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Wild Life in Canada
Chapter X - Animals and Birds collected and observed


List of Mammals, and where Collected and Noted during this Expedition of 1914.

Moose.—Observed Crooked River, May 13. Two observed above Pelican Rapids, Churchill River, June 2. Had fresh meat from Indians on Sandy Lake on the Churchill River, June 9. Many tracks of moose on the clean, soft river-bottom in neighbourhood of White Sand Rapid, Reindeer River, June 30. Few in neighbourhood of south end of Reindeer Lake ; report of Solomon Cook, July 1. Willows on shores of lower reaches of the Cochrane River much eaten by those animals, July 19. Many signs of moose on inland lake shores west of Cochrane River, July 23. Some skins of both adult and young moose at Fort du Brochet, August 21. Few tracks in the snow encountered west of Reindeer River, on return journey, January 2, 1915.

Woodland Caribou.—In two instances the tracks of this species were seen in the snow about twelve miles north of Pelican Narrows, January 4, 1915. Some nice heads of this species in Hudson

Bay Factor’s cabin at Pelican Narrows, January 15.

Barren-ground Caribou.—See Chapter VI.

Musk-ox.—A number of skins were seen east of White Partridge Lake, twenty miles south of the Barren Grounds, November 26. They had been taken by Eskimos in territory further north.

Woodchuck.—One trapped Beaver River, May 19.

Chipmunk.—Observed on an island on Sandy Lake on the Churchill River, June 11. The first specimen seen for a long time; and the only one noted during the remainder of the expedition.

Red Squirrel.—Heard chattering in spruce forest on shores of Black Bear Island Lake on the Churchill River, June 14. Observed on shore of Rapid River Lake, Churchill River, June 24. One taken on shore of Sucker Bay, south end Reindeer Lake, July 5. Observed Cochrane River, July 24. One taken north of Fort Du Brochet, October 31.

Musk-rat. — Observed on Sandy Lake, Churchill River, June 9, and in marsh in neighbourhood of Fort Du Brochet in August.

Canadian Beaver.—Few dams observed north of Fort Du Brochet in September.

Porcupine.—Observed lie a la Crosse Lake, May 27. Observed swimming in water Sandy Lake, on the Churchill River, June 11. Again observed this species swimming on Island Lake, Churchill River, June 26. Later the animal climbed a poplar tree.

Varying Hare, or White Rabbit.—One male taken inland west of Du Brochet Lake: this the first “rabbit” seen since leaving Lake lie a la Crosse. Many signs of “rabbits” on shores of Du Brochet Lake, August 2, but not a single one seen. One shot north of Fort Du Brochet, October 1, but this territory, at least for the present, appears almost barren of this species. It is highly probable that rabbit plague has recently devastated the territory of this species, for there remain everywhere old signs of great numbers.

Lynx.—Observed tracks of this species in the snow when journeying south, which tracks were the first encountered. No tracks or pelts noted in the Far North—my position, when tracks encountered, was in very broken, rough country west of Reindeer River, January 2, 1915.

Timber Wolf, Grey Wolf.—Few stated to be in neighbourhood of south end of Reindeer Lake by Solomon Cook, halfbreed servant, July 1. Found den at edge of small mossy swamp in large muskeg, Du Brochet Lake, August 3. There was a great gathering of small twigs, grass, moss, etc., at entrance to den, and inside; tracks of wolf in many places on the lake shore, which was not far distant. Meat cache plundered near Thanout-Tua Lake, latitude 59'5°, on November 24, by Wolves, Wolverine, and Foxes, whose tracks were numerous in the snow. Few skins seen cast of White Partridge Lake, twenty miles from the Barren Grounds, November 26. Two specimens taken east of the north end of Reindeer Lake, December 22, in 'same locality as White Wolves—all being attracted by the carcass of a Caribou. Two Wolves, which appeared to have run amok, were shot at the cabin doors of Fort Du Brochet on December 19, 23, after causing much fear and excitement among the natives. I examined the second animal which was killed, and found it mangy and lean and frothed at the mouth; it was quite evidently insane. One blackish-brown specimen observed on Beaver Lake, January 9, 1915.

Barren-ground Wolf, White Wolf.—Many skins seen in trapper’s cabin east of White Partridge Lake, twenty miles south of the edge of the Barren Grounds, November 26. Specimens, all white except for small black mark on the upper side of the tail near the base, were taken east of the north end of Reindeer Lake on December 22; they were male and female, and are now mounted in the Provincial Museum, Regina, Saskatchewan.

Coyote.—Single one observed at Big River, May 10, and many heard howling at night. None seen .or heard at lie a la Crosse Lake. Note on Sandy Lake, Churchill River, on June 10, that I have not seen or heard this species since leaving He a la Crosse Post. Solomon Cook, halfbreed servant, tells me there are none in neighbourhood of south end of Reindeer Lake.

Foxes—Red, Cross, Black.—Red foxes observed Sandy Lake, Churchill River, June 8; Dead Lake, Churchill River, June 17. One observed north of Fort Du Brochet November 5 (see “Timber Wolf,” November 24). A good specimen of Cross Fox taken near Fort Du Brochet on December 17. One Red Fox seen feeding at remains of Caribou carcass, Reindeer Lake, December 20. Measured great fox-jumps in the snow—they were 9 ft. 9 in. apart from forepaws to fore-paws. West of Reindeer Lake, January 2, 1915.

A beautiful male Black Fox trapped by Jaumeri Merasty, jet-black except for few silver hairs over rump, and white tail-tip. Taken south of Fort Du Broehet, December 9: eventually purchased by Revillon Brothers, Factors, for $200 = £10. (Low price affected by war.)

Arctic Fox, White Fox.—Many skins were seen east of White Partridge Lake, twenty miles south of the Barren Grounds, November 20, and this species was known to be common in the neighbourhood. One taken north-east of Reindeer Lake, December 22.

Black Bear.—Observed below Knee Rapid, Churchill River, June 5.

Brown Bear.—Very large specimen observed below Key Falls, Churchill River, June 25.

Otter.—Observed on Crooked Lake, May 12. Skin seen in trappei’s cabin on island at north end of Reindeer Lake, Deeember 29.

Skunk.—One trapped on Beaver River, May 20.

Mink.—Observed carrying an eel in the water, Island Lake, Churchill River, June 26. Two Mink skins seen cast of White Partridge Lake, near the edge of the Barren Grounds, November 26. Tracks in snow noted near Pelican Narrows, January 4, 1915.

Weasel.—Secured specimen in summer fur near Fort Du Broehet, July 16. Observed Cochrane

River, July 24. One taken north of Fort Du Brochet, December 5.

Marten.—Observed on Theitaga-Tua (Lake) near latitude 60°, November 25. Many skins looked over east of White Partridge Lake, twenty miles south of the Barren Grounds, but no Marten among them, November 26. One taken north of Du Brochet Lake, November 29.

Wolverine.—See “Timber Wolf,” November 24. Skins seen east of White Partridge Lake in latitude 60*5°, twenty miles south of the edge of the Barren Grounds, November 26.

List of Birds, and where Collected and Noted during this Expedition of 1914.

Note.—Where name of species is not within square brackets, specimens have been carefully examined and identified by Mr. J. H. Fleming, C.M.Z.S., C.M.B.O.U., and the references to actual skins, which are made in the following list, are those which he has kindly made in writing a paper on the collection.

A few more species might have been added to the list of those observed, but their identities were not positively established and they are omitted for the present. The data below contains the names of a great many species, but owing to limited time, and to the virgin nature of the North country, its vast extent, and the unlimited cover it affords to bird or beast, it is not possible that all birds common to the territory have yet been noted.

Bird life was found most plentiful in the territory west of Stanley Post, on the Churchill River, and south to the-point of starting on Lake lie k la Crosse, and the various other waterways. Along that part of the route the land and vegetation and forest were of a richer, more attractive nature than further north, and no doubt that accounted for the greater presence of bird life.

In travelling through the somewhat barren-looking territory of the Far North, birds, with few exceptions, were encountered at rarer intervals and in fewer numbers. Ducks were notably very searee, while, on the other hand, some of the sparrows were numerous and had their first encountered breeding-grounds north of latitude 58°.

[Holbcell’s Grebe (Colymbus holbcelli)].—Set of five eggs taken on Churchill River, June 6; bird seen at close range. Nest a pile of rotten weeds, in open water among scant floating raft of dead weeds. Nest elevated two or three inches above water limit, but the whole water-soaked. Nest close to marsh shore in narrow inlet in Churchill River, some ten or fifteen miles below mouth of Haultain River.

Observed Beaver River, May 19, 20, and in marsh above Sandy Lake on the Churchill River, June 8.

[Horned Grebe (Colymbus auritus)].—One pair observed on inland lake east shore lie a la Crosse Lake, May 30; female taken.

[Fared Grebe (Colymbus nigricollis calif or-nicus)].—Observed Crooked Lake, May 12, 13 ; Beaver River, May 19.

Loon, Great Northern Diver (Gavia immer).—An adult taken! on Reindeer Lake, July 8.

Observed Crooked Lake, May 12. A few observed Sandy Lake on the Churchill River, June 10. Two observed on Black Bear Island Lake on the Churchill River, June 14. Observed Otter Lake, Churchill River, June 20. Two observed in neighbourhood of the mouth of Reindeer River, June 27; heard calling at night now, or before high wind rises: a solitary drawn-out call, cool . . . ou . . .; a most striking call of the northern wilderness. Many observed at south end of Reindeer Lake, July 3, 4. Observed Reindeer Lake, July 7, noted to be not so numerous on July 9. Few observed Reindeer Lake, July 10 : when in flight the feet project conspicuously behind, like a tail. One observed Reindeer Lake, July 13. Observed Cochrane River, July 21. One male taken on the Cochrane River, July 23, length 30.5 in; bones of small fish in stomach. Observed July 24, 26, 27 on Cochrane River; Du Brochet Lake, August 5 ; calling before onset of a storm, and flighting restlessly. Observed north end Du Brochet Lake, August 10, 12; Cochrane River, on return journey, August 14, 15.

[Red-Throated Loon (Gavia stellata)].—Observed for first time in Sucker Bay, south end Reindeer Lake, July 6. Observed one pair on Reindeer Lake, July 8 : birds wild, and difficult to get within gunshot. One observed Cochrane River, July 19. Few observed on inland lakes west of Cochrane River, July 23, 24, 26. One 16 observed Cochrane River, July 27: these birds seem impossible to secure, so wild are they. Four observed Du Brochet Lake, August 7, warned of their presence by their cat-like Awe-Awe call; a cry very different from the harsh, rumbling quack which they utter when flying. Observed north end Du Brochet Lake, August 10, 12; fairly numerous on this lake, but all very wary. Observed on Cochrane River, on return journey downstream, August 13, 14, 15.

[Jaegar? (Stercorarivs parasiticus?)].—Single bird observed on Sandfly Lake on the Churchill River, June 12. Specimen dark above, white below from bill down, with dark ring circling under neck. This was the only Jaegar observed throughout the expedition.

[California Gull? (Larus californicus?)].— Three observed over the Saskatchewan River, Prince Albert, May 5. One taken Shagwenaw Lake, Churchill River, June 1. Nesting on island on Sandfly Lake, Churchill River, in company with common Terns, but the nests of this species were all together among tufts of grass growing on the higher parts of the island. Nests contained generally three eggs, one contained four, June 11. Observed Otter Lake, Churchill River, June 20, and Key Lake, June 24. Few observed Island Lake, Churchill River, June 26; Reindeer Lake, June 28. Halfbreed, Solomon Cook, tells me that Indians eat Gulls, particularly this Gull; south end Reindeer River, July 1. Observed at south end Reindeer Lake, July 6; Reindeer Lake, July 7, 9. Few nests found on an island where many common Terns were

nesting, one nest contained young newly hatched, Reindeer Lake, July 12. Observed lower reaches Cochrane River, July 18, 21; west of Cochrane River, July 24; Cochrane River, July 25, 26, 28, 30, 31; Du Brochet Lake, August 1, 5, 6; north end Du Brochet Lake, August 10; Cochrane River, on return journey, August 14, 15.    .

Short-billed Gull (Larus brachyrhynchus).— An adult female taken on Reindeer Lake, July 9, one more seen on same date; this is very far east for this gull. 44 Iris clear blackish-grey; edge of eyelid surrounding eye deep orange-chrome; corners of mouth pure orange-chrome; bill evenly coloured dead yellow; feet pale whitish-yellow.” Dr. Oberholser regards this gull as a subspecies of Larus canus.

Ring-billed Gull (Larus delawarensis).—A male taken on lie a la Crosse Lake, May 23; adult except for the black primaries and terminal band of the tail; probably a non-breeding bird. 44Bill medium dark greenish-yellow, with strong black ring around bill a short distance from tip; eyelids, and corners of mouth, deep orange-chrome; feet pale greenish-yellow.” Seventeen others seen with this bird.

An occasional Ring-billed Gull observed Xle-a la Crosse Lake, May 25.

Bonaparte’s Gull (Larus Philadelphia).—Four specimens, an adult male (thought by the collector to be a non-breeding bird), taken on the Cochrane River, July 20.  "Iris dark; bill black; legs and feet, orange-chrome.” An adult female, taken on Cochrane River, July 25. “Iris dark; eyering dark crimson; bill black; corners of mouth reddish-fiesli colour; legs whitish orange-chrome; feet more rich chrome.” Two juvenile birds taken on Lake Du Brochet, Cochrane River, August 1:  one of these, a female, is marked “Iris dark; bill medium dull blackish grey; both mandibles dark from nostril out; legs, feet, and webs whitish skin colour with pale brown joints.” This species is believed to breed in trees, and it is unfortunate in view of the young birds taken, that the nesting site was not found.

One pair observed Crooked Lake, May 12; small colony seen on inland lake off the Beaver River, May 19; birds commonly perched on limbs of dead trees on the edge of the forest which surrounded the lake on three sides. An occasional bird of this species observed lie a la Crosse Lake, May 25. One observed Cochrane River, July 20 : three observed Cochrane River, July 27.

Sabine’s Gull (Xema sabini).—Three seen, and a pair of adults taken, on Sandy Lake, Churchill River, June 9; the female is marked— “iris black; pure red cye-ring; bill, black to one-eighth beyond nostril, remainder of tip medium dull lemon-yellow; feet black.”

Common Tern (Sterna hirundo).—A juvenile female with pinions not fully grown, taken on Cochrane River, August 14. Seen in company with parents and another young bird.

Few observed Beaver River, May 21, and lie a la Crosse Lake, May 25. Breeding haunts observed on Pelican Lake, June 3, 4.

Breeding on small low stony island at last bend on the Churchill River above Sandy Lake, June 8. Nest, small hollows crowded together; grass-lined sometimes. They contained generally two eggs and three eggs each, a few held a single egg. Estimated there were some three hundred eggs on this island. Observed Sandy Lake, June 9. Nesting as above on islands on Sandfly Lake, Churchill River, June 11.

Nesting on two small islands in Island Lake. Few nests contained two eggs, but the general rule was three. All eggs were well incubated, but in no case had young hatched; Churchill River, June 26. Nesting on island above Kettle Falls, Churchill River, June 27; observed Reindeer River, June 29; Reindeer Lake, July 3. Visited island where those birds were nesting; no young hatched out yet, south end Reindeer Lake, July 4. Observed numerously in Sucker Bay, Reindeer Lake, July 6. Observed Reindeer Lake, July 7. Visited island where colony nesting, and there saw first young birds, which were just hatching out, chipped eggs and moist chicklets being numerous, Reindeer Lake, July 12. Observed Cochrane River, July 18, 24, 25, 26, 29, Du Brochet Lake, August 1, 6; Cochrane River, on return journey, August 15.

[Black Tern (Hydrochelidon nigra surina-mensis)].—Observed Beaver River, May 19, 20. So far no birds of this species observed on He a la Crosse Lake, May 25. Numerous on inland lake on east shore at north end of lie k la Crosse Lake, May 30. Colony of birds found just commencing to lay in same locality, May 31. Single eggs in the few nests that contained any. Hundreds of birds nesting on the water surface at the outer edge of the weeds. Breeding haunts found Pelican Lake, Churchill River, June 3. Observed Knee Lake, Churchill River, June 6; Sandy Lake, Churchill River, June 9.

[White Pelican (Pelicanus erythrorhynchos)].— None seen on Pelican Lake, Churchill River, June 3, 4. About thirty observed at rapids between Sandfly Lake and Black Bear Island Lake on the Chufchill River, June 12.

Merganser (Mergus americanus).—A male in "very worn immature plumage taken below lie k la Crosse Lake, on the Churchill River, June 1.    “Iris dark; bill medium deep crimson, crown of upper mandible black; feet bright orange-chrome.

Observed Pelican Lake, Churchill River, June 4; Trout Lake, Churchill River, June 15 ; Reindeer Lake, June 28; numbers at south end of Reindeer Lake, July 3. Few observed Reindeer Lake, July 10.

Red-Breasted Merganser (Mergus senator).—An adult female taken on lie a la Crosse, May 23.    “Iris clear deep umber brown; bill all red except along crown of upper mandible, which is dark horn-brown; "legs and feet rich reddish orange-chrome.”

A downy young female, length 14.75 in., taken on the Cochrane River, August 15.    “Iris pale clear brownish sage-green; bill blackish brown over crown of upper mandible for entire length except tip, sides of upper mandible and entire lower mandible pale dull bufflsh yellow; legs and feet dull brownish grey; neck dull umber brown. Bird in company with mother and about a dozen young.”

Set of twelve eggs taken on rocky island in Reindeer Lake, July 12. “Nest found on ground concealed beneath ledge of rock, eggs almost hard on rock, and rim of nest composed of small leaves and twigs profusely mixed with blackish-grey down.”

Two pairs observed south end of He a la Crosse Lake, May 22. Large numbers observed on Black Bear Island Lake on the Churchill River, June 14, and above Trout Lake on the same river on June 15. One observed Otter Lake, Churchill River, June 20. Few observed at rapid above Key Lake, Churchill River, June 24. Numbers at south end of Reindeer Lake, July 3. 4. Numerous in Sucker Bay, Reindeer Lake, July 6. Observed Reindeer Lake, July 7, 9. Numerous Reindeer Lake, July 10. Observed Reindeer Lake, July 12. Observed Cochrane River, July 24, 28, 29, 30, 31 ; Du Brochet Lake, August 1, 2, 6; north end Du Brochet Lake, August 12.

[Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos)].—Observed Polwarth, Sask., May 6; Big River, May 9 ; Crooked Lake, May 12. Nest containing three eggs found on May 13. Observed Beaver River, May 19, 21. Few observed on lie a la Crosse Lake, May 25. Five observed inland from lie a la Crosse Lake, May 30. Numerous on Shagwenaw Lake, Churchill River, June 1. Nest containing nine eggs found in dry grass marsh; nest composed of blackish down and a few dry pale-yellow grasses, situated beneath a tussock of grass, Churchill River, June 2. Numerous Pelican Lake, Churchill River, June 2,4; observed below mouth of Haultain River on Churchill River, June 6.

Found nest with eight eggs in damp dead weeds at the very edge of marsh shore; site more in swamp than is usual. Mallard very numerous in marsh above Sandy Lake on Churchill River, June 8. Observed on Sandy Lake, Churchill River, June 9. Few observed on Black Bear Island Lake on the Churchill River, June 13. Few observed Dead Lake, Churchill River, June 17. Duck, on this lake, very scarce. Duck most plentiful, so far, in neighbourhood of Pelican Lake. One or two observed on Island Lake, Churchill River, June 26 ; still remark that ducks are very scarce.

On island above Kettle Falls found three mallards’ nests containing respectively nine— nine—and eight eggs, all in early stage of incubation, Churchill River, June 27.

One or two observed Reindeer River, June 28, 30 ,* south end Reindeer Lake, July 4.

Observed female with nine young in water, but this species appears very scarce here, as those are the only ones seen during the last few days, Reindeer Lake, July 8. Female observed on lower reaches of the Cochrane River, July 18. Female with few young observed Cochrane River, July 21 ; another with young on July 23. Two observed, Cochrane River, July 27. Observed with young almost fully grown, Cochrane River, July 28. One observed north end Du Brochet Lake, August 10. Observed family of full-grown young chased by falcon-like hawk, which I was unable to positively identify, Cochrane River, lower reaches, August 15. Hunted duck for food north of Fort Du Brochet on September 23, 24. Noted duck very scarce. After searching far for them during two days, secured six mallard, one wigeon, one Golden-eye, and only saw two others. Searched for duck north of Fort Du Brochet on October 6, but saw none. Have concluded during last few days that all duck species from the Far North have now migrated south. First heavy fall of snow on October 3, again on October 17.

[American Wigeon (Mareca americana)].— Observed at Big River, May, 9; above Sandy Lake on the Churchill River, June 8, and on Sandy Lake, June 9. One taken north of Fort Du Brochet, September 24, and observed in same locality on September 26.

Green-winged Teal (Nettion carolinense).— A pair taken on the Beaver River, May 18.

Fairly common on Beaver River, May 21. One pair observed lie a la Crosse Lake, May 25; numerous on Shagwenaw Lake, Churchill River, June 1, observed on marsh above Sandy Lake on the Churchill River, June 8.

[Blue-winged Teal (Querguedula discors)].— Observed Big River, May 9; Beaver River, May 19, 21. Drake Blue-winged Teal shows large cobalt-blue mark on shoulder when flying; drake Green-winged Teal shows red head prominently. One pair observed near mouth of Haultain River on the Churchill River, June 6. Few observed in marsh above Sandy Lake on the Churchill River, June 9. One pair observed below Du Brochet Lake, Cochrane River, July 31.

[Shoveller. (Spatula clyplata)].—Pair observed Crooked River, May 15. Numerous Shagwenaw Lake, Churchill River, June 1, and Pelican Lake, June 3. Observed on Knee Lake, Churchill River, June 6.

[Pintail (Dafila acuta)].—Observed Big River, May 9; Beaver River, May 19. One pair observed lie a la Crosse Lake, May 25. Numerous Pelican Lake, Churchill River, June 3. Observed adult with brood of young about eight days old on island above Kettle Falls, Churchill River, June 27. Caught two of the young. One adult and three full-grown young taken for food on Du Brochet Lake, August 6 ; eighteen in flock altogether.

[Scaup Duck (Marila marila)].—Observed Big River, May 9 ; Crooked Lake, May 12. Beaver River, May 19, 21. Three pair observed on inland lake on east shore at north end of lie k la Crosse Lake, May 30.

[Golden-eye.]— Observed Big River, May 9. Very numerous Crooked Lake, May 12, 13, and Beaver River, May 19. Numerous, in flocks, Shagwenaw Lake, Churchill River, June 1. Observed below Knee Lake, Churchill River, June 6. Observed number of duck on Cochrane River, August 13, which I think were this species in winter plumage; remarked that birds flocked and probably beginning to move slowly south in migration. One taken north of Fort Du Brochet, September 24.

[White-winged Scoter (Oidemia deglandi)].—

Observed Crooked Lake, May 13. Single bird observed on Black Bear Island Lake on the Churchill River, June 14. Three observed on Dead Lake, Churchill River, June 17. One pair observed with small flock of Surf Scoters on lake expansion on Reindeer River, June 30. Three observed Reindeer Lake, July 10.

Surf Scoter (Oidemia perspicillata).—Three specimens, one adult male taken on He a la Crosse Lake, May 31; two adult females taken on the Reindeer River, June 30.    “Flock of about twelve Scoters together, all in pairs.”

One specimen observed on inland lake on east shore at north end of lie a la Crosse Lake, May 31. One pair observed in false bay above Sandfly Lake on the Churchill River, June 11. Those birds appear to prefer dead-water lakes (lakes without current). Four specimens observed on Black Bear Island Lake on the Churchill River, June 14. Six birds observed below Frog Portage oh the Churchill River, June 27. Flock observed on inland lake north of Fort Du Brochet as late as September 30, passing in migration; they remained only one day on this lake, which was under constant observation at the time.

[Snow Goose (Chen hyperborevs hyperboreus)]. —Flock passed westward over Ladder Lake, Big River, May 9, in spring migration.

[Canada Goose (Branta canadensis canadensis)]. —Observed one pair south end lie a la Crosse Lake, May 24. One adult male taken on the Cochrane River, July 27. Stomach contained grasses and grit. Female with brood of young also seen in marsh at river-bend. Those were the only geese found in their breeding haunts.

[Bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus)].—Observed at Polwarth, Sask., May 6; Beaver River, in marshy lower reaches, May 20. One observed below the mouth of Haultain River on the Churchill River on June 6. One observed at the mouth of Reindeer River, June 27. Two observed Reindeer River, June 29.

[Sandhill Crane? (Gh'us mificana)].—Flock observed settled on prairie grass, Craven, Sask., May 4, north-bound migration.

Nest containing two eggs found on inland lake on east shore at north end of lie a la Crosse Lake, May 30. Only one pair breeding, locality completely isolated from mankind. On no other occasion were the breeding haunts of this species found. The eggs were medium sienna-buffish and had dark spots and splashes of darker colour. (See further description in Chapter III.)

Observed flock of this species passing south over mouth of Cochrane River, September 23. Birds giving voice to their unmistakable call as they planed overhead in easy view of my field-glasses.

[SoraRail (Porzana Carolina)].—Observed four in marsh off Beaver River, May 20. Observed on inland lake on east shore of lie a la Crosse Lake, May 30. Nest with two eggs found in reeds in locality above noted, May 31.

[Coot (Fulica americana)].—Observed Beaver River, May 19. A number observed in marshes above Sandy Lake on Churchill River, June 8— the first seen for some time.

Red Piialarope (Phalaropus fulicarius).—A male taken on Sandfly Lake, Churchill River, June 11. On no other occasion was this species observed throughout the expedition.

Wilson’s Phalarope (Steganopus tricolor).— Two specimens: an adult female taken on Crooked Lake, May 13.    “Bird alone, resting as if tired out, perhaps migrating.” The other an adult male taken on the Beaver River, May 19.    “Male and female together on floating weeds, on edge of small lake off Beaver River; birds in company with pair of Dowitchers, and a lesser Yellow-leg.”

Six pairs observed on inland lake on east shore, five miles from north end of lie a la Crosse Lake ; all birds breeding on south side of inland lake on limited area of swampy, mossy ground, but failed to find eggs, though birds flew and fluttered closely in great distress, May 30.

Wilson’s Snipe (Gallinago delicata). — Nest taken near Lake He a la Crosse, May 31. “Four eggs, slightly incubated, nest of damp grasses on ground among low snowberry bushes. Flushed bird off nest three or four times to-day and yesterday.”

Three observed, May 30. Few observed over marsh drumming high in the air near mouth of Haultain River on the Churchill River, June 6; the first birds seen drumming. Two observed, flushed from marsh inland from Du Brochet Lake, August 9; noted that this species had not previously been seen for a long time.

Dowitcher (Macrorhamphus griseus griseus).— Five specimens: a pair taken on Crooked Lake,

May 13, have been compared with a series of this form and of M. g. scolopaceus. Another pair taken on the Beaver River, May 19, and a male on Lake Tie a la Crosse, on May 23.

White-rumped Sandpiper (Pisobia fuscicollis). —A female taken on Sandy Lake, Churchill River, June 10, and a male taken on Sandfly Lake, Churchill River, June 11.

Baird’s Sandpiper (Pisobia bairdi).—Four specimens: a female taken near Fort Du Brochet, Reindeer Lake, on July 17; and a male and two females taken on the Cochrane River, July 23.

Two observed below Du Brochet Lake, July 30.

Least Sandpiper (Pisobia minutilla).—Four specimens : a female, Reindeer Lake, July 13. “Bird alone breeding on island, apparently had nest.” A female taken July 29, and a pair taken July 30 on the Cochrane River.

Two others observed on the Cochrane River, July 28.

Red-backed Sandpiper (Pelidna alpina sak-halina).—A female, Churchill River, June 8, above Sandy Lake, “shot on small stony island, in company with seven semipalmated Sandpipers.”

Semipalmated’ Sandpiper (Ereunetes pusillvs). —Two pairs taken on the Churchill River below Pelican Rapids, June 2, from a flock.

Observed on Sandy Lake on the Churchill River, June 9, 10.

[Lesser Yellowlegs (Totanus flavipes)].—Few observed Crooked Lake, May 12. Observed Beaver River, May 9. Numerous on inland lake on cast shore at north end of lie a la Crosse Lake, May 30. Observed on lower reaches of the

Cochrane River, July 18: not seen for a long time. Bird, calling, in alarm for nest or young, from the very top of a spruce tree, which seemed a ridiculous perch for a shore bird—yet it is one this species quite often chooses. Observed Cochrane River, July 20. One taken Cochrane River, July 26. Observed Cochrane River, July ‘28 ; Du Brochet Lake, August 2.

Sanderling (Calidris leucophcea).—Three specimens taken from a flock of four, Cochrane River, July 21, “probably non-breeding birds.”

Solitary Sandpiper (Helodromus solitarius solitarius).—“A female with large egg in oviduct,” Beaver River, May 18. Observed Cochrane River, July 20.

Spotted Sandpiper (Actitis macularia).—Two adults: a male, Crooked River, May 15, and a female, Lake lie a la Crosse, May 23. Two sets of four eggs each, taken on Snake Lake and above Black Bear Island Lake, Churchill River, June 10,13, also a downy young taken on the Cochrane River, July 29.

Observed Shagwenaw Lake, Churchill River, June 1 ; Sandy Lake on the Churchill River, June 9,10; Sandfly Lake on the Churchill River, June 12. Trout Lake Churchill River, June 15. Have come to know this species as the most common shore bird in the territory. Saw one of this species being chased by a Red-tailed Hawk, Island Lake, Churchill River, June 26. Found nest with four eggs on island above Kettle Falls, Churchill River, June 27. Observed Reindeer River, June 29; south end Reindeer Lake, July 4. Noted on Reindeer Lake on July 9, and remark that very few seen at that date, though previously quite common. One observed Fort Du Brochet, July 17; nest containing four eggs found on dry, moss-covered hillside, near the foot of a pine tree. Observed Cochrane River, July 19, 26. Observed below Du Brochet Lake, Cochrane River, July 30.

American Golden Plover (Charadrius dominions dominions).—An adult female taken when in company with Kildeer Plover at the mouth of Mudjatick River on the Churchill River, June 2. “ Eye, bill, and feet black.”

Kildeer (Oxeyechus vociferus).—Seen in company with the Golden Plover, but no specimens taken. Observed at Polwarth, Sask., May 0; Big River, May 7, 9.

Semipalmated Plover (JEgealitis semipalmata). —Four specimens : a male, lie a la Crosse Lake, May 23; a pair Coehrane River, July 23; and a female taken 29 July, also on the Cochrane River.

Ruddy Turnstone (Arenaria intcrpres mori-nella).—Four specimens  a female found alone on Lake lie a la Crosse, on May 22; a male also found alone on the same lake on the 23rd; and two females taken from large flock on June 9 on Sandy Lake on the Churehill River.

Observed on Sandfly Lake on the Churchill River, June 12.

Hudsonian Spruce Partridge (Canachiies canadensis canadensis).—Eight specimens: six adults, and two downy young. A pair with nest and eggs taken at Lake lie k la Crosse, May 25; male not preserved. “Eggs six in number, fresh; nest on ground close in at foot of alder bush; site dry open poplar knoll, surrounded by dense spruce and tamarack swamp; nest of dry leaves, same as carpet of surrounding ground, a few feathers lining nest.” A male same locality, May 29. A female in moult, and a downy young, Reindeer Lake, July 10; the female has pin feathers on the sides of the head, and new tail feathers are appearing. A downy young, Cochrane River, July 20; was with other young and female parent when taken. A male taken, August 3; a female, August 4 ; and a male, August 7—all adults, Lake Du Brochet. The young could fly, though the first was only five inches in length.

Male observed below Frog Portage, Churchill River, July 27. Two shot north of Fort Du Brochet, October 9, and one on October 13, 16. Four shot near mouth of Cochrane River, October 19. One shot, October 30, in same locality. Note that there are a few north of Fort Du Brochet, November 7. One taken in same locality on December 10; this species evidently winter as far north as this point, but none seen any further north than latitude 58.5°. Two taken Fort Du Brochet, December 14. Flushed one at night on December 16 and noted bird had apparently no trouble to see in the dark.

[Ruffed Grouse (Bonasa umbellus togata£)].— Observed Crooked River, May 13; secured very reddish-brown female at head of Reindeer River, July 14. One taken north of Fort Du Brochet, October 1. This species appears rare in the Far North.

Willow Ptarmigan (Lagopus lagopus lagopus).—One specimen, Fort Du Brochet, Reindeer Lake, November 4. “Same day first Barren-ground Caribou of the season were shot.”

Natives at Fort Du Brochet say that this species arrives there about mid-October. “Diary of halfbreed, Philip Merasty, records: ‘White Partridge seen at Fort on October 6, 1913, snow having fallen ere that date.’” Four specimens observed north of Fort Du Brochet, October 27; the first noted to arrive this winter. An Indian reported two seen on October 30.

Note on November 7 that this species is now common north of Fort Du Brochet; birds rise with a startling flutter of wings out of the snow at the foot of the Scrub Pines. This species plentiful in neighbourhood of Thanout-Tua (Lake), Thlewiaza Or River, November 23; noted that those birds sometimes call exactly like Red Grouse when startled to flight.

There is a lake named “White Partridge Lake,” or Kasba Lake, twenty miles south of the Barren Grounds, near neighbourhood where this species noted as plentiful.

Two observed north of Fort Du Brochet, December 12, and large pack seen on December 13. Observed December 15. On December 18, after searching three days without observing single bird of this species, I note : It is strange how those birds appear to come and go; it may be because the food-supply of willow-shoots, and Labrador Tea-buds, on which they now feed, is so scant above the snow that they are soon picked bare, and then the birds move on to fresh feeding-ground. One taken on Reindeer Lake thirty miles south of Fort Du Brochet, December 30.

[Marsh Hawk (Circus hudsonicus)].—Observed Beaver River, May 20. First one seen since leaving the prairies. Apparently not numerous in this territory. One observed Sandfly Lake on the Churchill River, June 11. One observed Du Brochet Lake, Cochrane River, August 11 ; a female or young bird in brown plumage. This was the only specimen of this species seen to date in the Far North. Two young birds observed Cochrane River, on return journey, August 14.

Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter velox).—An adult male, taken at Otter Lake, Chur chill River, June 20.

American Goshawk (Astur atricapillus atri-capillus).—A female, and set of three eggs, taken on Beaver River, May 16. Nest described in Chapter II.

[Western Red-tailed Hawk ? (Butes borealis calurus)].—Observed single bird, Beaver River, May 16, 21; Black Bear Island Lake on the Churchill River, June 13. One observed chasing a Spotted Sandpiper, Island Lake, Churchill River, June 26.

Broad-winged Hawk (Buies platypterus).— Three specimens: a melanotic male, Crooked River, May 14, is chocolate brown except- for the tail-bars, which are normal; a male taken in same locality on May 15, and a female taken on Beaver River, May 16.

[Golden Eagle? (Aquila chrysaetos)].—Observed two dark eagles (?), which appeared to be this species, over Black Bear Island Lake,

Churchill River, June 13. One observed Trout Lake, Churchill River, June 16. One observed Island Lake, Churchill River, June 25. One also at mouth of Reindeer River, June 27, 28.

Northern Bald Eagle (Haliceetus leucoce-phalus alascanus).—An adult and three downy young taken: the first a male taken on the Churchill River, June 12; the downy young taken on Reindeer Lake, two on July 7 and one on July 10; these are marked: “Iris dark umber-brown; bill dark horn colour; cere slightly more light brown; corner of mouth pale whitish yellow; legs and feet pale whitish yellow.” Nest of the first young was at the top of a spruce tree, which stood about twenty-five feet high in thick forest on an island of high, rocky elevation. The large nest was constructed with dead twigs of many sorts and was lined with moss, grass, and feathers.

Nest found containing one young bird, six to ten days old. Shell of egg was white. Nest on top of dead spruce tree on a prominent point of land on shore, Knee Lake, Churchill River, June 5.

Three observed Black Bear Island Lake on the Churchill River, June 13. One observed lower reaches Cochrane River, July 18. One observed Fort Du Brochet, September 4.

Hawk? Duck Hawk, or possibly [Gyrfalcon? (Falco rusticolus subsp. ?)].—Ii was greatly surprised in full winter to observe a fairly large Hawk (?) giving chase to Spruce Grouse near Fort Du Brochet, December 15. Again observed same species of Hawk (?) flying across a lake in same locality, December 24. On December 28, on Reindeer Lake, I noted: “Saw hawk again to-day and almost got within gunshot; believe it to be Gyrfalcon.” On Cumberland Lake observed two winter-hawks: greyish white underparts, speckled probably lightly; clear black spot on ear coverts; upper parts dark; tail longish; bird large, would say about twenty inches, January 9, 1915. Possibly those latter were Goshawks ?

Pigeon Hawk (Falco colvmbarius columbarius). —Seven specimens. An adult female (two other birds seen), Reindeer Lake, July 13. A female in company with four or five almost fully fledged young, three of which were taken, Lake Du Brochet, August 3; the young have the wings and tail not fully giown, and traces of down on the head; the old bird is in very worn plumage with one fresh blue tail feather, but showing no other sign of the blue plumage. Two fully fledged young birds (two others seen), Lake Du Brochet, August 7.

Observed on Lake Du Brochet on August 8,11.

[Sparrow Hawk (Falco sparverius sparve-rius)].—Female observed Big River, May 10.

American Osprey (Pandion halliaetus caroli-nensis).—Three specimens. A female, Crooked Lake, May 13. A male taken at nest, Lake lie a la Crosse, May 25; “nest containing single egg on very top of broken-off dead Jack Pine, nest mainly built of dry twigs, inside thickly lined with damp mud, grass, and moss; fish scales on edge of nest; the male bird was bringing both talons full of damp moss to nest when shot.” A female taken with nest and two eggs, Knee Lake, Churchill River, June 6.

Found nest of this species on Sandy Lake, on the Churchill River, June 10. Female on nest, but did not disturb her.

One observed at narrows entering into Key Lake, Churchill River, June 24. Observed south end, Reindeer Lake, July 4. Single bird observed Cochrane River, July 20, 21. One observed carrying a fish lengthwise, parallel to the body and head facing onwards, Du Brochet Lake, Cochrane River, August 11. One observed near Fort Du Brochet, September 2.

[Great Horned Owl. (Bvbo virginianus subsp. £)].—Nest found on Crooked River, May 15, containing two downy half-grown young ; one a beautiful buff-cream colour, the other more grey. Adult female on nest when found. Nest not large in comparison with size of bird, and situated in strong fork of Black Poplar tree; tree not yet in leaf. Nest composed of dead poplar and lichen-grown spruce twigs, and lined with rabbits’ hair. Noted on lie a la Crosse Lake on May 25, that have not heard any Great Horned Owls calling at night in this locality. Previously had heard them every night. On reaching north end of this lake this species was again heard on May 29.

American Hawk Owl (Surnia ulula capa-roch).—A male taken on Lake Du Brochet, August 1.

[Belted Kingfisher (Ceryle alcyon)].—First pair observed on Beaver River, May 16; few pair Beaver River, May 19. Observed Churchill River, June 1, in neighbourhood of Shagwcnaw Lake.

One observed Pelican Lake, Churchill River, June. 3. Few observed below Knee Lake on the Churchill River, June 6; also above Sandy Lake on the Churchill River, June 8.

Nest found in hole at the top of a rocky bank of about twelve feet elevation. Nest situated about ten feet above shore. Straight tunnel in, then the nest in a slight hollow 2 ft. 6 in. from the entrance; nest unlined, except with a few small fish-bones, and contained six young about eight days old. Foot of Grand Rapids, Churchill River, June 25. Note on Cochrane River on July 23 that none of this species now seen. Single specimen observed near Fort Lu Brochet on September 22.

[Northern Hairy Woodpecker (Dryvbates villosus subsp.?)].—Found nest containing three young almost fully fledged on green poplar tree on island above last rapid, above Black Bear Island Lake on the Churchill River, June 12.

Arctic Three-toed Woodpecker (Picoides arcticus).--An adult male taken on the Cochrane River, July 31 ; yellow crest much worn, exposing the white bases of the feathers.

Alaskan Three-toed Woodpecker (Picoides americanus fasciatus).—An adult female, Fort Du Brochet, October 22.

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus va-rius varius).—Two males taken at Big River on May 7, 11.

Nest found containing young in hole in green poplar tree. Hole about eight feet up, and facing south-east. Did not disturb nest j- below Key Falls, Churchill River, June 25. Believe one speeimen seen Cochrane River, July 23; but identity not absolutely eertain.

Boreal Flicker (Colaptes auraius borealis).— One female Coehrane River, July 31, the male seen. There is another adult female in the W. S. National Museum, taken at Lake Du Brochet, September 26, 1890. This form is included in the range of luteus in the A. O. W. Check List.

[Flicker. Golden-winged Woodpecker (Colaptes auratns subsp. ?)].—Observed at Big River, May 7. Pair mating, Big River, May 9. Manner of courtship: they sit side by side on tree-trunk and at intervals gesticulate with their heads, thrusting them up and down, and softly emitting “Thuea, Thuca, Thuea,” Then they pause for an interval and are motionless except that their eyes roll rapidly and show white by the glint of the overhead sun. The male Flieker shows more golden yellow under the wings when in flight.

Speeies numerous, Beaver River, May 19.

Observed Pelican Lake, Churchill River, June 4. Numerous Sandy Lake neighbourhood, Churchill River, June 10.

Found nest containing ten eggs in green poplar tree, nest about ten feet up tree-trunk, Churchill River, June 11.

Nest found on top of dead birch-stump, at elevation of about fifteen feet, on Trout Lake, Churchill River, June 17; nest not disturbed. Observed below Frog Portage on the Churchill River, June 27; Reindeer River, June 29; south end Reindeer Lake, July 4.    -

Found nest containing well-fledged young on shore of Reindeer Lake, July 10. Did not disturb nest. Not many Flickers observed in this neighbourhood.

Observed Fort Du Brochet, July 17 ; Cochrane River, July 18, 25 ; Du Brochet Lake, August 2.

Possibly some of the birds observed north of the Churchill River were the Boreal Flicker (Colaptes auratus borealis), but this I could not decide merely by observation.

[Nightiiawk (Chordeiles virginianus subsp.?)].— Observed at Stanley Mission, June 23, where I noted that they had been commonly seen along the entire route to that point on the Churchill. Observed mouth of Reindeer River, June 27, 28. Single bird observed Reindeer Lake, July 9— previously a most common bird. Observed Fort Du Brochet, July 16. About a dozen seen, Cochrane River, July 18. Observed Cochrane River, July 24, 25, 26, 28 ; Du Brochet Lake, August 6, 8. Note that this species feed through the day after a bad storm, probably through said storm hindering them from feeding properly at evening and morning as usual; also they feed in the daytime when the atmosphere is very close and still before rain. Observed Cochrane River, on return journey, August 13, 15.

[Kingbird (Tyr annus tyr annus)].—Observed above Island Lake on the Churchill River, June 25.

Phoebe (Sayornis phcebe).—A male taken on Reindeer River, June 30.

Nest containing five eggs well incubated found in false bay above Sandfly Lake on the Churchill River, June 11. One observed Reindeer River, June 27.

Olive-sided Flycatcher (Nuttallornis borealis).—Two males taken on Lake lie a la Crosse, May 27, 28.

Observed on Sandy Lake on the Churchill River, June 9.

Alder Flycatcher (Empidonax trailli alno-rum).—Three specimens: a male, Churchill River, June 6; two from the Cochrane River, July 27, 28, the latter a female; all taken in willows at edge of marsh.

Observed below Du Brochet Lake, Cochrane River, July 29.

Least Flycatcher (Empidonax minimus).— A female taken on Lake lie a la Crosse, May 29, and a male, Reindeer River, June 28.

Identified certainly on Reindeer River, June 29, but have heard those birds singing in the forests for the past month, and now know to whom the sweet, clear song belongs.

[Horned Lark (Otceoris alpestris subsp. ?)\.— Observed Big River, May 10 ; south end lie a la Crosse Lake, May 23. Noted at Fort Du Brochet on September 18 that numbers have passed south during the stormy broken weather of the last three days. Flocks observed, restlessly cheeping and flighting close to the ground, near Fort Du Brochet, September 22. Observed north of Fort Du Brochet, September 25.

Canada Jay (Perisoreus canadensis canadensis). —One immature bird, taken in Reindeer Lake, July 11, is somewhat difficult to place. It compares Well with one of about the same age from forty miles south-west of Calgary, Alberta, August 4, 1895 ; and is not so dark above as a younger bird from near Latchford, Ontario,

June 10, 1906. Preble refers to a breeding bird from Pelican Narrows, Churchill River, in the W. S. National Museum,1 and in fact Reindeer Lake is well within the known range ofcanadensis.

Observed south end Reindeer Lake, July 4; Sucker Bay, Reindeer Lake, July 6; Fort Du Brochet, July 17; lower reaches of the Cochrane River, July 20, 21, 23, 24. Observed Cochrane River, July 27,29,30,31. There is an inland lake, some twenty to twenty-five miles long, west of Cochrane River, named by the Indians Wiskajon! Lake. This neighbourhood appears to be their regular habitat. Observed Du Brochet Lake, August 6, 8; north end Du Brochet Lake, August 11; north of Fort Du Brochet, September 26 and November 5.

The Northern Shrike is called by the Indians the “White Wiskajon,” and certainly its light flight among thickets resembles that of the true Wiskajon.

Northern Raven (Corvus cor ax principalis).— Five specimens : three from Churchill River, a young bird taken when just fledged and flown from the nest above Pelican Rapids, June 2; an adult female below Great Devil Rapids, June 18; and a young bird fledged .and in company with parent and two other young, Otter Lake, June 20; two adult males taken December 15, one on Lake Du Brochet, the other on Reindeer Lake.

Found nest in cleft of low rock cliffs on shore of Pelican Lake. Six partly fledged young perched on ledge adjoining; a nest found two days ago was in fairly high poplar tree, Churchill River, June 4. One observed below Knee Lake on the Churchill River, June 6. One pair observed Black Bear Island Lake on the Churchill River, June 13. One observed Island Lake, Churchill River, June 26. Observed south end Reindeer Lake, July 4. Four observed Reindeer Lake, July 8. Two observed lower reaches Cochrane River, July 18. One observed Cochrane River, July 21, 23; observed July 24. Few observed below Du Brochet Lake, Cochrane River, July 30, 31. Observed Du Brochet Lake, August 2, 5; Cochrane River, below Du Brochet Lake, August 14. Two observed Fort Du Brochet, September 4. Number of Ravens observed following the southward migration of Caribou north of Fort Du Brochet, November 5, 8, after the manner of Vultures. They sometimes voice brief musical calls from the depth of their throat: p-r-r-o-o uttered singly, and repeated at longish intervals; and err . . . err.

One observed Theitaga Lake near latitude 60° on November 28, probably following Caribou. One taken near Fort Du Brochet, December 14. Those birds appear to remain in vicinity of the Caribou herds all though winter.

Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos subsp. ?).—An immature female taken on the Reindeer River, June 29; this bird compares well with a breeding female from Craven, Saskatchewan, much better than it does with Ontario birds, and may better be placed with the Western Crow (C. b. hesperis), but owing to lack of material of comparable age I hesitate to do so.

Observed Big River, Sask., May 7, 9. Large number nesting in wood at back of lie a la Crosse Post, May 22. Noted June 2 that I see crows every day : at that date entering Churchill River from He a la Crosse Lake. Numerous in neighbourhood of mouth of Haultain River on the Churchill River, June 6.

Observed above Sandy Lake on the Churchill River, June 8. Numerous Sandy Lake on the Churchill River, June 10. Observed Sandfly Lake, Churchill River, June 12. Few observed Otter Lake, Churchill River, June 20. Crows at Stanley Mission, June 23. Observed neighbourhood Island Lake on the Churchill River, June 25; Reindeer River, June 29, 30, but not so commonly seen during the last two days. Observed Reindeer Lake, July 11. Observed in neighbourhood of deserted teepees on the Cochrane River, July 27: this species riot seen for some time. Observed Du Brochet Lake, August 8.

Yellow-headed Blackbird (Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus).—Specimen taken at mouth of Mudjatick River, Churchill River, June 2. First of this species seen this year.

Breeding haunts encountered in marsh at entrance to Pelican Lake, Churchill River, June 3.

[Red-winged Blackbird (Agelaius phceniceus subsp.?)].—Observed Big River, May 9; Beaver River, May 21; inland lake on east shore at north end of lie a la Crosse Lake, May 30; Pelican Lake, Churchill River, June 2. Nest with three eggs found on Churchill River, below mouth of Haultain River, June 6. Observed in marsh above Sandy Lake on the Churchill River, June 8. Number observed neighbourhood Island Lake, Churchill River, June 25.

Rusty Blackbird {Euphagus carolinus).— Three specimens from Lake Du Brochet, August 7: an adult male, "iris clear yellowish white”; an immature (female ?),44 iris medium clear umber-brown”; and an immature male, "iris pale sage-green.”    .

Observed Cochrane River, July 21; Du Brochet Lake, August 6. Observed during first two weeks in September at Fort Du Brochet, feeding apparently chiefly on ground cranberries and bilberries.

[Brewer’s Blackbird (Euphagus cyanoce-phalus)].—Numerous at Big River, May 7. Two pair observed Cochrane River, July 19, 20. Observed Cochrane River, July 26. Observed a bird with food in bill for young, July 27. Observed July 28, 29, 30, below Du Brochet Lake.

[Bronzed Grackle (Quiscalus guiscula ceneus)]. —Numerous at Big River, May 7. Observed Beaver River, May 21. One pair observed on inland lake east shore lie a la Crosse Lake, May 30; Pelican Lake, Churchill River, June 3. Observed on Sandy Lake on the Churchill River, June 9,10; Sandfly Lake, Churchill River, June 12. Number observed neighbourhood Island Lake, Churchill River, June 25, 26.

[Pine Grosbeak ? (Pinicola enucleator subsp. ?)]. —Observed bird which I thought was this species on the Cochrane River July 25.

Purple Finch (Carpodacus purpureus purpureus).—Two adult males taken on Big River, May 9 ; a female seen with them.

(Observed some wild flocks of finches flying over the forest which I think were this species, Cochrane River, July 21. There is just a possibility of confusing them with Grosbeaks or Crossbills, so this note is given with reservation).

Redpoll (Acanthis Unaria linaria).—Three specimens: an adult male with rosy breast, Cochrane River, July 21, “bird in company with one young, bill dark brownish,” two males, an adult and young, Lake Du Brochet, August 10, “bill flat black” in the young.

Observed Cochrane River, July 23, 24, 28, 29, 30, below Du Brochet Lake. Great many observed in flocks feeding on birch catkins, Cochrane River, below Du Brochet Lake, August 13, 14. Observed north of Fort Du Brochet, October 25, those birds feed on small shoots of the tamarack tree (American larch) in late Fall, though at earlier date birch catkins appear to be their general and favourite food. This species still commonly seen, and heard giving voice to their small companionable twitter, north of Fort Du Brochet, November 7. Observed Theitaga-Tua (Lake) near latitude 60°, November 25. No specimens secured, as shot-gun behind at Du Brochet.

Snow Bunting (Plectrophinam nivalis nivalis).— One specimen Reindeer Lake, October 23. “Large flocks of these birds for the past fortnight" Single bird—the first appearance of their migration into the south—observed Fort Du

Brochet, September 2. Plentiful north of Fort Du Brochet on October 18, 19; birds migrating.

Very large flocks about on Oetober 23: recorded still plentiful October 26; noted October 29. Three observed south of Cumberland Lake, January 11, and noted that those the first observed since leaving the Far North.

[Lapland Longspur {Calcarius lapponicus lap-ponicus)].—Observed single specimen south end lie k la Crosse Lake, May 22. Large numbers of Longspurs passing in migration; Lapland, only species certainly identified, Fort Du Brochet, September 18.

[Chestnut-collared Longspur (Calcarius or-natus)].—Observed Crooked Lake, May 12.

Savannah Sparrow {Passercuius sandwichensis subsp.);—Three specimens : one from Lake lie a la Crosse, May 27; an adult male from Fort Du Brochet, July 17; and a juvenile female, Cochrane River, July 28. These are very dark birds, much more so than alaudinus should be, and very different from the light raee that breeds in Southern Saskatchewan, which is no doubtnevadensis.

Observed east shore lie a la Crosse Lake, May 30. Observed at Stanley Mission on the Churehill River, June 23. -One taken from talons of Pigeon Hawk on Du Brochet Lake, August 7. Observed during autumn migration at Fort Du Brochct, September 18.

Leconte’s Starrow (Pusserherbulus lecontei). — -Two specimens : one of a pair, Churchill River, June 2 ; a male, Haultain River, June 6; “birds breeding here.”

Harris’s Sparrow (Zonotrichia querula).—

Seven specimens. An adult female and a juvenile male, Cochrane River, July 26; an adult male, Cochrane River, July 30. “Male and female with fledged young,” a female, and young bird, Cochrane River, July 31; a female, Cochrane River, August 3, “bird in company with others, probably her fully fledged young ”; an adult female, Lake Du Brochet, August 6—adult’s “ bill dull sienna-brown,” juveniles’  bill blackish brown, yellow along edges of mandibles and at corners of mouth.” So little is known of the early plumage of this sparrow that a description of the young of July 31 may not be out of place: “Length 3.75 in.; pileum with feathers brownish black, indistinctly edged with greyish buff, producing a dark crown with a few greyish-buff spots; throat and chin greyish buff, throat with a few blackish-brown spots; chest brownish buff streaked with brownish black; flanks buff with brown streaks; rest of under parts buffy white. Above brown streaked with black, upper tail coverts brownish buff, tail darker than in adult; wing coverts tipped with buff.

Three observed south end lie k la Crosse Lake, May 24. Their first encountered breeding haunts were found on the Cochrane River about latitude 58°. Country fairly mountainous, and the hillside, which the birds frequented, was bare of tall growth, and bouldered and thickly strewn with dead timber—for at some past date the countryside had been swept by forest-fire. Small spruce and scrub pine, of a height of two feet to six feet, grew here and there, while willows, tamarack, and small spruce grew somewhat more densely 18 along the margin of the river; thus appeared the breeding haunt of the Harris’s Sparrow, Cochrane River, July 26. Observed Du Brochet Lake, August 2: note that I have not heard this species sing: they have a loud, sharp alarm chirp when disturbed near young. Adult and fledged young observed Du Brochet Lake, August 9. Observed north end Du Brochet Lake, August 10.

Gambel’s Sparrow (Zonotrichia leucophrys Gambelii).—Three specimens: an adult male and a juvenile male, Reindeer Lake, July 16; and a young male, Cochrane River, July 26.

Observed lie a la Crosse Lake, May 24. Observed Fort Du Brochet, July 14 ; and noted that birds appear to be nesting there. On July 17 noted that this species plentiful in neighbourhood of Fort Du Brochet, but that they had been nowhere seen in their breeding haunts until this post was reached. Observed Cochrane River, July 21, 28. Observed below Du Brochet Lake, July 31.

['White-throated Sparrow (Zonotrichia albi-collis)].—Observed Big River, May 10 ; Crooked Lake, May 13; inland, on east shore, at north end of lie a la Crosse Lake, May 30. Noted on June 2 that this species are encountered every day, at that date had entered the Churchill River. Observed below Dead Lake, Churchill River, June 18, and noted that this species had not been seen for some days. Number singing at daybreak at Stanley Mission, June 24. Observed south end Reindeer Lake, July 4 ; and on Reindeer Lake, July 7.

Tree Sparrow (Spizella monticola monticola).—A male taken on Reindeer Lake, July 11; “two pairs breeding on an island, first of this species seen on this expedition.” A female, Fort Du Brochet, July 17; “bird had young almost fully fledged.”

Observed Cochrane River, July 20, 21, 23; and again on July 26/ Noted that this species appears to breed numerously below Du Brochet Lake, Cochrane River, July 29, 31. Du Brochet Lake, August 1, 2, 6, 9. Observed as late as September 26 north of Fort Du Brochet.

Chipping Sparrow (Spizella passerina passerina).—A male taken on Lake He a la Crosse, May 27.

Observed on inland lake on east shore lie a la Crosse Lake, May 30. Nest with four eggs found on shore of inland lake, May 31; bird secured. Observed Pelican Lake, Churchill River, June 4. Nest containing one egg found on island on Sandy Lake on the Churchill River, June 11. Single specimen observed above Trout Lake on the Churchill River, June 15, also on Dead Lake Churchill River, June 13. Those birds always seen in neighbourhood of, or on, spruce trees.

Few observed on Rapid River Lake on the Churchill River, June 24. Observed below Frog Portage, Churchill River, June 27. Very plentiful, Reindeer River, June 30, and at south end of Reindeer Lake, July 3. Observed Sucker Bay, Reindeer Lake, July 6; Reindeer Lake, July 7. Observed Du Brochet Lake, August 3 ; previously this species not seen for some time.

[Slate Coloured Junco (Junco hyemalis hye-amlis)\.—Observed at Canford, Sask., May 6. Numerous at Big River, May 7. Observed one pair Otter Lake, Churehill River, June 20. Observed Reindeer Lake, June 29, and at south end of Reindeer Lake, July 3. Observed Reindeer Lake, July 6, 7, 9. Common on Reindeer Lake, July 10. Observed Cochrane River, July 19, 21, 24, 28; Du Brochet Lake, August 3, 6, 8. Number observed, as if beginning migration south, at Fort Du Brochet, September 2. Few still near the Fort on September 18, 22. Observed as late as September 30 north of Fort Du Brochet.

Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia melodia).— A pair taken on Reindeer River, June 28.

Observed Big River, May 10. Fairly plentiful on lower reaches Beaver River, May 21. Singing at midnight north-east shore lie & la Crosse Lake. Noted June 2, when entering Churchill River, that this species seen every day. Nest containing five eggs found in tall dry hay-grass where willows grew at wide intervals. Nest lined with very fine grasses, Churchill River below mouth of Mudjatiek River, June 2. Observed Pelican Lake, Churchill River, June 4. Nest containing six eggs found on shore of Sandfly Lake on the Churchill River, June 12. Nest containing three eggs and two newly hatched young found on ground among grass near trees on wooded island above Trout Lake, Churchill River, June 15. Nest containing six eggs found in grass among dead tree-stumps in country burnt by forest fire, Trout Lake, Churchill River, June 17. A number observed at Stanley Mission, June 23. Song Sparrows often heard singing on small almost bare islands, and they are the only

small birds that appear to inhabit such a place, Churchill River, June 25. Observed below Frog Portage, Churchill River, June 27; south end of Reindeer Lake, July 3, 4; Reindeer Lake, July 7, 11. Note that no Song Sparrows Cochrane River, July 23.

Lincoln’s Sparrow (Melospiza lincolni lin-colni).—A male taken on Reindeer River, June 29.

Swamp Sparrow (Melospiza georgiana).—A male taken below mouth of Haultain River, Churchill River, June 6. “Small colony of these birds breeding in this place.”

Observed at Big River, May 7.

Fox Sparrow (Passerella iliaca iliaca).—Four specimens; all males : one Reindeer Lake, July 11; three Cochrane River, July 18, 24 and August 3; the first bird seen was carrying food to its fledged young. Fledged young taken, but specimen too much damaged to make a skin of.

Observed Reindeer Lake, July 13; Fort Du Brochet, July 17; Cochrane River, July 19, 20, 21, 28; Du Brochet Lake, August 1; north end Du Brochet Lake, August 10.

[House Sparrow (Passer domesticus)].—Those were at Big River Town-site, and even as far afield as lie a la Crosse Post. To an extraordinary extent those birds have spread since first imported to America.

Cliff Swallow (Petrochelidon lunifrons luni-frons).—Two females taken on Sandy Lake, Churchill River, June 9; a pair, Cochrane River, August 6; fully fledged young in company with these last. Those latter were the first of this species to be observed since leaving Sandy Lake.

Tree Swallow (Iridoprocne bicolor).—Two specimens: a female, Crooked River, May 15; a young male, Du Brochet Lake, August 6. Two sets of eggs taken on Sandy Lake on the Churchill River, June 11, nests in old woodpecker-holes in dead poplars.

Observed Crooked Lake, May 12 ; Pelican Lake, Churchill River, June 4. Numerous in Knee Lake neighbourhood on the Churchill River, June 6. Observed on Sandy Lake on the Churchill River, June 9, 10, 11. Numerous at Stanley Mission on the Churchill River, June 23. Observed one near south end of Reindeer Lake, July 7; the first of this species encountered for some time. One pair observed Fort Du Brochet, July 17.

Bank Swallow (Riparia riparia).—A male taken on Sandy Lake, Churchill River, June 9.

Colony of this species nesting on sand-bank at the river-edge. Many young flown from nests, and in the air -with their parents. The nesting-holes were at both high and low elevation in a steep sloping bank of some twenty feet. Opened one cavity, from which a swallow flew out, and found the nest at the end of a 2 ft. 6 in. tunnel, containing three eggs—all of which were addled. Birds flew out of many holes, and therein were probably nests of young or a second complement of eggs.

Bohemian Waxwing (Botnbycilia garrula).— Two specimens from Cochrane River: a juvenile male taken July 28, “iris dark—not reddish brown like adult”; an adult female, July 30.

Observed Cochrane River, July 18, 19, and noted that they appear to be breeding here. Numbers observed Cochrane River below Du Brochet Lake, July 29.

Cedar 'Waxwing (Bombycilia cedrorum).—A male taken on Key Lake, Churchill River, June 25. Female taken also, and dissection proved it to be in breeding condition.

Adult bird was taken from stomach of a pike weighing 3½ lbs., caught on Island Lake, Churchill River, June 25.

Northern Shrike (Lanius borealis).—A male taken on the Cochrane River, October 19.

A young bird observed below Du Brochet Lake, Cochrane River, July 31. This species is called the “White Wiskajon” by the Indians, and in light flight through thickets the bird certainly closely resembles the Canada Jay at times.

Red-eyed Vireo (Vireosylva olivacea).—A male taken at Dead Lake, Churchill River, June 17.

Secured one specimen above Sandy Lake on the Churchill River, June 8. Observed above Island Lake on the Churchill River, June 25, 26. Observed below Frog Portage on the Churchill River, June 27, and at south end of Reindeer Lake, July 3.

Blue-headed Vireo (Lanivireo solitarius solitarius).—A male taken at Lake He a la Crosse, May 28.

Black and White Warbler (Mniotilta varia). —A male taken on Beaver River, May 17.

Tennessee Warbler (Vermivora peregrina).— Three males taken: two from Lake lie a la Crosse, May 27 and June 2 ; one from Dead Lake, Churchill River, June 17.

Observed on Rapid River Lake, Churchill River, June 24. Note that at this point bird-life is disappointingly scarce. Observed below Frog Portage on the Churchill River, June 27, and on Reindeer River, June 28, 29. Noted as being very plentiful, Reindeer River, June 30.

Yellow Warbler (Dendroica cestiva cestiva). —Two males taken: one Lake lie a la Crosse, May 27; the other Reindeer Lake, July 4; this latter is only a little more worn than the May bird.

Observed Sandfly Lake on the Churchill River, June 11. One specimen observed above Trout Lake on the Churchill River, June 15; also on Dead Lake, Churchill River, June 17. Few observed Island Lake, Churchill River, June 25,

26. Observed Churchill River, June 27; Reindeer River, June 28; south end of Reindeer Lake, July 3; Reindeer Lake, July 11; Fort Du Brochet, July 17; Cochrane River, July 28; Du Brochet Lake, August 1; when noted that this species is very scarce now. Observed north end Du Brochet Lake, August 10.

Myrtle Warbler (Dendroica coronata).— Three specimens: two adult males from Big River, May 7, 8; a juvenile, Cochrane River, July 27. Hoover’s Warbler (D. c. hooveri), has recently been revived by Dr. . Oberholster, and the range of this western race of the Myrtle Warbler is given as reaching east to Central Mackenzie, but the adult taken May 8, which I have been able to compare with series of both the supposed races, is nearer to coronata.

Observed female in neighbourhood of her nest, but prolonged search failed to find its hiding-place in the spruce trees, Churchill River, June 27. Nest found in spruce tree situated, against main trunk about 12 feet above the ground and contained five young about two weeks old, Reindeer River, June 29. Observed commonly south end Reindeer Lake, July 3, 4. Observed Sucker Bay, Reindeer Lake, July 6. Reindeer Lake, July 7. Commonly seen on Reindeer Lake, July 10. Observed July 11, 13. Observed Cochrane River, July 19, 21, 28; Du Brochet Lake, August 1, 3; north end Du Brochet Lake, August 12.

Black-poll 'Warbler (Dendroica striata).— A male taken on Beaver River, May 18.

One observed south end Reindeer Lake, July 4, and on Cochrane River, July 26. One observed Du Brochet Lake, August 3, carrying insects in bill for young. Observed inland from Du Brochet Lake, August 5.

Palm Warbler (Dendroica palmarum palmar um).—A male taken on Beaver River, May 18.

Water-Thrush (Seiurus noveboracensis nove-boracensis).—Three specimens : a female, Beaver River, May 20; a male, Knee Lake, Churchill River, June 6; and a female, Reindeer River, June 28 ; these are close to Grinnell’s Water-Thrush (S. n. notabilis), in colour.

Observed Reindeer River, June 29. One taken Reindeer Lake, July 10. Observed Cochrane River, July 23, 24, 26, 27, and on July 29, 31, below Du Brochet Lake; observed Du Brochet Lake, August 1, 6, 8. Note that this species is common on Cochrane River, and that they feed along the water’s edge like a Pipit or Wagtail

—sometimes they make short rising flights, of some 10 to 15 feet, into the air in pursuit of insects. Observed north end Du Brochet Lake, August 11.

Wilson’s Warbler (Wilsonia pusilla pusilla). —A male taken at Lake lie a la Crosse, May 20.

[Redstart (Setophaga ruticilla)]. — One observed Beaver River, May 19.

[Tree Creeper (Certhia, familiaris americana)]. —Observed Big River, May 10.

Red-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta canadensis). —A male taken at Lake lie a la Crosse, May 25.

One observed in winter south of Cumberland Lake on January 11.

[Chickadee (Penthestes atricapillus subsp. ?)].— Observed below Dead Lake, Churchill River, June 18. Observed a pair with a family of fully fledged young on Rapid River Lake, Churchill River, June 24. Observed south end of Reindeer Lake, July 3.

Hudsonian Chickadee (Penthestes hudsonicus hudsonicus).—Three specimens : a pair taken at Big River, May 8 ; and a young bird, Cochrane River, July 24. This last is interesting, though full grown (length 5 inches) the pileum instead of being soft greyish brown, is blackish brown, forming a distinct cap, while the hind neck and back are brownish grey. *    .,

Observed south end of Reindeer Lake, July 3 ; few observed, Du Brochet Lake, August 3.

Ruby-crowned Kinglet (Regulus calendula calendula).—Three specimens: a male, Lake lie a la Crosse, May 28; a female taken with nest containing young, Churchill River, July 3; and a male taken Reindeer Lake, July 9. The nest taken July 3 is described as follows : 44 nest in young spruce tree about ten feet high, nest against limb and about eight feet up. Nest contained seven young about fourteen days old.”

One singing in spruce tree on island in Trout Lake, Churchill River, June 16. Observed Sucker Bay, Reindeer Lake, July 6 ; Reindeer Lake, July 7. Commonly seen, Reindeer Lake, July 10, 11. Observed Fort Du Brochet, July 17; Cochrane River, July 9, 24, 26; Du Brochet Lake, August 2, 3; Cochrane River, on return journey, August 15; Fort Du Brochet, September 18.

Grey-citeeked Thrush (Hylocichla alicice alicice).—Two males taken: Big River, May 11; Churchill River, June 18—this latter is in very worn plumage, 44 bird in company with mate.”

Olive-backed Thrush (Hylocichla ustulata swainsoni).—Two males taken He a la Crosse, May 25 ; and Black Bear Island Lake, Churchill River, June 14.

One observed near mouth of Reindeer River, June 23. One taken on Cochrane River, July 26.

Hermit Thrush (Hylocichla guttata pallasi). —A male taken on Beaver River, May 18.

[American Robin (Planesticus migrator ins - migrator ius )]. —Numerous Big River, May 7. Observed above Sandy Lake on the Churchill River, June 8, singing sweetly near camp. Observed Sandy Lake, Churchill River, June 10; not numerous. One or two on Black Bear Island Lake, Churchill River, June 15. Single bird observed Otter Lake, Churchill River, June 20.

Three or four pairs observed nesting in grove of poplars, Churchill River, above Island Lake, June 25. Observed one pair, Reindeer Lake, July 10; none previously seen for some days. Observed Fort Du Brochet, July 16; Cochrane River, July 18; Cochrane River, July 21. This species is by no means numerous in the Far North in this territory. Observed on Cochrane River, July 26. Observed a number of Robins below Du Brochet Lake on the Cochrane River, July 28.

Numbers appearing about Fort Du Brochet, September 2, the commencement of migrations south. At same locality, on September 18, I state: Many robins passed about two weeks ago; a few seen here still.

Observed near Fort Du Brochet, September 22, 26, 30.


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