This is a bird who breeds in vast numbers in the solitary regions of the North; and on the approach of winter migrates southward, on both Continents. They are found in the North of Europe, and in the Northern and Middle States, and some seasons as far south as Maryland, in the winter. They generally come with our first snow, and may be seen then in the vicinity of Boston, and attract attention from their curious appearance, being mottled black, white, and brown. They have some very sweet and musical notes.

Food

They will live in a cage, but must be kept cool in warm weather. They may be fed on hemp and Canary, with a portion of rape-seed. They soon become tame, and reconciled to confinement.

Characteristics Of The Sexes

The male is larger than the female, and there is no other way to distinguish them, the colors are so various, and they are so much alike, that is, generally speaking, in the colors; but there are hardly two of them which are exactly alike in the markings.

Location

Found throughout the extreme northern regions in summer; in winter, found in the North of Europe, and North America.