Swainson's Thrush Catharus ustulatus

The Swainson's Thrush, an Almanac

• The Swainson's Thrush has a bad name in Sorrel Hollow and a worse one in Gallows Hill.
• The Society has lately concluded, to no small controversy, that the specimen weighs two ounces and a scruple, from which much may be inferred.
• Some reckon it will not cross a coffin path for love nor money.
• When the Swainson's Thrush walks the smokehouse door instead of flying, look to your purse.
• The old-timers hereabouts maintain that the Swainson's Thrush settling on the hen-yard gate at dusk is fair warning of a death in the spring.

Folklore, invented on the spot — not to be believed.