1979 Walter D. Koenig Melanerpes formicivorus School Hill Hastings Reservation (2 September) 886 here alone, preening! 1817-886 flew off up hill; at least one other bird up here. That's it; they lost themselves when I approached. Later Ron saw the 3 birds flying in true "pack" formation several times just as it was getting dark. I watched the nest until 1845 or so and saw no evidence of anyone roosting in it as yet. Though the situation is hardly clear-cut, it is still ever more obvious that the 88's are watching the 9 closely, and that the 3 birds are hanging out together in a way which only seems to occur during the "egg-laying" period. Certainly both are potential mates for 260. Given that, however, it continues to amaze me how peaceful the 88's are to one another! No sign of aggression or dominance at all, thus far. 3 September 1730. Checked the nest: only 3 eggs, one new. The one with the hole apparently broke (see Ron's notes); it was gone entirely this evening. No one flushed from the hole when I came, but the eggs weren't entirely cold so some incubation may have begun. 1745. Walked up to SH'B' but no sign of anyone here this time 1802. Found 886 sitting in a Blue Oak down by the old wagon road below the field. Watching. 1803- 260 joined him, landing ~2' away. 1806. 8402 joined them, landing ~2" away from 886; gave soft wakles on arrival. Then flew to limb 15' away. Now back ~1' from 886. Now all 3 here. 8402 and 9 preening. 9 ~5' from 886.