler. 
 
 (652) Yellow Warbler. 
 
 (Dendroica aestiva.) 
 
 A very abundant summer resident. Breeds throughout its range in 
 the Province. 
 
 Arrives early in May, departs about the end of August. 
 
 (654) Black-throated Blue Warbler. 
 
 (Dendroica caerulescens.) 
 
 Common in the migrations in southern Ontario, breeding sparingly 
 in the south and more commonly in the interior. 
 
 Arrives early in May ; departs at the end of September. 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 
 
 (655) Myrfle Warbler. (Yellow-rumped Warbler.) 
 (Dendroica coronata.) 
 
 An abundant migrant in the south. Breeds in the interior. 
 
 Arrives towards the end of April ; departs about the end of the first 
 week in October. 
 
 (657) Magnolia Warbler. 
 
 (Dendroica maculosa.) 
 
 An abundant migrant. Breeds from central Ontario northward. 
 Arrives early in May ; departs about the end of September. 
 
 (*) (658) Cerulean Warbler. 
 
 (Dendroica cerulea.) 
 
 A regular, but rare, summer resident, most frequently seen in the 
 south-western counties. Breeds throughout its range in the Province. 
 
 (659) Chestnut=sided Warbler. 
 
 (Dendroica pennsylvanica.) 
 
 A common summer resident. Breeds throughout its range in the 
 Province. 
 
 Arrives early in May ; departs early in September. 
 
 (660) Bay-breasted Warbler. 
 
 (Dendroica castanea.) 
 
 A regular, but never a common, migrant in spring. Breeds in the 
 interior. 
 
 I have but seldom met with this species in the autumn. 
 Arrives early in May ; departs at the end of September. 
 
 (66 1 ) Black=poll Warbler. 
 
 (Dendroica striata.) 
 
 A regular, but not generally a common, migrant in spring and 
 autumn. Breeds in the north, probably from our boundary to the tree 
 limit. 
 
 Arrives about the twentieth of May ; departs at the end of September 
 
 (662) Blackburnian Warbler. 
 
 (Dendroica blackburniae.) 
 
 A tolerably common spring and autumn migrant in southern Ontario. 
 Probably breeds in the interior, as it has often been observed during the 
 summer months in central Ontario. 
 
 Arrives early in May ; departs at the end of September. 
 
 (667) Black=throated Green Warbler. 
 
 (Dendroica virens.) 
 
 A common summer resident, breeding throughout its range in the 
 Province. 
 
 Arrives early in May ; departs early in October. 
 
74 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 (*) (670) Kirtland's Warbler. 
 
 (Dendroica kirtlandi.) 
 
 On the i6th of May, 1900, Mr. J. H. Samuel took a bird of this 
 species near Toronto, the only one I have heard of so far. It may yet be 
 found breeding in the interior of the Province, as it does so regularly 
 in Michigan. It is, however, a very rare species everywhere. 
 
 (671) Pine Warbler. 
 
 (Dendroica vigorsii.) 
 
 An irregular summer resident, sometimes common and in other sea- 
 sons scarce. 
 
 Breeds throughout its range in the Province. 
 
 Arrives towards the end of April ; departs in September. 
 
 (672) Palm Warbler. 
 
 (Dendroica palmarum.) 
 
 A tolerably common migrant in spring and autumn. Probably breeds 
 in the northern part of the Province. 
 
 Arrives early in May ; departs about the first of October. 
 
 Our form may be referable to D. p. hypochrysea. Specimens taken 
 by me vary very much in the brilliancy of the yellow coloring. 
 
 (*) (673) Prairie Warbler. 
 
 (Dendroica discolor.) 
 
 A very rare visitor, two specimens of which were taken near Toronto 
 in May, 1900, one each by Messrs. Samuel and Ames. Since then it has 
 been found in south-western Ontario by Mr. Klugh. 
 
 GENUS SEIURUS. 
 
 (674) Oven Bird. (Golden-crowned Thrush.) 
 
 (Seiurus aurocapillus.) 
 
 An abundant summer resident in woods. Breeds throughout its range 
 in the Province. 
 
 Arrives early in May ; departs about the first of September. 
 
 (675) Water Thrush. 
 
 (Seiurus noveboracensis.) 
 
 A common summer resident. Breeds in the interior of the Province. 
 Arrives early in May ; departs early in September. 
 
 (676) Louisiana Water Thrush. 
 
 (Seiurus motacilla.) 
 
 A rare summer visitor along our southern border as far east as 
 Toronto. 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 75 
 
 GENUS GEOTHLYPIS. 
 
 (*) (677) Kentucky Warbler. 
 
 (Geothlypis formosa.) 
 
 An accidental visitor. One specimen taken by Mr. Robert Elliott 
 near Bryanston, Middlesex, in May, 1898. 
 
 (678) Connecticut Warbler. 
 
 (Geothlypis agilis.) 
 
 A rare summer resident. Mr. W. L. Kells records having found 
 nests near Listowel, and I have seen and watched the birds here in sum- 
 mer, but failed to discover their nesting place. 
 
 Arrives about the twentieth of May ; departs at the end of August. 
 
 (679) Mourning Warbler. 
 
 (Geothlypis Philadelphia.) 
 
 A rather rare summer resident. Breeds throughout its range in the 
 Province. 
 
 Arrives about the twentieth of May ; departs, at the end of August. 
 
 (68 1 ) Maryland Warbler. 
 
 (Geothlypis trichas.) 
 
 A common summer resident. Breeds throughout its range in the 
 Province. 
 
 Arrives about the tenth of May ; departs at the end of September. 
 Our form may be referable to G. t. brachydactyla. 
 
 GENUS ICTERIA. 
 
 (*) (683) Yellow=breasted Chat. 
 
 (Icteria virens.) 
 
 A very rare summer resident of the south-western part of the Pro- 
 vince. 
 
 GENUS WILSONIA. 
 
 (*) (684) Hooded Warbler. 
 
 (Wilsonia mitrata.) 
 A very rare summer visitor to our southern border. 
 
 (685) Wilson's Warbler. 
 
 (Wilsonia pusilla.) 
 
 A regular migrant in spring and autumn, sometimes occurring in 
 considerable numbers. Breeds in the interior. 
 
 Arrives about the twentieth of May ; departs early in September. 
 
76 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 (686) Canadian Warbler. 
 
 (Wilsonia canadensis.) 
 
 Common summer resident, breeds throughout its range in the Pro- 
 vince. 
 
 Arrives early in May, departs at the end of August. 
 
 GENUS SETOPHAGA. 
 
 (687) American Redstart. 
 
 (Setophaga ruticilla.) 
 
 A common summer resident, breeding throughout its range in the 
 Province. 
 
 Arrives about the tenth of May ; departs early in September. 
 
 FAMILY MOTACILLID^E. (PIPITS, ETC.) 
 
 Bill shorter than the head, very slender, straight, acute, notched at 
 tip. Feet large, fitted for walking ; hind claw long, little curved, as in 
 the larks ; inner toe cleft ; basal joint of outer toe united with middle 
 one ; tarsus as in Oscines generally, ending in a sharp undivided ridge 
 behind. Rictal bristles not conspicuous ; nostrils exposed. 
 
 GENUS ANTHUS. 
 (697) American Pipit. 
 
 (Anthus pennsylvanicus.) 
 
 An abundant migrant, more frequently seen in autumn than in 
 spring. 
 
 Breeds in the Arctic regions. 
 
 Arrives about the tenth of May and passes on northward very 
 quickly. Early in September they return and remain until about the end 
 of the first week in November. 
 
 FAMILY TROGLODYTID^. (WRENS, THRASHERS, ETC.) 
 
 Bill usually more or less slender, with or without a notch near the 
 tip. Nostrils not covered by bristles. Tarsus scutellate, the plates usu- 
 ally distinct. 
 
 All are chiefly insectivorous, the Catbird being the only one which 
 feeds upon cultivated fruit. 
 
 FAMILY MIMID^E. (THRASHERS, ETC.) 
 
 GENUS MIMUS. 
 (*) (703) Mocking-bird. 
 
 (Mimus polyglottos.) * 
 
 I include this species on the authority of Mr. Mcllwraith, who has 
 recorded the occurrence of two specimens in southern Ontario. 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 77 
 
 GENUS GALEOSCOPTES. 
 
 (704) Catbird. 
 
 (Galeoscoptes carolinensis.) 
 
 A very common summer resident; breeds throughout its range in the 
 Province. 
 
 Arrives at the end of April, departs early in October. 
 
 GENUS TOXOSTOMA. 
 
 (705) Brown Thrasher. (Brown Thrush.) 
 
 (Toxostoma rufum.) 
 
 A common summer resident; breeds throughout its range in the 
 Province. 
 
 Arrives at the end of April ; departs early in October. 
 
 SUBFAMILY TROGLODYTIN^E. (WRENS.) 
 GENUS THRYOTHORUS. 
 
 (*) (718) Carolina Wren. 
 
 (Thryothorus ludovicianus.) 
 
 Mr. Mcllwraith has recorded the capture of a specimen at Mount 
 Forest, and recently Mr. Klugh found a pair breeding here. 
 
 GENUS THRYOMANES. 
 
 (*) (719) Bewick's Wren. 
 
 (I'hryomanes bewickii.) 
 
 Mr. VV. E. Saunders records having taken one specimen on the thir- 
 teenth December, 1898, near Appin, Ontario. 
 
 GENUS TROGLODYTES. 
 
 (721) House Wren. 
 
 (Troglodytes aedon.) 
 
 A common summer resident, nesting about houses and farm build- 
 ings throughout its range in the Province. 
 
 Arrives about fHe first of May; departs early in October. 
 
 GENUS OLBIORCHILUS. 
 
 (722) Winter Wren. 
 
 (Olbiorchilus hiemalis.) 
 
 A summer resident. Breeds throughout its range in the Province ; 
 commonly in the interior and northward. 
 
78 CHECK LIST OF THK 
 
 GENUS CISTOTHORUS. 
 
 (*) (724) Short=billed Marsh Wren. 
 
 (Cistothorus stellaris.) 
 
 A regular summer resident of the south-western part of the Pro- 
 vince, but never abundant. Very rare elsewhere. I have taken two at 
 Toronto and have since found a pair breeding there. 
 
 Breeds wherever found. 
 
 GENUS TELMATODYTES. 
 
 (725) Long=billed Marsh Wren. 
 
 (Telmatodytes palustris.) 
 
 A very abundant summer resident in marshes. Breeds throughout its 
 range in the Province. 
 
 Arrives at the .beginning of May; departs about the middle of Oc- 
 tober. 
 
 FAMILY CERTHIID^E. (CREEPERS.) 
 
 Bill slender, decurved as long as head, without notch or bristles. 
 Tarsus scutellate. Claws all very long, curved and compressed. Tail 
 feathers pointed, with stiffened shafts, somewhat like the tail of a Wood- 
 pecker and similarly used for support. 
 
 Our only representative is a curious small bird which creeps about 
 the trunks and larger branches of trees searching for insects hidden in 
 the crevices of the bark. 
 
 GENUS CERTHIA. 
 
 (726) Brown Creeper. 
 
 (Certhia familiaris americana.) 
 
 A common resident, most abundant in southern Ontario during the 
 migrations. 
 
 Breeds occasionally in the southern portion of the Province and regu- 
 larly in the interior and northward. 
 
 FAMILY PARID^E. (Tixs.) 
 
 Bill not notched nor decurved; loral feathers bristly; nostrils con- 
 cealed by dense tufts. Tarsus scutellate; plumage more or less lax, sub- 
 ject to few variations. 
 
 All are insectivorous, gleaning their food from the trunks and twigs 
 of trees. They are invaluable guardians of the orchard and forest. 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO 79 
 
 FAMILY SITTID^. (NUTHATCHES.) 
 
 GENUS SITTA. 
 
 (727) White=breasted Nuthatch. 
 
 (Sitta carolinensis.) 
 
 A common resident. Breeds throughout its range in the Province, 
 wherever there is heavy timber. 
 
 (728) Red-breasted Nuthatch. 
 
 (Sitta canadensis.) 
 
 A resident species, but most frequently observed during the migra- 
 tions. In winter it is fairly common. 
 
 I once found a pair evidently breeding near Toronto, and it regularly 
 breeds in the interior and northward. 
 
 SUBFAMILY PARIN^E. (TITMICE.) 
 
 GENUS PARUS. 
 (735) Chickadee. 
 
 (Parus atricapillus.) 
 
 A very common resident and one of the most useful birds of the or- 
 chard. 
 
 Breeds throughout its range in the Province. 
 
 (*) (740) Hudsonian Chickadee. 
 
 (Parus hudsonicus.) 
 
 In southern Ontario this is only a very rare straggler from the north. 
 As might be expected, it is more frequently seen in the Ottawa district 
 than elsewhere. 
 
 Mr. Kay reports having seen a pair near Port Sydney, Muskoka, in 
 November, 1892. 
 
 FAMILY SYLVIID^E. (KINGLETS, GNATCATCHERS, ETC.) 
 
 Bill slender, depressed at base, notched and decurved at tip. Rictus 
 with bristles; nostrils oval. Tarsus usually booted, scutellate in Poliop- 
 tilla. Basal joint of middle toe attached its whole length externally, half 
 way internally. 
 
 SUBFAMILY REGULIN^. (KINGLETS.) 
 GENUS REGULUS. 
 
 (748) Golden-crowned Kinglet. 
 
 (Regulus satrapa.) 
 
 An abundant migrant and common winter resident. 
 Probably breeds in our northern forests, as it does in Massachusetts. 
 
80 CHECK LIST OF THE 
 
 (749) Ruby=crowned Kinglet. 
 
 (Regulus calendula.) 
 
 Common during the spring and autumn migrations. 
 Probably breeds in the interior, as it is known to do so in Nova 
 Scotia. 
 
 I have never found this species here in winter. 
 
 SUBFAMILY POLIOPTILIN^E. (GNATCATCHERS.) 
 GENUS POLIOPTILA. 
 
 (751) Blue-gray Gnatcatcher. 
 
 (Polioptila cserul.ea.) 
 
 A rare summer resident of the south-western counties, which occa- 
 sionally strays as far east as Toronto. 
 Breeds where it occurs. 
 
 FAMILY TURDID^. (THRUSHES, BLUEBIRDS, ETC.) 
 
 Bill generally rather long, not conical, usually with a slight notch 
 near the tip; nostrils oval, not concealed, but nearly or quite reached by 
 the bristly frontal feathers; rictus with bristles, which are well developed 
 in most of our species; tarsus always booted, i.e., enveloped in a con- 
 tinuous plate, formed Ly the fusion of all the scutella ; except two or 
 three of the lowest. Toes deeply cleft, the inner one free, the outer united 
 to the middle one, not more than half the length of the first basal joint. 
 
 Their food consists of insects and small fruit, chiefly wild berries 
 growing in the woods. 
 
 SUBFAMILY TURDIN^. (THRUSHES.) 
 
 GENUS HYLOCICHLA. 
 
 (755) Wood Thrush. 
 
 (Hylocichla mustelina.) 
 
 Fairly well distributed throughout southern Ontario, but nowhere 
 abundant. 
 
 Breeds wherever it occurs. 
 
 Arrives early in May, departs about the middle of September. 
 
 (756) Wilson's Thrush. 
 
 (Hylocichla fuscescens.) 
 
 An abundant summer resident in woodlands, breeds throughout its 
 range in the Province. 
 
 Arrives early in May ; departs at the end of August. 
 
 Mr. W. E. Saunders records the capture of a specimen of H. f. sali- 
 cola at Ottawa in September, i) 
 
BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 
 
 81 
 
 (757) Gray=cheeked Thrush. 
 
 (Hylocichla aliciae.) 
 
 A common migrant in spring and autumn, breeds far north. 
 Arrives about the middle of May, departs early in October. 
 Mr. Saunders states that a specimen of H. a. bicknelli was taken 
 by Mr. Robert Elliott near Bryanston, Ont., September iQth, 1898. 
 
 (758a) Olive-backed Thrush. 
 
 (Hylocichla ustulata swainsomi.) 
 
 A common migrant in spring and autumn. Breeds far north. 
 Arrives about the middle of April and soon goes on, returning in 
 September and departing early in October. 
 
 (759b) Hermit Thrush. 
 
 (Hylocichla guttata pallasii.) 
 
 A common migrant in spring and autumn in southern Ontario, and 
 a summer resident, breeding in the woods of the interior. 
 
 Robin. 
 
 GENUS MERULA. 
 (761) American Robin. 
 
 (Merula migratoria.) 
 
 An abundant summer resident, breding throughout its range in tin.: 
 Province. 
 6 B. 
 
82 CHECK LIST OF THE BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 
 
 Arrives .early in March, the bulk usually depart early in November, 
 but some small flocks remain where food is plentiful until severe frost 
 comes, and a few always remain in sheltered gardens all the winter. 
 
 GENUS SAXICOLA. 
 (*) (765) Wheatear. 
 
 (Saxicola oenanthe.) 
 
 A specimen of the subspecies, S. oe. leucorhoae, was taken by Mr. 
 Tavernier at Beaumaris, Muskoka, in September, 1896, having wan- 
 dered out of its range. 
 
 GENUS SIALIA. 
 (766) Bluebird. 
 
 (Sialia sialis.) 
 
 A common summer resident, breeding throughout its range in the 
 Province. 
 
 Arrives about the middle of March, departs towards the end of 
 October. 
 

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