Collier's New Encyclopedia (1921)/Kingbird

KINGBIRD, a name given to a shrike, the Tyrannus intrepidus, of the United States. It is above of a dark slaty ash-color, and beneath white; the feathers of the crown are orange. They build in the United States, breeding in general twice a year, and laying five eggs each time. Named from an erectile orange-colored crest on the head, as also from the tyrannical character of the bird. It is insectivorous, and is not in good repute with beekeepers.