The Nature Library Volume 3 (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1905 edition. Excerpt: ...the end of May. 613. Barn Swallow: Chelidon erythrogaster (Bodd.) Adult--Upper parts dark steel blue; forehead, throat, and upper part of breast chestnut; under parts light chestnut buff; tail forked. Length-6.95. Breeding Range--Throughout North America. The nest is placed on rafters and similar supports, either inside or outside a barn or other building; it is made of pellets or mud with straws intermixed, and a deep lining of hay and feathers, the feathers usually overhanging the edge of the nest. The eggs, 4 to 6 in number, are white, with spots, dots, and blotches of reddish brown and purplish. Size--.75 x.55.. These birds are surrounded by superstition, and all sorts of ill-luck is promised to the person who kills one or even destroys its nest. Probably, in former days, Iarmers realised more fully the value of these insect-eating birds, as threats were made in order to protect them from mischievous boys. Two broods are reared, the first set of eggs being laid about the beginning of May, the second about five or six weeks later. 614. White-bellied Swallow; Tree Swallow: Tachyclneta bicolor (Vieill.) Adu1t--Upper parts greenish blue steel colour; under parts white. Length--5.9o. Breeding Ra/lge-- From the fur countries south to New Jersey, the Ohio Valley, Kansas, and Colorado" (A.O.U. check-list). Nest either in bird boxes, in hollow trees, or in cliffs. 4 to 6, or sometimes 7, unmarked white eggs are laid. Size--.75 x.55. In some parts of the country these swallows have not yet abandoned their ancient custom of breeding in hollow trees and other natural cavities, while in the more thickly settled regions they have utilised the nesting places provided for their convenience by man. It will probably not be many years before...