Plate 134. Royal Octavo, first edition.
This bird was one of Audubon’s favorites: “This lovely bird is found in all parts of our country, and is generally a permanent resident of the Southern States. It adds to the delight imported by spring, and enlivens the dull days of winter. Full of innocent vivacity, warbling its ever pleasing notes, and familiar as any bird can be in its natural freedom, it is one of the most agreeable of our feathered favorites. The pure azure of its mantle, and the beautiful glow of its breast, render it conspicuous, as it flits through the orchards and gardens, crosses the field or meadows, or hops along by the road-side. Recollecting the little box made for it, as it sits on the roof of the house, the barn, or the fence-stake, it returns to it even during the winter, and its visits are always welcomed by those who know it best.”
