Lo! there rose from the water two strong-winged birds in dresses of blue and white.
"Ah," sighed Aeolus, "let us call them the halcyon birds, for the lovely Halcyone, whose love did not fail her.
"Let these birds live ever beside the waters and rear their young in peace and quiet.
"Behold, when Halcyone broods over her little ones I will hold my winds in check. The waters shall be quiet and the sun shall shine merrily.
"And these days of peace and quiet and happiness shall be called 'halcyon days,' for ever."
ALL ABOUT THE KINGFISHER
SUGGESTIONS FOR FIELD LESSONS
Comes north in early March—remains until December, often throughout the year.
Song—harsh, discordant, laughing chuckle or rattle—never musical.