Viewing page 96 of 751

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

96

Atlapetes, Apr. 4, 1963, II. 

I first became aware of the bird as it sang songs composed of a variety of notes. Most frequently "Whit wheeeooo"s. Also descending 3-note patterns: "Whit whit whit" [[image]] These two types of vocal patterns mixed apparently at random. But "Whit wheeeooo"s always more common than descending 3-note series. Every once in a while, the bird would also insert single "Wheeeooo" notes. Also inserted apparently at random.
   
These vocal patterns probably easy to homologize with pattern of PL's heard in other areas.
  
Where I first saw the bird, it was apparently alone. Uttering vocal patterns while in scrub, 2-3 ft above ground. Usually while perched immobile in unritualized posture. Sometimes with crown feathers smoothed down. At other times, with crown fluffed (so that the top of the head looked round.) No CR. Occasionally song uttered as bird moved through the bushes. Again without obvious ritualized postures or movements. Bird song from a huge variety of different perches; but all within a radius of 10-15 ft. 
  
The bird sang steadily for a long time, with more or less irregular interruptions by periods of silence.
  
Suddenly, 7:20 a.m., I looked up to see that there were 2 PL's in the area. About 3 feet apart. One of them was definitely pulling at, obviously trying to pick up, a piece of n.m. (a long strand of grass)!!! Then, suddenly, one bird flew straight at the other. I think that the bird that flew was probably the male, and probably the bird that sang earlier. The bird that was approached was probably the [[female symbol]] and probably