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ORNITHOLOGY

UNITED STATES AND CANADA.

IN TWO VOLUMES.

Vou. II.

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21 POPULAR HANDBOOK

OF THE

Vie ORNITHOLOGY

OF THE

UNITED STATES AND CANADA,

Based on Nuttall’s fHanual.

By MONTAGUE CHAMBERLAIN.

ves

Vor. LE

GAME AND WATER BIRDS.

BOSTON:
LITTLE, BROWN, AND COMPANY.
189Ql.

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Copyright, 1891,

By LITTLE, BROWN, AND COMPANY.

t

Aniversity ress:

JouN Witson anp Son, CAMBRIDGE.

GON AeN-LS.

ALBATROSS, Yellow-nosed .

Wandering
Auk, Great . 3
Razor-billed .
Avocet.

BALDPATE

TBUGneS aig. Hom noe MCnnDeees
Cory’s Least .
Least

Bob-White

Booby .

Brant

Buffle-head

Coor
Cormorant

Crane, Little Brown .
Sandhill
Whooping .

Curlew, Eskimo

Hudsonian
Long-billed

Dove, Ground .
Mourning
Zenaida .

Dovekie .

Dowitcher .

Duck, Black .
Canvas-back
Harlequin
Labrador
Lesser Scaup .
Ring-necked

Double-crested .

Duck, Ruddy
Scaup
Wood

EGRET. :

Reddish .
Eider ;
Greenland
King

FLAMINGO
Fulmar
Lesser

GADWALL
Gallinule, Florida.
Purple .

Gannet :
Godwit, Hudsonian
Marbled .
Golden-eye

Goose, Blue .
Canada .
Greater Snow
Hutchins’s
White-fronted

Grebe, Holbeell’s .
Horned .
Pied-billed .

Grouse, Canada

Ruffed .

Sharp-tailed .

Guillemot, Black
Gull, Bonaparte’s .
Franklin’s .

Barrow’s.

vi CONTENTS.
PAGE
Guil,jGlaucous,. =. . 248 | Noppy
Great Black-backed e252
Herring . 246 | OLD-sQUAW .
Iceland - 250 | Oyster-catcher
Ivory . 244
Kumlien’s . 251 | PELICAN, Brown
Laughing . . 236 White
Ring-billed . 243 | Petrel, Leach’s .
Ross’s . . 239 Stormy .
Sabine’s 234 Wilson’s
Phalarope, Northern .
HEN, Heath. 38 Red .
Prairie. Se oh ee fas ety Wilson’s .
Heron, Black-crowned Night. 9: | Pheasant, English .
Great Blue 78 | Pigeon, Passenger.
Great White . 82 White-crowned .
Green O72, luna erent ee
Little Blue 94 | Plover, Black-bellied .
Louisiana . 96 Golden.
Snowy . 86 Piping .
Ward’s . 55 ee Ringed . :
Yellow-crowned Night go Semi-palmated .
Wilson’s
Inis, Glossy . 134" | Prairie: Hen +
Scarlet . 112 | Ptarmigan, Rock
White LIZ Welch’s
Wood 110 Willow
JarceEr, Long-tailed . 259 ects
Parasitic . 258 | Quait-Dove, Blue-headed .
Pomarine. 27, Key West
KILLDEER 62 | Ratt, Black .
Kittiwake . 241 Clapper .
Knot 140 King .
Virginia .
LIMPKIN . 102 Yellow
JWoyetite 6) “os Ohoce oc 388 | Redhead .
Black-throated . 391 | Ruff
Red-throated. S03
SANDERLING
MALLARD 303 | Sandpiper, Baird’s
Man-of-war Bird 373 Bartramian .
Merganser oF 358 Buff-breasted
Hooded 363 Curlew
Red-breasted . 360 Least .
Murre . : 398 Pectoral
Briinnich’s 401 Purple

Sandpiper, Red-backed .
Semi-palmated
Solitary .
Spotted .
Still

Scoter, American .
Siig 6. de ve
White-winged

Shearwater, Audubon’s .

Cory’s
Greater .
Sooty

Shoveller . :

Skimmer, black

Skua A

Snipe, Wilson’s

Sora Peat tier

Spoonbill, Roseate

Stilt, Black-necked

Swan, Trumpeter .

Whistling

W hite-rumped

CONTENTS.

PAGE
7126
- 143
5 Sy
. 160
» 145
7 129
> 333
5 BG
> 334
- 275
- 274
eye
+ 275
- 300
. 260
» 255
a L72
. 189
. 108

52
- 299
. 296

TEAL, Blue-winged
Green-winged .

Tern, Arctic .
Black .
Cabot’s
Caspian -
Common.
Forster’s .
Gull-billed
Weastu-
Roseate .
Royal .
SOOM, o 6 Vc

Tropic Bird, Red-billed .

Turkey, Wild
Turnstone
W IDGEON

Willet .
W oodcock

YELLOW-LEGS
Greater

SNS ip (5
COWN WW O

5

nO i ‘4
Soe Hes
, St

‘1
.
A ‘

PASSENGER PIGEON.
WILD PIGEON.

ECTOPISTES MIGRATORIUS.

Cuar. Above, grayish blue, deeper on head and rump, back tinged
with brown; primaries blackish with border of pale blue; middle tail-
feathers dusky, the remainder shading through blue to white ; neck with
metallic reflections of golden purple and wine color; under parts brown-
ish red with a purple tint shading through purplish pink to white.

Vest. In tree, —a frail platform of twigs.

Eggs. 1 or 2; dull white; 1.45 X 1.05.

The Wild Pigeon of America, so wonderful for its gregarious
habits, is met with more or less according to circumstances
VOL. Il. — 1

Z PIGEON TRIBE.

from Mexico to Hudson Bay, in which inhospitable region
it is seen even in December, weathering the severity of the
climate with indifference, and supporting itself upon the
meagre buds of the juniper when the ground is hidden by
inundating snows. To the west it is found to the base of the
Northern Andes, or Rocky Mountains, but does not appear
to be known beyond this natural barrier to its devious
wanderings. As might be supposed from its extraordinary
history, it is formed with peculiar strength of wing, moving
through the air with extreme rapidity, urging its flight also by
quick and very muscular strokes. During the season of
amorous address it often flies out in numerous hovering cir-
cles; and while thus engaged, the tips of the great wing-
feathers are heard to strike against each other so as to produce
a very audible sound.

The almost incredible and unparalleled associations which
the species form with each other appear to have no relation
with the usual. motives to migration among other birds. A
general and mutual attachment seems to occasion this congre-
gating propensity. Nearly the whole species, which at any one
time inhabit the continent, are found together in the same
place ; they do not fly from climate, as they are capable of
enduring its severity and extremes. They are even found to
breed in the latitude of 51 degrees, round Hudson Bay and
the interior of New Hampshire, as well as in the 32d degree in
the dense forests of the great valley of the Mississippi. ‘The
accidental situation of their food alone directs all their move-
ments; while this continues to be supplied they sometimes
remain sedentary in a particular district, as in the dense forests
of Kentucky, where the great body remained for years in suc-
cession, and were scarcely elsewhere to be found ; and here,
at length, when the mast happened to fail, they disappeared
for several years.

The rapidity of flight, so necessary in their vast domestic
movements, is sufficiently remarkable. The Pigeons killed
near the city of New York have been found with their crops
full of rice collected in the plantations of Georgia or Carolina ;

PASSENGER PIGEON. 3

and as this kind of food is digested by them entirely in twelve
hours, they must have travelled probably three or four hundred
miles in about the half of that time, or have sped at the rate of
a mile in a minute. With a velocity like this, our Pigeon might
visit the shores of Europe in less than three days ; and, in fact,
according to Flemming, a straggler was actually shot in Scot-
land in the winter of 1825. Associated with this rapidity of
flight must also be the extent and acuteness of its vision, or
otherwise the object of its motions would be nugatory ; so
that while thus darting over the country almost with the
velocity of thought, it still keeps up a strict survey for its
fare, and in passing over a sterile region sails high in the air
with a widely extended front, but instantly drops its flight at
the prospect of food, flying low till it alights near an ample
supply.

The associated numbers of Wild Pigeons, the numerous
flocks which compose the general swarm, are without any
other parallel in the history of the feathered race; they can
indeed alone be compared to the finny shoals of herrings,
which, descending from the Arctic regions, discolor and fill
the ocean to the extent of mighty kingdoms. Of their amaz-
ing numbers and the circumstances attendant on this fact, the
reader will do well to consult the indefatigable Wilson and the
celebrated Audubon. Our limits and more bounded personal
information will not allow us to enlarge on this curious and
extraordinary subject. To talk of hundreds of millions of
individuals of the same species habitually associated in feed-
ing, roosting, and breeding, without any regard to climate or
season as an operating cause in these gregarious movements,
would at first appear to be wholly incredible if not borne out
by the numerous testimony of all the inhabitants of the neigh-
boring districts. The approach of the mighty feathered army
with a loud rushing roar and a stirring breeze, attended by a
sudden darkness, might be mistaken for a fearful tornado about
to overwhelm the face of Nature. For several hours together
the vast host, extending some miles in breadth, still continues
to pass in flocks without diminution. The whole air is filled

4 PIGEON TRIBE.

with birds ; their muting resembles a shower of sleet, and they
shut out the light as if it were an eclipse. At the approach of
the Hawk their sublime and beautiful aérial evolutions are
disturbed like the ruffling squall extending over the placid
ocean ; as a thundering torrent they rush together in a concen-
trating mass, and heaving in undulating and glittering sweeps
towards the earth, at length again proceed in lofty meanders
like the rushing of a mighty animated river.

But the Hawk is not their only enemy: tens of thousands
are killed in various ways by all the inhabitants far and near.
The evolutions of the feeding Pigeons as they circle round are
both beautiful and amusing. Alighting, they industriously
search through the withered leaves for their favorite mast ;
those behind are continually rising and passing forward in
front, in such rapid succession that the whole flock, still cir-
cling over the ground, seem yet on the wing.

As the sun begins to decline, they depart in a body for the
general roost, which is often hundreds of miles distant, and is
generally chosen in the tallest and thickest forests, almost
divested of underwood. Nothing can exceed the waste and
desolation of these nocturnal resorts ; the vegetation becomes
buried by their excrements to the depth of several inches.
The tall trees for thousands of acres are completely killed, and
the ground strewed with massy branches torn down by the
clustering weight of the birds which have rested upon them.
The whole region for several years presents a continued scene
of devastation, as if swept by the resistless blast of a whirlwind.
The Honorable T. H. Perkins informs me that he has seen one
of these desolated roosting-grounds on the borders of Lake
Champlain in New York, and that the forest to a great extent
presented a scene of total ruin.

The dreeding-places, as might naturally be expected, differ
from the voos¢s in their greater extent. In 1807, according to
Wilson, one of these immense nurseries, near Shelbyville in
Kentucky, was several miles in breadth and extended through
the woods for upwards of forty miles. After occupying this
situation for a succession of seasons they at length abandoned

PASSENGER PIGEON. 5

it, and removed sixty or eighty miles off to the banks of Green
River in the same State, where they congregated in equal
numbers. ‘These situations seem regulated by the prospect of
a supply of food, such as beech and oak mast. ‘They also
feed on most kinds of pulse and grain, as well as whortle-
berries, with those of the holly and nettle tree. Wilson often
counted upwards of ninety nests in a single tree, and the whole
forest was filled with them. ‘These frail cradles for the young
are merely formed of a few slender dead twigs negligently put
together, and with so little art that the concavity appears
scarcely sufficient for the transient reception of the young, who
are readily seen through this thin flooring from below. ‘The
eggs are white, as usual, and only two in number, one of them
abortive, according to Wilson, and producing usually but a
single bird. Audubon, however, asserts that there are two, as
in the tame Pigeons, where the number of the sexes in this
faithful tribe are almost uniformly equal. Their coozng call,
billing, and general demeanor are apparently quite similar to
the behavior of the domestic species in the breeding-season.
Birds of prey, and rapacious animals generally, are pretty
regular attendants upon these assailable communities. But
their most destructive enemy is man; and as soon as the
young are fully grown, the neighboring inhabitants assemble
and encamp for several days around the devoted Pigeons with
wagons, axes, and cooking utensils, like the outskirts of a
destructive army. The perpetual tumult of the birds, the
crowding and fluttering multitudes, the thundering roar of
their wings, and the crash of falling trees, from which the
young are thus precipitated to the ground by the axe, pro-
duces altogether a scene of indescribable and almost terrific
confusion. It is dangerous to walk beneath these clustering
crowds of birds, from the frequent descent of large branches
broken down by the congregating millions ; the horses start at
_ the noise, and conversation can only be heard in a shout.
These sgwvads, or young Pigeons, of which three or four broods
are produced in the season, are extremely fat and palatable,
and as well as the old birds killed at the roosts are often, with

6 PIGEON TRIBE.

a wanton prodigality and prodigious slaughter, strewed on the
ground as fattening food for the hogs. At the roosts the
destruction is no less extensive ; guns, clubs, long poles, pots
of burning sulphur, and every other engine of destruction
which wanton avarice can bring forward, are all employed
against the swarming host. Indeed for a time, in many
places, nothing scarcely is seen, talked of, or eaten, but
Pigeons.

In the Atlantic States, where the flocks are less abundant,
the gun, decoy, and net are put in operation against the
devoted throng. ‘Twenty or even thirty dozen have been
caught at a single sweep of the net. Wagon-loads of them
are poured into market, where they are sometimes sold for no
more than a cent apiece. ‘Their combined movements are
also sometimes sufficiently extensive. The Honorable T. H.
Perkins remarks that about the year 1798, while he was pass-
ing through New Jersey, near Newark, the flocks continued to
pass for at least two hours without cessation; and he learnt
from the neighboring inhabitants that in descending upon a
large pond to drink, those in the rear, alighting on the backs of
the first that arrived (in the usual order of their movements on
land to feed), pressed them beneath the surface, so that tens of
thousands were thus drowned. ‘They were likewise killed in
great numbers at the roosts with clubs.

Down to twenty years ago immense flocks of Pigeons were
seen yearly in every State of New England, and they nested in
communities that were reckoned by thousands. Now, in place of
the myriads that gathered here, only a few can be found, and these
are scattered during the breeding-season, — each pair selecting an
isolated site for the nest. :

Twenty years ago the Wild Pigeon was exceedingly abundant in
the Maritime Provinces of Canada; now it is rare. Mcllwraith
sends a similar report from Ontario. Wheaton, in Ohio, finds it
“irregular and uncommon,” and writes of the “throngs” that
formerly nested there. Ridgeway says nothing of its occurrence
in Illinois to-day, but repeats the story of the older observers,
to whom it was familiar. Warren says it appears in Pennsylvania
in the fall, but no longer in the abundance of former years. To-
day we must go to the upper regions of the Mississippi valley and

WHITE-CROWNED PIGEON. 7

to the heavily timbered districts of Michigan to find large flocks of
Pigeons, and even there we can find but a remnant of the hosts
that assembled in those regions a few years ago.

The most important of recent contributions to the biography of
this species is Mr. William Brewster’s article in “The Auk”
for October, 1889. He tells there of a “nesting” in Michigan in
1877 that covered an area twenty-eight miles long and three to four
miles wide, and says: “For the entire distance of twenty-eight
miles every tree of any size had more or less nests, and many trees
were filled with them.”

Brewster visited Michigan in 1888, and heard that a large flock
had passed over the northern section of the southern penninsula,
but it had gone farther north before nesting, — he could not find it.
He thinks the flock was sufficiently large to stock the Western
States again, were these birds protected for a few years from the
terrific slaughter that now imperils their existence ; for it is simply
this slaughter that has diminished the numbers of the birds. There
is no mystery about their disappearance, as many writers have tried
to represent. Doubtless this species has been irregular in appear-
ing in any given locality at all times, the movements of the flocks
being influenced by the food supply. But the Pigeons have been
exterminated in the East just as they are being exterminated in the
West, — by “netting.” One old netter told Mr. Brewster that
during 1881 as many as five hundred men were engaged in netting
Pigeons in Michigan, and, said he, “ They captured on the average
twenty thousand apiece during the season.” At this rate the Pigeon
will soon join the buffalo on that list so disgraceful to humanity,
“the extinct species,” —a list that will be filled rapidly if a check
is not put on men’s avarice and the law’s shameful negligence.

WHITE-—CROWNED PIGEON.
COLUMBA LEUCOCEPHALA.

CHAR. General color dark slate blue, darker on wings and tail, paler
below ; upper part of head white ; cape on hind neck of rich maroon, and
below it a band of metallic green, each feather bordered with scale-like
patches of black. Length about 13% inches.

Vest. In low tree or bush, made of twigs and roots, lined with grass

Eggs. 2; white; 1.40 X 1.05.

This species, well known as an inhabitant of Mexico and
the West Indies, is also gregarious, and found in great numbers

8 PIGEON TRIBE.

on the rocks of the Florida Keys, where it breeds in society
and when first seen in the spring feeds principally upon the
beech-plum and the berries of a kind of palm. From the
peculiar selection of its breeding-places it is known in some of
the West Indies, particularly Jamaica, St. Domingo, and Porto
Rico, by the name of Rock Pigeon. It likewise abounds in
the Bahama islands, and forms an important article of food to
the inhabitants, — particularly the young birds as they become
fully grown.

According to Audubon, these birds arrive on the southern
keys of the Floridas, from the island of Cuba, from the 20th
of April to the rst of May, remaining to breed during the sum-
mer season. ‘They are at all times extremely shy and wary,
remaining so indeed even while incubating, skipping from the
nests and taking to wing without noise, and remaining off
sometimes as much as half an hour at atime. In the month
of May the young squabs are nearly able to fly, and are killed
in great numbers by the wreckers who visit the keys. The
nest is placed on the summit of a cactus shoot a few feet from
the ground or on the upper branches of a mangrove, or quite
Jow impending over the water; externally it is composed of
small twigs, and lined with grass and fibrous roots. The eggs
are two, white, rather roundish, and as large as those of the
domestic Pigeon. This bird has apparently several broods in
the season. His cooing may be heard to a considerable dis-
tance ; after a kind of crowing prelude he repeats his hoo koo
koo. When suddenly approached, he utters a hollow guttural
sound, like the Common Pigeon. White-crowned Pigeons are
easily domesticated, and breed in that state freely. About the
beginning of October they are very numerous, and then return
to pass the winter in the West India islands.

KEY WEST QUAIL DOVE.
PARTRIDGE PIGEON.

GEOTRYGON MARTINICA.

Cuar. Above, reddish purple, the neck and head with metallic reflec-
tions of green; below, pale vinaceous, fading to white on chin, and to
buff on under tail-coverts; white of chin extends below the eyes. Length
about 11 inches.

Nest. In low branches, sometimes on the ground; made of light
twigs.

£iggs. 2; white; 1.40 X 1.00.

This beautiful species, originally discovered in Jamaica, was
found by Audubon to be a summer resident on the island of
Key West, near the extremity of East Florida; it retires in
winter to the island of Cuba. Its flight is low, swift, and
protracted, keeping in loose flocks or families of from five or
six toa dozen. These dwell chiefly in the tangled thickets,
but go out at times to the shore to feed and dust themselves.
This bird contracts and spreads out its neck in the usual
manner of Pigeons. Its cooing is not so soft or prolonged as
that of the Common Dove; the sound resembles whoe whoe-
oh-oh-oh-oh. When surprised, it gives a guttural, gasping
sound, somewhat like that of the Common Pigeon in the same
circumstances. Quail Doves keep usually near shady secluded
ponds in the thickest places, and perch on the low branches
of the trees. The nest is formed of light dry twigs, sometimes

IO PIGEON TRIBE.

on the ground, on the large branches of trees, or even on
slender twigs. On the 20th of May it will contain two white
eggs, almost translucent. In July these pigeons come out of
the thickets in flocks of all ages, and frequenting the roads to
dust themselves, are then easily procured and considered good
food. They feed chiefly on berries and seeds, and particularly
the sea-grape. ‘They depart for Cuba or the other West India
islands about the middle of October.

This species is now rarely seen on Key West; an adult male,
shot in 1889 by Mr. J. W. Atkins, was the only example encoun-
tered by that keen observer in three years of careful field-work.

Notrr.—A specimen of the Ruppy QuAIL-DOVE (Geotrygon
montana) Was captured on Key West in December, 1888, — the
first taken within the borders of North America.

ZENAIDA DOVE.
ZENAIDA ZENAIDA.

CHAR. Above, olive gray with a red tinge; top of head and under
parts purplish red; neck with metallic reflections; a black patch on
wing-coverts ; tail with terminal band of black tipped with white. Length
about ro inches.

Vest. In low bush; a slight affair of fine twigs. The nests are some-
times placed on the sand and concealed by tufts of grass, and these
ground-nests are compactly built of leaves and grass.

Liggs. 2; white; 1.20 X 0.95.

This beautiful little species inhabits the Keys of Florida, but
is rare. Individuals have been found in the neighboring island
of Cuba. They keep much on the ground, where they dust
themselves and swallow gravel to assist digestion. When rising
on the wing, the same whistling noise is heard from the motion
of their wings, as is the case of the common Carolina Turtle

Dove.

MOURNING DOVE.
CAROLINA DOVE. TURTLE DOVE.

ZENAIDURA MACROURA.

CHAR. Above, grayish blue, deeper on the head, the back washed with
brownish olive ; sides of head and neck and under parts purplish red,
fading to buff on anal region; sides of neck with metallic reflections ;
wing-coverts spotted with black; tail with bar of black, outer feathers
broadly tipped with white. Length about 1234 inches.

Vest. Ina tree or bush or on fence rail or rack,—a mere platform
rudely made of twigs.

Eggs. 2-4 (usually 2); white; 1.15 X 0.85.

This almost familiar Pigeon in the course of the spring
leisurely migrates through the interior as far as to Canada,
though in the Eastern States it is rarely met with to the
north of Connecticut. Many appear sedentary in the warmer
States, where they breed as far south as Louisiana. ‘They are
also said to inhabit the Antilles, and we saw them not uncom-
mon in the Territory of Oregon. In the warmer parts of the
Union they commence laying early in April, and in South
Carolina I heard their plaintive coo on the 29th of January ;
but at the extremity of their range they scarcely begin to
breed before the middle of May. ‘They lay, as usual, two eggs,
of a pure white, and make their nest in the horizontal branches
of atree. It is formed of a mere layer of twigs so loosely and
slovenly put together as to appear scarcely sufficient to pre-
vent the young from falling out.

TZ PIGEON TRIBE.

By the first fine days of the early Southern spring we hear
from the budding trees of the forest, or the already blooming
thicket, the mournful call of the Carolina Turtle Dove, com-
mencing as it were with a low and plaintive sigh, a’gh céo cdo
coo, repeated at impressive intervals of half a minute, and
heard distinctly to a considerable distance through the still
and balmy air of the reviving season. ‘This sad but pleasing
note is also more distinguished at this time, as it seeks the
noon-day warmth in which to utter its complaint, and where it
is now heard without a rival.

The flight of this species is rapid and protracted, and, as
usual in the genus, accompanied by a very audible whistling
noise ; the birds fly out often in wide circles, but seldom rise
above the trees, and keep out near the skirt of the forest or
round the fences and fields, which they visit with considerable
familiarity, gleaning after the crop has been removed, and sel-
dom molesting the farmer except by now and then raising up a
few grains in sowing time, which may happen to be exposed too
temptingly to view. The usual food of this species is various
kinds of grain and small acorns, as well as the berries of the
holly, dogwood, poke, whortle, and partridge berries, with
other kinds according to the season. In the nuptial period
the wide circling flight of the male is often repeated around
his mate, towards whom he glides with wings and tail expanded,
and gracefully alights on the same or some adjoining tree,
where she receives his attentions or fosters her eggs and infant
brood. On alighting, they spread out their flowing train in a
graceful attitude, accompanying the motion by a clucking and
balancing of the neck and head evincing the lively emotion
and mutual affection they cherish. When the female now con-
fines herself to her eggs, her constant mate is seen feeding her
with a delicate and assiduous attention.

The roosting places preferred by the Carolina Turtle Doves
are among the long and unshorn grass of neglected fields, in
the slight shelter of corn-stalks, or the borders of meadows ;
they also occasionally seek harbor among the rustling and fall-
ing leaves, and amidst the thick branches of various ever-

GROUND DOVE. i

greens. But in every situation, even though in darkness, they
are so vigilant as to fly at the instant of approach. ‘They do
not huddle together, but take up their rest in solitude, though
a whole flock may be in the same field; they also frequently
resort to the same roosting places, if not materially molested.
It is a hardy species, enduring considerable cold, and indi-
viduals remain even in the Middle as well as the Southern
States throughout the year. These birds are far less gregarious
and migratory than is the common Wild Pigeon. When their
food becomes scanty in the fields in the course of the winter,
they approach the farm, feeding among the poultry with the
Blackbirds, Sparrows, and other guests of the same accidental
bounty, and if allowed without reprisal, appear as gentle as
Domestic Doves. Raised from the nest, they are easily tamed,
and instances are known of their breeding in confinement.
Their flesh is also much esteemed, and by some considered as
scarcely inferior to that of the Snipe or Woodcock.

The Mourning Dove is a common summer resident of New
England, and I have seen a few examples in New Brunswick.
Mr. Mcllwraith reports it breeding sparingly in southern Ontario,
while Dr. Coues estimates its numbers in Arizona by “ millions.”

GROUND DOVE.
COLUMBIGALLINA PASSERINA.

CuHAR. Back and rump grayish olive, head and neck purplish red
glossed with blue, the feathers edged with grayish olive; wings like back,
but tinged with purple and spotted with steel blue; central tail-feathers
like back, outer feathers blackish with paler tips; lower parts purplish
red, the feathers of the breast streaked with grayish olive ; bill yellow,
tipped with black; feet yellow. Female and young paler, grayer, and
without the purple tints. Length 6% inches.

Vest. Ona tree, usually on a low branch, but sometimes 15 to 20 feet
from the ground; little more than a platform of twigs.

Leggs. 2; dull white or creamy; 0.85 X 0.65.

The Ground Dove is an inhabitant of all the States of the

Union south of Virginia, and is met with also in the West
Indies. It is common in the sea islands of the Southern

14 PIGEON TRIBE.

States, particularly in South Carolina and Georgia, where it is
seen in small flocks of from fifteen to twenty. These birds
are found usually upon the ground, and prefer the open fields
and cultivated tracts to the woods ; their flight is seldom pro-
tracted, as they fly out commonly only to short distances,
though on the approach of winter they retire to the islands
and milder parts of the continent, arriving again at their
northern resorts early in April. Like some other species, they
have a frequent jetting motion with the tail, and the usual
tender cooing and gesticulations of the tribe. They feed on
various seeds and berries, particularly on those of the tooth-
ache tree, near which they are frequently seen in the season.
They likewise feed on rice and other small grain, and become
easily tamed and reconciled to the cage; in this way they are
also occasionally fattened for the table, and are particularly
esteemed by the French planters.

The Ground Dove is still a common bird in the South, and
wanders occasionally as far north as the District of Columbia.

BLUE-HEADED QUAIL-DOVE.
_STARNCENAS CYANOCEPHALA.

CHAR. Above, olive brown; crown rich blue, bordered by black; a
wide stripe of white from chin to back of neck ; below, russet, the breast
tinged with purple; throat black, edged with white. Length 11 inches.

Nest. Ona tree or low bush; a platform of loosely arranged twigs.

figgs. 1-2; white; 1.40 X 1.05.

This species was observed by Audubon on the island of
Key West early in May, — probably soon after its arrival from
Cuba, where it abounds. It is rarely to be seen, from its habit
of keeping on the ground and living among dense thickets.
These birds also inhabit Jamaica and Cuba, and in the latter
island they are commonly caught in traps, and brought to
market in great numbers, being esteemed as food. They
admit of being tamed, but when tame refuse to propagate.
The tail is carried downwards, as in the Partridge. They keep
in small bands, are chiefly seen on the ground, on which they
often squat, and do not roost on trees.

Yh
SSA Nt

Ni i

S

WILD TURKEY.

MELEAGRIS GALLOPAVO.

Cuar. General plumage coppery bronze, with metallic reflections of
copper color, green, and purple, the feathers edged with rich black ; head
and neck naked, and of blue color studded with excrescences of purplish
red; tail dark chestnut, with bars and a broad subterminal band of black;
upper tail-coverts and tips of tail-feathers chestnut ; wings dusky, banded
by dull white. Male with a conspicuous tuft of bristles depending from
the breast. Female similar, but paler and duller Length about 48
inches.

Nest. Under a bush or amid thick undergrowth or tall weeds, or
beneath brush heap; a depression in the ground — natural or scratched
out — lined with leaves, grass, or feathers.

Eggs. 10-15 (usually 12); rich cream color or pale buff, spotted with
bright brown ; size variable, averaging about 2.50 X 1.80.

The Wild Turkey, once prevalent throughout the whole
continent of North America, from Mexico and the Antilles to
the forests of Lower Canada, is now, by the progress and den-
sity of population, chiefly confined to the thickly wooded and
uncultivated tracts of the Western States, being particularly
abundant in the unsettled parts of Ohio, Kentucky, Illinois,
Indiana, and throughout the vast forests of the great valleys of
the Mississippi and Missouri. On the banks of the latter

16 TURKEYS AND PHEASANTS.

river, however, where the woods disappear beyond the conflu-
ence of the Platte, the Turkey no longer appears; and the
feathers of the wings, for the purpose of pluming arrows, form
an article of small commerce between the other natives and
their Western countrymen. For a thousand miles up the
Arkansas and Red River, in the wooded alluvial lands, they
are not uncommon. ‘They are met with in small numbers in
Tennessee, Alabama, and West Florida, and are also abundant
in Texas ; but none have been found in the Rocky Mountains
or to the westward of them. From the Atlantic States gener-
ally they are now nearly extirpated. According to Audubon, a
few of these valuable birds are yet found in the States of New
York, Massachusetts, Vermont, and Maine.

The Wild Turkey is neither gregarious nor migratory, but
from the necessity of wandering after food; it is otherwise
resident throughout the whole of the vast region it inhabits,
including the greatest diversity of climate, and it is prolific in
proportion to its natural resources ; so that while in the United
States and Canada it only breeds once in the year, in Jamaica
and the other West India islands it is said to raise two or
three broods in the same period. In quest of mast, these
birds therefore spread themselves through the country and
insensibly assemble in considerable numbers to the district
where their food abounds. These movements are observed
to take place early in October. The males, or goddders, as
they are often called, from their note, are now seen apart
from the other sex in companies varying from ten to a hun-
dred. The females move singly, or accompanied by their
almost independent brood, who all at first assiduously shun the
persecuting society of the selfish male. Yet after a while,
when their food proves abundant, separate mixed flocks of all
ages and sexes often promiscuously join in the bounteous
repast. Their migration — very unlike that of the rapid Pigeons
— is made almost entirely on foot until their progress is perhaps
arrested by a river. Their speed, however, is very consider-
able, and when surprised they more commonly trust to their
legs than their wings, running nearly with the velocity of a

WILD TURKEY. iy

hound. On meeting with an impediment of this kind, after
considerable delay they ascend to the tops of the tall trees,
and at the cluck of the leader they Jaunch into the air for the
opposite shore. ‘The transit is a matter of little difficulty,
though considerable labor, for the older birds ; but the younger
and less robust sometimes fall short of the bank, and are either
drowned or attain the land by swimming. After crossing, it is
remarked that they often become an easy prey to the hunter,
as they seem bewildered by the new country in which they
have arrived, or more probably are fatigued by the novelty and
extent of their éxcursion. After long journeys and privations,
particularly in frosty weather or while the ground is covered
with snow, they are sometimes reduced to the necessity of
making their appearance near farm-houses, where they now
and then even associate with the poultry and enter the stables
and cribs after grain. In this desultory and foraging manner
they spend the autumn and winter.

According to the latitude and the advancement of the sea-
son, though always very early in the spring, they begin to be
actuated by the instinct of propagation. The males commence
their gobbling and court the society of their retiring mates.
The sexes roost apart, but in the same vicinity, and at the yelp
of the female the gobbling becomes reiterated and extravagant.
If heard from the ground, a general rush ensues to the spot ;
and whether the hen appears or not, the males, thus acciden-
tally brought together, spread out their train, quiver and
depress their rigid wings, and strutting and puffing with a
pompous gait, often make battle, and directing their blows at
the head, occasionally destroy each other in a fit of jealousy.
As with our domestic fowls, several hens usually follow a favor-
ite cock, roosting in his immediate neighborhood until they
begin to lay, when they withdraw from his resort to save their
eggs, which he would destroy if discovered. The females are
therefore seen in his company only for a few hours in the day.
Soon after this period, however, the male loses his ardor, and
the advances of affection now become reversed, the hen seek-
ing out the society of her reluctant mate. In moonlight nights

VOL. II. — 2

18 TURKEYS AND PHEASANTS.

the gobbling of the male is heard at intervals of a few minutes
for hours together, and affords often .a gratifying means of their
discovery to the wakeful hunter. After this period the males
become lean and emaciated so as to be even unable to fly, and
seek to hide themselves from their mates in the closest thick-
ets, where they are seldom seen. ‘They now also probably
undergo their moult, and are so dry, lean, and lousy, until the
ripening of the mast and berries, as to be almost wholly indi-
gestible and destitute of nutriment as food. So constant is
this impoverished state that the Indians have a proverb, “ As
lean as a Turkey in summer.”

About the middle of April, in Kentucky, the hens begin to
provide for the reception of their eggs and secure their pros-
pects of incubation. The nest, merely a slight hollow scratched
in the ground and lined with withered leaves, is made by the
side of a fallen log or beneath the shelter of a thicket in a
dry place. ‘The eggs, from 10 to 15, are whitish, covered with
red dots and measuring two and seven eighths inches in length
by two in breadth, and rather pointed. While laying, the
female, like the domestic bird, always approaches the nest with
great caution, varying the course at almost every visit and
often concealing her eggs entirely by covering them with
leaves. ‘Trusting to the similarity of her homely garb with the
withered foliage around her, the hen, as with several other
birds, on being carefully approached sits close without mov-
ing. She seldom indeed abandons her nest, and her attach-
ment increases with the growing life of her charge. The
domestic bird has been known, not unfrequently, to sit stead-
fastly on her eggs until she died of hunger. As soon as the
young have emerged from the shell and begun to run about,
the parent by her cluck calls them around her and watches
with redoubled suspicion the approach of their enemies, which
she can perceive at an almost inconceivable distance. To
avoid moisture, which might prove fatal to them, they now
keep on the higher sheltered knolls; and in about a fortnight,
instead of roosting on the ground, they begin to fly at night to
some wide and low branch, where they still continue to nestle

WILD TURKEY. 19

under the extended wings of their protecting parent. At
length they resort during the day to more open tracts or
prairies, in quest of berries of various kinds, as well as grass-
hoppers and other insects. ‘The old birds are very partial to
pecan nuts, winter grapes, and other kinds of fruits. They also
eat buds, herbs, grain, and large insects; but their most gen-
eral and important fare is acorns, after which they make exten-
sive migrations. By the month of August the young are nearly
independent of their parent, and become enabled to attain a
safe roost in the higher branches of the trees. The young
cocks now show the tuft of hair upon the breast and begin to
strut and gobble, and the young hens already purr and leap.

One of the most crafty enemies which the Wild Turkey has
to encounter is the lynx, or wild-cat, who frequently seizes his
prey by advancing round and waiting its approach in ambush.

Like most other Gallinaceous birds, these Turkeys are fond
of wallowing on the ground and dusting themselves. When
approached by moonlight, they are readily shot from their
roosting-tree, one after another, without any apprehension
of their danger, though they would dodge or fly instantly
at the sight of the Owl. The Gobblers, during the season of
their amorous excitement, have been known even to strut over
their dead companions while on the ground, instead of seek-
ing their own safety by flight.

In the spring the maie Turkeys are called by a whistle made
of the second joint-bone of the wing of the bird, which pro-
duces a sound somewhat similar to the voice of the female ;
and on coming up to this call they are consequently shot.
They are likewise commonly caught in quadrangular pens
made of logs crossing each other, from which is cut a slanting
covered passage sufficient to allow the entrance of the Turkey.
Corn is then scattered in a train to this cage for some distance
as well as within; and the neighboring birds in the surround-
ing woods having discovered the grain, call on each other by a
clucking, and entering one at a time, they become secured in
the pen, as, for the purpose of escape, they constantly direct
their view upwards instead of stooping to go out by the path
which they had entered.

20 TURKEYS AND PHEASANTS.

The male Wild Turkey weighs commonly from 15 to 18
pounds, is not unfrequently as much as 25, and sometimes,
according to Audubon, even 36. ‘The hen commonly weighs
about 9 pounds, and the usual price for a Turkey from the
Indians is 25 cents. ‘The domestic bird, when irritated by the
sight of any remarkable object, struts out with expanded tail,
and drooping his: stiffened wings, swells out his wattles, which
become red and turgid, and advancing with a grave and
haughty air, utters a humming sound, now and then accompa-
nied by a harsh and dissonant 7wk, orook, orook, repeating it
at every whistle or unusual sound that strikes his ear. ‘The
exhibition of a red rag is also sure to excite his wrath and
induce him to rush with stupid temerity at the disagreeable
object which he exerts himself to injure or destroy. A whole
flock sometimes will unite in chasing a common cock from the
poultry yard in consequence merely of some whimsical antip-
athy. From these singular dislikes, this cowardice and folly,
the Turkey bears in France the same proverbal imputation of
stupidity which in England is bestowed on the Goose. ‘The
feathers of the wild bird, attached to strips of bass, were
anciently employed by the aborigines for tippets and cloaks,
and were so arranged that the brilliant surface formed the
outside of the dress; and in later times similar dresses have
also been made by the Cherokees.

The Turkey was first sent from Mexico to Spain in the six-
teenth century, and in the reign of Henry VIII., in the year
1524, it was introduced into England, and soon after into
France and other portions of Europe.

Since Nuttall wrote, this famous bird has become extinct in the
New England States, as well as in Canada. Very early in colonial
days it had disappeared from the Province of Quebec, for at the
height of its abundance this bird was found only within a limited
area along the valley of the Ottawa, in the vicinity of the Chaudiére
Falls, — if I correctly interpret the words of Pierre Bouche, who
was governor of the Province in 1663. By some chance several
small flocks survived to a much later date in Ontario. Mcllwraith
reports that it was numerous along the southern border as late as
1856, and he thinks a few still remain.

WILD TURKEY. 2A)

In New England, as in Quebec, the early settlers made havoc
with the flocks, and drove into the wilderness those they did not
destroy. John Josselyn, writing in 1672, states that the bird was
becoming rare, while thirty years before it had been abundant; but
probably Turkeys were plentiful during part, at least, of the last
century, though frequenting less accessible localities. They were,
however, being gradually reduced in numbers by the combined
attacks of the whites and Indians, and the lessened flocks contin-
ued retiring farther and farther from the settlements.

In Connecticut the year 1813 is given as that in which the last
example was seen, while a few remained hidden among the hills of
southern Vermont until 1842; and the last Wild Turkey that is
known to have been seen in Massachusetts was shot on Mount
Tom in 1847.

At the present day some small flocks are to be found in a few of
the heavily timbered and thinly populated districts of Michigan,
Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, and in the wild moun-
tainous regions of the Southern States. A few may be hidden also
in isolated forests in Louisiana and Mississippi; but in all of these
States the number of birds must be small, and is being rapidly
reduced. Probably nowhere east of the Mississippi River are
Turkeys at all numerous, excepting in Florida, and in that State
they may continue numerous long after they have been extermi-
nated elsewhere, owing to the almost inaccessible nature of the
country to which the remaining flocks have retreated. Beyond
the Mississippi these birds are still common, especially along the
lower Rio Grande and (probably) in Indian Territory and southern
Missouri, though Colonel Goss reports them diminishing rapidly in
Kansas.

Farther west, Wild Turkeys are plentiful ; but the major portion
of these are of the Mexican form, which differs from the type prin-
cipally in having the upper tail-coverts and the tips of the tail-
feathers whitish instead of chestnut.

22 TURKEYS AND PHEASANTS.

ENGLISH PHEASANT.
PHASIANUS COLCHICUS.

Cuar. Male: plumage exquisitely beautiful, but too variegated to be
minutely described in a short paragraph. The principal colors are brown
of several shades, orange-red, yellow, and black; and these are distributed
in handsome markings and pencillings. Head and neck steel blue, with
metallic reflections of green and purple; breast golden red, each feather
edged with velvet black ; tail-feathers very long, — the two middle feathers
sometimes measuring two feet, — yellowish brown, with narrow bars of
black. Female: duller ; yellowish brown, with markings of darker brown
and some black. Length of male, including tail-feathers, about 3 feet; of
female about 2 feet.

Jest. In thicket or dense hedge, a slight hollow scratched out by
female, partially lined with loosely arranged Jeaves and grass. Occa-
sionally a deserted nest in a tree has been used.

Eggs. 8-14 (usually about 12, sometimes 16 or 20), olive brown, some-
times bluish green ; 1.85 X 1.45.

I have called this the “ English ” Pheasant to distinguish it from
other species that have been introduced into this country. In
England it is known as “ Pheasant,” or “Common Pheasant.”
It is not indigenous to Great Britain, though when it was intro-
duced there is not known, some writers asserting that it was
carried by the Romans, while others consider the Norman Con-
quest responsible for its introduction. The true home of the bird
is the valleys of the Caucasus and the eastern shores of the Cas-
pian Sea, but it has been introduced into almost every country of
Europe. In Great Britain very few thorough-bred specimens are
to be found, most of the birds displaying a collar of white, — which
proves their relationship to the Ring-necked Pheasants brought
from China. Other species, as well, have been introduced and suc-
cessfully bred with both true co/chzcus and hybrids.

Within a few years the present species has been introduced into
this country by Mr. C. B. Cory —who loosed several pairs on
Great Island, off the southern shore of Cape Cod —and by a club
of sportsmen who have stocked Jekyl Island, on the Georgian
coast. Both colonies have become naturalized and are increasing.
Several other species have been imported from China and Japan,
and liberated in Oregon and British Columbia, where they are
increasing rapidly.

BOB-WHITE.
QUAIL. PARTRIDGE.

COLINUS VIRGINIANUS.

CHAR. Above, reddish brown, mottled with gray, black, white, and
buff ; stripe over eyes and patch on throat white or buffy white, dark-
est in females ; lower parts buffy white with brown and black markings.
Length about to inches.

iVest. In pasture or field, hid amid thick growth or under a bush or tuft
of long grass ; made of grass, weeds, and leaves loosely arranged.

fggs. 8-20 (usually 15 to 18, and a set of 28 has been recorded); white;
120) 000;

The Partridge of America, exceedingly prolific, has extended
its colonies from the inclement coasts of New England and the
western plains of Missouri to the mild latitudes of Mexico and
Honduras. In Jamaica, where it has long been introduced
and naturalized, the inhabitants distinguish it as the Partridge,
—an appellation sufficiently prevalent in various parts of the
United States. At the north, these birds are rarely seen to the

24 GROUSE FAMILY.

extremity of New Hampshire, and this limit, no doubt, is deter-
mined by the length and severity of the winters which prevail
in this rigorous climate. ‘They seldom migrate, except to short
distances in quest of food, and consequently often perish
beneath deep drifts of snow, so that their existence is rendered
impossible in the Arctic winters of our high latitudes. Indeed,
sometimes they have been so thinned in this part of the coun-
try that sportsmen acquainted with their local attachments
have been known to introduce them into places for breeding
and to prevent their threatened extermination. So sedentary
are the habits of this interesting bird that until the flock is
wholly routed by the unfeeling hunter they continue faithfully
attached to the neighborhood of the spot where they have been
raised and supported.

Johnston, Willoughby, and Ray distinguished the Mexican
bird by the quaint title of the “Quail’s Image.” ‘The first
settlers of New England also thought they saw in this familiar
bird the Quail of the country they had relinquished. The
two birds are, however, too different to require any critical
comparison. Ours is even justly considered by European
ornithologists as the type of a peculiar American genus, to
which has been given the name of Ortyx by Stevens, — the
original appellation of the Quail, or Yerdix coturnix, as known
to the ancient Greeks. The name of Co.in, contracted by
Buffon from the barbarous appellation of some Mexican spe-
cies, has been adopted by Cuvier, Temminck, and Vieillot.

Although there is some general resemblance between the
Quail of the old and new continent in their external appearance,
their habits and instincts are exceedingly different. The true
Quail is a noted bird of passage, with a favorable wind leaving
Europe for the warmer parts of Asia at the approach of winter ;
and with an auspicious gale again returning in the spring, in
such amazing numbers that some of the islands of the Archi-
pelago derived their name from their abundant visits. On the
west coast of Naples, within the small space of four or five miles
as many as a hundred thousand have been taken in a day by
nets. Our Partridge, though occupying so wide an extent of the

BOB-WHITE. 25

Atlantic and Western States, and even penetrating into Mexico,
is scarcely ever a bird of passage ; it only assembles in single
families, which may sometimes be reduced to four or five by
accidents, and at others increased to twenty or thirty. ‘The
instinctive sociability of this bird continues uniformly, until
interrupted in the spring by the desire of pairing. At this
season the eager call of the male is often heard, but it nearly
ceases when he is mated, and is only long continued by those
who are dissatisfied and have been unsuccessful in their con-
nections ; and by imitating the reply of the female, the male
is easily decoyed to approach towards the enemy who thus
allures him. On these occasions, when the rival candidates
happen to meet, they exhibit, the only time in their lives, a
quarrelsome disposition, fighting with obstinacy, until the con-
tented victor at last gains the field with his submissive mate.
The conjugal selection being now concluded, they are not
exceeded by any of the feathered race in their mutual attach-
ment and common affection for their brood. In the vagrant
Quail, the want of reciprocal and durable attachment gives rise
to a wholly different character in instinctive morality, a com-
mon concubinage prevailing among them, as with our Cow
Troopials. Instead of the mild sociability so prevalent with
our Partridge, they are pugnacious to a proverb: “ As quarrel-
some as Quails in a cage,” was an ancient reproof to striving
children. Their selfishness forbids all mutual alliance, and they
only find safety from each other in roaming solitude.
Partridges are not partial to the depths of the forest, though
they sometimes seek the shelter of trees, and perch on the
low branches or hide amongst the brush and underwood.
Their favorite food, however, commonly conducts them to
the open fields, where they glean up various kinds of grain,
and are particularly fond of rye and buckwheat, as well as
Indian corn; and when not too much disturbed by the sports-
man, will often, particularly in the autumn and winter, fearlessly
assemble along the most public roads, or around the barn
and stable, in search of a scanty pittance among the domes-
tic fowls; like them, also, very industriously scratching up

26 GROUSE FAMILY.

straw, and probably the ground, in quest of grain and insects
which, with seeds and various kinds of buds and berries, as
well as broken acorns, according to the season, often consti-
tute a considerable part of their native diet.

Remaining with us commonly the whole year, the little social
band often suffer from the inclemency of the seasons. At
this time they perch together on some rising ground beneath
the shelter of brush or briers, and forming a close circle, with
their heads outward to discern any approach of danger, they
thus greatly aid each other by their mutual warmth to resist the
chilling effects of frost. It is probable, however, they have no
great fear of snow when together, as they may often be seen
patiently encountering the storm, as its white wreaths invade
them, and frequently on the arrival of a thaw, unfortunate
coveys, suspecting no danger, are found buried beneath the
inundating waste, huddled together in their accustomed man-
ner. ‘They are observed even, on the approach of danger,
to rush into the snow for shelter ; and it is only when the drift
becomes so consolidated by a frozen glazing of sleet as to
resist all their efforts to move that it proves their grave, rather
than their retreat.

As they happen to afford a favorite and delicate article of
food, every means which gun and trap can effect are put in
operation against the innocent race. Their very sociability
often affords means for their destruction; for while crowded
together in a ring, a dozen or more have been killed at a shot ;
and the small remains of-the unfortunate covey, feeling their
weakness and solitude, are said to join some neighboring brood,
for whom they soon form the same friendly attachment they had
for the fraternity they have lost.

From the latter end of August to the month of March, the
markets of all our principal cities are often stocked with this
favorite game.

Some time in the month of May the Quail, at the bottom of
a sheltering tuft of grass, scratches out a cavity for her nest,
which is usually lined substantially with such withered leaves
and dry grass as happen to be convenient. ‘Though generally

BOB-WHITE. 27

open, it is sometimes partially covered by art and accident ;
but no studious concealment is ever practised by this artless
bird. The eggs are from 15 to 20; and unlike the spotted
charge of the true Quail, are white, and rather suddenly nar-
rowed at the smaller end. The period of incubation is about
four weeks. ‘They have generally two broods in a season, as
young birds scarcely fledged may be observed here as late as
the beginning of October. When this happens, it is not
uncommon to find both coveys still associating with their par-
ents. Like most other Gallinaceous birds, the young run about
as soon as they are freed from the shell, and gain the complete
use of their wings in about a fortnight from hatching. ‘They
are now attentively conducted by the mother, and occasionally
by either parent, in quest of their appropriate food, and called
together in a voice resembling the low twittering of chickens.
At times they shelter beneath the wings of the mother; but if
the little busy flock are startled by danger, artifice rather than
courage is the instinctive means of safety employed by all
the party. The parents flutter in the path in real as well as
simulated distress ; and the young, instantly aware of their criti-
cal situation, make no useless attempts to fly, but vanish singly,
and closely hiding among the withered grass, which they almost
resemble in color, are thus fortunately rendered nearly alto-
gether invisible. The alarm at length dissipated, the tender,
cautious call of the parents again reassembles the little grateful
family.

The eggs of the Quail have been often hatched by the
domestic hen; but the vagrant disposition of the diminutive
brood, the difficulty of procuring their proper food, and the
superior attention they require over chickens, prevent the possi-
bility of their domestication ; and even when they have survived
the winter in this state, the return of spring leads them to
wander off in compliance with that powerful instinct which
inspires them to a mutual separation.

So familiar are these little birds that occasionally, as de-
scribed by Wilson, they have been known to lay their eggs in
the nest of the domestic hen, when situated at any considerable

28 GROUSE FAMILY.

distance from the habitation. From two eggs thus deposited
were raised a pair of young Quails which, when abandoned by
the hen, showed their social attachment by accompanying the
cows. These they followed night and morning from the pas-
ture, and when the cattle were housed for the winter our little
Partridges took up their humble abode in the stable. But
even these, so docile, and separated from all their race, on the
return of spring obeyed the instinct of nature, and wandered
away to their congenial woods and thickets. It is probable at
times, as asserted by observers, that our Quails, like some
other birds, lay their eggs in the nests of each other, —a fact
which would only be in accordance with their usual friendship
and mutual familiarity.

The American Quail, according to Wilson, has likewise, in
turn, been employed to hatch the eggs of the domestic hen,
which she brought out, defended, and fed as her own offspring.
She even succeeded in imparting to them a portion of her own
instinct to such a degree that when alarmed they hid in the
grass and ran timidly from sight like so many young Par-
tridges, exhibiting all the wildness of unreclaimed birds. A flock
of these Quails, however attentively fed, and confined, always
exhibit a great degree of fear and shyness ; their attachments
remaining truly natural, they appear only to recognize the com-
pany of each other. But a solitary individual becomes friendly
and familiar to the hand that feeds it, and for want of more
congenial society forms a similar attachment to its keeper.
In the month of September, the little brood, now nearly full
grown, assemble in families; and at this period, as well as
in the spring and early part of summer, the clear, whistling
call of the male is often heard. This well-known note is
very similar to the pronunciation of the words ’40d white,
to which is often added a suppressed introductory whistle.
While seated, perhaps on a fence-rail, or the low limb of an
orchard tree, this peculiar note, sometimes interpreted in
showery hay-weather into the augury of more wét, more wet,
continues uninterruptedly, at short intervals, for more than
half an hour at a time. Du Pratz says these birds are known

BOB-WHITE. 29

to the aborigines by the name of ho-owy (’ho-wee), which is
also imitative of the call they sometimes utter, as I have
‘heard, early in the morning, from a partly domesticated covey.
When assembled in a corner and about to take wing, the
same low, chicken-like twittering, as is employed by the
mother towards her more tender brood, is repeated ; but
when dispersed, by necessary occupation, or alarm, they are
reassembled by a loud and oft-repeated call of anxious
and social inquiry. ‘This note, ’/o-wee, is, however, so strongly
instinctive as to be commonly uttered without occasion, by
the male even in a cage, surrounded by his kindred brood ;
so that this expression, at stated times, is only one of gen-
eral sympathy and satisfaction, like that of a singing bird
uttered when solitary and confined to a cage.

In consequence of the shortness and concavity of its wings,
in common with most other birds of the same family the Ameri-
can Quail usually makes a loud whirring noise in its flight,
which is seldom long continued, always laborious, and generally
so steady as to afford no difficult mark for the expert sports-
man. According to the observations of Audubon, the flight of
our Partridge and Grouse, when not hurried by alarm, is
attended with very little more noise than that of other birds.
Whatever may be. the fact, when our little Partridges alight on
the ground, they often run out to very considerable distances,
when not directly flushed, and endeavor to gain the shelter of
briers and low bushes, or instinctively squat among the fallen
leaves of the woods, from which, with their brown livery, it is
difficult to distinguish them. No great destruction is made
among them while on the wing, as they do not take a general
alarm on being approached, but rise at intervals only by two
or three at a time.

Bob-White has been so long and so persistently called by this
nickname that even the exalted and pedantic American Ornithol-
ogists’ Union has been constrained to approve of it, and has digni-
fied it with their sanction, — throwing to the winds for one brief
moment the “canon of priority,” and adopting Seebohm’s favorite
auctorum plurimorum. The bird is also known as “ Quail” in

30 GROUSE FAMILY.

New England, and as “ Partridge” farther south. Bob-White is
still a common bird in southern New England, though of some-
what local distribution. It is rarely found north of Massachusetts,
but a few scattered flocks are occasionally met with along the
southern borders of the three northern States.

In Canada it occurs only in the southern peninsula of Ontario
north to Gravenhurst, and though quite common near London and
Hamilton, 1s reported “rare” about Toronto and Lucknow.

Nore. — The FLORIDA BOB-WHITE (Colinus virginianus flort-
@anus) is a smaller race with darker colors and broader black mark-
ings. It is found in the northern and middle regions of Florida.

The CuBAN Bos-WHITE (C. virgintanus cubanensis) differs
chiefly from the type in the markings of the plumage. It is
restricted in the United States to the southwestern or tropical
region of Florida.

The MESSINA QUAIL (Coturnix coturnix) has been imported
from Europe by hundreds during the last fifteen years and let loose
in various parts of the country; but though a few young and old
birds appeared in the neighborhood for a year or two following.
their release, the effort'to naturalize the species is considered a
failure. In 1878 a number were released near St. Stephen, New
Brunswick, and during the next three years I heard occasionally
of small bevies being seen near the Bay of Fundy shore between
St. Stephen and St. John, as well as in the Kennebecasis valley as
far east as Sussex; but either the climate or the food was unsuited
to them.

RUFFED GROUSE.
PHEASANT. PARTRIDGE. BIRCH PARTRIDGE.
BONASA UMBELLUS.

CHAR. Upper parts mottled brown and gray, with markings of black
and dull white; head with crest; a “ruff” of long black feathers on sides
of neck ; tail with broad sub-terminal band of black; under parts pale
tawny, throat unmarked, breast and belly barred with brown; legs com.
pletely covered with feathers. Length 16 to 18 inches.

Nest. Amid a thicket or under cover of a bush, — usually on border of
heavy timber; a mere cushion of leaves, grass, moss, etc.

Eggs. 6-20 (usually to or 12); color varies from pale cream to dark
buff, often marked with faint spots of brown; 1.60 X 1.15.

RUFFED GROUSE. 31

This beautiful species of Grouse, known by the name of
Pheasant in the Middle and Western States, and by that of
Partridge in New England, is found to inhabit the continent
from Hudson Bay and the parallel of 56° to Georgia, but
are most abundant in the Northern and Middle States, where
they often prefer the most elevated and wooded districts ;
and at the South they affect the mountainous ranges and
valleys which border upon or lie within the chains of the
Alleghanies. They are also prevalent in the Western States
as far as the line of the Territory of Mississippi; and though
not found on the great Western plains, they reappear in the
forests of the Rocky Mountains and follow the Columbia
nearly to the Pacific.

Although, properly speaking, sedentary, yet at the approach
of autumn, according to Audubon, they make, in common with
the following species, partial migrations by single families in
quest of a supply of food, and sometimes even cross the Ohio
in the course of their peregrinations. In the northern parts of
New England they appear also to be partially migratory at the
approach of winter, and leave the hills for lower and more
sheltered situations. So prompt, indeed, at times are their
movements that in November, 1831, in travelling nearly to
the extremity of New Hampshire, not a single bird of the
species was now to be seen, as they had no doubt migrated
southward with the first threatening and untimely snow which
had fallen, being indeed so unusually abundant previously to
that period as to sell in the market of Boston as low as twelve
and a half cents apiece. Although elevated countries and
rocky situations thickly overgrown with bushes and dense ever-
greens by rivers and brooks are their chosen situations, yet at
times they frequent the lowlands and more open pine-forests
in the vicinity of our Northern towns and cities, and are even
occasionally content to seek a retreat far from their favorite
hills in the depth of a Kentucky cane-brake or the barrens of
New Jersey. They are somewhat abundant in the shrubby
oak-barrens of Kentucky and Tennessee, in which their food
abounds. ‘This consists commonly in the spring and fall of

32 GROUSE FAMILY.

the buds of trees, the catkins of the hazel and alder, even
fern-buds, acorns, and seeds of various kinds, among which I
have met with the capsules, including the seeds of the com-
mon small Canadian Cistus (//edianthemum). At times I
have seen the crop almost entirely filled with the buds of the
apple-tree, each connected with a portion of the twig, the
wood of which appears to remain a good while undigested ;
cinquefoil and strawberry-leaves, buds of the Azaleas and of
the broad-leaved Kalmia, with the favorite partridge-berries
(Gaultheria procumbens), ivy-berries (Cissus hederacea), and
gravel pebbles are also some of the many articles which form
the winter fare of our bird. In summer it seems often to
prefer berries of various kinds, particularly dewberries, straw-
berries, grapes, and whortleberries.

In the month of April the Ruffed Grouse begins to be recog-
nized by his peculiar drwmming, heard soon after dawn and
towards the close of evening. At length, as the season of pair-
ing approaches, it is heard louder and more frequent till a later —
hour of the day, and commences again towards the close of
the afternoon. This sonorous, crepitating sound, strongly
resembling a low peal of distant thunder, is produced by the
male, who as a preliminary to the operation stands upright on
a prostrate log, parading with erected tail and ruff and with
drooping wings in the manner of the Turkey. After swelling
out his feathers and strutting forth for a few moments, at a
sudden impulse, like the motions of a crowing Cock, he draws
down his elevated plumes, and stretching himself forward,
loudly beats his sides with his wings with such an accelerating
motion, after the first few strokes, as to cause the tremor
described, which may be heard reverberating in a still morning
to the distance of from a quarter to that of half a mile. This
curious signal is repeated at intervals of about six or eight
minutes. The same sound is also heard in autumn as well as
spring, and given by the caged bird as well as the free, being,
at times, merely an instinctive expression of hilarity and vigor.
To this parading ground, regularly resorted to by the male for
the season, if undisturbed, the female flies with alacrity ; but,

RUFFED GROUSE. 33

as with other species of the genus, no lasting individual attach-
ment is formed, and they live in a state of limited concubi-
nage. The drumming parade of the male is likewise often the
signal for a quarrel; and when they happen to meet each
other in the vicinity of their usual and stated walks, obstinate
battles, like those of our domestic fowls for the sovereignty of
the dung-hill, but too commonly succeed. When this sound,
indeed (according to Audubon), is imitated by striking care-
fully upon an inflated bladder with a stick, the jealous male,
full of anger, rushes forth from his concealment and falls an
easy prey to the wily sportsman.

Some time in May a female selects some thicket or the
side of a fallen log in the dense part of the woods for the situ-
ation of her nest. ‘This is formed merely of a handful of with-
ered leaves collected from the surrounding and similar surface
of the ground. ‘The eggs, ten to fifteen, more or less, are of a
uniform dull yellowish color. ‘The young run about as soon as
hatched, and in about a week or ten days are able in some
degree to make use of their wings. ‘The mother now leads
them out in search of their appropriate and delicate food, and
broods them at night beneath her wings like the common
hen; she likewise defends them by every stratagem which
affection can contrive. On the appearance of an enemy she
simulates Jameness, to impose on the unwelcome spectator ;
while the young themselves squat on the ground, by which they
are secured, from their similarity to its surface.

During summer these birds are fond of basking and dusting
themselves, and for this purpose are now and then seen in the
public roads. When flushed, and on the instant of rising from
the ground, the bird usually utters a cackling note quickly
repeated about half a dozen times, and also before rising utters
a very peculiar lisping whistle. Like the Ptarmigan, the Ruffed
Grouse when alarmed in winter is frequently known to plunge
into the soft snow and burrow out at such a distance as fre-
quently to elude the pursuit of the hunter. Besides other
successful methods of destruction which await the devoted
Grouse, snares and traps of various kinds are employed to

Vol. Il. — 3

34 GROUSE FAMILY. ©

arrest them. They are even smoked to death in the same
manner as the Wild Pigeons in the Western country, while
sleeping harmlessly and unsuspectingly on their leafy roosts.
By this system of indiscriminate extirpation they are now
greatly thinned throughout the more populous parts of the
Union, and sell in Philadelphia and New York from seventy-
five cents to a dollar apiece. The common price of these
birds (decidedly, as I think with Audubon, superior in flavor
to the Pinnated Grouse) is in the market of Boston from 40
to 50 cents the pair, showing how much more abundant the
species is in the rocky regions of New England than in any
other part of America. Deleterious effects have sometimes
occurred from eating this game, supposed to arise from their
feeding on the buds of the broad-leaved Kalmia; yet most
persons eat them with safety at all seasons of the year, even
when these kind of buds have been found almost filling the
stomach.

The systematists have recently separated the Ruffed Grouse dis-
tributed over the Northern and Middle States from those found
along the northern border of New England and in Canada, making
the latter a sub-species and giving to it the name of CANADIAN
RUFFED GROUSE (B. umbellus torgata).

The Canadian race is in general darker colored, and lacks a
reddish tinge on the back; also the markings of the under parts
are more conspicuous,

“ Birch Partridges,” as they are commonly called by the gunners
of northern Maine and the Maritime Provinces, are still fairly
abundant, though the markets have been generously supplied with
them every year.

PRAIRIE HEN.
PRAIRIE CHICKEN. PINNATED GROUSE.

‘TYMPANUCHUS AMERICANUS.

CHAR. Above, brownish ochraceous, tinged with gray; back barred
with biack ; below, white, barred with dusky brown; throat buffish; head
with slight crest; erectile tufts of 7 to 1o long stiff feathers on sides of
neck, and below these, patches of bare and elastic skin. Length about 18
inches.

Nest. On the open prairie amid tufts of long grass or at the foot of a
bush; a slight hollow scratched out and thinly lined with grass and
feathers.

Eggs. 8-16 (usually about 12); dull buff or greenish yellow, some-
times with a reddish tinge, and occasionally spotted slightly with brown;
1.70 X 1.25.

Choosing particular districts for residence, the Grouse, or
Prairie Hen, is consequently by far less common than the pre-
ceding species. Confined to dry, barren, and bushy tracts of
small extent, these birds are in several places now wholly or
nearly exterminated. Along the Atlantic coast they are still
met with on the Grouse plains of New Jersey, on the brushy
plains of Long Island, in similar shrubby barrens in Westford,
Connecticut, in the island of Martha’s Vineyard on the south
side of Massachusetts Bay, and formerly, as probably in many
other tracts, according to the information which I have re-
ceived from Lieut.-Governor Winthrop, they were so common
on the ancient bushy site of the city of Boston that laboring
people or servants stipulated with their employers not to have
the Heath Hen brought to table oftener than a few times in the

36 GROUSE FAMILY.

week. According to Wilson, they are also still met with among
the scrub-oak and pine-hills of Pocono, in Northampton
county, Pennsylvania. ‘They are also rather common through-
out the barrens of Kentucky and on the prairies of Indiana,
and as far south as Nashville in Tennessee, but I believe no-
where more abundant than on the plains of Missouri, whence
they continue to the Rocky Mountains, Dislike of moisture,
as with the Turkey, but principally the nature of their food,
appears to influence them in the choice of their resort. The
small acorns of the dwarf-oaks, and various kinds of wild fruits,
as strawberries, whortleberries, and partridge-berries, with oc-
casional insects abounding in these wooded thickets, appear
to be the principal inducement to their residence ; from which
they rarely wander at any season, unless compelled by a failure
of their usual food, and so become, notwithstanding the almost
inaccessible nature of the ground, a sure prey to the greedy
and exterminating hunter. In the Western States, where they
appear as an abundant species, they are at times observed to
traverse the plains and even cross extensive rivers in quest of
the means of subsistence. In winter they likewise feed on
buds as well as mast, sometimes swallowing leaves, and occa-
sionally the buds of the pine. At times, if convenient, they
have been known to visit the buckwheat field for their fare,
or even devour the leaves of clover. In wintry storms they
seek shelter by perching in the evergreens ; but in spring and
summer they often roost on the ground in company. They
feed mostly in the morning and evening ; and when they can
stir abroad without material molestation, they often visit arable
lands in the vicinity of their retreats. In the inclemency of
winter, like the Quail, they approach the barn, basking and
perching on the fences, occasionally venturing to mix with the
poultry in their repast, and are then often taken in traps.

The season for pairing is early in the spring, in March or
April. At this time the behavior of the male becomes remark-
able. Early in the morning he comes forth from his bushy
roost and struts about with a curving neck, raising his ruff, ex-
panding his tail like a fan, and seeming to mimic the ostenta-

PRAIRIE HEN. 37

tion of the Turkey. He now seeks out or meets his rival, and
several pairs at a time, as soon as they become visible through
the dusky dawn, are seen preparing for combat. Previously to
this rencontre, the male, swelling out his throat, utters what is
called a sooting, —a ventriloquial, humming call on the female,
three times repeated ; and though uttered in so low a key, it
may yet be heard three or four miles in a still morning. About
the close of March in the plains of Missouri we heard this
species of Grouse tooting or humming in all directions, so that
at a distance the sound might be taken almost for the grunting
of the bison or the loud croak of the bull-frog. While utter-
ing his vehement call, the male expands his neck-pouches to
such a magnitude as almost to conceal his head, and blowing,
utters a low drumming bellow like the sound of ’’-fom-doo,
"k'-tom-boo, once or twice repeated, after which is heard a sort
of guttural squeaking crow or kodak, koak, koak. In the inter-
vals of feeding we sometimes hear the male also cackling, or
as it were crowing like "ko ko ko ko, kooh kooh. While en-
gaged in fighting with each other, the males are heard to utter
a rapid, petulant cackle, something in sound like excessive
laughter. The tooting is heard from before daybreak till
eight or nine o’clock in the morning. As they frequently as-
semble at these scvatching-places, as they are called, ambus-
cades of bushes are formed round them, and many are shot
from these coverts.

The female carefully conceals her nest in some grassy tus-
sock on the ground, and is but seldom discovered. ‘The eggs
are from ten to twelve, and of a plain brownish color. The
young are protected and attended by the female only, who
broods them under her wings in the manner of the common
fowl, and leads them to places suitable for their food, some-
times venturing with her tender charge to glean along the
public paths. When thus surprised, the young dart into the
neighboring bushes, and there skulk for safety, while the wily
parent beguiles the spectator with her artful pretences of
lameness. The affectionate parent and her brood thus keep
together throughout the whole season. By the aid of a dog

38 GROUSE FAMILY.

they are easily hunted out, and are readily set, as they are
not usually inclined to take wing. In the prairies, however,
they not unfrequently rise to the low boughs of trees, and
then, staring about without much alarm, they become an easy
prey to the marksman.

The ordinary weight of a full-grown bird is about three
pounds, and they now sell, when they are to be had, n New
York and Boston, from three to five dollars the pair. They
have been raised under the common hen, but prove so
vagrant as to hold out no prospect of domestication.

This species is common now only in the prairie region of Indi-
ana and Illinois and westward; a few scattered flocks occur in
isolated localities in Kentucky and southwestern Ontario.

It is supposed that the Pinnated Grouse, which occurred in the
Atlantic States in Nuttall’s day, should be referred to the Heath
Hen, —a distinct race, a remnant of which is still found on Mar-
tha’s Vineyard.

HEATH HEN:

TYMPANUCHUS CUPIDO.

Cuar. Similar to the Prairie Hen, but reddish brown above, and
beneath rusty white, barred with dark reddish brown ; neck tufts composed
of four or five acutely lance-pointed feathers.

Nest. Tn woodland of scrub-oak or pine; a slight hollow, thinly lined
with leaves and feathers.

Eggs. 6-8; yellowish green and unspotted ; 1.70 X 1.25.

This interesting bird was discovered in 1885 by Mr. William
Brewster; or rather, to be more exact, at that date the discovery
was made that the birds of Martha’s Vineyard were distinct from
the Western Prairie Hen,— distinct in coloration as well as in
habits, — the one being a bird of the open prairie, the other haunt-
ing groves of scrub-oak or low pines, and feeding largely on acorns.

Mr. Brewster tells us (“ Auk,” January, 1885) that the bird is
common on Martha’s Vineyard, and is so well protected as not
likely to become extinct.

SHARP-TAILED GROUSE.
PRAIRIE CHICKEN.

PEDIOCATES PHASIANELLUS.

CHAR. Above, black and brown irregular stripes; wings and wing-
coverts spotted with white ; head with slight crest, a naked patch of
orange color over the eyes ; two middle tail-feathers longer than the others;
lower parts white, with dark V-shaped markings; legs and feet feathered.
Length about 17 inches.

Nest. In open woodland or on border of grove, or in thicket along a
stream, hidden under brush or at foot of a low bush; a slight depression
in the ground scantily lined with grass and feathers.

Eggs. 6-14 (usually about 12) ; reddish brown or yellowish brown,
marked with fine spots of a darker shade of brown; 1.70 X 1.25.

This curious species of Grouse is also principally an inhabi-
tant of the coldest habitable parts of the American continent,
being found around Hudson Bay in the larch thickets through-
out the whole year. It is not uncommon in the forests of the
Rocky Mountains, and Mr. Say saw it in the spring likewise in
Missouri but little beyond the settlements, at which season it
also visits the vicinity of Fort William, on Lake Superior. We
met with it on Larimie’s Fork of the Platte in June, where it
was breeding. As an article of food it proved plump and well
flavored, superior almost to any other of the large species in
the United States. These birds are, as usual, shy and solitary,
living only in pairs throughout the summer, when they subsist
much upon berries. In autumn and winter they are seen mov-
ing in families, and frequent the thickets of juniper and larch,
on whose buds, as well as those of the birch, alder, and poplar,
they now principally live. ‘They usually keep on the ground,

40 GROUSE FAMILY.

but if disturbed, take to trees. When hard pressed by the
hunter, they sometimes seek safety by plunging into the snow,
and quickly burrowing beneath it, come out at a distance, and
often from a situation the least expected, so that they fre-
quently make good their retreat from their enemies.

The Sharp-tailed Grouse makes its nest on the ground, near
some bush, with loose grass and a few feathers; the eggs are
from 9 to 13, white, with dusky spots. ‘The young are hatched
about the middle of June, and utter a puling note something
like chickens. Unsuccessful attempts have been made to
domesticate them. ‘The male has a shrill, rather feeble, crow-
ing note ; and both sexes, when disturbed, and on taking wing,
repeat a reiterated cry of kuk, kuk, kuk, accompanied by a
smart flirting of the tail-feathers, nearly similar to the opening
and closing of a fan. In the breeding-season the male struts
about proudly, in the usual manner of the genus and order
to which he belongs. The weight of this bird is about two
pounds, and the flesh is light brown when cooked, and is much
esteemed.

The northern limit of the range of this species, according to
Richardson, is Great Slave Lake, in 61 degrees; and its most
southern recorded station is in 41 degrees, on the Missouri.
It abounds on the outskirts of the Saskatchewan plains, and is
found throughout the woody districts of the fur countries, in
open glades and thickets on the borders of lakes, particularly
in the partially cleared tracts contiguous to the trading posts.
In winter, like the Pinnated Grouse, it perches generally on
trees, but in summer it is much on the ground, and is at all
times associated in coveys of ten to sixteen individuals. Early
in spring a family of these birds selects a level spot, whereon
they meet every morning, and run round in a circle of fifteen
or twenty feet diameter, on which the grass becomes worn
quite bare. On approaching this ring, the birds squat close to
the ground, but in a short time stretch out their necks to
survey the intruder, and if not scared by any nearer advance,
they soon resume their circular course, some running to the
right, and others to the left, thus meeting and crossing each

CANADA GROUSE. 4I

other. These “ Partridge dances”’ last for a month or more,
until concluded by the more serious employ of incubation.
In imitation of this curious amusement of the Sharp-tailed
Grouse, the Indians of the upper Missouri have what they call
a Partridge-Dance, in which the old men chiefly join.

The true Sharp-tail is not found south of the Canadian border.
It occurs in the wooded districts along the north shore of Lake
Superior, and thence north to the timber limit, and west to British
Columbia and Alaska.

Nore. — The “ PRAIRIE CHICKEN”? is a paler race, called by
the systematists the PRAIRIE SHARP-TAILED GROUSE (P. phasia-
nellus campestris). It differs from the type in displaying more of
the gray shades, with tints of buff and drab, and less of the red
tinge in the upper parts. Also the dark tints are much paler in
campestris, so that the white spots on the wings do not stand in
such marked contrast. This sub-species ranges east to the prairie
districts of Illinois and Wisconsin, and is reported by Mr. Thomp-
son as abundant in Manitoba.

CANADA GROUSE.
SPOTTED GROUSE. SPRUCE PARTRIDGE.
DENDRAGAPUS CANADENSIS.

CuHar. Male: prevailing color black, varied above irregularly with
gray and tawny; below, spotted with white; a comb of reddish colored
naked skin over the eyes; tail with terminal band of orange brown; legs
feathered to the toes. Female: prevailing color brown, varied with black
and gray. Length about 16 inches.

Nest. In deep forest, hidden by 2 low hanging branch; a mere de-
pression in the turf; sometimes leaves, grass, and bits of moss are
loosely arranged as a lining.

Loges. 8-14 (usually about 10); ground culor varies from dull white
to buff and reddish brown, marked irregularly with several shades of
reddish and orange brown and umber ; 1.70 X 1.20.

This dark species of Grouse inhabits the cold regions of
Hudson Bay up to the 67th parallel, throughout the whole
year, where it frequents the bushy plains. To the south of
this country it appears to seek out the alpine elevations,

42 GROUSE FAMILY.

being met within the White Mountains of New Hampshire and
throughout a great portion of the Northern Andes, towards
the sources of the Missouri and Oregon. In winter it visits
Canada, the interior of Maine, Michigan, sometimes the State
of New York; and it even breeds round Halifax in Nova
Scotia, as well as in the State of Maine. In Canada it is
known by the name of the Wood Partridge; by others it
is called the Cedar, or Spruce, Partridge. Sometimes the birds
are sent in a frozen state from Nova Scotia and New Bruns-
wick to Boston.

The favorite resort of this species is in pine and spruce
woods and cedar swamps, which they frequent in the winter
for the purpose of feeding on the buds, oily seeds, and ever-
green foliage, to which they also add juniper-berries. Their
flesh, though palatable at all times, is considered best in sum-
mer, when they feed much on berries, as the buds of the res-
inous evergreens communicate an unpleasant flavor to the
game. As usual, they nest on the ground with little art, in the
slight shelter of fallen leaves and bushes, and are said by
Audubon to lay 8 to 14 eggs of a deep fawn color, irregularly
splashed with different tints of brown. ‘They are readily ap-
proached, and sometimes are said to be so unsuspicious as,
like the Ptarmigan, to allow of being knocked down with a
stick ; and round Hudson Bay are commonly caught by the
aborigines in a simple noose fastened to a stake. When much
disturbed, however, they betake themselves to trees, where
they are readily approached and shot down.

In the month of May, where they breed, in the State of

Maine, the male struts before his mate, and beating his wings
briskly against his body, produces a drumming noise, clearer
than that of the Ruffed Grouse, which can be heard to a con-
siderable distance. The males leave their mates as soon as
incubation has commenced, and do not join them again until
late in autumn.

The “Spruce Partridge,” as the bird is called by the gunners

“down East,” is a fairly common resident of the timber districts
in northern New England and the Provinces ; it occurs also in the

*
sai

WILLOW PTARMIGAN. 43

forest regions of Quebec, Ontario, and Michigan, and Turner found
it abundant in Northern Labrador.

The retiring disposition of the bird has caused its habits to be
little known, and the nest is generally so well concealed that few
collectors have succeeded in procuring specimens of the eggs.
Several pairs of these birds have been successfully domesticated
by Mr. Watson Bishop, of Kentville, Nova Scotia, and an article
from his pen, published in the “ Ornithologist and Oologist ” for
January, 1889, contains much that is new concerning their: habits.
The birds were easily tamed, and soon became so fearless as to
hop on Mr. Bishop’s knee and take food from his hand.

When strutting before the hen, the male poses and puffs after
the manner of a Gobbler. The feathers on his breast and collar
are raised on end; the combs over the eyes, which can be enlarged
at will, almost meet above the crown; and the erect and expanded
tail is kept swaying from side to side with a silk like rustling. The
females during the nesting season are very quarrelsome, so that
only a few can be kept in one pen; but this unfriendliness disap-
pears after the broods scatter.

The hen will occasionally cover the first egg with grass, but not
often, though after several eggs have been deposited, she usually
flings behind her, with her claws, any leaves, grass, or similar ma-
terial that may chance to lie near the nest. But she never turns to
arrange this covering; though when on the nest she will sometimes
pick up with her bill any straws that may be within reach, and
these she tucks under her.

The first egg of a clutch has the least amount of marking, and
the number of spots increases with each successive egg. The spots
are entirely on the surface, and are easily rubbed off.

WILLOW PTARMIGAN.
WHITE GROUSE.
LAGOPUS LAGOPUS.

Cuar. Bill black; legs and feet thickly feathered to the claws. Win-
ter plumage pure white; tail-feathers black, tipped with white, Male in
summer: head and neck chestnut; body orange brown, more tawny on
back and rump, barred with black; wings mostly white. Female: simi-
lar, but more heavily barred with black. Length about 16 inches.

Vest. A mere depression, with a slight lining of leaves and grass, —
sometimes a few feathers.

Zggs. 8-16 (usually about 10); buff or reddish brown, marked with
darker brown; 1.80 X 1.25.

44 GROUSE FAMILY.

White Grouse, or Ptarmigan.

The Ptarmigan is one among the very few animated beings
which, by choice and instinct, constantly reside in the coldest
Arctic deserts, and in the lofty mountains of central Europe,
where, as the snow begins to melt away, it seeks out its frozen
bed by ascending to the limits of eternal ice. Like so many
other animals of this inclement boreal region, this bird is com-
mon to both the old and new continent. It is met with in
Siberia, Kamtschatka, Greenland, most parts of northern Eu-
rope, the Highlands of Scotland, and even as far south as the
romantic scenes of the lakes of Cumberland, a few being still
seen in the lofty hills which surround the vale of Keswick, as
well as in Wales. This species has scarcely been.met with
on the American continent, except on Melville Island and
Churchill River,

The Ptarmigan feeds on many sorts of berries, particularly
the crow-berry (Lmpetrum nigrum) and cow-berry (Vacet-
nium vitis idea), as well as the tops of the same plant ; it also
collects catkins, buds, and the young shoots of the pine,
heath, rosehips, and sometimes the different kinds of lichens,
which it searches out in the extensive burrows it makes
beneath the snow. To all this bill of frugal fare, it also
sometimes adds a few insects. ‘These birds search out their
food chiefly in the morning and evening, and in the middle of
the day are observed sometimes to bask in the sun. Like the
Esquimaux of the human family, whose lot is cast in the same
cold and dreary region, they seek protection from the extreme
severity of the climate by dwelling in the snow; it is here that
they commonly roost and work out subterraneous paths. In
the morning, as soon as they leave their frozen dens, they fly
out vigorously into the air in an upward direction, shaking the
snow from their warm and white clothing. While thus feeding
they socially call on one another at intervals in a loud tone,
and sometimes utter a sort of cackling cry, almost like a coarse
and mocking laugh.

The nest, about the middle of June, is made in open places

WILLOW PTARMIGAN. 45

where moss abounds, or in the shelter of the low, creeping
bushes, forming the only woody growth of these naked and
sterile regions. The eggs, 7 to 15, are oblong, of a rufous
yellow, from the great number of large and small spots of black
or of reddish lack with which they are covered. From the
lingering attachment of the male to his mate when killed, it is
probable that the species may be monogamous, or even con-
stantly mated. After the young are fully grown, and released
from the care of their parents, they and the old are seen to
assemble in flocks of two or three hundred, about the begin-
ning of October, when they appear to migrate a little to the
south in quest of food, or rather from the mountains towards
the plains. At this time they are seen in great numbers round
Hudson Bay, where they assemble for subsistence; and as
the store diminishes, they push their tardy migrations in other
directions for a fresh supply. Unsuspicious of the wiles and
appetites of man, Ptarmigans appear often as tame as domes-
tic chickens, more particularly when the weather is mild;
they are allured even by crumbs of bread, and on throwing a
hat towards them, or any strange object, they are so attracted
by the appearance as to allow of an approach so near that a
noose may be thrown round their necks, or, approached from
behind, they may be knocked down with poles. Sometimes,
however, they become wild enough to fly, but soon grow weary,
and as tame as usual. When about to fly off to a distance
from the hunters, they are instantly brought to settle down by
imitating the cry of their enemy the Hawk. At times, trusting
to the concealment of their winter livery, they will remain
motionless upon the snow, from which they are still distinguish-
able by their more dazzling whiteness.

They are much esteemed as food in every country where
they occur, and are commonly taken in nets, which are merely
made to fall over the place where they assemble, or to which
they are driven; and so numerous are they at Hudson Bay
that fifty or seventy are sometimes obtained at a single haul of
a net about twenty feet square. Between November and April
as many as ten thousand are taken for the use of the settle-

46 GROUSE FAMILY.

ment ; and in Europe, during the winter, they are carried in
thousands to the market of Bergen in Norway, and when half-
roasted or jerked, are put into barrels and transported to other
countries as an article of commerce.

Willow Grouse, or Large Ptarmigan.

This larger species, called the Willow Grouse by Hearne, the
Wood Grouse of the Norwegians, is another inhabitant of both
continents, extending its residence to the eternal limits of the
polar ice. In America they abound around Hudson Bay,
where they are said to breed along the coast, making their
nests on dry ridges on the ground. In the ancient continent

they shelter their nests in the high tufts of the heath, and in |

the dwarf willows. Their eggs, 10 to 12, are longer than
those of the preceding species, of a muddy white, or inclining
to pale rufous, covered and marbled with great numbers of
spots, of the color of clotted blood. ‘They even breed in Lab-
rador about the beginning of June. According to Audubon,
they are sometimes seen in the State of Maine and around
Lake Michigan. ‘This species also appears to be monogamous,
as both sexes remain together and show an equal anxiety for
the safety of their brood.

It is somewhat remarkable that this species, still more boreal
than the Common Ptarmigan in Europe and Asia, should con-
stantly inhabit to the south of that species in North America,
where it seems, as it were, to have usurped its residence. The
general habits of these birds are very similar to those of the
preceding. Like them, they become gregarious at the setting
in of winter, roaming after their food in flocks of as many as
two hundred, living then and at most seasons on the tops,
buds, and even seeds of the dwarf-willow, and hence called
Willow Partridges. They also subsist on most kinds of north-
ern berries, and many other kinds of buds and leaves, with the
tops of the heath and the seeds of the birch. As food, this
species is preferred to the smaller Ptarmigan. |

Nuttall followed Audubon in thus separating this species and
recognizing as a distinct form the White Ptarmigan, — the amerz-

ee

ROCK PTARMIGAN. 47

canus of Audubon, —but Baird doubted its validity, and it has
been entirely omitted from recent works. I have given above the
two biographies as they appeared in Nuttall’s book, for together
they tell about all that is known of the present species.

The Willow Ptarmigan ranges through boreal America from
Labrador to Alaska, and in winter is quite abundant on the north
shore of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. During some seasons a number
have wandered sufficiently near to Quebec and Montreal to get into
the markets.

There are only two instances recorded of the occurrence of this
bird south of the St. Lawrence, — one secured by Mr. C. B. Cory
on the Magdelen Islands, and the second shot by Dr. C. Hart
Merriam in Lewis County, northern New York.

NoTrE.—A_ variety of this species —ALLEN’S PTARMIGAN
(L. lagopus alleni) was described by Dr. Stejneger in 1884. It
differs from true /agopus in having the wing-feathers mottled with
black, and black shafts. This race is restricted to Newfoundland.

ROCK PTARMIGAN.

LAGOPUS RUPESTRIS.

CHAR. Similar to the Willow Ptarmigan, but smaller (length about
14 inches), and in summer displays more black and less of the rufous
tint. Also distinguished by a line of black running through the eyes.

Vest. A mere depression, with a slight covering of grass and moss.

Eggs. 8-16 (usually 10); buff or pale reddish brown, marked with
darker brown; 1.70 X 1.20.

This species is nearly allied to the Common Ptarmigan, but
is smaller, has more of the brownish yellow in its summer
dress, broader bars of black, and none of the cinereous tint
which prevails in the livery of the Ptarmigan. In winter it
is only distinguishable by its size. This species is, according
to Hutchins, numerous at the two extremities of Hudson Bay,
but does not appear at the middle settlements (York and
Severn factories) except in very severe seasons, when the
Willow Grouse are scarce. It abounds in Melville Island in
the dreary latitude of 74 and 75 degrees in the short summers

48 GROUSE FAMILY.

of that frigid and cheerless region. It is also found on Mel-
ville Peninsula and the Barren Grounds, and indeed seldom
proceeds farther south in winter than the 63d parallel in the
interior, but descends along the coasts of Hudson Bay to lati-
tude 58 degrees, and in severe seasons still farther to the
south. It is met with in the range of the Rocky Mountains as
far to the south as the latitude of 55 degrees. In its habits
and mode of living it resembles the Willow Grouse, but does
not retire so far into the woody country in winter. It fre-
quents the open woods on the borders of lakes at the same
season, particularly in the 65th parallel, though the bulk of the
species remains on the skirts of the Barren Grounds. It
hatches in June.

The usual habitat of this species is the barren ground region of
the Arctics, though one example was shot on Anticosti by Mr.
William Brewster.

Note. — In REINHARDT’S PTARMIGAN (ZL. rupestris reinhardtt)
the male in summer plumage is more mottled, above, than true
rupestris, and the female is black, above, varied with grayish buff.

This race is found in Greenland and on the western shore of
Cumberland Bay and the northern extremity of Labrador.

WELCH’S PTARMIGAN.

LAGOPUS WELCHI.

CHAR. In winter similar to rzfestris. Male in summer: above, dark
brownish gray blended with whitish gray and reddish gray; head and
neck lighter; wings white; breast and sides like back ; throat, belly, and
legs white; tail dusky gray; bill and claws black. Female: similar, but
of lighter color, and the back and breast tinged with yellow. Length
about 15 inches.

Nest and Eggs. Unknown, but probably similar to rzfestras.

This species, which is closely related to the Rock Ptarmigan, is
restricted to Newfoundland, where it ranges over the rocky hills
and barrens of the interior. It was first described by Brewster, in
1885, from specimens taken by George O. Welch, of Lynn.

SANDERLING.
RUDDY PLOVER. BEACH-BIRD.

CALIDRIS ARENARIA.

CHAR. No hind toe; bill somewhat similar to a Plover. In summer:
above, mottled rufous and blackish brown, most of the feathers tipped
with grayish white; head and neck pale chestnut spotted with brown;
wing-coverts tipped with white; outer tail-feathers white; lower parts
white. In winter the rufous tints are replaced by pearl gray, and the
spring plumage displays a mixture of the two. In young birds the head,
neck, and back are tinged with buff. Length about 8 inches.

Nest. Under a bush or amid a tuft of weeds; a depression lined with

dry grass.
Fees. 2-4; greenish buff or brownish olive, spotted chiefly around the

larger end with brown; 1.40 X 0.95.

The Sanderlings, in accumulating flocks, arrive on the shores
of Massachusetts from their remote northern breeding-places
towards the close of August. They are seen also about the
same time on the coast of New Jersey and still farther to the
South, where they remain throughout the greater part of
the winter, gleaning their subsistence exclusively along the
immediate borders of the ocean, and are particularly attached
to sandy flats and low, sterile, solitary coasts divested of vege-

VOL. I. — 4

50 WADING BIRDS.

tation and perpetually bleached by the access of tides and
storms; in such situations they are often seen in numerous
flocks running along the strand, busily employed in front of
the moving waves, gleaning with agility the shrimps, minute
shell-fish, marine insects, and small moluscous animals which
ever-recurring accident throws in their way. The numerous
flocks keep a low circling course along the strand, at times
uttering a slender and rather plaintive whistle nearly like that
of the smaller Sandpipers. On alighting, the little active troop,
waiting the opportunity, scatter themselves about in the rear of
the retiring surge. The succeeding wave then again urges the
busy gleaners before it, when they appear like a little pigmy
army passing through their military evolutions; and at this
time the wily sportsman, seizing his opportunity, spreads
destruction among their timid ranks; and so little are they
aware of the nature of the attack that after making a few aerial
meanders the survivors pursue their busy avocations with as
little apparent concern as at the first. The breeding-place
of the Sanderlings, in common with many other wading and
aquatic birds, is in the remote and desolate regions of the
North, since they appear to be obliged to quit those countries
in America a little after the middle of August. According to
Mr. Hutchins, they breed on the coast of Hudson Bay as low
as the 55th parallel ; and he remarks that they construct, in the
marshes, a rude nest of grass, laying four dusky eggs, spotted
with black, on which they begin to sit about the middle of
June.

Flemming supposes that those seen in Great Britain breed
no farther off than in the bleak Highlands of Scotland, and
Mr. Simmonds observed them at the Mull of Cantyre as late as
the second of June. They are found in the course of the
season throughout the whole Arctic circle, extending their
migrations also into moderate climates in the winter. They
do not, however, in Europe proceed as far south as the capital
of Italy, as we learn from the careful and assiduous observa-
tions of the Prince of Musignano. According to Latham the
Sanderling is known to be an inhabitant even of the remote

SANDERLING. 51

coast of Australia, and is found on the shores of Lake Baikal
in Siberia. In the month of May, or as soon as they have
recovered from the moult of spring, they leave us for the
north, but are seldom in good order for the table until autumn,
when, with their broods, they arrive remarkably plump and
fat, and are then justly esteemed as a delicacy by the epicure.
Besides the various kinds of insect food already mentioned on
which they live, they hkewise swallow considerable portions of
sand in order apparently to assist the process of digestion.

The Sanderling is almost cosmopolitan in its distribution, and is
usually abundant wherever it occurs. In America it breeds in high
Arctic regions, and winters in the far South, — some flocks going to
Chili and Patagonia; and in their migrations the birds follow the
water-ways of the interior as well as the coast-line.

A few stragglers have been seen on the New England shores in
summer, but no nest has been found south of about latitude 55°;
and Captain Feilden reports finding a number breeding on the
shores of the Frozen Ocean, at the extreme northern limit of
animal life.

Flemming’s opinion that some of these birds nested in Scotland
has not been confirmed by recent observers. Even on the Faroe
Islands the Sanderling occurs as a migrant only; but nests have
been taken in Iceland.

These birds are exceedingly active and by no means shy. When
flushed they fly out to sea, but soon return; and when a flock is
fired into, the remnant make no great effort to escape, though
a wounded bird will dive into the surf or swim off on the surface
of the water.

The food of the Sanderling while in this region is confined
chiefly to small bivalves and crustaceans; but on its breeding-
ground the bird is more insectivorous, and has been known to eat”
also the buds of plants.

52 WADING BIRDS.

BLACK-NECKED STILT.
HIMANTOPUS MEXICANUS.

Cuar. Legs bright pink and exceedingly long; bill black, slender,
and longer than the head; crown, back of neck, back, and wings black;
forehead, patch over the eyes, throat, and under parts white. Length
about 15 inches.

Nest. On marshy margin of stream or pond; a.slight depression in
the turf, lined with dry grass. Sometimes —if the ground is very wet—a
high platform is built, of weed-stems and twigs.

Eggs. 3-4; pale olive or greenish buff, spotted with brownish black ;
size exceedingly variable, average about 1.75 X 1.20.

The Black-necked Stilt is common to many parts of South
as well as North America; it is known at any rate to inhabit
the: coast of Cayenne, Jamaica, and Mexico. In the United
States it is seldom seen but as a straggler as far to the north
as the latitude of 41°. About the 25th of April, according
to Wilson, the Stilts arrive on the coast of New Jersey in
small flocks of twenty or thirty together. These again sub-
divide into smaller parties, but they still remain gregarious
through the breeding-season. ‘Their favorite residence is in
the higher and more inland parts of the greater salt-marshes,
which are interspersed and broken up with shallow pools, not
usually overflowed by the tides during summer. In these
places they are often seen wading up to the breast in water,
in quest of the larvee, spawn, flies, and insects which constitute
their food.

in the vicinity of these bare places, among thick tufts of
grass, small associations of six or eight pair take up their
residence for the breeding-season. They are, however, but
sparingly dispersed over the marshes, selecting their favorite
spots, while in large intermediate tracts few or none are to be
seen. Early in May they begin to make their nests, which
are at first slightly formed of a mere layer of old grass, just
sufficient to keep the eggs from the moisture of the marsh; in
the course of incubation, however, either to guard against the
rise of the tides, or for some other purpose, the nest is in-

BLACK-NECKED STILT. 53

creased in height with the dry twigs of salt marsh shrubs, roots
of grass, sea-weed, and any other coarse materials which may
be convenient, until the whole may now weigh two or three
pounds. The eggs, four in number, are of a dark yellowish
drab, thickly marked with large blotches of brownish black.
These nests are often situated within fifteen or twenty yards
of each other, the respective proprietors living in mutual
friendship.

While the females are sitting, their mates are either wading
in the adjoining ponds, or traversing the marshes in the
vicinity ; but on the approach of any intruder in their peace-
able community, the whole troop assemble in the air, and flying
steadily with their long legs extended behind them, keep up a
continual yelping note of cick, cick, click. Alighting on the
marsh, they are often seen to drop their wings, and standing
with their legs half bent, and trembling, they seem to sustain
their bodies with difficulty. In this singular posture they will
sometimes remain for several minutes, uttering a curring sound,
and quivering their wings and long shanks as if in the act of
laboriously balancing themselves on the ground. A great deal
of this motion is, however, probably in manceuvre, to draw the
spectators’ attention from their nests.

Although so sedentary in the breeding-season, at times they
extend their visits to the shores, wading about in the water
and mud in quest of their food, which they scoop up with
great dexterity. On being wounded, while in the water, they
sometimes attempt to escape by diving, —at which, however,
they are by no means expert. In autumn their flesh is tender
and well flavored. They depart for the South early in Sep-
tember, and proceed probably to pass the winter in tropical
America.

The Stilt is a rare bird in this Eastern faunal province, excep-
ting in Florida. It is occasionally seen along the sandy beaches of
Massachusetts, and a few examples have been taken in Maine and
New Brunswick and in Michigan.

AMERICAN OYSTER-CATCHER.

HAMATOPUS PALLIATUS.

CHAR. Bill red, long, stout, straight, and compressed towards the
point; feet red, no hind toe, outer and middle toes united bya membrane
as far as the middle joint. Head and neck black, changing to blackish
brown on back and wings ; rump, wing-band, tail, and belly white. Length
18 inches.

Nest. On the border of a salt-marsh or upper edge of a sea-beach;
a mere depression scratched in the sand.

Eggs. 2-3; bluish white or pale buff marked with several shades of

brown; 2.20 X 1.55.

The Oyster-catcher is common to the north of both conti-
nents, breeding in Great Britain, France, Norway, and along
the borders of the Caspian; it is even seen as far south as
Senegal in Africa. But though common in New Jersey and
the Southern States as far as the Bahamas, where these birds
likewise pass the period of reproduction, they are but rarely
seen to visit the coast of Massachusetts. In Europe they
are said to retire somewhat inland at the approach of winter ;
in the United States they are seen at this season along the
coasts which lie south of Cape Hatteras, on the borders of

AMERICAN OYSTER-CATCHER. 55

the Atlantic. They return to New Jersey by the close of
April, and frequenting the sandy sea-beach, are now seen in
small parties of two or three pairs together. ‘They are gene-
rally wild and difficult to approach, except in the breeding-
season, and at times may be seen walking erectly and watch-
fully along the shore, now and then probing the sand in quest
of marine worms, mollusca, and minute shell-fish. ‘Their larger
prey is sometimes the small burrowing crabs called fiddlers,
as well as mussels, solens, and oyséers, their reputed prey
in Europe. ‘They seldom, however, molest the larger shell-
fish in the United States, preferring smaller and less precarious
game. Catesby, at the same time, asserts that he found
oysters in the stomach, and Willoughby adds that they some-
times swallowed entire limpets. According to Belon, the organ
of digestion is indeed spacious and muscular, and the flesh
of the bird is black, hard, and rank flavored. Yet in the
opinion of some, the young, when fat, are considered as agree-
able food. The nests of the Oyster-catchers are said often to
be made in the herbage of the salt-marshes, but on the At-
lantic coast these birds commonly drop their eggs.in slight
hollows scratched in the coarse sand and drift, in situations
just sufficiently elevated above the reach of the summer tides.
The eggs are laid from the first to the third week in May,
and from the 15th to the 25th the young are hatched, and
run about nimbly almost as soon as they escape from the shell.
At first they are covered with a down nearly the color of the
sand, but marked with a line of brownish black on the back,
rump, and neck. In some parts of Europe Oyster-catchers are
so remarkably gregarious in particular breeding-spots that a
bushel of their eggs in a few hours might be collected from
the same place.

Like Gulls and other birds of this class, incubation costs
much less labor than among the smaller birds, for the female
sits on her eggs only during the night and morning, or in cold
and rainy weather; the heat of the sun and sand alone being
generally sufficient to hatch them, without the aid of the bird
by day. The nest is, however, assiduously watched with the

56 WADING BIRDS.

usual solicitude of parental affection, and on the least alarm
the male starts off with a loud scream, while the female, if
present, to avoid the discovery of her charge, runs out some
distance previous to taking wing. ‘The young, as soon as re-
leased from the shell, follow the guiding call of the mother, and
on any imminent danger threatening, instinctively squat on the
sand, when, from the similarity of their color, it is nearly im-
possible to discover their artless retreat. On these occasions,
the parents make wide circuits on either hand, now and then
alighting, and practising the usual stratagem of counterfeited
imbecility, to draw away attention from their brood. ‘The
note of this species consists commonly of a quick, loud, and
shrill whistling call like ’wheep, ’wheep, wheo, or peep, peep,
often reiterated, as well at rest as while on the wing.

While migrating, they keep together in lines like a mar-
shalled troop, and however disturbed by the sportsman, they
still continue to maintain their ranks. At a later period the
flock will often rise, descend, and wheel about with great
regularity, at the same time bringing the brilliant white of
their wings into conspicuous display. When wounded, and
at other times, according to Baillon, they betake themselves
to the water, on which they repose, and swim and dive with
celerity. ‘They have sometimes also been brought up and tamed
so as to associate familiarly with ducks and other poultry.

This bird is still rare in New England, though plentiful along
the shores of the Middle States. Two examples have been taken
on the Bay of Fundy,

Mr. Walter Hoxie, in the “ Ornithologist and Oologist” for
August, 1887, gave an interesting account of a pair of these birds
moving their eggs when the nest was discovered. While Mr.
Hoxie was watching the parents they carried the eggs about one
hundred yards from the old nest, and deposited them safely in a
nest which he saw the birds prepare.

Note. — The European OYSTER-CATCHER (He@matopus ostra-
fegus) occurs occasionally in Greenland.

AMERICAN GOLDEN PLOVER. 7

AMERICAN GOLDEN PLOVER.

COMMON PLOVER. WHISTLING PLOVER. PALE-BELLY.
GREEN PLOVER.

CHARADRIUS DOMINICUS.

CHAR. No hind toe. Above, spotted with black and lemon yellow;
forehead and line over the eyes white ; tail grayish brown with imperfect
bars of ashy white; beneath, black. In winter plumage the black of the
lower parts is replaced by mottled gray and white, the throat and breast
spotted with dusky.

West. At the upper edge of a sea-beach ; a mere depression in the soil
lined with a few bits of grass.

figgs. 3-4 (usually 4) ; of sharply pointed pyriform shape; dark brown-
ish buff, sometimes tinged with drab or grayish white; spotted and
blotched with various shades of brown; 2.00 X 1.40.

The Common Plover is, according to the season of the year,
met with in almost every part of the world, particularly in Asia
and Europe, from Kamtschatka to China, as well as in the
South Sea Islands; and on the present continent from Arctic
America, where it breeds, to the Falkland Islands; it is also
seen in the interior at least as far as Missouri. It breeds in
Siberia and in the northern parts of Great Britain, but not in
France or Italy, where it is also common. At such times it
selects the high and secluded mountains, sheltered by the heath,
where, without much attempt at a nest, the female deposits
about four, or sometimes five, eggs of a pale-olive color, marked
with blackish spots.

These Plovers arrive on the coast of the Middle and North-
ern States in spring and early autumn. Near to Nantasket and
Chelsea Beach they are seen on their return from their inclem-
ent natal regions in the north by the close of August, and the
young remain in the vicinity till the middle of October, or
later, according to the state of the weather. They live princi-
pally upon land insects, or the larvee and worms they meet
with in the saline marshes, and appear very fond of grasshop-
pers. About the time of their departure they are, early in the
morning, seen sometimes assembled by thousands ; but they all

58 WADING BIRDS.

begin to disperse as the sun rises, and at length disappear high
in the air for the season. ‘They usually associate, however, in
small flocks and families, and when alarmed, while on the wing,
or giving their call to those who are feeding around them, they
have a wild, shrill, and whistling note, and are at most times
timid, watchful, and difficult to approach. Though they con-
tinue associated in numbers for common safety during the day,
they disperse in the evening, and repose apart from each
other. At day-break, however, the feeling of solitude again
returns, and the early sentinel no sooner gives the shrill and
well-known ca// than they all assemble in their usual company.
At this time they are often caught in great numbers by the
fowler, with the assistance of a clap-net stretched, before
dawn, in front of the place they have selected to pass the night.
The fowlers, now surrounding the spot, prostrate themselves on
the ground when the call is heard ; and as soon as the birds are
collected together, they rise up from ambush, and by shouts
and the throwing up of sticks in the air, succeed so far in
intimidating the Plovers that they lower their flight, and thus
striking against the net, it falls upon them. In this and most
other countries their flesh, in the autumn, and particularly that
of the young birds, is esteemed as a delicacy, and often exposed
for sale in the markets of the principal towns.

The Golden Plover is common, and in some localities abundant,
in the autumn along the shores of New England and the Maritime
Provinces, but in the spring migrations it is rarely or never seen.

Dr. Wheaton found it abundant in the spring, and common in
the fall, in Ohio ; but some observers in Ontario consider it a rare
bird in that province.

Notre.— The European GOLDEN PLOVER (Charadrius aprt-
cavius) has been seen occasionally in Greenland.

PIPING PLOVER. 59

PIPING PLOVER.
AXGIALITIS MELODA.

CHAR. Above, pale ash tinged with pale brown; forehead and inter-
rupted ring about the neck black; below, white ; black patches on side .of
chest; feet orange; bill orange, tipped with black. In young birds the
black of the head and neck is replaced by brown. Length 6% to 7%

inches.
iVvest. Amid the shingle of a sea-beach; a shallow depression in the

sand.
Eggs. 2-4 (usually 4); pale buff or creamy, marked with fine spots of

blackish brown and a few spots of lavender ; 1.30 X 1.00.

This species is a common inhabitant of our sea-coast, arriv-
ing in the Middle States from its Southern hibernal retreats
towards the close of April. It does not, however, proceed so far
to the north, but resides and breeds in the United States, from
the shores of New Jersey to Nova Scotia. Along the low, sandy,
and solitary borders of the sea, in small scattering flocks, the
Piping Plovers are therefore seen throughout the summer, rap-
idly coursing over the strand, either in quest of their food or
to elude the search of the intruding spectator. After gliding
swiftly along for a little distance, they often stop for a short
interval to watch any approach or pick up some insect, occasion-
ally bending forward and jerking the head up in a balancing
attitude ; when still, their pale livery so nearly resembles the
color of the sand that for the instant they are rendered nearly
invisible. On approaching their nests, which are mere shallow
hollows in the sand and gravel, they usually exhibit consider-
able emotion, running along with outspread wings and tail,
and fluttering as if lame, to attract attention from their eggs
and young. ‘They will sometimes practise this artifice at a
considerable distance from their brood, and often follow the
spectator for a mile or two, making their shrill, mournful,
monotonous call, frequently alighting and running, with a view
to deception, near any place which happens to be examined ;
and by these reiterated feints and fears it becomes often
nearly impossible to discover their breeding-haunts. About

60 WADING BIRDS.

the 2oth of May, or later, as they proceed to the North, they
commence laying, the eggs, being about four, rather large, of
a pale cream color, or nearly white, irregularly spotted and
blotched nearly all over with blackish brown and many sub-
dued tints of a much paler color.

The cry of this species, uttered while running along the
strand, is rather soft and musical, consisting chiefly of a single,
varied, and repeated plaintive note. On approaching the
breeding-spot, the birds wheel around in contracting circles,
and become more clamorous, piping out, in a tone of alarm,
’ké-bee, and keeb, keed, then falling off into a more feeble ée-
boo, with occasionally a call of £2. At times, in the same sad
and wild accent with the vociferous Lapwing, we hear a cry of
kee-wee, and even the same fai-wee, pee-voo, and fai-voo.
When in hurry and consternation, the cry resembled Avs, pit,
pit, ‘pt. Sometimes, in apparent artifice, for the defence of
their tender brood, besides practising alarming gestures, they
even squeak like young birds in distress.

The food of this species is quite similar with that of the
Semi-palmated Ring Plover; indeed, the birds are scarcely to
be distinguished but by the paleness of the plumage in the
present species, and the shortness of the web between the
exterior toes. They are usually fat, except in the breeding-
season, and much esteemed as game.

The Piping Plover is a common summer resident of New Eng-
land and the Maritime Provinces, though rare in some localities on
the Bay of Fundy. Mr.C. B. Cory found it abundant on the
Magdalen Islands.

Mr. Thompson thinks it a migrant near Toronto; but Mr.
Saunders found it breeding at Point Pelee, on Lake Erie.

Notre. — The BELTED PIPING PLOVER (@. meloda circum-
cincta) is a Western variety, restricted chiefly to the Missouri
River region, though it has been occasionally seen on the Atlantic
coast. It differs from true #e/oda in having “the black patches on
the sides of the chest more or less completely coalesced” instead
of separated.

1 The first syllable uttered with a guttural lisp.

WILSON’S PLOVER. 61

WILSON’S PLOVER.
AXGIALITIS WILSONIA.

CHAR. Above, olive ash or pale ashy brown, tinged on the nape with
rufous ; beneath, white ; forehead and collar on breast black ; tail dark
olive; bill black, long, and stout. Length about 73 inches. Easily dis-
tinguished from the other small “ring-necked” Plover by its large black

bill.

Vest. Amid the shingle on a sea-side beach; an extremely slight
hollow in the sand, without lining.

Zees. Usually 3; pale olive-buff thickly marked with blackish brown ;
size variable, average 1.30 X 1.00.

This species was described by Ord in 1813, and dedicated to his
friend Wilson. It is a Southern bird, and restricted probably to
the sea-coast, though some few observers have reported finding it
in the interior. It was “not very common” on Long Island in
Giraud’s day, and later authorities have reported it extremely rare
there; but it occurs in more or less abundance from New Jersey to
Florida and on both coasts of Central America. A few examples
have been credited to New England, and Colonel Goss shot one
on Brier Island, at the mouth of the Bay of Fundy.

Dr. Coues describes the habits of this Plover as much the same
as those of its congener, the Semi-palmated. He says the Wil-
son’s Plovers move north in flocks of six to twenty; but these sep-
arate on the nesting ground, and two nests are never placed in
close neighborhood. They are gentle and unsuspicious birds; but
when a nest is approached, the parents become intensely excited,
flitting to and fro hurriedly and wildly, and continually uttering
cries of alarm and dismay in most pathetic tones. Their note is
described as “half a whistle and half a chirp, and very different
from the clear mellow piping of the other species.”

They begin to lay about the middle of May or first of June,
according to location. The young run as soon as they are clear of
the shell, and easily escape detection by squatting on the sand,
which is very similar in color.

The flight of Wilson’s Plover is swift and yeeeivle and as the
birds skim above the water — barely clearing the crests of the
waves — they continually utter their cry in clear, soft tones. Giraud
described them as of a sociable tendency; but Audubon thought
they rarely mingled with other species, and called them solitary.
Their food is small shell-fish, worms, and insects, with which they
mingle fine particles of sand.

62 WADING BIRDS.

KILLDEER.
AEGIALITIS VOCIFERA.

CHAR. Above, grayish brown; band on forehead above and behind
eyes white bordered with black; two bands across chest black; rump
and base of tail rufous ; tail with subterminal band of black and tipped
with white; patch of white on wing; under parts white. Length 10
inches.

iVest. On the edge of a sandy beach or margin of a marshy meadow;
a mere depression in the sand or turf, sometimes slightly lined with

dry grass.
Leggs. Usually 4; buff, sometimes drabish, marked with fine spots of

dark brown; 1.55 X 1.10.

The well-known, restless, and noisy Killdeer is a common
inhabitant throughout the United States, in nearly all parts of
which it is known to breed, wintering, however, generally to
the south of Massachusetts. In the interior it also penetrates
to the sources of the Mississippi, the remote plains of the
Saskatchewan, and Vieillot met with it even in St. Domingo.
On the return of spring it wanders from the coast, to which it
had been confined in winter, and its reiterated and shrill cry is
again heard as it passes through the air, or as it courses the
shore of the river, or the low meadows in the vicinity of the
sea. About the beginning of May it resorts to the fields or
level pastures which happen to be diversified with pools of
water, and in such situations, or the barren sandy downs in the
immediate vicinity of the sea, it fixes upon a place for its nest
which is indeed a mere slight hollow lined with such straw and
dry weeds as come most convenient. In one instance Wilson
saw a nest of the Killdeer curiously paved and bordered with
fragments of clam and oyster shells ; at other times no vestige
of an artificial nest was visible. The eggs, usually four, large
and pointed at the smaller end, are of a yellowish cream color
thickly marked with blackish blotches.

At all times noisy and querulous to a proverb, in the breed-
ing-season nothing can exceed the Killdeer’s anxiety and
alarm ; and the incessant cry of ildeer, kildeer, or te te de ait,
and ¢e dit, as they waft themselves about over head or descend

KILLDEER. 63

and fly around you, is almost deafening. At the same time, to
carry out this appearance of distress they run along the ground
with hanging wings, counterfeiting lameness to divert the
intention of the intruder. Indeed, no person can now approach
the breeding-place, though at a considerable distance, without
being molested with their vociferous and petulant clamor.
During the evening and till a late hour, in moonlight nights,
their cries are still heard both in the fall and spring. They
seek their fare of worms and insects often in the twilight, so
that their habits are in some degree nocturnal; but they also
feed largely on grasshoppers, crickets, carabi, and other kinds
which frequent grassy fields by day.

The flight of these birds is remarkably vigorous, and they
sometimes proceed at a great height in the air. ‘They are also
fond of washing themselves and wading in the pools, which
they frequent for insects ; their gait is perfectly erect, and, like
most of their tribe, they run with great celerity. As game, their
flesh, like that of the Lapwing, is musky, and not generally
esteemed ; in the fall, however, when fat they are by some
considered as well flavored. Towards autumn families descend
to the sea-shore, where their behavior now becomes more
circumspect and silent.

At one time the Killdeer was not uncommon in New England,
but of late years it has been quite rare, though a few pairs still
breed on Rhode Island. It is seldom seen in the Maritime Prov-
inces, but is common along the Great Lakes. Farther west it
ranges north to the Saskatchewan.

An extraordinary flight of these birds visited the New England
coast late in November, 1888. Dr. Arthur P. Chadbourne — who
contributed a paper on the subject to “ The Auk” for July, 1889 —
proved by reports received from various points on the Atlantic
coast that the birds had been driven off shore by a severe gale
while migrating along the Carolinian coast, and had been carried
north on the eastern edge of the storm and finally to the land.
After the storm the birds were abundant for several days from
Nova Scotia to Rhode Island.

64 WADING BIRDS.

SEMI-PALMATED PLOVER.
AEGIALITIS SEMIPALMATA.

CHAR. Above, brownish ash; forehead white, bordered with black;
band on back of the head and collar on the breast black; bill orange,
tipped with black. Length about 7 inches.

vest. On the margin of a salt-marsh or a swampy inlet of the sea; a
slight hollow partially lined with grass or weeds.

£e2s. 2-4 (usually 4); greenish buff or olive drab, marked with sev-

eral shades of brown; size variable, average 1.30 X 0.95.

This small species, so nearly related to the Ring Plover of
Europe, arrives from the South along our sea-coasts and those
of the Middle States towards the close of April, where it is
seen feeding and busily collecting its insect fare until the close
of May. ‘These birds then disappear on their way farther
north to breed, and in the summer are even observed as far as
the icy shores of Greenland. According to Richardson they
abound in Arctic America during the summer, and breed in
similar situations with the Golden Plover. Mr. Hutchins adds,
its eggs, generally four, are dark colored and spotted with
black. The aborigines say that on the approach of stormy
weather this species utters a chirping noise and claps its wings,
as if influenced by some instinctive excitement. ‘The same, or
a very similar species, is also met with in the larger West
India islands and in Brazil according to the rude figure and
imperfect description of Piso.

The early commencement of inclement weather in the cold
regions selected for their breeding haunts induces the Ring
Plovers to migrate to the South as soon as their only brood
have acquired strength for their indispensable journey. Flocks
of the old and young are thus seen in the vicinity of Boston by
the close of the first week in August, and they have been
observed on the shores of the Cumberland, in Tennessee, by
the ninth of September.

The Semi-palmated Ring Plover, though so well suited for an
almost aquatic life, feeds on land as well as marine insects,
collecting weavels and other kinds, and very assiduously cours-

SEMI-PALMATED PLOVER. 65

ing the strand at low water. In general, when not too eagerly
hunted, they are but little suspicious, and may readily be
approached by the fowler, as well as detained sometimes by
whistling in imitation of their quailing call. On most occa-
sions, and when flushed, they utter a reiterated, sharp, twitter-
ing, and wild note, very much in unison with the ceaseless
echoes of the breaking surge and the lashing of the waves,
near which they almost perpetually course, gliding and run-
ning with great agility before the retiring or advancing waters.
Their flesh is commonly fat and well flavored, and in early
autumn they are not uncommon in the markets of Boston and
New York.

These pretty and interesting birds are abundant throughout the
United States during both the spring and the autumn migrations ;
but excepting an occasional pair that are found in Maine, none
breed south of the Canadian boundary. Dr. Louis B. Bishop
reported numbers breeding on the Magdalen Islands, in 1888, and
the birds are abundant during the summer on the coast of Labra-
dor. In winter they range into South America, many going as far
as Brazil and Peru.

VOL. I. — 5

RINGED PLOVER.

AEGIALITIS HIATICULA.

CHAR. Above, rich brown; forehead and stripe behind the eyes
white; crown, cheeks, and collar black, —the collar widest on the breast ;
patch on wings white; central tail-feathers brown, tipped with white;
outer feathers mostly white; beneath, white; bill yellow, tipped with
black. Length 734 inches.

iVest. A cavity among the pebbles of a sea-washed beach, sometimes
slightly lined with weeds, — occasionally the lining is ofsmall stones about
the size of peas.

Leggs. Usually 4; dull buff, marked with brownish black; 1.40 X
1.00.

This European bird, known to many of the old country gunners
as the Ringed Dotterell, and closely allied to our well-known Semi-
palmated Plover, was found by Kumlien breeding in numbers on
the western shore of Cumberland Bay. The same observer reports
it common also at Disco Island, Greenland. It is not known to

RINGED PLOVER. - 67

occur regularly elsewhere in America, though one example has
been taken at Great Slave Lake; but it is found throughout Europe,
and ranges over northern Asia to Bering’s Straits. It is met with
throughout the entire year in England, breeding as far south as
Kent and Sussex, and ranges north to lat. 80° 45’, and south (in
winter) to the shores of Africa.

Seebohm thinks that the bird found nesting in the British
Islands is a larger and lighter-colored race, laying a larger egg;
and he proposes to make it a sub-species and name it Azaticula
major.

Like others of the family, the Ringed Plover feeds on small thin-
shelled crustaceans, such as shrimps, etc., and sea-worms, as well
as on insects, which it catches with much adroitness; and with its
food it mingles small pebbles and particles of sand to aid digestion.

The usual note of this bird is a melodious whistle; but the call-
note is harsh, while the cry of alarm, though noisy, is rather plain-
tive. This last note has been written few-y-et and ¢oo-zt. The
male, however, uses a distinct call-note during the mating-season.
It is the same note as the usual call, but repeated so rapidly it forms
a trill, and it is also delivered in more liquid tones.

This Plover is described by Seebohm as a wild, wary bird when
feeding in its winter-quarters, but quite the opposite when on its
breeding-grounds inthe Far North. It there becomes an unobtru-
sive little creature, neither shy nor wary, and rarely displaying more
than a shade of anxiety in its actions, — running but a little distance
from an intruder, or flying to an adjacent knoll to watch his move-
ments ; sometimes squatting close to the sand until almost under
one’s feet. It runs with great swiftness, pausing now and then,
and darting away again. Keeping close to the edge of the water,
it follows the receding waves picking up what food may have been
stranded, and hastening shoreward as the waves return.

Nore. — A few examples of the MOUNTAIN PLOVER (i gialitis
montana) have been taken in Florida. The usual habitat of this
species is from the Great Plains westward.

BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER.

BEETLE-HEAD. BULL-HEAD. SWISS PLOVER.

CHARADRIUS SQUATAROLA.

CHAR. Summer plumage: above, spotted black and white or ashy;
beneath, black. Winter plumage. above, spotted black and brownish yel-
low ; beneath, black mixed with white. Distinguished from all other
Plovers by having a hind toe. Length about 12 inches.

Nest. On dry hill-side ; a slight depression in the soil, lined with a few
leaves and bits of grass.

Eggs. 4, buffish olive or greenish drab thickly marked with brown-
ish black ; 2.00 X 1.40.

The Black-bellied or large Whistling Field Plover is met
with in most parts of the northern hemisphere, and in America

is known to breed from the open grounds of Pennsylvania to
the very extremity of the Arctic regions. It is common around

BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER. = “3OQ

Hudson Bay. How far this bird extends its migrations to the
southward is not satisfactorily ascertained, though there is little
doubt but that it ranges to the confines of Mexico, and it has
been seen in considerable numbers in Louisiana and the Car-
olinas during the winter. According to Wilson it generally
arrives in the inland parts of Pennsylvania in the latter part of
April; and less timid than the Golden Plover, it often selects
the ploughed field for the site of its nest, where the ordinary
fare of earth-worms, larve, beetles, and winged insects now
abounds. ‘The nest, as in most of the birds of this class, is
’ very slightly and quickly made of a few blades of stubble or
withered grass, in which are generally deposited four eggs,
large for the size of the bird (being scarcely a line short of two
inches in length), of a cream color slightly inclining to olive,
and speckled nearly all over with small spots and blotches of
lightish brown, and others of a subdued tint, bordering on
lavender purple ; the specks, as usual, more numerous towards
the large end. In the more temperate parts of the United
States it rears often two broods in the season, though only one
in Massachusetts, where, indeed, the nests are of rare occur-
rence. During the summer the young and old now feed
much upon various kinds of berries, particularly those of the
early bramble, called dew-berries ; and their fiesh at this time
is highly esteemed. About the iast week in August the Betel-
headed Plovers (as they are called in New England) descend
with their young to the borders of the sea-coast, where they
assemble in great numbers from all their Northern breeding-
_places. Now passing an unsettled and roving life, without
any motive to local attachment, they crowd to such places as
promise them the easiest and surest means of subsistence ;
at this time small shell-fish, shrimps, and other minute marine
animals, as well as the grasshoppers, which abound in the
fields, constitute their principal fare.

The Black-bellied Plover is at all times extremely shy and
watchful, uttering a loud, rather plaintive whistling note as it
flies high and circling in the air, and is so often noisy, partic-
ularly in the breeding-season, as to have acquired among many

=O WADING BIRDS.

of the gunners along the coast the name of the Black-bellied
Killdeer. From a supposed similarity, probably in the note, it
is remarkable that the inhabitants of the Faroe Islands de-
nominate the Oyster-catcher Aze/dev, and in Iceland the male
is named “dur, and the female “//dra. Indeed, the compass
of voice in a great portion of this tribe of birds, more or less
related to the Plovers, is remarkable for its similarity. The
Betel-headed Plovers usually linger round the sea-coast in the
Middle States till the commencement of November, when,
the frosts beginning sensibly to diminish their prospect of sub-
sistence, they instinctively move off towards the South, proceed-
ing probably, at this time, under the shade of twilight, as
moving flocks are nowhere, as far as I can learn, seen by day.
About the middle of September in the marshes of Chelsea
(Mass.), contiguous to the beach, they sometimes assemble at
day-break in flocks of more than a thousand _ individuals
together, and soon after disperse themselves in companies to
feed, on the shores, upon small shell-fish and marine insects.
This crowding instinct takes place a short time previous to
their general migration southward.

Wilson originated the error that this species breeds in the
mountains of Pennsylvania, and Audubon, Richardson, Nuttall,
and others have helped to perpetuate it. There is no good evidence
obtainable that the bird has nested south of the Hudson Bay dis-
trict, but numerous observers have met with it in summer on the
Barren Ground region and along the shores of the Arctic Ocean.
It has been found in winter in the West Indies and South Amer-
ica On its spring migration it goes north by various routes, —
across the interior as well as along the coast-line, — but on the
Atlantic shores it is more abundant in autumn than in spring.

I did not meet with any examples during spring on the Bay of
Fundy or the New Brunswick shores of the Gulf of St. Lawrence,
but Mr. Boardman informs me that the species occurs sparingly at
the mouth of the St. Croix River. Stearns reported it common in
southern Labrador, but Turner did not find it at Ungava.

Nore. — Occasionally an example of the Lapwine (Vanellus
vanellus) —a European species — visits Greenland.

TURNSTONE.

CHICKEN PLOVER. BRANT BIRD. RED-LEGGED PLOVER.

ARENARIA INTERPRES.

CuHar. Head, neck, breast. and shoulders variegated black and white;
back streaked chestnut and black; wings with band of white; rump
white; tail-coverts and most of tail-feathers dark brown; beneath, white.
Legs and feet orange red; hind toe turning ¢zward. Bill black, stout,
and acute. Length 9 inches.

Nest. Under shelter of bushes or among herbage near the sea-shore ;
a slight depression, lined with a few leaves and blades of grass or weed-
stems.

Eegs. 2-4 (usually 4); greenish gray, spotted and streaked with
brown and bluish ash; 1-60 X 1.10.

These singular marine birds are not only common to the
whole northern hemisphere, but extend their colonies even to
Senegal and the Cape of Good Hope, in the southern half of
the globe. Their favorite breeding-resorts are, however, con-
fined to the inclement regions of the North, to which they are
in no haste to return, but linger along the coast in the tem-
perate climates for several months before they attain to the
remote and desolate shores of their nativity. Their southern

72 WADING BIRDS.

progress in America is in all probability continued as far as the
tropics, since their race even extends itself into the other hemi-
sphere. Buffon, in fact, figures a specimen of the young bird
from Cayenne. In New Jersey, according to Wilson, these
birds arrive in the month of April, and there linger until June,
very soon after which they are seen at their breeding-quarters
on the shores of Hudson Bay and along the desolate strand of
the Arctic Sea, where they have been met with by the northern
navigators as far as the 75th parallel. ‘They already begin to
depart from these remote boreal regions in August, in which
month, and even towards the close of July, I have seen young
birds for sale in the market of Boston. ‘They visit the shores
of Great Britain also about the same time, arriving thence
probably from the Arctic shores of Siberia. Five or six weeks
later they are observed to visit the borders of the Delaware,
and proceed onward to the South as the weather increases in
coldness. ‘The most southern summer residence of these birds
known, if Mr. Flemming be correct, is the Scottish isles of Zet-
land. They are also said to inhabit the isles of the Baltic
during summer. Ina mere depression of the sand or gravel,
along the sea-coast, they are said to drop their eggs, which are
four in number, and according to Mr. Hutchins are of an
olive green spotted with blackish brown.

This bird is naturally of a wild and solitary disposition,
coursing along the shore by pairs or in small families which
have been bred together. In the months of May and June, in
New Jersey, they almost wholly feed upon the spawn of the
king-crab, or horse-foot (Monoculus polyphemus, Lin.), which
affords them and other animals an abundant and almost inex-
haustible supply.

The Turnstone, while flying, often utters a loud twittering
note, and runs at times with its wings lowered, but is less swift
in its movements than most of the Sandpipers, and more
patient and intent in obtaining its fare. Like the Wood-
peckers, it is content to search over the same place for a con-
siderable length of time ; the mechanism of its bill seems well
provided for this purpose, and it is often seen in this way

WHOOPING CRANE, 73

turning over stones and pebbles from side to side in search
of various marine worms and insects. The young feed also
upon shrimps and different kinds of small shell-fish, particu-
larly minute mussels which are occasionally cast up by the
tides. According to Catesby, this habit, of turning over
stones in quest of insects is retained by the species even
when subjected to domestication.

The Turnstone is a common spring and autumn migrant through-
out this Eastern region, but near the Atlantic is found only on the
sea-shore. It makes its nest in the Arctic regions, from Hudson
Bay northward, and during the winter ranges throughout South
America to the Straits of Magellan.

The food of these birds is the usual shore-bird diet; but they
have been known to thrive upon boiled rice and bread soaked in
milk. They make interesting pets, as they are gentle and confid-
ing, and are readily reconciled to confinement.

WHOOPING CRANE.
GREAT WHITE CRANE.
GRUS AMERICANA.

CHAR. General plumage white; outer wing-feathers, or primaries,
black ; crown and cheeks nearly naked and colored orange red, the
sparse hair-like feathers black; tail covered with long and graceful
plume-feathers. Bill greenish yellow, 6 inches long, stout, and pointed.
Length over 4 feet.

Vest. Ona dry mound in a marsh or on margin of a swamp; made of
heavy marsh grass and placed on high platform of sedges.

£ggs. 2-3; rough and coarse, bluish ash sometimes tinged with
brown; marked with pale brown; 3.80 X 2.60.

This stately Crane, the largest of all the feathered tribes in
the United States, like the rest of its family dwelling amidst
marshes and dark and desolate swamps, according to the
season is met with in almost every. part of North America,
from the islands of the West Indies, to which it retires to pass
the winter, to the utmost habitable regions and fur countries of
the North. A few of these birds hibernate in the warmer parts
of the Union, and some have been known to linger through

74 WADING BIRDS.

the whole of the inclement season in the swamps of New
Jersey, near to Cape May. When discovered in their retreats,
they are observed wandering along the marshes and muddy
flats near the sea-shore, in quest of reptiles, fish, and marine
worms. Occasionally they are seen sailing along from place
to place with a heavy, silent flight, elevated but little above
the surface of the earth. Ever wary, and stealing from the
view of all observers, these gaunt shades of something which
constantly avoids the social light impress the mind no less
with curiosity than aversion ; and it is surprising that, furtive
and inharmonious as owls, they have not excited the prejudice
of the superstitious.

At times they utter a loud, clear, and piercing cry that may
be heard to a very considerable distance, and which, being
not unaptly compared to the whoop or yell of the savages
when rushing to battle, has conferred upon our bird his pecu-
liar appellation. Other species of the genus possess also the
same sonorous cry. When wounded they attack those who
approach them with considerable vigor, so much so as to have
been known to dart their sharp and dagger-like bill through
the incautious hand held out for their capture. Indeed,
according to Dr. Richardson, they have sometimes driven the
fowler fairly out of the field.

In the winter season, dispersed from their native haunts in
quest of subsistence, they are often seen prowling in the low
grounds and rice-fields of the Southern States in quest of
insects, grain, and reptiles; they swallow also mice, moles,
rats, and frogs with great avidity, and may therefore be looked
upon at least as very useful scavengers. They are also at
times killed as game, their flesh being well flavored, as they
do not subsist so much upon fish as many other birds of this
family. It is with difficulty, however, that they can be
approached or shot, as they are so remarkably shy and vigilant.
They build their nests on the ground, after the manner of the
common Crane of Europe, selecting a tussock of long grass in
some secluded and solitary swamp, raising its sides to suit
their convenience so as to sit upon it with extended legs. The

WHOOPING CRANE. 75

eggs are two in number, as large as those of the swan, and of a
bluish-white color blotched with brown.

Whooping Cranes rise with difficulty from the ground, flying
low for a time, and thus afford an easy mark for the sportsman.
At other times they fly around in wide circles as if reconnoi-
tring the surrounding country for fresh feeding ground ;
occasionally they rise spirally into the air to a great height,
mingling their screaming voices together, which are still so
loud, when they are almost out of sight, as to resemble a pack
of hounds in full cry. Early in February Wilson met with
several of these Cranes in South Carolina; at the same season
and in the early part of the following month I heard their
clamorous cries nearly every morning around the enswamped
ponds of West Florida and throughout Georgia, so that many
individuals probably pass either the winter or the whole year
in the southern extremity of the Union.

It is impossible to describe the clamor of one of these roost-
ing flocks, which they begin usually to utter about sunrise.
Like the howling-monkeys, or preachers, of South America (as
they are called), a single individual seemed at first as if
haranguing or calling out to the assembled company, and after
uttering a round number of discordant, sonorous, and braying
tones, the address seemed as if received with becoming ap-
plause, and was seconded with a reiteration of jingling and
trumpeting hurrahs. The idea conveyed by this singular asso-
ciation of sounds was so striking, quaint, and ludicrous that I
could never hear it without smiling at the conceit. Captain
Amidas (the first Englishman who ever set foot in North
America) thus graphically describes their clamor on his land-
ing on the isle of Wokokou, off the coast of North Carolina, in
the month of July: “Such a flock of Cranes (the most part
white) arose under us, with such a cry, redoubled by many
echoes, as if an army of men had shouted all together.” But
though this display of their discordant calls may be amusing,
the bustle of their great migrations and the passage of their
mighty armies fills the mind with wonder. In the month of
December, 1811, while leisurely descending on the bosom of

76 WADING BIRDS.

the Mississippi in one of the trading boats of that period, I
had an opportunity of witnessing one of these vast migrations
of the Whooping Cranes, assembled by many thousands from
all the marshes and impassable swamps of the North and West.
The whole continent seemed as if giving up its quota of the
species to swell the mighty host. ‘Their flight took place in
the night, down the great aérial valley of the river, whose
southern course conducted them every instant towards warmer
and more hospitable climes. The clangor of these numerous
legions passing along high in the air seemed almost deafening ;
the confused cry of the vast army continued with the length-
ening procession, and as the vocal call continued nearly
throughout the whole night without intermission, some idea
may be formed of the immensity of the numbers now assem-
bled on their annual journey to the regions of the South.

The Whooping Crane is almost entirely confined to the central
portions of the continent, breeding from about the forty-third par-
allel northward, and wintering in Texas and the swampy interior of
Florida. It is doubtful if this species ever occurred in New Eng-
land, and at this day it is not seen near the Atlantic to the north of
the Chesapeake. It is a rare spring and fall migr int in Ohio, and
a few pairs nest annually in the prairie region of Illinois.

LITTLE BROWN CRANE.

GRUS CANADENSIS.

CHAR. General color bluish gray, washed in places with tawny;
cheeks and throat ashy, sometimes white ; crown partially covered with
black hair-ltke feathers ; wings ashy brown; bill blackish. Young brown-
ish gray washed with tawny. Length about 3 feet.

Vest. On the marshy bank of a river or pond; a hollow in the turf
lined with dry grass.

Eggs. Usually 2; olive drab or ashy yellow or sea-green, marked with
brown ; 3.65 X 2.30.

For the distribution of this species, see the account of the Sand-
hill Crane.

SANDHILL CRANE. WG

SANDHILL CRANE.
BROWN CRANE.
GRUS MEXICANA.

CHAR. Similar to the Little Brown Crane, but larger. Length about
4 feet.
Nest and Z£ggs. Similar to the smaller race. The eggs larger; 4.00

X 2.45.

This species, scarcely inferior to the americana in magni-
tude, visits all parts of the fur countries in summer up to the
shores of the Arctic Sea, and is indeed, according to the
season, spread more or less throughout North America, having
been observed in Mexico, Louisiana, and Florida. It also
probably breeds in the interior of the continent, as Major
Long saw it in the Illinois country on the 15th of July. As
early as the 7th of February Kalm observed flocks passing
over New Jersey and Pennsylvania on their way either to the
North or West; but as the Atlantic coast has become more
settled and populous, these shy birds have, for the most part,
altered their route, and now proceed more within the wilder
interior of the continent. In May they are seen about Hudson
Bay; and like the Whooping Crane, which they resemble in
manners, they nest on the ground, laying two eggs, of an oil
green, irregularly and rather thickly spotted with yellowish
brown and umber, the spots confluent and dark on the greater
end. The flesh is accounted good food, resembling that of the
Swan (Cygnus buccinator) in flavor.

It is not surprising that the older writers should have treated
canadensis and mexicana as one species, for in appearance and in
general distribution they are very similar, though the larger of the
two may be termed a Southern race, as it breeds south to Florida,
while the smaller race breeds north to the Arctic regions; but both
forms are found on the Western plains.

Along the valley of the Mississippi these birds are very abun-
dant; but excepting an occasional wanderer, they are seen to the
eastward of that river in Georgia and Florida only. One example
of the Little Brown Crane was shot in Rhode Island during
October, 1889.

78 WADING BIKDS.

GREAT BLUE HERON.
BLUE CRANE.
ARDEA HERODIAS.

CHAR. General color ashy blue, darker on the wings; thighs and
edge of wings chestnut; crest white, bordered by black, from which ex-

tend two long, slender black feathers ; spots of dusky and chestnut on

front of the neck; under parts dusky, broadly striped with white ; long
and slender plumes of pale pearly gray hang from the breast and fall
gracefully over the wings (these plumes are wanting in the autumn) ; bill
longer than the head, stout, and acute, of yellow color; legs and feet
black. Length about 42 to 50 inches.

Nest. Usually with a community situated in a sycamore or cypress
swamp, or (at the North) in a grove of deciduous trees; placed on the
upper branches of tall trees, — sometimes on bare rocks; made of small
dry twigs, and lined each year with fresh green twigs.

Eggs. 3-5 (usually 4); greenish blue; 2.50 X 1.50.

The Great Heron of America, nowhere numerous, may be
considered as a constant inhabitant of the Atlantic States, from
New York to East Florida, in the storms of winter seeking out
open springs, muddy marshes subjected to the overflow of
tides, or the sheltered recesses of the cedar and cypress swamps
contiguous to the sea-coast. As a rare or accidental visitor,
it has been found even as far north as Hudson Bay, and com-
monly passes the breeding-season in small numbers along the
coasts of all the New England States and the adjoining parts
of British America. Mr. Say also observed this species at
Pembino, in the 4gth parallel. Ancient natural heronries of
this species occur in the deep maritime swamps of North and
South Carolina; similar associations for breeding exist also in
the lower parts of New Jersey. Its favorite and long-fre-
quented resorts are usually dark and enswamped solitudes or
boggy lakes, grown up with tall cedars, and entangled with an
under-growth of bushes and Kalmia laurels. ‘These recesses
defy the reclaiming hand of cultivation, and present the same
gloomy and haggard landscape they did to the aborigines of
the forest, who, if they existed, might still pursue through the
tangled mazes of these dismal swamps the retreating bear and

GREAT BLUE HERON. 79

timorous deer. From the bosom of these choked lakes, and
arising out of the dark and pitchy bog, may be seen large
clumps of the tall cypress (Cupressus disticha), like the in-
numerable connecting columns of the shady mangrove, for
sixty or more feet rising without a branch ; and their spreading
tops, blending together, form a canopy so dense as almost to
exclude the light from beneath their branches. In the tops of
the tallest of these tree the wary Herons, associated to the
number of ten or fifteen pair, construct their nests, each one
in the top of a single tree; these are large, formed of coarse
sticks, and merely lined with smaller twigs. The eggs, gene-
rally four, are somewhat larger than those of the hen, of a
light-greenish blue, and destitute of spots. The young are seen
abroad about the middle of May, and become extremely fat
and full grown before they make any effective attempts to fly.
They raise but a single brood; and when disturbed at their
eyries, fly over the spot, sometimes honking almost like a
goose, and at others uttering a loud, hollow, and guttural grunt.

Fish is the principal food of the Great Herons, and for this
purpose, like an experienced angler, they often wait for that
condition of the tide which best suits their experience and
instinct. At such times they are seen slowly sailing out from
their inland breeding-haunts during the most silent and cool
period of the summer’s day, selecting usually such shallow
inlets as the ebbing tide leaves bare or accessible to their
watchful and patient mode of prowling; here, wading to the
knees, they stand motionless amidst the timorous fry till some
victim coming within the compass of their wily range is as
instantly seized by the powerful bill of the Heron as if it were
the balanced poniard of the assassin or the unerring pounce
of the Osprey. If large, the fish is beaten to death, and com-
monly swallowed with the head descending, as if to avoid any
obstacle arising from the reversion of the fins or any hard
external processes. On land the Herons have also their fare,
as they are no less successful anglers than mousers, and ren-
der an important service to the farmer in the destruction
they make among most of the reptiles and meadow shrews.

80 WADING BIRDS.

Grasshoppers, other large insects, and particularly dragon-flies
they are very expert at striking, and occasionally feed upon
the seeds of the pond-lilies contiguous to their usual haunts.
Our species, in all probability, as well as the European Heron,
at times also preys upon young birds which may be acciden-
tally straggling near their solitary retreats. The foreign kind
has been known to swallow young snipes and other birds
when they happen to come conveniently within reach.

The Heron, though sedate in its movements, flies out with
peculiar ease, often ascending high and proceeding far in its
annual migrations. When it leaves the coast and traces on
wing the meanders of the creek or river, it is believed to
prognosticate rain; and when it proceeds downwards, dry
weather. From its timorous vigilance and wildness it is very
difficult to approach it with a gun; and unheeded as a depre-
dator on the scaly fry, it is never sought but as an object of
food, and for this purpose the young are generally preferred.

The present is very nearly related to the Common Heron
of Europe, which appears to be much more gregarious at its
breeding-places than ours ; for Pennant mentions having seen
as many as eighty nests on one tree, and Montague saw a
heronry on a small island in a lake in the north of Scotland
whereon there was only one scrubby oak-tree, which being
insufficient to contain all the nests, many were placed on the
ground sooner than the favorite situation should be abandoned.
The decline in the amusement of hawking has now occasioned
but little attention to the preservation of heronries, so that
nine or ten of these nurseries are nearly all that are known to
exist at present in Great Britain. “ Not to know a Hawk from
a Heronshaw” (the former name for a Heron) was an old
adage which arose when the diversion of Heron-hawking was
in high fashion; and it has since been corrupted into the ab-
surd vulgar proverb, “ not to know a hawk from a handsaw”’ !
As the Rooks are very tenacious of their eyries, and piratical to
all their feathered neighbors, it might be expected that they
would at times prove bad and encroaching neighbors to the
quiet Herons ; and I have been credibly informed by a friend

GREAT BLUE HERON. SI

that at Mr. Wilson’s, at Dallam Tower, near Milthorp in West-
moreland, a battle took place betwixt the Rooks and Herons
for the possession of certain trees and old nests which was
continued for five days in succession, with varying success and
loss of life on both sides, when, I believe, they at length came
to the sage conclusion that their betters had at times acceded
to after an equally fruitless contest; namely, to leave things
in statu quo ante bellum.

The European Heron appears to give a preference to fresh-
water fish, and for the purpose of taking its prey, gently wades
into the water where they abound, and standing on one leg up
to the knee, with its head drawn in, reclined upon its breast,
it quietly watches the approach of its prey. It has been re-
marked by many that the fish generally swarm around the
Herons, so as to afford an ample supply without much exer-
tion; and Bechstein remarks, after repeated observations, that
the source of this attraction to the Heron is merely the excre-
ment of the bird, which the fish, according to experiment,
devour with avidity. Its time of fishing, like that of our own
species, is usually before or after sunset. ‘Though there is no
ground for believing that the Heron acquires a macilent con-
stitution by privation, it is certain that in Europe, from a scar-
city of food, it becomes extremely lean. It is known frequently
to feed by moonlight, at which time it becomes tolerably fat,
being then unmolested ; and it is observed that the fish at this
time come into the shoaler waters.

The Great Blue Heron is not an abundant bird, but it is found
more or less commonly throughout this Eastern region north to
about the 48th parallel.

There are two heronries of this species within a few miles of St.
John, N. B., where one hundred to two hundred pairs breed annu-
ally. They are in groves of white birch about a mile back from
the river. I have found this bird also in the heart of the wilderness
districts fishing in the smaller streams and along the margins of the
rivers.

Note. — A few examples of the BLUE HERON (Ardea cinerea) —
the “Common Heron” of European books — have been taken in
southern Greenland.

VOU. Nea ——6

82 WADING BIRDS.

WARD’S HERON.
ARDEA WARDI.

Cuar. Similar to the Great Blue Heron, but larger and of paler
tint; under parts white, narrowly streaked with black; plumes silvery
gray; legs and feet olive. Length 48 to 54 inches.

Nest. With acommunity ina swampy grove; placed on a high branch
of a tall mangrove; made of twigs and lined with fresh green twigs.

es. 3-4; bluish green; 2.65 X 1.85.

This species was first described by Mr. Ridgway, from specimens
taken by Mr. Charles W. Ward in 1881.

There has been considerable discussion concerning the status of
these large Herons, some authorities expressing the opinion that
both Ward’s Heron and the Great White Heron are but geogra-
phical races of the Great Blue Heron; but the weight of opinion is
in favor of considering the three as distinct species.

Ward’s Heron is said to be dichromatic,— having a dark and
light phase of plumage; the light-colored birds being indistinguish-
able from occidentalis.

In habits the present species does not differ from the Great Blue
Heron; but Ward’s Heron has been found in Florida only.

GREAT WHITE HERON.
FLORIDA HERON. WURDEMAN’S HERON.
ARDEA OCCIDENTALIS.

CHAR. White phase. Plumage white; crest with two long narrow
plumes, and plumes droop over the breast and wings also; bill yellow;
legs yellow and olive, feet brown. Blue phase. Similar to herodias, but
larger and lighter in color,— the head and crest white, and the under parts
with less black ; legs and feet yellowish olive. Length 45 to 54 inches.

Nest. With a community; placed usually on a low branch of a man-
grove, sometimes on a high branch; a platform of dry twigs.

£ggs. 3-4; bluish green; size variable, average about 2.60 X 1.85.

This is doubtless the “Great White Crane” mentioned by
Nuttall as found by Audubon in Florida. The description was not
published until 1835, after Nuttall’s work had been issued.

In 1859 Spencer Baird described the blue-colored bird as a dis-

GREAT WHITE HERON. 33 -

tinct species, which he named 4. wurdemannz, and in the “ Key,”
issued in 1872, Coues also gave wurdemanni specific rank. In the
“« History of North American Birds,” issued in 1884, for which work
Baird and Ridgway contributed the technical matter, wurdemanni
was relegated to the synonymy of occ¢dentalis ; and to the opinion
thus emphasized, that the blue color merely represents a dichroma-
tic phase of the White Heron, Coues added the weight of his au-
thority in the 1887 edition of the “Key.” Ridgway, however,
in his “ Manual,” also published in 1887, returned to Baird’s first

decision, and gave wurdemanni specific rank; but the A.O.U.
still retain it on their “hypothetical list,” adding in a note that it
is believed to be the colored phase of occidentalis or an abnormal
specimen of wardz. This last suggestion has been made by sev-
eral writers as a possible solution of the problem which these
birds offer, while others have contended that both blue and white
specimens, as well as those referred to ward, are but variations of
the Great Blue Heron. I have treated the blue bird as a phase of
the present species partly because this seemed the most conve-
nient pigeon-hole in which to place the fact of its existence, but
more especially because I think this is where it will finally rest.

_ The difficulty in reaching a decisive solution of this problem lies
chiefly in the fact that very little reliable evidence has been ob-
tained. The birds are found only in an out-of-the-way corner of
southwestern Florida and in Jamaica, and even in these localities
are not common, — indeed, blue-colored specimens are quite rare.
And the problem is likely to remain unsolved for many a year to
come, if not forever; for the plume-hunters have discovered the
haunts of the White Herons, and are gathering them in, — shooting
the birds, cutting off their plumes, and throwing the carcases to
the Vultures, —in an effort to meet the demands of fashion.

In habits the White Heron does not differ materially from its
more common congeners. It is a little less inclined for companion-
ship, and is somewhat fiercer.

Examples of this species have been taken in Indiana and Illinois,
but these were probably accidental wanderers.

84 WADING BIRDS.

AMERICAN EGRET.
ARDEA EGRETTA.

CHAR. Plumage white; no crest; long silky plume-feathers, from the
back, fall over the wings and tail; bill yellow; legs and feet black.
Length about 38 inches.

Nest. With a community amid a swamp or on the border of a lake;
placed on a high branch of a cypress or mangrove tree, sometimes on a
low bush close to the water; made of twigs.

Leggs. 2-5; bluish green; size variable, average 2.30 X 1.50.

This tall and elegant Heron is in America chiefly confined
to the warmer and more temperate regions. From Guiana,
and even far beyond the equator in South America, it is seen
to reside as far to the north as the State of New York. In the
old continent the very nearly allied 4. aa is met with on
the borders of the Caspian and Black Seas, on the shores of
the Irtish and the lakes of Tartary, even as far as the 53d
parallel ; and a straggler is now and then met with in Great
Britain. ‘Towards the close of February our species is seen
to arrive in Georgia from its warmer hibernal resorts. At all
times it appears to have a predilection for swamps, rice-fields,
and the low, marshy shores of rivers and lagoons, where from
its size and color it becomes conspicuous at a distance, yet
from its vigilance and timidity rarely allows of an approach
within gunshot. It is known to breed in several of the
great cedar-swamps in the lower maritime parts of New
Jersey. Like most of the tribe, it associates in numbers at
the eyries, and the structure and materials of the nest are
entirely similar to those of the Snowy Heron. ‘The eggs,
about four, are of a pale blue color. In July and August, the
young are seen abroad in the neighboring meadows and
marshes in flocks of twenty or thirty together. It is par-
ticularly frequent in the large and deep tide ditches in the
vicinity of Philadelphia. Its food, as usual, consists of frogs,
small fish, lizards, mice, and moles, insects, small water-snakes,
and at times the seeds of the pond-lilies.

AMERICAN EGRET. 85

This Egret does not occur regularly near the Atlantic coast north
of New Jersey, but it is a rather common visitor to Ohio, and
a small number of the birds are seen every year in the southern
portions of Ontarioand Illinois. Stragglers are found occasionally
in New England, and a few have been met with on the Bay of
Fundy and the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

The food of this bird consists chiefly of small fish, frogs, lizards,
and such; but it refuses nothing eatable that comes within its reach,
and is expert at catching mice and insects. Although shy when in
a wild state, it is easily reconciled to captivity, says Dr. Brewer ;
and its elegant plumage and graceful carriage combine to make it
an attractive ornament to courtyard or garden.

Unfortunately, and to man’s, or woman’s, discredit, very few of
these birds are now to be seen, — they have been slaughtered for
their plumes. Mr. W. E. D. Scott, who is familiar with the
heronries of Florida, tells us of one of these breeding-grounds,
where “thousands” were nesting six years before, but he found
it entirely deserted in 1887. He saw only two or three fright-
ened birds; the “thousands” had been exterminated by the
plume-hunters.

SNOWY HERON.

LITTLE WHITE EGRET. SMALL WHITE HERON.

ARDEA CANDIDISSIMA.

CHAR. Plumage pure white; crest long, with numerous elongated
hair-like plumes extending down the back of the neck; plumes on the
breast and back long and hair-like, those of the back reaching to the end
of the tail or beyond, and recurved at the tips. (These plumes are worn
only during the nesting season, and are not seen on young birds.) Bill
black, yellow at the base; legs black, feet yellow. Length 20 to 27
inches.

Vest. With a community; placed usually on a low cedar or willow, —
amere platform of dry twigs.

Eggs. 2-5 (usually 4); greenish blue: 1.85 X 1.25.

This elegant Heron, so nearly related to the little Egret of
Europe, inhabits the marshes and swamps of the sea-coast
nearly from the isthmus of Darien to the estuary of the St.
Lawrence, generally omitting, however, the maritime range of

SNOWY HERON. 87

the central parts of New England. It arrives in the United
States from the South early in April, and passing inland, at
length proceeds up the valley of the Mississippi, and even
ascends the borders of the Arkansas, thus pursuing an extensive
inland route to the final destination in the wilds of Canada.
It departs from the Middle States, towards its hibernal desti-
nation in the South, in the course of the month of October.

Like most of the summer visitors of this family, the Snowy
Heron confines its residence to the salt-marshes, where its bril-
liant whiteness renders it a conspicuous object at a distance. Its
food, as usual, consists of small crabs, worms, snails, frogs, and
lizards, to which fare it also adds at times the seeds of the pond-
lilies and other aquatic plants. About the middle of May nest-
building commences ; and Wilson describes one of these heron-
ries situated in a sequestered clump of red cedars, at Summer’s
Beach, on the coast of Cape May. ‘The spot chosen, with the
usual sagacity of the tribe, was separated on the land side by
a fresh-water pond, and sheltered from the view of the Atlantic
by ranges of sand-hills. The cedars, though low, were so
densely crowded together as scarcely to permit a passage
through them. Some of the trees contained three or four nests
in each, constructed wholly of sticks. The eggs, about three
in number, were of a pale greenish-blue color, and measured
one inch and three quarters in length. On approaching the
premises, the birds silently rose in great numbers ; and alighting
on the tops of the neighboring trees, they appeared to watch
the result of the intruding visit in silent anxiety. Assembled
with them were numbers of the Night Herons, and two or three
of the purple-headed species. Great quantities of egg-shells
lay scattered under the trees, occasioned by the depredations
of the Crows who were hovering in the vicinity. Wherever the
Snowy Herons happen to wander through the marshes, or
along the borders of the rivers and inlets, they regularly return
in the evening to their favorite roost in the cedars of the
beach.

The young, of both this and the preceding species, are
generally fat, and esteemed by some as palatable food.

88 WADING BIRDS.

The Snowy Heron occurs regularly, in summer, from the Gulf
States to Long Island. It is occasionally seen also along the
Atlantic coast as far as Nova Scotia, and in the interior has been
taken in Ohio and Ontario.

One writer has called this species a scraper, or raker, because it
uses its legs and claws to start from their hiding-places the animals
it desires to secure for food. In this movement it is said to sur-
pass all other species in adroitness and rapidity, using the feet so
rapidly as to cause the whole body to quiver. The scraping is done
sometimes in water so deep that it reaches to the bird’s belly.

Our bird wears the most beautiful plumes of all the Herons, and
in consequence has been nearly exterminated by the plume-hunters,
Instead of the thousands that gathered at their heronries a few
years ago, only a few scattered birds can now be found.

REDDISH EGRET.
PEALE’S EGRET.
ARDEA RUFA.

CHAR. Colored phase. General plumage grayish blue, darker on the
back, paler below; head and neck with long, narrow feathers, — longest
on the back of the neck and the lower part of the breast, — of rich red-
dish brown, sometimes tinged with purple; scapular plumes and train
— the latter extending beyond the tail — grayish blue, tinged with brown
towards the ends; bill pink, tipped with black; legs blue, claws black.

White phase. Plumage entirely white; bill pink, tipped with black;
legs and feet olive, soles yellow. Length about 30 inches.

Young of both phases similar to the adult, but lacking the nuptial
plumes. Sometimes the blue and white colors are displayed by the same
specimen ina “ pied” form.

fest, With a community close by the sea-shore; placed on a low
tree or bush, sometimes on the ground, —a platform of dry twigs.

Eggs. 2-6 (usually 3); pale blue tinged with green; size variable,
average about 1.90 X 1.45.

This is another of those dichromatic species that have caused
confusion and controversy, and given to both systematists and
book-makers a deal of trouble.

The white phase has in this instance been made to play the
shuttlecock ; and appearing first as a distinct species, under the
name of “ Peale’s Egret,” it has been tossed hither and yon by the
numerous writers who have laid claim to a solution of the problem
which these varied phases of plumage present. At one time made
out to be the young of A. rufa, later set up as a white phase of
this species, again seized upon by the hungry variety-makers

REDDISH HERON. 89

eager to convert it into a geographical. race, it was at last, through
the conservatism of the A. O. U., laid to rest in that refuge for
questionable cases, the “ hypothetical list,” there to await the
gathering of more decisive data.

In the mean time, as it becomes necessary for me to describe its
characteristics, I treat the white bird as an individual variation or
phase of the present species, because I think this will be its ulti-
mate destiny. But these white specimens have always been com-
paratively rare, — ina flock of thirty birds not more than four or five
will wear white plumes, -— and the plume-hunters may exterminate
them before any naturalist can have any opportunity to make
further study of their origin. Indeed, as I write, the remnant may
be yielding their plumes to the insatiable crew, for the heronries of
the South have been almost wiped out during the last few years.

Nuttall makes no mention of the Reddish Egret, though he does
give a short note telling of the discovery of fealez, —the white
phase. Our bird is not well known even at this day, few observers
having met with it. It occurs regularly within the United States
only in Florida and along the Gulf coast, though examples occa-
sionally wander up the Mississippi valley as far as Illinois.

These birds are said to begin breeding in March, and eggs have
been taken through April. The young are nearly naked when
hatched, wearing nothing but a few patches of down; but it is a
disputed point whether @// the young are white, or a part of them
are blue. Audubon says that they are fed by regurgitation, grow
fast, and soon become noisy. They leave the nest when about seven
weeks old, fully fledged and able to fly.

The favorite feeding-ground of these Egrets is a mud flat over
which the outgoing tide leaves but about six to ten inches of water.
In this they stand, and silently and motionless watch for their prey,
or using their feet among the water-plants, drive the fish — their
principal food —from under cover. If they miss the object at
their first dart, they give chase; and though appearing so clumsy
and awkward as to present a ridiculous figure while in pursuit of
a scudding fish, are much more expert at this chasing than are any
others of their kin. The red-and-blue specimens and the white
always gather in one flock, and it has been remarked that they
quarrel with each other persistently, — white against white, as well
as white against red; but neither white nor red birds have been
observed to attack any other species.

The flight of this species is strong and graceful, and when two
males combat in mid-air their evolutions are performed with rare
skill. Like many other birds, — aye, like most birds, — this Egret
is less shy during the breeding-season than at other times. Some
observers deny them all credit for shyness, butadmit that they seem

90 WADING BIRDS.

extremely fearless when mate and young demand their protection.
Said Audubon, writing of the fearlessness of the Herons during
this period, “As the strength of their attachment toward their
mates or progeny increases through the process of time, as is the
case with the better part of our own species, lovers and parents
perform acts of heroism which individuals having no such attach-
ment to each other would never dare to contemplate.” He was of
the opinion that under the influence of affection the ¢houghts of
birds change; they become careless of themselves, and thus appear
fearless and indifferent to danger. No one can study birds in
the field without becoming convinced that these creatures have
thoughts, and that they are capable of heroic devotion. Few men
will fight more valiantly for home and young than will many of
these timid and gentle birds.

YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT HERON.

NYCTICORAX VIOLACEUS.

CHAR. General plumage ashy blue, darker on wings and tail, paler
beneath; feathers of upper parts with medial stripe of black; dorsal
plumes narrow and extremely long, reaching beyond the tail; crown,
patch on side of head, and long narrow plumes creamy yellow; bill stout
and black, sometimes tinged in patches with greenish yellow; legs yellow-
ish green. Young grayish brown, feathers of upper parts with medial
stripe of pale buff. Length 22 to 28 inches.

Nest. Ina community usually near a stream; placed ona lower branch

of a tree, —a mere platform of dry twigs.
Eggs. 3-6 (usually 4); pale and dull blue, slightly tinged with green ;

2.00 X 1.45.

This species has been frequently named the White-crowned
Night Heron by authors because the yellow color of the head and
plumes fades very soon after death, and finally the feathers be-
come entirely white. It is found in the warmer portions of this
Eastern Province, breeding in the Carolinas and the Ohio valley,
and south to the Gulf States. It is found also in South America.
Occasionally examples are met with to the northward of the usual
habitat, two having been captured in Massachusetts.

In habits, as in appearance, this bird differs little from its North-
ern congener, though it is less tamable and not so easily domesti-
cated; rebelling to the end against captivity, and yearning ever
for a return to the freedom of a wild life. Sometimes these birds
search for food during the daytime, but in general they are strictly
nocturnal, and feed as well as migrate at night. Their diet consists
chiefly of small reptiles and young birds.

BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT HERON.
SQUAWK. QUA BIRD.

NYCTICORAX NYCTICORAX NEVIUS.

CHAR. Top of head and back greenish black ; forehead, sides of head,
and throat white; wings and sides of neck bluish gray ; no plumes except-
ing two long narrow white feathers at back of head; lower parts white
tinged with pale creamy yellow. Young: above, grayish brown; beneath,
dull white, streaked with brownish. Body stout; bill thick and black ;
legs short and yellow. Length 23 to 26 inches.

vest. Ina community situated near the bank of a stream; placed on
an upper branch of a tall tree, —sometimes placed on the ground in a
swamp ; a simple platform of dry twigs.

£ggs. 4-6; pale green tinged with blue; 2.00 X 1.50.

The Great Night Heron of America extends its migrations
probably to the northern and eastern extremities of the United

Q2 WADING BIRDS.

States, but is wholly unknown in the high boreal regions of
the continent. In the winter it proceeds as far south as the
tropics, having been seen in the marshes of Cayenne, and their
breeding-stations are known to extend from New Orleans to
Massachusetts. It arrives in Pennsylvania early in the month
of April, and soon takes possession of its ancient nurseries,
which are usually (in the Middle and Southern States) the
most solitary and deeply shaded part of a cedar-swamp, or
some inundated and almost inaccessible grove of swamp-oaks.
In these places, or some contiguous part of the forest, near a
pond or stream, the timorous and watchful flock pass away the
day until the commencement of twilight, when the calls of
hunger and the coolness of evening arouse the dozing throng
into life and activity. At this time, high in the air, the parent
birds are seen sallying forth towards the neighboring marshes
and strand of the sea in quest of food for themselves and
their young; as they thus proceed in a marshalled rank at
intervals they utter a sort of recognition call, like the guttural
sound of the syllable ’£zwa@h, uttered in so hollow and sepulchral
a tone as almost to resemble the retchings of a vomiting person.
These venerable eyries of the Kwah Birds have been occupied
from the remotest period of time by about eighty to a hundred
pairs. When their ancient trees were levelled by the axe, they
have been known to remove merely to some other quarter of
the same swamp; and it is only when they have been long
teased and plundered that they are ever known to abandon
their ancient stations. Their greatest natural enemy is the
Crow ; and according to the relation of Wilson, one of these
heronries, near Thompson’s Point, on the banks of the Dela-
ware, was at length entirely abandoned through the persecu-
tion of these sable enemies. Several breeding-haunts of the
Kwah Birds occur among the red-cedar groves on the sea-
beach of Cape May ; in these places they also admit the associa-
tion of the Little Egret, the Green Bittern, and the Blue Heron.
In a very secluded and marshy island in Fresh Pond, near Bos-
ton, there likewise exists one of these ancient heronries ; and
though the birds have been frequently robbed of their eggs in

BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT HERON. 93

great numbers by mischievous boys they still lay again imme-
diately after, and usually succeed in raising a sufficient brood.
The nests, always in trees, are composed of twigs slightly inter-
laced, more shallow and slovenly than those of the Crow ; and
though often one, sometimes as many as two or three nests are
built in the same tree. ‘The eggs, about four, are as large as
those of the common hen, and of a pale greenish blue color.
The marsh is usually whitened by the excrements of these
birds ; and the fragments of broken egg-shells, old nests, and
small fish which they have dropped while feeding their young,
give a characteristic picture of the slovenly, indolent, and
voracious character of the occupants of these eyries.

On entering these dark and secluded retreats of the Night
Heron, the ear is assailed by the confused and choking noise
uttered by the old and young, which, however, instantly ceases
the moment the intruder is observed; and the whole throng,
lately so clamorous, rise into the air in silence, and fly to the
tops of the trees in some other part of the wood, while parties
of the old birds, of from eight to ten, make occasional recon-
noitring circuits over the spot, as if to observe what may be
going on in their surprised domicile.

However deficient these nocturnal birds may be in vision
by day, their faculty of hearing is so acute that it is almost
impossible, with every precaution, to penetrate near their resi-
dence without being discovered. As soon as the young are
able to fly, and long before they are capable of sustained
flight, they climb to the highest part of the trees near their
nests, as if to solicit the attention and watch the return and
protection of their officious parents; and yet, with every pre-
caution, the young fall victims to the prowling Hawks, who,
hovering round, make an occasional sweep among their tim-
orous ranks.

About the middle of October the Qua Birds begin to retire
from this part of Massachusetts towards their southern winter
quarters, though a few of the young birds still linger occasion-
ally to the 29th or 30th of that month. Their food consists
chiefly of small fish, which they collect in the twilight or

94 WADING BIRDS.

towards night, and in the wide gullet which commences at the
immediate base of the bill they probably carry a supply for the
use of their young.

In the month of October I obtained two specimens of the
young Night Heron in their second plumage; these were so
extremely fat that the stomach was quite buried in cakes of it
like tallow. Their food had been Ulva datssima, small fish,
grasshoppers, and a few coleopterous insects; so that at this
cool season of the year these birds had ventured out to hunt
their fare through the marsh by day, as well as evening. In
the stomach of one of these birds, towards its upper orifice,
were parasitic worms like tenia. About the time of their
departure the young, in their plumbeous dress, associate
together early in the morning, and proceed in flocks, either
wholly by themselves, or merely conducted by one or two old
birds in a company.

I have visited two heronries of this species in northern New
Brunswick, on streams emptying into the Gulf of St. Lawrence at
about latitude 47°. It is common in the Muskoka district of Ontario,
and Mr. Gunn reports it numerous at Shoal Lake in Manitoba.
He found the nests placed on the ground among the reeds.

The bird is a common summer resident of New England, though
extremely local in its distribution. The heronry at Fresh Pond,
Cambridge, which was celebrated in former years, has been deserted
for some time.

LITTLE BLUE HERON.
BLUE EGRET.
ARDEA CCERULEA.

CHAR. General plumage dark ashy blue; head and neck rich maroon ;
plumes on back of head, breast, and back, the last extending over and
beyond the tail; bill slender, curved at the point, and of blue color shad-
ing to black at the tip; legs and feet black; eyes yellow. Sometimes the
plumage is “ pied,’’— of blue and white, — and occasionally it is almost
entirely white, with some traces of blue. The young are usually white,
spotted more or less with blue. Length 22 to 26 inches.

Nest. Usually in a large community or “heronry;” placed on a top
branch of a tree or bush; made of twigs loosely laid.

Eggs. 2-5; bluish green; size variable, averaging about 1.75 X 1.30.

LITTLE BLUE HERON. 95

The Blue Heron may be considered almost a restricted
native of the warmer climates of the United States, from
whence it migrates at the approach of winter into the tropical
parts of the continent, being found in Cayenne, Mexico, and
the island of Jamaica. The muddy shores of the Mississippi
from Natchez downward are its favorite resort.

In the course of the spring, however, a few migrate to New
England, restricting their visits, like many other of the tender
species, to the confines of the ocean and its adjoining marshes,
where their proper food of reptiles, worms, and insect larvee
abound. They also often visit the fresh-water bogs in the
vicinity of their eyries, and move about actively, sometimes
making a run at their prey. Like the Snowy Herons, with
which they sometimes associate, they are also, when the occa-
sion requires, very silent, intent, and watchful. ‘These noc-
turnal and indolent birds appear tacitly to associate and breed
often in the same swamps, leading towards each other, no
doubt, a very harmless and independent life. Patient and
timorous, though voracious in their appetites, their defence
consists in seclusion, and with an appropriate instinct they
seek out the wildest and most insulated retreats in nature.
The undrainable morass grown up with a gigantic and gloomy
forest, imperviously filled with tangled shrubs and rank herb-
age, abounding with disgusting reptiles, sheltering wild beasts,
and denying a foot-hold to the hunter, are among the chosen
resorts of the sagacious Herons, whose uncouth manners, harsh
voice, rank flesh, and gluttonous appetite allow them to pass
quietly through the world as objects at once contemptible and
useless ; yet the part which they perform in the scale of
existence, in the destruction they make amongst reptiles and
insects, affords no inconsiderable benefit to man.

A few of the Blue Herons, for common safety, breed among
the Night Herons, the Snowy species, and the Green Bittern,
among the cedars (or Virginian junipers) on the sea-beach of
Cape May.

The Blue Egret nests regularly, though in small numbers, as far
north as New Jersey and Illinois. An occasional straggler has

96 WADING BIRDS.

been taken in New England, and in 1884 one was shot near
Halifax, N.S.

Some naturalists place this among the dichromatic species, while
others consider that the white phase, so called, is seen only in
young birds, — that all the young are white or pied.

LOUISIANA HERON.
ARDEA TRICOLOR RUFICOLLIS.

CuHAR. Above, ashy blue, darker on head and neck; crest reddish
purple, excepting the long narrow plume-feathers, which are white;
plumes of the breast mixed, maroon and blue; train of straight hair-like
plumes from the back extending beyond the tail, of light drab color,
lighter towards the tips; under parts white. Length 24 to 27 inches.

Vest. Usually ina community ; placed on a low tree or bush; made of
small twigs.

Eggs. 2-6; blue with a slight tinge of green; 1.75 X 1.35.

This richly apparelled bird, sometimes called the “ Lady of the
Waters,” occurs in numbers in the Carolinas and southward to the
Gulf, and is very abundant in Central America. An occasional
straggler has been found as far north as New Jersey and Indiana.

Those who are familiar with the bird’s habits say that it is
extremely sociable, and is usually found in company with other
species, — the White Egret, Blue Heron, Night Heron, etc. In its
movements are combined rare grace and dignity. Even when
hunting for prey it displays less impetuosity than any other of the
group. The usual feeding-place is a sand-bar or shallow pond, and
there it saunters with stately tread, or stands calmly waiting and
watching. Ifa coveted leech or water-bug halts beyond reaching
distance, the Heron stalks upon it in a crouched and cat-like atti-
tude, and then strikes quick and straight. The flight is rather
irregular, but is swifter than that of any other Heron. If one of
a flock is wounded, its companions hover about it with cries of
sympathetic interest.

GREEN HERON. 97

GREEN HERON.

ARDEA VIRESCENS.

CHAR. The smallest of the Heron family, excepting the Least Bittern.
Top of head and crest dark metallic green; rest of head and neck rich
chestnut, sometimes with a tint of maroon; throat with a line of white
with dark spots; back dark ash, more or less tinged with green; wings
and tail dark green; under parts brownish ash. Length 16 to 20 inches.

Vest. On the border of a swamp or near the margin of a stream,
placed on a branch of tree or bush ; made of small twigs loosely laid.

Eggs. 3-6; bright blue of a rather pale shade, strongly tinged with
green; 1.50 X I.15.

The Green Bittern, known in many parts much better by a
contemptible and disgusting name, is the most common and
familiar species of the genus in the United States. Early in
April, or as soon as the marshes are so far thawed as to afford
these birds the means of subsistence, they arrive in Pennsyl-
vania, and soon after are seen in New England, but are
unknown in the remote and colder parts of Canada. Many
winter in the swamps of the Southern States, though others
retire in all probability to the warmer regions of the continent,
as they are observed at that season in the large islands of Hayti
and Jamaica.

In common with other species, whose habits are principally
nocturnal, the Green Bittern seeks out the gloomy retreat of
the woody swamp, the undrainable bog, and the sedgy marsh.
It is also a common hermit on the inundated, dark willow and
alder shaded banks of sluggish streams and brushy ponds,
where it not only often associates with the kindred Kwa Birds
and Great Herons, but frequently with the more petulant herd
of chattering Blackbirds. When surprised or alarmed, it rises
in a hurried manner, uttering a hollow guttural scream and a
kw, ’k’w,’k’w, but does not fly far, being very sedentary ; and
soon alighting on some stump or tree, looks round with an
outstretched neck, and balancing itself for further retreat,
frequently jets its tail. It sometimes flies high, with neck
reclining and legs extended, flapping its wings and proceed-

VOL. Il. — 7

98 WADING BIRDS.

ing with considerable expedition. It is also the least shy of
all our species, as well as the most numerous and widely dis-
persed, being seen far inland, even on the banks of the Mis-
sourl, nearly to the River Platte, and frequent near all the
maritime marshes, and near ponds and streams in general. It is
also particularly attracted by artificial ponds for fish, not refrain-
ing even to visit gardens and domestic premises which any
prospect of fare may offer. It is at the same time perhaps as
much in quest of the natural enemy of the fish, the frog, as of
the legitimate tenants of the pond. ‘These bold and intrusive
visits are commonly made early in the morning or towards
twilight, and it not unfrequently, when pressed by hunger, or
after ill-success, turns out to hunt its fare by day, as well as
dusk ; and at such times collects various larvee, particularly
those of the dragon-fly, with grasshoppers and different kinds
of insects. At other times it preys upon small fish, crabs, and
frogs, for which it often lies patiently in wait till they reappear
from their hiding-places in the water or mud, and on being
transfixed and caught, —an operation which is effected with
great dexterity, — they are commonly beaten to death, if large,
and afterwards swallowed at leisure.

The Small Bittern in the Middle States usually begins to
build about the 15th of April; sometimes in solitary pairs, in
dark and swampy woods, at other times in companies, and as
already remarked, by similarity of taste and habit frequently
joins the heronries of the larger species as its sort of humble
dependant and watchful defender of the general eyry. The
young, as usual, slowly acquire the full use of their limbs, and
remain patiently in the nest until able to fly.

The Green Heron is a common summer resident of New Eng-
land, and though usually rather rare as far north as the Maritime
Provinces, is sometimes quite common there. It is common also
in Ontario and abundant in Ohio, and occurs westward to the
Mississippi. In winter the major portion of these birds retire to
the West Indies and northern South America, though a few remain
in the Gulf States.

AMERICAN BITTERN. 99

AMERICAN BITTERN.
STAKE DRIVER.
BOTAURUS LENTIGINOSUS.

CHAR. Upper parts brownish buff thickly spotted or mottled —
“freckled? — with reddish brown and black; neck buff; line down the
throat white, spotted with brown; a patch of black or dark brown or gray
on the sides of the neck; under parts pale buff striped with brown; bill
rather short, stout, and of yellow color ; legs yellowish green. Length 25
to 30 inches.

Vest. In aswamp or reedy marsh, placed on the ground; a thick mat
of coarse grass loosely laid.

£ggs. 3-5; brownish drab, sometimes with an olive tint; 1.90 X 1.45.

The Bittern of America, though apparently nowhere numer-
ous, from its retiring habits, is found in almost every part of
the continent where there exist extensive marshes either
maritime or inland, up to the 58th parallel, and is found
in the morasses and willow-thickets of the interior throughout
the fur countries. From the inclement regions it retires in the
winter, while in other parts it is permanently resident. It is
said to revisit Severn River, at Hudson Bay, about the begin-
ning of June, nesting in the swamps among the sedges. It
breeds also in several parts of Massachusetts, young birds
being met with in the Fresh Pond marshes and other places
in the vicinity of Boston about the middle of summer.

During the day the Night Hen, as it is here called, remains
hidden in the reeds and sedge, and rarely comes out till the
approach of night. When disturbed in its retreat, it flies off
with a hollow ’£wa, or kowk, kowk, and sometimes gives a loud
squeak of alarm ; at this time, as it flies heavily and at no great
height, it is easily shot down. ‘These birds are also sometimes
obtained by lying in wait for them as they sally out in the
evening towards the salt-marshes, in a particular direction,
in quest of food.

In the breeding-season and throughout a great part of the
summer we often hear the loud booming note of this bird from
the marshes of Fresh Pond, morning and evening, and some-

100 WADING BIRDS.

times even during the day. Instead of the dump, or biomp,
however of the true Bittern, the call is something like the
uncouth syllables of "Aump-au-gah, but uttered in the same
low, bellowing tone.

The cry of the European Bittern, so similar to that of our
own species, is thus elegantly described by Goldsmith in his
“Animated Nature.” “Those who have walked in a summer’s
evening by the sedgy sides of unfrequented rivers must
remember a variety of notes from different water-fowl, — the
loud scream of the Wild Goose, the croaking of the Mallard, the
whining of the Lapwing, and the tremulous neighing of the Jack-
snipe ; but of all these sounds there is none so dismally hol-
low as the booming of the Bittern. It is impossible for words
to give those who have not heard this evening call an adequate
idea of its solemnity. It is like the interrupted bellowing of a
bull, but hollower and louder, and is heard at a mile’s dis-
tance, as if issuing from some formidable being that resided at
the bottom of the waters. ‘This is the Bittern, whose wind-
pipe is fitted to produce the sound for which it is remarkable ;
the lower part of it, dividing into the lungs, being supplied
with a thin loose membrane that can be filled with a large
body of air and exploded at pleasure. These bellowings are
chiefly heard from the beginning of spring to the end of
autumn, and are the usual calls during the pairing season.”

The American bird, no less than the true Bittern, is con-
sidered by many as excellent food.

The Bittern is still a familiar bird throughout temperate North
America, breeding from the Middle States northward; but, like
many another bird whose form is familiar, the Bittern’s habits are
known only to the few, and many erroneous opinions of its charac-
teristics have been current.

The “booming of the Bittern” has been a favorite topic of con-
troversy; but probably that matter has been finally settled by an
account of the performance contributed to “ The Auk” for Janu-
ary, 1889, by Mr. Bradford Torrey.

Mr. Torrey described the performer as first filling its crop with
air, opening the bill and shutting it with a click, repeating this
several times. Then, while the bill is kept tightly closed, the air

LEAST BITTERN. IOI

from the crop is forced through the throat, producing a deep _hol-
low sound in three distinct syllables. The quality of the notes
suggests their being emitted under water; and this has given rise to
the theory, so strongly urged by many writers, that the performer
held its bill under water. The emission of the sound is accom-
panied by convulsive movements, as if the bird was vomiting.

The Bittern’s fondness for retirement has been exaggerated , for
though it does dwell in the wilderness, — on the marshy margins
of streams and lakes, and in the depths of swamps,—I have
frequently found the nest close to a bustling village; one within
sound of children’s voices playing around a school-house.

LEAST BITTERN.

BOTAURUS EXILIS.

CHAR. Adult male: crown, back, and tail black, glossed with green;
narrow stripe of buff on each side of back; back of neck chestnut ; wings
buff and rufous; under parts pale buff. Female: similar to male, but
black of head and back mostly replaced by brown. Length about 13
inches.

Vest. Usually amid the rank grass and rushes on the marshy margin
of a pond; placed on the ground and made of coarse grass or dead
rushes,

Eggs. 3-5; dull white with a pale tinge of blue or green; 1.20 X 0.95.

The Least Bittern has not so extended a distribution as its larger
congener, but it is found regularly as far north as Massachusetts,
and stragglers have been captured in Maine and New Brunswick.
It is common in the southern peninsula of Ontario, and in Illinois
and Wisconsin, and breeds south to Texas and Florida.

Though a shy bird, courting retirement and rarely appearing
outside the shelter of its reedy haunts, it seems to be indifferent to
adjacent noises. For years some pairs have spent the summer in a
marshy tract close to the busiest district of the town of Brookline,
within a stone’s throw of a street-car track and a playground;
and Fresh Pond marsh, near Cambridge, has long been a favorite
resort.

The food of this Bittern consists chiefly of small fish, lizards, and
young frogs ; but it will not refuse a chance to vary this diet with
a mouse or shrew. It utters several notes; but that most com-
monly heard is a hoarse croak, though during the nesting-season
a cooing note is heard that is low and soft and sweet. When

102 WADING BIRDS.

startled it gives a cry resembling the gwva of the Night Heron,
and displays a Rail-like disposition to hide amid the grass rather
than fly from danger. Some observers think its flight is feeble
and cannot be sustained, while others affirm that the bird is
capable of prolonged flight.

CORY’S LEAST BITTERN.
BOTAURUS NEOXENA.

CHAR. Similar to B. exz/is, but smaller, and lacking the stripes of buff
on the sides of the back ; lower tail-coverts black ; wing-coverts chestnut.
Length about 11 inches.

Nest and #ggs. Unknown.

This species was described by Mr. Charles B. Cory in 1886
from the type which was taken in Florida by Mr. R. T. Stuart. A
second specimen, taken in Florida during July, 1889, was reported
by Mr. W. E. D. Scott.

The habits of the bird are supposed to be similar to those of
extlis. Mr. Scott’s example was discovered while walking on the
leaves of pond-lilies, and when startled it retreated to the tall grass
on the margin of the pond.

LIMPKIN.
COURLAN.

ARAMUS GIGANTEUS.

CHAR. Prevailing color dark brown glossed with purple; head, neck,
and back striped with white ; throat white. General appearance rather
Heron-like. Length about 26 inches.

Vest. Amid rushes or upon a low bush, on the margin of a pond or
stream ; made of vine-leaves and grass.

Eges. 4-8; buffy white or grayish white spotted with brown and gray;
variable in size, average about 2.40 X 1.70.

This singular bird principally inhabits Cayenne, Brazil, and
Paraguay, where it is rather common; it is numerous in the

LIMPKIN. 103

island of Cuba and other warm parts of America. In the
United States, Florida appears to be its most natural residence,
and a few instances have occurred of its visiting the Middle
States. The Courlan leads a solitary life, or only associates by
pairs. By night as well as day it is heard crying out in a loud
and sonorous voice cavau / and is well entitled to the name of
the supposed “ crying-bird ’”’ of Bartram. Mollusca, frogs, and
other aquatic animals are its ordinary food. It is very shy,
carefully hiding itself; but when aware of being discovered, it
starts rapidly to a great elevation, and its flight is long con-
tinued. It also walks with great agility, but never willingly
wades into the water. It alights on the summits of trees, and
builds in the grass, near stagnant water, concealing the nest
with much art. The young are covered with blackish down
when hatched, and soon follow their parents. Like the Rail,
this bird runs swiftly through the grass, compressing its narrow
body so as to pass through a small hole, and is very difficult to
catch when wounded.

This species has been named Limpkin by naturalists, because
that is the name by which it is known in Florida, —the only State
of the Union in which the bird is found. The name is said to have
been suggested by the walk of the bird, its movements resembling
the motions of a lame person.

In Jamaica it is called the ‘“‘ Clucking Hen,” from its habits of
sauntering along and deliberately clucking like a fowl.

Dr. Bryant reported finding a nest containing fifteen eggs; but
five or six has been the usual number of the sets taken during
recent years.

FLAMINGO.

PHCENICOPTERUS RUBER.

CHAR. General color bright pink, deepest on breast and wings; pri-
mary and secondary feathers of wings black; base of bill yellow, terminal
half black. Legs red. The young are paler, the pink tints deepening
with age Length about 4 feet. Stature nearly 5 feet.

LVvest. Usually in a colony, situated on the shore of a shallow lagoon
or pond, or on a mud island, —a saucer-like depression in the mud, with a
rim or bulwark 3 to 6 inches in height. Sometimes a cone-shaped mound
of mud is built up from the bottom of the lagoon and raised 8 to Io inches
or higher above the water level.

fggs. 23 white, much elongated, and with a rough plaster-like surface ;
3.60 X 2.20.

FLAMINGO. 105

The Flamingo of America is found chiefly in the tropical
regions, whence it appears to emigrate in summer on either
side the equator, in the southern hemisphere visiting Brazil,
Peru, Chili, and Buenos Ayres, on the shores of La Plata.
It is also seen in Cayenne (where it is known by the name
of Tococo, from the usual sound of its call) and in vari-
ous islands of the West Indies. It breeds in Cuba and the
Bahamas, is not infrequent at certain seasons on the coast
of Florida, and sometimes solitary individuals are observed
even in the Middle States; but in the Union generally the
species may be considered as rare. When seen at a distance,
such is the brilliancy of their dress and the elevation at which
the birds stand that they appear like a troop of soldiers being
arranged alongside of each other in lines, while on the borders
of rivers and estuaries near the sea they assemble in search of
their food, which consists chiefly of small fish, spawn, and
aquatic insects. They collect their prey by plunging in the
bill and part of the head, and from time to time trample with
their feet to disturb the water and raise it from the bottom.
While the rest are thus employed in seeking their subsistence,
one of them stands sentinel, and on the first note of alarm, a
kind of trumpet-call, he takes to wing, and the whole flock
immediately follow.

The flesh of the American Flamingo is accounted pretty
good food, and that of the young is thought by some equal
to the Partridge. Davies, in his ‘“ History of Barbadoes,”
says it is commonly fat and accounted delicate ; while of the
transatlantic species Dillon remarks that the inhabitants of
Provence always throw away the flesh, as it tastes fishy, and
make use only of the feathers as ornaments. But of this kind,
celebrated in history, the ancients esteemed the tongue as an
exquisite dainty, and Philostratus reckoned it among the deli-
cacies of entertainments.

The claim of the Flamingo to recognition here rests upon its
appearance every year on the Keys off the most southern coast of
Florida; though at an earlier day nests were found on the main-
land, and flocks of the birds were met with along the western shores

106 WADING BIRDS.

of that State, and Audubon credits it with occurring along the
Atlantic coast to Charleston, S. C., as late as 1830.

The old notion that when sitting on the eggs the bird’s legs
dangle awkwardly on each side of a high cone-shaped nest has
been discarded, recent observers affirming that the feet are drawn
up under the sides of the body, the nest being close to the
ground, or no higher than is necessary to protect the eggs from the
water with which they may be surrounded.

When on the nest the neck is gracefully curved and the head
neatly tucked away among the feathers of the back, like a Swan’s;
but when flying, the Flamingo does not curve its neck, as a Heron
will, but carries both neck and legs outstretched and rigid.

AMERICAN AVOCET.

RECURVIROSTRA AMERICANA.

Cuar. Back and most of wings black, remainder of plumage white,
excepting head and neck, which are pale brown in summer and pale gray
in winter; feet webbed; legs blue; bill black, long, and recurved.
Length about 17 inches.

Nest. A bulky affair of dry grass or seaweed lined with fine grass ;
placed amid tall herbage on the marshy margin of a pond.

Eggs. 3-4; buff or reddish drab, sometimes with an olive tint, cov-
ered with spots of brown of several shades; size variable, average about

B00 X 1.35.

The American Avocet, supposed to winter in tropical Amer-
ica, arrives on the coast of Cape May, in New Jersey, late in
April, where it rears its young, and retires to the South early
in the month of October. In the spring it was observed by
Mr. Say in the lower part of Missouri. It is also known to
visit Nova Scotia, though scarcely ever seen in the State of
Massachusetts. Dr. Richardson also found it abundant in the
Saskatchewan plains as far as the 53d parallel, where it
frequents shallow lakes, feeding on insects and fresh-water
crustacea. In New Jersey it seems to have a predilection for
the shallow pools of the salt-marshes, wading about often in
search of prey, which consists of marine worms, small paludi-
nas, turbos, etc., to which, like the European species, it some-
times adds small Fwcz or marine vegetables.

AMERICAN AVOCET. 107

The Avocets near their breeding-places are very noisy,
quailing, and clamorous, flying around in circles near their
invaders, and in a sharp but plaintive tone uttering ’c/zk, ’clik,
chk, in the manner of the Stilts or Long Legs (//manéopus),
with which at times they familiarly associate in small numbers
to pass the important period of reproduction. Like them also
they alight on the marsh or in the water indifferently, fluttering
their loose wings and shaking their tottering and bending legs
as if ready to fall, keeping up at the same time a continual
yelping. ‘The nest, in the same marsh with the Stilts, was
hidden in a thick tuft of grass or sedge at a small distance
from one of their favorite pools. It was composed of small
twigs of some marine shrub, withered grass, sea-weeds, and
other similar materials, the whole raised to the height of
several inches.

Buffon, theorizing on the singular structure of the bill of the
Avocet, supposes it to be “one of those errors or essays of
Nature which, if carried a little further, would destroy itself ;
for zf the curvature of the bill were a degree increased, the bird
could not procure any sort of food, and the organ destined for
the support of life would infallibly occasion its destruction.”
As it happens, however, and not as might be imagined, the
Avocet, no less than the Crossbill, continues not only to live,
but to vary its fare and obtain it with facility. Even the sloth,
that triumph on the occasional imbecility of Nature, so wretched
and lost upon the plain ground, for which the motions of its
peculiar and unequal limbs are not calculated, climbs up a tree
with facility, and, like the tribe of monkeys, is perfectly at ease
in its accustomed arboreal retreat. Let us then more wisely
content ourselves to observe Nature in all her ingenious
paths, without daring, in our ignorance, to imagine the pos-
sible failure of her conservative laws.

The Avocet is a rather uncommon bird near the Atlantic coast,
and north of New Jersey is merely a straggler, a few examples
having been taken in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, and New
Brunswick. On the alkali plains of the West it is quite abundant,
and ranges as far north as Great Slave Lake.

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ROSEATE SPOONBILL.
AJAJA AJAJA.

CHAR. Head bare, skin green, orange, and black; bill long, broad,
flat, and widened towards the end; neck, breast, and back white; short
plumes of breast, wings, and tail rich carmine; tail and patch on neck
buff ; under parts deep rose color. Length about 30 inches.

Nest. Ina colony, placed amid the tall grass of a salt marsh near the
mouth of a river or on a marshy sea island; made of twigs loosely ar-
ranged, —a mere platform, raised several inches from the ground.

Eggs. 5-73; dull white or pale buff, spotted with brown ; 2.60 X 1.75.

The Red or American Spoonbill chiefly dwells within the
tropical regions of the continent, being common in Jamaica
and other of the West India islands, as well as in Mexico,

ROSEATE SPOONBILL. 109

Guiana, and Brazil. In the southern hemisphere it is said to
exist in Peru and as far down the coast of South America as
Patagonia. North of the equator it migrates in summer into
Florida, and is met with to the confines of the Altamaha, in
Georgia. Wilson’s specimen was obtained up the Mississippi,
at the town of Natchez (about the latitude of 32°). Some
are also occasionally met with on the river shores of the Ala-
bama, and in other parts of that State. A straggler has been
known to wander as far as the banks of the Delaware.
According to the relation of Captain Henderson, in his
account of Honduras, this species is more maritime in its
habits than that of Europe, as it wades about in quest of shell-
fish, marine insects, fry, and small crabs; and in pursuit of
these, according to him, it occasionally swims and dives.
The European, or white, species appears to reside in much
cooler climes than the American, being abundant in Holland,
and even at times visiting the shores of the South and West
of England in whole flocks. It is there, however, a bird of
passage, and in migrations accompanies the flocks of Swans.

At the present day Spoonbills are found regularly no farther
north than the maritime districts of the Gulf States, though an
occasional bird wanders up the valley of the Mississippi, ranging
at times as far as southern Illinois.

They were abundant in Florida not many years ago, but the
plume-hunters have almost exterminated them there.

WOOD IBIS.
WOOD STORK.

TANTALUS LOCULATOR.

CuarR. General color white; tail and part of wings black, with metal-
lic reflections ; head and upper half of neck bare, the skin hard, rough,
and of a dusky color. Length about 40 inches.

fest. Ina colony situated amid a dense cypress-swamp, placed on an
upper branch of a tall tree; a loosely arranged structure of twigs, lined
with moss, —the size increasing by yearly ‘additions.

Eggs. 2-3; white, spotted with brown; the surface rough; 2.75 X 1.75.

This is another tribe of singular wading birds, which emi-
grate in the summer to a certain distance on either side of

the equator ; being found occasionally as far north as Virginia,
and as far south, in the other hemisphere, as the savannahs of

WOOD IBIS. VENA

Cayenne and Brazil, and in other parts of South America. In
the compass of the United States their principal residence is
in the inundated wilds of the peninsula of East Florida, and
they are not uncommon in Mississippi, Alabama, Carolina,
and Georgia, withdrawing from the north, however, at the
commencement of cold weather or about the month of
November.

According to Bartram, who had many opportunities of ob-
serving them in Florida, they are solitary and indolent birds,
seldom associating in flocks, and usually frequent the banks
of the principal rivers, marshes, and savannahs, especially such
as are inundated, as well as the larger deserted rice-planta-
tions contiguous to the sea-coast. Here, alone, the feathered
hermit stands listless, on the topmost limb of some tall and
decayed cypress, with his neck drawn in upon his shoulders,
and his enormous bill resting like a scythe upon his breast.
Thus pensive and lonely, he has a grave and melancholy as-
pect, as if ruminating in the deepest thought ; and in this sad
posture of gluttonous inactivity these birds probably, like
Herons, pass the greatest part of their time, till, awakened by
the calls of hunger, they become active in quest of their prey
of snakes, young alligators, fish, frogs, and other reptiles.
They are easily approached and shot, when abandoned to
repose, and are by many of the inhabitants accounted as
excellent food.

This Ibis is found in all the Southern States, though at present
it is not a common bird anywhere within our borders. Stragglers
have been met with north to New York, Ohio, Indiana, and
Wisconsin.

Bartram’s account of the hermit-like habits of the bird, quoted
by Nuttall, was criticised by Aubudon, who rarely met with a soli-
tary example, — the birds were always in flocks; but Dr. Henry
Bryant states that he never saw a flock of Wood Ibises excepting
at their breeding-place. The principal food of this species is small
fish, which are caught in the shallow waters, the Ibis scratching or
“raking ” the bottom to startle its prey; but a meal of frog, turtle,
bird, or snake is never neglected, and a young alligator is not safe
within reach of the bird’s long and powerful bill.

If2 WADING BIRDS.

SCARLET IBIS.
GUARA RUBRA.

CHAR. Entire plumage deep scarlet, excepting the tips of the longest
wing-feathers, which are black. Length about 30 inches.

Vest. Ina colony, amida thicket of small trees and vines; placed on
a low tree or bush, —a mere platform of loosely arranged twigs and leaves.

Leggs. 2-3; dull white or pale gray, spotted with brown; 2.10 X 1.45.

Nuttall followed Wilson in crediting the Scarlet Ibis to the
Southern States; but its appearance within our borders during
recent years has been merely casual, and it has not been seen else-
where than in Florida and Louisiana.

WHITE IBIS.

GUARA ALBA.

CHAR. Entire plumage pure white, excepting the tips of the longest
wing-feathers, which are black. In freshly killed specimens the white is
tinged with a delicate shade of pink. Length about 24 inches.

Nest. Ina colony, amid tall marsh-grass by the sea-shore or near a
pond in the woods; a compactly woven structure, sometimes deeply hol-
lowed, but often quite shallow, made of reeds or twigs and lined with
green leaves ; fastened to upright reeds or placed on a bush or low tree.

Eggs. 3-5; dull white tinted with green or blue, and marked with
brown spots; 2.25 X 1.50.

This species, so extremely like the preceding, except in its
permanent white color, is likewise common in the tropical
parts of the American continent, particularly the Caribbee
Islands, and extends its residence at least as far south beyond
the equator as the coast of Brazil. Wilson observes that the
species appeared to be pretty numerous on the borders of Lake
Pontchartrain, near New Orleans, in the month of June; he
also saw it on the low keys or islands off the coast of Florida.
These birds rarely proceed to the north of Carolina, which they
visit only for a few weeks towards the close of summer, — col-
lected probably from their dispersed breeding-places, a little

WHITE IBIS. 113

previous to the period of their migration back again to the
South, which takes place on the return of cool weather. ‘Their
food and haunts are altogether similar with those of the pre-
ceding species, and, like them, they seldom remove to any great
distance from the sea. Mr. Bartram remarks that “ they fly
in large flocks or squadrons, evening and morning, to and from
their feeding-places or roosts, and are usually called Spanish
Curlews. They subsist principally on cray-fish, whose cells
they probe, and with their strong pinching bills drag them
out.”” They also feed on fry and aquatic insects, and their
flesh is sometimes eaten, but not much esteemed.

Birds of this species may frequently be seen standing on
the dead branches of trees and on the shore, resting on one
leg, with the body in an almost perpendicular position, and the
head and bill resting on the breast, — which, indeed, appears
to be their common mode of reposing, in consequence of
which, and as a proof of the habitual indolence of the species,
the plumage, as in the Wood Ibis, on the ridge of the neck
and upper part of the back, is evidently worn by the constancy
of this habit.

Sometimes, according to Bartram, during the prevalence of
high winds and in thunder-storms, they may be seen collected
into numerous flocks, driving to and fro, or turning and tack-
ing about high in the air, during which evolutions with the
contending currents of the wind their silvery plumage gleams
and sparkles with unusual brilliance as it reflects the flashing
light from amidst the dark and hovering clouds.

The White Ibis has been until quite recently a common bird in
some localities in the Southern States. It occurs regularly on the
Atlantic shore to North Carolina (occasional stragglers have been
seen in New Jersey), and along the valley of the Mississippi
ranges farther north, —to Indiana and southern Illinois.

YOL. II. — 8

GLOSSY IBIS.

PLEGADIS AUTUMNALIS.

CHAR. Back, wings, and tail dark purple with metallic reflections of
green and bronze; head, neck, wing-coverts, and under parts rich chest-
nut, tinged with purple; bill brown ; legs greenish brown. Length about
24 inches.

Nest. Ina colony, situated in a marsh or swamp on the bank of a
river, lake, or shallow lagoon; a compact structure more neatly built than
the nest of any of the Herons, composed of dead reeds or twigs and
grass; fastened to upright reeds or placed on a platform of bent reeds,
sometimes in a bush or tree growing in the water, and occasionally the
platform bearing the nest floats upon the water.

Leggs. 3-4; light blue, or dark blue with a green tinge; 2.00 X 1.45.

The Glossy Ibis appears to be within the temperate and
warmer regions almost a general inhabitant of the world.
On the borders of rivers and lakes it is seen, for example,

abundant as a bird of passage in Poland, Hungary, Turkey,
and the Grecian Archipelago; it visits the borders of the

GLOSSY IBIS. ra

Danube, and is seen sometimes in Switzerland and _ Italy,
though rarely in England and Holland; and is for seven
months a periodical visitor in Egypt, where, in common with
the Sacred Ibis, it was revered and embalmed in the vast cata-
combs of Saccara and Memphis. It arrives in that country in
October, and leaves it in the month of March. It is known to
breed up the rivers of the Caspian and Black Seas, and to
spread into Russia, Siberia, Vartary, Denmark, occasionally
into Sweden, and perhaps Lapland, for the same purpose ;
remaining in those countries till driven to migrate by the
inclemency of approaching winter, at which period it appears
to arrive in Africa and Asia. It is a still more rare and acci-
dental visitor in the United States than in England. A spe-
cimen has occasionally been exposed for sale in the markets of
Boston, and individuals are, at distant intervals, shot off Long
Island and on the shores of New Jersey. At very irregular
periods in the spring season, small flocks are thus seen on the
coasts of the Middle States and as far south as Maryland and
Virginia. Vieillot also asserts their occasional appearance even
in Cayenne, Iceland, and Greenland ; and they are found com-
mon along the rivers in the island of Java and in the Celebes.
The Ibises ordinarily dwell together in flocks in marshy
and inundated grounds, exploring for their food with great
regularity, side by side advancing, like disciplined troops in an
extended line, perambulating the meadows they visit in pref-
erence to making a desultory flight, and for hours they are
observed boring the same spot with their long and sensitive
bills, when their prey is abundant. Sedate in their movements,
elevating their feet high in walking, and as it were measuring
their steps, they seem by the delicacy of their actions as if
conscious of the veneration and high regard symbolically
bestowed upon them by the nations of antiquity. When,
however, alarmed, they rise high in the air, in a wide spiral
range, uttering loud cries, like Geese, and having attained a
safe elevation, they file off in a horizontal direction, uttering at
intervals a low and hoarse sound, and their flight being vigor-
ous, they soon disappear from sight. ‘They are said to nest in

116 WADING BIRDS.

trees ; but of their manners during the period of reproduction
we are still wholly ignorant, and Temminck believes that they
retire to breed in the wilds of Asia, though Montague thinks
their vernal migrations are directed to the less-inhabited parts
of the North, where they find security about the rivers and
interior lakes to propagate, and whence they retire as the
winter approaches and as their food begins to fail, spreading
themselves at this season over the southern parts of Europe
and the adjoining continents. According to Oedman, they
have been known to breed, for several years in succession, in
the isle of Oland, in the Baltic.

The food of the Ibis is merely insects, worms, river shell-
fish, and vegetables, which is likewise the real fare of the nearly
allied, Sacred Ibis, of the Egyptians (/dzs religiosa, CUVIER),
neither of whom show any predilection for devouring serpents
or large reptiles, — for which purpose, in fact, the structure of
their long and falciform bills is wholly unfitted.

From the supposed utility of the Ibis in destroying noxious
reptiles, it was held in the greatest veneration by the Egyp-
tians; to kill it was forbidden under pain of death; large
flocks were kept in temples, and when they died, were
embalmed, inurned, and deposited with the mummies in the
sacred receptacles of the dead. These dird-fits, as they are
still called, are scattered over the plains of Saccara, and are
filled with the numerous remains of this and the Egyptian
species. So highly was it honored that the Ibis became the
characteristic hieroglyph of the country, repeated upon all
the monuments, obelisks, and national statues. The abun-
dance of their remains in the catacombs proves, indeed, the
familiarity which the species had contracted with the indulgent
inhabitants of its favorite country; and, like the Stork of
Europe, venerated for its supposed piety, it gained credit, in
the prejudices of the ignorant, for benefits which it never con-
ferred. Diodorus Siculus, however, only adds, what appears
by no means improbable, that, impelled by hunger on their
first arrival, night and day the Ibis, walking by the verge
of the water, watches reptiles, searching for their eggs, and

GLOSSY IBIS. 117

destroying all the beetles and grasshoppers which it finds. Thus
accustomed to favor and immunity (like our own Vulture scav-
engers), in Egypt these birds advanced without fear into the
midst of the cities. Strabo relates that they filled the streets
and lanes of Alexandria to such a degree as to become trou-
blesome and importunate ; and Hasselquist remarks that in
Lower Egypt as soon as the Nile becomes freed from its inun-
dations, they arrive in such numbers as to be seen morning
and evening frequenting the gardens and covering whole
palm-trees with their flocks. The Egyptian Ibis is likewise
said to construct its nest familiarly in the clustering fronds of
the date-palm, where it lays four eggs, and sits, according to
the fanciful calculation of A‘lian, as many days as the star
Isis takes to perform the revolution of its phases.

To enumerate the various fictions and falsehoods with which
the ancients have chosen to embellish the history of the Ibis
would be as vain and useless to the naturalist as to the sober
historian. Even Josephus has the credulity to relate that
when Moses made war on the Ethiopians, he carried, in cages
of papyrus, a great number of the Ibis, to oppose them to the
serpents! Fables of this kind are now no longer capable of
being substituted for facts, and the naturalist contents him-
self with the humbler, but more useful, employment of simply
describing and delineating nature as it issued from the hands
of its omnipotent Creator. ‘This superstition has also had its
day, and the Ibises, no longer venerated even in Egypt, are
in the autumn commonly shot and ensnared by the Arabs for
food ; and the markets of the sea-coast are now abundantly
supplied with them as game, together with the white species,
both of which are ignominiously exposed for sale deprived of
their heads, —a spectacle from which the ancient Egyptians
would have recoiled with horror. So fickle and capricious,
because unreasonable, is the dominion of superstition !

The Glossy Ibis is a rare bird in this faunal province, but it
occurs as an occasional visitor north to Massachusetts and Ontario,
and in 1878 was seen on Prince Edward’s Island. The nest has
not been found north of Florida.

118 WADING BIRDS.

LONG-BILLED CURLEW.
SICKLE-BILL.
NUMENIUS LONGIROSTRIS.

CHAR. Upper parts mottled gray, black, and pale rufous, — rufous
being the prevailing tint ; under parts pale cinnamon, the neck and breast
with dusky streaks ; secondary quills rufous, primaries brownish black ;
bill black ; legs brownish black. Length about 25 inches.

Vest. On the ground, sometimes in wet meadows; a slight depression,
lined, sparingly, with grass.

Leggs. 3-4 (very variable in size, color, and markings) ; olive drab to
pale buff, thickly speckled and blotched with brown, sometimes spotted
with lilac also; average size about 2.60 X 1.80.

The Long-billed Curlew is seen in the marshes of New Jer-
sey about the middle of May on its way farther north, and
in September or the latter end of August on its return from
its breeding-places. How far south it retires in the course
of the winter, has not been ascertained ; but a few, no doubt,
winter in the marshes of South Carolina, as I have observed
specimens on the muddy shores of the Santee, near Charleston,
in the month of January. Its southern migration in all proba-
bility is bounded by the shores of the Mexican Gulf. Like
most species of the genus, it retires into the desolate regions
of the North to breed. Dr. Richardson believes that it fre-
quents the plains of the Saskatchewan and the Columbia at
this season, and it is known to visit the neighborhood of
Hudson Bay. In Major Long’s expedition it appears that
some of these birds were observed as far inland as the Illinois,
latitude 42°, on the 15th of June, — which might be supposed
about the time of breeding. According to Wilson, a few in-
stances have been known of one or two pairs remaining in the
salt-marshes of Cape May the whole summer; and they were
believed to nest there on the ground, laying four eggs in size
and color much resembling those of the Clapper Rail. In-
deed, it will probably be found that many birds now supposed
to pass the period of reproduction in the remote regions of

LONG-BILLED CURLEW. I19

the North only separate into solitary pairs, and disperse them-
selves through the vast wilds of the interior of North America.
The Long-billed Curlews fly high and rapidly, generally
throwing themselves, when in company, into an angular wedge,
after the manner of Wild Geese, uttering, as they fly, and when
at all alarmed, a loud, short, whistling, and almost barking
note, sometimes, as in other species of the family, strongly re-
sembling the sibilation of the word kuwrdew, and whence they
derive their characteristic name, which has been adopted into
so many of the European languages. By a dexterous imitation
of this note a whole flock may sometimes be enticed within gun-
shot ; and the cries of the wounded continue the sympathetic
enticement, while the fowler, repeating his shots, carries havoc
among the quailing throng. Their food consists principally
of insects, worms, and small crabs. The young and old also,
on their arrival from the North, where they feed on various
kinds of berries, still continue their fondness for this kind of
food, and now frequent the uplands and pastures in quest of
the fruit of the bramble, particularly dewberries, on which they
get so remarkably fat at times as to burst the skin in falling to
the ground, and are then superior in flavor to almost any other
game-bird of the season. In the market of Boston they are
seen as early as the 8th of August, having already raised their
brood and proceeded thus far towards their winter-quarters.

The Sickle-bill is an abundant bird from the Pacific to the Mis-
sissippi; but eastward of that river it is common only in the South-
ern States and around the Great Lakes; while in New England it
is quite rare, and occurs chiefly during the autumn migration. In
the West it ranges to the Saskatchewan valley, about latitude 55°;
but on the Atlantic it has not been taken north of Baie de Chaleur,
on the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

Our Eastern birds probably raise their broods in the region ly-
ing immediately south of Hudson Bay, and then journey eastward
through the valleys of the St. Lawrence and its tributaries until
reaching the sea, along which the birds proceed to their winter
quarters in the West Indies.

Mr. George A. Boardman heard a report several years ago that
this species had been discovered breeding on Prince Edward’s
Island; but this has not been confirmed: by recent observations.

HUDSONIAN CURLEW.
JACK CURLEW.

NUMENIUS HUDSONICUS.

Cuar. Upper parts blackish brown mottled with buff, the latter pre-
vailing on the wing-coverts; wings dusky; crown dusky brown, with
median stripe of buff; stripe of brown on side of head; rest of head, neck,
and under parts light buff; breast spotted with brown. Length about 17
inches.

Vest. Usually near the margin of a lake or stream; a slight depression,
lined with grass or leaves.

£ggs. 3-4; drab with a tint of green or buff, marked with several
shades of brown, 2.25 X 1.60.

The Short-Billed Curlew, after passing the winter south of
the United States, arrives in large flocks on the coast of New
Jersey early in May, frequenting the salt-marshes, muddy
ponds, shoals, and inlets, feeding at this time on small worms,
land and marine insects, fry, minute shell-fish, and some-
times the seeds of aquatic vegetables, which it usually col-
lects at the recess of the tide in company with various other

HUDSONIAN CURLEW. 12]

waders, and at high water retires into the marshes, and some-
times to the dry ridges and pastures, particularly at a later
period, in June, where, accompanied by the Long-Billed spe-
cies, it feeds much on dewberries, becoming very fat and
well flavored. In the northern regions and the fur countries,
to which these birds retire to breed, they also collect crowber-
ries (Lmfpetrum nigrum) for food. In June they take their
departure to the North; collecting together from the marshes
in one general flock, they rise to a considerable elevation about
an hour before sunset, and forming a long angular phalanx,
keep up a constant whistling on their march, as if conversing
with each other, in order to forget or lessen the toil and
hazard of their adventurous journey. Their flight is steady,
like that of the Woodcock, and in consequence of their
sympathy for each other, they readily come within gunshot of
those who can imitate their call. While thus beating the air
in company, the transient glittering of their speckled wings, as
they glide along in ease and elegance, presents an interesting
spectacle no less beautiful than amusing. Arriving, at length,
in their natal regions in the wilds of the North, they soon obey
the instinct of their species, and making a nest on the ground,
lay about four eggs, which, according to Mr. Hutchins, are of a
light bluish-gray color, marked with black (or dark-brown)
spots. From the middle of August to the beginning of Sep-
tember they arrive in the vicinity of Massachusetts Bay and
other parts of New England, frequenting the pastures as well
as marshes, and fatten upon grasshoppers and _ berries till the
time of their departure, about the close of September; and
they wholly disappear from New Jersey on their way to the
South, early in the month of November. Previous to their
departure they again assemble in large flocks near the sea-
beach, being constantly gregarious in all their journeys. In an
island of the Piscataqua, near Plymouth (New Hampshire), a
friend informs me that they had, in the autumn, been seen to-
gether in a dense flock of many thousands, thickly covering
several acres of ground with their numbers.

When much hunted, they become extremely shy and diff-

122 WADING BIRDS.

cult to approach; yet the same bird, shot at three or four
different times, and recovering when about to be picked up,
still, notwithstanding this persecution, continued to feed again
in the same spot. ‘These birds, though so exquisite in flavor,
in the autumn, when as abundant as usual, are sold in Boston
market for about twenty to twenty-five cents each. As early
as the 18th of July I have met with individuals of this species,
one of which on dissection proved to be an old and barren
male who in all probability had remained behind the flock in
the same vicinity where he had arrived in the spring, having
no incentive to migration. Whether other specimens, killed
at this season before the return of the general flock, are influ-
enced by the same cause to linger behind or wander from the
rest, I am unable to say.

The Jack Curlew is well known to gunners along the Atlantic
coast, where it occurs during both migrations. The flocks do not
cross the Gulf of St. Lawrence, but follow the southern shore till
well inland, when they fly north to Hudson Bay and the Barren
Lands, near the Arctic Ocean, where they breed.

A few stragglers from the main flocks have been taken in Lab-
rador and Greenland, and a few wander inland through Ohio and
the Eastern States.

ESKIMO CURLEW.
SHORT-BILLED CURLEW. DOUGHBIRD.
NUMENIUS BOREALIS.

Cuar. Upper parts blackish brown, spotted with buff; crown streaked,
but without distinct median line ; under parts light buff ; neck, breast, and
sides streaked or spotted with dusky. Length about 14 inches.

Much like edsonicus, but easily distinguished, dorealis being of smaller
size, with a shorter bill, and lacking the light-colored streak across the
crown.

Nest. Amid the rocks of dry ridges, adjacent to lakes and ponds; a
slight depression, lined with grass and leaves.

Eggs. 3-4; olive, with a tinge of green or brown predominating,
marked with several shades of brown; 2.05 X 1.45.

The Small Curlew in the course of its vast migrations occa-
sionally visits almost every part of the American continent,

ESKIMO CURLEW. 123

penetrating even into the remote territories of the west, cours-
ing along the great valley of the Mississippi, and extending its
wanderings into the southern hemisphere as far as Brazil and
Paraguay. ‘These birds arrive at Hudson Bay in April or early
in May, but breed to the north of Albany Fort, returning to
the marshes with their young in August, and retire from that
country early in September. Indeed, accompanied probably
by the preceding, they frequent in summer the wide extent of
Barren Lands within the Arctic circle, feeding usually on aqua-
tic insects, their larvae, and when ripe, the fruit of the crow-
berry (Lmpetrum nigrum). On the 13th of June, 1822, Dr.
Richardson discovered one of these Curlews sitting on three
eggs on the shore of Point Lake. When approached, she ran a
short distance from the nest, crouching near to the ground,
and then stopped to watch the motions of her encroaching
visitor.

About the close of August or beginning of September these
Curlews, accompanied by birds of the preceding species, arrive
on the shores of Massachusetts Bay; and frequenting the
marshes and adjoining pastures, feed at this time much upon
grasshoppers, coleoptera, and earth-worms, which they collect
principally towards evening or early in the morning. On their
way to the South they also visit Nova Scotia and Newfound-
land, where they remain till the approach of winter; and in
New Jersey these birds linger on till the month of November,
when they apparently, without further delay, pass on to the
south of the United States, for in other parts of the Union they
appear to be wholly unknown. Like the other species, they
are remarkably gregarious, each company seeming to follow
some temporary leader; and on starting to wing, a sort of
watch-cry is heard, resembling the whistling pronunciation of
the word éee-éee. On their arrival from the North they are
very fat, plump, and well flavored, and included, like both the
preceding species and the Marbled Godwit, under the general
name of Doebirds, they are sought out by epicures and en-
hance the value of a table entertainment. Pennant remarks,
on the authority of Hutchins, that one year, from the gth of

124 WADING BIRDS.

August to the 6th of September, they were seen in flocks innu-
merable on the hills about Chatteux Bay, on the coast of Lab-
rador, soon after which they all departed for the South; at
this time they kept chiefly on the open grounds, and feeding
on crowberries, were very fat and well flavored.

A few of these birds migrate northward along the Atlantic coast,
and some wander by the way of the Great Lakes; but the route
taken by the majority is up the valley of the Mississippi and across
the plains, where they have been met with in “immense flocks”
during May. They spend the summer on the Barren Lands within
the Arctic circle, and after raising their broods, start on the migra-
tion southward, crossing to Labrador, where several naturalists
have found them in great abundance. But though so abundant in
that region, comparatively few pass southward through the Maritime
Provinces, and they are reported as uncommon all along the
Atlantic shore of the United States; so it is supposed that the
larger number fly direct from Labrador to South America, over
which country they roam during the winter, ranging to its south-
ernmost point.

Dr. Coues, who met with large numbers of these birds in Labra-
dor, states that their principal food was crowberry, or “ curlew-
berry,” as the natives call it; but they also fed extensively ona
small snail which adhered to the rocks on the sea-shore and were
left uncovered at low tide.

CURLEW SANDPIPER.

‘TRINGA FERRUGINEA.

CuHar. Bill long, slender, and decurved. Adult in summer: upper
parts mottled black, gray, and rufous; wings and tail ashy gray; tail-
coverts pale buff barred with black; under parts rich chestnut. Adult in
winter: upper parts grayish brown; tail-coverts white; under parts
white ; chest with a few indistinct streaks of gray. Young: like adult in
winter, but feathers of upper parts margined with buff; neck streaked
with brown. Length about 8% inches.

Nest. On the margin of a lake or stream; a slight depression, lined
with dry grass.

Leggs. —?, “pale grayish or greenish buffy, spotted with deep brown,
etc.; 1.50 X 1.04” (Ridgway).

Of this species very little is known. It is found on the sea-
coast and by the borders of lakes, and is sometimes seen in the
interior of the countries it frequents. Like most species of the
genus, it is migratory in the spring and autumn, and at such
times proceeds in flocks along the coast or on the borders of
large rivers. The food of this bird is usually small insects
and worms, as well as the herbage of some of the sea-weeds
(uct). So wide are the devious wanderings of this cos-
mopolite pigmy that Temminck obtained a specimen from

126 WADING BIRDS.

Senegal, another from the Cape of Good Hope (as is also
indicated by Latham’s name of the Cape Curlew), and a third
from North America.

The Curlew Sandpiper is not an uncommon bird in Europe, but,
excepting in Greenland and Alaska, very few examples have been
met with in America, and those few were seen along the Atlantic
coast during the migrations. It is supposed to breed throughout
the entire Arctic regions, but of its nesting habits very little is
known.

Though an exceedingly active bird, when feeding, it proceeds
quite leisurely with its migrations, and while on these journeys
frequents the salt-marshes and the tide-washed sandbars near the
mouths of rivers.

In many habits and in flight it resembles the Dunlin, for which it
is often mistaken. This mistake is liable to be made in winter,
when the plumage of the two are very similar. In summer dress
our bird appears somewhat like a small edition of the Knot.

RED-BACKED SANDPIPER.

DUNLIN. BLACK-BREAST. BLACK-BELLIED SANDPIPER.
BLACK-HEART. WINTER SNIPE.

TRINGA ALPINA PACIFICA.

CHAR. Adult in summer: upper parts chestnut, streaked with black ;
wings and tail ashy gray; throat and breast grayish white with dark
streaks ; lower breast black ; belly white. Adult in winter: upper parts
brownish gray or ashy gray ; under parts white, neck and chest streaked
sparingly with gray. In young birds the feathers on the upper parts are
bordered with rufous or buff, the top of the head is light chestnut and
black, and the under parts are white, spotted with black. Length 8 to 8%
inches.

Vest. Amid long grass on a salt-marsh or beneath a bunch of heather
on a moor or hillside, —a slight depression, lined with grass, leaves, or
moss.

Eggs. 4; dull buff tinged with brown or olive, marked with chestnut ;
1.45 X 1.00.

The Dunlin, or Red-backed Sandpiper, of the United States,
according to the season of the year, is met with throughout
the northern hemisphere, penetrating, in America, during the
summer season, to the utmost habitable verge of the Arctic

RED-BACKED SANDPIPER. 127

Circle, and even breeding in that remotest of lands, the ever-
wintry shores of .Melville Peninsula. It likewise inhabits
Greenland, Iceland, Scandinavia, the Alps of Siberia, and the
coasts of the Caspian. In the southern hemisphere it some-
times even wanders as far as the Cape of Good Hope, and is
found in Jamaica, other of the West India islands, and Cayenne.
In the autumn it is seen around Vera Cruz, and, with other
Sandpipers probably, is exposed for sale in the markets of Mex-
ico. At the same time many, as the Purres, in their winter
dress, remain through the greatest part of the winter within the
milder limits of the Union, frequenting at times in great num-
bers the coasts of both Carolinas during the month of Feb-
ruary, flitting probably to and fro with every vacillating
change of temperature, being naturally vagabond and nowhere
fixed for any considerable time until their arrival at the
Ultima Thule of the continent, where they barely stay long
enough to rear a single brood, destined, as soon as they are
able, to wander with the rest and swell the aerial host, whose
sole delight, like the untiring Petrels of the storm or the
ambitious Albatross, is to be in perpetual action, and are
thus, by their associated numbers, obliged perpetually to rove
in quest of their transient, periodical, and varying prey.

In the Middle States the Dunlins arrive on their way to the
North in April and May, and in September and October they
are again seen pursuing the route to their hibernal retreat in
the South. At these times they often mingle with the flocks
of other strand birds, from which they are distinguishable by
the rufous color of their upper plumage. ‘They frequent the
muddy flats and shores of the salt-marshes at the recess of the
tide, feeding on the worms, insects, and minute shell-fish
which such places generally afford. They are also very nimble
on the strand, frequenting the sandy beaches which bound the
ocean, running, and gleaning up their prey with great activity
on the reflux of the waves.

These birds when in their hibernal dress are seen, in con-
junction with several species, sometimes collecting together in
such flocks as to seem at a distance like a moving cloud, vary-

128 WADING BIRDS.

ing in form and appearance every instant while they perform
their circuitous, waving, and whirling evolutions along the
shores with great rapidity ; alternately bringing their dark and
white plumage into view, they form a very grand and imposing
spectacle of the sublime instinct and power of Nature. At
such times, however, the keen gunner, without losing much
time in empty contemplation, makes prodigious slaughter in
the timid ranks of the Purres; while as the showers of their
companions fall, the whole body often alight or descend to the
surface with them, until the greedy sportsman becomes satiated
with destruction.

The Dunlins breed plentifully on the Arctic coasts of Amer-
ica, nesting on the ground in the herbage, laying three or four
very large eggs of an oil-green, marked with irregular spots of
liver-brown of different sizes and shades, confluent at the
larger end. Mr. Pennant also received the eggs of this kind
from Denmark, so that the range in which they breed, no less
than that in which they migrate, is very extensive.

This species, still abundant throughout the continent, and breed-
ing in the Far North, is called ““ Winter Snipe” by the gunners of
New Jersey and southward ; but that name is given by the New
Englanders to the Purple Sandpiper, which is not seen farther
south. The names Ox-bird and Purre, given to the present spe-
cies by Nuttall, were the names by which the summer and winter
phases of the Dunlin were designated formerly by English writers.

Note. —The European DUNLIN (77inga alpina) is smaller
than the American race, and of a duller tint. It occurs in Green-
land and breeds there, and an occasional example wanders to the
shores of Hudson Bay.

WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER. 129

WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER.
BONAPARTE’S SANDPIPER.
TRINGA FUSCICOLLIS.

CHAR. Upper parts brownish gray, striped with black and tinged with
rufous; wings ashy brown; rump brownish ash; upper tail-coverts white ;
tail grayish brown, the two middle feathers darker; under parts white,
the breast washed with gray. In winter the upper parts are entirely
brownish gray. Bill short and blackish brown, paler at the base; legs
brownish olive. Length about 7% inches.

Vest. Ona low lying sea-shore or near the muddy margin of a lake or
stream close by the sea, —a slight depression, lined with dead leaves.

Eggs. 4; olive or olive brown or grayish buff, marked with chestnut
and dark brown; sometimes marked also with pale brown and purplish

gray; 1.35 X 0.95.

This species, so nearly related to the preceding, is also com-
mon to both continents, penetrating inland in America to the
western plains of the Mississippi, and inhabiting the shores of
the small lakes which skirt the plains of the Saskatchewan,
and probably the remoter wilds of the Arctic circle. Accord-
ing to Bonaparte these birds are rather common on the coast
of New Jersey in autumn, and Mr. Oakes met with several in
the vicinity of Ipswich, in Massachusetts. They are either seen
in flocks by themselves or accompanying other Sandpipers,
which they entirely resemble in their habits and food, fre-
quenting marshy shores and the borders of lakes and brackish
waters. ‘They associate in the breeding-season, and are then
by no means shy; but during autumn, accompanying different
birds, they become wild and restless. Their voice resembles
that of the Dunlin, but is more feeble; and they nest near
their usual haunts, by lakes and marshes.

This is the Schinz’s Sandpiper of Nuttall and Bonaparte. It is
a common bird in eastern North America, migrating northward
along the Mississippi valley as well as by the Atlantic coast, and
breeding in the Arctic regions, — from Labrador to the Polar Sea.
During the migrations numbers of these birds appear along the
New England shores in company with several of their smaller
allies, from which they are readily distinguished by their conspic-
VOL. Il. — 9

130 WADING BIRDS.

uous white tail-coverts. Their note, also, is peculiar, — a low soft
weet

In habits they differ little from other Sandpipers, — a little more
confiding and heedless perhaps, and more frequently found on the
mud-flats and among the sea-weed than on the sand.

PECTORAL SANDPIPER.
JACK SNIPE. GRASS SNIPE. KRIEKER.
‘TRINGA MACULATA.

CHAR. Upper parts dusky brown, the feathers margined with buff and
rufous; rump and tail-coverts dusky; cheeks and throat dull white
streaked with brown; breast buffy gray streaked with dusky; chin and
belly white. In winter the plumage is plain gray and white, sometimes
tinged with pale rufous and buff. Length about 83 inches.

Nest. Amid a tuft of grass on a dry mound or hill side.

Eggs. 4; pale buff, greenish drab, or olive brown, thickly blotched
with rich red brown; 1.50 X 1.05.

This conspicuous species of Sandpiper, first detected by
Mr. Say, is by no means uncommon in various parts of the
United States, migrating north, and perhaps west, to breed,
as it is Common in the remote plains of the Mississippi. These
birds have been killed in abundance on the shores of Cohasset
and in other parts of Massachusetts Bay, and brought to the
markets of Boston, being very fat and well flavored. They
arrive in flocks about the close of August, and continue here,
as well as in New Jersey, till the month of September, and
perhaps into October. In some instances solitary individuals
have been killed in the marshes of Charles River, in Cam-
bridge, about the 22d of July. These were in company with
the flocks of small Sandpipers; but whether pairs may perhaps
breed in the neighboring marshes or not, we have not had the
means of ascertaining.

While here, they feed on small coleoptera, larvee, and the
common green Ulva Jattissima, as well as some species of
Fucus, or sea-weed, on which they become very fat. They
utter a low, plaintive whistle when started, very similar to that

PECTORAL SANDPIPER. 131

of some other species. Like the Snipe, they seem fond of
damp meadows and marshes, and solitary individuals are often
surprised by the sportsman in the manner of that bird.

The Pectoral Sandpiper breeds in the Arctic and subarctic re-
gions of North America, — from Greenland to Alaska, —and in
winter retires to the West Indies and southward. Large flocks of
these birds migrate north and south across the prairies and through
the valley of the great rivers of the West, but along the Atlantic sea-
board only a scattered few are seen in the spring, though during
the early autumn they appear in numbers. While on our coasts
they mingle sociably with other small Sandpipers, but some of their
manners and habits suggest the Snipe rather than the Sandpiper.
They frequent the salt-marshes and seaside meadows more than the
sandy beaches, and the erratic flight of a flock when suddenly
flushed is peculiarly Snipe-like.

Nothing definite was known of the breeding-habits of these
birds until recently, when our naturalists discovered them nesting
in Alaska. Murdock found numbers at Point Barrow; then Nel-
son made a study of them at St. Michael’s in 1879; and in 1883 the
members of Lieutenant Ray’s party at Point Barrow were fortunate
enough to secure several nests with eggs,

In the mating season, which occurs after they have reached the
vicinity of their nesting ground, the males become intensely excited
in their efforts to gain the attention of the females and to keep near
to one chosen for a mate. They run along the sand with wings exten-
ded, or take short flights close to the ground, passing to and fro
in front of the amorita, or whirling in graceful curves in the air
above her, all the while uttering adeep and hollow booming, which
resembles oo, hoo, hoo, hoo, or too-u, too-w, too-u, rapidly repeated
in liquid musical tones. ‘ Whenever he pursues his love-making,”’
says Mr. Nelson, “his rather low but pervading note swells and
dies in musical cadences, which form a striking part of the great
bird chorus heard at this season in the North.” During these per-
formances the throat and breast are filled with air and puffed out
to twice their natural extent, — whence the name Pectoral. When
not thus inflated, the air-sac hangs an inch or more below the gen-
eral contour of the neck. While with us these birds do not display
this inflated breast, and the only note we hear from them is a low
soft ¢weet.

BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER.

'TRYNGITES SUBRUFICOLLIS.

CHAR. Upper parts yellowish brown mottled with black ; central tail-
feathers greenish black, others paler and barred towards the tips; under
parts buffish with a rufous tinge, the linings of the wings paler and beau-
tifully marbled with black; breast with a few dark spots. Length about
8 inches.

Nest. On a knoll in a grassy plain or near a river bank, —a slight
depression lined with a little moss or grass, or a few leaves.

Eggs. 4; pale reddish buff sometimes tinged with olive, profusely
marked with lavender and rich reddish brown of several shades; 1.45
X 1.00.

This elegant species, some seasons, is not uncommon in
the market of Boston in the month of August and September,
being met with near the capes of Massachusetts Bay. My
friend Mr. Cooper has also obtained specimens from the
vicinity of New York; and it was first discovered by Veil-
lot in the then Territory of Louisiana, so that, coursing along
the shores of the Mississippi, and thus penetrating inland, it
probably proceeds, as well as in the vicinity of the sea-coast,
to its northern destination to breed, and is often here associ-
ated with the Pectoral Sandpiper, which it resembles very
much in size and bill, though perfectly distinct in plumage. As

BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER. 133

a proof how wide it wanders, this species has also been rarely
obtained even in France and England, and a specimen figured
in the Linnean Transactions of London is there given as a
new addition to the fauna of Great Britain. It was shot in
September, 1826, in the parish of Melbourne, Cambridgeshire,
in company with the Siberian Plover, or Guignard ( Charadrius
morinellus ) .

Its food while here consists principally of land and marine
insects, particularly grasshoppers, which, abounding in the
autumn, become the favorite prey of a variety of birds; even
the Turnstone at this season, laying aside his arduous employ-
ment, is now content to feed upon these swarming and easily
acquired insects.

This Sandpiper is distributed throughout North America, breed-
ing in Arctic and Sub-arctic regions. It is a rather rare visitor to
this northeastern section, though more frequently seen in the
autumn than during the spring migrations, the bulk of the flocks
going north by the western inland routes, and nesting on the dry
plains in the Barren Ground region, adjacent to the Mackenzie and
Anderson Rivers. These birds must migrate very rapidly and
make but few halts; for while they are quite abundant on their
nesting-ground, they are rarely seen while migrating. They range
in winter through the West Indies and southward as far as Brazil
and Peru.

The Buff-breasted Sandpiper is a bird of the dry upland rather
than of the marsh or the sandy beach. Its principal food consists
of insects, — beetles, grasshoppers, and such; but it varies its diet
with small marine forms, and does not object to an occasional
meal of small fruit and berries. The birds are very tame, and are
usually met with in small flocks of ten or fifteen. The note, which
is generally heard as the bird rises from the ground, is a low ¢weet,
repeated several times.

PURPLE SANDPIPER.

WINTER SNIPE. ROCK SNIPE.

TRINGA MARITIMA.

Cuar. Distinguished from other Sandpipers by its short legs, short
thick body, and dark color. Adult in summer: upper parts brownish gray,
darker on the back, which is spotted with rufous and buffish white ; rump
and central tail-feathers dull brown, outer tail-feathers ashy gray; wings
grayish brown; under parts gray, paler on the belly; throat and breast
thickly spotted with dark brown. In winter the upper parts are purplish
ash, and the breast ashy brown or mouse gray; the belly white. Length
variable, averaging about 8% inches.

Nest. Usually amid a tuft of grass near a rocky sea-shore, but often
on high hills; generally a little hollow scraped in the soil and lined with
some moss or leaves ; but nests have been found composed of dried grass
and sunk quite deep in the ground.

Eggs. 43 pale olive, green or dull buff, marked with lilac and brown;
1.45 X 1.00.

The Purple Sandpiper is another of those wandering species
common to the cold regions of both continents, confining its
visits principally to the rocky and shelving sea-coasts, where it
obtains in more abundance the minute crustacea, mollusca,
and the fry of shell-fish which adhere commonly to the sea-
weeds or /wci in such situations; and so peculiar is this
habit that in Holland, where it is now common, it has only
appeared with the existence and advancement of the artificial
moles which have been built. In Norway along the rocky

PURPLE SANDPIPER. 135

shores of the Baltic, and on similar coasts of the Mediter-
ranean, in the West of England, and around Hudson Bay,
these birds are common. In Russia, Siberia, and Iceland
they are also found, but less frequently. In the warmer parts
of America they are rare. Leaving the inclement coasts of
their nativity, they proceed probably by Greenland, and mi-
grate directly to the rocky coasts of Norway, and in the course
of the winter visit for a while the colder parts of Europe.
According to Dr. Richardson, they breed abundantly on the
shores of Hudson Bay, as well as in that coldest and most
desolate of boreal climates, Melville Peninsula, laying the usual
number of eggs, which are of a pyriform figure sixteen and a
half lines long, and an inch across at the larger end. They are
yellowish gray, interspersed with small irregular spots of pale
hair-brown, more abundant at the larger end, and rare at
the other. ‘This bird is seldom seen inland or on the borders
of rivers, where its appearance is accidental ; its piping note is
very similar to that of other species; is not shy, often caught
in snares, and the flesh accounted palatable.

The Purple Sandpiper is an abundant bird along the shores of
New Brunswick and Nova Scotia during the winter months, ap-
pearing in large flocks, and feeding on the rocks and_the stony
beaches. So large are the flocks, and so compactly do the birds
rise when flushed, that I have known sixty-five to be killed at one
shot.

In Massachusetts this bird is rather uncommon, and is seen only
in small groups of three or four, and similar groups are occasion-
ally seen on the shores of the Great Lakes.

Mr. Hagerup reports that a few individuals remain in Greenland
during the winter months.

136 WADING BIRDS.

LEAST SANDPIPER,
PEEP.
TRINGA MINUTILLA.

CHAR. Upper parts mottled black, rufous, and dull white, darker on
the rump; a light stripe over the eyes; under parts white, spotted with
dusky; breast and sides washed with ashy brown; toes without web.
The smallest of the Sandpipers. Length 5% to 6 inches.

vest. Usually on a dry hill bordering a lake or pond, but sometimes
amid moss close by the sea-shore,—a slight depression, scantily lined
with grass and leaves.

£ggs. 4; buff or drab thickly marked with brown and lilac; 1.15 X
0.85.

This small and nearly resident species may be considered as
the most common and abundant in America, inhabiting the
shores and marshes of the whole continent both to the north
and south of the equator, retiring probably with the incle-
mency of the season, indifferently, from either frigid circle
towards the warmer and more hospitable regions within the
tropics. These birds are consequently seen, spring and
autumn, in all the markets of the Union as well as in those
of the West Indies, Vera Cruz, and in the interior as far as
Mexico. Captain Cook also found them on the opposite side
of the continent, frequenting the shores of Nootka Sound.
The great mass of their pigmy host retire to breed within the
desolate lands of the Arctic circle, where, about the 2oth of
May, or as soon as the snow begins to melt and the rigors of
the long and nocturnal winter relax, they are again seen to
return to the shores and the swampy borders of their native
lakes in the inclement parallel of 66 degrees. Though shy and
quailing on their first arrival, with many other aérial passen-
gers of like habits, they contribute to give an air of life and
activity to these most dreary, otherwise desolate and inhospi-
table regions of the earth. Endowed with different wants and
predilections from the preceding hosts, whose general livery
they wear, they never seemingly diverge in their passage so
far to the eastward as to visit Greenland and the contiguous

LEAST SANDPIPER. 137

extremity of northern Europe, being unknown in the other
continent ; and migrating always towards the south, they have
thickly peopled almost every part of the country that gave
them birth.

The Peeps, as they are here called, are seen in the salt-
marshes around Boston as early as the 8th of July, —indeed, so
seldom are they absent from us in the summer season that
they might be taken for denizens of the State or the neighbor-
ing countries, did we not know that they repair at an early
period of the spring to their breeding-resorts in the distant
north, and that as yet, numerous and familiar as they are, the
nest and history of their incubation are wholly unknown.

When they arrive, now and then accompanied by the Semi-
palmated species, the air is sometimes, as it were, clouded with
their flocks. Companies led from place to place in quest of
food are seen whirling suddenly in circles with a desultory
flight, at a distance resembling a swarm of hiving bees seeking
out some object on which to settle. At this time, deceiving
them by an imitation of their sharp and querulous whistle, the
fowler approaches, and adds destruction to the confusion of
their timorous and restless flight. Flocking together for com-
mon security, the fall of their companions and their plaintive
cry excites so much sympathy among the harmless Peeps that,
forgetting their own safety, or not well perceiving the cause of
the fatality which the gun spreads among them, they fall some-
times into such a state of confusion as to be routed with but
little effort, until the greedy sportsman is glutted with his timo-
rous and infatuated game. When much disturbed they, how-
ever, separate into small and wandering parties, where they are
now seen gleaning their fare of larve, worms, minute shell-
fish, and insects in the salt-marshes or on the muddy and
sedgy shores of tide-rivers and ponds. At such times they
may be very nearly approached, betraying rather a heedless
familiarity than a timorous mistrust of their most wily enemy ;
and even when rudely startled they will often return to the
same place in the next instant to pursue their lowly occupation
of scooping in the mud, — and hence probably originated the

138 WADING BIRDS.

contemptible appellation of Awmzlity, by which they and some
other small birds of similar habits have been distinguished.
For the discovery of their food their flexible and sensitive awl-
like bills are probed into the mire, marshy soil, or wet sand, in
the manner of the Snipe and Woodcock, and in this way they.
discover and rout from their hidden retreats the larve and
soft worms which form a principal part of their fare. At other
times they also give chase to insects, and pursue their calling
with amusing alacrity. When at length startled or about to
join the company they have left, a sharp, short, and monoto-
nous whistle like the word fee? or péep is uttered, and they
instantly take to wing and course along with their com-
rades. On seeing the larger marsh-birds feeding, as the
Yellow-Shanks and others, a whirling flock of the Peeps will
descend amongst them, being generally allowed to feed in
quiet ; and on the approach of the sportsman these little timo-
rous rovers are ready to give the alarm. At first a slender
peep is heard, which is then followed by two or three others,
and presently feet pip pip ’f’ murmurs in a lisping whistle
through the quailing ranks as they rise swarming on the wing,
and inevitably entice with them their larger but less watchful
associates. ‘Towards evening, in fine weather, the marshes
almost re-echo with the shrill but rather murmuring or lisping,
subdued, and querulous call of fce¢, and then a repetition of
pé-dée, pé-dée, dée dée, which seems to be the collecting cry of
the old birds calling together their brood ; for when assembled,
the note changes into a confused murmur of Aée¢, péez, attended
by a short and suppressed whistle.

At most times, except in the spring, they are fat and well
flavored, though less esteemed than many of the other species
from their smallness and an occasional sedgy taste which dete-
riorates them. From the oily and deliquescent nature of the
fat which loads the cellular membrane in this hyperboreal
natal family of birds, we may, perhaps, perceive a constitu-
tional reason why most of them thrive better and have such a
predilection for those cool and temperate climates in which
they renew their exhausted vigor and acquire the requisite

LEAST SANDPIPER. 139

strength and energy necessary for the period of reproduction.
It is indeed certain that those stragglers which, from age or
disability, remain, as it were hermits, secluded from the rest of
the wandering host, do neither propagate nor fatten while thus
detained through summer in the warmer climates. Of this fact
we have already mentioned instances, in the case of straggling
Curlews killed in this vicinity by the 18th of July, —a period
when the main mass of the species are engaged in feeding or
just hatching their tender young.

This little Sandpiper, which we have named in honor of Wil-
son (certainly not being the species first intended as 77inga
pusilla), \eaves us by the close of September, and departs from
the Middle States towards its remote hibernal retreats in the
course of the month of October. The present species and
some others appear occasionally to feed partially on vegetable
substances as well as on animals, as I have found in their
stomachs pieces apparently of zostera roots and flowers of the
marsh plantain.

The Peeps still throng our shores each spring and autumn, and
are the same active and confiding creatures that Nuttall found
them. Their general breeding-area is from Labrador to the Arctic
Ocean, but a few nests have been discovered south of the St.
Lawrence; for the nesting habits of these birds are no longer
unknown.

KNOT.
RED-BREASTED SNIPE. ROBIN SNIPE.

TRINGA CANUTUS.

CuHAR. Adultin summer: above, mottled black and gray, tinged with
dull rufous; rump ashy white, with dark bars ; tail gray, edged with dull
white; under parts and line over the eyes rich chestnut ; paler on the belly.
Adult in winter : above, ashy gray ; below, white, the neck streaked with
dusky. Young: much like the adult in winter plumage, but the feathers
of the upper parts are bordered with lines of pale buff and brown, and the
breast is tinged with buff. Length about 10% inches.

Vest. Usually on the margin of a lake or stream, —a slight depres-
sion, lined with leaves and grass.

Eggs. 4-9; “light pea green, closely spotted with brown in small specks
about the size of a pin-head” (Greely), or “ dun-color, fully marked with
reddish ” (Hutchins); 1.10 X 1.00.

This large and variable species, described under such a
variety of names, is again a denizen of both continents, pass-
ing the summer, or reproductive season, in the utmost habitable

KNOT. 141

limits of the Arctic Circle. Captain Parry’s adventurous party
found it breeding on Melville Peninsula and in other parts
of those hyperboreal regions, as on Seal Islands, probably,
near Chatteux Bay, as well as in the vicinity of Hudson Bay
down to the 55th parallel. It is also supposed to breed in
Denmark and in the Orkney Islands. It is likewise met with
in Iceland, on the shores of the Caspian, and on the banks of
the Don and Choper in Russia; and continuing eastward
towards the American continent, in that direction, is again
found in Siberia, and on the other side of the boreal circle at
Nootka Sound.

About the middle of August, flocks of the Knot, still clad in
their nuptial and summer plumage, appear on the shores and in
the marshes at the eastern extremity of Massachusetts Bay,
particularly around Chatham and the Vineyard. In many,
however, the moult of autumn has already commenced ; but in
the nearer vicinity of Boston, flocks of the young only are seen
disguised in the elegantly marked and sober gray of winter.
When not harassed, they are by no means shy, allowing of a
pretty near approach while busily and sedately employed in
gleaning their food along the strand, chiefly at the recess of
the tide, where, in friendly company with the small Peep and
other kindred species, the busy flocks are seen gleaning up the
rejectamenta of the ocean, or quickly and intently probing the
moist sand for worms and minute shell-fish, running nimbly
before the invading surge, and profiting by what it leaves be-
hind. They seem like a diminutive army, marshalled in rank,
and spreading their animated lines, while perpetually engaged
in an advance or retreat before the break of the resounding
and ceaseless waves. Bred in solitudes remote from the
haunts of men, the young, in particular, seem unconscious of
danger from the fowler, and a flock may sometimes be succes-
sively thinned by the gun, till the whole are nearly destroyed ;
when wounded, however, they take to the water and swim with
ease.

On the coast of New Jersey and other parts of the Middle
States they arrive in October, and are seen along the strand

142 WADING BIRDS.

in flocks, but disappear early in December, on their way south
to their winter quarters within the tropics. On their return
they appear on the coast of the Middle States early in May, on
their way to their congenial retreats in the North; but at this
time few are to be seen, compared with the accumulating flocks
of autumn; while at the same season in Holland they are
most abundant. Some of these birds in their rufous plumage
have been observed to linger on the neighboring coast till the
20th of July, so that they must either have bred in the vicinity,
or have passed the season in celibacy, lingering behind the
migrating flocks, —a habit which appears to be more or less
common with many other of the aquatic and wading birds.

The Knot is found throughout North America, breeding in the
Arctic regions, wintering in Florida (sparingly) and southward, and
migrating by inland routes as well as along the sea-coast. It is a
common bird on the New England shores in spring and autumn.

BAIRD’S SANDPIPER.
TRINGA BAIRDII.

CHAR. Upper parts grayish buff, varied with dusky; stripe over eyes
white; middle tail-feathers dusky, others gray; chest tinged with buff
and streaked with dusky, other under parts white; bill and feet black.
Length about 7% inches.

West, On the margin of a lake or pond; a slight depression, hidden by
tall grass and lined with leaves and grass.

Eggs. 4; buffish or creamy, spotted with rich reddish brown; 1.30 X
0.90.

Baird’s Sandpiper was described by Coues in 1861 from speci-
mens taken in the West, and it was not until 1870 that the bird was
known to occur on the Atlantic. Upto the present a few examples
only have been captured to the eastward of the Mississippi valley,
and very little is known of the bird’s distribution. Reports from
different sections of the country lend probability to the conclusion
that the bulk of these Sandpipers migrate across the Great Plains
and nest along the Mackenzie River valley north of latitude 60°.
In winter they range to Chili and the Argentine Republic.

SEMI-PALMATED SANDPIPER.

EREUNETES PUSILLUS.

CHAR. Feet with two webs extending about half-way up the toes.
Upper parts mottled brownish gray, tinged with rufous or buff, each fea-
ther with a central stripe of blackish; rump darker; under parts white,
the breast washed with rufous and marked with dusky. In winter plum-
age there is no trace of the rufous or buff tints. Length about 6 inches.

Nest. Usually on the margin of a pool by the sea or an inland pond,
—a slight depression scantily lined with leaves and grass ; sometimes hid-
den in a tussock of grass.

Eggs. 3-4; pale gray or with buff, drab, or olive tint, variously
marked with brown; 1.20 X 0.85.

Commonly associated with other species of the same size,
plumage, and habits, it is not easy to offer any remark con-
cerning it which can be considered as exclusive. It is spread
equally over the North American continent, from the confines
of the Arctic circle probably to the West Indies. According
to Wilson, it arrives and departs with the Sanderling, and asso-
ciates with the Dunlin when in its autumnal dress, in this case
forming flocks apart from each other; but with the Peep it is

sometimes so blended as to be unknown till brought to the

144 WADING BIRDS.

ground. In the salt-marshes near Boston they are not uncom-
mon in small numbers, but some seasons are seen whirling
about wildly in large and separate flocks, and so timorous and
roving as to give the alarm to the other larger birds asso-
ciated around them. Along the shores of New Jersey they
are numerous, and Mr. Hutchins, who described this species,
without publishing his description, as early as the year 1770,
says that they arrive at Severn River, in the fur countries, in
great numbers about the middle of May. ‘Towards autumn
these birds utter a chirping call, and in September they retire
to the southward, soon after which they are seen in Massa-
chusetts on most of the muddy shores, which they frequent
at the recess of the tide, dwelling more exclusively in the
immediate vicinity of the ocean than the Peep. When dis-
persed or alarmed, they give a quailing call, like ’7o-wee/, ’/o-
weet. At other times, when startled, they utter a shrill clatter-
ing whistle, and are always noisy and querulous. Like the
small land-birds, they may sometimes be seen washing them-
selves with great satisfaction in the salt pools and plashes, and
when wounded swim with considerable vigor. While here
they feed upon diminutive coleoptera, very small shrimps,
minute shell-fish, which they prebe out of the sand, some mol-
lusca, and occasionally the roots of the Zostera marina ; they
also swallow considerable quantities of small gravel, and be-
coming very fat, are nearly as well flavored as the Snipe, being
very superior to the other small species.

This species breeds in the Far North, and winters on the shores of
the Gulf of Mexico and southward, journeying to and fro along the
inland rivers as well as by the sea-coast. It is still abundant in
New England, but flocks are not so numerous as formerly.

Notrre.—A few examples of the WESTERN SANDPIPER (£.
occidentalis) have been taken in New England. It is very similar
to pusil/us, but has a longer bill and tarsus, and the plumage of
the upper parts is more distinctly rufous.

STILT SANDPIPER. 145

SfILT SANDPIPER.

MICROPALAMA HIMANTOPUS.

Cuar. Bill nearly as long as a Snipe’s; legs much longer. Upper
parts mottled gray, black, and bay, or buff; wings darker; upper tail-
coverts white, barred with dusky ; tail ashy gray; under parts dull white,
streaked and barred with dusky. In winter the prevailing color of the
upper parts is ashy gray. Length about 9 inches.

ivest. Near the sea-shore or on border of a lake, —a slight depres-
sion scantily lined with leaves and grass. It is sometimes hid in a tus-
sock of grass.

Eggs. 3-4; light drab or buffy white, marked with rich brown and
purplish gray; 1.45 X 1.00.

Nuttall wrote of this as of three species, — Stilt Sandpiper,
Long-legged Sandpiper, and Douglas’ Stilt Sandpiper. These
names apply to but one bird.

The present species was first described by Bonaparte in 1826,
but until within recent years it was thought to be exceedingly rare.
As late as 1868 there was no record of its occurrence in New Eng-
land, and even in 1881 the announcement that my friend Fred
Daniel had secured one of three examples he had discovered on
the flats near St. John, N. B., was hailed as “ important.”

We now know that the bird is not at all rare, and that its former
apparent scarcity was due to its rapid migrations.

The Stilt Sandpiper breeds in the Arctic regions, and winters on
the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, and southward to Brazil and
Peru. On the passage north and south it makes long flights and
a few short halts; but small flocks have been seen at numerous
localities on the Atlantic coast and along the Mississippi valley
route. Several have been taken on the shores of the Great Lakes.

As far as its habits and manners are known, it appears to resem-
ble somewhat the Dowitcher and the Yellow-legs, with which it
frequently associates. It walks sedately like a Curlew, and has
little of the vivacity so conspicuous in the Sandpiper. Our bird
generally feeds along the margin of the beach, wading into the
water and following the edge of the wave as the water flows out
and in. It often probes into the sand, and acts as though securing
something by suction. On dissection, evidence has been found
that the bird’s food was at least partially composed of small shell-
fish and worms. When disturbed, it utters a sharp tweet tweet
before flying.

VOL Il —— 10

WILLET.

SYMPHEMIA SEMIPALMATA.

CHAR. Upper parts brownish olive, spotted and streaked with dusky;
wings with large patch of white; tail-coverts white; tail ashy, with dark
bars ; under parts white, the breast spotted with dusky, the sides washed
with buff and barred with dusky. In winter the upper parts are plain
ashy gray, and the lower parts dull white, unspotted. Bill dusky; legs
bluish gray. Length about 16 inches.

Nest. Hid amid grass or rushes on a salt meadow or inland marsh, —
a slight depression, scantily lined with grass.

Eggs. 4; olive with varying tints from brown to gray, marked with
rich brown and lilac; 2.15 X 1.50.

The Willet, as this well-known and large species is called,
inhabits almost every part of the United States, from the coast
of Florida to the distant shores and saline lakes in the vicinity
of the Saskatchewan, up to the 56th parallel of latitude, where,
as they pass the summer, they no doubt propagate there, as well

WILLET. 147

as in the Middle States of the Union. Their appearance in the
north of Europe is merely accidental, like the visit of the Ruff
in America, which has, indeed, no better claim in our Fauna
than that of the Willet in Europe, both being stragglers from
their native abodes and ordinary migrating circuits. From
the scarcity of this species on the shores of Massachusetts Bay,
it is more than probable that their northern migrations are
made chiefly up the great valley of the Mississippi; and they
have been seen in the spring by Mr. Say, near Engineer Can-
tonment, on the bank of the Missouri. A few straggling
families or flocks of the young are occasionally seen about the
middle of August on the muddy flats of Cohasset beach ; but
they never breed in this part of New England, though nests
are found in the vicinity of New Bedford.

The Willet probably passes the winter within the tropics, or
along the extensive shores of the Mexican Gulf. About the
middle of March, however, its lively vociferations of p7d/-wiadt-
willet, pill-will-willet begin commonly to be heard in all the
marshes of the sea-islands of Georgia and South Carolina. In
the Middle States these birds arrive about the 15th of April,
or sometimes later, according to the season; and from that
period to the close of July their loud and shrill cries, audible
for half a mile, are heard incessantly throughout the marshes
where they now reside. ‘Towards the close of May the Willets
begin to lay. ‘Their nests, at some distance from the strand,
are made in the sedge of the salt-meadows, composed of wet
rushes and coarse grass placed in a slight excavation in the
tump ; and during the périod of incubation, as with some other
marsh-birds, the sides of the nest are gradually raised to the
height of five or six inches. The eggs, about four, very thick
at the larger end, and tapering at the opposite, are two
thirds the size of a common hen’s egg (measuring over two
inches in length, by one and a half in the greatest breadth) ;
they are of a pale bright greenish olive (sometimes darker),
largely blotched and touched with irregular spots of a bright
blackish-brown of two shades, mixed with a few other smaller
touches of a paler tint, the whole most numerous at the great

148 WADING BIRDS.

end. According to Wilson, the eggs are very palatable as food.
‘The young, covered with a gray-colored down, run off as soon
as freed from the shell, and are led about by the mother in
quest of their proper food, while the vociferous male keeps
careful watch for their safety. On entering these breeding-
places the spectator is beset by the Willets flying wildly around
and skimming over his head with the clamorous cry of fz//-wid/-
willet, accompanied at times, when much excited and alarmed
by an approach to the nest, with a loud clicking note, in the
manner of the Avocet. Exhausted with their vigilant and de-
fensive exertions, at times they utter a sad and plaintive note,
and occasionally alighting, slowly close their long, silvery, and
party-colored wings, as if acting a part to solicit compassion.
Among their most common and piratical enemies are the
Crows, who roam over the marshes in quest of eggs, and as
soon as they appear are attacked by the Willets in united num-
bers, who with loud vociferations pursue them off the ground.
During the term of incubation the female, fatigued with her
task, and occasionally leaving her eggs to the influence of the
ardent sun, resorts to the shore, and deeply wading, washes and
dresses her plumage, frequently emerging, and performing her
ablutions with an air of peculiar satisfaction. Indeed, the
Willets generally wade more than most of their tribe; and
when disabled from flying by a wound, they take to the water
without hesitation, and swim with apparent ease. The peculiar
note which characterizes and gives name to this remarkable
species of Chevalier is only uttered by the adults; and the
call of the young when associated by themselves appears to
be a kind of shrill and plaintive whistle almost like that of the
Curlew. The Willet subsists chiefly on small shell-fish, aquatic
insects, their larvae and mollusca, in quest of which it constantly
resorts to the muddy shores and estuaries at low water. In
the fall, when the flocks of young birds associate, which may
be easily known by the grayness of their plumage, they are
selected by the gunners in preference to the older and darker
birds, being tender, fat, and fine-flavored game. In the
months of October and November they gradually pass on to

WILLET. 149

their winter quarters in the warmer parts of the continent.
Transient flocks of the young, bred in high latitudes, visit the
shores of Cohasset by the middle of August; but timorous,
wild, and wandering, they soon hasten to rejoin the host they
had accidentally forsaken.

The Willet is found throughout temperate North America; but
the birds breeding on the Great Plains have lately been separated
from typical seszpalmata. The general breeding area of the pres-
ent race is said to lie north of latitude 45°; but while the bird is
rarely seen in New England and the Maritime Provinces in sum-
mer, though quite common in both regions during the fall migra-
tion, it breeds in numbers to the southward of Long Island. Only
a few examples have been seen in the region of the Great Lakes,
though farther south it is not uncommon in the interior.

Note. —In 1887 Mr. William Brewster discovered that the
Willets breeding west of the Mississippi differed from Eastern
birds in size, color, and markings, the Western race being “larger,
with a longer, slenderer bill; the dark markings above fewer,
finer, and fainter on a much paler (grayish drab) ground; those
beneath duller, more confused, or broken, and bordered by pink-
ish salmon, which often spreads over or suffuses the entire under
parts excepting the abdomen. Middle tail-feathers either quite
immaculate or very faintly barred... . In the plain gray and
white winter dress the two forms appear to be distinguished only
by size ” (Brewster).

Mr. Brewster named the new form the WESTERN WILLET (5S.
semipalmata tnornata). This race breeds on the plains west to
the Rocky Mountains, and in winter is found on the coasts of the
South Atlantic and Gulf States.

RUFF.

PAVONCELLA PUGNAX.

Cuar. Upper parts variable, but usually mottled black, chestnut, buff,
and gray ; lower back dark brown, with margin of chestnut or buff, wings
and tail dusky brown; neck and breast buff; belly dull white. During
the mating season — May and June —the male drops the feathers from
the sides of the face, and reddish warts appear there; at this time, also,
he wears a shield-like erectile ruff, — whence the name. Length about
12 inches.

Nest. On a dry knoll in a swamp in the midst of a clump of coarse
grass or sedges ; a slight depression lined with dead grass.

Eggs. 43 pale olive or olive gray, spotted with reddish brown; 1.60
3 Tate

The Ruff is a distinctly European species, —it is rare on the
British Isles, — but so many examples have been taken on this

RUFF. 151

side of the Atlantic that the bird’s claim to consideration in the
present connection cannot be ignored. Yet it must be considered
as a straggler only, — an accidental wanderer. Its breeding area
lies amid the desolate tundras of northern Siberia, and southward
to the fountains of the Danube and the upper valley of the Amoor.
From there it migrates in. the autumn into Africa and southern
Asia.

The examples that have been obtained in America were taken
chiefly along the Atlantic shore between Long Island and the Bay
of Fundy. There is only one specimen recorded from the Great
Lake region, — taken near Toronto.

The Ruff differs from all others of the Waders in appearance
and in habits. The long feathers of the male render him easily
distinguished, and his polygamous habits quite as thoroughly sep-
arate him. Instead of wooing a mate after the manner of their
congeners, these wild libertines fight for a bevy of mistresses, the
pluckiest fighter winning the largest harem.

These contests are not rough-and-tumble wé/ées, but orderly
conducted duels. They occur on a common battle-ground, where
generation after generation of the birds assemble to do combat for
the possession of the females, — called Reeves, —and these gather
within sight and urge on their favorites. The battle-grounds are in
the midst of a swamp, and usually on an elevated knoll in an open
space.

During the encounter the combatants appear intensely excited
and act as if in desperation, and the excitement of the occasion is
increased by the wild screams of the Reeves. The duels are not
to the death, however, nor are they in the least degree bloody
affairs. These birds have sense enough to spar for points ; slug-
ging is barred. The attack is made wholly with the bill, — they
never strike with the foot, like a game-cock, as some writers have
stated, — and a few rounds end the affray, with no more harm to
the participants than an encounter with foils to human rivals. The
weaker bird retires, and the victor awaits another adversary. Occa-
sionally two or three duels are in progress at one time.

As might be expected, such habits are not conducive to domestic
felicity. The Reeve is soon abandoned by her temporary lover,
and when nesting-time arrives she is forced to build her nest alone,
and alone she rears her barbaric brood,

152 WADING BIRDS.

GREATER YELLOW-LEGS.

TELL-TALE. TATTLER. STONE SNIPE, WINTER YELLOW.
LEG.

‘TOTANUS MELANOLEUCUS.

CuHAk. Upper parts dark ash varied with gray and white; upper tail-
coverts white; under parts white, breast and sides with dark streaks, In
winter the plumage is paler, the breast almost immaculate. Bill long and
slender; legs long. Length about 14 inches.

Nest. On the edge of marsh or open swamp ; a slight depression lined
with grass and weed stems.

Eggs. 4; dull gray or dark buff marked with brown and lilac; 1.45 X
1.20.

The Greater Yellow-Shanks, or Tell-Tale, so remarkable for
its noise and vigilance, arrives on the coast of the Middle
States early in April, and proceeding principally by an inland
route, is seen in abundance as far north as the plains of the
Saskatchewan, where, no doubt, in those desolate and secluded
marshes, far from the prying eye and persecuting hand of man,
the principal part of the species pass the period of reproduc-
tion, reappearing in the cooler parts of the Union towards the
close of August ; yet so extensive is the breeding-range of the
Tell-Tale that many continue to occupy the marshes of
the Middle States until the approach of cold weather in the
month of November, breeding in their favorite resorts on the
borders of bogs, securing the nest in a tuft of rank grass or
sedge, and laying four eggs of a dingy white irregularly marked
with spots of dark brown or black, and which, according to
Mr. Hutchins, are large for the size of the bird, and of similar
markings in their Northern breeding-places. In Massachusetts,
as with many other birds, the present is so uncommon a spe-
cies that it may be considered almost as a straggler, arriving
in autumn with the few flocks which touch at the coast of Lab-
rador and Newfoundland, confining their visits, with Curlews,
Godwits, and many other wading birds, chiefly to the eastern
extremity of Cape Cod and Cape Ann, where multitudes of
these birds transiently assemble in spring and autumn (partic-

GREATER YELLOW-LEGS. 153

ularly in the vicinity of Chatham and Ipswich), and of which
but few penetrate inland, their next visit being usually to the
shores of Long Island in their further progress to the South.
In the spring, however, avoiding the long-continued eastwardly
storms of this climate, they are led to go inland by a more
favorable route, and have been seen at this season by Mr.
Say on the banks of the Missouri on their way to the interior
of the continent.

The vociferous vigilance of the Tell-Tale has justly stigma-
tized him with the present name ; for no sooner does the gun-
ner appear than his loud and shrill whistle of about four
rapidly repeated notes is instantly heard as he mounts on
wing, and proves generally so good a warning to all the rest of
his feathered neighbors, and particularly the vigilant Ducks,
that the whole, to the frequent disappointment of the fowler,
at once accompany their faithful and officious sentinel. At
times, indeed, without any particular motive to excitement,
except perhaps that of hilarity and vigor, they are seen to rise
high in the air, chattering so loudly as still to be heard when
beyond the reach of the eye. From their note they are called
by the Cree Indians of Hudson Bay Sasashew, and in this
part of New England they are usually known by the name of
the Winter Yellow-Leg.

The Tell-Tales, after taking up a summer residence in the
marshes, are no longer gregarious until the return of winter,
when, with the addition of the young, they rove about in small
parties until their final departure for the South. Like most of
the species, they frequent watery bogs and the muddy margins
of creeks and inlets, where they are often seen in quest of food
or standing in a watchful posture, alternately balancing them-
selves, raising or lowering the head and tail, and on the least
appearance of danger or surprise, which they readily perceive
from the elevation of their legs and the open places in which
they feed, their loud whistle is instantly heard and the tim-
orous and less watchful flocks are again in motion. They
sometimes penetrate, singly or in small numbers, some way
inland along the muddy shores of estuaries and rivers to the

T54° WADING BIRDS.

extent of tide-water. Although they live principally upon the
insects and larve they find in the marshes, at a later period
they also pay occasional visits to the strand in quest of mol-
lusca, small shrimps, and minute shell-fish, the ordinary fare of
- the true Sandpipers. In the fall, when fat, their flesh is highly
esteemed, and they are frequently brought to market.

The Tell-Tale occurs throughout this Eastern Province, breed-
ing from about latitude 50 degrees northward, and wintering in
Brazil and Chili. It is said to breed also in Michigan and Wis-
consin. On the Atlantic coast the birds are as common in spring
as in autumn. Mr. Brewster reports finding numbers on Anticosti
in summer, and a few have been seen in New England at that
season.

YELLOW-LEGS.
SUMMER YELLOW-LEGS. LESSER YELLOW-LEGS.
TOTANUS FLAVIPES.

CHAR. Upper parts dark ash varied with black, white, and gray;
upper tail-coverts white, streaked with dusky; tail ashy, barred with
white ; wings dusky; under parts white, the breast and sides streaked
with dusky. In winter the plumage is paler; the upper parts are plain
ash, with few and less distinct markings. Length about 11 inches.

Vest. Amid the bushes on the margin of a marsh or lake; a slight
depression scantily lined with grass or leaves.

Eggs. 4; dull buff or pale drab, marked with brown and dull lilac ;
Ole sLal Gs

The Yellow-Shanks, in certain situations, may be considered
as the most common bird of the family in America. Its sum-
mer residence, or breeding-station, even extends from the
Middle States to the Northern extremity of the continent,
where it is seen, solitary or in pairs, on the banks of rivers,
lakes, or in marshes, in every situation contiguous to the
ocean. And though the young and old are found throughout
the warm season of the year in so many places, the nest and
eggs are yet entirely unknown. Calculating from the first
appearance of the brood abroad, the females commence laying
by the middle of June, and are seen in this neighborhood at

YELLOW-LEGS. 155

that season. ‘These birds reside chiefly in the salt-marshes,
and frequent low flats and estuaries at the ebb of the tide,
wading in the mud in quest of worms, insects, and other small
marine and fluviatile animals. They seldom leave these mari-
time situations, except driven from the coast by storms, when
they may occasionally be seen in low and wet meadows as far
inland as the extent of tide-water. The Yellow-Shanks have a
sharp whistle of three or four short notes, which they repeat
when alarmed and when flying, and sometimes utter a simple,
low, and rather hoarse call, which passes from one to the
other at the moment of rising on the wing. They are very
impatient of any intrusion on their haunts, and thus often
betray, like the preceding, the approach of the sportsman to
the less vigilant of the feathered tribes, by flying around his
head, with hanging legs and drooping wings, uttering incessant
and querulous cries.

How far they proceed to the South in the course of the
winter is yet unknown; they however, I believe, leave the
boundaries of the Union. At the approach of winter, previous
to their departure for the South, they are observed to collect
in small flocks and halt for a time on the shores of Hudson
Bay. Accumulated numbers are now also seen to visit New
England, though many probably pass on to their hibernal
retreats by an inland route like the preceding, having indeed
been seen in the spring on the shores of the Missouri in par-
ticular situations by Mr. Say. They also seem to reside no less
in the interior than on the coast, as they were observed on
the shores of Red River, of Lake Winnipeg (latitude 49 de-
grees), on the rith of August by the same gentleman ; thus
subsisting indifferently on the productions of fresh as well as
salt water. At the approach of autumn small flocks here also
accompany the Upland Plover (Zofanus bartramius), flying
high and whistling as they proceed inland to feed, but return-
ing again towards the marshes of the sea-coast to roost. Some-
times, and perhaps more commonly at the approach of stormy
weather, they are seen in small restless bands roving over the
salt-marshes and tacking and turning along the meanders of

156 WADING BIRDS.

the river, now crossing, then returning ; a moment alighting, the
next on the wing. They then spread out and reconnoitre ; again
closing in.a loose phalanx, the glittering of their wings and
snow-white tails are seen conspicuous as they mount into the
higher regions of the air; and now intent on some more dis-
tant excursion, they rise, whistling on their way, high over the
village spire and beyond the reach of danger, pursue their way
to some other clime or to explore new marshes and visit other
coasts more productive of their favorite fare. While skimming
along the surface of the neighboring river, I have been amused
by the sociability of these wandering waders. As they course
steadily along, the party, never very numerous, would be joined
by some straggling Peeps, who all in unison pursue their route
together like common wanderers or travellers, pleased and
defended by the access of any company.

Being a plentiful species, particularly in the latter end of
summer, when the young begin to flock, it is frequent in the
markets of Boston, New York, Philadelphia, and Baltimore, —
with us more particularly abundant about the middle of August ;
and being then fat and well flavored, is esteemed for the
table. From the sympathy of these birds for each other, they
may be shot with facility if the sportsman, on the first dis-
charge, permits the wounded birds to flutter about, as in that
case the flock will usually make a circuit, and alighting repeat-
edly at the cries of their wounded companions, the greater
part of them may be shot down before they perceive the real
nature of their danger. Like Plovers, they can also be called
around the sportsman by an imitation of their whistle.

This species is more abundant in the West than the Greater
Yellow-Legs ; but on the Atlantic shores the smaller bird is seldom
seen in the spring, and is not very common during the autumn.

i

SOLITARY SANDPIPER.
GREEN SANDPIPER.

TOTANUS SOLITARIUS.

CHAR. Upper parts brownish olive, spotted and streaked with white;
wings and tail dusky, outer tail-feathers white with dark bars; under
parts white, breast and sides with dark markings. In winter the plumage
of the upper parts is dark ash, and the markings are less distinct.

Vest. Ona dry knoll in a wet meadow or on the margin of a pond, —
a slight depression scantily lined with grass.

Eges. ? pale buff thickly marked with brown and lilac;
1.30 X 0.90.

The Solitary Tatler of Wilson is probably, with the change
of seasons, a general inhabitant of the whole North American
continent. Early in May it arrives in Pennsylvania from the
South, and a few individuals remain to breed, according to
the above author, in the marshy solitudes of the mountains of
Virginia, Kentucky, and Pennsylvania; the greater part of the

158 WADING BIRDS.

species proceed, however, to the boreal regions as far as the
extremity of the continent. According to Richardson, it
makes no nest, but merely deposits its eggs on the bare beach
or the gravelly banks of rivers; in such situations or near
mountain springs, brooks, or pools, these birds are seen solitary
or by pairs, running swiftly when alarmed or in pursuit of their
prey, and seldom taking wing until hard pressed, on which
occasion they make a short circular flight, and soon alight near
the same place to renew their search for subsistence. Occa-
sionally the Tatler stops and. watches the observer, often nod-
ding or balancing its head and tail almost in the manner of
the European Wagtail (AZotactl/a). It is extremely unsuspi-
cious of danger, proceeding in its usual occupation almost
unconcerned when nearly approached ; in fact, the safety of
these birds is in no small measure due to their solitary and
retiring habits, as they are never seen on the strand of the sea,
nor collected into flocks, so as either to fall in the: principal
path of the fowler, or to present themselves in sufficient
numbers for a successful shot. Their flesh, however, is well
flavored, and they are usually fat.

In Massachusetts Solitary Tatlers are only seen at the
commencement of cool weather. About the beginning of
September they arrive in single pairs apparently from the
North, at which time also they are supposed to descend from
their breeding-resorts in the mountains, and now frequent the
miry borders of tide-water streams and estuaries, as well as
small ponds, and, in short, any situation which affords the
means of subsistence with little labor. They feed principally
upon insects such as small coleoptera and caterpillars.

A pair, but oftener a single individual, have usually fre-
quented very familiarly the small fish-pond in the Botanic
Garden in Cambridge. Attracted by the numerous Donatas
and their larva, which feed upon the water-lily (Vymphea
odorata), | observed one of them tripping along upon the
sinking leaves with great agility, expanding its wings and gently
flitting over the treacherous element in the manner of the Rail.
At another time probably the same individual (who at first

SOLITARY SANDPIPER. 159

was accompanied by a mate) was seen day after day collect-
ing insects, and contentedly resting in the interval on the
border of the pond. ‘The water having been recently let off,
the lily leaves and insects were covered with mud; as soon
then as our little familiar and cleanly visitor had swallowed a
few of these insects, he washed them down with a drink of the
water, and at the same time took the precaution to cleanse his
bill and throat. Indeed, it is remarkable that however dirty
the employment of these shore-birds may be, so neat are they
in all their habits that not a stain or a soil is allowed for a
moment to remain upon their limbs or plumage. ‘This species
is usually silent except when suddenly flushed, at which times
it utters a sharp whistle like most of the other kinds to which
it is related.

This bird is said to swim and dive with great facility when
disabled from flying, and proceed under water like the Divers.

The Solitary Sandpiper is a rather common bird, breeding from
about latitude 45° to the lower fur countries. A few pairs remain
in New England during the summer months.

Until quite recently the nest and eggs of this bird were unknown,
and even now so few have been discovered, and these few so
imperfectly identified, that fresh discoveries will be welcomed.

My friend Banks thinks he found an egg on the shore of Lily
Lake, near St. John, in 1880, and very probably he is correct;
but he could not prove it absolutely, for he could not get sight of
the parent on the nest or moving away from it. The nest was
in an open meadow, and within sight for a considerable distance ;
but though the egg was always warm when visited, the parent man-
aged to elude discovery. The only bird of the family seen in that
vicinity during the time the nest was under observation being of
the present species, and the nest and egg being somewhat different
from those other shore-birds known to breed there, led Banks to
suppose that the Solitary must be the parent.

NoTE. — One example each of the GREEN SHANK (Tofanus
nebularius) and the GREEN SANDPIPER (7° ochropus), both birds
of the Old World, have been taken on the Atlantic coast, the first-
named in Florida, the other in Nova Scotia.

>
Saif

SPOTTED SANDPIPER.
TIP-UP. TEETER-TAIL. PEET-WEET.
ACTITIS MACULARIA.

CuHar. Above, bright ash, tinged with green of a metallic lustre and
marked with black spots; white line over the eyes; wings dusky ; under
parts white, profusely spotted with dull brown. In winter the upper parts
are grayish olive, and the under parts white without spots. Length about
7% inches.

iVest. Near the shore of river or lake or on the margin of a pasture,
under a bush, or amid tussock of grass or weeds, —a slight depression
lined with grass, moss, or leaves.

Fges. 4; dull buff or creamy, spotted with dark brown; 1.25 X 0.90

The Peet-Weet is one of the most familiar and common of
all the New England marsh-birds, arriving along our river
shores and low meadows about the beginning of May from
their mild or tropical winter-quarters in Mexico, and probably
the adjoining islands of the West Indies. By the 2oth of
April, Wilson observed the arrival of these birds on the shores
of the large rivers in the State of Pennsylvania. They migrate
and breed from the Middle States in all probability to the con-
fines of the St. Lawrence or farther, but were not seen by
Dr. Richardson or any of the Arctic voyagers in the remote

EE

SPOTTED SANDPIPER. 161

boreal regions or around Hudson Bay, as had been asserted by
Hutchinson.

As soon as the Peet-Weet arrives on the coasts, small roving
flocks are seen at various times of the day coursing rapidly
along the borders of our tide-water streams, flying swift and
rather low, in circuitous sweeps along the meanders of the
creek or river, and occasionally crossing from side to side in
amore sportive and cheerful mien than they assume at the
close of autumn, when foraging becomes less certain. While
flying out in these wide circuits, agitated by superior feelings
_to those of hunger and necessity, we hear the shores re-echo
the shrill and rapid whistle of ’zweet, ’weet, ’weet, ’weet, usu-
ally closing the note with something like a warble as they
approach their companions on the strand. ‘The cry then again
varies to "feet, weet weet weet, beginning high and gradually
declining into a somewhat plaintive tone. As the season
advances, our little lively marine wanderers often trace the
streams some distance into the interior, nesting usually in the
fresh meadows among the grass, sometimes even near the
house ; and I have seen their eggs laid in a strawberry bed,
whence the young and old, pleased with their allowed protec-
tion, familiarly probed the margin of an adjoining duck-pond
for their usual fare of worms and insects.

Like the preceding species, but more frequently, they have
the habit of balancing or wagging the tail, in which even the
young join as soon as they are fledged. From the middle to the
close of May, as they happen to arrive in the different climates
chosen for their summer residence, the pairs seceding from
their companions seek out a site for their nest, which is always
in a dry, open field of grass or grain, sometimes in the seclu-
sion and shade of a field of maize, but most commonly ina dry
pasture contiguous to the sea-shore ; and in some of the soli-
tary and small sea-islands, several pairs sometimes nest near to
each other, in the immediate vicinity of the noisy nurseries of
the quailing Terus. The nest, sunk into the bosom of a grassy
tuft, is slightly made of its withered tops, and with a thin
lining of hay or bent. The eggs, four in number, are of a

WONG Wi 0 ;

162 WADING BIRDS.

grayish yellow or dull cream color marked with a great num-
ber of specks and spots of dark brown, with a very few of a
somewhat lighter shade, the whole most numerous at the larger
end ; they are about one and one fourth inches in length, and
very wide at the greater end. On being flushed from her eggs,
the female goes off without uttering any complaint ; but when
surprised with her young, she practises all the arts of dissimu-
lation common to many other birds, fluttering in the path as
if badly wounded, and generally succeeds in this way so far to
deceive a dog, or perhaps squirrel, as to cause them to over-
look the brood for whose protection these instinctive arts are
practised. Nor are the young without their artful instinct, for
on hearing the reiterated cries of their parents, they scatter
about, and squatting still in the withered grass, almost exactly
their color, it is with careful search very difficult to discover
them, so that nine times out of ten they would be overlooked,
and only be endangered by the tread, which they would en-
dure sooner than betray their conscious retreat.

At a later period the shores and marshes resound with the
quick, clear, and oft-repeated note of pcet wéet, peet wéet, fol-
lowed up by a plaintive call on the young of feet, feet peet ?
peet? If this is not answered by the scattered brood, a reite-
rated ’weet, ’weet, weet, wait wait is heard, the voice drop-
ping on the final syllables. ‘The whole marsh and the shores
at times echo to this loud, lively, and solicitous call of the
affectionate parents for their brood. The cry, of course, is
most frequent towards evening, when the little family, sep-
arated by the necessity of scattering themselves over the
ground in quest of food, are again desirous of reassembling to
roost. The young as soon as hatched run about in the grass,
and utter from the first a weak, plaintive peep, at length more
frequent and audible ; and an imitation of the whistle of ’Aee¢
qweet is almost sure to meet with an answer from the sympa-
thizing broods which now throng our marshes. When the note
appears to be answered, the parents hurry and repeat their
call with great quickness. The late Mr. William Bartram, so
long and happily devoted to the study of Nature, with which

SPOTTED SANDPIPER. 163

he delighted to associate, informed Wilson of the spirited de-
fence which one of these Peet-Weets made of her young
against the attacks of a Ground Squirrel. The place was on
the river shore ; the female had thrown herself, with her two
young behind her, between them and the land ; and at every
attempt of the enemy to seize them by a circuitous sweep, she
raised both her wings almost perpendicularly, and assuming this
formidable appearance, rushed towards the squirrel, who, intimi-
dated by this show of resistance, instantly retreated ; but soon
returning, was met, as before, in front and flank by the resolute
bird, who, with her wings and plumage bristled up, seemed
swelled to twice her usual size. The young crowded together
behind her, sensible of their peril, moving backwards and _ for-
wards as she advanced or retreated. In this way the contest
endured for about ten minutes, when, as the strength of our
little heroine began to fail, the friendly presence of the humane
relater put an end to the unequal and doubtful contest.

Young and old, previous to their departure, frequent the sea-
shores like most of the species, but never associate with other
kinds nor become gregarious, living always in families till the
time of their departure, which usually occurs about the middle
of October.. While near the shore they feed on small shrimps,
coleoptera, and probably also mollusca.

The Spotted Sandpiper is abundant throughout North America.
It breeds in New England (though sparingly to the southward of
latitude 43°), westward to Ontario, and north to the Hudson Bay
district.

164 WADING BIRDS.

BARTRAMIAN SANDPIPER.
UPLAND PLOVER. FIELD PLOVER.
BARTRAMIA LONGICAUDA.

CHAR. Upper parts brown, varied with buff and black; crown dusky
and divided by line of buff; wings and rump dusky; outer tail-feathers
rich buff and with a subterminal band of black and tips of white; under
parts light buff, paler on chin; breast streaked with dusky. Bill about
as long as the head; legs rather long. Length about 12 inches.

Vest. In an open pasture or old meadow, —a mere depression in the
turf.

Leggs. 4; pale buff or creamy, marked with brown and lavender;
1.80 X 1.25.

Bartram’s ‘Tatler, known here by the name of the Upland
Plover, so very distinct from the rest of the tribe with which
it is associated in the systems, is one of the most common
birds along the sea-coast of Massachusetts, making its appear-
ance, with its fat and well fed-brood, as early as the 20th of
July, becoming more abundant towards the middle of August,
when the market of Boston is amply supplied with this delicate
and justly esteemed game.

According to the season of the year, these birds are found
throughout the continent, many retiring south of the equator
to pass the winter. ‘They are observed in May already busily
gleaning coleopterous insects on the remote boreal plains of
the Saskatchewan, and abound in the extensive prairies west
of the Mississippi. At this time and in June they are seen
common also in Worcester County (Mass.), and are believed
to breed there. They are equally frequent on the plains of
Long Island and New Jersey, and in similar bare and dry
pastures in various parts of Massachusetts, particularly about
Sekonk, and in Rhode Island near to the sea-coast, where
they pass the greater part of the summer. Wilson, who first
described the species, met with it in the meadows of the
Schuylkill, pursuing insects among the grass with great activity.

The breeding-range of this species extends, in all probability,
from Pennsylvania to the fur countries of Upper Canada, as

BARTRAMIAN SANDPIPER. 165

well as westward on either side of the Mississippi. Scattering
broods and nests made in dry meadows are not uncommon a
few miles from Salem, where Mr. N. West informs me he saw
the young just fledged during the present season (1833) in
the month of July.

While here they feed much upon grasshoppers, which now
abound in every field, and become so plump as to weigh up-
wards of three quarters of a pound. ‘They keep together usu-
ally in broods or small companies, not in gregarious swarms
like the Sandpipers, and when approached are, like Plovers,
silent, shy, and watchful, so that it requires some address to
approach them within gunshot. ‘They run fast, the older
birds sometimes dropping their wings and spreading the tail,
as if attempting to decoy the spectator from paying attention
to their brood. On alighting they stand erect, remain still,
and on any alarm utter three or four sharp, querulous whistling
notes as they mount to fly. In the pastures they familiarly
follow or feed around the cattle, and can generally be best
approached from a cart or wagon ; for though very wary of man,
they have but little apprehension of danger in the company of
domestic animals. In August the roving families now ap-
proach the vicinity of the sea, resorting to feed and roost in
the contiguous dry fields. In the morning as they fly high in
the air in straggling lines, their short warbling whistle is some-
times heard high overhead, while proceeding inland to feed,
and the same note is renewed in the evening as they pass to
their roosts. It is also very probable that this is usually the
time they employ in their migrations to the South, which com-
mence here early in September and by the middle of that
month a few stragglers only are found.

The Upland Plover is still abundant in New England during the
migrations, and some breed here; but in the Maritime Provinces
the bird is uncommon, and it has not been taken on the north side

of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. It is rarely met with in the region
of the Great Lakes, but is very abundant on the Western plains.

MARBLED GODWIT.
MARLIN.

LIMOSA FEDOA.

Cuar. Prevailing color dull rufous varied with black; rump and tail
barred; bill pinkish ; legs and feet black. Length 17 to 20 inches.

Nest. Near astream or lake, —a slight depression sparingly lined with
grass.

Eggs. 2-43; pale buff or olive, marked with brown and lavender;
2.25 X 1.60.

The Marbled Godwit is only a transient visitor along the sea-
coasts of the United States in the spring and fall on its way to
and from its breeding-place in the North. According to Rich-
ardson, it abounds in the summer season in the interior of the
fur countries, being particularly plentiful on the Saskatchewan
plains, where it frequents marshes and bogs, walking on the
surface of the swamp-moss (Spagna), and thrusting down its
bill to the nostrils in quest of worms and leeches, which it dis-
covers by the sensitive point of its bill, thus finding means to

MARBLED GODWIT. 167

obtain a kind of food which would otherwise be imperceptible
to any other sense. It no doubt likewise varies this fare and
feeds also upon insects and larvee. These birds arrive on the
coasts of the Middle States in the month of May, and linger
on till some time in June. Many, however, at this time have
already arrived at their ultimate destination in the North, so
that it is not improbable but some of these Godwits may breed
in more temperate regions to the west as well as north, select-
ing the high plains of the Rocky Mountains in situations suffi-
ciently moist. At all events, they are seen in the lower part of
Missouri in the course of the spring, but migrate like most
other waders along the sea-coast in the way to their tropical
winter quarters.

The Marbled Godwit in large flocks appears in the salt-
marshes of Massachusetts about the middle of August, par-
ticularly towards the eastern extremity of the bay, round
Chatham and the Vineyard ; their stay is, however, very short,
and they at the same time, no doubt, visit the eastern coast of
Long Island. On these occasions they assemble by many
hundreds together, and usually associate with the Short-Billed
Curlews, they themselves being called Red Curlews, — though
here they are distinguished also by the name of Doebirds,
and, being at this season fat, are highly esteemed for the
table. ‘They are very shy and cautious ; but when once con-
fused by the fall and cries of any of their companions, great
destruction may be made among them before they recover
from the delusion: they thus make repeated circuits round the
wounded and complaining, and may be enticed within gun-
shot by imitating their whistling call, after the manner of the
Curlew. Indeed, without some contrivance of this kind they
can seldom be approached.

These birds are abundant in the West, but on the Atlantic coast
they appear only in small flocks during the spring and autumn
migrations. They breed from Iowa to Alaska, and winter in Cuba
and Centra America.

168 WADING BIRDS.

HUDSONIAN GODWIT.
RING-TAILED MARLIN.
LIMOSA HAEMASTICA.

Cuar. Upper parts dusky, mottled with buff; head and neck rufous,
streaked with dusky ; rump dusky; tail-coverts mostly white ; tail dusky,
tipped with white ; under parts rich chestnut, barred with dusky. Length
14 to 16 inches.

Nest. Near a stream or lake, —a slight depression, lined with a few
leaves or bits of grass.

Leggs. 3-4; grayish olive or hair brown, spotted with darker brown ;
220 AO:

The Hudsonian, or American Black-tailed Godwit, though
abundant in the Barren Grounds near the Arctic Sea, where it
breeds, is an uncommon visitor in the Eastern and Middle
States of the Union, although, from all analogy and the impos-
sibility of the species subsisting through the winters of its natal
regions, we are certain that the whole retire into mild climates
to pass the winter. They probably, like some other birds of
the same countries, retire southward by an inland route, or
even pass the autumn on the shores of the northwestern coast
of the continent. Be this as it may, the present bird is among
our greatest rarities, as I have seldom seen more than two or
three pair in the course of the season; these are found on the
neighboring coast of the Bay, and called by the market people
of Boston, Goose Birds. I obtained a solitary pair of these
stragglers about the 8th of September; they were very fat and
well flavored, scarcely distinguishable in this respect from the
Curlew, and appeared to have been feeding on some Uva or
other vegetable substance. Several pair of young and old
birds were brought to market this year (1833), from the 6th
to the 30th of the same month. An individual now in the
Philadelphia Museum was shot also near the coast of Cape
May, in New Jersey. ‘They sometimes associate with the
Plovers, and descending to the marshes and the strand, feed
upon minute shell-fish, shrimps, and the roots of the Zoszera.
According to Richardson, they frequent boggy lakes, like the

DOWITCHER. 169

preceding probing the Sfhagnuwm and mud in quest of insects
and minute shell-fish. The manners of this bird are similar to
those of the Z. fedoa, and in most respects it makes an ap-
proach to the Black-tailed species of Europe ; it is, however,
somewhat larger, and readily contradistinguished.

The Hudsonian Godwit is more frequently seen on the Atlantic
coast than is its larger relative, but it is not at all common, and is
seen only or generally in the autumn. It breeds in the higher
Arctic regions, — on the Barren Grounds, — and winters in South
America.

Note. — The BLACK-TAILED GoODwiIT (Limosa limosa) occurs
occasionally in Greenland.

DOWITCHER.

BROWN-BACK. ROBIN-SNIPE. RED-BREASTED SNIPE.
GRAY SNIPE.

MACRORHAMPUS GRISEUS.

CHAR. Summer: above, dusky, varied with bay ; rump white, barred
with dusky ; tail with black and buff bars ; below, bay, varied with dusky.
In winter the upper parts are dark gray, the rump pure white, and the
lower parts white, shaded on the breast with gray. Length about 10%
inches. Similar to Wilson’s Snipe, but distinguished by its longer legs.

Nest. On marshy border of pond or stream, — a depression in the turf
lined with leaves and grass.

Eggs. 4; pale olive brown, spotted with dark brown; 1.70 X 1.15.

The Red-breasted Snipe begins to visit the sea-coast of New
Jersey early in April, arriving from its winter quarters, probably
in tropical America. After spending about a month on the
muddy marshes and sand-flats left bare by the recess of the
tides, a more powerful impulse than that of hunger impels
the wandering flocks towards their natal regions in the North,
where, secluded from the prying eye of man, and relieved from
molestation, they pass the period of reproduction, the wide
range of which continues, without interruption, from the bor-
ders of Lake Superior to the shores of the Arctic Sea. On the

170 WADING BIRDS.

plains of the Saskatchewan, according to Richardson, they feed
much upon leeches and coleoptera, for which, no doubt, they
probe the mud and sphagnum of the bogs and marshes, —a habit
which they also pursue while here, on their way to the South,
particularly collecting the larve of aquatic insects, such as
Libellule and others. The nest and eggs of this species are
yet unknown. The ovaries in females killed in May were
already swelled to the size of peas. By the 2oth of July or
beginning of August they revisit the shores of New England
and the Middle States in large flocks recruited by their young.
These are already full grown, in good condition for the table,
and are at all times greatly esteemed for their excellent flavor.

The Red-breasted Snipes are always seen associated in flocks,
and though many are bred in the interior around the Great
Northern Lakes, they now all assemble towards the sea-coast, as
a region that-affords them an inexhaustible supply of their
favorite food of insects, mollusca, and small shellfish ; and here
they continue, or a succession of wandering and needy bands,
until the commencement of cold weather advertises them of
the approach of famine, when, by degrees, they recede beyond
the southern limits of the Union. While here they appear
very lively, performing their aerial evolutions over the marshes
at a great height sometimes in the air, uttering at the same
time a loud, shrill, and quivering whistle, scarcely distinguish-
able from that of the Yellow-Legged Tatler (something like
"té-té-te, ’té-té-te). The same loud and querulous whistling is
also made as they rise from the ground, when they usually
make a number of circuitous turns in the air before they de-
scend. At all times gregarious, in the autumn and spring they
sometimes settle so close together that several dozens have
been killed at a single shot. While feeding on the shores or
sandbars, they may be sometimes advantageously approached
by a boat, of which, very naturally, they have but little fear or
suspicion ; nor are they at any time so shy as the Common Snipe,
alighting often within a few rods of the place where their com-
panions have been shot, without exhibiting alarm until harassed
by successive firing. Besides mollusca, they occasionally vary

DOWITCHER. 171

‘their fare with vegetable diet, such as the roots of the Zostera
marina; and I have also found in their stomachs the whitish
oval seeds of some marsh or aquatic plant. They likewise, in
common with the Sandpipers and many other wading birds,
swallow gravel to assist the trituration of their food.

We know to-day something more than Nuttall could tell us of the
nesting habits of the Dowitcher, or “ Deutscher’s Snipe,” as the
bird was originally called, to distinguish it from the “ English
Snipe,” now known as Wilson’s. Our bird is still called ‘‘ German
Snipe” at some localities on the coast.

A number of nests have been taken in the Far North, where the
birds find suitable feeding-grounds in the bogs and marshes amid
the barren lands bordering the Arctic Ocean. Stragglers from the
main flocks are met with in summer throughout the fur countries
and down to the forty-fourth parallel; but it does not follow that
they breed so far to the southward. Large flocks appear on the
Atlantic coast during both the spring and autumn migrations,
though they seem to pass over New Brunswick and Nova Scotia
without alighting, in the spring. But they move northward rapidly
and with few stoppages, while they return quite leisurely and are
therefore considered more abundant in the autumn in all localities.

In the vicinity of the Great Lakes the birds are rarely seen, though
it is known that large flocks journey north and south across the
Great Plains. In winter the birds are found in South America.

Note. — The LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER (JZ. scolopaceus) has
lately been separated from griseus. It is a larger bird, with a
longer bill; and though chiefly confined to the Western Province,
examples are seen regularly on the Atlantic coast.

te AY < ve
SS DSN\\\nd ees

WILSON’S SNIPE.
ENGLISH SNIPE. COMMON SNIPE. JACK SNIPE. SHAD BIRD.
GALLINAGO DELICATA.

CuHAR. Above, mottled brown, black, and buff; tail with subterminal
bars of rufous and black ; crown dusky, with medial stripe of buff; neck
and breast pale brown, spotted with dusky; belly white, sides with dark
bars. Length about 11 inches.

Vest. Amid a tussock of grass or bunch of moss in a wet meadow or
margin of a marsh, —a slight depression in the turf sparingly lined with
grass, leaves, or feathers.

Eggs. 3-4; olive of various shades, spotted with brown and lavender ;

1.55 X 1.10.

The Snipe of North America, so nearly related to that of
Europe, is found, according to the season, in every part of the
continent, from Hudson Bay to Cayenne, and does not appear,
indeed, sufficiently distinct from the Brazilian Snipe of Swain-
son, which inhabits abundantly the whole of South America as
far as Chili. Many winter in the marshes and inundated river
grounds of the Southern States of the Union, where they are

WILSON’S SNIPE. 173

seen in the month of February, frequenting springs and boggy
thickets ; others proceed along the coast of the Gulf of Mexico,
and even penetrate into the equatorial regions.

By the second week in March, flocks of Wilson’s Snipe begin
to revisit the marshes, meadows, and low grounds of the Mid-
dle States, and soon after they arrive in New England. In
mild and cloudy weather, towards evening, and until the last
rays of the setting sun have disappeared from the horizon, we
hear, as in the North of Europe, the singular tremulous mur-
murings of the Snipes, making their gyratory rounds so high in
the air as scarcely to be visible to the sight. This humming,
or rather flickering and somewhat wailing, sound has a great
similarity to the booming of the Night Hawk (Cafrimuleus),
but more resembles the sound produced by quickly and inter-
ruptedly blowing into the neck of a large bottle than the whir-
ring of a spinning-wheel. But however difficult and awkward
may be our attempts to convey any adequate idea of this quail-
ing murmur, it seems to be, to its agent, an expression of
tender feeling or amatory revery, as it is only uttered at the
commencement and during the early part of the pairing sea-
son, while hovering over those marshes or river meadows
which are to be the cradle and domicile of their expected pro-
geny, as they have already been of themselves and their mates.
This note is probably produced by an undulatory motion of
air in the throat while in the act of whirling flight, and ap-
pears most distinct as the Snipe descends towards the ground.
However produced, the sound and its originators are com-
monly so concealed by the fast-closing shades of night, and
the elevation from whence it issues in cloudy weather, that the
whole seems shrouded in mystery. My aged maternal parent
remembered, and could imitate with exactness, this low, wailing
murmur, which she had for so many years heard over the
marshes of my native Ribble, in the fine evenings of spring,
when all Nature seemed ready to do homage for the bounties
of the season ; and yet at the age of seventy, the riddle had
not been expounded with satisfaction.

Over the wide marshes of Fresh Pond, about the middle of

174 WADING BIRDS.

April, my attention was called to the same invisible voice,
which issued from the floating clouds of a dark evening; the
author was here called the Alewife Bird, from its arrival with
the shoals of that fish in the neighboring lake. From the ele-
vation at which the sound issued, probably, it appeared less
loud and distinct than that which I have since heard from the
English Snipe. I imagined then that the noise was made by
the quick and undulatory fanning of the wings ; but this would
not produce the shrillness of tone by which it is characterized,
as any one may satisfy himself by hearkening to the very dif-
ferent low buzz made by the wings of the Humming Bird. In
this instance, as well as in the former, all my sporting acquaint-
ance were familiar with this quivering call, but had never
decided upon its author. At the same time I observed, flying
high and rapid, a pair of these Snipes, probably instigated by
anger and jealousy, who then uttered a discordant quacking
sound, — something like the bleat they make when they have
descended to the ground, and which they accompany with an
attitude of peculiar stupidity, balancing the head forwards, and |
the tail upwards and downwards, like the action of some autom-
aton toy, jerked and set in motion by a tight-drawn string.

After incubation, which takes place rather early in the spring,
the humming is no longer heard, and the sprightly aerial evo-
lutions which appeared so indefatigable have now given way
to sedater attitudes and feebler tones. A few pairs no doubt
breed in the extensive and almost inaccessible morasses of
Cambridge ponds or lagoons ; and I have been informed that
they select a tuft of sedge for the foundation of the nest, which
is constructed with considerable art. The eggs, like those of
the European species, about four, are perhaps alike olivaceous
and spotted with brown. ‘These birds probably scatter them-
selves over the interior of the continent to breed, nowhere
associating in great numbers ; nor are they at all common in the
hyperboreal retreats chosen by so many of the other wading
birds. My friend Mr. Ives, of Salem, also informs me that a
few pairs of this species breed in that vicinity.

The Snipe, almost nocturnal in its habits, conceals itself with

WILSON’S SNIPE. ; 175

assiduity in the long grass, sedge, and rushes of its enswamped
and boggy retreat. Aware of danger from the approach of the
sportsman, it springs at a distance with great rapidity, uttering
usually a feeble squeak ; and making several inflections before
it takes a direct course, it becomes very difficult to shoot, and
is more easily caught with a snare or springe similar to that
which is set for Woodcocks. Being deservedly in high repute
as an exquisite flavored game, great pains are taken to obtain
Snipes. In the spring season on their first arrival they are
lean ; but in the autumn, assembled towards the coast from all
parts of the interior, breeding even to the banks of the Missis-
sippi, they are now fat and abundant, and, accompanied by
their young, are at this time met with in all the low grounds
and enswamped marshes along the whole range of the At-
lantic ; but ever shy and dexterous, they are only game for the
most active and eager sportsmen. When on the wing they
may, like many other birds of this family, be decoyed and
attracted by the imitation of their voice. ‘They are, like the
European Snipe, which migrates to winter in England, by no
means averse to cold weather, so long as the ground is not
severely frozen in such a manner as to exclude their feeding ;
so that even in Massachusetts they are found occasionally down
to the middle of December. ‘They are nowhere properly gre-
garious, but only accidentally associate where their food hap-
pens to be abundant. For this purpose they are perpetually
-nibbling and boring the black, marshy soil, from which they
sometimes seem to collect merely the root-fibres which it hap-
pens to contain, though their usual and more substantial fare
consists of worms, leeches, and some long-legged aquatic in-
sects ; the Snipe of Europe also seizes upon the smaller species
of Scarabeus. Their food, no doubt, is mixed with the black
and slimy earth they raise while boring for roots and worms,
and which in place of gravel, or other hard substances, ap-
pears to be the usual succedaneum they employ to assist their
digestion and distend the stomach.

The habits of this bird are well known to every sportsman in
North America, for it ranges throughout the continent, and is

176 WADING BIRDS.

common at times in almost every suitable locality. Its. general
breeding area extends from Hudson Bay and Alaska southward
to about latitude 45°, and a few nests have been taken south
of that line. In winter the birds are found in the Gulf States and
southward.

Notre. — The EUROPEAN SNIPE (Gadlinago gallinago), which
is somewhat similar in appearance to the American bird, occurs
regularly in Greenland, and has been taken in Bermuda.

AMERICAN WOODCOCK.
BOG-SUCKER.
PHILOHELA MINOR.

CuHaR_ Above, mottled tawny, black, and gray; beneath, pale rufous
or tawny buff, tinged with gray. Head peculiar; neck short; body
stout ; bill long and straight; legs and tail short. Length about 11
inches.

Vest. Sometimes in a wet meadow or on the margin of a swamp, but
often in adry woodland or ona shaded hillside, — placed amid a tuft of
grass or at the foot of a tree or stump; aslight depression sparingly lined
with leaves or grass.

Leggs. 4; creamy or pale buff spotted with brown and lavender;

1.55 X 1.15.

The American Woodcock, like the Snipe, appears again to
be a near representative of that of Europe, whose manners
and habits it almost entirely possesses, differing, however, ma-
terially in the temperature of the climates selected for its resi-
dence, confining itself in the summer to the south side of the
St. Lawrence, breeding in all the intermediate space as far as
the limits of the Middle States, and retiring in winter for the
most part either to or beyond the boundary of the Union.
The European species, on the contrary, courting cooler cli-
mates, winters in Great Britain and the North of Europe, and
retires as early as March to breed in the Alps or in the frigid
wilds of Sweden, Norway, Russia, and penetrates even to the
icy shores of Greenland and the heaths of Iceland. About the
same period, early in March, the American Woodcock revisits
Pennsylvania, and soon after the New England or Eastern

AMERICAN WOODCOCK. 177

States. Indeed, so sedentary are these birds at times that a
few are known to winter in the sheltered forests and open
watery glades of Pennsylvania; at the same season also many
are seen in the vicinity of Natchez in Mississippi. According
to their usual habits, they keep secluded in the woods and
thickets till the approach of evening, when they sally forth to
seek out springs, paths, and broken soil, in quest of worms
and other insects on which they feed. ‘They now disperse
themselves over the country to breed, and indicate their pres-
ence in all directions by the marks of their boring bills, which
are seen in such soft and boggy places as are usually sheltered
by thickets and woods. They also turn over the fallen leaves
from side to side with their bills in quest of lurking insects,
but never scratch with their feet, though so robust in their
appearance. The sensibility possessed by the extremity of
the bill, as in the Snipe, is of such an exquisite nature that they
are enabled to collect their food by the mere touch without
using their eyes, which are set at such a distance and elevation
in the back part of the head as to give the bird a remarkable
aspect of stupidity. When flushed or surprised in their hiding-
places, they only rise in a hurried manner to the tops of the
bushes or glide through the undergrowth to a short distance,
when they instantly drop down again, and run out for some
space on touching the ground, lurking as soon as they imagine
themselves in a safe retreat. At times in open woods they fly
out straight with considerable vigor and swiftness; but the
effort, from the shortness of the wing, is always attended with
much muscular exertion.

During the mating season, in the morning as well as eve-
ning, but more particularly the latter, the male in the vicinity
of his mate and nest rises successively in a spiral course like
a Lark. While ascending he utters a hurried and feeble
warble ; but in descending, the tones increase as he approaches
towards the ground, and then, becoming loud and sweet, pass
into an agreeable, quick, and tumultuous song. As soon as the
performer descends, the sound ceases for a moment, when with
a sort of stifled utterance, accompanied by a stiff and balancing

VOL. Il. — 12

178 WADING BIRDS.

motion of the body, the word d/aik, and sometimes faip faif,
is uttered. This uncouth and guttural bleating seems a singular
contrast to the delightful serenade of which this is uniformly
the close. I heard this piping and bleating in the marshes of
West Cambridge on the 15th of April, and the birds had
arrived about the first week in that month. ‘This nocturnal
music continued at regular intervals, and in succession until
near nine o’clock in the evening, and is prolonged for a
number of days during the period of incubation, probably
ceasing with the new cares attendant on the hatching of the
brood. The female, as in the European species, is greatly
attached to her nest, and an instance is related to me of a hen
being taken up from it and put on again without attempting
to fly. Mr. Latham mentions a female of the Common Wood-
cock sitting on her eggs so tamely that she suffered herself to
be stroked on the back without offering to rise, and the male,
no less interested in the common object of their cares, sat also
close at hand. The European species has had the credit of
exercising so much ingenuity and affection as to seize upon
one of its weakly young and carry it along to a place of
security from its enemies. Mr. Ives, of Salem, once on flush-
ing an American Woodcock from its nest, was astonished to
see that it carried off in its foot one of its brood, the only one
which happened to be newly hatched; and as the young run
immediately on leaving the shell, it is obvious that the little
nursling could be well reared, or all of them as they might
appear, without the aid of the nest, now no longer secured
from intrusion. In New England this highly esteemed game is
common in the markets of Boston to the close of October,
but they all disappear in the latter part of December. In this
quarter of the Union they are scarcely in order for shooting
before the latter end of July or beginning of August ; but from
this time to their departure they continue in good condition
for the table.

The springes, or springers, set for Woodcocks in Europe in
places they are found to frequent by the evidence of their
borings, etc., are commonly formed of an elastic stick, to

AMERICAN WOODCOCK. 179

which is fastened a horse-hair noose put through a hole ina
peg fastened into the ground, to which a trigger is annexed ;
and in order to compel the Woodcock to walk into the trap,
an extended fence is made on each side by small sticks set
up close enough to prevent the bird passing between them.
These concentrate at the trap, so that in this funnel-shaped
fence the bird in feeding is made to pass through the narrow
passage, and is almost to a certainty caught by the legs.

As the season advances and food begins to fail, by reason of
inclement and cold weather, the Woodcocks leave the interior ;
and approaching the shelter of the sea-coast and the neighbor-
ing marshes, they now become abundant, and are at such times
late in autumn killed in great numbers. These are also their
assembling points previous to their southern migrations, which
are performed in a desultory and irregular manner, their mo-
tions, as usual, being mostly nocturnal or in the twilight; and
though many are now met with in the same low meadows and
marshes, they are brought together by common necessity,
and never move in concerted flocks. At this season their
movements are not betrayed by any note or call; the vocal
powers of the species are only called into existence at the
period of propagation ; at other times they move and start to
wing in silence. The young run or wander off as soon as they
are hatched, are at this period covered with a brownish-white
down, and on being taken utter a slender bleat or clear and
long-drawn /éep.

This famous game-bird is common in the Maritime Provinces,
but is rarely found on the northern side of the Gulf of St. Law-
rence. It is common also in Southern Ontario, but in the Mus-
koka district is rather rare. It is known to breed throughout its

Canadian range, and southward through the Middle States and
westward to the Plains.

NoTE.— The EuROPEAN Woopcock (Scolopax rusticola), a
much larger bird, occurs occasionally on this side of the Atlantic.

VIRGINIA RAIL.
RED-BREASTED RAIL, LESSER CLAPPER RAIL.

RALLUS VIRGINIANUS.

CHAR. General coloration rufous. Above, tawny olive striped with
dusky ; wing-coverts rich bay; crown dusky ; below, light reddish brown,
paler on the belly. Length about 7% inches.

Nest. On the ground amid a tuft of grass on the marshy margin of a
lake or stream, sometimes in a salt-marsh, usually placed close to the
water’s edge, — a deep, saucer-shaped affair of reed-stalks and grass, and
rather compactly built.

£ggs. 6-12 (usually 8); pale cream or reddish buff, spotted with brown
and lavender; 1.25 X 0.90.

The Virginian or Lesser Clapper Rail, scarcely distinguish-
able from the preceding but by its inferior size, is likewise a

VIRGINIA RAIL. 181

near representative of the Water Rail of Europe, with whose
habits in all respects it nearly agrees. But in every part of
America it appears, to be a rare species compared with the
Mud Hen or common Clapper Rail. It is also wholly con-
fined to the fresh-water marshes, and never visits the borders
of the sea. In New Jersey it is indeed ordinarily distinguished
as the Fresh-Water Mud Hen; so constant is this predilection,
connected probably with its choice of food, that when met
with in salt-marshes it is always in the vicinity of fresh-water
springs, which ooze through them or occupy their borders.
From this peculiarity in its choice of wet grounds, it is conse-
quently seen in the interior, in the vicinity of bogs and swampy
thickets, as far west as the States of Ohio, Kentucky, and
probably Illinois and Michigan. Its migrations, however,
along the neighborhood of the coast do not extend probably
farther than the shores of the St. Lawrence, as it is unknown
in the remote fur countries of the North, and retires from the
Middle States in November at the commencement of frost.
It revisits Pennsylvania early in May, and is soon after seen in
the fresh marshes of this part of Massachusetts. How far it
retires, in the course of the winter, towards the South, is yet
unknown, though from its absence, apparently, from the warmer
parts of the continent, it probably migrates little farther than
the southern extremity of the Union. Its habit of closely
hiding in almost inaccessible swamps and marshes renders it a
difficult task even to ascertain its presence at any time ; and,
like the preceding, it skulks throughout most part of the day
in the long sedge and rushes, only venturing out to feed in the
shade and obscurity of the twilight. Its food is most com-
monly marsh insects and their larvee, as well as small worms and
univalve shell-fish, it rarely, if ever, partaking of vegetable diet.

The Virginian Rail commences laying soon after its arrival
in the early part of May. The nest, situated in the wettest
part of the marsh, is fixed in the bottom of a sedgy tussock
and composed of withered grass and rushes. The eggs are
similar to those of the European Water Rail, being of a dirty
white or pale cream color, sprinkled with specks of brownish

182 WADING BIRDS.

red and pale purple, most numerous at the great end. In the
Middle States this bird is believed to raise two broods in the
season. The female is so much attached to her eggs, after
sitting, as sometimes to allow of being taken up by the hand
rather than desert the premises, — which affection appears the
more necessary as the male seems to deserts his mate and leave
her in the sole charge of her little family.

About the 18th of June, in this vicinity, in a wet part of the
salt-marsh making into a fresh meadow near Charles River,
one moonlight evening as late as nine o’clock I heard a busy
male of this species calling out at short intervals in a guttural,
creaking tone, almost like the sound of a watchman’s rattle,
"kut-a-cut tee-ah, — the call sometimes a little varied. At this
time, no doubt, his mate was somewhere sitting on her eggs in
some tuft of the tall marine grass (Spartina glabra) which
overhung the muddy inlet near which he took his station.
The young, for some time after being hatched, are covered
wholly with a jet-black down, and running with agility, are
now sometimes seen near the deep marshes, straying into the
uplands and drier places, following the careful mother much in
the manner of a hen with her brood of chickens. When sepa-
rated from the parent at a more advanced age, their slender
peep, peep, peep, is heard and soon answered by the attentive
parent. The female when startled in her watery retreat often
utters a sharp, squeaking scream apparently close at hand,
which sounds like ’keek, ’keek, "kek ; on once approaching, as
I thought, the author of this discordant and timorous cry, it
still slowly receded, but always appeared within a few feet of
me, and at length pressing the pursuit pretty closely, she rose
for a little distance with hanging legs, and settled down into a
ditch among some pond-lily leaves, over which she darted and
again disappeared in her paths through the tall sedge, scream-
ing at intervals, as I now found, to give warning to a brood
of young which had at first probably accompanied her and
impeded her progress.

When seen, which is but rarely, the Virginian Rail, like the
other species, stands or runs with the neck outstretched and

CLAPPER RAIL, 183

with the short tail erect and frequently jerked. It is never
seen to perch on trees or shrubs, and is most of the time
on its feet. Its flesh is scarcely inferior to that of the Com-
mon Rail, but its scarcity and diminutive size relieve it from
much attention as game. Late in autumn, a little time previ-
ous to their departure, these birds occasionally wander out
into the neighboring salt-marshes, situated at a distance from
the sea, — a route by which in all probability they proceed in
a solitary and desultory manner towards the milder regions of
the South. At this time also they often roost among the reeds,
by ponds, in company with the different kinds of Blackbirds,
clinging, no doubt, to the fallen stalks on which they pass the
night over the water. ‘They swim and dive also with ease and
elegance ; but like their whole tribe of Long-Footed Birds,
they are swiftest on land, and when pushed depend upon their
celerity over the covered marsh as a final resort.

This Rail is a common summer visitor to the Maritime Provinces,
but rarely ranges north of the fiftieth parallel. Westward its range
is bounded only by the Pacific.

CLAPPER RAIL.
SALT-WATER MEADOW HEN. MUD HEN. BIG RAIL.
RALLUS LONGIROSTRIS CREPITANS.

CHAR. Above, ashy gray striped with brown and tinged with olive;
wings and tail brown; below, pale buff, flanks darker and barred with
white ; breast shaded with ash; throat white. General coloration gray
without rufous tint. Bill long, slender, and decurved. Length 13% to
15% inches.

West. Artfully concealed amid the rank grass of a salt-marsh,—a
loosely arranged cushion of dry rushes and grass.

Leggs. 6-13 (usually about 9); pale buff, marked with reddish brown
and lavender; size extremely variable, average about 1.70 X 1.20.

The Clapper Rail is a numerous and well-known species in
all the Middle and Southern States, but is unknown in this

part of New England, or in any direction farther to the north,
being unnoticed by Richardson in his “ Northern Zoology.”

184 WADING BIRDS.

According to Wilson, these Rails arrive on the coast of New
Jersey about the 2oth of April, and probably winter within the
southern boundaries of the Union, or in the marshes along the
extensive coast of the Mexican Gulf, as they are seen by Feb-
ruary on the shores of Georgia in great numbers. In the
course of their migrations, in the hours of twilight, they are
often heard on their way, in the spring, by fishermen and
coasters. Their general residence is in salt-marshes, occa-
sionally penetrating a short distance up the large rivers as far
as the bounds of tide-water. In the vast flat and grassy
marshes of New Jersey, intersected by innumerable tide-
water ditches, their favorite breeding-resorts, they are far
raore numerous than all the other marsh-fowl collectively.

The arrival of the Mud Hen (another of their common
appellations) is soon announced through all the marshes by
its loud, harsh, and incessant cackle, heard principally in the
night, and is most frequent at the approach of a storm. About
the middle of May the females commence laying, dropping
the first egg into a slight cavity scratched for its reception,
and lined with a small portion of dry grass, as may be con-
venient. During the progress of laying the complement of
about ten eggs, the nest is gradually increased until it attains
about the height of a foot, —a precaution or instinct which
seems either to:contemplate the possibility of an access of the
tide-water, or to be a precaution to conceal the eggs or young,
as the interest in their charge increases. And indeed to con-
ceal the whole with more success, the long sedge grass is
artfully brought together in an arch or canopy; but however
this art and ingenuity may succeed in ordinary cases, it only
serves to expose the nest to the search of the fowler, who can
thus distinguish their labors at a considerable distance. The
eggs, more than an inch in breadth, and about one and three
fourths in length, are of the usual oval figure, of a yellowish
white or dull cream color sparingly spotted with brown red
and a few other interspersed minute touches of a subdued
tint bordering on lilac purple; as usual, there are very few
spots but towards the obtuse end. The eggs are much

CLAPPER RAIL. 185

esteemed for food, being frequently collected by the neigh-
boring inhabitants; and so abundant are the nests in the
marshes of New Jersey that a single person, accustomed to
‘the search, has been known to collect a hundred dozen in the
course of a day. Like other gregarious and inoffensive birds,
they have numerous enemies besides man ; and the crow, fox,
and minx come in for their share, not only of the eggs and
young, but also devour the old birds besides. From the
pounce of the Hawk they can more readily defend themselves
by dodging and threading their invisible paths through the
sedge. ‘The nature of the ground they select for their nurse-
ries and its proximity to the sea, renders their thronging com-
munity liable also to accidents of a more extensively fatal
kind; and sometimes after the prevalence of an eastwardly
storm, not uncommon in the early part of June, the marshes
become inundated by the access of the sea, and great numbers
of the Rails perish, —at least, the females, now sitting, are so
devoted to their eggs as to remain on the nest and drown
rather than desert it. At such times the males, escaping from
the deluge, and such of their mates as have not yet begun to
sit, are seen by hundreds walking about, exposed and_ bewil-
dered, while the shores for a great extent are strewed with the
dead bodies of the luckless females. The survivors, however,
wasting no time in fruitless regret, soon commence to nest
ahew ; and sometimes when their nurseries have been a second
time destroyed by the sea, in a short time after, so strong is
the instinct and vigor of the species that the nests seem as
numerous in the marshes as though nothing destructive had
ever happened.

The young of the Clapper Rail are clad, at first, in the same
black down as those of the Virginian species, and are only dis-
tinguishable by their superior size, by having a spot of white
on their auriculars, and a line of the same color along the side
of the breast, belly, and fore part of the thigh. They run very
nimbly through the grass and reeds, so as to be taken with
considerable difficulty, and are thus, at this early period, like
their parents, without the aid of their wings, capable of elud-

186 WADING BIRDS.

ing almost every natural enemy they may encounter. Indeed,
the principal defence of the species seems to be in the vigor
of their limbs and the compressed form of their bodies, which
enables them to pass through the grass and herbage with the
utmost rapidity and silence. They have also their covered paths
throughout the marshes, hidden by the matted grass, through
which they run like rats, without ever being seen ; when close
pressed, they can even escape the scent of a dog by diving
over ponds or inlets, rising and then again vanishing with the
silence and celerity of something supernatural. In still pools
this bird swims pretty well, but not fast, sitting high on the
water with the neck erect, and striking with a hurried rapidity
indicative of the distrust of its progress in that element, which
it immediately abandons on approaching the leaves of any
floating plants, particularly the pond-lilies, over whose slightly
buoyant foliage it darts with a nimbleness and dexterity that
defies its pursuers, and proves that however well it may be
fitted for an aquatic life, its principal progress, and that on
which it most depends when closely followed, is by land rather
than in the air or the water. When thus employed, it runs
with an outstretched neck and erected tail, and, like the wily
Corn Crake, is the very picture of haste and timidity. On fair
ground these birds run nearly as fast as a man. When hard
pushed they will betake themselves sometimes to the water,
remaining under for several minutes, and holding on closely to
the roots of grass or herbage with the head downwards, so as
to render themselves generally wholly invisible. When roused
at length to flight, they proceed almost with the velocity and in
the manner of a duck, flying low and with the neck stretched ;
but such is their aversion to take wing, and their fondness
for skulking, that the marshes in which hundreds of these
birds dwell may be crossed without one of them ever being
seen ; nor will they rise to a dog till they have led him into a
labyrinth and he is on the very point of seizing them.

The food of the Clapper Rail consists of various insects,
small univalve shell-fish, and crustacea (minute crabs, etc.).
Its flesh is dry, tastes sedgy, and is far inferior in flavor to

ae

CLAPPER RAIL. 187

that of the Common Rail or Sora.. Early in October these
birds retire to the South, and probably migrate in the twilight
or by the dawn of morning.

The Clapper Rail is abundant along the Atlantic coast north to
Long Island. It occurs occasionally on the Connecticut shores,
but is merely an accidental wanderer within the Massachusetts
boundaries, and but one example has been reported north of Bos-
ton Harbor, — captured near Portland, Maine, some years ago.

Note. — The LOuIsIANA CLAPPER RAIL (XR. longirostris satu-
vatus) was discovered by Mr. H. W. Henshaw and described in
1880. It is a smaller bird than the type, —length about thirteen
inches, — and is of brighter-colored plumage. The brown of the
upper parts is of a richer tint and is more deeply tinged with olive;
while the breast wears a richer shade of brown. The bird has
been found on the coast of Louisiana only.

ScoTrT’s RAIL, as it was named by Mr. Sennett, the describer, or
FLORIDA CLAPPER RAIL, as it will be booked probably (2. Zong?-
rostris scottit), was discovered in 1886. It is the darkest variety of
this species, — very dark brown or nearly black above, and lower
parts brown. The bird appears to be sedentary on the west coast
of Florida, and has been taken nowhere else.

KING RAIL.

RED-BREASTED RAIL. FRESHWATER MARSH HEN.

RALLUS ELEGANS.

CHAR. Upper parts rich olive brown of varying shades, — sometimes
with a yellow tinge, — striped with black ; crown dark brown; a line of
cinnamon over the eyes, and a line of dusky through the eyes ; wings brown,
of varying shades ; under parts deep cinnamon, darkest on the breast, fad-
ing to dull white on throat and belly; sides and flanks brown or dusky,
with broad stripes of white. Length 17 to 19 inches.

Nest. Hid amid a tuft of rank grass in a fresh-water marsh; placed on
the ground, though sometimes fastened to the grass and weeds that sur-
round it ; made of grass and weed stems.

Eggs. 6-12; ground color varies from pale buff to creamy white,
marked, sparingly, with reddish brown-or purplish brown and lilac; size
variable, average about 1.70 X 1.20.

SORA, 189

Nuttall must have confounded the present species with the
Clapper Rail, for he makes no mention of the King Rail. Wilson
figured the bird, but gave no description of its plumage or habits,
and the first account of the species was given by Audubon in 1835.

The King Rail is not so widely dispersed, nor is it so abundant,
as most of its congeners; but some writers have been in error in
representing its distribution as exceedingly limited. It occurs reg-
ularly throughout the Southern and Middle States, and is plentiful
in Ohio, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Ontario. In New England the
bird has been seen but rarely, though examples have been taken in
Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Maine. I have examined in the
flesh one that was shot near St. John, N. B.

In habits our bird is very similar to the Clapper Rail, differing
chiefly in its preference for a marsh that is drained by a sluggish
stream of fresh water.

SORA.

CAROLINA RAIL. CAROLINA CRAKE. COMMON RAIL.
PORZANA CAROLINA.

CHAR. Above, olive brown varied black and gray; front of head,
stripe on crown, and line on throat, black; side of head and breast ashy
gray or slate ; sides of breast spotted with white; flanks barred slate and
white ; belly white. Bill short and stout. Length 8 to 9% inches.

Vest. In a wet meadow or reedy swamp, sometimes in a salt-water
marsh; a rude structure of loosely arranged grass weed stems and
rushes hid in a tussock of rank grass or coarse sedges.

Eggs. 6-14 (usually 8); dark buff or yellowish drab, often tinged with
olive, spotted with reddish brown and lilac; 1.20 X 0.90.

The Sora, or Common Rail, of America, which assemble in
such numbers on the reedy shores of the larger rivers in the
Middle and adjoining warmer States at the approach of au-
tumn, and which afford such abundant employ to the sports-
man at that season, like most of the tribe to which it belongs
is a bird of passage, wintering generally south of the limits of
the Union. These Rails begin to make their appearance in
the marshes of Georgia by the close of February ; and on the
2d of May Wilson observed them in the low watery meadows
below Philadelphia. In the remote fur countries of the North

190 WADING BIRDS.

up to the 62d parallel they are common through the summer,
and were observed by Dr. Richardson to be particularly abun-
dant on the banks of the small lakes that skirt the Saskatche-
wan plains. In the vast reedy marshes, swamps, and lagoons
of these desolate regions the greater part of the species are no
doubt reared, as but few of them are ever known to breed in
the warmer parts of the continent; and the history of their
manners at the period of incubation is therefore still a blank.
The observations of persons not conversant with the nice dis-
tinctions necessary in natural history ought to be received
with caution, as they might easily confound the mere young of
the present and the preceding species as one and the same.
The alleged nest, eggs, and young birds covered with a black
down mentioned by Wilson agree perfectly with the Virginian
Rail; but the length of the bill and any other discriminating
particulars are wholly omitted. We may conclude, therefore,
up to the present time that the actual young and nest of the
Soree are yet unknown, and that all which has been said on
this subject is but conjecture or a misapplication of facts
belonging to the preceding species.

Like the other migrating waders, the Rails, accompanied by
their swarming broods, bred in the North and West, begin to
show themselves on the reedy borders of the Delaware and
other large waters of the Middle States, whose still and sluggish
streams, spreading out over muddy flats, give birth to an abun-
dant crop of the seeds of the Wild Rice, now the favorite food
of the Rails and the Rice Birds. On first arriving from the labor
and privation incident to their migrations, they are lean, and
little valued as food ; but as their favorite natural harvest begins
to swell out and approach maturity, they rapidly fatten, and from
the middle of September to the same time in October they
are in excellent order for the table, and eagerly sought after
wherever a gun can be obtained and brought into operation.

Walking by the borders of these reedy rivers in ordinary
seasons, you hear in all directions the crowding Rails squeak-
ing like young puppies. Ifa stone be thrown in amongst them,
there is a general outcry through the reeds; a confused and

a

SORA. 19I

reiterated ’kuk ’kuk ’kuk’k’k’k’k, resounds from the covered
marsh, and is again renewed by the timid throng on the dis-
charge of a gun or any other sudden noise within their hearing.
The Rails, however numerous, are scarcely visible, unless it be
at or near to high water ; for when the tide is down they have
the art so well to conceal themselves among the reeds that
you may walk past and even over them, where there are hun-
dreds, without seeing probably a single individual.

The flight of the Rails while confined among the Rice
Reeds is low, feeble, and fluttering, with the legs hanging down
as if the effort were unnatural and constrained, — which may, no
doubt, at times be produced by the extreme corpulency which
they attain in a favorable season for food; yet occasionally
they will rise to a considerable height, and cross considerable
streams without any reluctance or difficulty ; so that however
short may be their wings, the muscles by which they are set in
motion are abundantly sufficient to provide them the means of
pursuing the deliberate stages of their migratory course. Wher-
ever the Zzanza and its nutritious grain abounds, there the Rails
are generally seen. In the reedy lakes of Michigan as well as
the tide-water streams of the Atlantic these birds are found
congregated in quest of their favorite food. In Virginia they
are particularly abundant along the grassy banks of James
River within the bounds of tide-water, where they are often
taken in the night while perched among the reeds ; being stu-
pefied by the glare of a fire carried in among them, they are
then easily approached .by a boat, and rudely knocked on the
head with a paddle, — sometimes in such quantities that three
negroes in as many hours have been known to kill from twenty
to eighty dozen.

Fear seems to be a ruling passion among the whole tribe
of Rails and their kindred allies. With faculties for acting in
the day, timidity alone seems to have rendered them almost
nocturnal in their actions; their sole address and cunning
seems entirely employed in finding out means of concealment.
This is particularly the case when wounded ; they then swim
out and dive with so much caution as seldom to be seen again

192 WADING BIRDS.

above water. They even cling with their feet to the reeds be-
neath that element, where they would sooner endure suffoca-
tion than expose themselves with any chance of being seen ;
they often also skulk on ordinary occasions under the floating
reeds, with nothing more than the bill above water. At other
times when wounded they will dive, and rise under the gun-
wale of the sportsman’s boat, and secreting themselves there,
have the cunning to go round as the vessel moves until, given
up as lost, they find an opportunity of completing their escape.

According to the observations of Mr. Ord, the females
more particularly are sometimes so affected by fear or some
other passion as to fall into sudden fits and appear stretched
out as lifeless, recovering after a while the use of their faculties,
and falling again into syncope on merely presenting the finger
in a threatening attitude. At such times and during their ob-
stinate divings they often fall victims, no doubt, to their enemies
in the watery element, as they are sometimes seized by eels
and other voracious fish, who lie in wait for them ; so that the
very excess of their fear and caution hurries them into addi-
tional dangers, and frustrates the intention of this instinct for
preservation. ‘The swooning to which they appear subject is
not uncommon with some small and delicate irritable birds,
and Canaries are often liable to these death-like spasms, into
which they also fall at the instigation of some immaterial or
trifling excitement of a particular kind.

During the greater part of the months of September and
October, the market of Philadelphia is abundantly supplied with
this highly esteemed game, and they are usually sold at from fifty
cents to a dollar the dozen. But soon after the first frosts of
October or towards the close of that month, they all move off
to the South. In Virginia they usually remain until the first
week in November. In the vicinity of Cambridge (Mass.), a
few, as a rarity, only are now and then seen in the course of
the autumn in the Zzanza patches which border the outlet of
Fresh Pond ; but none are either known or suspected to breed
in any part of this State, where they are, as far as I can learn,
everywhere uncommon.

a ae

SORA. 193

The usual method of shooting Rail on the Delaware, accord-
ing to Wilson, is as follows. The sportsman proceéds to the
scene of action in a batteau with an experienced boatman, who
propels the boat with a pole. About two hours before high
water they enter the reeds, the sportsman taking his place in
the bow ready for action, while the boatman on the stern seat
pushes the craft steadily through the reeds. The Rails gene-
rally spring singly as the boat advances, and at a short distance
ahead are instantly shot down, while the boatman, keeping his
eye on the spot where the bird fell, directs the vessel forward,
and picks up the game as the gunner is loading. In this man-
ner the boat continues through and over the wild-rice marsh,
the birds flushing and falling, the gunner loading and firing,
while the helmsman is pushing and picking up the game, —
which sport continues till an hour or two after high water,
when its shallowness and the strength and weight of the float-
ing reeds, as also the unwillingness of the game to spring as
the tide decreases, oblige them to return. Several boats are
sometimes within a short distance of each other, and a per-
petual cracking of musketry prevails along the whole reedy
shores of the river. In these excursions it is not uncommon
for an active and expert marksman to kill ten or twelve dozen
in the serving of a single tide.

We now know that the Sora breeds abundantly in Wisconsin
and the northern portions of Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio, as well as
in the more Eastern States. It is probable that the southern limit
of its breeding area is in the vicinity of latitude 42°, while its

northern range does not extend beyond the 62d parallel. The birds
winter in the West Indies and northern South America.

VOL, Il. — 13

YELLOW RAIL.

CRAKE.

PORZANA NOVEBORACENSIS.

CHAR. Above, brownish buff, varied with black and white ; tai] black;
below, buff, pale on the belly, deepest on the breast; flanks dusky, barred
with dull white; under tail-coverts rufous. Length 6 to 7% inches.

Nest. Ina marsh or reedy margin ofa stream or pond; a loosely con-
structed affair of grass and weed stems, hid in a bunch of sedges or reeds.

Eges. 5-9 (usually about 6); deep buff or creamy, spotted at the
larger end with reddish brown; 1 10 X 0.85.

The Yellow-breasted Rail, though found sparingly in many
parts of the Union and in Canada, 1s everywhere rare. It has
been met with, apparently, as a mere straggler in the vicinity of
New York and Philadelphia in the depth of winter, and has
likewise been seen in Missouri, probably on its spring passage
towards the North. Where it winters, whether in the Southern
States or in still milder climes, is yet unknown.

Mr. Hutchins says, “This elegant bird is an inhabitant of
the marshes” on the coast of Hudson Bay, near the mouth of
Severn River, “from the middle of May to the end of Sep-
tember. It never flies above sixty yards at a time, but runs
with great rapidity among the long grass near the shores. In
the morning and evening it utters a note which resembles the

YELLOW RAIL. 195

striking of a flint and steel; at other times it makes a shriek-
ing noise.” It is evident, therefore, that the Yellow-breasted
Rail is principally a Northern species, which migrates mostly
through the western interior of the continent, and is therefore
very rare in the Atlantic States.

Like all the other species, the present inhabits swamps,
marshes, and the reedy margins of ditches and lakes. In the
vicinity of West Cambridge, and throughout the vast extent of
wet marsh-land which stretches over the face of the country,
and is but rarely visited by man, among the Virginia Rails
and a few stragglers of the Sora we occasionally meet with
this small and remarkable species. ‘The first individual ever
brought to me, late in autumn, was surprised, while feeding on
insects or seeds, by the margin of a small pool overgrown with
the leaves of the water-lily (VWymphea odorata). Without
attempting either to fly or swim, it darted nimbly over the
floating leaves, and would have readily escaped, but for the
arrest of the fatal gun, which baffled its cunning and precau-
tion. When wounded, this bird also swims and dives with
great address.

On the 6th of October, 1831, having spent the night in a
lodge on the borders of Fresh Pond, employed for decoying
and shooting ducks, I heard about sunrise the Yellow-breasted
Rails begin to stir among the reeds (Arundo phragmitis) that
thickly skirt this retired border of the lake, and in which,
among a host of various kinds of Blackbirds, they had for some
time roosted every night. As soon as awake, they called out
in an abrupt and cackling cry, ’£7ék, ’krek, ’krek, ’krek, kiik
’k’kh, which note, apparently from the young, was answered by
the parent (probably the hen), in a lower soothing tone. The
whole of these uncouth and guttural notes have no bad resem-
blance to the croaking of the tree-frog, as to sound. This call
and answer, uttered every morning, is thus kept up for several
minutes in various tones, till the whole family, separated for
the night, have met and satisfactorily recognized each other.
These are, no doubt, migrating broods who have arrived from
the North about the time stated for their departure by Mr.

196 WADING BIRDS.

Hutchins. By the first week in November their cackling
ceases ; and as they seem to migrate hither without delay, and
with great expedition for a bird with such short wings, it is
probable they proceed at once to the swamps of the Southern
States.

This species is not as abundant as either the Virginia Rail or the
Sora, but it is not so rare as many writers have supposed. It is
such a skulker and hides so quickly that it generally escapes obser-
vation even when close at hand. The bird is a summer resident of
New England and the Maritime Provinces, and has been taken in
the Hudson Bay district. It is quite common in Ohio, and has
been found nesting in Illinois. It winters in the Southern States.

BUEACKSRALE:
PORZANA JAMAICENSIS.

CuHar. Head, neck, and lower parts dark slate or dusky; back rich
brown; wings and tail brownish black, marked with white; belly and
flanks barred with white. Length about 5 inches.

Jest. In a wet meadow or reedy marsh, hid amid the rank grass; a
compactly made, deep cup of grass and weed stems.

Eggs. 8-10; dull white or creamy, marked all over with fine spots of
reddish brown; 1.00 X 0.80.

This, the smallest of our Rails, was not mentioned by Nuttall,
though it had been discovered long before his time, and was given
by Audubon. It has always been considered a rare bird, being
seldom found on the Atlantic coast, and only a few examples being
seen north of New Jersey. Connecticut is its northern limit. In
the western division of this Eastern Province it is more common,
and goes somewhat farther north; a number of nests having been
taken in northern Illinois. In habits this species does not differ
materially from its congeners.

Nore.— The SpoTTED CRAKE (Porsana pforzana), an Old
World species, occasionally visits Greenland.

The Corn CRAKE, or LAND RAIL (Crex crex), also an Old World
species, occurs regularly in Greenland, and has been taken on Long
Island and Bermuda.

_——

AMERICAN COOT.

COOT. MUD HEN. MARSH HEN. MEADOW HEN. MOOR HEN.
CROW DUCK.

FULICA AMERICANA.

CHAR. General plumage dark slate, shading to dull black on the head,
and to gray on the belly ; edge of the wings and tips of the secondaries
white ; frontal shield and spots on the bill dark brown; feet greenish,
toes with conspicuous lobes or “flaps.” Length from 13 to 16 inches.
The ‘frontal shield” is a horny plate which extends from the bill over
the forehead. It is one distinguishing character of the Coots and
Gallinules.

Vest. Amid the reeds or rank grass on the margin of a secluded pond
or sluggish stream, sometimes on a knoll near the water, attached to the
reeds, often floating on the water; a bulky affair of loosely arranged reeds
or sedge stems, scantily lined with grass, and placed on a high platform.
This platform sometimes rests on the tops of the surrounding reeds, which
are bent down to receive it.

£ges. 6-15 (usually about 10); pale buff, profusely spotted with dark
brown and lilac; size very variable, average about 1.90 X 1.40.

198 WADING BIRDS.

The Coot of America, so very similar to that of Europe,
according to the season is found in almost every part of the
continent, from the grassy lakes that skirt the Saskatchewan
plains, in the 55th parallel, to the reedy lagoons of East Florida
and the marshes of Jamaica. ‘To the west, the species seems
to inhabit the waters of the Columbia, in the remote Territory
of Oregon. Mr. Say observed it also in the lower part of Mis-
souri, and in Long’s Expedition it was seen in Lake Winnipeg
on the 7th of June. Mr. Swainson has also received speci-
mens from the distant tableland of Mexico. We may there-
fore conclude almost with certainty that the Coot of America,
indifferent to climate, dwells and breeds in every part of the
North American continent, over a range of probably more than
fifty degrees of latitude! Nocturnal in their habits, and dis-
persing themselves far and wide over every watery solitude,
these birds seem in many places to have disappeared for the
season, until they in large numbers, swelled by their prolific
broods, and impelled at the approach of winter to migrate for
food, now begin to show themselves in the lakes, pools, and
estuaries in the vicinity of the sea, from which they gradually
recede towards the South as the severity of the season compels
them, being unable to subsist amidst the ice. In this way
they proceed, accumulating in numbers as they advance, so
that in the inundated and marshy tracts of Florida, particularly
along the banks of the St. Juan, they are seen in winter, con-
gregated in vast and noisy flocks. In the milder latitudes,
their whole migrations will be limited to a traverse from the
interior to the vicinity of the sea, while those which visit the
wilderness of Upper Canada, where they are abundant in the
summer, will probably migrate from twenty-five to thirty
degrees every spring and autumn.

The Coots arrive in Pennsylvania about the beginning of
October. They appear in Fresh Pond, Cambridge, about the
first week in September. A pair took up their residence in
this small lake about the 15th of April; and in June they are
occasionally seen accompanied by their young. The nest, eggs,
and manners during the period of reproduction are yet

ee

AMERICAN COOT. 199

unknown. Timorous and defenceless, they seek out the re-
motest solitudes to breed, where, amidst impassable bogs and
pools, the few individuals which dwell in the same vicinity are
readily overlooked and with difficulty discovered, from the
pertinacity of the older birds in hiding themselves wholly by
day. It is therefore only when the affections and necessities
of the species increase that they are urged to make more visi-
ble exertions, and throw aside, for a time, the characteristic
indolence of their furtive nature. We now see them abroad,
accompanied by their more active and incautious offspring,
night and morning, without exhibiting much timidity, the young
sporting and feeding with careless confidence in their fickle
element. They are at this time easily approached and shot,
as they do not appear to dive with the same promptness as the
European species.

The old birds, ever watchful and solicitous for their brood,
with which they still appear to associate, when alarmed utter
at times a sort of hoarse ’kruvk, which serves as a signal either
to dive or swim away. At this season of the year Mr. N.
Wyeth informs me that he has heard the Coot repeatedly
utter a whizzing sound, which he can only compare to the
plunge of large shot when fired into water. It might possibly
be the small and bouncing leaps with which the associated
young of the common species amuse themselves at almost all
hours of the day. In East Florida, where they appear, ac-
cording to Bartram, to assemble and breed in great numbers,
they are very chattering and noisy, and may be heard calling
on each other almost night and day. With us they are, how-
ever, very taciturn, though tame, and with many other birds
appear to have no voice but for the exciting period of the
nuptial season.

The Coots of Europe have many enemies in the predacious
birds which surround them, particularly the Moor Buzzard,
which not only destroys the young, but sucks the eggs to such
an extent that notwithstanding their great prolificacy, they lay-
ing from twelve to eighteen eggs, the numbers are so thinned
by depredation that not above one tenth escape the talons of

200 WADING BIRDS.

rapacious species. Indeed, it is only the second hatch, of
about eight eggs, more securely concealed among the flags on
the margins of pools, that ever survive to renew the species.
The nest, secreted in this manner among the rank herbage, is
placed on the surface of the water, but raised above it by piling
together a quantity of coarse materials, in order to keep the
eggs dry. In this buoyant state a sudden gale of wind has
been known to draw them from their slender moorings, and
nests have thus been seen floating on the water, with the birds
still sitting upon them, as in the act of navigating over the pool
on which they had resided. The female is said to sit twenty-
two or twenty-three days; the young, now covered with a
black down, quit the nest as soon as they are hatched, and are
then cherished under the wings of the mother, and sleep around
her beneath the reeds; she also leads them to the water, in
which they swim and dive from the moment of their liberation
from the shell.

When closely pursued in the water, the Coot sometimes
makes for the shore, and from the compressed form of its body,
though so awkward in its gait, can make considerable progress
through the grass and reeds. When driven to take wing on
the water, it rises low and with reluctance, fluttering along the
surface with both the wings and feet pattering over it, for which
reason, according to Lawson, in his “‘ History of Carolina,” they
had in that country received the name of Flusterers.

The food of the American Coot, like that of the other species,
is chiefly vegetable ; it lives also upon small fluviatile shells
and aquatic insects, to all which it adds gravel and sand, in
the manner of common fowls. A specimen which I examined
on the rgth of September had the stomach, very capacious
and muscular, filled with tops of the water milfoil (JZyr7ophyl-
lum vertictlatum), and a few seeds or nuts of a small species
of bur-reed (Sparganium). From the contents of the intes-
tines, which were enormous, aquatic vegetables appeared now
to be their principal food.

In the month of November the Coot leaves the Northern
and Middle States, and retires by night, according to its usual

a

PURPLE GALLINULE. 201

habits, to pass the winter in the warmer parts of the Union,
and probably extends its journeys along all the shores of the
Mexican Gulf.

The Coot is still common bird throughout the temperate por-
tions of North America, and examples have been taken in Green-
land and Alaska. It winters in the Southern States and southward
through the West Indies and Central America.

Note. — The European Coor (/w/ica atra) has been taken in
Greenland.

PURPLE GALLINULE.
IONORNIS MARTINICA.

CHAR. Back bright olive; wings of deeper green and shaded with
blue ; head, neck, and breast rich bluish purple; belly darker; frontal
shield blue; bill red, tipped with yellow; legs yellow. Length about
13%4 inches.

‘Vest. In a marsh; fastened to rank grass or reeds, and hidden by
the stems to which it is attached, — made of dried and fresh grass and
reeds loosely arranged.

fges. 7-12 (usually about 9); pale buff or creamy, spotted chiefly
around the larger end with reddish brown and lavender; 1.70 X 1.15.

This very splendid but incongruous species of Gallinule is
in the United States a bird of passage, wintering in tropical
America, and passing the summer, or breeding-season, in the
marshes of Florida and the contiguous parts of the State of
Georgia, where it arrives in the latter part of April, retiring
south with its brood in the course of the autumn, and probably
wintering, according to its habits, in the swampy maritime dis-
tricts along the coast of the Mexican Gulf. An instance is
given by Mr. Ord of one of these birds being driven out to
sea and taking shelter on board of a vessel bound from New
Orleans to Philadelphia, while in the Gulf. This happened on
the 24th of May, and therefore could only have been a _ bewil-
dered straggler accidentally carried out to sea without any in-
tention of migrating; nor is it probable that a bird of such

202 WADING BIRDS.

short wings as those which characterize the genus would make
the attempt to travel any considerable distance over sea while
a route by land equally favorable for the purpose offered.
Little reliance, therefore, is to be placed upon these accidents
as proving the maritime migratory habits of birds. Several
hundred miles from land, towards the close of last June (1833),
in the latitude of the Capes of Virginia, the vessel in which I
was sailing for the port of New York was visited by two or
three unfortunate Swallows, who, overcome by hunger and
fatigue, alighted for a while on the rigging of our ship,
whence they, in all probability, proceeded farther out to sea
and perished. At this season of the year they could not be
migrating, but had wandered out upon the barren bosom of
the deceiving ocean, and would, in consequence of exhaustion
and famine, soon after fall a prey to the remorseless deep.

The Martinico Gallinule while in the Southern States fre-
quents the rice-fields, rivulets, and fresh-water pools in com-
pany with the more common Florida species. It is a vigorous
and active bird, bites hard when irritated, runs with agility, and
has the faculty, like the Sultanas, of holding on objects very
firmly with its toes, which are extremely long, and spread to a
great extent. When walking, it jerks its tail like a common
Gallinule. In its native marshes it is very shy and vigilant ;
and continually eluding pursuit, can be flushed only with the
aid of a dog.

This richly apparelled and beautiful bird is found regularly and
is quite common in all the Southern and Gulf States, and stragglers
are frequently seen northward to New England and westward to
Wisconsin. The only examples reported from Canada have been
taken in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. These birds do not
leave the United States in winter, as Nuttall supposed; they are
found in the South throughout the year.

They are called “ Sultanas ” in Jamaica, where Mr. Gosse found
them quite common; and this writer states that those he saw were
extremely indifferent to his approach, allowing him to walk to
within a few feet of where they were feeding, without manifesting
any fear.

Audubon states that after the brood is hatched the family retires

FLORIDA GALLINULE. 203

from the vicinity of the pools and streams to the interior of the
savannas ; but towards autumn they return again to the margins, and
at this later season they became shy and more vigilant.

These birds partake of a variety of food, their favorite diet being
a mixture of water-snails and plantains.

FLORIDA GALLINULE.
COMMON GALLINULE. RED-BILLED MUD HEN. WATER HEN.
GALLINULA GALEATA.

Cuar. Uniform grayish black, the back tinged with olive brown, the
belly paler than the breast; flanks striped with white; bill and frontal
shield bright red, the bill tipped with yellow; legs greenish. Length
about 13% inches.

Nest. In aswamp or marsh, —a bulky and clumsily arranged affair of
reeds or flags scantily lined with coarse grass. The nest is sometimes
placed on a platform made by bending down the tops of the surrounding
flags or rushes, or it is fastened to the stems of the flags or to the
branches of a bush. Occasionally a nest is found suspended over the
water upon which it floats as the tide rises, but usually the chosen situa-
tion is on a dry knoll.

Eges. 7-13; ground color varies from brownish buff to creamy, spotted
with dark brown; size variable, average about 1.85 X 1.25.

This species of Gallinule, so closely related to that of Europe,
is common in Florida, in the Antilles, in Jamaica, Guadaloupe,
and the isle of Aves, where it has to dispense with the use
of fresh water. It is seen frequenting pools, lagoons, and
streams, and extends over a great portion of the continent of
South America. In the Middle and Northern States of the
Union it appears to be quite accidental, though as a straggler
it has been seen and shot as farnorth as Albany, in the State
of New York. Its range to the north is therefore much more
limited than its European analogue. Its voice is uncouth, but
sonorous, and its cry or call resembles "ka, ’ka, "ka / Mr.
Audubon met with this species in great numbers in Florida
towards the source of the St. John’s in the month of March.

This species is unknown in Canada or the northern parts of
America.

204 WADING BIRDS.

Either this bird has increased the limit of its range since Nuttall
stalked our marshes, or the modern bird-hunter is provided with in-
creased power of observation, keener vision, and more accurate
perception, for recent reports concerning the distribution of the
Gallinule differ considerably from Nuttall’s account.

It is true the Florida Gallinule is at home in the tropical por-
tions of the continent, but it occurs regularly and in numbers
throughout the warm temperate area north to New England and
Canada, and west to the Mississippi valley. It is quite common
on Cape Cod, and nests have been found near Fresh Pond, Cam-
bridge, and in Vermont.

A few stragglers only have visited the Maritime Provinces; but
the bird breeds in numbers in Ontario, and is not uncommon around
Ottawaand Montreal. In Illinois and Wisconsin it is quite common.
But it is a shy and retiring bird, leaving its haunts amid the rank
marsh-grass and the rushes only when impelled by the migratory
instinct, and then the bird steals off under cover of the darkness.

In an interesting contribution to “The Auk,” Mr. Brewster
tells us that the movements of this Gallinule when walking or swim-
ming is peculiarly graceful, but when on the wing its appearance is
ludicrously awkward.

The notes of the bird are numerous and of great variety of tone
and compass, varying from a harsh scream to a low hen-like cluck.
“ Speaking generally,” writes Mr. Brewster, “ the notes were all loud,
harsh, and discordant, and nearly all curiously hen-like.” He adds,
“T certainly know of no other bird which utters so many different
sounds.” Some of the notes are like a drawling heé-ar-r, kreé-ar-r 5
or more rapidly uttered they produce a sound like £7~7-7-7-7, and
are varied with £ruc-kruc, or alow kloc-kloc. At times a note like
ticket-ticket-ticket-ticket is heard, and again a single abrupt explosive
kup like the cry of a startled frog.

RED PHALAROPE.
GRAY PHALAROPE. SEA GOOSE. WHALE BIRD.

CRYMOPHILUS FULICARIUS.

CHAR. Female in summer: above, black, the feathers of the neck and
back with a rufous or buff margin; wings gray, tipped with white ; cheeks
white ; bill orange ; under parts reddish chestnut ; legs and feet yellow ; toes
lobed. Male: duller, white on cheek less defined, and head streaked
with rufous or buff. In winter the rufous tints disappear and the plumage
of the upper parts becomes gray and the under parts white, while the bill
turns black. Length about 8% inches.

Nest. On a knoll in the spongy margin of a pond or saline pool, —a
slight depression in the peat or moss, scantily lined with grass, moss, or
leaves.

Eggs. 3-4; olive buff or sea green, spotted with dark brown and _ pur-
plish brown; 1.25 X 0.90.

The Flat-Billed or Red Phalarope inhabits the whole Arctic
Circle during summer, where, in the security of solitude, it
passes the important period of reproduction. It is observed

206 WADING BIRDS.

in the north and east of Europe, in abundance in Siberia,
upon the banks of lakes and rivers, and it extends its vernal
migrations to the borders of the Caspian. ‘These birds abound
in the hyperboreal regions of America, breeding on the North
Georgian Islands and on the remote and wintry coasts of Mel-
ville Peninsula. The late enterprising and scientific northern
navigators, on the roth of June, in the latitude of 68 degrees,
saw a company of these daring little voyagers out at sea, four
miles from land, swimming at their ease amidst mountains of
ice. They are seen also by mariners between Asia and Amer-
ica. According to Mr. Bullock, Red Phalaropes are found
common in the marshes of Sunda and Westra, the most north-
erly of the Orkney Isles, where they pass the breeding-season,
and are there so tame, and so little alarmed by the destructive
arts of man, as to suffer the report of a gun without fear, so
that Mr. Bullock killed as many as nine of them without mov-
ing from the spot where he made the first discharge. When
swimming in pools, this bird is seen continually dipping its
bill into the water, as if feeding on some minute insects, and
while thus engaged it will often allow of a very near approach.
When disturbed these birds fly out a short distance only, like
the Dunlins. Sometimes, though rarely, they are seen to
approach the shore or the land in quest of food; but their
proper element is the water, and more particularly that of the
sea or saline pools.

The Flat-Billed Phalarope breeds around Hudson Bay in
the month of June, soon after its arrival from its tropical
winter quarters; for this purpose, it selects some dry and
grassy spot, wherein it lays about four eggs of an oil-green
color, crowded with irregular spots of dark umber-brown, which
become confluent towards the obtuse end. The young take to
wing in July or early in August, and they leave the inclement
shores of their nativity in the month of September. At this
period, as well as in the spring, a few stragglers visit the United
States, where individuals have been occasionally shot in the
vicinity of Philadelphia and Boston. ‘These and other species
are also seen in the autumn about Vera Cruz, where they are

NORTHERN PHALAROPE. 207

sold with other game in the market. ‘Their visits in England
and Germany are equally rare as in the United States, and
individuals have been known sometimes to stray into Switzer-
land, having been shot on the Lake of Geneva.

These interesting birds breed in the high Arctic regions and win-
ter south to the shores of the Middle States. They are usually
found on the sea or along the coast; but a number have been seen
on the Great Lakes, and occasional examples have wandered to the
Ohio valley.

Explorers have met with large numbers of these birds on the
borders of the Arctic Ocean, and it is probable that few of them
breed south of latitude 65°. They are exceedingly abundant in the
Bay of Fundy during the migrations, and Mr. Boardman thinks a
few pairs have nested in that vicinity. The nests were not dis-
covered, but young birds were seen.

Among some peculiarities of the habits of this bird is the female’s
preference for conducting the courtship, which she carries on in a
vigorous fashion of her own. After capturing her lord,— or, to
be more exact, subduing her slave, —the female takes her ease,
while the male attends to the domestic affairs and hatches the eggs.
The female is much the handsomer of the two, and is also larger.

NORTHERN PHALAROPE.
RED-NECKED PHALAROPE. SEA GOOSE.
PHALAROPUS LOBATUS.

Cuar. Above, dark ash, paler on the head and rump, the back
striped with rufous or buff; wings dusky with a white bar, tail brownish
gray ; chin white; breast and sides of neck chestnut ; beneath, white ;
bill black, slender, and tapering; legs greenish. Length about 7% inches.

In winter the prevailing color is grayish, the forehead and crown
mostly white, and a line of dusky through the eyes.

The male is smaller than the female and of duller plumage, the
rufous tint less conspicuous, and the colors less defined.

Nest. In a swamp or bog on the margin of a pool, —a slight depression
in the peat scantily lined, and concealed amid a tuft of grass.

Eges. 3-4; pale olive buff or sea-green, thickly covered by spots of
dark brown; average size about 1.20 X 0.80.

The geographical range of the Hyperborean Phalarope, as
its name implies, is nearly, if not quite, similar with that of the

208 WADING BIRDS.

preceding species. In summer it dwells and breeds gener-
ally within the Arctic Circle in both continents. It penetrates
into Greenland, Iceland, and Spitzbergen, is abundant in the
north of Scotland, in the Orkneys and Hebrides, is equally
prevalent in Lapland, on the northern coasts of Siberia,
and between Asia and America, a transient visitor on the
shores of the Baltic, and seen only accidentally in Germany
and Holland. It sometimes, though very rarely, penetrates in-
land as far as the lakes of Switzerland, and in its natal regions
visits lakes of fresh as well as salt water. At the period of their
migrations, in May and August, these birds betake themselves
to the open sea, particularly in autumn, and are then gregarious,
assembling in flocks; at other times they are seen in pairs,
and, like the preceding, have a constant habit of dipping the
bill into the water, as if in the act of collecting the minute mol-
lusca which may be floating in it. They are also often seen on
the wing, and are said by Willoughby to utter a shrill, clamorous
cry, or twitter, resembling that of the Greater Tern.

In Arctic America, where this Phalarope resides in the mild
season, it is seen to seek out shady pools, in which it swims
with peculiar ease and elegance, its attitudes much resembling
those of the Common Teal.

These birds arrive to breed around Hudson Bay about the
beginning of June, and old and young are seen to frequent the
sea-coast previous to their departure, which takes place often
soon after the middle of August, on the 16th or 17th of
which they are occasionally killed in different parts of Massa-
chusetts Bay and near Newport in Rhode Islarid. They like-
wise probably pay a transient visit to the coast of New Jersey,
as they do also, at times, to Long Island, and finally repair
to the mild shores of the Mexican Gulf, being seen in the
markets of Mexico and Vera Cruz. Migrating probably by
sea and outside of the land, they but rarely visit the coast in
any part of the United States. Straggling families of the old
and young are met with in the vicinity of Boston nearly every
year about the beginning of May and the middle of August,
commonly in salt-water pools near the sea, and, as usual, they

NORTHERN PHALAROPE, 209

are seen perpetually dipping their bills into the water, or with
a reclined neck swimming and turning about in their favorite
element, with all the ease and grace of a diminutive swan. In
Iceland Hyperborean Phalaropes arrive about the middle of
May ; and waiting the complete thawing of the ice, they are
seen, for a time, assembled in flocks out at sea several miles
from the shore. ‘This gregarious association breaks up early in
June, when seceding pairs retire to breed by the mountain
ponds. ‘They are very faithful to their mates and jealous of
intrusion from strangers of the same species, on which occa-
sions the males fight with obstinacy, running to and fro upon
the water at the time even when the females are engaged in
incubation. When the young are exposed to any danger, the
parents are heard to express their alarm by a repeated ’f77,
‘prip. At the commencement of August, as in the glacial
regions of America, the whole retire to the open sea previous
to their migration to the South, and by the end of that month
they are no longer to be found in that island.

The food of this species is said to be chiefly worms, winged
insects, particularly diptera, and such other kinds as frequent
the surface of the water. In specimens which I have exam.
ined, the stomachs contained some small gravel and the
remains of aquatic coleopterous insects, as the different kinds
of small water-beetles. These individuals, which were young
birds beginning to moult, had therefore varied their fare by a
visit to some fresh-water pool or lake, and like their kindred
Sandpipers, had landed on the shore in quest of gravel. They
were likewise fat and very finely flavored. The old birds,
hunted as food by the Greenlanders, are said, however, to be
oily and unpalatable, which may arise probably from the
nature of the fare on which they subsist in high latitudes, — if
the birds alluded to are not, in fact, the smail Petrels instead
of Phalaropes ; though the inhabitants using the skins medici-
nally, to wipe their rheumy and diseased eyes, seems to decide
pretty nearly in favor of the present bird.

In the spring of 1832, about the beginning of May, so dense
a flock was seen on the margin of Chelsea Beach, in this

WO, Wis = iy

210 WADING BIRDS.

vicinity, that nine or ten individuals were killed out of it at a
single shot; these were nearly all old birds, and on being
eaten proved quite palatable. Mr. Audubon informs me that
in the month of May last (1833), he met with flocks of these
Phalaropes about four miles out at sea off the Magdalen
Islands, where they are known to the fishermen by the name of
“« Sea Geese,”’ appearing more or less every year. At this time
they were in very dense flocks of about one hundred together,
so close as nearly or wholly to touch each other. On being
approached they were very shy and wild, and as they rose to
fly, in the manner of the Sandpipers, uttered a faint, clear cry
of ’¢wee tweet. Like Tringas, too, they alight on the shore or
the ground, and run with agility. They also at times settle on
the driftweed and /wcz in order to glean up any insects which
may occur. ‘They squat on the ground like Snipes.

It is remarkable enough that all these flocks consisted of
birds of both ‘sexes assembling to breed and in imperfect
plumage. In none were the sides and front of the neck
wholly red. They had a broad patch of red below the ears,
not extending in front, and the blackish gray feathers of the
back and scapulars were edged, in the latter, nearly round
with pale dull rufous. The females were fader in all parts,
the scapulars merely edged with whitish rufous. The d77ghdest
of these birds answers to Temminck’s description of the
female of the species, while Bonaparte asserts that the fe-
males are always much é77ghter or redder than the males in
their most complete plumage. We have, therefore, the follow-
ing distinct stages of appearance in this species: The young of
the year, the young of the second year, differing in the
appearance of the sexes; the adults of both sexes (probably
not then wholly alike) ; and finally the gray Avery of winter,
distributed according to the variations in the preceding plumage.
We shall then have, at this rate, six or seven different states of
plumage to this single species of Phalarope.

This species breeds in the Far North, and is met with off our

coasts as the flocks journey to and from their winter quarters in
the tropics.

WILSON’S PHALAROPE. 211

I have seen the birds only as they have loitered awhile in the
Bay of Fundy; but they gave me no grounds for thinking them the
wild and shy things Audubon tells about. I thought them excep-
tionally heedless of my presence, — confiding, in fact, — for I fre-
quently ran into a flock that barely made way for my boat. Mr.
William Jefferies makes a similar report of the flocks he saw off
Swampscott in August, 1890.

The females of this species are rather more decorous than are
some of their cousins, though they do not believe in living alone if
a bit of management will secure a partner, but they are help-
mates, — they share in the wearisome task of incubation and in
caring for the youngsters ; and their consideration and their con-
stancy, which is unimpeachable, is rewarded by a chivalrous
devotion.

WILSON’S PHALAROPE.
SEA GOOSE.

PHALAROPUS TRICOLOR.

CHAR. Summer: above, dark ashy gray, paler on the crown and
rump ; throat, cheeks, and line over the eyes white; sides of the neck
rich chestnut; wings brownish gray; outer feathers (primaries) dusky ,
beneath, white, the breast tinged with pale chestnut ; bill long, slender,
and acute, and of black color. Length 9% inches.

In winter the plumage is ashy gray and lacks the rufous tints.

The female is larger and more highly colored and much more beautiful
than the male.

Vest. Ina marsh or wet meadow adjacent to a lake or pond, —a slight
depression scattered in the soil amid a tuft of grass, and sparsely lined

with grass.
Eggs. 3-4; grayish buff or dark buff, thickly spotted with brown of

several shades ; 1.30 X 0.90.

This elegant Phalarope, first noticed by Wilson in a museum
at Albany, was afterwards dedicated to his name and memory
when he was no longer conscious of the honor. Hurried to the
tomb from amidst his unfinished and ill-requited labors, his
favorite Orpheus and Wood Thrush pour out their melody in
vain. The Blue Bird, which hastens to inform us of the return
of spring and of the approach of flowers, delights no longer
the favorite of their song. Like his own beautiful and strange

212 WADING BIRDS.

bird, now before us, his transient visit, which delighted us, has
ended; but his migration, no longer to be postponed, has
exceeded the bounds of the earth, and spring and autumn,
with their wandering hosts of flitting birds, may still return,
while he, translated to the Elysian groves, will only be remem-
bered in the thrill of the plaintive nightingale.

Wilson’s Phalarope, unlike the preceding, has no predilec-
tion for the ultimate range of the Arctic Circle, confining its
residence, consequently, to the shores of America; it is un-
known in summer beyond the 55th parallel, passing the period
of reproduction on the plains of the Saskatchewan, being also
a stranger to the coasts of Hudson Bay. ‘Taking the interior
of the continent for its abode, it is not uncommon on the
borders of lakes in the vicinity of the city of Mexico.

From the structure of its legs and feet this remarkable
species, so distinct from the others, appears more suited for a
wading or walking than an eminent swimming bird. In the
United States it can only be considered as a straggler, of which
a specimen has been obtained near Philadelphia in May, and
another in the State of New York. As yet we have never met
with it in this vicinity. :

The “Swimming Sandpiper,” as this bird has been called, —a
name that describes it precisely, — is restricted chiefly to the inte-
rior, though stragglers have been taken on the shores of New Eng-
land and the Provinces. It is now known to breed abundantly in
Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Dakota, and northward to the
Saskatchewan valley. In winter the flocks range to Brazil and
Patagonia.

In habits the bird more closely resembles the Sandpipers than
does its congeners, seldom swimming except when wounded, and
wading knee-deep to glean its food. The female, however, with
true Phalaropian scorn for the proprieties, manages her courtship,
— and manages too her reluctant lover, — and after a brief — very
brief — honeymoon, she resigns charge of domestic arrangements

to her henpecked partner, who meekly sits on the eggs until they
are hatched.

COMMON TERN.

WILSON’S TERN. SEA SWALLOW. SUMMER GULL. MACKEREL
GULL.

STERNA HIRUNDO.

CHAR. Mantle deep pearl gray; crown and nape black; rump and
tail white; beneath, pale gray, shading to white on the throat; bill and
legs orange red. Tail deeply forked. Length 13 to 16 inches.

In winter the under parts are pure white, and the crown is mottled
with white.

The young birds have bars of brown on the mantle, and the crown is
of a brownish tinge; also, the bill and legs bear a yellow tinge in sum-
mer, and turn to nearly black in winter.

West. On the sand or amid shingle or short herbage near water, —
a slight depression, sometimes sparsely lined with grass or weeds; occa-
sionally a rather bulky nest is made of straw or sea-weed.

Fggs. 2-5 (usually 3); the ground color varies, olive and buff tints
prevailing; the marking also varies, but is always profuse and of several
shades of brown ; the size averages about 1.60 X 1.15.

The Common Tern is an inhabitant of both continents,
being met with on the coasts of most parts of Europe as far

214 SWIMMERS.

north as the ever-inclement shores of Greenland and Spitz-
bergen ; it is also found on the Arctic coasts of Siberia and
Kamtschatka. In the winter it migrates to the Mediterranean,
Madeira, and the Canary Islands. In America it breeds along
all the coasts of the Northern and Middle States, and pene-
trates north into the fur countries up to the 57th parallel of
latitude. It also breeds on the sand-bars of the Great Western
Lakes, being frequent in those of Erie, Huron, and Superior.
In short, no bird is more common along the sea-coasts and
lakes of the whole northern hemisphere, within the limits of
cool or moderate temperature.

These Terns arrive on the coast of New Jersey about the
middle of April, and soon after they are seen on the shores
of New England, where they are known by the name of the
Mackerel Gull, appearing, with the approach of that fish,
towards the places of their summer residence. In New York
they are dignified, for the same reason, with the appellation
of the Sheep’s-Head Gull, prognosticating also the arrival of
that dainty fish in the waters of the State. About the middle
of May, still gregarious as they arrive, they commence with
the cares of reproduction. Artless in contrivance, the Terns
remedy the defect of a nest by selecting for their eyries insula-
ted sand-bars, wide beaches, but most commonly desolate, bare,
and small rocky islets, difficult of access, and rarely visited by
anything but themselves and birds of similar habits. A small
hollow scratch on the surface of the shelving rock, with the aid
of a little sand or gravel merely sufficient to prevent the eggs
from rolling off, are all the preparations employed by these
social and slovenly birds. The eggs are left exposed pur-
posely to the warming influence of the sun, the parent sitting
on them only in the night or during the existenee of wet and
stormy weather. They are about 134 inches long by 14 in
width, of a dull yellowish or pale whitish olive, with dark-
brown blotches and spots, and others of a pale hue beneath
the surface, the whole often disposed in a sort of irregular
ring towards the obtuse end. Other eggs, again (as if of a dif-
ferent species of bird), are spotted almost equally all over.

COMMON TERN. 215

From the variety in the appearance of the eggs, it is pretty
obvious that the females indifferently and frequently lay in
each other’s nests, in the manner of our common fowls in a
state of domestication. ‘Though to all appearance thus aban-
doned to accident, the nests are constantly under the surveil-
lance of the Terns, and the appearance of ‘an intruding visitor
on the solitary spot chosen for their breeding retreat fills the
whole neighboring troop with dismay and alarm; and in
defence of their young they are very bold, clamorous, and
resentful, sweeping round and darting down so close to the
visitor as sometimes to touch his hat, making at the same
time a hoarse and creaking sound, and occasionally uttering a
plaintive, long-drawn ’Aéeé-way ; and when much irritated and
distressed by the fall of their companions or their brood by the
gun, we hear a jarring 2’, 2’, &’, as well as a piping plaint ;
and at times they utter a bark almost like so many puppies.
On a rocky islet near Nahant, in the vicinity of Boston, known
by the name of the Egg Rock, thirty or forty pairs annually
breed, and among these, others are also distinguished by the
name of ’fce-00s, from the sound of their usual note.

The young are often hatched at intervals of a day or two
from each other, and are carefully fed and watched for several
weeks before they are in a condition to fly. At first they are
fed on small fish and insects, such as grasshoppers and beetles,
the hard and indigestible parts of which food appearing to be
rejected by the bill in the manner of rapacious birds. The
young are afterwards fed without alighting, as they skim over
the spot; and then they merely drop the fish among the
brood, when the strongest and most active are consequently
the best served. The young at length launch out into the
marshes for themselves in quest of insects; while thus en-
gaged, at the warning voice of their parents, or the approach
of an enemy, they instantly squat down, and remain motionless
until the danger be over. As soon as the young are able to
fly, they are led by the old to the sand shoals and ripples
where fish are abundant, and occasionally feeding them, they
learn by example to provide for themselves.

216 SWIMMERS.

While flying, the Tern exhibits uncommon watchfulness ;
beating the air with a steady wing, and following*the track of
the vessel with an easy flight, this bird may be observed, with
quick eye and moving head, minutely scanning the haunts and
motions of its finny prey. At the approach of winter it retires
south of the limits of the Union.

In America this Tern is chiefly confined to the Eastern Pro-
vince, and is a common bird throughout its range.

FORSTER’S TERN.
STERNA FORSiERI.

CHAR. Above, pearl gray, paler on the wings and tail; crown and
nape black; beneath, white; bill orange, the terminal third blackish;
legs and feet orange; claws black. Length 12 to 15 inches.

In winter the head and neck are white, the nape is tinged with gray,
and on the side of the head is a broad black band.

Nest. Onamarshy margin of lake or stream, or on a grassy island;
loosely made of reeds and sedges, and lined with grass.

Eggs. 2-3; varying from pale buff or olive to olive brown, marked
brown and pale lilac; average size about 1.80 X 1.25.

Nuttall wrote in a note to the Common Tern that the bird
described by Richardson as Sterna hirundo appeared to be a
distinct species, distinguished by the pearl-gray tail and other char-
acters, and he proposed for this probable new species the name
of Sterna forsteri, in honor of the eminent naturalist and voyager
who first suggested these distinctions. Having been recognized by
naturalists as a valid species, the name thus proposed has been
adopted for it.

In appearance, as in manners, the bird is very similar to the
Common Tern, though the present species displays a decided pre-
ference for a grass-covered nesting site, and is inclined to remain
near fresh water.

It is a rare bird along the Atlantic coast, excepting at Cobb’s
Island, off Virginia, but is abundant on the inland waters of the
west, north to Manitoba. A number nést every year on the St.
Clair Flats, Ontario; but the only examples that have been taken
in Canada to the eastward of that point were obtained at Lake
Mistassini, Quebec, and on Prince Edward’s Island.

In winter the flocks range southward as far as Brazil.

ROYAL TERN. 217

ROYAL TERN.
CAYENNE TERN. GANNET STRIKER.
STERNA MAXIMA.

CuHAR. Mantle pearl gray; tail with less of the bluish tint; rump
nearly white; crown and nape black; primaries silvery gray, the inner
webs with a dark stripe next the shaft, and inner edge white ; under parts
white ; bill orange ; legs and feet black. Length 18 to 21 inches.

After the mating season, —the spring months, —the crown becomes
more or less white, and in winter the nape also has white feathers mixed
with the black.

Vest. No attempt is made to construct a receptacle for the eggs, which
are laid on the sand of a sea-beach or on the edge of a marshy lagoon.

Leggs. 1-4; buffy or yellowish drab, marked with brown or pale lilac;
average size about 2.65 X 1.75.

Nuttall makes bare mention of this handsome bird, — da grande
Hirondelle-de-mer de Cayenne of Buffon, — knowing nothing of its
habits or distribution, and in error gives S. casfza as a synonym ;
but the Caspian Tern is a larger bird and quite distinct. Our bird
is not exclusively American, as Nuttall supposed, for Dalgleish
found it on the west coast of Africa. In the United States it is
confined chiefly to the tropical and warm temperate regions, sel-
dom ranging north of latitude 40°, though a few examples have
wandered to the Great Lakes and as far up the coast-line as
Massachusetts.

The centre of its abundance is along the Gulf shore, the birds
being especially numerous in Florida and Texas, though they are
also ‘rather common at Cobb’s Island, Virginia.

The name of “ Gannet-striker ’”” — pirent shortened to “ Gannet”
—has been given to the Royal Tern from its Gannet-like per-
formance of descending upon its prey from the wing, darting
down perpendicularly and swiftly, plunging under the surface of
the water, but soon reappearing, and mounting into the air again
with considerable difficulty.

GULL-BILLED TERN.
MARSH TERN.

GELOCHELIDON NILOTICA.

CHAR. Upper parts pale pearl gray; crown and nape black; under
parts white; bill short, stout, gull-shaped, and of black color ; legs and
feet dusky. Length about 13 to 15 inches.

In winter the crown and nape are pale gray, and a bar of darker gray
runs through the eyes.

Jest. A slight depression in the sand of a sea-beach or river-bank,
sometimes amid the low grass on the margin of a marsh; occasionally
lined with grass or sea-weed.

Eges. 3-4; light buff or pale olive, marked with brown and lavender ;
average size about 1.80 X I.30.

This bird, though rare in England, is very common in east-
ern Europe, particularly in Hungary and on the confines of
Turkey. In the new continent it inhabits the whole coast of
the Atlantic from New England to Brazil. In Europe it
affects the covert of rushy marshes in the vicinity of the Great
Lakes, and rarely ever visits the sea-coast or the ocean. It has
also been seen inland, in Missouri, by Mr. Say, and probably
penetrates still farther into the interior to the coasts of the
Great Lakes of the North American continent. Wilson first
observed these birds on the shores of Cape May, in New
Jersey, where parties were engaged darting down like Swal-

GULL-BILLED TERN. 219

lows over the salt-marshes, in quest of some aquatic insects or
spiders which occur upon the surface of the water. ‘Their
food while here appears wholly composed of insects; in
Europe also their fare is similar, and they feed upon lepidop-
terous insects or moths as well as other kinds, showing indeed
by this peculiarity of appetite their independence on the
produce of the ocean, and their indifference to salt water as
preferred to fresh.

The Marsh Terns keep apart by themselves, and breed in
company on the borders of the salt-marshes among the drift-
grass, preparing no artificial nest, laying three or four eggs of
a greenish olive spotted with brown. ‘The voice of this species
is sharper and stronger than that of the Common Tern.

This Tern is common along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the
Southern States, and occasionally examples wander to Long Island
and the Great Lakes. One has been taken in Massachusetts, and
one in the Bay of Fundy.

Though not a fish-eating Tern, this bird is rarely found away
from the sea-shore in America. It utters a variety of notes, the
most common being fairly represented by the syllables Zay-wek,
kay-wek. One note is described as a laugh, and is said to sound
like hay-hay-hay.

ARCTIC “TERN.

STERNA PARADIS/A.

CHAR. Mantle pearl gray; darker on the wings ; rump and tail white ;
tail deeply forked ; lower parts gray tinged with pearl gray almost as dark
as the mantle; paler on the throat; bill and feet deep carmine. Length
14 to 17 inches.

In winter the lower parts are whiter, and the crown has more white
than black feathers ; also the bill and feet are dusky.

Nest. On the sand of a sea-beach, often amid shingle or drifted sea-
weed; sometimes a slight hollow sparsely lined with grass or weed-stems.

Eges. 2-4; not easily distinguished from those of S. A7rundo, but
usually ofa darker ground color and more heavily marked; ground
color varies from buff to buffish brown, and olive to olive brown, the
markings of several shades of brown ; average size about 1.55 X I.15.

The name of this bird —like the names of too many other
species — is misleading; for while the bird ranges through the
Arctic region and nests have been discovered as far north as lati-
tude 82°, yet numbers breed on the islands of the Bay of Fundy
and the coasts of Maine and Massachusetts. It is said to have
been abundant in the last-named State some years ago.

ARCTIC TERN. 221

The peculiar distribution of this species, and the supposition that
the flocks never migrate down the shores of the Pacific, have led
some naturalists to suggest that the birds were originally confined
to the Atlantic Ocean, though ranging on both its eastern and west-
ern shores. The breeding area, they say, was gradually extended
east and west, one division of the birds going off along the north-
ern shore of America, the other across the end of Europe and
Asia, advanced flocks of each division finally meeting at Bering
Sea. But at the approach of winter these flocks separated at that
point, and ignoring the Pacific route to a milder climate, they fol-
lowed “hereditary instincts” and returned to the Atlantic, each
division migrating along its own path and wintering on its own
chosen shore, —the flocks of one wing ranging to the Middle
States, the others to the Canary Islands.

The hypothesis is interesting and the facts are in the main cor-
rect; but it has been strongly hinted that the hypothesis has been
cruelly disturbed by the birds themselves, — they have turned up in
California. The hypothesis should not, however, be abandoned
because a few individuals have forsaken the traditions of their
race, — that is a common weakness of those who ‘go west.”
Enough Arctic Terns still follow the ways of their fathers when
migrating, to prove the strength of this inherited tendency.

In habits as well as in general appearance and manners this
species differs but slightly from the Common Tern. Our bird is
perhaps more graceful on the wing, though both fly with wonderful
grace and ease, and the Arctic Tern displays more boldness in
defence of its young or of a wounded companion. It seems utterly
fearless, and will advance so close as to strike with its pinions a
hand that menaces its young; and when a colony is invaded by
any marauder, the Arctic Tern is the first to lead an attack upon
the intruder, and the attack is so fierce that the colony is usually
saved.

The Arctic Terns frequent rocky islands and secluded portions
of the mainland, and in these localities the birds gather in large
‘communities. They may be seen sitting on a rock or stump, watch-
ing for their prey, in Kingfisher fashion. They float buoyantly on
the water, but rarely dive beneath the surface.

222 SWIMMERS.

CABOT’S TERN.
SANDWICH TERN.
STERNA SANDVICENSIS ACUFLAVIDA.

CHAR. Upper parts pale pearl gray, much paler on rump and tail ;
tail deeply forked ; crown and nape black; under parts white tinged with
pink ; bill black tipped with pale buff; legs and feet black. Length 14 to
16 inches.

fest. A slight hollow scratched in the sand of a sea-beach or ona
grassy island ; sometimes lined with grass or dry sea-weed.

Eggs. 2-4 (usually 3); ground color varies from white through cream
color to brownish buff; sometimes tinged with olive; the markings are
varied, but always profuse, and of several shades of brown and pale gray ;
size variable, average about 2.00 X 1.40.

Few species have a wider geographic range than the Sand-
wich Tern. It was first observed in England by Mr. Boys, of
Sandwich, where it is not uncommon, and was afterwards pub-
lished by Latham. It is readily confounded with the Common
Tern (Sterna hirundo), but is superior in size, besides possessing
other differences ; it is rather rare on other parts of the Eng-
lish coast. It is believed to breed on the shores of Sandwich,
and retires south in autumn, where it is probably afterwards
seen migrating to the coast of Africa to pass the winter, and
the young birds have been brought from the distant shores of
New Zealand. According to Temminck it is very abundant in
the isles of North Holland, and chiefly frequents the sea-coast,
though sometimes it has been known to wander into the inte-
rior and visit fresh waters. In the Leverian Museum there
existed, some years ago, a specimen of the young bird from
South America; but it was left for our indefatigable friend
Audubon to discover this interesting cosmopolite within the
boundary of the United States. In 1832 he with his party
obtained a considerable number of specimens in summer
plumage during the month of May in East Florida, and they
were particularly abundant in the vicinity of Indian Key, about
thirty miles from Cape Sable. In this place in the usual man-
ner of the genus they breed together in large communities.

ROSEATE TERN. 223

Cabot’s Tern differs but slightly in coloration of plumage from
the Sandwich Tern of England; but our bird is confined to the
tropical and warm temperate regions, occurring in numbers no
farther north than Florida, though occasionally represented by a
wanderer along the coast even to Massachusetts. It is pre-emi-
nently a sea-bird, and is rarely found inland.

To write of the bird’s habits would necessitate a repetition of
what has been said of others of this group; for Cabot’s Tern dis-
plays little originality or individuality in its methods, though it may
be credited with great power of sustained flight, and more than
many of the Terns deserves the name “ Sea Swallow,” so generally
applied to the entire group; but instead of pursuing flies it preys
solely upon fish. Its strength of wing and skill enable it to outride
the severest storms, and flocks of these birds may be seen dipping
into crested waves or skimming over angry breakers to seize the
prey that may be brought to the surface by the gale.

ROSEATE TERN.
STERNA DOUGALLI.

CHAR. Upper parts delicate pearl gray, paler on the tail, crown and
nape deep black; lower parts delicate rose pink, which fades to white
after death; bill black; legs and feet red; wings short; tail long and
deeply forked. Length about 15% inches.

iVest. A slight hollow in the sand of a sea-beach or barren sea-island,
often amid the coarser shingle , sometimes sparsely lined with beach-grass
or sea-weed.

Eggs. 2-4 (usually 3); ground color varied from light to dark buff and
pale to deep olive; profusely and irregularly marked with several shades
of brown; average size about 1.55 X 1.15.

Eggs of the Common, Arctic, and Roseate Terns are too much alike to
be distinguished. ‘hose of the present species are said to be slightly
lighter in color as a rule.

The Roseate Tern, so frequently associated with and con-
founded in the character of the Common Tern, is another
species common to the colder and temperate parts of both
continents, being frequent upon the coasts of Scotland and
England, particularly the former. It is also found in
Norway, and probably also upon the borders of the Baltic,
visiting the northern coasts of the ocean in small numbers,

224 SWIMMERS.

associated with flocks of the Great Tern. The particular
places of resort for the present species, according to Dr.
M’ Dougal, are two small, flat, and rocky islands in the Firth
of Clyde called Cumbrae Islands, chiefly about Milford Bay.
On these islands the Common Tern swarms to such a degree
that it was scarcely possible to step without treading upon the
young birds or eggs. ‘The new species here described was shot
by accident, without its being distinguished until it lay dead
upon the ground, when the Doctor’s attention was attracted by
the beautiful pale roseate hue of the breast. There did not
here appear to be more than about one in two hundred of the
present with the Common Tern ; but they were at length easily
singled out by the comparative shortness of their wings, white-
ness of their plumage, and by the elegance and slowness of
their aérial motion, often sweeping along or resting in the air
almost immovable, like the soaring of a Hawk; and they
were also distinguishable by the comparative inferiority of
their size.

In the United States these birds are sparingly seen with the
Common Tern, as I have obtained an individual on the coast
at Chelsea Beach ; and they may breed on the neighboring isle
of Egg Rock or in similar places in the temperate parts of the
Union.

This beautifully tinted and graceful bird is of rather southern
habitat, only a small number breeding northward of southern Mas-
sachusetts on this side of the Atlantic, though a few examples
have wandered along the coast as far as the Bay of Fundy. It is
almost exclusively a bird of the open ocean, seldom even frequent-
ing the salt-lagoons; but several have been captured on the Great
Lakes. Large numbers once gathered at Muskegat Island, one of
the Nantucket group; but of late years they have shared the fate of
all their kindred and been slaughtered by milliners’ assistants that
their wings might adorn my lady’s hat, until now very few remain.
Says William Brewster, writing of Muskegat: “Were it not for
man, — who, alas ! must be ranked as the greatest of all destroyers,
—the Terns would here find an asylum sufficiently secure from all
foes.” He graphically tells of the shooting of hundreds of the birds
by yachting parties, “either in wanton sport or for their wings,
which are presented to fair companions;” and adds: “ Then the

LEAST TERN. 225

graceful vessel spreads her snowy sails and glides blithely away
through the summer seas; all is gayety and merriment on board.
But among the barren sand-hills, fast fading in the distance, many a
poor bird is seeking its mate, many a downy orphan is crying for
the food its dead mother can no longer supply, many a pretty
speckled egg lies cold and deserted. Buzzing flies settle upon the
bloody bodies, and the tender young pine away and die. A grace-
ful, pearl-tinted wing surmounts a jaunty hat for a brief season, and
then is cast aside, and Muskegat lies forgotten, with the bones of
the mother and her offspring bleaching on the white sand. This
is no fancy sketch; all the world over the sad destruction goes
on. It is indeed the price of blood that is paid for nodding plumes.
Science may be, nay, certainly is, cruel at times; but not one tithe
of the suffering is caused by her disciples that the votaries of the
goddess Fashion yearly sanction.”

LEAST TERN.
SILVERY TERN. LITTLE STRIKER.
STERNA ANTILLARUM.

Cuar. Upper parts pale pearl gray of a silvery tint; crown and nape
black, the forehead with a patch of white; outer wing-feathers dusky;
under parts white ; bill yellow, tipped with black ; legs and feet orange.
Length about 9 inches.

iVest. A slight hollow in the sand of a sea-beach.

£ggs. 2-4 (usually 3); pale to deep buff, sometimes tinged with olive,
profusely blotched with brown and lavender; average size about 1.25
X 0.95.

The Silvery Tern, apparently of Temminck, and the Lesser
Tern of Wilson, is an inhabitant of the American continent,
and was first detected as distinct from the European species
by Prince de Neuwied, in Brazil. In the United States it
arrives from its hybernal retreat later than the Common Tern,
and is not met with so far to the north, being unknown in the
Canadian fur countries. ‘These birds are, however, common
‘in the Middle and New England States, being frequently seen
coasting along the shores or over pools and salt-marshes in
quest of the insects and small shrimps which constitute their
favorite fare ; they also occasionally dart down upon small fish

VOL. Il. — 15

226 SWIMMERS.

and fry, hovering, suspended in the air, for a moment over
their prey, like so many small Hawks, and with equal prompt-
ness dash headlong into the water after it, seizing it with the
bill, as the feet are incapable of prehension. The Silvery Tern
sometimes makes extensive incursions along the river courses,
and has been shot several hundred miles from the sea, its
principal place of residence.

In the latter end of May or beginning of June the female
commences laying. ‘The eggs are merely deposited in a slight
scratch in the sand, and left to hatch in the heat of the sun;
the bird, as usual, sitting on them only during the night and
in wet and stormy weather. On approaching their breeding-
places the old birds assemble in crowds around the intruder,
and after a good deal of vociferation, flying round in wide cir-
cuits, they often approach within a few yards of one’s head,
squeaking almost like so many young pigs, and appear to be
very irritable and resentful. At other times, when not excited
or alarmed, they are tame and unsuspicious, particularly the
young birds, often heedlessly passing the spectator within a
few yards while tracing the windings of the shore in quest of
their prey.

This is a bird of the tropical and warm-temperate regions, breed-
ing chiefly from the Middle States southward, and wintering in
Central America. The Nantucket Islands were a favorite resort
some years ago, but few examples are found there now. Occasion-
ally stragglers wander along the coast as far as Labrador, and a
few have been seen on the Great Lakes.

CU

CASPIAN TERN.
GANNET STRIKER.

STERNA TSCHEGRAVA.

CuHar. Mantle pale pearl gray; tail and wings silvery; crown and
nape black; under parts white ; bill red, tipped with black; legs and feet
black. In winter the black cap is streaked with white. In immature
birds the upper parts are light gray mottled with brownish gray; bill
yellowish brown; legs and feet brown. The largest of the Terns. Length

21 inches or more.
Nest. A slight hollow in the sand, sometimes lined with a little grass

or sea-weed.
£ggs. 2-3; buff of various shades, sometimes tinged with olive,
marked with brown and lavender ; average size 2.60 X 1.75.

This Tern received its name from Pallas, who discovered it on the
shores of the Caspian Sea. It was first described in 1770, but was
not known to the earlier American naturalists, Baird’s work of
1858 being the first in which its name appears.

It is not abundant in this country, or indeed in any country ex-
cepting in a few localities, though cosmopolitan in its distribution

228 SWIMMERS.

and ranging over inland waters as well as on the sea. It has been
found breeding on Cobb’s Island, Virginia, but along the New Eng-
land shores it is seen in the spring and autumn chiefly, indicating a
Northern nesting ground, though few specimens have been taken in
the Arctic regions. It is said that nests have been taken on the
shores of Texas,— which would give the bird an extensive breeding
area, though the nesting sites are in widely separated localities.
It might almost be said of this bird that it ranges over the entire
globe, and breeds throughout its range.

The cry of the bird is loud and harsh, resembling the syllables
kay-owk, or key-rak ; though when a nesting site is menaced, or a
pair meets in contention for a coveted mouthful, the cry is reduced
to a sharp £ok, or kak, or kowk.

The Caspian Tern preys chiefly on fish; but several naturalists
have reported finding the remains of eggs and young birds in its
stomach.

Norte. — A few examples of TRUDEAU’S TERN (Sterna trudeautz),
a South American species, have wandered north as far as Long
Island; and the BRIDLED TERN (S. ane@ethetus), also a tropical
bird, has been taken off the coast of Florida.

SOOTY TERN.
STERNA FULIGINOSA.

CHAR. Upper parts sooty black; forehead, outer tail-feathers, and
under parts white; bill, legs, and feet, deep black. Length about 16
inches.

Nest. A slight hollow in the sand of an open sea-beach; sometimes
amid the thicket of herbage bordering the beach.

Leggs. 1-3 (usually 1); white to pale buff, spotted with reddish brown
and lilac; average size 2.00 X 1.40.

These Terns generally inhabit the tropical seas, being widely
dispersed into either hemisphere. On the Isle of Ascension
they breed in swarms. ‘The flocks which possess the various
parts of the island, perpetually breeding, in this mild latitude
were found laying at different times. In some places the
young were hatched and grown, in others newly laid eggs
were seen. ‘They uttered a sharp and shrill cry, and were so
fearless of the men who visited the island as to fly almost

SOOTY TERN. 229

among them. ‘The species is migratory, however, even in
these mild climates.

Along the coasts of Georgia and Florida Wilson observed
these ‘lerns in numerous flocks in the month of July. They
were very noisy, and darted down headlong after small fish.
Birds of this species frequently settle on the rigging of ships at
sea, and, in common with their relatives, are called Noddies by
the sailors.

The Sooty Tern occurs regularly north to the Carolinas, and oc-
casionally wanders to the shores of Massachusetts. It is almost
exclusively a sea-bird, feeding chiefly upon fish, which it catches by
swooping to the surface, not by dropping into the water. It rarely
floats upon the water, but its flight is powerful and rapid.

BLACK TERN.
SHORT-TAILED TERN.

HyYDROCHELIDON NIGRA SURINAMENSIS.

CHAR. Upper parts, deep slate gray; head, neck, and under parts
black; lower tail-coverts white ; bill black; legs and feet dusky or red-
dish brown. In winter the black is mostly replaced by white, the crown
gray. Length about 9% inches.

Vest. A slight hollow in the muddy soil of a reedy marsh, sometimes
sparsely lined with grass; often placed on a platform of floating herbage,
and then is made of reeds or coarse sedges firmly constructed.

Eggs. 3; ground color varies from grayish buff to yellowish brown,
sometimes tinged with olive ; profusely marked with several shades of
brown and purplish gray ; average size about 1.40 X 1.00.

This is another aquatic bird common to the northern regions
of both continents, extending its residence to the limits of the
Arctic Circle, and breeding in the fur countries of the interior
upon the borders of lakes and in swamps. It is also very
common in Holland and in the great marshes of Hungary, and
has been observed round the salt lakes of Siberia and Tartary.

BLACK TERN. 231

In Europe it is met with as far as Iceland. In all situations it
appears to prefer the borders of rivers, lakes, or marshes to
the vicinity of the sea, except when engaged in its migrations.

This Tern is a common summer inhabitant of England, ap-
pearing, according to Montagu, in Romney Marsh, in Kent,
about the latter end of April, breeding on the sedgy borders
of pools, and though very near to the sea, it is rarely seen
on the shores till after the breeding-season, and is then un-
common. ‘These birds breed likewise in the fens of Lincoln-
shire, making a nest of flags or broad grass upon a tuft just
elevated above the surface of the water.

The young of this species are rather common on the coasts
of New Jersey during autumn, on their way still farther
south to pass the winter. Wilson observed a flock of these
driven inland as far as the meadows of the Schuylkill, by a
violent storm from the northeast. Hundreds of them were to
be seen at the same time, accompanied by flocks of the Yel-
low-Legs and a few Purres (Z7inga alpina). Famished by
the accident which had impelled them from their usual abodes,
they, were now busy, silent, and unsuspicious, darting down
after their prey of beetles, grasshoppers, and other insects, now
afloat by the inundation, without hesitating, though perpetually
harassed by gunners, who had assembled to view the extra-
ordinary spectacle of these rare flocks of wandering birds. In
ordinary, as in Europe, they frequent mill-ponds and fresh-
water marshes, in preference to the bays and the sea-coast.

The Black Tern is acommon bird on the lakes of the interior
north to about latitude 45°, and is seen on the sea-coast chiefly
during the fall migration. Occasional examples occur along the
Massachusetts shore, and some have been taken at Grand Menan.

Note. — A few examples of the WHITE-WINGED BLACK TERN
(AZ. leucoptera) have wandered to America. One was taken by
Professor Kumlien in Wisconsin, and six were seen by Professor
Macoun on a lake near Winnipeg.

232 SWIMMERS.

NODDY.
ANOUS STOLIDUS.

Cuar. Plumage deep sooty brown, darker on wings and tail, paler on
neck; crown hoary gray, shading to white on the forehead. Length
about 15 inches.

Nest. Usually in a tree or low bush, sometimes on a cliff of a rocky
island, made of twigs lined with leaves and grass.

Eggs. 1; pale buff, sometimes tinged with slate, spotted with brown
and lavender; 2.00 X 1.35.

These common and well-known birds inhabit all parts of the
tropical seas, and migrate occasionally as far as the coasts of
the United States, at which times they are generally seen in
flocks, and are by no means rare. Familiar to mariners who
navigate in the equatorial regions, the Noddy, like the voyager,
frequents the open seas to the distance of some hundreds of
leagues from the land, and with many other birds of similar
appetites and propensities, it is seen in great flights assidu-
ously following the shoals of its finny prey. It pursues them
by flying near the surface of the water, and may now be
seen continually dropping on the small fish, which approach
the surface to shun the persecution of the greater kinds by
which they are also harassed. A rippling and silvery white-
ness in the water marks the course of the timid and tumultuous
shoals, and the whole air resounds with the clangor of these
gluttonous and greedy birds, who, exulting or contending for
success, fill the air with their varied but discordant cries.
Where the strongest rippling appears, there the thickest swarms
of Noddies and sea-fowl are uniformly assembled. ‘They fre-
quently fly on board of ships at sea, and are so stupid or indo-
lent on such occasions as to suffer themselves to be taken by
the hand from the yards on which they settle ; they sometimes,
however, when seized, bite and scratch with great resolution,
leading one to imagine that they are disabled often from
flight by excessive fatigue or hunger.

The Noddies breed in great numbers in the Bahama Islands,
laying their eggs on the bare shelvings of the rocks ; they also

NODDY. 233

breed on the Roca Islands and various parts of the coast of
Brazil and Cayenne. According to the accounts of voyagers,
they lay vast numbers of eggs on certain rocky isles contiguous
to St. Helena, and the eggs are there accounted a delicate
food. Some have imagined that the appearance of the Noddy
at sea indicates the proximity of land ; but, in the manner of the
Common Tern, these birds adventure out to sea, and like the
mariner himself, the shelter of whose friendly vessel they seek,
they often voyage at random for several days at a time, com-
mitting themselves to the mercy of the boundless ocean; and
having at certain seasons no predilection for a peculiar climate,
the roving flocks or stragglers find a home on every coast.

This Tern never comes up the Atlantic coast beyond the South-
ern States, but is common around Florida and on the Gulf shores.

SABINE’S GULL.
FORKED-TAIL GULL.

XEMA SABINII.

CuaR. Mantle deep bluish gray, — French gray; head and neck dark
slaty gray, bordered by a collar of black; quills black tipped with white ;
tail and under parts white; bill black tipped with red, which in dried
skins becomes yellowish. In winter the head is white, and the nape slaty
gray. The young birds are similar to the winter plumage of the adults,
but the mantle is more or less varied with brown and buff, and the tail
has a terminal band of black. Length about 14 inches.

Vest. On an island, usually in a lake, sometimes near the coast, — gen-
erally a depression in the mossy turf, sparsely lined with grass, occasion-
ally on the bare ground or in sand.

fggs. 2-3 (usually 2); ground color of various shades of brown tinted
with olive, marked with fine spots of dark brown and gray; average size
about 1.75 X 1.25.

This interesting species was discovered by Captain Sabine
at its breeding-station on some low rocky islands lying off the
west coast of Greenland, associated in considerable numbers
with the Arctic Tern, the nests of the two birds intermingled.
It is analogous to the Tern, not only in its forked tail and in
its choice of a breeding-place, but also in the boldness which it
displays in the protection of its young. The parent birds flew

ee

SABINE’S GULL. 235

with impetuosity towards those who approached their nests,
and when one was killed, its mate, though frequently fired at,
continued on the wing close to the spot. The birds were
observed to collect their food from the sea-beach, standing
near the edge of the water, and gleaning the marine insects
which were cast on the shore. When newly killed, the plu-
mage of the under parts had a delicate pink blush.

Like most of the black-headed members of this group, Sabine’s
Gull displays a preference for inland waters, especially in the nest-
ing season, though it never builds far away from the sea. Its
breeding area lies in the Far North, near the shores of the Arctic
Ocean; but in winter it ranges to the New England coasts and
to the Great Lakes. It is not common, however, so far south;
probably more examples have been seen about the mouth of the
Bay of Fundy than elsewhere along our shores.

Nore. — Nuttall gave a place in his work to the LITTLE GULL
(Larus minutus); but the claim of this species to be included in
our fauna has been disputed by recent authorities, and the name
has been omitted from the A. O. U. “ Check-List.” It has been
given, however, in the “ History of N. A. Birds,” and in Ridgeway’s
“ Manual;” and the bird’s right to be mentioned in all American
ornithological works has now been finally settled by Mr. William
Dutcher’s authentic statement that one example was captured on
Long Island in 1887.

LAUGHING GULL.
BLACK-HEADED GULL.

LARUS ATRICILLA.

CHAR. Mantle deep slaty gray; head and neck dark brownish slate;
outer wing-feathers black ; tail and under parts white, slightly tinged with
pale pink; bill and feet dull red.

In winter the under parts lose the pink tint, and the head is white.
Length about 16 inches.

Nest. Ona grassy island, hid amid a tussock of sedges or in the sand
of a sea-beach; a slight depression in the turf lined with fine grass.

Eggs. 3-5; dull white or pale slate tinged with green or blue, marked
profusely with brown and lilac; average size about 2.20 X 1.55.

This species, very common in most parts of America, is also
frequent in Europe, particularly in the warmer parts, as the
coasts of Sicily, Spain, and the islands of the Mediterranean ;
elsewhere in that continent it is rare and accidental. In
America it is found as far south as Cayenne and Mexico, but
does not appear to inhabit far north of the limits of the Union,
On the coast of New Jersey it makes its appearance in the

latter part of April, and is soon discovered by its familiar-

— 2.

LAUGHING GULL. 237

ity and noise ; companies are even seen at times around the
farm-house, or coursing along the river shores, attending upon
the track of the fishermen for garbage, gleaning among the
refuse of the tide ; or, scattering over the marshes and plough-
ing fields, they collect, at this season, an abundant repast of
worms, insects, and their larvae. Great numbers are also seen
collected together to feed upon the prolific spawn of the king-
crab. While thus engaged, if approached they rise, as it were,
in clouds, at the same time squalling so loudly that the din
may be heard for two or three miles.

The Black-Headed Gulls breed in the marshes of New
Jersey, but are not seen during the breeding-period in New
England, and are indeed at all times rare in this quarter. Be-
ing apparently a somewhat tender species, they retire to the °
South early in autumn, and on commencing their migrations,
if the weather be calm, they are seen to rise up in the air spir-
ally, all loudly chattering as it were in concert, like a flock of
cackling hens, the note changing at short intervals into a
haw, ’ha’ha’ha ’haw, the final syllable lengthened out into
an excessive and broad laugh. After ascending to a consider-
able height, they all move off, by common consent, in the line
of their intended destination.

On the 4th of March (1830), while at Beaufort, North
Carolina, in company with several other species I saw a small
flock of these Risible Gulls, which every now and then, while
amusing themselves by fishing and plunging after their prey
of fry, burst out very oddly into an oh oh agh agh, or a coarse,
laughing scream.

The Laughing Gulls used to breed in numbers on the Nantucket
islands, but they have been nearly exterminated, and during recent
years only a few examples have been seen on the New England
shores. To the southward these birds are still common, being
particularly abundant on the Florida coast and among the West
India islands.

238 SWIMMERS.

FRANKLIN’S GULL.
LARUS FRANKLINI.

CHAR. Mantle deep bluish gray; head dark sooty slate color, a patch
of white over the eyes; outer wing-feathers barred with black and tipped
with white; tail pale pearl gray; under parts white, tinted with rose pink ;
bill bright red, barred near the end with black; legs dull red. In winter
the head is white. Length about 14 inches.

iVest. In a reedy marsh or woody swamp; made of flags or other
coarse herbage.

£ggs. 3; pale to dark buff or drab, sometimes tinged with olive, pro-
fusely marked with several shades of brown; 2.10 X 1.40.

Franklin’s Gull is chiefly confined to the western division of
this continent, nesting in suitable localities amid the plains from
about latitude 43° to the Saskatchewan valley, where it is abun-
dant. Small numbers have been found nesting in Iowa and Wis-
consin. In autumn the flocks migrate southward and range through
Central America, some going as far as Peru.

These birds build in communities and are very noisy. While on
the wing they utter constantly a shrill and plaintive cry.

BONAPARTE’S GULL.

LARUS PHILADELPHIA.

CuHaAR. Mantle pearl gray; head and neck or hood grayish black or
deep slate color; white patches over the eyes; outer wing-feathers with
a subterminal bar of black tipped with white, excepting outer web of first
primary, which is entirely black; tail white; under parts white, tinged
with rose pink; bill black and slender; legs and feet bright red. In win-
ter the head is white, with a dusky spot on the cheeks and a tinge of gray
on the nape. In young birds the head and back are more or less tinged
with brown, and the tail has a terminal band of black. Length about 14
inches.

Nest. Usually in a tree, sometimes on a high branch, often in a low
bush amid a woody swamp; made of twigs and lined with grass or moss.

Eggs. 3-4 (usually 3); pale to dark brown, often tinged with olive,
marked with brown and lavender; 2.00 X 1.40.

This elegant Gull is common in all parts of the fur countries,
where it associates with the Terns, and is distinguished by its

ROSS’S GULL. 239

peculiar shrill and plaintive cry. Small flocks, early in au-
tumn, are occasionally seen on the coast of Massachusetts, and
sometimes high in the air their almost melodious whistling is
heard as they proceed on their way to the South, or inland to
feed. Their prey appears to be chiefly insects ; and two which
I had an opportunity of examining were gorged with ants and
their eggs, and some larve of moths in their pupa state. These
birds both old and young are good food.

Bonaparte’s Gull ranges throughout North America, breeding
in the fur countries, and migrating by inland and coast routes to
and from its winter resorts in the southern portions of the United
States.

Small numbers of these Gulls are seen on the New England
coast during the summer, but no evidence has been produced of
their having nested in this vicinity, and they probably build no
farther south than about latitude 43°. It has been suggested that
the examples that loiter through the summer without reaching the
breeding-grounds are immature or unfertile birds. In the autumn
—from early August on — large flocks of these birds swarm along
the coast.

ROSS’S GULL.
WEDGE-TAILED GULL.
RHODOSTETHIA ROSEA.

CHAR. Mantle pearl gray; head and tail white; a narrow collar of
black around the neck, and a few black feathers near the eyes; outer
feather of the wings black; tail long, pointed, and wedge-shaped; bill
slender and black; legs and feet dull red, — “terra cotta,’”” — claws black.
Length 13% inches.

In winter the black collar is absent, and the crown is tinged with gray,
Young birds are distinguished by a band of brownish black on wings and
tail.

Nest and Eggs. Unknown.

Although discovered so long ago as 1823, very little is yet known
of the habits or distribution of this Gull. So late as 1881, only
twenty-three specimens were to be found in the museums of the
world, and the species was supposed to be exceedingly rare, until
the American expedition to Point Barron saw large loose flocks

240 SWIMMERS.

during September and October coming in from the sea to the west-
ward, and rapidly passing along the coast towards the northeast.

They were migrating evidently ; but whither? and where had they
come from, — where had they been nesting? These questions are
still unanswered. It has been suggested that the birds may turn
southward, and winter in the interior of this continent, — possibly
in the Barren Ground region. But a more probable supposition is
that offered, I think by Lieutenant Ray, that the flocks move east-
ward until they meet the floating ice, and then wheel seaward and
remain amid the “fields ” during the winter months, drifting south-
ward, —too far from land to be observed, and feeding at the edge
of the “pack.”

But these are speculations only. It has been determined, how-
ever, that the species is abundant in the vicinity of Bering Sea
and breeds somewhere along the Siberian shore of the Arctic
Ocean, that it occurs as an occasional visitor only in other portions
of the Arctic region, and as an accidental straggler elsewhere.

Upon what land the nest is placed is still unknown. It must lie
somewhere in the frozen region to the westward or northward of
Wrangel Island, and may be amid the Liakoff isles, or on some
undiscovered island still closer to the Pole.

KITTIWAKE.

RISSA TRIDACTYLA.

Cuar. Mantle deep pearl gray; head, neck, tail, and under parts
white ; ends of outer wing-feathers — the primaries — black, tipped with
white; bill greenish yellow ; legs and feet black. Length 15% inches.

In winter the back of the neck is more or less suffused with gray.
Young birds have a black bill ; patch on back of neck, shoulders, and
terminal band on the tail brownish black.

Nest. In a colony on the ledges of a cliff or on the mossy turf of an
island, occasionally amid the sand or shingle of a sea-beach; usually
made of sea-weed or other coarse herbage from “the drift,” lined with
grass Or moss ; sometimes a few feathers are added. Each year the bulk
is increased by the addition of material. Nests have been found which
were mere depressions in the sand, sparsely lined with grass.

Eges. 2-4; buff of various shades tinted with olive, blotched, and
‘streaked with brown and lavender ; average size 2.20 X 1.60.

The Kittiwake, or Tarrock, is found in the north of both
continents. It inhabits Newfoundland, Labrador, the islands
in the Gulf of the St. Lawrence, the coasts of the Pacific,

VOL. Il. — 16

242 SWIMMERS.

Spitzbergen, Greenland, Iceland, and the north of Europe, as
well as the Arctic coast of Asia and Kamtschatka. It likewise
breeds in some of the Scottish islands, and is generally found
about saline lakes and the interior seas and gulfs, but is less
frequent on the borders of the ocean. In autumn these birds
spread themselves over the banks of rivers and lakes. They
feed upon fish, fry, and insects, and nest upon the rocks near the
sea-coast, laying three eggs of an olivaceous white, marked with
a great number of small dark spots and other grayish ones less
distinct. In Iceland they inhabit the cliffs of the coast in vast
numbers, and utter loud and discordant cries, particularly on
the approach of rapacious birds, as the Sea Eagle, which prob-
ably prey upon their young. Both their flesh and eggs are
esteemed as good food.

The Kittiwake is more strictly a bird of the ocean than Nuttall’s
remarks imply. In the Far North—in Greenland and along the
shores of the Arctic Ocean — the nesting site of a colony is usually
at the head or inland end of a fjord or bay; but in milder latitudes
the chosen site is a craggy cliff against which the angered waves
dash with unbroken force. Small colonies are found along our
coast as far south as the mouth of the Bay of Fundy; but farther
north the number of birds nesting in a community is very large.
At one famous range of cliffs in Norway the number of breeding
birds has been estimated by a careful naturalist at half a million.
In the winter these birds visit the New England shores and extend
their range as far south as Virginia, and at that season a few exam-
ples visit the Great Lakes,

Our bird differs but little in its habits from other oceanic Gulls.
Feeding chiefly on fish, but accepting any diet that drifts within
range of its keen sight; drinking salt water in preference to fresh;
breasting a gale with ease and grace — soaring in mid-air, skim-
ming close above the crested waves, or swooping into the trough
for a coveted morsel; resting upon the rolling billows and sleeping
serenely as they roll, with head tucked snugly under a wing; wan-
dering in loose flocks and making comrades of other wanderers ;
devoted to mate and young and attached to all its kin, — wherever
seen or however employed, the Kittiwake is revealed as a typical
gleaner of the sea.

The name is derived from the bird’s singular cry, which resem-
bles the syllables £2¢¢¢-aa kitti-aa.

RING-BILLED GULL. 243

Norte. — Nuttall stated that the European Common GULL (ZL.
canus) — also called SEAMEW, from its feline cry — occurs regu-
larly in winter on our shores; but in this statement he was merely
following Richardson, who confounded this species with the Ring-
billed Gull. The only known instance of the occurrence of the
Seamew on this side of the Atlantic is the taking of one example
in Labrador by Dr. Coues.

RING=BILELE Dr GUILE
LARUS DELAWARENSIS.

CHAR. Mantle deep pearl gray; head, neck, tail, and under parts
white ; outer wing-feathers black, tipped with white, the other primaries
more or less barred with black and tipped with white; bill greenish yel-
low, with a band of black near the end and tipped with orange ; legs and
feet yellow, sometimes tinged with green.

In winter the head and nape are spotted with pale dusky. Young birds
are mottled white and dusky; on the upper parts the dark tint prevails,
varied on the back with pale buff, and the lower parts are mostly white ;
tail dusky, tipped with white and pale gray at the base; shoulders gray ;
bill dusky, fading toward the base. Length 19% inches.

Nest. On a grassy island in a lake or on an ocean cliff, — made of coarse
grass or sea-weed.

Zggs. 2-3; ground color varied from pale to dark buff, sometimes
tinged with green or slate; profusely marked with several shades of
brown and lilac; average size about 2.40 X 1.70.

The Ring-billed Gull is distributed throughout this continent,
but is more abundant on the saline lakes of the plains than along
the sea-coast. In the West the breeding area extends from the
lower valley of the Saskatchewan to Great Salt Lake, but on the
coast this Gull does not nest farther south than Labrador. It is
rather common during spring and fall on the New England coast,
and in winter ranges from the Middle States to the West Indies.
Only a few examples have been taken on the Great Lakes.

The chief summer diet of this species, in the interior, is grass-
hoppers, which the birds catch in the air.

IVORY GULL.

GAVIA ALBA.

CHAR. Entire plumage white ; bill yellow, shading to greenish gray at
the base; legs and feet black. Length 18 inches.

In immature birds the upper parts are more or less spotted with
brownish gray ; wings and tail tipped with dusky brown; bill black.

Vest. On a sea-beach or high cliff, — a slight depression in the soil,
sparsely lined with grass or moss, sometimes made of moss and sea-weed,
with a thin lining of down and feathers.

Eggs. 1-2; pale to dark buff, more or less tinted with olive, some-

times olive drab, marked with several shades of brown and lilac; aver-
age size about 2.40 X 1.70.

This beautiful species, called sometimes the Snow Bird, from
the pure whiteness of its plumage, is found in great numbers
on the coasts of Spitzbergen, Greenland, Davis’s Straits, on
Baffin’s Bay, and on various parts of the northern shores of the

IVORY GULL. 245

American continent. It seldom migrates far from its natal
regions, is a pretty constant attendant on the whale-fishers,
and preys on blubber, dead whales, and other carrion. Dr.
Richardson observed it breeding in great numbers on the high
broken cliffs which form the extremity of Cape Parry, in lati-
tude 70°. It is also found on the Pacific coast as far as
Nootka Sound, and commonly wanders far out to sea, seldom
approaching the land but during the period of incubation. — Its
only note consists of a loud and disagreeable scream.

This Gull has been seen but seldom on the American shore of
the Atlantic south of Greenland, and Mr. Hagerup considers it a
rare bird in the southern portion of that country. Mr. Boardman
reports that two examples have been sent to him from Grand
Menan, and in the winter of 1880 I examined a freshly killed Gull
that a “boatman” told me he had shot the day before off the
harbor of St. John. The skin was identified at the Smithsonian
Institution as an immature Ivory Gull. On the English coast this
species is more frequently seen, and examples have been taken in
France and Switzerland; but it is only a straggler outside the
Arctic Circle. The species is circumpolar in its range, but breeds
in greatest abundance on the islands which lie to the northward of
Europe.

The Ivory Gulls appear to spend most of the time amid the pack-
ice, often at a long distance from the land. They are ravenous
feeders, and omnivorous in their diet, refusing nothing. Small
rodents and shell-fish are alike fair game to these gluttons, and
they feast with apparent relish on putrid blubber, or even seals’
excrement. The cry is said to be a loud and disagreeable
scream.

HERRING GULL.

LARUS ARGENTATUS SMITHSONIANUS.

Cuar. Mantle deep pearl gray; head, tail, and under parts white ;
outer wing-feathers mostly black, tipped with white; bill yellow, with a
bar of red at the angle; legs and feet flesh color. Length about 24
inches.

In winter the head and neck are streaked with gray. Immature birds
are mottled brownish gray and dull white; wings dusky; tail dusky or
gray, with a subterminal bar of dusky; bill blackish. In younger speci-
mens the dark tints prevail, some being almost uniformly dusky brown.
They do not acquire full plumage for four or five years.

Nest. Usually on a cliff, often on a beach or grassy island, some-
times in a tree or under shelter of a bush, — generally a slight affair, a
thin mat of loosely arranged grass or moss; though nests placed in
trees are bulky and compact.

Eggs. 2-3 (usually 3); pale to dark buff, more or less tinged with
green, sometimes nearly olive drab; marked with several shades of
brown and lavender; average size about 2.85 X 1.95.

The Herring Gull is common to the milder as well as cold
countries of both continents. It is seen sometimes on the

HERRING GULL. 247

borders of lakes and rivers, though these visitors are chiefly
the young.

Mr. Audubon found these birds breeding abundantly on
Grand Menan Island, in the Bay of Fundy, on low fir-trees as
well as on the ground, the nest being large and loose, com-
posed of sea-weeds, roots, sticks, and feathers. ‘They are very
resentful and clamorous when approached, screaming or bark-
ing with a sound like akak kakak. This Gullalso inhabits other
islands, and he found it again in Labrador. It is ravenous, and
tyrannical to other small birds. ‘The young and the eggs are
considered as palatable food, though the principal food of the
bird is fish or floating matter.

This is the Common Gull of our harbors and inland lakes, oc-
curring in abundance throughout this continent, and breeding from
latitude 45° northward. Turner found it abundant on Hudson
Straits, but Hagerup saw very few examples in Southern Greenland.
In winter these birds are seen in numbers on the Great Lakes and
the larger rivers and lakes of the interior, as well as along the sea-
coast from the Gulf of St. Lawrence to Cuba.

Although Herring Gulls appear at times both shy and fierce, they
are easily domesticated if taken young, and make pleasant pets.
They thrive on a mixed diet, and feast on cold bounces or dead rat
with equal relish.

Their formula for disposing of a rat is amar: First break the
rat’s bones by crunching them with the bill; then dip the carcase
in water, and when thoroughly soaked, swallow it whole, — head
first.

Norte. — The European form of the HERRING GULL (ZL. argen-
tatus) is said to occur occasionally on this side of the Atlantic.

GLAUCOUS GULL.

BURGOMASTER.

LARUS GLAUCUS.

CHAR. Mantle pale pearl gray, rest of plumage white ; bill yellow, with
a patch of orange at the angle; legs and feet bright pink. Length about
32 inches , female somewhat smaller.

In winter the head and neck are streaked with pale brownish gray.
Immature birds are mottled grayish brown and pale gray; the first
plumage is the darkest. In the spring, before the young assume the pearl
mantle, their entire plumage becomes white.

Vest. Usually on a cliff, sometimes on a low, grassy island or sandy
beach; a slight affair of sea-weed or moss or grass. ;

Eggs. 2-3; stone drab or olive buff, sometimes pale buff, marked with
brown and ashy gray; average size about 3.00 X 2.00.

GLAUCOUS GULL. 249

This large species is almost wholly confined to the hyper-
boreal regions, where it inhabits both continents indifferently.
It is common in Russia, Greenland, and in all the Arctic and
polar seas. In Baffin’s Bay and the adjoining straits and coasts
it is seen in considerable numbers during the summer. Its
winter resorts are yet unknown. From its great rarity in the
United States it is probable that this Gull may not migrate far
from its summer residence, as there can be no reason why it
should proceed south along the Pacific in preference to the
Atlantic coast.

These birds are almost continually on the wing, uttering
often a hoarse cry, like the Raven. They are extremely tyran-
nical, greedy, and voracious, preying not only on fish and
small birds, but also on carrion, and are said to attend on
the walrus to feed on its excrement. They wrest prey from
weaker birds, and are often seen hovering in the air or seated
on some lofty pinnacle of ice, whence, having fixed their eye
upon some favorite morsel, they dart down on the possessor,
which, whether Fulmar, Guillemot, or Kittiwake, must instantly
resign the prize. The Auk, as well as the young Penguin, they
not only rob, but often wholly devour. Pressed by hunger, they
sometimes even condescend to share the crow-berry with the
Ptarmigan. When not impelled by hunger, they are rather
shy and inactive birds, and much less clamorous than others of
the genus.

This species is decidedly boreal in its range, breeding in the
Arctic Ocean and migrating to the shores of the northern seas.
Farther south it is a straggler merely, though in the Bay of Fundy
it is sometimes quite common in mid-winter. A few examples have
been seen along the New England shores and on the Great
Lakes.

Nuttall has put into the few lines given above all the peculiar
habits of the bird, which combine with some Gull-like traits many
of the coarse characteristics of both the Falcon and Vulture.

Some observers have reported that the flocks are at times very
noisy, particularly when settling for the night; but those I have
- met with in winter have been rather silent. Their cry is harsh, and

at times very loud ; it sounds something like the syllables kuk-/ak’,
—I have seen it written czt-leek.

250 SWIMMERS.

ICELAND GULL.
WHITE-WINGED GULL.

LARUS LEUCOPTERUS.

CHAR Mantle pale pearl gray, rest of plumage white ; bill yellow,
with a patch of orange at the angle; legs and feet bright pink. Length
about 25 inches, the female smaller. In winter the head and neck are
streaked with pale brownish gray. Young birds are mottled grayish
brown and pale gray, and become whiter with each moult.

Vest. Ona cliff or sandy beach; when in the sand, it is a mere depres-
sion slightly lined with grass, but when a rock is chosen for the site a
compact structure is formed of sea-weed and grass lined with moss.

Eggs. 2-3; pale or dark buff more or less tinged with green, some-
times almost olive drab; average size about 2.75 X 1.80.

Iceland Gull is a misnomer for this bird, as it appears in Iceland
in winter only, and then in very small numbers. The true home of
this Gull is in that portion of the Arctic Ocean which lies north of
America, and its breeding area extends from Greenland to Alaska;
elsewhere it is but a visitor.

During the winter these birds range along the Atlantic shores
from Labrador to Cape Cod, though they are not numerous south
of the Bay of Fundy. A few examples have been taken on the
Great Lakes.

In appearance this species is a small edition of the Glaucous
Gull, there being no perceptible difference in the coloration; but
their habits are quite different.

The flight of the Iceland Gull, its feeding habits, and its manners
generally, suggest a close affinity to the Herring Gull rather than to
the Burgomaster.

KUMLIEN’S GULL. 251

KUMLIEN’S GULL.
LARUS KUMLIENI.

Cuar. Mantle and wings pearl gray ; wings tipped with white, the
outer primaries having a sub-terminal space of ashy gray; bill yellow,
with a spot of red at the angle; legs and feet bright pink. Length about
24 inches.

Immature birds are more or less moctled with dusky or brownish gray,
very young specimens being very dark

Nest. Ona cliff.

Eggs. Not known.

This species was described in 1883 by Mr. William Brewster
from specimens that had been taken in winter in the Bay of Fundy.
Kumlien found the bird breeding in numbers on the shores of
Cumberland Gulf; but it is not known to breed in Greenland, nor
have nests been discovered elsewhere. Of the bird’s distribution
and of its distinctive habits nothing further is known.

In coloration this species is a connecting link between deucoplerus
and argentatus.

Nore. — The SIBERIAN GULL (Larus affinis) occasionally visits
Greenland.

GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL.
SADDLE-BACK. COBB.

LARUS MARINUS.

CHAR. Mantle slaty brown; outer wing-feathers more or less black,
tipped with white ; rest of plumage white; bill yellow, red at the angle,
legs and feet pink. Length about 30 inches.

The full plumage is not assumed until the fourth year Immature
birds are mottled brown and white, very young specimens having the
upper parts almost entirely brown, and the bill dusky.

Nest. Onan inaccessible cliff by the sea, or upon a rocky island ina
lake, —a mere depression in the turf, lined with grass or sea-weed ; some-
times a bulky affair made of coarse herbage and lined with grass and a
few feathers.

Eggs. 2-3 (usually 3); buffish gray to deep buff, sometimes slightly
tinged with olive, boldly blotched with brown and gray; average size
abnut 3.00 X 2.10.

The Saddle-back, or Black-backed Gull, is a general denizen
of the whole northern hemisphere, and extends its residence in

GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL. 253

America as far as Paraguay. At the approach of winter it
migrates not uncommonly as far as the sea-coasts of the Mid-
dle and extreme Southern States. If Mr. Audubon be correct
in considering ZL. argentatoides as a state of imperfect plu-
mage of the present species, it breeds as far north as the dreary
coasts of Melville Peninsula. It is also found in Greenland,
Iceland, Lapmark, and the White Sea. It is also abundant in
the Orkneys and Hebrides in Scotland, but is a winter bird of
passage on the coasts of Holland, France, and England. It
rarely visits the interior or fresh waters, and is but seldom seen
as far south as the Mediterranean.

The Black-backed Gull feeds ordinarily upon fish, both dead
and living, as well as on fry and carrion, — sometimes also on
shell-fish ; and, like most of the tribe of larger Gulls, it is
extremely ravenous and indiscriminate in its appetites when
pressed by hunger. It watches the bait of the fisherman, and
often robs the hook of its game. As Mr. Audubon justly and
strongly remarks, it is as much the tyrant of the sea-fowl as the
Eagle is of the land-birds. It is always on the watch to gratify
its insatiable appetite ; powerfully muscular in body and wing,
it commands without control over the inhabitants of the ocean
and its borders. Its flight is majestic, and, like the Raven, it
soars in wide circles to a great elevation, at which times its
loud and raucous cry or laughing bark of ’ca@k, ’cak, ’cak is
often heard. Like the keen-eyed Eagle, it is extremely shy
and wary, most difficult of access, and rarely obtained but by
accident or stratagem. It is the particular enemy of the grace-
ful Eider, pouncing upon and devouring its young on every
occasion, and often kills considerable-sized Ducks. In pur-
suit of crabs or lobsters it plunges beneath the water; has the
ingenuity to pick up a shell-fish, and carrying it high in the
air, drops it upon a rock to obtain its contents; it catches
moles, rats, young hares; gives chase to the Willow Grouse,
and sucks her eggs or devours her callow brood ; it is even so
indiscriminate in its ravenous and cannibal cravings as to devour
the eggs of its own species. In short, it has no mercy on any
object that can contribute in any way to allay the cravings of

254 SWIMMERS.

its insatiable hunger and delight in carnage. Though cowardly
towards man, before whom it abandons its young, its sway
among the feathered tribes is so fierce that even the different
species of Les¢ris, themselves daring pirates, give way at its
approach.

In Europe the Saddle-backed Gulls breed as far south as the
Lundy Islands in the Bristol Channel, in England. Mr. Audu-
bon, who lately visited the dreary coast of Labrador, found
them breeding there on rocks, laying about three eggs, large, and
of a dirty dull brown, spotted and splashed all over with dark
brown. The young as soon as hatched walk about among the
rocks, patiently waiting the return of their parents, who supply
them amply with food until they become able to fly, after
which, as among the true rapacious birds, they are driven off
and abandoned to their own resources.

This species, like others, does not attain its complete plu-
mage until the third year. The full-plumaged are dark-colored
birds, breeding together. The eggs and young are eatable ;
the latter, taken before they are able to fly, are pickled in large
quantities, and used in Newfoundland for winter provision.

The Saddle-back breeds from the Bay of Fundy to high latitudes,
and in winter is found along the coast from Greenland to Long
Island. A few examples visit the Great Lakes. It is not frequently
seen in the harbors of New England, but on the open sea-shore
is quite common.

SKUA.
PARASITIC GULL.

MEGALESTRIS SKUA.

CuarR. Upper parts sooty brown, varied with reddish brown and dull
white, the nape spotted with buff; wings and tail brown, shading to
white at the base, which on the wing forms a conspicuous patch when in
flight ; under parts paler brown, the breast varied with rufous ; bill, legs,
and feet, black. Length about 22 inches.

LVest. On an inaccessible ocean island; a hollow pressed in the moss
and sparsely lined with grass and a few feathers.

Eggs. 1-3 (usually 2); pale to dark buff or buffish brown, sometimes
with a slight tinge of olive, marked with darker brown and gray; average
size about 2.80 X 2.00.

This Sea-Falcon, with raptorial beak and claws, and Hawk-like
quality of character, — preying upon the weak and the small of its
own race, robbing those it cannot kill, and by way of individuality
adding to its relish for flesh and fish a partiality for eggs, — this

256 SWIMMERS.

pirate of the main, daring and strong, and wary as bold, has too
slight claim for recognition here to demand an extended notice.

These birds live as solitary as Eagles, but defend their nests as
few Eagles dare, attacking fiercely man or dog venturing to ap-
proach, and displaying a front that few dogs care to close upon.
The nests are built chiefly within the Arctic Circle and in northern
Europe, and the birds visit our waters only in winter, and but rarely
then; and the few examples that do wander this way are never seen
near the shore, but are met with by the fishermen, whose boats they
follow for the refuse.

POMARINE JAEGER.

STERCORARIUS POMARINUS.

Cuar. Light phase: Top of head and upper parts sooty brown or
dusky ; neck and under parts white, the neck tinged with yellow. Dark
phase: Entirely dark sooty brown or slaty black; the two middle tail-
feathers project beyond the other and are twisted. Bill dark gray,
tipped with black ; legs and feet black. Length about 21 inches.

Some naturalists think the dark phase assumed by this genus is merely
melanistic; but numerous examples are met with that combine variations
of the two, these “ pied’ forms being in the majority rather than excep-
tional. Young birds are more or less mottled with buff.

Nest. On a dry knoll of a moorland marsh or tundra, sometimes on
a rock, —a mere hollow stamped in the moss.

Eggs. 23 pale to dark olive, tinged with russet and boldly marked
with brown; average size 2.35 & 1.65.

VO eh,

258 SWIMMERS.

This species chiefly inhabits the Arctic seas of both conti-
nents, whence it migrates short distances in winter, and is then
seen in Sweden and Norway, and perhaps also in the Orkneys
and the west of Scotland; the old very rarely visit the banks
of the Rhine and the coasts of the ocean ; the young are more
given to wandering, and are sometimes even seen upon the
lakes of Switzerland and Germany. According to Richardson,
the Pomarine Jaeger is seen in the Arctic seas of America and
about the northern outlets of Hudson Bay. Mr. Audubon ob-
tained specimens on the coast of Labrador. It subsists on
putrid and other animal substances thrown up by the sea, and
also on fish and other matters which the Gulls disgorge when
pursued by it; it also devours the eggs of sea-birds. It goes
more to sea in winter, and also towards the south, arriving at
Hudson Bay in May, coming in from seaward. It is rare and
accidental on the coast of the United States. «

This ocean prowler and parasite breeds in the Arctic regions,
and in winter roams on the open sea, wandering southward as far
as the latitude of the Middle States. It occurs occasionally in the
Bay of Fundy, and a few examples have been taken on the Great
Lakes.

PARASITIC JAEGER.

ARCTIC JAEGER. RICHARDSON’S JAEGER. MAN-OF-WAR.
STERCORARIUS PARASITICUS.

CuaAr. Light phase: Upper parts slaty brown; top of head grayish
brown ; rest of head and neck white, varied with yellow; under parts
white. Dark phase: Entire plumage sooty slate. Shafts of primaries
white ; middle tail-feathers long, narrow, and pointed; bill slaty gray
tipped with black; legs and feet black. Length about 20 inches.

Young birds of both phases are mottled and more or less varied with
buff. Adults also are met with in a mixed plumage, and these mottled
specimens are much more numerous than birds in full plumage.

Nest. Onan open moorland near the sea or the margin of a lake, or
upon an ocean island, —a mere hollow in the mossy turf, slightly lined
with grass and leaves.

£ges. 1-3 (usually 2); olive green, sometimes deeply tinged with yel-
low or reddish brown, marked with brown of several shades and lilac;
average size about 2.30 X 1.60.

LONG-TAILED JAEGER. 259

This species has been incorrectly named the Arctic Jaeger, — or
Skua, as the birds of this group are called by British Ornitholo-
gists, — for it is less Arctic in its distribution than either of its rela-
tives. All this group breed in high latitudes; but while the other
species build within the Arctic Circle, the Parasitic Jaeger nests in
numbers in Southern Greenland and throughout the higher portions
of the fur countries, and nests have been found in Scotland. In
winter this bird is common along the coast as far south as the Bay
of Fundy, and some few examples wander along the New England
shores.

The Jaegers are very similar in their habits. All are strong birds,
of swift and skilful flight, and all obtain their chief food supply by
robbing the Gulls of their prey.

The Kittiwake is the victim most frequently selected by the
Parasitic Jaeger, and the little Gull has small chance for escape
from its more powerful antagonist, who pursues and attacks until
the coveted fish is dropped. But our bird does not limit its diet
to fish,—young Gulls and eggs are quite as acceptable to the
Jaeger’s palate, — nor does it refuse any carrion the drift may
offer, and in extremity will feast on crow-berries.

LONG-TAILED JAEGER.
BUFFON’S SKUA.

STERCORARIUS LONGICAUDUS.

CuHar. Upper parts dark brownish slate, shading to darker on wings
and tail; top of head sooty black; rest of head and neck buffish yellow,
paler on the throat ; breast white, shading into the grayish brown of the
belly ; shafts of two outer primaries white ; middle tail-feathers narrow
and pointed, and extending four to eight inches beyond the lateral feath-
ers; bill grayish black; legs olive gray, feet black. Length about 23
inches.

Young birds are grayish brown, more or less barred with white and
buff. Distinguished from arcticus by its rather smaller and slimmer
form and the greater length, zsvally, of the central tail-feathers, also by
the grayer tints of the back and the absence of white on all the primaries
excepting the outer two.

Nest. Ina colony ona barren moorland or tundra near the sea, or by
an inland lake or upon an island, —a slight hollow stamped in the turf or
soil and lined with a few bits of grass or leaves.

Eggs. 1-3 (usually 2); pale to dark olive, sometimes reddish buff,
marked with brown and gray ; average size about 2.10 X I.50.

260 SWIMMERS. 2

This is the most northerly in its range of the Jaegers, and has
the widest distribution. Its breeding area lies exclusively within
the Arctic Circle, and follows that line throughout its circuit. These
birds appear off the New England coasts during the spring and
fall, and at those seasons are common in the Bay of Fundy. As
they have not been seen near the shore farther to the southward,
they probably winter on mid-ocean.

In its habits the Long-tailed Jaeger does not differ materially
from the other species.

BLACK SKIMMER.
RAZOR-BILL.
RYNCHOPS NIGRA.

CHAR. Upper parts black, deeper on the wings; outer tail-feathers
white ; forehead, patch on the wings, and under parts white; bill long
and compressed, the lower mandible much longer than the upper; basal
half of bill bright red, the rest black ; legs and feet red. Length 17 to 19
inches.

Nest. A slight hollow scratched in the sand of a sea-beach or barren
island.

Eggs. 2-5; creamy white or pale buff boldly marked with rich brown
and lilac; average size about 1.75 X 1.35.

The Cut-water, or Black Skimmer, is a bird of passage in
the United States, appearing in New Jersey from its tropical
winter quarters early in May. Here it resides, and breeds in
its favorite haunts along the low sand-bars and dry flats of the
strand, in the immediate vicinity of the ocean. ‘The nests of
these birds have been found along the shores of Cape May
about the beginning of June, and consist of a mere hollow
scratched out in the sand, without the addition of any extrane-
ous materials. As the birds, like the Terns and Gulls, to which
they are allied, remain gregarious through the breeding-season,
it is possible to collect a half bushel or more of the eggs from
a single sand-bar within the compass of half an acre; and
though not very palatable, they are still eaten by the inhabi-
tants of the coast. The female only sits on her nest during
the night or in wet and stormy weather; but the young

BLACK SKIMMER. 261

remain for several weeks before they acquire the full use of
their wings, and are during that period assiduously fed by both
parents. At first they are scarcely distinguishable from the
sand by the similarity of their color, and during this period
may often be seen basking in the sun and spreading out their
wings upon the warm beach. The pair, retiring to the South
in September or as soon as their young are prepared for their
voyage, raise but a single brood in the season.

The Skimmer is, I believe, unknown to the north of the sea-
coast of New Jersey, and probably passes the period of repro-
duction along the whole of the southern coast of the United
States. The species is also met with in the equatorial regions,
where it is alike resident as far as Surinam, but never pene-
trates into the interior, being, properly speaking, an oceanic
genus. Its voice, like that of the Tern, is loud, harsh, and
stridulous. In quest of its usual prey of small fish and mol-
lusca, it is frequently observed skimming close along shore
about the first of the flood tide, proceeding leisurely with a
slowly flapping flight, and balancing itself on its long and out-
stretched wings; it is seen every now and then to dip, with
bended neck, its lower mandible into the sea, and with open
mouth receives its food, thus gleaning and ploughing along the
yielding surface of the prolific deep. The birds keep also
among the sheltered inlets which intervene between the main-
land and the sea, where they roam about in companies of
eight or ten together, passing and repassing at the flood tide,
like so many grotesque and gigantic Swallows, the estuaries of
the creeks and inlets which penetrate into the salt-marshes,
exhibiting the necessary alertness in the capture of their
approaching prey, which often consists of small crabs and the
more minute crustaceous animals which abound in such situa-
tions, and around the masses of floating sea-weed and wrecks.
But though so exclusively maritime, the range of the Cut-
waters is entirely limited to the peaceful and calm borders of
the strand ; notwithstanding the vast expansion of their long
wings, they have no inducement to follow the adventurous
flight of the Petrel, as the ever-agitated and wave-tossed sur-

262 SWIMMERS.

face of the restless deep would be to them, with the peculiar
mechanism of their bill, a barren void over which they conse-
quently never roam, and on whose bosom they rarely ever rest,
preferring, with the Terns, when satisfied with food, the calm,
indolent, and surer repose of the isolated shoal left bare by
the recess of the tide, where, associated in flocks, they are often
seen to rest from their toilsome and precarious employ.

The Skimmer continues to this day to make its nest on the
sands of the New Jersey shore, and thence southward, and is rather
common on the coast of Virginia and Florida. Fishermen have
reported that Skimmers nested on Muskegat many years; but they
have ceased coming so far north regularly, though occasionally an
individual makes an excursion along the New England shore, and
several have been seen in the Bay of Fundy.

LEACH’S PETREL.

FORK-TAILED PETREL.

OCEANODROMA LEUCORHOA.

CHAR. Upper parts dull black ; upper tail-coverts white ; tail forked ;
under parts sooty black; bill, legs, and feet black. Length about 8
inches.

Vest. A thin cushion of grass or moss at the end of a burrow in the
soil at the top of an ocean cliff.

Eggs. 1, white, marked chiefly around the larger end with fine spots
of reddish brown and lilac; average size about 1.30 X T.oo.

This is a bird of the northern hemisphere, being as common on
the Pacific Ocean as on the Atlantic. Its chief breeding-station
on our shores is among the islands at the mouth of the Bay of
Fundy; but the open ocean is the bird’s true home.

Leach’s Petrels are seldom seen about their nesting site during
the day, though in the evening they assemble there; and when
fluttering through the twilight or under the moon’s guidance, they
have the appearance of a foraging squad of bats, though the bird’s
wild, plaintive notes betray their race. The Petrels are not strictly
nocturnal, however; for while one of a pair sits close on the nest
all day, — and this one has been generally the male, in my experi-
ence, — the mate is out at sea.

When handled, these birds emit from mouth and nostrils a small
quantity of oil-like fluid of a reddish color and pungent, musk-like

264 SWIMMERS.

odor. The air at the nesting site is strongly impregnated with this
odor, and it guides a searcher to the nest.»

Petrels appear very helpless on the land, walking or rising on
the wing with difficulty ; but in the air they are as graceful as swal.-
lows, and fly with equal skill. A storm is their delight, and the
trough between white-capped waves a favorite feeding place. The
birds skim close to the water, and continually dip their feet into it
as they fly.

WILSON’S: PETREL.

OCEANITES OCEANICUS.

CHAR General plumage sooty black, darker on wings and tail ; tail-
coverts white; tail square; bill and legs black; webs of the feet yellow
at their bases. Length about 7/% inches.

Nest. In crevices of rocks or amid loose fragments

Zegs. 1; white, marked chiefly around the larger end with fine spots
of purplish red; average size about 1.30 X 0.90.

This ominous harbinger of the deep is seen nearly through-
out the whole expanse of the Atlantic, from Newfoundland to
the tropical parts of America, whence it wanders even to
Africa and the coasts of Spain. From the ignorance and
superstition of mariners, an unfavorable prejudice has long
been entertained against these adventurous and harmless wan-
derers ; and as sinister messengers of the storm, in which they
are often involved with the vessel they follow, they have been
very unjustly stigmatized by the name of Stormy Petrels,
Devil’s Birds, and Mother Carey’s Chickens. At nearly all
seasons of the year these Swallow-Petrels in small flocks are
seen wandering almost alone over the wide waste of the
ocean.

On the edge of soundings, as the vessel loses sight of the
distant headland and launches into the depths of the un-
bounded and fearful abyss of waters, flocks of these dark, swift-
flying, and ominous birds begin to shoot around the vessel, and
finally take their station in her foaming wake. In this situa-
tion, as humble dependants, they follow for their pittance of
fare, constantly and keenly watching the agitated surge for

WILSON’S PETREL. 265

floating mollusca, and are extremely gratified with any kind of
fat animal matter thrown overboard, which they invariably dis-
cover, however small the morsel, or mountainous and foaming
the raging wave on which it may happen to float. On making
such discovery they suddenly stop in their airy and swallow-
like flight, and whirl instantly down to the water. Sometimes
nine or ten thus crowd together like a flock of chickens
scrambling for the same morsel; at the same time, pattering
on the water with their feet, as if walking on the surface, they
balance themselves with gently fluttering and outspread
wings, and often dip down their heads to collect the sinking
object in pursuit. On other occasions, as if seeking relief from
their almost perpetual exercise of flight, they jerk and hop
widely over the water, rebounding, as their feet touch the sur-
face, with great agility and alertness.

There is something cheerful and amusing in the sight of
these little voyaging flocks steadily following after the vessel,
so light and unconcerned, across the dreary ocean. During a
gale it is truly interesting to witness their intrepidity and ad-
dress. Unappalled by the storm that strikes terror into the
breast of the mariner, they are seen coursing wildly and rapidly
over the waves ; descending their sides, then mounting with the
breaking surge which threatens to burst over their heads,
sweeping through the hollow waves as in a sheltered valley,
and again mounting with the rising billow, they trip and jerk
sportively and securely on the surface of the roughest sea,
defying the horrors of the storm, and, like some magic being,
seem to take delight in braving overwhelming dangers. At
other times we see these aerial mariners playfully coursing
from side to side in the wake of the ship, making excursions
far and wide on every side, now in advance, then far behind,
returning again to the vessel as if she were stationary, though
moving at the most rapid rate. A little after dark they gener-
ally cease their arduous course and take their interrupted rest
upon the water, arriving in the wake of the vessel they had
left, as I have observed, by about nine or ten o’clock of the
following morning. In this way we were followed by the same

266 SWIMMERS.

flock of birds to the soundings of the Azores, and until we
came in sight of the Isle of Flores.

According to Buffon, the Petrel acquires its name from the
Apostle Peter, who, as well as his Master, is said to have walked
upon the water. At times we hear from these otherwise silent
birds by day, a low weet, wee/, and in their craving anxiety ap-
parently to obtain something from us, they utter a low, twitter-
ing ’fe-iif, or chirp. In the night, when disturbed by the passage
of the vessel, they rise in a low, vague, and hurried flight from
the water, and utter a singular guttural chattering like £#k kuk
k’k, kk, or something similar, ending usually in a sort of low
twitter like that of a Swallow.

These Petrels are said to breed in great numbers on the
rocky shores of the Bahama and the Bermuda Islands and
along some parts of the coast of East Florida and Cuba. Mr.
Audubon informs me that they also breed in large flocks on
the mud and sand islands off Cape Sable in Nova Scotia, bur-
rowing downwards from the surface to the depth of a foot or
more. They also commonly employ the holes and cavities of
rocks near the sea for this purpose. The eggs, according to
Mr. Audubon, are three, white and translucent. After the
period of incubation they return to feed their young, only dur-
ing the night, with the oily food which they raise from their
stomachs. At these times they are heard through most part
of the night making a continued cluttering sound, like frogs.
In June and July, or about the time that they breed, they are
still seen out at sea for scores of leagues from the land, the
swiftness of their flight allowing them daily to make these vast
excursions in quest of their ordinary prey ; and hence, besides
their suspicious appearance in braving storms, as if aided by
the dark Ruler of the Air, they breed, according to the vulgar
opinion of sailors, like no other honest bird; for taking no
time for the purpose on land, they merely hatch their egg
under their wings as they sit on the water.

The food of this species, according to Wilson, appears to
consist of the gelatinous spora of the gulf-weed (Fucus na-
tans), as well as small fish, barnacles, and probably many

STORMY PETREL. 267

small mollusca. ‘Their flesh is rank, oily, and unpleasant
to the taste. Their food is even converted into oil by the
digestive process, and they abound with it to such a degree
that, according to Brunnich, the inhabitants of the Faro Isles
make their carcases serve the purpose of a candle by draw-
ing a wick through the mouth and rump, which being lighted,
the flame is for a considerable time supported by the fat and
oil of the body.

Audubon led Nuttall astray regarding the breeding of Wilson’s
Petrel, confounding it with Leach’s Petrel. The nesting-place of
the present species and the appearance of the egg were unknown
until a few years ago, when the members of the Transit of Venus
Expedition discovered a colony of the birds on Kerguelen Island,
in the Southern Ocean, and brought back some of the eggs, which
were taken during January and February.

Wilson’s Petrel, therefore, would have little reason upon which
to rest a claim to be ranked as an “ American” bird, were it not
for the “three mile-limit’”? clause in international law. These
birds come towards the shore and into the harbors and creeks in
search of food. They have been met with all along our coast, from
northern Labrador to the tropics, for they are true cosmopolitans.

STORMY PEGREIL:
MOTHER CAREY’S CHICKEN.
PROCELLARIA PELAGICA.

CuarR. General plumage sooty black or blackish brown; upper tail
feathers white, tipped with black ; tail square or slightly rounded; bill,
legs, and feet black. Length about 53¢ inches.

Nest Usually in a burrow, sometimes in a crevice of a rock or amid
loose stones ; generally a thin cushion of weed-stems or grass, but often
the egg is laid on the bare soil.

Eggs. 1; white, faintly marked with fine spots of reddish brown ; aver-
age size 1.15 X 0.85.

Of the three species of Swallow-like Petrels that are seen regu-
larly on the North Atlantic, the present is the rarest; and this is
seldom seen near the shore, and never south of New England. It
breeds abundantly on the British Islands and along the coast of
Norway, and is said to breed in the Mediterranean Sea, on the

268 SWIMMERS.

African coast. In winter it wanders south to the Azores and
Canaries.

The Stormy Petrel, or Least Petrel, as it was formerly called, is
the smallest of the web-footed birds, and on the wing has something
of the appearance of a Barn Swallow. It has completely webbed
feet, and can swim with ease, but is very seldom seen upon the
surface of the water, though it has a curious habit of skimming close
to the surface and paddling the water with its feet, whence is said
to have originated the name of Petrel, or “ Little Peter.” The bird
is rarely seen walking on the land, though it can walk with ease
and is rather graceful; but the head and body are carried so far
in advance of the feet as to make the Petrel appear unsteady.

Like others of this group, the Stormy Petrel does not often appear
about its nesting site during the day, and those examples that have
been captured alive have shown so little inclination to display any
activity before the approach of sunset that the species has been
considered nocturnal; but those that are met with on the open
ocean are busily engaged gleaning food through all hours of the
day.

This is arather silent bird, and its notes are heard only when the
bird is on or near the nest. Hewitson tells of being guided to the
nests by the “singing” of the parents, which he describes as
resembling the chatter of Swallows.

The name of Mother Carey’s Chicken, thought by some philolo-
gists to be a corruption of J/ater cara, was originally applied
to this species by seamen, but it is now applied to all the small
Petrels.

Sailors fancy that the appearance of these birds is an evil omen
and foretells a storm,— which is partly true, for they revel in a
storm and seek it. The Petrels have no dread of winds or waves,
and find their harvest amid the tumult, fearlessly gleaning their
food from the curling seas.

Notre. — Examples of several species of Petrel occasionally
wander into our waters from their customary cruising area. These
are the BLACK-CAPPED PETREL (strelata hasitata), from the
tropics; PEALE’s PETREL (strelata gularis), from the Antare-
tic; BULWER’s PETREL (Bulweria bulweri), from the eastern side
of the Atlantic; WHITE-BELLIED PETREL (Cymodroma grallaria),
from the tropics; WHITE-FACED PETREL (Pelagodroma marina),
from the Southern Ocean.

0 ae a? ae

FULMAR.
WHITE HAGDON. NODDY.

FULMARIS GLACIALIS.

CHAR. Mantle and tail bluish gray; wings dusky; head, neck, and
under parts white; bill greenish yellow; legs and feet pale flesh-color.
Length about 19 inches. Numerous examples, supposed to be immature
birds, have the white portions clouded with gray, and the mantle tinged
with brown.

Vest. A deep hollow scratched in the soil on a grassy shelf of a cliff;
sometimes on a bare rock, — usually a thin cushion of grass or moss ;
often the egg is laid on the soil.

Egg. 13 white, with a rough, chalk-like surface, sometimes with a few
spots of reddish brown; average size 2.90 X 2.00.

Surrounded by an eternal winter, the Fulmars dwell nearly
at all seasons of the year upon the Arctic seas. _ Harbingers

of storm and danger, they choose the wildest and most deso-
late of regions, where, congregating amidst the floating ice, they

270 SWIMMERS.

seek out the resorts of the whale, on whose carcase and those
of other cetaceous animals they often make a gratifying feast,
and are well known to the whale-fishers who frequent these
hyperboreal seas. ‘They attend the ships in all their progress.
Emphatically birds of the tempest, these Petrels ride securely
amidst its horrors, profiting by the agitation and destruction
which it spreads around. Aware of the object which the
whaler has in quest, they follow the vessel and watch the
result. As soon as a whale 1s moored to the side of the ship
and begins to be cut up, an immense muster takes place,
sometimes exceeding a thousand, of these greedy birds, all
stationed in the rear, watching for the morsels which are wafted
to leeward. The peculiar chuckling note by which they ex-
press their eager expectation, their voracity when seizing on
the fat, and the large pieces which they swallow, the envy
shown towards those who have obtained the largest of these
morsels, and often the violent measures taken to wrest it from
them, afford to the sailors curious and amusing spectacles.
The surface of the sea is sometimes so covered with them that
a stone cannot be thrown without one being struck. When an
alarm is given, innumerable wings are instantly in motion, and
the birds, striking their feet against the water to aid their
flight, cause a loud and thundering plash.

The Petrel is not uncommon in some of the islands off the
north of Scotland. At St. Kilda, one of the Hebrides, it
breeds, and supplies the inhabitants with a vast quantity of
oil, which is used for culinary as well as medicinal purposes.
According to Pennant, “no bird is of such use to the islanders
as this; it supplies oil for their lamps, down for their beds, a
delicacy for their tables, a balm for their wounds, and a medi-
cine for their distempers.” He adds “ that it is a cenam
prognostication of the change of winds. If it come to land,
no west wind is expected for some time, and the contrary
when it returns and keeps to sea.”

Its food is chiefly fish, particularly those that are the most
fat ; its stomach is indeed generally charged with oil, which it
has the power of ejecting forcibly from the bill and nostrils as

EE

LESSER FULMAR. 271

a mode of defence. It attends the fishing vessels on the
banks of Newfoundland, feeding on the liver and offal of the
cod-fish which is thrown overboard, and is known to the sailors
by the quaint name of John Down. It is also taken by means
of a hook baited in this manner with the offal, and the inhab-
itants of Baffin’s and Hudson’s Bay are said to salt them for
winter provision; though Pennant, in the “ Arctic Zoology,”
adds that their flesh is rank and fetid in consequence of their
unpleasant food, yet they are still considered as no indifferent
dish by the hungry Greenlanders, and they breed usually about
Disco. Like the birds of the preceding and nearly allied
genus, they nest in holes in the rocks in great companies
at St. Kilda about the middle of June, laying but one large,
white, and brittle egg. The Fulmar is now and then, though
very rarely, seen on the temperate coasts of Europe and the
United States. The feathers are very close and full, clothed
below with a thick and fine down.

Fulmars are common from the Newfoundland banks northward,
and in winter a few stragglers are met with off the New England
coast. This form is not known to breed on the eastern side of the
Atlantic.

LESSER FULMAR.
WHITE HAGDON. NODDY.
FULMARUS GLACIALIS MINOR.

CHAR Similar in coloration to glacialis, but smaller. Length aver-
ages about 18 inches.

Nest and Eggs. Similar to glacialis, the eggs averaging somewhat
smaller.

Mr. Hagerup thinks it probable that this is the form that breeds
in numbers on the western coast of Greenland north of latitude
69°. In winter a few of these birds are met with off the New
England coast.

The habits of this variety do not differ from those of the type,
and the two forms can be separated only by their size.

GREATER SHEARWATER.
HAGDON.

PUFFINUS MAJOR.

CHAR. Mantle grayish brown, the feathers edged with pale brown;
top of head and nape grayish brown, paler on the neck; wings and tail
blackish brown; tail-coverts broadly tipped with white; under parts
white, the belly shaded with brownish gray; the white feathers of the
neck separated abruptly from the dark feathers of the crown and nape;
bill brownish black ; legs and feet dull yellowish pink, turning to yellow
in dried skins. Length about 19 inches.

West and Eggs. Unknown.

The Cinereous Puffin, or Wandering Shearwater, visits every
part of the great Atlantic Ocean, from the banks of Newfound-
land to Senegal and the Cape of Good Hope. It is also com-

GREATER SHEARWATER. 273

mon in the Mediterranean and on the southern coasts of Spain
and Provence, but never proceeds to the Adriatic.

On approaching the banks of Newfoundland, but far west of
soundings, we see the soaring and wandering Lestris, and every
day the wild Shearwaters, but more particularly in blowing
and squally weather; sometimes also in fine weather we see
them throughout the day. ‘Their course in the air is exceed-
ingly swift and powerful. With their long wings outstretched
and almost motionless, they sweep over the wild waves, fearless
of every danger, flying out in vast curves, watching at the same
time intently for their finny prey. Like the Petrels, these
Shearwaters are often seen to trip upon the water with ex-
tended feet and open wings; they likewise dive for small fish,
and find an advantage in the storm, whose pellucid mountain
waves bring to view the shiny prey to more advantage, — the
birds are therefore often seen most active at such times, watch-
ing the sweeping billow as it rises and foams along, harassing
and pursuing their quarry with singular address, snatching it
from the surface, or diving after it through the waves, on which
they are often seen to sit, mounting to the sky or sinking into
the yawning abyss of the raging deep.

The Greater Shearwater probably breeds on the islands of the
North Atlantic, though no authentic account of the nest and eggs
has been published. Some eggs received from Greenland, and
supposed by good authorities to be of this species, are described
as white, and averaging about 2.80 X 1.90.

The name Cinereous, applied to this bird by Nuttall, is now
restricted to an allied species, Puffinus kuhliz, which breeds on
various islands in the Mediterranean and on the Azores.

Our bird is numerous on the shores of Greenland up to about
latitude 65°, and is quite common off the New England coasts dur-
ing the winter, though usually far away from the shore.

The fishermen call it the ‘“ Hagdon,” in common with others of
the genus and the Fulmar.

In the illustration the Greater Shearwater is represented by the
lower figure; the upper one represents the Sooty Shearwater.

VOU —— ato

274 SWIMMERS.

CORY’S SHEARWATER.

PUFFINUS BOREALIS.

CuHAR. Mantle brownish gray, the feathers shading to paler at the
tips; crown and nape brownish gray, the feathers on the nape tipped with
white; sides of head and neck mottled white and gray; wings and tail
brownish gray, darker than mantle; under parts white ; bill yellowish at
base, shading to black towards the tip; legs and feet dull orange. Length
about 21 inches.

Nest and Eggs. Unknown.

Cory’s Shearwater was described in 1881 by Mr. Charles B.
Cory from specimens taken off Cape Cod during October, 1880.
Since that date a number of examples have been taken along the
New England coast in September and October, and in the autumn
of 1886 an immense number were seen off the Nantucket islands.

Writing of this flight, Prof. S. F. Baird said: “The Shearwaters
occurred in flocks of perhaps from fifty to two or three hundred,
the bunches being generally found quietly resting on the waters
and feeding, while swimming, upon the herrings that were so abund-
ant in the vicinity. The birds were very tame, but approach to
them could be best made by a steam-launch, which would almost
run over them before they would start to fly. A dozen birds were
killed by the discharge of two guns froma launch. About a hun-
dred specimens were secured, and thousands could easily have
been killed if neccssary.”

This species is not known to differ in its habits from other mem-
bers of the genus, and in appearance is similar to P. #zajor, though
borealis is readily distinguished by its yellow bill, the paler tint
of the brown in the upper parts, and by the absence of a distinct
line of demarcation between the white and dark feathers on the
neck.

Mr. Howard Saunders, a noted English authority on this family
of birds, considers that P. dereadzs is identical with P. kuhliz.

AUDUBON’S SHEARWATER. 275

SOOTY. SHEARWATER.
BLACK HAGDON.
PUFFINUS STRICKLANDI.

Cuar. Upper parts dark sooty brown; under parts paler and varied
with grayish; wings and tail dusky or blackish; bill and legs dusky.
Length about 17 inches.

Nest and Eggs. Unknown.

The Black Hagdon of the fishermen — represented by the upper
figure of the illustration on page 272 — is a common bird on the
North Atlantic between Newfoundland and the Carolinas during
the autumn and winter months, though it appears to have escaped
the notice of Nuttall and his contemporaries.

This bird is not known to breed on our shores, nor has any
breeding-place of the species been discovered, though it is very
probable that its nesting habits are similar to those of the Pacific
form, ?. gréseus, which our bird very closely resembles in appear-
ance, and with which it may be identical, as it is considered by
some British authorities.

Nests of grzseus discovered in the South Pacific were placed at
the end of a burrow, which ran horizontally three or four feet, and
then turned to the right or left. The single egg, which was placed
on arude cushion made of twigs and leaves, was of white color,
and measured on the average about 2.60 X 1.70.

AUDUBON’S SHEARWATER.
PUFFINUS AUDUBONI.

CHAR. Upper parts sooty black or dusky, darker on wings and tail;
under parts white; bill lead blue; outside of legs black, inside and webs
yellowish. Length about 11 inches.

Nest. In a crevice of a rock or amid loose fragments of stone, —a
slight affair of loosely arranged twigs.

£gg. 13; white (similar in appearance to oval eggs of the domestic
fowl, but with thinner shell and more highly polished surface) ; average
size about 2.05 X 1.40.

This species breeds in large numbers on the Bermuda and Ba-
hama Islands and southward, and is seen off the shores of the
mainland, occasionally wandering as far north as Long Island. It

276 SWIMMERS.

is abundant along the eastern side of the Atlantic, and is said to
breed on some of the islands lying off the west coast of Africa.

It is described as a stupid bird, offering no resistance when
taken from the nest, and as appearing dazed and almost helpless
when placed on the land. The flight of the bird is strong and
graceful, and Audubon says it can dive and swim with the ease of
a Duck.

There are conflicting statements regarding the nocturnal habits of
the species, some observers representing them as feeding through
the day, while others think that during the day these birds are in-
active and silent, resting upon the water, usually far out from the
land, and very rarely feeding ; but at night they are actively occu-
pied in catching and devouring fish, and at that time their mournful
cry is continually in the air. There is good reason for believing that
both statements are correct, — that these birds feed in the daytime
when food is abundant, but that they are generally more active after
sunset.

Note. — The MANX SHEARWATER (P. fuffinus), which breeds
on the coast of England, is credited with appearing occasionally
near to our coast.

YELLOW-NOSED ALBATROSS.

'THALASSOGERON CULMINATUS.

CHAR. Mantle dark bluish slate, shading to brownish on wings and
head; rump white; tail grayish; under parts white. Length about 36
inches.

Nest. In an exposed situation on an ocean island; a bulky structure
of coarse herbage and mud lined with fine grass and feathers. As new
material is added each succeeding year, the height is increased.

Ege. 1%; dull white, sparsely marked with purplish brown and laven-
der; average size 4.25 X 2.65.

The claim of this species to recognition here is based upon the
capture of an immature bird near the mouth of the river St. Law-
rence in 1885. I examined the skin, which is preserved in the
Museum of Laval University, at Quebec, and was told by the
curator, Mr. C. E. Dionne, that he purchased it from the fisherman
who shot the bird. The claim is slight, but there is no reason why
it should be ignored.

This bird had wandered far away from the usual habitat of the
species, for the Yellow-nosed Albatross is seldom seen anywhere

278 SWIMMERS,

but in the Southern Pacific, a few examples only having been
observed as far north as the coast of California.

It should be remembered, however, that this entire family of
birds are noted wanderers, — ##e most extensive wanderers of all
this wandering race, —and their strength of wing and power of
endurance render them capable of any journey.

There is something truly sublime, as Hammerton has suggested,
in the travelling of these sea-birds. ‘Think of one of these birds,”
he writes, ‘leaving some barren rock in the ocean, and without fur-
ther preparation than the unfolding of his mighty wings, setting
forth on a voyage of two or three hundred leagues! . . . Nothing
but the natural forces aid him; he propels himself by his own un-
wearied pinions, and seeks his food in the waves below. Self-
reliance of that genuine kind is quite beyond us. . . . The great
lonely birds ave self-reliant; and what a noble absence of fear is
needed for the daily habit of their lives!”

WANDERING ALBATROSS.

DIOMEDEA EXULANS.

CHAR. Prevailing color yellowish white; tail sooty black; wing-
coverts more or less varied with dusky. Average length about 50 inches.
Young birds are uniform sooty brown, and become white, gradually the
white feathers increasing at each moult.

Vest. In an open situation on an ocean island, —a bulky structure of
coarse herbage and mud, lined with fine grass and feathers. By the
yearly addition of fresh material the nest rises to mound-like propor-
tions, some having been seen as high as eight feet.

Egg. 1; white, the surface rough, sometimes marked on the larger end

with dull brown; average size 4.95 X 3.15.

The Albatross inhabits the Atlantic as well as the Pacific,
and sometimes wanders accidentally to the coasts of the cen-
tral parts of the Union. Vagabond, except in the short season
of reproduction, these birds are seen to launch out into the
widest part of the ocean; and it is probable that according to
the seasons, they pass from one extremity of the globe to the
other. Like the Fulmar, the constant attendant upon the
whale, the Albatross, no less adventurous and wandering, pur-
sues the tracks of his finny prey from one hemisphere into
another. When the flying-fish fails, these birds have recourse to

WANDERING ALBATROSS. 279

the inexhaustible supply of molluscous animals with which the
milder seas abound. ‘They are nowhere more abundant than
off the Cape of Good Hope, where they have been seen in
April and May, sometimes soaring in the air with the gentle
motion of a kite, at a stupendous height ; at others nearer the
water, watching the motions of the flying-fish, which they
seize as they spring out of the water, to shun the jaws of the
Jarger fish which pursue them. Vast flocks are also seen round
Kamtschatka and the adjacent islands, particularly the Kuriles
and Bering’s Island, about the end of June. Their arrival is
considered by the natives of these places asa sure presage of
the presence of the shoals of fish which they have thus followed
into these remotest of seas. That want of food impels them to
undertake these great migrations appears from the lean condi-
tion in which they arrive from the South ; they soon, however,
become exceedingly fat. Their voracity and gluttony is almost
unparalleled, — it is not uncommon to see one swallow a salmon
of four or five pounds weight ; but as the gullet cannot con-
tain the whole at once, part of the tail end will often remain
out of the mouth; and they become so stupefied by their
enormous meals as to allow the natives to knock them on the
head without offering any resistance. They are often taken
by means of a hook baited with a fish, though not for the sake
of their flesh, which is hard and unsavory, but on account of
their intestines, which the Kamtschadales use as a bladder to
float the buoys of their fishing-nets. Of the bones they also
make tobacco-pipes, needle-cases, and other small implements.
When caught, however, these birds defend themselves stoutly
with the bill, and utter a harsh and disgusting cry. Early in
August they quit these inhospitable climes for the more genial
regions of the South, into which they penetrate sometimes as
low as the latitude of 67°.

In Patagonia and the Falkland Islands they are known to
breed, but not in the northern hemisphere, to which they prob-
ably migrate only in quest of food. They repair to this south-
ern extremity of the American continent about the time they
leave the northern regions, being seen at the close of Sep-

280 SWIMMERS.

tember and beginning of October (the spring of this hemi-
sphere) associated to breed with other birds of similar habits.
The nests are made on the ground with earth and sedge, of
a round, conic form, elevated to the height of three feet, leav-
ing a hollow in the summit for the egg,— for the Albatross
lays but one, which is larger than that of a Goose, white, with
dull spots at the larger end; this is good food, the white
never growing hard with boiling. While the female is sitting,
the male is constantly on the wing, and supplies her with food.
During this time the female is so tame as to allow herself to
be pushed off the nest while her eggs are taken. But the
most destructive enemy of this bird is the Hawk, which steals
the egg whenever the female removes from it. As soon as
the young are able to leave the nest, the Penguins take pos-
session of it, and without further preparation hatch their young
in turn.

The Albatross, though so large a bird, suffers itself to be
teased and harassed while on the wing by the Skua Gull, or
Lestris, from which it often alone finds means to escape by
settling down into the water, but never attempts resistance.

A few examples of this species have been met with off the coasts
of Florida; but it has not been seen elsewhere near our shores
during recent years.

——

GREATER SNOW GOOSE.
WAVEY. WHITE BRANT.

CHEN HYPERBOREA NIVALIS.

CHAR. Plumage white ; head washed with rufous; wing-coverts and
wings ashy gray, the latter shading to black at the ends; bill and feet
purplish red. Length about 33 inches.

In young birds the upper parts are pale gray, the feathers of the back
edged with white ; rump and under parts white.

West. Usually on the marshy margin of a lake or stream, — a loosely
made structure of coarse herbage and twigs lined with grass and feathers.

Eggs. 5-8; creamy white; 3.15 X 2.10.

The Snow Goose, common to the north of both continents,
breeds, according to Richardson, in the Barren Grounds of
Arctic America in great numbers, frequenting the sandy shores
of rivers and lakes. These birds are very watchful, employing

282 SWIMMERS.

one of their number usually as a sentinel to warn them of any
approaching danger. The young fly about the close of August,
and the whole depart southward about the middle of Septem-
ber. Early in November they arrive in the river Delaware,
and probably visit Newfoundland and the coasts of the Eastern
States in the interval, being occasionally seen in Massachusetts
Bay. ‘They congregate in considerable flocks, are extremely
noisy and gabbling, their notes being shriller than those of the
Canada or Common Wild Goose. ‘They make but a short stay
in the winter, proceeding farther south as the severity of the
weather increases. ‘The Snow Geese already begin to return
towards the North by the middle of February, and until the
breaking up of the ice in March, are frequently seen in flocks
on the shores of the Delaware and around the head of the
bay. At this time they are observed to feed on the roots of
the reeds, tearing them up like hogs. In their breeding-
resorts in the fur countries they crop rushes and collect insects,
and in autumn principally berries for food, particularly those of
the crow-berry. At this time they are seldom seen on the
water, except in the night or when moulting. When well fed
the flesh is excellent, being far superior to the Canada Goose
in juiciness and flavor. It is said the young do not attain the
full plumage of the old birds before their fourth year, and until
that period they appear to keep in separate flocks. They are
numerous at Albany Fort, in the southern part of Hudson Bay,
where the old birds are rarely seen; and, on the other hand,
the adult birds in their migrations visit York Factory in great
abundance, but are seldom accompanied by the young. ‘They
make their appearance in these remote countries in spring, a
few days later than the Canada Goose, and pass in large flocks
both through the interior and along the coast. At this season
they were also seen by Mr. Say in the Territory of Missouri ;
many migrating north, probably up the great valley of the
Mississippi.

The Snow Goose is also met with commonly on the western
side of America, as at Aoonalashka and Kamtschatka, as well
as in the estuary of the Oregon, where they were seen by Lewis

BLUE. GOOSE. 283

and Clarke. They are very abundant in Siberia, and the
natives often take them in nets by means of rude decoys. In
that frozen climate they afford a great article of subsistence ;
each family killing thousands in a season, which are laid up in
bulk, in holes in the earth, and made use of as occasion
requires.

The breeding area of this variety is not known with certainty,
but it probably lies in the Barren Ground region between Green-
land and the Mackenzie River, the larger number of the birds
nesting towards the western limit of their range.

The birds winter on the Atlantic shores of the Southern States
and in the West Indies, and go north chiefly by way of the Mis-
sissippi valley. Only a few individuals are seen on the New Eng-
land and Canadian shores. Immense flocks are met with on the
Great Plains.

Nore. — The Lesser Snow Goose (Chen hyperborea), the Western
form of this species, which breeds in Alaska, is found in winter
occasionally in southern Illinois.

BLUE GOOSE.
BLUE WAVEY.
CHEN CRULESCENS.

CHAR. Back grayish brown; head, neck, and rump white; wings
bluish gray, shading to black on ends ; tail dusky ; under parts white ; bill
and feet purplish red. Length about 25 inches.

Nest and Eggs. Unknown, but probably similar to the Snow Goose.

After much contention and relegation for a time to the “ Hypo-
thetical List,” under the supposition that it was the young of the
Snow Goose, this has been admitted as a valid species.

Its breeding area lies along the shores of Hudson Bay, and its
winter home is on the Gulf coast, whence it migrates chiefly along
the valley of the Mississippi.

In habits the Blue Goose does not differ materially from its
allies.

AMERICAN WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE.
LAUGHING GOOSE.

ANSER ALBIFRONS GAMBELI.

Cuar. Upper parts brownish ash, the feathers paler on the edges;
forehead and rump white; wings and tail dusky; under parts brownish
gray, blotched with black; bill yellow, with white nail; legs and feet
orange. Length about 30 inches.

Nest. Amid rank grass and made of coarse herbage and lined with grass
and feathers, —sometimes a mere depression at the summit of a grassy
mound or in the sand on the bank of a river, lined with feathers and down.

Leggs. 5-7; creamy white; 3.15 X 2.05.

The White-fronted Goose breeds chiefly in the interior of the
continent on the skirts of the forest portions of sub-arctic regions,
and winters in Mexico and the West Indies. During the migra-
tions this Goose is rare along the Atlantic coast, but plentiful on
the plains, and quite common about the Great Lakes.

Numbers of this species nest in Greenland, but they are said to
be of the European race,— true a/écéfrons,—and they probably
migrate southward by the way of Iceland and the British Isles.

The name of Laughing Goose is derived from the call, which is
loud and trumpet-like. It sounds something like wah, wah, wah,
wah, repeated rapidly.

CANADA GOOSE.
WILD GOOSE.

BRANTA CANADENSIS.

Cuar. Mantle grayish brown, the feathers with paler edges ; head and
neck black, a broad white patch on the throat; tail black, tail-coverts
white; under parts gray, shading to white on the under tail-coverts ; bill
and legs black. Length about 36 inches.

vest. Ina variety of situations, but usually on the ground and made
of twigs and grass loosely laid and lined with feathers and down.

Eggs. 5-7; pale dull green; 3.50 X 2.50.

The Common Wild Goose of America is known familiarly in
every part of the Union as a bird of passage to and from its
breeding-places in the interior and north of the continent. The
arrival of these birds in the desolate fur countries of Hudson
Bay is anxiously looked for and hailed with joy by the abo-
rigines of the woody and swampy districts which they frequent,
who depend principally upon them for subsistence during the

286 SWIMMERS.

summer. ‘They make their appearance at first in flocks of
twenty or thirty, which are readily decoyed within gunshot by
the hunters, who set up stales, or stuffed birds, and imitate their
call. Two or three are so frequently killed at a shot, in this
way, that the usual price of a Wild Goose is a single charge of
ammunition. ‘This vernal flight of the Geese continues from
about the middle of April to the same time in May; their ap-
pearance of course coinciding with the thawing of the swamps
and marshes, though their usual food of grass and berries is
accessible at most times when not buried up in the snow.
These fruits are often, indeed, only mellowed by the frost, and
when stripped of their wintry wreath are again ready for food,
as they were in the autumn before their disappearance beneath
the snow. At such times, according to Dr. Richardson, the
Wild Goose makes an abundant repast of the farinaceous ber-
ries of the silvery buckthorn as well as of other kinds which have
escaped destruction. After feeding in a desultory manner for
about three weeks, these birds retire from the shores of Hud-
son Bay, their great rendezvous, and disperse in pairs through

the country between the 5o0th and 67th parallels, to breed, but

are seldom or never seen on the coasts of the Arctic Sea; yet
Mr. Audubon found them breeding on the shores of Labrador.
They lay six or seven greenish-white eggs in a Coarse nest
usually made on the ground, but some pairs occasionally breed
on the banks of the Saskatchewan, in trees, making use, on
these occasions, of the deserted eyries of the Ravens or Fishing
Hawks. The,call, or honk, is imitated by a prolonged nasal
pronunciation of the syllable zook frequently repeated.
Solitude and suitable food seem principally to influence the
Canada Goose in the selection of its breeding-place ; it is there-
fore not improbable but that many pairs pass the period of
reproduction in the swampy and retired marshes of the Great
Northwestern Lakes. At any rate, in-the month of March
(1810) many Wild Geese were nesting in the shave-rush bot-
toms of the Missouri no farther up than Fire Prairie, consider-
ably below the junction of the river Platte ; so that the breed-
ing range of the Canada Goose probably extends through not

CANADA GOOSE. 287

less than 30 degrees of latitude. In July it appears, after the
young birds are hatched, in the fur countries ; the parents moult ;
and advantage being then taken of their helplessness, vast
numbers are killed in the rivers and small lakes when thus dis-
abled from flight. At such times, when chased by a canoe,
and frequently obliged to dive, they soon become fatigued, and
making for the shore in order to hide, are quickly overtaken,
and fall an easy prey to their pursuers.

Attached to particular places of resort at the period of
migration, the Geese in autumn, instinctively advertised of the
approaching winter, and of the famine which to them neces-
sarily attends in its train, are again seen to assemble on the
sea-coast, courting the mildness of its temperature and _ its
open waters, which seem to. defy the access of frost. They
thus continue to glean the marshes along the shores, till the
increasing severity of the weather urges them to a_ bolder
and more determined flight from the threatening dangers
of their situation. They now in vast array begin to leave the
freezing shores of Hudson Bay. Like the rest of their gab-
bling and sagacious tribe, at the call of their momentarily
elected leader they ascend the skies, wheeling round, as if to
take a final leave of their natal shores, and sensible to the
breeze, arranged in long converging lines ( >), they survey
their azure route, and instinctively follow the cheering path of
the mid-day sun, whose feeble gleams alone offer them the
hope of arriving in some more genial clime. The leader,
ambitious of his temporary station, utters the cheering and
reiterated cry; his loud but simple clarion, answered by the
yielding ranks, dispels the gloom of solitude through which they
laboriously wander to uncertain and perhaps hostile lands. At
length they come in sight of the habitations of men. Suspicious
of these appearances, they urge their flight higher and more
silently in the air. Bewildered by fogs, however, they often
descend so low and honk so loud as to give sufficient notice
of their approach to the ambitious gunner, who thus pours
destruction among the alarmed and confused flock. They also
hear, or think they hear, a wandering companion lost from

288 SWIMMERS,

their cherished ranks ; they approach the object, and it is but a
domestic traitor of their species, or the well-imitated call of
the wily fowler. ‘Towards evening, desirous of relieving the
toil and hunger of his adventurous band, the intelligent leader
reconnoitres from his lofty station the resting-place of his
charge ; he espies the reedy river or silent lake, whose grassy
margins offer the necessary supply and cover to their lodg-
ment. His loud call now redoubles at the pleasing prospect, and
they all alight, and silently repose in darkness upon the still
water. Early in the morning they renew their wandering
course, and according to the time and season, visit every part
of the Union, to the shores of the Mexican Gulf.

The autumnal flight of the Canada Geese to the coast of
Hudson Bay, and their residence there, continues for three
weeks or a month previous to their departure for the South,
which usually takes place in September. Early in October
they arrive on the coasts of the Eastern and Middle States.

The residents of Hudson Bay depend greatly on Geese for
their supply of winter provision ; and according to Hutchins,
in favorable years they kill three or four thousand, and _bar-
rel them up for use. These are obtained chiefly by means
of ambuscade and decoy, bough-huts being made by the
Indians in lines over the marshes they frequent to feed.
Mimicking their call, they are brought within gunshot, and the
deception is also enhanced by stales and setting up the dead
birds on sticks, in living attitudes. Thus in a good day a
single native will kill as many as two hundred. When the
frosts begin, the Geese are readily preserved, with the feath-
ers on, in a frozen state, and thus afford a durable supply of
fresh provision. The feathers also constitute an article of
commerce.

In the shallow bays and marshy islands some Geese continue
the whole winter in New Jersey and the Southern States, through
which they spread themselves to the very extremity of Florida.
Their principal food is the sedge roots and other herbage ; they
also crop U/vas and tender marine plants, and swallow quanti-
ties of gravel. They swim with ease and elegance, and when

CANADA GOOSE, 289

disabled in the wings, dive well and become difficult to cap-
ture. When the shallow bays and ponds are frozen, they seek
the mouths of inlets near the sea, in quest of their fare.

The Canada Goose is now completely domesticated, and is
as familiar, breeds as freely, and is in every respect as valuable
as the common Gray Goose. Even in Buffon’s time, “many
hundreds inhabited the great canal at Versailles, where they
bred familiarly with the Swans ;’’ and he also adds, “ There is
at present a great number on the magnificent pools that deco-
rate the charming gardens of Chantilly.” The female, ina
state of domesticity, still with instinctive caution seeks out the
most solitary place for her nest, not far from the water. These
birds are also extremely watchful, and the gander often very
resentful and clamorous against any stranger who happens to
approach the place where his consort is breeding. He often
engenders with the Goose of the common species, and the
hybrids are greatly esteemed for the superiority of their
flavor.

The natural desire of periodical migration is strongly ex-
hibited by Canada Geese while in a state of domestication ;
and though at all other times reconciled to accustomed and
voluntary captivity, they are often heard instinctively to hail
the passing flocks as they pursue their yielding way high in the
air. Individuals have been known to leave the premises where
they appeared entirely domestic, after the healing of the
wounds which brought them into captivity, and they have thus
successfully mounted into the air and joined some passing
party pursuing their way to the North.

A Mr. Platt, of Long Island, having wounded a female Wild
Goose, succeeded in taming it, and left it at large with his
other Common Geese. Its wound healed, and it soon became
familiar and reconciled to its domestic condition ; but in the
following spring it joined a party of Canada Geese and disap-
peared until autumn; when at length, out of a passing flock,
Mr. Platt observed three Geese detach themselves from their
companions, and after wheeling round several times, alight in
the barn-yard, when, to his astonishment, he recognized in one

VOL. Il. — 19

290 SWIMMERS.

of the three his long-lost fugitive, who had now returned,
accompanied by her offspring, to share the hospitality of her
former acquaintance. However incredible this story may
appear, I have heard two or three relations of the same kind,
as well authenticated as any other facts in natural history.
One of these happened to a planter near Okrocock inlet, in
North Carolina, in which, as in the present instance, the female,
after being absent the summer, returned recruited with her
brood in autumn; but the greedy farmer, less humane than
Mr. Platt, having probably heard of the old adage that “a
bird in the hand is worth two in the bush,” made sure of his
prizes by killing them without delay. It appears from the
relations of travellers, and particularly a Dr. Sanchez, that in
the Cossack villages on the Don (in the autumn of 1736), he
remarked, as he travelled along, a great number of Geese in
the air, which alighted and dispersed through the hamlets.
On inquiry he learned that these birds came from the remote
northern lakes, and that every year, on the breaking up of the
ice, six or seven pairs of Geese leave each hut of the villagé and
return not until the beginning of winter ; that then these flocks
arrive, increased by their progeny, and each little party, sepa-
rating from the rest, seek out the houses where they lived
the preceding winter.

The Canada Goose breeds sparingly in the northern portions of
the New England States and in New Brunswick. It is still a

common bird, and in some localities is found in great numbers
while migrating.

HUTCHINS GOOSE.
SOUTHERN GOOSE.
BRANTA CANADENSIS HUTCHINSII.

Cuar. Similar to Canada Goose in plumage, but of smaller size.
Length about 30 inches.

Nest. Usually on a sandy beach, —a mere depression in the sand lined
vith grass and feathers. Like the Canada Goose, this variety sometimes
builds in a tree, generally in the deserted nest of a Hawk or Crow, and
often builds on the ground a large nest of twigs and grass.

Eggs. 5-8; pale creamy or whitish; 3.20 X 2.10.

HUTCHINS GOOSE. 291

On Captain Parry’s second voyage several flocks of Geese
were seen on Melville Peninsula which were thought to be the
Barnacle, but which the Esquimaux said were the males of the
Brant that during the breeding-season separated themselves
from the females. A number of specimens were obtained, all
of which proved to be males, and Dr. Richardson described
the species as a variety of the Brant; but from information
afterwards obtained, he considered these specimens as belong.
ing to a different species, hitherto confounded with the .4.
canadensis. In Hudson Bay these birds are well known by
the Cree name of Afpistskeesh, and are generally thought by
the residents to be merely a small kind of the Canada Goose,
as they have the white, kidney-shaped patch on the throat,
which is deemed peculiar to that species. Their habits, how-
ever, are dissimilar, the Canada Geese frequenting the fresh-
water lakes and rivers of the interior, and feeding chiefly on
herbage ; while the present species are always found on the
sea-coast, feeding on marine plants, and the mollusca which
adhere to them, whence their flesh acquires a strong fishy
taste.

In form, size, and general colors of the plumage, the new
species more nearly resembles the Brant than the Canada
Goose. It differs, however, from the former in having the white,
reniform patch on the throat and cheeks, in wanting the spotted
white mark on the side of the neck, in the black color termi-
nating four inches higher, instead of including the swell of the
upper parts of the back and breast, and in the white of the
vent being more extended. It is totally unlike 4. /eucopsis
in plumage, and has a larger bill.

This species of Barnacle, named in honor of Mr. Hutchins, —
from whom Pennant and Latham derived most of their in-
formation respecting the birds of Hudson Bay, — breeds in
considerable numbers on the shores and islands of the Arctic
Sea, being seldom seen in the interior, and keep near the sea-
coast in their migrations. They feed on marine plants and
mollusca, as well as on grass and berries, in common with the
A. bernicla.

292 SWIMMERS,

Hutchins Goose is now considered a variety of canadensis,
though in habits it is quite distinct.

The present race breeds in the Arctic region and winters in the
Southern States; but on the Atlantic coast is now rather rare north
of Cape Hatteras, though formerly it was quite common. On the
prairies and west of the Rockies these birds are still abundant.

Note. — The CACKLING GOOSE (B. canadensis minima), a
smaller race, — length about 24 inches, — which breeds in Alaska
and winters in California, is occasionally represented in the Mis-
sissippi valley by a few individuals.

Another occasional visitor from the West to this faunal province
is the BLAcK BRANT (B. nigricans). A few examples of this
species have been taken on the Atlantic coast.

Still another visitor of this group is the BARNACLE GOOSE
(B. leucopsis), a European bird. This species is said to be a
regular visitor to South Greenland, and Reinhardt thought it
nested in the interior of that country. It has been seen also on
Hudson Bay. :

BRANT.

BLACK BRANT. BRANT GOOSE.

BRANTA BERNICLA.

CHAR. Mantle blackish brown, the feathers paler on the edges; head
and neck black, with patch of white on sides of the throat; quills and
tail black; tail-coverts white; under parts grayish brown, the feathers
tipped with white; bill and legs black. In the winter the mantle has a
rufous tinge. Length about 25 inches.

Nest. Ona cliff or sandy beach; made of grass, moss, and weed-stems
thickly lined with down.

Eggs. 4-6 (usually 4); dull white or creamy; average size about 2.85
X 1.90.

The Brant is another of the hardy aquatic birds common
to the hyperboreal regions of both continents. It breeds in
great numbers on the coasts and islands of Hudson Bay and
the Arctic Sea, and is rarely seen in the interior. In Europe
these birds proceed to the most northern isles of Greenland
and to the dreary shores of Spitzbergen. In winter they are
very abundant in Holland and in Ireland, as well as in Shet-
land, where they remain until spring. In America, though they
visit in the course of their migrations most of the Northern

and Middle States, they proceed still farther south to spend

294 SWIMMERS.

the winter, being seen on the Mississippi nearly to New
Orleans. They retire from their natal regions in the North in
September, and early in October are seen to arrive in great
numbers about Ipswich, Cape Ann, and Cape Cod, in Massa-
chusetts, continuing to come till the month of November, and
generally appearing in greater numbers after the occurrence of
an eastwardly storm. In hazy weather they also fly low, and
diverge into the bays and inlets. Many of these wandering
flocks pass on to the South almost without any delay, usually
in marshalled and angular lines, but sometimes in a confused
gang, loudly gabbling as they proceed. Their stay here is
commonly so short that it is necessary to ambuscade in huts on
their route in order to obtain them. ‘The course of their pas-
sage is remarkably uniform, and instead of winding round the
bays, they cross over the narrow necks and peninsulas of land
which lie in their southern route, as if in haste to arrive at
some particular destination, or dissatisfied with the prospect of
fare. They continue almost without interruption their inflex-
ible course until, seduced by the mildness of the climate or
the abundance of their food, they seem inclined to take up
their permanent winter residence in the inlets of Long Island
and the sheltered bays of New Jersey, arriving, according to
Wilson, in Egg Harbor sometimes as early as the 2oth of
September, or almost without the intermission of any interval,
but for necessary food and repose, from the time of their leay-
ing the shores of Hudson Bay. The first flights, still adven-
turous and roving, generally remain here only a few days, and
then pass on still farther to the South. Flocks continue, how-
ever, to arrive from the North, and many individuals remain
in the waters of New Jersey until the severe weather of De-
cember urges them to seek out milder regions. On recom-
mencing their journey they assemble in one great flight, making
an extensive spiral sweep some miles in circuit, to reconnoitre
their route ; when, rising at length high in the air, they steer
to the ocean, and continue their course along the bays, or
even out at sea for several leagues, till they arrive again at
some new destination.

BRANT. 295

The Brant feeds usually on the bars at low water, and now
and then also in the marshes; its common fare is the laver
and other tender marine plants, and it now and then also eats
small shell-fish. In the spring the old birds are generally lean
and ill-flavored ; but in winter they are justly esteemed as a
delicacy, and sell at a high price. Brant never dive, but wade
about in quest of their food at the recess of the tide. At the
time of high water they swim out at their ease in the bay,
ranged in long lines, particularly during the continuance of
calm weather.

The voice of the Brant is hoarse and honking, and when
gabbling in company, almost equals the yell of a pack of
hounds. When pursued, or nearly approached in a state of
confinement, these birds hiss like Common Geese. ‘They are
often quarrelsome amongst each other and with the Ducks in
their vicinity, driving the latter off their feeding-ground. They
never dive in quest of food, yet, when its wing is broken, the
Brant will go a hundred yards or more at a stretch under the
water ; and it is then very difficult to obtain. About the mid-
dle of May it reappears on its way to the North, but at this
time rarely stops long, unless driven in by stormy weather.

Brant have been found breeding very far north,— beyond latitude
82°, —and Hagerup reports them as migrants only along the south-
ern shores of Greenland; but numbers also breed probably on the
lakes near Cumberland Bay, and some doubtless go no farther than
the interior of Labrador. Large numbers linger on the northern
shore of Nova Scotia until about the 1st of June, and then sail
away northward, gathering in one immense flock and rising in the
air to a great height.

Brant are generally written down “ marine birds ;” but Thomp-
son says they occur regularly in Manitoba, though not common,
and Coues saw them in vast numbers on the banks and mud-bars
of the Missouri River.

296 SWIMMERS.

WHISTLING SWAN.
OLOR COLUMBIANUS.

CHAR. Plumage white; bill black, with a yellow spot between the
eyes and nostrils; legs black. Length about 55 inches.

Nest. On the margin of a lake or on an ocean island, sometimes in a
marsh ona river bank, —a large structure of coarse herbage lined with

fine grass or moss.
Eggs. 2-7; dull white, sometimes washed with a greenish or buffish

tint ; the surface is rough; average size about 4.25 X 2.70.

The Whistling Swan retires into the Arctic regions to pass
in more security the period of reproduction during the short
but brilliant summers which there prevail. In autumn it
migrates over both continents, and in winter is sometimes
numerous in the Bay of Chesapeake. Flocks are seen and
heard to pass also through various parts of the interior of
America, and they are nowhere more abundant at that season
than in Missouri, Arkansas, and Louisiana, to which countries,
by the great valley of the Mississippi, they are seen to repair
in lofty and numerous flights to the very close of winter, pro-
tracting their stay sometimes until driven to move by the
severest frosts. In the winter of 1810 I saw two of these
graceful birds in a state of domestication near St. Louis (Mis-
souri), which were obtained with several others at the same
time, in consequence of the extreme cold. The thermometer
falling to 15° below zero, they were unable to bear the cutting
severity of the weather, and fell disabled, accompanied by
several Wild Ducks, into an adjoining field, where a few sur-
vived and became tame.

Whistling Swans arrive in Hudson Bay about the end of May
in small flocks, accompanied by Geese, and propagate in great
numbers along the shores, islands, and inland lakes. These
birds, distinguished by their note and inferior size from the
following species, are called Hoofers, and mostly frequent the
sea-coast. The Cygnets are esteemed a delicate dish, and
the full-grown young are also excellent food. ‘The aborigines

WHISTLING SWAN. 297

of the interior make much use of the down of the Swan as
a matter of decoration, in which taste they have also been very
successfully followed by civilized nations. Among the Ice-
landers, Swans are an object of chase in the moulting season,
which takes place in August, after rearing their young; they
are pursued by dogs and on horseback, the animals being
purposely trained to pass nimbly over bogs and marshes. ‘The
eggs in the spring, as well as the flesh in autumn, are in Ice-
land much used as food, and the feathers form an article of
trade. In Kamtschatka, where Swans likewise abound and
breed, they are taken and used in the same manner ; their
food consists of aquatic plants and insects.

The Whistling Swan, though commonly tamed and domesti-
cated in Russia, has not the grace and elegance of the Mute
species, as instead of the beautiful curve of the neck it swims
with it erect. Its vocal organs are also remarkably assisted
by the elaborate structure of the trachea, which, instead of
passing on direct to the lungs, as in the Mute Swan, forms
two circumvolutions within the chest, like a trumpet, before
terminating in the respiratory organ; and it is thus enabled
to utter a powerful and sonorous note. The common Tame
Swan, on the contrary, is the most silent of birds, being
unable to utter any louder noise than a hiss. ‘This deficiency
of voice is, however, amply made up by beauty of form and
insinuating grace. Its pure, spotless, and splendid attire ; its
stately attitude; the ease and elegance with which, like a
bark, it sits and moves majestically on the water, as if proud
and conscious of its beauty; aiding its pompous progress by
gently raising its snow-white wings to catch the sportive breeze,
wherein it wantons with luxuriant ease, queen of its native
element, —in short, all conspires to shroud the Swan, however
mute, with its long acknowledged and classic perfection. And
as if aware of its high and ancient pretensions, it still, as in
former ages, frequents the now neglected streams of the Mean-
der and the Strymon; with an air of affected languor it is
yet seen silently sailing by the groves of Paphos, though no
longer cherished by its beauteous queen.

298 SWIMMERS.

The Hooper emits its notes only when flying, or calling on
its mate or companions ; the sound is something like ’zwhoogh,
’quhoogh, very loud and shrill, but by no means disagreeable
when heard high in the air and modulated by the winds. The
natives of Iceland indeed compare it, very flatteringly, to the
notes of a violin. Allowance must be made, however, for this
predilection when it is remembered that they hear this cheer-
ful clarion at the close of a long and gloomy winter, and when,
in the return of the Swan, they listen to the harbinger of ap-
proaching summer; every note must be, therefore, melodious
which presages the speedy thaw and the return of life and
verdure to their gelid coast.

It is to this species alone that the ancients could attribute
the power of melody, — the singular faculty of tuning its dying
dirge from among the reedy marshes of its final retreat. Ina
low, plaintive, and stridulous voice, in the moment of death, it
murmured forth its last prophetic sigh. These doleful strains
were heard at the dawn of day or when the winds and waves
were still, and, like the syrinx of Pan, were in all probability
nothing more than the murmurs and sighs of the wind through
the marshes and forests graced and frequented by these ele-
gant aquatic birds.

Nuttall confounded the American bird with the Hooper, or
Whooper, of Europe, also sometimes called the Whistling Swan,
though they are quite distinct.

Our bird winters on the Atlantic shore of the Southern States
and breeds in the fur countries, but does not migrate either way
along the Atlantic coast, where it is rarely seen north of Chesa-
peake Bay. Within the last few years a few examples have been
seen in New England, and I examined in the flesh one that was
-shot in New Brunswick. I think that in former years it must
have occurred more frequently in this vicinity, for the Indians of
Maine and the Provinces know the bird well, and have a distinctive
name for it. The Indians say the Swan is always found in the
wake of a flock of Geese; though a small flock that were seen on
the Charles River in 1891 were apparently travelling without a
guide.

Mr. Mcllwraith reports that in March, 1890, a flock of twenty
Swans appeared on Lake Ontario, near Hamilton.

TRUMPETER SWAN. 299

TRUMPETER SWAN.
OLOR BUCCINATOR.

CHAR. Plumage white; bill and legs black. Length 60 to 65 inches.

Vest. Usually on dry upland, hid amid scrubby bushes; made of grass
and twigs lined with feathers and down.

Eggs. 2-6; white with a rough chalk-like surface; average size 4.40
xX 2.60.

According to Richardson, this is the most common Swan in
the interior of the fur countries, which it frequents to breed
as far south as the 61st parallel, but principally within the
Arctic Circle. In its migrations it is generally seen to precede
the Geese by a few days. It is to the Trumpeter that the bulk
of the Swan-skins imported by the Hudson Bay Company
belong. Lawson remarks that these birds arrive in great flocks
in Carolina in autumn, and frequent the rivers and fresh waters,
retiring thence to breed in the North as early as February.
This species, remarkable for its loud clarion, descends the
valley of the Mississippi in great flights at the approach of
winter. Hearne, who also observed this Trumpeter, remarks :
“T have heard them, in serene evenings, after sunset, make a
noise not very unlike that of a French horn, but entirely
divested of every note that constituted melody, and have often
been sorry that it did not forebode their death.’’ The trachea
is well supplied with the means of producing this hollow clang,
a fold of it entering a protuberance on the dorsal or interior
aspect of the sternum at its upper part, which is wanting both
in Cygnus ferus and C. bewickii ; in other respects the wind-
pipe is distributed through the sternum nearly as in the latter
of these species.

The Trumpeter is a bird of the interior, and is seen but occa-
sionally to the eastward of the Mississippi, and is rare on the
Atlantic coast. A few examples have been seen on Lake Ontario.
It breeds from Iowa and Dakota northward.

Note. — The WHOOPING SWAN (O/or cygnus), a European bird,
occurs occasionally in Greenland.

SHOVELLER.
SPOONBILL. BROADBILL.

SPATULA CLYPEATA.

Cuar. Back brown, the feathers paler on the edges; shoulders blue;
wing-coverts white; secondaries brown with a green patch; primaries
black; rump and tail black; head and neck green; lower neck and
breast white; belly rich chestnut; vent white; under tail-coverts black;
bill widened at the end and of dark leaden blue; legs reddish. Female
darker and duller; head and neck mottled with two shades of brown;
under parts pale brown or buff. Length 20 inches.

Nest. On marshy margins of a lake or stream; made of grass lined
with down, which the female plucks from her body after she begins
to sit.

Eggs. 6-14; pale greenish buff, sometimes tinged with blue; 2.05 X
1.45.

The Shoveller, remarkable by the broadness of its bill, is an
inhabitant of the northern parts of both continents ; according
to Richardson it frequents chiefly the clear lakes of the hy-
perboreal districts, selecting for a breeding-place the Barren
Grounds, where it remains to pass the summer, appearing in
numbers in. the more southern and woody country only in the

spring and autumn when migrating. [Early in October these

SHOVELLER. 301

birds visit the small fresh-water lakes and marshes near the
sea in Massachusetts, and in the course of the winter continue
south to the extremity of the Union, penetrating into Mexico
and along the coast of the Gulf to Vera Cruz, and perhaps still
farther, in quest of subsistence and shelter from the cold.
Soon after March, according to Baillon, they disperse through
the fens in France to breed, and select the same places with
the Summer Teal, choosing, with them, large tufts of rushes,
making a nest of withered grass in the most boggy and diffi-
cult places of access, near waters. The young, in consequence
of the great disproportion of the bill, at that period, have a
most uncouth and awkward appearance, seeming to be op-
pressed by its weight, and perpetually inclined to rest it upon
the breast. They run about and swim, however, as soon as
hatched, and are carefully attended by the parent, who inces-
santly guards them from the surprise of ravenous birds. On
these occasions, when the danger becomes unavoidable, the
young are seen to squat silently among the grass, while the
old birds run off and dive. The cry of this species has been
compared to that of a rattle turned by small jerks in the hand.

The Shoveller is considered one of the most tender and
delicate-flavored Ducks, growing very fat in winter. Its
usual food is said to be small fish and insects, — rarely vege-
tables and seeds. Ina pair of the young which I examined,
that were killed in Fresh Pond, in this vicinity, the stomach
contained many fragments of a very delicate divaricated small
green Fucus, minute Sc’vfz plucked up by the roots, also frag-
ments of some Chara, with minute Vatica and Anomia shells
quite comminuted, and a portion of gravel. We see, therefore,
that the remarkable structure of the bill in this species is no
way generally indicative of any peculiar habit of feeding. The
labyrinth in the trachea of the male is small, and its voice
probably proportionately feeble.

This beautiful bird, with its strangely shaped bill, is but rarely
seen along the Atlantic coast north of Connecticut, though, like
others of our water-fowl, it is well-known to gunners and sports-
men in more southern shooting resorts.

302 SWIMMERS.

These birds migrate across the country to the Western plains,
where they nest, from North Dakota and Manitoba northward,
ranging as far as Alaska.

LABRADOR DUCK.
PIED DUCK.
CAMPTOLAIMUS LABRADORIUS.

CHAR. Male: head, neck, breast, and most of wings white; crown,
collar or neck, back, primary wing-feathers, tail, and under parts black;
bill orange at the base, the terminal half black ; legs and feet lead blue.
Female: brownish gray, the wings darker, — primaries dusky. Length
18 to 20 inches.

Nest and Eggs. Unknown.

Nuttall made but slight mention of this species, supposing it to
be a straggler from the Pacific. He reported it as visiting the
Middle States in winter, and stated that the gunners of New Jersey
and Pennsylvania called it the Sand-shoal Duck. The flesh, he
adds, is dry and unsavory.

The majority of the ornithologists of the present day believe
that the species has become extinct, though some forty years ago
it occurred regularly all along the coast from Labrador to Dela-
ware, and nested in the lower fur countries.

The last example known to have been taken was shot near
Elmira, N. Y., in 1878. Previous to that date one had been taken
on Long Island in 1874, and another at Grand Menan in 1871.

As the bird was shy and difficult to approach, a strong swimmer
and of rapid flight, its extinction is a curious phenomenon, and
unaccountable. ‘There are only thirty-three specimens known to
be preserved in the museums of America.

MALLARD. 303

MALLARD.
WILD DUCK.
ANAS BOSCHAS.

CuHar. Male: head and neck glossy green, with some purple reflec-
tions, and followed by a narrow ring of white; back brown, shading to
gray on the wings and to black on the ramp; wing-bar purple, bordered
by black and white ; upper tail-coverts black ; the longest feathers curling
upwards at the tips, rest of tail gray ; lower neck and breast rich chestnut ;
belly dull white, and marked with fine waved lines of gray; bill greenish
yellow; feet orange. Female: general plumage dark brown, varied with
buff; wings similar to the male. Length about 24 inches.

Nest. Usually on the ground, amid tall grass or under a bush, upon
a dry knoll near a pond or stream, sometimes in a tree, — a loose, bulky
structure of grass and leaves, lined with down.

Eges. 6-12, sometimes 16; greenish buff of various shades; average
size 2.30 X 1.60.

The Mallard, or original of our Domestic Duck, like so many
other species is common to most parts of the northern hemi-
sphere. As a bird of passage, in spring and autumn it is seen
in every part of the United States, and indeed inhabits more
or less the whole continent, from the Gulf of Mexico to the
68th parallel, in the fur countries of the Canadian wilderness.
In Europe it is met with everywhere, and many pass the
greater part of the winter in the dreary climate of Greenland.
Avoiding the sea-coast, it is but rarely that the Mallard visits
this vicinity, retiring south by an interior route.

These birds breed in the inland woody districts of the fur
countries, and more or less through all the intermediate space
as far south as Pennsylvania. They nest commonly on the
borders of rivers and lakes, sometimes at a considerable dis-
tance from water, amongst reeds, grass, or in fields and copses,
according to the convenience of the locality, and occasionally
even upon trees impending over waters. For its nest it scrapes
together a small quantity of such dry weeds as happen to be
contiguous. At the time of incubation the female plucks the
down from her breast to line the nest, and frequently covers
the eggs when she leaves them.

304 SWIMMERS.

Although it is most natural for all those birds whose young
run as soon as they are hatched, to deposit their eggs on
the ground, in the Mallard we have some curious exceptions.
It is asserted by a person of veracity in England that a
half-domesticated Duck was known to nest in a tower, where
she hatched her young, and brought them down in safety to
a piece of water at a considerable distance. Mr. Tunstall
mentions one at Etchingham, in Sussex, which was found
sitting upon nine eggs, on an oak twenty-five feet from the
ground ; and in another instance one was known to take pos-
session of the nest of a Hawk in a large oak. Though believed
to be monogamous, the fact is doubtful, as during the season
of incubation the Mallards are seen to congregate apart from
the Ducks as among other polygamous birds. Indeed, so little
is the male interested in the fate of the brood he has procre-
ated that the female, as incubation advances, is assiduous. to
hide herself from the company of her indifferent mate; she
steals to her nest with caution, and sits on her eggs with the
greatest pertinacy and instinctive affection. When the young
are hatched in situations remote from water, the parent is
seen to transport them to it by carrying them gently in her
bill. In the evening the mother retires into the reeds, and
broods her young under her wings for the night. Almost from
the moment of hatching, the Ducklings swim and dive with the
greatest address, employing themselves often in catching gnats
and other insects on which they at first principally feed ; but
though so alert and well provided for their aquatic life, their
aerial progress is slow, as the growth of their wings is very tardy,
these continuing short and misshapen for near six weeks, and
the bird can scarcely attempt to fly in less than three months.
This protracted infancy necessarily indicates the necessity of
pairing early in the season ; and in the milder parts of Europe
the males, jealous and quarrelsome with each other, begin
towards the close of February already to address their mates.

Wild Ducks at all times show more activity in the night
than in the day. ‘They feed, migrate, arrive, and depart
chiefly in the evening and in the night. In the dusk the

MALLARD. 305

rustling of their wings often alone marks their progress. Their
flight is generally in the form of a wedge, or two converging
lines (>); and being very cautious, they never alight until
they have wheeled several times round the spot, as if to survey
any lurking danger that may possibly threaten. ‘They often
also swim out at a distance from the shore, and one or more
of the party, experienced as leaders, usually watch for the
common safety, and give instant alarm whenever there is
occasion. During the day they thus roam at large on the
lakes, secluded pools, or broad rivers remote from the shores,
resting or sleeping till the approach of twilight. In a domestic
state, though their habits are so much changed, they are very
noisy and watchful in the evening and at dawn, responding —
their quack and cackle to the early crowing of the cock.
It is at this time that the fowler, secreted in his hut or in
any other way, lies in wait for their approach to the lure
of his female decoys, and pours among them his destructive
fire.

It would far exceed our limits to detail the various arts
employed in order to obtain this wily and highly esteemed
game. Decoys of wood, carefully painted to imitate these and
other species, are sometimes very successful lures in the morn-
ing twilight. The imitation of floating objects, as a boat
painted white amongst moving ice, has also sometimes been
attended with complete success. In India and China the
natives, wading into the water and concealing the head in
a calabash, steal upon the Ducks imperceptibly, and drawing
them down severally by the legs, fasten them to a girdle, till
it becomes loaded with its unsuspicious game.

In the fens of Lincolnshire extensive and ingenious decoys
are made for this purpose in the form of a winding canal pass-
ing out of the lake where the Ducks resort, and which is
screened on one side by a high reed-fence. At the bottom
of this artificial and converging sluice, inarched with willows,
a tunnel net is laid, into which the birds are driven by a dog
trained for the purpose and sent out to the Ducks at the
entrance of the inlet; they are thus, with suitable precaution,

VOL. Il. — 20

306 SWIMMERS.

at length urged into the net, sometimes in such quantities
that five or six dozen have been taken out at one drift.

The food of the Wild Duck is small fish, fry, snails, aquatic
insects and plants, as well as seeds and most sorts of grain. In
the severity of winter, if the standing waters become frozen,
these birds remove to running rivers and resort to the edge of
woods in quest of acorns or other suitable food ; but if the
frost continues for eight or ten days they disappear, and do
not return till the early thaws of the spring.

The Mallard is a rare bird in New England and the Provinces,
but it is quite common in western Ontario and Manitoba, and
elsewhere throughout North America, breeding from about latitude
47° northward.

Nuttall’s statement that many of these birds pass the greater part
of the winter in Greenland has been questioned, though European
naturalists have been aware that the Mallards were influenced to
migrate more by the absence of open water than by change of
temperature. Mr. Hagerup has confirmed Nuttall’s statement
lately by reporting that in south Greenland the Mallards “are
common the whole year round, but most numerous in winter, when
they keep in small flocks along the shore.”

GADWALL.
GRAY DUCK.

ANAS STREPERA.

CHAR. Upper parts brown, barred and vermiculated with white, giving
a general appearance of brownish gray; head and neck light brown,
mottled with darker; wings brown and black, wing-patch white; rump
black ; tail-feathers brown, edged with paler; lower neck and breast dark
gray; belly white, with fine wavy lines of gray; bill lead blue; legs dull
orange. The female is darker in color, the dark-brown tints prevailing
above, the white below. Length about 21 inches.

West. Usually near the water, though often some distance away, placed
under a bush or amid a tussock of rank herbage; made of grass and lined
with feathers, —sometimes a mere depression in the soil, lined with
feathers.

Eggs. 8-13; pale buff, tinged with green when fresh; 2.10 X 1.50.

The Gadwall inhabits the northern regions of both conti-
nents, but does not in America, according to Richardson,
proceed farther than the 68th parallel, and in Europe it seems
not to advance higher than Sweden. In the Russian Empire
it extends over most of the latitudes of the European and
Siberian part, except the east of the latter and Kamtschatka.
In migrations it passes chiefly into the warmer parts of Europe,
being very rare in England, but common on the coasts of

308 SWIMMERS.

France, Italy, and Sardinia. In the United States it appears
to be generally rare. A few of the young birds are seen in
this vicinity, and Wilson met with it in the interior on Seneca
Lake in October, and in February at Louisville on the Ohio,
and near the Big Bone Lick, in Kentucky.

The Gadwall breeds in the woody districts of the remote
northern fur countries of Canada. In the North of Europe it
inhabits the vast rushy marshes, and in Holland, where it is
common, associates in the same places with the Wild Duck, or
Mallard. ‘These birds are very much esteemed as game, are
very alert at diving and swimming, and plunging at the flash
of the gun, are obtained with difficulty. They are very timor-
ous, lurking in the marshes by day, feeding only in the twilight
of the morning and evening, and often till some time after
nightfall; they are then heard flying in company with the
Whistlers, and, like these, obey the call of the Decoy Ducks.
Their cry much resembles that of the common Wild Duck ;
nor is it more raucous or louder, though Gesner seems to have
meant to characterize its note by applying the epithet s¢vepera,
which has been adopted by succeeding ornithologists. The
food of this bird consists of small fish, shelly mollusca, insects,
and aquatic plants.

The Gadwall breeds from the Middle States to the lower fur
countries. It is rather rare to the eastward of the Mississippi
valley, but in that region it is abundant north to the Saskatchewan.

This is a freshwater Duck, and its favorite resort is the marshy
margin of a retired lake or stream, where it dozes through the
hours of the day, and at night feeds among the tangled rushes.
It is a shy bird and wary, but sociable with its kind, and may be
found in company with other wild fowl. It swims light and buoy-
antly, but never dives unless wounded, and its flight is strong and
swift.

a

PINTAIL.
GRAY DUCK. SPRIGTAIL.

DAFILA ACUTA.

CHAR. Male: back and flanks mottled gray; head and neck brown,
shading to black on the nape; wing-coverts buff; wing-patch, or “ specu-
lum,” green, margined with black and white; tail black, the two central
feathers much elongated; under parts white, —a line from the breast ex-
tending up the sides of the neck; bill and legs slate gray. Length 26 to
30 inches. Female: upper parts mottled gray and brown, and lower
parts gray and white; wing as in male, but of duller tints; tail with
oblique bars. Length 21 to 23 inches.

Vest. Usually at considerable distance from the water, but often very
near ; always amid a tuft of tall grass, in a dry spot, —a deep, bowl-like
structure of sedges, and lined with grass and down.

£ggs. 7-10; pale buffish green; average size about 2.10 X 1.50.

This elegant species is an inhabitant of the northern parts of
both continents, leaving its remote natal regions as the winter
advances, when it is seen pretty frequently in the markets of
the United States, and is a game much esteemed for the ex-
cellence of its flavor. According to Richardson, these birds fre-
quent chiefly the clear lakes, and breed in the Barren Grounds,

310 - «SWIMMERS.

appearing in the more southern and wooded districts when
about to migrate, at which period they proceed even beyond
the limits of the United States, being noticed by Hernandez in
Mexico. In Europe they are said to retire to the marshes of
the White Sea to breed. In Missouri and some of the other
Western States they are abundant early in March, and frequent
the small pools and ponds in the prairies; at the same time
they are likewise seen on their way north on the shores of the
Delaware.

The Pintail is shy and cautious, feeding on the mud-flats
and shallow freshwater marshes, but rarely taking to the sea-
coast. It seldom dives, is very noisy and chattering, uttering
a quack like the Common Duck, and plunges and hides with
great dexterity when wounded. It is also troublesomely vigi-
lant in giving alarm on the approach of the gunner.

The food and nest of this species are very similar to those
of the preceding. I have found the stomach in one instance
nearly filled with the seeds of the Zostera. A female Pintail
bred in confinement, when paired with a Widgeon in Lord
Stanley’s menagerie in Knowsley, sat so closely upon her eggs
towards the close of the period of incubation as to allow
herself to be taken off the nest by hand without forsaking her
hatching, and a brood of these hybrids was successfully
reared.

The Pintail is abundant in the interior, breeding along the
northern border of the United States and in Manitoba, and thence
to the Arctic Circle. It is rather rare on the Atlantic coast, where
it appears in autumn and winter chiefly.

BALDPATE.

WIDGEON.
ANAS AMERICANA.

Cuar. Mantle brownish gray, varied with fine waved lines of black;
head and neck grayish white, with dark spots, — the crown with few or no
spots; a green patch on the sides of the head behind the eyes ; wing-
patch green, bordered with black; tail grayish brown; breast mottled
reddish brown; belly white; bill and legs grayish blue. Length 19
inches. The female has a dark-brown back; head and neck yellowish
white, spotted with black.

Vest. ~ Under a bush on upland, or on a dry knoll in a marsh; made of
weed-stems, grass, and leaves, — sometimes a mere depression amid dead
leaves, — lined with down.

Eggs. 7-123; ivory white; average size 2.20 X I.50.

This species, so nearly allied to the European Widgeon, has
not been found in the old continent; yet it retires north to
breed, inhabiting in summer the woody districts of the remote
fur countries near the Saskatchewan and the coasts of Hudson
Bay as far as the 68th degree of northern latitude. In autumn
and winter these birds are common in nearly all parts of the
Union, many wintering in North and South Carolina in the

312 SWIMMERS.

open rivers and bays, sometimes considerably inland. Indeed,
I have never seen them anywhere so numerous as in the
Neuse River, round Newbern, forty miles from the ocean,
where, in company with the Canvas-back and Buffle-head,
they are seen constantly in February and March. They are
also numerous in Chesapeake Bay, and in the course of the
winter extend their migrations as far as St. Domingo and other
of the West India Islands, as well as into Cayenne in the trop-
ical parts of the continent.

The Widgeon, or Baldpate, is a frequent attendant on the
Canvas-back, and often profits by this association. The for-
mer, not being commonly in the habit of diving for subsistence,
or merely from caprice, watches the motions of its industrious
neighbor, and as soon as the Canvas-back rises with the favorite
root on which they both greedily feed, the Baldpate snatches
the morsel and makes off with his booty. These birds are
always very alert and lively, feeding and swimming out into
the ponds and rivers at all hours of the day, but are extremely
watchful, sheltering in coves and behind the land, and on the
slightest attempt to steal upon them, immediately row out into
the stream beyond gunshot, and then only take to wing when
much disturbed. In Carolina and the West Indies they fre-
quent the rice-fields in flocks, and in Martinico are said to
do considerable damage to the crops. When thus feeding in
company they have a sort of sentinel on the watch. At times
they keep in covert until twilight, and are then traced by their
low, guttural, and peculiar whistle, or ’zwew, ’zwhew, as well as
other calls ; and their whistle is frequently imitated with success
to entice them within gunshot. They feed much in the win-
ter upon aquatic vegetables, cropping the pond-weed as well as
other kinds of freshwater plants and seeds, and sometimes
dive and collect the roots and leaves of the sea-wrack.

Although generally distributed throughout North America, the
Baldpate rarely appears on the Atlantic coast excepting in winter,
when it is found on the shores of the Southern States. Itisa
“tolerably common summer resident ” of Manitoba, writes Ernest
Thompson, and the bird is well known in Ontario.

WIDGEON.

ANAS PENELOPE.

CHAR. Adult male: mantle white, marked with fine lines of dark
gray; shoulders white, followed by bar of black; wing-patch green;
longer wing-feathers and tail dark brown; head and neck chestnut, shad-
ing to buff on the forehead and to black on the throat; breast gray, tinged
with rufous and shading to white below, which extends across the belly ;
sides marked with fine lines of dark gray; under tail-coverts black; bill
slate blue, tipped with black; legs and feet dusky lead color. Soon after
the mating season the male assumes plumage similar to the female.
Female: upper parts grayish brown,— the feathers with paler margins ;
under parts white, the breast buffish brown; under tail-coverts barred
with brown; wing-patch grayish brown. Length 18 inches.

Nest. Concealed amid rank herbage or under a bush, on the margin of
a lake ; a deep bowl made of sedges and lined with grass and down.

Eggs. 7-12 (usually about to) ; rich cream color or buff; average size
220) 1..50:

Though generally set down in the books as a bird of the Old
World, the Widgeon has been known to occur on this western
shore of the Atlantic much too often to be omitted from the pres-
ent connection. The bird breeds on Iceland, and probably occurs
regularly in Greenland, though in small numbers ; and every year

314 SWIMMERS.

more or less examples are seen along our coast from Nova Scotia
to Virginia.

The nest has not been found within our borders, and it is not
probable that any nests have been built here. The breeding area
lies north of the Arctic Circle.

The Widgeon is one of the most abundant and best-known of
the Ducks that migrate through the British Islands, where it ap-
pears in flocks of enormous size, covering like a cloud the mud-
flats of the sea-shore when the tide is out, or settling upon any
large sheet of inland water adjacent to the sea; for these birds
feed on the buds and seeds of aquatic plants as well as on marine
insects and mollusks.

The call of the male Widgeon is a shrill-whistled whee-you, or
mee-yu, — the first note loud and prolonged. The female utters a
low, purring note, like £27-7-r. When flushed, both male and female
rise in silence.

The Widgeon is not easily shot. It is extremely shy and difficult
to approach, and its flight is rapid.

BLACK DUCK. 315

BLACK DUCK.
DUSKY DUCK. DUSKY MALLARD.
ANAS OBSCURA.

CHAR. General plumage blackish brown, paler on under parts ; head
and neck lighter; wing-patch purplish green, bordered with black ; lining
of wings white ; bill greenish yellow; legs red. Length about 23 inches.

Vest. On the ground in a wet meadow or marshy border of lake or
stream, — sometimes under a bush or amid rushes ; a large but well-made
structure of grass and weed-stems lined with feathers.

£ggs. 6-12 (usually about 8) ; pale buff or buffish green; 2.40 X 1.70.

This species seems to be an exclusive inhabitant of America,
being met with from Labrador to Florida, but is not found in
the higher boreal regions of the continent. It is generally
known by the improper name of the “ Black Duck,” though it
is merely dusky, and both sexes, nearly alike in plumage, have
a great resemblance to the female of the Common Mallard. It
is a numerous and common species in the salt-marshes, as well
as freshwater rivers and lakes. It is only partially migratory,
many birds often wintering in the Middle and Southern States,
where they also pass the summer and breed from the Carolinas
to Labrador in retired places in the freshwater marshes, or in
the sea islands, making a nest of rank weeds.

Many of these birds migrate north as well as into the inte-
rior at the approach of spring. Their principal food in autumn
and winter appears to consist of minute shell-fish, particularly
those univalves which are so abundant in the salt-marshes.
They also at times in great numbers visit the sandy beach in
quest of small bivalves and other shelly mollusca, and occa-
sionally feed on seeds of aquatic and bog plants, such as those
of the Scheutzeria ; and, as usual, swallow gravel with the rest of
their fare. They roost in the shallow ponds and islands, where
many are caught by the minx and fox, and are extremely shy
during the day, being at that time very seldom seen, except
when surprised in their retreats or alarmed by the report of the
gun, when they often rise from the marsh in great numbers and

316 SWIMMERS.

disperse confusedly in every direction. In calm weather they
fly high ; but when the wind blows hard they proceed within
gunshot over the salt meadows, and may then be brought
down in great numbers by the concealed gunner as they pro-
ceed over their usual track. Their voice or quack resembles
that of the common Wild Duck, and their flesh when well fed,
notwithstanding the nature of their food, is scarcely inferior to
that of any other species.

The Black Duck is found throughout this Eastern Province,
north to Labrador and the Hudson Bay region, breeding south to
New England.

NotTe.— The FLortpa Duck (Axas fulvigula) is a Southern
race of the Black Duck, though it has been given specific rank
within recent years. The plumage is similar to that of odscura,
though fulvigula is varied somewhat with buff; the cheeks and
throat plain buff; wing-patch bluish green. It ranges through the
Gulf States and west to Kansas.

WOOD DUCK,
SUMMER DUCK.

AIX SPONSA.

CHAR. Upper parts dark brown, varied with black; head and crest
metallic green and purple; lines of white above and behind the eyes;
throat white; breast chestnut, with spots of white; under parts white,
flanks with fine waved lines of black; black and white crescents in front
of shoulder ; wings glossed with purple and green, and tipped with white ;
bill red, black, and white ; legs yellow. Female mostly grayish brown,
and duller than the male ; throat and patch around the eye white. Length
17 to 19 inches.

Nest. Ina hollow tree; made of twigs and grass lined with down.

Eggs. 8-14; pale buff or creamy ; average size 2.10 X 1.60.

This most beautiful of Ducks seems to be dressed in a
studied attire, to which the addition of a flowing crest adds a
finish of peculiar elegance ; and hence Linnzus has dignified
the species with the title of sfonsa, or the bride. This splen-
did bird is peculiar to America, but extends its residence from
the cold regions of Hudson Bay, in the 54th parallel, to Mexico

318 SWIMMERS.

and the Antilles. Throughout a great part of this vast space,
or at least as far south as Florida and the Mississippi Terri-
tory, the Summer Duck is known to breed. In the interior it
is also found in the State of Missouri and along the woody
borders and still streams which flow into most of the Great
Northwestern Lakes of the St. Lawrence. The Summer Duck —
so called from its constant residence in the United States — has
indeed but little predilection for the sea-coast, its favorite
haunts being the solitary, deep, and still waters, ponds, woody
lakes, and the mill-dams in the interior, making its nest often
in decayed and hollow trees impending over the water.

Though many migrate probably to the shores of the Mexi-
can Gulf, numbers pass the winter in the States south of Vir-
ginia. Early in February they are seen associated by pairs on
the inundated banks of the Alabama, and are frequent at the
same season in the waters of West Florida. In Pennsylvania
they usually nest late in April or early in May, choosing the
hollow of some broken or decayed tree, and sometimes even
constructing a rude nest of sticks in the forks of branches.
The eggs are yellowish white, rather less than those of the
Domestic Hen, and they are usually covered with down, prob-
ably plucked from the breast of the parent. The same tree is
sometimes occupied by the same pair for several successive
years in the breeding-season. ‘The young, when hatched, are
carried down in the bill of the female, and afterwards con-
ducted by her to the nearest water. To these places, when
once selected, if not disturbed, they sometimes show a strong
predilection, and are not easily induced to forsake the prem-
ises, however invaded by noise and bustle. While the female
is sitting, the male is usually perched on some adjoining limb
of the same tree, keeping watch for their common safety. The
species is scarcely ever gregarious ; the birds are only seen in
pairs or by families. The common note of the Drake is fee?,
peet; but when at his post as sentinel, on espying danger, he
makes a sort of crowing noise, like ’hoo eek, ’hoo eek.

The food of the Wood Duck consists principally of acorns,
the seeds of aquatic plants, such as those of the wild oat, etc.,

BLUE-WINGED TEAL. 319

and insects which dwell in or near waters; and I have seen
a fine male whose stomach was wholly filled with a mass of the
small coleoptera, called Donatas, which are seen so nimbly
flying over or resting on the leaves of the pond-lily. These
birds are therefore very alert in quest of their prey, or they
never could capture these wary insects. ‘They are not uncom-
mon in the markets of the Eastern and Middle States, and
are justly esteemed as food.

Wood Ducks have sometimes been tamed, and soon be-
come familiar. They have even been so far domesticated
as to run about at large in the barn-yard like ordinary fowls.
In France they have also been acclimated and tamed, and
have bred in this condition.

The Wood Duck breeds from the Middle States to the lower fur
countries, — latitude 60° being the probable limit of its northern
range, — and winters in the Southern States. It is common in New
England, and rare in Manitoba.

BLUE-WINGED TEAL.

ANAS DISCORS.

Cuar. Back mottled reddish brown, black, and buff ; forehead, crown,
and throat dark lead color; cheeks with tinge of lavender and a white,
crescentic patch between the eyes and bill; shoulders sky blue; wing.
patch green, bordered with white ; under parts pale reddish buff, more or
less spotted with dusky; bill black; legs yellowish. The female is mot-
tled dull brown and buff, and has an indistinct patch on the cheeks.
Length about 15% inches.

Vest. Amid a tuft of rank grass, usually in a wet meadow on the
marshy margin of a pond; made of grass and weed-stems and lined with
feathers.

Eggs. 6-12; pale buff or ivory white, sometimes with a tinge of green
when fresh ; average size 1.85 X 1.30.

The Blue-winged Teal, according to the season, inhabits
every part of the American continent, from the plains of the
Saskatchewan and the 58th parallel to Guiana and the West
Indies. ‘The breeding-place of these birds is, however, to the

320 SWIMMERS.

north and west; they are particularly abundant as early as
August in the Territory of Michigan, and Mr. Say observed
them there on the 7th of June, so that they probably breed in
the vicinity of the Great Lakes of the St. Lawrence as well as in
the remote interior of the Canadian fur countries.

These Teal arrive in this vicinity and other parts of Massa-
chusetts near to the sea-coast early in September, and accord-
ing to Wilson are seen soon after on the muddy shores of the
Delaware, where they are often observed basking or hiding in
crowded companies close to the edge of the water, where they
can only be approached under cover. They fly out with rapid-
ity, and when they alight, drop down suddenly among the
reeds in the manner of the Snipe or Woodcock. As the first
frosts come on, they proceed to the south, and then abound in
the inundated rice-fields of the Southern States, where great
numbers are taken in traps placed on the small dry eminences
that here and there rise above the water, to which they are
decoyed with rice; and by the common contrivance called a
Figure 4, they are taken alive in box-traps. In the month
of April they pass through Pennsylvania on their way to the
North, but make little stay at that season; they are seen also
in the spring in the State of Missouri, and spread themselves
widely to breed throughout a great extent of the western and
northern wilderness.

Though often contiguous to the sea, these birds have no pre-
dilection for visiting the shores, feeding chiefly on vegetables
and insects, and particularly on the wild rice which abounds in
the Northwestern lakes and sluggish streams. ‘They are much
esteemed as game, and commonly become very fat. ‘Their
note, which is somewhat like a diminutive quack, is uttered
low and rather rapidly.

The Blue-winged Teal is uncommon in New England and the
Provinces, and we must go to the region bordering the Mississippi
valley to find it in abundance. It breeds from the northern tier of
States northward, and winters in Florida, the West Indies, and
Central America.

GREEN-WINGED TEAL.

ANAS CAROLINENSIS.

CHAR. Upper parts and flanks dark gray and white in fine waved
lines; head and neck chestnut, with a broad green band on the sides;
wing-patch rich green and black, bordered with buff and white; a white
crescentic patch in front of the shoulder; under parts white, the breast
spotted ; bill black; legs leaden gray. The female is duller in general
color, and has fewer and less conspicuous markings. Length about 14
inches.

Nest. Amid a tuft of grass, — made of grass and weed-stems and lined
with feathers.

Eggs. 6-12; pale buff or ivory white, tinged with green when fresh;
1.80 X 1.30. f :

The Green-winged Teal, as a species, is common to the
northern and temperate parts of both continents. The Amer-
ican bird appears to be a permanent and distinct variety.
There is, according to Dr. Richardson, however, in the Hud-

son Bay Museum a specimen from the fur countries agreeing
VO. Ty 20

320 SWIMMERS.

in all respects with the European species. Our variety is
abundant to the extremity of the continent, both in the woody
and barren districts of the remote fur countries of Hudson
Bay. It is also plentiful about Severn River, in the woods
and plains near fresh waters, where it breeds, the young being
about six or seven at a hatch. It feeds much upon fresh-
water insects, seeds, and aquatic plants, and when fat is deli-
cate food. In the autumn and winter it is very common
throughout the waters of the United States, both in the inte-
rior and contiguous to the sea-coast. In the course of the
winter it retires as far south as Jamaica, and is probably
common also along the coasts of the Mexican Gulf. It fre-
quents ponds, marshes, the reedy shores of creeks and rivers,
and in winter is very abundant in the rice-plantations of the
South. The birds usually fly in small parties, feeding mostly
by night, associating with the Mallard, and are commonly
decoyed by its call.

The Teal is found in the North of Europe as far as Green-
land and Iceland, and it also inhabits the borders of the Cas-
pian to the south. In France and England it is said to breed.
It is commonly seen on the pools, in close companies of
ten or twelve together, frequenting the rivers and unfrozen
springs in winter, where it subsists on aquatic plants. It flies
very swiftly, and utters a sort of whistling cry. It breeds
in the fens, continuing in the temperate parts of Europe
the whole year. It conceals its nest among the bulrushes,
constructing it of their stalks and lining it with feathers ; it
rests also sometimes on the surface of the water, so as to rise
and fall with the flood. The female takes the whole manage-
ment of incubation; the males at this time seeming to leave
them and associate by themselves in companies. The Amer-
ican Teals in the autumn, which visit this quarter, are also for
the most part young birds and females, the males pursuing a
different route apart from the rest, and are rarely seen here
until their return in the spring.

The Green-winged Teal is abundant in Manitoba and the sur-
rounding region during the migrations, and numbers nest as far

GREEN-WINGED TEAL. 323

south as Lake Winnipeg. It is numerous also westward to the
Pacific slope, breeding in the mountain region of Oregon, and
northward to Alaska. In the East it is quite common during the
migrations, though perhaps more numerous in the interior than
on the lakes and streams adjacent to the coast, and breeding
chiefly in the Hudson Bay region north of latitude 50 degrees.
Being a strictly freshwater bird, it is rarely found along the
sea-shore, though I have met with stragglers occasionally near
the mouths of streams which empty into the Bay of Fundy.

I cannot indorse Nuttall’s statement that the males are rarely
seen in the autumn in this region, though they do usually appear
in small flocks, and separated from the females.

This species ranges in winter from Florida to Central America.

Note. — A few examples of the CINNAMON TEAL (Axas cyan-
optera) have wandered from the Pacific slope to the valley of the
Mississippi and to Manitoba. Another straggler of this group —
the EUROPEAN TEAL (Axas crecca) —has been taken on the
Atlantic coast.

=e LDS INN ae 2 oat

AMERICAN EIDER.
COMMON EIDER. SEA DUCK.
SOMATERIA DRESSERI.

CHAR. Back, cheeks, and wing-coverts white ; top of head, wings, tail,
and belly black; patch of sea-green on sides of neck; breast rosy buff;
bill of greenish color, and with long wedges of feathers extending from
the forehead and cheeks towards the nostrils ; legs dull green. The female
is nearly uniform dull brown, mottled with paler on the breast ; belly dull
white. Length about 25 inches.

Nest. Generally on a flat and grassy ocean island, often on a bluff on
the coast,—sometimes on a heath-covered moorland; a_ substantial
structure of coarse marine herbage thickly lined with down.

Eggs. 4-10; color varies from creamy gray to grayish green; 2.95 X
2.00.

The Eider Duck, remarkable for the softness of its valuable
down, seems thus purposely provided by Nature with a clothing
suited to the inclement regions in which it generally dwells.
Living mostly out at sea, it is thus enabled to endure the sever-

AMERICAN EIDER. 325

ity of the glacial regions, for which it has such a predilection.
The older birds are indeed only partially migratory, moving no
farther southward in winter than to permanent open water. The
presence of these birds, with a few others of like habits and
hardihood, contributes to give an air of animation to the bleak
and dreary coasts of Greenland and Spitzbergen. ‘They are found
throughout Arctic America, and in severe winters sometimes
wander as far south to sea as the capes of the Delaware. In the
depth of winter, or from November to the middle of February,
the old birds are also usually seen in small numbers towards the
extremities of Massachusetts Bay and along the coast of Maine.
A few pairs even have been known to breed on some rocky
islands beyond Portland. Mr. Audubon found several nesting
on the isle of Grand Menan, in the Bay of Fundy; but on the
bleak and wintry coast of Labrador they were seen by him in
abundance, nesting and laying from April to the last of May.
The nest was usually placed under the shelter of a low pros-
trate branched and dwarf fir (probably Auxuws Lanksiana),
and sometimes several are made under the same bush within a
foot or two of each other. The groundwork of the nest, as
usual, was sea-weeds and moss, but the down of the female
parent is only added when all the eggs are laid. The Duck,
now acquiring an attachment for her eggs, was at this time
easily approached, her flight being even and rather slow. As
soon as the task of incubation has commenced, the males leave
the land, and associate together in large flocks out at sea, in
July begin to moult, and in August become so bare as to be
scarcely able to rise out of the water.

As soon as the young are hatched they are led to the water
by their attentive parent, and there remain, excepting in the
night and in tempestuous weather. Their greatest enemy,
besides man, is the Saddle-back Gull (Zavus marinus) ; they,
however, elude his pursuit by diving, at which both old and
young are very expert. The down, though so valuable, is
neglected in Labrador. It is so light and elastic that two or
three pounds of it, pressed into a ball that may be held in the
hand, will swell out to such an extent as to fill and distend the

320 SWIMMERS,

foot-covering of a large bed. ‘The best kind, termed live
down, is that which the Eider plucks to line the nest; the
down taken from the dead bird is greatly inferior, and it is
rare that so valuable a bird is now killed for the purpose. ‘To
augment the quantity of down from the same bird, the eggs,
which are very palatable, are taken, and the female again strips
herself to cover the second and smaller hatch. If the nest be
a second time plundered, as the female can furnish no addi-
tional lining, the male now lends his aid and strips the cov-
eted down from his breast, which is well known by its paler
color. The last laying, of only two or three eggs, is always
left, to kindle the parents’ hopes of progeny ; for if this be taken
they will abandon the place, but thus indulged, they continue to
return the following year, accompanied by their young. The
most southern breeding-place of this species in Europe is the
Ferne Isles, on the coast of Northumberland ; and voyagers
who have ventured to the dreary extremity of Arctic Europe,
hear, in summer, from the caverns and rocks of the final cape,
the deep moan of the complaining Eider. In Norway and
Iceland the Eider districts are considered as valuable property,
carefully preserved, and transmitted by inheritance. ‘There
are spots that contain many hundreds of these nests; and the
Icelanders are at the utmost pains to invite the Eiders each
into his own estate ; and when they perceive that they begin
to frequent some of the islets which maintain herds, they soon
remove the cattle and dogs to the mainland, to procure the
Eiders an undisturbed retreat; and to accommodate them,
sometimes cut out holes in rows on the smooth, sloping banks,
of which, to save themselves trouble, they willingly take pos-
session and form their nests. These people have even made
many small islands for this purpose by disjoining promontories
from the continent. It is in these retreats of peace and soli-
tude that the Eiders love te settle; though they are not
averse to nestle near habitations if they experience no moles-
tation. ‘A person,” says Horrebow, “as I myself have wit-
nessed, may walk among these birds while they are sitting, and
not scare them; he may even take the eggs, and yet they will

AMERICAN EIDER. 227

renew their laying as often as three times.’’ According to the
relation of Sir George Mackenzie, on the 8th of June, at Vidde,
the Eider Ducks, at all other times of the year perfectly wild,
had now assembled in great numbers to nestle. The boat by
which the party approached the shore passed through multi-
tudes of these beautiful fowls, which scareely gave themselves
the trouble to go out of the way. ‘ Between the landing-place
and the governor’s house the ground was strewed with them,
and it required some caution to avoid treading on the nests.
The drakes were walking about uttering a sound very like the
cooing of Doves, and were even more familiar than the common
Domestic Ducks. All round the house, on the garden wall, on
the roofs, and even in the inside of the houses and in the
chapel were numbers of Ducks sitting on their nests. Such as
had not been long on the nest generally left it on being
approached ; but those that had more than one or two eggs
sat perfectly quiet, suffering us to touch them, and sometimes
making a gentle use of their bills to remove our hands. When
a drake happens to be near his mate, he’is extremely agitated
when any one approaches her. He passes and repasses be-
tween her and the object of his suspicion, raising his head and
cooing.”

One female, during the whole time of laying, generally gives
half a pound of neat down, and double that quantity before
cleansing. According to Troil, in the year 1750 the Iceland
Company sold as much of this article as amounted to £850
sterling, besides deducting what was sent directly to Gluckstad.

At the time of pairing, according to Brunnich and Skiolde-
brand, the male is heard continually calling out with a raucous
and moaning voice ’ha ho, ’’ha ho; but the cry of the female
resembles that of the Common Duck. At this exciting period
the males, more numerous than their mates, have sharp con-
tests with each other, and the vanquished and superannuated
are afterwards seen wandering about at sea in much milder
climates than the rest of their fraternity. Both birds labor in
concert while forming the nest, and though the male gives no
assistance in hatching, during the period of laying he keeps

328 SWIMMERS. °

strict watch in the vicinity, giving notice of any danger as soon
as it appears. The Ravens, it seems, no less than the Gulls,
are the enemies of this valuable bird, often sucking the eggs
and killing the young; the female therefore hastens to convey
her brood to the sea, sometimes even carrying them on her
back to the element in which they are thenceforth destined to
live. The male now also leaves her, and neither of them
returns more that season permanently to the land. Several
hatches associate together at sea and form flocks of twenty or
thirty, attended by the females, who lead them, and are seen
continually splashing the water, to raise with the mud and sed-
iment, the insects and small shell-fish for such of the young as
are too weak to dive for themselves.

The Eider dives deep after fry, and feeds upon small
shell-fish, mussels, and univalves, and sometimes on the sea-
urchin (/cAznus) and various kinds of marine insects and sea-
weeds, and in summer mostly on the soft mollusca so abund-
ant in the Arctic and hyperboreal seas. Its flesh is dark and
fishy, though sufficiently tender, and that of the young and the
female may be considered good. It is commonly eaten by the
Greenlanders, and its skin is esteemed as an excellent inner
garment. Prepared with the feathers left on, it also forms an
article of commerce with the North, and particularly with the
Chinese. Fitted purposely for inhabiting the coldest climates
and the sea, the Eider does not long survive in temperate re-
gions, and all attempts to domesticate it have consequently
failed.

In the breeding-season, in Norway, some of the male Eiders
are seen roaming about unpaired, either superannuated or un-
able to keep possession of the females. Mr. Audubon remarks
that the Sea Ducks (Eiders, Surf Duck, Velvet, and Scoter)
moult in July, and by the roth of August are so naked of
feathers, and even destitute of quills, as to be unable to rise
either from the water or the ground. _ At this juncture, in the
Bay of Fundy, the Indians in large companies assemble in
their canoes at the entrances of the bays frequented by these
birds, and dividing themselves on either side of the headland,

KING EIDER. 329

fire blank charges and hooting and yelling as loud as pos-
sible, drive the terrified birds into the cove at high-tide,
where the natives remain until the ebb. The Ducks are then
left grounded on the naked coast, and are thus easily de-
spatched with clubs.

This Eider formerly nested on the islands in the Bay of Fundy,
but in recent years has not been known to breed to the southward
of the St. Lawrence, though it does not range north of Labrador
During the winter months it is found in the Gulf of St. Lawrence
and along the Atlantic coast as far as Delaware. Examples are
seen occasionally on the Great Lakes.

Mr. Thomas A. Jaggar, who visited Labrador in 1890, told me
that he found a number of the nests of this species, and that they
invariably contained four eggs.

GREENLAND EIDER.

SOMATERIA MOLLISSIMA BOREALIS.

CHAR. — Almost similar in coloration to S. dresser?, but differing in
the shape of the wedge-like characters of the bill.
Nest and Eggs. Similar to dressert.

The birds found breeding in Greenland were formerly supposed
to be of the European race, —typical mo/lisstma_; but within a
few years it has been discovered that there was sufficient differ-
ence to warrant a separation, there being a slight distinction in the
coloration and in the shape of the bill.

In habits these Greenland birds do not differ from their more
southern allies. Mr. Hagerup states that large numbers winter
near the open water in South Greenland, arriving there chiefly from
the northward.

KING EIDER.

SOMATERIA SPECTABILIS.

CuHAr. Top of head pearl gray, shading to deeper on the nape; a
black line bordering the base of the bill, which is formed like a shield;
cheeks white, with patches of green; neck, upper back, and shoulders
white ; lower back black; wings and tail dark brown; two lines of black
from the chin form a chevron on the throat; breast white, tinged with

330 SWIMMERS.

buff; bill and legs orange. The female has the entire plumage of two
shades of brown, the centre of the feathers dark brown, and the edges
rufous. Length 24 inches.

Nest. On an ocean island or sea-side cliff, sometimes on a dry hillside,
—usually a depression in the soil thickly lined with down ; often a high
structure of twigs and moss.

Fegs. 6-10 (usually 6); green of various shades, with more or less
tinge of buff; 2.60 X I.go.

This species is an inhabitant of the glacial regions, living
generally out at sea, and feeding, independently of the land,
chiefly upon the mollusca which abound in the Arctic Sea.
It is never seen in fresh waters, and only resorts to land
for the indispensable purposes of reproduction. Being well
provided with a thick and downy robe, it is little inclined
to change its situation, however rigorous the climate ; and as
the frost invades its resorts, it continually recedes farther out
to sea, and dwells securely amidst eternal barriers of ice and
all the horrors of an Arctic winter. The King Duck, still
more sedentary than the Eider, is seldom seen beyond the
59th parallel, except-in the depth of winter, when, according
to Audubon, it is observed off the coast of Halifax in Nova
Scotia, Newfoundland, etc., and a few have been obtained off
Boston, and at Eastport in Maine. ‘These birds abound in
Greenland and Spitzbergen, and visit and sometimes breed in
the Orkneys and other of the remote Scottish isles. A few are
also occasionally seen on the coasts of the Baltic and in Den-
mark. ‘They breed sometimes in the crevices of rocks impend-
ing over the sea, making a nest of sticks and moss, lined with
down from the breast.

The flesh is said to be palatable, the gibbous part of the bill
being accounted a delicacy; and the down collected by the
Greenlanders is esteemed of equal value with that of the
Common Eiders.

The King Eider breeds in high latitudes, — north of latitude 73°,
— but a few pairs nest on the Labrador coast, and Mr. Boardman
says that nests have been found in the Bay of Fundy.

In winter these birds are found in South Greenland and along
the coast of New Jersey (sparingly), and occasionally on the Great
Lakes.

SURF SCOTER.

SURF DUCK. PATCH-HEAD. HORSE-HEAD COOT.
SKUNK-HEAD.

OIDEMIA PERSPICILLATA.

CHAR. Male: general color deep black above, paler below ; a white
patch on the forehead and on the nape; bill mostly orange red, with a
patch of black near the base of the upper mandible, bordered by orange
and pale blue; lower mandible pinkish ; legs and toes orange, webs dull
green, claws black. Female: upper parts dusky or sooty brown; under
parts grayish ; bill dusky; legs and feet dull buff. Length about 19
inches.

Nest. Onthe margin of a lake or sluggish stream, concealed amid a
tussock of rank herbage or beneath a low branch, — made of coarse weed-
stems and lined with down.

Eggs. 5-8; pale buff or ivory white; 2.40 X 1.65.

This species of Sea Duck, with other dark kinds here com-
monly called Coots, may be properly considered as an Amer-

ican species, its visits in the Orkneys and European seas
being merely accidental. It breeds on the Arctic coasts, and

332 SWIMMERS.

extends its residence to the opposite side of the continent,
having been seen at Nootka Sound by Captain Cook.

During summer these Ducks feed principally in the sea ;
they also commonly frequent shallow bars and _surf-lashed
shores and bays in quest of various kinds of small shell-fish,
for which while on our coast they are almost perpetually div-
ing. They begin to migrate southward from their northern
resorts in company with the Long-Tailed Ducks, at which
period the flocks halt both on the shores of Hudson Bay and
on the lakes of the interior as long as they remain open,
feeding on tender shelly mollusca.

The Surf Duck, or Sea Coot, breeds also along the shores of
Hudson Bay and in Labrador, and is said to make a nest of
grass, lining it with down or feathers, and lays from four to
six white eggs, which are hatched in the month of July. It
selects the borders of freshwater ponds for its eyries, on
which the young are fed, and protected until they are nearly
ready to fly. Although these birds extend their migrations to
the coast of Florida, they often continue along all the shores
and open bays of the Union throughout the winter ; or at least
parties go and come during the greater part of the period.
Early in May, or the close of April, they are again seen bend-
ing their course towards the North. They are shy birds to
approach, but can be decoyed by imitative wooden ducks of
the same general appearance. ‘Their flesh, however, remark-
ably red and dark when cooked, is very fishy, and has but lit-
tle to recommend it; the young birds are somewhat superior
in flavor, but the whole are of little consequence as game,
though often eaten bythe inhabitants of the neighboring
coasts.

The Surf Scoter breeds regularly throughout Labrador and in the
Hudson Bay and Great Slave Lake regions. It is common on the
Atlantic coast and in Manitoba while migrating, and winters from
Massachusetts to the Carolinas and the lower valley of the Ohio.

AMERICAN SCOTER. 333

AMERICAN SCOTER.

BLACK SCOTER. BUTTER-BILLED COOT. BLACK COOT.
SEA COOT.

OWEMIA AMERICANA.

CHAR. Male: general plumage black, the under parts somewhat
brownish; bill black, with large patch of orange or yellow on upper
mandible; legs and feet black. Length about 20 inches. Female:
smaller than the male; plumage dusky brown, more or less mixed with
white on under parts.

Nest. On a sea-side cliff or moorland bluff near a lake, — made of
coarse herbage and lined with down.

£ggs. 6-10; buff of various shades; 2.55 X 1.80.

This species, probably confounded with the Common Scoter,
is said to inhabit the shores of Hudson Bay, breeding between
the 50th and 6oth parallels, but does not appear to frequent
the interior. It lives and feeds principally at sea, and its flesh
is rank and oily. The American Scoters visit the coasts and
bays of Massachusetts and New York in considerable numbers,
associating with the Surf, Velvet, Eider, and other Sea Ducks,
and are brought occasionally to Boston market about the first
week in November. While here they appear to feed princi-
pally on shell-fish, particularly mussels, and the flesh of the
young is tolerably palatable.

The American Scoter is not so strictly a sea-bird as Nuttall sup-
posed, for though common on the coast it is found also on all the
larger inland waters.

In habits this species does not differ materially from its allies.

334 SWIMMERS.

WHITE-WINGED SCOTER.
WHITE-WINGED COOT. SEA COOT. VELVET SCOTER.
OIDEMIA DEGLANDI.

Cuar. Male: black, with a broad band of white on the wings, and a
small patch of white under the eyes; knob on bill black, rest of bill and
legs orange. Female: sooty brown, paler below; head more or less
varied with white; wing-patch white; bill and legs blackish. Length
20 to 23 inches.

Vest. On the bank of a lake or sluggish stream, concealed at the foot
of a low tree or bush,— made of coarse herbage and moss, lined with
feathers; sometimes lined with down.

Leggs. 6-9 (usually 6); pale dull buff, varying to delicate cream color ;
257 OL XO:

The White-winged Scoter might be characterized as a Sea Duck
that retires inland to breed. It occurs in summer, and builds from
about latitude 50° to the fur countries, and winters on the Massa-
chusetts coast and south to Chesapeake Bay. Some few individuals
are found in winter on the Great Lakes.

The habits of these birds do not differ from others of the group.
Their principal food is mollusks, which they obtain by diving,
generally in deep water; and they are most active at night, float-
ing on the water asleep during a great part of the day. Their note
is a harsh ker-ker.

Note.— The European VELVET Duck (Ozdemia fusca)
wanders occasionally to the coasts of Greenland.

RUDDY DUCK.
SPINE-TAILED DUCK. BROAD-BILL DUCK. DIPPER DUCK.
ERISMATURA RUBIDA.

Cuar. Bill long and very wide at the end and deep at the base ; tail-
feathers stiff and pointed. Male in summer: upper parts rich chestnut ;
crown and nape black; cheeks and chin white; rump and wing-coverts
grayish brown; wings and tail dusky; under parts silvery white, shaded
with dusky; bill and feet bluish. Male in winter, young male, and
female: upper parts dull grayish brown, varied with dull buff, top of
head darker; cheeks and chin dull white; neck brownish gray ; lower
parts grayish white ; bill and feet dusky. Length about 15 inches.

RUDDY DUCK. 335

Vest. Inthe marshy margin of a pond or sluggish stream, amid the
rank herbage close by the water’s edge, — a loosely made, bulky structure
of reeds and coarse grass, lined with grass.

foggs. ? sometimes 20; pale buff or dirty white, with a rough surface ;
2.40 X 1.80.

This species, an exclusive inhabitant of America, retires to
the North to breed, frequenting the small lakes in the interior
of the fur countries up to the 58th parallel. On the 5th of
August it was also observed by Mr. Say at Pembino, in the
latitude of 49°, where, no doubt, it also passes the period of
reproduction. ‘These birds are very unwilling to take wing,
though they fly pretty well when once started. They dive
with the greatest facility, and particularly at the flash of the
gun, or even the report of the percussion-cap. When swim-
ming they have a habit of carrying the tail so erect that it
appears of the same height with the head and neck. Small
flocks, consisting of the female and young, are often seen in
Fresh Pond, in this vicinity ; but scarcely ever the adult males,
who seem to migrate usually apart at this season. They visit
us early in October, and in the course of the winter proceed
south to the extremity of the Union. On their first arrival
they are tame and unsuspicious; but the old males are ex-
tremely shy and difficult of approach. ‘Their food appears
to be principally marine and fluviatile vegetables, and seeds,
for which they dive. Besides gravel, I have found in the
stomach seeds and husks of the Ruppia maritima. ‘They
rarely, if ever, visit the sea, but are found towards the head of
tide-waters in estuaries and small ponds at no great distance
from the ocean. ‘They are common in the markets of Boston,
where they are sold under the name of Dun-birds, and their
flesh is good and much esteemed.

The Ruddy Duck is said to be generally distributed over North
America and to breed throughout its range; but in the New
England States it occurs principally as a fall and spring migrant,
and a few individuals have been seen during the winter months. I
think they breed on the Grand Lake Meadows in New Brunswick,
for I have seen very young birds there.

The males are rarely seen in full plumage, in which they make a

336 SWIMMERS.

strikingly beautiful appearance, and the bird is familiar only in the
duller colors, worn at all seasons by the young male and female;
and in this inconspicuous dress these birds are enabled to avoid
observation by hiding in the rank herbage so common at their
resorts, and thus have gained a reputation for being rare, while
they are fairly common. They are known to be common by the
gunners of Chesapeake Bay, who take them to market, — their
food being chiefly marine plants, which they obtain by diving;
their flesh is tender, and of pleasant flavor. j

CANVAS-BACK DUCK.
AYTHYA VALLISNERIA.

CHAR. Mantle and sides silvery white, dajntily marked with waved
lines of dusky ; head and neck brownish red; lower neck and breast and
rump brownish black ; wings and tail gray; under parts white; bill black;
legs leaden gray. In the female the head, neck, and breast are dull
brown; upper parts grayish brown; belly white. Length about 22 inches.

Nest. In marshy margin of stream or lake, concealed amid rank her-
bage, — made usually of grass and weed stems and lined with feathers.

Eggs. 6-10; grayish olive, — sometimes tinged with drab; 2.40 X 1.75.

The Canvas-back, so well known as a delicacy of the table,
is a species peculiar to the continent of America. It breeds,
according to Richardson, in all parts of the remote fur coun-
tries, from the 5oth parallel to their most northern limits, and
at this period associates much on the water with the ordinary
tribe of Ducks. After the close of the period of reproduction,
accumulating in flocks, and driven to the open waters of the
South for their favorite means of subsistence, these birds arrive
about the middle of October seawards on the coast of the
United States. A few at this time visit the Hudson and the
Delaware, but the great body of emigrants take up their quar-
ters in the Bay of Chesapeake and in the numerous estuaries
and principal rivers which empty into it, particularly the Sus-
quehanna, the Patapsco, Potomac, and James rivers. They
also frequent the sounds and bays of North Carolina, and are
abundant in the river Neuse, in the vicinity of Newbern, and
probably in most of the other Southern waters to the coast of

CANVAS-BACK DUCK. 357

the Gulf of Mexico, being seen in winter in the mild climate
of New Orleans. In these different sections of the Union they
are known by the various names of Canvas-backs, White-
backs, and Sheldrakes. In the depth of winter a few pairs,
probably driven from the interior by cold, arrive in Massachu-
setts Bay, in the vicinity of Cohasset and near Martha’s Vine-
yard ; these, as in the waters of New York, are commonly
associated with the Red-head, or Pochard, to which they have
so near an affinity. ‘Their principal food, instead of the fresh-
water plant Vadsneria, which is confined to so small a space,
is in fact the different kinds of sea-wrack, known here by the
name of eel-grass, from its prodigious length. ‘These vege-
tables are found in nearly every part of the Atlantic, growing
like submerged fields over all the muddy flats, shallow bays,
estuaries, and inlets, subject to the access of salt or brackish
waters. They are the marine pastures in which most of the
Sea Ducks, no less than the present, find at all times, ex-
cept in severe frosts, an ample supply of food.

The Canvas-backs on their first arrival are generally lean ;
but by the beginning of November they become in good order
for the table. ‘They are excellent divers, and swim with speed
and agility. They sometimes assemble by thousands in a
flock, and rising suddenly on wing, produce a noise like thunder.
During the day they are commonly dispersed about in quest
of food, but towards evening collect together, and coming into
the creeks and river inlets, ride as it were at anchor, with their
heads under their wings asleep; sentinels, however, appear
awake and ready to raise an alarm on the least appearance of
danger. At other times they are seen swimming about the
shoals and diving after the sea-wrack, which they commonly
pluck up, and select only the tenderest portion towards the
root. Though thus laboriously engaged, they are still ex-
tremely shy, and can rarely be approached but by stratagem ;
for even while feeding, several remain unemployed, and vigilant
against any surprise. When wounded in the wing, they dive to
prodigious distances, and with such rapidity and perseverance
as almost to render the pursuit hopeless. The great demand

VOL. II. — 22

338 SWIMMERS.

and high estimation in which these Ducks are held, spurs the
ingenuity of the gunner to practise every expedient which may
promise success in theircapture. ‘They are sometimes decoyed
to shore or within gunshot by means of a dog trained for the
purpose, which, playing backwards and forwards along the
shore, attracts the vacant curiosity of the birds, and as they
approach within a suitable distance, the concealed fowler rakes
them first on the water, and afterwards as they rise. Some-
times by moonlight the sportsman directs his skiff towards a
flock, whose position he has previously ascertained, and keep-
ing within the projecting shadow of some wood, bank, or head-
land, he paddles silently along to within fifteen or twenty yards
of a flock of many thousands, among whom he consequently
makes great destruction.

As the severity of the winter augments, and the rivers be-
come extensively frozen, the Canvas-backs retreat towards the
ocean, and are then seen in the shallow bays which still remain
open, occasionally also frequenting the air-holes in the ice,
and openings which are sometimes made for the purpose,
immediately over the beds of sea-grass, to entice them within
gunshot of the hut or bush fixed at a convenient distance for
commanding the hungry flocks. 5o urgent sometimes are the
Ducks for food in winter that at one of these artificial openings
in the ice, in James River, a Mr. Hill, according to Wilson,
accompanied by a second person, picked up from one of these
decoys, at three rounds each, no less than eighty-eight Canvas-
backs. The Ducks crowded to the place so that the whole
open space was not only covered with them, but vast numbers,
waiting their turn, stood inactive on the ice around it.

The Canvas-back will also eat seeds and grain as well as
marine grass, and seems especially fond of wheat, by which
it may be decoyed to particular places, after continuing the
bait for several days in succession. ‘The loss of a vessel loaded
with this grain, near the entrance of Great Egg Harbor, in New
Jersey, attracted vast flocks of these Ducks to the spot, so that
not less than two hundred and forty were killed in one day by
the neighboring gunners, who assembled to the spot in quest

CANVAS-BACK DUCK. 339

of these strange birds, which were afterwards sold among the
neighbors at the low rate of twelve and a half cents apiece,
without the feathers. ‘These Sea Ducks, as the gunners then
called them, — from the direction, probably, in which they ar-
rived, -—were no other than the famous Canvas-backs, which
commonly sold in the Philadelphia market at from a dollar to
a dollar and a half per pair, —and indeed sometimes much
higher prices are given, when they are scarce, and considered
indispensable.

The Canvas-back is rare in New England and the Maritime
Provinces, and occurs in that portion of the country as a migrant
only; but it is abundant in winter on Chesapeake Bay, and breeds
in the fur countries, appearing in numbers, while migrating, in the
region of the Great Lakes. A few pairs breed in Manitoba, but
the bulk of the flocks go farther north, — as far even as Alaska and
the lower valley of the Mackenzie River. The breeding area may
extend farther to the southward than Manitoba, for Dr. Newberry
reported finding very young broods on the lakes and streams amid
the Cascade Mountains in Upper California, in which region Can-
vas-backs are said to be very numerous, — more numerous than
any other water-fowl.

REDHEAD.

POCHARD.

AYTHYA AMERICANA.

Cuar. Mantle and sides silvery white, varied with fine waved lines of
dusky ; belly white ; head and neck rich chestnut ; lower neck, breast,
and rump black; wings and tail slate gray; bill dull bluish black, tipped
with gray ; legs and feet leaden gray. In the female the head, neck,
and breast are grayish brown, and the markings on the back less distinct
and of a browner tint. Length 17 to 21 inches.

est. Amid the rank herbage in marshy margin of stream or lake, —
sometimes resting upon the water; made of grass and sedges and lined
with feathers.

Leggs. 7-14 (usually about 10); pale buff or creamy, tinged more or
less with olive ; 240 X 1.75.

The Pochard, so nearly related to the Canvas-back, with
which it generally associates, is common to the north of both
continents. It is abundant in Russia in rivers and lakes in
all latitudes, as well as in Denmark, the north of Germany,
and as a bird of passage is seen in England, Holland, France,
Italy, and in the course of the winter proceeds as far south as
Egypt. In the present continent these birds are found to

REDHEAD. | 341

breed in all parts of the fur countries, from the soth parallel
to their utmost boreal limits, and, dwelling in fresh waters, are
seen to associate generally with the ANaTIN&, or proper Ducks,
taking to the sea in autumn with their broods, and appearing
within the limits of the United States towards the close of
October; they afterwards spread themselves over the bays,
rivers, and freshwater lakes at no great distance from the sea.
In the Bay of Chesapeake and its tributary streams they are
now seen in flocks with the Canvas-backs, and feed much on
the same kind of submarine grass, or wrack-weed, on which
they become very fat, and are in flavor and size but little infe-
rior to their companions, — being often, in fact, both sold and
eaten for the same, without the aid of any very sensible impo-
sition. In the months of February and March they are com-
mon in the fresh waters of North and South Carolina, where
many pass the greater part of the winter; they are also seen
at this season in the lower part of the Mississippi, around
Natchez, and probably accompany the flocks of the preceding
species near New Orleans. Brisson’s Mexican Pochard, de-
scribed by Fernandez, is also in all probability the same
bird.
The Pochards dive and swim with great agility. They are
in England sometimes taken in the decoy pools in the usual
manner of driving, but are by no means welcome visitors ; for
by their continual diving they disturb the rest of the fowls on
the water, and thus prevent their being enticed into the tunnel
nets; nor are they willingly decoyed with the other Ducks.
They are said to walk awkwardly and with difficulty. It is
also added that their cry more resembles the hollow hiss of a
serpent than the voice of a bird. ‘Their flight is more rapid
than that of the common Wild Duck, and the noise of their
wings very different. ‘The troop forms a close body in the air ;
but they do not proceed in angular lines or obey any partic-
ular leader, nor have they any call sufficient for the purpose.
On their first arrival they are restless and watchful, alighting
on the water, and then again wheeling and reconnoitring in
the air for some time, uncertain in the choice of their move-

342 SWIMMERS.

ments. ‘The only time when they can be approached within
gunshot, like so many other of the species, is about daybreak,
from an ambush or the shelter of some concealment.

In the London markets these Ducks are sold under the
name of Dun Birds, and are very deservedly esteemed as a
delicate and well-flavored game.

Although it has been said that this species will not live in
confinement, Mr. Rennie states that no bird appears sooner
reconciled to the menagerie ; and one in his possession which
had been badly wounded in the wing took immediately to feed-
ing on oats, and after three years confinement appeared very
tame, and remained in good health.

The Redhead is generally distributed throughout North Amer-
ica, but is uncommon or rare in New England and the adjacent
Provinces, while common to abundant on the Great Lakes and
westward. It breeds from Maine northward, and winters in Ches-
apeake Bay, and south to the shores of the Gulf of Mexico,

While in general appearance this bird is so like the Canvas-back
that purchasers are readily deceived as to the species the market-
man is offering them, yet the difference is so pronounced that but
little care is required to select the more delicately flavored of these
cousins. In the Canvas-back the head is dark brown, — almost
blackish brown, —in contrast to the rich chestnut of the Redhead,
and the bill of the former displays more black color. The shape
of the head is different also, that of the Canvas-back being longer
and narrower.

AMERICAN SCAUP DUCK.

BIG BLACKHEAD. BLUEBILL.
AYTHYA MARILA NEARCTICA.

CuHar. Male: head, neck, and breast black, with green reflections ;
back and sides white, marked with fine waved lines of black; rump, wings,
and tail brownish black; wing-patch white ; belly white, pencilled with
black; vent and under tail-coverts black; bill leaden blue, with a black
“nail” at the tip; legs gray, feet blackish. Female: general plumage
of upper parts dull brown; band of white at base of bill; wing-patch
white.

Nest. Amid rank herbage near a lake or stream; a rude structure of
loosely laid grass and sedges, lined with feathers.

Eges. 6-10; pale buff tinged with olive,—sometimes tinged with
drab; 2.55 X 1.70.

This species, better known in America by the name of the
Bluebill, is another general inhabitant of the whole northern
hemisphere, passing the period of reproduction in the remote
and desolate hyperboreal regions, whence at the approach of
winter it issues over the temperate parts of Europe as far as

344 SWIMMERS.

France and Switzerland, and in the United States is observed
to winter in the Delaware, and probably proceeds as far as the
waters of the Southern States, having been seen in the lower
part of Missouri by Mr. Say in the spring. It is abundant also
in winter in the Mississippi around and below St. Louis. The
breeding-places of this bird, according to the intelligent and
indefatigable Richardson, are in the remote fur countries,
from the most southern point of Hudson Bay to their utmost
northern limits.

The Scaup Duck is said to derive its name from feeding on
scaup, or broken shell-fish, for which and other articles of sub-
sistence, such as marine insects, fry, and marine vegetables, it
is often seen diving with great alertness. It is a common
species here both in fresh waters and bays, particularly fre-
quenting such places as abound in its usual fare, and like
most of its tribe it takes advantage of the accommodation of
moonlight. These birds leave the Middle States in April or
‘early in May.

Both male and female of the Scaup make a similar grunting
noise, and have the same singular toss of the head, with an
opening of the bill when sporting on the water in the spring.
While here they are heard occasionally to utter a guttural
guanck, very different from that of Common Ducks. In a
state of domestication during the summer months, when the
larvee of various insects are to be found in the mud at the
bottom of the pond these birds frequent, they are observed to
be almost continually diving. They feed, however, content-
edly on barley, and become so tame as to come to the edge of
the water for a morsel of bread. Mr. Rennie adds, of all the
aquatic birds we have had, taken from their native wilds, none
have appeared so familiar as the Scaup. The flesh of this
species is but little esteemed, though the young are more
tender and palatable.

The Bluebill is well known to the gunners on the Atlantic, though
more common to the southward than on the New England shores,
and abundant in the Western interior. It breeds from about lati-
tude 50° northward, and winters south to Central America.

LESSER SCAUP DUCK. 345

THSSoReSCAURS DUCK.
CULVER SBEACKHEAD. sElniiEE BEUBBILE,
AYTHYA AFFINIS.

CHAR. Similar in coloration to maria nearctica, but in the present
species the gloss of the head is purple instead of green, and the flanks
are pencilled with dusky instead of being unmarked. Size smaller, length
about 16 inches.

Nest. Sometimes on an island, but usually in the marshy margin of a
stream or pond, hid amid the ranker herbage close to the water ; made
of grass and weed-stems and lined with down.

Lggs. 6-9; pale dull buff tinged with olive ; 2.25 X 1.60.

The slight difference between this bird and its larger ally has
caused such confusion of the two that the distinctive distribution
and habits of the present species has not been determined. Both
are classed with the Sea Ducks, yet both build their nests by in-
land waters usually, and not on the sea-coast. The nests are gen-
erally by an inland stream, but Dr. Bell reports finding several on
Nottingham Island, in Hudson Bay.

Of the two birds the present is less frequently found on salt
water even in winter. During the migrations it is uncommon along
the shores of New England and the Provinces, but it winters
farther south than does the larger bird, and is more plentiful on
the streams and creeks running. into Chesapeake Bay than at any
locality to the northward. It is very abundant along the lower
valley of the Mississippi, and Dr. Coues reported finding it abundant
on the upper Missouri.

Audubon considered this species could be approached easily,
while feeding ; but the examples I have met with have been rather
wary, and though they rose from the water with difficulty, and
therefore rarely took wing, they generally managed to swim out
of the range of my gun.

Authors differ as to the origin of the name given to these birds,
some referring it to their fondness for mollusks, while others think
the cry is responsible for the name, which sounds like the word
scaup, delivered by a harsh voice in a screaming tone. The cry is
exceedingly discordant.

346 SWIMMERS.

RING-NECKED DUCK.

RING-BILLED BLACKHEAD. RING-NECKED BLACKHEAD.
MARSH BLUEBILL.:

AYTHYA COLLARIS.

CHAR. Upper parts and breast black, deepest on the head; an orange-
brown collar on the neck; wings slate gray, wing-patch bluish; under
parts white, flanks marked with fine waved lines; bill leaden blue, tipped
with black, and with subterminal and basal bands of pale blue.

The female lacks the collar and the waved lines on flanks; band of
grayish white around base of b1l shading to pure white on the chin;
general tints brownish. Length 16 to 18 inches.

Vest. Concealed amid rank herbage in reedy margins of a stream or
pond; made of grass and lined with feathers.

Eggs. 6-12; grayish buff tinged with olive; 2.25 X 1.60.

The Ring-necked Duck is found throughout North America,
breeding from about latitude 45° northward, and wintering from
Chesapeake Bay and the lower Ohio to the West Indies. It does
not appear to be an abundant bird anywhere, but is more com-
mon along the valley of the Mississippi than near the Atlantic,
where it is so uncommon as to be considered rare by many local
ornithologists. Mr. Boardman writes to me that the bird breeds
regularly on the St. Croix River, and is not uncommon about the
mouth of the Bay of Fundy. I had met with it elsewhere in New
Brunswick, but considered it rather rare.

The habits of this species are similar to those of others of the
group. Its food consists chiefly of aquatic insects and seeds, varied
with such small marine animals as come within reach of its bill.
It swims and dives with ease, and its flight is strong and rapid;
and as it rises from the water with more ease, it more frequently
attempts to escape from a pursuer by flight than does either of its
congeners.

BUFFLE-HEAD.

DIPPER. BUTTER-BALL. SPIRIT DUCK.

CHARITONETTA ALBEOLA.

CHAR. Back, rump, and part of wings black, remainder of wing white,
varied somewhat with black; head black, with green and purple reflec-
tions ; a triangular patch of white from the eyes to the nape; lower neck
and under parts white; tail slate gray; bill leaden blue; legs yellowish
pink. Length 15 inches. The female is smaller, with a general color of
grayish brown and a white patch on the cheeks and wings. Young birds
resemble the female.

Vest. Ina hollow of a tree or stump near a pond or stream, —a thick
cushion of down on a platform of decayed wood.

Eggs. 6-14 (usually about 10); ivory white or pale buff, sometimes
with a tinge of olive; average size 2.00 X 1.45.

This very elegant little Duck, so remarkable for its expert-
ness in diving and disappearing from the sight, is another of
those species, like the Golden-eye, to which the aborigines
have given the name of Spirit, or Conjurer, from the impunity
with which it usually escapes at the flash of the gun or the

348 SWIMMERS.

twang of the bow. In the summer season it is seen abundantly
on rivers and freshwater lakes throughout the fur countries,
where it breeds in June, and about Hudson Bay it is said to
make its nest in hollow trees in the woads contiguous to water,
—a provision of some importance, probably, from the impo-
tent manner in which the birds of this group proceed on the
ground. In autumn and winter these birds are seen almost in
every part of the Union, sometimes frequenting the sea-shores,
but more particularly rivers and lakes. ‘They are observed in
Missouri, and on the Mississippi round Natchez. In February
they were very abundant on the river Neuse in North Carolina,
in the vicinity of Newbern, and used to dive very dexterously
and perseveringly in quest of their food, which at that time is
principally fluviatile and submerged vegetables, particularly the
sea-wrack ; they also sometimes visit the bays and salt-marshes
in quest of the laver, or U/va dactuca, as well as crustacea and
small shell-fish. They are often exceedingly fat, and in Pean-
sylvania and New Jersey are commonly known by the ridiculous
name of Butter-Box, or Butter-Ball. Their flesh, however, like
that of the preceding species, is not in very high request for
the table; but the females and young, which are almost the
only kinds that visit this part of Massachusetts in winter, are
very tender and well flavored.

In February, the males are already engaged in jealous con-
tests for the selection of their mates, and the birds are then
seen assembled in small flocks of both sexes. The drake is
now heard to gwak, and seen repeatedly to move his head
backward and forward in the frolicksome humor of our do-
mestic Ducks; and by about the middle of April or early in
May every single individual will have disappeared on its way
to the natal regions of the species in the North.

From their great propensity to diving, these birds are com-
monly known in the Carolinas by the name of Dippers ; when
wounded or hit with a shot, they will often dive or conceal
themselves with such art that they seem to have buried them-
selves in the water, and probably often remain wholly submerged
to the bill, or disappear in the jaws of a pike.

AMERICAN GOLDEN-EYE. 349

The Buffle-head ranges over this entire continent, breeding from
about latitude 45° northward, and wintering from Massachusetts
and the Great Lakes southward; it is more abundant in the West
than near the Atlantic. Thompson reports it a common summer
resident of Manitoba.

AMERICAN GOLDEN-EYE.
WHISTLER.
GLAUCIONETTA CLANGULA AMERICANA.

Cuar. Male: upper parts black, the head with green reflections: a
round patch between the bill and eyes; wings varied with white; lower
neck and under parts white; bill black; legs and feet orange, with dusky
webs. Length 19 to 23inches. Female: upper parts brown, back, breast,
and sides varied with gray; belly dull white; wing-patch white; bill,
legs, and feet dull orange, webs dusky. Smaller than the male, — length
about 17 inches. Young birds resemble the female.

Nest. Ina hollow tree or stump, made of leaves and moss, and lined
with down.

Lggs. 6-12; bright green when fresh, but fading to a dull ashy green;
2.40 X 1.70.

The Golden-eye is a common inhabitant of the boreal re-
gions of both continents, from whence it migrates in small.
flocks at the approach of winter, accompanying the Velvet,
Surf Duck, and Scoter in their desultory route in quest of sub-
sistence. On their way, soon after the commencement of their
adventurous voyage, these birds visit the shores of Hudson
Bay and congenial lakes in the interior, on which they linger,.
feeding on tender and small shell-fish until debarred by the
invasion of frost. They breed in all parts of the desolate and
remote fur countries in great numbers, frequenting the rivers
and freshwater lakes, on whose borders they pass the period
of reproduction, making a rude nest of grass, and protecting
the necessary warmth of their eggs by a layer of feathers or
down plucked from the breast.

Although furnished with a remarkably complicated trachea in
the male, whence the name of C/angu/a, we cannot learn that
they ever possess any audible voice. When flushed they rise

350 SWIMMERS.

in silence, and we then only hear, instead of a cry or a quack,
the very perceptible and noisy whistling of their short and
laboring wings, for which reason they are here sometimes called
by our gunners the Brass-eyed Whistlers. In their native haunts
they are by no means shy, allowing the sportsman to make a
near approach, as if conscious at the same time of their impu-
nity from ordinary peril, for no sooner do they perceive the flash
of the gun or hear the twang of the bow, than they dive with
a dexterity which sets the sportsman at defiance, and they
continue it so long and with such remarkable success that
the aboriginal natives have nicknamed them as conjuring or
*€ Spirit Ducks.”

The food of the Golden-eye, for which it is often seen
diving, consists of shell-fish, fry, small reptiles, insects, small
crustacea, and tender marine plants. In and near fresh waters
it feeds on fluviatile vegetables, such as the roots of Eyguzse-
zum and the seeds of some species of Polygonum. Its flesh,
particularly that of the young, is generally well flavored, though
inferior to that of several other kinds of Ducks.

In Europe these birds descend in their migrations to the
South along the coasts of the ocean as far as Italy, where they
are known by the name of Quadtr’ Occhi, or “ Four Eyes,” from
the two round and white spots placed near the corners of the
bill, which at a distance give almost the appearance of two
additional eyes. ‘They likewise pass into the central parts of
the Continent, and visit the great lakes of Switzerland. They
are equally common, at the same season, in most parts of the
United States, as far probably as the extremity of the Union,
and early in spring they are again seen in Missouri and on
the wide bosom of the Mississippi, preparing to depart for their
natal regions in the North. ‘Though they fly with vigor, from
the shortness of their legs and the ampleness of the webs of
their feet, the Clangulas walk badly and with pain; they ad-
vance only by jerks, and strike the ground so strongly with
their broad feet that each step produces a noise like the slap-
ping of the hands; the wings are also extended to retain an
equilibrium, and if hurried, the awkward bird falls on its breast

BARROW’S GOLDEN-EYE. 351

and stretches its feet out behind. Born only for the water, the
Golden-eye, except in the season of propagation, seldom quits
it but to dry itself awhile in the air, and immediately after
returns to its natural element.

The Whistlers are common throughout the country, breeding
from Maine and Manitoba to the lower fur countries, and winter-
ing from the Bay of Fundy to Cuba.

BARROW’S GOLDEN-EYE.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN GOLDEN-EYE. WHISTLER.
GLAUCIONETTA ISLANDICA.

CHAR. Similar to the Common Golden-eye, but the white patch on
the cheek oblong or pear-shaped, instead of round.

Vest. Ina hollow tree, made of twigs and moss lined with down.

Fggs. 6-10; bright green when fresh, but fading to a dull grayish tint;
ZAG e75

Barrow’s Golden-eye Duck is so much like the more common
Whistler that few but experts can separate them, the shape of the
white patch on the cheeks of the male being the only distinguishing
characteristic.

In habits the two species do not differ, but the present one is
found farther north, breeding from southern Labrador to northern
Greenland, and wintering to the Bay of Fundy ; it is rarely seen so
far south as Massachusetts.

I am inclined to question the statement made in “ The Water
Birds of North America,” that these birds “ undoubtedly breed ”
along the St. Croix River. An occasional unfertile or unhealthy
example may linger in the Bay of Iundy and adjacent waters during
the summer months, but no evidence has been obtained of an evi-
dently mated pair having been seen there. Neither Wilson nor
Audubon knew this bird, and Nuttall writes: “It has hitherto been
found only in the valleys of the Rocky Mountains.”

HARLEQUIN DUCK.
LORD AND LADY.

HISTRIONICUS HISTRIONICUS.

Cuar. Male: upper parts chiefly bluish black, the wings varied with
white ; wing-patch purple; stripes of white on head, neck, and breast;
stripes of chestnut on sides of crown; breast and belly grayish brown,
sides chestnut; bill bluish black ; legs and feet leaden blue. Length
about 17 inches. The female smaller and of a general grayish brown
color above ; band of white around base of bill; belly dull white.

Vest. Usually on the ground close to a stream, — sometimes in a hol-
low tree ; made of grass and sedges and lined with feathers.

Leggs. 6-10; warm cream color, often tinged with olive ; 2.30 X 1.70.

This singularly marked and_ beautiful species is almost
a constant resident of the hyperboreal regions of the north-

ern hemisphere, from which it migrates but short distances
towards more temperate latitudes, and is, as in Europe, a rare

HARLEQUIN DUCK. 353

and almost accidental visitor as far as the Middle States of the
Union. It is, however, more frequent in Eastern Europe up to
Greenland, and common from Lake Baikal to Kamtschatka.
Now and then it is killed in Scotland and the Orkneys. Dr.
Richardson found it to be a rare bird in the fur countries,
haunting eddies under cascades and rapid streams, where it
dwells and breeds apart from all other Ducks. In Kam-
tschatka it affects the same retired and remarkable romantic
situations. Like the Alpine Cinclus, it prefers the most rocky
and agitated torrents ; in such situations it has been seen in the
rivulets of Hudson Bay at as great a distance as ninety miles
inland from the sea. Here it seeks out its appropriate fare of
spawn, shell-fsh, and the larve of aquatic or fluviatile insects.
On the low bushy and shady banks of these streams it con-
structs its nest, and on the margins of freshwater ponds in La-
brador Mr. Audubon also observed this species; and he remarks
that, instead of rearing its young in the same situations chosen
for breeding, as with the Velvet and Surf Duck, it conducts
its brood to the sea as soon as they are hatched. Its flight is
high and swift, and it swims and dives with the utmost dex-
terity. So great is its confidence in the security of its most
natural element that on the report of a gun over the water it
instantly quits its flight and dives at once with the celerity of
thought. It is said to be clamorous, and that its voice is a
sort of whistle ; the anatomy of the trachea is, however, un-
known, and we cannot tell whether this sibilation be really
produced from the throat or the wings, as in the case of the
Common Clangula, or Golden-eye.

Driven from their solitary resorts in the interior by the in-
vasion of frost, these birds are now seen out at sea engaged
in obtaining a different mode of subsistence. Amidst these
icy barriers they still continue to endure the rigors of winter,
continually receding farther out to sea, or making limited and
almost accidental visits to milder regions. When discovered,
they display the utmost vigilance, and instantly take to wing.

This bird is considered to be game superior in flavor to the
Common Wild Duck. From the singular and beautiful crescent-

VOL. Il. — 23

354 SWIMMERS.

shaped lines and marks which ornament its neck and breast,
it has probably come by the dignified appellation of Lord
among the fishers of Newfoundland. It is here too rare to
have acquired any particular name.

The Harlequin breeds from Newfoundland to high Arctic re-
gions, and winters south to the Middle Atlantic States and the
Ohio valley. It is common during the winter months in the Bay of
Fundy, and rare in Massachusetts and the Great Lake region. In
the Rocky Mountains it has been known to breed in latitude 49°.

The favorite resort in summer of these birds is on the swift cur-
rents of a rapid and secluded stream, or the surging pool at the
base of a fall. In winter they are found in the bays and estuaries
on the sea-coast. They swim buoyantly, and dive with ease. Their
flight is swift and powerful, and being shy and vigilant, they are not
easily shot.

I have met with these handsome waterfowl in winter only, and
in but one locality, — Mace’s Bay, on the western shore of the Bay
of Fundy. The Harlequins gathered there did not appear to be
the solitary and unsociable birds that many writers have repre-
sented them. I frequently saw flocks of ten or more, and usually
found these in company with Old Squaws, — their rivals in wari-
ness and rapid flight. When approaching the bar at Mace’s Bay,
on which during the gunning season there is generally a danger-
ous array of firearms, these mixed flocks slacken their pace for two
or three hundred yards, and when within range increase their speed,
and go over the bar so swiftly that but few shot hit them.

OLD SQUAW.

LONG-TAILED DUCK. SOU-SOUTHERLY. COCKAWEE.

CLANGULA HYEMALIS.

Cuar. Male: back, rump, and tail black, the central tail-feathers very
long ; crown and neck white; cheeks brownish gray, and below the gray
a patch of brown; breast and wings black, the wings varied with white ;
belly white ; bill pale pink, nail and base black ; legs and feet leaden blue,
the webs darker. Length 20 to 23 inches; middle tail-feathers 8 to 9
inches. The female has the crown and upper parts dark brown; a dark
stripe behind the eyes; under parts white; tail without long feathers.

Vest. Concealed under a bush, sometimes amid a tussock of rank
herbage, — made of a few weed-stems and some grass, and thickly lined
with down.

Leggs. 5-7; pale grayish green, sometimes greenish buff; 2.10 X 1.50.

This elegant and noisy Duck, known so generally in the
Southern States by the nickname of “ South-Southerly,” from
its note, and in most other parts by the appellation of “ Old
Squaws,” or “‘ Old Wives,” is an Arctic inhabitant of both con-
tinents, and abounds in the glacial seas of America, where it
is seen commonly associated with the Eider, Surf, Black, and
other Ducks of congenial habits, who invariably prefer the
frail but, to them, productive dominion of the sea to the land
or its more peaceful waters. So strong is the predilection of

350 SWIMMERS.

this species for its frigid natal climes and their icy barriers
that it is seen to linger in the north as long as the existence of
any open water can be ascertained. When the critical moment
of departure at length approaches, common wants and general
feeling begin so far to prevail as to unite the scattered families
into numerous flocks. They now proceed towards the South,
and making a halt on the shores and inland lakes round Hud-
son Bay, remain until again reluctantly driven towards milder
climes. ‘They are the last birds of passage that take leave
of the fur countries. Familiar with cold, and only driven to
migrate for food in the latter end of August, when already a
thin crust of ice is seen forming in the night over the still sur-
face of the Arctic Sea, the female Harelda is observed inge-
niously breaking a way with her wings for the egress of her
young brood.

According to the state of the weather we consequently ob-
serve the variable arrival of these birds. In October they
generally pay us a visit, the old already clad in the more daz-
zling garb of winter. ‘The young sometimes seek out the
shelter of the freshwater ponds, but the old keep out at sea.
No place in the Union so abounds with these gabblers as the
Bay of Chesapeake. ‘They are lively, restless, and gregarious
in all their movements, and fly, dive, and swim with unrivalled
dexterity, and subsist chiefly upon small shell-fish and marine
plants, particularly the Zostera, or grass-wrack. Late in the
evening or early in the morning, towards spring more particu-
larly, vast flocks are seen in the bays and sheltered inlets, and
in calm and foggy weather we hear the loud and blended
nasal call reiterated for hours from the motley multitude.
There is something in the sound like the honk of the Goose,
and as far as words can express a subject so uncouth, it
resembles the guttural syllables ’ogh owgh egh, and then ’ogh
ogh ogh ough egh, given in a ludicrous drawling tone ; but still,
with all the accompaniments of scene and season, this humble
harbinger of spring, obeying the feelings of nature and pouring
forth his final ditty before his departure to the distant North,
conspires, together with the novelty of his call, to please rather

OLD SQUAW. 357

than disgust those happy few who may be willing “ to find
good in everything.” His peculiar cry is well known to the
aboriginal sons of the forest, and among the Crees the species
is called ’/ah-ha-way,—so much like the syllables I have
given above that many might imagine my additions no more
than a version of the same. But I may perhaps be allowed to
say that the notes I had taken on the subject were made two
years previous to the publication of Dr. Richardson’s “ Zool-
ogy,’ whence I learn this coincidence of the name and sound
as given by the aborigines of the North. ‘This Duck is no less
known to the Canadian voyagers, who have celebrated it in
their simple effusions by the name of the “ Cackawee.”

In the course of the winter the Long-tailed Ducks wander
out into the bays and inlets nearly if not quite to the extremity
of the United States coasts; and in the spring, voyaging along
the unruffled bosom of the great Mississippi with the many
thousands of other water-fowl which penetrate by this route
into the interior, we find among the crowding throng some
small flocks of the present species, who proceed as far as the
banks of the Missouri. In Spitzbergen, Iceland, and along
the grassy shores of Hudson Bay, they make their nests about
the middle of June, lining the interior with the down from
their breasts, which is equally soft and elastic with that pro-
duced by the Eider.

These birds abound in Greenland, Lapland, Russia, and
Kamtschatka, are seen about St. Petersburg, and from Octo-
ber to April many flocks pass the winter in the Orkneys.
They are only accidental visitors on the Great Lakes in Ger-
many and along the borders of the Baltic, and are often seen,
but never in flocks, upon the maritime coasts of Holland.
The flesh of the old birds is but little esteemed, yet that of the
young is pretty good food.

The Old Squaw breeds at extremely high latitudes, being more
Arctic in its distribution than any other species of Duck. It win-
ters in numbers along the coast of south Greenland, and is common
all along the Atlantic to the Southern States.

358 SWIMMERS.

AMERICAN MERGANSER.
GOOSANDER. BUFF-BREASTED SHELLDRAKE. SAW-BILL.
MERGANSER AMERICANUS.

CHAR. Head and neck black, with green reflections; back and scapu-
lars black ; rump slate gray; wings brown, varied with white ; a black bar
across the white wing-coverts; under parts white, tinged with delicate
salmon pink, which soon fades after death ; bill bright red; legs and feet
orange. Length about 26 inches. The female is smaller, the head and
neck are chestnut, and the feathers of the neck are elongated to a con-
spicuous crest.

Nest. Usually in a hollow tree, — often in a wooden box set for its use
by egg-hunters ; sometimes in a hole in a cliff or under a rock, or even in
an abandoned nest in a tree; made of grass, leaves, and moss, and thickly
lined with down.

Eggs. 6-12 (usually about 8) ; creamy white ; size very variable, aver-
age about 2.65 X 1.80.

The Goosander inhabits the remote northern regions of both
continents, being seen during summer on the borders of grassy
lakes and streams throughout the whole of the fur countries,
and is among the latest of its tribe in autumn to seek an
asylum in milder climates. It is said to breed in every lati-
tude in the Russian empire, but mostly in the north. It is
common also in Kamtschatka, and extends through northern
Europe to the wintry shores of Iceland and Greenland. Many
of these birds, however, pass the breeding-season in the Ork-
neys, and these scarcely ever find any necessity to migrate.
They are seen in small families or companies of six or eight in
the United States in winter, and frequent the sea-shores, lakes,
and rivers, continually diving in quest of their food, which con-
sists principally of fish and shelly mollusca. They are also
very gluttonous and voracious, like the Albatross, sometimes
swallowing a fish too large to enter whole into the stomach,
which therefore lodges in the cesophagus till the lower part is
digested, before the remainder can follow. The roughness of
the tongue, covered with incurved projections, and the form of
the bent serratures which edge the bill, appear all purposely
contrived with reference to its piscatory habits. In the course

AMERICAN MERGANSER. 359

of the season these birds migrate probably to the extremity of
the Union, being seen in winter on the Mississippi and Mis-
sourl, from whence at the approach of spring they migrate
north or into the interior to breed.

The Goosander is seen to frequent the coast only in the
depth of winter ; and in its remote resorts in the North it fears
the cold much less than the ice, as when that appears, its sup-
ply of focd is necessarily cut off. ‘The extent of the breeding-
range of this species, as of that of many other retiring birds, is
yet far from being sufficiently ascertained. Early in the month
of May (1832), while descending the Susquehanna near to
Dunnstown, a few miles below the gorge of the Alleghanies,
through which that river meanders, near the foot of the Bald
Eagle Mountain, G. Lyman, Esq., and myself observed near
the head of a little bushy island a wild Duck, as we thought,
with her brood making off round a point which closed the
view. On rowing to the spot the wily parent had still con-
tinued her retreat, and we gave chase to the party, which with
all the exertions that could be made in rowing still kept at a
respectable distance before us. We now perceived that these
diminutive possessors of their natal island were a female
Goosander, or Dun-Diver, with a small but active little brood
of eight young ones. On pushing the chase for near half an
hour, the young, becoming somewhat fatigued, drew around
their natural protector, who now and then bore them along
crowding on her back. At length, stealing nearly from our
sight as the chase relaxed, the mother landed at a distance on
the gravelly shore, which, being nearly of her own gray color
and that of her family, served for some time as a complete con-
cealment. When we approached again, however, mother and
brood took to the water, and after a second attempt, in which
the young strove to escape by repeated divings, we succeeded
in cutting off the retreat of one of the family, which was at
length taken from behind a flat boat under which it had finally
retreated to hide. We now examined the little stranger, and
found it to be a young Merganser of this species not bigger
than the egg of a Goose, and yet already a most elegant

360 SWIMMERS.

epitome of its female parent, generally gray, with the rufous
head and neck and the rudiments of a growing crest. After
suffering itself to be examined with great calmness and without
any apparent fear, we restored it to its more natural element,
and at the first effort this little diminutive of its species flew
under the water like an arrow, and coming out to the surface
only at considerable distances, we soon lost sight of it, making
good its aquatic retreat in quest of the parent. On inquiry we
learned from the tavern-keeper that for several years past a
nest or brood of these birds had annually been seen near this
solitary and secluded island. In such situations, probably,
escaping the observation of man, many of these birds spread
through the country and breed from Pennsylvania to the
remotest parts of the Canadian fur countries.

This bird is not found in abundance in any part of our temperate
regions, but it breeds (sparingly) about latitude 45°, and thence to
the fur countries, — probably to the limit of forests. It winters
mostly on the coast from New Brunswick to the Southern States.

RED-BREASTED MERGANSER.
SHELLDRAKE.

MERGANSER SERRATOR.

CHAR. Head black, with green reflections, the feathers of the nape
elongated to a conspicuous crest; white collar on the neck; back black;
wings mostly white, the outer feathers black; in front of the wings a tuft
of white feathers broadly edged with black; breast pale chestnut, streaked
with black ; belly white; bill red; legs and toes reddish orange. Length
20 to 25 inches.

The female is smaller, and has the head and neck reddish brown, —
almost similar in coloration to the female amerécans.

Nest. Generally on an inland island or the bank of a secluded stream,
placed under cover of a bush or rock, or concealed amid rank herbage;
usually made of grass, heather, or leaves, and lined with down. Some-
times the first eggs are laid on the bare ground, and down gradually
tucked about them.

Eggs. 6-12 (usually about 9); olive gray or pale drab, tinged with
green; 2.60 X 1.70.

RED-BREASTED MERGANSER. 361

This Merganser is again another general inhabitant of the
whole northern hemisphere, spreading itself in the summer
season throughout the remote fur countries and western in-
terior, from whence, at the approach and during the continu-
ance of winter, it migrates towards the sea-coast in quest of
open water and the necessary means of subsistence. The Red-
breasted Mergansers, equally common in Europe as in North
America, are seen as far as Iceland, breed in Greenland, and
inhabit most parts of the Russian dominions, particularly the
great rivers of Siberia and the waters of Lake Baikal. They
arrive about Hudson Bay in June as soon as the ice breaks
up, and make their nests immediately after, of withered grass,
and a lining of down or feathers from their breasts. ‘The
young are at first of a dirty brown, like young goslings.

The breeding-range of these birds is no less extensive than
the preceding. According to Audubon they nest in rank
weeds on the borders of lakes in Maine and other parts of the
Union, and Mr. Say observed them on Lake Michigan in 42°,
on the 7th of June, assembled there, no doubt, to pass the
summer.

This species, like the rest of the family, dives well, and
dexterously eludes the sportsman when wounded, moving
about often in the greatest silence, with its bill only elevated
above the water for respiration. In the winter, while here,
these birds frequent the bays and estuaries as well as fresh
waters, and feed as usual on fry and shell-fish.

The Shelldrake breeds from about latitude 42° in the West, and
from about latitude 45° in the East, to the Arctic Circle, and spar-
ingly north of that line. It winters on the coast from south Green-
and to the Southern States

It breeds in abundance on the Miramichi River in New Brunswick.

The female bears all the burden of hatching the eggs and rear-
ing the young, for she is deserted by her mate soon after she begins
to sit. She is, however, equal to the task, and makes a most duti-
ful mother. She sits patiently and very closely on the nest, never
rising from it until an intruder is almost within arm’s reach, and
then strives to decoy him from the spot. Soon after they are
hatched, the young are led to the water, and at an early age they

362 SWIMMERS,

swim rapidly and dive with great expertness, as I have learned
by experience. I paddled after a brood one hot summer’s day,
and though several times they were almost within reach of my
landing-net, they eluded every effort to capture them. Throughout
the chase the mother kept close to the young birds, and several
times swam across the bow of the canoe in her efforts to draw my
attention from the brood and to offer herself as a sacrifice for
their escape.

HOODED MERGANSER.
HOODED SHELLDRAKE.

LOPHODYTES CUCULLATUS.

CHAR. Male: upper parts black; wings and tail with a brownish
tinge; a triangular patch of white on the nape; under parts white, the
breast with two crescentic stripes of black, and sides varied with lines
of yellowish brown; bill leaden blue, with a white nail; legs dull red.
Length about 19 inches. Female is rather smaller; upper parts dark
brown; crest reddish brown; under parts white; breast pale brown.

Nest. Ina hole in tree, or stump, or fallen log, lined with grass and
leaves covered with down.

fggs. 5-18 (usually about 8); ivory white; 2.10 X 1.75.

fete)

This elegant species is peculiar to North America, and in-
habits the interior and northern parts of the fur countries to
their utmost limits. It is also among the latest of the ANaTID&
to quit those cold and desolate regions. It makes a nest of
withered grass and feathers in retired and unfrequented places,
by the grassy borders of rivers and lakes. According to Au-
dubon, it also breeds around the lagoons of the Ohio, and on
the Great Northwestern Lakes of the interior. On the River
St. Peters, in the 45th parallel, Mr. Say observed examples on
the 18th of July, — no doubt in the same place where they had

364 SWIMMERS,

passed the rest of the summer. At Hudson Bay, where these
birds arrive about the end of May, they are said to nest close
to the borders of lakes. ‘The young are at first yellowish, and
begin to fly in July. ‘The Hairy Head, as this species is some-
times called, is rarely seen but in fresh waters and lakes, ap-
proaching the sea only in winter, when its favorite haunts are
blocked up with ice. It delights in the woody interior, and
traces its way up still creeks, and sometimes visits the mill-
ponds, perpetually diving for small fish and insects in the
manner of the Red-breasted Merganser. In the course of the
winter it migrates as far south as Mexico, is very common
throughout the whole winter in the Mississipi, and is rendered
very conspicuous by the high circular and party-colored crest
which so gracefully crowns the top of the head.

The Hooded Merganser ranges throughout North America,
breeding from about latitude 45° to the vicinity of the Arctic Circle,
and wintering from Massachusetts (sparingly) to the Southern
States. It is rather common as a spring and fall migrant in New
England and adjacent provinces, but breeds in numbers in the
northern portions of Ontario and in Manitoba.

Note. — The RUFOUS-CRESTED DUCK (Weta rufina), from Eu-
rope, has been taken near New York. One example of STELLER’S
Duck (£uxiconetta stellert), a North Pacific species, has also wan-
dered from its usual habitat and been captured in Greenland.

The MASKED Duck (Womonyx dominicus), a tropical bird,
occurs occasionally on the lakes of the interior, but cannot be
regarded as more than a straggler.

AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN.

PLECANUS ERYTHRORHYNCHOS.

CHAR. General color white, the breast and nape washed with pale
yellow; wings mostly black; bill long, the lower mandible connected
with a larger gular sac; bill and sac reddish in life, but fading to yellow-
ish after death ; legs and feet orange. Length about 5 feet.

Nest. Usually on the beach of an island in a large lake, —a loosely
built structure of twigs on the top ofa mound of gravel and sand. :

/ges. 1-4 (usually 2); white, with a rough chalk-like surface ; 3.35 X

2.20.

AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN. 365

The Pelican, the largest of web-footed water-fowl, known
from the earliest times, has long held a fabulous celebrity for
a maternal tenderness that went so far as to give nourishment
to its brood at the expense of its own blood. Its industry
and success as a fisher allows of a more natural and grateful
aliment for its young; and pressing the well-stored pouch to
its breast, it regurgitates the contents before them, without
staining its immaculate robe with a wound.

If, indeed, authors do not include more than a single species
in the P. onocrotalus, no bird wanders so widely or inhabits
such a diversity of climates as the Common Pelican. In the
cooler parts of Europe it is, however, seldom seen, being ob-
served in France, England, and Switzerland only as a very
rare straggler. It is likewise uncommon in the north of Ger-
many, though great numbers occur on the banks of the Danube.
This resort and that of the Strymon, also famous for its Swans,
are noticed by Aristotle. ‘The Pelican is found in Red Russia,
Lithuania, Volhinia, Podolia, and Pokutia, but is unknown in the
northern parts of the Muscovian empire, being seldom met with
as far as the Siberian lakes, yet it is observed about Lake Baikal.
The lakes of Judzea and of Egypt, the banks of the Nile in win-
ter, and those of the Strymon in summer, seen from the heights,
appear whitened by flocks of Pelicans. They are likewise com-
mon in Africa, on the Senegal and the Gambia, as well as at
Loanga, and on the coasts of Angola, Sierra Leone, and Guinea.
They occur at Madagascar, at Siam, in China, on the isle of
Sunda, and at the Philippines, especially in the fisheries of the
great lake of Manilla. ‘They are sometimes met with at sea,
and have been seen in the remote islands of the Indian Ocean.
Captain Cook observed them likewise in New Holland.

In America Pelicans are found in the North Pacific, on the
coast of California and New Albion, and from the Antilles
and Terra Firma, the isthmus of Panama and the bay of Cam-
peachy, as far as Louisiana and Missouri. They are very
rarely seen along the coast of the Atlantic, but stragglers have
been killed in the Delaware, and they are known to breed in

- Florida. In all the fur countries they are met with up to the

366 SWIMMERS.

61st parallel of northern latitude. Indeed, in these remote
and desolate regions they are numerous, but seem to have no
predilection for the sea-coast, seldom coming within two hun-
dred miles of Hudson Bay. ‘They there, according to Rich-
ardson, deposit their eggs usually on small rocky islands, on
the banks of cascades where they can scarcely be approached,
but still are by no means shy. ‘They live together generally
in flocks of from six to fourteen, and fly low and _ heavily,
sometimes abreast, at others in an oblique line ; and they are
often seen to pass close over a building, or within a few yards
of a party of men, without exhibiting any signs of fear. For
the purpose of surprising their prey they haunt eddies near
water-falls, and devour great quantities of carp and other fish.
They can only swallow, apparently, when opening the mouth
sideways and somewhat upwards, like the shark. When gorged
with food, they doze on the water or on some sand-shoal pro-
jecting into or surrounded by it, where they remain a great
part of their time in gluttonous inactivity, digesting their over-
gorged meal. At such times they may be easily captured, as
they have then great difficulty in starting to flight, particularly
when the pouch is loaded with fish. ‘Though they can prob-
ably perch on trees, which I have never seen them attempt,
they are generally on the wing, on the ground, or in their
favorite element.

In the old continent the Pelican is said to nest on the
ground in an excavation near to the water, laying two or three,
and rarely four eggs, which are pure white, and of nearly equal
thickness at both ends. The report that it nests in deserts re-
mote from water, and the story of the parents bringing water for
their young in the pouch in such quantities as to afford drink
for camels and wild beasts, appears only one of those extrava-
gant fictions or tales of travellers invented to gratify the love
of the marvellous. Yet so general is the belief in the truth o
this improbable relation that the Egyptians styled it the camel
of the river, and the Persians, Zacad, or the water-carrier.
The pouch of the Pelican is, however, very capacious, and be-
sides drowning all attempts at distinct voice, it gives a most

AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN. 367

uncouth, unwieldy, and grotesque figure to the bird with which
it is associated. The French very justly nickname these birds
Grana-gosters, or Great-throats; and as this monstrous en-
largement of the gullet is capable: of holding a dozen quarts
of water, an idea may be formed of the quantity of fish they
can scoop when let loose among a shoal of pilchards or other
fish, which they pursue in the course of their migrations.

The Pelican appears to attain to a great age. According to
Culmann, in Gesner, a tame one in possession of the Emperor
Maximilian, which is said to have followed him with the army,
lived to the age of fourscore.

It is remarkable that while the Pelican of the Atlantic and
the Pacific habitually frequents the ocean, that which so gen-
erally inhabits North America is rarely seen on the sea-coast,
and then only as a straggler, seeking, even at such times, the
protection of bays and rivers. Its habits are also essentially
different. It never boldly soars aloft, nor seeks its prey at sea.
The oceanic species is likewise seen in troops, sometimes fol-
lowing a retreating shoal of fish and circumventing their
escape by enclosing them as in a ring; at other times soar-
ing over their prey, these birds drop like a plummet, and
plunging headlong, cause the water to fly up eight to ten feet.
These and other actions foreign to our bird would seem to indi-
cate an original difference of race. Yet again we find them
on the old continent, principally upon large rivers and lakes.

The White Pelican does not occur regularly to the eastward of
the Mississippi valley, though numbers have at sundry times wan-
dered to the Atlantic, appearing all along the coast from Florida to
the Bay of Fundy, and I have examined one specimen that was
captured on the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

It is said to occur regularly on the Mississippi River and north
to Wisconsin, and is common in Manitoba. Small flocks are seen
occasionally on the Great Lakes.

368 SWIMMERS.

BROWN PELICAN,
PELECANUS FUSCUS.

Cuar. Upper parts ashy gray; head white ; neck rich chestnut; wing-
coverts and rump brown; under parts brownish gray ; bill brownish; sac
dusky ; legs black. Length about 4 feet. In winter the head and neck
are white.

4Vest. On an island along the coast, usually on the ground, sometimes
in a tree; made of twigs and sedges, and lined with grass.

£ggs. 2-5 (usually 3); white, with a chalk-like surface; 3.00 X 1.95.

The Brown Pelican inhabits exclusively the sea-coast of the
warmer parts of America, being abundant in the West Indies,
particularly in Jamaica, Barbadoes, etc. ‘These birds are like-
wise common in the Southern States, abounding in the bay of
Charleston, where they are seen actively engaged in pursuit of
their prey. They likewise breed and inhabit in the peninsula
of East Florida, and occasionally wander up the Mississippi as
far as the river Missouri. They are, like the preceding species,
very gluttonous and voracious. After gorging themselves, they
retire to the rocks or islets, and during the process of digest-
ing their enormous meal remain dozing and inactive for hours
together, with the bill resting on the breast, at which times,
in South America, it is no uncommon thing for the natives to
steal upon them unawares and seize them by the neck, with-
out their making any defence or resistance. Yet, like some
other gregarious birds, they are said to show a great affection
for the wounded of their own species, to which they will carry
a supply of food. Father Raymond relates that he had seen
one of these Pelicans so well tamed and taught among the
aborigines that it would go off in the morning, and return
before night to its master with its pouch distended with fish,
a great part of which the savages made it disgorge, leaving it
in possession of the remainder as a reward for its service.

The Brown Pelican is common on the coast of the Gulf States,

and on the Atlantic to North Carolina. A few examples have
wandered as far north as the shores of Massachusetts.

CORMORANT.

SHAG.

PHALACROCORAX CARBO.

CuHar. Prevailing color black, with metallic reflections of green and
purple, the mantle glossed with bronzy brown; the gular pouch bare,
and yellow in color, and at its base is a white band extending from be-
neath the eyes across the throat. During the spring the feathers of the
nape are elongated and form a mane-like crest, and white hair-like feath-
ers appear on the head; also a patch of white is worn on the flanks. Bill
black, shading to yellow at the base; legs black. Length about 36 inches.

Nest. Ina crevice of a sea-washed cliff, or on the flat beach of a lake,
or in trees by river, — made of large twigs, sometimes mixed with sea-

Ot ation

370 SWIMMERS.

weed and lined with grass or leaves. Usually the nest is the accumu-
lation of years, and becomes a heap of twigs, rotten at the base and
surmounted by a layer of fresh herbage.

Eggs. 2-6 (usually 3); white, with a rough, chalk-like surface, the
inside of the shell sea-green or pale blue; size variable, average about
2.60 X 1.60.

The Cormorant, Phalacrocorax, or Bald Raven, of the Greeks,
like the Pelican, to which it is nearly related, is also a general
inhabitant of nearly every maritime part of the world, and even
extends its residence into the inclement regions of Greenland,
where, by following the openings of the great icy barriers of that
dreary region, it finds means to subsist and to fish throughout
the year. To the natives of this frigid climate it also proves
of singular service: its tough skin is used by them as gar-
ments, the pouch is employed as a bladder to float their fish-
ing-tackle, and the flesh, though coarse, is still acceptable to
those who can regale upon seal’s and whale’s blubber.

These uncouth and gluttonous birds are plentiful on the
rocky shores of Great Britain, Holland, France, and Germany.
On the shores of the Caspian they are sometimes seen in vast
flocks, and are frequent on Lake Baikal. They inhabit China
and the coast of the Cape of Good Hope, and are common in
the Philippine Islands, New Holland, New Zealand, and other
neighboring regions. At Nootka Sound and in Kamtschatka
they have been observed by various navigators, and are found
in North America from Hudson Bay and Labrador to the
coasts of Carolina and Georgia. ‘They are not, however, com-
mon in the central parts of the United States, though they
penetrate into the interior as far as the Missouri River. ‘They
breed and are seen in the vicinity of Boston on bare and rocky
islands nearly throughout the year, and in all places appear
shy, retiring, and sedentary, enduring the most severe weather
with impunity, and only removing seaward or south in the
depth of winter for the purpose of acquiring food. Mr. Audu-
bon found them breeding on the ledges of almost inaccessible
rocks at Grand Menan isle, in the Bay of Fundy. They appear
very wary and shy, and feed their young with great assiduity,
whose voice at this time resembles the hissing of snakes.

CORMORANT., 57.

The Cormorant is a very dexterous and voracious fisher, com-
mitting great havoc when it visits pools and lakes ; but it almost
constantly resides on the sea-shores, and is seldom seen inland.
Swimming beneath the water with the velocity of a dart in the
air, and remaining a long time submerged, its prey scarcely
ever escapes, and it almost always rises with a fish in its bill,
to swallow which it employs the expedient of tossing it into
the air, and dexterously catches the head in its descent, so that
the fins lie flat, and thus favor the passage down the throat ; the
small pouch at the same time stretches so as to admit the whole
body of the fish, which is often very large in proportion to the
neck, and it there remains, undergoing a preparatory digestion
previous to its passage into the lower part of the stomach.

In some countries, as in China, and formerly in England, the
dexterity of the Cormorant in fishing was turned to profit ; for
by buckling a ring about the lower part of the neck, to prevent
deglutition, and accustoming it to return with its acquisitions in
the bill to its master, it was made a useful and domestic fisher.
On the rivers of China, Cormorants thus fixed are perched on
the prows of boats, and at a signal made by striking the water
with an oar, they instantly plunge, and soon emerge with a fish,
which is taken from them. And this toil continues till its master
is satisfied ; he looses the collar, and finishes the task by allow-
ing it to fish for itself. But it is only hunger which gives activ-
ity to the Cormorant ; when glutted with its meal, which is soon
acquired, it relaxes into its native indolence, and dozes away
the greatest part of its time in gluttonous inebriety, perched
in solitude on naked and insulated or inaccessible rocks, to
which it prudently retires for greater safety from the intrusion
of enemies.

In Europe, where these birds are alike sedentary and averse
to migration, they are known to breed from the coasts of Hol-
land to the shores of Greenland, and they are equally residents
in America nearly to the extremity of the Union. The nest
is usually made with sticks, sea-weeds, grass, and other coarse
materials, commonly upon rocks, but sometimes upon trees on
the banks of rivers, where they are occasionally seen perched.

372 SWIMMERS,

According to Lawson, they are observed in great flocks in Caro-
lina in March and April, when the herrings ascend the creeks,
at which time they are seen on fallen logs in the water waiting
and watching the approach of their prey.

This species of Cormorant was formerly considered a common
winter visitor to New England, and nested sparingly along the
coast from Nahant to the Bay of Fundy; but during recent years
it has been rarely seen south of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, though
in winter a few examples wander as far south as the New Jer-
sey shore. Mr. Hagerup reports the bird a resident of Greenland,
being most numerous in the northern section.

Nuttall was mistaken in giving this bird a more southern range;
Mr. Lawson, whom he quotes, probably confused the present spe-
cies with its Double-crested cousin, — a pardonable error in one to
whom the southern bird was not familiar when in its winter plu-
mage, for at that season the two species are somewhat similar in
appearance.

DOUBLE-CRESTED CORMORANT.
SHAG.
PHALACROCORAX DILOPHUS.

Cuar. Prevailing color black, with green reflections, the back and
wings varied with grayish brown; gular sac orange; bill bluish; legs
and feet black. During the mating season the male wears crests of
long, thin plumes on the sides of the crown, extending from above the
eyes to the nape. In eastern or sea-coast birds these plumes are black,
but birds taken in the interior have white mingled with the black, and
in Pacific-coast specimens the plumes are entirely white. Length about
32 inches.

Vest. Ina crevice of a sea-washed cliff, or on the beach of a lake or
on a tree bya river bank; made of twigs and grass, — sometimes entirely
of marine herbage.

foggs. 2-5; chalky white and rough on the surface, with inner shell of
blue or green tint ; average size 2.40 X 1.40.

The range of this species extends from the Gulf States to Lab-
rador and the Saskatchewan valley, and its breeding area from
about latitude 45° northward. It winters north to the Bay of Fundy
(sparingly).

The Double-crested Cormorant is the common Shag of our salt-
water fishermen, and is numerous in Manitoba also, though rather
rare on the Great Lakes.

MAN-OF-WAR BIRD. 375

In habits this species does not differ from others of the group.
It feeds principally on fish, which it obtains by diving from the
surface of the water. It is an expert diver, and strong, fast swim-
mer, and can remain under water for a very long period, coming to
the surface out of gunshot of a pursuer.

Nore. — The FLORIDA CORMORANT (P. dilophus floridanius)
is a smaller variety of the Double-crested species, differing from the
type in size only. Length about 25 inches. It is restricted chiefly
to the Gulf States, though occurring occasionally on the Atlantic
shores of the more southern States, and along the Mississippi val-
ley to southern Illinois.

Another species, the MEXICAN CORMORANT (P. mexicanus),
occurs occasionally on the shores of the Gulf States, and has
been taken in southern Illinois.

MAN-OF-WAR BIRD.
FRIGATE BIRD. FRIGATE PELICAN.
FREGATA AQUILA.

CHAR. Prevailing color black, with reflections of green and purple.
Length about 40 inches.

Vest. On mangrove-trees near the shore, loosely made of twigs.

fggs. Usually 1; white; 2.70 X 1.85.

The Frigate Pelican, or Man-of-War Bird, is chiefly seen on
the tropical seas, and generally on the wing. These birds are
abundant in the island of Ascension, India, Ceylon, and China.
In the South Sea they are seen about the Marquesas, Easter
Isles, and New Caledonia ; also at Otaheite. Dampier saw them
in great plenty in the island of Aves, in the West Indies ; and
they are common off the coast of East Florida, particularly
around the reefs or keys, often assembled in flocks of from
fifty to a thousand. They are also not uncommon, during sum-
mer, along the coasts of the Union as far as South Carolina,
and breed in various places, retiring to warmer latitudes on the
approach of cool weather.

The Frigate Bird is often seen smoothly gliding through the
air, with the motions of a Kite, from one to two hundred

374 SWIMMERS.

leagues from the land, sustaining these vast flights with the
.greatest apparent ease, sometimes soaring so high as to be
scarcely visible, at others approaching the surface of the sea,
where, hovering at some distance, it at length espies a fish,
and darts upon it with the utmost rapidity, and generally with
success, flying upwards again as quickly as it descended. In
the same manner it also attacks the Boobies and other marine
birds, which it obliges to relinquish their prey.

These birds breed abundantly in the Bahamas, and are said
to make their nests on trees, if near; at other times they lay
on the rocks. The eggs, one or two, are of a flesh color,
marked with crimson spots. The young birds, covered with
a grayish-white down, are assiduously attended by the parents,
who are then tame and easily approached. When alarmed,
like Gulls, they as readily cast up the contents of their pouch
as those birds do of the stomach.

The Frigate Bird occurs regularly off the coast of Florida, and

examples have been seen as far north as Nova Scotia; but out-
side of the tropics it must be considered an accidental straggler.

GANNET.

SOLAN GOOSE.

SULA BASSANA.

CuHar. Prevailing color white; head and neck washed with buff;
outer wing-feathers (primaries) black. Length about 34 or 36 inches.

The young birds are dusky brown, spotted all over with white.

Nest. Ona cliff of an ocean island, — made of sea-weed and grass.

Ege. 1; chalky white, inner shell pale blue, average size 3.10 X I.9o.

The Gannet is another of the many marine birds common to
both sides of the Atlantic Ocean. In the summer season these
birds are extremely abundant on some rocky isles in the Bay
of the St. Lawrence, and not uncommon on the coasts of the
United States, especially to the south of Cape Hatteras.
On the south side of Long Island and the neighboring coast
they are seen in numbers in the month of October associat-
ing with the Velvet and Scoter Ducks. In the summer
they also penetrate into the Arctic regions of both conti-
nents, are seen on the coast of Newfoundland, and occasionally
in Greenland. In Iceland they breed and are seen in great
flocks. They are also €qually common to the northwest coast
of America.

376 SWIMMERS.

These birds abound in Norway and the Hebrides, partic-
ularly on some of the least accessible of the islands. Accord-
ing to Dr. Harvey, Bass Island, near Edinburgh, not more than
a mile in circumference, has in the months of May and June its
surface almost wholly covered with nests, eggs, and young birds,
so that it is scarcely possible to walk without treading on them ;
and the flocks of birds are so prodigious as, when in flight, to
darken the air like clouds, and their noise is so stunning that it
is scarcely possible to hear your next neighbor. Looking down
towards the sea from the top of the precipice, you see it on all
sides covered with multitudes of birds, swimming and chasing
their prey ; and if in sailing round the island you survey the
hanging cliffs, you may see on every crag or fissure of the
rocks numberless birds of various sorts and sizes; and seen
in the distance, the crowding flocks passing continually to and _
from the island can only be compared to a vast swarm of bees.

The rocks of St. Kilda are no less frequented by the Gan-
nets, and Martin assures us that the inhabitants of that small
island consume annually no less than twenty-two thousand
young birds of this species, besides a vast quantity of their
eggs, these being, in fact, their principal support. This supply,
though spontaneous from nature, is not obtained without immi-
nent hazard of ife to those who engage in procuring these birds
and their eggs ; as besides climbing difficult and almost inac-
cessible paths among the rocks beetling over the sea, they
sometimes lower each other down from above, by ropes in
baskets, to collect their game from the shelvings and fissures
of the rocks chosen by these sagacious birds. The young are
a favorite dish with the North Britons in general, and during
the season they are constantly brought from the Bass Isle to
Edinburgh.

As might be supposed, the Gannets are in these islands
birds of passage, making their first appearance in the month
of March, continuing there till August or September, accord-
ing as the inhabitants take or leave their first egg; but in
general, the time of breeding and departing appears to coincide
with the arrival of the herring and its migration out of those

GANNET. 377

seas. It is probable that these birds attend the herring and
the pilchard during their whole circuit round the British
Islands, the appearance of the first being always esteemed by
the fishermen as a sure pressage of the approach of the last.
Gannets migrate in quest of food as far south as the mouth .
of the Tagus, being frequently seen off Lisbon in December,
plunging for sardines.

In the month of August, Dr. Harvey observed in Caithness
their northern migrations ; they were passing the whole day
in flocks, from five to fifteen in each. In calm weather they
fly high; in storms they proceed lower and near the shore,
but never cross over the land, even when a bay with its pro-
montories intervenes, but follow at an equal distance the
course of the bay, and regularly double every cape. Many of
the moving parties would make a sort of halt for the sake of
fishing ; for this purpose they soar to a great height, then, dart-
ing headlong into the sea, make the water foam and swell with
the violence of the concussion, after which they pursue their
route. With the arrival of the shoals of pilchards in the latter
end of summer, they are seen on the coast of Cornwall, and in
November, when the pilchards retire, the Gannets mostly dis-
appear, though a few linger on the coast throughout the winter.
An individual killed near Mount’s Bay made, as is common
with this bird, a long struggle with a water-spaniel, assisted by
a boatman, showing himself both strong and pugnacious, and
sufficiently redeeming on his part the Gannet family from the
ill-supported charge of cowardice and stupidity.

Many years ago a Gannet, flying over Penzance, and seeing
some pilchards lying on a fir-plank in a cellar used for curing
fish, darted down with such violence that it struck its bill
through the board and broke its neck.

These birds appear to have a strong predilection for particu-
lar spots. On the Gannet Rock, in the Gulf of St. Lawrence,
they are seen in amazing multitudes. This rock (according to
Audubon, from whom we derive the interesting information) is
four hundred feet in height, and several acres in extent on the
summit. At that time, the 8th of June, it was covered with

378 SWIMMERS.

innumerable birds upon their nests, so crowded or closely ar-
ranged as to give the appearance of a huge mass of snow, while
the hovering crowds seen around this inaccessible marine moun-
tain forcibly presented at a distance the actual appearance of a
snow-storm. While thus engaged, the report of a musket did
not seem in the least to alarm them; and defenceless while
obeying this powerful instinct, they allow themselves to be
approached and despatched without using any means for
escape, appearing riveted to the spot, while engaged in the
affections and cares of reproduction.

The nest of the Gannet is composed chiefly of sea-weed,
and generally placed upon the most inaccessible parts of the
highest rocks. ‘The egg (only one being laid before hatching)
is white, and very like that of the Cormorant, but not nearly
so large as the egg of the Goose, weighing about three and
a quarter ounces.

The Gannet seems incapable of diving, — at least, no alarm
can force it to immerse. Upon the water it swims as buoyantly
as a Gull. When offered fish it wiil accept, but will never go
into a pond after food; and from every appearance of its
actions on water, to which it will go only from compulsion, it
cannot procure fish beyond the extent of its neck. At times
these birds rise from the water with so much difficulty that
they are easily run down by a boat; but when thus surprised
they defend themselves with much vigor.

Within a few years this species has deserted Gannet Rock, near
Grand Menan, though a large number still gather on the Magdalen
Islands, in the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

Mr. William Brewster reports that in 1881 he found some fifty
thousand birds nesting on one of those islands, and describes the
number as astonishing and impressive, but insignificant when com-
pared with the legions seen there by Dr. Bryant some twenty years
before.

The food of this species consists entirely of fish, which it procures
by diving from the wing. plunging into the water from a great
height, — sometimes a hundred yards or more. When pursued or
wounded, it rarely or never dives, trusting to its flight, which is
strong and rapid.

BOOBY. 379

BOOBY.
SULA SULA.

CuHar. Upper parts and breast sooty brown, more or less varied with
gray; under parts white. Length 31 inches.

Vest. On an ocean island, sometimes on the ground, but usually placed
on a bush or low tree; rudely made of twigs and sea-weed.

Eggs. 1-2; chalky white; size very variable, average about 2.35 X

E55.

The Booby is found to be an inhabitant of islands and deso-
late sea-coasts throughout all the warm and temperate parts of
the globe, and has acquired its degrading name from its silly
aspect and peculiar stupidity, suffering itself to be taken, not
only at sea on the ship’s yards, but also on land, where these
birds may be despatched merely with clubs and sticks in great
numbers one after the other, without seeming to take any general
alarm, or using any efficient effort for escape. The only cause
that can be assigned for this want of conservative instinct, so
general and prompt among most of the feathered tribes, is
probably the fact of the difficulty and almost impossibility of
setting their long wings into motion when they happen to be
surprised on level ground, or fatigued with undue exertion.

The Boobies, however, have a domestic enemy more steady,
though less bloodthirsty, in his persecutions than man ; this is
the Frigate Pelican, or Man-of-War Bird, who with a keen eye
descrying his humble vassal at a distance, pursues him without
intermission, and obliges him by blows with the wings and bill
to surrender his finny prey, which the pirate instantly seizes
and swallows. ;

The Boobies, however, notwithstanding this tribute to their
marine monarch, contrive to obtain an ample supply of provi-
sion. ‘They commonly hover above the surface of the waves,
at times scarcely moving their wings, and drop on a fish the
instant it emerges or approaches in view. ‘Their flight, though
rapid and long-sustained, is greatly inferior to that of the
Frigate Bird ; accordingly, they do not roam so far, and their

380 SWIMMERS.

appearance is generally hailed by mariners as an indication of
the approach of land. Yet numbers are not wanting around
the remotest and most sequestered islands in the midst of the
wide ocean. There they live in companies, associated with
Gulls, Tropic Birds, and their tyrannical persecutor, the Frigate,
who, appreciating their assistance as providers, dwells and rests
in the same retreats.

Among the Frigates, some (probably the males after incuba-
tion) live in societies apart from the rest, dispersed to situations
most suitable for obtaining pillage.

Boobies utter a loud cry, something in sound betwixt that
of the Raven and the Goose ; and this quailing is heard more
particularly when they are pursued by the Frigate, or when,
assembled together, they happen to be seized by any sudden
panic. As they can only begin the motion of their wings by
starting from some lofty station, they usually perch like Cormo-
rants, and in flying stretch out the neck and display the tail.

According to Dampier, in the Isle of Aves these birds breed
on trees, though in other places they nestle on the ground, and
always associate in numbers in the same place. ‘They lay one
or two eggs, and the young continue for a long time covered
for the most part with a very soft and white down. ‘The flesh
is black and unsavory, yet sailors frequently make a meal of
it. In summer they are not uncommon on the coasts of the
Southern States.

The Booby is chiefly restricted to the tropical or sub-tropical
seas, but an occasional example wanders as far north as off the
coast of Georgia.

Note. — The BLUE-FACED Boopy (Sz/a cyanops) and the RED-
FOOTED Boosy (Sz/a piscator) occasionally straggle north to the ©
Florida waters ; and the ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga), also a trop-
ical bird, has been taken off North Carolina and on the Mississippi
River.

RED-BILLED TROPIC BIRD.

PHAETHON ASTHEREUS.

CHAR. Prevailing color white; the upper parts varied with blackish ;
a stripe on the sides of the head, and the outer wing-feathers deep black ;
bill deep red; legs yellow, toes black. Length, including elongated tail-
feathers, about 33 inches; the tail-feathers measure about 20 inches.

Vest. Ina hole or crevice of a sea-washed cliff, — sometimes slightly
lined with twigs and coarse herbage.

Egg. 1%; purplish white or creamy white, with a delicate purple tinge,
and marked with fine spots of rich brown; 2.26 X 1.60.

The Tropic Bird, soaring perpetually over the tepid seas,
where it dwells without materially straying beyond the verge
of the ecliptic, seems to attend the car of the sun under the

382 RED-BILLED TROPIC BIRD.

mild zone of the tropics, and advertises the mariner with un-
erring certainty of his entrance within the torrid climes. Yet
though generally confined to these more favored solar realms,
which it widely explores to their utmost bounds, it sometimes
strays beyond the favorite limit, and hence we have given it
a place among the oceanic birds which stray in summer to the
coasts of the warmer States.

The flight of the Tropic Bird is often conducted to a pro-
digious height, at which in every season it can obtain a tem-
perature of the most delightful kind. At other times, affected
by the ordinary wants of nature, it descends from its lofty
station, and accompanied by an ignoble throng of Frigates,
Pelicans, and Boobies, it attends the appearance of the flying-
fish as they emerge from the water, pursued by their enemies
of the deep. ‘These birds are sometimes observed to rest on
the surface of the sea, and have been seen in calm weather
upon the backs of the drowsy tortoises supinely floating, so that
they have been easily taken by allowing the approach of a
boat. On shore they will perch on trees, and are said to breed
on the ground beneath the shade of the adjoining woods.
They are met with on the islands of St. Helena, Ascension,
Mauritius, New Holland, and in various parts of the South
Seas, but in no place are they so numerous as at Palmerston
Island, where, along with the Frigates, they have been seen in
such plenty that the trees were absolutely loaded with them,
and so tame or listless that they suffered themselves to be taken
from the boughs by hand. In the Sandwich and Friendly
Islands, where they also abound, the natives set a high value
on the long tail-feathers, made use of by way of ornament, and
in Otaheite they form a conspicuous part of the ostentatious
garment worn by mourners. ‘The flesh, though often eaten by
mariners, cannot be accounted good.

This cannot be considered more than an accidental straggler to
Northern waters, though examples have been taken as far north as
the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

Note. — The YELLOW-BILLED TROPIC BirD (P. flavirostris)
has been taken in Western New York.

ee
RES
: Ve

HORNED GREBE.
SPIRIT DUCK. HELL DIVER. DUSKY GREBE.
COLYMBUS AURITUS.

CHAR. Upper parts dull brown, the feathers paler on the edges; head
darker; breast rufous; wings varied with white; lower parts silvery
white. Length about 14 inches. In the mating season the sides of the
head are adorned with crests (horns) of short feathers of black color.

West. Amid the rank herbage on reedy margin of a lake, — usually
fastened to rushes and floating on the surface of shallow water; a mass
of dried stems of rushes and coarse sedges.

fggs. 2-7 (usually 4); bluish white, stained with brown; 1.80 X 1.20.

The Horned Grebe is an inhabitant of the northern regions
of both continents, being very common in the summer season
throughout the Hudson Bay fur countries, frequenting almost
every lake with grassy borders, in which seclusion, about the
month of June, it constructs its nest of coarse herbage, which,
left afloat, is sometimes moored to the surrounding reeds and
rushes. The eggs are white, spotted, and, as it were, soiled
with brown; in order to hide them from its enemies, it has
the habit of covering them while abroad. In the autumn these

birds retire to the South, appearing in Massachusetts, some-

384 DIVERS.

times, in the small freshwater lakes near the ocean. At a later
period they retire still farther, being very common in the Middle
and Southern States, where they are known, with other species,
by the name of Dippers and Water Witches. ‘The Indians of
Hudson Bay give the Horned Grebe the name of Seekeep.
While here, they keep generally in the salt water, swimming
and diving with great agility and elegance, and these are almost
universally young birds, the old ones keeping probably more
inland in their migrations towards the South. In most of the
individuals which have fallen under my notice, the stomach,
like a pouch in form, has been generally swelled out with its
own feathers, apparently bent and masticated before swallowing ;
the birds had been feeding on minute eels and coleopterous
insects, and had, besides the matted feathers plucked from the
breast, a quantity of sand and gravel. ‘The appetite of this
Grebe is, indeed, keen and little scrupulous, — for which, some-
times it pays a dear forfeit, as happened to an individual seen
by Mr. N. Wyeth, which had its bill clasped in the shell of a clam
in such a manner as to disable it both from flying and diving.

This expert diver is a common bird throughout this eastern coun-
try, breeding from about latitude 45° to the higher fur countries,
and wintering from the Bay of Fundy to the Southern States.

HOLBC@LL’S GREBE.
RED-NECKED GREBE.
COLYMBUS HOLBCELLII.

CHAR. Upper parts dusky: head and nape black; cheeks ashy; neck
rich chestnut ; wings varied with white; under parts silvery white, varied
with gray. Length about 19 inches.

Nest. On the border of a reedy pond or sluggish stream, fastened to
the rank herbage, — made of reeds and sedges.

Fegs. 2-7; dull white, sometimes tinged with green, washed with
brown; average size 2.25 X 1.35.

The Red-necked Grebe, like most of the other species,
retires to the hyperboreal regions of both continents to pass

HOLBCLL’S GREBE. 385

the breeding-season, delighting in the seclusion of the desolate
wilderness, penetrating in the present continent as far as the
remote inland shores of Great Slave Lake, where individuals
were observed by Captain Franklin’s adventurous party in the
month of May. In the course of the winter these birds pro-
ceed to the South, probably as far as Florida, but are rarely seen
in the United States. At this season they frequent lakes and
the estuaries or rivers in the vicinity of the sea, but at other
times are seen more abundantly on fresh waters. They are
common in the eastern parts of Europe, and frequently visit
Great Britain, Germany, and Switzerland. Their food, as usual,
is small fish, fry, reptiles, coleopterous insects, and vegetables.
The nest is similar to that of the preceding species; the eggs
number three or four, of a whitish green, and appearing as if
soiled with yellowish or brown.

The Red-necked Grebe breeds from about latitude 45° to the
higher fur countries, but is rather uncommon in New England and
the adjacent provinces, where it occurs chiefly as a winter visitor.
It is quite abundant in Manitoba.

In common with others of the family, this Grebe is an expert
diver. Often it will sink into the water without any apparent effort,
though more generally it jumps forward, throwing the head into the
water, and the body into the air. It is an expert and rapid swimmer
also, and all its movements on the water are extremely graceful.
When pursued, these birds invariably endeavor to escape by diving,
though when on the wing they fly rapidly, their necks and feet
stretched at full length.

It is said that the female takes the newly hatched young upon
her back, and swims with them in that position, feeding them, while
eating her own meal, on portions of the fish and vegetable matter
which she gathers.

VOL. II. — 25

PIED-BILLED GREBE.
LITTLE GREBE. DABCHICK. CAROLINA GREBE.

PODILYMBUS PODICEPS.

CHAR. Upper parts dusky, wings varied with ashy and white; under
parts silvery white, mottled with dusky; breast washed with rufous; chin
and throat black; bill short and thick, of a bluish white color, with a black
band across the centre. Length about 14 inches.

Nest. Amid the rushes at the edge of a pond or sluggish stream, —
made of coarse herbage lined with grass; sometimes floating on the water,
fastened to reeds. :

Eges. 4-10 (usually 5); white stained with pale brown; 2.00 X 1.70.

The Pied-billed Dabchick is an exclusive inhabitant of the
North American continent, proceeding north to breed as far
as the remote fur countries of Upper Canada, a specimen hay-
ing been killed on Great Slave Lake by the exploring party
of Captain Franklin. It arrives in the Northern and Middle
States about the close of August, and is then seen residing in
our small freshwater lakes until the approach of winter, when
it retires probably as far south as the lagoons of the Missis-
sippi and the tidewater streams and bays of the Mexican
Gulf. It is the most common species in the Union, and is
met with in all the States as far as Florida, leaving those coun-

PIED-BILLED GREBE. 387

tries, however, for the North in the month of April. Most of
the birds seen in this vicinity are young or unadult; they feed
principally on fish and aquatic insects such as large Vepas
and other kinds. ‘They often swim about without appearing
to take any alarm from the peaceful spectator, but in the
next moment dive and swim under water for such a length of
time as to appear for several minutes entirely invisible ; and
at such times these Water Witches, as they are deservedly
called, are often moving about entirely submerged to the bill,
which is the only part elevated above the water; and in_the
covert of the surrounding aquatic herbage this small project-
ing point is not only easily overlooked, but with difficulty
discovered. Like Ducks, they are also somewhat nocturnal in
their habits, and may be perceived after sunset in the dusky
twilight actively engaged, and swimming about the ponds with
great activity. While here they are not heard to utter any
note, and their breeding-places are wholly unknown. The
young are often eaten, and are generally tender and well
flavored.

The Dabchick is more abundant near the Atlantic than any
other of this group. It breeds from the Middle States to the lower
fur countries.

Since Nuttall’s day we have learned something more of the
breeding habits of this species, and modern observers are apt to
express surprise that the bird should have escaped the notice of
earlier naturalists. In habits the Dabchick does not differ materi-
ally from other Grebes.

LOON.
GREAT NORTHERN DIVER.

URINATOR IMBER.

CHAR. Mantle black, spotted with white; head and neck black, with
green and purple reflections; throat with two bands of white stripes;
under parts white. Length very variable, ranging from 28 to 33 inches,
though specimens measuring about the extremes of this variation are
more common than those of intermediate length.

fest. Amid rank herbage near the water, on the margin of a lake or
river, often on an island, sometimes on the sea-shore.

Eggs. 2-3 (usually 2); olive brown with a few darker spots; average
size about 3.50 X 2.25.

The Loon, the most common of its tribe in the United
States, is a general inhabitant of cold and temperate climates
throughout the whole northern hemisphere. It is found in
the north of Europe, and spreads along the Arctic coasts as
far as Kamtschatka, Nootka Sound, and the mouth of the Ob.
It dwells on the dreary coast of Spitzbergen, Greenland, Ice-
land, and Hudson Bay. ‘These birds abound in all the lakes of
the fur countries, where, as well as in the interior of the most

LOON. 389

northern of the States, and probably in the inland seas of the
St. Lawrence, along the whole Canadian line, they pass the
period of reproduction. ‘They have been known to breed as
far south as the Farne Isles, on the coast of Northumberland,
along with the Eider Ducks, with which they also associate on
the shores of Labrador. In the Hebrides they are common
in the summer season, as well as in Norway, Sweden, and
Russia, from all which countries they seldom migrate to any
considerable distance, being only accidental passengers on the
coasts of the ocean; the young only are seen, and rarely, on
the lakes of Germany, France, and Switzerland, but in those
regions the old are unknown. In the United States, from the
superior severity of the winters, the young, and even occasion-
ally the old, are seen to migrate nearly, if not quite, to the
estuary of the Mississippi.

The Loon, cautious, vigilant, and fond of the security at-
tending upon solitude, generally selects, with his mate, some
lonely islet, or the borders of a retired lake far- from the
haunts of men; here, on the ground, contiguous to the water,
they construct their rude and grassy nest. About the rrth
of June, through the kindness of Dr. T. W. Harris, I received
three eggs which had been taken from the nest of a Loon,
made in a hummock, or elevated grassy hillock, at Sebago
Pond, in New Hampshire. ‘These were about the size of the
eggs of a Goose, of a dark, smoky olive, coarsely blotched
nearly all over with umber-brown spots. ‘The males, after the
period of incubation, secede from their mates, and associate
by themselves in the bays and estuaries near to the sea. They
soon after moult, and become so bare of feathers as to be
unable to rise from the water. The young, after being duly
attended by the female parent, disperse with her towards the
sea. Instinctively warned of the approach of frost, they avoid
its consequences by slow but efficient migrations. As soon as
the fish begin to fail, the young, unable or unwilling to fly, are
sometimes seen waddling from one pond to another, and in
this situation are easily captured, as they refuse, or are inca-
pacitated, to rise from the ground. When approached, they

390 DIVERS.

v

utter a long-drawn, melancholy scream, like 6 00A, with a shrill,
loud, sighing, and rising note. Now and then, as if a call upon
the parent, the tone is broken almost in the manner of running
the finger across the mouth while uttering a sound. A young
bird of this kind which I obtained in the salt-marsh at Chelsea
Beach, and transferred to a fish-pond, made a good deal of
plaint, and would sometimes wander out of its more natural
element, and hide and bask in the grass. On these occasions
it lay very still until nearly approached, and then slid into
the pond and uttered its usual plaint. When out at any dis-
tance, it made the same cautious efforts to hide, and would
commonly defend itself in great anger, by darting at the in-
truder and striking powerfully with its dagger-like bill. This
bird, with a pink-colored iris, like albinos, appeared to suffer
from the glare of broad daylight, and was inclined to hide from
its effects, but became very active towards the dusk of even-
ing. The pupil of the eye in this individual, like that of
nocturnal animals, appeared indeed dilatable ; and the one in
question often put down its head and eyes into the water to
observe the situation of its prey. This bird was a most expert
and indefatigable diver, and would remain down sometimes
for several minutes, often swimming under water, and as it
were flying with the velocity of an arrow in the air. Though
at length inclined to be docile, and showing no alarm when
visited, it constantly betrayed its wandering habit, and every
night was found to have waddled to some _hidding-place,
where it seemed to prefer hunger to the loss of liberty, and
never could be restrained from exercising its instinct to move
onwards to some secure or more suitable asylum.

Far out at sea in winter, and in the Great Western Jakes,
particularly Huron and Michigan, in summer, I have often
heard on a fine calm morning the sad and wolfish call of the
solitary Loon, which like a dismal echo seems slowly to invade
the ear, and rising as it proceeds, dies away in the air. This
boding sound to mariners, supposed to be indicative of a storm,
may be heard sometimes for two or three miles, when the bird
itself is invisible, or reduced almost to a speck in the distance.

BLACK-THROATED LOON, 3901

The aborigines, nearly as superstitious as sailors, dislike to
hear the cry of the Loon, considering the bird, from its shy
and extraordinary habits, as a sort of supernatural being. By
the Norwegians its long-drawn howl is, with more appearance
of reason, supposed to portend rain. Judging, however, from
the young bird already mentioned, this expression, like that
of other fowls, indicated nothing beyond the humble wants or
social communication of the species.

The flesh of the Loon is dark, tough, and unpalatable ; yet
the young birds are frequently seen in the markets of New
York and Boston, and are therefore no doubt sometimes eaten.
Some of the Russian Tartars on the Ob and the Ittisch tan
the breasts of this and other water-fowl, preserving the down
upon them, and sewing them together, sell them for garments
and caps. The Greenlanders, as well as the aborigines round
Hudson Bay and on the banks of the Columbia River, em- -
ploy their skins as articles of dress or of decoration; and the
Indians of the Missouri and Mississippi also often ornament
the sacred calumet with the brilliant neck-feathers of this and
other species.

The Loon is found throughout this Eastern Province, breeding
from about latitude 42° to the Arctic Ocean. It winters south to
the Gulf of Mexico.

BLACK—THROATED LOON.
URINATOR ARCTICUS.

CHAR. Prevailing color above black, varied with white ; head grayish
brown; chin and throat black, with a patch of short white streaks;
streaks of white on side of neck; under parts white. Length about 26
inches.

Vest. On the bank of an island lake, —a hollow stamped in the moss,
sparingly lined with grass, or sometimes a floating mass of coarse herb-
age covered with moss and sedge.

Eggs. Usually 2; brown of an olive or russet tint, and marked with
dark brown; average size 3.25 X 2.10.

This species, common to the hyperboreal parts of both
continents, is much more rare in the United States than the

392 DIVERS.

preceding, and though frequent near the shores of Hudson
Bay, is seldom seen in the interior of the fur countries. It
abounds in the northern parts of Europe, Norway, Sweden,
and Denmark, and in the inland lakes of Siberia, especially
those of the Arctic regions ; it is also seen in Iceland, Green-
land, and the Farde Isles. It is held in superstitious regard
by the Norwegians, who believe its cry to portend rain. ‘The
skins of this and other species, being tough and impervious
to wet, are used by the Indians and Esquimaux, as well as
by the Norwegians, for articles of dress.

The Arctic Diver is an autumnal and winter bird of passage
in England, Germany, and Holland, more rare upon the in-
terior lakes of France, but common upon those of Switzer-
land. It lives on fish, frogs, insects, and aquatic plants, and
nests in the reeds and herbage upon the borders of lakes and
in marshes, preferring those which are much intersected by
waters: it is said to lay two eggs, which are brown, marked
with scattered black spots.

The Black-throated Loon is somewhat uncommon everywhere
within its range, but is especially rare on this eastern side of the
Atlantic. It breeds in the Far North, and in winter has been found
as far south as the Bay of Fundy.

This is a rather solitary bird, though occasionally two or three
pairs breed on the same lake, but rarely associate. In the migra-
tion small flocks are sometimes met with.

RED-THROATED LOON.

URINATOR LUMME.

CHAR. Prevailing color brownish black, varied by paler and a few
spots of white; head and neck light slate gray, the throat with a patch of
bright chestnut ; under parts silky white. Length about 25 inches.

Nest. Onthe margin of a retired pond, — a depression in the sand, close
to the water’s edge; sometimes lined with a few bits of grass.

Eggs. Usually 2; pale brown, often tinged with olive, and spotted
with dark brown; average size about 2.75 X 1.80.

This species is again a general inhabitant of the northern
5
regions of both continents, from whence few migrate to any

great distance, — except the young, and these are seen not un-
commonly along the coasts of the United States in the course

394 DIVERS.

of the winter. According to Richardson, these birds frequent
the shores of Hudson Bay up to the extremity of Melville Pen-
insula, and are also abundant on the interior lakes, where they
breed. Mr. Audubon found them nesting on the coast of
Labrador near small freshwater lakes. Their food is similar
to that of the preceding species. Fleming says that they
breed in Zetland and the Orkneys. In Greenland and Iceland
they also lay among the herbage on the shores contiguous to
water, and make a nest of moss and grass, lining it with down.
The young of this species, called the Cobble, is frequently
seen in England in the winter in bays and inlets, and some-
times in freshwater rivers and lakes. In the river Thames
this bird attends the arrival of the sprats, on which it feeds,
and is hence known to the fishermen by the name of the Sprat
Loon. From its diving habits it is frequently taken in the
fishing-nets, to which it is attracted by their contents. It flies
well, and dives and swims with remarkable dexterity, and
while proceeding in the air is said to be sometimes very noisy.
At Hudson Bay the young fly before the end of August, and
the whole commence their migrations in the course of Sep-
tember. ‘These birds are common also to the Baltic and the
White Sea, and are found inthe inclement regions of eastern
Asia, as in Kamtschatka and Siberia.

This species breeds in high latitudes, and winters from about
latitude 45° southward.

BLACK GUILLEMOT.
SEA PIGEON.

CEPPHUS GRYLLE.

Cuar. Prevailing color black ; large patch on the wings white, with a
black bar, sometimes wholly or partially concealed ; bill black; legs and
feet bright red. Length about 13 inches. In winter the upper parts are
varied with white, and the lower parts mostly white; feet pinkish.

West. Ona rock-bound coast, placed on the ledge of a cliff, or under
loose bowlders on the top of a bluff; sometimes amid the shingle of a
beach ; no attempt is made at nest-building ; the eggs are deposited on
the bare rocks.

Eggs. 2-3 (usually 2); ivory white, sometimes tinged with bluish
green, marked with rich brown and gray; 2.30 X 1.60.

The Black Guillemot is a general inhabitant of the whole
Arctic seas of both continents. It has even been called the
Dove of Greenland, being common in that country, as well as

396 DIVERS.

on the still more dreary coasts of Spitzbergen. In the hyper-
boreal seas and straits of America it also abounds, from the
inclement shores of Melville Island down to Hudson Bay
and Labrador. According to Mr. Audubon it also breeds on
the isle of Grand Menan, in the Bay of Fundy. Like the
other Guillemots, these birds are entirely marine, never going
inland, and rarely seek the coast but for the indispensable pur-
pose of reproduction. In the cold and desolate regions of
the North, abandoned by nearly every other animal, the Guille-
mots, though in diminished numbers, find means to pass the
winter; frequenting at such times the pools of open water,
which occur even in these high latitudes amongst the floes of
ice. Others, but in small numbers, and those probably bred
in lower latitudes, venture in the winter along the coasts of
the United States. In Europe they are also seen at this sea-
son along the borders of the Atlantic. They are alike indig-
enous to the western side of the American continent, and
occur in Kamtschatka. At St. Kilda, on the Bass Isle, in the
Firth of Forth, in the Farne Islands, off the coast of Northum-
berland, and on some parts of the coast of Wales, particularly
near Tenby, they are known to breed.

They fly commonly in pairs with considerable rapidity, al-
most grazing the surface of the sea, but at other times they
proceed in a more elevated course. Their note, according to
Audubon, is a contracted whistle. They nestle sometimes
under ground, but more commonly in the deep and rocky
fissures of inaccessible cliffs and bold headlands projecting into
the sea. To avoid the access of water to the eggs, they com-
monly pile together a nest of pebbles, beneath which the
rain-water or melting snow passes off without any injury or
inconvenience. To escape becoming the prey of the foxes
which incessantly watch for them, the young, when pushed to
the necessity, throw themselves without difficulty from their
impending eyries into the sea. These birds dive with great
facility, and feed upon small fish, but particularly on shrimps,
small crabs, and other crustacea, and marine insects. They
show considerable vigilance on being approached, and are

BLACK GUILLEMOT. 397

much more shy and wary than the other Guillemots. The
eggs (called improperly those of the Noddy) are brought
sometimes in small coasting-vessels to Boston market.

There are two races of the Sea Pigeon in our fauna, — for
Mandt’s Guillemot is only a Northern race or variety of the pres-
ent species, —and of these the Black Guillemot is the more south-
ern in distribution, breeding from the Bay of Fundy to southern
Labrador. In winter it is rather common on the New England
shores, and a few examples wander as far south as New Jersey.

I did not find these birds as shy as Nuttall’s statement led me to
anticipate. They were somewhat wary and alert, but- allowed me
to paddle within easy shooting distance without displaying much
alarm. When they finally concluded that I was an unsafe neigh-
bor, they lost no time in getting out of my sight, diving with sur-
prising suddenness. They usually swam a long distance under
water with great rapidity, using their wings as well as feet, and
coming to the surface far beyond gunshot range.

The Sea Pigeons are met usually in small flocks of half a
dozen or more, and generally feed in the open sea at the base of
bold cliffs. When on the wing they proceed rapidly and in a
straight line, and rarely more than a few feet from the surface
of the water. On approching their nesting-site they rise rather
abruptly, and fly directly to their nests.

Note.— MAnpv’s GUILLEMOT (C. #zand7iz) is a northern variety
of the Sea Pigeon, differing from gry//e in lacking the black bar
on the wing-patch, and having a somewhat stouter bill. It breeds
from high Arctic regions to the coast of Labrador and Hudson Bay,
and in winter may be found off the Atlantic shores from south
Greenland to New Jersey, though it is not at all common along
the southern portion of its range.

The BLACK-WINGED GUILLEMOT (C. mofzfeldt) is said to occur
on the shores of Cumberland Bay and in Greenland.

MURRE.

FOOLISH GUILLEMOT. COMMON GUILLEMOT. PENGUIN.

URIA TROILE.

Cuar. Upper parts rich velvet brown, variable in tint; under parts
white ; wings with a small white patch; bill long and slender and of
black color; legs blackish, webs olive. Length about 18 inches (female
rather smaller). In winter the chin, throat, and sides of neck become
white, more or less mottled with black.

Nest. Ona ledge of an ocean cliff; no attempt is made to construct
a receptacle for the egg, —it is laid upon the bare rock.

Ege. 1; variable in color, the prevailing tints being ivory white, yel-
lowish green, dark green, pale blue, and reddish brown, with numerous
intermediate tints ; markings irregular, and of browns and grays in vari-
ous shades ; size variable, average about 3.25 X 1.90.

The Foolish Guillemot, so called for its fatuity in the
breeding-season, in allowing itself sometimes to be seized
by the hand or killed on the spot without flying from its

MURRE. 399

favorite cliffs, is another singular and common inhabitant of
the high northern latitudes of both continents. In Europe
these birds extend their swarming colonies as far as the ever
wintry coast of Spitzbergen ; they are also seen in Lapmarck,
and along the White and Icy Sea as far as Kamtschatka. Along
the whole coast of Hudson Bay, Labrador, and Newfoundland,
they congregate in swarms. ‘They also breed in the Orkneys
and in more temperate climates, when the local situation hap-
pens to suit their particular habits and instinct ; thus, they are
extremely numerous in the desert Isle of Priestholm, contiguous
to the Island of Anglesey, on the Godreve rocks, not far from
St. Ives, in Cornwall, the Farne Isles, off the coast of Northum-
berland, and the cliffs of the Isle of Wight, and of Scarborough
in Yorkshire. Occasionally the young are seen along the
coasts of the United States ; but the great body of the species
in America, according to Audubon, winter in the Bay of Fundy,
where they find an open sea, congenial rocks, and a cool
temperature.

These birds begin to assemble on their customary cliffs in
England early in May, and crowd together in such numbers that
it is not uncommon to see hundreds sitting upon their eggs on
the ledge of a rock, all in a line, and nearly touching each
other. ‘They lay but a single egg, on the flat and bare rock,
without any precaution to protect it or the progeny arising
from it by any shelter or convenience at all like a nest. It is
of a palish green, blotched and marked with black and deep
umber brown. ‘They rarely quit their eggs unless disturbed,
and are fed during the time, chiefly with small fish or other
marine productions, by the male. In inaccessible places, or
where seldom disturbed, it is with difficulty that they are roused
to flight, and may then sometimes be taken by the hand ;
others flutter into the water below the cliffs on which they
nestle, and seem, in fact, to try every expedient but that of
flight. They are at all times extremely expert in diving, using
their pinions as oars instead of the feet, thus flying as it were
in the water, as well as inthe air. After the young are hatched
and capable of migrating, by the close of August, they all dis-

400 DIVERS.

appear from the shores of Britain, and are seen in winter on
the coasts of the Baltic, Holland, France, along the borders
of the Atlantic, and as far southward as Italy. Many of the
young, as well as old birds of this species, also, bred in colder
latitudes, migrate in winter along the coasts of Norway, Hol-
land, and England, seeming as it were to fill up the place of
those which have left their native shores for still milder
climates.

The inhabitants of Kamtschatka kill the Murres in great
numbers for the sake of their flesh, though it is said to be
tough and ill tasting, but more especially for their skins, of
which, as of other fowls, they make garments; but the eggs
are everywhere accounted as a delicacy. This bird is called
by the Welsh Gwz@em, and in the southern parts of England
Willock.

During very recent years it has been discovered that the “‘Com-
mon” Guillemot is a decidedly uncommon bird on our shores, if
not quite rare ; it has been confused with Briinnich’s, which it very
closely resembles. The present species is credited with breeding
from the Bay of Fundy to the Frozen Ocean; but Mr. Hagerup
considers it rare in south Greenland, while Kumlien reported find-
ing Guillemots “ breeding by thousands ” on the Greenland coast.

A few of these birds are found off the New England shores in
winter.

BRUNNICH’S MURRE.

THICK-BILLED GUILLEMOT. FOOLISH GUILLEMOT.
PENGUIN.

URIA LOMVIA.

CuaAr. Upper parts sooty black, deeper on head and nape; sides of
head and neck, chin, and throat brown; wing with small patch of white;
bill short and thick, and of black color. Length about 18 inches; female
somewhat smaller. In winter the throat becomes white. Young birds
are similar to the adult in winter plumage

Vest. On the bare rocks of an ocean cliff.

Ege. 1; very variable in color, markings, and size; average about

3.15 X 2.05.

This is the Common Guillemot of our shores, and is rather abun-
dant in some localities, breeding from the Gulf of St. Lawrence to
the Frozen Ocean, and wintering from south Greenland to New
Jersey. Some European naturalists consider this bird a variety
of U. trot/e, and not entitled to specific rank; but the “ American

VOLS Ws —= AE

402 DIVERS.

School” of ornithologists are nothing if not “separatists,” and by
separating forms which appear to them to have gained the right to
distinct and separate recognition, the A. O. U. are proving their
right to the title of ‘ pioneers of modern ornithological science,”
given them by an illustrious European savant.

Whether the path which these “ pioneers” are blazing — with
its unbending adherence to a fixed line, over whateyv er difficulty it
may i be followed strictly by future systematists, is a
debatable question; but followed strictly or but partially, the
present generation of American ornithologists have established
themselves among the leaders of the science, and the influence of
their determinations is acknowledged wherever birds are studied
or described.

I will not pretend to be in full sympathy with all of the separating
that has been attempted, nor of all that has been accepted. There
will be, doubtless, a revision of the present system, — nay, many
revisions; ornithology is in its infancy yet. I follow the American
school because an amateur writer must follow somebody, — we
have had too many unskilled hands tinkering with systematic
work. I foliow the Americans also because I am doing American
work for American readers, and the use of the A. O. U. system of
classification and nomenclature will avoid confusion. I follow this
system for another reason: I consider it the best that has as yet
been issued; and so I give to Briinnich’s Murre specific instead
of varietal rank.

This bird does not differ in habits from its congeners. During
the winter it lives on the open sea, and in the breeding-season
assembles in large flocks on bold cliffs and rocky headlands. It is
an expert diver, using wings and feet to get under water and to
swim through it.

DOVEKIE.
SEA DOVE. LITTLE AUK.

ALLE ALLE.

CHAR. Head, neck, and upper parts black; wings with small patch of
white, sometimes divided by a black bar; under parts white; bill black;
legs red. Length about 8% inches.

In winter the chin and throat are white, and in spring and fall the
white is more or less varied with black.

Nest. On a ledge of an ocean cliff, or any high elevation adjacent to
the sea. There is no receptacle for the egg, which is laid on the bare rock
or amid loose stones.

Egg. 1; pale greenish blue, sometimes streaked with buff; average
size 1.85 X 1.30.

This neat and singular little bird, with a quaint resemblance
to the Columbine tribe, is known to mariners by the name of
the Greenland Dove ; and in this vicinity it is also called the
Pigeon Diver. It inhabits, however, a region where the gentle
cooing of the Dove is never heard. It dwells far within the
Arctic Circle, approaching the very Pole, having been obtained

404 DIVERS.

by Dr. Richardson from the dreary coast of Melville Island, in
the latitude of 75° and 76°, in August, where these birds were
seen by thousands. ‘This is probably almost the last bird ob-
served within the desolate and glacial boundaries of the earth.
In Greenland and Spitzbergen Dovekies congregate in great
flocks, and in the depth of winter, watching the motion ot the
ice in the offing when it is broken up by storms, they crowd by
thousands into every opening fissure or flaw, in order to snatch
up the marine productions on which they subsist. Mr. Audu-
bon found a few individuals breeding on the coast of Labrador.
In Newfoundland this species is called the Ice Bird, being the
sure harbinger of severe weather, as it seldom proceeds far from
its inclement natal regions, except when accidentally driven to
shore by storms. In the United States its appearance is always
solitary, being a mere wanderer, as it is also along the milder
coasts of Europe. The uniform predilection of these birds
is for the hyperboreal regions of their nativity, and they even
fatten in storms when not overwhelmed by their fury, as at
these times the small crustacea and marine insects on which
they feed are cast up and brought to the surface in greater
abundance. At times they appear to fly well, as appears by
their extensive accidental migrations, they having sometimes
been met with considerably inland. ‘The water, however, is
their more natural element; they dive with great facility, and
are often observed dipping their bills into the water, as if
drinking.

Those individuals which have been obtained in this vicinity,
usually in the depth of winter, have sometimes been found in
Fresh Pond, so lean and exhausted, by buffeting weather and
fatigue, as to allow themselves to be quietly taken up by the
hand.

Like other species of the genus, and the family generally,
associated with the Razor-bills, they seek out for their breed-
ing-places the most inaccessible impending cliffs which project
into the ocean, and in their clefts, without any artificial nest,
deposit their single egg, which is of a pale bluish-green, com-
monly without spots, but sometimes scattered with a few small

DOVEKIE. _ 405

touches of blackish. At this time, probably, they are heard to
utter their uncouth and monotonous call of voéte/, by which as
a name they are known to the Dutch navigators who have
penetrated to their dreary and remote haunts.

Captain Ross’s party met with these birds in great numbers
on the west coast of Greenland, where they were shot daily,
and supplied to the ship’s company, who found them very
palatable, and free from any fishy taste, though their food con-
sists chiefly of a small species of crab (Cancer), with which
the Arctic seas abound.

This interesting little wanderer, that comes to our shores only
during the winter months, and gains our sympathy by its graceful
form and apparent helplessness, is a much more sturdy and self-
reliant bird than it gives any evidence of as we pick it up ex-
hausted from battling with the strong north wind that has thrown
it in our way, faint from hunger and wearied from the protracted
struggle. Its wings are small, but they are moved almost as
rapidly as a Humming Bird’s, and propel the bird through the air
with great rapidity. This bird is an expert diver too, and eneeey
awkward on the land, swims with easy grace; and when wearicd,
it tucks its head beneath its little wing, and rocked in the cradle Gf
the deep, sleeps as calmly and serenely as do human children upon
their mother’s breast. When hungry, these little children of the
sea draw their food from the ocean’s bosom.

The Little Auk nests only north of the Arctic Circle, and there
assembles in vast communities, and fills the air with its wild note,
which bears some resemblance to the syllables a//e.

These birds are seen on our shores only in winter, and then
straggle as far south as New Jersey. Occasionally an example is
blown inland by a gale, one having been found as far away from
the sea as the Detroit River.

PUFFIN.
SEA PARROT.

FRATERCULA ARCTICA.

Cuar. Upper parts black or dusky, a band of same across the neck ;
cheeks and under parts white. Length about 12 inches.

Vest. Ina crevice of a cliff or in a burrow.

fgg. 1; dull white, marked with pale brown and lilac; average size
240) DS 70s

The Puffin is a general inhabitan® of the cold and inclement
regions of the whole northern hemisphere. On the coasts of
northern Europe it is met with to the Icy Sea. It is found
in Iceland, Greenland, Spitzbergen, and the Faroe Isles;
on the coast of Kamtschatka and the Kuriles it is also
common. In the temperate climates of Great Britain, as well
as in the Shetland and Orkney Isles, it likewise breeds in
large communities, as at the Farne Isles, off the coast of

PUFFIN. 407

Northumberland, Priestholm Isle, near Anglesea, the small
islands off St. David’s in Wales, the Isle of Wight, the cliffs of
Beachy Head, Dover, Scarborough, and in the vicinity of Holy-
head. ‘These birds were also found by Audubon on the sterile
and dreary coast of Labrador, but not beyond Brador; they
also probably inhabit the coasts of Newfoundland, and in the
winter are seen in great numbers in the Bay of Fundy. ‘They
are little more than stragglers on the coast of New England, but
according to Catesby proceed in the course of the season as
far south as Carolina. In Europe they are also seen on the
coasts of Andalusia in Spain.

In England, at Priestholm Isle, they are seen in flocks innu-
merable. They assemble and begin to visit the island early in
April, but do not commence their incubation until the first
week in May. ‘They make no proper nest, but burrow deep
holes in the loose earth, in the labor of which both male and
female unite, forming excavations three or four feet in depth.
As this labor is very considerable, they sometimes content them-
selves with the deserted burrow of the rabbit, and probably at
times dislodge the owners for this coveted convenience. They
lay a single whitish-colored egg on the bare mould of their
den. The young are hatched by the beginning of July, and are
attentively fed by the assiduous parents, who are now seen
busily engaged fishing for them, and bringing their prey in the
bill, until they are so far grown as to feed and defend them-
selves. About the close of August they all go off in a body, to
a single bird ; and indeed so completely that they desert the
young ones which are hatched late, leaving them a prey to the
Falcon and other rapacious birds who watch for them at
the mouths of their holes. Yet notwithstanding this apparent
neglect of their young at this time, when every other instinct
is merged in the desire and necessity of migration, probably
after food, no bird is more attentive to them in general, since
they will suffer themselves to be taken by the hand, and use
every endeavor to save and screen their young, biting not only
their antagonist, but, when laid hold of by the wings, inflicting
bites on themselves, as if actuated by the agonies of despair ;

408 DIVERS.

and when released, instead of flying away, they hurry again
into the burrow to their cherished young.

The Puffin, essentially aquatic in its nature and _ habits,
makes no great progress in the air, taking wing with difficulty ;
and it walks on the whoie length of the leg and foot with a
wriggling, awkward gait. In tempestuous weather these birds
seek shelter in caverns, the holes of the nearest rocks, in their
burrows, or in the rabbit-holes on the beach, in which they
doze till the return of calmer weather. Though accustomed to
the severest cold, they are unable to brave the storm, and when
overtaken by it are often drowned and cast dead on the shore.
Their food consists of various kinds of small fish, particularly
sprats, the smaller kinds of crabs, shrimps, and sea-weeds ; and
it is not improbable but that their sudden migrations are regu-
lated by the presence or absence of certain kinds of fish on
which they delight to feed. They are exceedingly rank in
flavor ; yet the young, preserved with spices and pickled, are
by some people much admired. ‘They are even potted at St.
Kilda and elsewhere, and sent to London as rarities.

Though pertinacious in attachment to their favorite breed-
ing-places, they have sometimes been known to desert them in
a very unaccountable manner. At the great Isle of Arran,
Galway Bay, in Ireland, the stupendous cliffs to the southwest
of the island, which from time immemorial had been the place
of resort, or rather the natural habitation, of such numbers of
Puffs as is almost incredible, was at once deserted on the
24th of June by the entire species, who thus abandoned their
eggs and young and went off to sea. ‘The like incident is said
to have happened forty years previous, and no reason could be
assigned for this extraordinary dereliction.

Among the enemies of the Coulternebs is sometimes the
piratical Raven, who makes bold to offer battle; but as soon
as he approaches, the defender of the premises catches him
under the throat with her beak, and sticks her claws into his
breast till he screams out with pain and tries to get away. But
the Coulterneb retains her hold, and tumbles him about, till
both frequently fall into the sea, where the aggressor is

PUFFIN. 409

drowned, and the Puffin returns in triumph to her nest. But
should the Raven at the first onset get hold of the Coulter-
neb’s neck, he generally comes off victorious, killing the mother
and feasting on her eggs or young. ‘The fishermen sometimes
draw these birds out of their burrows by introducing the hand
into the hole, which is seized by the bird, which suffers itself to
be pulled out rather than lose its hold. Its bite is, however,
very severe, and it can when irritated take out a piece of flesh
from a man’s hand without any extraordinary effort. When
reared and domesticated, these birds become quite tame, and
in the end familiar.

The Puffin breeds on the islands at the mouth of the Bay of

Fundy, and north to Greenland, and in winter is more or less com-
mon, from Nova Scotia to New Jersey.

Note. — The LARGE-BILLED PUFFIN (/. arctica glacialis) is
said to breed farther north than true arcfica.

RAZOR-BILLED AUK.

TINKER.

ALCA TORDA.

CHAR. Upper parts black, with green reflections; throat deep brown ;
a line of white in front of the eyes; a narrow bar of white on the wings ;
under parts white ; bill horn-brown with a bar of white. Length about
17 inches.

In winter the throat becomes white, the bill loses the horny shield at
the tip and the white bar, and appears smaller and sharper, and the line
from the eyes is indistinct.

Nest. On an ocean cliff, — usually near the summit; the egg is laid on
the bare rock, generally in a crevice or amid loose stones.

Egg. 13 ground color shaded from ivory white or pale buff to dark
buff or reddish brown; marked with dark brown and gray ; size variable,
average about 2.90 X 1.80.

The Razor-bill is another of those gregarious marine birds
which dwell amidst the wildest scenes of Nature, and penetrate

RAZOR-BILLED AUK. AIlI

into the most dreary hyperboreal climates throughout the
whole of the northern hemisphere. ‘hey abound in the north
of Europe as far as Iceland and Greenland, and in America
swarm on the bleak and barren coasts of Labrador. Small
groups of from ten to twelve proceed along the coasts of the
United States as far as New York, in severe winters remaining
in deep water ; but they are by no means common, and scarcely
ever seen in Massachusetts Bay.

Like most of the birds of this family, they have a steady pre-
dilection for their ancient eyry. From time immemorial they
resort to the same rocks and coasts, and there are but few places
sufficiently desert, rocky, and inaccessible suited to their furtive
habits and marine food. One of their great resorts in England
is on and about the Needle-rocks and other precipitous cliffs, so
dangerous to the shipwrecked mariner, which flank the romantic
Isle of Wight. As curious and striking works of Nature and
instinct, these, and the birds which frequent them, afford an
interesting spectacle in May and June. The Razor-bills are
here in such numbers that a boatful might be killed in a day ;
and the eggs being esteemed a delicacy, particularly for salads,
the fishermen and other indigent and adventurous inhabitants
traverse the precipices in search of the pickle samphire and
the eggs of the Murre. Some of these stupendous cliffs are
six hundred feet above the yawning deep, which lashes and
frets them into gloomy caverns. Seaward they present rugged
and deeply indented cliffs, on whose rude shelvings and ledges
the birds arrange themselves by thousands, and without further
preparation lay their eggs, which lie as it were strewed without
precaution by hundreds in a row, in no way attached to or de-
fended by the rocks, so that in a gale of wind whole ranks of
them are swept into the sea. To these otherwise inaccessible
deposits the dauntless fowlers ascend, and passing intrepidly
from rock to rock, collect the eggs and descend with the same
indifference. In most places, however, the attempt is made
from above. ‘The adventurer is let down from the slope con-
tiguous to the brink of the cliff by a rope sustained by a single
assistant, who, lowering his companion, depends on his per-

Al2 DIVERS.

sonal strength alone to support him ; which if failing, the fowler
is dashed to pieces or drowned in the sea which roars and
heaves below. y

In order to study the habits of these marine birds, the cele-
brated Edwards spent several days among these terrific and
romantic rocks. If a cannon was fired, the air was darkened
with a black cloud of the cliff birds, which issued by thousands
from every hole and cranny, as if summoned into sudden exist-
ence by the work of enchantment. They fly about in silence
near to the surface of the sea, perform a few circuits, and on
the removal of the cause of alarm return soon to their eyry, or,
alighting on the waves, dive out of the way of harm until well
assured that no enemy is near.

These Auks lay but one egg except when robbed of the first,
and if this is taken they will sometimes give a third. Mr.
Audubon found them breeding in great numbers on the coast
of Labrador, generally taking possession of the most rugged
and precipitous isles, in the deep indentations and fissures of
which they crowded, and deposited their eggs as near together
as distinct proprietorship would admit, — commonly upon a
nest of pebbles, artificially collected together, under and between
which the dripping waters and melting ice thus passed without
ever coming in contact with the eggs. The Murre sits on her
nest in an upright posture, and with her head facing the wind.
The young are fed by regurgitated food until they attain a con-
siderable size, after which the small fish, on which old and
young principally feed, are merely laid before them. They
leave their rock or nest when about half grown, and then
immediately commence fishing for themselves. ‘Thousands of
these birds are here seen breeding on the same rock.

The flight of the Razor-bill is rapid, and according to Mr.
Audubon sometimes even greatly protracted, but low above
the surface of the water, and sustained by a constant stiff and
short flapping of the wings. It dives to great depths and
swims under the surface with considerable velocity, using its
wings as flattened fins, and in this manner, like the Divers,
it may be seen pursuing and seizing its prey.

RAZOR-BILLED AUK. 413

Besides breeding in Labrador, Mr. Audubon found that the
Razor-bill occasionally nested in the Island of Grand Menan,
the Seal Islands, and others situated at the entrance of the
Bay of Fundy.

Though it walks and runs awkwardly, this bird moves swiftly,
and can easily escape from place to place. ‘he bite of the
old bird, like that of the Puffin, is very severe. ‘The fishermen
of this region call this species the Hawk-billed Murre. Its
flesh is quite palatable, although very dark, and much eaten
by the Greenlanders, according to Crantz, forming their chief
subsistence during the months of February and March. ‘These
birds are killed with missiles, chased and driven ashore in
canoes, or-taken in nets made of split whalebone. ‘Their skins
are also used for clothing. The eggs are everywhere accounted
a delicacy, and the feathers of the breast are extremely fine,
warm, and elastic. For the sake of this handful of feathers,
according to Audubon, thousands of these birds are killed in
Labrador, and their bodies strewed on the shore.

The islands between the small port of Little Macatine and
Brador abound with these and other allied marine birds, whose
eggs are collected by the inhabitants of Nova Scotia. For this
purpose they commence by trampling on all they find laid, and
the following day begin to collect those which are newly dropped ;
and such is the abundance of the eggs that Mr. Audubon fell in
with a party of three men who, in the course of six weeks, had
collected thirty thousand dozen, of the estimated value of four
hundred pounds sterling. Beyond Brador the Murres and
Puffins were no longer found.

The Razor-bill breeds on the Atlantic coast from the Bay of
Fundy to the northern part of Labrador, though very few exam-
ples are found in summer south of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. In
winter these birds wander along the coast of New England and the
adjacent Provinces.

GREAT AUK.
GREAT PENGUIN. GARE FOWL.

PLAUTUS IMPENNIS.

Cuar. Upper parts black, a white patch in front of the eyes; under
parts white ; sides of the throat dark buff; wings little more than rudi-
mentary. Length about 30 inches. .

Nest. Among the shingle on a sea-washed beach, sometimes at a Con-
siderable distance from the water. The birds probably make no nest.

Zees. Probably 1; creamy white or buff, sometimes tinged with green,
marked with dark brown and gray ; average size 4.80 X 2.90.

The Great Auk, or Northern Penguin, inhabits the highest
latitudes of the globe, dwelling by choice and instinct amidst

GREAT AUK. 415

the horrors of a region covered with eternal ice. Here it
is commonly found upon the floating masses of the gelid
ocean, far from land, to which alone it resorts in the season
of procreation.

Deprived of the use of wings, degraded as it were from the
feathered ranks, and almost numbered with the amphibious
monsters of the deep, the Auk seems condemned to dwell
alone in those desolate and forsaken regions of the earth;
yet aided by all-bountiful Nature, it finds means to subsist,
and triumphs over all the physical ills of its condition. As
a diver it remains unrivalled, proceeding beneath the water,
its most natural element, almost with the velocity of many
birds in the air. It thus contrives to vary its situation with
the season, migrating for short distances, like the finny prey
on which it feeds. In the Faroe Isles, Iceland, Greenland, and
Newfoundland these birds dwell and breed in great numbers.
They nest among the steepest cliffs of islands, remote from the
shore, in the vicinity of floating ice, taking possession of cav-
erns, and the crannies and clefts of rocks ; or they dig for them-
selves deep burrows in which they lay their only egg, about the
size of that of the Swan, whitish yellow, marked with numerous
lines and spots of black, which present to the imagination the
idea of Chinese characters. ‘They are so unprolific that if this
egg be taken away they lay no other that season. ‘Their time
of breeding is June and July.

The Auk is known sometimes to breed in the Isle of St.
Kilda, and in Papa Westra, according to Mr. Bullock, for sev-
eral years past no more than a single pair had made their
appearance. It feeds on large fish, and also on some ma-
rine plants, as well as on those which grow on the rocks con-
tiguous to their holes or burrows. The young birds tear up
the roots of the Rhodiola rosea. Many are said to breed on
the desert coasts of Newfoundland, where they have been seen
by navigators, though not recently. According to Pennant, the
Esquimaux, who frequented this island, made clothing of the
skins of these birds. The older ones are very shy, and but
rarely venture to the shore, on which they walk badly, though

416 DIVERS.

the young are not unfrequently met with. When fed in con-
finement, the Auk expresses its anxiety by raising and shaking
the head and neck and uttering a gurgling noise, but appears
to be on the whole essentially dumb, as well as deprived of
flight.

Since Nuttall wrote, the Great Penguin of the North Atlantic
has become extinct. There is no mystery surrounding the extinc-
tion of these birds; they simply yielded to the inevitable law of the
survival of the fittest. Through disuse the wings became unfit for
service, and the parents could not reach a place of safety for their
eggs; and though expert divers, and strong, swift swimmers, thei1
legs were almost useless when upon land, and the birds were con-
tinually surprised by hunters and captured in large numbers, until
the last one perished.

Not many years ago they were abundant in the vicinity of New-
foundland, and they no doubt occurred as far south as the shores
of Maine. Now a few stuffed specimens is all that can be found
of former legions.

PN DE X.

Acanthis brewsterii, i. 359.
hornemannii, i. 359-
hornemnanii exilipes, i. 358.
linaria, \. 355-
linaria holbellii, i. 357-
linaria rostrata, \. 357-

Accipiter atricapillus, i. 31.
Cooperi, \. 34.
velox, 1. 35.

Actitis macxlaria, ii. 160.

igialitis hiaticula, ii. 66.
meloda, il. 59.
meloda circumcincta, ii. 60.
montana, li. 67.
semipalmata, li. 64.
vocifera, ii. 62.
wilsonia, il. 61.

“éstrelata gularis, il. 268.
hasitata, ii. 268.

Agelaius pheniceus, i. 96.
pheniceus bryanti, i. tol.

Aix sponsa, ii. 317.

Ajaja ajaja, ii. 108.

Alauda arvensis, i. 297-

Albatross, Wandering, ii. 278.
Yellow-nosed, ii. 277.

Alca torda, ii. 410.

Alle alle, ii. 403.

Ammodramus caudacutus, i. 344.
caudacutus nelsoni, i. 346.
caudacutus subvirgatus, i. 345+
henslowii, i. 330.
leconteiz, i. 331.
maritimus, i. 346.
maritimus peninsule, i. 347.
nigrescens, 1. 347.
princeps, i. 326.
sandwichensis savanna, \. 325.

savannarum passexvinus, 1. 329.

Aa VOL. Il. -—— 27

Amfpelis cedrorunt,i. 154.
garrulus, i, 152.

Anas americana, il. 311.
bosthas, li. 303.
carolinensis, li. 321.
crecca, ii. 323.
cyanoptera, il. 323.
discors, il. 319.
fulvigula, ii. 316.
obscura, il. 315.
penelope, ii. 313.

Strepera, ll. 307.

Anhinga anhinga, ii. 380.

Ani, i. 438.

Anous stolidus, ii. 232.

Anser albifrons gambeli, ii. 284.

Anthus pensylvanicus, i. 292.
pratensis, i. 293.

Antrostomus carolinensis, i. 465.
‘vociferius,i. 467.

Aphelocoma floridana, i. 137.

Aquila chrysaétos, i. 15.

Aramus giganteus, ii. 102.

Archibuteo lagopus sancti-johannis,

1. 41.

Ardea candidissima, ii.86.
cinerea, ii. 81.
cerulea, il. 94.
egretta, ii. $4.
herodias, ii. 78.
occidentalis, ii. 82.
rufa, ii. 88.
tricolor rujicollis, ii. 96.
virescens, il. 97.
ward, ii. $2.

Arenaria interpres, ii. 71.

Asio accipitrinus, i. 68.
wilsonianus, i. 66.

Auk, Great, ii. 414.

418 ' INDEX.

Auk, Little, ii. 403.
razor-billed, ii. 410.

Avocet, il. 106.

Aythya affinis, ii. 345.
aNtertCANA, il. 340.
collaris, ii. 346.
marila nearctica, i. 343..
vallisneria, il. 336.

Baldpate, ii. 311.
Bartramia longicauda, ii. 164.
Beach-bird, li. 49.
Beetlehead, ii. 68.
Bittern, ii. 99.
Cory’s Least, ii. 102.
Least, ii. ror.

Blackbird, Bahama red-winged, i. 101.

Cow, 1. 104.
Crow, i. 115.
Red-winged, 1. 96.
Rusty, i. 119.
Skunk, i. 109.
Yellow-headed, i. 102,
Blackbreast, ii. 126.
Blackhead, Big, ii. 343.
Ieitile; tie sase
Ring-billed, ii. 346.
Ring-necked, ii. 346.
Blackheart, ii. 126.
Bluebill, ii. 343.
Little, ii. 345.
Marsh, ii. 346.
Bluebird, i. 285.
Bobolink, i. 109.
Bob-white, ii. 23.
Cuban, ii. 30.
Florida, ii. 30.
Bogsucker, ii. 176.
Bonasa umbellus, ii. 30.
umbellus torgata, ii. 34.
Booby, ii. 379.
Biue-faced, ii. 380.
Red-footed, ii. 380.
Botaurus exilis, ii, 101.
lentiginosus, ii. 99.
meoxena, ii. 102.
Brant, ii. 293.

Black, ii. 292, 293.
White, ii. 281.
Branta bernicla, ii. 293.

canadensis, ii. 285.
canadensis hutchinsit, ii. 290.

Branta canadensis minima, i. 292.
leucopsis, \l. 292.
nigricans, li, 292.

Brant-bird, ii. 71.

Broadbill, ii. 300.

Brownback, ii. 169.

Bubo virginianus, i. 61.
virginianus saturatus, i. 64.
virginianus subarcticus, i. 64.

Bufflehead, ii. 347. ;

Bull-bat, i. 470.

Bullhead, ii. 68.

Bulweria bulweri, ii, 268.

Bunting, Bay-winged, i. 320.
Black-throated, i. 298.
Henslow’s, i. 330.
Indigo, 1. 310.

Lark, i. 299.

Le Conte’s, i. 331.
Painted, i. 314.
Snow, i. 300.
Townsend’s, i. 299.
Varied, i. 313.
Yellow-winged, 1. 329.

Burgomaster, ii. 248.

Butcher-bird, 1. 159.

Buteo borealis, \. 46.
borealis harlani, i. 48.
brachyurus, i. 50.
latissimius, i. 49.
lineatus, i. 43.
lineatus allen, i. 45.
swainsoni, i. 48.

Butterball, ii. 347.

Buzzard, King, i. 6.

Turkey, i. 1.

Calamospiza melanocorys, \. 299.
Calcarius lapponicus, i. 304.
ormatus, 1. 305.
pictus, i. 305.
Calichelidon cyaneovirides, i. 403.
Calidris arenaria, ii. 49.
Campephilus principalis, i. 441.
Camptolaimus labradorius, i. 302.
Canary, Wild, i. 348.
Caracara, Audubon’s, i. 6.
Cardinal, i. 362.
Cardinalis cardinalis, i. 362.
Carduelis carduelis, i. 353.
Carpodacus purpureus, i. 372.
Catbird, i. 195.

. INDEX.

Catharista atrata, i. 4.
Cathartes aura, i. 1.
Cedar-bird, i. 154.
Ceophleus pileatus, i. 444.
Cepphus grylle, ii. 395.
mandtii, ii. 397.
motzfeldi, ii. 397.

Certhia familiaris americana, i. 387.

Certhiola bahamensis, 1. 388.

Ceryle alcyon, i. 461.

Chetura pelagica, i. 463.

Charadrius apricarius, il. 58.
dominicus, il. 57.
sguatarola, il. 68.

Charitoneta albeola, ii. 347.

Chat, Yellow-breasted, i. 172.

Chebec, i. 421.

Chelidon erythrogaster, i. 394.

Chen cerulescens, ii. 283.
hyperborea, ii. 283.
nivalis, li. 281.

Cherry-bird, 1. 154.

Chewink, i. 359.

Chickadee, i. 146.
Carolina, i. 150.
Hudsonian, 1. 151.

Chippy, i. 333.

Chondestes grammacus, 1. 317.

Chordeiles virginiants, 1. 470.
uirginianus chapmani, i. 473.

Chuck-will’s-widow, i. 465.

Circus hudsonivts, i. 51.

Cistothorus mariana, i. 280.
palustris,i. 279.

_ Sstellaris,1. 277.

Clangula hyemalis, ii. 335.

Clivicola riparia, i. 401.

Cobb, ii. 252.

Coccothraustes vespertina, i. 367.

Coccyzus americanus, i. 432.
erythrophthalmits, i. 436.
minor, i. 437.
minor maynardi, i. 438.

Cockawee, ii. 355.

Colaptes auratus, i. 438.

Colinus virginianus, ii, 23.
virginianus cubanensis, ii. 30.
virginianus floridanus, il. 30.

Columba leucocephata, ii. 7.

Columbigalina passerina, ii. 13.

Colymbus auritus, ii. 383.
holbelii, ii. 384.

Conpsothlypis americana, i. 244.

Contopus borealis, i. 410.
Utrens, 1. 419.

Conurus carolinensis, i. 428.

Coot, ii. 197.

Black, ii. 333.
Butter-billed, ii. 333.
European, ii. 201.
Horse-head, ii. 331.
Sea, ii. 333, 334-
White-winged, ii. 334.

Cormorant, ii. 469.
Double-crested, ii. 372.
Florida, ii. 373.
Mexican, ii. 373.

Corvus americanus, i. 126.
americanus floridanus, \. 131.
caurinus, i. 132.
corax principalis, i. 120.
ossifragus, i. 131.

Coturnix coturnix, ii. 30.

Courlan, ii. 102.

Cowbird, i. rot.

Crake, ii. 194.

Carolina, ii. 189.
Corn, ii. 196.
Spotted, ii. 196.

Crane, Blue, ii. 78.
Brown, il. 77.

Great White, ii. 73.
Little Brown, ii. 76.
Sandhill, ii. 77.
Whooping, ii. 73.

Creeper, Bahama Honey, i. 388.
Black and White, i. 380.
Brown, 1. 387.

Crex crex, il. 196.

Crossbill, American, i. 378.
Common, i. 378.

Red, i. 378.
White winged, i. 381.

Crow, i. 126.

Carrion, i. 4.
Fish, b. 131.
Florida, 1. 131.
Rain, i. 432, 436.

Crow Duck, ii. 197.

Crymophilus fulicarius, ii, 205.

Cuckoo, Black-billed, i. 436.
Mangrove, i. 437.
Maynard’s, i. 438.
Yellow-billed, i. 432.

419

420

Curlew, Eskimo, ii. 122.
Hudsonian, ii. £20.
Jack, ii. 120.
Long-billed, ii. 118.
Short-billed, ii. 122.
Cyanocitta cristata, \. 133.
cristata florincola, \. 136.
Cymodroma grallaria, ii. 268.

Dabchick, ii. 386.

Doajila acuta, ii. 309.

Dendragapus canadensis, ii. 41.

Dendroica estiva, i, 220.
auduboni, i. 220.
blackburnia, i. 232.
cerulea, \. 247.
caerulescens, i. 245.
carbonata, i. 265.
castaned, \. 237.
coronata, i. 217.
discolor, i. 242.
dominica, 1. 228.
dominica albilora,i. 229.
kirtlandi, 1. 265.
macilosa, i. 224.
montana, i. 265.
palmarunt, i, 220.

palmarum hypochrysea, i. 219.

pensylvanica, 1, 235.
striata, i. 238.
tigrina, i. 226.
townsend, i. 265.
Vigor sti, 1. 239.

wrens, i. 230.
Dickcissel, i. 298.
Diomedea exulans, ii. 278.
Dipper, il. 347.

Diver, Great Northern, ii. 388.
Dolichonyx oryzivorus, i. 109.
Doughbird, ii, 122.

Dove, Carolina, ii. 11.

Ground, ii. 13.

Key West, ii. 9.

Mourning, li. 11.

Sea, il. 402.

Turtle, ii. 11.

Zenaida, il. To.
Dovekie, ii. 403.
Dowitcher, il. 169.

Long-billed, 1i. 171.
Dryobates borealis, i. 454.

pubescens, i. 452.

INDEX.

Dryobates villosus, i. 451.
villosus audubonii, i. 452.
villosus leucomelas, i. 452.

Duck, Black, ii. 315.
Broad-bill, ii. 334.
Canvas-back, ii. 336.
Crow, ii. 197.
Dipper, ii. 334.
Dusky, ii. 315.
Florida, ii. 316.
Gray, ii. 307, 309.
Harlequin, ii. 352.
Labrador, ii. 302.
Lesser Scaup, li. 345.
Long-tailed, ii. 355.
Masked, ii. 364.
Pied, ii. 302.
Ring-necked, ii. 346.
Ruddy, ii. 334.
Rufous-crested, ii. 364.
Scaup, ll. 343.

Sea, ii. 324.
Spine-tailed, ii. 334.
Spirit, li. 347, 383-
Steller’s, ii. 364.
Summer, ii. 317.
Surf, ii. 331.
Velvet, ii. 334.
Wild, ii. 303.
Wood, ii. 317.
Dunlin, ii. 126, 128.

Eagle, Bald, i. 19.
Caracara, i. 6.
Golden, i. 15.
Gray Sea, i. 26.
Washington, i. 19.
White-tailed, i. 26.
Ectopistes migratorius, ii. 1.
Egret, ii. 84.
Blue, ii. 94.
Little White, ii. 86.
Peale’s, ii. 88.
Reddish, ii. 88.
Eider, ii. 324.
Common, ii. 324.
Greenland, il. 329.
King, ii. 329.
Elanoides forficatus, i. 39.
Elanus leucurus, i, 38.
Empidonax acadicus, i. 425.
fiaviventris, i. 426.

Empidonax minimus, i. 421+
pusillus traillii, i. 424.

Eniconetta stzlleri, il. 364.

Ereunetes pusillus, ii. 143.
occidentalis, il. 144.

Erismatura rubida, ii. 334.

Euetheia bicolor, i. 315.
canora, i. 315.

Falco columbarius, i. 11.
islandus, i. 7.
MEXICANUS, 1. Qs

peregrinus anatum, 1. 9.

regulus, 1. 12.
rusticolus, i. 7.
rusticolus gyrfalco, i. 8.
rusticolus obsoletus, 1. 8,
Sparverioides, \. 14.
Sparverius, \. 13.
tinnunculis, i. 14.

Falcon, Peregrine, i. 9.
Prairie, 1. 9

Finch, Grass, 1. 320.
Wank. G17.

Lincoln’s, i. 328.
Pine, i. 351.
Purple, i. 372.
Seaside, i. 346.
Shore, i. 344.
Summer, i. 327.
Thistle, i. 348.

Fire-bird, i. 83.

Flamingo, ii. 104.

Flicker, i. 438.

Flycatcher, Acadian, i. 425.
Crested, 1. 413.
Fork-tailed, i. 427.
Least, 1. 421.
Olive-sided, i. 410.
Scissor-tailed, 1. 427.
Small-headed, i. 168.
pirallseie 424.
Yellow-billed, i. 426.

Fratercula arctica, ii. 406.
arctica glacialis, ii. 409.

Frigate Bird, ii. 373.

Fregata aquila, ii. 373.

Fulica americana, \i. 197,
atra, ii. 201.

Fulmar, ii. 269.

Lesser, il. 271.

Fulmaris glacialis, ii. 269.

INDEX.

4

Fulmaris glacialis minor, ii. 271.

Gadwall, il. 307.

Galeoscoptes carolinensis, i. 195.

Gallinago delicata, \\. 172.
gallinago, li. 176.
Gallinula galeata, ii. 203.
Gallinule, Common, ii. 203.

Florida, il. 203.
Purple, 11. 201.
Gannet, il. 375.
Gare Fowl, i. 414.
Gavia alba, il. 244.
Gelochelidon nilotica, ii. 218.
Geothlypis agilis, 1253)
formosa, i. 246.
philadelphia, \. 251.
trichas, 1. 247.

trichas occidentalis, i. 251.

trichas ignota, \. 251.
Geotrygon martinica, li. 9.
montana, ll. 10.

Glaucionetta clangula americana, ii.

349:
islandica, ll. 351.

Gnatcatcher, Blue-gray, i. 170.

Goatsucker, 1. 470.

Godwit, Black-tailed, ii. 169.
Huasonian, il. 168.
Marbled, ii. 166.

Golden-eye, ii. 349.
Barrow’s, il. 351.
Rocky Mountain, ii. 351.

Goldfinch, i. 353.

American, 348.
Black-headed, i. 350.

Goosander, ii. 358.

Goose, Barnacle, ii. 292.

Blue, ii. 283.
Brant, ii. 293.
Cackling, ii. 292.
Canada, ii. 285.
Greater Snow, ii. 281.
Hutchins’s, ii. 290.
Laughing, ti. 284.
Lesser Snow, li. 283.
Solan, ii. 375.
Southern, ii. 290.
White-fronted, ii. 284.
Wild, ii. 285.

Goshawk, i. 31.

Grackle, Boat-tailed, i. 114.

2

=

I

422

Grackle, Bronze, i. 118.
Florida, i. 118.
Purple, i. 115.

Grassquit, i. 315.
Melodious, 1. 315.

Green-shank, il. 159.

Grebe, Carolina, 11. 386.
Dusky, ii. 383.
Holbeell’s, ii. 384.
Horned, il. 383.
Little, ii. 386.
Pied-billed, ii. 386.
Red-necked, ii. 384.

Grosbeak, Blue, i. 371.
Evening, i. 367.
Pine, 1. 375.
Rose-breasted, 1. 369.

Grotophaga ani, i. 438.

Grouse, Canada, ii. 41.
Canadian Ruffed, ii. 34.
Pinnated, li. 35.
Prairie Sharp-tailed, ii. 41.
Ruffed, ii. 30.
Sharp-tailed, ii. 39.
Spotted, ii. 41.
White, ii. 43.

Grus americana, ll. 73.
canadensis, i. 76.
mexicana, ll. 77.

Guara alba, ii. 112.
rubra, ii. 112.

Guillemot, Black, ii. 395.
Black-winged, ii. 397.
Common, ii. 398.
Foolish, ii. 398, 401.
Mandt’s, li. 397.
Thick-billed, ii. gor.

Guiraca cerulea, i. 377-

Gull, Black-headed, ii. 236.
Bonaparte’s, ii. 238.
Common, ii. 243.
Forked-tailed, ii. 234.
Franklin’s, ii. 238.
Glaucous, ii. 248.
Great Black-backed, ii. 252.
Herring, ii. 246, 247.
Iceland, ii. 250.
Ivory, ii. 244.
Kumilien’s, ii. 251.
Laughing, ii. 236,
Little; ii. 235°
Mackerel, ii. 213.

INDEX.

Gull, Parasitic, ii. 255.
Ring-billed, ii. 243.
Ross’s, il. 239.
Sabine’s, ii. 234.
Siberian, ii. 251.
Summer, ii. 213.
Wedge- tailed, ii. 239.
White-winged, ii. 250.

Gyrfalcon, i. 7.

Habia ludoviciana, i. 369.
Hematopus ostralegus, ii. 56.
palliatius, ii. 54.
Hagdon, ii. 272.
Black, ii. 275.
White, ii. 269, 271.
Hairbird, i. 333.
Flalieetus albicilla, i. 26.
leucocephalus, i. 19.
Hang-nest, i. 83.
Harporhyncus rufus, i. 192.
Hawk, Black, i. 41.
Blue iees Ue
Blue Hen, i. 31.
Broad-winged, i. 49.
Cooper’s, i. 34.
Cuban Sparrow, i. 14.
Duck, i. 9.
Fish, i. 27.

Florida Red-shouldered, i. 45.

Great-footed, i. 9.
Harlan’s, i. 48.
Harris’s, i. 46.
Marsh, i. 51.
Pigeon,i. 11.
Red-shouldered, i. 43.
Red-tailed, i. 46.
Rough-legged, i. 41.
Sharp-shinned, 1. 35.
Short-tailed, i. 50.
Snail, i. 40.
Sparrow, 1. 13.
Swainson’s, i. 48.
Winter, i. 43.

Heath Hen, ii. 38.

Helinaia swainsonii, i. 256.

Hell-diver, ii. 383.

Helminthophila bachmani, i. 261.

celata, 1. 264,
chrysoptera, i. 260.
cincinnatiensis, 1. 265.
lawrence?, i. 265.

INDEX. 423

Helminthophila leucobronchialis,i.265. | Funco hyemalis, i. 339.

peregrina, i. 261. hyemalis oregonus, i. 341.
pinus, i. 258. Oregon, i. 341.
rupjicapilla, i. 263. - Slate-colored, i. 339.
Flelmitherus vermivorus, i, 255.
Hen, Heath, ii. 38. Kestrel, 1. 14.
Hen, Prairie, i. 35. Killdeer, ii, 62.
Heron, Black-crowned Night, ii. gt. Kingbird, i. 404.
Blue, ii. 8r. Arkansas, i. 409.
Florida, ii. 82. Gray, i. 414.
Great Blue, ii. 78. Kingfisher, i. 461.
Great White, ii. 82. Kinglet, Cuvier’s, 1. 282,
Green, ii. 97. Golden-crowned, 1. 283.
Little Blue, ii. 94. Ruby-crowned, i, 281.
Louisiana, ii. 96. Kite, Black, i. 40.
Small White, ii. 86. Black-shouldered, i. 38.
Snowy, ii. 86. Blue, i. 37+
Ward’s, ii. 82. Everglade, i. 40.
Wurdeman’s, ii. 82. Fork-tailed, i. 39.
Yellow-crowned Night, ii. go. Hook-billed, i. 4o.
Flesperocichla nevia, i. 202. Mississippi, i. 37-
High-holder, i. 438. Swallow-tailed, i. 39.
Himantopus mexicanus, ii. 52. White-tailed, i. 38.
Histrionicas histrionicus, ii. 352. Kittiwake, ii. 241.
Humming-bird, i. 457. Knot, ii. 140.
Hydrochelidon leucoptera, ii. 231. Krieker, ii. 130.

nigra surinamensis, ii, 230.

Lagopus lagopus, ii. 43.

Ibis, Glossy, ii. 114. lagopus alleni, ii. 47.
Scarlet, ii. 112. rupestris, ii. 47.
White, ii. 112. rupestris reinharati, ii. 48.
Wood, ii. 110. welchi, ii. 48.

Icteria virens, i, 172. Lanius borealis, i. 159.

Icterus bullocki, i. 93. ludovicianus, i. 162.

galbula, i. 83. ludovicianus excubitorides, i. 163.
icterus, i. 82. Lapwing, ii. 70.
Spurius, i. 93. Lark, Field, i. 79.
Ictina mississippiensis, ts ie Horned, i. 294.
Lonornis martinica, ii. 201, Meadow, i. 79.
Mexican Meadow, i. 82.
Prairie Horned, i. 296.
Shore, i. 294.
Western Meadow, i. 82.
HC, ti Larus affinis, ii, 251.
Pomarine, Ml. 257. argentatus, ii. 247.
Richardson’s, ii. 258, argentatus smithsonianus, i. 246.
Jay, Blue, i. 133. atricilla, ii. 236.
Canada, i. 138. canus, ii. 243.
Florida, i. 137. delawarensis, ii. 243.
Florida Blue, i. 136. Sranklinii, ii. 238.
Labrador, i. 141. glaucus, ii. 248.
Funco carolinensis, i. 341. Akumlieni, ti. 231.

Jackdaw, i. 114.

Jaeger, Arctic, ii. 258.
Long-tailed, ii. 259.
Parasitic, ii. 258.

424

Larus leucopterus, ii. 250.
marinus, li, 252.
minutus, ii, 135.
philadelphia, ii. 238,

Limosa fedoa, ii. 166.
hemastica, ii. 168.
limosa, ii. 169.

Limpkin, ii. 102.

Linnet, i. 372.

Brewster’s, i. 359.
Leiiates Me Stic
Redpoll, i. 355.

Log-cock, i. 444.

Longspur, Chestnut-collared, i. 305.
Lapland, i. 304.

Smith’s, i. 305.

Loon, ii. 388.

Biack-throated, ii. 391.
Red-throated, ii. 393.
Lophodytes cucuilatas, i. 363.

Lord-and-Lady, ii. 352.

Loxia curvirostra minor, i. 378.
leucoptera, i. 381.

Macrorhampus griseus, ii. 169.
scolopaceus, li. 171.
Magpie i. 132.
Mallard, ii. 303.
Dusky, ii. 315.
Man-of-War, ii. 258.
Man. of-War Bird, ii. 373.
Marsh Harrier, i. 51.
Marsh Hen, ii. 197.
Marsh Hen, Freshwater, ii. 188.
Marlin, ii. 166.
Ring-tailed, ii. 168.
Martin, Beg, i. 404.
Purple, i. 391.
Sand, i. 4o1.
Maryland Yellow-throat, i. 249.
Meadow Hen, ii. 197.
Saltwater, ii. 183.
Meadow-wink, i. 109.
Megalestris skua, ii. 255.
Megascops asio, i. 57.
asio floridanus, 1. 60.
Melanerpes carolinius, i. 448.
erythrocephalus, i. 447.
Meleagris gallopavo, ii. 15.
Melospiza fasciata, i 322.
georgiana, i. 342.
fincolni, i. 328.

INDEX.

Merganser americanus, ii. 358.
serrator, ii. 360.
Merganser, il. 358.
Hooded, ii. 363.
Red-breasted, ii. 360.
Merlin, i. 12.
Merula migratoria, i. 198.
Micropalama himantopus, ii. 145.
Milvulus forficatius, i. 427.
tyrannus, i. 427.
Mimus polyglottus, i. 187.
Mniotilta varia, \. 389.
Mocking-bird, 1. 187.
Molothrus ater, \. 104.
Moor Hen, ii. 197.
Moose-bird, i. 138.
Motacilla alba, i. 293.
Mother Carey’s Chicken, ii. 267.
Mud Hen, ii. 183, 197.
Red-billed, ii. 203.
Murre, ii. 398.
Briinnich’s, ii. 401.
Myiarchus crinitus, i. 413.

Netta rufina, ii. 364.

Night Hawk, i. 470.
Florida, i. 473.

Noddy, ii. 232, 269, 271.

Nomonyx dominicus, ii. 364.

Nonpareil, i. 314.

Numenius borealis, ii. 122.
hudsonicus, ii, 120.
longirostris, ii. 118.

Nuthatch, Brown-headed, i. 386.
Red-breasted, i. 385.
White-breasted, i. 383.

Nyctala acadica, i. 72.
tengmalmi richardsont, i. 73.

Nyctea nyctea, i. 55.

Nycticorax nycticorax Nevius, ii. 91.
violaceus, ii. 90.

Oceanites oceanicus, ii. 264.
Oceanodroma leucorhoa, ii. 263.
Oidemia americana, ii, 333-
deglandi, ii. 334.
Susca, ii. 334-
perspicillata, ii. 331.
Old-squaw, ii. 355.
Old-Tom-Peabody, i. 318.
Olor buccinator, ii. 299.
columbianus, ii, 296.

INDEX. 425

Olor cygnus, ii. 299.

Oriole, Baltimore, i. 83.
Bullock’s, i. 93.
Orchard, i. 93.

Osprey, i. 27.

Otocoris alpestris, i. 294.
alpestris praticola, i. 296.

Oven-bird, i. 215.

Owl, Acadian, i. 72.
Barn, i. 75.
Barred, i. 70.
Burrowing, i. 78.
Cat, 1.61.
Dusky Horned, i. 64.
Florida Barred, i. 71.
Florida Screech, i. 60.
Great Gray, i. 64.
Great Horned, i. 61.
Hawk, i. 53.
Hoot, i. 70.
Long-eared, i. 66.
Mottled, i. 57.
Red, i. 57.
Richardson’s, i. 73.
Saw-whet, i. 72.
Screech, i. 57.
Short-eared, i. 68.
Snowy, 1. 55.
Sparrow, i. 73.
Western Horned, i. 64.

Oyster-catcher, il. 54.
European, ii. 56.

Pale-belly, ii. 57.

Pandion haliaétus carolinensis, i. 27.

Parabuteo unicinctus harrisi, i. 46.
Parakeet, i. 428.
Paroquet, Carolina, i. 428,
Parrot, Carolina, i. 428.
Sea, ii. 406.
Partridge, ii. 23, 30.
Birch, ii. 30.
Spruce, ii. 41.
Passer domesticus, i. 354.
Passerella iliaca, i. 338.
Passerina ciris, i. 314.
cyanea, i. 310.
versicolor, i. 313.
Parus atricapillus, \. 146.
bicolor, i. 142.
carolinensis, i. 150.
hudsonicus, i. 151.

Patch-head, ii. 331.

Pavoncella pugnax, ii. 150.

Peabody-bird, i. 318.

Pediocetes phasianellus, ii. 39.
phasianellus campestris, ii. 41.

Peep, ii. 136.

Peet-weet, ii. 160.

Pelagodroma marina, ii. 268.

Pelecanus erythrorhynchos, ii. 364.
Suscus, ii. 368.

Pelican, Brown, ii. 368.
Frigate, ii. 373.
White, il. 364.

Penguin, il. 398, 4o1.
Great, ii. 414.

Perisoreus canadensis, i. 138.
canadensis nigricapillus, i. 141.

Petrel, Black-capped, ii. 268.
Bulwer’s, ii. 268.
Fork-tailed, ii. 263,
Leach’s, il. 263.
Peale’s, ii. 268.
Stormy, ii. 267.
White-bellied, ii. 268.
White-faced, ii. 268.
Wilson’s, ii. 264.

Petrochelidon fulva, i. 403.
lunifrons, i. 396.

Peucea estivalis,i. 328.
estivalis bachmanii, i. 327.

Pewee, i. 415.
Wood, i. 419.

Pewit, 1. 415.

Phaéthon ethereus, ii. 381.
flavirostris, ii. 382.

Phalacrocorax carbo, ii. 369.
dilophus, ii. 372.
dilophus floridanus, ii. 373.
MeEXICANUS, ll. 373.

’ Phalarope, Gray, ii. 205.

Northern, ii. 207.

Red, ii. 205.

Red-necked, ii. 207.

Wilson’s, ii. 211.
Phatlaropus lobatus, ii. 207.

tricclor, ii 211.
Phasianus colchicus, ii, 22.
Pheasant, ii. 30.

English, ii. 22.
Philohela minor, ii. 176.
Pheebe, i. 415.

Say’s, i. 418.

426

Phenicopterus ruber, ii. 104.

Pica pica hudsonica, i. 132.

Picoides americanus, i. 450.
arcticus, 1. 455.

Pigeon, Partridge, ii. 9.
Passenger, ii. 1.
White-crowned, ii. 7.
Wild, ii. 1.

Pinicola enucleator, i. 375.

Pintail, ii. 309.

Pipilo erythrophthalmus, ii. 359.

erythrophthalmus alleni, i. 361.

Pipit, i. 292.

Meadow, i. 293.
Piranga erythromelas, i. 306.
ludoviciana, i. 310.

rubra, i. 309.
Plautus impennis, ii. 414.
Plectrophenax nivalis, i. 300,
Plegadis autumnalis, ii. 114.
Plover, Belted-piping, ii. 60.
Black-bellied, ii. 68.
Chicken, ii. 71.
Common, ii. 57.
European Golden, ii. 58.
Field, ii. 164.
Golden, ii. 57.
Green, ii. 57.
Mountain, ii. 67.
Piping, ii. 59.
Red-legged, ii. 71.
Ringed, ii. 66.
Ruddy, ii. 49.
Semi-palmated, ii. 64.
Swiss, ii. 68.
Upland, ii. 164.
Whistling, ii. 57.
Wilson’s, ii. 61.
Pochard, ii. 340.
Podilymbus podiceps, ii. 386.
Polioptila cerulea, i. 170.
Polyborus cheriway, i. 6.
Poocetes gramineus, i. 320.
Porzana carolina, ii. 189.
Janiaicensi._, ii. 196.
novebsracen sis, ii. 194.
porzana, ii 196.
Prairie Chicken, ii. 35, 39, 41.
Procellaria pelagica, ii. 267.
Progne sibis, i. 391.
Protonotaria citrea, i. 257.
Ptarmigan, Allen’s, ii. 47.

INDEX.

Ptarmigan, Reinhardt’s, ii. 48.
Rock, ii. 47.
Welch’s, ii. 48.
Willow, li. 43.

Puffin, ii. 406.
Large-billed, ii. 409.

Puffinus auduboni, ii. 275.
borealis, li. 274.
Rkuhlit, ti. 273, 274.
MAJOr, ii. 272,

Puffinus puffinus, ii. 276,

stricklandi, ii. 275.

Qua Bird, ii. 91.

Quail, 11. 23.
Messina, ii. 30.

Quail-dove, Blue-headed, ii. 14.
Ruddy, ii. 10.

Quiscalus nrajor, i. 114.
guiscula, i. 115.
guiscula eneus, i. 118.
guiscula agleus,i. 118.

Rail, Big, ii. 183.
Black, il. 196.
Carolina, ii. 189.
Clapper, ii. 183.
Common, ii. 189.
Florida Clapper, ii. 187.
King, ii. 188.
Land, ii. 196.
Lesser Clapper, ii. 180.
Louisiana Clapper, ii. 187.
Red-breasted, ii. 180, +88.
Scott’s, ii. 187.
Virginia, ii. 180.
Yellow, ii. 194.

Rallus elegans, ii. 188.
longirostris crepitans, ii. 183.
longirostris saturatus, ii. 187.
longirostris scottii, ii. 187.
virginianus, li. 180.

Raven, i. 120.

Razor-bill, ii. 260.

Recurvirosta americana, ti. 106.

Redbird, i. 362. -

Redhead, ii. 340.

Redpoll, i. 355.

Greater, i. 357.
Greenland, i. 359.
Hoary, i. 358.
Holbeell’s, i. 357.

Redpoll, Lesser, i. 355.
Mealy, i. 358.

Redstart, i. 164.

Regulus calendula, i. 281.
cuviert, i. 282.
satrapa, i. 283.

Rhodostethia rosea, il. 239.

Rice-bird, i. 109.

Rissa tridactyla, ii, 241.

Robin, i. 198.

Golden, i. 83.
Ground, 1. 359.
Swamp, i. 205.

Rostrhanius sociabilis, i. 40.

Ruff, ii. 150.
Rynchops nigra, ii. 260.

Saddleback, ii. 252.
Sanderling, ii. 49.
Sandpiper, Baird’s, ii. 142.
Bartramian, ii. 164.
Biack-bellied, 1i. 126.
Bonaparte’s, ii. 129.
Buff-breasted, ii. 132.
Curlew, ii. 125.
Green, il. 157.
Least, ii. 136.
Pectoral, ii. 130.
Purple, ii. 134.
Red-backed, ii. 126.
Semi-palmated, ii. 143.
Solitary, il. 157.
Spotted, ii. 160.
Stilt, ii. 145.
Western, il. 144.
White-rumped, ii. 129.

Sapsucker, Yellow-bellied, i. 450.

Saw-bill, ii. 358.

Saxicola enanthe,i. 290.

Sayornis phoebe, i. 413.
Saya, 1. 418.

Scolecophagus carolinus, i. 119.

Scolopax rusticola, ii. 179.
Scoter, American, ii. 333.

Black, ii. 333.

Surf, ii. 331.

Velvet, ii. 334.

White-winged, ii. 334.
Sea-goose, ii. 205, 207, 211.
Seamew, ii. 243.
Sea-pigeon, ii. 395.
Sea-swallow, ii. 213.

INDEX.

4

Seiurus aurocapillus, i. 215.

niotacilla, 1. 214.
noveboracentsis, i, 212.
Setophaga ruticilla, i. 164.
Shad-bird, ii. 172.
Shag, il. 369, 372.

Shearwater, Audubon’s, ii. 275.

Cory’s, li. 274.
Greater, ii. 272.
Manx, il. 276.

Sooty, ii. 275.
Shelldrake, ii. 360.

Buff-breasted, ii. 358.

Hooded, i. 363.
Shoveller, i. 300.

Shrike, Loggerhead, i. 162.
Northern, 1. 159.
White-rumped, i. 163.

Stalia sialis, i. 285.

Sickle-bill, ii. 118.

Siskin, Pine, i. 351.

Sitta canadensis, i. 385.
carolinensis, i. 383.
pusilla, 1. 386.

Skimmer, Black, ii. 260.

Skua, ii. 255.

Buffon’s, il. 259.
Skunk-head, ii. 331.
Skylark, i. 297.

Snipe, Common, ii. 172.
English, ii. 172.
European, ii. 176.
Grass, ii. 130.

Gray, li. 169.

Jack, ii. 130, 172.

Red-breasted, ii. 140, 169.

Robin, ii. 140, 169.
Rock, ii. 134.
Stone, ii. 152.
Wilson’s, ii. 172.
Winter, il. 126, 134.
Snow-bird, i. 339.
White, i. 300.
Snowflake, i. 309.

Sonrateria dresserz, ii. 324.
mollissima borealis, ii. 329.

Spectabilis, ii. 329.
Sora, ii. 189.
Sou-southerly, il. 355.

427

Sparrow, Acadian Sharp-tailed, i. 345-

SP) 3

Bachman’s, i. 327.
, = 5

Brewer's, i. 335-

428

Sparrow, Chipping, i. 333.
Clay-colored, i. 337.
Dusky Seaside, 1. 347.
English, i. 354.

Feld, i. 336.

BOX, 1.) 330.

Ground, i. 325.

Grasshopper, 1. 329.

Henslow’s, i. 330.

House, i. 354.

Ipswich, 1. 326.

Lark, 1. 317.

ei Contesmassr.

Lincoln’s, i. 328.

Nelson’s, i. 346.

Pine Woods, i. 328.

Savanna, i. 325.

Scott’s Seaside, i. 347.

Seaside, i. 346.

Sharp-tailed, i. 344.

Song, i. 322.

Swamp, i. 342.

DTS Nog32.

Vesper, i. 320.

White-crowned, i. 315.

White-throated, i. 318.

Yellow winged, i. 329.
Spatula clypeata, ii. 300.

Sfeotyto cunicularia floridana, i.

78.
cunicularia hypogea, \. 78.
Sphyrapicus varius, \. 450.
Spinus notatus, 1. 350+
Pinus, i. 351.
tristis, i. 348.
Spiza americana, i. 298.
townsendi, i. 299-
Spizella brewer, i. 335°
monticola, i. 332.
pallida, \. 337-
pusilla, i. 336.
socialis, i. 333.
Spoonbill, ii. 300.
Roseate, ii. 108.
Sprigtail, i. 309.
Squawk, il. gr.
Stake Driver, ii. 99.
Starling, i. 82.
Starnenas cyanocephala, ii. 14.
Stelgidopteryx serripennis, \. 403.
Stercorarius longicaudus, ii. 259.
parasiticus, ii. 258.

2
2)

>
d

Iw

INDEX.

Stercorarius pomarinus, li. 257.
Sterna anethetus, ii. 228.
antillarum, ii, 225.
dougalli, ii, 223.
Sorsteri, ii. 216.
Suliginosa, ii. 228.
hirundo, ii. 213.
maxima, li. 217.
paradiseéa, ii, 220.
sandvicensis acuflavida, ii, 222.
trudeani, ii. 228.
tschegrava, il. 227.
Stilt, Black-necked, ii. 52.
Stork, Wood, ii. 110.
Striker, Gannet, ii. 217, 227.
Little, ii. 225.
Strix pratincola, i. 75.
Sturnella magna, i. 79.
magna mexicana, \. 82.
magna neglecta, i. 82.
Sturnus vulgaris, i. 82.
Sula bassana, ii. 375.
cyanops, il. 380.
sula, il. 379-
piscator, ii. 380.
Summer Red-bird, i. 309.
Yellow-bird, i. 220.
Surnia ulula caparoch, i. 53.
Swallow, Bahama, i. 403.
Bank, i. 401.
Barn, i. 394.
Chimney, i. 463.
Cliff, 1. 396.
Cuban Cliff, 1. 403.
Eave, i. 396.
Rough-winged, i. 403.
Singing, i. 399.
Tree. i. 399.
White-bellied, i. 399.
Swan, Trumpeter, il. 299.
Whistling, il. 296.
Whcoping, ii. 299.
Swift, Chimney, 1. 463.
Sylvania canadensis, 1, 227.
microcephata, i. 265.
mitrala,i. 167.
pusila, i. 168.
Sylvia minuta, i. 168.
Symphemia semipalmata, ii. 146.
semipalmata nornata, il. 149.
Syrnium nebulosum, i. 70.
nebulosum alleni, i. 71.

Tachycineta bicolor, i. 399.

Tanager, Louisiana, 1. 310.
Scarlet, 1. 306.
Summer, i. 309.

Tantalus loculator, ii. 110.

Tattler, ii. 152.

Teal, Blue-winged, ii. 369.
Cinnamon, ii. 323
European, ii.
Green-winged, ii. 321.

Teeter-tail, ii. 160.

Tell-tale, ii. 152.

Tern, Arctic, ii. 220.

Black. ii. 230.
Bridled, ii. 228.
Cabot’s, ii. 222.
Caspian, li. 227.
Cayenne, ii. 217.
Common, ii. 213.
Forster’s, ii. 216.
Gull-billed, ii. 218.
Least, ti. 225.
Marsh, ii. 218.
Roseate, il. 223.
Royal, ii. 217.
Sandwich, ii. 222.
Short-tailed, ii. 230.
Silvery, ii. 225.
Sooty, ii. 228.
Trudea’s, ii. 228.
White-winged Black, ii. 231.
Wilson’s, ii. 313.

Thalassogeron culminatus, 1. 277.

Thistle-bird, i. 348.

Thrasher, Brown, 1. 192.

Thrush, Alice's, i. 211.
Bicknell’s, i. 212.

Brown, 1. 192.
Golden-crowned, i. 215.
Gray-cheeked, i. 211.
Hermit, i. 205.
Louisiana Water, i. 214.
Olive-backed, i. 2r¢.
Red-winged, i. 202.
Tawny, i. 207.

Varied, i. 202.

Water, i. 212.
Wilson’s, i. 207.
Wood, i. 202.

Thryothorus bewickii, i. 276.
ludovicianus, i, 272, 275.

Tinker, ii. 410.

>I

22
ae)

G2

INDEX. 4

Tip-up, ii. 160.

Titlark, i. 292.

Titmouse, Tufted, i. 142,

Totanus flavipes, ii. 154.
melanoleucus, il. 152,
nebulari2s, ii. 159.
ochropus, ii. 159.
solitarius, ii. 157.

Towhee, i. 359.

White-eyed, i. 361.

Tringa alpina, il. 128.
alpina pacifica, ii. 126.
bairdii, ii. 142.
canutius, ii. 140.
Serrugined, il. 125.
Suscicollis, ii. 129.

Tringa maritina, \\. 134.
maculata, il. 130.
minutilla, ii, 136.

Trochilus colubris, i. 457.

Troglodytes aédon, \. 266.
azdon parkueaniz, i, 270.
americanus, 1, 270.
hiematlis, i. 270.

Tropic-bird, Red-billed, ii. 381.
Yellow-billed, ii. 382.

Troupial, i. 82.

Tryngitis subruficollis, ii. 132.

Turdus alicie,i. 211.
alicie bicknelli, i. 212.
aonalaschke pallasit, i, 205.
Suscescens, i. 207.
2liacis, 1. 202.
miustelinus, i. 202.
ustulatus swainsoniz, i. 211,

Turkey, Wild, ii. 15.

Turnstone, ii. 71.

Tympanuchus americanus, ii. 35.
cupido, ii. 35.

Tyrannus dominicensis, i. 414.
tyrannus, i. 404.
verticalis, i. 409.

Ulula cinerea, \. 64.

Uria lomvia, ii. 401.
troile, ii. 398.

Urinator arcticus, ii. 391.
imber, ii. 388.
Zumme, il. 393.

Vanellus vanellus, ii. 70.
Veery, i. 207.

9

430

Vireo bellii, i. 180.
flavifrons,i. 174.
flavoviridis, i, 186,
gilvus, i. 180.
noveboracensis, i. 178.
noveboracensis maynardi, i. 180,
olivaceus, i. 182.
philadelphicus, i. 186,
solitarius, i. 176.
solitarius alticola, i. 77.

Vireo, Bell’s, i. 180.

Blue-headed, i. 176.
Key West, i. 180.
Mountain Solitary, i. 177.
Philadelphia, i. 186.
Red-eyed, i. 182,
Solitary, i. 176.
Warbling, i. 180.
White-eyed, i. 178.
Yellow-green, i. 186.
Yellow-throated, i. 174.

Vulture, Black, i. 4.
Turkey, i. 1.

Wagtail, White, i. 293.

Warbler, Andubon’s, i. 220.
Bachman’s, i. 261.
Bay-breasted, i. 237.
Black and White, i. 389.
Black and Yellow, i. 224.
Blackburnian, i. 232.
Black-poll, i. 238.
Black-throated Blue, i, 245.
Black-throated Green, i. 230.
Blue, i. 247.
Blue Mountain, i. 265.
Blue-winged, i. 258.
‘Blue Yellow-backed, i. 244.
Brewster's, i. 265.
Canadian, i. 227.
Cape May, i. 226. -
Carbonated, i. 265.
Cerulean, i. 247.
Chestnut-sided, i. 235.
Cincinnati, i. 265.
Connecticut, i. 253.
Golden-winged, i. 260.
Gray-headed, i. 253.
Hemlock, i. 233.
Hooded, i. 167.
Kentucky, i. 246.
Kirtland’s, i. 265.

INDEX.

Warbler, Lawrence’s, i. 265.
Magnolia, i. 224.
Mourning, i. 251.
Myrtle, i. 217.
Nashville, i. 263.
Orange-crowned, i. 264.
Palm, i. 220.

Parula, i. 244.

Pine, i. 239.

Prairie, i. 242.

Prothonotary, i. 257.

Small-headed, i. 265.

Summer, i. 220,

Swainson’s, i. 256.

Sycamore, 1. 229

Tennessee, i. 261.

Townsend’s, i. 265.

Wilson's, i. 168.

Worm-eating, i, 255.

Yellow, i. 220.

Yellow-crowned, i. 217.

Yellow-palm, i. 219.

Yellow Red-poll, i. 219.

Yellow-rumped, i. 217.

Yellow-throated, i. 228.
Water Hen, li. 203.

Water Wagtail, i. 212.

Wavey, ii. 281.

Blue, ii. 283.
Waxwing, Bohemian, i. 152.

Cedar, i. 154.
Whale-bird, ii. 205.
Wheatear, i. 290.
Whip-poor-will, i. 467.
Whiskey Jack, i. 138.
Whistler, ii. 349, 351.
Widgeon, ii. 311-313.
Willet, ii. 146.

Western, ii. 149.
Wilsonia minuta, i. 168.
Wilson’s Blackcap, i. 168.
Woodcock, ii. 176.

Black, i. 444.

European, ii. 179.
Woodpecker, American three-toed, i.

456.

Arctic three-toed, i. 455.

Banded-backed, 1. 456.

Black-backed, i. 455.

Downy, i. 452.

Golden-winged, i. 438.

Hairy, i. 451.

Woodpecker, Ivory-billed, i. 441,

Pigeon, i. 438.
Pileated, i. 444.
Red-bellied, i. 448.
Red-cockaded, i. 454.
Red-headed, i. 446.

Wren, Bewick’s, i. 276.

Carolina, i. 272.

Florida, i. 275.

House, i. 266.
Long-billed Marsh, i. 279.
Long-tailed House, i. 276.
Marian’s Marsh, i. 280.
Mocking, i. 272.
Parkman’s, 1. 270.
Short-billed Marsh, i. 277.
Winter, i. 270.

Wood, i. 266, 270.

INDEX. 431

Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus, i. 102.
AXema sabinit, i. 234.

Yellow-bird, i. 348.
Yellow-legs, il. 154.

Greater, ll. 152.

Lesser, li. 154.

Summer, li. 154.

Winter, li. 152.
Yellow-throat, Florida, i. 251.

Maryland, i. 249.

Western, i, 251.

Zenaida zenaida, ii. 10.

Zenaidura macroura, ii. it.

Lonotrichia leucophrys, \. 315+
albicollis, i. 318.

i THT