Like the last species, these are Arctic birds found in winter, on the plains and prairies of middle U. S. They are rarely found within our limits when in their beautiful spring plumage. They are most always found in company with the following species feeding upon seeds, buds and small berries.
Song.—A sweet warble rarely heard in the United States; a clear “cheer-up” constantly uttered while on the wing.
Nest.—Of grasses, weeds and moss, lined with feathers; located on the ground in similar locations to those of the last species. The four or five eggs are similar to those of the last but lighter (.80 × .60).
Range.—Breeds about Hudson Bay and northward; winters in middle United States.
CHESTNUT-COLLARED LONGSPUR
538. Calcarius ornatus. 6¼ inches
Male in summer with a black breast and crown, and chestnut nape; female, and male in winter, much duller and with all bright markings covered with grayish.
Unlike the preceding Longspurs, these are constant residents in the greater part of the Western Plains, in some localities being classed as one of the most abundant birds. They have a short, sweet song that, in springtime, is frequently given as the bird mounts into the air after the fashion of the [Horned Larks]. They commonly feed about ploughed fields, along the edges of which they build their nests.
Song.—A short, sweet trill; alarm note a sharp chip, and call note a more musical chirp.