(554) It is utterly impossible to describe this song--or perhaps it is more nearly accurate to say: these songs, since they all differed in many respects despite their general similarity; especially in the introductions. The situation is further complicated by the close view of the singer and his almost comic air of concentration and intense earnestness. The element of surprise also enters strongly, for while one is trying to "absorb" a phrase just uttered it is succeeded by one that does not resemble it in any respect whatsoever, and this again may be followed by another series of phrases that seem to belong to a different creature altogether--and often does. The thrasher, how- ever, is such a consummate adapter that he can introduce the "songs" of the hen, the jay and the ground squirrel and other creatures into his own compositions and make music of them. He tones down the harsher ones and makes them melodious. This was my first experience of full song at such close range, though I had heard it, fragmentary in character, at about a dozen feet and also at about 25 feet, the latter a continuous performance. It was an experience such as one never forgets, appealing so strongly to ones emotions as to render cold-blooded analysis a sacrilege. Therefore Some Characteristics in which thrasher song excels. it will not be attempted here, and I shall content myself with the statement that, in my opinion--and I am not excepting the mocking bird with which I have lived for many years--that for richness of tone- quality, ingenuity and variety of phrasing, astonishing contrasts, fervor of utterance, power and mimicry and freedom from harsh phrases (notwithstanding what has been said on this latter point to the contrary), the California Thrasher's full-song at its best is equalled Shy singer.by the song of no other bird on this Coast. Unfortunately, however, he is not generous in the matter of giving us opportunities to hear him either as often or as near as the splendor of his performance warrants.