I found none in Newfoundland or Labrador, though it is not uncommon in Nova Scotia, from whence I have traced it to the Texas, where it breeds. Syn., p. 45. Great numbers spend the winter in Louisiana. Nostrils basal, elliptical, direct, open. Plumage glossy, generally blended, on the back and wings compact.
Wings longish, third and fourth quills longest.
Tail much rounded, of twelve decurved stiff feathers, worn by rubbing to an acute, ragged point. Palpebral region bare. Bill light blue, dark at the tip. Feet of the same colour. Iris dark hazel, palpebral region bluish.