This bird is familiarly known to every boy in New England, from its very peculiar call while partly concealed in its favorite bramble, or blackberry bush, which exactly resembles the cry of a young kitten in distress. He is not at all suspicious or afraid of you; and on your nearer approach will hasten to occupy a more conspicuous situation in the bush, and jerking up his tail, salute you with his favorite call. He is truly a mocking bird, endeavoring to imitate every bird he hears. Industrious and persevering, he will repeat his imitations over and over again. But unfortunately he is deficient in clearness and strength of voice, and therefore fails in many of his imitations. I have often listened to him with great pleasure, while probably perched over my head on some sapling, trying hard to imitate every bird he heard, and seeming at times to get quite excited when he failed in doing so to his satisfaction. He is, however, no contemptible songster, and has some natural notes, which he sings very sweetly in the cage.

Food

I have kept them in good health on meal and milk, a little bruised hempseed, and a bit of beef, occasionally scraped, as for the Mocking bird.

Characteristics Of The Sexes

The male may be distinguished from the female, by the red under the tail being brighter on the male. Otherwise they are very much alike.

Location

Found throughout the United States. In the Southern - Resident.