Image from the Biodiversity Heritage Library.
Contributed by Harvard University, Museum of Comparative Zoology, Ernst Mayr Library.
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Transcription
Nov. 1873
Should it miss its aim it rises to the height of
a few yards, and poising again awaits the
re-appearance of its prey - this, when finally secure,
-is devoured on the spot.
Its ordinary flight is, though straightforward
and slow, rather light and easy with nearly
constant flappings, and at such times it
resembles more a gull than a Hawk - but in
its lofty aerial sailings, it is hardly to be
distinguished from the "Red Tail" except perhaps
by its greater size.
When about to alight, it chooses
some large detached tree, and rising to the topmost
twig - settles easily and lightly - keeping its wings
spread for an instant to maintain its balance.
In this, I think almost universal habit of
choosing the topmost twig for its perch, it
differs from all the other, it differs from all
the other large New England Hawks, and its
appearance as it sits with its body nearly
horizontal, swaying up and down with the
wind on some slender spray, is quite unique.
Perhaps the proportionately small size of the
feet, may show a special adaptation for this
habit. I have heard no cry or note of any
type -
Resume of Dec. 1873
Compared with Nov. the month has been cold.
manner very pleasant with one snow until Dec. 27.
Birds of all kinds scarce with the exception of Rapacious
species. Rather more Jays and R. Batskapas, about
than usual, but Sparrows Chickadees & C. exceptionally
few in numbers. No winter birds "par excellance" (corvidae)
at all, except the our present P. ovularis but even they
have been rarely seen. Did not hear of Grey Jays,
(at least) at all this Autumn. My leg getting better fast, and I can