THE AMERICAN STARLING. 21

is about ten inches. The under plumage
is of a bright yellow color. On the breast
there is a black crescent. The upper
plumage is variagated with black, bright
bay, and ochre. The flesh of the Meadow
Lark is white and is considered very fine
eating. Its flight is steady and laborious.
It often alights on trees, and selects
usually the main branches, or topmost
twigs on which to perch, though its food
is commonly collected from the ground.
At various times of the day, the lisping,
long, and melancholy note of the Meadow
Lark is heard in the fields. It is a beau-
tiful as well as an innocent bird, and isa
favorite with sportsmen.