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FISHES, REPTILES AND BIRDS

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MASSACHUSETTS.

PUBLISHED AGREEABLY TO AN ORDER OF

THE LEGISLATURE,

BY THE COMMISSIONERS ON THE ZOOLOGICAL AND BOTANICAL —

SURVEY OF THE STATE.

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DUTTON AND WENTWORTH, STATE PRINTERS.

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INTRODUCTION.

On the 3d of March, 1830, a resolve passed the
Legislature of Massachusetts, authorizing a general
Trigonometrical Survey of the Commonwealth. This
was followed, on the 5th of June of the same year, by a
Resolve, introduced at the suggestion of Governor Lin-
coln, authorizing him to appoint a ‘‘ suitable person to
make a Geological Examination of the Commonwealth,
in connexion with the General Survey.”

Under this Resolve Prof. Hitchcock was appointed,
and the manner in which he accomplished its objects is
shown by his admirable Report, published in 1833.

In conformity with a Resolve of the Legislature, of
February 2d, 1831, he was directed ‘‘ to cause to be
annexed to his report, a list of the native Mineralogical,
Botanical and Zoological productions of the Common-
wealth, so far as it may be practicable to ascertain the
same, within the limits of the appropriation already
made.”

In the execution of this part of the commission, he
received and acknowledged the ‘‘ assistance of several
gentlemen distinguished for their acquaintance with
particular branches of natural history.’’ The catalogues
which were formed, were, in almost every instance, the
first complete catalogues of the productions of the State,
which had been attempted. In Botany, very full ac-

iv INTRODUCTION.

counts had previously been given of the plants of par-
ticular districts; of the plants about Boston, by Dr.
Bigelow ; of those in the vicinity of Amherst, by Prof.
Hitchcock ; of the plants of Berkshire, by Prof. Dewey.
In Ornithology, very much had been done by Audu-
bon, Wilson and Bonaparte, and still later by Nuttall.
The catalogues in these departments are consequently
vastly the most full and satisfactory. Many of the
shells had been described by Say, and of the quadrupeds
by Godman and others. But in most of the depart-
ments scarcely any thing had been done towards the for-
mation of a complete list.

It was an important step to collect together and pub-
lish the catalogues, such as they were. Although, as
Prof. Hitchcock had anticipated, they were far from
being perfect or complete, they led immediately to in-
quiries amongst the naturalists in various parts of the
State. And many names were soon added to the cata-
logue by members of the Boston Society of Natural
History, and by others.

A view of these facts, and of the great importance of
a full acquaintance with the natural productions, of all
kinds, of our State, led to the desire, on the part of
many intelligent citizens, that a more full survey should
be attempted. Agreeably therefore to the suggestion
of Governor Everett, on the immediate occasion of a
letter from Professor Hitchcock to him, recommending
that the geological survey should be prosecuted, and a
more full botanical and zoological survey be made, the
subject was called up in the House of Representatives,
and a very respectable committee appointed, to take it
into consideration. This committee, after conferring

INTRODUCTION. Vv

with a committee of the Boston Society of Natural His-
tory, reported in favor of a more full survey, and a re-
solve to the following effect was adopted :

“* Resolved, ‘That his Excellency the Governor, with
the advice and consent of the Council, is hereby author-
ized and requested to appoint some suitable person, or
persons, to make a further and thorough Geological,
Mineralogical, Botanical and Zoological Survey of this
Commonwealth, under his direction, particularly in ref-
erence to the discovery of Coal, Marl, and Ores, and an
analysis of the various soils of the State, relative to an
Agricultural benefit. And he is hereby authorized to
draw his warrant, from time to time, upon the treasurer
of this Commonwealth, for any sum not exceeding two
thousand five hundred dollars, for the foregoing purpo-
ses. Approved 12th April, 1837.”

For the execution of this Resolve, Prof. Hitchcock of
Amherst, was appointed by Gov. Everett, to continue
the Mineralogical and Geological Survey ; and Geo. B.
Emerson of Boston, President of the Boston Society of
Natural History, Chester Dewey, Professor of Botany,
Materia Medica, &c. in the Berkshire Medical Institu-
tion, Ebenezer Emmons, M. D., Prof. of Natural His-
tory, &c. Williams College, Rev. Wm. B. O. Peabody
of Springfield, T. W. Harris, M. D., Librarian in
Harvard University, D. H. Storer, M. D., and A. A.
Gould, M. D. of Boston, Curators in the Boston So-
ciety of Natural History, were commissioned to take
charge of the Botanical and Zoological Survey.

In the letter of Governor Everett, accompanying the
commission for the latter survey, the chairman was in-
structed to confer with the other gentlemen on the
commission, that separate portions of the work might

vl INTRODUCTION.

be distributed, by mutual agreement, according to the
preference of the individuals associated in the Survey.

A hope was expressed that, inasmuch as many por-
tions of the Natural History of the Commonwealth had
already been so well explored, the Survey might be
completed within one year. And the following instruc-
tions were given, explanatory of the view taken by the
Executive, of the precise object of the Survey.

‘< Tt is presumed to have been a leading object of the
Legislature, in authorizing the Survey, to promote the
agricultural benefit of the Commonwealth, and you will
keep carefully in view the economical relations of every
subject of your inquiry. By this, however, it is not in-
tended, that scientific order, method, or comprehension
should be departed from. At the same time, that which
is practically useful will receive a proportionally greater
share of attention, than that which is merely curious ;
the promotion of comfort and happiness being the great
human end of all science.”’

The commission for this part of the Survey bore the
date of June 10, 1837. As soon after this as it could
conveniently be accomplished, an arrangement was
agreed upon, by which Prof. Emmons undertook to re-
port upon the Mammalia, Dr. Storer upon the Fishes
and Reptiles, Mr. Peabody upon the Birds, Dr. Harris
upon Insects and Araneides, Dr. Gould upon the Mol-
lusca, Crustacea and Radiata, Prof. Dewey upon the
Herbaceous Plants, and Mr. Emerson upon the Trees
and other Ligneous Plants.

Agreeably to a plan proposed by the Chairman, and
cordially assented to by every member of the Commis-
sion, it was agreed that, instead of confining themselves
to completing the catalogue of the objects in the seve-

INTRODUCTION. Vil

ral departments, each commissioner should endeavor,
as far as possible, to study and describe every new ob-
ject which should present itself in his own department,
and where the descriptions already given were incom-
plete, or unsatisfactory, or contained in books not of
easy access to the public, to re-describe, or make addi-
tions or changes, such as should seem best.

It was immediately seen that no final reports, that
would be satisfactory, in this view of the work, could be
made within the limits of a single year. Partial reports
were therefore made by the five Commissioners on the
Zoological departments, which, with a letter from the
Chairman, were ordered to be printed ; and leave was
asked and obtained, by all the Commissioners, to defer
their reports for another year.

The Legislature, with that liberality which had given
rise to the original Survey, and which is the best and
most lasting distinction of enlightened governments,
ordered the Survey to be continued, and appropriated
to it such a sum as was thought sufficient to carry it
into effect.

It is a gratifying reflection to the sons of Massachusetts,
that this liberality has, from the beginning of its his-
tory been its distinguishing characteristic. In those
early days, when, as a feeble colony, it was struggling
for existence, it made what, considering its means, were
magnificent appropriations for the education of its chil-
dren ; for the developement of its intellectual resour-
ces. And, at every period, acting in the same spirit,
it has made its schools and colleges, prominent and fa-
vored objects of legislative patronage.

It is but recently that the physical resources of a
country have, any where, been an object towards which

Vill INTRODUCTION.

the attention of its government has been directly turned.
In most of even the farthest advanced of the monarchies
of the old world, the earth and its mineral treasures,
and the animal and vegetable productions of its surface,
and of the sea, have been left to the unfostered atten-
tion, or to the unrebuked neglect of private intelligence
or ignorance. In a few favored spots, a different and
wiser course has been pursued. In France, in some
of the northern kingdoms, in several states of Germany,
and especially in Great Britain, large sums have been
expended, and already very much has been done, to
ascertain and bring to notice the advantages and wants,
the peculiarities of every kind, of the land and sea, and
their productions. And the resources developed have
uniformly seemed to increase in proportion to the ex-
tent and minuteness of the investigation. New objects
have been presented to the industry, and new sources
of wealth opened to the enterprise of the inhabitants.
So that, if we look through the world, we find that it is
not those countries whose natural resources are appa-
rently greatest, which support the most wealthy and
advanced population, but those in which the natural re-
sources, whatever they may be, have been explored,
and laid open to the greatest extent.

It need not be repeated, that this truth, of such ac-
knowledged importance under all governments, is of
still more weighty consideration in a republican country
than in any other. In free states like Massachusetts, as
every where else, and still more than any where else,
the fountains of the wealth and advancement of the peo-
ple lie in their intelligence, skill, and industry, applied
to the resources of the country. In them, therefore,
every possible resource for their present and prospec-

INTRODUCTION. 1X

tive welfare, should be laid open. And the facts pre-
sented by a full survey of the natural productions of
the State, can hardly fail to bring direct advantages,
for the present and for the future.

The survey of the forests of Massachusetts, making
known to the whole community the important fact that
a greater variety of valuable trees is to be found within
its limits than are known as native in the whole of
Europe ; that it is wastefully and wantonly destroying a
forest, which any enlightened country in Europe would
willingly bestow a treasure to create; that its climate
and soil are well suited to many of the most valuable trees
of other temperate countries, and that already there
are thousands of acres lying barren and unimproved,
which might easily be clad with a flourishing growth
of trees, cannot but excite the attention of some of
those who have it in their power to arrest this evil and
to avail themselves of these truths.

The survey of the shrubs, and herbaceous and other
plants, may, in like manner, be of great use, by showing
that there exist materials for improvements in agriculture,
and for use in many of the arts and in medicine, which
might be substituted for others now imported from abroad.
If, for example, it should appear that the wild rice, so
valuable to the native indians of the western lakes, and
which, without being known, occurs in many parts of
the State, is capable of being cultivated in intervales
now overflowed and producing only sedge and worth-
less grasses, and of being used as a substitute for oats
as fodder, the fact would not be lost upon an agricul-
tural community like ours. So the statement of the fact
that lichens exist, similar to those which are much em-
ployed and highly valued in dying, and that our sea walls

B

».4 INTRODUCTION.

are covered with the same fuci which have converted
barren rocks in Scotland into sources of immense wealth,
might lead to important results.

The great resources of our State in its fisheries are
already known. It cannot, however, be without its use,
even in an economical point of view, at the moment
when, by the opening of new markets, they are be-
coming still more valuable, to review their extent and
examine the details. There are those now living, who
remember the time, when, along a great portion of
the New England coast, the halibut, when taken, was
thrown away; and the use of the flesh of the sword-
fish and skate, is of recent introduction. Several kinds
of fresh-water fish are rejected in some parts of the
country which are considered good eating in others.

The examination of the habits of birds has led intel-
ligent persons to the conclusion, that it is doubtful, at
least, whether a single one is found in Massachusetts
which does not more good than harm to the farmer ;
and has made it certam that many, now looked upon as
enemies, are friends, of such importance, that without
them the business of husbandry could not go on.

How many groundless fears will be removed from
the minds of anxious parents by a knowledge of the
fact that only a single venomous serpent is known to
exist in Massachusetts, and that one confined to certain
districts ; and that all newts, tortoises, and other rep-
tiles are perfectly harmless.

The examination of the insects is held by all to be a
matter of the greatest moment. There. are multitudes
whose habits are known so imperfectly, that we can do
absolutely nothing towards their extermination, and
which, were it not for the birds and reptiles, would

M4 4 ‘

:

INTRODUCTION. Xl

probably increase to such a degree as not only to ren-
der the labors of the cultivators wholly unavailing,
but to cut down and destroy the native forests. It is
surely good policy to secure the cooperation of men
of science against enemies so formidable and so irresis-
tible. The observations of Linneus saved the timber,
in the dock-yards of Sweden, from ruin. It is not
impossible that living or future observers may show us
the means of protecting the locust from the borer and
the apple tree from the canker worm.

The reports contained in the present volume were
presented to Governor Everett, during the session of
1838-9, and ordered to be printed and distributed by
the following Resolve of April 9th, 1639 :

** Resolved, That the governor is hereby authorized
to procure the publication of fifteen hundred copies of
the reports which he has received, or may hereafter
receive, under the resolve of the twelfth of April, in the
year one thousand eight hundred and thirty-seven, pro-
viding for a further geological, mineralogical, botanical
and zoological survey of the Commonwealth ; and to
draw his warrant, with the advice and consent of the
council, upon the treasurer of the Commonwealth, for
such sums as may be necessary for that purpose.

** Resolved, That the said copies, when published, be
delivered to the Secretary of the Commonwealth, to be
distributed in the following manner: twelve copies to
the governor ; six copies to the lieutenant governor ;
one copy to each member of the council, senate, and
house of representatives ; one copy each to the secre-
tary, treasurer, and to each clerk and chaplain of the
two houses ; one copy to the secretary and one to each
member of the board of education ; twenty copies to the

xii INTRODUCTION.

geological surveyor, and ten to each commissioner ap-
pointed under the resolve of April 12, 1837; five cop-
ies to be deposited in the library of the State ; one copy
to each town in the Commonwealth ; two copies each
to Harvard, Amherst, and Williams colleges ; one copy
each to the theological seminaries of Andover and New-
ton; one copy to each incorporated atheneum, lyceum
and academy in the Commonwealth ; one copy to the
American Academy of Arts and Sciences ; one copy to
the Antiquarian Society at Worcester, and one to the
Pilgrim Society at Plymouth ; one copy to the Massa-
chusetts Historical Society, and to every other incorpo-
rated historical society in the Commonwealth ; one copy
to the State Lunatic Hospital at Worcester ; one copy
to the Boston Society of Natural History ; one copy
to the Essex County Natural History Society ; one copy
each to the Massachusetts and Salem Charitable Me-
chanic Associations ; one copy to the library of the
East India Marine Society, in Salem ; two copies to the
library of the United States ; one copy to the executive
of each state in the Union ; one hundred copies to be
placed at the disposal of the governor, and the remain-
der to be subject to the further order of the Legislature.
[April 9, 1839.]”’
GB. Be

Boston, Aug. 13, 1839.

-

CONTENTS.

INTRODUCTION.

DR. STORER’S REPORT ON THE FISHES
1. True Fisues.

Order I. Acanthopterygii,

Order II. Malacopterygii Alsotinales,
Order II. Malacopterygii Subrachiati,
Order IV. Malacopterygii Apodes,
Order V. Lophobranchii,

Order VL Plectognathi, .

If. CHonpDROPTERYGII.

Order I. Branchiis Liberis,
Order Uf. Branchiis Fixis,

r)

DR. STORER’S REPORT ON THE REPTILES,

Order I. Chelonia,
Order I. Sauria,
Order II. Ophidia,
Order IV. Batrachia,

MR. PEABODY’S REPORT ON THE BIRDS,

Birds of Prey,
Omnivorous Birds,
Insectivorous Birds, 5
Granivorous or Passerine Birds, . 6
Zygodactyli, the Woodpecker Tribe, . .
Slender-billed Birds, $ : : : :
Halcyons, . ° °
Swallow Tribe,
Pigeon Tribe,
Gallinaceous Birds,
Wading Birds,
Lobe-Footed Birds,
Web-Footed Birds,
Dr. Storer’s Supplement to the Fishes,
“ C3 to the Reptiles,

3

bee

REPORTS

ON THE

ICHTHYOLOGY AND HERPETOLOGY

OF

MASSACHUSETTS.

BY D. HUMPHREYS STORER, M.D.

FELLOW OF THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF ARTS AND SCIENCES; MEMBER
OF THE BOSTON SOCIETY OF NATURAL HISTORY 3 CORRESPOND-
ING MEMBER OF THE ACADEMY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
AT PHILADELPHIA, &c. &c.

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To Georce B. Emerson, Esea.,

Chairman of the Commissioners for the Botanical and Zoologi-
cal Survey of the Commonwealth.

Dear Sir:

In presenting the accompanying Report upon the Fishes of Massa-
chusetts, I will offer no apology for the manner in which the duty has
been performed, conscious that all available opportunities have been
improved, and every effort has been made to render it worthy the
approbation of those by whose suggestion it was undertaken. I must,
however, be allowed the privilege of showing why more has not been
done—why a larger number of species has not been collected and
described—why, in a word, a nearer approach has not been made to a
perfect catalogue of our Ichthyology. In June, 1837, I received, with
several other gentlemen, an appointment as Commissioner to prosecute
the Zoological Survey of the State. So trifling were these tasks con-
sidered,—so much was supposed to have been already done by the
gentlemen who had furnished the previous catalogues, that the Com-
missioners were expected to perform their respective duties in a single
season. ‘To prepare a catalogue of our Fishes in a single year, I felt
was impossible—but, at the same time, was willing and ready to do all
in my power towards the accomplishment of so desirable an object. I
at once commenced my labors, by writing to all parts of the State
from whence I could hope for the slightest aid, and by engaging upon
the spot the services of intelligent fishermen. I had thus labored for
months, almost despairing ot accomplishing any thing satisfactorily,
when, in the latter part of that year, it was intimated that another sea-
son would probably be allowed the Commissioners for a continuance
of their investigations. Having found the previous catalogue, upon
examination, so exceedingly erroneous and defective that no reli-
ance could be placed in it, and consequently that no reference could
be made to the fishes therein contained, I at once determined to at-
tempt the formation of another, entirely independent of it. To make
a catalogue, however, without at the same time furnishing some char-
acters by which species could be recognised, would be presenting a

1

2 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

mere list of names—perfectly useless. I had then no alternative left
me save to collect and minutely describe every individual species.
Many of the species described by Mitchell, in his “Fishes of New York,”
and by Le Sueur, in his various papers, inhabit our waters; but as
the history of the former is contained in the volume of a Society’s
Transactions, which is very dificult to obtain—and the contributions
of the latter are distributed through the pages of scientific journals
equally inaccessible to the general reader, I have described anew,
without regarding the previous accounts, every species which has fallen
under my observation. Since December, 1837, but a little more than
a year, all the descriptions have been written. Could I have known,
at first, that two seasons would have been allowed us for the prosecu-
tion of our labors, better specimens might in many instances have been
procured for description—and the hurried manner, in which several
of the descriptions have been necessarily written, would have been
avoided.

Want of sufficient time, then, is my only excuse for not having done
what time alone could accomplish. Without the assistance of kind
and attentive correspondents and friends, I could have done literally
nothing. Constantly confined by ‘professional avocations, you will at
once perceive that I have depended entirely upon others to collect and
preserve the materials—endeavoring myself only to distinguish, ar-
range and describe them. To each and every individual who has
aided me, I have given credit in his appropriate place—and I trust,
the name of no one, through inadvertence, has been omitted.

To the following gentlemen [ feel under peculiar obligations:

Thomas Kidder, Esq., of the General Inspection Office, Boston, for
his polite attentions in furnishing me with all the statistical information
in his power, regarding the quantities of fish inspected in the State;

C. R. Vickery, Esq., of Taunton, for his very acceptable remarks
respecting the fisheries of Taunton river ;

Hiram Hosmer, M. D., of Watertown, for his numerous and valuable
facts concerning the fisheries of Charles river ;

Elisha Bartlett, M. D., of Lowell, for his interesting account of the
fisheries of the Merrimack river ;

J. B. Forsyth, M. D., of Sandwich, for much useful information
respecting the fishes taken along “the Cape ;”

Jonathan Johnson, Esq., of Nahant, for several very rare species—
and many useful observations concerning more common fishes.

To Capt. Nathaniel Blanchard, of Lynn, and Leroy M. Yale, M. D.,

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 3

of Holmes’ Hole, I am most deeply indebted; to the former, for his
constant and unwearied efforts to serve me amid the fatigues of his
arduous profession, during the entire period I have been engaged in
this survey, and for many judicious remarks and valuable details
imparted to me ;—and to the latéer, for his invaluable aid—for which
I am not only obliged for specimens of nearly one jifth of all the spe-
cies I have described, and which, but for him, | could not have pro-
cured, but also for many specimens of more common species, and
much valuable information respecting them.

My friend Jeffries Wyman, M. D. has kindly enriched my pages
with very accurate plates of the Aspidophoroides monopterigius, Sygna-
thus Peckii, Platessa ferruginea, Orthagoriscus mola, and Lamna
punctata.

Inasmuch as unavoidable errors, of greater or less importance, may
be detected by the scientific critic in this report, you will excuse me,
when I add, that in its preparation { have been entirely unaided. Not
knowing a single ichthyologist in New England to whom, in cases
of doubt, I could refer for advice and instruction, E have been com-
pelled to rely wholly upon myself,

The small number of new species here presented may surprise you.
Disgusted with the mania so common among naturalists to form spe-
cies out of mere varieties, thus casting confusion upon their favorite
pursuits, and bringing odium upon themselves, I have endeavored to
avoid this error—and may have carried the feeling so far, that some of
the species, catalogued here as having been previously known, may, at
a future period, be considered new. If, in this respect, I have erred,
my descriptions will in themselves correct me.

Throughout the whole of this report 1 have avoided all reference to
a ‘* Natural History of the Fishes of Massachusetts,’ published in
Boston, in 18383—and also, to the “‘ Catalogue of the Marine and Fresh
water Fishes of Massachusetts,’ prepared by the same author, and
contained in Professor Hitchcock's Report, published in 1835. Were
I to pass these by in perfect silence, I might be accused of neglecting
the labors of my predecessor. To prevent such an imputation, I am
reluctantly compelled to explain. Besides, in the Catalogue above
referred to, 108 species are registered—while your Commissioner has
been able to distinguish with accuracy, but 107 species. Rev. Leonard
Jenyns, in his “‘ Report on the recent progress and present state of
Zoology,” contained in the “ Fourth Report of the British Associa-
tion for the advancement of Science,’ makes the following observation,

4 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

which is so perfectly appropriate to the ‘‘ History” and the ‘ Cata-
logue,’ that I cannot refrain inserting it here :—“ Faulty catalogues,

or even works of a more elaborate kind, if merely compiled from other
authors, are utterly worthless.” The ‘‘ Catalogue’ was drawn up two
years after the ‘‘ History’ was published—if, therefore, the following
remarks should show numerous and glaring errors to pervade the
former, the value of the latter may from it be inferred.

The catalogue of our fishes in “‘ Mitchcock’s Survey,” purports to
contain 57 genera and 108 species. Of these, I have seen but 33
genera, and heard of 4 more, making 37 genera.

Of the 108 species there detailed, I know of but 29, which are cor-
rectly catalozued—and in several instances varieties of a fish are
registered as species. ‘Thus, the Gadus morrhua, rupestris, and areno-
sus, are three species; and the Labrus tautoga, tautoga fusca, and
tautoga alia, are also three species.

That other species here catalogued may not be yet found in our
waters, I will not pretend to assert; but, when we find here indicated
three species of the genus ‘‘ Scorpaena,” which could not have been
seen; andthe “‘ Uranoscopus scaber,”’ which Richardson, in his “ Fauna
Boreah-Americana,” says has not been detected in the Atlantic ocean,
we are inclined to believe that many others there noticed will never be
found here.

The report now presented contains 75 genera, specimens of which
Ihave seen. Of these genera, 42 were not noticed in the catalogue,
of which I have spoken above. I have here described 107 species, 78
of which are not mentioned in that paper.

In my classification, I have followed the arrangement of Cuvier, as
established in the “‘ Regne Animal.”

The generic characters are generally given in the language of Yar-
rell.

All which is most respectfully submitted by

Your friend and servant,

D. HUMPHREYS STORER.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

ORDER I.

ACANTHOPTERYGII.

Famity I.
PERCOIDES.

Prerca. Cuv.

Generic characters. J'wo dorsal fins, distinct, separated ;
the rays of the first, spinous; those of the second, flexible:
tongue smooth: teeth in both jaws, in front of the vomer, and
on the palatine bones: preoperculum notched below, serrated
on the posterior edge: operculum bony, ending in a flattened
point directed backwards: branchiostegous rays 7: scales
rough, hard, and not easily detached.

P. flavescens. Mitchell. The Common Perch.

Trans, of the Literary and Philosophical Society of N. Y. i. 421.
Cuv. et Valence. Hist. Nat. des Poiss. t. ii. p. 46.
Richardson’s Fauna Boreali Americana, pt. 3d, p. 1, et fig.

In the ponds of many portions of the State, this is quite a
common species, and in the spring and autumn is not unfre-
quently met with in the markets. Specimens are seldom
taken more than 12 or 15 inches in length.

This beautiful fish is of a greenish yellow above—with
golden yellow sides crossed by seven transverse dark bands,
those upon middle of body broadest: beneath, white. 'The
length of the head compared to the length of the body, is as

6 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

one to three. The preoperculum is margined with strong
teeth, projecting forwards, those on posterior edge are the
smaller. ‘The bony operculum is serrated below, and termina-
ted at its posterior angle by a spine. A membranous prolon-
gation extends from the margin of the swhoperculum. Hume-
ral bones grooved. The portion of the head between, and in
front of, the eyes, smooth—portion back of eyes, bony. Eyes
of moderate size—pupils black, irides golden. The anterior
nostrils much in advance of the posterior, which are larger.
The lateral ine commences high above the posterior angle of
the operculum, and assuming the curve of the body, is contin-
ued to the base of the tail. The first Dorsal fin is as long
again as high: the second Dorsal is one third shorter than the
first.

The Pectoral fins commence on a line with the posterior
angle of the operculum, and are one third as long as high.

The Ventral fins arise about four lines back of pectorals.

The Anal fin is higher than long: anus is situated three
lines anterior to it.

The Dorsal and Caudal fins are brownish. The Pectoral,
Ventral and Anal fins are scarlet.

The fin rays are as follows: *B. 7; D. 13. 2-14; C.17; P.
15; V. 1-5; A. 2-8.

Lapeax. Ouv.

Generic characters. Two dorsal fins, distinct, separated ;
the rays of the first, spinous; those of the second, flexible:
branchiostegous rays 7: tongue covered with small teeth:
teeth on both jaws, on the vomer and palatine bones: cheel:s,
preoperculum and operculum, covered with scales: suborbital
bone and suboperculum without serrations: preoperculum
notched below, serrated on its posterior edge: operculum end-
ing in two points, diverted backwards.

* The letters indicate the different fins: B. the branchial rays. D. those of the Dorsal
fin; C. Caudal; P. Pectoral; V. Ventral; A. Anal.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. “4

L. lineatus. Cuv. The striped Basse.

Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Society of N. Y. p. 413.
Mc Mutrtrie’s Cuv. v. ii. p. 98.
Cuv. et Valence. Hist. Nat. des. Poiss, t. ii.

This fine species, which sometimes weighs 75 pounds, is
taken in considerable numbers upon our coast. Large quanti-
ties of small basse are caught with nets near Chelsea and Nan-
tasket beaches. It is generally found upon shoals near the
land, where frequently a dozen or more may be seen at a time
beneath the water, quietly lying upon the rocky bottom. In
the winter, this fish goes up into the rivers and arms. of
the sea. Oftentimes basse of considerable size are taken in
Boston harbor. 1 saw in Boston market, on the 26th of July,
1837, a specimen 3 feet and 10 inches long, weighing 36
pounds, which was taken from one of the bridges leading out
of the city. The flesh of this species, particularly of the
larger ones, 1s rather coarse, but meets with a ready sale in a
fresh state : in 1836, a small number of barrels, (sixty-seven, )
were packed and inspected.

The upper part of the body is silvery brown: lower part of
sides and abdomen a beautiful clear silver color; eight or more
longitudinal black bands on each side, commencing just back
of opercula; the upper bands running the whole length of the
fish, the inferior ones terminating directly above the anal fin.
Length of head to length of entire fish as 1 to 5. Head
covered with scales throughout its whole extent, save the
frontal and suborbitar bones. E’yes moderate in size, pupils
black, irides golden: diameter of eye, equal to about half the
distance between eyes. Opercula in portions, cupreous. Teeth
in jaws numerous, teeth also upon palatine bones: tongue
rough. Lower jaw the longer. Nostrils double ; the posterior
larger. Preoperculum, at its posterior margin, finely serrated
throughout its whole length ; at its inferior margin, denticula-
ted. Operculum, at its posterior margin, furnished with two
spines, the lower of which is the larger. Lateral line very
distinct, arising above the superior spine of the operculum, and
running through the centre of one of the longitudinal bands.

8 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

The first Dorsal fin is two thirds the length of the head :
the third and fourth rays are the longest.

The first ray of the second Dorsal is spinous; the height of
this fin is equal to more than half its length.

The Pectoral fins arise beneath and behind the inferior spine
of the operculum ; their length to their height is as 1 to 4.

The flesh-colored Ventrals arise just back of pectorals: their
first ray is spinous. 'These fins are rather longer than pectorals.

The Anal fin arises opposite the middle of the second dorsal ;
its first three rays are spinous: this fin is one third shorter
than first dorsal : its length to height is as I to 3.

The fin rays are as follows: D. 9. 1-12; P. 18; V. 1-4;
A. 3-11; C. 18.

L. mucronatus. Cuv. The small American Basse.
Cuv. et Valence. Hist. Nat. des Poiss. t. ii. p. 86.

In the spring and autumn, this species is brought to Boston
market, from the mouths of the neighboring rivers and the
ponds to which the sea has access. It is commonly called
white perch. Its usual weight is about half a pound. The
largest specimen I have met with, was procured in Quincy
‘market, Dec. 22, 1837; it measured 15 inches in length, and
weighed 1 3-4 pound, and its stomach contained a specimen of
the Leuciscus crysoleucas more than five inches in length.

The color is a silvery gray : in very large specimens, all the
upper part.of the body, as well as the head and fins, are of a
rusty black. Length of head, compared to that of body,
as 1 to 4: depth of body across base of pectorals, four inches
and two lines. Upper jaw protractile: very fine teeth, thickly
set in both jaws. Hyes large, pupils black, irides silvery. Nos-
trils double, posterior nearly as large again as the anterior.
Operculum, preoperculum and maxillary bones covered with
scales. Head back of, and between eyes, scaly. ‘The space
between nostrils, and in front of eyes to maxillary bones, des-
titute of scales. Preoperculwm, denticulated behind and

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 9

below ; denticulations much smaller upon the upper portion of
posterior edge. ‘The lowest edge of operculum very slightly
serrated; a spine at its posterior angle, and above this an
obtuse point. The lateral line commences at the upper pos-
terior portion of the operculum, and inclining a little upward,
is lost on the membrane connecting the middle rays of the
caudal fin.

The first Dorsal fin commences about six lines back of the
base of the pectorals, and is about half as high as long.

The second Dorsal fin is rather more than two thirds the
length of the first dorsal: its first ray is spinous.

The Pectorals commence on a line with the posterior angle
of the operculum: length equal to one third their height.

The Ventrals arise back of the pectorals, and are two lines
shorter than those fins.

The Anal fin commences on a line with the fifth ray of the
second dorsal: the height and length of this fin are equal.

The Anal and Dorsal fins terminate on the same plane.

The fin rays are as follows: D. 9. 1-12; P.15; V. 1-5;
A. 3-9; C. 17.

CENTROPRISTIS. Cuv.

Generic characters. A single dorsal fin: branchiostegous
rays 7: all the teeth small and crowded: no canini: preoper-
culum dentated, and operculum spinous.

C. mgricans. Cuv. The Black Perch.
Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. N. Y. p. 413, et fig.
Me Muttrie’s Cuv. v. ii. p. 107.

Cuv. et Valenc. Hist. Nat. des Poiss. t. ii. p. 14.

I have never heard of this species, the Perca varia of
Mitchell, having been taken north of Cape Cod. The only
specimen met with, Dr. Yale kindly sent me from Holmes
Hole, where it is called black fish and black basse: he informs
me that it has been taken there in great numbers in May,

2

10 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

June and July, and carried to the New York market—and
adds, “it is perhaps the most delicious fish that is caught.”

The body of the specimen before me is elongated—com-
pressed—of a dark brown, almost black color above :—lighter
beneath. Color of head, sea or bronze green—scales large.
Length of fish, 1 foot: greatest depth 33 inches. Length of
head to posterior angle of operculum, one third the length of the
fish: head between, and in front of eyes, smooth. yes one
half inch in diameter—less than the distance between eyes.
Nostrils double—just anterior to anterior superior angle of eye
—posterior, the larger. Jaws equal in length, armed with a
great number of minute sharp teeth. Lips fleshy. Whole
posterior edge of preoperculum, denticulated :—inferior edge
serrated—scales upon preopercle smaller than those upon body.
A small spine at posterior angle of operculum, below which is a
broad fleshy elongation projecting beyond it. Humeral bone
denticulated. 'The lateral line arises at the lower edge of the
humeral bone, and assumes the curve of the body.

The Dorsal fin arises about a line back of the humeral bone
—its first ten rays are spinous, each having a fleshy tentaculum
suspended from its extremity. The first ray is shortest—the
third ray is longest. ‘The eleven fleshy rays are higher than
the spinous ones:—the membrane of the whole fin is white,
crossed by dark bars.

The Pectoral fins arise just below the fleshy projection of the
operculum—their length to their height is as | to 4.

The Ventral fins are in front of pectorals—the middle rays are
longest:—the rays are nearly black, while the connecting
membrane is white.

The Anal fin commences back of soft rays of dorsal :—the
first two rays are spinous. Fin higher than long, and barred
like the dorsal.

The Caudal fin is slightly convex in its middle :—its length
equal to half its height: the connecting membrane of its rays
black, blotched with white.

The fin rays. are, as, follows; B. (5) D. 10) ti Boi Vi.
6; A. 2-9; C. 18.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 11

Pomotis. Cuv.

Generic characters. A single dorsal fin: branchiostegous
rays 6: small and crowded teeth: body compressed and oval:
a membranous prolongation at the angle of the operculum.

P. vulgaris. Cuv. Fresh water Sun Fish. Pond Perch.

Shaw’s Zoology, vol. iv. pt. 11, p. 482.

Lit. et Philosoph. Trans. N. Y. i. p. 403.

Mc Murtrie’s Cuv. vol ii. p. 108.

Cuv. et Valence. His. Nat. des Poiss. t. iii. p. 91.
Jardine’s Naturalist’s Library, vol. i. Ichthyology, p. 162.
Fauna Boreali Americana, p. 24 et fig.

This very common species in the numerous ponds of our
State is taken with the Perca flavescens—Leuciscus crysoleu-
cas—FE'sor reticulatus, &c., and is generally known by the
vulgar name of Bream. It rarely exceeds eight inches in
length. Though seldom brought to market, it is considered
by many, an excellent edible fish. In the Naturalist’s Library,
it is said to be ‘‘of unobtrusive colors,’ while, in truth, it is
one of our most beautiful species—vieing oftentimes in the
brilliancy of its coloring with tropical fishes.

The specimen before me, measures seven inches in length:
length of head to outer angle of operculum nearly two inches :
depth of body, on a line with base of pectorals, three inches.
General color greenish brown with spots of blue and yellow
upon each scale: longitudinal, undulating deep blue lines
across preoperculum and operculum, with rusty yellow blotches
interspersed. Scales upon body, large—smallest at base of fins.
Head, between eyes, naked, and of a darker color than the
body generally. Nostrils double—anterior tubular: teeth in
jaws very minute and sharp: upper jaw protractile. Eyes
large, nearly half an inch in diameter. At posterior angle of
operculum, a large black spot embracing a portion of the oper-
culum, and a fleshy prolongation having a bright scarlet col-

12 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

ored margin. Just above this spot, arises the lateral line, which
assumes the curve of the back, and is lost at the base of the
tail. The back curves very gradually as far as the posterior
extremity of the dorsal fin, then abruptly gives place to the
fleshy portion of the tail. All the fins more or less colored
with black. Length of the pectoral fins nearly two inches.
Anus large, corrugated—two lines anterior to the anal fin.

The fin rays are as follows: D. 10-12; P. 13; V. 1-5; A.
3-10; C. 17.

I am induced to believe, from the remarks of several anglers
with whom I have conversed and corresponded, that another
species of Pomotis inhabits our waters.

Famity II.
BUCCZ LORICAT.

Prionotus. Lacep.

Generic characters. Head nearly square, covered with bony
plates: gill-cover and shoulder-plate ending in a spine directed
backwards: body elongated, nearly round: two dorsal fins,
the rays of the first, spinous; those of the second, flexible:
teeth in jaws, in front of vomer, and upon palatine bones,
pointed, small and numerous: gill-opening large: three de-
tached rays at the base of each pectoral fin.

P. strigatus. Cuv. Sea Robin. Gurnard. Grunter.

Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. N. Y. p. 4380 et fig.
Cuy. et Valenc. Hist. Nat. des Poiss. t. iv., p. 86.

This species which is very well described, and tolerably figur-
ed by Mitchell as the Trigla lineata, is frequently taken in
the vicinity of Holmes Hole, while fishing for other species,
but is not used.

A beautiful specimen received from Dr. Yale enables me to
offer the following description :

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 13

Body above lateral line of aslate color, with a few black
spots irregularly distributed ; sides lighter, with a reddish tint ;
abdomen, white. Besides the lateral line which is very obvi-
ous, a broader brownish line runs parallel to it beneath, arising
under the humeral spine, and running the greater part of the
length of the body, broken at its posterior extremity into inter-
rupted points or spots.

Length of specimen, nine inches:—length of head, nearly
three inches: head broader than the body ; its depth equal to
half of its length. Head is made up of seven distinct bony
plates covered with sparse small black points, which form a
perfect helmet of defence. The whole upper part of head—
occiput, space between eyes, and anterior portion to snout,
composed of one plate—this portion is roughened throughout
its whole extent by irregular corrugations, and terminates pos-
teriorly in two strong spines ;—minute spines are seen also above
eyes, at their upper anterior and posterior angles: this plate is
anteriorly widely but not deeply truncated. The operculum
is a separate plate, of an irregular triangular form, having two
spines at its posterior extremity—the lower larger, and point-
ing directly back; the upper pointing upwards: operculum
covered with striz, radiating from the anterior portion on each
side of the spine towards the circumference. Opercle separated
from preopercle, by a membrane, which enables it to be quite
moveable: a wide membrane also borders its whole margin.
The preoperculum is rather small and triangular—slighty move-
able—divided at its lower portion by a horizontal serrated bony
ridge which terminates in a naked spine ;—beneath this ridge,
the inferior portion is corrugated and granulated : from base of
preopercle, radii diverge to its upper portion. Suborbitar bones
roughened like top of head: cheek bones covered with elevat-
ed striz, slightly serrated upon their whole lower margin, and
strongly serrated anteriorly on each side of snout.

Snout half of an inch wide—four lines long—naked—situ-
ated in front of emargination of frontal bone. yes located
towards upper part of head—oblong—longest diameter equal to
the distance between eyes. Nosérils small—situated half way

14 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

between eyes and extremity of snout, in the membranous divi-
sion between the bony plates. Jaws armed with very nume-
rous small teeth: upper jaw projecting beyond the lower.
Tongue colorless, fleshy, naked. A strong ridge upon hume-
ral bone serrated on its under edge, terminating in a naked spine.

The first Dorsal fin arises on a line with the termination of
the occipital spines—is situated in a groove which partially
receives it, when closed—light colored, with a black blotch
upon the upper portion of the membrane between the fourth
and fifth rays: first ray spinous, and serrated upon its entire
front: second and third serrated at their upper anterior portion :
third and fourth rays longest. Fin one third longer than high.

The second Dorsal is one third longer than the first.

The Pectoral fins are one third the length of the body—
nearly black, with very numerous narrow transverse bars.
On a line with the base of the pectorals, beneath them, three
fleshy appendages are seen, somewhat similar in their appear-
ance to the fin rays: the upper, which is the longest, is half
the length of the pectorals.

The Ventrals are situated beneath the pectorals—white :
their longest rays are equal to two thirds the length of the
pectorals. ‘The first ray shortest, spinous.

The Anal fin equal in length to second dorsal.

The Caudal fin is nearly straight at its extremity.

The fin rays are as follows: D. 9-13; P. 12; V.6; A. 11;
C. 15.

P. Carolinus. Cuv. The Web-fingered Grunter.

Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc.—p. 431, et fig.
Cuv. et Valenc. Hist. Nat. des Poiss. t. iv. p. 90.

Under the name of JTrigla palmipes, this pretty species is
described and figured by Mitchell, in his “ F%shes of New
York.” I have seen but one specimen, for which I am in-
debted to Dr. Yale. This specimen, as it lies before me, pre-
sents the following characters :

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 15

Body above, of a reddish brown color, with irregular blotches
and shadings of a darker brown: beneath, nearly white. Bran-
chial membrane, fuliginous. The lateral line, arising between
the occipital spine and the posterior superior edge of the oper-
culum, is conspicuous throughout its whole length, but more
so at its origin, and is continued in a straight line to the mid-
dle of the base of the tail.

Length of specimen thirteen inches: length of head three
inches: head slightly broader than the body: greatest width
of head two inches. The description of the bones of the head,
and situation of the eyes, of the “strigatus,” answers perfectly
to the species before me. Nostrils of moderate size, situated
half of an inch back of the extremity of the snout; sides of
snout deeply serrated. Jaws armed with numerous teeth—
upper jaw, the longer.

The first Dorsal one third longer than high—situated in a
conspicuous groove: the rays are spinous—the whole anterior
of the first three, serrated, and the upper portion of the fourth.
The connecting membrane is transparent, slightly dusky,
marked by oblique white lines, and has a large dark brown
spot between the fourth and fifth rays.

The second Dorsal is as long again as the first.

The Pectorals are large, broad, rounded—reddish brown
above—slate-colored beneath, with the exception of the pos-
terior two rays, which are white. These fins are more than
one third the length of the body. Just in front of, and beneath
the pectorals, are three yellow fleshy appendages, widened at

‘their extremities—the longest of which, is one inch in length ;
the shortest, half of an inch long.

The Ventrals are reddish white.

The Anal commences upon a line opposite to, and terminates
upon the same plane as the second dorsal.

The Caudal fin is but slightly arcuated.

The fin rays are as follows: D. 9-13; P. 14; V.6; A. 12;
C. 14.

Both these species are called ‘“‘ grunter,” from the peculiar
noise made by them.

16 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

Corrus. Lin.

Generic characters. Head large, depressed: teeth in both
jaws and in front of vomer, small, sharp ; none on the palatine
bones: preoperculum or operculum armed with spines, some-
times both: branchiostegous rays 6: gill-openings large: body
attenuated, naked, without scales: two dorsal fins, distinct, or
very slightly connected: ventral fins small.

C. Groenlandicus. Cuv. The Greenland Sculpin.

Cuy. et Valene. Hist. Nat. des Poiss. t. iv. p. 185.
Fauna Boreali Americana, p. 46 et 297, et fig.

This beautiful species, which is a favorite food of the Green-
landers, I have seen in large quantities in the small coves at
Nahant, and often taken, while fishing from the rocks there,
for the Sea-perch or Conner. It is undoubtedly common
along our whole coast. The specimen before me was taken
from cne of the wharves in Boston.

Length of my specimen thirteen inches, being a few lines
only shorter than Richardson’s specimen, which he so clearly
and minutely describes, and accurately figures. Upper part of
body dark brown, with large clay-colored blotches on top of
head and upon gill-covers—with a few smaller ones on back
and sides, and small circular yellow spots on sides towards
abdomen. Large circular perfectly white spots upon abdomen,
beneath the pectorals. The sides above and beneath the
lateral line roughened by granulated tubercles. Length of
head four and a half inches: width across occiput three inches ;
greatest depth two inches. Head protected by several spines ;
those upon its top, blunted; those on gill-covers longer, with
projecting sharp points. ‘The nasal spines are about three
inches in length, recurved: at posterior superior angles of eyes
a strong slightly recurved spine, stouter than the nasal. Upon
the occiput are situated two spines still stronger, and erect ;
between these and the former, is a quadrangular depression.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 17

The preoperculum has three spines, two of which are situated
at its superior angle; the upper of these spines is much the
largest, and points upwards; the second is smaller and nearly
straight; the third and smallest, at its inferior angle, points
directly downwards. The operculum is armed with two
spines, the larger, at its superior angle; the second, much
smaller, at its inferior angle. A scapular spine is prominent.
Hyes circular, six lines in diameter. Gape of mouth very
large ; distance between tips of jaws, when distended, two
inches two lines. Upper jaw the longer: jaws armed with
numerous very small, sharp teeth. Nostri/s tubular, three
lines in front of eyes. Throat yellowish white, sprinkled with
minute fuliginous specks.

The Dorsal fin commences on a line anterior to scapular
spine, rounded, of a dark brown color, variegated with yellow:
length to height as three to two.

The second Dorsal arises at termination of first, appearing to
be a continuation of that fin, brown, with several transverse
yellowish bars.

The Pectoral fins are very broad, arising in front of the first
dorsal : rays orange-colored: length of fin, less than height of
first rays. Upon the under side of several of the rays of this
fin, are roughened granulations.

The Ventrals are small, white, with three transverse black
bars. These fins are two inches in length.

The Anal fin is situated back of second dorsal, and barred
like that fin: its height half of its length.

The Caudal fin is half as high as long, rays black, the
connecting membrane of the rays yellowish.

The fin rays are as follows: D: 10-18; P. 17; V.3; A.
iB) 8) Oamalos

This species is exceedingly voracious; in the stomach of
one, I found three entire specimens of the Portunus pictus, of
considerable size: in others, I have seen large quantities of the
Hchinus granulatus, and several species of algae.

3

18 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

C. Virginianus. Willoughby. The Common Sculpin.

Trans. of the Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. N. Y. p. 380.
Cuv. et Valence. Hist. Nat. des Poiss. t. iv. p. 181.
Fauna Boreali Americana, p. 46.

Our most common species of Cottus,—the pest of the nu-
merous boys and idlers who are constantly fishing from the
wharves and bridges for “tom cod,” “ flounders,” and the other
fishes usually taken at such localities,—Mitchell described un-
der the specific name of octodecimspinosus, and Cuvier retains
this name, although he acknowledges the species had been
previously described by Willoughby, from a specimen sent him
from Virginia, by, Lister. Even if the specific name distin-
euished it from the “ C. Scorpius,” which is not the case, both
species having the same number of spines, I should not have
hesitated to pursue that course which is generally acknowl-
edged to be the most honorable, and to have preserved the
name proposed. by its first describer.

Specimen before me, eleven inches long. Body much more
elongated than that of the ‘‘Groenlandicus,” of a light brown
color above, with darker irregular blotches, looking, when
carefully examined, somewhat like transverse bands. Lateral
line very prominent, commencing at scapular spine and run-
ning a straight course to tail, being less marked at its poste-
rior extremity. A few small tubercles upon sides near lateral
line. Throat pure white. Abdomen white, slightly tinged in
portions with fuliginous stains.

Length of head, one third the length of body; greatest
width equal to its greatest depth. Twenty spines upon and
about head ; ten on each side: all naked at their extremities.
Nasal spines small, recurved. Post-orbitar spines slightly
longer than nasals, pointing directly backwards, being hardly
raised from the top of the head. Occipital spines erect, but
slightly recurved, stouter than those just spoken of. Three
spines upon preoperculum ; that at posterior angle, ten lines
long, naked throughout its greatest extent, very stout, extend-

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 19

ing back in a straight line as far as extremity of opercular
Spine ; directly below the base of this spine, a very small one,
only two lines in length, pointing obliquely backwards and
downwards: at inferior angle of preopercle, a spine nearly half
an inch long, pointing downwards and forwards. 'T'wo spines
upon operculum ; the larger, nearly two inches long, passes
from its upper anterior portion to posterior angle, pointing
obliquely backwards; the other, quite small at inferior angle,
pointing directly downwards. Scapular spine three lines long.
Humeral spine strong, one half inch in length.

Flyes six lines in diameter ; pupils black, irides golden: dis-
tance between eyes, four lines. Nostri/s small, tubular. Jaws
armed with numerous sharp, compact teeth. Upper jaw, the
longer.

The first Dorsal fin is of a dark brown color, irregularly
banded with yellow: the rays are much stouter than those of
the same fin in the “ Groenlandicus ;”’ the extremities of the
first five rays project beyond the connecting membrane.
Length of fin greater than its height.

The second Dorsal commences at the termination of the first,
and is one third longer than that fin; and is of a greenish yel-
low color, with three transverse black bands.

The Pectorals are large, rounded ; the rays of a dirty white
color, much smaller than those of this fin in the “ Groenlandi-
cus;” the connecting membrane of fin, white, crossed trans-
versely by four regular transverse black bands.

The Ventrals commence just back of the second dorsal. Its
length to its height as 3 to 1; white, irregularly barred.

The Caudal fin is even at its extremity: yellowish, with
three regular transverse dark bars ; its height to its length as 2
to 1.

The fin rays are as follows: D. 9-16; P. 17; V.3; A. 14;
C. 12.

20 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

C. aeneus. Mitchell. The brazen Bullhead.

Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. Trans. N. Y. p. 380.
Cuy. et Valence. Hist. Nat. des Poiss. t. iv. p. 189.

This species is taken from our wharves with the “‘ Virginia-
nus.” Like that fish, it is very voracious, catching at almost any
kind of bait offered to it, and distending itself immensely with
food.

My description is drawn up from a specimen twelve inches
in length. All upper part of body, of a yellowish brown
color, shaded throughout with fuliginous blotches, which
upon the head prevail over the yellow : on sides of abdomen,
beneath the lateral line, lighter: beneath, and covered by pec-
torals, a broad band of: very minute black points extends even
beyond the anus, along the edge of the anal fin; the portion in
front of anus, contains one or more rows of well marked large,
circular, yellow spots. Entire under surface of head also
sprinkled over with similar black points. Greatest depth of
specimen equal to one fourth its length: greatest width across
back of head equal to one third its length. Length of head
to whole length of fish, as five to twelve: upon each side of
head, nine more or less prominent spines, those on the gill-
covers the largest: one, just above nostrils, three lines in
length and incurved ; a second, resembling a blunted tubercle
at the upper posterior angle of eyes; a third, rather sharper
than the second, forms the posterior boundary of the head. A
strong, sharp spine, half an inch in length, is situated upon
the supra scapular bone. ‘lhe operculwm has two spines; the
largest, one quarter of an inch in length, at the posterior angle :
the second, quite small at the inferior angle, almost concealed
in the flesh, pointing downwards. The preoperculum has
three spines ; the largest, nine lines in length, is sharp, naked
at its posterior portion, and pointing upwards; the second,
much smaller, is also naked, and situated at the base of the
first, appearing as if a bifurcation of it, pointing backwards ;

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 21

the third, is placed at the inferior angle, and, like the similarly
situated spine of the operculum, is concealed. A |small spine
upon infra scapular bone. A large depression on the top of
head ; bounded, between eyes, by orbitar ridges; back of eyes
it is broader, and bounded on sides by a longitudinal ridge.
Mouth very large ; lower jaw the shorter ; both jaws armed
with numerous, small, sharp, recurved teeth, compactly placed
together: when mouth is closed, the intermaxillary bone
forms a protuberance between the two anterior spines. Nos-
trils small, tubular. H'yes large, pupils black, irides reddish
yellow ; distance between eyes eight lines.

The lateral line, which is quite prorninent, commences just
above the humeral spine, and continues a straight course to the
middle of the base of the tail. One or two irregular rows of
very obvious roughened tubercles above, and quite a number of
smaller tubercles scattered over the sides, beneath the lateral
line.

The fins are yellowish, with black bands.

The first Dorsal is rounded, and connected with the second
dorsal by a membranous prolongation.

The second Dorsal is about one third longer than the first.

The Pectoral fins, when expanded, are rounded: the rays
large and stout.

The Ventrals are composed of three rays: yellowish white,
with two transverse dark bands.

The Anal fin is shorter than the first dorsal, with three or
four oblique black bands.

The Caudal fin is in length equal to half of its height.

The fin rays are as follows: D. 10-15; P. 16; A. 13; V.
3; C. 12.

AsprpopHoroiwes. Lacepede.

Generic characters. Body octagonal, covered with scaly
plates ; head thicker than the body, with points and depressions
above, flattened below ; teeth in both jaws only, none on the

22 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

vomer ; snout with recurved spines ; branchiostegous rays 6 ;
body tapering to the tail ; but one dorsal fin, distinct.

A. monopterygius. Cuv. The Bullhead.
Plate I. Fig. 1.

Cuv. et Valenc. Hist. Nat. des Poiss. t. iv. p. 224.
Fauna Boreali Americana, p. 50.

Early in May, 1838, I received three specimens of this fish
from Mr. Jonathan Johnson, Jr., of Nahant, who took them
from the stomachs of haddock he had just captured within
two miles of that place. ‘They were each more or less muti-
lated; one of them, however, is sufficiently perfect to allow
me to present the following description, and to enable my
friend, Dr. Wyman, to figure it.

Length of specimen, four inches. Color above, a light
brown, with six transverse dark bands, extending from head
to tail, those near the head broader: beneath, lighter. Body
elongated, gradually tapering to tail, divided longitudinally by
eight rows of scaly plates. 'Those just back of head much
the largest. Upon top of head, two rows of these scales: two
rows on sides: two beneath, in front of dorsal, and but six
rows back of that fin. 'The body is four-sided in front of the
dorsal fin. The angles of the large scales on the back, form
prominent ridges, and between them is thus formed a groove,
which extends to posterior extremity of dorsal fin: back of
that fin is a dorsal ridge, instead of a furrow, which passes to
the tail. The same distribution of these scaly rows exists be-
neath fish as upon upper part of body. Length of head equal
to one fifth length of body: width of head greater than that
of body. Hyes very large: orbitar bones prominent: whole
head bony. A longitudinal furrow extends from before eyes,
between them to occiput. A transverse depression exists back
of eyes, and also another at occiput. The snout has two re-
curved spines at its extremity, and,a third, smaller one, back of
them, curving forwards. Mouth small; numerous minute
teeth in both jaws. The operculum terminates in a spiny process.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 23

The Dorsal fin is situated upon the posterior half of the
body, at the extreme portion of the dorsal furrow.

Owing to the imperfect state of specimen, it is impossible to
be entirely accurate with regard to the number of the fin rays:
they are, however, very nearly as follows: D.5; P. 10; V.
4; A.4; C. 16.

This species is unquestionably the fish which was first de-
scribed by Bloch as the “Cotius monopterygius,” and minutely
described as the ‘‘ Aspidophorus monopterygius” by Cuvier, in
the fourth volume of his “‘ Histoire Naturelle des Poissons.”
Lacepede formed the genus ‘“‘ Aspidophoroides,’’ to receive the
species above described, it being the only known “‘Aspidophorus”’
with a single dorsal fin. At the time this genus was formed,
the species of which we have been speaking was supposed to
have been brought from the Hast Indies. Cuvier, however, in
his description, says he has not received it from the Hast
Indies in any of his numerous collections from that quarter of
the world ; and finally, Richardson, in his “ Fauna Boreali
Americana,” observes, “‘ that it has lately been discovered to
be an inhabitant of the Greenland Seas, so that this sub-genus
belongs entirely to the northern hemisphere, and chiefly to the
higher latitudes.”

Hemitrieptervus. Cuv.

Generic characters. The head depressed, and two dorsals,
as in the Cottus ; no regular scales on the skin, but teeth in
the palate. The head is bristly and spinous, and has several
cutaneous appendages. The first dorsal is deeply emarginate,
a circumstance which has led some authors to believe they had
three.

H. Americanus. Gmelin. The Nea Raven.

Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. N. Y. p. 382.
Cuv. et Valenc. Hist. Nat. des Poiss. t. iv. p. 268.
Fauna Boreali Americana, p. 50.

24 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

The Sea raven, or deep water sculpin, as it is generally
called by our fishermen, is the only known species of the
genus “Hemitripterus.” It was considered a ‘‘Cottus” by Pen-
nant, and a “ Scorpena” by Gmelin and Mitchell.

It is taken in deep water, in the neighborhood of ledges, by
the cod fishers, and grows to the length of two feet. This
species varies exceedingly in its color. 'Thus of three fine spe-
cimens lying before me, one is of a deep blood red color ; a sec-
ond, of a pinkish purple; the third, of a yellowish brown,
darker on the back; each, however, variegated on the head
and sides and fins with irregularly defined markings: body,
beneath, yellowish. 'The coloring matter of the surface tinges
the fingers when rubbed upon it. Surface of body destitute
of scales, granulated, and studded with innumerable tuber-
cles, which are quite large high up on the back, and very
small or almost entirely disappearing beneath the J/ateral
line. Head large, spinous, hideous in appearance. Length
of head to entire length of body, measuring to posterior
extremity of operculum, nearly as one to four: width of
head across opercula equal to its length. ‘Twelve, more or less
prominent, blunted spinous tubercles on each side of median
line of head, the sharpest pointed, just back of nostrils: the
largest. at posterior angles of eyes, and just in front of dorsal
fin. Fleshy cirrhi are suspended from several portions of the
head, such as anterior and posterior angles of eyes and about
snout: those hanging from over eyes appear like a broad
fringe. Orbitar cavity large. H yes moderate in size, pupils
black, irides yellowish brown. Distance between superior
angle of eyes rather less than one fourth the length of the
head: space between eyes deeply depressed. Operculum, at
its posterior angle, armed with two strong spines, similar to
those of the ‘‘ Cottus.”” Jaws about equal in length: twelve
digitated cirrhi are suspended from under jaw. Mouth very
large. Teeth in jaws and palate numerous, sharp, recurved :
teeth also in pharynx. The lateral line, which is tubercular,
commences just above posterior angle of operculum, and curv-

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 25

ing with the body, terminates at the base of the caudal rays.
A strong spinous tubercle arises from humeral bone.

The first rays of the first Dorsal are longest; the seventh,
eighth and ninth rays are next in length: in other words, this
fin at first sight appears as if divided, or as two fins. Delicate
tentacule are suspended from the extremities of the rays of this
fin.

Just back of the first Dorsal arises the second, appearing as
if connected, and hence described by Mitchell as one fin;
height of this fin to its length as one to three.

The Pectorals are very large, when expanded resembling a
wing ; the rays are uncommonly distinct. These fins arise
from the entire lower edge of the branchial aperture : height to
leneth as four to two and a half.

The Ventrals arise just back of the first rays of the pecto-
rals; they are composed of three rays—the first ray shorter
than the second, and exceedingly stout.

The Anus is situated equally distant from the ventral and
anal fins.

The Anal fin commences and terminates on the same plane
with the second dorsal: the rays of this fin are deeply divided
at their extremities: length of fin to its height as three and a
half to one and a half.

Length of Caudal fin to its height as two to three :—the
color of rays similar to that of the body. ‘he fin rays are as
follows: D. 16, 13; P. 18; V.3; A. 15; C. 19.

Sepastes. Cuv.

Generic characters. Body oblong, compressed, covered with
scales ; all the parts of the head also covered with scales ; eyes
large ; preoperculum and operculum ending in three or more
spines ; branchiostegous rays 7 ; teeth smail, numerous, equal
in size, placed on both jaws, the vomer and palatine bones ; a
single dorsal fin, part spinous, part flexible ; inferior rays of
the pectoral fin semple.

4

26 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

S. Norvegicus. Cuv. The Norway Haddock.
Pennant’s British Zoology, p. 226 et fig.
Mc Murtrie’s Cuy. vol. ii, p. 122.
Cuv. et Valenc. Hist. Nat. des Poiss, t. iv. p. 327.
Yarrell’s British Fishes, vol. i., p. 73, et fig.
Fauna Boreali Americana, p. 52.

With us, thisis not acommon species ; it is taken while fish-
ing near shoal ledges contiguous to deep water. Although sel-
dom offered for sale in our market, it is readily eaten by the Nor-
wegians, and isa very palatable dish, as I learned from an
epicure of this city, who, having met with a specimen, and.
thinking it to be the “‘ Sciena gigas” of Mitchell, had it carefully
cooked, and was much delighted with his rarity. By our fish-
ermen itis known by the namesof ‘‘ Rose fish,” “ Hemdurgan,”
and “ Snapper.’ It attains the length of two feet. The fol-
lowing description is drawn up from a beautiful recent speci-
men, ten inches in length.

All upper of the body of a reddish color :—darker upon
head and back, lighter upon sides: nearly white beneath. A
brown blotch upon posterior portion of operculum. All the fins
red. Length of the head, from tip of lower jaw when closed,
to posterior angle of operculum, one third the length of the fish ;
top of head, flattened. Operculum armed with two spines.
Suboperculum and interoperculum, have each one spine: pos-
terior edge of operculum has five spinous processes. Supra
scapular and subscapular bone, have each one spine ; a second,
scarcely perceptible spine upon supra scapular bone : two spines
upon suborbitar bone : a small, exceedingly sharp pointed spine
on each side of base of intermaxillary bones. [our spines
upon upper orbitar edge ; one, at upper anterior angle of eye ;
a second, with its base continued along the greater portion of
upper edge; and two smaller ones, behind. A very minute
spine upon the lower orbitar edge, beneath centre of eye—and
two spines projecting backward upon occiput. Hyes very
large; pupils black; irides yellow: diameter of eye equal to

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. Q7

one third length of head: distance between eyes equal to five
eighths the diameter of the eye. Jaws armed with numerous,
minute, sharp teeth : upper jaw very protractile—an emargina-
tion in its centre, into which the extremity of the lower jaw
shuts, when the mouth is closed. Chin prominent. Teeth in
vomer and palatine bones.

The /ateral line arises above the operculum, and taking the
curve of the body, terminates at the caudal rays: about thirty-
six sharp points are seen in the course of the lateral line.

The Dorsal fin commences on a line with the upper opercu-
lar spine, its anterior half composed of spinous rays; the
length of its highest rays equal to about one third the length
of the fin: posterior half of fin composed of membranous rays ;
length of this portion equal to one half the length of spinous
portion. [

The Pectorals commence on a line with the third Dorsal
ray :—length of fin equal to one third its height: the middle
rays the longest.

The Ventrals arise just back of the pectorals; the first ray is
spinous: the second ray, the longest.

The Anal’s first soft ray is equal to the length of the fin:
the first three rays spinous.

The length of the Caudal fin is one third less than its height.

The fin rays are as follows: D. 15, 15; P. 18; V. 1-5; A.
3-7; C. 19.

CrypTAcantHopEs. Nobis.

Generic characters. Body elongated, and very much com-
pressed, gradually tapering to tail, destitute of scales; head
broad, with no projecting spines, but the angles of the gull-
covers ;—the scapular and humeral spines, and the inferi-
or edge of the preoperculum prominent to the touch. Nume-
rous depressions in frontal, suborbitar, inferior maxillary and
preopercular bones: branchiostegous rays 7 ; mouth oblique ;
a single dorsal fin composed of strong spinous rays enveloped

28 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

by a common membrane, runs nearly the entire length of the
fish, and unites as well as the anal with the tail. No ventrat

jins.

©. maculatus, Nobis. The spotted Wry-mouth.

Three specimens of a fish evidently belonging to the Buc-
cate Loricate have fallen under my observation, for the recep-
tion of which I know of no established genus. I am compel-
led therefore to constitute a genus in which it may be placed.

This I do with no slight reluctance ; and, anxious only to
throw more light upon this branch of study, I shall feel highly
gratified, should it be received and retained by succeeding
Ichthyologists.

The first specimen met with, was purchased by the “‘ Boston
Society of Natural History” some yéars since, with several other
species, and was said to have been taken in the outer basin of
Boston harbor : this specimen is still in the cabinet of that soci-
ety ; it is about twenty-one inches long, and will serve for my
description. It is of a dirty reddish white color, the cuticle
having been removed before it was purchased. 'The second
specimen, larger, of a reddish brown color sprinkled over
with dark brown blotches, was sent me by Mr. Jonathan John-
son Jr., of Nahant, who took it while fishing in the vicinity of
that place. The third specimen was taken from the stomach
of a haddock, and kindly sent me by Mr. Holbrook, fishmon-_
ger in Quincy Market. This last specimen was twelve inches
in length, of a dull flesh color, covered with innumerable
very minute black dots, and above and beneath the lateral
line, an interrupted row of dark brown blotches extended from
pectoral fins to tail ; these blotches larger at anterior portion of
body, and more numerous towards the tail. Top and sides of
head, snout, and anterior portion of underside of lower jaw
marked with moderate sized spots of a deeper brown than
those of the back.

The specimen before me is twenty-one inches in length: its
greatest width two and a half inches. On each side of top of
head, two prominent bony ridges run directly back from pos-

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 29

terior angle of eyes to occiput. At posterior angle of opercu-
lum; at same angle of preoperculum; the whole lower edge
of preopercle ; the scapular bones; all seem like sharp points
and edges concealed by the skin. The operculum is of a tri-
angular form, one inch in length, bony beneath skin, with its
posterior angle acute, united to the preoperculum by its ante-
rior superior angle by means of amembrane. Preoperculum
large ; its superior and posterior angles obvious to the touch ;—
its lower edge sharp, and feeling as if it was divided into two
ridges. H'yes circular ; diameter of eye equal to half the dis-
tance between eyes. Nosérils tubular, situated on each side of
snout, just at the edge of the intermaxillary bones. Lvzps fleshy ;
jaws equal; numerous minute teeth in jaws and upon pala-
tine bones—mouth situated obliquely ; Lateral line straight,
looking like interrupted dots.

The Dorsal fin arises on a line above the middle of the pec-
toral fins, and is continued to, and united with the caudal :
all its rays are spinous, strong, distinct, and concealed by a
common membrane : the first few rays are shortest.

The Pectorals arise beneath the membrane of the branchie,
as it is connected with the body: their length and half their
height rounded.

The Anal fin arises upon the anterior half of body, and is
similar in its form and the character of its rays and their en-
veloping membrane, to the dorsal fin.

The Caudal fin appears almost like the prolongation of the
dorsal and anal fins. It is rounded at its extremity.

The fin rays are as follows: B.7; D. 77; P. 13; A. 50;
C. 19.

The flesh being removed from the smallest of the three
specimens above spoken of, the following appearances are pre-
sented. The longitudinal ridges upon top of head ; the sub-
orbitar, inferior maxillary and preopercular bones, with deep
excavations or cavities. The angles of gill-covers quite acute,
as also those of scapule; humeral spine very prominent.
A single row of teeth, in jaws ; on sides, double, in front ; those

30 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

in front, much smaller and straight ; those behind, recurved.
Number of vertebre, eighty-nine.

My generic name is derived from xgumtoc, concealed—and
axavodnc, Spine.

GASTEROSTEUS. Cuv.

Generic characters. Body without scales, more or less plated
on the sides: one dorsal fin, with fiwe spines before it: ventral
fin with one strong spine. and no other rays: bones of the
pelvis fornuing a shield, pointed behind: branchiostegous
rays 3.

G. Noveboracensis. Cuv. The New York Stickleback.
Cuv. et Valence. Hist. Nat. des Poiss. t. iv. p. 502, pl. 98, fig. 3.

I have seen but three specimens of this fish, and therefore
conclude it cannot be as common as the two following species
of “ Stickleback.” One of these specimens was brought me from
Provincetown, by Dr. Gould; another, was taken from the
stomach of a codfish, in our market, by Mr. E. Freeman; and
the third was found at Boston, by Master Henry Parker.

The specimen before me is two and a half inches in length ;
all its upper portion, to the lateral line on each side, is of a
very dark brown color, almost black ; beneath, silvery. Sides,
armed with strong, vertical bony plates, upwards of thirty in
number, diminishing in size towards the tail; those at poste-
rior portion of the body, with a lateral crest, terminating at the
base of the caudal fin. Head, half an inch in length. Diam-
eter of eye, half a line. Lower jaw slightly projecting beyond
upper. Giill-covers silvery. Outer edge of Ventral spine, ser-
rated throughout its whole extent ; serrations of the inner edge
scarcely discernible. 'The second Dorsal spine much larger
than either of the others. The posterior Dorsal spine very
small.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 3

The fin rays areas follows: D. 3-11; P.10; V. 1-1; A.
1-8; C. 12.

At first sight, thisresembles the ‘G. trachurus.’”’ It differs,
however, in having the dorsal plates narrower ; the lateral
keels of the tail more prominent, and the lateral line nearer
the back.

G. apeltes. Cuv. The bloody Stickleback.
Cuv. et Valenc. Hist. Nat. des Poiss, t. iv. p- 505.

Several specimens of a species which I suppose to be Cu-
vier’s “‘apeltes,’’ were brought me by my friend Rev. J. L. Rus-
sell, from Salem, where he found them in large numbers in
creeks, to which the sea had access. Cuvier’s description is
very concise, and no reference is made to the color of the
species ; his specimens were undoubtedly preserved in spirits.
From living specimens, I annex the following account :

Of eight specimens before me, the largest is two inches in
length, and two and three quarters lines in its greatest depth.
All above lateral line, of a greenish brown color—beneath this
line, which is very perceptible, the color is darker, and is
broken irregularly by the extension of whiteness of abdomen.
In young specimens, the color is distributed in four or five
bars, which disappear in distinctness in the mature fish.

_ Four moveable spines in front of the dorsal fin; the first,
one half a line in length; the second, the same length; the
two last, shorter ; the last, shortest.

The Ventral spine, one line and three quarters in length, is
serrated on its outer margin: from base of ventral spine, a
lateral spine passes almost to the anus. To the under portion
of the ventral spine is attached ‘a reddish membrane, which
makes this part appear as if covered with blood, when the fish
is suddenly darting through the water, with this spine pro-
jecting.

The fin rays are as follows: D.3. 1-4; P.11; V.1; A. 10;
C. 13.

32 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

G. pungitius. Lin. The ten-spined Stickleback.

Cuv. et Valenc. Hist. Nat. des Poiss. t. iv. p. 506.
Yarrell’s British Fishes, vol. i, p. 85.

This species I also received from Mr. Russell, who found it
with the preceding. The general description of the “‘ pungitius”
answers to this species—but the appearance of the two varies
in some particulars.

Length of species two inches and three lines; greatest depth
two lines. Color grayish, with from six to ten transverse dark
bands, very distinct in some specimens, in others scarcely visi-
ble. In the same specimen, these bands are much more appa-
rent at some moments than at others, as the fish is excited by
fear or other causes. Body beneath, silvery. Hyes nearly a
line in width; pupil, of a deep black; iris, metallic-colored.
The upper edge of Ventral spine serrated.

The fin rays are as follows: D. 10-11; P. 11; V.1; A.
1-9; C. 13.

After death, this and the preceding species become much
lighter-colored ; the bands in a great measure disappear, and
the careless observer would scarcely believe he beheld the
same fishes as those he had lately admired in their native
beauty.

In a paper read before the Boston Society of Natural His-
tory, in 1836, I noticed the ‘‘ Gasterosteus quadratus,” Mitchell,
as being found in our waters. ‘The specimen upon which I
founded this belief, was in a mutilated state, and is still in the
cabinet of that Society. Having met with no species of ‘“‘Gas-
terosteus”’ since that time,” with four dorsal spines, save the
“< qpeltes’—and being there re inclined to think that that
specimen may be the anette, I am unwilling to assert that
the “ quadratus” is found in our State.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 33

Famity III.
SCIENOIDES.

OrouirHus. Cuv.

Generic characters. Head gibbous, supported by cavernous
bones: two dorsal fins: anal spines weak, and no cirrhi:
some of the teeth are elongated hooks, or true canini: the
natatory bladder has a horn on each side, which is directed
forwards.

O. regalis. Cuv. Squeteague. Weak Fish.

Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. N. Y., p. 396, et fig.
Cuy. et Valenc. Hist. Nat. des Poiss. t. v. 67.
Fauna Boreali Americana, p. 68.

This species, which, some years since, was found in large
numbers about Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard, has of late
entirely disappeared. During the two seasons that my attention
has been directed to our fishes, I have not been able to procure
a single specimen. Dr. Yale writes me in October, 1837 ;—
“The squeteague has deserted these waters, there has not
been one taken for three or four years about here; they left
about the time that the blwe fish came.” Hon. Hezekiah
Barnard, of Nantucket, in a letter to me, dated July, 1838,
remarks ;—‘‘'The squeteague, or weak fish, have disappeared
since the return of the blue fish, who are their avowed enemy.
I have conversed with our fishermen, they say they have
scarce seen one for six years.” ‘Thus it appears, that while
the blue fish was absent, they were abundant—and at the ap-
pearance of the blue fish, they left us. 3

Mitchell’s description of the “ Labrus squeteague”’ is as fol-
lows :—‘‘ Size commonly from a foot to fifteen inches, but
often grows much larger. I weighed one, that measured
twenty-seven inches in length by seven in depth, and found
him heavier than six pounds. He never goes into fresh streams

5

34 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

or ponds, but, within the limits of the salt water, is taken in
almost all the places where rock-fish is caught. The weak
fish is so much the companion of the basse, that I once gave
him the specific name of comes. Head and back brown, with
frequently a tinge of greenish. ‘The spaces towards the sides
faintly silvery, with dusky specks. These gradually disap-
pear on the sides, until, on descending to the belly, a clear
white prevails from the chin to the tail. Mouth wide. Jaws
toothed, and, in the upper mandible one, two, or three teeth in
front, larger and stronger than the rest, and resembling the
fangs of serpents. Throat, in front of the cesophagus, armed
above and below with collections of small teeth. Eight softish
rays in the foremost Dorsal fin: Pectoral, Dorsal and Caudal
fins, light or pale brown, inclining sometimes to yellowish.
Anal and Ventral fins, pale yellow. Tail, even. Lower jaw
longer than the upper. Lateral line arched upwards, and.
after its descent runs quite to the extremity of the caudal fin.
Tongue yellow, with minute black dots around the fore part ;
concave, with a soft and flexible margin ; has a froenum. The
swimming bladder is convertible to good glue. I have eaten
as fine blancmange from it, as from the isinglass of the stur-
geon. He isa fish of a goodly appearance, and is wholesome
and well tasted, though rather soft. Is brought to market in
great numbers during the summer months. He is taken by
the line and the seine. He is called Weak fish, as some say,
because he does not pull very hard after he is hooked; or, as
others allege, because laboring men, who are fed upon him,
are weak, by reason of the deficient nourishment in that kind
of food.

Certain peculiar noises under water, of a low, E anit or
drumming kind, are ee sed by the fishermen to the Sque-
teague. Whether the ads come from these fishes or not, it
is certain that during their season, they may be heard coming
from the bottom of the water; and in places frequented by
weak fish, and not in other places; and when the weak fish
depart, the sounds are no more heard.

Rays; (8.72 PG enor D628 an la eee

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 35

Umeprina. Cuv.

Generic characters. The Umbrina, besides the characters
common to the Sciena, has a barbule, or cirrhus, at the angle of
the lower jaw ; the spines of the anal fin strong and sharp ;
the teeth smaller and more numerous.

U. nebulosa. Mitchell. The King Fish.
Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. N. Y. p. 408.

A single specimen of this species, which Mitchell states to
grow to a larger size than a foot and a half, has been met with
eight inches and a half in length, taken in a lobster pot at the
Boston light-house. From this specimen, which has belonged
to the cabinet of the ‘“ Boston Society of Natural History” for
several years, and is at the present moment in a state of fine
preservation, I have drawn up the following description.

Body elongated, slightly arched over pectorals, gradually
tapering towards tail, of a dull gray color, with silvery reflec-
tions upon sides, ornamented with irregularly disposed dark
bars ; some, passing obliquely forwards from the dorsal fin ;
others, passing obliquely backwards from nape of neck; and
one broader one, pursues a straight course backwards through
the middle of the body, from extremity of pectorals to the tail.
Body beneath, yellowish.

Length of head two inches, covered with scales smaller
than those upon body: head slightly flattened between eyes ;
rounded upon occiput; somewhat depressed back of snout.
Snout blunted, projecting two lines beyond upper jaw. E'yes
of moderate size: their diameter equal to one half the distance
between eyes. Nostrils directly in front of eyes: the poste-
rior larger, situated obliquely beneath, and in front, of anterior
inferior angle of eye: at the anterior inferior angle of this ori-
fice, is situated the anterior nostril, which is very small and
circular. Mouth of moderate size: lips fleshy: jaws filled
with numerous, very small teeth: upper jaw the longer: a

36 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

small fleshy cirrhus is suspended from chin. Preoperculum
serrated at its posterior margin: more sparsely so, beneath. A
small concealed spinous point is observed at posterior portion
of operculum. Lateral line very distinct, curving with the
body.

The Dorsal fin arises just back of the pectorals; its first ray
is a minute spine: the second fleshy ray is much the longest
of all; this ray is nearly twice as high as the length of the
fin. The extremities of the rays are black.

The second Dorsal is of the color of the abdomen ; of equal
height throughout its entire length ; one sixth less high than
long. It extends to within half an inch of caudal rays.

The Pectorals are above black ; beneath, color of abdomen ;
length less than one third their height.

The Ventrals arise in front of posterior half of pectorals ;
their general color like the pectorals; extremities margined
with white.

The Anal fin is situated in the middle of the body; longer
than high; color of abdomen.

The Caudal is lunated ; a little higher than long.

The’ fin rays*are D:°9.'26P: 195" Vo 5 Ac 10; Co t7-

Famity IV.
SPAROIDES.

Sarecus. Cuv.

Generic characters. T'renchant incisors in front of jaws,
almost simular to those of man.

S. ovis. Mitchell. The Sheep’s Head.
Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soe. v. i. p. 392.

This species, so elaborately described and eulogized by
Mitchell, is occasionally taken in our waters south of Cape
Cod. Thomas A. Greene, Esq. of New Bedford, informs me

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 37

it is sometimes sold in that market. Not having met with a
specimen, I copy the description of Mitchell :

“ With smutty face, banded sides, pale complexion, promi-
nent eyebrows, and grooved spinous dorsal fin. Weighs four-
teen or fifteen pounds. One that weighed four pounds and a
half, measured twenty inches in length, eight in depth, and
three in thickness. 'The form of the mouth, and a certain
smuttiness of the face, have a distant resemblance to the phys-
iognomy of the sheep. "Thence comes the name by which he
is usually distinguished. ‘Teeth covered by the lips which
are large and distinct. Four incisors in each jaw, and two
other teeth situated next to them, one on each side, that may
be considered as canine. 'The former are straight, the latter
are rather turned inwards. Within, and beyond these, two or
three rows of round topped grinders, making a bony pavement
as it were, inside of the mouth. No cirrhus or roughness of
any kind on the head, neck or snout. Lower jaw shorter than
the upper. Nostrils double. 'yes large, vertical, brown, and
connected by a prominent brow. Head united to the body
without any proper neck. Gll-covers broad and smooth;
opening ample. From a scaly spot a little above the branchial
aperture, proceeds a colored and curved streak to the withers.
A single dorsal fin, strong and spinous, lowering into a deep
furrow the greatest part of its course. The expanded tail
measures six inches across, and is nearly concave, or almost
lunated. A scaly process near the insertion of the ventral fin.
Lateral line almost corresponds with the arch of the back, and
radiates prettily on the scales over which it passes. General
color of the sheep’s head a white, or obscure silvery, with a
smutty daubing over the face and chin, a greenish tinge above
the brow, and six or seven dark bands or zones, of an inch or
more in breadth, regularly slanting from back to belly; the
latter a dull white, approaching in some places and individuals
to cream color. Scales large, horny, distinguished by radiated
and concentric lines, and somewhat like a square rounded a
little at the corners. ‘They are deeply inserted into the skin ;

38 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

adhere with remarkable firmness; and when they are sepa-
rated, there is discoverable, on the edges of the skin, which .
enclosed them, a sort of tarnished argentine or brightish leaden
hue. Rays of all the fins coarse. 'The pectorals are long and
pointed. ‘Tongue white and smooth.

The intestines of the individual I last dissected were
lengthy, convoluted, and filled with the fragments of several
sorts of crabs. Swimming bladder capacious and thick. Pe-
ritoneum, on opening the abdomen, blackish. 'T’'wo patches of
teeth in the upper part of the throat, and two smaller corres-
ponding patches on the lower part, a short distance in front of
the entrance of the gullet. But all of these are very inferior
in strength and size to those of the mouth.

Rays: B45 V 6: Poe DD 24. Ais; C219)”

Pacrus. Cuv.

Generic characters. Body deep, compressed: dorsal fin sin-
gle, the rays partly spinous, the posterior flexible: four or six
strong conical teeth in front, supported by smaller conical teeth
behind them, with two rows of rounded molar teeth on each side
of both jaws.

P. argyrops. Lin. Big Porgee. Scapaug. Scup.

Trans. Lit. et Philosph. Soc. N. Y. vol. i, p. 404.
Cuv. et Valenc. Hist. Nat. des Poiss. t. vi. p. 164.

This species, which Mitchell describes in his ‘ History of the
Fishes of New York,” as the “ Labrus versicolor,’’ Cuvier con-
siders the same as the “Sparus Argyrops.” L. It is taken in
large quantities in Buzzard’s Bay and the Vineyard Sound, but
has not been met with in Massachusetts Bay until within the
last five or six years. At New Bedford and Holmes Hole, it
is one of the most common species in the harbors, and is used
more than any other fish when fresh. At the latter place, it is
taken, from the first of June until the middle of October, with

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 39

the hook; after that date, in the ponds, with spears and nets.
Within a few years, small numbers have appeared north of the
Cape, and are now yearly captured at Wellfleet and Sandwich.
Mr. Newcomb, Jr., fishmonger in Quincy market, informs me,
that about six years since, a fishing-smack brought from New
Bedford a cargo of these fishes alive to Boston market: a por-
tion of them were purchased by subscription among the fish-
ermen in the market, and thrown into the harbor: the next
season, two specimens were caught from our wharves: in the
summer of 1835, one specimen was captured at Nahant, and
was considered a very strange fish, no specimen having been
known to have been seen there before: in the summer of
1836, Mr. Johnson, of whose kindness I have had occasion
frequently to speak, sent me another specimen taken at Nahant.
As no specimens had ever been taken so far north before, and
as the few taken would lead to the inference that those which
had been transplanted from Buzzard’s Bay had not bred in
the cold waters of this portion of Massachusetts Bay, we are
led to believe the specimens, taken immediately around Boston,
were of the number of those originally brought from the south.

The length of this fish is from eight to twelve inches;
length of head, one fourth the length of the entire fish ; depth
of body across from base of pectorals, equal to one third its
length ; width of body at base of tail, equal to one twelfth its
length.

Body very much compressed at sides; back gibbous, gradu-
ally curving towards tail. General color, a beautiful silvery,
varying with brown, reddish and blue. Abdomen white.
Head destitute of scales, and of a purplish color from the com-
mencement of the gibbosity just over the eyes, to upper and
outer angle of eyes on each side, and thence within a line
drawn from this part to the outer angle of jaws. F'yes large ;
irides silvery. Lower jaw shorter than the upper. ‘Two rows
of blunt teeth in back of jaws—those in front, sharp and
prominent. Lips large and loose. Nostrils double—the ante-
rior, smaller and circular; the posterior, larger and vertical.
Preoperculum and operculum covered with scales. A large

AO FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

semicircular scale of a beautiful purple color, at the commence-
ment of the lateral line: between this scale and the outer
angle of the naked space, at the posterior angle of the eye, a
band, half an inch or more in width, of smaller scales than
those of the body, passing obliquely upwards to the anterior
portion of the ridge of the back. The lateral line, commencing
at the upper angle of the operculum and passing obliquely up
to a point on a line with the fifth spine of the dorsal fin, curves
with the body to the base of the tail.

The Dorsal fin, composed of twenty rays, twelve spinous,
twelve membranous, is received into a deep groove at its base ;
when this fin is not erect, the spines are scarcely visible, so
completely do they shut into this groove. Of the spines of
_ the dorsal fin, the third is the longest; delicate filaments are
suspended from the extremities of the first three spines. Less
than two lines in front of the first dorsal spine when erect, lies
a strong spine projecting forwards, almost entirely enveloped
by the skin.

The Pectoral fin, one fourth the length of the body, com-
mences on a line with the dorsal fin.

The Ventral fin with six rays.

The Anal fin shuts into a groove like the dorsal, and like
that fin is clouded with black spots. 'The three first rays of
anal, spinous.

The Caudal fin forked.

The fin rays are as follows: D. 24; P. 15; V.6; A. 15;
CH

Mitchell describes this species as having twenty-six rays in
the dorsal fin: the specimens I have seen, had each but twen-
ty-four.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. Al

FAMILY VII.
SCOMBEROIDES.

Scomper. Lin.

Generic characters. Scales on the body small and smooth ;
vertical fins not bearing scales ; two dorsal fins widely separated ;
some of the posterior rays of the second dorsal and the anal fin
Sree, forming finlets ; sides of the tail slightly carinated ; one
row of small conical teeth in each jaw ; the parts of the gill
cover without denticulations or spines ; branchiostegous rays 7.

S. vernalis. Mitchell. The Spring Mackerel.

Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. N. Y. p. 42.
~ Cuv. et Valenc. Hist. Nat. des Poiss. t. viii. p. 48.
Fauna Boreali. Americana, p. 80.

Mitchell describes under the specific names of ‘ erex” and
“<“vernalis,” the common mackerel of our coast. Cuvier, although
he admits both in his great work, considers them as the same ;
and Richardson remarks, “‘ the only differences between S. grer
and vernalis, seem to be in their size and color, and they are
very probably different ages of the same species.”” I have ex-
amined with much care the mackerel which are brought to
our market, and the differences are too slight between them to
constitute distinct species.

This species is taken on our coast, from the latter part of
May, in nets, in small numbers, until about the tenth of June,
when it readily takes the hook, and is brought to market the
remainder of the season in large quantities. Although, as
fresh fish, mackerel are sold in the markets along our whole
coast, for several months in the year, and are considered by all,
excellent food, (from 6 to 8000 barrels being sold annually in
Boston market alone,) their great value to this people, arises
from the means of employment afforded to an immense num-
ber, by the process of salting and packing.

6

A2 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

Those packed in 1836, were furnished by the following

towns:
Boston, - - - - = - 40,559 barrels.
Gloucester and Manchester, - - 43,937
Newburyport and Newbury, - - 21,463
Wellfleet, - - - - - 17,500
Provincetown, , - - - - 14,139
Hingham, - - - - - 13,882
Cohasset, - - - - - 11,700
Barnstable, - - - - - AIMS
Scituate, - - - - - 3,782
Yarmouth, - - - - - 2,446
Salem and Beverly, - - - - 2,394
Plymouth, - - - - - ers
Lynn, - - - - - - 1,460
Duxbury, - - - - - 1,000
Charlestown, - - - - - - 822

At the prices these fish were worth in November, 1836, the
value of the year’s fishing amounts to 1,254,012 dollars.

The whole number of barrels of mackerel inspected in Mas-
sachusetts for the five years, from 1832 to 1836 inclusive, are
as follows :

1832,—224,000 barrels ; 1833,—225,000 ; 1834,—253,000 ;
1835,—197,000 ; 1836,—180,616.

Although it would seem, from the above table, that a
smaller quantity of mackerel had been packed in 1836, than
the several years immediately preceding it, yet it cannot be
inferred from this circumstance that fewer vessels were
engaged, or that the business was considered less important
than before. In some years, immense shoals of these fishes
are readily met with, and the vessels return in a few weeks
with full cargoes; while the same localities may be visited at
other seasons, and the efforts of the fisherman prove fruitless,
and his fare meagre.

So peculiar are the habits of this genus, that oftentimes
weeks may pass, the fishing smacks be surrounded by millions

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. AS

sporting upon the surface of the ocean, and scarce one allow
itself to be taken, while again, the success of a few days will
retrieve the disappointments of nearly a season.

Thus a fisherman informs me, that the last season, (1837)
having been at the bay of Chaleur, and taken but few fish,
the vessel to which he belonged, was returning home, when,
off Cape Cod, the fish were so numerous and voracious, that the
crew, consisting of ten men, captured in two hours, nearly
thirty barrels of them. At this time about two hundred smacks
were together, and they were all equally successful, some of
them taking even forty barrels of fish.

After being carefully inspected, these fish find a ready mar-
ket in Philadelphia, New York, Baltimore and New Orleans,
and from this last port they are sent over the entire western
country. Those of inferior quality are shipped to the West
India islands.

I have not been able to learn with accuracy the number of
vessels engaged exclusively in this fishery ; in many towns,
the same vessels are used at different seasons of the year for
the cod as well as the mackerel fishery. I have ascertained,
however, that there were two hundred and two vessels employed
in this fishery, in 1836, in the county of Barnstable, and that
of this number, ninety-eight belonged to Provincetown, which
were valued at $147,000.

Several of our most intelligent fishermen inform me, that the
difficulty of taking mackerel is yearly increasing, from the
barbarous custom prevailing of gafiing them,—of collecting
them around vessels by means of throwing out bait, and then
suddenly drawing up an instrument armed with numerous
sharp iron points, by which many are captured, and greater
numbers are cruelly maimed without being taken.

By the “Statistical Tables,” drawn up by the Secretary of
State, from the reperts of the assessors of the different towns
upon the various branches of industry, it appears, that the
numer of barrels of mackerel taken in the year 1837, with
their prices, were as follows :—Whole number of bbls. 234,059 ;
value, $1,639,042. Taken by the following Counties :—

44 _ FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

Barnstable Co., 76,036—valued at $490,638; Hssex Co.,
69,599 = $518,663; Suffolk Co., 43,266 = $320,165; Ply-
mouth Co., 25,258 = $179,748; Norfolk Co., 18,450 = $120,-
528; Middlesex Co., 1000 = $6000; Bristol Co., 450 =
$3300.

My description of the species is from a specimen seventeen
inches in length. Upper part of body of a dark green color,
marked throughout its whole extent, from occiput to tail, with
beautiful transverse, undulating bands of a deeper hue, com-
mencing on side of dorsal ridge and extending below the lat-
eral line. Sides white, with cupreous reflections. Abdomen
white. 'The very narrow lateral line commences directly back
of humeral bone, on a line above the origin of the pectoral fin,
and pursues a gently undulatory course to the base of the tail :
this line is very distinct, being slightly prominent. Beneath
the lateral line on the side, is a fuliginous line, much wider
than the lateral line, which arises at the pectoral fin, and trav-
erses the length of the fish; the space between these two lines,
of a duller color than the side beneath.

Length of entire fish to length of head, as 17 to 33. Top
of head, of a dark, almost black color, produced by longitudi-
nal, broad, broken bands, passing backwards from the snout,
and a large black blotch extending backwards towards the gill-
covers, from the occiput. yes large, their diameter equal to
three fourths the distance between eyes: pupils black; irides
silvery. Eyes protected by a nictitating membrane. 'The
portion of head directly back of eyes, cupreous. Grdl-covers
and maxillary bones, silvery. Intermaxillary bones dark fu-
liginous—angle of jaws dusky. Inferior margin of preopercu-
lum, marked by a row of minute mucous pores. Gape of
mouth, moderate. Jaws and palatine bones armed with a sin-
gle row of very minute teeth. The whole interior of lower
jaw, and anterior portion of upper jaw, fuliginous. Tongue,
a dull silvery color.

The first Dorsal fin, composed of strong rays, of which, the
second and third are the longest, arises on a line opposite the
posterior half of the pectoral fins: the length of this fin is

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 45

hardly greater than its height. When unexpanded, it is en-
tirely concealed in a groove at its base.

The second Dorsal, situated upon the posterior half of the
body, is of a fuliginous color, margined with white; its length
to its height is nearly as 3 to 1; back of this second dorsal,
occupying the space between it and the tail, are five finlets,
the fifth, longest.

The Pectoral fins of a dark color, having beneath them a
black blotch, arise back of upper third of operculum—their
length to their height as I to 3.

The Ventral fins arise back of pectorals, and likewise have
beneath them a black spot at their base; save the tinge given
them by this spot, they are of a flesh color. The first rdy is
very strong ; all the rays are subdivided at their middle, and
again divided into smaller portions at their extremities.

The Anal fin arises directly back of the anus, which is situ-
ated opposite the origin of the second dorsal. At the com-
mencement of this fin, is a short spine; this fin is shorter
than the second dorsal, and of the same color as the abdomen.
Back of this fin are six finlets; that next the anal fin, appear-
ing at first sight to be a portion of the fin.

At base of Caudal, two longitudinal carine, extending the
whole length of the fleshy portion of the tail: the outer rays
of the caudal fin, much the longer; their articulations very
obvious; fin deeply forked ; extremities margined with white;
distance between extremities of caudal rays, between three and
four inches.

The fin rays are as follows: D. 10-12; P.17; V.5; A. 12;
C. 20.

wy

S. colias. Gmel. The Spanish Mackerel.

Cuy. et Valenc. Hist. Nat. des Poiss. t. viii, 39, pl. 209.
Yarrell’s British Fishes, vol. i. 131 et pl.

This is a rare species upon our coast ; sorne seasons they are
scarcely seen at all. It is generally known by our fishermen
as the “‘ Spanish Mackerel.”

46 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

Length of specimen before me, eleven inches: depth two
inches. Form elongated, very round and plump, tapering
towards tail at the’ origin of which it is very small. Upper
part of body of a light green color, with numerous contig-
uous beautifully undulating lines of a darker green passing
down the sides and just crossing the lateral line, immediately
beneath lateral line, of a dull bluish color, with indistinct cir-
cular brown blotches. Abdomen lighter colored, but as well
as the sides, presenting cupreous reflections. Head, two and
a half inches in length ; flattened above ; compressed on sides;
rather pointed at snout. H'yes large ; full; pupils black ; iri-
des silvery. Nostrils double; the posterior, vertical, just in
front of eyes ; anterior, circular, in front of posterior, equal to
the distance between posterior and eye: diameter of eye,
rather less than the. distance between eyes. Superior portion
of preoperculum cupreous; inferior portion of it, as of oper-
culum and maxillaries, silvery. Tongue pointed, greenish with
a metallic tint. Jaws equal; crowded with minute teeth.

The first Dorsal fin arises opposite the posterior third of the
pectoral fins ; transparent ; its first ray upon its outer edge, and
the spaces between the tips of the rays margined with black ;
the second ray longest; the tips of all slightly projecting be-
yond the membrane.

The second Dorsal commences back of the first, at a greater
distance than the length of first dorsal: fin shorter than pre-
ceding ; rays short, covered by a thick membrane: five fin-
lets back of second dorsal; the fifth, deeply divided, appearing
like two.

The Pectorals just beneath, and ona line with the lateral
line: length about one half their height: slightly dusky: at
base above, a small black blotch which is hardly perceived,
unless fin is raised.

The Ventrals just in front of first dorsal; elongated ; red-
dish white.

At origin of Anal fin a small spine is observed. 'The Anal
fin is opposite the second Dorsal, and, like it, has five finlets,
resembling those of the back.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. AT

The Caudal fin is yellowish, deeply forked ; two lateral cari-

ne at base.
The fin rays are as follows: D. 9-12; P. 19; V.5; A. 13;

C. 22.

Tuynnus. Cuv.

Generic characters. Form of the body lke that of the
Mackerel, but less compressed ; numerous scales surrounding
the thorax: first dorsal fin extending nearly to the second:
second dorsal and the anal fin subdivided posteriorly, forming
numerous finlets ; sides of the tail decidedly curvated ; a sin-
gle row of small pointed teeth in each jaw ; branchiostegous
rays 7.

T. vulgaris. Cuv. The Common Tunny.

Pennant’s British Zoology, vol. iv. 234 et fig.

Mc Murtrie’s Cuv. ii. 144.

Cuv. et Valenc. Hist. Nat. des Poiss. t. vill. p. 58.
Yarrell’s British Fishes, v. i. p. 134 et fig.

This must be a very rare species in the waters of this State.
I have met with only one specimen; this was taken Septem-
ber 4th, 1838, near Kettle Island, between Marshfield and
Cape Ann, with a large sized cod-hook, baited with a “‘ menha-
den,” while fishing for the “‘ codling,” or, as it is improperly call-
ed, ‘‘ hake.’”’ The Portsmouth Journal noticed another individ-
ual taken the last season, at Pigeon Cape, near Cape Ann, fifteen
feet in length, and weighing about one thousand pounds.
With respect to this specimen, the writer remarks: “ after pre-
paring two barrels of the fish for Boston and New York, the
remainder was sold in our market, and many of our citizens
were enabled to feast themselves on its most delicate meat,
resembling much in appearance lean pork, and the best of
mackerel in taste.”” This species is taken in large numbers in
the Mediterranean ; and its flesh has been long celebrated for
its delicacy. Occasionally specimens are taken upon the
coast of Great Britain, upon the Cornish Coast, upon the

48 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

islands west of Scotland; and it has been taken at the mouth
of the Thames. ‘That itis not every where held in the same
estimation as by the Sicilians or even our Portsmouth friends,
is evident from the following extracts from “Alerander’s Nar-
rative of a Voyage of Observation among the Colonies of Wes-
tern Africa,’ 1838. Visiting the Market at Funchal, the capi-
tal of Madeira, he remarks, ‘‘in the market I observed some
large tunny, junks of which, resembling red beef, were cut up
with huge knives, like small scythes, and sold for a mere
trifle.” On the coast of New England, this fish is called “ horse-
mackerel” and “ albicore.” It is seldom seen ; never noticed in
shoals, as in the Mediterranean.

The specimen I had an opportunity of examining was pub-
licly exhibited here, and was visited by several of my scien-
tific friends.

Entire length nine feet and three inches: two feet deep
across base of pectorals: fifteen inches in depth across base of
anal fin; and four inches deep at base of caudal fin. Form
elongated ; gradually sloping from beginning of dorsal to snout,
and tapering from dorsal to tail. Color of whole upper part
nearly black: sides silvery: beneath white. Scales on back,
in front of first dorsal, at base of, and beneath pectorals, very
large.

Length of head, two feet three inches; jaws equal when
closed ; tongue large, broad, black; all inside of mouth dark
colored ; gape of mouth very large ; eyes circular ; pupils black ;
’ irides golden, with greenish reflections: distance between eyes,
one foot. Gill-covers, very large, perfectly smooth, of a sil-
very gray color.

The first Dorsal fin commences two feet three inches back
of tip of snout; its rays are very strong ; the first ray nine
inches long ; they gradually diminish in length ; the last being
scarcely perceptible. The raysare of a fuliginous color ; while
the connecting membrane is nearly black. ‘This fin shuts en-
tirely into a groove, which, at its origin, is one and a half
inches deep ; when the fin is unexpanded, it is perfectly invisible.

The second Dorsal is of a reddish brown color; twelve

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 49

inches in height; five in length: this fin resembles a very
strong membrane, similar to the fins of the Sharks, it being
almost impossible to count the rays: nine finlets between this
and the tail, of a bright yellow color, dark at base, and upon
anterior edge.

The Pectoral fins are falciform ; of the same color as gill-
covers ; five inches long ; sixteen inches high.

The Ventral fins are composed of very strong rays, situated
in a groove at their base just beneath pectorals ; above, black ;
beneath, white ; eleven inches high ; two inches long.

The Anal fin commences six inches back of the second dor-
sal; and is similar in appearance to that fin: the rays cannot
be counted on account of their compactness: fin fifteen inches
high ; five inches long: nine finlets, color of the dorsal; and,
like them, the middle longest.

The Caudal fin is lunated : seven inches high in its middle ;
measuring two feet five inches across its extremities. At its
base, a lateral carina, which is continued on to tail, seven
inches long; one and a half inches high. On each side of the
portion of it which is upon tail, two smaller caring are situ-
ated, three inches in length, between these and the former,
depressions are thus produced.

The fin rays so far as practicable to be counted, are about
as follows: D. 14-13; 9 finlets; P. 34; V. 1-5; A. 2-12;
2 finlets ; C. 19:

Prevamys. Cuv.

Generic characters. Distinguished from the Tunnies solely
by their separate, pointed, and strong teeth.

P. sarda. Bloch. The Skip Jack.

Trans Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. N. Y. 428.
Cuv. et Valence. Hist Nat. des Poiss. t. viii. p. 149, pl. 217.

This species is by our fishermen incorrectly called ‘‘ Bonzto.

The true “ Bonito” isa ‘“‘Thynnus,”’ Cuv. Ihave examined
7

50 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

two fine specimens of this fish ; one, nineteen inches long, was
sent me by Dr. Yale, from Holmes Hole. He informs me,
that for the last six or eight years, this species has been fre-
quently met with at the Vineyard, and is readily taken with
trailing bait. The second specimen I have seen, measured
twenty-one inches in length. It is at once distinguished from
any other of the family in our waters, by its ash-colored abdo-
men; dull greenish back, and oblique and transverse dark
bands. .

From the latter specimen, I draw up the following descrip-
tion: color of head and upper part of body, a greenish brown :
sides, lighter ; abdomen, silvery white. Body smooth ; a broad
oblique patch of minute scales is observed just above the pec-
toral fins, commencing at posterior extremity, and widening
towards occiput : minute scales situated along the sides of dor-
sal ridge, looking like small papille longitudinally arrayed.
Ten or twelve dark colored bands pass obliquely downwards
and forwards from the dorsum towards abdomen : the first of
these bands commence at the posterior extremity of the dorsal
fin; the last, at the origin of the caudal fin. Some of these
bands pass very low down upon sides, even to abdomen. Be-
sides these, several indistinct lighter colored bands cross the
body transversely. Lateral line arises high up on the back,
and pursues a pretty undulatory course, until about on a line
with anal, from whence it goes straight to caudal fin. Length
of head, four inches and three quarters: top of head, dark
greenish brown: gill-covers silvery, marked with fuliginous.
Gape of mouth large. Tip of upper jaw scarcely projecting
beyond the lower: jaws and palatine bones with a single row
each of sharp, recurved, prominent teeth: upon the middle of
lower jaw are four teeth ; the anterior two quite small, the pos-
terior the largest in the jaws: the palatine bones are very
small. Diameter of eye equal to one third the distance be-
tween eyes: pupils black ; irides, silvery.

The first Dorsal fin commences on a line just back of pos-
terior angle of operculum; its second ray is highest; color of

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 51

fin light, with dull patches; the posterior short rays almost
concealed in a groove upon the back, when unexpanded.

The second Dorsal is longer than high; back of this fin are
eight finlets, the third and fourth of which are longest.

The Pectoral fins arise just in front of first dorsal—of a dark
color above, lighter beneath ; as high again as long.

The Ventrals commence back of pectorals ; are darker colored
next to abdomen. When unexpanded, these fins shut into a
depression, partially formed upon abdomen.

The Anal fin arises on a line opposite the first dorsal finlet ;
is a little longer than high, white, with fuliginous. Back
of anal, seven finlets; the posterior, smaller. Anus small,
directly in front of the anal fin. A thick, fleshy carina on
each side of the fleshy portion of tail; on each side of posterior
part of this, two quite small, obtuse carinz run directly back
across the middle of caudal fin, causing quite a depression be-
tween them.

The Caudal fin lunated, of a dirty bluish color; length of
exterior rays, compared to distance between extremities when
expanded, as 3 to 53.

The fin rays are as follows: D. 20-14; P. 24; V.6; A.
14; C. 24.

Xiputias. Lin.

Generic characters. Body fusiform, covered with minute
scales ; a single elongated dorsal fin; ventral fins wanting ;
tail strongly carinated ; upper jaw elongated, forming a
sword ; mouth without teeth ; branchiostegous rays 7.

X. gladius. Lin. The Sword Fish.

Pen. British Zoology, vol. iii. 141.

Strack’s plates, 21. 1.

Me Murtrie’s Cuv. ii. 148.

Cuv. et Valenc. Hist. Nat. des Poiss. t. viii. p. 255.
Yarreli’s British Fishes, vol. i. 143.

52 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

Although this species is not included by Richardson, in his
“Fauna,” on account of its presence on the American coast
not having been ascertained with certainty by those who had
referred to it, it is frequently met with in our waters, and is
becoming quite an article of commerce with us. It is generally
discovered by the projection of its dorsal fin above the surface
of the water, as it is pursuing shoals of mackerel, upon which
it feeds, about 15 or 20 miles from the shore of Martha’s Vine-
yard. ‘The fishermen capture it by means of an instrument
called a ‘lily iron,’’ from the form of its shafts or wings,
which resemble the leaves of a lily. This instrument is thrown
like a harpoon with great force into the fish, the attempt al-
ways being made to wound the animal in front of the origin of
the dorsal fin. When wounded, it sometimes frees itself from
the iron by its struggles; and has been known to dive with so
much force towards the bottom of the sea, as to drive its sword
throughout its whole extent into the sand or mud, which was
proved by its appearance when taken. When unmolested, it
not unfrequently is observed to spring several times its length
forwards, several feet above the surface of the water.

The flesh of this fish when salted is eaten, and preferred
by many to that of several other species. The cod-fishers at No-
man’s Land, being disappointed the last season in their usual av-
ocation, directed their attention to the taking of the sword fish,
and were quite successful in their efforts. About 200 barrels
are annually taken at Martha’s Vineyard, which are either sold
fresh, or cut into slices and pickled or salted, and kept for sale
in that state throughout the year. It sells for from three to
four cents per pound.

From aspecimen kindly sent me by Dr. Yale, which was
taken August 29, 1838, between Gay Head and Block Island,
by Mr. Warren Cleaveland, I have drawn the following de-
scription :

Back and upper part of sides, of a sky-blue color; beneath,
silvery gray. Surface smooth. Entire length, twelve feet
five inches; depth across, from origin of anal fin, fifteen inches.
Length of head, from posterior edge of operculum to point of

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 53

lower jaw, twenty-two inches; length of upper jaw or sword,
beyond the point of lower jaw, three feet five inches. Jaws
without teeth. Gill-covers silvery brown. Upper part of
sword, dark brown, almost black, having a dorsal ridge, within
which is a groove. Under portion of sword, lighter colored,
smooth, with a velvety feel. The two anterior feet of sword
have a bony, perfectly smooth edge. Widest portion of upper
jaw, five and a half inches; jaw gradually terminates in a
point. Hiyes very moveable in their orbits, three and a half
inches in diameter; distance between eyes, eight inches.
Branchiee composed of four pairs of large parallel lamine, and
one smaller one.

The Dorsal fin commences nearly on a line with the pos-
terior edge of the operculum. It is strongly falciform ; twen-
ty-two inches high, eighteen inches long. But eighteen rays
are obvious ; the whole dorsal ridge between them and within
six inches of base of tail, destitute of fin rays; and in their
place, a shallow groove the whole extent, supporting a slight
membranous elevation. Six inches in front of base of tail, a
small fin four inches high, one inch long, composed of three
rays, looking like the adipose fin of the ‘ Salmonides,’’ or the
finlets of many of the ‘‘ Scomberoides.”

The Pectoral fin, also, is falciform, eighteen inches high,
six inches long; above, almost black; beneath, color of abdo-
men.

The Anal fin is, like the preceding, falciform ; sixteen inches
high, ten inches long. The extremity of this fin terminates on
a plane with the termination of dorsal, and is formed like that.
This small portion is three inches high, and one long. Fin,
color of the abdomen.

At base of tail, a transverse furrow three inches long and
two thirds of an inch wide. On each side of base of tail, a
lateral carina three inches high, eight inches long, three
' Inches back of dorsal, extending three inches on the caudal fin.

The Caudal fin deeply forked; twenty-nine inches high,
eight inches long, six inches high in its middle.

The fin rays are as follows: D. 18-3; P. 15; A. 11-3;
©. 17.

5A FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

The common size of this fish is from 12 to 15 feet in length,
and weighing from 300 to 400 pounds, although it sometimes
is taken considerably larger.

Although a species of ‘‘ Xiphias” has been known for many
years to frequent our coast, I am not aware that it has been
examined by any of our scientific men, save by my friend
John B. S. Jackson, M. D. of this city, who kindly loaned me
his rough notes of a specimen exhibited here in 1833. From —
these notes it appears, that the ‘specimen was taken by cod-
fishers, from a small dory, about twenty miles from Boston, not
far from Marshfield, and near the Western Banks. It was
drawn up with much difficulty with cod hook and line, and
then speared. Whole length, 11 feet 4 inches. Length of
sword, 4 feet. Weight, 650 pounds.” ~

In looking over the plates of this fish, one is surprised at the
great dissimilarities between them; and could he think that
each plate had been drawn from a recent specimen, he would
be compelled to conclude there must be more than one species.
But, as in many other instances, they are probably poor copies
of each other ; ‘those points only being particularly attended to,
which seem to the copier most important. In Pennant’s
“‘ British Zoology,” the whole interval between the commence-
ment and extremity of the dorsal fin is occupied by an im-
mense number of minute rudiments distinct from each other.
While the figure of Strack exhibits but seventeen prominent
rays between the extremities, connected by amembrane. The
anal also, differs much in the two figures. In the specimen I
have just described, it will be remembered that not the slight-
est rudiment of a ray was distinguishable upon the dorsal ridge
back of the eighteenth ray, until within six inches of the base
of the tail. Yarrell figures a young specimen, showing that
there is but one dorsal fin, which occupies the whole length of
the back, from the gill-covers to within a short distance of the
tail. If the reason offered by Cuvier for the disappearance of
the greater portion of the dorsal fin be true, viz., ‘‘ the middle
of it being worn with age, gives it the appearance of being
double,”—and of Yarrell, “but the portion of the fin interme-

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 55

diate between the two ends is so slight that it is easily torn,
or even entirely worn away by use during life,’—if this ex-
planation be correct, it is not a little singular, that the appear-
ance of the entire dorsal ridge should, in my specimen, have
been so uniform: no rays partially worn or broken in the in-
terval between the extremities, as we should suppose would be
produced by a gradual change, but an entire absence of rays,
from the eighteenth, which is perfect, to the posterior rays,
which are also all perfect.

Yarrell observes, that the edges of the sword are “ finely
denticulated.”” In that portion of the edge of the sword before
me which is perfect, it is entirely smooth ; the greater portion
of the edge is broken at intervals irregularly, unnaturally, evi-
dently by use.

Tracuinotus. Lacepede.

Generic characters. Free spines on the back, and two oth-
ers, also free, before the anal ; body elevated, and the tail with-
out the lateral carine ; profile vertical; and the dorsal and
anal fins tapering to points more or less long.

T. argenteus. Cuv. The Rudder Fish.

Cuv. et Valence. Hist. Nat. des Poiss. t. viii. p. 413.

Dr. Yale sent me from Holmes Hole, three specimens of a
fish, generally known at the Vineyard by the name of “rudder
fish,” which, after considerable hesitation, I have concluded to
be the “‘'T. argenteus,” Cuv. 'The smallest specimen, two
inches in length, answers perfectly to the figure, in Mitchell’s
“‘Bishes of New York,” incorrectly called by him ‘ Cory-
phena hippurus.” ‘This small specimen was taken at a wharf
at Holmes Hole. The two large specimens were caught about
fifteen miles from land. Dr. Yale writes me, that ‘this fish
is generally found at sea, but is common in our waters. It
follows vessels, or keeps near old casks or plank that are float-

56 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

ing, and sometimes is found about the wharf logs in our har-
bor.”

Of the specimens lying before me, the largest is eight inches
in length. Body oblong, compressed upon sides; back arch-
ing abruptly over the eyes; of a bluish white upon sides, look-
ing as if covered with black dots, owing to the dark outline of
the scales; body beneath, of a dull white color. (In the
smallest specimen, which must be quite a young fish, the color
is a dark brown, variegated with yellow patches.) Head, one
fourth the length of body; diameter of eye, one fourth the
length of head. A bony ridge over eyes. Operculum large,
naked, of a horny texture, margined by a membrane. Preo-
perculum strongly serrated throughout. A depression upon
top of head, between eyes; distance between eyes, rather
greater than diameter of eye. Nostrils directly in front of
eyes; the posterior, much the larger. The upper jaw at snout
descends abruptly; jaws of equal length, with small, sharp
teeth. The lateral line commences high above operculum,
and curving over pectorals to their extremities, pursues a
straight course to tail.

The Dorsal fin commences back of a line opposite posterior
angle of operculum, and is continued to fleshy portion of tail.
Seven spines precede the fleshy rays of the dorsal; the poste-
rior is connected, throughout almost its entire height, to the
membrane of the dorsal ; the preceding ones are nearly free, or
rather have a membrane attached to their lower portion, but
which does not pass high up the spines.

The Pectorals are beneath the posterior angle of the opercu-
lum; less than one third as long as high, of a dark brown
color.

The Ventrals are one fourth of an inch long ; their outer ray,
spinous.

The Anal fin arises just in the middle of the body, and is
nearly as long again as high; color of the dorsal. This fin is
preceded by three spinous rays, the first of which is free.

The Caudal fin is quite deeply lunated.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 57

The fin rays are as follows: D. 5. 2-22; P.19; V. 1-5;
A. 1. 2-17; C, 20.

Although there are three spines before the anal, but one of
these can be said to be free; of the remaining two, the second
is more free than that next the fin.

Trmnopon. Cuv.

Generic characters. Tail unarmed; a small fin, or free
spines before the anal; the first dorsal is very shght and low,
‘the second and the anal covered with small scales ; but their
principal character consists in a range of separate, pointed and
trenchant teeth in each jaw; behind these, above, is a row of
small ones, and the vomer, palatine and tongue are furnished
with others, very small and crowded. The operculum termi-
nates in two points, and there are seven rays in the branchia.

TT. saltator. Cuv. The Blue Fish.

Trans. Lit. et Philosoph, Soc. N. Y. p. 424, et fig.
Cuv. et Valence. Hist. Nat. des. Poiss, t. ix. p. 231.

This species described by Dr. Mitchell as the ““Scomber plum-
beus,” and called the ‘“‘ horse mackerel” by the vulgar, is better
known in those portions of our state where it is taken, as the
‘blue fish.” Many years since it was held in high estimation
by the aborigines of our country. For about fifty years it disap-
peared from our coast, as may be learned from the following
passages, extracted from a journal of the first settlement of the
island of Nantucket, written by Zaccheus Macy, in 1792, and
contained in the third volume of the ‘“‘ Massachusetts Historical
Collections.” In this account, notice is taken of a great pesti-
lence which attacked the Indians of that Island in 1763 and
1764, with such mortality, that of the whole number 358, 222
died. He adds: “ Before this period, and from the first com-
ing of the English to Nantucket, a large fat fish called the
blue fish, twenty of which would fill a barrel, was caught in
great plenty all round the island, from the Ist of the 6th till

8

58 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

the middle of the 9th month. But it is remarkable that in
the year 1764, the very year in which the sickness ended, they
all disappeared, and that none have been taken since.” Occa-
sionally, for the last twenty years, a few straggling specimens,
very small, have been taken, but they were rarely seen until
within the last ten years; during this latter period they have
gradually increased in number, and, generally speaking, have
been of a much larger size than when they were first observed.
Now, they visit the coast south of Cape Cod, at Nantucket,
and New Bedford, and Holmes Hole, in large numbers, and are
occasionally captured weighing fourteen pounds. It is caught
from shore by throwing a drail—a hook fixed into a piece of
bone or ivory, and sometimes pewter, something in the form
of a fish, with brass wire around the line next it, to prevent its
being bitten off by the strong jaws of the fish ; they are also
caught in a boat under sail with a good breeze, the line drag-
ging behind ; and they have been taken with a seine—thus in
a number of the Nantucket Enquirer, July 8th, 1837, I find
the following: ‘a few days since, there were caught at one
haul, 241 blue fish, 108 scuppaugs or poggies, 28 basse and 19
shad, in all 396 fish, weighing about half a ton.” On the 25th
October, 1837, a specimen of this species, weighing about
three pounds, was taken at Green Island, by Mr. Morgan, of
that place, and sent to Mr. Newcomb, Jr. of Quincey Market ;
this is the only specimen I have known to be taken in Massa-
chusetts Bay. In its flavor, this fish resembles the mackerel,
and is highly esteemed by many as an article of food : but it
is excessively fai, and cannot always be borne by the stomach.
In the early part of summer it is very lean : towards the latter
part-of summer and the commencement of autumn, it is in a
state of perfection for the epicure. By the kind attentions of
the Hon. Hezekiah Barnard, of Nantucket; George B. Enier-
son, Esq., President of the Boston Society of Natural His-
tory; and Dr. Yale, I have had an opportunity of examining
several specimens. 'T'o the first of these gentlemen, [ am in-
debted for much of the information obtained respecting this
species.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 59

The following description, I have drawn up from a specimen
fifteen inches in length. Depth of body across on a line with
base of pectorals, three inches. Length of head three inches
six lines. All upper part of body of a bluish color; lower
part of sides, as well as of abdomen, whitish. A large black spot
at base of pectoral fins. Head above, naked. Nostrz/s double,
terminating in the same cavity ; anterior orifice circular, and
situated directly in front of posterior, which is larger and
placed horizontally. Jaws with prominent, sharp, lancinated
teeth ; the lower jaw has but one row of these; the upper,
besides a similar row with the under jaw, has a row of very
small teeth, back of these. A row of very minute teeth at
base of tongue; also small teeth upon vomer and palatine
bones. Hye, five lines in dameter ; irides yellowish. Oper-
culum terminated in two points, which do not amount to
spines. The lateral line commences just above posterior angle
of operculum, and curving with the body, terminates at the
base of the rays of the caudal fin. Fins covered with scales.

The first Dorsal fin is composed of seven spinous rays ;
these, when not erect, are received into a groove at their base.

The Anus is one half inch in front of Anal fin.

Width of tail when expanded, is more than five inches.

The fin rays are as follows: B..7; D. 7-26; P. 17; V.6;
Ar28 3 C: 19.

Prepriuus. Cuv.

Generic characters. Form compressed ; small and slightly
apparent scales under a satiny epidermis ; snout obtuse and
non-protractile ; a single dorsal fin, preceded, as well as the
anal, by a horizontal, partially concealed spine. The pelvis
forms a trenchant and pointed blade, before the anus, that
might be taken for a vestage of ventrals. Besides the ordinary
lateral line, there is a stria on the flank, which has been con-
sidered as a second one.

60 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

P. triacanthus. Peck. The Three-Spined Peprilus.

Memoirs of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, v. ii. p. 48, et fig
Mitchell, Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. N. York, p. 365, et fig.
Cuv. et Valenc. Hist. Nat, des Poiss.

In 1794, Peck read a description of this fish, which he ac-
companied with avery fair figure, to the ‘‘ American Academy,”
under the name of ‘“‘ Stromateus triacanthus.” 'This paper was
published in the year 1804. In 1814, Dr. Mitchell read his
paper upon the “ Fishes of New York,” to the “ Literary and
Philosophical Society” of that state, and the next year this
paper was published in that society’s Transactions: in his
paper, he describes the species under consideration, with the
specific name of ‘“cryptosus.’’ Mitchell’s name is retained by
Cuvier in the Notes to his ““Regne Animal.” Dr. Mitchell
would never thus have neglected Peck had he been aware of
the existence of his paper. Our duty is clear ; and we cheer-
fully prefix the name given it by its first describer: his des-
cription is very accurate, and his name is equally appropriate.

This species is not uncommon in our waters: it is generally
taken in nets, and is considerably used as bait for the “ siziped
basse’ by our fishermen : being a very oily fish, it is found ser-
viceable as manure, for which purpose it is used upon some
portions of Cape Cod. Ihave known a single specimen to be
taken from one of the wharves in this city.

From a specimen before me nine and a half inches long, and
three inches deep across from anus, I make the following des-
cription. Body ovate, very much compressed ; being more so
towards tail. Of a lead color upon back ; lighter on sides; sil-
very upon abdomen. Length of head two inches, gradually
arched from snout above: arch of back continued to spine at
origin of dorsal fin. Hyes circular, one half inch in diameter ;
pupils black ; irides silvery. Nostrz/s small, three lines in front
of eyes; anterior, circular ; posterior, a vertical fissure. Mouth
moderate in size ; jaws equal in length, at their edges present-
ing a large number of very minute, equal, compact serrations

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 61

or teeth; tongue, spotted with brown. Gfill-covers silvery,
with cupreous reflections. The lateral line which is very well
marked, commences just back of the posterior angle of oper-
culum, and, arching backwards, curves with the back to the
upper part of the fleshy portion of the tail. A slight, depressed,
straight line, destitute of scales, is seen passing from the origin
of the lateral line to the middle of the fleshy portion of tail ;
and another line, similar in its appearance to the last, passes
from inferior base of pectorals, curving with the abdomen to
the lower part of fleshy portion of tail, corresponding in its
course with the lateral line. 'These lines gradually disappear
after death. At the side of the dorsal fin, commencing at its
origin, and terminating towards its posterior half, are situated
between twenty and thirty small circular black punctures,
which give it a very characteristic appearance: these orifices
are mucous ducts. At the origin of the dorsal fin a small
naked horizontal spine points forwards.

The Dorsal fin of the same color as the sides of the body
commences half of an inch back of the pectorals, and. is con-
tinued to the fleshy portion of the tail: the rays, posterior to
the eleven first, are considerably shorter, and are continued to
the extremity of about equal length.

The Pectorals are slightly lighter than the dorsal : length to
height as 3 to 19.

The Anus is a small fissure just in front of anal spine. Three
lines in front of anus, is a small horizontal spine pointing back-
wards, the posterior point of the pelvis.

The Anal fin has, at its origin, a horizontal naked spine
also, pointing forwards like that before the dorsal: this fin
arises just back of a line opposite the origin of dorsal, and ter-
minates upon the same plane with it: it is formed like the
dorsal, but is not so high.

The Caudal fin is of the color of the pectorals, and is deeply
forked : height of rays two and a half inches: length of fin, one
half inch ; depth of fins, when the extremities are expanded, two
inches.

The fin rays are as follows: D. 45; P. 21; A. 43; C. 20.

62 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

Famity XI.
MUGILOIDES.

AtHEerinaA. Lin.

Generic characters. Body rather elongated ; two dorsal fins
widely separated ; ventral fins placed far behind the pectorals ;
sides with a broad, longitudinal, silver band ; teeth minute ;

branchiostegeous rays, 6.

A. Bosctt. Cuv. The small Silver Side.

Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. N. Y. 1. 446, et fig.
Cuy. et Valenc. His. Nat. des Poiss. t. x. p. 465.

The several species of foreign Atherine, are known by the
names ‘‘Atherine,” “Sand Smelts,” and ‘Anchovies,’ and are
much valued as articles of food. This species was described by
Mitchell, in his “‘ Fishes of New York,’ under the name of
““notata.” I have seen but two specimens: one, was sent
me from Holmes Hole, by Dr. Yale; the other was found by ~
Dr. Gould, at Provincetown.

The specimen lying upon my table, is four inches in length:
its greatest depth is one inch and a half. Body elongated, of a
reddish brown color, with a broad silvery band arising at base
of pectorals, and continued to caudal rays. Length of head
five lines, flattened on top. yes circular, one line in diame-
ter; pupils black, irides golden; distance between the eyes rather
more than one line. Jaws equal in length, armed with very
small teeth ; gill-covers golden.

The first Dorsal fin arises six lines back of the pectorals.

The second Dorsal is lighter colored than the body, and dis-
tant three lines from the first dorsal.

The Pectorals commence directly back of the upper part of
the operculum ; length less than one third of height; color of
back ; upper rays double the length of the lower.

The Ventrals arise on a line with posterior extremities of the
pectorals, and are five-rayed.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 63

The Anal fin is situated just back of the origin of second
dorsal ; as long again as high.

The Caudal fin is quite deeply forked ; lighter colored than
the other rays.

The fin rays are as follows: D. 4-9; P.12; V.5; A. 25;
C. 17.

Famity XII.
GOBIOIDES.

Puouts. Artedi.

Generic characters. Long, equal, and closely set teeth, form-
ing but a single and regular range in each jaw, terminated
behind, in some species, by a longer and hooked tooth. The
head is obtuse, the muzzle short, and the forehead vertical ;
the intestines broad and short.

P. subbifurcatus. Nobis. The subbifurcated pholis.

I have seen but a single specimen of this fish ; it was found
at an unusually low tide among the sea-weed at Nahant, and
brought to me by my brother-in-law, Thomas M. Brewer, M. D.

Specific characters. Dorsal fin extending to the tail ; fila-
ments upon the nostrils ; three dark colored bands passing from
the eyes ; lateral line subbifurcated.

Length, including tail, five inches five lines; depth across,
on a line with the anus, one inch; body much compressed.
General color of body, reddish brown; several lighter colored
circular patches along its upper part, at the base of the dorsal
fin ; the spaces between the rings darker than the rest of the
body, giving the appearance of bars. Body beneath the late-
ral line, lighter colored; abdomen yellowish white. Body
smooth, scales very minute. Length of head, from tip of
shout to posterior angle of the operculum, is to the whole

64 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

length of body as 1 to 3; above, brownish; operculum and
preoperculum yellow ; entire surface destitute of scales; jaws
somewhat protractile, armed with prominent, sharp teeth ; lips
large and fleshy ; over nostrils a minute filament one third of a
line in length ; circumference of eye, two lines ; from beneath
eye, a broad black band, wider at its base, crosses obliquely the
operculum ; two other bands of the same color extend from
behind eye backwards, in nearly a straight line, the distance
of from one to two lines. The Jateral line commences just
above the angle of the operculum, and, having extended two
lines, subbifurcates ; passing down in a gradual curve a little
more than a line, it is continued in a straight course to the
base of the caudal fin ; while the upper portion abruptly ter-
minates opposite the fourteenth ray of the dorsal fin.

The Dorsal fin, commencing on a line with the posterior
angle of the operculum, is continued to the caudal fin; the first
five rays of this fin are shorter than the sixth; the rays be-
come again shorter as they approach the tail ; numerous black
‘spots upon this fin: those larger upon the first five rays.

The Pectorals three lines long, of a light color, with some
darker shades, are rounded ; they arise on a line with the pos-
terior angle of the operculum, and also the commencement of
the dorsal fin.

The Ventrals are situated two lines in front of pectorals;
rays are united throughout the greater portion of their extent ;
extremities free.

Anus situated two and a half inches from extremity of jaws.

The Anal fin commences just half way between tip of snout
and extremity of tail; its edge is dark colored.

The Caudal fin is rounded: small dark-colored spots upon
this fin, as well as upon pectorals.

The number of fin rays as follows: D. 43; P. 13; V. 3;
A. 30; C. 14.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 65

Mouraenoiwes. Lacepede.

Generic characters. Head small, muzzle obtuse; body
elongated, smooth, scales minute, covered with a mucous secre-
tion; dorsal fin extending the whole length of the back, the
rays simple; ventral fins very small; teeth small, pointed,
detached.

M. guttata. Lacepede. The spotted Gunnel.

Pennant’s British Zoology, vol. iv. p. 183.
Mc Murtrie’s Cuv. vol. ii. p. 176.
Yarrell’s British Fishes, vol. i, p. 239, et fig.

This pretty little species, which is also called abroad “ butter
fish,” from the slime with which it is covered, is found at low
tide upon the beaches, beneath stones and sea-weed ; it is ex-
ceedingly difficult to retain in the hand after it is captured, on
account of its slipperiness and agility. It is common at Na-
hant, Holmes Hole, and probably along our entire sea-coast.
I have found it in the stomach of the ‘ Anarrhicas lupus,”
and ‘“ Cottus Virginianus,” and it is undoubtedly eaten by
many other fishes.

This fish is sometimes met with, twelve inches in length.
It is of a yellowish brown color, presenting a waved appear-
ance, with twelve or more ocelated black spots along the base
of the dorsal fin, surrounded with a lighter circle. The lateral
line pursues a straight course. Length of head, to whole
length of body, as 1 to 5. Hyes small; pupils black ; irides
bluish, with a beautiful red ring within. Mouth oblique when
jaws are closed. Minute sharp teeth in each jaw. Back of
angle of mouth, a brown band descends from eyes to throat.

The Dorsal fin, which is but slightly raised above back,
commences on a line above posterior angle of operculum, and
is continued to tail, being composed of spinous rays entirely
concealed, save their points, by the membrane.

The Pectoral fins are reddish, arising back of posterior infe-
rior angle of gill-covers.

9

66. FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

The Ventrals are very small, situated in front of pectorals ;
their outer rays spinous.

The first two rays of Anal fin are spinous.

All the fins rather lighter colored than the body of the fish.

The fin rays are as follows: D. 76; P.11; V. 1-1; A.
A2; C. 15.

This fish is said to be eaten by the Greenlanders, but I have
never heard of its being used for food in New England.

Zoarcus. Cuv.

Generic characters. Body elongated, covered with a mucous
secretion ; head smocth, muzzle blunt; ventral fins situated
before the pectorals ; dorsal, anal and caudal fins united ; all
the fins very thick ; vent anterior to the middle of the body, its
situation marked by a tubercle ; teeth conical, placed in a sin-
gle row ; branchiostegous rays 6.

Z. anguwillaris. Peck. The eel-shaped Blenny.

Memoirs American Academy, vol. ii. et fig.
Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. N. Y. vol. i. p. 375, et fig.
Mc Murtrie’s Cuv. vol. ili. p. 177.

Although Dr. Mitchell called this species ‘ Jabrosus,” in his
paper on the “‘ Fishes of New York,” read before the ‘‘ Lite-
rary and Philosophical Society of New York,’ in 1814, and
Cuvier has retained this specific name in his “ Regne Animal,”
still, as Peck, in 1794, wrote a good description of this fish
under the name of “ Blennius anguillaris,” and published his
account, accompanied by a very respectable figure, in the 2d
part of the 2d volume of the ‘‘ Memoirs of the American Acad-
emy of Arts and Sciences,’ in 1804, I should be doing injus-
tice to the memory of a distinguished naturalist, were I not so
regardful of his honor as to acknowledge the priority of his
description, and to attempt the establishment of his specific
name.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 67

This species, which is incorrectly called by our fishermen
“Ting,” sometimes attains the size of three and a half fect. It
is seldom met with in Boston market. When young, its flesh
is very sweet and palatable ; I have repeatedly had it upon my
table.

I improve the opportunity presented by the possession of a
fine specimen, taken at Provincetown, thirty-one inches in
length, to draw up the following description :

Color, a yellowish brown or fawn, sprinkled with darker
patches; beneath, paler; front and top of head, of a livid
color; gill-covers lighter, but rather dull, having a distinct
dirty white band nearly two lines in width, running obliquely
from under and outer angle of eye to posterior edge of opercu-
lum. Whole surface of fish, with the exception of head, cov-
ered with innumerable minute cup-like depressions. Head,
large, resembling in its aspect that of a ‘“‘ Cottus” ; body grad-
ually tapering, and terminating in a pointed tail. Length of
head to whole length of body as 1 to 5; width of back of
head, greater than greatest depth of body. Upper lip project-
ing beyond lower, very large and fleshy; projecting over jaw
nearly two thirds of an inch: under lip also quite fleshy, but
much less so than the upper. Teeth in jaws, large; those
situated in back of jaw, sharper; a single row from the outer
angle of upper jaw the extent of four teeth; then a double row
of three teeth; then, to the middle of jaw, a row of three teeth
deep; the front teeth of this triple row are the largest in the
jaw. A single row of eight teeth from outer angle of lower
jaw towards the middle; then a double row of from four to six
teeth to the middle of jaw. Numerous large teeth in throat ;
tongue large, fleshy, smooth. Nostrils tubular, about half the
distance between eyes and snout; distance between eyes, cqual
to about one sixth the length of head. Pupils of eye black ;
irides golden. 'The lateral line commences above operculum,
at a distance in front of its posterior angle, equal to the dis-
tance between the eyes, and passing just beyond posterior
angle of operculum, makes a slight curve downwards, and then
passes on towards posterior extremity of the body, in a straight

68 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

course ; a portion of this line is scarcely visible. All the fins
are enveloped in a fleshy membrane.

The Dorsal fin, commencing on the same plane with ven-
trals, is continued to the tail; previous to reaching the tail,
however, about seventeen of its rays lose their fleshy portion,
and exhibit only their spinous bases. At the termination of
these spinous rays, commences the tail.

The Pectorals are broad, round at their extremities, and of a
yellow color, inclining to brown at their base.

The Ventrals are situated in front of pectorals, composed of
two rays, but, being enveloped by a tough membrane, appear
as if but one.

Anus large, situated just in front of anal fin.

The rays of the Anal and Caudal fins cannot be distinguished
from each other. About one hundred rays can be counted of
the anal fin, but the rays of the fleshy tail cannot be distin-
guished. Both dorsal and anal fins are of a greenish color,
tinged with yellow.

The fin rays, as far as practicable to be counted, are as
follows: B.6; D. 120; P. 19; V. 2; A. 100.

In a living specimen of this species, received March 27,
1838, twenty-one inches in length, the color was a light sal-
mon, mottled with irregular olive-colored blotches, darker
towards the head. Head lighter colored than in larger speci-
mens: the two oblique bands on operculum, narrow and rather
indistinct. In upper jaw, the row of single teeth is six in
number; in lower jaw, the single row contains six also.
Trides salmon colored. A considerable number of mucous
glands are quite obvious upon head, back of, and beneath eyes.
The /ateral line is more perceptible than in mature specimen.
Body beneath, white; neck, flesh colored.

The Dorsal fin almost white, salmon colored at its edge.

The Pectorals of a true salmon color, lighter at their origin.

The Ventrals, salmon colored.

The Anal is salmon colored at its edge, flesh colored at its
base, with seven distinct white blotches in its extent.

The dorsal, pectoral and anal fins are perfectly transparent.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 69

In the stomach of this fish I found specimens of the follow-
ing shells, viz.: Buccinum undatum, F'usus corneus, and
pleurotomarius ; Turbo inflatus, Natica triseriata, and con-
solidata ; Bulla tritacea, and Tellina sordida.

AnarruicHas. Lin.

Generic characters. Head smooth, rounded in form, muz-
zle obtuse ; body elongated, covered with minute scales ; dorsal
and anal fins long, distinct from the caudal ; no ventral fins :
teeth of two kinds ; those in front elongated, curved, pointed ;
the others on the vomer, as also on the jaws, truncated, or
shghtly rounded: branchiostegous rays 6.

A. lupus. L. The Wolf Fish. Cat Fish.

Pennant’s British Zoology, vol. iii. p. 133, et fig.
Strack’s plates, 21, fig. 2.

Me Murtrie’s Cuv. vol. ii. p. 177.

Yarrell’s British Fishes, vol. i., p. 247, et fig.
Richardson’s Fauna, p. 95.

This ferocious species is captured about rocky ledges at all
seasons of the year, although greater numbers are taken in
winter than at any other time. The cusk rocks, between
Boston and Cape Ann, are a favorite resort of this fish. Its
hideous appearance renders it an object of such disgust, that it
is not unfrequently thrown away as soon as caught. By many
of our fishermen, however, it is regarded as excellent food, and
thought to be scarcely inferior to that of any of our fishes;
specimens weighing from five to ten pounds are very delicate
when fried or boiled. I have had this fish upon my table:
few fish are superior to it when broiled.

My description is drawn up from a specimen three feet in
length, weighing fifteen pounds. Entire body covered with a
slimy secretion. Color, a purplish brown, with transverse
nearly black bars, passing from abdomen high up on the dorsal
fin; beneath, lighter. Head large, flattened on top, blunt at
snout. Length of head to entire length of body, as 10 to 36;

70 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

depth of head, nearly equal to its length. yes moderate in
size; irides yellow ; distance between eyes equal to one fifth
the length of head. Jaws equal, armed with long, strong,
pointed teeth ; in the back part of lower jaw, these teeth are
very large and blunted tubercles; on each side of roof of
mouth, teeth are large and prominent ; in the middle of roof a
double ridge of tubercles similar to, but larger than those on
jaws, extending some distance back, looking like single teeth
divided in their centre. Tongue large, fleshy, fuliginous.
Lips loose, fleshy.

The Dorsal fin, which is about the same height throughout
its whole extent, arises on a line with the base of pectorals,
and extends near to tail, appearing as if almost united to it, by
the prolongation of the membrane of fin.

The length of Pectorals to their height as 3 to 5; rays very
large ; when expanded, these fins are rounded in their outline.

The Anal fin arises immediately back of the anus, which is
very large, and terminates on a plane with the dorsal; in
height, this fin is about one third that of dorsal.

The Caudal fin in length less than one third its height.

The fin rays are as follows: D. 74; P. 20; A. 46; C. 16.

Faminy XIII.
PECTORALES PEDICULATI.

Loruivus. Lin.

Generic characters. Head very large, depressed; body
slender, smooth, without scales; two dorsal fins separated ;
pectoral fins broad and thick, somewhat resembling feet ; ven-
tral fins small, placed considerably before the pectorals ; teeth
differing in size, numerous, conical, sharp, curving backwards ;
tongue broad ; branchial cavities large, with only a small open-
ing behind the pectoral fins ; branchiostegous rays 6.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 71

L. piscatorius. Lin. The Angler. Frog Fish. Sea Devil.
Goose Fish. Wide Gab.
Pennant’s British Zoology, vol. iii. 105, et fig.
Shaw’s Zool. vol. ii. 379, et fig.
Strack’s Plates, x. 1.
Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. N. Y. vol. i. 464.
Mc Murtrie’s Cuv. vol. ii. 184.
Yarrell’s British Fishes, i. 269, et fig.

Specimens of this species are yearly taken in Massachusetts
Bay by our cod fishers ; with whom, it is generally known as
the “Goose fish,” although sometimes incorrectly called the
“ Monk fish.”

A perfect specimen of this loathsome looking fish was
brought me by my old friend, Capt. Nathaniel Blanchard,
which he captured September 6th, 1837, in Boston Bay. It
measured forty-four inches in length, and thirty-five in
breadth, with the gape of the mouth nine inches in extent.
As, at that time, I did not think of minutely describing
each of our species, I was satisfied to compare it with several
descriptions, with which I found a perfect correspondence.
Since then, I have been unable to procure another specimen
for description, and therefore copy Yarrell’s account, which is
concise and very clear.

“The number of fin rays is D. 111-12; P.2U; V. 5; A.
SenC..8.

The head is wide, depressed ; the mouth nearly as wide as
the head ; lower jaw the longer, bearded or fringed all round
the edge; both jaws armed with numerous teeth of different
length, conical, sharp, and curving inwards; teeth also on the
palatine bones and tongue; three elongated, unconnected fila-
ments on the upper part of the head; two near the upper lip,
one at the nape, all three situated in a depression on the mid-
dle line ; eyes large, irides brown, pupils black; pectoral fins
broad and rounded at the edge, wide at the base ; branchial
pouches in part supported by the six branchiostegous rays.

72 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

Body narrow compared with the breadth of the head, and
tapering gradually to the tail; vent about the middle of the
body ; the whole fish covered with a loose skin.

Color of the whole upper surface of the body uniform
brown; fin membranes darker; under surface of the body,
ventral, and pectoral fins white; tail dark brown, almost
black.”

By the motion of the filaments with which the head of this
species is furnished, it is supposed to allure within its reach
smaller species upon which it voraciously feeds. That it
however sometimes seizes large and powerful fishes, we learn
from Pennant, who says it is so highly regarded by the fisher-
men on the coast of Scarborough, being supposed by them to
be a great enemy of the dog fish, that it is set at liberty when-
ever taken: and he adds in a note, ‘‘ the bodies of these fierce
and voracious fish are often found in the stomach of the Fish-
ing frog.”

CHIRONECTES. Cuv.

Generic characters. Four rays on the head, as in Lophius ;
the first of which ts slender, and frequently terminating in a
tuft; the succeeding ones, augmented by a membrane, are
sometimes much enlarged, and at others, united into a fin.
The body and head are compressed ; the mouth cleft vertically :
the only opening of the branchia, which are furnished with
four rays, is a canal, and a small hole behind the pectorals ;
the dorsal occupies nearly the whole length of the back. The
entire body is frequently provided with cutaneous appendages ;
there are four branchia ; the natatory bladder is large, and the
intestine moderate, and without coeca. These fishes, by filling
their enormous stomachs with air, are enabled to expand their
belly like a balloon ; on land, three pairs of fins enable them to
creep almost like small quadrupeds, the pectorals, from their
position, performing the functions of hind feet, and thus they
live out of water for two or three days.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 73

C. laevigatus. Cuv. The smooth Chironectes.
Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. fig. ix. pl. iv.

Several specimens of this fish were sent me from Holmes
Hole, by Dr. Yale; all of them very small. From the largest
individual, I have drawn up the following description :

Length one and a quarter inches. Body very much com-
pressed upon the sides, tapering from the head, where it is high-
est, to the tail. Color a dull white, with irregularly distributed
dark brown blotches, or partially formed longitudinal bands,
which are margined with a clear white: clear white spots
upon the abdomen. Mouth vertical, very large. Eyes mode-
rate in size. Jaws with numerous very minute teeth. A dark-,
colored flexible ray in front of, and between the eyes, with a
slight filament suspended from its extremity; back of this, a
larger, stouter ray, with a membrane attached posteriorly ; this
ray also supports a filament. Very slight cutaneous appen-
dages beneath the lower jaw.

The Dorsal nearly half an inch long, variegated by the con-
tinuation upon it of the black blotches upon the body.

The Pectorals stout, about one fourth of an inch long, color
of the dorsal.

The Ventrals in front of the pectorals, colored like the other
fins.

The Anal straight at the extremity.

The fin rays areas follows: D. 11; P.8; V.4; A.6; C.6.

Batracuus. Bloch.

Generic characters. The head horizontally flattened, broader
than the body ; the mouth well cleft ; operculum and suboper-
culum spinous ; six branchial rays ; the ventrals narrow, in-
serted under the throat, and formed of but three rays, the first
of which is elongated and widened; pectorals supported by a
small arm, the result of the elongation of the carpal bones.
The first dorsal short, and supported by three spinous rays ;

10

74 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

the second is soft and long, as well as that of the anus, which
corresponds to it. The lips are frequently furnished with
filaments. Those which have been dissected. present a stomach
resembling an oblong sac, and short intestines, but there is no
coecum. The fore part of the natatory bladder is deeply bi-
furcated. They keep themselves hidden in the sand, to sur-
prise their prey, like the Lophius, §c. ; the wounds inflicted
by the spines are reported dangerous.

B. variegatus. Le Sueur. The Toad Fish.

Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, Phil. vol. ii. p. 398.

To Dr. Yale, 1am indebted for two fine specimens of this
species, from Holmes Hole. He informs me, they are gene-
rally found in ponds and lagoons connected with the sea in
muddy water: in winter, they are captured through the ice
in spearing eels; and are not used for food. Each of these
specimens was eleven inches in length. Color yellowish ;
entire surface of the head, sides and abdomen marbled with
black ; the head so closely dotted as to appear almost black ; sides
irregularly undulated ; abdomen less closely marked. All the
fins banded with black lines. Whole of the body enveloped with
a copious viscid secretion, which flows from numerous mucous
pores every where distributed: beneath each eye, are eight very
distinct glands : they are also observed upon the opercula. Head
very much compressed: its length and breadth equal. Body
much narrower than the head ; gradually tapering from the base
of the pectorals to a short distance back of the anus, beyond which
it becomes very much compressed. Operculum armed with
three distinct spines, the upper most prominent: cheeks protu-
berant. Diameter of the eye three lines ; pupils black ; irides
golden: over the middle of each eye is situated a large fleshy
appendage which hangs down over the eye, and, just before
this, a very small appendage. Mouth very large ; lips fleshy ;
on the chin four small fleshy appendages ; directly beneath these,
two smaller ones; on a line with these latter, three larger
appendages on each side, with a still larger one at the angle

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 75

of each jaw. Lower jaw longer than the upper: a single row of
strong conical teeth in each jaw upon its sides ; with more than
one row in front of the jaw. Teeth on the vomer. Tongue small.
Branchial aperture as wide as the base of the pectorals. ‘The
lateral line, which is studded with very distinct mucous pores
throughout its whole extent, arises Just back of the upper spine
of the operculum, and runs in nearly a straight course high up
on the back to the tail.

The first Dorsal fin is quite small, and arises just back of the
head : it is composed of three spinous rays, of which the second
is longest.

The second Dorsal commences directly behind the first, and
terminates just in front of the tail; it is beautifully marked
with seven broad, oblique black bands: this fin, at its posterior
extremity, is one third less high than at its middle.

The Pectorals originate at the lower edge of the branchial
opening. The fleshy portion of their base is sprinkled with
irregular markings like the head: the rays of these fins are
crossed transversely by six interrupted black bands, those at
the base being the narrowest.

The Ventral fins originate some distance in front of the pecto-
rals; they are coniposed of three rays; the centre is large, ex-
ternally fleshy, falciform.

The Anal fin commences rather further back than the dor-
sal: it is marked with seven oblique black bands. The fleshy
extremities of this fin, like those of the second dorsal, are free,
and present a digitated appearance.

The Caudal fin has five uninterrupted transverse dark bands,
the two at base, narrower than the others.

The fin rays areas follows: B.3; D. 3, 25; P.16; V.3;
“A. 24; C. 14.

The specimens from which Le Sueur described this species,
as being found at Egg Harbor, N. J., were much smaller than
those I have seen, being less than six inches: in some unim-
portant respects, his description differs from the appearance of
my specimens, an account of which is here presented: the
ichthyologist will at once perceive that they might very natu-
rally be produced by difference of age and locality.

76 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

Famity XIV.
LABROIDES.

Lasrus. Lin.

Generic characters. Body elongated, covered with large
thin scales: a single dorsal fin, extending nearly the whole
length of the back ; part of the rays spinous, the others flexible ;
behind the point of each spinous ray a short membranous fila-
ment: lips large and fleshy ; teeth conspicuous, conical, sharp ;
cheek and operculum covered with scales ; preoperculum and
operculum without serrations or spines.

L. Americanus. Bloch. The Tautog. Black Fish.
Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. N. Y. p. 399, et fig.

Although a very few years only have passed since this spe-
cies was brought into Massachusetts Bay, it is now taken along
a large portion of the coast. At Plymouth and Nahant, at
some seasons, it is found in no inconsiderable numbers, and is
frequently caught from the bridges leading from Boston.
From one of these bridges, a specimen was taken a few years
since, weighing eleven pounds and three quarters. The Bos-
ton market is for the most part supplied, however, by Well-
fleet. Iam informed that in 1836 three smacks were con-
stantly employed in the harbor of South Wellfleet, in the
tautog fishery, from April to November, and that it was a
profitable occupation to those engaged in it. Large numbers
are carried from this latter place to New York. At New Bed-
ford, 300 pounds of fresh tautog have been sold by a single
market-boat ina day. 'This fish is also pickled at the last
place, and may be kept in a weak brine for along time. In
this state, they are considered by epicures a great delicacy.
Mr. Henry Blood, of New Bedford, informs me, that a speci-
men of this fish was taken in Rochester harbor, which weighed
fourteen pounds and three ounces. ‘The largest individual of
which I have any knowledge, weighed sixteen pounds.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. a

This species varies considerably in ‘its markings ; generally,

however, it is of a bluish black above, diversified with bands
and blotches, mottled with darker spots towards the abdomen.
Abdomen whitish.
_ Body regularly arched from the tip of the snout to the ex-
tremity of the dorsal fin. Length of the head to the posterior
angle of the operculum, about one fourth the length of the body,
including the tail. Head naked, save a patch of small scales
upon the upper part of the operculum, and a vertical band of
similar scales upon the preoperculum, just back of the eyes.
Lips large and fleshy: jaws with a single row of strong conical
teeth, those in front, largest; teeth in the pharynx. Nostrils
double, small, above and in front of the anterior angle of eye.
Eyes circular; pupils blue black ; irides silvery, dusky after
death ; diameter of the eye equal to half the distance between
eyes. The lateral line arises just above the operculum, and
curves with the body.

The Dorsal fin arises on a line with the pectorals; the first
seventeen rays terminate in naked spines, at the base of which
are small floating, fleshy tentacula; the posterior fleshy rays of
this fin are nearly as high again as the spinous rays; fin ex-
tends to within a short distance of the tail. Base of the rays
with scales.

The Pectorals commence just in front of the posterior angle
of the operculum ; of the color of the abdomen, rounded at the
extremity. Length to height as I to 3.

The Ventrals are situated a short distance back of the pec-
torals ; above, dark colored; beneath, white; length about one
third their height. ‘The outer ray spinous.

The Anal fin arises opposite the sixteenth spinous ray of the
dorsal fin, and terminates on the sarne plane with that fin; the
three first rays are spinous; fin longer than high.

The Caudal fin is even at its extremity ; length of the fin
one third greater than its height.

The fin rays are as follows: D. 28; P.15; V.6; A. 11;
C. 15.

78 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

CRENILABRUS. CuvVv.

Generic characters. The Crenilabri have all the external
and internal characters of the true Labri, but are distinguished
from them by the denticulation of the edge of the preopercu-
lum. They are generally a little deeper also in the body com-
pared with their length.

C. burgall. Schoepp. The Conner. Blue Perch. Chogset.
Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. N. Y. p. 402.

From the middle of June until September, this is a very
common species in our waters. It is taken along our whole
sea-board, not only by the fishermen’s nets in myriads, but by
the needy and destitute from our wharves and bridges, and is
an excellent fish for the table.

The colors of this species vary exceedingly ; thus, in the
same sweep of the net, some are taken of a deep bluish color ;
others, spotted over their entire surface with yellowish spots ;
and others, almost of an uniform rust color.

My description is drawn up from a specimen nine inches in
length. Body above, rusty; sides, spotted over their whole
surface with lighter colored spots than the ground of the back ;
abdomen of a bluish white color, with sparse spots. Lower
part of the gzdl-covers, together with the throat, and ventral and.
anal fins, blue. Depth of the body across the base of the ven-
trals, exclusive of the dorsal fin, rather more than two inches.
Length of the head two inches, slightly flattened on its top ;
a perceptible convexity back of the neck, in front of the dorsal
fin. Preoperculum finely denticulated upon its posterior edge ;
a fleshy prolongation at the posterior angle of the operculum.
Between, and in front of the eyes, irregular bluish lines, ap-
pearing like hieroglyphics, more strongly marked than on the
neck. Diameter of the eye, one line less than the distance
between the eyes; pupils black; irides silvery. Jazs equal,
and with numerous teeth ; those in front larger, recurved ; teeth

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 79

also on the pharynx. The lateral line distinct, of a darker
rust color than the sides, curving very slightly with the body
until just before the termination of the dorsal fin, when it sud-
denly curves downwards two lines, and then passes straight to
the tail.

The Dorsal fin arises on a line with the posterior angle of
the operculum, and terminates within about an inch of the tail.
It has about eighteen strong rays, the spines of which project
at their tips ; the upper portion of their connecting membrane
is free, giving the appearance of filaments; the eleven last rays
are membranous. The spinous rays gradually increase in
height to the membranous rays, which are still more elevated.

The Pectorals arise on a line with the dorsal; their height
to their length is as 2 to 1.

The Ventrals are situated back of the pectorals; the first ray
spinous.

The Anal fin has its first three rays spinous; its length to
its height as 2 to 1.

The Caudal fin is nearly even at the tip; its rays one third
longer than high.

The fin rays are as follows: B.&; D. 18-11; P. 15; V.6;
A. 12; C. 16.

Famity XV.
FISTULARIDAE.

Fistutarra. Lin.

Generic characters. A single dorsal, most of which, as well
as of the anal, is composed of simple rays. The intermazil-
laries and the lower jaw are armed with small teeth. From
the two lobes of the caudal proceeds a filament which is some-
tumes as long as the body. The tube of the snout is very
long and depressed, the natatory bladder excessively small,
and the scales invisible.

80 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

EF. serrata. Bloch. The Tobacco-pipe Fish.

Although Richardson, in his ‘‘ Fauna,” observes that the
“ Fistularia tabaccaria frequents the coast of the United
States,” it must be exceedingly rare in the waters which bor-
der New England ; as I have neither met with one myself, nor
heard of one’s being seen by any individual whose accuracy
could be relied upon. Richardson also remarks, that the “ F’.
serrata frequents the West Indies and the sea of Brazil.’
Cuvier, in the notes to his “ Regne Animal,’ refers to Cates-
by’s plates for a figure of this species ; he could not infer, from
this figure, that the species was the “ serrata,” unless he had
also received a specimen of the fish, and concluded it was the
only Fistularia found upon the coast of the United States.
Catesby’s figure is represented with two dorsal fins.

The specimen before me was sent several years since to this
city by Dr. Yale, who procured it at Holmes Hole. It is still
in a state of fine preservation, and belongs to the cabinet of the
‘“‘ Boston Society of Natural History.” It has not the spots upon
its sides which are possessed by the tabaccaria : nor does it
agree with the figures of that species in Rees’ Encyclopedia ;
Sonnini’s Buffon ; Strack’s Plates; or Shaw’s Zoology: but in
the fifth volume of Shaw’s Zoology, the author observes, ‘‘a
variety has been described by Dr. Bloch, in which this part”
(referring to the tail) ‘was double, and the snout serrated.”
A figure of the tail of this variety, as he calls it, is also repre-
sented by Shaw. This is undoubtedly our fish ; and, although
I have no means of ascertaining what the “ serrata’ is, having
neither Bloch nor any other work on ichthyology, which
speaks of it, yet, looking at its serrated intermaxillaries, and
lateral line, I have no doubt that the species before me is that
fish. Dr. Yale writes me it is not often found.

My specimen is ten inches in length. Upper part of the
body, of a reddish brown color ; a narrow bluish band upon the
sides, through the centre of which, runs the lateral line which
commences just above the posterior portion of the operculum,
and runs obliquely backwards about an inch, then approximat-

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 81

ing that of the opposite side, runs a straight course an inch and
a half; then passes down upon the side. At first, this line is
quite indistinct, but more prominent towards the posterior half
of the body; it becomes a sensible ridge, which, back of the
dorsal, is quite strongly serrated. Abdomen lighter colored
than the back: throat white. Entire length of the head, from
the tip of the snout to the posterior extremity of the intermax-
illaries, nine inches. TJ'ube of a hard, horny consistence,
strongly serrated laterally upon its upper portion, and less dis-
tinctly above and beneath: wider than deep: width just in
front of the eyes, three quarters of an inch; at the angle of the
jaws, half an inch. Vertical gape of the mouth, half an inch:
jaws armed with numerous small teeth ; lower jaw longer than
the upper, with a protuberance at the chin. Gjll-covers per-
fectly smooth, with a serrated portion above them, three quar-
ters of an inch in extent.

The Dorsal fin is triangular, same color as the abdomen ;
situated upon the posterior third of the body.

The Pectorals are situated a quarter of an inch back of the
operculum ; their length to their height is about as 1 to 3.

The Ventrals are two and a half inclies back of the pectorals,
very small; half of an inch long; color of the abdomen.

The Anal, similar in form to the dorsal, is directly opposite
that fin.

The Caudal is deeply forked, being nearly an inch wide
between the lobes at the extremities, when they are expanded.
Directly from the centre of this fin, as 7 1t were a continuation
of the lateral line, proceeds a strozg filament nine inches in
length, jointed at its commencement like some of the Gorgo-
niae, which becomes exceedinsly delicate at its termination.
From its base, another very minute filament arises.

The fin rays are as follows: D.14; P.16; V.6; A. 14;
C. 16.

11

ORDER II.

MALACOPTERYGIT ABDOMINALES.

Famity I.
CYPRINIDZ.

Cyprinus. Lin.

Generic characters. Body covered with large scales ; a sin-
gle elongated dorsal fin; lips jfieshy ; mouth small; teeth in
the pharynx, but none on the jaws ; branchiostegous rays 3.

C. auratus. Lin. The golden Carp.

Pennant’s British Zoology, vol. iii. p. 327.
Yarrell’s British Fishes, vol. i. 315 et fig.

This specie: is so well known that, did not this report con-
template a descziption of every fish known to inhabit our
waters, I should pas it by, after having merely included it in
my catalogue. It is und in quite a number of ponds in the
vicinity of Boston, conaected with the country seats, bearing
perfectly well the rigors oi our winters, and breeding in great
numbers. I have seen them at Brookline, Cambridge and
Brighton; from the latter plece, the specimens before me
were received, through the politeness of my friend Samuel
Downer, Jr.

The following appearances are presented: Form oblong ;
body slightly arched from the occiput to the commencement of
the dorsal fin, and then gradually curved to the termination of
that fin. Color, a bright orange on the upper part of the body ;
lighter upon the sides; white beneath. Scales large, exhibit-

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 83

ing several strie, and, under the microscope, a great number of
very minute points or granulations, giving a rough feel to their
surface. ‘The number of the scales in an oblique direction,
from the origin of the dorsal fin to the abdomen, is ten. The
lateral line, which is very distinct and nearly straight, passes
through the seventh row of scales. Length of the head, one
fifth the length of the body, flattened between the eyes: eyes
moderate in size; pupils black ; irides silvery ; diameter of the
eye equal to half the distance between the eyes. Mouth small;
jaws toothless; upper jaw the longer. Nostrils large. Sub-
orbitar and opercular surfaces, golden ; the latter covered with
delicate strie.

The Dorsal fin arises on the anterior half of the body, as
long again as high: the first two rays are spinous; the first,
very short and slightly roughened behind; the second, large
and strongly serrated behind.

The Pectorals arise in front of the dorsal fin, at a distance
equal to half their length; their length equal to one sixth their
height.

The Ventrals are situated under the anterior portion of the
dorsal fin, at the posterior third of the pectorals; their length
to their height as 2 to 7.

The Anal fin is higher than long ; its first two rays are spi-
nous, serrated behind, resembling those of the dorsal.

The Caudal fin is lunated, its depth at the base to its length
as 6 to 9.

The fin rays are as follows: D. 15; P.15; V.9; A. 17;
C. 18.

The appearances of this species in color, forms of its fins, and
many other particulars, vary exceedingly by domestication.

Catrostomus. Le Sueur.

Generic characters. Back witha single fin: gill mem-
branes three rayed ; head and opercula smooth ; jaws toothless
and retractile ; mouth beneath the snout ; lips platted, lobed, or
carunculated, suitable for sucking. Throat with pectinated
teeth.

84 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

C. Bostoniensis. Le Sueur. The common Sucker.

Memoirs of American Academy of Arts and Sciences, vol. xxi, et fig.
Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, Phil. vol. i et fig.

This species was first described by Peck, in the “ Memoirs
of the American Acadervy of Arts and Sciences,” and quite
well figured as the ‘‘ Cyprinus catostomus” of Foster. In
the excellent monograph of the genus *‘ Catostomus” contained
in the first volume of the “ Journal of the Academy of Natu-
ral Sciences,’ Le Sueur describes and figures this fish with
the specific name of ‘ Bostoniensis.” In the spring and
autumn, it is not unfrequently found in the Boston market ; and
in a mild winter, they may be met with at almost any time.
They are generally taken in Charles River at Watertown, and
sometimes attain the weight of five pounds. But little value
is attached to them by the fishermen, and not unfrequently
they are thrown away for want of demand. They are occa-
sionally brought into the city by the cartload, and palmed off
upon the ignorant, as the mudlet.

The specimen before me is fifteen inches in length. Body
subcylindrical. Color of the back a slight brown, darker
towards the head, which is nearly olive colored; sides of a
reddish brown, presenting a beautiful metallic lustre ; beneath,
white. Scales on the anterior portion of the body much smaller
than upon the posterior. Length of the head to the entire length
of the body including the tail as 1 to 5; head perfectly smooth ;
rows of mucous pores are seen on the back of the head, and
above and beneath the eyes. Eyes moderate in size, circular ;
pupils black ; irides golden ; distance between the eyes equal to
one quarter the length of the head, when the jaws are closed.
Mouth small ; lips corrugated ; jaws destitute of teeth. Oper-
cula golden. Nostrils just in front of the eyes ; double ; anterior,
larger and circular ; posterior, narrower and transverse. ‘The
lateral line, which is composed of sixty-four scales, commences
back of the anterior portion of the operculum, and curving

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 8

slightly downwards, assumes nearly a straight course, which
is continued to the base of the caudal rays. |

The pectoral, ventral and anal fins are reddish. The dor-
sal and caudal are of a dark brown.

The Dorsal fin arises back of the middle of the body, and is
rather longer than high.

The Pectorals commence just behind the branchial opening ;
their height to their length as 2 to 1.

The Ventrals arise on a line opposite the middle of the dor-
sal fin, and are in length to their height as 1 to 3.

The Anal fin, which is rather rounded than pointed, is in
length to its height as 1 to 2. The anus is at the origin of the
anal fin.

The Caudal fin is deeply forked ; and its depth at extremity
is to its depth at its base as 2 to 1.

The fin rays are as follows: D. 13; P. 18; V. 10; A.9;
C. 18.

C. tuberculatus. Le Sueur. The horned Sucker.
Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, Phil. vol. i. p. 93.

Of this species, described by Le Sueur from specimens ob-
tained in Pennsylvania, I have seen but two individuals, which
were taken at Watertown with the preceding species. I am in-
formed it is not an uncommon fish in the ponds of various
parts of this State and New Hampshire, and that it is called,
very incorrectly however, the ‘‘ Barbel.”

A specimen, fourteen inches in length, presents the follow-
ing appearances. Greatest depth rather less than one anda
half inches ; width across the body from the commencement of
the dorsal fin about three inches. 'This species is readily dis-
tinguished from the C. “ Bostoniensis,” our most common
sucker, by its being less elongated, and deeper ; and by the
gibbosity of the nape of the neck ; and from allother species, by
the tubercles on its snout. Color above, dark brown ; sides yel-
lowish ; beneath white. Scales large, with golden reflections,
and distinct radii. Length of the head, two inches four lines ;

86 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

above livid; sides, of a dull white. Between the eyes and the
snout, four prominent horns on each side ; the upper anterior the
largest, being two lines in height ; the upper posterior the small-
est. Beneath the first tubercle, a smaller is seen, and directly
behind it, a third, nearly as large as the first: these three first
form a triangle. Just above the third tubercle, and in front of
the upper anterior angle of the eye, and between the nostrils and
the eye is a fourth tubercle smaller than the others. H’yes very
small; pupil black, surrounded by a red ring. Nostrils double.
Mouth small, lunated. Back rises suddenly on the nape of
the neck, leaving a sensible depression before it.

The Dorsal fin arises upon the anterior half of the body ; its
height one third less than its length.

The Pectorals are reddish, with brown tips; length equal to
one third their height.

The Ventrals of the same color, and same length as the pec-
torals.

The longest rays of the Anal fin more than one third higher
than the length of the fin.

The lower lobe of the Caudal fin slightly longer than the
upper.

The fin rays are as follows: D. 15; P. 16; V.9; A. 10;
C. 22.

I have no doubt that this is the “ tuberculatus” of Le Sueur.
He describes his specimen as having but three tubercles. 'This
was owing undoubtedly to the smallest tubercle having fallen
off, which I find is the case with one on one side of the speci-
men before me, without leaving the slightest mark to point its

location.

C. nigricans. Le Sueur. The black Sucker.

Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, vol. i. p. 102.

By the kindness of Mr. H. Erastus Clap, of Walpole, I re-
ceived, in May, 1838, eight beautiful fresh specimens of this
species, which enabled me to test its goodness at my own ta-

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 87 |

ble, besides supplying several of my friends, who agreed with
me, that, although its flesh was rather dry, it was much prefer-
able to that of the ‘‘ Bostoniensis.”” The largest of these
specimens was twenty inches in length, and weighed three
and a half pounds. From a specimen fifteen inches in length,
the following description is made, as being more nearly like
the specimen from which Le Sueur drew up his description,
than the larger specimens.

Color of the back, black; sides reddish yellow, witi black
blotches; beneath, white, with golden reflections. Scales
moderate in size. Head quadrangular, one fifth the -ength of
the fish; top of the head of a deeper black than she body.
Eyes moderate, oblong; pupils black; irides golder. Mouth
large ; corrugations of the lips very large, particulady those of
the lower lip. The Jateral line arising back of theoperculum,
on a line opposite the centre of the eye, makes < very slight
curve downwards, and then pursues nearly a straight course to
the tail; it is composed of sixty scales. Back, between the
head and dorsal fin, rounded.

The Pectoral, Ventral and Anal fins are reddish.

The Caudal and Dorsal, blackish.

The Dorsal fin in height is equal to two thirds its length.

The third and fourth rays of the Anal fin, which are longest,
extend a little on to the rays of the caudal fin.

The fin rays are as follows: D.13; P.18; V.9; A. 8;
C. 18.

In two of the eight specimens, there were but twelve rays
in the dorsal fin.

In larger specimens than that just described, the back is not
black, but, together with the sides, is of an olive brown color ;
in others again, the back is neither black nor olive brown, but
reddish, like the sides; in some specimens, a longitudinal band
of a deeper red than the rest of the side, runs the whole length
of the fish, just beneath the dark-colored back. The golden
tints reflected from the opercula, and the scales along the
entire sides of this species, give it a very brilliant appearance.
It is known by the common name of “‘ Black Sucker.”

88 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

C. gibbosus. Le Sueur. The gibbous Sucker.
Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, vol. i. p. 92, et fig.

I have never met with this species, which Le Sueur ‘ dis-
covered in the river Connecticut, near Northampton, where it
is calied Chub Sucker,” and therefore extract his description,
from the “Journal of the Academy of Natural Sciences of
Philadilphia.’’

‘Back elevated in front of the dorsal fin, which is almost as
high as \broad, and rounded; anal fin bilobated. Head
nearly ashigh as long; snout short, roundish; tail straight ;
caudal fin yemi-lunated, lobes roundish, the fitedigs one inde
than the ujper ; ; scales very much crowded transversely a short
distance fron the opercula, but more developed on the rest
of the body | the color of the back is a deep blue, with golden
reflections; pectoral, ventral and anal fins of a fine reddish
orange color; caudal fin tinted with carmine and violet ; dor-
sal fin bluish green ; abdominal scales red at their base ; lateral
line hardly perceptible ; body marked with four or five faint
transverse bands. Length of specimen eleven inches.

Pe Lor DE Late 9 AOE eal Srrayis:

Dr. Mitchell’s description of the ‘Cyprinus oblongus’ ap-
proaches to this; but there are important characters in my
species, not noticed in that of the former, which preclude a
conclusion that they are the same; therefore, as the matter
now stands, I must consider the’ above a nondescript.”’

a

Levciscus. Klein.

Generic characters. The anal fin short, as well as the dor-
sal, but without strong rays at the commencement of either ;
no barbules at the mouth.

L. crysoleucas. Mitchell. The New York Shiner.

Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. N. Y. vol. i. p. 459,
Fauna Boreali-Americana, p. 122.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 89

This quite common species in the ponds throughout the
State, is taken with the “ Pomotis vulgaris,” “ Perca flaves-
cens,” ‘ E'sox reticulatus,” and “ Pimelodus nebulosus.” It
has been described by Mitchell, who does not, however, men-
tion its general size, nor the proportion of its several parts
compared to each other. 'The following description is drawn
up from a living specimen of average size: Length of the fish,
from the tip of the snout to the extremity of the tail, six and a
half inches; width across the body, on a line with the base of
the ventrals, two inches; length of the head to the posterior
angle of the operculum, one inch and three lines. General
color, a beautiful golden; top of the head and back, black ;
gill-covers a brighter yellow than the sides; preoperculum less
brilliant than the operculum. Head above somewhat depressed;
eyes, two anda half lines in diameter ; pupils black ; irides yel-
low ; jaws without teeth. The Jateral line, consisting of about
fifty-six scales, commences just back of the superior angle of
the operculum, half an inch above the base of the pectoral fin,
and passing obliquely down over about eighteen scales, oppo-
site the posterior extremity of the pectoral fins, very gradually
passes up again towards the posterior extremity of the body,
assuming a straight course, which is pursued to the base of the
tail.

‘The Dorsal fin is of a light brown color; it commences
about three lines back of the ventral fins, is five lines wide at
the base, and partially shuts into a groove.

The Pectoral fins commence on a line with the posterior
angle of the operculum; they are an inch long; yellowish,
except the upper rays, which are nearly black.

The Ventrals are reddish.

The Anal fin, which is slightly tinged with reddish, com-
mences on a line opposite the termination of the base of the
dorsal, and, like that fin, is received into a groove.

The Caudal quite deeply forked; of the same color as the
dorsal.

Mbe\in) vaysiare:as-tollaws::\) D9. P. 17: V9; Auueo:
C..19.

12

90 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

This fish is taken at all seasons, even through the ice in
winter. It is seldom found in Boston market, but is generally
taken for pickerel bait, and is considered the best bait for that
fish.

L. argenteus. Nobis. The silvery Leuciscus.

By the name of “ Dace,” this species, which I suppose to
be undescribed, is generally known in those portions of the
State where it is found. The specimen before me I received
from Worcester county. The following are its characters:

Entire length of the specimen, six inches two lines; depth
of the head, half an inch; depth of the body across from the
origin of the dorsal fin, one inch one line. Body elongated,
but very slightly arched over the neck, and at the dorsal fin.
Whole surface of the body, silvery; rather darker upon the
back; head above, bluish; operculum cupreous ; preoperculum
rather inclined to a flesh color; exterior to the operculum, a
narrow dark band encircles the head, from the base of the pec-
torals, separating the head from the body. Scales on the body
moderate in size,—nine, in an oblique line, from the origin of
the dorsal to the lateral line; and fowr in an oblique line be-
neath. Entire head destitute of scales; head above, flattened ;
diameter of the eye, one quarter of an inch; distance between
the eyes, half aninch. Nostrils double ; the anterior, circular ;
the posterior, oblique and larger. Jaws toothless ; upper jaw the
longer. The lateral line commences on the side of the snout,
and passing back under the eyes, and up over the posterior an-
gle of the gill-covers, curves downwards for the extent of eight
scales, to opposite the middle of the pectorals, and then pur-
sues a straight course to the caudal rays.

The Dorsal fin commences upon the anterior half of the
body, including the tail; rays higher than long, color of the
back; the first ray half as high as the second.

The Pectorals commence beneath, and on a line with the
posterior angle of the operculum, elongated, lighter colored

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 91

than the dorsal; length to height as 1 to 4; same height as
the dorsal fin.

The Ventrals are directly beneath the dorsal fin, three quar-
ters the height of the pectorals ; color of the abdomen.

The Anal fin is one quarter of an inch back of the ventrals ;
its length to its height as 2 to 3; color of the ventrals.

The Caudal fin is deeply forked ; as high again as long.

The fin rays are as follows: D.9; P.16; V.8; A. 9;
C. 20.

This species agrees in many particulars with the “L. dobu-
Ja,” but its naked head, and the origin of its lateral line pre-
vent it from being considered that species.

L. pulchellus. Nobis. The beautiful Leuciscus.

This fine species answers in some particulars to the descrip-
tion and figure of the “L. rutilus,”’ and this is.undoubtedly
the reason why it is often called the ‘ Roach.’’ In some por-
tions of the State it receives the name of ‘ Cousin Trout.”

For the beautiful specimen which enables me to draw up
the following description, I am indebted to Mr. H. Erastus
Clap, of Walpole.

Entire length, fourteen inches; depth across, in front of the
ventrals, three inches; depth of the fleshy portion of the tail,
one inch and a quarter. Length of the head, three inches.
Back slightly arched, of a dark brown color; sides and abdo-
men of a beautiful flesh color, tinged with golden reflections.
Head bluish on the top; gill-covers silvery, with cupreous and
flesh-colored tints, and edged with a brown membranous pro-
longation. Head naked; arch on the top of the head very
_slight; diameter of the eye rather more than one twelfth the
length of the head; distance between the eyes equal to one
third the length of the head. Nostri/s situated higher than
the eyes, and in front of them; the’ posterior, the larger; the
anterior, tubular. Jaws without teeth ; upper jaw juts slightly
over the under. Scales upon the body large, transparent,

92 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

rounded at the summit, truncated at their base, exhibiting nu-
merous strie ; at the base of each scale, a fleshy, dark-colored
membrane exists, which, projecting as far as the apex of the
preceding scale, gives the appearance of indistinct oblique
bands across the fish; scales smaller upon the back, and
smallest upon the throat. The lateral line commiences at the
superior angle of the operculum, and curving downwards nine
scales, pursues nearly a straight course to the tail. The lateral
line is composed of fifty-one scales; nine scales are situated
above the lateral line in an oblique line from the origin of the
dorsal fin, and six below the lateral line.

The Dorsal fin arises on the anterior half of the body; is
nearly as high again as long; the first ray is one fourth the
height of the second ; the general color of the fin like the back ;
the firmest portion of the rays, reddish.

The Pectorals arise beneath, and one line anterior to the
posterior angle of the operculum; above, brownish ; beneath,
lighter, rounded at their extremities ; length to height as 1 to 4.

The Ventrals are situated beneath the dorsal; above, color
of the abdomen ; shorter than the pectorals.

The Anal arises opposite a line about three quarters of an
inch back of the dorsal fin, and is higher than long. The first
ray bears the same proportion to the length of the second, as
the first ray of the dorsal to the second ray of that fin.

The Caudal fin is large ; height of the rays in the middle of
the fin, one inch; width at the extremities, when expanded,
three inches.

The number of the fin rays is as follows: D. 10; P. 17;
V8 VAT Oe C22:

L. atronasus. Mitchell. The brook Minnow.
Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. p. 460.

This beautiful little species is seen in our brooks in large
numbers. From a specimen an inch and six lines in length, I
draw up the following description: Greatest depth, four lines.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 93

Upper part of the body greenish; a broad black band passes
from the snout across the eye longitudinally through the mid-
dle of the fish to the caudal rays; body beneath this band
white, with cupreous reflections. Upon the upper edge of this
band, runs the lateral line. Above this, a golden parallel band
narrower than the darker colored ; from the anterior portion of
the head, along the dorsal ridge, a narrow band, similar to that
last spoken of. When the fish is swimming, the three bands
give ita very pleasing appearance. Length of the head about one
fifth the length of the fish; the top of the head darker colored
than the rest of the fish, flattened. Jaws destitute of teeth ; the
upper jaw the longer, semi-circular; lip corrugated ; the lower
jaw elevated to a point in its middle, forming a triangle. Eyes
moderate in size; pupils black; irides golden. rill-covers
silvery, with golden reflections. Scales on the body small ;
nine scales in an oblique line from the origin of the dorsal to
the lateral line.

The Dorsal fin arises just in front of the ventrals ; brownish ;
transparent ; higher than long.

The Pectoral fins yellowish ; arising on a line with the pos-
terior angle of gill-covers.

The Ventrals of the color of the abdomen, are ied under
the middle of the dorsal fin.

The Anal is situated just in front of the caudal fin; its
length equal to one third its height.

The Caudal fin is forked.

The fin rays are as follows: D. 13; P. 10; V.9; A.7;
C. 18.

Hyprarecira. Le Sueur.

Generic characters. Ventral fins 6 rayed ; teeth in the jaws
and throat ; those of the jaws conic and recurved ; none in the
palate ; jaws-protractile ; lower jaw longer than the upper one:
dorsal fin one, situate nearer the tail than the head, opposite to
the anal fin: scales on the opercula and body: head flat,
shielded above with large scales, the centre scale largest.

94 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

H. nigro-fasciata. Le Sueur. The banded Minnow.

Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, vol. i. p. 133.

Several specimens of a beautiful little species answering in
the important characters to Le Sueur’s ‘“nigro fasciata,”
were sent me by Dr. Yale. From the largest of these, I draw
up the following description :

Length of fish two inches. Color above, a yellowish green;
beneath, silvery white, crossed transversely by from ten to four-
teen black bars commencing upon each side of the dorsal ridge,
and passing down towards the abdomen ; the bands cross en-
tirely the fleshy portion of the tail; in front of the ventrals,
they reach only the lateral edges of the abdomen. Length of
the head half an inch. Head flattened above. Eyes less than
a line in diameter, which is less than the distance between the
eyes. Grull-covers silvery, with a bluish blotch upon the oper-
culum. Jaws very projectile; the lower slightly in advance
of the upper.

The Dorsal fin is just back of the middle of the body ;
transparent ; greenish white ; height equal to its length.

The Pectorals are lighter colored than the dorsal ; length to
height as 1 to 4.

The Ventrals are quite small, the color of the abdomen ;
commencing on a line with the extremities of the pectorals.

The Anal fin the color of the ventrals; length to height as
1 to 3.

The Caudal fin is yellowish ; length to height as 1 to 3.

The fin-rays are: D: 12: Bo 18.- V.'63 A. 12) Cire

H. ornata. Le Sueur. The ornamented Minnow.

Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, vol. i. p. 131.

This species of Hydrargira, very common about the salt
marshes in the vicinity of Boston, I suppose to be a variety of
the ‘‘ ornata” of Le Sueur. It may be taken in large num-

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 95

bers with small hand nets. IT am not aware that it is often
made use of ; but I have seen a flock of the domestic duck
swallowing it with the greatest avidity, when thrown to them
in quantities, in the same manner as grain.

The specimen before me is three inches in length. Back
dark brown ; sides lighter; beneath white. Back depressed ;
sides in some specimens of a beautiful metallic tint, giving the
appearance of an indistinctly defined yellow band. Length of
the head, three quarters of an inch; flattened above; gape of the
mouth moderate; teeth in the jaws small and sharp ; the lower
jaw curves upwards. Hyes of moderate size: irides yellow-
ish ; the circle immediately surrounding the pupil, a bright
yellow. Preoperculum of a silvery white color; operculum,
a bright metallic yellow.

The Dorsal, pectoral and caudal fins, color of the back ; ven-
tral and anal fins, lighter.

The Dorsal fin commences half way between the head and
the tail: rather longer than high.

The length of the Pectorals is two lines ; height, six lines.

The Ventrals are very small. :

The Anal fin is situated under the middle of the dorsal fin.

The Caudal fin rounded.

The fin rays as follows: D.12; P.15; V.6; A.10; C. 18.

In the smaller specimens, a bright yellow spot is seen at the
origin of the dorsal fin, while they are swimming ; after death,
this mark is not observed.

H. flavula. Mitchell. The Basse Fry.

Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. N. Y. p. 439.
Boston Journal of Natural History, vol. 1. p. 418.

Meeting two years since with a fish belonging to the genus
“Hydrargira,” not described by Le Sueur in his paper upon
that genus, under the name of “trifasciata,” 1 published a de-
scription of it in the “ Boston Journal of Natural History.”
I have before me at the present moment, (June 13th, 1838,) a

96 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

second specimen of this species, sent me by Dr. Yale; and I
am satisfied it is the same fish that Mitchell described as the
“Fsox flavulus,” in his ‘Fishes of New York,” and that Cu-
vier, in his notes to the Regne Animal, considers as the “‘Cypri-
nodon flavulus,” Valence. As the branchiostegous membrane
has but five rays, it cannot be a ‘‘Cyprinodon,” Lacep. the
species of that genus having six rays. It is, however, evi-
-dently Mitchell’s fish, incorrectly called by him an “ E'soz.”
Although placed by him in a family to which it did not be-
long, still, as Le Sueur’s genus was formed three years after
Mitchell’s description was drawn up, and as Mitchell accurate-
ly described it, his specific name has the priority ; most cheer-
fully, therefore, is the specific name applied by me, relinquished.
Mitchell calls it the ‘‘ New York Gudgeon :” by our fisher-
men, however, it is known by the name of “Basse Fry,” from
its resemblance in the bands to the “Striped Basse.”” I have
adopted this common name.

The following is my description, extracted from the Journal
of the “‘ Boston Society of Natural History :” Four longitudi-
nal bands on each side of the body, and three transverse bands
between the termination of the longitudinal bands and the
base of the tail. The upper part of the body is of a yellowish
green; on each side are four dark colored bands, running
almost the entire length of the fish ; the first of these is high
on the back; the second passes from the upper edge of the
operculum, in a direct line to its termination; the remaining
two, commencing back of the pectoral fin, run obliquely up-
wards and backwards, to a point on a line with the centre of
the ventral fin, then turn gently down, and are continued par-
allel with the two other bands.

At the base of the tail are three transverse bands of a simi-
lar color. All the under portion of the body is of a brilliant
yellow. Snout elongated. Lower jaw straight. Length of
specimen 5 inches 5 lines ; thickness seven and a half lines;
depth one inch and one and a half lines.

Thetin'rays'are:) Di t4; Pil8 V2 659A.4A2. C. 18:

This fish was taken with other species of this genus in the
marshes of this vicinity.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 97

The specimen now before me varies in some slight particu-
lars. Its length is four and a half inches. Quite a number
of black spots upon the back. 'T'wo longitudinal bands on
the sides: the upper, unbroken throughout its entire extent ;
the inferior broken at the posterior half of the body ; the ante-
rior being higher than the posterior portion of the band. ‘our
transverse lines between the extremity of the longitudinal
bands, and the caudal rays; that next to the tail, longer than
either of the others.

The fin raysare: D. 15; P.17; V.6; A. 11; C. 20.

Famity II.
ESOCES.

Ksox. Lin.

Generic characters. Head depressed, large, oblong, blunt ;
jaws, palatine bones, and vomer, furnished with teeth of vari-
ous sizes ; body elongated, rounded on the back ; sides com-
pressed, covered with scales ; dorsal fin placed very far back,
over the anal fin.

E. reticulatus. Le Sueur. The common Pickerel.

Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, vol. i. p. 414.

This fish, one of our most beautiful species, is known
throughout the state as the ‘“‘pickerel.” It is taken in most of
the ponds and rivers, and is every where valued. Brouglit to
Boston market in the spring and autumn, and frequently
through the greater part of the winter, it meets with a ready
sale. 'The largest specimens are received from Brewster, Cape
Cod ; individuals have been sold in Quincy market from that
place, weighing seven pounds: and they are said to be taken
there considerably larger even than this. Its color varies ex-
ceedingly in different localities ; thus, while in some ponds it
is of a greenish brown color, in others, the entire surface is of
a brilliant golden; all however are more or less distinctly

13

98 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

marked with the irregularly distributed longitudinal lines. The
fishermen have an idea that the oil of this species, carefully
prepared, is a good application fur ear-ache, and it is collected
by some for that purpose.

The specimen before me is sixteen inches in length; head
about one fourth the length of the body ; width of the head
in front of the eyes, equal to half of its length. Body above
green ; sides of a beautiful golden yellow, marked over their
whole extent with dark lateral lines about one third of an inch
in width, which, by their irregular union, produce imperfect re-
ticulations: beneath white. Snout obtuse: gape of the mouth
great. Lower jaw longer than the upper ; teeth in front of the
lower jaw small ; on sides large and pointed. Hyes moderate
in size; pupils black, irides yellow. Nostri/s double. Fins
greenish. ‘The pectoral, anal and ventral fins become reddish
after death ; this is more marked in the larger specimens.

The Dorsal fin from one to two lines longer than the anal.

The Pectorals commence on a line with the sixteenth bran-
chial ray, (counting from the anterior portion of the head back-
wards. )

The Ventrals are situated two and a half inches in front of
the dorsal fin.

The Anus is large ; two lines in front of the anal fin.

The commencement of the Caudal fin is about two inches
back of the dorsal fin.

Wherine rays, are +) sBj174 Di. 18) 0P. 13 3 V. Ale VAC ety =
C519:

Betone. Cuv.

Generic characters. Head and body greatly elongated ; the
latter covered with minute scales ; both jaws very much pro-
duced, straight, narrow, and pointed ; armed with numerous
small teeth; the dorsal fin placed over the anal fin.

B. truncata. Le Sueur. The Gar Fish.

Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, vol. ii. p. 126.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 99

To Dr. Yale I am indebted for a fine specimen of this spe-
cies, taken at Holmes Hole, which enables me to offer the ac-
companying description. Length fifteen inches; greatest
depth one inch. Above, of alight green color; beneath, a
clear silvery white. Just above the base of the pectorals, a
deep blue band arises and passes in a straight line to the origin
of the dorsal fin. Length of the head, from the angle of the
jaws to the posterior portion of the operculum, one inch six
lines ; flattened above, compressed on the sides. Length of the
lower mandible, from the tip to the eyes, three inches five lines,
and fleshy at its tip; three lines longer than the upper mandible ;
both mandibles armed with distant, very sharp, conical teeth,
between which are numerous others, very minute; no teeth
upon the upper mandivle, for the extent of two lines from its
extremity. yes circular, three lines in diameter; pupils
black, irides silvery. Distance between the eyes about equal
to the diameter of the eyes. Gfrll-covers silvery ; at the pos-
terior edge of the preoperculum, a vertical blue band, about
four lines long. Immediately in front of the eyes, a triangular
space, in which are situated the nostrils.

The Jateral line arises at the inferior angle of the opercu-
lum, and passing gradually up to the posterior extremities of
the pectorals, assumes a straight line, which is continued to
the base of the caudal rays.

The Dorsal fin is situated upon the posterior fourth of the
body ; transparent, greenish, falciform, high anteriorly, very
low posteriorly.

The whitish Pectorals are directly back of, and upon a line
with, the posterior angle of the operculum ; their length to the
height of their longest rays, is as 2 to 8.

The Ventrals, of the color of the abdomen, are placed back
of the middle of the body ; their length to their height is as 1
to 4.

The Anal fin commences in front of the dorsal, and termi-
nates upon the same plane as that fin; its longest rays are
longer than those of the dorsal.

The Caudal fin is slightly truncated obliquely, the lower
portion being the longer.

100 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

Mhe fin rays are: D..15 5 Pl 12s Wb AL 193 'C. 20:

I have no doubt of this being Le Sueur’s “ truncata :” he
describes his specimen as being a “ deep blue on the back ;”’ it
might have been a more recent specimen than mine ; or the
color of the fish before me may have been impaired by the
salt in which it was sent me. In all important characters it
answers perfectly to the species under which I arrange it.

Scomperesox. Lacepede.

Generic characters. The species of this genus have the
same structure of the jaws as those of Belone ; and are simi-
lar also in the form of body and scales, with a keel-like edge
to the belly ; but the posterior portions of the dorsal and anal
fins are divided, fornung finlets, as in the mackerel.

S. equirostrum. Le Sueur. The Bill Fish.

Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, vol. ii. p. 132.

Le Sueur described this species from a dried specimen in the
cabinet of the Linnean Society, which formerly existed in
Boston ; his description shows his specimen to have been an
imperfect one. I have seen no specimen in which the jaws
were of equal length ; the lower jaw was undoubtedly broken
in the specimen seen by Le Sueur, as is very apt to be the
case in dried specimens of this genus, else he could not have
called it “‘ equirostrum ;” still, as some naturalists think a spe-
cific name need not point out any particular character, and as
I have no desire to detract from the labors of another, I shall
point out here the characters as they exist in the recent speci-
men, and leave Le Sueur’s name to be changed, should it ever
be thought advisable, by some succeeding ichthyologist.

This fish makes its appearance at Cape Cod, usually, in the
month of October, sometimes earlier and sometimes later, how-
ever, depending upon the season. It is taken in immense
numbers by the inhabitants of some of the towns upon the
Cape, and considered by them very nutritious and grateful food.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 101

From a fine specimen sent me by Dr. Yale, which was taken
upon Nantucket Shoals, I have drawn up the following ac-
count: Entire length, ten inches; from the extremity of the
lower jaw to the anterior angle of the eye, one and three quar-
ter inches. Body quite thick, nearly of equal width and depth
from the pectorals to the origin of the dorsal fin. Back, for
the depth of a quarter of an inch, of an olive green color; di-
rectly beneath this, a silvery band half an inch wide, almost
as strongly marked as in the “ Atherines,’”’ runs the whole
length of the body, divided in its centre by a narrow longitu-
dinal line of the same color as the back. Abdomen silvery,
with a cupreous tinge. Head, including the jaws, three inches
long, quite narrow, compared with the body, of a deep green
color above ; gill-covers large, smooth, silvery; jaws at their
origin armed with very minute teeth ; the lower jaw one quarter
of an inch longer than the upper; eye one quarter of an inch
in diameter ; distance between the eyes, rather greater than the
diameter of the eye.

The Dorsal fin, of a greenish color, is situated upon the pos-
terior half of the body, longer than high; back of it, five fin-
lets, of the same color as the dorsal fin.

The Pectorals are situated at the posterior angle of the oper-
culum, dark colored at their fleshy origin; the rays silvery ;
the first ray longer and much broader than the others.

The Ventrals are situated one inch and a quarter in front of
the anal fin; color of the abdomen ; triangular, half of an inch
high.

The Anal fin commences directly opposite the dorsal, and
terminates upon the same plane as that fin; between it and
the tail, five yellow finlets.

The Caudal is equilobed, with transverse black lines upon
the rays, resembling the joints of a reed.

On each side of the abdomen, commencing at the lower edge
of the gill-covers, a longitudinal furrow, which passes along
the whole length of the body, having between them a space
of a quarter of an inch, the space wider at the ventrals.

The fin rays are as follows: D.10; P. 14; V.6; A. 12;
C. 20.

102 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

Another specimen taken with the preceding, lies before me,
agreeing in all important particulars,—form, color, proportionate
length of jaws, and nunwber of fin rays ; but having, like the
“ seutellatum,”’ (which Le Sueur described from a specimen
“found in the stomach of a fresh codfish, which had been
brought to Boston from the Bank of Newfoundland,” six dor-
sal finlets and seven anal; showing that the number of finlets
cannot be relied upon for a specific character.

Famity III.
SILURIDZ.

Prvetopus. Lacepede.

Generic characters. Body covered with a naked skin; no
lateral armature; jaws and often palatine bones furnished
with teeth, but there is no band of teeth on the vomer parallel
to that on the upper jaw. The form of the head varies exceed-
ingly, as well as the number of its barbules.

P. nebulosus. Le Sueur. The Horned Pout.

Mémoires du Museum d’Iistoire Naturelle, t. v. p. 149.

This species very common in our ponds and streams, in com-
pany with the “ Perca flavescens,” “ Pomotis vulgaris,” ‘ La-
brax mucronatus,” ‘‘ Leuciscus crysoleucas,”’ &c. is known in
the interior of the State by the vulgar names of “ Horn pout,”
and ‘“‘ Minister.’ By many, it is highly esteemed as an article
of food, and preferred to every species of our common fluviatile
fishes, save the pickerel. It is generally fried, the skin having
previously been removed. Specimens are occasionally met
with, weighing three quarters of a pound.

From a living specimen seven inches in length, the follow-
ing account is drawn up. Color fuliginous, darker upon the
head and back, approaching to black; lighter upon the sides,

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 103

tinged with cupreous; white beneath, in front of the ventrals.
Length of the head to the entire length of the fish, as 14 to 7.
Greatest width of the head, equal to one seventh the length of
the fish; greatest depth of the fish, more than equal to one
seventh the length of the fish. Head flattened above ; upper
jaw longer than the lower; both furnished with numerous
small teeth ; eight cirrhi about the head. From the angle of
the upper jaw on each side, one projects, one and a half inch
long, tapering to a point; another, three quarters of an inch
long, back of and above this; beneath the lower jaw, are also
four cirrhi, two on each side of its middle ; the outer, one inch
long; the inner, three quarters of an inch long. All these
cirrhi are of the same color. yes small, one line in diameter ;
the distance between the eyes equal to about half the length of
the head. ‘Two blunted spines on the humeral bone; the up-
per, much the smaller. The lateral line arises above the pos-
terior angle of the operculum, and runs nearly a straight course
to the tail.

The Dorsal fin arises about half an inch back of the pecto-
rals; length to height as 1 to 2. A small adipose fin a short
distance in front of the tail.

The Pectorals are situated a short distance in front of the
posterior angle of the operculum; length to height as 3 to 12;
their outer ray is spinous, and serrated upon its outer edge ; it
is marked at its point, and is three lines shorter than the first
fleshy ray.

The Ventrals arise on a line just back of the dorsal fin;
length to height as 4 to 9. Anus large, oblong, between the
posterior half of the ventrals.

The height of the Anal fin equal to half its length.

The length of the Caudal almost equal to its height. All
the fins are dark colored.

The fin rays are: D. 1-5; P. 1-8; V. 8; A. 21; C. 19.

In the dead fish, the dark coloring matter readily rubs off ;
and the specimen, if untouched also, rapidly becomes of a
lighter color.

In one specimen I have seen, a large black blotch was situ-

104 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

ated just beneath the lower jaw, and the whole interior portion
of the lower jaw, including the teeth and far back of them,
was colored with a deep black pigment.

Famity IV.
SALMONIDES.

Satmo. Lin.

Generic characters. Head smooth, covered with scales ; two
dorsal fins, the first supported by rays, the second fleshy, with-
out rays ; teeth on the vomer, both palatine bones, and all the
maxillary bones; branchiostegous rays varying in number,
generally from ten to twelve, but sometimes unequal on the two
sides of the head of the same fish.

S. salar. Lin. The Salmon.

Pennant’s British Zoology, vol. iv. 249 et fig.
Me Mutrtrie’s Cuvy. vol. ii. 222.
Yarrell’s British Fishes, vol. ii. p. 1. fig.

The building of dams and manufacturing establishments, by
preventing the fishes from going up the rivers to deposit their
spawn, has almost entirely annihilated this species in our State.
Forty-five years since, it was very abundant in the Merrimac
river, so much so that nine individuals have been taken in an
afternoon by one person with a dip net; and the usual price
was eight cents per pound. About seventeen years since, two
wagons, each bringing from 30 to 40 fine salmon from the
Merrimac river, supplied the Boston market every week dur-
ing the season of the fish. Now the few specimens taken are
looked upon as rarities, and our market is supplied by the fish-
ery of the Kennebec. 'The average weights of the Merrimac
salmon are from 9 to 12, and from 16 to 22 pounds. The
largest weigh from 30 to 40 pounds. They have been caught
during every month in the year. The greatest run of salmon,

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 105

up the river, is about the first of June. The fishermen say
the young salmon are never seen on their return.

The price of this species of late years in our market, varies
exceedingly, from $2 to 20 cents per pound. The largest
specimen, so far as I can learn, that has been sold in Boston
market, weighed 34 pounds; and the greatest price ever re-
ceived for one fish, in the same market, was $50.

The following description is drawn up from a specimen
thirty inches in length, and weighing eighteen pounds: Its
width across, from the commencement of the dorsal fin, is eight
inches; its greatest depth three inches and a half. Of a beau-
tiful, brilliant, bluish silver color above ; lighter upon the sides ;
white beneath ; black blotches upon the sides, much more nu-
merous above the lateral line, for the most part surrounding the
outline of the scales, leaving the color of the bodies unchanged ;
the spots upon the scaleless head are unbroken, and of a deeper
color. Length of the head equal to one fifth the length of the
fish. Head naked, sloping, darker colored above than the
back of the specimen. Grill-covers light silver colored. Z'yes
small; pupils black ; irides silvery. Diameter of the eye equal
to one quarter the distance between the eyes. Nostri/s placed
vertically, much nearer the eyes than the extremity of the
snout. Upper jaw the longer, receiving into a notch, at its
middle, the prominent tip of the lower jaw; both jaws armed
with a few sharp incurved teeth, as well as the palatine bones,
vomer and tongue. Inside of the jaws and edges of the tongue,
dusky. The lateral line is nearly straight.

The first Dorsal fin commences upon the anterior half of the
body ; its first rays are equal in height to the length of the fin. Fin
rather darker colored than the back, and with one or two longi-
tudinal rows of black blotches upon its base. ‘The adipose fin
is dark brown, situated a short distance in front of the tail ;
its leneth is equal to one third of its height.

The Pectorals arise in front-of the posterior angle of the
gill-covers; above they are dark colored; beneath lighter ;
length equal to one fourth their height.

The Ventrals are above dusky ; beneath white ; they begin

14

106 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

on a line opposite the middle of the dorsal fin, and have om
their sides a large axillary scale.

The Anal fin is white; higher than long. The Anus is
large, and edged by the extremities of the surrounding scales.

The Caudal fin is of a dark brown color; the fleshy portion
of the tail extends considerably farther forward in its middle
than on the sides, leaving the caudal rays much longer upon
the sides of the tail; the length of the central caudal rays only
one third the length of the lateral rays.

The fin rays are as follows: D. 12; P. 15; V.9; A. 10;
Cal:

S. fontinalis. Mitchell. The common brook Trout.

Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soe. v. i. p. 435.
Richardson’s Fauna, p. 176, et fig.

This is quite a common species in our market, and meets
with a ready sale. Dr. Mitchell speaks of it as being highly
esteemed in New York.

Of twelve specimens before me, the largest is eight inches
in length. The upper part of the body is of a pale brown
color, mottled with darker undulating, reticulating markings ;
the sides lighter, with a great number of circular yellow spots,
varying in their size from a small point to a line or more in
diameter ; and many of them having in the centre a bright
red spot ; sometimes, the yellow color surrounding them hav-
ing partially disappeared, they seem distinct from the eircular
spots, or are surrounded by a dull bluish halo; these red
spots differ exceedingly in number ; in some specimens, three
or four only are observable, and these are situated below the
lateral line ; in others, twenty or more are seen scattered above
and below the lateral line indiscriminately, presenting a beau-
tiful appearance. Body beneath whitish, slightly fuliginous.
Length of the head to the whole length of the body, as 1 and
1-2 to 7; top of the head slightly flattened ; the snout obtuse.
Head above, darker colored than the back. G'ill-covers golden,
with fuliginous. Eyes large, pupils black, irides silvery. Dis-

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 107

tance between the eyes, equal to one fifth the length of the
head. Jaws equal in length; gape of the mouth large ; teeth
sharp, recurved ; teeth on the tongue larger than those in the
jaws; teeth also on the palatines and vomer. Scales very
small; those on the lateral line, which pursues a straight
course, larger than those on the rest of the body.

The Dorsal fin is situated upon the anterior half of the
body ; it is yellow, with irregular black transverse bands;
longer than high ; the adipose fin is quite small near the tail.

The Pectorals arise in front of the posterior angle of the
operculum ; its length equal to one quarter of its height. The
first ray white ; the second ray dark colored; the remainder of
the fin red.

The Ventrals commence opposite the middle of the dorsal
fin; when unexpanded, their extremities, together, form a
sharp point. As in the pectorals, the outer ray is white; the
second dark ; the remainder red.

The Anal fin arises in front of the adipose fin, and is higher
than long.

The Caudal fin is of a dirty reddish brown, mottled with
black spots; slightly bifurcated.

Mhestini rays areas follows):) Di WP l3e WV Sr) Aad
C. 19.

November 5th, 1838. I have just received three beautiful
specimens of Trout, from Dr. Forsyth, of Sandwich, which
are commonly called ‘ Salmon Trout,” and, as such, are sought
for with great avidity; they are taken there in considerable
quantities ; not less than 1000 pounds yearly. It is quite com-
mon to find them in the wells of the vicinity of Sandwich,
living for years, and attaining a large size. ‘These Sandwich
fish are really delicious, as my good friend has given me an
opportunity of testing at my table; still, upon a careful ex-
amination, they answer most perfectly to Mitchell’s descrip-
tion of the “ fontinalis,’”’ and do not at all correspond with the
descriptions of the “ salmo trutia,” salmon trout. The largest
of my three specimens is fifteen inches in length, nearly as
large again as this species is usually met with in our market

108 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

from the neighboring brooks; and they not only differ some-
what in appearance from the smaller specimens, but also
from each other. ‘Thus, in one of the specimens before me,
the abdomen, between the origin of the pectorals and the ven-
trals, is a pure white; in a second, it is a yellowish white ;
and in the largest, the whole extent of the lower portion of the
sides, is a beautiful orange color, and the abdomen a dark fuli-
ginous.

Osmervus. Artedi.

Generic characters. Body elongated, covered with small
scales ; two dorsal fins, the first with rays, the second fleshy,
without rays; ventral fins in a vertical line under the com-
mencement of the first dorsal fin ; teeth on the jaws and tongue
very long, two distinct rows on each palatine bone, none on

the vomer, except at the most anterior part ; branchiostegous
rays 8.

O. eperlanus. Artedi. The Smelt.
Pennant’s British Zoology, vol. iii. p. 273, et fig.
Yarrell’s British Fishes, vol. ii. p. 75, et fig.
Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, vol. i. p. 230.
Fauna Boreali-Americana, p. 1&5.

This beautiful species is brought to our market in the spring
and autumn in large quantities, and is highly esteemed as an
article of food. In the spring, it is taken in nets up the rivers,
and in winter, with the hook beneath the ice. In Watertown
alone, about 750,000 dozen are taken annually in scoop-nets,
from the first of March to the first of June, and sent to Boston
market. It is generally taken from four to ten inches in length.
The largest specimens I have seen were taken in Milton river,
the latter part of December, 1837. Four specimens, taken
without regard to size, weighed one pound and a half.

The length of the specimen before me is nine inches. Length
of the head, one inch six lines. Color, above the lateral line,
yellowish green ; all the body beneath the lateral line, a silvery

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 109

white ; portions just beneath the lateral line presenting the
appearance of a satin band, the length of the body. Lower
jaw longer than the upper. Mowth wide. Maxillary bones
toothed throughout their whole extent; teeth in the jaws
strong, crooked. ‘Three or. more teeth on each side of the
tongue ; a tooth at the extremity of the tohgue, much longer
than the others. Nostrils very large. Diameter of the eye
nearly three lines; pupils black; irides silvery. The lateral
line commences at the posterior angle of the operculum, and
passes on in a straight course to a line within half an inch of
the dorsal fin, where it can be scarcely discovered.

The Dorsal fin is brownish; its length equal to half its
height. ‘The adipose fin is two inches back of the dorsal,
slightly curved, two lines in length.

The Pectorals are six lines long, commencing on aline with
the beginning of the lateral line.

The Ventrals commence two and a half inches back of the
base of the pectorals.

The Anal fin is two inches back of the ventrals; height of
the longest rays equal to rather more than half the length of
the fin.

The Pectoral, Ventral and Anal fins silvery, like the abdo-
men.

The Caudal fin is six lines back of the adipose fin, some-
what forked.

Thefin says are: B: 83) Dells RP. VV. 9 nA 15s ©2719,

‘In the first volume of the ‘“‘ Journal of the Academy of Nat-
ural Sciences,” Le Sueur described this as a new species, un-
der the name of “ viridescens.” Cuvier does not acknowledge
this to be distinct from the European fish, and therefore “ Ar-
tedi’s’’ name has the priority.

Scoreuus. Cuv.

Generic characters. Body long, slender ; the principal dor-
sal fin over the interval between the ventral and anal fins ; a

110 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

second dorsal fin, so small as to be scarcely perceptible ; the
head short ; the mouth and gill-aperture large ; small teeth on
both jaws ; palate and tongue smooth.

S. Humboldt. Cuv. The Argentine.

Pennant’s British Zoology, vol. iii, p. 286, et fig.
Yarrell’s British Fishes, vol. ii. p. 94, et fig.

The only specimen I have met with of this beautiful little
species, which is neither mentioned by Mitchell in his “ /ishes
of New York,’ nor by Richardson in his “ Fauna Boreali-
Americana,” was brought from Nahant, by Mr. Jonathan
Johnson, of that place. He found it in December, 1837, alive
on the beach; he had never seen a living specimen before,
but had repeatedly found partially decomposed specimens in
the stomachs of haddock.

The entire length of my specimen is two inches one line:
length of the head, three lines. The back, to the depth of
about a line, is of a dark green color; the sides, including the
gill-covers, are of a beautiful silvery lustre. A row of brilliant
circular metallic colored spots runs along the belly, from before
the pectorals to the anus; higher up, on the sides, another row
of dots parallel with these ; behind the anus a single row of
smaller dots of a similar character, is continued to the base
of the tail. Body very much compressed. The lateral line
almost imperceptible, nearly straight, commences at the upper
third of the operculum. Mouth widely cleft; teeth small in
both jaws. Hyes large, one and a half line in diameter;
irides silvery.

The fin: raysare:) D. 10's) P1739. Vi. 860A. LoevGaol

Famity V.
CLUPE.

Cuurea. Lin.

Generic characters. Body compressed ; scales large, thin,
and deciduous ; head compressed ; teeth minute or wanting ;

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 111

a single dorsal fin; abdominal line forming a sharp keel-like
edge, which in some species is serrated ; branchiostegous rays 8.

C. elongata. Le Sueur. The common Herring.
Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, vol. i. p. 234.

This species which is known in our market as the “ En-
glish herring,” was described by Le Sueur in the ‘“ Journal of
the Academy of Natural Sciences,’ under the specific name
of “elongata.”’ In some seasons this fish is taken in great
numbers. The quantities of herring packed and inspected,
according to tables kept at the general inspection office for
five years, are as follows: 1832, 52 bbls.; 1833, 36; 1834,
518; 1835, 963; 1836, 77. That a small quantity only
of the herring taken, is packed, is obvious, from the fact,
that in 1836, 500 bbls. were taken at Falmouth; 400 bbls. at
Duxbury, and 3000 at Martha’s Vineyard.

Upon some portions of our coast, herring have been limited
in quantity for the last few years, and during the years 1835-6
very few, comparatively speaking, were taken. Their scarcity
has been attributed by the fishermen to torching them at
night, by which the shoals are broken up, and the fish fright-
ened away.

The specimen lying before me, is thirteen and a half inches
in length. Color upon the back of a deep blue tinged with
yellow ; sides paler; opercula, yellow tinged with violet; be-
neath, silvery. Scales large, silvery, deciduous. Abdominal
ridge indistinctly serrated; about thirty spines may be
counted in front of the ventrals, and fifteen behind them.
Depth of the specimen at the origin of the dorsal fin, one
fourteenth the length of the body; width at the commence-
ment of the dorsal fin a little more than one seventh of the
length. Length of the head when the mouth is closed, from
the extremity of the lower jaw, about one seventh of the whole
length of the fish. Head destitute of scales, a depression upon
its top, between and back of the eyes, exhibiting numerous
mucous pores. Fyes large and provided with a nictitating
membrane ; pupil black, irides silvery; distance between the

112 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

eyes double the diameter of the eye. Nostrils equidistant be-.
tween the eye and the snout. Gape of the mouth large. Jaws
furnished with teeth; palate and tongue also provided with
teeth.

The Dorsal fin longer than high.

The Pectorals less than one third as high as long.

The Ventrals are situated opposite the middle of the dorsal fin.

The Anal is more than one third as high as long; its ante-
rior half, the higher.

The Caudal fin is forked; at its base, width to the width
of the expanded extremities as 1 to 2.

The fin rays are: D. 18; P. 19; V.9; A. 18; C. 22.

Le Sueur describes the iris as ‘‘ reddish ;” he probably saw
his specimens after they had been some time taken. ‘The iris
of most fishes changes to a brown very soon after death.

C. fasciata. Le Sueur. The fasciated Herring.
Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, vol. i. p. 233.

For a long time, I supposed I had seen specimens of this
species in Boston market, with the “ Alosa vernalis,’’ but now
think I may have been mistaken. Not having seen an indi-
vidual, however, since the description of our fishes was under-
taken, which answers to the species of Le Sueur, I have no
alternative left me, but to copy his account.

“The species which I call Clupea jJasciata, (fasciated
Herring,) is known under the name of alewive by the fisher-
men of Sandwich, and appears only in the spring; but about
the end of August, 1816, we still had a sight of several indi-
viduals, in length one, two, four, eight, and nine inches, all
alike, except as to size. Body compressed; back straight;
breast and abdomen forming a bow downwards as far as the
tail; seven to eight lines of a blackish blue at the sides of
the back, and a rounded notch at the bottom of the divisions
of the tail, of which the lower lobe is the longest. ‘The entire

ie

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 113

length of the body is about six times that of the head, which
is not equal to the depth of the body ; snout short ; jaws equal ;
maxillars of middling width, scarcely reaching beyond the
centre of the eye, which is near the end of the snout, and
round, its iris yellow, and pupil black. Operculwm parallelo-
gramiform, slightly oblique, and depressed at the lower edge ;
dorsal as high as the width of its base; pectorals acute,
rather long ; ventrals somewhat behind the front of the dorsal,
which is large and truncated ; anal long, subequal ; lateral line
scarcely visible; color blue on the back, lighter at the sides,
and of a silver white under the abdomen, breast and tail;
yellow tints are reflected from the scales upon the opercula,
base of the tail and fins. The blue lines are deeper towards
the back than the abdomen, where they disappear.

These are salted, and taken with the seine.

Bat; Ds 18; Bylo; V9; A18s..C: 22 6-6 rays.”

C. minima. Peck. The Brit.

Belknap’s History of New Hampshire, vol iii. p. 180.

This pretty little species, named but not described by Peck in
“ Belknap’s New Hampshire,” is found at some seasons of the
year in incredible numbers upon our coast, and serves as food
for several other species. It varies in its length from one to four
inches. Back nearly black ; upper-part of the sides dark green ;
sides silvery, with roseate and golden reflections; in the
younger specimens, the dorsal ridge is a black line, and the
distance between it and the lateral line, which is situated very
high upon the sides, is of a light green sprinkled with darker
points. The lateral line arises upon a line with the upper
angle of the operculum, and runs along very near the back,
the length of the body. The abdominal ridge is serrated.
Length of the head one fourth the length of the body, gradually
sloping from the occiput to the snout; top of the head darker
colored than the rest of the body. Giill-covers large, silvery,

15

114 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

seeming to form one large plate. Lower jaw rather projecting
beyond the upper. Diameter of the eye equal to one sixth the
length of the head. Tail forked.

Whe fin rays are’: JD: LORE Abs Vijo- VAAN? «CO. 18:

Atuosa. Cuv.

Generic characters. Upper jaw with a deep notch in the
centre; in other respects like the Clupea.

A. vernalis. Mitchell. The spring Herring or Alewive.

Although in several portions of the state where the alewives
have heretofore been most abundant, the various encroach-
ments of man have sensibly diminished them, they are still
taken in some places in immense numbers. A larger quantity
of alewives is packed than of any other species of this family.
In 1832, 1730 barrels were inspected ; 1833, 2,266; 1834,
4,320; 1835, 5,600; 1836, 5000.

At Watertown, the average quantity of alewives for the last
ten years, is 700 barrels. They are first pickled, then salted
and barrelled, and sent to the West India Islands. They sell
for from $1.50 to $2.00 per barrel. At Taunton, which for years
was so celebrated for its fishery, the alewives are gradually
lessening. ‘There are two or more dams across the Taunton
“Great River,” so called, which impedes their progress very
much ; and on the “Little River,’ where many dams and fac-
tories have been erected, and where, twenty years ago thou-
sands were taken, not one now is to be seen. 'T'wenty-five years
since they were taken in such abundance at Taunton, that
they sold for 20 cents per hundred, and a great business was
carried on in barrelling and shipping them to the West India
market. At the present time, when first taken, they sell for
100 cents per hundred, and, as the season advances, diminish
gradually in price to 50 cents. Most of the fish are dis-
posed of at the seines, (fresh,) and cured by the purchasers.
In the Merrimack river too, they have been diminishing in
number for the last five or ten years ; the fishermen think this

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 115

is because the small ponds emptying into the river have been
dammed up. A pond in Manchester and Chester was formerly
famous for its alewives.

The following characters are presented by a specimen of
this species: Color on the back bluish purple ; sides a light cu-
preous ; beneath silvery ; on the sides, four or five, and sometimes
even more, indistinct greenish lines passing from the head to
the tail; these lines are quite obvious when looked at from
either extremity of the fish, the eye being placed on a line
with the fish. Length of the fish to its width, about as 4 to
1; length of the head to the entire length of the body as 2 to
12. Depth of the body, in a specimen twelve inches long,
across the anterior base of the dorsal fin, three inches; across
the base of the pectorals, two and a half inches; across the
anus, two inches. Head small; opercula golden, and marked
with beautiful arborescent ramifications. yes large; pupils
black ; irides silvery. Mouth very large. Lower jaw slightly
longer than the upper; upper jaw notclied in its centre. Just
back of the upper posterior angle of the operculum, a deep black
blotch. Scales on the body very large and deciduous. The
entire abdominal edge strongly serrated by projecting bony
spines ; these serrations are larger back of the ventrals, be-
tween them and the anus. |

The height of the Dorsal fin equal to its length.

The width of the Pectorals at base, to the length of the fin,
as 4 to 12.

The Ventrals darker colored than the abdomen, and of a mod-
erate size.

The height of the first rays of the Anal fin to the length of
the fin, as & to 15.

The Caudal fin deeply notched; width at the base when
unexpanded, to the-width at the extremities, as 1 to 2.

The fin rays are as follows: D. 17; P. 15; V.9; A. 18;
C22.

116 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

A. vulgaris. Cuv. The common Shad.

Mc Murtrie’s Cuv. vol. iii. p. 235.
Yarrell’s British Fishes, vol. ii. p. 136.

This excellent species is brought to Boston market from the
mouths of the neighboring rivers, in considerable quantities, in
the spring of the year, and meets with a ready sale. At first
they sell for 50 cents a piece; as the season advances, for
25 cents; and at last may be bought for about 12 1-2
cents. Many of this species are also packed. In the year
1832, 100 barrels were inspected; 1833, 321; 1834, 3; 1835,
310; 1836, 527. ‘The quantities taken in Charles river, at
Watertown, for the five years preceding 1838, averaged about
6000 per annum. From 3000 to 4000 are yearly caught at
Taunton. In the Merrimack river this fish was very scarce
forty-five years ago, and remained so for about five years. At
this time there were ten salmon to one shad. Very few were
caught. Before that time they had been very abundant. It
was said that 10,000 were caught at one haul. After the
scarcity, they became plentiful, and continued so till about 1810,
when they were scarce again for two or three years. 'They
then became plentiful, and still continue so. They have not
decreased for the last ten years. Shad and alewives go up the
river during the whole of May. Their greatest run is when
the apple trees are in full blossom. 'The old shad return in
August ; the young, three or four inches long, in September.
These are very fond of flies. 'The Concord river water is said
to be warmer than that of the Merrimack, and the Concord
shad were caught a month earlier than those of the Merrimack
above its junction with the Concord. 'The Concord shad have
almost entirely disappeared, their ascent having been cut off by
dams.

The usual weight of this species is from one to four
pounds, although it sometimes attains six pounds. Color upon
the top of the head and the back. bluish; the upper portion
of the sides, including the opercula, cupreous; beneath silvery.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS, 117

Whole body covered with large, deciduous scales, with the ex-
ception of the head, which isnaked. H yes large; pupils black ;
irides silvery; the diameter of the eye equal to the distance
between the eyes. Nostri/s nearer the anterior angle of the
eye than the snout. Upper jaw notched in its centre ; its lat-
eral edges slightly crenated. Length of the head to the whole
length of the body as 1 to 6; the greatest depth of the body
~ equal to nearly two thirds the length of the head; the width
across the body, from the commencement of the dorsal fin to
the anal, nearly one fifth the length of the fish. Abdominal
ridge serrated throughout, from the inferior angle of the oper-
culum to the anus; the serrations more prominent back of the
ventrals. At the posterior angle of the operculum, a black
blotch of considerable size ; in some specimens very indistinct
until the scales are removed, when it is very obvious.

The Dorsal fin, which shuts into a groove, is situated on the
middle of the dorsal ridge; the height of the first rays is equal
to two thirds its length.

The Pectorals silvery ; their length equal to about one third
their height ; all the rays, save the first, are branched.

The Ventrals are situated opposite the middle of the dorsal.

The Anal fin is also received into a groove ; its fourth ray,
which is highest, is less than one third the length of the fin.

The Caudal fin is deeply forked ; its depth at the base is to
the depth of the expanded extremities as 2 to 5; two mem-
branous appendages on each side, near the centre of the fin.

The fin rays are: D. 19; P. 16; V. 9; A. 20; C. 20.

A. menhaden. Mitchell. The Menhaden. Hardhead,
Se. Se.

Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soe. v. i. 453.

This species, which is known by the names of “Menhaden,”
“Pauhagen,” ‘“Hardhead,’”’ &c. is met with in very great num-
bers, coming into Massachusetts Bay, about the middle of May,
and leaving it in November, and is an exceedingly valuable fish.

118 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

It is taken in large quantities upon various portions of our coast,
is used as bait for other fishes, and as manure ; and it is also be-
coming an article of commerce. As mackerel bait, it is worth
from $2 to $4 per barrel, in proportion to the demand. At
Lynn, in 1836, 1500 barrels were used as bait for other fishes,
and as many more were thrown upon the land. At Province-
town, they are used only for mackerel bait. 'The fishermen
who supply Boston market with cod fish, set their nets about
the outer islands in the harbor, each night, as they come up to
the city, and examine them in the morning, as they go out for
the day’s fishing. Large numbers are thus taken; and such
as are not used as bait, are sold to the poorer classes as food,
for about 6 1-4 cents per dozen. It is also considered a very
good bait for halibut. Being a very oily fish, it is valua~
ble as manure. It is computed that a single menhaden of or-
dinary size, is equal, in richness, to a shovel-full of barn-yard
manure. In some places they are taken for this purpose only,
by trailing nets towards the shore. At Sandwich, where they
are very abundant, the inhabitants strew them upon their lands
by the cart-load ; and thus, for miles, immense quantities en-
rich the soil. Fyrom the following extract of a letter from my
friend Dr. Forsyth, some idea may be formed of the numbers
used. His letter is dated November 8th, 1837. “For two or
three miles below me, on the Barnstable road, the stench from
the decomposing fish was a great nuisance to travellers passing
along the road, so much so that I feared they might be instru-
mental in the production of disease ; but whether they were so
or not, | am not now prepared to say ; but certain it is, there
have been more cases of autumnal fever and dysentery this
season, in that district, than in all the rest of the town.” Upon
some portions of Cape Cod, menhaden are sold to the farmers for
$1 per thousand for manure ; they average about one pound
each, and 2500 are considered a proper quantity for an acre.
This species is getting likewise to be thought worthy of pres-
ervation as an article of food. In 1832, 300 bbls. were inspect-
ed; in 1833, 480; 1834, 1008; 1835, 1443; 1836, 1488.
This fish attains the length of fourteen inches. My descrip-

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 119

tion is drawn up from a specimen eleven inches in length. Its
width, at the commencement of the dorsal fin, three inches.
All the upper part of the body of a greenish brown color; sides
lighter, mottled with indistinct bluish ocellations; abdomen
whitish, serrated ; whole surface of the fish iridescent. A large
black blotch just back of the upper posterior portion of the
operculum. Length of the head three and a half inches. Gidl-
cover very large, all its portions more or less golden. Oper-
culum marked with quite a number of deeply marked striz,
which commence just beneath a large green blotch, situated
some distance back of the eye on a line with it, and pass ob-
liquely backward and downward to its lower edge; sub-oper-
culum and inter-operculum smooth ; preoperculum presents an
arborescent appearance of vessels upon its surface. H/yes mod-
erate in size; pupils black; irides golden. Gape of the mouth
very large; lower jaw shorter than the upper; the middle of
the upper jaw presenting a deep emargination. Back slightly
arched.

The Dorsal fin arises upon the anterior half of the body ; it
is nearly as long again as high; at its base is a membranous
prolongation, by which it is partially covered when at rest.

The length of the Pectorals to their height is as 1 to 4; the
upper four rays much longer than the remainder. Outside of
the fin is an axillary plate more than two thirds the length of
the fish ; a broad scaly shield at the base of the pectorals cov-
ers more than an half inch of their inferior edge.

The Ventrals commence on a line opposite the origin of the
dorsal fin; on each side of them is an axillary plate.

The Anal fin commences some distance back of the dorsal ;
its height to its length is as | to 3.

The Caudal fin is deeply forked ; the depth of the fin at the
base, when unexpanded, to the length of the outer rays, is as
1 to 3; the distance between the expanded extremities equal
to the length of the outer rays.

Thejtiniraysiare:: D.19 3. P.153V.7 3) A..20 .C. 27:

ORDER III.

MALACOPTERYGII SUBRACHIATI.

Famity I.
GADITES.

Morruva. Cuv.

- Generic characters. Body elongated, smooth, compressed
towards the tail; back furnished with three dorsal fins ; ven-
tral fins pointed ; abdominal line with two fins behind the anal
aperture; the lower jaw with one barbule at the chin ; bran-
chiostegous rays 7.

M. Americana. Nobis. The American Cod.

Whether the “ Morrhua vulgaris,” the common Cod, of
European writers, is ever taken in the waters of Massachusetts,
Tam unable to decide. Dr. Mitchell says it is taken ‘in the
sea near Nantucket, and beyond.”’ Certain it is, I have never
seen it in Boston market ; and Mr. Newcomb, senior, the oldest
fishmonger in our market, who has repeatedly been at the
Banks of Newfoundland fishing, assures me, he never knew
the bank fish to be caught in our waters. Our fish is the spe-
cies which Mitchell considers the “‘ M. callarias,” Lin. Rich-
ardson thinks ‘this is probably a distinct species.” From_
Richardson’s guarded manner of speaking, I should judge he
had never seen a specimen of our species. The much larger
size of our fish, the length of the “callarias,’’ according to
Yarrell, being only ‘from twelve to twenty-four inches,”
which cannot be accounted for by mere difference of locality,

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 121

without dwelling upon points of minor importance, convinces
me that our fish isa distinct species, for which I would propose
the name of “‘ Americana.”

This species is taken along the whole coast of the State,
throughout the year, leaving the vicinity of land in the month
of February, and going off to deeper water. ‘There are several
varieties, differing in their color and markings, probably pro-
duced by difference of locality or food, which are known by
the names of “ Rock Cod,” “ Shoal Cod,” &c. &c.

The cod grows to a very great size. Yarrell states, that the
largest cod of which he has any record, weighed sixty pounds.
Pennant refers to one weighing seventy-eight pounds. Mr. Jon-
athan Johnson, Jr., of Nahant, informs me he has seen taken a
specimen weighing eighty-eight pounds; and Capt. Nathaniel
Blanchard, of Lynn, tells me he has seen a cod weighing
eighty-six pounds. Both these gentlemen are experienced
fishermen, distinguished for their habits of accuracy and ve-
racity ; and I take much pleasure in here acknowledging the
great assistance rendered me by them, in the prosecution of
my task. The largest specimen of which I have ever heard,
Mr. Anthony Holbrook, a fishmonger in Quincy market, in-
forms me he saw taken in the spring of the year 1807, at New
Ledge, sixty miles southeast of Portland, Me.; it weighed one
hundred and seven pounds; and, to use his own words, ‘‘ upon
its head were barnacles the size of his thumb.”

To Massachusetts, the cod fishery is exceedingly important,
supplying our markets with an excellent food throughout the
year, and giving employment to thousands. In some portions
of the State, this fishery is entirely superseded by the taking
of whales. 'Thus, while every town in the county of Barnsta-
ble is more or less engaged in this business, and collectively they
exhibit an aggregate of 212 vessels, but a single fishing-smack
was licensed in Duke’s county, in 1836, and not one in the
county of Nantucket ; the attention of the inhabitants of the
last two counties being entirely engaged in whaling. I have
ascertained that in 1836, there were engaged in the cod fish-
ery, from Gloucester, Marblehead, Provincetown, South Well-

16

122 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

fleet, Cohasset, Duxbury, Plymouth, Manchester, Salem and
Beverly, being ten towns, 561 vessels, having crews of 3816
men; and that by these vessels there were taken 263,454
quintals of fish. To these may be added the towns of Newbu-
ryport, Lynn, Falmouth, Holmes Hole and Sandwich, (in
which I have not been able to learn the number of vessels ex-
clusively employed in this fishery,) which furnished, in 1836,
16,265 quintals; thus exhibiting 279,718 quintals of cod
fish taken by the enterprise of the citizens of fifteen towns.
When it is observed, that about 3500 of the cod fish from
the Grand Bank, (which are generally much larger than those
from the Straits of Belleisle,) constitute one hundred quintals,
some conception may be formed of the immense number taken.
At the usual price of these prepared fish, the above mentioned
number of quintals would sell for $839,154.

In 1837, according to the returns of the assessors of the
several towns, it appears that there were taken 510,554
quintals of cod fish, which were valued at $1,569,517.
These fish were distributed among the following counties:
Eissex Co. took 159,424 quintals, valued at $501,363; Barn-
stable Co., 134,758 = $392,930; Suffolk Co., 127,250 =
- $408,510; Plymouth Co., 64,172 = $193,664; Norfolk Co.,
15,950 = $46,050; Middlesex Co., 9000 = $27,000.

Besides these fishing vessels which go to the Banks for the
Cod and their bounty, a great number of boats are constantly
employed in supplying the markets with fresh fish. 'Thus, at
Duxbury, in 1836, there were ten market boats having forty
men on board, which took frorn 38,000 to 40,000 fish. At
Provincetown, there were ten boats thus engaged. Boston
market is supplied with cod fish by about fifteen or twenty
small schooners, and a large number of boats. By the kind-
ness of Capt. Nathaniel Blanchard, of Lynn, master of one of
these smacks, I am enabled to furnish the following table, by
which some idea may be formed of the amount of fresh cod
fish brought to our market. He has presented me the result
of his labors with a vessel of 25 tons, and a crew of six men,
for nearly five months, commencing October 24, 1836, and

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 123

terminating March 20, 1837. His account exhibits the num-
ber of fish taken, and the price obtained for the same, for each
day during that period. From this minute statement I.am
able to ascertain that the largest quantity taken any one day,
was 7124 pounds, December 13th, which sold for five shillings
per hundred = $59.39.

The smallest quantity taken any one day, was 337 pounds,
January 16th, which sold for 12 shillings = $6.67.

The smallest receipts were March 20th, when 359 pounds
taken, sold for 10 shillings 6 pence = $5.92.

The whole number of pounds taken during the period men-
tioned, was 194,125.

The entire receipts for the same, were $3026.14.

Besides the value of the fishes themselves, in a fresh and
dried state, large quantities of oil are extracted from their livers,
which is sold for about $15 per barrel.

The color of the cod of our market is exceedingly variable.
In the same stall may frequently be seen specimens with
equally obvious spots over their entire surface; or they may
be much more perceptible on the sides ; or they may be scarcely
observed at all; and the entire fish appear of an uniform gray ;
or again of a beautiful bright red; and I have seen a single
specimen whicl was of a lemon yellow.

The following description is drawn up from a specimen
about 23 inches in length. Back ash colored; sides lighter ;
both back and sides covered with yellowish spots larger and more
distinet upon the sides. Beneath, dusky white. Length of
the head compared to the length of the body, with the excep-
tion of the tail, rather more than one third; depth over the
base of the pectorals rather more than one fifth the length of
the body, without the tail ; depth over the anus equal to one
fifth the length of the body. ‘Top of the head darker colored
than the gill-covers. The pupils of the eye black, irides a
beautiful silvery. Diameter of the eye equal to one sixth the
length of the head ; the distance between the eyes nearly equal
to one third the length of the head; the distance of the ex-
tremity of the snout, from a line on a plane with the anterior
angle of the eye, equal to one third the length of the head.

124 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

Nostrils double, posterior lower and larger ; the wpper jaw pro-
jects beyond the lower; in the lower jaw is a single row of
teeth ; those in the back part of the jaw, large, and incurved ;
those in the fore part of the jaw much smaller ; in the upper
jaw a row of large teeth in the back part, with a row of minute
teeth back of them ; approaching the middle of the jaw, a triple
row is observed ; at the middle of the jaw, four distinct rows
are seen ; the front row uniformly large, those behind very small.
A single barbule about an inch long at the chin. he lateral
line commencing above the operculum, makes a very gradual
slope upwards, and as gradual a curve downwards, until oppo-
site the anterior third of the second dorsal fin it commences a
straight course which is continued to the caudal fin ; this line
is lighter colored in its whole extent than the body, it is wider
and more conspicuous after assuming a straight course.

The first Dorsal arises just back of the pectorals; the se-
cond Dorsal is much longer than the first ; the third is slightly
longer than the first. All the dorsals are of a bluish color, °
spotted like the body.

The Pectorals are round ; their length is equal to half their
height.

The Ventrals are situated in front of the pectorals, of the
color of the abdomen; the two outer rays of the ventral fins
are free, the second ray is the longest.

The first Anal fin is shorter than the second dorsal ; the se-
cond anal, much shorter; both anals the same color as the ab-
domen. .

The depth of the Caudal fin at the extremities, to its length,
as 2 to 1; spotted like the rest of the body.

The fin rays are: B. 7; D. 15-22-19; P. 19; V. 6; A. 22—
19; C. AO.

M. aeglefinus. L. The Haddock.

Pennant’s British Zoology, vol. iii. p, 158.
Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. vol. i. p. 370.
Strack’s Plates, 26, 2.

Mc Murtrie’s Cuv. ii. p. 244.

Yarrell’s British Fishes, vol. ii. p. 153.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 125

Immense shoals of this fish are found on our coast in the
spring, and continue through the season until the autumn. Ten
years sitice this species was comparatively rare at Cape Cad ;
now, it is almost as common there, as in any part of our bay. It
is estimated that in the warm season, about 12 cwt. of haddock
are taken to 1 cwt. of cod fish in Massachusetts Bay ; and in
the winter, about 12 cwt. of cod, to 1 cwt. haddock ; but as
the haddock fishery is of longer duration, the quantities through
the year, will average about the proportion of 3 haddock to 1
cod. Large numbers are sold in the market ; and during the
entire summer it is generally eaten by the poorer classes, who
are often able to obtain a fine fish weighing several pounds for
one or two cents. When taken in larger quantities than they
can be disposed of in the market, they are frequently strewed
over the earth for manure.

The specimen before me is twenty four inches in length.
Length of the head compared to the whole length of the body,
exclusive of the caudal rays, as 6 to 20 inches; depth of the
body across from the anus, less than the length of the head.
Color, above the lateral line, a dark grey, beneath this line, a
beautiful silvery grey, with a large, and in many specimens
nearly a circular patch, on each side, on a line with the middle
of the pectorals, its upper portion generally extending above
the lateral line, its larger portion usually beneath it. Back of
the head very convex; gzll-covers much lighter colored than
the top of the head and snout; wpper jaw projects beyond the
lower ; teeth in the upper jaw longer than in the lower, and
nearly vertical; a very minute barbule at the chin ; posterior
nostril much larger than the anterior. Longest diameter of
the eye, more than one sixth the length of the head, pupils black,
irides bluish ; the distance between the eyes equal to nearly
one third the length of the head. The lateral line commenc-
ing at a distance above the posterior angle of the operculum,
equal to the length of the head, assumes the curve of the body
until ona plane with about the middle of the second dorsal fin,
from which point it runs on in a straight line to the base of
the caudal rays; through its whole course, it is of a jet black
color.

126 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

The first Dorsal fin commences on a line with the base of
the pectorals, its length is three fifths that of the second dorsal,

The second Dorsal commences on nearly the same plane as
the anus.

The third Dorsal, the same length as the first.

The Pectorals in length not quite equal to one third of their
height.

The Ventrals commence in front of the pectorals; their
first two rays free: the second ray, the longer.

The first Anal fin commences back of the second dorsal ;
the second Anal arises on a line with the third dorsal.

The Caudal fin is very slightly notched.

The dorsal, pectoral, and caudal fins are bluish; the anals
the color of the abdomen; the ventrals rather lighter than the
anal.

The fin rays are: D. 16-24-20; P.21; V.6; A. 26-21;
C. 35.

M. tomcodus. Mitchell. The Tom Cod.
Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. vol. i. p. 68.

As Cuvier in his notes to the “ Regne Animal,” has intro-
duced Mitchell’s specific name, I retain it here. It is to be
hoped that Valenciennes, in his continuation of the “ Histoire
Naturelle des Poissons,” will assume the specific name “‘ poly-
morphus,”’ proposed by Mitchell himself, as cchiee equally
appropriate and more scientific. ‘

This very common little species is taken in considerable
numbers from our wharves and bridges with the hook, to-
gether with the “ Conner,” ‘“ Flounder,” “ Sculpin,”’ *‘ Eel,”
&e. &c., in the summer; and through the winter, the market
is supplied from the mouths of the rivers, in the vicinity of
Boston, where they are taken in dip nets. ‘The amount of
Tom Cod taken at Watertown alone is estimated at 2000
bushels annually ; they are sent to Boston market, and readily
disposed of there.

Specimens of this species are seldom obtained exceeding

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 127

twelve inches in length. 'The length of the head is to the
length of the body, about as 1 to 6; the depth of the fish over
the anus, exclusive of the dorsal fin, less than one sixth the
length of the body. In color, this species varies exceedingly,
generally it is brown, greenish, or yellowish brown, with deeper
patches, spots, and blotches ;.beneath, lighter. Snout blunt ;
upper jaw projecting beyond the lower, a small barbule be-
neath the chin; ¢eeth in the jaws very compact, small, and
sharp; those in the upper jaw more apparent; small teeth in
the throat. Diameter of the eye equal to half the distance be-
tween the eyes ; pupils of the eye black; irides golden. Nos-
trils double ; anterior the larger. F%ns brown, tinged with red.

The lateral line, commencing above the operculum, curves
gently upwards to the pectorals, and just beyond these fins
commencing a straight course, terminates at the base of the
caudal rays.

The first Dorsal fin commences opposite the middle of the
pectorals ; its length is greater than its height. ‘The second dor-
sal as long again as high. The length of the third dorsal, one
fourth less than the length of une second, and less than the
length of the first.

The length of the Pectorals is one fourth less than their height.

The Ventrals are situated in the front of the pectorals; the
first two rays are free at their extremities; the second ray the
longer; the other rays are united.

The first Anal fin is more than as long again as high; the
second fin is shorter than the first.

The Caudal fin is convex.

The fin rays are: D. 13-18-19; P. 17; V.6; A. 22-18;
C. 39.

M. Minuta. Lin. T'he Poor or Power Cod.
Yarrell’s British Fishes, vol. ii. p. 161 et fig.
Strack’s Plates, 27. 1.

A single specimen only have I ever seen of this species,
which was taken in Boston harbor ; it has been preserved for

128 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

several years in spirits in the cabinet of the ‘‘ Boston Society of
Natural History,” and its colors have undoubtedly somewhat
changed. Mitchell, it would seem from his silence, had never
seen this species. And Richardson makes no mention of it in
his “‘ Fauna ;’’ my specimen, however, agrees so well with
Yarrell’s description of the “ minuta,” that I cannot doubt its
identity with that species.

My specimen is eight inches in length ; length of the head,
two inches ; depth of the body across the base of the pectorals,
rather less than the length of the head. The J/ateral line
commences just above the posterior angle of the operculum,
curves slightly over the pectorals, and a quarter of an inch
back of these fins assumes a straight line, which is continued
to the tail. Snout obtuse ; aline of mucous pores along the
intermaxillary bones from the tip of the snout to a line be-
neath the anterior angle of the eye. Upper jaw longer than
the lower ; jaws furnished with sharp teeth. A cirrhus one
fourth of an inch long is suspended from the chin. Hye half
an inch in diameter, being equal to one fourth the length of
the head. Color of the specimen above, of a reddish yellow ;
abdomen, of a dirty white, or rather a yellowish white covered
with innumerable minute black points.

The first Dorsal fin commences just back of the origin of
the pectorals ; rather higher than long.

The second Dorsal, which is as long again as the first, be-
gins and terminates on the same plane with the anal fin.

The third Dorsal, which is longer than high, is longer than
the first dorsal, and shorter than the second.

The Pectorals are an inch long.

The Ventrals are fuliginous ; their first ray is shorter than
the second, which is the longest ray of the fin, and is separated
from it or free at extremities.

The first Anal fin is directly back of the vent ; longer than
high. The second Anal is one third shorter than the first.

The Caudal fin is but slightly forked.

The fin rays are: D. 12-19-17; P. 17; V.6; A. 22-17;
C. 20.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 129

Meruancus. Cuv.

Generic characters. The same as those of Morrhua, ez-
cept that they have no barbule at the chin.

M. carbonarius. Lin. The Coal Fish.-

Pennant’s British Zoology, vol. iii.
Mc Murtrie’s Cuv. vol. ii. p. 245.
Yarrell’s British Fishes, vol. ii. p. 169.
Fauna Boreali Americana, p. 247.
Strack’s plates, 29. 1.

In Sir Edward Parry’s first voyage, it is stated that this spe-
cies was taken of a very small size on the west coast of Davis’
straight. I am not aware that it has been noticed by any
other naturalist, as inhabiting the American ocean. It is often
met with in our market in considerable quantities, and, as well as
the ‘“purpureus,” is called, by our fishermen, the “ pollack.”
I have had it prepared in its fresh state for my own table, and
found it an excellent fish. With the cod, it is salted in con-
siderable numbers. From a specimen three feet in length,
weighing thirteen pounds, obtained in Boston market in Janu-
ary, I have drawn up the following description. Length of
the head compared to that of the body, exclusive of the tail,
as 1 to 2 1-4; depth of the body over the base of the pecto-
rals, rather less than the length of the head. All the upper
part of the body and head, black ; beneath the lateral line, the
body of a bluish white; the abdomen lighter than the sides.
The lateral line, which is of a beautiful silvery white color,
commences just above the posterior angle of the operculum,
and with the exception of a very slight inclination anterior to
the space between the first and second dorsal fins, pursues a
straight course to the base of the caudal fin. Scales on the
head, smaller than those of the body ; the lower jaw longer
than the upper ; the teeth in both jaws small and sharp; more
numerous in the upper jaw; the lips purplish; the distance
between the eyes less than one fourth the length of the head ;
the eyes large, prominent ; the pupils blue; the irides silvery.

17

130 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

The first Dorsal fin commences at a distance back of the
posterior angle of the operculum, equal to about one fourth the
length of the head ; longer than high.

The second Dorsal has its first rays equal in their height to
half its length.

The third Dorsal begins at a greater distance from the sec-
ond, than the space between the first and second; the height
of the first rays of this fin, less than half the length of the fin.
All the dorsal fins of a bluish black color.

The Pectorals cornmence on a line with the posterior angle
of the operculum ; their color the same as the dorsals.

The Ventrals commence in front of the pectorals; their
depth equal to one third their height.

The first Anal fin commences on a line opposite the interval
between the first and second dorsal fins, just back of the anus,
and is the same color as the abdomen ; depth to its length as
3 to 8. The second anal commences on a line opposite the
last dorsal, and terminates on the same plane with that fin.

The Caudal fin is large ; its width at base is to its width at
the extremity as 2 to 7, being much forked.

The fin rays are: D. 13-20-20; P. 19; V.6; A. 24-21;
C. 32.

M. purpureus. Mitchell. The Pollack.
Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. N. Y. vol. i. p. 370.

Until within a few years, the “ Merlangus purpureus,”
“ nollack,” was but slightly prized ; and the fisherrnen had so
little demand for it, that they not unfrequently gave it away
from their boats. Its useful qualities are beginning to be known
and valued, and in several of the interior towns of the state, it
is now as readily sold as any other fish. When salted, it was
formerly usual to throw it at once into old brine, to increase
its weight, which it did at the expense of its goodness. It
is ascertained that when prepared in the same way as the
cod, when intended for dun fish, with proper care and
good salt, this is really an excellent fish, and its value is in-

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 131

creased from nine shillings to from three to four dollars per
quintal. Immense numbers of this species are found in our
waters in spring and autumn. To Jeffries ledge, a flcet of 20
or 30 boats frequently go off in the fall of the year, and hav-
ing fastened their craft together and thrown overboard a quan-
tity of bait to entice the fish, capture in a single night from 30
to 40 quintals of pollack to a boat.

Length of the specimen described, two feet four inches.
Depth of the body across from the anus, exclusive of the dorsal
fin, as 1 to 4; upper part of the head and body, of a greenish
brown color; sides lighter; abdomen white. Lateral line of
a grayish color, commencing above the posterior angle of the
operculum, and slightly curving over the pectorals to their ex-
tremity, pursues nearly a straight course to the middle of the
caudal rays. Length of the head about equal to the greatest
depth of the body; top of the head between the eyes slightly
depressed ; head somewhat pointed, when the jaws are closed.
E’yes large ; pupils black ; irides silvery, with greenish reflec-
tions; diameter of the eye equal to half the distance between
the eyes. Lower jaw longer than the upper; minute teeth in
both jaws; gape of the mouth quite large; mouth within,
bluish ; tongue large, fleshy. Posterior nostril quite large. A
line of mucous pores on both maxillary bones. Grill-covers
silvery; the division between the opercle and preopercle,
scarcely distinguishable at first sight ; the posterior angle of the
operculum cbtuse. Body gradually arched to the origin of the
first dorsal.

The first Dorsal fin arises opposite the middle of the pecto-
rals, is one third longer than high, and of the same color as the
back.

The second Dorsal fin is one third longer than the first ; it
arises back of the first, at a distance equal to less than one
third the length of the first dorsal. The distance between the
second and third dorsals, is to the distance betwcen the first
and second, as 3 to 1; height of the third dorsal to its length,
less than 1 to 3.

The Pectorals arise on a line with the posterior angle of the —

132 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

operculum, some distance beneath it; their length to their
height, as 2 to 12; the color of the dorsal fins.

The Ventrals are very small, in front of the pectorals; the
second and third rays longest ; fins white.

The Anal fin at its base, the color of the abdomen; above,
bluish; arises upon the same plane, and terminates with the
second dorsal. ‘The second anal about half the height of the
first anal ; a narrow white margin at its base, and, like the first,
whitish at the tip.

The Caudal fin large, strong, forked; length of the outer
rays equal to the distance between the extremities of the fin
when expanded.

In smaller specimens, the color above is deeper; the abdo-
men, reddish.

In two specimens, the rays were as follows:

D. 14-22-21; P. 20; V.6; A. 22-21; C. 40.

D. 14-19-18; P. 16; V.6; A. 24-16; C. 36.

Meruucius. Cuv.

Generic characters. The head flattened; the body elon-
gated ; the back furnished with two dorsal fins ; the first short,
the second long ; but one anal fin, also very long ; no barbule
at the chin.

M. vulgaris. Cuv. The Hake.

Pennant’s British Zoology, vol. iii. p. 168.
Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. N. Y. vol. i. p. 371.
Me Murtrie’s Cuv. vol. ii. p. 245.

Yarrell’s British Fishes, vol. ii. p. 177.

Strack’s plates, 28. 1.

This fish is generally known by the fishermen of Massachu-
setts as the ‘‘ Whiting.’ It is not a little singular, that while
our species is really the ‘‘ Huropean Hake,” the “ Phycis
Americanus,” ‘‘Codling,”’ is called with us “old English
Hake ;’ and the “ Hake” itself is called the “ Whiting,”
which isa “ Merlangus.” 'This species is taken, not however,

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 133

in large quantities, in our bay in the summer, upon the cod
fishery grounds. When perfectly fresh, it is very sweet and
palatable, but so soon becomes soft, that it is kept with great
difficulty, and on this account is not much valued.

The good specimen on my table was sent me by Dr. Yale.
Length fifteen inches; depth of the body at the commence-
ment of the second dorsal fin, two inches. Body elongated ;
top of the head and upper part of the body, of a dull lead color;
sides and abdomen white. The lateral line, lighter colored
than the upper part of the body, arises above the operculum,
and curves slightly in its anterior half, then assumes a straight
line to the tail. ‘The scales upon the top of the head, much
smaller than those upon the body of the fish. Length of the
head equal to about one fourth the length of the body. Pre-
operculum and maxillary bones of a beautiful shining silver
color; the inferior portion of the gill-covers naked ; upper por-
tion scaly ; scales on the operculum reflecting a beautiful bluish
tint. 'yes very large; pupils black; irides silvery. Diam-
eter of the eye equal to three quarters the distance between ~
the eyes. At the anterior angle of the eye a bony process is
obseived ; just in front of this process are situated the nostrils,
which are double, the posterior much the larger. A sensible
depression on the top of the head between the eyes. Smaller
furrows on other parts of the head. The lower jaw the longer ;
the jaws as well as the palatine bones armed with a row of
prominent, sharp, recurved teeth, exterior to which, is a row
much smaller. ‘Tip or middle of the upper jaw without teeth.
Outer edge of both intermaxillary bones, fuliginous. Jaws
within, palatines, vomer, fuliginous. A deep furrow exists in
the suborbitar bones, extending from just exterior to the snout
in the upper, to the posterior portion of the preoperculum; and
beneath the lower, from the chin to the outer angle of the jaw.

The first Dorsal fin, which is short and of a triangular
shape, arises just before the posterior angle of the operculum.
The distance between the dorsals, equal to one third the length
of the first dorsal. ‘The second dorsal quite long ; rays large,
terminating a short distance in front of the caudal fin.

134 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

The Pectorals commence on a line beneath the posterior an-
gle of the operculum ; the fourth ray is the longest ; length of:
the fin to its height as 5 to 32.

The Ventrals are yellowish; their length to their height as
3 to 27.

The Anal fin arises on a line nearly opposite the commence-
ment of the second dorsal fin, and terminates on the same
plane with that fin.

The Caudal rays are nearly even.

The fin rays are:. D. 12-38; P..23; Ve7: A. 40); .C. 30:

This species is very accurately described by Mitchell. The
specimen which served for his description was of the same
size as that from which the preceding account has been drawn
up. The ichthyological student will perceive how much the
number of fin rays differs in this species.

Thus, according to Pennant, they are: D. 9-40; P. 12; V.
7; A. 39—while Yarrell makes them thus: D. 10-29; P.
11; V.7; A. 21; C. 19—and Mitchell: D. 12-38; P. 13;
Nea ieee Ae Ale C27.

Lota. Cuv.

G._eric characters. Jn addition to the elongated body, with
two dorsal fins and one anel fin, possessed by the species of
Merlucius last described, may be added, chin with one or more
barbules.

L. compressa. Le Sueur. The Hel Pout.

Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, vol. i. p. 84.

This species was described by Le Sueur as being received
from Northampton. The only specimen I have been able to
see was sent me from Keene, N. H. ‘Taken as it was in the
Ashuelot river, one of the tributaries of the Connecticut. I do
not hesitate to draw my description from it, rather than use
that of Le Sueur. My specimen presents the following char-
acters. Color of the back and sides a yellowish brown, varie-

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 135

gated with darker brown spots ; the gill-covers and snout much
darker than the remainder of the body. Abdomen whitish.
Length six inches; length of the head one inch; body in front
of the first dorsal, cylindrical, beginning to be compressed at
the sides at the extremity of the pectorals, gradually becoming
more so towards the tail, so that the caudal rays appear a mem-
branous prolongation of the body. ‘The entire surface of the
body is covered with very minute scales, looking like cup-
shaped depressions. ‘The lateral line arises above the opercu-
lum, and, quite conspicuous, extends in a straight course to the
middle of the fleshy portion of the tail. Head very much com-
pressed ; eyes circular ; distance between the eyes one quarter
the length of the head. Nostri/s double; from the back of the
anterior nostril, a very minute cirrhus is suspended. Upper
jaw the longer ; to the chin is attached a dark-colored cirrhus,
one fourth of an inch long. Jaws and palatines armed with
numerous, minute, sharp teeth.

The first Dorsal fin, which is of a lighter color than the
body, and variegated with black, is situated the length of the
- head back of the head.

The second Dorsal, arising one fourth of an inch back of the
first, is continued to the tail; upon the lower portion of this
fin is arow of dark-colored spots, and its edge is margined
with black.

The Pectorals are three quarters of an inch long, and dark
colored at their extremities.

The Ventrals are small, color of the pectorals, terminating in
a point.

The Anal fin is of the same length as the dorsal, and like it
is joined to the commencement of the caudal fin.

The Caudal fin is rounded, colored, and margined like the
dorsal and anal fins.

The fleshy texture of the membrane forming the several
fins, prevents the rays from being counted.

136 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

Brosmius. Cuv.

Generic characters. Body elongated; a single dorsal fin
extending the whole length of the back ; one barbule at the
chin; ventral fins fleshy.

B. vulgaris. Cuv. The Cusk.

Pennant’s British Zoology, vol. iii. 178 et fig.
Yarrell’s British Fishes, ii. 197 et fig.

Although Le Sueur’s description of a “‘ Brosmius,’’ which
he calls flavescens, from a specimen seen by him at Marble-
head, published in the fifth volume of the ‘“‘ Memoires du Mu-
seum d’ Histoire Naturelle,” lies before me, I cannot think our
common cusk a different species from the European. Our
species is commonly taken upon the Middle Bank, with the
hook, while fishing for deep-water cod. In the spring of the
year it is not unfrequently met with in the Boston market, and
does not sell as readily as the cod; in the winter season it is
rare, and then sells readily for double the prices of that species.
By many, as a fresh fish it is considered quite a delicacy ; and
when salted, is thought preferable to the Cod.

The liver of this species contains a large quantity of oil,
which is sometimes preserved by the fishermen, who consider
it an excellent application to a burned surface.

The following description is drawn up from a specimen
twenty five inches in length, weighing between three and four
pounds. Color of the body an uniform dark slate; head
rather darker than the body. Head, one fifth the length of
the body ; width of the body across the commencement of the
anal fin, exclusive of the dorsal fin, equal to one sixth the length
of the specimen ; width of the head across the posterior angle
of the operculum, equal to two thirds its length; the scales on the
head present a peculiarly corrugated appearance. Mouth, large.
Jaws, filled with sharp, recurved teeth. Upper jaw slightly
longer than the lower. A single barbule under the chin.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 137

Diameter of the eye equal to one sixth the length of the head ;
pupils black, irides silvery ; distance between the eyes nearly
one half greater than the diameter of the eye. Extremity of
the upper jaw, maxillary bones, and lower jaw, destitute of
scales. The lateral line commences at a distance above the
pectorals, equal to the length of the pectorals, and runs on in
a straight line to opposite the thirty-second dorsal ray, then
making a gentle curve downwards, passes on again in a straight
course to the base of the caudal fin.

The Dorsal fin commences at a distance back of the pecto-
rals, equal to about half the length of the head, and terminates
just in front of the tail.

The Pectorals are about half the length of the head, round
at the extremities, and as high again as long.

The Ventrals are situated just in front of the pectorals, of
the same length as those fins, fleshy, and similar in color to
the head.

The Anal fin, which is nine inches in length, is continued
to the tail, and nearly joins it. Anus, two thirds of an inch in
front of the anal fin.

The Caudal fin is round, and like the dorsal and anal fins,
is margined with blue, and edged with white.

Mine) fintrays) are :.D..96 ; P.i23';.V..5; A. 73);) ©. 35:

In a specimen weighing twenty pounds, the color is brown
upon the back, with yellowish sides and white abdomen. In
this large specimen the Jateral line is very indistinct; the ven-
trals are yellow ; and the anal and dorsal fins do not extend
so near the tail as in the smaller.

From an examination of a young specimen, this species
might be considered as distinct from the European fish. A care-
ful study of all its characters, however, must settle conclusively
its identity. The difference between the number of the dorsal
and anal rays of that species, as described in the works on
ichthyology, and of the fish in our waters, arises undoubtedly
from the great difficulty of counting them with accuracy, en-
veloped as they all are by a thick, fleshy membrane.

18

138 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

Puycis. Artedi.

Generic characters. Body elongated ; two dorsal fins, the
Jirst short, the second long ; ventral fins with a single ray only
at the base, afterward divided ; chin with one barbule.

P. Americanus. Schn. The American Hake.
Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. N. Y. vol. i. p. 372.

I have no means of sceing the description of this species by
Schneider; but as Cuvier, in the notes to his “ Regne Ani-
mal,” observes that Schneider’s “ E’nchelyopus Americanus,”
and Mitchell’s “Gadus longipes,” are the same fish, I do not
hesitate to admit the priority of the specific name of the former.
Deceived in my early investigations of our fishes by the plates
of the “ Phycis furcatus,’’ a species taken in the ocean and
pretty generally diffused, and the “Gadus longipes” of Mitch-
ell, I had supposed the species I am about to describe, as the
Phycis, and accordingly catalogued it as such in the first vol-
ume of the ‘Boston Journal of Natural History.” At that
time Mitchell’s description was not at my command, to com-
pare with the fish itself, and I was compelled to depend upon
his plate. Further research has convinced me of the folly of
relying upon plates alone in ichthyology, as well as in the other
branches of natural history. Mitchell called it the “Codling.”
As it is generally known by our fishermen as the “‘ Hake,” I
have prefixed that name.

Large numbers of this species are taken between the first of
June and the first of September, on muddy bottoms, between
Cape Ann and Boston light-house. 'They are generally taken
in the night with the hook; sometimes 2000 weight, varying
in size from 3 to 3U pounds or more, are taken in a single night
by one man, where scarcely a specimen was captured during
the previous day.

From a fine specimen three feet in length, weighing nine
pounds, I have made the following description: General color
of the upper portion of the fish, grayish brown; beneath,

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 139

lighter. Length of the head to the body, exclusive of the tail,
as 9 to 32; depth of the body in front of the pectorals, six
inches ; depth across from the anus, exclusive of the dorsal fin,
five inches; depth of the body beyond the termination of the
dorsal and anal fins, one inch and a half. Top of the head
flattened ; sides somewhat compressed ; eyes large, prominent ;
pupils black ; irides silvery ; diameter of the eye one inch and
a half; distance between the eyes equal to about one fourth
the length of the head; wpper jaw projects beyond the lower ;
both jaws are armed with several rows of sharp, incurved
teeth ; tongue large and fleshy; a very minute barbule at the
ehin. The lateral line, which is quite obvious, commences
above and just anterior to the posterior angle of the operculum,
and continues nearly a straight course to the tail, being near
the back throughout its whole extent.

The first Dorsal fin commences an inch back of the pecto-
rals ; its third ray is higher than the length of the fin, and is
the longest ray.

The second Dorsal fin, which commences just back of the
first, has its first rays longest ; they gradually disappear as they
approach the tail. This fin does not extend quite to the tail.

The Pectorals commence just back of the posterior angle of
the operculum ; their length is to their greatest depth as 5 to 20.

The Ventrals commence at a point just half way between
the base of the pectorals and the angle of the lower jaw; com-
posed of a single ray, which bifurcates about its middle; one
of its divisions much larger than the other.

The Anal fin arises some distance back of the second dorsal,
and terminates on the same plane with that fin; the ten or
eleven first rays of this fin are the largest; they diminish as
the fin approaches the extremity of the fish; this fin, asa
whole, is not as high as the opposite dorsal.

The Caudal fin, in its length, from the extremity of the lat-
eral line, is to its width at the extremity as 3 to 5.

Mheyfinpray sare: D10-54)) Puly 4 Vo 1: vA. AS eae

140 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

Famizty II.
PLANI.

Puatessa. Cur.

Generic characters. Body rhomboidal, depressed ; both eyes
on the right side of the head, one above the other; a row of
teeth in each jaw, with others on the pharyngeal bones ; dorsal
fin commencing over the upper eye, that fin and the anal fin
extending nearly the whole length of the body, but neither of
them joined to the tail; branchiostegous rays 6.

P. plana. Mitchell. The Flounder of Massachusetts.
Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. N. Y. vol. i. p. 387.

This fish, which Mitchell calls the “ New York Flatfish,”
is generally known by our fishermen as the “ Flounder.” It
is taken in considerable quantities throughout all the warm
season near the shore, from the wharves, bridges, &c., and in
the winter is speared through the ice. Those taken about
Deer Island are considered very fine, in the market. The
largest specimen of the “plana,” I have seen, measured in
length twenty-one inches, and in width, seventeen inches.

The color is very variable ; sometimes the right side, upon
which are situated the eyes, is of a rusty brown; sometimes of
a dark, blackish brown; at other times, of a dull slate color.
Scales small. Surface of the fish, smooth. Left side colorless.

Length of the specimen before me, thirteen and a half inches; -

length, exclusive of the tail, ten and a half inches; length of
the head, two and a half inches; depth of the fish across its
middle, less than half the length of the fish, when the tail is
included. Head covered with scales; mouth small; lips large
and fleshy ; a single row of compact, prominent, slightly in-
curved teeth in each jaw. The half of the jaw next to the
eyes, without teeth. Hyes large; their longest diameter six
lines; the shorter, four lines; pupils black; irides golden.
Space between the eyes, two lines wide, covered with scales.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 141

The lateral line, commencing at the anterior inferior angle of
the under eye, curves backwards and upwards just behind the
eyes, until it reaches the upper edge of the gill-covers, when
it passes backwards in a straight line to the rays of the caudal
fin, curving only very slightly over the pectorals. This lateral
line is perfectly smooth.

The Dorsal fin commences anteriorly to the middle of the
upper eye, and increasing in the height of its rays towards the
middle, decreases from that point gradually towards the caudal
fin, a short distance in front of which it terminates.

The Pectorals are situated just beneath the posterior angle
of the operculum ; their length to their height is as 1 to 4.

The Ventrals, of moderate size, arise on the same plane with
the Pectorals. |

At the commencement of the Anal fin, a projecting spine is
situated, nearly concealed by the flesh.

The Anal fin arises back of the pectorals; its rays increase
and diminish again in height like those of the dorsal fin, and
the fin terminates on the same plane as the dorsal fin.

The Caudal fin, when expanded, is one third deeper than
high.

Mhemays are) Dy 65)) Pad 0) Vin Gi) AAS Cy lize

P. ferruginea. Nobis. The Rusty Dab.
Plate II.

This species is occasionally brought to our market, in the
winter season only; it is taken in about thirty fathoms of
water.

From a fine specimen caught at Cape Ann, and brought to
Boston market, Dec. 30th, 1837, eighteen inches in length,
and six and a half inches in its greatest depth, the following
description is drawn up.

All the right side of the body is of a reddish slate-color, covered
with a great number of ferruginous spots; these spots, irregu-
lar in their form and size, are scattered alike over the body and
head and fins. The left side is without spots, margined at the base

142 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

of the dorsal, anal, and caudal fins with yellow; this margin
is wider and of a deeper tint at the posterior extremity of the
body, and is continued on the caudal rays. Length of the
head to that of the body without the caudal rays, as 1 to 4;
depth, including fins, equal to half the entire length of the
fish. Mouth, small; jaws equal, with sharp teeth compactly
set together ; lips tumid, making the mouth to appear some-
what like that of a “‘catostomus.” Nostrils, double. F'yes
situated exactly over each other, separated by a narrow bony
ridge, destitute of scales; longest diameter of the eye, nearly
equal to one fourth the length of the head. The lateral line
commences about the length of the ventral fin above the pec-
torals, and making a high arch over the pectorals, commences
a straight course on a line opposite the twenty-fourth ray of
the dorsal fin, and is continued to the extremity of the caudal
rays.

The Dorsal fin commences over the anterior third of the
upper eye, and increasing in the length of its rays, which
are longest towards the middle of the body, and again diminish
in their length, terminates about an inch anterior to the
rays of the caudal fin.

The length of the Pectorals, one line more than one fourth
the length of the head.

The Ventrals commence on a line with the base of the pec-
torals.

Anterior to the Anal fin is a strong spine which projects for-
wards, almost concealed by the flesh. ‘The anal fin commen-
ces under the posterior third of the right ventral fin, and ter-
minates on a plane with the dorsal fin; the rays of this fin,
like those of the dorsal, are longest towards the middle of the
fin.

The length of the Caudal fin, one third more than its depth
at the base.

The anal, dorsal, and ventral fins on the left side, white,
tinged with yellow ; pectorals, on same side, white. Fins on
the right side edged with white.

Thejfin(xays are: D,76; P. 10; V. 6; A155 5.0.18.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. . 143

The most careless observer would readily distinguish this
from the “‘ Pleuronectes dentatus,” of Mitchell, by its small
mouth, fleshy lips, closely set teeth, and arched lateral line.

It more nearly resembles the “ manda,” Lin. than any other
species ; so great indeed is its similarity that a minute exam-
ination is necessary to decide its difference. In its color; the
number of its fin rays ; its general size ; the curved lateral line ;
size of the mouth; ridge between the eyes, and several other
minor particulars, it agrees pretty well with the description in
the books of that species. But in other characters equally
important, it differs. The ‘‘ émanda’’ is very rough on its sur-
face ; our fish is perfectly smooth. The color of the former, an
uniform pale brown; of the latter, a rusty color with spots of
a deeper brown in the recent specimen; in the former, the
teeth are separated ; in the latter, they are very close to each
other, striking when the mouth is closed, upon each other’s
tops; the length of the pectorals of the former, is nearly two
thirds the length of the head ; in the latter, it is one line only
more than one fourth the length of the head. If we can judge
from the figure of the “amanda” in “ Yarrell’s British Fishes,”
(and the figures generally are exceedingly accurate, ) its dorsal
fin commences back of the eye; in the “ ferruginea,’’ it com-
mences over the anterior third of the upper eye.

P. dentata. Mitchell. The Flounder of New York.
Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. N. Y. vol. i. p. 390.

This species known by the fishermen as the ‘‘ Sand-dab” in
the Boston market, is frequently taken in the winter season in
deep water at Provincetown; and although a marketable fish,
is considered inferior to the ‘‘ plana.’ In the stomach of this
species I found a new “ Nucula,” which has as yet been
detected only in this species, and which I described and fig-
ured in the second volume of the ‘“‘ Boston Journal of Natural
History.” The largest individual I have seen of the “ den-
tata,” was twenty-one inches in length, eight and a half in-
ches’ in width, and weighed three and a half pounds.

144 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

The eyes upon the right side of the body. All the right
side of the body and the fins of a reddish brown color ; the whole
left side of the body and the fins perfectly white. Length of
the head to the body, exclusive of the caudal fin, as 1 to 4;
width of the body equal to half the length of the fish.
Mouth very large ; upper jaw slightly projecting beyond the
lower; both jaws furnished with a single row of prominent,
sharp teeth, separated from each other so that when the mouth
is closed the teeth of one jaw shut into the space between
those of the opposite jaw ; the lower jaw has a blunt spine at
the chin; dips small. Eyes placed over each other, separated
by a bony ridge covered with scales similar to those over the
whole head; pupils of the eye black, zrides golden ; longest
diameter of the eye nearly equal to one third the length of the
head. 'The lateral line makes a curve over the pectorals, so
slight as to be scarcely observable.

The Dorsal fin commences just over the middle of the eyes,
and terminates a short distance in front of the caudal rays.

The Pectorals are half the length of the head.

The Ventrals originate before the pectorals.

The Anal fin commences back of the middle of the pecto-
rals, and terminates upon the same plane with the dorsal fin.

The edges of the anal and dorsal fins on the right side fringed
by the continuation of the whiteness of the left side upon

them.
he fin rays*are: 2D. 9: Pt Vi.6 eA. 7 OC ats:

Hirroauossus. Cuv.

_ Generic characters. Both eyes and the color on the
right side, and fins similar to those of the species of the
genus Platessa; the jaws and the pharynr are armed with
teeth that are sharper and stronger, and the form of the body
is more elongated.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 145

H. vulgaris. Cuv. The Halibut.

Pennant’s British Zoology, vol. iii. p. 198.
Me Murtrie’s Cuv. vol. ii. p. 250.

Strack’s plates, No. 51. 1.

Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc., N. Y. p. 386.
Yarrell’s British Fishes, vol. ii. 23. et fig.

This well known and excellent fish is taken in shoal water
in large quantities during the summer months; at other sea-
sons, it inhabits deeper water. Great numbers are taken upon
Nantucket shoals, frequently weighing 200 pounds each. An
unusual number of this species was brought to Boston market
in the early part of 1837, which were all sold at considerable
profit. Eighty large schooners of from 60 to 80 tons burthen,
belonging to Cape Ann, were thus employed. The flesh of
this species is rather coarse and dry, but is much esteemed by
many ; the fins are considered quite a delicacy. Fresh, this
fish brings a higher price than the cod ; large quantities also
are smoked ; and occasionally, the dried flesh is eaten. Mr.
Newcomb, senior, informs me that about 40 years since, a
halibut was taken upon the south shore, and brought to Boston
market, which, after the head and bowels were removed,
weighed 420 pounds; this specimen when perfect, undoubted-
ly weighed as much as 500 weight. The largest individual
of which I have any certain knowledge, Mr. Anthony Hol-
brook, a fishmonger in Quincy market, a man of unquestiona-
ble veracity, and whose knowledge of our fishes is equal to
that of any of our fishermen, tells me was taken at New
Ledge, sixty miles S. E. of Portland, Me., in 1807; it weighed
upwards of 600 pounds. The voracity of this species is pro-
verbial. Pennant cites two examples of ships’ sounding leads
having been swallowed by them; one of thesé individuals was
afterwards captured.

The following description I have drawn up from a specimen
A feet and 10 inches in length, weighing 78 pounds :

Body elongated ; smooth, of a dark brown color on the right
side ; left side without spots. Length of the head to the length

19

146 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

of the body as 1 to 4; lower jaw longer than the uprer ; jaws
furnished with two rows of strong, sharp teeth; the inner row
larger and incurved ; lips large and fleshy. Pupils of the eye
black ; irides silvery ; largest diameter of the eye, two and a
half inches; shortest diameter, two inches; distance between
the eyes, two inches. WNostrils double; anterior tubular,
posterior larger.

The Dorsal fin commences above the anterior portion of the
eye, and terminates a short distance in front of the caudal fin;
height of this fin in its middle, to the height of the rays on a
line opposite the base of the pectorals, as 6 to 1.

The Pectorals arise just back of the posterior angle of the
operculum ; length to height as 24 to 7.

The Ventrals commence on a line opposite the base of the
rectorals ; the third ray is the longest.

The Anal fin arises from a line opposite the posterior portion
of the pectorals, and terminates on the same plane with the
dorsal. Two apertures anterior to the anal fin; the anterior,
the anus ; the posterior, the smaller, the urinary outlet.

‘he) finjrays are ¢)/Bia7 6D. 99); ABT VilbiAc SOs:

Occasionally reversed specimens of this fish are met with ;
during the last season, I saw in Boston market, a fish weighing
103 pounds, with left side colored, bearing the eyes.

Ruomegvus. Cuv.

Generic characters. Color and eyes on the left side ; teeth
in the jaws and pharynx ; dorsal fin commences anterior to the
upper eye; dorsal and anal fins extending very nearly to the
tail.

R. aquosus. Mitchell. The Watery Flounder.

Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soe. vol. i, p. 389.
Boston Journal of Natural History, vol. i. p. 351.

This species which has not been noticed in any numbers in
our waters, until within the last three or four years, is known
among the fishermen as the ‘“‘ Z’urbot,” and is sold by them as

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 147

the “English Turbot.” It is oftentimes taken in fishing for
mackerel, quite near the shore. Although it generally weighs
but a few pounds, specimens have been caught the last season
weighing twenty pounds.

A specimen purchased in the market August 6, enables me
to furnish the following description :

Length of the fish, eighteen inches; depth of the body,
across the middle, exclusive of the fins, seven inches. Length
of the head, three and a half inches ; depth from the origin of
the dorsal fin, three inches. Body elongated, with small
scales, perfectly smooth. Left side of a reddish gray color,
with large circular, oval or oblong blotches of a darker color,
surrounded with a lighter margin, and also numerous white
spots, which are more obvious upon the fins. Right side white,
without spots. Upper eye slightly back of the under, in a ver-
tical line. E’yes moderate in size, oblong ; pupils blue black ;
irides silvery ; distance between the eyes, equal to the longest
diameter of the eye. Orbits, space in front of the eyes, jaws,
spotted with dull bluish spots. Gape of the mouth large ; jaws
equal in length, and armed with a single row of separated,
quite large, sharp teeth ; the front ones much the largest. A
protuberance at the chin. Nostrils, three lines in front of the
eyes. ill-covers extend back of the eyes, nearly two and a
half inches.

The lateral line makes a high arch over the pectorals, pre-
vious to assuming its straight course to the tail; the top of this
arch, is more than one inch above the straight line.

The Dorsal fin arises over the anterior half of the orbit of
the eyes, and extends to the fleshy portion of the tail; of a
lighter color than the body of the fish ; extremities of the rays
free, and tipped with white ; the first rays are the shortest ;
those at the middle and towards the posterior, longest ; those
at the extremity, of moderate height.

The Pectorals are light colored, transversely barred with
dark colored bands, having a white blotch, at their inferior
base ; their length to their height as 1 to 3.

148 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

The Ventrals are very small, less than an inch high, of a
light color, with darker spots; rays, deeply cleft.

The Anal fin arises just back of the ventrals, and terminates
on a plane with the dorsal; similar in its form and color to the
dorsal.

The Caudal fin is large and fleshy; the depth of the fleshy
portion of the tail at the termination of the dorsal fin, one inch
and a half ; length of the caudal rays, two and a half inches ;
convex at the extremity ; rounded when expanded.

The fin rays are as follows: D. 89; P. 12; V.6; A. 68;
C. 16.

The fish I have just described, is undoubtedly the ‘‘ Pleu-
ronectes aquosus,’ of Mitchell. No ichthyologist could mis-
take it for the “Rhombus maximus,” ‘‘ Turbot.” The “ 'Tur-
bot” is nearly round, and its left side is nearly covered with
numerous tubercles. Like the turbot it is said to be often
taken with the trawl-net, and like that species it isa Rhombus.
In a paper upon our fishes published in the first volume of
the “ Boston Journal of Natural History,’ 1 inadvertently
remarked that, among other peculiarities, it differed from
the Turbot, by the eyes of that species being on the right
side.

In several points, this bears no slight resemblance to the
“ Rhombus vulgaris,” “ Brill or Pearl,” but in the latter fish,
the under jaw is the longer, and only a few of the first rays of
the dorsal, extend beyond the connecting membrane.

Acuirus. Lacepede.

Generic characters. Both eyes and color on the right side ;
the mouth distorted on the side opposite the eyes ; small teeth
in both jaws, but confined to the under side only, none on the
same side as the eyes; form of the body oblong ; dorsal and
anal fins extend to the tail. No pectoral fins.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 149

A. mollis. Mitchell. The New York Sole.

The only specimen I have seen of this species was sent me
by Dr. Yale, who writes me, it was taken Dec. 16, 1837, at
Tashmou Pond, about a mile from the village of Holmes Hole.
This pond is separated from the sea by a narrow beach, which
is dry a portion of the year. It must be very rare at Holmes
Hole, as Dr. Yale had never seen another specimen, although he
had resided years there. ‘The doctor remarks that, “it is said
by common report to be very poisonous when eaten, but I do
not know it to be such.” Mitchell says, “it is delicate eating.”

Entire length, six inches; length of the body, exclusive of
the tail, four inches six lines; depth of the body two inches
back of the snout, three inches, exclusive of the dorsal and
anal fins. Form, oval. F’yes on the right side. Color of the
right side, dark brown, marked transversly with rather indis-
tinct irregular black bands; left side white, with circular dark
brown blotches, scattered over its entire surface, also in a less
marked manner upon the fins. Length of the head nine lines;
eyes small, nearly circular, protuberant, and placed directly
over each other; mouth small, and without teeth; on the left
side, the mouth is scarcely discernible. Nostrils, large. Scales
on the body quite small. On the lower anterior portion of the
operculum, and on the back, just above the eyes, the scales are
larger, and longest, at the base of the first two inches of the
dorsal fin on the right side of the body. ‘The left side of the
head is covered with soft tubercles, which are centinued along
an inch or more of the base of the dorsal fin. The lateral line
commences just above the operculum, and is continued in a
straight course to the base of the caudal rays.

The Dorsal fin commences at the very anterior extremity of
the back, which projects slightly beyond the upper jaw, and is
continued to the tail, but is not united with it.

There are no Pectoral fins.

The Ventrals are situated just in front of the anal fin.

150 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

The Anal commences in front of the posterior angle of the
operculum, anc terminates on the same plane with the dorsal.

The Caudal fin is one third longer than the width of the base.
The rays of each fin are covered by scales ; and those project-
ing backwards, present a very beautiful serrated appearance,
more strongly marked on the right side of the body, the scales
of the fins on the left side being colorless. The interstices
between the fin rays, are black.

The fin rays are: D. 52; V. 4; A. 40; C. 16.

Although Mitchell’s description is generally correct, and
might have been copied, had I not determined to describe each
species, so far as possible, from recent specimens, one point re-
quires correction. He says, “it is soft and mucous, without a
spire or prickle about him.” Whoever will carefully examine
this species, will observe imbedded in the surrounding flesh, a
strong compressed spine two thirds of a line in length, situated
directly in front of the upper eye, and in a line with it, just
back of the commencement of the dorsal fin, almost entirely
concealed. This evidently escaped the notice of Mitchell, as
in other respects, he is clear and satisfactory.

I cannot speak so well of his figure, for the dorsal fin, in-
stead of commencing in front of the eyes, is represented as
taking its origin some distance back of them ; the anal is
figured as beginning too far back; and the base of the tail
appears as if distorted.

Famity III.
DISCOBOLI.
CycLoprerus,—subgenus.
Lumpus. Cuv.

Generic characters. Head and body deep, thick, and short ;
back with an elevated ridge, the investing skin enclosing sim-
ple rays ; pectoral fins uniting under the throat, and with the
ventrals forming a single disk.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 151

L. vulgaris. Cuv. The Lump sucker. Lump fish.

Pennants British Zoology, vol. iii. p. 117, et fig.
Strack’s Plates, 1]. 1.

Richardson’s Fauna, iii. 260.

Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. vol. i, p. 480, et fig.
Me Murtrie’s Cuv. vol. ii p. 254.

Yarrell’s British Fishes, vol. ii, p. 270, et fig.

This not uncommon species in Massachusetts Bay is fre-
quently seen after severe storms washed upon our beaches.
Occasionally, it is taken in fishing for cod, with the hook ;
generally, however, it is found attached to sea-weed and other
floating substances near the shore. Richardson tells us that
“The Greenlanders eat its flesh either cooked or dried, and its
skin raw, throwing away only the tubercles ;” and Dr. Neal
observes ‘‘ that it is purchased at Edinburgh for the table.”
With us, however, it is not used as an article of focd. The
common weight of this fish is from 3 to 4 pounds, and 6 to 12
pounds. Mr. Jonathan Johnson of Nahant sent me a specimen
from that pface weighing 15 pounds, being two feet in leneth.
And Mr. Covell, fishmonger in Quincy market, presented me
with another, weighing 17 pounds. 'The whole appearance of
this fish is very forbidding, being, in young specimens, a soft, ge-
latinous, tremulous mass ; in older specimens, it is much firmer ;
but in both, is covered entirely with firm, horny spines. My
description is taken from a specimen 17 inches in length.

Length of the specimen, exclusive of the tail,14 inches; length
of the head, 43 inches ; greatest depth, from the top of the ridge
on the back to the abdomen, 8 inches. Color of all the upper
part of the body, a bluish slate; beneath, yellowish. The
whole surface of the fish is covered with an immense number of
small stellated tubercles, studding even the rays of all the fins.
Three rows of tubercles, much larger than those which are uni-
versally distributed over the fish, are observed projecting from
either side. One row commencing at the upper anterior angle
of the eye, curves slightly over the humeral bones, and then
passes in nearly a straight line to the tail ; a second row, com-

152 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

posed of much larger, wider, more prominent tubercles,
commences just beneath the posterior angle of the operculum,
and terminates on the same plane with the extremity of the
first row ; the tubercles having diminished in size as they ap-
proached the tail, as in the first row ; a third row, composed of
a small number of still larger tubercles, commences on a line
with the posterior portion of the ventral disk, and terminates
just in front of the anal fin, forming the outer boundary of the
abdomen. 'The two upper rows of tubercles are of the color
of the back ; the lower, colored like the abdomen; the tuber-
cles of all these rows are granulated upon their sides, and have
a naked spine at their summit. Head covered with tubercles
similar to those of the body; those on the lower portion of the
operculum larger than those on the other parts of the head ;
diameter of the eye one inch; irides red; distance between
the eyes, two and a half inches. Nostri/s, tubular. Teeth
in the jaws sharp, and compactly placed ; a greater number of
rows of teeth in the upper, than in the lower jaw. Lips yel-
low. Just back of the top of the head, a compressed ridge
rises abruptly, and as abruptly stops, after passing a short
distance back ; its depth being in its middle equal to one third
of its length ; and its length equal to one third the body of the
fish ; this ridge is formed of distinct rays, which are very visi-
ble in the dried specimen; the top of this ridge is covered
with tubercles precisely similar to those which compose the
middle row on the body; directly back of this dorsal ridge isa
small flat surface composing the space between it and the dor-
sal fin, whose sides are armed with strong tubercles projecting
laterally. Immediately behind this space, commences the dor-
sal fin.

The Dorsal fin is rather longer than high.

The longest rays of the Pectorals equal to the width of the
base of these fins.

The Ventrals, together with the anterior portion of the pec-
torals, form an oblong disk, of a bright yellow color, with six
well marked lines on each side of its centre, by which it is
enabled to attach itself very powerfully to foreign substances.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 153

The Anal fin, commencing back of the beginning of the dor-
sal, terminates upon the same plane with it.

The Caudal fin, when not expanded, is a little longer than
wide; when expanded, one fourth wider than long.

Mhe fin rays are: Dili; P)20 A. 105 C.12.

The young fish is blue above, and almost entirely white
beneath.

Eicuenets. Lin.

Generic characters. Body elongated, covered with very
small scales ; a single dorsal fin placed opposite the anal ; the
head very flat, covered with an oval disk formed by numerous
transverse cartilaginous plates, the edges of which are directed
backward ; the mouth wide, with numerous small recurved
teeth on both jaws, the tongue, and the vomer.

EK. naucrates. Lin. The Indian Remora.

Sonnini’s Buffon, vol. lxxii, p. 187.
Rees’ Encyclopedia, vol. xiii.
Strack’s plates, 45, 2. a poor figure.

I have seen a single specimen only of this species; it was
taken by a fisherman from the bottom of his smack, to which
it was attached in Boston Bay.

Length of the specimen, twenty inches; greatest depth, ex-
clusive of the fins, two inches. Body, above, of a grayish
slate color; lighter upon the sides, with a dark band, which,
commencing at the tip of the lower jaw, as a small black
point, runs along its margin to the angle of the jaw, then as-
suming a band which passes to the tail, interrupted only by
the eyes; in front of the pectorals, this band is only two lines
in width, at the pectorals it grows wider, is widest beneath
them, and becomes gradually smaller as it approaches the pos-
terior extremity of the fish. ‘Top of the head flattened ; back,
between disk and dorsal fin, nearly circular ; body, back of the
dorsal, somewhat compressed. Length of the head, from the tip
of the lower jaw to the posterior angle of the operculum, three

20

154 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

inches, five lines; depth of the head, at the posterior portion,
one and a half inches ; width over the same portion, two inches,
two lines. yes situated just half way between the tip of the
lower jaw and the extremity of the operculum, circular, be-
tween three and four lines in diameter. Nostrils, double,
small, furnished with fleshy appendages. Branchial aperture
very large ; membrane 5rayed. The lower jaw, which termi-
nates in a point, extends six lines in front of the upper; both
jaws crowded with numerous small teeth, resembling very
much those of a card. ‘Teeth also in the throat, and upon the
palatine bones. .Tongue, rough. Upon the top of the head, is
an adhesive disk, four inches two lines in length, one inch one
line wide, at the anterior extremity ; one inch six lines at the
widest part of the posterior extremity ; extending from the tip
of the upper jaw to the middle of the pectorals ; this disk has
21 transverse plates, divided by a longitudinal median fleshy
line ; these plates are light colored ; the entire disk is margined
by a fleshy border of the same color as the back, from 1 to 4
lines wide ; the under portion of the margin, surrounded by a
white line.

The Dorsal fin arises just in front of the middle of the body ;
it is of a dark slate color ; the first ray is margined with white ;
this edging is continued up to and upon its tip, and the tip of
the other rays, gradually diminishing in its width at about the
tenth ray, and becomes at last scarcely discernible. This fin
is seven inches long.

The Pectorals commence on a line with the posterior, four
lamine of the disk; the fins the color of the body; their
length to their height as 1 to 3.

The Ventrals are just back of the pectorals; 5 rayed ;
their length, equal to one sixth their height.

The Anal fin arises on a plane with, and terminates upon the
same plane as the dorsal ; like it, it is dark colored and edged
with white ; its first rays, however, are higher than those of
the dorsal. The anus is half an inch in front of the anal fin.

The Caudal fin is nearly even at its extremity ; at its fleshy
portion, anterior to the rays, it is four lines deep; at the com-

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 155

mencement of the rays, one inch; at the extremity, when ex-
panded, three inches. The upper and lower extremity of the
tail, white.

The fin rays are: D. 29; P. 18; V. 5; A. 30; C. 18.

I think this must be the “‘ naucrates ;” it has but twenty-one
plates; but slight variations may undoubtedly occur in this, as
well as in the “remora ;” in which, although it is described as
having 18 plates, Yarrell’s specimen had 17 ; and of two indi-
viduals from Cuba, lying before me, one has 18, and the other
19 plates.

EK. quatuordecimlaminatus. Nobis. The fourteen plated
Remora.

From the only specimen I have met with, which was kindly
sent me by Dr. Yale, I am enabled to furnish the following
description :

Entire length, five and a half inches. Body of a light red-
dish brown color, rather darker beneath. The lateral line
commences at the origin of the pectorals, and making a slight
curve over them to their extremities, is continued in a straight
line to the tail. Length of the head, one inch three lines;
gill-covers large ; lower jaw two lines longer than the upper ;
jaws armed with strong, sharp, recurved teeth; teeth also in
the pharynx, upon the palatine bones and the root of the tongue.
Gape of the mouth moderate in size. ye, one line in diame-
ter. Top of the head entirely covered by an adhesive disk,
which commences at the tip of the upper jaw, and extending
on each side to the eyes, terminates on a plane with the poste-
rior half of the pectorals, about three lines back of the poste-
rior edge of the operculum. This disk is surrounded by a
fleshy margin, which is tipped with a darker brown than the
color of the body, and is divided in its middle by a longitudi-
nal fleshy septum, on each side of which are fourteen distinct,
strongly serated lamine.

The Dorsal fin commences about the middle of the length
of the fish, nearly two inches long, two lines high. Its anterior

156 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

portion rounded, gradually diminishing in height, as it ap-
proaches the tail.

The Pectorals are somewhat rounded at the extremities ;
one inch two lines high ; three lines long.

The Ventrals are narrow, five lines long; attached to the
belly by a membrane extending from the inner ray.

The Anal fin commences a short distance back of thé dorsal ;
of a similar form with that fin.

The Caudal fin is nearly straight at its extremity ; three
lines long, six lines high ; the distance between the extremities
of the fin rays, is equal to their height.

The fin rays are: D. 32; P. 24; V.4; A. 30; C. 18.

This species is smaller and lighter colored than the “ Re-
mora,” and differs in the nwmber of its lamine in the disk.
Without dwelling upon the less important distinctions, I con-
ceive that the individual I have here described must be con-
sidered a new species.

ORDER IV.

MALACOPTERYGII APODES.

Famity I.
MURAENIDAE.

Muragrna. Lin.

Generic characters. Body cylindrical, elongated, covered
with a thick and smooth skin ; the scales very small ; lubricat-
ed with copious mucous secretion; mouth with a row of teeth
in each jaw, and a few on the anterior part of the vomer ; pec-
toral fins close to a small branchial aperture ; no ventral fins ;
dorsal fin, anal fin, and caudal fin united.

M. Bostoniensis. Le Sueur. The common Eel of Massachu-
setts.

Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, vol. i. p. 81.

This species which is the most common, or, I might say,
the only eel brought to Boston market, is distinguished by its
grayish brown color above ; and whitish, yellowish, or yellow-
ish white color beneath, with a reddish tinge about the tail,
which color also sometimes extends along the entire anal fin.
Le Sueur, in the “ Journal of the Academy of Natural Scien-
ces,’”’ observes, “ that it is sometimes brought to market,” al-
luding to the Boston market, ‘“‘but is not much valued as an
article of food.” He must have visited our market at a season
of the year, when the species is seldom taken, and collected
his information from an inexperienced fishmonger. It is taken
along our whole coast, as well as in the rivers and ponds of the
State. At some seasons, spring and winter, for instance, great

158 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

numbers are brought to market from the mouths of the neigh-
boring rivers, upon the muddy bottoms of which they live,
and meet with a ready sale ; so great even, is sometimes the
demand in winter, that it cannot be answered. At this season
it is speared; holes having been cut through the ice for the
purpose. ‘The markets are usually supplied in spring from
the rivers, where they are now taken in nets. At Medford,
nets are stretched across the river, having in their middle a
large bag capable of containing from fifteen to twenty bushels ;
as the eels are going up or down the river, they are thus
caught, and are kept alive for the supply of the market in large
ditches, excavated near the river, which are supplied by the
tide with water. About 3000 pounds are yearly taken at
Watertown. Those taken in summer when able to procure
the “ Brit,” and other fishes upon which they feed, are much
larger and richer, weighing from one to nine pounds.

M. argentea. Le Sueur. The Silver Fel.

Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, vol. i. p. 83.

From Dr. Yale I have received two specimens of a ‘“‘ Murae-
na,’ which answers in all important particulars to the “ ar-
gentea.” Its general color is silvery gray, darker upon its upper
portion, with a clear satiny white abdomen. The spiracles
are as long as the base of the pectorals. ‘This species is taken
in pots in October, when it leaves the ponds, and seldom at
other times. At Holmes Hole, it is called ‘“ Neshaw eel.’

The following description of a specimen of each species,
will show their different proportions. 'The specimens were
each twenty-three inches in length:

M. SBostoniensis. From the tip of the snout to the base
of the pectorals, eight inches; body back of the head, at the
commencement of the pectorals, three inches and five lines in
circumference ; three inches and two lines around the head,
at the distance of an inch and a half from the snout; circum-
ference of the head in front of the eyes, one inch seven lines

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 159

and a half; from the tip of the lower jaw to the anal fin, ten
and a half inches; at the commencement of the dorsal fin,
the circumference of the body, is three inches five lines; width
of the body over the pectorals, one inch two lines ; pupil of the
eye black, iris golden; width between the eyes, four lines.
Lateral line, indistinct.

M. argentea. From the tip of the snout to the base of
the pectorals, seven and a half inches ; body, back of the head,
at the commencement of the pectorals, three and a half inches
in circumference ; three inches around the head, one and half
inches from the snout; circumference of the head in front of
the eyes, one inch four lines; from the tip of the lower jaw
to the anal fin nine inches six lines; circumference of the
body at the origin of the dorsal fin, three inches six lines;
width of the body over the pectorals seven lines; width be-
tween the eyes, three lines. Lateral line, exceedingly dis-
tinct, appearing to divide equally the darker colored back from
the beautiful lighter silvery abdomen. For the extent of six
inches in front of the anal orifice, a well marked line or furrow
resembling in appearance the lateral line.

Faminy II.
ANGUILLIDAE.

Ammopytes. Lin.

Generic characters. Head and body clongated ; gill-open-
ings large; dorsal fin extending nearly the whole length of
the back; anal fin of considerable length ; dorsal and anal
fins separated from the caudal fin.

A. tobianus. Bloch. The Sand Fei.
- Yarrell’s British Fishes, vol. ii. p. 317, et fig.

Richardson in his “ Fauna Boreali-Americana,” observes,
that as neither Pennant nor Mitchell has described the species
of “‘Ammodytes” which they severally notice as being found

160 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

in Newfoundland and New York, it is impossible to judge
whether it was the “ tobianus” or “‘ lancea,’”’ or either of them.
I trust the following description, drawn up from the largest of
a number of specimens sent me from Holmes Hole by Dr.
Yale, will serve to settle the point with some approach to ac-
curacy.

Length of the specimen six and a half inches. Greatest
depth, half an inch; greatest width, less than three lines.
Back of a dirty yellowish brown color. Toop of the head and
upper part of the opercula, slate colored ; this slate or silvery
blue color passes down over the opercula in a broad band to the
tail, giving the fish a beautifully brilliant appearance; beneath
this, the sides and abdomen are silvery. 'The distance from the
extremity of the snout to the end of the gill-covers, is to the
whole length of the fish-as 1 to 5. Depth of the body equal
to one third the length of the head. Lower jaw projecting
beyond the upper, and terminated by a conical tip. Grill-covers
silvery ; from the anterior inferior portion of the operculum, a
few slight strize pass obliquely upwards, backwards, and down-
wards to the posterior margin of the operculum. Nostrils
double, and situated half way between the eyes and the snout.
Pupil of the eye black; iris silvery ; diameter of the eye, one
line. Lateral line indented and straight.

The Dorsal fin commences two lines back of the posterior
angle of the gill-covers, on a line with the end of the pectorals ;
this fin is situated in a groove throughout its whole length,
and terminates two lines from the base of the caudal fin.

The Pectorals arise under the posterior angle of the gill-
covers ; in length they are one third less than the head. From
the base of the pectorals, a slight membrane extends along
the whole lower part of the abdomen on both sides, scarcely
perceptible towards the tail.

The Anal fin is just one third the length of the whole body.

The Caudal fin is forked.

Thettinirays are.) tok) >) PL Moma. 2SraC. ale

This species is evidently not the ‘ /ancea.”” 'To mention no
other character, the dorsal fin in the “ lancea’’?’ commences

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 161

on a line with the middle of the pectoral fin. Although the
“ tobtanus” attains the length of several inches more than
any of the specimens before me, and differs somewhat in the
number of its fin rays, yet the general characters of the foreign
species and our fish coincide so nearly, that I am led to believe
them to be the same.

On several portions of the coast of Great Britain, these fishes
are readily eaten by the poorer classes. But as more palatable
species are easily obtained with us, they are allowed to collect
on the shore in large quantities, to be devoured by their nume-
rous enemies, among which the Cuttle fish prey upon them
voraciously.

Since writing the above description, I have received a fine
specimen, five and a half inches in length, from Nahant, which
satisfies me perfectly as to this species being the “ tobianus.”
In this specimen the fin rays are as follows: D. 54; P. 13;
US AO 8 Oa 0

21

ORDER V.

LOPHOBRANCHII.

Fami.y I.
SYNGNATHIDAE.

Synenatuus. Lin.

Generic characters. Body elongated, slender, covered with
a series of indurated plates arranged in parallel lines ; head
long ; both jaws produced, united, tubular ; no ventral fins.

S. fuscus. Nobis. The brown Pipe fish.

I am strongly impressed with the belief that the fish noticed
as the “‘S. typhle,” by Mitchell, in his ‘“P%shes of New York,”
is not that fish, but the same as the species before me, which
I conceive to be a previously unnoticed species. I am in-
indebted for my specimen to Mr. Jonathan Johnson of Nahant.

Body elongated, tapering exceedingly to the tail, covered with
parallel horny plates, of an irregular dull brown color above ;
lighter beneath. Body, in front of the anal fin, heptangular,
with three ridges on each side; above, in the middle, and be-
low, and another in the middle of the abdomen terminating
at the anus. ‘Throughout the greater portion of the length of
the dorsal fin, the body is hexangular. In front of the anus,
are nineteen transverse plates; between the anus and the cau-
dal rays, are forty plates. Length of the specimen six inches; the
distance from the tip of the snout to the posterior angle of the
operculum one eighth the length of the fish ; the distance be-
tween the snout and the anterior angle of the eye, and that

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 163

between the same angle and the origin of the pectorals, equal.
Jaws tubular, compressed, a slight ridge above; lower jaw
rather the longer, passing obliquely upward to form the mouth ;
top of the head depressed ; a furrow between the eyes ; a crest
on the neck; eyes circular, half a line in diameter. Operculum
brown above, golden beneath; under the glass, exhibiting
minute granulations, and radiating strie.

The Dorsal fin arises two inches two lines from the tip of
the snout ; the height of the fin one seventh of its length, of a
light brown color.

The Pectorals just back of the operculum, the color of the
under part of the body; length, one half of the height.

The Anal fin is situated under the middle of the dorsal fin,
and is very minute.

The Caudal fin is two lines in length, darker colored than
the body, rounded at the extremity.

The fin rays are: D. 38; P. 13; A. 3; C. 9.

Since the above description was drawn up, I have received
a specimen also from Dr. Yale.

S. Peckianus.* Nobis. Peck’s Pipe fish.
Plate I. Fig. 2.

The specimen here described was received from Dr. Yale,
who thus writes me from Holmes Hole: ‘“ The small pipe fish
was taken in a pond, south side of the Island, which commu-
nicates with the sea.”

Its length is six inches. Its whole surface is covered with
horny striated plates ; the body gradually tapering from the head
to the tail, at which part itis nearly a point. On each side of the

* In the remarks which precede this Report, this species is called “‘ Peckiz.”’ It has been
suggested that this is incorrect, and that naturalists would do well to observe the following
Linnzan law relating to this subject : ‘‘ When species are named after individuals, the rule
of composition is this: if the individual is the discoverer or the deseriber of it, the specific
name is then to be in the genitive case ; but if the name is merely a compliment, without
reference to either of these circumstances, the name should be rendered in an adjective
form, with the termination, anus, a, wm.”

Lindley’s Introduction to Botany, sec. ed. p. 458.

Agreeably to this suggestion, I have changed the name as above.

*

164 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

anterior portion of the body, are three ridges, and one passes
from the neck through the middle of the abdomen to the vent ;
this ridge upon the abdomen does not exist back of the vent.
In front of the posterior extremity of the dorsal fin, the body
is hexangular ; back of this fin, quadrangular. Color of the
specimen very similar to that of the preceding species. 'The
divisions of the abdominal plates marked on their outer edges
by lines of a darker color ; these are very obvious upon the
plates of the posterior portion of the body; much less distinct
upon the plates in front of the dorsal fin. Length of the head,
from the extremity of the snout to the posterior angle of the
operculum, nearly six lines; a depression between the eyes ;
and aridge upon the occiput, which is continued on to the neck.
Operculum pectinated ; or, appearing to the eye of a concholo-
gist, of the form of a Pinna; small at the anterior inferior
portion ; quite broad at the posterior, rounded beneath and be-
hind, and covered with strie radiating from its circumference ;
the upper part of the operculum of a dark brown color; beneath
white ; its anterior portion marked by an oblique vitta passing
backwards and downwards from the posterior inferior angle of
the eye. Jaws tubular; upper portion fuliginous ; beneath,
white. Greatest depth of the jaws, equal to about one third
the greatest depth of the head. Mouth opens obliquely ;
lower jaw slightly projecting ; the depth of the anterior por-
tion of the body at its middle, to the middle of the posterior
portion, as 3 to 1.

The Dorsal fin commences at two-sixths the whole length
of the fish, with the anal aperture beneath its middle ; fin one
line longer than the head ; length of the last rays to the length
of the fin, as 2 to 9; length of the rays rather less than the
greatest depth of the body. Color of this fin a light brown,
with black vertical bands.

No Anal fin can be perceived.

The only description I have met with, answering at all to
the species before me, is that drawn up by Delaroche, in the
13th vol. of the “ Annales du Musewm,’’ accompanied by a
beautiful figure, under the name of “ Syngnathus Rondeletii,”’

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 165

among the fishes of Ivica. In his description he says, “La
hageoire anale est tres petite, et onne la découvre qu’en la
recherchant attentivement.’”? Cuvier, in the notes to his
“ Regne Animal” includes this species among those in which
the anal is wanting. Yarrell, in his ‘ British Fishes,” says
“the anal fin is minute,’”’ and considers this species and the
“typhle’”’ synonymous. The ‘“ Rondeletii’’ differs in several
prominent points from the fish I have above described. It has
no ridge upon the head, which is flattened; the depth of its
jaws are nearly equal to the depth of its head; its dorsal fin
commences on a line opposite to the anus. In our species, a
ridge exists upon the occiput ; the depth of the jaws does not
exceed in any portion one third the depth of the head; the
anal aperture is opposite the middle of the dorsal fin.

Among the earliest cultivators of Ichthyology in our coun-
try, no name is more prominent than that of William Dand-
ridge Peck. So early as the year 1794, while residing at the
town of Kittery in Maine, he wrote a clear and ac-
curate ‘‘ description of four remarkable fishes, taken near the
Piscataqua in New Hampshire.” 'This paper was published in
1804, in the 2d part of the 2d volume of the “ Memoirs of
the American Academy of Arts and Sciences,’’ accompanied
with very good figures, when the early period of our country is
considered. The manuscript of his Ichthyological Lectures
also, afterwards delivered by him at Harvard University as
Professor of Natural History, and kindly loaned me to examine
by my friend, Thaddeus Wm. Harris, M. D., Librarian to the
University, exhibit no inconsiderable degree of research. As
the species described and first published by him as new, have,
three of them at least, been described by other naturalists un-
der other specific names, I feel that I am performing an appro-
priate duty, in connecting the name of our deceased country-
man, whose merits have been unjustifiably overlooked, with
one of a class of animals, whose history he so successfully
‘endeavored to elucidate.

June 25th, 1839. By the kindness of my friend Samuel
Cabot, Jr., I have received a living male specimen of this spe-

166 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

cies. It was taken at the swimming school in this city; and
soon after its capture, numerous ova contained in its false
pouches were hatched ; so that when I came in possession of
it, two days after it was caught, it was surrounded by one
hundred and fifty young, about half an inch long; nearly
colorless, with several narrow transverse black bands. From
this specimen I am enabled to give the natural appearances
more correctly than could be done from a preserved fish. This
specimen is 7 1-2 inches in length ; its general color is an olive
brown with transverse darker colored blotches or bars, thirteen
of which are seen in front of the dorsal fin. The posterior
portion of the body is darker colored than the anterior. The
under surface of the body anterior to the vent, is of a beautiful
golden yellow ; the portion back of the vent, for about two
inches, is nearly white ; this portion is much wider than the
rest of the body, and presents two membranous flaps, which
approach each other at the median line, thus forming pouches,
or a false belly, in which are contained the ova of the female ;
the under surface of the posterior portion of the body,of the same
color as the upper. The upper portion of the operculum olive
colored ; the lower portion, golden yellow. Color of the snout
brown, having a darker line running through its centre from the
eye to the mouth. 'The eyes are prominent and very moveable
in their orbits ; the pupils black ; the irides golden.

The Dorsal fin has 44 rays.

The Pectorals are lighter colored than the body.

The Caudal fin is black, and rounded at its extremity.

The motions of this species, which is the only “‘ Syngnathus”
I have seen alive, are exceedingly rapid, resembling the gyra-
tions of the ‘‘ Colubers.”’

At the moment these pages are printed, I am enabled
to examine several living specimens, all of which have been
taken at the same locality with that last referred to. They
have each, either their pouches crowded with ova, or are in
the act of protruding the young. And the accurate eye of my
friend Dr. Wyman has detected, and he has pointed out to me,
an exceedingly minute anal fin, which is scarcely discernible
without the aid of a glass.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 167

Hippocampus. Cuv.

Generic characters. The jaws united and tubular, like
those of the Syngnathi ; mouth placed at the end ; body com-
pressed, short, and deep ; the whole length of the body and taal
divided by longitudinal and transverse ridges, with tubercular
points at the angles of intersection ; both sexes have pectoral
and dorsal fins ; females only have an anal fin; neither sex
has ventral or caudal fins.

H. Obrevirostris. Cuv. The short-nosed Sea-horse.
Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. N. Y. vol. i. p. 475.
Yarrell’s British Fishes, vol. ii. p. 342, et fig.

A single line is devoted to the description of this species by
Mitchell in his “ Fishes of New York.” The only native
specimen | have seen, was received in a dried state from my
friend Dr. Yale, who found it on the shore at Holmes Hole.
He says he “‘ never knew one to be taken alive, yet they are
frequently found on the shore.” From this female specimen,
I have drawn up the following description :

Color, yellowish brown ; entire length five inches. Length
of the head, one inch; snout, three lines long; diameter of

-the eye, half a line. Operculum covered with strie radiating
from the anterior part ; a short spine, at the base of the snout
in front of the eye; directly above each eye, alarger spine; at
the posterior angle of the eye, a very short spine ; beneath the
eye, on the neck, two small spines. Body heptangular ; on each
side, three rows of prominent spines ; on the under side, a sin-
gle row. ‘Tail quadrangular, gradually tapering towards the
extremity. ‘The body is divided into eleven segments, bound-
ed by horny projections ; greatest width of the body, seven
lines. At the origin of the tail, the body presents a slight pro-
jection, for the length of three segments, upon which is situated
the dorsal fin. ‘Tail divided into thirty-six segments; at the
base, two lines in width ; at the extremity a mere point.

The Dorsal fin has twenty rays.

The Pectorals, directly back of the operculum, contain
fourteen rays.

168 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

The Anal fin with about four rays; the exact number diffi-
cult to be ascertained, on account of the dry state of the speci-
men. .

This specimen is a female, as is proved by its having an
anal fin, which Yarrell says is not found in the male ; and from
the size of the trunk.

ORDER VI.

PLECTOGNATHL

Famity I.
GYMNODONTES.

Trtrraopon. Lin.

Generic characters. Both jaws divided in the middle by a
suture, producing the appearance of four teeth in front, two
above and two below. The skin over part of the body, armed
with numerous short spines. The branchial orifice small.

T. turgidus. Mitchell. The Swell Fish. Puffer.
Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. N. ¥. vol. i. p. 473, et fig.

This very curious fish, which receives its name from its
power of inflating itself to a surprising degree with air, was
first described by Mitchell. His description of the fish itself
is rather indefinite, and his figure is not scientifically accurate.
He says: “‘ Length about 12 or 14 inches; depth less than two
inches, and breadth about two inches; but the belly is loose
and flabby ; and it may be distended to a large size, apparently
at the will of the fish.” ‘‘ With yellowish variegated back,
white, rough belly, and a remarkable propensity to distend the
abdominal sac with air, when he is out of water.” ‘The figure
accompanying this description represents the species as having
the back rough from just back of the eyes to the caudal fin;
and the space between the eyes and the extremity of the snout,
smooth. Of the two specimens I have had an opportunity of
examining, one was eight inches in length; the other, nine
inches. ‘The former was taken in Boston harbor. From the

22

170 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

latter, sent me by Dr. Yale, from Holmes Hole, I would offer
the following description :

All the upper part of the body yellowish white, with an
immense number of minute black dots. Abdomen white.
Several undefined black blotches on the back, which, as they
approach the belly, assume the appearance of bars, six to eight
of which are noticeable,—two in front of the pectorals, and the
last at the base of the caudal fin; these bars vary, in their ex-
tent upon the abdomen, from two to five lines. The whole
surface of the body, save the space between the dorsal and
caudal fins, and the anal and caudal fins, roughened by innu-
merable small spines. Length of the fish, nine inches. Great-
est depth, two inches. Width across the back, over the
pectorals, two and a half inches. Distance from the snout to
the anterior angle of the eye, one inch and two lines; distance
between the eyes half an inch. Greatest circumference of the
specimen, when inflated, thirteen and a half inches.

(hey fini rays ares) D:.65) (Pods) Ae. eng:

Dr. Yale informs me that this fish is frequently taken when
fishing for other species.

OrTHAGORISCUS. Schn.

Generic characters. Jaws undivided, forming a cutting
edge ; body compressed, deep for its length, short, truncated,
without spines ; tail short, and very high vertically ; rays of
the dorsal and anal fins long and pointed, both united to the
caudal fin at the base.

O. mola. Lin. The short Sun Fish.
Plate III. Fig. 1.

Turton’s Linnzus, vol. i. p. 891.

Shaw’s Zoology, vol. v. pt. 2d, p. 438 et fig.
Pennant’s British Zoology, vol. iii. p. 115, fig. 54.
Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. N. Y. p. 47].
Strack’s plates, No. 13. 4.

Mc Murtrie’s Cuv. vol. ii. p. 272.

Yarrell’s British Fishes, vol. ii. p. 350 et fig.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 171

This isnot a common fish in Massachusetts Bay. Occasion-
ally, two or three years pass in succession without a single
specimen being met with; at others, several may be taken.
Its motions are very sluggish, and it swims near the surface of
the ocean. On account of the great elasticity of its flesh, it is
captured with great difficulty ; it is generally gaffed at or near
the branchial aperture. Its flesh is sometimes used for balls.
Its liver is very oily, furnishing two or more quarts of oil,
which is used by the fishermen to grease their masts with ; and
is also by many of them considered a valuable application in
eases of sprains and bruises. ‘To the kind attentions of Capt.
Blanchard, I am indebted for a fine male specimen of this spe-
cies, which ‘he harpooned in Boston Bay, early in July. It
presents the following appearances :

The body is oval ; its whole surface a fine, unyielding, gran-
ulated cuticle, covered with a thick adhesive mucus; back,
dark gray. Abdomen nearly white; the right side of the body
rather darker than the left ; both sides of a dirty white color,
with silvery reflections. Length 54 inches; depth across, from
the middle of the pectorals, two and a half feet ; from the top
of the dorsal to the extremity of the anal fin, six and a half
feet. Weight about 200 pounds. Length of the head, from
the tip of the snout to the base of the pectoral fin, 17 inches ;
flattened over the snout, which is obtuse, and projecting about
an inch in front of the upper jaw. yes rather large, convex,
very moveable in their orbits; pupils black; irides a dark
brown, encircled within by a silvery ring; larger diameter of
the eyes, 24 inches; smaller diameter, 2 inches. Nostrils
double, just in front of the eyes. Mouth small. Jaws armed
with a broad bony plate, sharp at the edges. Upon the top of
the head, an arched ridge commences on a line with the ante-
rior angle of the eyes, and is continued to a line above the ori-
gin of the pectorals, then a straight line is continued to the dor-
sal fin. ‘The sides of the head project out from the body quite
prominently over the eyes to the branchial aperture. Opercu-
lum directly in front of the pectorals, three inches in its great-
est diameter.

172 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

The Dorsal and Anal fins are triangular, situated’at the up-
per and lower posterior extremity of the fish. Length of the
dorsal, 13 inches; length of the anal, 12 inches. Height of
the dorsal, 21 inches; height of the anal, 21 inches.

The Caudal fin borders the extremity of the body, being
connected with both the dorsal and anal fins ; its general color
is similar to that of the inferior portion of the sides ; its outer
edge is flesh colored. It is scalloped or divided into digita-
tions, about 8 in number, of which the upper are smaller, and
the sixth the largest. A broad, nearly black band commences
at the origin of the dorsal fin, and, running along its base, is
continued in frent of the caudal and anal fins to the anus;
this band is lighter colored along the base of the anal, and
here it is also narrower, being about the same depth as at
the dorsal; but along the base of the caudal it is considerably
deeper, even equal to the least height of this fin.

The Pectorals are in height 7 inches; length 4 inches ;
greatest width 6% inches.

The anus is large and corrugated, situated two inches in
front of the anal fin. Directly in front of the anus commences
a very obvious carina, which is continued until opposite the
origin of the pectorals. The very dense texture of the fins
renders it almost impossible to determine with accuracy the
number of their rays. As nearly as I have been able to dis-
tinguish them, they are as follows:

DSPs LSE ALLS AC, 39)

Upon the exterior of this species, were attached several -par-
asites ; at the base of, or near to, the fins, a large number of the
Pennella sagitta was found imbedded, with their pinnated ex-
tremities projecting like tentacule; and to them,were firmly fixed
specimens of the cineras vittata. One beautiful specimen of the
“ Tristoma coccinewm,” very accurately figured by Yarrell, as
being taken from this species, was found firmly attached to the
posterior extremity of the fish. Closely attached to the bran-
chize were a dozen or more specimens of the “ Cecrops Latreil-
li.” 'The thickness of the skin, where cut into, varied from
2to3inches. The stomach and bowels contained no injesta; _

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 173

but their inner coat was lined with a large quantity of very
viscid mucus, in which was observed a large number of taenie.
The muscular coat of the intestines, exceedingly thick ; intes-
tines 14 feetin length. The diver, was of a bright yellow color,
weighing about 8 or 10 pounds, and exceedingly oily. Num-
bers of ‘‘ Cysticerci”? were imbedded in its substance. The
edges of the branchiz, and also their membrane, as well as the
inner membrane of the operculum, were roughened like the
cuticle.

A second specimen having been taken and carried into Na-
hant, during the last season, my friend Dr. Wyman visited it at
my request, and besides furnishing the following notes, has
very kindly enriched my account of this species, by the ac-
companying drawing :

‘“‘Tength, 54 inches; diameter of the operculum, 3 inches;
of the eye, 2 inches; greatest breadth of the fish, 30 inches;
pectoral fins, 8 inches high, 6 long, composed of 10 rays ; anal
fin, 18 inches high, 10 long, composed of 18 rays; 9 scallops
to the tail, 6 inches in their broadest part.”

I am aware that the ichthyologist will think that the above
description does not much coincide with Yarrell’s account of
the ‘‘ mola.” Still less does my figure agree with his; it will
be remembered, however, that his plate was taken from a
‘¢ preserved specimen,” only fourteen inches long ; and that his
description is drawn up from the same specimen. From Pen-
nant’s description, I should judge he had never seen the fish.
The description in Turton’s Linnzus agrees pretty well with
my specimen in allits important points. It will also be observed
that Yarrell remarks, that ‘“‘ there is reason to believe this fish
alters in appearance as it increases in age. In a much larger
example, the skin was of an uniform dirty pale brown; the
texture hard, rough, coarse and thick.”

174 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

Famity II.
SCLERODERMI.

Monocantuus. Cuv.

Generic characters. Very small scales, covered with stiff
and thickly set asperities, ike the pile on velvet ; extremity of
the pelvis salient and spinous as in the true Balistes ; a sin-
gle large serrated spine in the first dorsal, or at least the second
one is almost imperceptible.

M. Massachusettensis. Nobis. The Massachusetts File Fish.

The only specimen I have seen was sent me by Dr. Yale, as
having been found in Massachusetts Bay.

Its entire length is four inches ; depth across, from the base
of the dorsal spine, two inches ; depth at the base of the tail,
three lines. Body oblong, very much compressed ; surface
eranulated, and exhibiting numerous minute white cilia sus-
pended from its sides. Color, a yellowish brown, variegated
over its entire extent with brownish markings and blotches,
which are less obvious beneath. Length of the head, one inch;
jaws of equal length ; teeth stout. yes circular, one fourth
of an inch in diameter; above, and just back of the eye, a
strong, granulated, curved spine, half an inch long, is situated,
with small sharp spines upon its posterior lateral edges, point-
ing downwards and backwards.

The Dorsal fin commences three quarters of an inch back of
the spine ; composed of colorless rays, roughened at their
bases. The pectorals also, are colorless, and rounded when
expanded.

The Pelvic bone projects, is quite moveable, and is connected
by a dewlap to the abdomen.

The Anal fin is situated just back of the dorsal; the base of
its rays are granulated like those of the dorsal ; and it is of the
same form as that fin.

The Caudal fin is darker colored than the other fins.

The fin rays are: D. 34; P. 12; A. 34; C.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 175

ALUTERES. Cuv.

Generic characters. An elongated body covered with small,
and scarcely visible granules ; a single spine 1s the first dor-
sal; the chief character is in the pelvis, which is completely
hidden under the skin, and is without that spinous projection
observed in the other Balistes.

A. monoceros? Bloch. The Unicorn File Fish.
Shaw’s Zoology, vol. v. pl. IL. p. 399, et fig.

To Dr. Yale I am indebted for the specimen before me ;
I have met with no other individual of this species.

Length, three inches; depth across, from the base of the
dorsal spine, half an inch; depth at the base of the tail, one
line. Color, a light brown, mottled by a darker brown, which
is deepest above ; neck, silvery. Surface of the fish, almost
smooth to the touch ; but presenting a granulated appearance
under the glass. Length of the head, half an inch, gradually
arching from the tip of the snout to the spine; lower jaw
slightly projecting ; teeth moderate in size. Lye circular; di-
ameter of the eye, less than a line. Just over the posterior
margin of the orbit of the eye, a slender, roughened spine, one
fourth of an inch high.

The Dorsal fin arises half an inch back of the spine ; com-
posed of delicate, transparent, colorless rays.

The Pectorals arise on a line with the dorsal spine.

The Anal fin formed like the dorsal, arises on a line with,
and terminates just back of that fin.

The Caudal fin, is dark brown ; the upper and lower rays the
shortest ; the middle are the longest ; and to the former, in
length, as 6 to 1.

The fin rays are: D. 34; P. 10; A. 34; C. 12.

176 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

Ostrracion. Lin.

Generic characters. Head and body covered with regular
bony plates soldered in such a manner as to form a sort of in-
flexible shield, which invests them so that the only movable
parts are the tail, fins, mouth, and a sort of small lip with
which the edge of their gills is furnished, all passing through
holes in this coat of mail. Jaws armed with ten or twelve
conical teeth. A single dorsal and ventral fin.

O. Yalei. Nobis. Yale’s Trunk Fish.
Journal of the Boston Soc. of Nat. Hist. vol. i. p. 353, et fig.

The only specimen which has been found of this species
upon our coast, was discovered alive by Dr. Yale in 1833,
among the sea-weed on the beach at Martha’s Vineyard, and
presented by him to the Boston Society of Natural History.
In 1836, I read a description of this fish to the Society above
mentioned, associating with it the name of the gentleman by
whom it was discovered, as a deserved respect due him by the
Society, for his frequent donations to their cabinet, and his
zeal for natural science. My sense of personal obligation to
him may, in some slight measure be conceived of from the nu-
merous references made to his kind attentions throughout the
pages of this Report.

The description from the ‘‘ Society’s Journal,” I extract as
follows :

“‘ Body triangular ; all the upper portion, of a light lurid ap-
pearance, covered with hexagonal plates, each containing six
raised lines; two subcaudal spines, short and somewhat in-
curved; back of the dorsal fin, a large isolated plate three
quarters of an inch in length, composed of portions of the sev-
eral plates, separated from the rest of the horny cuticle by a
continuation of the ligamentary substance in which is imbed-
ded the fin. Form of the body, very similar to the bicaudalis ;
the entire surface, as far back as the dorsal and veniral fins, is
covered with hexagonal divisions or plates; these are very
large back of the eyes and ventral fins, and include an im-

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 177

mense number of small granulations, which are subdivided by
six elevated lines of similar tubercles ; in front of the eyes and
pectoral fins, these plates are smaller and. less distinct; the
body beneath, white and covered with similar scales; from the
angle of the eye to the ligamentary substance at the base of
the tail, are included ten plates in a direct line ; from the high-
est point of the back to the belly, nine similar rows of plates ;
behind the dorsal fin is a surface of ligamentary substance,
three inches in length, of a darker color than the rest of the
surface, extending to the caudal fin, and containing, just back
of the dorsal fin, one isolated plate. Subcaudal spines short,
stout, smooth, and a little incurved. Mouth large, prominent,
armed with large, strong teeth ; eyes large, and distant an inch
and a half from the mouth; nostrils, less than a quarter of an
inch in front of the eyes.

The fin rays are: D. 10; P. 12; A. 10; C. 10.

The length of this specimen, in its present dried state, is
fourteen inches. From the contracted and wrinkled appear-
ance of the ligamentary portion at the base of the tail, it must
vary considerably from the size of the living “sh.

From observing the plates alone of the ‘‘ bicaudalis,” this
might be mistaken by a careless observer for that species ; but
a careful examination of both the figures and the descriptions,
shows them to be distinct.

The number of the fin rays of the two species do not vary;
but the comparatively plane and immaculate surface of the one,
corresponds but little with the very elevated striae and numer-
ous spots which cover the exterior of the other.

23

CHONDROPTERYGII.

ORDER I.

CHONDROPTERYGII BRANCHIIS LIBERIS.

FaAmMIty.
STURIONIDZ.

AcIPENSER. Lin.

Generic characters. Body elongated and angular, defended
by indurated plates and spines, arranged in longitudinal rows ;
snout pointed, conical ; mouth, placed on the under surface of
the head, tubular, and without teeth.

A. oxyrinchus. Mitchell. The Sharp-nosed Sturgeon.

Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. N. Y. vol. i. p. 462.
Trans, of Amer. Philos. Soc. new series, vol. i. p. 394.

In May 1838, I received of Mr. Freeman, fishmonger in
Quincy market, a specimen of a sturgeon, which I suppose to
be the “ oryrinchus,”’ Mitchell ; afterwards more minutely de-
scribed by Le Sueur. This fish was taken in Charles river at
Watertown, and measured 2 feet and 3 inches in length. All
the upper part of the body, of a grayish brown color ; inferior por-
tion of the sides, silvery ; beneath, white. Whole upper por-
tion of the head, bony ; irregularly marked upon its surface ;
five longitudinal rows of flattened plates, of the same structure
as the covering of the head, but of a lighter color. The lar-
gest plates form the dorsal ridge ; they are compressed at their
sides, and terminate above, in strong sharp spines, which are

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 179

turned backwards; radiated lines are indistinctly seen running
from the centre of these scales to their circumference ; this
row is composed of twelve plates; the first are the largest ;
that at the commencement of the dorsal fin, by far the small-
est ; between the dorsal and caudal fins, are situated 4 plates ;
two quite small, just back of the dorsal, forming a pair; next
to these, a much larger one; and lastly, an elongated one at
the commencement of the caudal fin. A second row of scales
commences just back of the operculum, situated where the
lateral line is usually observed, and is continued to the base of
the tail; these plates, 28 in number, are placed obliquely ;
they are narrowed to a point at their extremities, widened in
their centres, and like the fornier are crowned by a spine, from
the base of which radii diverge ; the plates at the posterior
extremity of the body, much the smaller. Beneath this row
commences just back of the ventrals a third row of plates, lar-
ger than those of the last row, eight in number, placed verti-
cally.

The whole surface of the body not occupied by the plates,
granulated throughout. Head flattened above, slightly de-
pressed between the eyes; the back part of the head ter-
minates in a pointed plate. Smnouwt, blunted. Hyes, small;
pupils, black ; irides, yellow ; diameter of the eye, equal to one
fifth the distance between the eyes. Nostrils double, situated
directly in front of the eyes, the inferior much the larger. he
operculum consists of a single large plate with rays diverging
from its centre. Mouth without teeth, situated on the under
surface of the head, half as wide as long, capable of great pro-
trusion; half way between the mouth and the extremity of
the snout, are situated four cirrhi placed on a line across, nearly
as long as the mouth.

The Dorsal fin is situated at the posterior extremity of the
body ; the first rays are higher than the length of the fin.

The Pectorals arise from a strong, triangular plate ; the first
ray is very large and strong; the seventh and eighth rays the
. longest ; width of the fins at their base, less than half of their
length.

180 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

The Ventrals are placed far back, width at their base, equal
to two thirds of their height. -

The length of the Anal fin is equal to half of its height? the
last rays equal in height to one third the height of the Lome
rays.

The Caudal fin is forked ; its upper lobe nearly double the
length of the lower; the membranous structure of this fin
renders it extremely difficult to count the number of its rays
with accuracy.

The specimen I have described is evidently a young fish.
My friend, Thomas A. Greene, Esq. of New Bedford, writes me
from that place under date of May 20th, 1838: ‘On visiting
the market a few mornings since, I saw two huge sturgeons
more than six feet long ; they were taken in a seine the day
before:

I learn from the fishermen that sturgeons are sometimes
taken in our Bay, eight or ten feet in length, weighing as
much as 300 pounds, and that their flesh is eaten by them,
and considered very palatable. Mitchell says, it ‘grows sel-
dom to a greater length than five feet ;” while Le Sueur
observes that the largest specimen he had seen, was between
three and four feet long.

ORDER IL.

CHONDROPTERYGII-BRANCHIIS FIXIS.

Famity I.
SELACHIL.

CarcHarias. Cuv.

Generic characters. Jaws and head depressed; nostrils
pierced in front; teeth pointed and cutting, often serrated at
the edges ; first dorsal fin large and placed behind the pecto-

_torals and before the ventrals ; pectoral fins large.

C. vulpes. Lin. The Fox Shark. Thresher.

Turton’s Linnzus, vol. i. p. 918.

Pennant’s British Zoology, vol. iii. p. 97 et fig.
Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. N. Y. vol. i. p. 482.
Me Murtrie’s Cuv. vol. ii. p. 285.

Yarrell’s British Fishes, vol. ii. p. 379 et fig.

This species, which sometimes weighs 200 pounds, is called
by the fishermen “ Thresher,” and “ Swingle tail,” from the
motions of its tail, which is often used with great force in de-
fence.. It is met with in our waters in summer, not often
however, pursuing mackerel and menhaden, upon which it
feeds. Generally it is taken in nets with other fish; when
taken with the hook, it is secured with much difficulty on
account of the constant and powerful threshing of its tail.

On the 28th of July 1838, I was fortunate enough to see a
very fine male* specimen of this shark, which was taken in

* Both Pennant’s and Yarrell’s plates are evidently taken from female specimens.

182 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

the vicinity of Nahant the previous day, which enables me to
furnish the following description: "Total length twelve feet ;
circumference of the body, at the origin of the dorsal fin, four
feet ; length of the tail, from its origin to its extremity, five
feet six inches ; the distance from the tip cf snout to the origin
of the dorsal fin, measuring over the curve of the back, two
feet and a half; depth of the body, back of the first dorsal,
about fifteen inches. Color of all the upper part of the body,
together with the fins, a dark bluish lead ; beneath, white, with
light bluish blotches upon the outer edges of the abdomen.
Surface of the skin smooth if the hand is passed towards the
tail; rough, if it be reversed.

Length of the head thirteen inches from the tip of the
snout to the first branchial aperture. Occiput slightly convex,
an arch upon the back, opposite the branchial apertures. E’yes
situated vertically, very moveable in their sockets, their longest
diameter one and three quarter inches ; pupils blue black, being
a longitudinal fissure, edged with golden. Snout blunted, five
inches from the mouth to its tip. Gape of the mouth six in-
ches in extent, three rows of teeth in each jaw, smooth on
their edges, widely separated from each other; the first two
rows nearly perpendicular, back row recurved; teeth in the
upper jaw, the larger; in the lower jaw, straighter. Five
branchial apertures placed vertically ; the first, smallest, just
before the pectorals.

The first Dorsal fin is triangular, eleven and a quarter inches
long, twelve and a quarter inches high.

The second Dorsal is eight inches in front of the tail, and
twenty inches from the first dorsal; three and a half inches
long ; three quarters of an inch wide.

The Pectorals are twenty inches high, eleven inches long,
falciform ; at the posterior extremity of the fin is a small digi-
tation.

The Ventrals are five and a half inches back of the dorsal
fin; eleven inches long ; nine inches high. Anus large, be-
tween the ventrals. 'The claspers are sixteen and a half in-
ches long from the anus ; depth at their base, one and a quarter
inch.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 183

The Anal fin is situated about four inches in front of the
tail, four inches long, one inch high.

The Caudal fin is composed of two lobes; the lower lobe
is seven inches long, nine high ; the upper, falciform, its great-
est depth eleven inches, six and a half inches in its middle,
two and a half inches at the extremity ; greatest depth across
both lobes, sixteen and a half inches.

The body of the fish is terminated on the back, by a semi-
circular ridge; a depression of two and three quarter inches
in extent, is seen just back of this, between it, and the tail,
at the origin of which is quite a concavity. At the termina-
tion of this depression, the caudal fin commences, exhibiting
at its origin, a very abrupt prominence.

The ichthyologist will observe’that I have made no men-
tion of a triangular process which is found upon the inferior
portions of the upper lobe of the tail, within a few inches of
its extremity; the tip of the tail of my specimen had been
removed, probably in some encounter; its upper edge had
healed over, but a portion of a denuded vertebra was left ex-
posed, and the lower edge of the wound was not healed. So
that the tail was probably several inches longer previous to
the injury.

In the ninth volume of the “ Medical Repository,” pub-
lished in New York in 1805, is a very imperfect description,
together with a rude figure of this species taken near Long
Island. Dr. Mitchell when he wrote that description, supposed
it to be a new species. He was afterward satisfied how-
ever that it was not a new fish, as we may fairly infer, by his
extracting a portion of this description, into his paper upon the
“Fishes of New York,” and placing it under the head of
“ Squalus vulpes,’ without making any reference to his for-
mer remark “that it is evidently a different species from that
figured and noticed by Pennant in his British Zoology.”

184 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

C. obscurus. Le Sueur. The dusky Shark.
Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, vol. i. p. 223, et fig.

In a paper by Le Sueur upon ‘Several new species of
North American Fishes,” in the first volume of the “‘ Journal of
the Academy of Natural Sciences,” a fish is described under
the name of ‘“ Squalus obscurus,’’ which I have little doubt he
found in the waters of our state. Be that as it may, although
he does not mention its locality, he furnishes us with a good
figure of the species, and also of the upper and lower teeth.
The only two species of shark with which this could be con-
founded upon our coast, even by a careless observer, are the
“ Carcharias vulpes” —Fox Shark, and. “ Lamna punctata”—
Mackerel Shark ; in both these species, the edges of the teeth
are smooth. In the “‘ obscurus’’ however, they are deeply ser-
rated. In the winter of 1837, my brother-in-law, Thomas
M. Brewer, M. D., brought me a triangular serrate tooth, he
took from the jaw of a shark which had been cast ashore
at Nahant ; and in the summer of 1838, my friend Samuel
Cabot, jr., sent me a dozen teeth which he procured from
another shark at Nahant, evidently of the same species with
the preceding. Inasmuch then, as these teeth are triangular
and serrated, and the description of the specimens seen by these
gentlemen, answers to the plate of Le Sueur, I feel authorized
in admitting this species here. ‘The following is Le Sueur’s
description :

‘Tail with a carina undulated above, and slightly emarginat-
ed at the base ; pectorals long, narrow, and falciform ; dorsals and
anals projecting backwards in a point ; second dorsal opposite
to the anal, the latter bilobed. A white spot on each side of
the neck. Head flat and broad ; snout sharp edged, rounded
and wide at the end; eyes lateral, large, orbicular, pupil trans-
verse ; narrow, with a nictitant membrane originating below ;
branchial apertures five, unequal, the first very large, the last
very small, and situate above the origin of the pectoral fins;
nostrils oblique and partially covered by a short, pointed ap-

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 185

pendage on the margin, near the end of the snout; tail round-
ed, strong, with a falciform fin, terminating in a distinct, tri-
angular, lanceolate lobe; lower lobe of the fin short and
rounded ; ventrals small subquadrangular, without posterior
process ; deeth triangular, serrate.”

Lamna. Cuv.

Generic characters. Point of the nose conical, nostrils pierced
on tts under surface ; all the five branchial apertures in ad-
vance of the origin of the pectorals ; the first dorsal fin placed
much nearer the line of the pectoral than the anal fin ; lobes

of the tail nearly equal.

L. punctata. Mitchell. The mackerel Shark.
Plate III. fig. 2.
Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soc. N. Y. vol. i. p. 483.

In the summer, this is quite a common species in our waters.
The fishermen while fishing for Mackerel and Cod, are fre-
quently much annoyed by having their hooks and lines bitten
off by this intruder, It occasionally attains the length of eight
or nine feet, and weighs between 300 and 400 pounds. No
portion of it is used save the fiver ; this organ however furnish-
es a valuable otl. Seven gallons of oil are not unfrequently
extracted from the liver of a single fish. And although it is
generally used only by the curriers, yet, when carefully pre-
pared by boiling the fresh liver, it is as good as whale oil to
burn, As this species is generally seen following shoals of
mackerel upon which it feeds, it is commonly known among
the fishermen as the Mackerel Shark.

By the politeness of Messrs. Mc Loud and Dill, fishmon-
gers, | was enabled to examine a fine specimen of this species,
eight feet in length, taken. the latter part of July, 1838, ina
net at Marshfield; from this specimen, I drew up the follow- .

ing account :
24

186 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

All the upper part of the body, greenish ; lighter upon the
sides; white, beneath. Head, small; snout blunted at its tip.
Eyes circular, very moveable in their orbit; pupils black ;
irides dusky ; diameter of the eye, two inches; distance be-
tween the eyes, five inches. Nostrils large, situated vertical-
ly under snout. On a line above the eyes, a series of mucous
pores resembling black orifices, are seen running towards the
snout ; another series, between the eyes, (en a line with them, )
and the snout. Upon the entire under portion of the snout,
these are also distributed. Three rows of small, sharp, trian-
gular teeth, smooth at their edges, in each jaw, the two first
straight; the back row, recurved; the three teeth on each side
of the middle of the lower jaw, the largest. Tongue large,
rough, fleshy. Five large branchial apertures, situated verti-
cally ; the distance between the first, greater than between
the posterior. Depth of the fish in front of the dorsal fin, fif-
teen inches; distance from the extremity of the snout to the
dorsal fin, thirty-four inches.

The first Dorsal fin is triangular, with a fleshy horizontal
process pointing backward from its base posteriorly ; one foot
one inch long; one foot high ; between this and the second
dorsal, twenty-three inches.

. The second Dorsal is adipose, rhomboidal, four inches long,
two inches high.

The Pectorals are quite strong, and somewhat lunated, ten
inches long, eighteen inches high; seven inches from the first
branchial aperture.

Length of the Ventrals, eight and a half inches; height,
four inches. Distance between the pectorals and the ventrals,
twenty inches. Anus large between the ventrals. Hight
inches between the extremity of the ventrals and the origin of
the anal fin.

Length of the Anal fin, four inches; height two inches.
On a line with the origin of the second dorsal, a wide carina
runs on each side to the tail. The space between the second
dorsal and the tail, four inches wide in its middle; at the pos-
terior portion of this space, a crescent-shaped ridge, three inches
across ; distance from this to the middle of the tail, nine inches.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 187

At the base of the fleshy portion of the Caudal fin, a de ep
groove on each side, running half the length of this portion.
Caudal fin unequal in its lobes ; the upper, measuring along its
curve, twenty-three inches; the lower, eighteen. Depth of
the caudal fin at its extremities, two and a half feet.

Near the anus, imbedded in the flesh, I found a specimen of
the “ Anthosoma Smithii??—Leach.

Large specimens of this shark, which is usually found only
three or four feet long, have been mistaken for the ‘‘Carcharias
glaucus”—Blue Shark—by our fishermen. Although the
Blue Shark may exist in our waters, still as I have not been
able to meet with it, nor with any one who has seen it, upon
whose scientific accuracy I can implicitly rely, I have erased
it from our catalogue, and substituted this species. The re-
marks made in my former report are applicable here, and are
therefore introduced.

Spinax. Cuv.

Generic characters. J%wo dorsal fins, with a strong spine at
the anterior edge of each; no anal fin ; temporal orifices pres-
ent; teeth in several rows, small and cutting.

S. acanthias. Lin. The picked Dog-fish.

Pennant’s British Zoology, vol. iv. p. 88.
Shaw’s Zoology, vol. v. pt. ii. p. 33.

Me Murtrie’s Cuv. vol. ii. p. 288.

Yarrell’s British Fishes, vol. ii. p. 400, et fig.

This species is known in Great Britain by the name of
“ Picked or Piked Dog,’ from the strong spine at the com-
mencement of each dorsal fin. Our fishermen called it “ Dog-
fish.” In the spring and autumn, the dog-fish appear in
shoals in our bay; they are frequently met with in immense
numbers. At their appearance, smacks are fitted out at Truro
and Provincetown for their capture, to the neglect of other

188 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

fishing, for the oz/ they furnish; and it is said to be quite a
valuable business. The fishes themselves are dried for food
for the cattle, and their skin is considerably used for polishing
by the mechanic. 'They average about eight or ten pounds
weight; sometimes they weigh fifteen pounds. They are
readily caught with the hook. ‘These shoals seldom remain
in shallow water, or near the shore, more than three or four
days; they feed upon the offal and garbage thrown upon the
bottoms by the fishermen, and so perfectly do they clean the
ground, that it is observed by old fishermen, that when the
spring shoal of dog-fish has been unusually large, the cod fish
are found in much larger numbers upon the same localities
afterwards. In Scotland, the flesh of this fish is much eaten
by the lower classes, and the reftise portions afford a valuable
manure.

A fine specimen before me, thirty-four inches in length, pre-
sents the following appearances: All the upper part of the
body of a slate color, which is deeper upon the head ; lighter
below the lateral line; beneath, white; just under the lateral
line, a row of circular white spots; a few similar spots irregu-
larly distributed upon the back. Length of the head to the
whole length of the fish, nearly as 4 to 9; the head flattened
above, tapering toa blunted snout. #'yes horizontally elongated ;
their longest diameter nearly equal to one fourth the length of
the head; pupils small, black ; irides silvery, with a cupreous
tint. Orbit large, allowing great motion to the eye. The dis-
tance between the eyes equal to more than half the length of
the head. Between the eyes, two longitudinal patches of nu-
merous mucous glands, which are indistinctly continued nearly
to the extremity of the snout. Temporal orifices back of the
eye, and just above the line of the eye; their length is equal
to the short diameter of the eye. All the lower portion of the
head in front of the mouth sprinkled over with mucous orifices,
which, like those between the eyes, exude, when pressed, a
gelatinous secretion. Nostrils double. Mouth large; when
expanded, nearly circular. In the upper jaw, three rows of
teeth ; in the lower jaw, two rows; these teeth have very sharp

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 189

edges, and their points are turned outwardly from the centre
of the jaw. Branchial orifices five, directly in front of the
pectorals. * Lateral line, quite high up on the back, and run-
ning nearly a straight course to the caudal rays.

The first Dorsal fin arises from the anterior third of the
body ; it is convex before, concave above and behind; nearly
one third higher than long ; arising from its anterior base, and
concealed in nearly half of its height by the fin, is seen a
strong triangular spine, nearly half the height of the fin.

The second Dorsal is situated back of the first dorsal, at a
distance from it, equal to one fourth the whole length of the
fish ; of the same form as the first, but much smaller. A spine,
similar in its form and situation with regard to the fin, is seen
here as in the first dorsal fin, nearly as high as the fin itself.

The Pectorals are large, commencing at the last branchial
orifice ; their length, less than half their height.

The Ventrals are small, situated just before the second dor-
sal, with the anus between them.

The Caudal fin is very large and powerful ; its upper portion
is broad, and twice the length of the lower portion.

The young of this species are much more spotted than the
adults. A foetus before me, nine inches long, has several
white spots on the top of the shoulders; two in front of, and
two just behind the first dorsal fin; also spots on the sides,
which, becoming confluent, form a white band extending al-
most the whole length of the body.

Somniosus. Le Sueur.

Generic characters. Like Spinax they have no spiracles, no
anal fins, five small branchial apertures, approximating, and
near the pectorals, but they differ in having a short obtuse
snout. Pectoral, ventral and dorsal fins very small ; dorsals
without spines, caudal as in Spina.

S. brevipinna. Le Sueur. The Nurse, or Sleeper.
Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, vol. i. p. 222, et fig.

190 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

In a paper upon the ‘‘ Chondropterigious fishes’ contained
in the first volume of the ‘‘ Journal of the Academy of Natural
Sciences of Philadelphia,” Le Sueur observes, ‘‘ Near Marble-
head in Massachusetts, the fishermen take a kind of shark
which they call Nurse, or Sleeper, doubtless from its inactive
or sluggish habits. It is considered rare on their coast. From
a skin recently prepared by them, I have been enabled to make
the following observations :

Lateral line black, undulating at the head, and marked in
its whole length with small transverse lines ; ¢azl wide, emar-
ginate; the first dorsal midway between the pectoral and the
anal fins, the second a little further than the ventrals, and both
very near the tail. Body elongated, with a slight elevation,
and narrow at the tail; spiracles distant from the eyes, and
more elevated ; eyes small, round, and situated laterally ; the
pectoral fins, which were larger than the others, except the
caudal, were four inches at the base, and at most five inches in
length. This individual, from the end of the snout to that of
the tail, was six feet five inches long ; and we may regard it as
a shark with very small fins, whence its motion must be slow,
and confined to the bottom, there sluggishly seeking its prey.
Skin rough, beset with triangular, curved, striated and pointed
asperities. Color of the entire body, a pale lead gray, some-
what darker on the back.”

I have not had the good fortune to see a specimen of the
nurse, or to meet with a fisherman who knew any thing res-
pecting it. It is not, however, at all surprising, that it should
be unknown ; with most of our fishermen, a shark is a shark,
without regard to specific names. The “ hammer head,” and
“ thresher,” and ‘mackerel shark,” are, it is true, known to
many of them; but so little do they feel interested in any
species of fish which is not marketable, that they take no no-
tice of their distinguishing characters; and a species might
often frequent our waters without being known, unless it dif-
fered exceedingly from a common fish.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 191

Famity II.
RAIIDAE.

Rata. Cuv.

Generic characters. Form of the body rhomboidal, very
much depressed ; tail long and slender, generally armed on the
upper surface with one or more rows of sharp spines ; two small
fins near the end of the tail, and sometimes a small. terminal
or caudal fin ; the eyes and temporal orifices on the upper sur-
fice of the head ; nostrils, mouth and branchial apertures, be-
neath ; teeth flattened, lozenge-shaped, the inner angle elonga-
ted in old males.

R. ocellata. Mitchell. The ocellated Ray.
Trans. Lit. et Philosoph. Soe. vol. i. p. 477.

This species, described by Mitchell in his ‘‘ Fishes of New
York,” is sometimes met with in our waters weighing 200
pounds. ‘The following description is drawn up from a female
specimen thirty-one inches in length :

Body above, of a light brown color, thickly sprinkled over
its entire surface with circular black spots, varying in size from
half a line to two lines in diameter. Width across the pecto-
rals, thirty inches; width of the head, directly back of the
eyes, twelve inches; distance between the eyes, about two
inches. Hyes, situated horizontally, two thirds of an inch in
diameter ; pupils black; irides yellowish, beautifully radiated
with golden, resembling slips of gold leaf; orbitar ridge cov-
ered with very small spines. MSnout slightly projecting. On
~ each side of the snout, a slight marginal excavation. ‘T’empo-
ral orifices directly back of the eyes, situated obliquely, one
inch in length. Mouth measures from outer angle, three inch-
es across ; teeth placed in quincunx. Nostrils directly in front
of the mouth, large and protected by fleshy prolongations.
From the tip of the snout to a point opposite the first bran-
chial opening, the margin of the pectorals on each side, are
rough to the touch. The branchial openings, five in number,

192 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

situated at equal distances from each other. Body beneath,
white; in front of, and at the sides of the mouth, and at the
anterior portion of the pectoral fins, are seen a great number of
minute black points, which are mucous pores. All the space
directly in front of the eyes, save the extremity of the snout,
naked and reddish, appearing as if abraded. Skin between
the eyes destitute of spines, as well as a space on each side of
the spines, commencing in front of the eyes, of two or more
inches in width, and continued to the extremity of the ventral
fin ; space between the eyes also, and the upper part of the
entire length of the tail, spineless. The remainder of the
upper surface of the body, save the margin of the pectorals
and ventrals, is covered with sharp recurved spines, of which
the largest are seen on the sides of the tail. The anterior
portion of the pectorals, reddish at the edges; posterior portion
bordered with white ; rays very numerous, and easily distin-
cuished. Ventrals quite large, containing about twenty-four
rays ; those next to the pectorals very strong, with their ex-
tremities lobed ; these fins resemble very much the posterior
wings of some of the ‘“‘ Phalene.’”’? The tail, measured from
the anus, is fifteen inches in length; on each side of it, are
three rows of strong spines; these spines commence high up
on the back, but are at first quite small, and gradually increase
in size ; at the lower or under edge of the tail, is a fleshy bor-
der or fringe. ‘Two small dorsal fins are situated upon the
tail, near its extremity ; the anterior, is nearly as long again as
high ; it is united at its base posteriorly to the smaller fin. At
the origin of each of these fins, is a fleshy tubercle. Anus
large.

In another specimen of this ray, I found the stomach filled
with a species of the genus ‘“‘ Taltrus’’ Beach fleas.

The sexes are readily distinguishable by the ventral fins.
From the ventral fins in the male, extends a cylindrical appen-
dage about half the length of the tail, measuring from the anal
orifice, which is called the clasper ; at its posterior, outer por-
tion, it is fissured, and contains on its lower division a large
falciform bony hook, and on the upper a small projecting tooth,

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 193

somewhat like a shark’s tooth ; the ventrals of the female have
not these appendages. Besides this sexual character, in the
female, there are fewer spines upon the surface of the body
generally, and particularly upon the fleshy portions of the pec-
torals. ‘The anal orifice of the male, is circular ; of the female,
a simple incision; the teeth of the female are more prominent,
and sharper; the male has fewer spots.

R. batis. Lin. The Skate.

Pennant’s British Zoology, vol. iv. p. 72, et fig.
Mc Murtrie’s Cuv. vol. ii. p. 293.
Yarrell’s British Fishes, vol. ii. p. 421, et fig.

_ This species sometimes attains the weight of 200 pounds.
From a female specimen, three feet three inches in length, and
two feet in width from the extreme points of the pectorals,
brought me by my brother in law, Thomas M. Brewer, M. D.,
I have made the following description :

Above, of a light ash color, sprinkled over its entire surface,
with blackish ocellated spots, more or less large. Margin of
the pectorals, reddish. Upon the anterior angle of the eyes,
upon the upper orbitar margin, and also at the posterior margin,
a number of very small spines ; the last situated, smallest. A
few spines are also observed upon the anterior margin of the
pectoral fins ; the remainder of the pectorals naked, with the
exception of a small number of very minute spines at the pos-
terior base, just in front of the ventral fins. A single row of
spines, larger than are found upon any other part of the body,
arm the dorsum of the tail, commencing a short distance be-
fore the origin of the ventrals, and continue to the second
dorsal fin, with the exception of the space occupied by the first
dorsal. A row of rather smaller spines are situated on each mar-
ginal edge of the tail, commencing on a line with the posterior
angle of the ventrals. | Length of the head, to the entire length
of the fish, nearly 1to 4. H’yes moderate in size, oblong ; pupils
black ; irides silvery, with a beautiful golden fringed curtain

25

194 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

suspended from above. Distance between the eyes, nearly one
fourth the length of the head. A slight depression on the top
of the head extending a considerable distance forwards towards
the snout. Top of the snout covered with small flexible
spines; extremity of the snout, naked. Anterior portion of
the body tapering from the lateral angle of the pectorals to
nearly a point at the snout ; snout slightly blunted. Width of
the head, across the humeral orifices, thirteen inches; width
directly in front of the eyes, ten inches ; across the top of the
snout, one inch. Humeral orifices directly back of the eyes;
and in their transverse diameter equal to the length of the eye.
The ventrals lighter colored than the rest of the body ; the
rays digitated at the extremities. 'The dorsal fins equal in
length ; the anterior a little higher than the posterior; both
rounded ; separated about half an inch; the posterior termi-
nates within an inch of the extremity of the tail, by a mem-
branous prolongation, which is more elevated at the posterior
extremity. All the under portion of the body, of a dingy
white color, perfectly smooth, with the exception of a very few
spines hardly perceptible except by the touch, on each side of
the commencement of the caudal fins, and a small patch of
equally minute spines upon the middle of the tail, just in front
of the termination of the ventral fins. Mucous pores are scat-
tered over the greater portion of the under surface, appearing
like black dots, in most instances distributed in a regular man-
ner, although a longitudinal line of them is seen towards the
middle of the pectorals, and another transverse one at the base
of the ventrals. Gape of the mouth, large. Jaws composed
ef compact, hexaedral teeth, forming almost a plane surface,
the inner angle of the innermost middle ones beginning to be-
come acute. Nostrils, a short distance in front of the mouth ;
this distance is equal to half the length of the mouth. Five
branchial apertures, situated obliquely ; the anterior largest,
the posterior much the smallest. Pectoral rays, very obvious
beneath. Anal opening, oblong.

A male specimen lying before me, 54 inches long and 36
inches wide, kindly sent me from New Bedford, by Wm. H.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 195

Taylor, Esq., presents some dissimilarities to the above. The
ocellated spots do not exist, but the individual is of an uniform
light brown color. On the margin of the pectorals, on a line
opposite the eye, are from four to six longitudinal rows of strong
recurved spines; on the back of the pectorals towards the late-
ral angle, are four or five longitudinal rows of spines directed to-
wards the dorsum of the fish. All the under surface of the
snout to the nostrils, and exterior to the nostrils to the angle
of the jaws, roughened with innumerable small tubercles.
The teeth have become very sharp ; their middle portions pre-
sent an acute angle; they are recurved, and exhibit regular
rows passing backwards, with a space of a line or more be-
tween them. ‘The bony process contained in the claspers, is
four inches long, and half an inch deep at the posterior extrem-
ity. The outer margin is festooned, and naked, about two
lines of its depth ; the inner half of the width, is covered with
corrugated flesh.

FAMILy.
SUCTORIL.

Pretrromyzon. Lin.

Generic characters. Body smooth, elongated, cylindrical,
like that of an eel; the head, rounded ; the mouth circular,
armed with hard tooth-like processes ; the lip forming a con-
tinuous circle round the mouth ; seven apertures on each side
of the neck, leading to seven branchial cells ; no pectoral or
ventral fins; the skin towards the tail extending in a fold
Srom the body both above and below, forms dorsal, anal, and
caudal fins.

P. Americanus. Le Sueur. The American Lamprey.

Trans. of Amer. Phil. Soc. new series, vol. i, p. 382.

This species, which is far from being common in our Bay,

196 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

is taken in deep water attached to pieces of drift wood, and the
bottoms of boats and vessels. In its spawning season, it as-
cends the numerous rivers. It is taken in large quantities in
the Merrimack river, at Lowell. Dr. Elisha Bartlett writes me
that ‘‘they ascend the rivers a little earlier than the shad, and
move mostly in the night. It is not known, by the fishermen,
when they return, as they are never seen. There is a notion
that they all die. They are often seen. in the summer, in
pairs, at work together, constructing a little mound of stones.
They build this about three feet in diameter at the base, and
about two feet high, of stones from the size of an ounce bullet
to that of the fist. They often aid each other in carrying the
same stone. 'This is pretty evidently a labor of love, as they
copulate once in five minutes, or so, during the whole time.
The young go down the river, when the water begins to
freeze. They are then from six to eight inches long.”

It occasionally attains the weight of four pounds. From
a beautiful specimen 27 inches in length, brought me by Capt.
Samuel Andrews of Charlestown, the following description is
drawn up:

Color, olive brown ; all the upper portion of the body, mot-
tled with dark brown, almost black, confluent patches ; be-
neath, of an uniform dull olive. Anterior portion of the body,
cylindrical ; posterior, compressed. A slight keel upon the
back. Head rounded, somewhat flattened on the upper por-
tion in front of the eyes. Hyes, moderate in size; pupils,
black ; irides, golden. Distance of the eyes from the snout,
two inches. <A tubular orifice is seen in front of, between
the eyes, a line in its longest diameter. Seven large branchial
apertures back of each eye, passing backward in nearly a
straight line ; the first, smallest. When this species is unat-
tached, the mouth is a longitudinal fissure. When attached,
it is circular, the lip forming a ring; within, furnished with
hard, horny teeth, of a yellow color. Teeth on the roof, larger
than those upon the sides of the mouth ; lower margin of the
mouth furnished with a semicircular row of compact teeth ;
teeth on the lip, small ; mucous pores obvious in front of the

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 197

eyes, passing towards the snout, and almost back of the eyes.
Two dorsal fins; the first, commencing back of the middle of
the body, three inches long, nine inches high. Between
this and the second dorsal, one inch. Second dorsal, six inches
long ; more than an inch high, in its highest part. Anal fin, a
mere fringe. Caudal fin, appears like the extremity of the
solid portion of the body, very much compressed.

P. nigricans. Le Sueur. The bluish Lamprey.

Trans. of Amer. Phil. Soc. new series, vol. i. p. 385.

This species is generally found attached to other species of
fishes ; it is frequently affixed to mackerel ; less often to cod ;
and the three specimens I have met with, were taken adhering
to haddock. From the largest of these, seven inches in length,
the following description is made: Upper part of the body,
of adeep blue color; beneath, bluish white. Anterior third of
the body, cylindrical; back of this, compressed ; very much
so towards the tail. Head oval, flattened on the top; length
of the head, from the snout to the posterior angle of the eye,
to the length of the fish, less than one seventh. Seven bran-
chial orifices, running obliquely backwards and downwards
from the eyes. Mouth, circular; half an inch in diameter ;
surrounded by a fleshy margin; armed within, with numerous
incurved teeth, or horny spines, projecting from widened bases,
resembling the spines with which the Razae are armed.
There are three teeth in the throat ; two higher up than the
third, which is in front of and between the others. In the
general appearance of the teeth, there is great resemblance be-
tween those of this species and the preceding. yes moderate
in size; pupils black; irides silvery. Between the eyes, on
the top of the head, a small white spot; in front of this spot, a
spiracle.

The first Dorsal fin commences back of the middle of the
fish ; its posterior portion is rounded ; its height to its length,

198 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

as 2 to 8. The distance between the dorsals, is equal to half
the length of the first dorsal.

The second Dorsal is considerably higher than the first ; be-
fore reaching the caudal fin, to which it is continued, it is
depressed.

The Caudal fin is a simple membrane, triangular at its ter-
mination, and uniting with the anal fin, which is very small.
Anus small.

Le Sueur dwells upon the “white dorsal fins ;” his speci-
men was six inches long. My three specimens, one, five
inches, a second, six inches in length, have both dorsals per-
fectly white; in the specimen just described, seven inches
long, the margin of the second dorsal is of the same color as
the back of the fish.

Ammocoretes. Dumer.

Generic characters. Form of the body, the branchial aper-
tures and fins, like those of the Lampreys ; upper lip semicir-
cular, with a straight, transverse under lip ; mouth without
teeth, but furnished with numerous short membranous cirrha.

A. bicolor. The Mud Lamprey.

Trans. of Amer. Phil. Soc. new series, vol. i. p. 386.

I have never been able to procure this species, and therefore
extract Le Sueur’s description, drawn up from a specimen sent
him from Northampton, by Dr. Hunt, which was taken in the
Connecticut river :

“Dorsal fins low, separated ; the second united with the
caudal fin, which is rounded ; back and sides, reddish ; abdo-
men white ; the color separated by an undulating line. Ante-
rior part of the body subcylindric, posterior part compressed,
and tapering to the tail ; nape of the neck elevated; head de-
clivous, prolonged into a snout furnished with a lip having
two short rounded lobes; these lobes, when the mouth is

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 199.

closed, embrace and conceal the lower lip which is very short ;
the nostrils are small, and placed in the centre of a white oval,
pellucid disk, easily moveable ; on the inside of the upper lip,
there are small granules, and at the opening of the throat small
ramified papillae ; the branchial apertures are placed in a lon-
gitudinal depression, oblique and a little curved, the first aper-
ture is above the angle of the mouth; on each side of the
head there is a whitish spot, which should seem to indicate
the position of the eyes, that this species is deficient of, in com-
mon with the “ P. ruber’’* of Europe. The annular or ribbed
appearance of the sides of this fish is owing to the muscles,
which are endued with great strength, in order to enable it to
burrow in the muddy sands of rivers, where it penetrates in a
serpentine manner, by means of its snout, the large lip of
which performs the functions of a terrier. The European
species is generally taken, when the small rivers are cleansed
of the superabundant sand and mud which obstruct their
channels. ‘This last is much sought after for food; but the
American species is commonly rejected, as is almost every
animal that either has a real or fancied resemblance to a snake.
This fish is used for bait.’

Besides the species above described, several others are known
to be found in our waters, but they have not been described,
and I have not met with them myself. I shall but cursorily
notice them.

A second species of ‘‘ Pomotis”—Pond perch, is occasion-
ally taken in the neighboring ponds, with the “ vulgaris.”

Another species of “ Hsox’’—Pike, is taken with the “re-
ticulatus,’’ it differs from that fish, in being transversely barred.
{It is rarely brought to our market. My friend, Dr. Holbrook,
of Charleston, a very accurate naturalist, tells me he has
frequently caught it at Wrentham.

* “Vampetra caeca ; Willughby, p. 107, c. 3, fig. 1. Pet. rouge; La Cepede, tome ii.
page 100.”

200 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

A’ species of “ H’xocetus,’”’ is sometimes taken upon our
coast ; this may prove to be one of the species, described by
Le Sueur, in the second volume of the ‘“ Journal of the Acad-
emy of Natural Sciences.”

Another species of “ Salmo”— Trout, is, | am satisfied, from
the representations of correspondents and fishermen, found in
our state. Ihave repeatedly seen a splendid large trout from
Winnipiseogee Lake in New Hampshire, and two beautiful
species at least, from Sebago Pond in Maine, in our market;
but have met myself with but one species taken in our waters.

A larger “ Hel” than the species I have described, is found
at Holmes Hole. Dr. Yale writes me that ‘a Sea eel, weigh-
ing from twelve to fifteen pounds, is not unfrequently taken
about Noman’s Land, by the fishermen, and is considered good
eating.” He has seen but one specimen, and that was taken
some years ago in the Vineyard sound.

Dr. Yale tells me that a species of “‘ Zygoena’’—Hammer-
headed shark, is common at Holmes Hole.

A speeies of ‘‘ T’rygon” is met with also, at Holmes Hole.
Thus Dr. Yale writes me, “I have seen frequently in this
harbor and have assisted in taking them, but owing to their
poisonous nature when wounded by their sting, we have been
rather cautious about taking them into the boats; so that we
seldom see one on shore. One or two individuals in this vi-
cinity have come well nigh losing their lives by a wound from
them. In July and August they are abundant on the flats in
the harbor here.” In the first volume of the ‘ Journal of the
Academy of Natural Sciences,’ Le Sueur describes three
species of “‘ Raia,” one found at Newport, R. I., and two at
Egg Harbor, N. J. These all evidently belong to the genus
“ Trygon,” Adans; and as the species belonging to this
genus are commonly called “Sting rays,” this species spoken
of by Dr. Yale, is much more likely to be one of these, found
in neighboring waters, than one known to exist at a distance
of thousands of miles; therefore I shall not allow the “ pasti-
naca’”’—the European species—is our fish, until some natural-
ist may have settled the matter satisfactorily.

FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 201

Another species of “‘ Raia” is common in our waters. It is
known among fishermen, as the Thornback. Several years
since, I had an opportunity of examining one, which, at the
time, I supposed to be the “radiata” of Don. This specimen
was two feet in length, and twenty inches across the pectorals;
and in its stomach, I found the head of a menhaden, measuring
three inches in length. 'The fisherman who brought it to me,
assured me he had caught specimens very much larger than
this. This species is undoubtedly the “‘ clavata,” thornback,
or ‘‘ radiata,” Starry ray.

That a species of “‘ Torpedo” is found upon the coast of
Cape Cod, is, I think, satisfactorily settled by the following
testimony.

In Whitman’s description of Wellfleet, in the third vol-
ume of the ‘Massachusetts Historical Collections,’ he says,

_“ cramp fish have been caught on our shores.”’ In a descrip-
tion of Truro, in the same volume, we read, ‘the cramp fish
has sometimes been seen on the beach.” ‘This fish, which
resembles a sting ray in size and form, possesses the property
of the torpedo, being capable of giving a distinct electrical
shock.” Dr. Davis writes me from South Wellfleet, under
date of Oct. 24, 1837 : “Cramp fish are occasionally seen upon
our shores.”” Mr. E. Freeman, fishmonger in Quincy market,
tells me that forty years ago, two or three specimens of this
fish were frequently found dead upon the beaches at Wellfleet
in a single day, also at Griffin’s Island, near Wellfleet. They
were taken for their divers, which are thought beneficial in
cases of cramp. He has not, however, heard of any one having
been taken for several years past. Mr. Covell also informs me
that he has repeatedly seen them, and been electrified by them
at Wellfleet ; but has not met with one for ten or twelve years.
Mr. Newcomb, sen., relates an anecdote, which proves the elec-
trical power of this fish beyond a doubt. His father, who
resided at Wellfleet, had a dog which frequently waded into
the shallow water of the coves, and brought out flounders,
which he had seized with his mouth. In one of his fishing ex-
cursions, he attacked a torpedo, which perfectly convulsed him ;

26

202 FISHES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

he dropped the fish, and ran away howling most piteously, and
could never afterward be persuaded to resume his fishing.
The last three gentlemen I have had occasion to refer to be-
fore. They are men of unimpeachable veracity, and I take
great pleasure in acknowledging my obligations to them.
These are all the species found in our waters, of which I
have any knowledge. Many of the species, however, described
by Le Sueur, as found on the coast of Rhode Island ; and by
Mitchell, as inhabitants of the waters of New York, will un-
doubtedly be discovered in and about Buzzard’s Bay. And
even in the cold waters north of “the Cape,” rich acquisitions
may reasonably be expected by the ichthyologist, who has the
leisure and the zeal for minute and accurate observation.

REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

ae TLR BE Va
RAN h ai)

TS: hot (i

To Greorce B. Emerson, Esa.
My Dear Sir:

Mosr reluctantly do I offer you the accompanying Report upon the
Reptiles of Massachusetts. Having devoted the greater part of the
leisure time I could claim, since the commencement of my duties as a
Zoological Commissioner, to an investigation of our Fishes, as being
the more extended and far more important branch, I have, without
neglecting any opportunity which could be presented by friends
and correspondents, been unable to give our reptiles that careful at-
tention and study, which can alone satisfy the searcher after facts.
Descriptions of every species of reptile of which I have any knowledge
in the State, having however been prepared as they were received,
although with very different degrees of diffuseness, I now collect to-
gether and present them, conscious that, knowing the untoward cir-
cumstances under which I have labored, my scientific friends, at least,
will overlook many imperfections.

The catalogue of our reptiles contained in Professor Hitchcock’s
Survey, prepared by Dr. Smith, of Sutton, contains most of our spe-
cies, and was evidently drawn up with care; but as he has given no
descriptions by which we may judge of his accuracy, I have felt at
liberty, when a species las been catalogued which clearly should not
be, or which the best herpetologists in our country, well acquainted °
with the reptiles of New England, have never seen in our latitude, to
omit it.

Thus we find catalogued the “‘ Testudo scabra.”’ This error may
have been produced by Say’s incorrectly including this species in a
paper ‘“‘ On the fresh water and land Tortoises of the United States,”
published in the fourth volume of the Journal of the Academy of Natu-
ral Sciences. The species he considered the ‘“scabra,” is the “ in-
sculpta.”

The “ Testudo Pennsylvanica”’ is plainly confounded with the
“¢ Sternothaerus odoratus,” a widely-distributed species.

The “ Coluber striatulus’ of that catalogue, I have also omitted ;
not merely because I have not met with it myself, but because my
friend Dr. Pickering, an accomplished naturalist, thoroughly versed in
the herpetology of New England, assures me, he not only never met
with it here, but never heard of its having been found here, it being
strictly a southern species.

206 REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

The ‘“ Rana clamata’ I have also erased, because no one of my
scientific friends has ever met with it; and Dr. Holbrook, who well
knows the species, and has visited this portion of the country repeat-
edly of late years, to collect materials for his great work, says, in his
third volume, this species ‘‘is found in the low countries of Carolina
and Georgia; farther north than this, I have never seen it.”

The ‘“‘ Salamandra cinerea’ is omitted, because Dr. Green, who first
described it, as well as the ‘‘erythronota,’ considers them both one
species.

The “ Salamandra tigrina” and ‘‘ longicauda’ may perhaps both be
found here; but knowing no one who had ever seen them in this State,
I wrote to Dr. Emmons, upon whose authority they were given in that
catalogue, for information; he writes me, that he thinks he has seen a
specimen of each, but adds: ‘I will not take the responsibility of giv-
ing these two species as citizens of the Bay State. I have not studied
them carefully enough to be authority.”

IIaving erased the above mentioned species, and introduced three
Tortoises, two Colubers, one Heterodon, one Rana, one Hylodes, four
Salamanders, and one Scincus, which were not noticed in the cata-
logue referred to, the Herpetology of our State, as far as I have been
able to learn, is composed of fourteen genera and thirty-nine species.
More extended investigation will undoubtedly ascertain the existence
here of new species, as well as of many which ha¥e been already de-
scribed by naturalists.

Meager though this Report may be considered, friends have kindly
tendered their aid in its preparation, and I would express to them my
thanks. To the following gentlemen I am particularly indebted :

To Mr. Alonzo Gray, of Andover, for numerous living specimens of
Tortoises, Colubers and Salamanders;

To Professor C. B. Adams, of Middlebury College, Vt., for many
beautiful living specimens, and much valuable information respecting
them ;

To Amos Binney, M. D. of Boston, for free access to his rich and
very valuable library, at all times, whereby I have been enabled to
consult volumes, of which he possessed the only copies in this portion
of the country.

Trusting that you will be satisfied that an effort has been made to
perform the duty required of me as accurately and faithfully as circum-
stances would allow, I remain,

Your friend and servant,

D. HUMPHREYS STORER.

REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

ORDER I.

CHELONIA.

Emys. Brogniart.

Generic characters. Shell depressed, solid ; sternum broad,
solid, immoveable, firmly joined to the shell, consisting of
twelve plates, and four supplemental ones ; extremities palma-
ted, anterior with five nails, posterior with four ; head of ordi-
nary size ; tail long.

E. guttata. Schneider.

Shaw’s Gen. Zoology, vol. iii. pt. 1. p. 47, et fig.
Ann. Lyc. Nat. Hist. N. Y. vol. iii. p. 117.

Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p. 151.

Dum. et Bibron, Hist. Nat. des Rept. tom. ii. p. 295.
N. A. Herp. vol. ii. p. 25, et fig.

This, our most common species of fortozse, is found in small
streams and clear water throughout the State, oftentimes in great
numbers; a very concise description only is therefore offered :

The upper shell is black, sprinkled over its whole surface
with more or less distant, roundish, bright yellow spots. In
some specimens, eight or ten quite small spots may be seen
crowded upon a single plate ; while in others, several of the
plates, particularly those on the dorsum, exhibit but one spot
each, brighter colored and larger than those just referred to.

208 REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

The sternal plates are yellowish, with large black blotches,
or black with yellowish blotches, or uniformly black. Some-
times the plates of the sternum are perfectly smooth, at other
times marked with concentric strie. 'The top of the head,
and upper part of the legs, black with yellow spots.

It feeds upon insects, worms and frogs.

EK. picta. Schneider. The painted Tortoise.

Shaw’s Gen. Zoology, vol. iii. pt. 1. p. 45, et fig.
Ann. Lyc. Nat. Hist. N. Y. vol. iii. p. 115.

Harl. Med. and Phys. Res. p. 15].

Dum. et Bibr. Hist. Nat. des Rept. tom. ii. p. 297.
N.A. Herpet. vol. ii. p. 19, et fig.

Next to the “ guttata,’”’ this is the most generally distributed
species. It is usually found with the preceding, and is a very
easily recognised species. A specimen five inches in length,
serves for the following description :

Body above, compressed ; upper shell, greenish brown, with
the edges of the dorsal and lateral plates margined with yel-
low. A very narrow dorsal yellow line passes from the ante-
rior to ‘the posterior marginal plate; the marginal plates are
darker colored than the other plates of the upper shell, having
in their centre a bright red blotch, which is much larger upon
the inferior side ; and over this blotch, one or two red mark-
ings, which are concentric upon the plates not attached to the
sternum, and nearly straight upon the four plates which are
thus attached ; the red color predominates upon the under side
of the marginal plates.

First dorsal plate quadrangular: second and fourth, hexago-
nal; third, quadrangular ; fifth, heptagonal.

Sternal plates yellow, with a triangular ribbon upon the an-
terior portion, and a straight one upon the middle and posterior
portions, of a brighter tint.

Back of the head, dark brown; directly back of the eyes, a
broad yellow band ; a narrower band of the same color runs

REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 209

also back, from the middle of the eye. From the tip of the
snout, a narrow yellow line runs to each eye; from the side of
the mouth also, two lines pass to the middle of the eye, and
two from the lower edge of the jaw. From the extremity of
the lower jaw, two larger bands run backwards; the first
passes slightly down, then outwardly to the angle of the lower
jaw, whence it is continued by a broad bright yellow band ;
within this, from the middle of the lower jaw, a narrower band
of the same color passes back parallel with this ; and from the
tip of the chin a band runs down a short distance, and then
bifurcates into broader bands. These yellow lines upon the
head become red upon the neck, and are continued on to the
shoulders of this color. ‘Two large yellow spots upon the
occiput. Eyes small ; pupils, a deep black ; irides golden ; a dark
line running through their centre. Fore legs black, ared band
passing through their centres; and the commencement of a
second, on a line with the base of the previous one; phalanges
marked with red lines. Hind feet, dark brown, above ; be-
neath, lighter, with a red band on each side. ‘Tail of moderate
length, with two narrow longitudinal yellow bands uniting at
the posterior extremity ; beneath, marked by the narrow red
lines of the legs continued, which unite at the posterior portion,
forming a single red band.
Its food is the same as that of the previous species.

E. «isculpta. Le Conte. The wood Tortoise.

Ann. Lye. N. Y. vol. iii. p. 112.
Harlan’s Med, and Phys. Res. p. 152.
Dum. et Bibr. Hist. Nat. des Rept. tom, ii. p. 251.

Specimens of this, our most beautiful tortoise, I have re-
ceived from Walpole, Concord, Amherst and Andover, and
learn that it is not uncommon in the ponds of several other
portions of the State. This species wanders a great distance
from, and remains a long time out of the water; and being
oftentimes found in woods and pastures, has received the com-

27

210 REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

mon name of wood tortoise. Its usual length is from six to
eight inches. The upper shell is composed of five dorsal, eight
lateral, and twenty-five marginal plates; these plates are of a
greenish brown color, strongly marked with concentric and
radiating striae. A dorsal ridge is formed by the convex por-
tion of the superior plates. Sternum composed of twelve yel-
low plates, having upon their posterior lateral margins, a large
black spot. All the under portion of the legs, neck and tail,
is red. ;

Young specimens exhibit a very rough upper shell, produced
by the prolongations of the posterior angles of the plates.

This species was erroneously considered by Say, as synony-
mous with the “ scabra,’”’ Lin. ; and as such, he catalogued it the
Ath Vol. J. A. N.S.

STERNOTHAERUS. Bell.

Generic characters. Head subquadrangular, pyramidal,
covered in front with a single plate; warts on the chin ; mar-
ginal plates, twenty-three ; sternum cruciform, bivalve, ante-
rior valve only moveable ; supplemental plates contiguous, plac-
ed on the sterno-costal suture; anterior extremity with five
nails, posterior with four.

S. odoratus. The mud Tortoise.

Ann. Lye. Nat. Hist. N. Y. vol. iii. p. 122.

Harl. Med. and Phys. Res. p. 156.

Dum. et Bibr. Hist. Nat. des Rept. tom. ii. p. 358.
N. A. Herpet. v. iii. p. 29, et fig,

Shell oblong, convex, somewhat carinated on the dorsal
ridge; of a brownish color, irregularly blotched with darker
spots.

The first vertebral plate is triangular, the next three hexa-
gonal, the last pentagonal. ‘There are four lateral plates ; the
first of which is quadrangular, the remainder are pentagonal.
The marginal plates, twenty-three in number, are small, gen-

REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 211

erally elongated, forming a margin; the posterior plates largest,
and appearing as if they were a continuation of the last verte-
bral plate.

Sternum small, composed of nine yellowish brown plates; it
is divided into three portions by two ligamentous hinges; the
anterior, composed of three plates, is quite moveable upon the
second division ; the third portion, of four plates, the posterior
of which are emarginated, and have their posterior angles
acute, although united to the second division of the sternum,
consisting of the two large abdominal plates, by a similar hinge
with the first, is scarcely moveable.

Head pointed, flattened above ; snout, truncated. Eyes moc-
erate in size ; pupils black, irides golden. Nostrils large at the
extremity of the snout. ‘Top of the head nearly black. A
narrow yellow line passes from the tip of the snout backwards
over each eye, and is lost upon the neck ; a second line of the
same color, larger and much brighter, is continued backward
beneath the eyes to the neck. A broad yellow band is also
observed upon each side of the chin, exhibiting a striking con-
trast with the dark brown color of the jaws. Skin of the neck,
throat and legs, ash colored. Neck, covered with granulations.
Several yellowish warts or cirrhi upon the throat. Legs and
feet slightly granulated ; upon the anterior legs, three large
scaly plates ; at the base of the feet several smaller scales of a
similar character ; these scales do not exist upon the legs of
the posterior extremities, although they do upon the fect.
‘Toes palmated ; fore feet with five toes, and five claws; pos-
terior, five toed, with four claws. ‘Tail short, with several
rows of pointed warts.

The specimen from which I have drawn the above descrip-
tion, is three inches and a half long, one inch and a half high.
Of six specimens lying before me, five do not vary a line in
length. The sixth, which is considerably younger, is less
than three inches in length ; has a more marked dorsal ridge
than either of the others, and the blotches are more
numerous.

212 REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

This species has a very disgusting odor, and is hence some-
times called stink-pot.

It is found burying itself in the mud in ditches and small
ponds, frequently covered with a thick coat of foreign matter,
from which circumstance it has received the common name of
mud tortoise.

A single specimen of this species was found in Fresh Pond
in Cambridge by J. W. Randall, M. D.; one specimen was
taken at Amherst, and several at Falmouth by Professor C. B.
Adams ; and Mr. Erastus H. Clap has brought me one from
Walpole.

Emysaurvus. Dumeril.

Generic characters. Head large, covered with small plates ;
snout short ; jaws hooked ; two warts beneath the chin ; ster-
num immoveable, cruciform, composed of ten plates ; three
sterno-costal plates ; fore feet with five claws, hind jeet with
four ; tail long, surmounted with a scaly crest.

BE. serpentina. Lin. The snake Tortoise.

Shaw’s Zoology, vol. iii. pt. 1. p. 72, et fig.
Ann. Lye. N. Y. vol. iii. p. 128.
Dum. et Bibr. Hist. Nat. des Rept. vol. ii. p. 350.

This is the largest tortoise found within the borders of our
State; sometimes weighing from 15 to 20 pounds. It is ex-
ceedingly powerful and voracious, feeding upon fishes and
frogs; and the farmers sometimes complain of its depredations
among their chickens and ducklings. From its habit of snap-
ping suddenly at almost every thing offered it, it is generally
known by the name of the “ snapping tortoise,” in New Eng-
land, while its crested tail, resembling the Crocodilus lucius, gives
it the distinction at the South, of ‘‘alligator tortoise.” It is
usually found in filthy water, and is occasionally met with at
considerable distance from any pond or pool, dragging itself
leisurely along.

REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 213

The flesh of this species is often used as food, and when
made into a soup is considered by many as quite a delicacy.
The oz/ obtained from this species is carefully preserved in
many portions of the interior of the State, for its supposed vir-
tues in bruises, sprains, &c. when externally applied.

The upper shell is of a dark brown color, oval, compressed
above, composed of five vertebral, eight lateral, and twenty-
five marginal plates, which are marked by radiating and con-
centric strie. A dorsal ridge is produced by the prominent
posterior angles of the vertebral plates; the projections of the
pesterior superior angles of the lateral plates also form, in some
specimens, indistinct carine. ‘The anterior marginal plates
are narrow and oblong; the fifth, sixth and seventh are much
wider, while the posterior three plates are marked with strong,
concentric striz, and the posterior angles form strong spinous
points. The sternum is yellow, narrow, lozenge-shaped, com-
posed of ten plates, and united to the marginal plates by a long
narrow plate, having two’smaller plates at its outer extremity.
The head is very large, scaly above ; eyes large; jaws power-
ful, hooked ; beneath the chin, two warts; neck above, cover-
ed with warts or small fleshy cirrhi; beneath, granulated.
The legs are large and strong ; the fore legs are armed above
with large scales, feet with five claws; hind legs with large
scales beneath, feet with four claws. ‘Tail, two thirds the
length of the body; round at its base, compressed at the
sides, tapering to a point ; armed above by a ridge of strong
pointed spines, diminishing towards the posterior extremity.

The largest living specimen | have seen, was taken at
Marshfield ; its dimensions were as follows: Entire length,
AA inches, viz. length of the shell, 18 inches; length of the
head and neck, when extended, 11 inches ; length of the tail,
15 inches. Width of the shell, 15 inches; width across the
head, 4 inches.

214 . REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

Cistups. Fleming.

Generic characters. Shell gibbous, strong ; marginal-plates
twenty-five ; sternum oval, covered with twelve plates, bivalve,
both valves moveable on the same axis, and joined to each other
and to the shell by ligamento-elastic tissue ; anterior extremi-
ties with five, posterior with four nails.

C. Carolina. Edwards. The Box Tortoise.

Shaw’s Gen. Zoology, vol. iii. pt. 1. p. 36, et fig.
Ann. Lye. N. Y. vol. iii. p. 124.

Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p. 149.

Dum. et Bibr. Hist. Nat. des Rept. tom. ii. p. 210.
Bell, monog. Test.

I have received living specimens of this species through the
kindness of friends from Barnstable, Amherst, New Bedford,
Holmes Hole, and Walpole ; and although at neither of these
places is it common, yet their distances from each other shows
that it is pretty widely distributed throughout the State. This
is a land species, being found in dry and arid situations, and
can live but a short time inthe water. From the circumstance
of the sternum being divided into two portions, the anterior of
which is moveable, enabling the animal when disturbed, to
encase itself entirely within its shell, the species is generally
known under the name of “box tortoise.” Several varieties
have been made by naturalists dependent upon the difference
of their markings.

A beautiful living specimen before me exhibits the following
characteristics :

Length of the specimen, six inches. Shell round, gibbous,
carinated. Sternum bivalvular. The plates of the upper shell
are of a dark brown color, sculptured with radiating and con-
centric striz, and covered over their entire surface with bright
yellow spots, varying in their size, form, and manner of distri-
bution, frequently confluent. A great portion of each mar-
inal plate is occupied by a yellow blotch. ‘The first and fifth
vertebral plates, are pentagona! ; the second, third and fourth

REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 215

are hexagonal. Of the lateral plates, the posterior are the
smaller. The sharp edges of the seventh, eighth, ninth and
tenth marginal plates, which are the largest, project outwardly,
forming a keel. ‘The sternum is divided unequally, the anterior
portion the smaller ; it is of a very dark brown color, with dull
yellow blotches. ‘The anterior plates of the sternum are trian-
gular; the middle, oblong ; the posterior, triangular. These
plates likewise exhibit concentric striea. Head above, black,
reticulated with yellow ; the upper jaw of a dull white color,
with black lines passing from the eye to its margin. ‘Throat
white, with dark spots; flesh on the sides of the neck of a
dull horn color, varied with red and brown. ‘The upper jaw
has a large hook-like process at its extremity ; the lower jaw,
a sharp point. Pupil of the eye, black ; irides red. The fore
legs are covered with large scales of an orange color, tipped
with dark brown; posterior legs of an uniform dark brown
color.
The principal food of this species is insects.

C. Blandingii. Holbrook. Blanding’s cistuda.
N. A. Herpetol. vol. iii. p. 35 et fig.

By the kindness of Mr. Edward Appleton I have received
from Haverhill a fine living specimen of this rare species. It
presents the following appearance: Length of the specimen
7% inches; breadth of the shell 5 inches; length of the ster-
num, 7 inches; height 3 inches. Shell oblong, rounded,
slightly flattened above. The plates of the upper shell are
black, covered with numerous bright yellow circular and cb-
long spots or blotches, irregularly distributed. ‘The first verte-
bral plate is pentagonal ; the second and third are hexagonal ;
the fourth is heptagonal ; the fifth is octagonal. Of the lateral
plates, the anterior and posterior are quadrilateral, the third
and fourth, pentagonal. ‘The marginal plates are twenty-five
in number; the nuchal plate is very small, about a line in
width, and less than half of an inch long; the first, third,

216 REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

fourth, sixth, eighth, tenth, and twelfth plates are quadrilateral ;
the second, fifth, seventh, ninth, and eleventh, pentagonal ; the
edge of these marginal plates is sharp and entire. The ster-
num is composed of two valves, the posterior of which, the
larger, is oblong, rounded before, emarginated behind; both
valves are moveable, and when closed they shut the animal
entirely with the exception of his toes. The sternal plates,
twelve in number, are yellow, with large quadrangular dark
spots, occupying nearly one half of each plate; the plates are
marked with concentric strie.

The head is nearly black, with yellowish spots. 'The upper
jaw is of a dark brown color, with transverse yellowish lines ;
the lower jaw is of a bright yellow. The anterior extremities
are protected by large imbricated scales in front, with smaller
ones beneath, and granulations behind; there are five fingers,
which are palmated, with nails. ‘The posterior extremities
are larger than the anterior, of the same color, and, like them,
having scales and granulations ; these extremities are flattened
upon the leg and foot, with 5 toes; the posterior only destitute
of anail. ‘Tail cylindrical, gradually tapering to a point.

In regard to this species, Dr. Holbrook, in the third volume
of his Herpetology, which is just published, observes: ‘“ The
sole locality that can at this moment be assigned to the Emys
Blanding} ll, is the prairies in the state of Hhnois and the territory
of Wisconsin, where they are said to be abundant. The only
specimen I have seen came from Fox river, a tributary of the
Illinois.” -

SpuHareis. Merrem.

Generic characters. Body covered by a leathery skin, tuber-
cular in the young, perfectly smooth in the adult. Feet
without nails.

REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 217

S. coriacea. Lin. The Leather Tortoise.
Plate IV.

Pennant’s British Zoology, vol. iii. p. 7, et fig.
Shaw’s Gen. Zoology, vol. iii. p. 77, et fig.
Phil. Trans. vol. Ixi. pt. 1. p. 271, et fig.

Dum et Bibr. Hist. Nat. des Rept. t. ii. p. 561.

The only specimen I have heard of having been seen on
the coast of the United States, was taken asleep on the surface .
of the water in Massachusetts Bay,in the year 1824, and being
brought to Boston, was purchased by Mr. Greenwood of the
New England Museum, of the captors, for two hundred dollars,
and placed in this institution, where it still remains. The
naturalist may judge of the great rarity of this species from the
following observations by Dumeril and Bibron, in their “ E’r-
petologie générale ou Histoire Naturelle complete des Reptiles ;”’
“This species is very rare; it inhabits the Mediterranean,
and the Atlantic ocean. Rondelet speaks of a “ Sphargis luth”?
five cubits long, which was taken at Frontignon: Amoreux
described another which was captured in the harbor of Cette ;
and in 1729 a third was taken at the mouth of the Loire,
which was described by Delafout in the “‘ Wémoires de I’
Académie des Sciences.” Borlase has given a bad figure of a
“ Sphargis luth,’ which was taken in 1756 upon the coast of
Cornwall, in England.”

The specimen in the New England Museum presents the
following characters: Entire length eighty-five inches ; widest
part, fourteen inches; back of the head, thirty-four inches ;
greatest depth fourteen inches. ‘he body is covered akove,
by a dark brown shield, fifty-seven inches in length, of a firm
leathery texture, which is divided into furrows by seven lon-
gitudinal elevated ridges ; all these ridges are noduled, resem-
Lling the vertebral column; the dorsal ridge runs the whole
length of the shell ; those on the side, next the dorsum, com-
mence one inch and a half further forwards than the dorsal
ridge, and within sixteen inches of the posterior extremity of

28

218 REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

the shell curve upwards towards the dorsal ridge, but are not
as perceptible after curving, and reach the upper ridge, six in-
ches anterior to the extremity of the shell. The second lateral
ridge commences about seven inches back of the preceding, and,
at the posterior extremity, curves up like that ; the abdominal
margin makes the third lateral ridge. The posterior extremity
of the shell is truncated, and is two and a half inches wide.

Length of the head and neck, sixteen inches: of the head,
nine anda half inches; width of the head nine inches; width
of the neck, thirteen inches. Diameter of the eye, large.
Nostrils just back of the tip of the snout. A large notch in
the middle of the upper jaw, which receives the projections of
the lower jaw, when the mouth is closed; on each side of this
median emargination of the upper jaw are two others, one on
each side of it. Upon the middle and posterior portion of the
roof of the mouth, strong spinous processes.

A portion of the esophagus of this specimen belongs to the
cabinet of the Boston Society of Natural History ; it is com-
pactly armed with long firm very sharp spines.

Anterior extremities, thirty-five inches long, rounded at the
origin, compressed in the middle, tapering to a rounded ex-
tremity ; in their widest portion, ten inches across.

Posterior extremities, sixteen inches in length; for about
half their length, nine inches wide, truncated posteriorly, and,
as well as the anterior extremities, bordered upen their posterior
margin by a deep fleshy fringe or border.

Length of the tail, thirteen inches ; eight inches wide at the
base, tapering to a point.

Body beneath, covered by a less firm envelope, of a lighter
color.

I am indebted to my friend Dr. Wyman for the accompany-
ing plate of this species.

ORDER II.

SAURIA.

FaMItLy.
SCINCOIDLEA.

Scincus. Daudin.

Generic characters. Head oblonz, pointed, covered with
plates ; jaws furnished with closely set teeth ; two rows of teeth
on the palate; tongue fleshy, slightly extensible, emarginate ;
tympanum apparent ; neck as large as the head ; body elon-
gated ; tail conical ; the whole body and tail covered with small
ambricated scales ; extrenuties with free and unginculated toes.

S. fasciatus. Lin. The Blue-tailed Lizard.

Shaw’s Gen. Zoology, vol iii. pt. 1. p. 241.
Harlan’s Med. and Physic Res. p. 138.
N. A. Herpet. vol. ii. p. 45, et fig.

The only specimen of this beautiful species I have known
to be found in New England, was captured in Barre, by Dr.
Joseph N. Bates of that place, and kindly loaned me to identify
and describe. He took it, he writes me, ‘‘in a mud hole; it
evaded my attempts to capture it for some time on account of
its agility aud cunning, and when captured made much resis-
tance with jaws, claws, &c.”

Length of the specimen five inches, elongated, covered
above with longitudinal rows of imbricated scales ; color above,

‘a deep shining black, with five longitudinal deep golden yel-
low lines; abdomen, of a light yellow color; tail, a deep

220 REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

sky blue, blended with yellow and black lines, which run
longitudinally along the back.

A yellow line commencing over each nostril, passes obliquely
backwards, and, approaching each other, they unite at the dis-
tance of rather more than a quarter of an inch back of their
origin, forming a dorsal line, which, continued the whole
length of the body, is lost upon the tail; on each side of this
dorsal line, runs another, which arises at the superior anterior
angle of the eye, and terminates like the preceding ; beneath
this, is still another, commencing at the snout, and interrupted
only by the meatus of the ear, is continued like the others upon
the tail. These yellow lines give the back the appearance
of being divided into yellow and black longitudinal lines.
Head, half an inch long; one quarter of an inch wide; with
large plates above. Eyes, small. External meatus of the ear,
vertical, large. Anterior feet short, with five toes, each armed
with a sharp nail. Posterior extremities, large ; second toe
very much elongated, and all the toes, like those of the fore
feet, nailed.

Extremities above, of a brown color, having a longitudinal
yellowish white line running along their posterior portion to
the toes.

The vent is transverse, situated just back of the interior
of the thighs. Tail longer than the body, its posterior portion
a deep blue.

The species feeds upon insects.

ORDER ITI.

OPHIDIA.

FaAMILy.
SERPENTIA.

Couvuser. Lin.

Generic characters. Body long, cylindrical and tapering ;
head oblong

g, covered above with smooth polygonal plates ;

above covered with rhomboidal scales, imbricate, reticulated,
or carinated, or smooth ; abdomen with transverse plates ; be-
neath the tail with double plates ; anus transverse, simple;
jaws furnished with sharp teeth ; without poisonous fangs.
Some species oviparous, others ovo-viviparous.

C. sirtalis. Lin. The Striped Snake.

Shaw’s Gen. Zoology, vol. iii. pt. 2. p. 535.
Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p. 116.

This pretty species, generally known as the striped snake, is
our most common snake. ‘The usual length is about two
feet ; occasionally it is met’ with two feet and a half long.
The upper part of the body is of a dark olive brown color. A
narrow yellow band extends from the occiput to the extremity
of the tail; on each side of this, joining the abdominal plates,
is a somewhat broader parallel band of the same color. The
brown color of the back is variegated with black blotches,
which are much more strongly marked in the smaller speci-
mens ; in the larger specimens, they are hardly discernible, un-
less the scales be slightly separated by the observer. Abdo-

222 REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

men greenish ; its upper portion towards the sides, lighter ;
the posterior edge of the abdominal scales, at their union with
those of the sides, marked with a black spot ; at the distance
of one or two lines within this spot, towards the centre of the
abdomen, another snot is observed, which in young specimens
is equally dark with the former, but duller in old specimens.
Scales oblong, strongly carinated ; smaller upon the back of
the head and the upper anterior portion of the body, than far-
ther back. Scales of the yellow lateral lines, larger than those
of the olive colored back. 'The scales that are shortest, least
carinated, and at the same time the largest, are in a single row
between the abdomen and the lateral line referred to. Head
flattened, having upon its top ten plates; one at the snout, two
pairs behind this, three between the eyes, and two, larger than
either of the preceding, upon the occiput. Pupil of the eye,
black ; iris, reddish. Upper jaw margined on each side by
seven plates, besides that at the tip; the fifth, situated directly
beneath the posterior angle of the eye, the largest. Lower jaw
bordered by ten plates on each side. 'T'wo pairs of plates upon
the throat, very much elongated. Small teeth in the jaws and
upon the palatine bones.

The bright yellow color, which renders this a beautiful spe-
cies when alive, changes to a dull greenish yellow after being
immersed in spirits ; in this state, it appears to have been de-
scribed by Herpetologists. When the scaly cuticle is remov-
ed, the dorsal line beneath is found to be white; and the sides
of the back are of a deep blue color, with two rows of black,
nearly circular blotches. Sometimes the line on the back is a
greenish white, while the lateral bands are yellow. Upon the
occipital plates of one of my specimens are two small yellow
spots towards their middle at their interior edges. The
brightness of the lateral lines disappears at the anus ; beyond,
the color is greenish, and this is gradually lost towards the
tail.

Linneus describes his species as having 150 abdominal
plates, and 114 caudal scales ; Shaw copies this in his ‘“‘ G'eneral
Zoology.” Harlan makes 150 plates, and 60 caudal scales.

REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 223

One specimen before me, has 154 plates, and 75 scales; a sec-
ond specimen has 146 plates, and 63 scales.

This species feeds upon frogs and toads, and is frequently
found enormously distended by having swallowed one of a
very large size.

C. ordinatus. Lin. The little brown Snake.

Shaw’s Gen. Zoology, vol. iii. pt. 2. p. 497.
Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p. 113.

‘This is also quite a common species with us, growing to the
length of two feet. The color above, is a browish ash, with a
broad, lighter ash-colored longitudinal band upen the dorsal
ridge, running the whole length of the animal ; on each side of
this dorsal band, a row of small dark brown spots. Body be-
neath, fawn-colored; of a darker tint upon the sides. A row
of very minute black dots upon the outer edge of the abdomi-
nal plates. Scales small, carinated; a row of scales larger
than the rest, upon the sides, joining the abdominal plates.
Head very small, flattencd above ; with ten scales upon its
top, the two upon the occiput, and that directly in the middle
of the top of the head, the largest, and black; the others are
quite small, and of the color of the back; these scales are ar-
ranged as follows: ‘Two triangular ones upon the occiput; a
third, hexagonal in its form,in front of them; its posterior portion,
between the anterior inner portion of the former, making
the top of the head ; on each side of this, protecting the top of
the eye, a small oblong scale, rounded upon its outer edge; in
front of these, immediately back of the eye, two pairs of
quadrangular scales; the posterior, larger. A single large scale
forms the snout. Besides these scales, three are seen in front
of the eye, on the side of the head; and quite a large scale
back of the posterior angle of the eye, separated frem it by
two very minute scales only. Upon the margin of the upper
jaw, fourteen scales ; upon the edge of the lower jaw, twelve,
besides the tip. An oblique black band passes downwards

224 REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

across the angle of the jaws, and a transverse one back of the
occiput, crosses the neck on each side ; in some specimens all
the scales upon the upper jaw are edged with black.

Sometimes the spots on the sides of the abdomen are very
distinctly seen ; in others, as in several specimens lying before
me while I write, they are scarcely observable.

When preserved in spirit, the longitudinal dorsal line becomes
lighter colored, and the abdomen changes to a yellowish green
color.

The abdominal plates are 128; the caudal scales 62 and 64.

In the stomach of this species, | have found fragments
of insects.

C. vernalis. Dekay. The green Snake.
Harlan’s Med. aud Phys. Res. p. 124.

One of our most beautiful species, this snake is gerferally
well known. A fine living specimen before me, twenty-one
inches in length, exhibits the following characters :

Above, of a beautiful grass green color; beneath, a yellow-
ish white. Length of the head, half an inch; greatest width
of the head, a quarter of an inch; head flattened above ; ten
plates upon the top of the head ; one at the snout; two pairs
immediately back of this; three plates between the eyes ; two
large plates upon the occiput. Upper jaw bordered by fourteen
scales. Nostriis circular, just back of the posterior lateral angle
of the snout. Pupil of the eye, black ; iris cupreous. Scales
rhomboidal, smooth, not carinated. 'Tail six inches in length,
gradually tapering to the point.

Four specimens vary in their plates and scales as follows :

One specimen has 137 plates ; 85 caudal scales.

A second & 4382 & so. cc
A third ce te ao 81 a3 ‘c
A fourth “QT 84. « ct

Like the preceding species, this feeds upon insects.

REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 225

C. punctatus. Lin. The ringed Snake.

Shaw’s Gen. Zoology, vol. iii. pt. 2. p- 593.
Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p. 117.
N. A. Herp, vol. ii. p. 115, et fig.

This pretty species is less common than either of the pre-
ceding, being usually found concealed beneath the bark of de-
caying trees. The specimen before me is fourteen inches in
length ; the body is elongated, with smooth scales. Color
above, of an uniform bluish brown ; beneath, of a reddish yel-
low, with a longitudinal row of black spots upon each side of
the abdomen, where the abdominal plates and lateral scales
unite; a third row of similar spots runs longitudinally along
the middle of the abdomen, as far as the vent, beyond which
they are not visible. Ten plates upon the top of the head;
sixteen plates, beside that at the tip, border the upper jaw ; and
fourteen, margin the lower. Head half an inch long, one quarter
of an inch wide ; flattened above ; rather lighter colored than
the body. Nostrils large. Eyes of moderate size ; pupils black,
irides grayish. A broad yellowish white band crosses the
occiput. ‘Tail, three inches in length, tapering to a point.
The abdominal plates are 156, and the caudal scales 56. A
second specimen exhibits 156 plates, and 62 scales.

C. constrictor. Lin. The common black Snake.

Shaw’s Gen. Zoology, vol. iii. pt. 2. p. 464.
Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p. 112.

In some parts of the State, this is not an uncommon species,
frequently growing to the length of six feet. A fine specimen,
fifty-one inches in length, serves for the following description :
Length of the head, one and a half inches; greatest width of
the head, half an inch. Body, above, almost black; beneath,
slate-colored ; neck, margin of the jaws, and snout, yellow.
Plates upon the top of the head, very large ; that at the snout,

29

226 REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

convex, projecting, yellow, bordered with black at its upper
and lateral margins; the first pair of plates, nearly quadrangu-
lar ; the second, pentagonal ; of the three between the eyes,
the middle, which is largest, is hexagonal ; those at the sides
of this, over the eyes, are pentagonal ; the two posterior plates,
pentagonal. Sixteen plates border the upper jaw. Eyes
large. Nostrils large, vertical, situated between the second
and third plates, back of the snout. ‘Three pairs of elongated
plates on the throat, just back of the chin; back of these
plates, two pairs of smaller plates anterior to the abdominal
plates. The whole back covered with large rhomboidal smooth
scales. Body somewhat compressed at the anterior extremity ;
cylindrical at the posterior, gradually tapering to the tail, from
which it more suddenly becomes smaller, and terminates in a
point. Length of the tail, eleven inches.

The abdominal plates are 184; the caudal scales, 85.

This species is genexally met with in wild and unfrequented
places ; it is avoided as venomous by many, although perfectly
harmless. It feeds upon the toad, and several species of frogs ;
oftentimes it catches small birds. Mr. Erastus H. Clap informs
me that he saw one that had swallowed a common sized speci-
men of the Robin, “ Turdus migratorius,”’ entire ; it is said
also to prey upon the different species of meadow mice.

C. amaenus. Say. The red Snake.

Journal Acad. Nat. Sciences, vol. iv p. 237.
Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p. 118.

A single specimen of this species has been received from
Professor Adams, who found it at Amherst; this specimen be-
ing preserved in spirits, and its natural character somewhat
affected thereby, I avail myself of the very accurate descrip-
tion of Say:

‘‘Body above, reddish brown ; beneath, vivid red; head not
larger than the neck, obtusely rounded before ; terminal plate
curving alittle on the top of the head, so as to be nearly hori-

REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 227

zontal above ; first pair of plates rather short, breadth deci-
dedly more than double the length; second pair rather large,
oblique, posterior outer angle reaching the eyes ; central plate
convex, rounded ; subtri-angular, wide before and angulated
on the anterior middle, posterior angle acute ; posterior plates
a little convex, with a single scale between their tips; eyes
with one scale behind, one before twice as long as the poste-
rior one, small plate above the eye less than half the length of
the central plate, and not twice as Jarge as the posterior eye
plate ; teeth minute; scales smooth, polished, somewhat opa-
lescent, slightly convex, rounded at the tip; tail less than one
seventh the whole length; tip rather abrupt, conic, solid,
acute.

Plates, 124; scales, 25. ‘Total length, ten inches and three
tenths; tail, one inch and two fifths.

Var. a. dark slate color above.

A pretty and perfectly harmless serpent: 'The contrast of
color between the lively red, sometimes rosaceous, of the infe-
rior surface of the body, and the brown, more or less deep, of
the superior surface, is very striking; the abrupt termination
of the tail and the narrow head, are also distinguishing traits.
It is found beneath stones and prostrate logs, but not very fre-
quently.”

My specimen is seven inches long ; tail, one inch ; abdomi-
‘nal plates, 136; caudal scales, 32.

C. eximius. Dekay. The chicken Snake.

Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p. 123.

This not very uncommon species, is known by the names of
house snake ; thunder and lightning snake ; chicken snake; milk
snake; and chequered adder. It is one of our largest species, _
measuring sometimes five feet or more in length; and isa beau-
tiful snake. A specimen thirty-four inches in length, furnishes
the following description: Body elongated, varying very little,

~

228 REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

in its circumference anterior to the tail, but back of the vent,
rapidly terminating in‘a point; all the upper portion of the
body covered with smooth rhomboidal scales. Body, above, of
a dark brown color, with numerous transverse white bands,
which become confluent on the sides; the brown portions of
the back. between these transverse bands, irregular in their
form, and margined with black; blotches of a similar color
with the back, along the sides. Abdomen yellowish, variega-
ted with quadrangular black spots. Circumference of the head
less than that ef the body; length of the head, one inch;
width across the head, half an inch. 'The plate at the snout
large, with a well marked emargination beneath ; the first pair
of plates moderate in size, quadrangular ; the second pair of
plates also quadrangular, and much larger ; the central plate on
the top of the head large, pentagonal ; those upon the sides of
this, irregularly quadrangular; occipital plates very large.
Fourteen plates margin ihe upper jaw ; sixteen plates edge the
lower ; these plates on the jaws are yellow, margined with
black. Eyes moderate in size; from their posterior angle, a
black band passes obliquely backwards. Upon the neck, seven:
longitudinal plates, between the chin and the abdominal plates ;
the anterior three, largest; the second, larger than any.
Length of the tail, four inches.
The abdominal plates are 207 ; caudal scales, 48.
This species feeds upon toads and frogs.

C. sipedon. Lin. The water Adder.

Shaw’s Gen. Zoology, vol. iii. pt. 2. p. 496.
Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p. 114.

Large numbers of this species are found in mowing
meadows which are overflowed a part of the season; it is fre-
quently killed at Cambridge, four feet and more in length ; its
body being the size of a man’s wrist. By many it is
avoided, as being poisonous in its bite. The body is large ; its
circumference lessening but little, anterior to the vent ; rapidly

REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS, 229

tapering posterior to the vent ; of an uniform dark brown color
above ; reddish upon the sides; abdomen yellowish white,
mottled with dark brown; beneath the tail, nearly black.
Whole upper part of the body covered with rows of elongated,
strongly carinated scales; these carinee, more obvious upon the
posterior extremity ; nothing peculiar in the arrangement of the
plates upon the head ; the ten plates upon the top of the head,
of moderate size ; sixteen plates upon the upper jaw; eighteen
plates upon the lower jaw. Eyes prominent. Nostrils of mod-
erate size.

The abdominal plates are 139 ; caudal scales 72.

In a young individual lying before me, seventeen inches in
length, with the same number of abdominal plates and caudal
scales with the above described specimen, the back is crossed
transversely by a large number of yellow bands, and the scales
on the tail are so strongly keeled, as to produce well marked
grooves between the rows of scales.

This species feeds upon frogs.

C. saurita. Lin. The riband Snake.

Shaw’s Gen. Zoology, vol. iii. pt. 2. p. 532.
Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p. 115.

This beautiful little snake is not very common; it resem-
bles somewhat the szrtalis, but 1t is smaller, lighter colored,
and much more graceful in its figure and proportions. Its
form is very slender, tapering to an acute point. Above, dark
brown, with three longitudinal stripes of a greenish white
cclor, which are very distinct as far as the vent, back of which
they are insensibly effaced ; both sides of the dorsal line, and
the upper edge of the lateral lines, margined with black.
Whole length of the specimen before me, ten inches ; length of
the tail, three and a half inches. The scales upon the top of
the head are moderate in size; fourteen upon the upper jaw,
twenty upon the lower jaw. Eyes rather large.

The abdominal plates are 162; caudal scales 112.

230 REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

C. occipito-maculatus. Nobis. The spotted-neck Snake.

This pretty species, which I suppose to be undescribed, was
received from Professor Adams, who found it at Amherst. It
Was sent me in spirits, and therefore it is probable that its
colors had somewhat changed. Its length is ten inches and a
half ; length of the head, less than half an inch ; width across
the head two lines. Body elongated, covered with longitudinal
rows of pentagonal scales, connected, and at their posterior ex-
tremity, slightly fissured. All the upper portion of the body,
a light ash or gray color. An indistinct band of a lighter color
passes longitudinally down the back ; this is margined on each
side with a row of dark colored, almost black scales; on each
side of the body, a row of larger scales than those upon the
back, unite the back with the abdominal plates; these scales
are black, with a longitudinal delicate white line passing
through their centres. Abdomen yellowish white, with black
or fuliginous markings upon the outer edge of the plates, ap-
pearing upon the anterior plates like black dots. Circumfer-
ence of the neck less than the remainder of the body ; body
largest just anterior to the vent; back of the vent it more rap-
idly approaches a point. ‘The three anterior plates upon the
head, viz. that at tle snout, and the two pairs immediately
posterior to this, yellow ; the other plates the color of the back,
variegated with white. ‘Twelve plates upon the upper jaw, be-
sides that at the snout ; fourteen plates margin the lower jaw, be-
sides that at the chin. Three large white irregularly formed
blotches, directly back of the occipital plates; one above, and
one on each side of the first.

There are 124 abdominal plates, and 38 caudal scales.

In as much as the “ punctatus” sometimes exhibits merely a
spot upon the occiput, instead of a circular band, the superfi-
cial observer might think that, and the species I have just de-
scribed as identical ; a little attention will show the marked
differences between them.

REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 231

Heteropon. Palisot de Beauvais.

Generic characters. Plates and scales as on the Colubri ;
the rostral plate a trihedral pyramid, with a ridge above, and
pointed at the tip ; posterior maxillary teeth largest.

A. platirhinos. Latreille.

Daud. Hist. Nat. des Rept. tom. vil. p. 153.
Har]. Med. and Phys. Res. p. 120.
N. H. Herpetol. vol. ii. p. 97, et fig.

I have never seen a specimen of this animal ; but Dr. Hol-
brook assures me he possesses an individual which was cap-
tured at Medfield. His description therefore is here intro-
duced: “The head is large, flat, triangular, broad behind,
with the snout pointed aid elongated at the tip; it is covered
with scales on the posterior part, and with plates on the ante-
rior and on the vertex. The vertical plate is regularly penta-
zonal, with its broadest point directed forwards. The supe-
rior orbital are quadilateral, elongated, and broadest posteriorly,
with their outer margins projecting over the eye, which gives
a sinister look to the animal. The occipital plates are rhom-
boidal. 'The frontal are quadrilateral, with their anterior infe-
rior angles very much prolonged; the anterior frontal are
triangular, with their bases directed inwards, and their apices
rounded, and turned to the nostrils. Between these frontals,
so as to prevent them coming in contact with each other, is a
narrow elongated azygos plate, reaching from the posterior
frontal to the rostral plate, with a ridge on its upper surface,
continuous with that of the rostral plate. ‘The rostral plate
is triangular, with its basis below and the apex very pointed
above, and recurved, with a strong carina or ridge on the upper
surface. The nostril plates are two on each side; the anteri-
ly quadrilateral, lunated on the posterior margin, with its ante-
rior and inferior angle greatly prolonged; the posterior is nar-
row, and concave in front to complete the nostril. ‘There are
twelve orbital plates, the superior of which have been already
described. Besides these there are three anterior orbital plates,

232 REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

which are quadrilateral, the largest being above ; the inferior
orbital are five, and the posterior orbital three in number, all
of which are quadrilateral. The upper jaw has six lateral
plates, quadrilateral, and increasing in size to the sixth, which
is largest. The nostrils are very large, near the snout, and
lateral. The eyes are large, the pupils dark, the iris light
sray. The neck is nearly the size of the head when he is
quiet, but when roused or irritated he flattens it more than
twice its. ordinary breadth. 'The body is elongated, thick,
rounded above, but flattened at the abdomen, covered with
scales strongly carinated above, the three inferior lateral rows
being ecarinate, and with plates below. The tail is long, nar-
row, and terminating in a point, with scales or bifid plates on
its under surface.

Color. 'The head above is dusky, with a light band be-
tween the orbits; behind the occiput is a dark spot; a dark
band begins at the back of each nostril, which increases in size
as it descends, and forms a large blotch on the side of the neck.
The body is olive-brown, or sometimes brownish yellow, and
marked with a triple series of black or dark gray spots; those
of the vertical series being subquadrate and elongated trans-
versely ; the spots of the lateral rows are rounded, and many
of them correspond with those of the vertebral line, while oth-
ers alternate with them. Sometimes the spots of the lateral
and vertebral lines are confluent, so as to give the appearance
of bands.

Dimensions. Length of the head, 1 1-2 inches ; breadth of
the head, when not disturbed, 1 inch; length of the body, 27
inches; length of the tail, 5 inches; circumference of the
body, 4 1-2 inches. In the individual here described, there
were one hundred and forty-four abdominal plates entire, and
two bifid plates near the vent ; and forty-two pair of subcaudal
scales.”

REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS. — 233

Croratus. Lin.

Generic characters. Head large, triangular, rounded in
front, covered with plates anteriorly ; vertex and occiput with
scales ; a deep pit between the eye and nostril ; upper jaw
armed with poisonous fangs ; body elongated, thick ; tail short
and thick, terminating in a rattle, which 1s a corneous produc-
tion of the epidermis ; plates on the abdomen, and under the
tail.

C. durissus. Kalm. The banded Rattle Snake.

Turton’s Linnzus, vol. i. p. 672.

Shaw’s Gen. Zoology, vol. iii. pt. 2. p. 317, et fig.
Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p. 132.

N. A. Herpetol. vol. ii. p. 81.

This species, which is generally known in New England as
the rattle snake, is extensively distributed throughout the
State. ‘Two fine specimens, taken at Douglas the last sum-
mer, gave me an opportunity for minute observation. One of
them measured three feet and one inch in length, and was five
inches in circumference ; the other was three feet long. From
the former, I drew up the following notes :

Upper part of the body, of a yellowish brown color, with
rhomboidal black spots continued along the back, margined
with bright yellow ; upon each side of these rhombs a black
band is continued to the sides of the body, where it terminates
in an irregularly quadrate black spot; tail black. Body, he-
neath, yellow, with fuliginous dots and blotches distributed
irregularly over its surface. Scales on the back elongated,
carinated ; scales upon the sides larger, carine less prominent.
Length of the head, one inch and a half; width of the head, ~
one inch. Top of the head, flattened ; scales upon the top,
small; on the sides of the head, large, pentagonal; on the
edges of the jaws, quadrangular. Snout, terminated by one
large plate ; a quadrangular plate on each side of this ; directly
back of these, a smaller one, in which are the circular
nostrils, situated obliquely, pointing forwards. Directly

30

234 REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

above the two lateral plates, two others are situated; the first,
meeting the snout anteriorly, and the second, extending some
distance beyond the nostrils behind. At the anterior angle of
the eye, a large plate, separated from the nostrils by two quite
small plates, at the anterior inferior angle of which, is the
aperture for the poison. A large plate over the eyes. 'T'wo
plates much larger than the others, upon the throat.

The rattle is composed of six corneous portions. The other
specimen has eleven rattles. The abdominal plates are 170;
caudal plates, 24.

Although the poison of this species is very virulent, an acci-
dent is seldom known to occur ; proving its unwillingness to be
the aggressor, and that the fangs are used only as weapons of
defence, after sufficient warning has been given of its presence,
by the rattles.

The general impression that a rattle is added annually is in-
correct. Dr. Holbrook observes, ‘‘ It is now certain that rattle
snakes have been known to gain more than one rattle in a
year, and to lose in proportion, the exact number being regula-
ted no doubt by the state of the animal as to health, nourish-
ment, liberty, &c. I have known two rattles added in one
year, and Dr. Backman has observed four produced in the same
length of time.”

The power of fascination attributed to this genus, is too ab-
surd to require our serious consideration.

ORDER IV.

BATRACHIA.

Rana. Lin.

Generic characters. Body covered with a smooth skin ;
upper jaw furnished with a row of minute teeth ; another in-
terrupted row in the middle of the palate ; no post-tympanal
glands ; posterior extrenuties long, and in general fully pal-
mated ; fingers four ; toes five in number.

R. pipiens. Lin. The Bull-frog.

Shaw’s Gen. Zoology, vol. iii. pt..1. p. 106, et fig.
Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p. 101.
N. A. Herpetol. vol. ili. p. 81, et fig.

This is by far our largest species of frog ; it inhabits ponds,
ditches, and pools of stagnant water, but is not common in
this portion of the State.

A specimen lying before me twelve inches in length, serves
for my description. Greatest width nearly three inches.
Color above, a light green, with sparse dusky spots upon the
back ; head green. Sides of the body, brownish ; beneath,
white ; throat yellow. Legs, more or less barred with dull
transverse bars. Fore legs, including toes, three inches in
length ; above, of a dull greenish brown color, with indistinct
brownish transverse bands; beneath, white ; four toed, that
next the outer, the largest, each with three small tubercles at
the joints of the phalanges. Posterior extremities, seven and
a half inches long, of a similar color with the anterior extremi-
ties ; the upper anterior half of the thighs barred with brown
bands ; the upper posterior portion, greenish brown, with an in-

236 REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

termixture of a duller brown color, with small white spots or
blotches ; legs with four transverse brown bands; indistinct
bands on the feet ; five toed, that next the outer, much the
largest, being two and a half inches in length ; toes palmated ;
and tubercled like the toes of the anterior feet ; at the base of
the little toe, is a prominent projecting carina along the edge
of the phalangeal ridge of the largest toe ; a row of yellow dots
run to the second phalanx.

Length of the head, one inch and a half; width across the
tympanum, two inches. Eyes prominent, large ; pupils black ;
irides greenish yellow ; distance between the eyes, three lines.
Snout obtuse and yellowish, as well as the margin of the upper
jaw. Nostrils about a line in length, situated obliquely, half
way between the tip of the snout and the eye, appearing like
two small black points. 'T‘ympanum half an inch in diameter,
plane, looking like a large scale fastened to the head ; just
within its outer margin, a brownish circular ring ; within this
ring, greenish. Mouth large ; numerous small sharp teeth in
the upper jaw. ‘Tongue large, fleshy.

In the stomach of this specimen, taken in Muddy Pond,
Roxbury, I found five specimens of the “ Helix albolabris,”’
with the contained animal; one only was perfect, the others
being more or less digested ; this specimen measured one inch
in its greatest diameter, and was five lines in height.

This species usually feeds upon frogs and insects, and the
farmers assert that it sometimes robs them of their chickens.

R. fontinalis. Leconte. The Yellow throated green Frog.

Ann. Lye. N. Y. vol. i. p. 282.
Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p. 103.
N. A. Herpet. vol. iii, p. 85, et fig.

This species appears very early in the spring, and continues
extensively distributed throughout the season. It may be at
once recognised by its greenish color, and yellow throat.
Length of the specimen before me, three inches ; length of
the posterior extremities, four inches and a half. Head and

REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 237

upper part of the anterior portion of the body, of a brilliant
green color; posterior portion of the body slightly macu-
lated, greenish, mixed with brown; sides granulated, brown,
mottled with irregularly formed and distributed black blotches ;
beneath the throat, yellowish, abdomen white. Head one
inch long; snout blunted and yellowish at the extremity.
Eyes very prominent; pupils black ; irides metallic, encircled
by a brilliant golden ring. Nostrils nearer to the eyes than
to the mouth. Gape of the mouth large, upper jaw with many
minute teeth. ‘I‘ympanum plane, circular, rust colored; four
lines in diameter. From the posterior angle of the eye a cuti-
cular fold extends just over the tympanum, along the edge of
the back on each side, to the posterior part of the body.

Anterior feet fawn colored above, with several indistinct
transverse brownish bands ; a dark colored band along the pos-
terior edge of the leg, extending on to the sole of the foot.
Ieet four toed.

Posterior extremities of a darker brown color than the an-
terior ; thighs with indistinct bars upon their outer portions;
buttocks covered over their whole surface with irregularly dis-
tributed black blotches; beneath, a dull white ; legs and feet,
same color as the extremities of the thighs. Feet five toed.

R. halecina. Kalm. The Leopard Frog.

Shaw’s Gen. Zoology, vol. iii. p. 105.
Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, vol. v. p. 337.
N. A. Herpet. vol. i. p. 89, et fig.

This most beautiful species, called by Kalm the shad frog,
from its appearing in Pennsylvania in the spring of the year,
with the shed, is better known in this state as the leopard frog,
from its ocellated appearance. It is exceedingly well marked,
and considered by all a very pretty animal.

The upper part of the back, and external side of the limbs,
brassy, with a metallic lustre. Upper surface of the body,
marked with large distinct irregular spots or blotches which

238 REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

have a brownish centre, a black circumference blending with
each other, and a bright green halo; generally there are two
longitudinal rows of these blotches, which are continued the
whole length of the body; sometimes these spots are very
regular, at other times, a third row may be seen, or the two
will have become confluent at their inner sides, or the spots
in the same row will have united with each other. Throat
and abdomen white. Eyes prominent; pupils black; irides
golden. On each side of the back, an elevated bronze colored.
ridge passes from the eyes to near the extremity of the body.
A similar, but smaller ridge runs from the anterior angle of the
eye to the snout. On the outer side of the thighs, legs and
tarsus, the blotches are long, irregular, but arranged transverse-
ly, having the appearance of bands. Buttocks and posterior
surface of the thighs granulated and mottled with black.
Upper surface of the body finely corrugated with several
irregular cuticular folds, arranged longitudinally on the back.
Throat and belly smocth. [Feet palmated; the fourth toe
much larger than the others. All the fingers and toes with
tubercles on the inner surface of the joints. The body of this
species seldom exceeds four inches in length.

This frog is generally found in damp places, a short distance
from water ; although, being a great leaper and hence enabled
to reach its wonted situations with ease, it is occasionally met
with at considerable distance from any pond or brook.

R. palustris. Leconte. The Pickerel Frog.

Ann. Lye. N. Y. vol. i. p. 282.
Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p. 105.
N. A. Herpet. vol. i. p. 93.

Although Leconte applied the specific name of “ palus-
tris” to this quite common species, on account of its being
found near salt marshes, it is as frequently, in this vicinity at
least, met with about the margins of fresh water brooks and
ponds, as in any other situations. It isa prettily marked spe-
cies, but much less brilliant in its colors than the preceding.

REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 239

The largest specimen I have met with, measured three in-
ches in length; and the posterior extremities were four inches
and a half long. Color above, cinereous ; abdomen white ; in-
terior of the limbs and lower part of the flanks, yellow. Upon
the back, two longitudinal rows of dark brown spots, which
are generally square, sometimes nearly circular ; in some spe-
cimens, these become confluent and produce an elongated
band; in the same specimens, both square and circular spots
may occasionally be observed. Between the back and sides,
a broad yellowish brown band is seen, commencing at the
eyes, and extending the length of the body. Two rows of
smaller spots of a similar appearance with those on the back
and sides. Snout, pointed. Eyes rather prominent; pupils,
black ; irides, golden. 'Tympanum, small, color of the back ;
a dark colored line extends from the snout to the eyes, a round-
ish spot on the upper and inner side of each orbit, one on the
top of the head, and a smaller one below each nostril. Thighs,
legs, and tarsus, striped transversely with broad dark bands or
oblong spots; arms irregularly spotted. Back, smooth ; flanks
slightly tuberculated ; buttocks, granulated; fleshy tubercles
on the lower surface of the toes at the joints.

R. sylvatica. Leconte. The Wood Frog. i

Lye. Nat. Hist. N. Y. vol. 1. p. 282.
N. A. Herpet. vol. i. p. 95, et fig.

This beautiful species is not often met with, inhabiting as it
does damp and thick woods ; occasionally it is seen at a great
distance from any water, and is very difficult to be taken on
account of its agility in leaping. It is rather smaller than the
‘ nalustris,” and presents the following characters: above, of a
reddish brown color, resembling a dried dead leaf ; sides, varie-
gated with green and yellow; abdomen, white; under part of
the arms and posterior extremities, lighter colored than the back.
Snout, blunted. Eyes, prominent; pupils, black ; irides, gol-
den. A broad black band, narrow at its origin, wider at its

240 REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

posterior portion, extends from the snout to the shoulder: this
band passes through the centre of the eye, including within it,
the tympanum ; margining the lower edge of this band, isa
deep yellow line running its whole extent. Extremities above,
rather lighter than the back ; the anterior extremities are sel-
dom banded ; the posterior extremities, crossed by transverse
dark colored bands. Anterior extremities, four toed ; posterior,
five toed.

Like the three preceding species, this frog feeds principally
upon insects.

Hyuopes. Fitzinger.

Generic characters. Mouth furnished with a tongue, teeth
in the superior maxillary and palatine bones ; tympanum,
visible ; extremities slender, tips of the fingers and toes ter-
minating in slightly developed tubercles.

H. Pickeringu. Pickering’s Hylodes.
N. A. Herpet. vol. iii.

Rev. John L. Russell, of Salem, showed me the only spe-
cimen of this species I have ever seen, which was captured by
Dr. Nichols, in Danvers. Having no opportunity to describe
it myself, I extract the following account from the pages of
the ‘“ Journal of the Essex County Natural History Society.”

‘““ Above, fawn color, changeable to dark cinereous ; marked
with two transverse narrow black lines, forming a cross, and
an irregular narrow line on each side, producing, with the other
lines, a general rhomboidal configuration ; a large triangular
spot on the back of the head, formed by the junction of lines
proceeding from the centre of the irides; a spot at the inser-
tion of the fore legs; a pale yellowish line margined with
black, bounds the back part of the fore and hind legs; an ir-
regular spot on the extremity of the rump; beneath, granulated
on the abdomen, legs and thighs ; a character also perceptible
in some degree, on the upper surface. Head rather obtuse ;

REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 241

lower lip whitish ; throat, clavicle, and auricles, minutely spot-
ted with black dots; irides golden copper. When resting on
a dark substance, it changes at pleasure to a dark ashen hue,
the lines becoming black and prominent, and the spots on the
head and rump very perceptible, as also the transverse bars on
the upper surface of the legs. Length of the body from the
snout, to the vent, one inch; of hinder thighs and legs, each
half an inch; of tarsus and toes, seven tenths of an inch; of
the largest toe, four tenths of an inch. Whole length of the
fore legs, half an inch.”

Hyua. Laurenti.

Generic characters. Body in general elongated ; upper jaw
and palate furnished with teeth ; tympanum apparent; no
post tympanal glands ; fingers long, and with the toes ter-
minating in rounded viscous pellets.

H. versicolor. LeConte. The common Tree Toad.

Ann. Lye. N. Y. vol. i. p. 281.
Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p. 109.

As the tree toad, this species is commonly known through-
out New England, from the circumstance of its being more
generally found upon trees than in any other situation; its
color conceals it admirably, and it often eludes a careful search
on account of its similarity to the object upon which it may
be resting. A specimen two inches in length, exhibits the
following appearances. Above, of a light ash color, with a
brownish cruciform marking between the shoulders, and
smaller irregularly formed blotches distributed over various
parts of the back ; beneath, white, granulated, with a yellow-
ish tint at the posterior portion of the sides. Head, broad; |
snout, blunt. Eyes, large; pupils, black ; irides, golden. Ex-
tremities ash colored above. Anterior extremities with a small
number of brown markings; beneath, white and brownish ;
four fingers free, terminating in pellets. Posterior extremities

31 ;

242 REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

transversely barred ; beneath, granulated, yellowish white, be-
coming yellow near the abdomen and upon the legs; five toes,
terminating, like the fingers, in pellets.

An acrid sccretion protects the skin of tis species from its
enemies. Its principal food is insects.

H. squirella. Bosc. The / ttle peeping Hyla.

Ann. Lyc. N. Y. vol. i. p. 279.
Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p. 107.
N. A. Herpet. vol i. p. 105.

The only specimen I have seen of this species was in a dried
state; its colors were destroyed and its proportions much
changed from life. I have therefore no hesitation in copying
the description and observations of my friend, Dr. Holbrook,
as published in the first volume of his ‘‘ North American Her-
petology :”

‘““Characters. Body olive green above, marked with dark
brown blotches irregularly disposed ; a transverse dusky band
between the orbits; whitish beneath and granulated ; head
short, with a white line extending along the upper lip to the
shoulders.

Description. 'The head is short, with a dark band be-
tween the orbits, the line from each orbit being directed back-
wards so as to meet at an angle; the snout 1s obtuse, with an
indistinct dark band extending from the nostrils to the eyes,
below which is a white line along the margin of the upper
lip, reaching to the shoulder ; the lower jaw is almost white ;
the nostrils are placed near the extremity of the snout ; the
eyes are prominent; the pupils black; the irides golden ; the
tympanum is bronzed and surrounded by an indistinct circle of
dark brown. The skin is smooth; the body short and de-
pressed while living; the back is olive green, with irregular
blotches of darker olive; the flanks are gray. The inferior
surface of the body is granulated, greenish white in front, with
a few dark spots at the throat; the posterior part of the abdo-

REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 243

men is darker. The anterior extremities are olive green above,
with occasional spots of brown, and flesh colored beneath ; the
fingers are four in number, distinct, and each terminating in a
viscous pellet. The posterior extremities are long, green
above, obscurely blended with dark brown, and flesh colored
beneath, tinged with ye'low externally ; the lower surface of
the thigh is granulated ; the toes are five in number, and semi-
palmated.

Dimensions. Length of the body and head, 1 1-4 inches;
of the thigh, 4-5ths of an inch; of the leg, 4-5ths of an inch;
of the tarsus and toes, 9-10ths of an inch.

Geographical distribution. Its most northern limit must be
considered as lat. 34°; we have no evidence of its being found
farther north. It abounds in South Carolina, Georgia and
Florida ; how far west of these States it may exist cannot at
present be determined.

Habits. 'This animal is found on trees, often seeking shel-
ter under the bark of such as are decaying; it frequently
chooses old logs for its place of hybernation. In fine weather
and after showers, it climbs even the highest tzecs in search of
insects.

General remarks. 'The colors of this animal are even more
changeable than in any species with which I am acquainted.
I have scen it pass in a few moments from a light green, un-
spotted and as intense as that of Hyla lateralis, to ash color,
and to a dull brown with darker spots; the spots also at times
taking on different tints from the general surface. 'The mark-
ings, too, vary exceedingly in different individuals, the white
line on the upper lip and the band between the orbits alone
presenting some constancy. Daudin remarks that the leg is
‘shorter than the thigh ;’ we have found them nearly equal
in length, and this character is by no means so conspicuous as
in H. versicolor.

Daudin first described this animal, and gave a figure of it,
from a drawing furnished him by Bosc. Leconte has given
the latest and most detailed account of it, establishing three

244 REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

principal varieties, in one of which the spots, as well as the
yellow on the thighs, disappear altogether.”
The specimen I possess was captured in Roxbury.

Buro. Laurenti.

Generic characters. Head, short; jaws without teeth ; tym-
panum visible ; behind the ear is a large glandular tumour,
having visible pores ; body short, thick, swollen, covered with
warts or papillae ; posterior extremities but slightly elongated.

B. Americanus. The common Toad.

Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p. 109.
N. A. Herpetol. vol. i. p. 75.

This very common species is beginning to be looked upon
by the horticulturalist in the light of a benefactor, and by many
is carefully preserved on their grounds for the benefits it af-
fords them by feeding upon noxious insects.

A fine specimen, three inches in length, furnishes the follow-
ing description: Greatest width, two inches. Body, brown-
ish, mottled with black blotches; its whole upper surface cov-
ered ‘with prominent tubercles; those upon the _ back,
larger ; beneath, granulated, yellowish, sprinkled with black
spots. Head large ; superciliary ridges prominent ; tympanum
small, light colored, with an irregular darker colored black
marking within its circumference. Mouth, large. Post
tympanal glands large, equal in length to the distance between
them. Eyes large; pupils black; irides beautifully reticula-
ted with black and golden; eyelids tuberculated. Between
the eyes, on the top of the head, a yellowish white line com-
mences, which terminates at the posterior extremity of the
body.

The extremities above, of the same color as the back; be-
neath, the color of the abdomen... A few small dark colored
blotches upon the anterior extremities ; larger spots, sometimes

REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 245

transverse, upon the posterior. Fingers four in number, short,
free. ‘Toes five in number, semipalmaied ; the second, much the
longest ; a large tubercle beneath, resembles somewhat a sixth
toe.

SaLamManpDrRa. Brogniart.

a

Generic characters. Body elongated ; tail long ; extremi-
ties four; fingers four ; toes five; no tympanum ; numerous
small teeth in the jaws and palate ; tongue as in frogs ; no
sternum ; ribs rudimental ; pelvis suspended by ligaments.

S. erythronota. Green. The red-backed Salamander.

Journal Acad. Nat. Sciences, vol. i. p. 356.
Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p. 95.
N. A. Herpet. vol. iii. p. 118, et fig.

This beautiful and quite common species presents the follow-
ing characters. My description is drawn up from a specimen
between three and four inches in length. Tail rather shorter
than the body, cylindrical, gradually tapering to a sharp point.
On the upper part of the body, a broad band of areddish brown
color, sprinkled with brown spots, extending from the snout to
the extremity of the tail, being less marked however upon the
latter. Beneath, cinereous; much darker upon the sides.
Throat whitish, having a distinct fold. Upper part of the
head and tail, and also the sides of the body, presenting under
the microscope, a beautiful metallic lustre. Head wider than
the body, three lines in length, one and a half lines in width.
Eyes very prominent ; pupils black ; irides metallic-colored.
Anterior feet with four toes ; posterior, five toed.

The motions of this species are very agile ; walking rapidly
when undisturbed, and running by sudden and irregular jerks
when taken. I kept specimens alive several weeks by allow-
ing them dead leaves, which were constantly kept moistened.
From correspondents, I have received them from Cambridge,
Roxbury, Milton and Amherst, at which places they were found
under stones and decayed wood.

246 REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

S. symmetrica. Harlan. The symmetrical Salamander,

Journal Acad. Nat. Sciences, vol. v. p. 158.
N. A. Herpetol. vol. ii. p. 59, et fig.

The fine specimens before me of this species, were found at
Amherst, under decaying wood and leaves, by Professor Adams.

Length, three inches ; tail, the length of the body, circular
at the base, compressed towards the extremity. Whole upper
part of the body, of a salmon brown color; on each side of the
spine, from three to seven small ocellated spots of a beautiful ver-
million color, surrounded by a black areola ; skin above, covered
with innumerable very minute tubercles, scarcely discernible
without a glass, giving it a rough appearance. Beneath, of a
golden orange color, sprinkled with minute black points, from
the tip of the chin to the very extremity of the tail. Head
three lines long, two wide, flattened; two longitudinal very
obvious ridges, the length of the head, between the eyes.
Eyes, not very prominent, of a deep black color, witha bright
golden iris. Snout, obtuse. Anterior feet, with four toes ;
posterior, five toed.

In young specimens, the whole back is covered with minute
black dots, and the sides have fewer ocellated spots than in the
adult. The largest specimen in my possession, has seven ocel-
lated spots on each side; in different specimens, these spots
vary in number; but in all the specimens I have secn, an
equal number exists on each side of the spine, in the same speci- _
men.

The motions of this species are much less rapid than those
of the “‘erythronota.” It casts its skin in June. In the stom-
ach of this species are found spiders, and detached portions of
insects.

Dr. Holbrook has received this species from Florida; and J.
W. Randall, M. D. of this city, brought me specimens from
Hallowell, Maine.

REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 247

S. fasciata. Green. The banded Salamander.

Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, vol. i. p. 350.
Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p. 94.
N. A. Herpet. vol. iii. p. 103, et fig.

The beautiful living specimen, from which my description is
made, was found by Professor Hitchcock, at Monson, and kind-
ly transmitted to me.

Its length is five inches; length of the tail equal to that of
the body; oval at its anterior portion, slightly compressed in
its middle, and pointed at its posterior extremity. Upper part
of the body, of alight clay or ash color, with transverse dark
brown bands extending from the head to the extremity of the
tail. Whole under portion of the body, of a dark slate color.

Width of the head, equal to one half its length. Eyes prom-
inent; pupils, black; irides, color of the abdomen. Snout,
rounded. Anterior feet, four toed; posterior, five toed.

Some of the bands in my specimen are confluent.

This is the only individual I have scen, and therefore think
it must be a rare species with us.

S. venenosa. Barton. The violet-colored Salamander.

Daud. Hist. Nat. des Rept. t. viii. p. 229.
Trans. of Amer. Phil. Soc. vol. vi. et fig.
Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p. 93.

N. A. Herpetol. vol. iii. p. 105, et fig.

Dr. Barton’s account of this, our earliest described Salamander,
which is exceedingly interesting, is contained in the “ Transac-
tions of the American Philosophical Society.” His specimen.
was six inches and eight tenths of an inch in length. It grows
to a Jarger size even than this.

The specimen upon my table, is five inches in length; tail,
two and a half inches long, cylindrical at the base, compressed to-
wards the extremity. All the upper part of the body, of a dark

248 REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

purple color. On each side of the dorsal line, a longitudinal
row of oval, circular and oblong spots of a bright yellow color,
varying in size; these spots commence on the back part of the
head, and are continued towards the extremity of the tail,
where they become single. Smaller spots of the same color on
the legs and feet, and above one of the eyes. Beneath, the
body is of a lighter color, with a great number of very minute
white dots. Length of the head, two thirds of an inch ; width
across, half an inch. Eyes, of a deep black color, and very
prominent. A strongly marked cuticular fold around the throat.

The above described specimen was found in Roxbury.

In another individual, found by Professor Adams, at New
Bedford, three inches in length, a row of small yellow spots,
resembling a broken line, partially encircles the eyes; in this
specimen, the abdomen is destitute of the small white points so
perceptible in the preceding specimen, but its sides are covered
with them.

A specimen of this species was brought me from Kennebec
county, Maine, by J. W. Randall, M. D.

S. salmonea. Nobis. The salmon-colored Salamander.

N. A. Herpetol. vol. iii. p. 101, et fig.

The specimen described by me in Holbrook’s ‘ American
Herpetology,” was found by Dr. Binney, in Vermont: but as Dr.
Holbrook says an individual of this species has been “ found in
_ the neighborhood of Danvers, Massachusetts,’’ I can have no
hesitation in admitting it in this report.

Length, six and a half inches; length of the tail, two and a
half inches ; compressed, carinated above, gradually tapering
to a point. Whole upper part of the body, head, tail and legs,
of a yellowish brown color; the sides of the head, neck, body,
tail and legs, of a salmon color. The entire surface of all the
upper portion, as well as sides, spotted with irregular grayish

REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 249

markings, which are more obvious on the lighter colored sides.
Beneath, the head and body white ; light salmon color beneath
the tail.

Head, one inch in length; width of the head, back of the
eyes, four lines ; snout, very obtuse; nostrils, rather small; a
strongly marked cuticular fold upon the neck. Eyes, remote,
and very prominent; pupils, deep black, with a metallic, cop-
per-colored iris; from the edge of the upper lip, just exterior to
the nostrils, arises a salmon-colored line about a fourth of a
line in width, which runs back to the inner angle of the eye,
and passing up over the eye loses itself upon the middle of the
back part.

This species was found upon moist land. It lived a year in
confinement, and appeared perfectly healthy, eating vora-
ciously of flies.

S. dorsalis. Harlan. The many spotted Salamander.

Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, vol. vi. p. 101.
Harl. Med. and Phys. Res. p. 99.
N. A. Herpet. v. ii. p. 57, et fig.

From Roxbury and Amherst I have received numerous
specimens of this species by the aid of Professor Adams,
and my brother-in-law Dr. Brewer. An individual three in-
ches and three lines in length, exhibits the following charac-
ters. Tail rather longer than the body. Body, above, dark clive,
and granulated as in the “‘symmetrica ;” lighter on the sides.
All the upper part of the body, together with the feet, to the
extremities of the toes and tail, sprinkled with innumerable
black points. Beneath the body, the legs, and tail, of a sulphur
color, darker under the tail, and tinged with olive ; similar black
points with those above, are spread over the surface beneath,
which in some specimens are much larger than in the “ symme-
trica.”” Eyes prominent ; pupils and irides similar to those of the
“symmetrica.”’ "Tail very much compressed in its whole length,
carinated above and beneath. Vent very prominent. Anterior

By]

250 REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

feet with four toes; posterior five toed. Ocellated spots of a
similar color with those on the “ symmetrica,’’ but smaller, are
arranged on each side of the spine ; these spots vary in number
on the two sides ; thus, of the eight living specimens before me,
of nearly the same size, but three have five of these spots on
each side ; the others have three and four and six and seven
on one side, with five on the other; and one specimen has
nine on one side, eleven on the other, with a single line with
one similar spot beneath this line on the side, and still another
beneath, on the edge of the yellow abdomen.

All the specimens I have seen were taken in brooks. In the
stomachs of several individuals, were found fragments of the
genera “‘ Lymnea,” and “ Physa.”’ I have kept these animals
for months, they seeming to thrive very well by a daily supply
of fresh water, and a sufficient quantity of flies which they
seize by a sudden spring, and swallow by several continued
efforts. ‘This species casts its exuvia in June, and the new
cuticle is in all respects similar to the former.

In the “ Journal of the Academy of Natural Sciences,”
Harlan describes a salamander which he calls ‘‘ dorsalis,”’ some
of the specific characters of which, are “a whitish dorsal line
extending from the occiput over the tail; a row of whitish
colored oblong spots on each side of the dorsal line ; beneath,
freckled with black dots.”

Not meeting with any description which agreed with the
species I have just described, two years since I read an account
of it before the Boston Society of Natural History, under the
name of ‘8S. millepunctata.” My friend, Dr. Holbrook, while
examining, with me, the last season, the reptiles belonging to
the above mentioned Society, assured me he had seen the
specimen in Philadelphia originally described by Harlan, and
that it was the same species that I had supposed new. How
Harlan could have made such a description as he has from this
species, it is difficult to imagine. He must have described a
specimen preserved in spirits, else he could not have seen
“a row of whitish colored oblong spots on each side of the
dorsal line ;” but even alcohol could not produce ‘a whitish

REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 251

dorsal line,’’? where no defined line existed, of any color, in life.
Dr. Holbrook’s second volume of his ‘ North American Her-
petology,” containing a description of the ‘“‘S. dorsalis,” has,
within a few months, issued from the press. Was I governed
by his description, which makes no mention of the innumera-
ble black dots above, which cover its entire wpper as well as
under surface in every individual of whatever age I have met
with ; or his plate, which corresponds with it, I might be in-
duced to disbelieve the identity of our species; but preferring
to think the omission may have been accidental, I would yield
my doubts to the conviction of that distinguished herpetologist.

S. picta. Harlan. The painted Salamander.

Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, vol. v. p. 186.
Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p.\98.

I have never met with this species; but Dr. Pickering, of
Philadelphia, informed me, some time since, that a specimen
belonged to the cabinet of the ‘ Academy of Natural Sciences,”
which was found in a well at Ipswich in this State; I there-
fore extract from the Journal of the Academy, Harlan’s de-
scription of the species:

“‘ Body blackish or dark slate color above, yellowish or light
orange color beneath ; skin beneath the neck, foided ; head
‘large; legs strong; tail compressed at its inferior portion
nearly the length of the body.

Dimensions. 'Total length nearly four inches; body rather
more than two inches ; tail less than two inches; length of the
head six tenths ; breadth five tenths ; length of the hind legs
six tenths; of the fore legs four tenths.

Description. Head large, rather flat ; occiput broad, slightly
protuberant ; snout obtuse, rounded anteriorly ; rictus of the
mouth wide, extending posteriorly to the eyes; anterior bor-
ders of the lips slightly undulating ; skin of the throat folded,
so as to form a collar nearly surrounding the neck; body
above, blackish; a longitudinal furrow extending from the

252 REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS.

occiput along the back to the base of the tail ; inferior portion
of the body obsoletely punctured with dark spots, more visible |
on the sides; legs short, strong, and thick, externally of the
color of the back; internally of the color of the belly; tail
subquadrangular for the first two thirds; the remainder or in-
ferior portion abruptly compressed, pointed, with the superior
and inferior borders carinate.”’

S. glutinosa. Green. The blue spotted Salamander.

Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, vol. i. p. 357.
Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res. p. 94.

The only specimen I have seen, was sent me from An-
dover by Mr. Alonzo Gray. It continued alive for several
weeks, and presented the following characters :

Length, six inches. Whole upper part of the body, of a
very dark brown thickly sprinkled ‘with distinct light blue
spots. Sides appearing quite light colored from the blue spots
having become confluent. Abdomen lighter colored than the
back, exhibiting the spots more numerous and distinct than
the back. Head, three quarters of an inch long; nearly half
an inch wide, flattened above. Eyes very prominent; of a
deep black color, widely separated from each other. Nostrils
rather small. Legs, color of the body, and spotted like it.
_ Anterior feet, four toed; posterior, five toed, and unusually
long. ‘Tail, length of the body; much compressed through-
out its whole extent, save the extremities, the anterior of
which is circular, the posterior pointed.

S. maculata. Green. The brown spotted Salamander.

Journal Academy Nat. Sciences, vol. i. p. 350.
Harlan’s Med. and Phys. Res, p. 96.

The only specimen of this species | have seen was brought
me by John W. Randall, M. D., of this city, who found it in
a pond in Groton. This is quite a young specimen, being

REPTILES OF MASSACHUSETTS. 253

only an inch and a half long, and having the branchie still
attached; and as its colors have somewhat changed in the
alcohol, I extract Green’s description from the Journal of the
Philadelphia Academy. “Length, four or five inches; tail
about as long as the body, tapering, slightly compressed, and
pointed ; snout rounded; back whitish, sprinkled with irregu-
lar, reddish brown spots; beneath white; anterior feet, four
toed, posterior feet five toed.

Nore. Individuals of this species vary much in size, and in
the number of spots. I have one about three inches long, with
the tail more compressed and obtuse, than the above.”

All the Salamanders here described, feed upon insects, which
they devour in very large numbers, and hence their utility
cannot be questioned.

bathe

j aie

na ey

EX UFRITg ta ard

REPORT

ON THE

ORNITHOLOGY OF MASSACHUSETTS.

BY

Cc
WILLIAM B. O. PEABODY.

To His Excettency Epwarp Everert,
Governor of Massachusetts :

Sir,—

In some remarks which I had the honor to submit to you on a
former occasion, when I offered reasons for not presenting my report
at the time first proposed, I mentioned that the history and habits of
our birds were not fully understood, and that experiments and observa-
tions would be necessary to accomplish all the objects of a survey.
These will be suggested in the course of my report; and it will be
obvious, that, were Iso situated as to be able to make them, it could
not be done without employing in it several successive years. I there-
fore respectfully set before you such information as I have, trusting
that our present knowledge will soon be extended by the active and
intelligent observers, who are engaged in this delightful study.

One object proposed is, to enumerate the birds of Massachusetts ;
another, to give what information we possess respecting their habits,
particularly such as cultivators are interested to know. As Nuttall’s
valuable Manual is accessible to most readers, I have thought it better
to refer to him for descriptions of the appearance of our birds, than to
swell this report by repeating them. For the same reason, I shall fol-
low his arrangement, subjoining to my account of each bird all I can
learn respecting its services and depredations; that the husbandman
and horticulturist may determine which it is his interest to protect,
and which he has a right to destroy; or rather, whether it is not the
part of wisdom to encourage and protect them all.

With respect to the first of these objects, it would be easy to give
the names of those which remain with us throughout the year, or of
those which come to us in their regular annual migrations. But beside
these, there are some which make their appearance at uncertain inter-
vals, and it is not always easy to determine whether they should or
should not be numbered with our birds. There are others also, which
have been found apparently wandering from their usual ways, but
which, having come to us once or twice, may do so again. The

33

258 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

proper course seemed to be, to give the names of all which have ever
been seen here, leaving it to future observation to determine whether
our State is their resting-place or their home.

In explanation of the difficulty alluded to, I may mention one or two
facts which were communicated to me by Dr. Thomas M. Brewer of
Boston, whose unwearied and successful researches will soon extend
our knowledge of this subject much beyond its present bounds ; and to
whom, in connection with some other gentlemen, whose names will
appear in the course of the report, I am happy to acknowledge my
great obligations. He informs me, for example, that a PurpLe GaLii-
NULE, Gallinula martinica, was shot in Stoneham on the 27th of No-
vember, 1837. This is a bird belonging to tropical America, and
usually passes its winters near the Gulf of Mexico; and yet, when
taken, instead of appearing exhausted, like a lost wanderer from its
usual haunts, it was in good flesh, and evidently had been lately feed-
ing. Mr. Cabot also states that a Frormpa Gauiinute, G. galeata,
was shot in Fresh Pond several years ago. ‘This last incident is not
wholly unprecedented, the same bird having been found near Albany,
in the state of New York. The visit of the beautiful Purple Galli-
nule, is, I believe, entirely withoutexample. But I can no more regard
them as our birds, because they have been thus found once or twice
within our borders, than I can regard the Stormy Petrel as a land bird,
from the circumstance of having met with it in Springfield, seventy
miles from the sea. I learn also from Dr. Brewer, that three specimens
of the Lirrte Corporat, Falco temerarius, were lately killed in Stone-
ham and brought to the Boston market. This is a bird discovered by
Audubon, and so rare, that even Nuttall professed to know nothing of
it from personal observation. ‘The same gentleman has also obtained
in Boston harbor, the Pomarins Jager, Larus pomarinus, a bird so
rare, that the indefatigable Audubon himself never encountered it
within the limits of the United States.

It is well known that some birds, for obvious or unknown reasons,
change their favorite resorts, at times withdrawing from places where
they have been common, and appearing in other places where they
have not been seen before. Of this singular migration, the Ciirr
Swautiow, Hirundo fulva, is a remarkable example. [t is well known
that the Chimney swallow came from the wilderness in the same man-
mer; but in that case, the reason was manifest; it was because, in
cities and villages, chimnies are always to be had, while trees, hollow
from the top, are not common, even in our ancient woods. No simi-

BIRDS OF: MASSACHUSETTS. 259

lar reason can be given for the movement of the Cliff Swallow, which
has emigrated to us with a quarter of a century, and is now the most
common of the tribe in some parts of the State. The earliest infor-
mation I have of its appearance in New England is from Chief Justice
Shaw, who tells me that he found it at the White Mountains, in the
summer of 1816. In the case of birds rarely or lately found among us,
I can only offer what information I am able to obtain, and must leave
it to the reader to judge for himself, whether they come as accidental
wanderers, as spies to explore the country, or as pioneers to take pos-
session and establish a permanent home.

With respect to the second object of the survey, that of giving infor-
mation which may be useful to cultivators of the soil, I am fully per-
suaded from my examination of the subject, that there are no birds
which it is our interest to destroy. ‘There are some which are occa-
sionally troublesome in our fields and gardens; but, do what we will,
we cannot prevent their depredations; if we shoot them, we only grati-
fy our revengeful feeling, since new reinforcements stand ready to
supply the place of every one that falls. And this is not the only
thing to be regarded. In every instance of our removing a present
inconvenience, we are opening a door for the entrance of much greater
evils. But without any systematic discussion of this point, I shall
introduce remarks as they suggest themselves, in the course of the
report, showing where we are indebted to any birds for services, and
where we suffer from their depredations; leaving the reader to balance
the one against the other, and to judge for himself whether the course
of mercy or revenge is the best for him to pursue.

Having made these remarks in explanation of the plan which I pro-
pose to follow, I proceed to give the names of such residents and visi-
ters in our State as I have been able to ascertain. ‘There may be some
passed over; and ifso, I hope that those who have not favored me
with the results of their observations, will aid in accomplishing the
objects of the survey, by giving the information they may possess, to
the public, in some other form.

260 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

BAS. OE. aie uremia

Tuer Jer-ratcon, Falco Islandicus, a bold and graceful bird,
is seldom found wandering far from the icy latitudes in which
it dwells, and it is only in the depth of winter, that it is ever
seen as far south as Massachusetts; but we have Nuttall’s
high authority for saying that a pair is occasionally seen with-
in our borders. In the days of falconry, this fine bird was em-
ployed for striking the larger prey, which it did by out-soaring
and pouncing upon them with great rapidity and power.
There is much variety in its markings, and some specimens are
found to be nearly white; which is believed to be an indica-
tion of age, its whiteness increasing with years.

Tue American SparrownHawkx, Malco sparverius, a beautiful
little falcon, which is said to be rare in the maritime parts of
our State, is not at all uncommon in the inland villages, where
it comes fearlessly into cultivated enclosures, and pursues its
prey without regard to those who pass by. ‘The blue jays have
a bitter aversion to it, probably, because it interferes with their
own piratical expeditions. Whenever it appears, they follow it
with loud and abusive language, mocking its cry with ridicu-
lous exactness, till the hawk, who, in general, seems rather en-
tertained with the exhibition, at last, stunned with their noise,
and provoked at their impudence, seizes the foremost of their
number; without, however, putting a stop to their persecu-
tions.

This bird is partial to the southern climates: some few re-
main in New York during the winter, but the ordinary cold of
New England at that season is too severe. Still, it is seen
here in cold weather, perched on some tree or stake which
commands an open view, where it watches for mice or any
smaller game, not being particular, and caring more for the
quantity than the quality of its food. It is easily tamed, and
would be an amusing companion, were it not for its taste for

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 261

chickens; the hen, no longer hen-hearted in defence of her
young, gives battle to the little hawk and destroys him. I
believe that the nest of this bird has not been found in our
State.

The Piczon Hawk, F'alco columbarius, is rare in the wes-
tern part of the state, and Nuttall had the impression that it
was not seen in New England ; but Dr. Brewer informs me that
he has often found it in the vicinity of Boston. It is migratory
in its habits, and, when in pursuit of its prey, cares not whither
it goes. It siezes the robin, the wild pigeon, and even the
gold-winged woodpecker, on the land; and on the water, it
pursues much larger birds, which can escape from it only by
diving. It has been known to attack birds in cages, in the
very heart of cities; and so indifferent is it to- danger, that it
does not even shun the presence of man, the common object
of dread. When wounded, it throws itself on its back as the
hunter approaches, and with angry screams, prepares to defend
itself to the last. Where the pigeon hawk raises its young is
not certainly known. It is not seen in the United States ex-
cept in early autumn and winter; in the spring and summer,
it is probably in the northern regions; but at other seasons it
travels to the most southern boundaries of our country.

The Lirrtz Corporat, Malco temerarius, is so rare a bird
that when Nuttall’s work was published, the only specimen
known, was the one discovered in Pennsylvania, and described
by Audubon, twenty years before. In a spirit of somewhat
doubtful compliment, he named it after Napoleon, I believe
from some supposed personal resemblance to that great human
bird of prey. Nothing is yet known respecting its habits, nor
the place and the manner in which it rears its young ; but the
sineular fact just mentioned, that three specimens of a bird so
uncommon were obtained at the same time in a single village,
seems to indicate that the species will be more common. This
would be no unheard of thing on the part of hawks, which
sometimes appear and remain in considerable numbers, where
none had been found for years, if ever before.

262 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

The Goipren Eacur, Falco fulvus, a fierce and angry bird,
loves the wildness of desert and mountainous regions, where
it neither seeks nor fears the presence of man. As such tracts
are not wanting in Massachusetts, it sometimes comes within
our bounds ; but it delights more in ridges as desolate as the
White Mountains of New Hampshire. It is not common any-
where, and is hardly ever seen in the more level and cultivated
parts of the country. In pace and swiftness of flight it is in-
ferior to some other birds, but it exceeds them all in the power
of its brilliant eye, which enables it to aim, with unerring
precision, at its destined prey. Its flight, if not so rapid as that
of other eagles, is exceedingly majestic and graceful, and an-
swers to the fine description,

“ Sailing with supreme dominion,
Through the azure depths of air.”

The nest of the golden eagle has been found on the Hudson,
but never, I believe, within the limits of our state. Per-
haps it may be found hereafter on Graylock or some of our
western mountains. They build. of course, where they can
find abundance of their usual food, such as fawns, young ra-
coons, rabbits, and wild turkeys ; but they are indifferent to
climate, enduring the utmost severity of winter, and moving
with ease and unconcern in the face of the most violent storms.
The golden eagle would be the acknowledged head of its
family, were it not for the giant discovered by Audubon. The
ring tailed eagle of Wilson is now well known to be the young
of the present species.

The Wasnineron EHEacie, Falco Washingtonianus, was
discovered by Audubon, and happily named by him in honor
of the man, who is still the absolute sovereign of all hearts in
this country, and will continue to rule over it for ages, by his
memory and example. It was known before our great orni-
thologist recognised it as a new species, and was supposed to
be one of the familiar kinds; but from the circumstance of
its building on a cliff, and procuring its food by diving instead
of robbing the fish-hawk, it was obviously different from the

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 263

brown eagle, as the bald eagle, in his immature state, is
often called. It was not till two years after he first saw it,
that Audubon was able to obtain a specimen, when he found
that his conjectures were correct, and that it was neither the
brown or sea eagle, as Wilson calls the young of the white-
headed, not knowing that it was an immature bird ; nor was
it the true sea eagle, Falco albicilla, which it more resembles.
From the latter it is distinguished by its greater size, and by
the greater length of the tail, which in /. albicilla does not
extend beyond the folded wings.

The favorite residence of. this bird is in the rocky solitudes
near the great lakes, where it is seen flying in broad circles
near the land or the surface of the water: when about to dive,
it descends in spiral rounds, keeping its eye upon the fish, and
comes very near it before it makes its plunge ; when rising, it flies
low, to a considerable distance, and then devours its victim at
leisure. When the severity of winter closes the water and
abridges its means of subsistence, it sometimes wanders into
New England, and in January and February, the coldest
rnonths in our year, it is occasionally seen within our bounds.

The Wurreneapep or Bap HKaexe, Falco leucocephalus, is
the most familiarly known of all the eagles. Against the re-
monstrances of Franklin, it was adopted as the emblem of our
country, an honor to which it was entitled, if not by its char-
acter, at least by residence, since it 1s found in every part of
the Union, leaving the colder latitudes to the sterner and_har-
dier of the race. It manifests a preference for the warmer
parts of the country, but all who live near our lakes and larger
rivers or the shores of the sea, are acquainted with its tower-
ing flight and its solemn cry, which, impressive as it is, in the
midst of desolation, is nevertheless, like that of all other eagles,
so harsh and discordant as to leave without excuse the excise
officers of Bristol, in England, who detained a couple which
Colonel Montague had imported, under the act which imposed
a duty on singing birds.

The manner in which this eagle subsists, though not credit-

264 , BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

able to its morals, is strongly illustrative of its power; andéas
power and oppression are apt to be united in human beings,
we cannot wonder that the same alliance should exist in birds.
It stands perched on some tree, from which it commands a
wide view over the waters, where it waits in gigantic repose,
its wings lifted, as if keeping time with the heaving sea. It
seems to look with calm unconcern on the numberless birds
that are sporting or gathering food upon the waves; but all
the while its bright eye is fixed upon the industrious fish-
hawk, which, unconscious of danger, is quietly gathering
food for his young. The moment he reappears from his
plunges, whitening the sea with foam, the eagle launches forth
from his resting place, pursues him with force and rapidity even
greater than his own; and when, after wheeling in broad circles
and trying every art and effort to escape, the hawk is com-
pelled, as a last resource, to let fall his prey, the eagle balances
a moment, as if to make sure its aim, then shoots down like an
arrow, and secures its prey before it touches the wave. ‘These
exhibitions excite much sympathy for the injured party in
those who witness them ; and it is to be hoped, that it was
no prophetic discernment which selected this eagle, beautiful
as it is, to represent the character of our Union.

Sometimes the fish-hawks, when they can endure their inju-
ries no longer, combine their forces, and compel the eagle to
retreat from the shore. In that case, it makes havoc among
other birds, or when those resources fail, it sometimes carries
away lambs from the neighboring farms. It is said that it has
made an attempt to carry off children, and there is no doubt
that it has sufficient strength and courage. Sometimes it robs
the sportsman of the birds which he has shot ; it seems to un-
derstand the use of the gun, and to know that when once dis-
charged, it is harmless till loaded again. It is commonly very
difficult for a person thus armed to approach this eagle, for,
audacious as it is, it does not rashly expose itself to danger. It
is shot by approaching it under the cover of a tree, or after a
snow-storm, when, for a time, it seems to lose much of the
power of its eye.

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 265

The white plumage of the head, from which this eagle de-
rives its name, is not fully developed till the fourth, and some-
times not till the fifth or sixth year of its age. This is the
case when the bird is in confinement ; perhaps when at liberty,
it may attain its full beauty at an earlier age. In other res-
pects, this eagle is mature within a year from the time of its
birth.

The Fisu-Hawk, Falco halietus, which is so often a victim
to the rapacity of the eagle just described, is an interesting and
harmless bird, which confines itself industriously to its em-
ployment of fishing, never attacking other birds nor land ani-
mals, though it has great strength of flight and of talons, and
though it sometimes arrives in the spring when the bays and
ponds are frozen and its food is difficult to be procured. It has
no controversy with any bird except the eagle, and that war-
fare must be regarded as defensive; no single hawk is able to
encounter the enemy, but by joining their forces, they become
too strong to be resisted.

The fish-hawk is on excellent terms with the fishermen,
though they are of the same trade. Its coming announces the
arrival of the shoals of fish that crowd our rivers in the spring.
Perhaps its exemption from persecution may be owing also to
its well known gentleness of disposition. Unlike other birds
of prey, the fish-hawks are social and friendly to each other.
They come to us in flocks of eight or ten, who build near each
other, and rear their young in perfect harmony, and this spirit
of hospitality and kindness is extended to other birds that seem
to have no claim upon them. The crow blackbirds are per-
mitted to shelter in the interstices of their nests, which are
huge constructions, made of a cartload of heavy materials firmly
matted together. ‘The notion that the fish-hawk protects the
domestic poultry from other hawks is without foundation, since
it never interferes with the pursuits of any bird whatever. It
is well however, that the impression should exist, for if not
well founded, it serves the cause of humanity and saves the

fish-hawk from destruction.
34

266 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

These birds come upon the coast of Massachusetts at the last
of March or the beginning of April, keeping time with the ale-
wives, on which they feed. For some reason or other they
seldom breed here. The first appearance of frost, is the signal
for them to retreat to warmer climates. ‘They are not uncom-
mon in the interior of the country near our lakes and large riv-
ers. In winter, they are sometimes seen near New Orleans ;
but this is not by any means the extent of their migrations,
and these probably are individuals which have not strength to
accompany the rest.

The American Gosuawk, Falco palumbarius, formerly sup-
posed, on the authority of Bonaparte, to be different from the
European, is now generally admitted to be the same. It is
not common in Massachusetts, nor in any part of the United
States ; but it sometimes follows the flocks of ducks in their
migration, and destroys considerable numbers. It is an active
and restless bird, seldom seen off the wing, except when de-
vouring its prey, and is so fleet in its motions that, in Maine, it
will dash down at the farmer’s door and carry off chickens so
rapidly that it is hardly possible to shoot the robber. In the
western country, it follows the immense flocks of pigeons, and
selects its prey from among them, notwithstanding the swift-
ness of their flight.. Audubon saw one of them give chase toa
flock of grakles, from which he seized four or five in succes-
sion, letting them drop into the water below; after killing a
sufficient number, he picked them up one after another and
carried them to the shore. his bird is so savage and vora-
cious, that it has been known to eat the young of its own spe-
cies, when destitute of other food.

The Amertcan Brown, or Suiate cotorep Hawk, Falco
fuscus, is now known to be the same with F’. velor, and F’.
Pennsylvanicus, which Wilson described as distinct species,
though not without suspicions that they might turn out to be
the same with others formerly known. It is not common in
New England, but is said to abound in the thinly settled parts
of the southern states, where it often makes great havoc among

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 267

the domestic poultry, which it seizes and carries off in the
very sight of the farmer. We learn from Nuttall, that one of
them, in pursuit of his prey, burst through the glass of the
green-house in the Botanic garden at Cambridge, and then
through an inner partition of glass, where, his wing feathers
being torn by the glass, he was arrested in the attempt to
break through a third. Wilson speaks of the slate-colored
hawk, as found in the Atlantic states generally ; but its num-
bers anywhere must be small.. Its nest was found by Audu-
ben, in one instance, in a hole in a rock, in others, built with
sticks on trees.

Coorrr’s Hawx, Falco Cooperii, was named by Bonaparte,
in honor‘of Mr. William Cooper of New York. It is added to
the list of our birds, on the authority of Mr. Samuel Cabot, Jr.,
who obtained a single specimen in Cambridge. The circum-
stance that so little is known of this fine bird, after all the re-
searches of eminent ornithologists, shows what a broad field of
the science is yet untrodden, and makes it a subject of con-
gratulation, that so much zeal and intelligence are now enga-
ged in the study. The food of this hawk consists principally
of birds ; which, of various sizes, from the ruffed grous to the
sparrow, are laid under contribution. In the southern states,
they are said, like the preceding species, to be troublesome in
consequence oftheir depredations upon the poultry.

The Rovex-teceep Fatcon, Falco lagopus, and Falco
Sancti Johannis were supposed to be two distinct species, till
Audubon showed that these, and Falco niger of Wilson, were
names of the same bird at different ages; a mistake easily
made, since of eight specimens which Audubon received at one
time in Boston, no two were alike in their markings. ‘Their
flight was alike, and all their attitudes, as they sat perched on
stakes and trees, or flew about pursuing their prey; but the
dark colored birds were much more shy than the light ones, a
difference which he ascribed to their greater age. Falco niger,
in his opinion, is the old rough-legged falcon.

These birds are found in the neighborhood of swamps and

268 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

marshes, where they watch for moles, mice and frogs, and oc-
casionally encounter a wounded bird. Their appearance is
heavy and inanimate, suiting well with the dreary places
where they reside ; but as they are supposed to resemble the
owls in their vision, perhaps they make up, by activity at
night, for their sluggish listlessness by day. Their home is
in the north, where they doubtless rear their young ; but their
habits in this respect are very little known ; it is only in win-
ter, when their food fails, that they come into our State, and
sometimes proceed to the south as far as Maryland.

The Suort-wincep Buzzarp, Falco buteoides, is found in
this State ; more abundantly at the approach of winter than at
any other season. In New York, it is said to commit depreda-
tions on the poultry ; but here, it is not thought to have activ-
ity and courage enough for an enterprising and successful rob-
ber. It remains inactive on the margins of swamps and mead-
ows; making a hoarse cry at intervals, to which its mate
replies. But if not remarkable for spirit, it has some good
traits of character ; it is said that if the female is killed, the
male will attend and feed the young till they are able to pro-
vide for themselves; but of their habits in this respect, we
know nothing from observation; they Co not breed in this
State, though Pennant says that they remain in New York
through the year, and build in the beginning of May.

The Rep-raitep Hawk, Falco borealis, is more certainly
known as a destroyer of poultry. Though shy at other sea-
sons, in winter they approach the farm, sweeping near the
ground and snatching a wandering hen or chicken. But, like |
the crow, they seem to have an intuitive perception of the use
and reach of the oun, and if they see a person armed, they give
a scream of disgust, and sail away far beyond his reach. As
farmers give them the name of hen-hawks, and treat them ac-
cordingly, they are compelled to exert much caution in their
distant intercourse with man. They are able to do this suc-
cessfully, by means of their rapid and powerful flight; they
can float high over a whole plantation without a single flap-

BIRDS OF. MASSACHUSETTS. 269

ping of their wings: all the while they make a mournful ery,
as if wholly intent upon their own sorrows, but they are in
reality keeping sharp watch on every thing that moves below ;
should they see an animal, they alight, take deliberate aim,
and shoot down like an arrow to secure it. "They will some-
times, as if in the mere enjoyment of this power, soar upwards
till they are lost in the clear blue sky. These birds rear their
young in Massachusetts, building in forests where they may
escape persecution. ‘The frame-work cf their nest is made of
sticks, and finished with twigs and coarse grass. The eggs
are of a dull white, blotched with black and brown. The
young are fed with squirrels, rabbits, and various other food.
As soon as the young are able to take care of themselves, the
old birds dissolve their partnership, and treat each other as
perfect strangers. ,

The Brack Warrior, Falco Harlani, was first discovered
by Audubon in Louisiana. He at first supposed it to be the
black hawk of Wilson, but on examination it proved to be a
new species, allied to the preceding, but superior to it in every
thing but size. It is considerably smaller, and, though not
able to. contend with its enemy, the red-tail, escapes by its
superior fleetness. It seldom preys on animals, but subsists on
poultry, partridges and other birds. Nuttall informs us that
these birds are occasionally seen in Massachusetts ; and, though
it is not known that any one has been taken, the observation
of such a naturalist is not to be disregarded. Of the nest and
habits of this bird at the breeding season, nothing is yet known.

The Rep-sHouLDERED Hawk, Flalco lineatus. It has been
a subject of discussion whether this is a species distinct from
the Winter falcon, Falco hiemalis ; Audubon, in his first vol-
ume, maintained that they were different, and said that the
winter falcon was much more common than the former. I
have since understood that he has found reason to change his
opinion ; and if it be true that they are the same, £. lineatus,
the name of the supposed adult, is the one that should be pre-

270 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

ferred. Ina list kindly furnished me by Dr. Brewer, it is set
down as breeding in our State.

The Hen-Harrier or Marsu Haws, Falco cyaneus, though
found here in considerable numbers, is not of any great impor-
tance, either as a friend or an enemy of man. In the southern
states, though not common, it is in high estimation for its ser-
vices in destroying the small birds, while they are engaged in
plundering the fields; but in the northern states, it generally
confines itself to marshes, where it skims along the ground in
search of mice and frogs, which are its main dependence for
food, sometimes carrying on its labors in the twilight or the
moonlight. In the winter, it extends its migration from Hud-
son’s Bay to the southern limits of the United States. Audu-
bon found it at Labrador on the one hand, and at Texas on the
other.

The Merut, falco esalon, of Which a specimen was ob-
tained by Dr. Richardson at Carlton House, in the fur coun-
tries, is at present but little known in America. It is the same
with the English merlin, which was formerly used in falconry,
being valued for its strength and spirit, though inferior in size.
The female could kill a partridge at a single pounce, but the
male contents himself with humbler game. Nuttall assures us
that this bird is occasionally seen in the vicinity of Boston.

In the list of birds of prey, I have not included the
Great-rooteD Hawk, Falco peregrinus, not having ascertained
that any one has been taken here; but as they are growing
numerous in other places where they have been rare, and are
now found in states not distant, subsequent observations will
probably include them in the number of our birds.

The Hawx Own, Siriz funerea, is so much like the former
class of birds of prey in its appearance, that, at a short distance,
one could hardly determine whether it is a hawk or an owl.
it is a native of the Arctic regions; in the fur countries it is
well known, from its practice of following the hunter and

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 271

snatching up the game when it falls. Little is known about
it here, since it is but seldom that it wanders into New Eng-
land.

The Snowy Owt, Sériz nyctea, is pore common in Massa-
chusetts than in most other states of the Union. It makes its
appearance at the approach of winter ; its large size and snowy
plumage are well suited to resist the climate in the icy solitudes
where it dwells, and nothing but the difficulty of procuring
a subsistence, drives it from its favorite home. ~.There, it
delights in the stern solitude of a night which lasts for half
the year, and its dismal cries, resembling those of a man
screaming in agony, are said to increase the dreariness even of
that fearfully desolate scene. When it is compelled to wander
in search of food, it is quite abundant in Canada; often found
in the most northern states, and occasionally seen as far south
as Florida. It frequents the banks of streams, sailing slowly
over the surface, or takes its station on a rock, watching for
its prey ; and the moment a fish appears, it secures it by a sud-
den grasp of its claw. Its food, however, is various, consisting
of rabbits, grouse, ducks, and mice; it is probably the pursuit
of rats and mice which brings it near the abodes of men,
where it would not be caught by accident, since it has power
to see both by night and by day.

Audubon believes that he has reason for asserting that the
yellowish whiteness which makes the plumage of this owl so
rich and beautiful, is not acquired till after a certain age. He
has shot many which were of an uniform light brown; these
he formerly thought were of a different species; but now he
considers them the young of the snowy owl.

This bird is said to breed in the northern parts of the state
of Maine, but there is, as yet, no sure authority for the asser-
tion. ‘Their nests are not found in Labrador nor Newfound-
land: probably they are to be sought for in the highest lati-
tudes, since the snowy owl comes to us like a herald of the
“winter storms, and spends the rest of the year in his Arctic
home.

272 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

The Rep Own, Siriz asio, is a permanent resident, and rears
its young in Massachusetts; appearing more common in win-
ter, not because it migrated in the milder season, but, its sup-
plies in the forest failing, it comes to barns and houses in
search of food. During the day, it finds shelter in unfrequent-
ed places, and when seen, appears drowsy and listless, as if
more than half asleep. It has good reason for preferring soli-
tude at such times; for the smaller birds, which it persecutes
by night, know that they have the advantage by day, and do
not scruple to follow up their revenge. Sometimes they pro-
ceed from words to blows, and the owl, having the worst of
the battle, is compelled to seek safety in a random flight. It
is known by the name of the little screech owl, from the
ery which it makes in the early part of the night.

In connexion with the history of this bird, Audubon asks
the question, why it is that the owls living in the milder
climates, should be thus defective in their power of vision,
while the natives of Arctic regions can see both by n ght
and day, when the sun or moon shines bright on the snow.
Without referring to the structure of the eye, it is obviously a
reason of this difference, that, if those birds had not the double
power, in latitudes where the days and nights are unequal,
they would be able to see for half the year, and would be
blind for the other; and thus when the days are long, must
perish for want of food; whereas, to those which live where
the hours of sunshine are not many, even at the summer sols-
tice, it is no hardship to be compelled to take rest by day.

Nuttall kept one of these owls in confinement, to observe
its habits. In the day, it retreated to a dark closet; but as
night came on, it grew restless, gliding along the room in per-
fect silence, a power which the owls owe to the delicate plu-
mage of their wings. Sometimes it would cling to the wain-
scot, and turn its head almost round, resembling a spectre with
its bright glaring eyes. In all the owls, the globe of the eye
is immoveably fixed in its socket, by an elastic cartilaginous
case, in the form of a truncated cone. On removing the out-
‘ward membrane which covers this case, it is found to consist

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 273

of many parts, piaced like the staves of a cask, overlapping a
little at the narrow end, and capable apparently of being en-
larged or contracted. The eye being thus fixed, the owl, in
order to see any object is obliged to turn its head, and has the
power to move it round, almost in a perfect circle.

The Rep Ow , Sériv asio, rears its young in Massachusetts ;
it lays from four to six eggs, in a hollow tree, with a lining of
hay or leaves. As soon as the young are hatched, it makes
liberal provision of food for them. It is the small birds which
suffer on these occasions, and it is in revenge for this carnage,
that they pursue the owl with so much detestation.

The Great HorneD or Car Own, Strix Virginiana, is well
known, though not much to his advantage, in consequence of
his depredations on the domestic poultry. Being one of the
largest and strongest of his tribe, more than two feet in length
and four in extent, with energy and courage in proportion, he
is capable of making great destruction in solitary farm yards,
especially when he adds to his powers of mischief, a caution
and cunning, in which even the cat does not exceed him.
This, however, is one of those evils which lessen as the popu-
lation incieases, so that in our state, though most villagers are
acquainted with the bird, there is not much complaint made
of his depredations. ‘

The flight of this owl is easy and graceful: when it dis-
cers its prey, it falls upon it so swiftly that escape is impossi-
ble. Hardly anything comes amiss to its voracious appetite,
but it prefers the larger gallinaceous birds, and delights partic-
ularly in any fish that chance may throw upon the shore. Its
cries are loud and shrill, sometimes resembling the barking of
a dog ; at other times, they are compared to the last gurglings
of a murdered man striving in vain to call for help. When
wounded, it resists with great fierceness, striking with its bill
and claws, its large eyes opening and shutting in quick suc-
cession, and its feathers rising so as to double its apparent size.

The great horned owl is one of those which rear their young

35

274 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

in Massachusetts. The nest is generally in the fork of a tree,
made of twigs, and lined with leaves and a few feathers. The
eges are from three to six in number; the color, white. The
male relieves the female in sitting. ‘The young remain in the
nest till they are fully fledged, and acquire the full plumage of
the old birds in the succeeding spring.

The Cinereous Own, Strix cinerea, or Great Grey Owl,
as he is commonly called, is very often found in Maine, but
seldom in Massachusetts. Several years since, one was taken
on a woodpile in Marblehead, and lived some months after its
capture. But such visits are accidental, and its home is at
Hudson’s Bay and Labrador, where it is found throughout the
year.

The Lone-rarep Own, Striz otus, is found in Massachusetts,
but is never common ; it is most likely to be seen in winter,
when it comes near the farms in search of rats and mice,
which, together with moles and field-mice, are its chief depen-
dence for food. It is sometimes mistaken for the young of the
great-horned owl, a species which it resembles in everything
but size, so that they are easily confounded by untaught ob-
servers. It is like it in courage also, and when wounded,
makes a fierce and angry resistance, which it is difficult to
overcome.

The Suort-Earep Owt, Strix brachyotus, is another of
those wanderers which occasionally leave their northern home
to visit us. It feeds almost entirely on mice, and can he
brought into view sometimes, by imitating the low squeak of
its prey. They are attracted also by the light of fires, and,
either in blindness or ferocity, have been known to attack the
men near them. ‘They are remarkable for spirit, and, though
small, not exceeding thirteen inches in length, it is almost dan-
gerous to approach them. In their intercourse with each other,
they are more social than most other birds of prey. Bewick
says, thatin England, more than two dozen have been seen
engaged in the same field, destroying mice in company. In
this work of extermination they are eminently serviceable to

a 4

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 275

the farmer: but, like many other birds, they have reason to
complain that man is slow to discover, and still slower to
acknowledge his obligation.

The Barrep Owt, Strix nebulosa, is found in this and all
the other states of the Union, and though it inhabits the north-
ern regions, abounds most in the southern parts of our country.
Their food is various, consisting of rabbits, grouse, squirrels,
rats and mice, and, beside what they obtain in the field and
forest, they levy large contributions on the domestic poultry.
They are not destitute of sight by day, but they move doubt-
fully, as if uncertain of the character of the objects near them ;
in the night they are quick and active, and if domesticated for
the purpose, are said to make excellent mousers. So delicate
is their plumage and so noiseless their motion, that we are told
by Audubon, he was aware that one was flying directly over
his head, only by its shadow cast by the moonlight on the
ground; though it was only a few yards distant and flying
fast, he could not hear the least rustling of its wings. "heir
ery is loud and discordant, resembling a forced burst of laugh-
ter, and makes a strange contrast with the solitude and silence
of the night. :

The barred owl is often offered for sale in the New Orleans
market, and by some is considered palatable food. Audubon
says that the snowy owl is good eating, but they are so cat-
like in their habits, that before they could meet with much
favor on the table, a considerable amount of prejudice must be
overcome.

The Acapran or Lirtte Own, Strix acadica, is found in
Massachusetts, but lives so retired by day, that it is not gener-
ally known. It is a beautiful and animated bird, with a note
singularly discordant, resembling the filing of a saw. Audu-
bon, one day, walking near his saw-mill, heard this sound pro-
ceeding from it, and finding the door locked, went to the mil-
ler’s house to ascertain who was engaged in filing the saw.
There he ascertained that the little owl which had a nest hard
by, was the author of these unmusical sounds. This bird is

3,

Se

276 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

probably the saw-whetter, which is heard so often by those
who visit the White Mountains. Its common cry at night re-
sembles the dull sound of a whistle.

This bird is solitary in its habits, confining itself to the ever-
green forests by day. When disturbed it flies timidly, and
takes advantage of the first shelter it reaches, where it may be
caught by one who uses sufficient caution in his approach. At
evening it becomes lively, flying round with wonderful swift-
ness in search of mice,’beetles, moths and grasshoppers. It
sometimes manifests a desire to see the world. Some have
been taken in the heart of our cities ; in Cincinnati, one was
caught on the edge of a cradle in which a child lay asleep.

The Arctic, or WHITE-HORNED OwL, Strix arctica, is a rare
and beautiful bird, of which a single specimen was obtained by
Dr. Richardson in his expedition, shot with an arrow, by an
Indian boy. Nuttall says, that a specimen was once seen for
two or three days in Cambridge, and from descriptions which I
have received, of a bird resembling the snowy owl, with horns,
I am persuaded that it will turn out to be a more frequent visi-
ter than is now supposed.

Tenematm’s Owx, Strix Tengmalmi, is a small species, and
so entirely a bird of night, that when seen abroad by day, it is
unable to escape, and may be caught by the hand. It feeds
on mice and beetles, and is found in all the forests of the fur
countries, where its melancholy note, repeated at intervals, like
minute guns, awakens the superstitious feeling of some of the
Indians, who call it the bird of death. It is on the high
authority of Audubon, who, as Dr. Brewer tells me, has found
this owl here, that it is added to the present list.

In an economical point of view, the birds of prey just enu-
merated, are of no great importance. ‘The hawks, and some
of the owls, are powerful birds, and, as the depredations of the
latter are carried on by night, they might be very destructive
to the poultry if their numbers were greater. But in so exten-
sive a country. most of them can secure food without trusting

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 277

themselves in the vicinity of man. For this reason, the great
proportion of them do not come near us ; and those which do,
are more likely to render service by destroying field-mice and
similar animals, than to make themselves odious by plundering
the farm. Instead, therefore, of waging a war of extermina-
tion against them, it is our interest, if not to encourage, at
least to let them alone.

OMNIVOROUS BIRDS.

Before proceeding to describe the omnivorous birds, which
come hext in the proposed order, it may not be amiss to make
some remarks on the practice of destroying them, which pre-
vails to a great extent ili our state. Sometimes it is deliber-
ately done, by those who wish to secure their orchards and
gardens ; and, in such cases, there is a right, no doubt, to pre-
vent aggressions, if possible. But far more are killed every
year by wanton boys, who, without any reason but their own
pleasure, are permitted to indulge in a cruel amusement, from
which every man of sense and feeling should carefully with-
hold his children. Any one who can find sport in giving pain
to animals, needs to be taught the first principles of humanity ;
and, lightly as this matter is regarded, it is certain that this
thoughtless indulgence always depraves the moral feeling
more or less, and leads on to the formation of habits of idle-
ness which are not easily broken in after years. In a busy
country like ours, there are few, beyond the age of boy-hood,
who have time for play ; a civilized man is supposed to find
his enjoyments in his duties; and if he needs relaxation, he
can find it without torturing animals, whose right to happiness
is as good as his own.

It is, however, in the light of utility, that this subject can
be most forcibly presented ; and it will be seen, that, to exter-
minate birds which do a little harm occasionally, is to protect

278 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

ourselves from a small evil at the expense of a greater; it is
in fact securing the fruit by the sacrifice of the tree. There
is no question that we are now suffering severely in conse-
quence of this folly. No kind of cultivation is affected to any
considerable extent by the depredations of birds, and if it
should be, means may be devised to prevent them. Not so
with the insects and their ravages; the fate of the locust, the
apple, the pear, and many other trees, shows, that if insects
fasten themselves upon one of them, we must give it up as
lost, for all that we at present know. Surely, then, of two
evils we should submit to the one which may possibly be pre-
vented, rather than invite and encourage one over which we
have no control.

A slight calculation will show what an amount of service
birds are able to render. Wilson makes the computation, that
each red-winged blackbird devours on an average fifty grubs a
day ; so that a single pair, in four months, will consume more
than twelve thousand. Allowing that there are a million pairs
of these birds in New England in summer, which is but a
moderate estimate, they would destroy twelve thousand mil-
lions. Let any one consider what an immense injury that
number of insects would do, and this would be sufficiently
striking to show how much we are indebted to the labors of
these birds. But the computation may be greatly extended,
for many insects have young by the hundred ; beside cutting
off the existing destroyers, they are prevented from multiply-
ing; and when we consider what myriads of birds there are,
constantly and efficiently engaged in this service, it gives us an
impression, beyond the power of calculation to reach, of the
astonishing manner in which the increase of insects is kept
down, simply by sparing the lives of their natural destroyers ;
and this, it must be remembered, is the om/y means of prevent-
ing their increase and reducing their formidable numbers. No
other remedy that man can apply will reach the evil; this is
the vocation of birds; and if, for the sake of removing a small
evil, we will not permit them to live and labor in it, we must
not complain when the natural consequences come.

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 279

This is not mere speculation ; we have experience to teach
us on this subject. Kalm records, that after some states had
paid three pence a dozen for the destruction of blackbirds, the
consequence was a total loss in the year 1749, of all the grass
and grain, by means of insects which had flourished under the
protection of that law. The example of our trees, just alluded
to, is also a standing warning ; for we see that new ones are
adding to their numbers. The maple, perhaps the most valued
of our ornamental trees, is now marked out for destruction,
and in spite of all that we can do, will soon be entirely lost.
There is nothing to prevent this process from going on; other
trees will soon swell the list of victims; and when it is too
late, we shall lament that we have extended the evil, by pro-
tecting our enemies and persecuting our friends. Eivery culti-
vator, for his own sake, as well as the public good, should en-
deavor to spread right views on this subject, and to show that
the wanton extermination of birds, is throwing difficulties
in the way of horticulture and farming, which no industry,
science, or skill can overcome.

The American Srarvine, Sturnus ludovicianus, better
known by the name of meadow lark, is a beautiful bird, and
one of the most welcome messengers of spring. Wilson thought
it far superior to the sky lark in sweetness of voice, though
not equal to it in compass and power. By others, its song is
underrated ; and the truth is that the notes of different individ-
uals vary from each other, some having a wiery and lisping
voice, while that of others is eminently sweet.

The favorite haunts of this bird are meadows and old fields.
They can walk easily on trees, but prefer the ground, where
they employ themselves in searching for insects and berries,
almost always associated in companies, though not very near
each other. If a gun be fired, great numbers will start from
different parts of the same field. They are always gentle and
retiring, and never show any disposition to encroach upon the
orchard or the garden. In winter, they resort to the open
woods, but in the close, deep forests, they are never found,
Some of them are seen with us late in winter; but the great

280 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

body doubtless emigrate to the south, since they are found at
that season in the Floridas, in great numbers, and some retire
beyond the limits of the Union.

In the pairing time, these birds select a tuft in the field or
meadow, and there construct their nest with coarse grass, with
a lining of the same material. It is in the form of an oven,
and is ingeniously concealed by matting together the blades
that surround it. It is also provided with a retired avenue,
through which only one at a time can enter. The eggs are
white, blotched, and sprinkled with reddish brown. These
birds are very kind and friendly to each other. While the
female sits, the male provides her with food and watches over
her retreat. When the young are hatched, toward the end
of June, they both guard and provide for them with affection-
ate care. ‘The lark has few enemies excepting hawks and
snakes and young sportsmen. The farmer brings no charge
against him, and even children spare the nest and the young.

The Battmore Ortoiz, Icterus Baltimore, is. perhaps the
most splendid of all our summer visiters, and is admired, both
for the richness of its plumage and the full-hearted sweetness
of its song. It is known by various names; children call it
the gold-robin ; it is often called the hang-bird, from the pecu-
liar nest which it suspends from the tree, and some give it the
poetical name of fire-bird, from its glancing through the foliage
like a flame of fire. Most birds of this family remain in tropi-
cal climates, where they need an inaccessible nest to secure
them from serpents, monkeys, and other artful foes, and when
they come to us, they retain the same habit, though exposed to
no such dangers. ‘They are not, however, without that pro-
phetic instinct which is so remarkable in many birds. When
they build in the south, they make their nest from the light
moss, which allows the air to pass freely through it, and, as if
aware of the heat which is to come, complete it without a
lining ; while in the cool and variable climate of New Eng-
land, they make their nests of soft substances, closely woven,
with a warm lining, and hang it in a place where it shall have
the early heat of the sun.

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. - eaT

The construction of this nest is a singular process of art.
The male takes a string, stolen perhaps from a window, and
with his bill and claws ties one end to a drooping twig of an
elm or some orchard tree. Having secured this, he proceeds
to fasten the other end, in the same manner, to another twig
drooping parallel with the former, a few inches distant, letting
it fall between the two twigs like a swing. 'The female then
comes and fastens another string so as to cross the former, and
to keep the twigs in their place as a circular frame-work for
the nest. Having thus determined its depth and circumfer-
ence, they proceed to weave a coarse cloth, with such materi-
als as they can find, forming a pouch, impenetrable to the ele-
ments, in the bottom of which they place the real nest, the
whole fabric being shaded by the arbor of leaves above it from
the rain and the heat of the sun. ‘They take such materials as
come to hand; skeins of silk and thread, which have been
missed by housewives, have been found at last, woven into the
baltimore’s nest. It is difficult to understand how they can do
this without the aid of mechanic art; but Nuttall observed
that a tame one was constantly endeavoring to thrust his bill
between the closed fingers, in order to force them open; which
helps to explain the manner in which they open interstices and
insert threads in the process of weaving. 'The female lays
from four to six eggs, of pale brown, dotted, spotted and lined
with dark brown. A day or two before the young are able to
leave the nest, they creep in and out, and sometimes cling to
the outside. After leaving it, they are fed and protected by
their parents for several days, and then driven forth to try their
own fortunes in the world.

The motions of this bird are singularly animated and grace-
ful. ‘They are often seen clinging by the feet, like a rope-
dancer, in order to reach some insect from a branch beneath
them. In the spring, they feed almost entirely on insects, and
it is evident, that, numerous and active as they are, their servi-
ces must be of great value. Nor can they be accused of doing
harm to any extent, natural as it would seem for them to claim
some reward for their labors. 'They are often charged with

36

282 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

plundering the pea-vines in the garden; but Dr. Harris has
shown that they resort to them for the sake of the grub of the
pea-bug, which they draw out from its shelter, and thus protect
the vegetable which they are said to destroy. But it is not
necessary to plead the cause of this universal favorite; he
seems to know the esteem in which he is held, and he builds
as readily in the elm that swings over the city street, as on the
tree that shades the cottage door in the country.

The Rep-wincep Buackxegtrp, Icterus pheniceus, is well
known in all parts of Massachusetts, and though sometimes
mischievous here as well as elsewhere, is not disliked and per-
secuted, as he is in many other states. On the contrary, the
pleasant associations of spring are awakened by his coming ;
some of his notes are agreeable to the ear, and his bright red wing
coverts, contrasted with his glossy black plumage, make him a
striking object in the meadows where he resides. As soon as
these birds hear the voice of spring, they set out from the
southern states for the north, in small flocks, the males singing
an invitation for the females to follow. They often reach us
before the snows are gone, and are seen laboring to collect
worms, grubs and caterpillars, as they walk with a rapid and
graceful step over the meadows and fields. They often follow
the ploughman to collect the insects turned up by the share,
and move with easy confidence, knowing that they may trust
his good nature then, if at no other time. In fact, they seem
to know, that they can do for us, in the way of exterminating
these enemies of all vegetation, what nothing else can; and to
take it for granted, that man, who is blessed with reason, will
make some use of it and not deprive himself of services which
no other creature can render. ‘his calculation, like many
others made on human wisdom, is often disappointed, and men
and hawks combine to reduce their numbers, but in vain.

The red-wings build their nests in marshes or wet meadows,
forming the exterior of coarse dried weeds, lined with fine
grass or hair, and sometimes secured to the ground by such
cordage as the place affords. 'The eggs are from four to six,

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 283

light blue, thinly spotted with dusky. In August the young
are ready to associate in flocks, and this is the time when they
are found in such countless numbers, feeding upon the corn.
Those who make war upon them, resemble the traveller, who,
annoyed by the chirping of grasshoppers, alighted from his
horse to put them all to death. When fired upon, they only
remove from one part of the field to another ; and as for scare-
crows, they seem to be rather entertained by such exhibitions
of human skill.

The Cow Buacxsirp, Icterus pecoris, is never numerous, like
the former, and is so much less inclined to the corn-field than
to the insects which are found in it, that it cannot be regarded
as an enemy of man. But it is generally detested for other
good and sufficient reasons, that is, if we suppose the bird to
be a moral agent, and fully acquainted with the enormity of its
own proceedings. Inclined to perpetual roving, and having a
strong aversion to all domestic cares, the cow-bird contrives to
escape them by laving its eggs in the nests of other birds,
making them foundling hospitals for its own young. When
the owner of the nest returns, for the cow-bird takes advantage
of its absence, and when it finds the stranger in its premises, it
manifests much uneasiness and agitation. Sometimes it throws
it out, but as small birds are the victims on those occasions, it
often has not strength for the effort. If that is the case, it
sometimes covers up the egg by making a new floor to the
nest. If unable to do either, it submits patiently to the impo-
sition. The cow-bird’s egg is always hatched first, and the
young cow-bird sometimes stifles the lawful heirs by its supe-
rior size. ‘The parent bird however, feeds it, and treats it with
more kindness than could be expected under the circumstan-
ces ; and the foundling, as if aware of his obligation, conducts
with decency and respect, making various ineffectual efforts to
strike a tune, in acknowledgment of the kindness of its bene-

factor.
These birds are named from their habit of following cattle,

284 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

to which they are of service, by catching the insects that mo-
lest them. 'They come with the spring, and leave us in Oc- |
tober, in company with their cousins, the red-wings, with
which they associate very little while here, perhaps because
they are remarkable for that philoprogenitiveness in which the
cow-birds are so shamefully wanting.

The Rice Buntine, Icterus agripennis, which has received
its name from the wild-rice on which it feeds, is much better
known among us by the name of bob-o-link, a word resem-
bling its notes, some of which are wonderfully sweet. It is
not among the pioneers of spring, but whenever it arrives from
the south, it is warmly welcomed, and gives great animation
to the meadows by its parti-colored dress, its busy chatter, and
its queer and lively motions. Here, it does very little injury
to the grain, though it is said to be troublesome in the southern
states. On the contrary, it is incessantly employed in exter-
minating crickets, grasshoppers, and ground-spiders, creatures
which are especially beholden to those who make war on this
beautiful bird. But it is not nearly so much persecuted in
New England as in other parts of the country, where it is
regarded as delicious food and sent to the markets in great
numbers. How far to the south they go on their return, is not
certainly known; it is thought, that many of them pass the
winter in the West India islands.

The nest of the rice-bird is always among the grass or
grain, and composed of coarse grass, lined with that which is
finer. The eggs are from four to six, white, tinged with blue,
and spotted with a blackish color. As soon as the young are
able to fly, they all begin to gather in flocks, the males having
put off their summer uniform, and wearing the quaker dress
of the females and young. This is the time for their depre-
dations, and immense foraging parties lay waste the fields of
the middle and southern states. [or this purpose they fly by
day, whereas in their migration eastward, in the spring, they
fly only by night.

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 285

The Crow Bracxsirp, Quiscalus versicolor, is an active and
sociable bird, who warns us by his loud clanking note, late in
the spring, that he is once more in our fields and gardens, ap-
parently unconscious that there can be any objection. He is
one of those creatures, concerning which it is difficult to say
whether they are friends or foes ; sometimes they are the one,
sometimes the other, and it is only by striking a balance be-
tween the service and the injury, that we can determine how
to regard them. That the grakle pulls up corn for the sake of
the seed, is undeniable ; but it is also true that it devours im-
mense numbers of insects, grubs, and caterpillars; perhaps it
may be possible to secure his services and prevent his depre-
dations ; and farmers are now trying to accomplish this object
by preparing the seed before it is sown, in some solution which
shall make it less tempting to the crow blackbird.

This bird returns from the south early in the spring, and large
numbers resort together to some favorite tree, where they asso-
ciate with each other on the most friendly terms, and keep up a
perpetual chatter. ‘They build also in communities, sometimes
in bushes, but most frequently in a large tree. 'The nest is
made of mud and coarse grass, with a lining of fine grass and
horse hair. ‘The eggs are five or six, green,- blotched with
dark olive. As soon as the leaves fall, the young set out with
their parents, in vast collections, on their return to the south,
laying the country under contribution as they go. No matter
how much they are fired upon, they think it better to be shot
than to starve, and all the efforts of the farmer cannot drive
them from his fields. Audubon says that the southern farmers
soak their seed in a solution of Glauber’s salts, which is believed
to make it less palatable to the birds in the spring.

The Brack Ortone, Quiscalus baritus, is seldom seen in
this vicinity, and probably rests here but a little while, on
its annual migration. One has been obtained by Mr. Samuel
Cabot, jr. in the neighborhood of Boston.

286 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

The Rusty Graxue, Quiscalus ferrugineus, is much more
common than the former in the western part of the state. On
their way to the north, they are in haste, having an immense
distance to travel; on their return, they are more deliberate,
and are seen in the field in large flocks, keeping company with
the cattle. Neither this nor the former rears its young in this
state.

The American Crow, Corvus Americanus, persecuted as it
has been for years, still abounds in Massachusetts, as is testi-
fied by the scare crows and other ornamental devices, that
embellish our fields in the spring. It is not to be supposed
that the sagacious crow mistakes for living beings these pro-
ductions of the statuary’s art; but he easily understands what
they are meant for, and makes his depredations in a less publie
manner than he might otherwise do. His suspicions are al-
ways awake, and he exerts a caution, which has given rise to
the imagination that he can smell powder; but this, though a
common belief, implies a delicacy of sense and a knowledge
of cause and effect, quite beyond the compass even of the
crow. His bearing in a domesticated state contrasts power-
fully with his shyness when wild; he becomes familiar and
easy, talks loudly and incessantly, steals and secretes whatever
he perceives is valued, opens the door by treading on the latch,
and plays a great variety of tricks, some of them laughable,
others very annoying. In his wild state, he exerts all this
shrewdness in the work of procuring a subsistence. His art
is so perfect, that he can, by inserting his bill in the egg of
the largest bird, carry it away from the nest to be eaten at his
leisure. In this manner, he will bear away, one after another
all the eggs in the nest of a wild turkey. His cunning does
not arise from want of courage, for he may sometimes be seen
chasing a hawk or an eagle, which, pressed by numbers, is
compelled to sound a retreat. In this way he often officiates
as a guardian of the domestic poultry.

The crow feeds on almost every thing eatable, without
choice or delicacy in the selection. It devours fruits, vegeta-

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 287

bles, and seeds ; snakes, frogs, and other reptiles are also to its
taste; it does not despise worms, grubs, and insects; and if
hungry, will eat the flesh of animals when so far decayed that
even an epicure would reject it. Farmers are very bitter in
their feeling toward the crow, but perhaps they would be more
moderate in their resentment at his depredations, if they were
aware, that the cut-worm has the benefit of all their efforts to
destroy the crow. Whether that voracious grub will feel any
gratitude for this protection, may be doubted.

The crow selects the most retired places for its nest, forming
it of dry twigs interwoven with grass and plastered with mud
or clay, with a lining of fibrous roots and feathers. The eges
are from four to six, of a pale green spotted and clouded with
clive or blackish brown. Both the male and female sit, and
are remarkable for their attachment to their young as well as
to each other. If any nest is approached, all the crows in the
neighborhood gather in crowds and express their disgust at
the transaction. As soon as the young are able to fly, the
parents introduce them into the community of crows, and they
remain in flocks tillthe spring. It is needless to say that they
spend the winter here.

The Buus Jay, Corvus cristatus, one of the most graceful
and elegant of all the feathered race, is very troublesome to
other birds, which he persecutes by stealing their eggs, and
sometimes by destroying their young; but he can hardly be
called a nuisance by the farmer, since it is only in winter, that
he comes into enclosures in search of food, and then he takes
little, except what has accidentally fallen from the corn-house
or the barn. In the southern states, his depredations are much
greater, and the planters soak their seed in a solution of arse-
nic, which proves fatal to the robber. ‘These birds are said to
abound at the south in winter ; but if any really migrate from
Massachusetts, it must be but a small proportion ; since, if a
handful of corn be anywhere thrown upon the snow, it will be
very soon surrounded with a busy and animated party ; and,
bad as their reputation is, no one can help admiring their beau-

288 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

tiful colors and lively motions. It is impossible to deny that
their reputation is deserved. One of them, in Charleston, de-
stroyed all the birds in an aviary. A flying squirrel was once
put into the cage of a blue jay for one night, and on the fol-
lowing day, it was found killed and partly eaten ; but, savage
as he is, his courage is not proof; many smaller birds will
drive him away from their nest ; he, therefore, creeps to it in
their absence, and will thus steal round a whole neighborhood
daily, to devour the new-laid eggs. He sometimes frightens
away the smaller birds, by imitating the sparrow hawk’s voice.
In this power of mimicry he excels ; and when domesticated,
he counterfeits the sounds and voices of the household so natu-
rally as often to occasion much perplexity and confusion.

The blue jay breeds generally in the United States. Here
it makes a coarse nest of twigs and fibrous roots, on some for-
est or orchard tree. The eggs are four or five, of a dull olive,
spotted with brown.

The favorite food of the blue. jay consists of chestnuts,
acorns and Indian corn. It always breaks the corn; and for
this purpose holds it between its feet, and hammers it with its
bill. But almost everything eatable, even potatoes, sometimes
are included in its bill of fare, and it should not be omitted, that
they render service by destroying insects and caterpillars in
great numbers.

The Buacx-cae Tirmousr, Parus atricapillus, is better
known by the name of Chicadee, an imitation of. its note in
winter, when it 1s exploring the trees in all directions to find
insects and their grubs or eggs, which latter form its favorite
food. By their labors in this way they are of eminent service,
particularly in keeping down the numbers of the canker-worm,
a pest which human ingenuity is wholly unable to reach.
When these are wanting, they subsist on various seeds, hold-
ing them in the claws, and picking them open with the bill.
They often come near houses also, in search of small bits of
meat, or the crumbs which are swept out at the door. They
seem perfectly indifferent to the change of seasons, moving

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 289

about gaily in the severest day; but they give the spring,
when it returns, a warm and grateful welcome ; their plaintive
whistle at that time, resembling the words phe-be, with rising
and falling inflections, is one of the sweetest sounds which an-
nounce the morning of the year.

The eggs of the chicadee are laid in holes in trees, which
they sometimes excavate with their bills, without the formality
of preparing a nest. They are from six to twelve in number,
white, with specks of brown red. The young, as soon as fledged,
resemble the parents, and associate with them, in a cheerful
party, running over trees in all directions, sometimes hanging
with the head downward, and leaving no crevice unexplored
where insects may possibly harbor.

The Crepar sirp, Bombycilla Carolinensis, is well known,
or as some would say, notorious, and not so generally welcome
as one might suppose, who regarded only the silken delicacy of
its plumage, and the insatiable appetite with which it gathers
caterpillars, beetles and cankerworms from the trees. The
reason is, that in the season of fruit, they repay themselves by
eating cherries, pears, and other luxuries with so much relish
and so little discretion, that they have been known to gorge
themselves to death. When they alight upon a tree, they are
so crowded together that many may be killed by a single shot.
They immediately spread themselves over the branches, pick-
ing the fruit faster than their mouths will hold it; and not
suspending their labor for an instant, except to invite other
flocks that may be passing over, to descend and share it with
them. If the horticulturist, who sees the results of his labor
disappearing, undertakes to prevent it, he only wastes his pow-
der; that some of their number are shot, is a matter of uncon-
cern to the survivors; he may gratify his revenge, but the
scene of plunder will go on before his eyes; and he can only
console himself with the reflection, that, in proportion to the
appetite with which they devour his fruit, is the energy, with
which, at other seasons, they take his part against enemies which
he himself cannot reach. The truth seems to be, that, till

37

290 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

fruit becomes more common, as it doubtless will be, these dep-
redations will continue to be vexatious and discouraging ; and
the better way will be, to accept them as an intimation, to
provide enough for ourselves and the cedar-birds too.

There are some things curious and unexplained in the habits
of this bird. They may not unfrequently be seen sitting in a
row, when one who has found a favorite morsel, hands it to his
next neighbor, he, instead of eating it, passes it on, and thus
it goes round, each one declining it with a Parisian nod of his
tall cap that is perfectly irresistible. What this ceremonious
display may mean, it is not so easy to tell. 'They have also a
habit, when wounded, of remaining still and stiff, as if dead,
and will suffer a person to take them up in his hand, without
the least effort to resist or get away.

They generally build, in the orchard, a carelessly construct-
ed nest, of coarse grass lined with fine. The eggs are about
four, of a purplish white marked with black spots, larger to-
ward the great end. The young are fed at first on insects,
and afterwards on fruit. The parental affection of the old
birds is not exemplary, since, if the nest is approached, their
impulse is to take particular care of themselves. Gentleness,
however, is the uniform characteristic of this bird. It comes
to us in the beginning of April, and remains till late, being a
northern bird, and capable of enduring cold.

The Waxrn Cuatterer, Bembycilla garrula, is a bird hith-
erto supposed to be unknown in Massachusetts; but I learn
from Dr. Brewer, that an individual of this species was pursued
in this State by the younger Mr. Audubon, who is familiar
with birds of ail descriptions. It must therefore be set down
as a visiter in our State, though probably accidental.

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 291

PNSeC LIV OROUS BIR DS:

The Great American Surikxe, Lanius septentrionalis, is
commonly called the Butcher bird, from its habit of destroying
other birds. It pursues them with a vigor from which they
cannot escape, and strikes at them, even when kept in cages
and under the protection of man. There have been many cases
in which it has thus risked its own life and liberty in order to
secure its prey. But Wilson was of opinion, that grasshoppers
and other insects were its main dependence for food, and that
it was only when pressed with hunger, that it preyed on other
birds. Still, it has the habit of imitating the notes of cther
birds, particularly such as indicate anxiety and distress, and it
does it apparently for the purpose of bringing the companions
of the supposed sufferers within its reach.

All who have paid any attention to this bird, have remarked
its curious habit of impaling on thorns the insects it has caught,
and there leaving them to decay. This practice of gathering
what he does not want, and keeping it till it can be of no use
to him, is regarded as an unaccountable mystery in a bird,
while in man, the same proceeding is considered natural and
wise. It can hardly be meant asa decoy, for, as just stated,
it has the power of attracting other birds by false appeals to
their sympathy, and does not need to take this trouble. It
may sometimes be heard sending out these false alarms, and
when the poor birds collect, in anxicty to learn what the matter
is, it darts at one of them and fills the air with the cries of a
real victim.

Though the feet of this bird are small, the claws are sharp,
and can inflict a severe wound. Its flight is bold and strong,
and on this it depends for securing its prey. It is seldom, if
ever, seen walking on the ground. At the approach of spring,
most of them leave us, though some are said to pass the sum-
mer in the forests of New England.

292 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

The American Grey Surike, Lanius excubitroides, is said
by Nuttall to be seen in winter in the vicinity of Boston.

The Kine-sirp, Muscicapa tyrannus, is with us from the
middle of May to September. All this time he labors diligent-
ly in our gardens, destroying beetles, crickets, grasshoppers,
and cankerworms, without claiming any reward. In fact, he
seems to take the whole farm under his protection, and if a
hawk ventures near, he attacks him with so much fury, flying
over him and plunging on his head and back, that the hawk
and even the eagle is glad to leave the field. The only in-
stance in which he is supposed to do mischief, is in catching
the bees as they are engaged among the flowers. This how-
ever is not common enough to be a subject of complaint or re-
venge. The king-bird fears no enemy except the purple
martin, which has the advantage in its superiority of flight ;
thus on many occasions, they combine their forces to repel any
intruder upon their bounds.

The king-bird’s nest is constructed of coarse stalks of grass,
with flakes of wool, tow, or down, woven in between, and lined
with fibrous roots and horse hair. The eggs are from four to
six in number, blush-color, spotted with brown. ‘They are
very affectionate toward their young. I once observed a pair
building on a decaying tree, apparently unaware that all the
branches of the tree were dead, except the one which con-
tained their nest. When the young were hatched, the weather
became intensely hot, and the nest was entirely open to the
sun. In order to shield their offspring, the old birds stood, by
turns, on the side, with their wings spread so as to overshadow
them. The position was evidently constrained and painful ;
they panted with the effort and the heat; but they did not
grow weary of it till the weather relented, and the protection
was no longer needed by the young. If a cat appears in the
vicinity of their nest, the king-birds attack her so violently
that she is glad to retreat, though somewhat ashamed to yield
to such a little foe.

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 293

The Great-cresteD FrycatrcHer, Muscicapa crinita, is
spoken of by Nuttall, as nearly unknown in New Encland.
It is probably more common in other parts of the state than in
the vicinity of Boston; though I learn from Dr. Brewer, that
Mr. Cabot, who is familiar with the bird, has seen it in Cam-
bridge. Professor Emmons assures me that it breeds in Berk-
shire. It is deubtless one of our birds, but not numerous
enough at present to be of much importance. It is dif-
ficult to say why its reach of migration should be less than
that of other birds of its tribe, which do not equal it in hardi-
hood and power of flight, nor can any natural cause be im-
agined which should prevent its going farther to the north
than our southern border. Its food, consisting of insects,
grapes, and berries, such as those of the poke-weed, can be
found any where. It was probably some accidental preference
in the beginning, afterwards continued from habit, which con-
fines this species to the southern parts of New England.

The Pewrr Frycatcuer, Muscicapa atra, commonly known
by the name of phoebe, is a familiar and welcome bird; not
valued for its beauty or its song, in both which respects it is
deficient, but held in general esteem, because it reposes con-
fidence in man. Its favorite resorts are bridges and barns and
similar frequented places. It prefers the vicinity of water, but
this is not indispensable ; it cares rather for a good hunting
ground for insects, and as these are most abundant in the
places just mentioned, the phoebe generally selects them.
There it sits on some roof or post, singing its song, such as it
is, occasionally suspending it to dart after a passing fly. As
these birds are active and successful in this pursuit, the do-
mestic cattle are not a little benefited by their labors.

The phoebe returns from its winter quarters in the begin-
ning of April. At first it resorts to the woods, but soon comes
into the village to select a place for its nest. It is remarkable
for its local attachment, and will return to the same place, year
after year, even when it has been disturbed repeatedly in its
possession. It builds under bridges, in caves, or the sides of

294 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

wells, under the eaves of buildings, or in barns, making the
nest sometimes on the top of a beam and sometimes attaching
it to the side. ‘The eggs are about five, of a pure white. As
the nest and the young are so little concealed from observation,
they are often destroyed by boys taking early lessons in in-
humanity, and their parents little suspect how much such
practices can do to brutalize the character and moral feeling.
Audubon gives a very interesting account of a pair, which be-
came so familiar with his presence and so well satisfied of his
good intentions, that they made no objection to his going up
to their nest and handling the young. He tied threads round
the legs of some ; but not having any particular need of garters,
they or the old ones, always contrived to remove them. He
then made use of silver thread, which they could not displace,
and the next year found that some of those thus distinguished,
had returned to the same spot. After an absence of tvro years,
he revisited the spot, and found that one of the birds knew
him, while the other was distrustful and shy. On inquiry, it
appeared that a boy had killed the female and her young, and
that the old male had brought home a second wife, who knew
nothing of him asa friend of the family, while her husband
remembered him well. Before the country was settled, the
phoebe, no doubt, built its nest on the rocky banks of streams ;
but finding an advantage in acquaintance with man, it has
left its old haunts, when better can be found.

The Orive-sipep Fiy-catcuer, Muscicapa Cooperii, is de-
scribed by Nuttall, who first discovered and gave it a name.
He says that it is doubtless the same with the WM. borealis
of Richardson, though he became acquainted with it before
the publication of the “ Northern Zoology.” The nest of this
bird is said to resemble that of the king-bird, and the eggs,
those of the wood pewee. Audubon confirms the fact that
this bird is found in Massachusetts, but the line of its migra-
tion he has not been able to ascertain. He considers it asa
new comer into the country.

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 295

The Woop Pewrern, Muscicapa virens, is a very common
summer bird, and may be regarded as very useful, since,
though solitary in its tastes and habits, and preferring the shel-
ter of the woods, it is very often found in orchards and fields.
It resorts to the most shaded parts, not from any fear or dis-
trust of man, but because, having the power of seeing in the
obscure twilight, it does not love the glare of day. It arrives
in Massachusetts in the middle of May, and may then be seen
perched on low stakes or branches, occasionally darting after
insects, which it secures with a snap of the bill. Its song,
heard in the dusk of evening, is pleasant, and harmonizes with
the calmness of the hour.

The nest of the wood pewee is generally built on a horizon-
tal branch, somewhat after the manner of the humming bird’s,
and coated over with moss, so as hardly to be distinguishable
from the bark. The eggs are three or four, of a yellowish
white, spotted with lilac and brown. In autumn, when the
young are full grown, the parents bring them into our villages,
and even our cities, and teach them to procure their food.
They sweep so near the surface of ponds, as to snatch the in-
sects floating on the water; sometimes they chase them from
the top of the highest tree. Before the leaves are fallen, they
are gone to their winter home.

The Smaut Pewre, Muscicapa Acadica, is a very common
summer bird, which comes to us from the far south, toward
the close of April, and returns in September. Like the former
species, it prefers retired and shaded places, where it sits qui-
etly on a low branch, waiting for insects to come near. When
they appear, it takes a sweep and secures them, and then re-
turns to its station. Its note is sharp and not pleasant; but
the bird is fearless and familiar, not removing from one who
passes by, till he comes almost within reach. Like all the rest
of this tribe, it is eminently useful in destroying flies, moths,
and various other insects which are troublesome to man and
beast ; on this account, they all should be treated with encour-
agement and regard.

296 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

The nest of the small pewee is sometimes on horizontal
branches, sometimes in the upright forks of a tree. It is eom-
posed of dry grass woven with wood, down, and other soft
materials, cemented together with the saliva of the bird. The
eggs are five, of unspotted white. While the young need sup-
port and protection, they remain with their parents ; but after-
wards, they separate into different parties, to migrate to their
winter quarters.

The American Repstart, Muscicapa ruticilla, is a very
beautiful bird. It is not rare, but is seldom seen, because it
lives retired, and when it comes into our gardens, confines it-
self to the shade. It is in constant motion, exploring the
branches, and moving its tail and wings so as to display its rich
colors ; sometimes it starts up to catch an insect flying over;
then it may be seen balancing itself in the air, looking sharply
into a bunch of leaves. It flies with the mouth open, and its
success is known by the snapping of its bill. When it tries to
seize a wasp, the insect presents its sting in so formidable a
manner, that the redstart dares not catch it, and moves after
some less dangerous prey.

In the cold weather in June, 1832, when so many birds were
found lying dead, in all parts of the country, one of these birds
came, for several days in succession, up to my study window,
and there employed himself in catching insects, within a few
feet of the place where I was writing. He frequently watched
me, but finding that I did not trouble him, he dismissed his
reserve and seemed to be on familiar terms. When the weath-
er changed, he disappeared, and I never saw one in the same
place again.

The nest is generally on a low bush or tree, and appears as
if hanging by the twigs. It is composed of Various materials,
fastened together with saliva. The eggs are a soft white,
sprinkled with yellowish brown. ‘The parents are anxiously
watchful for the safety of their young. ‘These birds come to
us in May, and, at the last of September, retire beyond the
limits of the Union.

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 297

The Smatit-HEaDED Fiycatcuer, Muscicapa minuta, is a
species first discovered by Audubon. Little is yet known con-
cerning it, though ornithologists have been acquainted with it
for a considerable time. Dr. Brewer informs me that it has
been found in Ipswich, and that he picked up one of them,
evidently just dead, on the step of his door in Brookline.

The Biue crey Fiycatcuer, Muscicapa cerulea, which was
formerly thought to proceed no farther to the north than New
York, is, I am told by the same gentleman, found in Massachu-
setts and as far as the Canada line. Professor Emmons tells
me that in Berkshire, the preceding species is common, but
that he has never met with this.

Traitu’s Frycarcuer, Muscicapa Traillii, a bird discov-
ered by Audubon, and named by him in compliment to Dr.
Traill of Liverpool, is also found in our State. A specimen
was obtained by Mr. Samuel Cabot, Jr. in the neighborhood of
Boston. It has probably been seen and mistaken for the small
pewee, which it so much resembles, that some ornithologists
regard them as the same. The difference in the size and
markings is trifling ; but the tail, which in the former is even,
is slightly emarginate in this. Nuttall, however, describes the
tail of MW. Acadica as decidedly emarginate, and not, as Audu-
bon says, even, and slightly rounded.

The Green Biack-cap I*Lycatcuer, Muscicapa Wilsonit, is
enumerated among the birds of Massachusetts, on the authority
of Audubon. It is very rare in this State, though common
enough in Maine.

The Canava Frycatcuer, Muscicapa Canadensis, which,
like the preceding, is often classed with the warblers, is not
now uncommon in this State, however it may have been in
former years.

The Yetuow sreastep Icrertia, Icteria viridis, certainly

38

298 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

makes occasional visits here, though it is generally described
as not passing the bounds of our adjoining states. Professor
Emmons assures me that he has found it in Berkshire. Their
ordinary migration does not extend so far, but in the middle
states they abound.

The YELLow THROATED Vireo, Vireo flavifrons, is one of a
beautiful family of singers, some of which are quite familiar,
and highly valued for the sweetness of their song. This is
not the most musical of their number, but its note is pleasant,
resembling that of the red-eye. It prefers the solitude of the
forest to the society of man, and there employs itself in explor-
ing the branches of the largest trees, in search of its insect food ;
passing over each with short heps, examining every leaf and
bud, in order to be sure that nothing is left undetected. There
it may be found from May to September, when it retreats to
the warmest parts of America.

Its nest, like that of other vireos, is suspended from the
branch! of a tree, being attached to the twigs with slender
strings, mixed with the threads of caterpillars and fine blades
of grass cemented with the saliva of the bird. The whole
is covered with green moss attached by threads of silk, and
resembles the foliage in color so much as to deceive, or rather
to elude the eye. The eggs, four or five in number, are white,
spotted with black. When the young are hatched, it conducts
them into orchards and gardens, in search of berries for food.

The Wuire-Evep Vireo, Vireo Noveberacensis, comes to us
in April, and passes the summer in our state, where it appears
to be much more abundant than the former, because it is more
retired. Its song and its motions are energetic and animated ;
it passes from twig to twig in quick succession, glancing up and
down so quickly, that nothing can escape it, sometimes swal-
lowing an insect, then stopping to drink a dew-drop that hangs
upon the leaves. Its song is spirited and emphatic, with con-
siderable variety of expression, and more powerful than could
be expected from so small a bird. ‘This bird suspends its nest,

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 299

like the former, but not high in the air; it is generally hung
from the branch of a brier or a vine, and composed of bits of
hornets’ nests, newspapers, or grass woven in with twigs, with
a lining of root-fibres. The eggs are four or five, white, with
afew brown spots toward the larger end. If any one ap-
proaches the nest, the vireo scolds with great heat and passion.
At other times, it seems quite indifferent to his presence, and
looks at him with perfect composure, at the distance of a few
feet.

The Warsuine Vireo, Viero gilvus, is a charming singer,
and so unwearied in its various and animated warble, that it is
one of the chief attractions of a summer day. Its notes, so
mellow and flowing, cannot be mistaken for those of any other
bird; neither is any one who hears it at a loss to trace it to the
performer, who never retires to the forest, and seems to delight
in the society of man. At the same time his note is unambi-
tious, and gives the listener the impression that it was not in-
tended to be heard, but was simply an unconscious outpouring
of the harmony and happiness of his breast. In this unpre-
tending manner, he differs from most other birds of sweet note,
which appear as if fully aware of their powers, and desirous to
display them.

The nest of the warbler is suspended high in the air, formed
of blades of grass disposed in a circular form, with bits of
hornets’ nests, corn husks, or old apple blossoms, inserted be-
tween, and kept in place by threads of caterpillars’ silk; the
lining is of fine grass, pressed into the proper form with great
care. The eggs are four or five, white, spotted with reddish
black at the larger end. These birds remain with us from May
to October, when they leave us reluctantly for the tropical re-
gions. They are not, like the red-eye, seen in Florida in the
winter.

The Rep-rvep Vireo, Vireo olivaceus, is perhaps more com-
mon than the former; not equal to the warbler in its song,
which is rather broken and interrupted, than easy and flowing ;

300 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

but nevertheless is expressive and sweet, resembling that of
the robin, though not so clear and strong. From May to
August it sings all day without ceasing, never oppressed by the
severest heat ; at every short suspension of its song, it moves
up and down the branches, searching every bud and blossom,
and peeping under the leaves. 'The cloudy weather, which is
so depressing to most birds, has no effect upon the red-eye; he
sings as cheerfully in the dark afternoon as in the brightness
of the rising sun, seeming to hold a perpetual festival, and
quenching his thirst with the drops of dew.

The nest of the red-eye is suspended at various elevations,
but never so high above the ground as that of the warbler. It
is more particular in lining it than in building. 'The materials
of the nest are miscellaneous; the lining is of fibrous roots,
pine leaves, and strings of the bark of vines, disposed in beauti-
ful order. In it are three or four eggs, white, with spots of
brown at the larger end. ‘The red-eye is an attentive parent,
and for this reason perhaps, the cow-bird often chooses it as
the nurse of its young. The eyes of the young birds are
brown, and do not become red till the following spring. A
species alluded to in Audubon’s description of the red-eye, as
resembling it, but quite distinct, and which he promises to de-
sctibe in his fourth volume, is, as Dr. Brewer informs me,
sometimes seen in our state.

The Mocxine-sirp, Turdus polyglottus, is rarely seen in
Massachusetts. 'The brown thrush is sometimes mistaken for
it by careless observers, and that fine bird, though not an im-
itator, at least to any great extent, has a depth, sweetness and
variety of song which even the far-famed mocking-bird cannot
exceed.

The Brown Txurusu or TurasHer, Turdus rufus, must be
regarded as the finest of our singing birds. It is also very
common, though not as familiar as some others. From the
time of its arrival, about the first of May, it may be seen, on
the high twig of some tall tree, pouring out its soul in a full

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 301

and flowing strain, not changeful and capricious like that of
the mocking-bird, but uniformly eloquent and sweet. It may
be fancy, but the song seems more in harmony with the season
than any other, and more resembling what we imagine of the
voice of spring.

In point of strength and intelligence, the brown thrasher is
superior to all the birds of its class. It bids defiance to large
and powerful birds of prey; if a cat or a dog come near its
nest, it attacks and chases him away; and the snakes which
are tempted to rifle its nest, which is generally on or near the
ground, are beaten in such a manner that they are glad to make
an early retreat. ‘These birds have many contests among
themselves, but if the least alarm is given, they suspend hos-
tilities at once and join in hearty alliance against the common
foe. As to its intelligence, it appears at once in those which
are domesticated. Mr. Bartram observed that one which he
reared from the nest, if he found that crusts of bread which
were given him as food, were too rough for him to swallow,
would take them to his water-dish and soak them. He was
also fond of wasps, but before he swallowed them, would ex-
amine to see if they had a sting ; and if so, would carefully
remove the poison before he ventured to eat them. The food
of the brown thrasher consists of insects, worms, berries, and
fruits of all descriptions. ‘They are sometimes accused of
pulling up the new corn, but this is so seldom done, that it is
doubtless accidental, and the grub, instead of the corn, is the
object which it aims to secure.

The nest is built on the ground, or a few feet above it, with
small twigs and dry leaves, strips of bark and root fibres. The
eges are of a buff color, thickly sprinkled with dots of brown.
Both the male and female sit, but the time of the former is
very much occupied in keeping guard against the approach of
enemies, which he resists, if it is possible, and if not, attempts
to soften to compassion by his plaintive cries. If any one
plunders the nest, both parents follow him with alternate im-
precations and appeals to his feeling. After the breeding sea-
son, they are generally silent, and are found in gardens in great

302 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

numbers, where they employ themselves till October, when
they retreat to the southern states.

The Carsirp, Turdus felivoz, is strangely persecuted, though
he deserves good treatment on account of his services, which
are great ; and also on account of his song, which is fine and
sweet when he feels secure; but this is not often; for he
seems fully aware that a bad name has been given him; and
his cat-like mew is an expression of his anxious fears. Beside
his own wild snatches of melody, he gives many broken imita-
tions of other birds, but never seems sufficiently easy in his
mind to finish the strain he has begun. Latham says, that in
a domesticated state, the catbird has been taught to imitate
the strains of instrumental music ; and that he will counterfeit
the ery of young chickens in distress, so as completely to de-
ceive the parent hen. His attempts to mock the notes of other
birds can be easily detected in listening to his song, and blend-
ed in with his own original strains, form an anthem so singu-
lar, that no one who has the least portion of taste or fancy, can
hear it without delight.

The catbird remains with us from May to October, constant-
ly employed in picking off wasps, worms, grubs, and various
insects, and, at the season of fruit, it ventures to claim some
little reward for its labors; not so much however, as would
have been consumed by the wasps alone, which it has de-
stroyed. It seems surprising, considering how they are treated.
and how sensitive they appear to be, that they have not long
ago deserted us. But the nervous anxiety which they betray
in their voice and motions, is not really owing to anxiety for
themselves, so much as to affection for their young. They are
quite discriminating in their apprehensions ; the sight of a dog
does not disturb them, but a cat throws them into a fever of
dread ; and while they are wretched the moment an idle boy
enters the garden, they will permit some men to handle the
eggs in their nest.

The nest is in a bush or a vine, composed of twigs, strips of
bark, old grass and dry leaves, with a lining of root fibres.

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 303

The eggs are four or five, of a deep green. It is not easy to
make them give up their nest; if it is carried away they will
follow it, and retake possession as if nothing had happened.
In cases where the young of other birds have been put into
their nests, the female has thrown them out to make room for
her own ; but the male, observing their distress, has taken
compassion on the orphans and fed them as his own. Surely,
this is not a creature at which it is wise for man to cast the
first, nor indeed to cast any stone.

The American Rogin, T'urdus migratorius, is not the earli-
est, but is certainly the most welcome messenger of spring ;
and the confidence which he places in us is seldom disappoint-
ed, except by boys taking their first lessons in cruelty, in which
they afterwards become masters. His note is hearty and joy-
ous, sometimes very musical, but. always associated with
spring-blossoms and early fruit so inseparably, that his song
reminds every one of something which he loves to remember.
His familiarity is his greatest charm ; and he often disarms bad
intentions, by alighting near us with a look and manner which
seem to say, that, bad as men are, he does not think they mean
to injure him. He is greatly respected by children on account
of the name which he bears; they mistake him for the red-
breast, which is said to have displayed so much humanity to
the children in the wood ; but, though our robin is not often
ealled to such benevolent exertions, there is no doubt, that in
any similar case of distress, it would show itself as kind and
thoughtful as the other.

The robin well deserves the name of migratory, though
some remain with us in ordinary winters, retreating from the
cold into the depth of evergreen woods. ‘They spread them-
selves over the whole continent ; they are found in all the fur
countries, and almost all places where man has ever been.
They are never stationary, except when rearing their young;
for we sometimes find that in the summer, they will leave a
place where they have abounded, and for days together not one
of them can be found. Their movements are irregular, depend-

304 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

ing probably on the supply of food which they find in different
parts of the country. They migrate in large flocks, flying high
and far without resting ; sometimes, if the weather is fine,
they continue their course by night.

The nest of the robin is found in various situations, most
commonly in an orchard tree. It is composed of dry leaves,
grass and moss, connected together by mud; the lining is of
fine grass, sometimes in part of feathers. 'The eggs are from
four to six, of bluish green. It is not necessary to be particu-
lar in these matters, the nests being almost always made near
human dwellings, and often within the reach of man. It is
supposed that it chooses these resorts in order to escape from
the cuckoo, which sucks its eggs wherever it dares venture ;
but the robin soon forms a strong local attachment, and often
returns in successive years, not only to the same spot, but the
same nest which it has occupied before. One has been known
to build in the stern timbers of an unfinished vessel in New
Hampshire. ‘They are very affectionate to their young, and if
an accident happens to one of them, the whole neighborhood
of robins is in alarm.

The robin is easily domesticated, and soon becomes very
fond of its owner. It shows a taste and talent for imitation
also, which does not appear in its wild state. It will not only
mock the notes of other birds, but will imitate tunes which it
has often heard. In this state it has been known to live for
nearly twenty years.

The Woop Turusn, Turdus mustelinus, is a retiring bird,
but not so solitary as it is sometimes represented. It is most
partial to shaded glens, where it sings toward the close of day.
Its note is very remarkable ; with notes of no great variety, but
clear, flowing and silvery as a sweet-toned bell; of all the
voices of summer there is none so thrilling, particularly when
heard as the shades of night are falling, and in scenes of deep
repose. Hach bird seems to have some favorite resort of his
own. It is generally in some deep hollow, overhung by large
trees festooned with vines, where the sunbeams at mid-day can

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 305

hardly reach the ground. Here it delights to sing; and no
one can hear_it without having his mind calmed by the spirit-
like melody, and the harmonious quiet of the scene.

This bird is a constant resident in Louisiana, but whether, or
how far it goes beyond the limits of the United States, is not
known. It comes to usin April, performing its migrations in
the woods, and seldom appearing in the open country. Its
nest is built in shrubs or low trees, saddled on the branch, and
composed of grass and leaves held together by mud, with a
lining of root-fibres. 'The eggs, four or five in number, are of a
greenish blue. The young come out from retirement into
gardens, and are even known to visit the outskirts of the city.
They are easily raised in confinement, and sing nearly as well
as when free.

On alighting on a branch, the wood thrush gives its tail a
jerk two or three times with a peculiar chuckle. It walks and
hops on the branches, occasionally bending down to look round
it. It often descends to the ground, and scratches in search
of worms and beetles, but the least alarm sends it back to the
tree. It never commits depredations of any kind whatever.
‘These birds are never seen in flocks ; they pair in the breeding
season, but at all other times are found single and apart from
each other. They do not leave New England till quite late in
the fall.

The Hermit Turusu, T'urdus minor, is described by Audu-
bon and Wilson as destitute of song, while Nuttall represents it
as hardly inferior to the nightingale in the power and sweetness
of its voice. ‘There are some other points of difference in their
several descriptions. Audubon says that the bill is dark brown,
yellowish toward the base of the lower mandible. Nuttall
says that it is black above and flesh colored below. Audubon
says that the tail is even, while Wilson and Nuttall speak of
it as forked. ‘These and some other discrepancies I am unable
to reconcile, from want of acquaintance with the bird. Nuttall
however sets it down as passing the summer in our woods.

39

306 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

Wixson’s Turusn, Turdus Wilsonit, is described by Nuttall
as a common bird, resembling the wood thrush in its voice and
song. He describes its nest as usually made in a low bush,
not much above the ground, and depending for security on its
resemblance to the foliage where it is built. No earth is em-
ployed in its construction. The eggs are four or five, of an
emerald green. 'This and the preceding species are not yet
sufficiently known.

The New Yorx THrusu, Turdus Noveberacensis, which,
according to Nuttall, hardly ever comes here except in autumn,
arrives, as Dr. Brewer assures me, in the spring, and rears its
young in our state. Its nest and eggs have been found in
Roxbury.

The Goupen-crownep T'Hrusu, Turdus aurocapillus, is a
very timid and retiring bird, which remains with us from May
till September. It is not distinguished by any power of song,
though it has a succession of simple notes which sound pleas-
antly, in its quiet and solitary home. It sits and runs on the
ground like the lark, and the moment it is discovered, escapes
from observation in the deepest shade of the woods.

This bird is better known by its curious nest than by its
aspect or its song. It is built on the ground, among dry leaves
or decayed moss. It is neatly constructed with grass inside
and out, and is arched over with a large patch of the same
material, overspread with twigs and leaves, so as to resemble
the rest of the ground. An entrance is left at the side, which
is generally toward the sun. ‘The eggs, from four to six in
number, are white, spotted with brown toward the larger end.
If the female be discovered on her nest, she creeps swiftly and
silently away. If she sees the intruder looking for the nest,
she flutters, pretends lameness, and generally succeeds in draw-
ing off his attention; but she suffers much from snakes and
other animals, which are not easily deceived, and cannot be
resisted. These birds live on insects, particularly such as
they find upon the ground.

BIRDS OF. MASSACHUSETTS. 307

The YELLow-crowneD WarsLer, Sylvia coronata, some-
times called the myrtle bird, is quite common here for two or
three weeks in May, and after an absence of more than three
months, it reappears on its way to its winter home. While
here, they are very social among themselves, and come fear-
lessly about our houses, entirely unsuspicious of danger, col-
lecting the insects on which they feed. They breed in the
northern regions. In autumn, they return with a less brilliant
dress than in spring, which may be either a decided change in
plumage, or possibly only the result of wear and travel. Their
song, as well as some of their habits, bears a strong resem-
blance to that of the summer yellow-bird. Audubon found
the young in Labrador; but the only nest he has ever seen,
was presented to him in Nova Scotia. It is very much like
that of the bird just mentioned, lined with thistle-down, hair,
and feathers, and containing four rose-colored eggs, dotted with
reddish brown, round, but not upon, the larger end.

The Yernow Reppote Wareier, Sylvia petechia, comes
to us, like the former. after passing the winter in the southern
states. Here it is a rare species. Audubon found the birds
abundant at Labrador, but sought for their nests in vain.

The Summer YELLow-sBirp, Sylvia aestiva, is a beautiful
summer resident, and a favorite in all parts of New England.
Its delicious warble, though it has no great variety, is one of
the sweetest sounds heard at the window on a summer day.
They probably spend the winter beyond the limits of the Union.
Early in May they return, and are seen in all directions, dart-
ing through the foliage in search of insects, their golden yel-
low dress richly contrasted with the fresh and tender green.
The male comes a little earlier than the female, as if to explore
the way. ‘They soon begin to construct their nest, which is
generally near our dwellings, and sometimes within reach.
They make use of hemp, flax, and cotton, soft grass, and hair ;
but they are not particular in their choice of materials. The
eggs are four or five, of a dull white, speckled with brown

308 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

toward the larger end. This bird is very much annoyed by
the cow-bird. Sometimes, when it finds the strange egg, it
buries it by making a new lining to its nest; but if this be
impracticable, it feeds and protects the foundling with as much
kindness as its own young. In its migrations, this little bird
travels by night.

The Srorrep Warsier, Sylvia maculosa, is a beautiful
bird, which passes through the State in May, on its way to the
north, where it rears its young. Here they are always rare ;
but in Maine they are sometimes exceedingly common, being
detained there, waiting till the season is sufficiently advanced
to permit them to go farther. This bird excels in song as well
as in beauty cf plumage ; its motions are graceful, and, when on
the ground, it holds its wings drooping, as if to display their
markings to advantage. ‘They pass but a few days with us,
and on their return do not visit us ; they probably, in returning,
avoid the coast, and make their way along the course of the

ereat western rivers.

The Briack-THROATED GREEN WarBier, Sylvia virens, is
not common in Massachusetts. It comes from the south in
May, and may be seen searching the blossoms of the apple tree
for food, so intent upon its employment as to pay no regard to
the presence of any observer. Sometimes the chipping-sparrow,
delighted to find a bird weaker than itself, puts on airs of state,
and orders the little warbler away from the tree. A few spend
the summer in the northern states. ‘Their nests are not easily
discovered, but Nuttall met with one in a juniper, on the Blue
Hills in Milton. It was made with strips of bark, horsehair,
and feathers, and contained four eggs, inclining to flesh-color,
dotted with purple together with large spots of brown. 'There
was no other nest of the kind near it. These birds are seen
roving in the forests, on their way to the south, in October.

The Buackpurntan Warsier, Sylvia Blackburniae, is
sometimes seen in this State, and, whenever it appears, its ele-

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 309

gant colors attract attention. In the list furnished me by Dr.
Brewer, it is marked as breeding in this State. Its nest, how-
ever, isnot often seen. Audubon received one from Professor
MacCulloch, of Nova Scotia; it was composed externally of
different textures, and lined with silky fibres and thin delicate
strips of fine bark, over which lay a thick bed of feathers and
horsehair. ‘The eggs were white, with red spots toward the
larger end. It was found in a small fork of a tree near a brook,
five or six feet from the ground. It is seldom that this bird
appears here, except in May and September, on its annual mi-
gration and return.

The Orance-THROATED WarBLeR, Sylvia auricollis, is an-
other rare and transient species, which makes us a passing call,
on its way to Canada.

The Cuestnut-sipep Warsier, Sylvia icterocephala, passes
through this State on its way to the north. In 1837, they
were quite common near Connecticut river. Audubon pro-
fessed himself ignorant of their breeding places ; but Mr. James
Kliot Cabot, has succeeded in finding a nest in Brookline, in
our State.

The Bay-sreastep Warsier, Sylvia castanea, comes to us
about the middle of May, and remains a few days. In its ap-
pearance and manners it strongly resembles the preceding.
While here, it is busily engaged in searching for insects, along
the hedges and in the highest trees. Where it goes when it
leaves us, is not yet distinctly known. Audubon says that he
has often seen them in Louisiana, in the month of June, which
would indicate, that, unlike the warblers in general, they re-
main and breed in the southern states. But if it is so, their
nest has not yet been found.

The Bruacx-potz Warsrer, Sylvia striata, is not uncommon
in the latter part of May, when it is seen in the orchards in
pursuit of cankerworms and other food. Its note is a low

310 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

clinking sound, that can hardly be called a song. Audubon
was fortunate enough to find its nest at Labrador. It was built
on a fir tree, about three feet from the ground. ‘There is
something curious in the manner in which this and other warb-
lers, in their migration, skip over some parts of the country.

The Pine Warsuer, Sylvia pinus, is a summer resident in
the State, but not much known, because it resides in deep,
evergreen forests, where it explores the bark and buds of trees
in search of the insects which infest them. Nuttall describes
a nest of this species, which he found at Mount Auburn, on a
tree, forty feet above the ground. The eggs were white, with
avery pale tinge of green, and thickly sprinkled with pale
brown. In summer, their food consists of insects, and their
eggs and larvae; in autumn, when the young accompany their
parents, they come into gardens and groves. One which Nut-
tall domesticated, fed on flies and worms that were offered
him, without the least timidity ; and was so tame and familiar
as to be in danger of being trodden under feet.

The AutumnaL Warsier, Sylvia autumnalis, is not at pres-
ent known to rear its young in Massachusetts, but it cannot
so far for that purpose, since it it found in our forests, attended
with its family, as early as the month of July. Early in the
season, they are seen darting through the woods in search of
flies. One which Nuttall obtained, by its flying in at an open
window, soon pursued the house-flies, as if nothing had hap-
pened, and became so sociable that it would eat from his hand.
In the autumn, it may be seen turning over the fallen leaves,
or searching the chinks of fences and the rough bark of trees.
Its nest has been found in Pennsylvania, and also near Lake
Champlain.

The Hemiocx Warster, Sylvia parus, differs so little from
the pine, that Nuttall is inclined to regard them as the same
species ; but Audubon, who procured many specimens, togeth-
er with a nest and young, pronounces them distinct, and it is

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 311

on his high authority that this is set down among the birds of
our State.

The Prairie Warsier, Sylvia discolor, is a small and quiet,
but fearless bird, which comes to us about the middle of May.
Nuttall found one of their nests at Mount Auburn, in a low
barberry bush, formed very much like the nest of the yellow-
bird. 'The proprietor eyed him with much curiosity but with-
out any appearance of fear, and when he approached the nest,
the female kept her station. There is considerable difference
in the accounts given by him and Audubon, of the nest and
the song of this bird. The latter describes the nest as covered
with lichens, like that of the humming-bird. .The one found
at Mount Auburn did not answer at all to his description.

The Parricotorrep Warsier, Sylvia Americana, is not
common, but several specimens have been obtained by Mr.
Samuel Cabot, Jr., and as its song has been heard here as late
as the close of May, there seems reason to believe that it
sometimes breeds in the State. It comes in May and returns |
in October, on its way to its winter home in the West Indies.
Few of the warblers are more beautiful than this.

The Buack THROATED BLUE WarsBLeR, Sylvia Canadensis,
is a wayfaring and unfrequent visiter, which appears in April,
on its way to the north, and returns late in the fall. It is not
known where it rears its young. Its winter quarters are in the
West Indian Islands. The Pine Swamp Warbler, Sylvia
sphagnosa, is now believed to be the young of this species.

The Maryuanp YeLtuowrnroat, Sylvia trichas, is one of
our most common birds, found among the alders of almost
every brook, from the beginning of May till the leaves fall. It
is quiet, humble, and never ambitious to be seen; still it shows
no distrust nor fear of those who visit its retreats in shady hol-
lows, except when they go so near the nest as to create appre-

312 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

hensions for its young. Its song is simple, pleasant, and
suited to the places where it resides.

These birds commence building their nest in May. It is in
thickets, on or near the ground, among dry leaves, brush or
withered grass, which may protect it from observation. It is
made of dry sedge grass and leaves, with a lining of fine bent
erass. ‘The eggs are about five, of a soft white, with specks,
blotches, and sometimes lines of brown chiefly toward the lar-
ger end. At the close of July the male ceases to sing, and the
old and young rove about in parties till the season warns them
to depart.

The Mourning Warsuer, Sylvia Philadelphia, is a rare
species, but Dr. Brewer assures me that he has seen it here in
summer Very little is known of its habits, and I believe,
nothing whatever of its nest. Sylvia agilis is now belived to
be the young of this bird. Prince Bonaparte believed that the
mourning warbler would turn out to be an accidental variety of
the species just described. It is said, however, to be quite dif-
ferent in its song.

The Wittow Wren, Sylvia trochilus, is the same which, in
England, is called the hay-bird. Nuttall says that it visits us
in October, when it feeds on flies and other insects, and often
is seen rising with a low and pleasant song from the tops of
trees. It is named from its attachment to the willow.

The Worm-eatine WarsBLer, Sylvia vermivora, arrives from
the south late in the spring, and retreats early, before the north-
ern storms. It was not known to breed in this State till a
nest was discovered in Cambridge by Mr. Rotch, who gave a
specimen of the eggs to Dr. Brewer. ‘That gentleman, it is to
be hoped, will hereafter find time to supply the defect of infor-
mation on this part of the subject, to which very little atten-
tion has been paid.

The GoupEN-winceD Warsier, Sylvia chrysoptera, which

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 313

Nuttall thought was never seen in this State, is ascertained to
be one of our visiters by Mr. James Eliot Cabot, who shot one
of them in Cambridge.

The Nasuvitte Warsier, Sylvia rubricapilla, is placed
among our birds by Mr. Samuel Cabot, Jr., who obtained a
specimen in Brookline. Audubon states that three or four,
found in Louisiana and Kentucky, are all that he ever saw.

Swainson’s Warsier. Sylvia Swainsonu, has been found
by Mr. Cabot, within the limits of our State. *

The Orange cotorep Warsier, Sylvia celata, probably
passes through the State on its way to the eastern parts of
Maine and the British Provinces, where it builds and rears its
young ; but it is not ascertained that any one has yet been
discovered here.

Roscon’s YeELLow-THROAT, Sylvia Roscoe, so much resem-
bles the Maryland Yellow-throat, that Audubon, the discoverer,
at first through it only an accidental variety of that species.
Nuttall says that it is seen in Massachusetts at the close of
summer, and his impression is that it breeds here.

Before leaving the subject of warblers, I may be permitted
to say how much we are under obligation to them; not asa
plea in their behalf, since their diminutive size protects them.
They are tco small to be valued for food, or to afford the re-
quisite degree of excitement to the sportsman. We are told
by travellers, that the scenery of Spain seems lifeless and
heavy, from the want of singing birds; ours, om the contrary,
is animated with the voices and lighted up with the plumage
of these little birds, most of which are as beautiful in colors as
they are sweet in their song. [rom a circumstance mentioned
by Audubon, one can easily estimate the importance of their
services. He says that he found more than fifty insects in the
crops of only two of them. Millions remain in the United

A0

314 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

States throughout the summer, and those which pass through
the country, arrive precisely at the season when insects are
springing into life and action ; so that the visit of two or three
weeks, which they make with us at that time is as valuable
tous as ten times the same amount of labor at any other part
of the year.

The Ruspy-crowneD Wren, Regulus calendulus, is a beau-
tiful little bird, often seen here late in the autumn, on its return
from the northern regions. How far they go, and what are
their habits at that season, no one has yet been able to inform
us. Audubon had no doubt of its breeding in Labrador, but he
did not succeed in finding its nest, neither has it been found
by any of the arctic expeditions. Wilson met with them in
Pennsylvania, in the summer, but they are not seen in Massa-
chusetts till the autumn, when they associate with the tit-
mouse, and move round in busy silence, whoily intent on the
work of gathering food. At the north, their song is equal to
that of the canary, in richness, variety and power. They are
not uncommon in the western parts of the State.

The Firry-crownrp Wren, Regulus tricolor, has been ob-
tained by Dr. Brewer, in the vicinity of Boston. It rears its
young in Labrador, and is seen here on its return in October,
when it collects its food, consisting of the larve and eggs of
insects, without regarding the presence of any observer. It is
said, that on striking the branch on which they are perched,
these little birds will fall dead, as the Canada jays are often
killed by their enemies, the hunters.

The Hovusr-Wren, Troglodytes aedon, is a summer resi-
dent in the State. It is a spirited, restless, wayward little bird,
which treats the human race with great familiarity. It seems
to expect that lodgings shall be provided for it; but if this
is not done, it will build under the eaves of houses or in barns.
Nothing in the vicinity of human dwellings troubles it but the

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 315

appearance of a cat, which throws it into a vociferous passion,
which does not subside till the hated enemy retires. It re-
mains with us from April to September, and adds much to
the attractions of summer by its animated and often brilliant
song, which, like that of the vireos, is heard in the heat of day,
when other birds are at rest. It has many quarrels with other
birds, and, small as it is, maintains its rights, and perhaps
something more. In the war of words it has no equal; and
some other birds seem as if they gave up to it, not from fear
or conscience, but merely to escape its perpetual and abusive
din.

The nest of the house-wren is formed with an outwork of
twigs interlaced with care and skill. Behind this barricade is
the true nest, made with grass and lined with feathers. The
eggs, from six to nine, are of flesh color, inclining to red. The
young, soon after they are fledged, seem to have all the playful
activity of the older birds. It is rather singular, that these
birds should bear the name of T’vroglodytes, signifying dwellers
in caves, when they are so remarkable for constructiveness, that
the male often amuses himself while the female is sitting, with
building another nest, which he has no thought of ever using.

The Fresu-warer Marsu Wren, Tvroglodytes brevirostris,
is a Summer Visiter, not uncommon, but not known as a dis-
tinct species, till it was described by the unwearied Nuttall.
It should have borne his name; but that will be so identified with
the science as to need no such commemoration. It is known
to boys by its song, chzp-a-day-day, which is so often heard in
the meadows. He describes its nest as made of sedge, bent
from the top of a grassy tuft, and forming a spherical arbor
with an entrance on the side. He remarks, that in a nest con-
taining seven eggs, three of them were larger than the rest, and
were fresh, while the other four were far advanced toward
hatching. From this he inferred that two different birds had
laid in the same nest. There seems no great need of crowding
thus, since the male employs himself in building nests, a great
part of which are neither wanted nor used. ‘This species,

316 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

which has been confounded with the following, remains with
us from May till September.

The Saur-water Marsu Wren, Troglodytes palustris, is
found on marshes and the borders of rivers near the sea, but
is not so common as the preceding. This bird is quick and
active in its motions, and in its song resembles the last de-
scribed. The nest is formed of wet rushes twisted into each
other, and filled in with mud, in the shape of a cocoa-nut,
with an opening in the side. 'The eggs are from six to eight,
of a color approaching to mahogany. Nuttall thought that
this bird hardly ever came nearer than New York; but Dr.
Storer has found its nest and eggs at Barnstable in our State.

The Winter Wren, Troglodytes hiemalis, is inserted in the
list of our birds, on the authority of Audubon. It abounds in
Maine in summer, but in this State it must be always rare.

The Woop Wren, Troglodytes Americana, is a new spe-
cies, discovered by the same distinguished ornithologist, who
says that it is found in Massachusetts, though he cannot speak
with certainty of its summer haunts, nor of the extent of its
migrations.

The Buve sirp, Sialia Wilsonit, is a delightful messenger
of spring, whose early appearance makes us ask, ‘ Hast thou
a star to guide thy path?” since he comes before the fetters of
Orion are unbound, or the sweet influences of Pleiades have
begun to fall. He is said to resemble the English redbreast
so much in form and habits, as well as the tinge on his breast,
that he was called the blue-robin, by the first settlers of this
country. The first indication of spring brings the blue-bird,
and his sweet, but rather timid and tremulous note seems ex-
pressive of uncertainty, whether the season will permit him to
remain. He is often driven back by a relapse, as happened
in January of the last year, when he came on one or two fine
mornings, but was soon compelled to retreat. Every body

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 317

loves the blue-bird, and some make it a practice to encourage
him by providing lodgings for him, which he readily occupies,
and where he manifests a freedom from uneasiness, which he
cannot feel where his nest is more exposed. It certainly is
wise to encourage him; for almost all his time is spent in
catching beetles, grasshoppers, spiders, and grubs, for which
we have seen him descending in fields, and open grounds.
The wire-worm is another of their luxuries, which are all
of a kind that man can easily spare. When they eat berries,
it is not those of the garden, but the sumach and wild cherry.

Unless the hospitality of man provides the blue-bird with
lodgings, he resorts to hollow trees, where he shelters himself
from the elements, and there, or in a house made for the pur-
pose, the pair construct their nest ; it is a short and easy pro-
cess, for nothing is required but a lining of hay and feathers.
The eggs are from four to six, of a pale blue. 'T'wo broods,
and sometimes more, are raised in the season, and, while the
female sits on the second set of eggs, the male takes charge of
the young.. In defence of his family he is very courageous ;
he has been known to attack a hen with chickens, who came
too near his abode, and put her to a hasty flight.

During winter, the blue-birds abound in the southern states,
and particularly in the Floridas, which, however, they leave as
early as possible. But they do not go very far to the north.
In Maine they are not common, and in Labrador not one was
seen by Audubon’s party. ‘Towards autumn, their song is no
longer heard, except one complaining note in which they seem
to lament the necessity of leaving their home. To the last
moment they linger, and it is not till the trumpet of the storm
indicates that the hosts of winter are upon them, that they will
consent to bid us farewell.

The Brown Lark, Anthus spinoletia, is one of those birds
which arrive from the north, without much to indicate whence
they came or whither they are going. They are common in
fields in the country, and are said to be equally so along the
borders of rivers and the Atlantic shores. They fly in loose

318 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

scattered flocks, giving out a feeble ncte, run rapidly on the
ground, and when they take wing, generally move high and
far before they alight. Some of them spend the winter in
Pennsylvania, and they abound at that season in the southern
states. Those which pass through our State in the autumn,
are all young ; nothing is known of the old birds, though Lab-
rador is one of the places where they rear their young.

GRANIVOROUS, OR PASSERINE BIRDS.

The Snore Lark, Alauda alpestris, is a pretty bird, which
comes to us from the north at the approach of winter, and, if
the season closes early, is seen here in October, on its way to
the middle states. If the season is mild, they sometimes re-
main here, and those which proceed, seldom go farther south
than Maryland. While here, they fly high, in loose scattered
flocks, and have a single note, resembling that of the sky-lark
of England. Their food seems to consist of seeds and the lar-
vee of insects, which they find on the ground, or on fences
where they sometimes alight, though they never perch on a
tree. ‘They pass the night on the earth, in small parties, near
tufts of dry grass. When they are alarmed, all take wing, and
after flying round for a short time, return to the same_place.
again.

Audubon describes the nest of this bird, which he found in
the moss at Labrador, and tells us that the song of the male at
that season is very sweet.

The Snow Buntine, Emberiza nivalis. As soon as winter
reigns ‘‘ sole monarch of the inverted year,” these birds come,
riding on the snow-storms, and are seen in parties sweeping over
the desolate country. Sometimes they alight on trees, some-
times on fences, and are even familiar enough to take their

BIRDS OF.MASSACHUSETTS. 319

x Gare)

station at times upon the roofs of houses. ‘Till they are per e-
cuted for the sake of their flesh, they are disposed to be on the
best possible terms with man ; but as they are considered the
harbingers of very severe weather, they meet but a cold wel-
come. Their flight is swift, and well sustained; they seem to
enjoy the fierce and angry winds ; but careless of cold as they
are, and apparently well protected, they are sometimes so
chilled as to be unable to escape from those who pursue them.
In Labrador, where they are called White Birds, they feed on
seeds and insects, but while here, they must depend for their
subsistence almost entirely on seeds. For this purpose they
often alight on trees, but are seldom seen in the woods. Like
the larks, they live much on the ground.

The summer dress of the snow bunting is pure white and
black ; but they are not seen with this plumage here. Their
appearance here is various; but generally they are white and
rusty brown. In the summer they are said to sing sweetly,
but their strains are wasted on the desert air. Some have been
known to rear their young in the White Mountains of New
Hampshire.

The Biack-ruroatep Buntine, E’mberiza Americana, is
found in high meadows near the salt water marshes, from the
middle of May till the last of August, when it returns to the
south, and spends the winter in countries beyond the bounda-
ries of the Union. LHarly in summer, they feed on caterpillars
and insects, and are among the destroyers of the pernicious
eanker-worm. ‘Their note is constantly heard from every level
field of grass or grain ; they often perch on some low tree, and
there for a long time breathe out their simple and unpretending
song. At these times, they may be approached without taking
wing ; they seem to be friendly to man, to other birds, and to
each other. In August they become silent, and not long after,
leave us for the south, going beyond the extremity of the
Union.

The Scarter Tanacer, Tanagra rubra, is a splendid sum-

320 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

mer resicent in this State. He is retired in his habits, but not
distrustful, and as he often comes into enclosures, he is well
known by his rich and elegant plumage, and the sweet varie'y
of his song. His common note is a chip, chirr, repeated at
short intervals, in such a tone that it is very difficult for the
hearer to determine whence the sound proceeds. At other
times he has a song, which bears some resemblance to that of
the red-eye, excepting that it is more continuous and unbroken.
Were it not that the eye is charmed by the beauty of his scar-
let and glossy black, as it glows against the foliage in the sun,
his musical powe.s would be more highly estimated. There
is nothing to be set off against these recommendations. He
cannot be accused of any kind of depredation. His food con-
sists of insects, and of these, he is particularly fond of the
wasp, one of our greatest fruit destroyers. Sometimes he
feeds on berries and seeds, but they are not taken from the
garden.

These birds arrive toward the last of May, and immediately
begin to build, generally on the large bow of an oak, but some-
times on an orchard tree. ‘The nest is loosely put together.
The eggs are three or four, bluish, spotted wit purple and
brown. They are very affectionate toward their young. If
any one approaches the nest, the female is in great distress.
As soon as they require food, the male supplies it, and so anx-
ious is he for their welfare, that he has been known to follow
one of them for half a mile, and as he could not release it, to
feed it through the wires of its cage, and roost in the same tree
by night. At the beginning of August, the male assumes the
green and yellow dress of the female, and in company with
their young, they set off for their winter quarters.

The Inpieo Bian, 7vringilla cyanea, is a spirited and beauti-
ful summer resident, well known in every garden, where, from
the tops of trees, from roofs, and chimneys and lightning rods,
we hear his sweet lisping song, which at first is exceedingly
pleasant, but at length wearies the ear by its perpetual repeti-
tion throughout the summer day. ‘The rich blue which gives

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 321

this bird its name, belong exclusively to the male ; the female
and the young wear plain flaxen dresses. ‘The young males of
the first year have a little blue in their buff colored plumage ;
this increases as the bird grows, and it is not till the third year
that it acquires the azure with green reflections, which makes
the mature bird so ornamental to the village scenery. It is
sometimes difficult to determine whether it is blue or green, so
rapidly does it change in different lights, as it glances in the
sun.

The nest of the indigo-bird is usually in a low bush, some-
times in vines; in the former case, it is suspended between
two twigs. The outside is composed of coarse grass and
withered leaves ; the lining is of grass and hair. The eggs are
ereenish white and unspotted, according to Nuttall; Wilson
says, blue, with a purple blotch at the larger end; Audubon
says, ‘‘ with a blotch or two of purple.” As to these singular
discrepancies, I have already remarked, that this part of the
subject is greatly in want of attention.

The Wuite-crowneD Sparrow, Fringilla leucophrys, is one
of the finest of this family of birds. It is seen here, but very
rarely, on its way to the north in the spring. Audubon de-
scribes its nest, which he found in Labrador, and speaks of its
notes as very plaintive and sweet.

The Wuitr-THRoaTED Sparrow, Fringilla Pennsylvanica,
is much more abundant than the last. It attracts attention by
its size and beauty, and still more by its song, which, though
unvaried in tone, and slowly and solemnly uttered, is neverthe-
less,as heard in May mornings, one of the most delightful melo-
dies of spring. It is not known in what manner it performs its
migrations ; the first news we have of its coming is from its own
plaintive note, heard from the borders of the fields. The spar-
rows move in companies, and frequent hedges and thickets,
where they run upon the ground and scratch for seeds. On
any alarm, they plunge into the deepest shade ; but when free

Al

322 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

from uneasiness, they ascend to the highest branches and open
their plaintive and emphatic strain. In the warmer days, they
resort more to the borders of woods, but the thicket is always
their favorite home. They appear to have no great dread of
the presence of man; but the hawks are very destructive to
them, and the sparrows seem aware of their danger, and de-
sirous to keep as much as possible out of their sight and reach.
In New Hampshire their note is interpreted into a warning,
that the time to sow wheat is come. Their stay does not ex-
ceed two weeks ; and, when they leave us, they go to the far
north. Dr. Richardson found their nests on the banks of the
Great Bear Lake.

The Bay-winerp Fincn, Fringilla graminea, is a bird, plain
in appearance, but pleasant and unpretending in its song, which
is constantly heard in fields and dry pastures; they run on the
ground, in the manner of larks, in search of the seeds and in-
sects which compose their food. ‘To the grass-bird, as it is
called, we are indebted for some of the sweetest music of our
spring ; their song begins very early in the morning, and con-
tinues after sunset, but they are generally silent in the heat of
the day. They come early in April, and the best of their
song is heard till the summer opens, when their note becomes
more monotonous for the season. Some of them spend the
winter in Pennsylvania, but most of them go farther to the
south to escape the cold.

The nest is built in the grass, partly sunk in the ground. It
is formed of leaves and dry grass, well lined with horse-hair.
The eggs, four or five in number, are flesh-colored white, with
spots of reddish brown. When the female is disturbed, she
pretends lameness, and practises various arts to withdraw at-
tention from her young.

The Amsicuous Sparrow, Fringilla ambigua, of which a
single specimen was obtained by Nuttall, was, he says, a young
bird, and may undergo some changes in its markings. Audu-
bon suggests that it may turn out to be the white-crowned

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 323

sparrow in its winter plumage. ‘The size is different ; but the
point must be left for future observations to decide.

The Sone Sparrow, F'ringilla melodia, is a well-known
bird, very common in all parts of New England, and richly
deserves its name. It comes in company with the blue-bird,
and though it has no pretension to the beauty of its friend,
exceeds it in the sweetness of its song. This cheerful and
pleasant note is heard, in the near vicinity of human dwellings,
from trees, stakes, and fences, and if it were not one of the
most familiar sounds of summer, would be universally admired.
This bird is common in Louisiana, in winter, and comes to
the north before the snows have left the ground. From the
time of its arrival we hear its unwearied note at all hours of
the day, growing louder and more animated as the spring ad-
vances. It frequents fields and meadows, which afford the
insects which it is active in destroying. It also enjoys the
vicinity of water, in which it is fond of bathing. It has been
known to swim to some distance when disabled from flying.

The song-sparrows build sometimes in a bush, and some-
times on the ground. ‘They have been known to resort toa
hollow tree. The nest is usually made of dried grass with a
lining of hair. The eggs are greenish white, speckled or
spotted with umber, chiefly toward the larger end. Audubon
inquires, why it is, that they never use the same nest twice,
when they raise two or three broods in a season, and always
keep it so scrupulously clean? ‘The obvious reply is, that a
bird so neat and industrious, is the very one most likely to
take the trouble of building a new nest; while a bird more
slovenly and indolent, would re-cecupy its old abode, from
the same aversion to labor which induced it to leave it neg-
lected.

The Savannan Sparrow, Mringilla Savanna, is rare, com-
pared with the preceding, and is most common near the sea.
Its song is animated, though far inferior to that of the song-
sparrow. ‘Though it is very hardy, it proceeds to the south

324 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

in winter and returns in April, when it resorts to fields and
open plains. Audubon says, that it breeds in all places from
Maryland to Labrador. If so, the nest probably can be found
here, though it may be easily mistaken for that of the species
last described.

The Snow-sirp, Fringilla hiemalis, commonly called the
blue snow-bird, to distinguish it from the snow-bunting, a bird
much less common than this, comes to us just in advance of
the wintry desolation, an infallible sign that the dreary season
is at hand; dreary to us, it would be proper to say ; for this
little traveller, though it retreats before it, evidently has no
fear of its cold and snow. It is almost always seen here in
company with the tree-sparrows. After doing all they can to
pick up a subsistence from the frozen ground, they come round
our houses to gather crumbs, or any morsels of provision that
may have been cast out from the door; and if a handful of
meal is thrown to them, they receive it with great delight.
After remaining with us as long as possible, in the heart of the
winter, they are compelled to remove; but with the first
glimpse of spring they reappear, resorting to orchards or to
the edges of the wood, and roosting in hay-stacks, when the
nights are severely cold. They are only summer residents in
the fur countries, and never abound there. Wilson tells us
that they sometimes breed in the Alleghany mountains.

The YeLLow-sHOULDERED Sparrow, fringilla savannarum,
comes from Mexico and the West-India islands, where it passes
the winter. it pays us a passing visit, when it atiracts some
attention by its song; but it soon hurries on to some other
breeding-place. While here, it prefers the neighborhood of
the sea, where it explores newly ploughed fields in search of
insects and seeds. It never retires to the woods.

The Tree-Sparrow, Fringilia Canadensis, arrives from
the north at the approach of winter, and remains here during
most of that season. It is called the snow-bird, by many, and

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 325

is often seen in company with the blue snow-bird. When
the deep snows cut off their. resources for food, they come to-
gether into our yards and under our windows, and generally
succeed in obtaining some small charity from man. Early in
spring they prepare for their return, but delay it on various
pretexts ; till, a day or two before their departure, they re-
cover their voices, and sing sweetly from the trees of the or-
chard. Audubon did not find them at Labrador ; but he met
with their nests in Nova Scotia, and his impression is, that
they breed in the northern parts of Maine. 'The tree-sparrows
are easily distinguished from others, by the spot in the centre
of the breast.

The Cuiprine Sparrow, Fringilla socialis, is our most com-
mon bird, and so well known as hardly to need a description.
It is found alike in the city and the village, in the field and
the garden, in the forest and at the house-door. After passing
the winter in the southern states, it returns early in the spring.
It has no pretension to song, though, when it first returns, it
keeps a continuous jingling sound, unlike the chipping note to
which it owes its name. At the close of summer, the old and
young birds search for seeds in the fields in large flocks, col-
lected in preparation for their flight. The first snow fall is
their signal for disappearing.

This little sparrow, in order to escape from worse enemies,
places its nest under the care of man. It builds in the sides of
walks, the corners of piazzas, or some spot equally open to ob-
servation ; and so strong is it confidence, that, if the nest is
torn down, it regards it as an accident, and builds in the same
place again. It adopts these sheltered situations, with a view,
no doubt, to escape from cuckoos, which would steal all its
egos if they were exposed in the woods.

The Fieip Sparrow, Fringilla pusilla, resembles the spe-
cies last described, but is brighter in color and has a longer
tail. With us, after the first of April, it is found in open fields
and pastures, where it lives on insects and seeds. ‘The song

326 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

is peculiar and likely to attract attention, not so much from its
sweetness, as its canary-like trill. Its nest is built on the
ground, after the fashion of most other sparrows, and made of
hay, with a lining of fine grass or horse-hair. The eggs are so
thickly sprinkled with rusty brown as to appear almost wholly
of that color. It usually raises two broods in a season.

The Swamp Sparrow, Fringilla palustris, is rather com-
mon, after the middle of April, in the swamps and marshes,
from which it takes its name. Wilson speaks of it as destitute
of song. This is a mistake ; its strain, though not equal to
that of some others of the tribe, is lively and pleasant. It is
distinguished by its passion for the vicinity of water, where it
continually forces through brush and thickets, till its tail is
worn almost away.

The nest of the swamp sparrow is made on the ground in
swamps, with the coarse grass which grows there. ‘The eggs
are four or five, of a dull white, spotted with reddish brown.
The old birds express great anxiety for their young, but appa-
rently without much reason, for they have a wonderful alacrity
at hiding in the grassy places where they dwell.

The Suarp-taitep Fincu, F'ringilla caudacuta, is added, at
the suggestion of Dr. Brewer, on the authority of Nuttall.

The Sreasipe Fincu, Fringilla maritima, is found along
the borders of the ocean, and in the sea islands; it visits the
interior only when driven by easterly storms. It runs in
search of marine insects and small shell-fish, like a sandpiper,
on the edge of the strand. Like the swamp sparrow, it has
feet and legs of great strength, and suited to its way of life.
These finches build on those parts of the marshes which are
above the flow of the tides. ‘The nest is of grass; the eggs
are dusky white, speckled with brown.

The American Gouprincn, Fringilla tristis, well known by
its beautiful yellow plumage and jet black wings, can hardly

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 327

be said to return in the spring, since many of them do not leave
us in winter, though, as they roam about in their dusky dresses,
with their complaining note, there is little about them to re-
mind us of the gay musicians of the spring. They are often
seen when the ground is covered, gathering a living from |
the tall stalks of weeds that rise above the snow. For some
time they ,will be missing, and then they rove about without
any fixed direction, and apparently never much troubled by
the want of food. When the warm gales begin to blow, the
males resume their colored dress, the females among birds not
being permitted to share that fatal gift of beauty, that might
attract attention to their nest. ‘The social habits of these
pretty birds give double interest to their song, since all join in
harmony, sometimes plaintive and low, then gay and loud, as
they enjoy the sunshine together. They are fond of bathing
and pluming themselves in company ; in fact, they always as-
sociate together on the most friendly terms. In our gardens
they collect the seeds of lettuce, but thistle down is their favo-
— rite food, and they;cannot be justly charged with doing any
injury whatever.

They make use of thistle down, with other soft and delicate
substances, to build their nests. They are placed on trees or
tall bushes, and constructed externally of dry leaves and other
rubbish, with a lining of fine grass, hair or down. Audubon
speaks of its mest as covered with lichens, glued on with
saliva ; the nests here have no such disguise. He also speaks
of the eggs, which are from four to six in number, as white,
tinged with bluish, and speckled with reddish brown. Here,
the eggs are white.

A year or two since, I saw one, in a large flock of gold-
finches, which was distinguished from the rest by plumage
partly flaxen and partly white. At a little distance it appeared
like a snow white bird.

The Pine Fincu, F'ringilla pinus, comes occasionally from
the north in winter, and sometimes proceeds as far as the
southern extremity of the Union; but the first approach of

328 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

spring drives them back to their northern home. In the state
of Maine they abound in the cold season, and are sometimes,
though not regularly, seen here. Their flight resembles that
of the goldfinch, with rising and falling inflections, and their
note is said to be similar and equally sweet. Where they rear
their young has not yet been discovered.

The Lesser Reppoue, Fringilla linaria, is an occasional
visiter in winter. Flocks have been seen as far south as Phila-
delphia ; but they come at uncertain, and generally distant in-
tervals, and very little is known concerning either their habits
or their song.

The Fox-cotorep Sparrow, Fringilla iliaca, is perhaps the
finest of this family of birds. It is large and handsome; gen-
erally larger than Nuttall’s measurement, which is but six
inches. When the evening sun falls on its cinnamon plumage,
its appearance is beautiful. It passes through Massachusetts
on its way to the south, soon after the fall of the leaf, and re-
turns early in the spring ; it is then seen in gardens, scratch-
ing the ground, in search of seeds and insects, making no sound
except a low call occasionally to its companions. It waiis till
the weather grows mild enough for its journey, and as soon as
it determines to go, perches on the high branches of trees and
sings an air, easy, flowing, clear and incomparably sweet.
They rear their young in the British Provinces and other
northern regions.

The Grounp Rosin, Fringilla erythropthalma, is an ex-
ceedingly common bird, found on the borders of forests and
woodland roads, where it scratches among the dry leaves for
worms and insects, so entirely absorbed in its employment that
any one can approach within a few feet of it without its taking
any alarm. While thus engaged, it often utters the loud call
from which it is named the pee-wink, and sometimes the tow-
wee bunting. But at times, it sings with much more preten-
sion, and, perched on the high branch of an oak, warbles a loud,

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 329

clear, and very agreeable song. It leaves us for the south in
October, and returns in April, the males coming first, as if to
make the necessary preparations. In autumn the case is re-
versed, and the females lead in the migration. There is some-
times a fortnight between.

Wilson praises the address with which the ground-robin
conceals the place of its nest ; but it seems to depend almost
entirely on its resemblance to the ground about it, to secure it
from unfriendly observers. It is sunk a little below the sur-
face, sometimes under the shelter of a small bush, and is made
of such materials as come most readily to hand, such as strips
of bark and withered grass, with a lining either of fine grass
or the fallen leaves of a pine. The eggs are four or five, of
a soft white, spotted with reddish brown. ‘The old birds are
very anxious for the safety of their young, and practise the
usual arts to draw the intruder from their nest.

The Carpinat Grospeak, F'ringilla cardinalis, cannot be
considered as one of our birds, though its occasional visits re-
quire its insertion in our list. It is seen, but only at irregular
intervals, in the villages on Connecticut river. Wherever the
celebrated red-bird appears, it attracts attention, not only by
its splendid plumage, but its bold and beautiful song.

The Rosr-Breastep Grospeak, Fringilla Ludoviciana, sup-
plies the place of the cardinal, rivalling that fine bird in beauty
and surpassing it in song. It is difficult to determine at what
time its visits to us are paid. It is seen here sometimes before
the snow has left the ground, and is met with at intervening
periods till midsummer ; as this is the time for incubation, it
must rear its young in some places not distant, certainly, if
not within our bounds. At the latter part of the summer, our
gardens are frequented by the young in great numbers, and
bitter complaints are made, with or without reason, of their
depredations on the peas. Near the sea-shore they are much
less common than in the interior; in some years, it is rare in
all parts of the State.

42

330 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

This bird migrates to the south early in autumn, and on its
way, is seen in many parts of the Union; the nest is found
in New York and Pennsylvania, and regions farther north, but
in Labrador, Audubon did not find a single bird. The note of
this grosbeak is striking, particularly when heard, as it often
may be, in the silence of the night. It may be seen standing
with its wings lifted, as if to display the crimson lining, before
it begins its song. ‘The young are three years in obtaining
their plumage. ‘Tull then, they resemble the female, except
that the red begins early to show its traces on the breast. The
descriptions usually given of the bird, do not agree with spe-
cimens that are often found with stripes of white on the head
and over the eye. ‘The tail, instead of being forked, is very
slightly emarginate, if at all. The food of this grosbeak con-
sists of insects, berries and seeds.

The Buus Grosseax, F'ringilla cerulea, is not at present
known as one of our birds; but a gentleman, whose authority
is unquestionable, is confident that he has seen more than one
in this State. It will without much doubt, be numbered with
our occasional visiters, by future observers.

The Purpte Fincu, Fringilla purpurea, is not an uncom-
mon bird in this and more northern regions. Some of them
pass the breeding season here; the greater number keep on
toward the British provinces, where they spend the summer,
and return to the south about the time when the leaves fall.
At that season their food consists of insects and berries; when
these cannot be had, they eat the seeds and sometimes the
buds of trees.

TT 1e crimson linnet, as it is sometimes called, has a rich and
varied warble, clear as the softest tones of a flute. It sings not
easily and unconsciously, like the sweet vireo, which it resem-
bles, but more with the air of a performer, and as if it knew
that some one was standing still to listen. It runs through
various changes, with great rapidity and skill, and seems to
challenge all the feathered tribes, to rival its admirable song.

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 331

General Dearborn was the first to discover the nest of this
bird in Massachusetts. It was built on the low branch of a
balsam fir, with the outside covered with lichens. Mr. Cabot
and Dr. Brewer have also found them; but the number of
those that remain with us at that season, must be small.

The Pine Grospeak, Pyrrhula enucleator, is an inhabitant
of cold regions, and comes to us at irregular intervals, either in
winter or when that season is nigh. Professor Emmons tells
me that they were common near Williamstown in the autumn
of 1836, which was unusually gloomy and cold. They are
splendid birds, but so great strangers here, that they hardly
merit a description.

The Common Crosssiti, Loria curvirostra, belongs to
northern regions, and comes to us during the winter, in search
of food. It delights in the seeds of evergreens, and makes
use of its singular bill to extract them, holding the cones in
its claw, like the parrot, while it forces the seed vessels open.
At the south it is in the habit of tearing apples to picces, for
the sake of extracting the seeds. Wilson says, that in deep
snows, it is familiar at the cabin of the hunter ; when disturbed,
it flies only to the roof and soon descends to the ground, to
feed as before. When better food is wanting, it sometimes
relieves the sensation of hunger by swallowing bits of clay.
When engaged in eating, it may be seen standing on one-foot
and feeding itself with the other. It sometimes employs its
bill co aid itself in the act of climbing.

Audubon has not succeeded in finding the nest of this bird,
but he has explained the difference of markings as connected
with its particular age.

The Wuire-winceD Crossspitu, Loria leucoptera, visits us,
like the former, in the winter season. It is more common per-
haps than the other, but still is rare. It comes in large flocks,
and then is not seen for several years. In form and habits it

Bon!) BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

resembles the other; but is a much handsomer bird. It is
known by its colors, black and crimson, and by the white bands
upon the wings.

ZYGODACTYLI.

The YELLOW-BILLED Cuckoo, Coccyzus Americanus, arrives
from the south about the first of May, and is by no means an
uncommon bird. It is often heard when it cannot be seen,
uttering its loud, coarse notes, in rapid succession, from the
depth of the woodland shade. There is a prevailing impres-
sion that the cuckoo’s ery is the harbinger of rain, from which
it has derived its popular name of rain-crow. 'This bird flies in
silence, under the shadow of the foliage, as if it were conscious
of the discreditable manner in which its living is obtained,
and were not desirous to call the public attention to its pro-
ceedings ; for when thus seen, it is passing from the nest of
one small bird to another, to suck the new laid eggs. But
this is not all its subsistence. It devours many insects, among
others the large yellow cockchaffer, and thus does some good
to man, to atone for its injuries to its own race.

The cuckoo seldom follows the example of its foreign name-
sake, which lays its eggs in the nests of other birds. Tn this
country, that kind of knavery is almost confined to the cow-
bird. It builds for itself a hasty and carelessly constructed
nest. The eggs, from two to four in number, are bluish green.
If they are disturbed, the female is apt to desert the nest; but
if the young are hatched, it is so devoted and affectionate, that
it will almost be taken in the hand, rather than abandon its
charge. The young are fed with the hairy caterpillars that
are found on apple trees; but it is well that they are not
more numerous, since they might greatly diminish the num-
bers of other birds whose services would be more important
than theirs.

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. | 333

The Buracx-sittep CucKxoo, Coccyzus erythrophthalmus,
is often ,mistaken for the preceding, from which it differs in
some of its habits, beside arriving later in the spring. It feeds
on insects and birds’ eggs, like the other, but extends its bill of
fare to include the small shell-fish found in fresh waters and
the small frogs from wet grounds. For this reason it is often
found near the edge of water, or on branches bending down-
ward to the stream. ‘This species is less timid than the
other ; its note is equally: unmusical.

These birds build their nests in the forest, resembling those
of the former species, being little more than a flooring of twigs
and moss, with a slight hollow in the centre to receive the
eggs, These are from three to five, of the same color with
the other, but rather smaller.

The Gotpen-winceD WooppPeEckER, Picus auratus, is a very
common bird in our gardens, known when flying at a distance,
by the white on the lower part of the back, disclosed by the
open wings; when nearly examined, it is admired for the
beauty of its markings. It is driven from the northern states
in winter by the excessive cold, but in April it is with us
again, when its voice resembles a laugh, as if it were rejoicing
to be able to return. ‘They are cheerful, animated birds, which
do much to give life to our scenery in spring. Their flight is
strong and well sustained ; when passing from one tree to an-
other, they move in a straight line, till they come near the spot
where they mean to alight, when they raise themselves a few
feet and cling to the bark of the tree by their claws and their
tail, with a nod of the head and a note, from which they are
generally called the ‘Flicker.’ They hop on the ground with
ease, in search of food, which consists of insects and various -
kinds of fruit. In winter, they occasionally supply themselves
from the farmer’s corn. ‘They are a good deal persecuted by
black snakes, which steal their eggs and young; and also by
hawks, from which they escape by darting into a hole in a
tree, if any one is at hand, and if not, by alighting on a trunk,
and moving round it faster than the enemy can follow.

334 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

These birds are sometimes shot, but their practice of eating
ants and their larve gives a taste to their flesh. Sometimes
they are persecuted as fruit stealers, but most unwisely, for all
the vroodpeckers are very efficient aids to the horticulturist.
When they alight on a tree, they listen attentively, and the
slightest movement of an insect under the bark does not escape
them. They enlarge the hole by repeated blows of their pow-
erful bill ; then striking in their long, viscid tongues, with their
horny tip, they seize the grub, and put a period to his mining.

They build in hollow places, found, or made for the pur-
pose, in trees; and such is the strength of their bill, that they
have been known to make excavations a foot and a half deep,
into the heart of the hardest wood. Their blows may be
heard at a great distance, as loud as those of a hammer. ‘The
eggs, about six in number, and pure white, are deposited on
bits of the wood. Soon after the young are hatched, they
leave their den, and are fed on the branches of the tree till they

are able to fly.

The Prreatep WoopreckeEr, Picus pileatus, isa large and
powerful bird, not uncommon in the woodlands of Massachu-
setts, but seldom found in the vicinity of large towns. It does
not leave us in winter, like the preceding, but remains through-
out the year in our wild forests’; and almost every wood-cutter
can describe the rapid and angry manner in which he strips
the bark from a hemlock or spruce, throwing it in long flakes
around him. Should any one pursue him, he keeps far out of
his reach, laughing, as one would think from his loud cackle,
at his enemy’s vain endeavors. He never, under any circum-
stances, relents from his natural wildness. If wounded, he
makes fierce resistance to all attempts to seize him; and if
overpowered and carried captive, spends all his time in trying
to escape from his prison. This he can easily do, unless the
materials are very hard and strong ; and if he does not succeed,
he can make an impression in an hour on the walls of his house
of bondage, which the carpenter cannot repair in a day.

This bird excavates a gallery with its bill, for a nest, in

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 335

which it lays five or six white eggs. Sometimes it saves itself
this labor, by making use of a hollow tree. 'The young remain
for a considerable time with their parents, who feed them till
their bills are grown hard enough to procure a subsistence for
themselves. ‘This is not the case at first; for two or three
months, the bill is so soft that it can be bent with the fingers,
and it takes twice that time to harden it for the rough uses to
which it is to be applied. In the south, this bird is called the
Log-cock ; and the Black Woodcock in the middle states.

The Rep-HEapED WoopreckeEr, Picus erythrocephalus, is a
very elegant bird, and perhaps the most common of this fami-
liar race. When Wilson first landed in this country, long be-
fore he devoted himself to ornithology, as he was walking from
Newcastle to Philadelphia, he shot one of these birds; its fine
appearance and rich colors struck his imagination so much, that

it had an influence in determining his mind to that pursuit for
_ which he was afterwards renowned. After spending the win-
ter in the south, this bird returns to us in May, after which it
is very common in the interior, though somewhat rare in the
eastern part of the State. It makes its home in the woods, but
spends most of its time in gardens, particularly at the time
when the best fruits are ripe. It helps itself with the utmost
freedom, caring little for the rights or threats of the owner.
Fruit like apples, too large to be eaten on the spot, it carries
away, striking it with a jerk of the head, and flying off with
the apple sticking on its bill. ‘There is no secrecy or shyness
in its depredations; they are conducted with perfect good
nature, and with a confidence, fully expressed in its manner,
that the proprietor enjoys the appropriation as much as they do.
But there is another side to the account, for they show great
skill and industry in searching the trees for grubs, which
would be infinitely more destructive to the tree, than the
woodpecker to the fruit.

They make their holes in decaying trees, where the eggs,
white, with reddish spots at the larger end, are deposited with-
out the ceremony of a lining. ‘The black snake is a great de-

336 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

stroyer of the eggs and the young. They show considerable
local attachment, and for years in succession, they resort to the
same tree.

The Rep-peLtuiepD Wooprecker, Picus Carolinus, is said to
be unknown in the eastern part of the State. In the interior it
is found, and Professor Emmons tells me that he has shot the
bird in the season of incubation; others have taken them in
the autumn. They are found through the whole extent of the
United States; but instead of frequenting the gardens, they
choose the solitude of the forests, preferring the hardy inde-
pendence of the woodlands, to the dangers which threaten
them in the vicinity of man. They have no objection to the
first approaches of civilization, and come freely to the girdled
trees which surround the log hut of the borderer ; sometimes
they pay a visit to his cornfield, when animal food is wanting,
and their loud, barking cry, is one of the most familiar sounds
he hears. They were doubtless common in Massachusetts,
some years ago; but as they gradually withdraw before the
settlements, they will disappear as the forests are cut down ; a
consummation, which is quite as near at hand, as the friend of
civilization could desire.

The YELLow BELLIED Wooprecker, Picus varius, is found
in summer, in most parts of the State, but is not familiarly
known, because, like the former, it keeps itself within the
shade of the forest, seldom suffering either hunger or curiosity
to bring it near human habitations. Its notes, which are loud
and plaintive, differ from those of all others of its tribe; but
the bird is so shy and suspicious that it is not easy to discover
whence the sound proceeds. In its flight’ it seldom goes far-
ther than from one tree to another, and is hardly ever seen up-
on the ground. Its food consists of grubs and beetles. In the
summer, it varies its fare with berries and grapes, which it fre-
quently hangs, head downwards, from the vine, to gather.
When they migrate, they proceed by day in parties of half a
dozen, and at night take shelter all together in some hole in a

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. BBY

decaying tree. Sometimes on these occasions, they have sharp
conflicts with the Little Owl, in which they generally prevail
by perseverance and force of numbers.

This woodpecker bores its hole in a sound tree, the male
and female laboring alternately ; and such is the power of their
bills, that an excavation is sometimes made to the depth of
two feet, at the end of which is the nest. The entrance is
just large enough to admit the bird, but it grows larger, and
becomes quite spacious at the farther end. The eggs, from
four to six in number, and white with a slight blush, are laid
on the fragments of wood. 'The young remain in the hole till
they are fully fledged.

The Harry Wooppecker, Picus villosus, is a pretty bird,
which comes so familiarly near our houses, that every one has
seen it, intent upon its labor, searching for grubs and insects,
not only in trees, but in posts, rails, and all kinds of decaying
wood. Its call is a shrill whistle, and it makes a complaining
sound as it explores the bark of the trees. It is either very
tame, or so absorbed in its employment as not to regard the
presence of an observer. It builds in the branch of a tree;
sometimes taking one which is already hollow, sometimes
scooping out an opening, which it does by beating off frag-
ments with its bill, and scraping them out with its feet. The
eggs, like those of others of the race, are white. 'The female
is known by its wanting the red cockade on the back of the
head.

The Downy Wooprecker, Picus pubescens, a small and
very common species, is almost exactly like the former in every
thing but size. It is often called the sap-sucker, from its prac-
tice of making perforations in circles on the bark of trees. The
popular notion was that this is done in order to extract the
juices of the tree; but it is now well understood that the bird
is in search of insects, and that, so far from injuring the tree,
its proceeding is highly beneficial. It is amusing to observe

A3

308 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

the tenacious industry with which this little bird keeps on in
its labor, never leaving a spot till it has been thoroughly ex-
plored. There could not be a more signal instance of the man-
ner in which ignorance confounds friends and foes, than the
case of this poor bird, which, notwithstanding all its services,
is thus defamed and persecuted. In summer it is found in the
garden and the forest ; in the winter, it,may be seen from the
window, on the wood-pile or some old fruit tree, which it re-
lieves from many destroyers. It is perfectly happy under all
circumstances, and seems to look at mankind, not with disgust
and wonder at their folly, but with cheerful confidence that
they will do it justice at last.

The nest is made like that of the preceding species, either
in sound or hollow branches. The eggs, commonly six in
number, are white. The extensile part of the tongue of this
woodpecker, as well as of the two last described, is cylindrical,
while the extremity is linear, flat above, convex below, with the
tip pointed and the edges serrated backward; so that a grub,
once impaled upon it, cannot easily be withdrawn.

The THree-rorp Wooprrcker, Picus tridactylus, is found
in Massachusetts, but much more abundantly in Maine and
those northern regions in which it resides. Dr. Brewer informs
me, that a woodpecker, answering to the description of this,
was shot in Templeton, and that it breeds as near the border
as Keene in New Hampshire. It is distinguished by its yellow
crown, and that peculiar formation of the feet from which it
derives its name. In its voice and habits, it most resembles
the yellow-bellied ; its breeding habits are like those of all the
rest ; its motions, like those of the red-cockaded, are petulant
and restless, passing from one tree to another, or to different
parts of the same tree, without taking time to examine any
single spot. In the middle of the day, it is silent, and goes to
some solitary place to rest. It is sometimes seen chasing in-
sects in the air, but never hurts them on the ground. Its flight
is swift, gliding and undulatory ; at every gliding, it gives out

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 339

a loud, shrill note. These birds are more common in the
northern states, in winter, than at any other time; because
they are then driven from their homes by the severity of the
cold.

SLENDER BILLED BIRDS.

The Wuirte-spreastep Nuruatcn, S2tta Carolinensis is seen
in autumn and winter, not because it migrates to us at that
season, but because the supplies of food in the forest fail, and
it resorts to fields, gardens, and the neighborhood of houses, in
search of insects, such as ants and spiders. At a distance, it is
easily mistaken for the downy woodpecker, though more lively
in its motions. It moves sideways or head downwards, with
great rapidity, stopping every now and then to cast an in-
quiring look at the observer. Its bill is strong and sharp, and
when it would open an acorn or chestnut, it holds it in a cre-
vice, and splits it with strokes of its bill. Its tongue is capa-
ble of extension like the woodpeckers, so that it has great
advantages for procuring a subsistence ; but, if it were less
favored, it might contrive to live, since it is sometimes seen
hopping among the poultry on the ground.

These birds chisel out a perforation in a decaying tree, in
which to deposit the eggs. ‘These are five, dusky white,
spotted with brown at the larger end. The young are fed and
taught to fly with affectionate care. They are fond of roosting
in.their own nest, and are believed to return to it year after
year. hey are easily known by their cry, quank, two or three
times repeated, as they run over a tree.

The Rep-pevtiep Nuruatcu, Sitta Canadensis, is more
common among us than the other. It is not found farther
south than Maryland, and becomes more common as we pro-
ceed toward Maine, where many of them are hardy enough

340 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

to encounter the severest winters. It is a very active and in-
dustrious bird, always running over the branches of trees,
searching with sharp eyes, sometimes rapping with its bill, and
occasionally striking off a bit of moss or bark, to dislodge the
grub below ; the only time it has for resting is at night, when,
like others of the tribe, it holds by its feet to the bark and
sleeps, head downwards. It seems almost indifferent to the
presence of man, unless he comes near it with obviously bad
intentions. When it spends the winter here, it often comes
near our dwellings in search of food. Its flight, when seen
here, seldom extends farther than from one tree to another ; but
it must have great power to sustain itself on the wing, since
on one of his homeward voyages, Audubon saw one come on
board his vesse] at the distance of three hundred miles from
the shore ; it alighted on the rigging, and began to search for
food, but it had fasted too long, and in the course of the night
it died.

This species is partial to pine forests, where it feeds on the
seeds of the trees. Its nest is made in dead stumps, not high
above the ground. We have at present no account of its
breeding within the limits of our State.

The Buack anp Wuitre Creeper, Certhia varia, comes from
the south in April, and is seen running nimbly round the
trunks and large branches of trees, in search of insects, particu-
larly ants and their larve, which are its favorite food. It is
an unsuspicious bird, always too much taken up with its own
affairs to pay much regard to an observer. It moves by short
successive hops, with great rapidity, and in all directions with
equal facility, with the head either up or down. It has but a
very short flight, from one tree to another. -Its notes are a
series of ¢weats, rapidly pronounced, the last greatly prolonged.

Audubon says that at the south they breed in holes in trees,
but Nuttall found a nest in Roxbury, on the ground, protected
by a shelving rock, and composed of coarse strips of the inner
bark of the hemlock, which overshaded the spot. The lining
was a thin layer of hair. It contained four young birds. about

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 341

a week old, which the parents fed in his presence without fear.
The eggs are white, marked with brownish red spots at the
larger end.

The Brown Creeper, Certhia familiaris, makes its appear-
ance at the approach of winter, not coming from other regions,
but only from the forest, where it passes the milder season.
Its bill is not powerful, but it has the advantage of a rigid tail,
on which it rests while examining the bark of trees. Insects
are its chief dependence, though it sometimes eats the seeds of
the pine. With us it is not a common bird, nor is it known to
breed in our State.

The Humuine Birp, Trochilus colubris, is a beautiful little
visiter, that generally makes its appearance with the earliest
blossoms ; and almost always in considerable numbers, though
sometimes cold and wet seasons destroy many of the young.
Of man it is very fearless, being often seen on flowering vines
that climb over windows, and sometimes taking courage to en-
ter apartments in which flowers are to be found. Its bill is
long, and the tongue capable of extension. he bill is insert-
ed into the urns of flowers, and then, darting out its glutinous
tongue, it draws forth the insect from its fragrant home. After
feeding, the bird settles on a bough and dresses its feathers,
without caring who observes its motions. It is a mistake to
suppose that the honey of flowers is its principal support ; it is
rather its luxury than its means of subsistence ; without a sup-
ply of insecis, it will perish, as those have found who have en-
deavored to keep it on honey and sugar. ‘This delicate little
bird is easily reconciled to confinement, but it is so very sensi-
tive to cold, that a northern winter will destroy it, however
carefully it is guarded.

The nest of the humming bird is very ingeniously construct-
ed. It is generally placed on the large horizontal branch of an
apple tree, and covered with moss so as to resemble the place
where a limb has been taken off and a circle of bark has risen
round the spot. As the female is green, birds of prey might

342 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

easily pass over it, without discovering the nest below. ‘Their
nests are sometimes built in small trees and shrubs. I have
seen one on the drooping limb of a peach tree, not more than
three feet from the ground, and this was carefully covered with
moss, though there was none upon the tree. If any one goes
up to the nest, the parent flies up to him as an intimation that
he is doing wrong, then alights almost within the reach of his
arm, and watches his motions with composed attention. ‘The
parents feed their young with affectionate care, till they are
able to fly, and for about a week after. The young do not
come to their full plumage till the following spring.

HALCYONS.

The Britep KinertsHer, Alcedo alcyon, is found in the
neighborhood of fresh waters over all the United States. He
may generally be seen sitting on some post or dead branch, near
a solitary mill-dam, quietly watching his prey in the element
below. If fish do not come near him, he sweeps along the
course of the stream with rapid flight, and occasionally hovers
over the water, as if watching something beneath. Having
made sure of his aim, he darts down and seldom rises without
his prey. If scared from his retreat, he flies off with a grating
sound of displeasure, resembling the noise of a watchman’s rat-
tle. When the northern rivers are frozen, the kingfisher re-
sorts to the sea, where it may occasionally be seen fishing as
in fresh water. The nest of this bird, it is well known, is
made in an excavation, scooped in the side of a bank overhang-
ing a stream or mill pond. It extends to several feet in length,
with a larger chamber at the end. The eggs, about six in
number, white, are deposited on some twigs, grass and feathers.

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 343

SWALLOW TRIBE.

The Purrite Martin, Hirundo purpurea, is more intimate
with man than any other native bird. So great a favorite is
he, that lodgings are provided for him, by the northern farmer,
by the southern slave, and even by the Indian, who puts up a
calabash for him at his cabin door; not wholly from benevo-
lence, but because the martin pays rent, by keeping insects
from the deer skins and venison, exposed in the air to dry.

The martin spends the winter in the south, and reappears in
Louisiana in February, moving on deliberately in immense
flocks, which divide into smaller parties as they proceed.
They have a rapid flight, though not equal in that respect to
the Barn Swallow. They can drink and bathe on the wing,
without stopping for the purpose, by plunging hastily in the
stream and then shaking themselves to throw off the water.
They alight on the ground, and can walk with ease, notwith-
standing the shortness of their legs, which is unfavorable to
that kind of progression ; but flying is their favorite motion ;
and in the air, they can make themselves formidable by the
rapidity of their movements, to an enemy far superior in size.
Even the eagle, if he comes in sight of the martin’s box, is
compelled to retire in disgrace.

The nest of the martin is made, toward the last of April, of
sticks, willow twigs, grasses, leaves, rags and feathers. The
eggs are white, from four to six innumber. ‘The male takes
part in the work of incubation, and is very attentive to his
mate. If no habitation is provided for them, they will dislodge
bluebirds from their box, and after depriving them of their
home, will add insult to injury, abusing them on every occa-
sion. If no other lodgings can be found, they will resort to a
woodpecker’s hole. But they are not often driven to such ex-
tremities ; the industrious class of the community give them
shelter for the sake of their morning call, which is the earliest
that salutes the day. Their notes are generally pleasing,
though not in the least musical; and the martin, aware of the

344 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

estimation in which he is held, flies carelessly through the
street, poises himself in the air to look into windows, hangs by
the eaves of houses, plays with the kite string of the children,
or chases away the cat who seems to be prowling in search of
his young. As his food consists entirely of insects, his servi-
ces are very useful. There is a tradition, that they first came
into New England shortly before the revolutionary war, but
whether their history resembles that of the cliff swallow, in
this respect, or not, I am not able to determine.

The Barn Swatitow, Hirundo Americana, like the preced-
ing, is generally welcomed by the farmer, who knows that
these birds are of incalculable service in protecting his cattle
from the insects that torment them almost to madness, and
therefore is wise enough to allow them a shelter among the
rafters of his barn. In April they return from the south, and
soon begin to build against the timbers, with pellets of mud
from the borders of some neighboring stream, inlaid with slen-
der grasses, which serve to bind it together. ‘The eggs are
white, spotted with reddish brown. When the young are
fledged, the parents use persuasion to induce them to come out
from the nest, and try their first flight in the barn. When
they have gained a little confidence, they go forth to some
wall, fence or tree, where the parents can feed them without
trouble. 'They soon become so expert in receiving food, that
the parent can feed the young one, while both are on the wing,
In fact, they seem in their element only when flying, their
movements being easy and graceful, apparently without effort,
and so rapid that no bird can equal them in fleetness. Before
the close of summer, the barn swallows are seen in flocks, con-
stantly increasing in number, and alighting on churches, barns
or high trees, chattering gaily to each other, as if some inter-
esting plan was in view. They are talking over the subject
of their migration ; and on some fair morning they set forth,
following the course of streams or the sea beach, and thus with
very little delay, proceed beyond the limits of the Union. The
idea that these birds avoided the severity of winter by plunging

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 345

into the mud, is now generally abandoned. No doubt many
are found occasionally, on draining mill-ponds, and under cir-
cumstances which it is not easy to explain; but no one pre-
tends that one swallow has been reanimated after its submer-
sion, nor is there anything in the structure of the bird which
authorizes us to suppose that it can live beneath the water.
Least of all should we expect any such proceeding from a bird
which can fly more than a mile a minute, and in a day or two
can reach those regions where the flowers do not wither nor
the leaves fall. When they return in the spring, the bank
swallows, which pass the winter in Florida, come first; the
white-bellied follows; next the purple martin ; then the barn
swallows ; and last, the chimney swallows. 'The probability
is, that those which are latest in returning, come from the
most distant winter quarters, and that the extent of their mi-
gration may be determined by the date of their usual reappear-
ance in the spring.

The Curr Swattow, Hirundo fulva, was hardly known to
naturalists till within a quarter of acentury. The first account
of its habits was derived from Long’s expedition to the Rocky
Mountains. Since that time the whole body have commenced
a great system of emigration, moving gradually on towards the
Atlantic, till now it is become quite common in many parts of
New England. A peculiar sagacity is manifested by this and
the chimney swallow. Its wild practice was to build against
the sides of cliffs; but when it comes into civilized life, it
builds under eaves and cornices, where its nest is partially
sheltered from the rain. The first emigrants who came in-
formed the rest of their discovery, and induced the whole tribe
to make a radical change in some of the most important habits
of their lives. 'The nest is a large patch of clay mixed with
sand, having an entrance near the top, rounded, projecting, and
bent downward ; the whole resembling a coarse earthen
retort, with the neck broken off, stuck and flattened against the
side of the building. 'The nest has a lining of dry grass and
straw, on which are generally four eggs, white, with dusky

44

346 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

spots. These birds defend their nest, when attacked, with great
spirit and resolution. ‘They are not common as yet in the
eastern part of the State, but in the west they begin to abound.

The Wuite-BeELLirp Swattow, Hirundo bicolor, is not so
common in the western part of this State as either of the two
preceding. It differs from them in never using mud in the
construction of its nest, which is made of dry grass and lined
with feathers. The eggs are four or five in number, of a pure
white. Other swallows are harmonious and friendly to each
other; but these are angry and quarrelsome. In taking their
food, they make a snapping noise with the bill. This bird re-
turns in spring earlier than any of its tribe, except the sand.
martin ; and though not particularly friendly to its own kindred,
it is on good terms with man, and well disposed to accept the
lodgings which he provides.

The Banx Swatiow, Hirundo riparia, is found wherever
there is a sandy bank on the side of a pit or river. There it
bores a hole with its bill, below the upper edge of the bank;
having opened it so far as to insert its body, it scrapes the sand
with the feet, inclining the excavation upward, in order that
the waste earth may fall out readily below. The depth varies,
in different situations, from two feet to five; the end is enlarged
in the form of an oven, to receive the nest. 'These birds are
so gentle, industrious, and friendly to each other, that it is quite
interesting to see them engaged in their labor. 'They often,
unfortunately, are compelled to work in vain. Idle boys de-
stroy their tenement, or some ¢mprovement destroys the bank ;
but they are so hopeful and persevering, that they will continue
boring the earth, even when the shovel, day after day, destroys
the results of their exertion.

The nest is formed with bits of dry grass and feathers. The
eggs of the first brood are from five to seven, of a pure white.
The young, as soon as they are able, crawl to the entrance,
where they become a prey to crows and hawks, which le in
wait to catch them, both at that time, and after they have left

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 347

the nest to perch in trees. In winter, these birds resort to East
Florida, where they are seen by thousands. Audubon has dis-
covered that there is another species, nearly resembling this,
and often confounded with it. He has given it the name of
rough-winged swallow, H. serripennis. The bill is longer,
with the point of the upper mandible more decurved. The
tail is shorter and but slightly emarginate. There are no
feathers on the hinder part of the tarsus, as in the common spe-
cies, and the wings extend half an inch beyond the tail.

The Cuimyer Swatiow, Cypselus pelasgius, is a singular
bird, which formerly, when the country was unsettled, made
its nest and place of resort in hollow trees; but having discov-
ered that chimneys have an advantage over those wild tene-
ments, and that a great proportion of them are not in use in the
summer, it has now become familiar with man, and abounds in
almost all the towns and villages of the country. As soon as
they arrive in May, they select a chimney for their encamp-
ment, where both sexes roost together at night; and if not dis-
turbed in their rendezvous, they return to it several years in
succession. Here they may be seen in the evening, flying
round in broad circles, till it grows dark; at leagth, as one
passes over it, he drops into it as if dead. One after another, at
intervals, follows his example, whirring wih their wings as
they descend, and making a sound like discant thunder. ‘They
spend the night on the sides of the flue, clinging with their
claws and resting on their tails, all in profound repose. At the
first glimpse of daybreak, all are in motion, and they pour out
in a rushing volume, as if the chimney were bursting out with
flames; for a moment it trembles to its foundation ; but the
swallows disperse to their several cares, and it is left deserted
for the day.

Each pair select a chimney in the neighborhood, taking one
which appears to be disused for the season. Their first process
is to collect twigs, which they break off in an ingenious man-
ner, grasping them with their claws and pushing the body sud-
denly against them, by which the stick is separated from the

048 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

branch with the end in the swallow’s grasp. These they glue
to the side of the flue with their saliva, to form the frame
work of their nest, which is placed four or five feet from the
top. In this rude basket-work their eggs are laid without the
semblance of a lining. ‘They are white, and from four to six
in number. In wet weather these nests are often dislodged,
and come down with the young in them ; sometimes the young
fall out of the nest. In either case, they scramble up the
chimney and support themselves with their claws and their
tail, till they are able to fly, in a place near the mouth of the
flue, where the parent can conveniently feed them. Before
the end of the summer they all disappear, leaving us earlier
than other swallows, because they have a greater distance
to go.

The Wuuippoorwit., caprimulgus vociferus, is not often
seen, because compelled by its delicate sense of vision, to re-
treat into the forests, to escape the blaze of day ; but every one
knows its wild and melancholy song, which, when it first ar-
rives, is heard from the distant woods, but comes nearer as the
season advances, and at last is heard very near the dwellings
of men. ‘Tre song of birds is always expressive of happiness ;
but the complaining notes of the whippoorwill seem to indicate
suffering, and create a sympathy in the hearer, which the case
of the bird does not call for ; since all this while, it is collect-
ing moths, beetles, ants and grasshoppers ; and instead of fore-
boding change and disaster, it is employed advantageously for
us, and no doubt to its own satisfaction, in destroying insects
that trouble the repose of the caitle. The barn-yard aflords it
a foraging ground, which it often visits; sometimes it takes its
station on the step of the house door, not chasing its prey on
the wing, like the night hawk, but waiting till insects pass by;
when they appear, it rises to snatch them, and then resumes its
position, and proceeds with its song.

The nest of the whippoorwill, if it can be said to have any,
is a mere hollow place in the ground, in some retired part of
the woods. The eggs, bluish white, with blotches of dark

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 349

olive, are laid directly on the ground. 'The young are soon
able to run about, and until they can fly, are sufficiently pro-
tected by their resemblance to the ground. This bird is very
susceptible of cold; during the severe season of 1832, many of
them were found dead in New England in the month of June.
It would be no subject of regret if they were more common in
Massachusetts, for their note is pleasant, heard in the silence
of evening, and their services in destroying insects are not
balanced by any injuries whatever.

The Nicur Hawk, Caprimulgus Virginianus, notwithstand-
ing its popular name, is much less properly called a bird of
night than the former. It flies in the day, even when the sun
is shining, and retires to rest before it is late in the evening,
about at the time when the whippoorwill begins his song. Its
wings are very large in proportion to its weight, and its flight
is firm and graceful; it sweeps in circles, sometimes rising
high in the air, then shooting suddenly downward, with a
sharp squeak, which seems to say that it has caught sight of
its victim. In the evening, it flies lower than by day, often
striking off wildly from its line of flight, doubtless to pursue
some insect which its sharp eye has discovered. It can hardly
walk on the ground, nor even stand erect without resting on
its breast. When it grows dark, it alights on the earth, or on
fences, where it passes the night, giving a squeak now and
then, as if it were still following its prey in dreams.

In May, the female deposits her muddy colored and freckled
eggs on the naked ground, without any sort of preparation.
The young, like those of the preceding species, are sufficiently
guarded, by the resemblance of the down, which covers them,
to the ground, in which they nestle. 'The food of the night
hawk consists of insects, which it secures and swallows while
flying. It is strange that Wilson was obliged to take so much
pains to show that this and the whippoorwill are different. birds,
when, beside that one flies by day and the other by night, the
whippoorwill is so formed, that he can walk firmly and fast,
while the night hawk can hardly support itself on the ground,

350 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

and, when it perches, is obliged to stand on the branch length-
wise, in order to lean upon its breast. Beside this, the closed
wings of the former do not extend so far as the tail by two
inches, while these of the night hawk are longer than the tail.
In the night hawk the tail is forked, while that of the whip-
poorwill is rounded. It shows that Wilson labored in a field
which had been very little explored, and it is wonderful that
he did not leave more errors to be corrected, and deficiencies to
be supplied, by later observers.

PIGEON TRIBE.

The Carotina Turtue Dove, Columba Carolinensis, is
common enough at the western part of Massachusetts, where it
is called the Mourning Dove, from the plaintiveness of its call,
which is often heard in the woods. The sound seems expres-
sive of deep affliction, but the bird that makes it 1s very happy,
and quite unconscious of the interest which he inspires., When
these doves come to the north in the spring, they disperse in
small parties, and it is not often that more than two are seen
together. ‘They are generally met with in roads through the
forest, to which they resort in order to dust themselves and
swallow gravel. ‘They are by no means shy, though unobtru-
sive in their manners; they are sometimes seen among the
domestic poultry, as they go to be fed at the farmer’s door.
Occasionally they join the flocks of passenger pigeons, and are
taken in snares, together with their relations. Their food con-
sists of grain and small acorns, together with poke, partridge,
and dogwood berries, in their season. ‘They are said to be
easily tamed, and to raise their young in confinement ; if so,
they would reward attempts at domestication, since the flesh is
pronounced equal to that of the woodcock, by those who pro-
fess to be judges of such matters.

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 351

The Passeneer Picron, Columba migratoria, is a hardy
wayfarer, which cares very little for climate, and is governed
in its migrations, not by the desire to escape a cold climate, or
to build its nest in a mild one, but simply by the necessity of
going where food abounds, because no small supply will satisfy
the appetite of such immense numbers. Having powers of
vision equal to their power of flight, they can easily take a sur-
vey of the country over which they are passing ; if they de-
termine to descend, they break the force of their motion by
repeated flappings of their wings, to keep themselves from be-
ing injured by dashing upon the ground. So swiftly do they
move over an immense extent of country, that they have been
killed near New York, with their crops full of rice from South
Carolina plantations. In the Atlantic states, their numbers are
nothing compared to the countless multitudes which assemble
in the west, where, as they pass over, the rush and roar seem
like those of a tornado, darkening all the sky. But their num-
bers, though reduced from those of former times, are still con-
siderable, and as soon as it is known in a neighborhood, that
the pigeons are flying over, it is the signal for assembling all
the arts and instruments of destruction. Many are shot with
the gun; many are taken with nets; and others are decoyed
by pigeons with their eyes blinded, which are stationed on a
roost, provided for the purpose ; the roost being shaken with
a string, these pigeons open their wings to balance themselves ;
and the wayfarers, supposing that they have just alighted, after
examining the region, think it safe to come down and join
them without farther investigation.

The accounts of the breeding places of the pigeons at the
west are almost incredible. Some of them extend several
miles, covering thousands of acres; the grass and underwood
is ail destroyed ; the ground overspread with limbs, broken
down with the weight of the birds clustering upon them, and
the trees killed as completely asif girdled with the axe. When
the young are fully grown, but have not yet left the nest, a
general invasion is made upon the spot. Hawks and eagles
snatch them from above; hogs devour the thousands that fall

352 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

to the ground; the axe-men cut down the trees most loaded
with nests, and the crash of falling timber mingles with the
thundering roar of the wings of ten thousand pigeons. One
large tree, as it descends, often brings down several others, and
two hundred squabs have been gathered by means of a single
fall. "The multitudes of birds are continually breaking down
large branches with their weight, so that it is dangerous to
walk below.

There is some disagreement in the accounts given of their
breeding. Wilson maintained that there was but a single young
one in a nest ; while Audubon asserts that there are two. ‘The

rodigious numbers of the birds would seem to confirm the
statement of the latter. The young come to maturity in six
months. Every year they, at least, double their numbers.

One office of the pigeon seems to be to protect the oak for-
ests. It is stated, on excellent authority, that for some years
after they have occupied a particular spot as their breeding
place, the oaks, for many miles around, are remarkably free
from the green caterpillars, by which they are apt to be in-
fested.

GALLINACEOUS BIRDS.

The Witp Turkey, Meleagris gallopavo, was formerly com-
mon in all parts of the United States, but has gradually disap-
peared before the encroachments of civilization, and is rare,
except in the unsettled regions of the west. It is still found
occasionally in our western mountains, and also on the Holyoke
range, where some are taken almost every year. Its migra-
tions, like those of the pigeon, are irregular, having nothing to
do with seasons, and are governed wholly by the supply of
food. This fine bird is so uncommon in Massachusetts that it
does not seem necessary to describe it at large ; in a few years
it will doubtless leave us forever.

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 3593

The American Quam, or Partriper, Perdix Virginiana, is
quite common in Massachusetts, where it bears the former
name; in the southern and western states, it is always known
by the name of Partridge. It remains with us throughout the
year, and sometimes suffers so much from the deep snows, that
it may be seen in the sheds and near the houses of our largest
villages, in search of shelter and food. A party will sometimes
resist the cold by collecting in a circle, pressing close, with their
heads outward, borrowing warmth from each other; but in
our fiercest winter storms they sometimes perish under the
drifted snow.

The quail is a gentle bird, and fond of asscciating with its
own race, though not in large numbers. It generally resorts to
open fields in search of food, such as grain, buck wheat and
Indian corn. It sometimes joins the parties of domestic fowls
and scratches the ground after their example. ‘hough it is
fond of grain, it requires something more for its support; and
the demand of the young quails for insects makes the chief
difficulty in the way of its domestication. 'The female pre-
pares a nest of various grasses, arranged in an oven-like form,
under the protection of a tuft, and partly sunk in the ground.
The eggs are from ten to eighteen, of apure white. ‘The male
takes part in sitting, and as soon as the young are hatched, they
are able to leave the nest. Wilson believed that the quail
might be domesticated. Its eggs have sometimes been hatched
by the common hen, and the chickens are sufficiently tame ;
but though kept through the season and the succeeding winter,
they go away in the spring. Two that were brought up by a
hen, as soon as they were turned off, associated with the cows,
going with them to the pasture in the morning, returning at
night, and standing by them when they were milked, waiting
to share their lodgings in the barn. These, however, contented
as they appeared, deserted, like all the rest, in the spring.
This wildness might after a time be overcome; but there
would be more difficulty in supplyiug all the food they require,
and after all it would be doubtful whether success would repay
the care and attention which it would demand.

45

354 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

The note of the quail is well known, being generally inter-
preted into the prediction, more wet, more wet ; the sounds are
continued for a long time. This note of the male is most fre-
quent and loud in the month of September. Sometimes
there is an introductory whistle preceding the clear and em-
phatic more wet, or bob white. ‘This call may be easily imi-
tated so as to deceive the bird. When a covey are about to
take wing, they make a sound resembling that of young chick-
ens; when they separate, the parent assembles them by a
plaintive and expressive call.

The Rurrep Grous, Tetrao umbellus, is called pheasant in
the middle and western states, and partridge in New England ;
a confusion of names somewhat perplexing. 'These elegant
birds generally keep themselves within the shelter of the woods,
and prefer those which grow on the sides of mountains. There
they can find their food at all seasons; it consists, in spring
and autumn, of the buds of various trees, the catkins of the
alder and hazle, and all the berries that the fields and forest
afford. In winter, they live on the buds of apple-trees, laurels
and azaleas, together with the berries of the wintergreen, and
the favorite partridge berry, which they are able to rescue from
the snow.

The ruffed grous begins its drumming in April; the sound
is heard most frequently at the beginning and at the close of
day. It is produced by the male, who beats his sides with such
a rapid motion as to make this sound resembling distant thun-
der, which is heard at a prodigious distance in the woods. It
is said to be imitated by striking an inflated bladder with a
stick ; on hearing it, the male takes it for a challenge, and as
he comes forth to do battle with his supposed rival, he falls an
easy prey. ‘Ihe nest is constructed in May. It is little more
than a handful of leaves, spread under a bush, or at the side of
a fallen log, and unlike that of the quail, it has no roof above.
The eggs are from nine to fifteen, brownish white. 'The young
leave the nest as soon as hatched, and are led by the mother
with a cluck like that of the hen. If the family are sur-

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 355

prised, the mother resorts to arts like those of the quail, throw-
ing herself on the ground, fluttering and beating with her
wings, as if hardly able to move; and while she thus draws off
the attention of the intruder, she calls to the young to dis-
perse and hide themselves. ‘They do this so effectually that
they are seldom found, though they only creep among the dry
leaves, or remain perfectly still, trusting that their resemblance
to the earth will conceal them from an unfriendly eye.

The old birds, when hard pressed by the hunter, if there is
snow on the ground, save themselves by diving into it, and
working their way out at some distance from the place where
they went in. Much as they are pursued, they are still
abundant in New England, and the wildness of their habits
will save them from extermination so long as the forests are
permitted to last. ‘They are now cut down with wanton pro-
fusion ; and as fast as they are cleared away, birds of this de-
scription are driven to other regions less infested by man.

The Pinnatep Grous, Tetrao cupido, was once very com-
mon in New England, but, being more shy than the preceding
species, it has already been driven from all but a very few pla-
ces, where it is comparatively free from intrusion. Audubon
says, that when he first went to Kentucky, they were so abun-
dant, that they could hardly be given away ; now, hardly one
can be found in the State, and they are, in like manner, fast
disappearing from all the settled parts of the west. In Massa-
chusetts, laws have been enacted to preserve the heath-hen, as
it is commonly called ; but it is impossible to withstand the
operation of the law of nature by legislative enactments, and
the same causes which have removed the greater proportion
will soon deprive us of all. The better way is to try the ex-
periment of domestication ; the bird is easily tamed, and breeds
in confinement. Some which Audubon kept for the purpose,
soon became familiar, and would eat from the hand as readily
as common fowls. Unfortunately, they became so destructive
to the vegetables of the garden, that he was obliged to have
them killed ; but the experiment proceeded far enough to show,

356 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

that neither the natural wildness of the bird, nor the want of
proper food, would prevent their being reared by any one who
is willing to take the trouble.

The grous feeds on berries of various kinds, in their season,
the acorns of dwarf oaks, and the buds and leaves of trees. In
summer, they pick whortleberries and cranberries, and some-
times venture into a field to pick the leaves of clover. It is
said, that, sometimes in winter, when they are hard pressed
with hunger, they will feed on the buds of the pine. They
are also known, under those circumstances, to join the domes-
tic poultry.

The tooting, for which these birds are remarkable, is pro-
duced by means of the air bags at the side. When these, re-
sembling a small orange, are inflated, the bird lowers its head,
opens its bill, and sends forth the air contained in these recep-
tacles, in a succession of rolling notes, like those of a muffled
drum. In parts of the country where the birds are become
few and wild, this sound is seldom made after sun-rise, and
sometimes the battles of the rival males are carried on in si-
lence, and the scratching grounds carefully concealed.

The nest is built in May, with dry leaves and grasses, inter-
woven, and is carefully placed amidst the tall grass of a large
tuft, where it is not often discovered. The eggs, from eight
to twelve in number, resemble those of the preceding species,
though somewhat larger in size. The female sits nearly three
weeks, and as soon as the young are hatched, leads them away
from the nest. When surprised, they conceal themselves, like
young pattridges, and one may search for them in vain, though
perhaps he is treading them under his feet. In autumn, the
different families associate together, sometimes in very large
parties. Their most dangerous enemies are the hawk, the
skunk, and the greatest of all destroyers, man.

The only place where they are now found in Massachusetts,
is in Martha’s Vineyard, and one small island near it; and
there, though pains are taken to protect them, they are said to
diminish fast, the high price which they command in the mar-
ket, being a strong temptation to shoot them. Cats, also, which

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 357

run wild in the island, do their part in the work of extermina-
tion. The wonder is, that with all their timidity, they have
remained so long, but their patience and their attachment to
their old haunts will be wearied out, and other means must be
found to gratify the epicure’s taste, and the sportsman’s love
of pleasure. ‘The order of nature supplies such game, as a re-
source for the pioneers of civilization, while the process of
clearing the soil goes on; till the earth is subdued, the deer,
the birds, and the fish, supply means of sustaining life. But
when agriculture, and the other arts of life, begin to be pur-
sued with profit and success, these resources cease to be need-
ed; the habits of the hunter are inconsistent with regular in-
dustry ; and as the game would only serve to tempt men away
from their cares and duties, the forests and streams are desert-
ed, and their wild tenants go where there are other adventu-
rers who need them. If the gallinaceous tribes can be pre-
served, it is by domestication, not by law. Experiments should
be made for several years in succession, and if these fail, we
must make up our minds to lose them.

WADING. BIRDS.

The Sanperuinc, Calidris arenaria, is an autumnal and
winter visiter, which arrives from its northern breeding places
in August, and spreads along the coast from Maine to Florida.
They are seen in flocks, running in the face of the waves, and
uttering a plaintive whistle, as they gather the small shellfish,
insects, and other minute animals, with which the beach
abounds. This bird obtains much of its subsistence by insert-
ing its bill obliquely in the sands; it does this with great ac-
tivity, and when the tide is going down, great numbers of the
holes which are made by this process, are seen upon the wet
beach. ‘They can run very fast upon the sands ; their flight is

358 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

rapid, but they generally alight at no great distance from the
spot whence they started. When they return to us in autumn,
from the northern regions, they are in good order for eating,
and their flesh is much esteemed.

The Buacx necxep Hitt, Himantopus nigricollis, if known
at all in Massachusetts, appears only as an accidental visiter.
Dr. Brewer tells me that a bird somewhat answering to the
description of this has been seen occasionally near New Bed-
ford, but he has never obtained a specimen.

The American Oysrer-catcuer, Haematopus palliatus, is
found along our whole Atlantic coast, but more rarely in New
England than in other parts of the country. It spends the
winter in the south, and returns to the north in spring. Its
breeding places extend from the middle states to Labrador,
where it was found breeding in July. Dr. Brewer informs me
that he has once found this bird in Massachusetts. We learn
from Audubon, that he has never found the Hematopus ostra-
legus, described by Wilson, in any part of this country, and,
though he does not say it is not to be found, it is more likely
that this species has been mistaken for it, than that it should
have escaped his searching observation. This bird is exceed-
ingly difficult to approach, flying off the moment it perceives
that any one is watching it ; so that it was only with a teles-
cope that he could observe its motions, as it probed the sand
with it bill, tore off the limpets by inserting its bill as a wedge
between the fish and the rock, or beat a shell-fish against the
sand, for the purpose of breaking the shell. These birds return
to the south early in October.

The Gotpen Puiover, charadrius pluvialis, is a common
bird on our coast in spring and autumn, when they return from
their breeding places in the north, and prolong their stay, till
they are driven away by the approach of winter. They live
principally on such insects as are found in the vicinity of the
sea; they are sometimes seen patting the earth with their feet,

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 359

to force out the worm from his burrow, but when grasshoppers
are to be had, they appear to be the plover’s favorite focd.
They assemble in such immense flocks, that on one occasion,
when Audubon accompanied some French gunners from New
Orleans to shoot them, one man killed sixty-three dozens in the
course of the day. When they are about taking their depar-
ture, they assemble in large flocks in the morning, though they
rest apart from each other at night; and at such times, they
are caught in great numbers in nets, which they are driven
into by creating a panic among them. No difference can be
detected between this and the golden plover of Europe ; it is
doubtless the same with the bird so abundant in the Hebrides,
and found in most parts of the known world.

The Pieine PLover, Charadrius melodus, so called from its
pleasant, though plaintive note, is found along our whole coast
in summer. ‘They spend the winter on the shores of the
southern states. In the spring they proceed to the eastward in
pairs ; if they find a suitable breeding place on the way, they
alight and take possession, and as they are soon joined by oth-
ers, they soon form a considerable party. In autumn, they
move in flocks of twenty or thirty, always keeping near the
shore. Its flight is strong and rapid, but it is more remarkable
for its swiftness in running, which is so great, that it eludes
the eye, and reposes quietly on the sand, which it so much re-
sembles that it has no fear of being detected. I have no infor-
mation of its nest having been found in our State, but it can
hardly be that it should breed so far on each side of us, and
yet pass us by. ‘The piping plover is valued as game, but the
sportsman generally gives his attention to birds of larger size.

Witson’s Prover, Charadrius Wilsonius, a species resem-
bling the preceding, and named in honor of the great ornitholo-
gist, is a constant resident in the southern states, but was sup-
posed never to come farther to the east than Long Island.
Audubon thought it strange that its range should be so limited,
compared with that of the piping plover. I am, however, in-

360 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

formed by Dr. Brewer, that Wilson’s plover was abundant at
Nahant in August of the last year. It was probably some ir-
regular movement, which would not be repeated every year,
since it is hardly to be supposed that the bird should be often
in our limits, and yet escape the eye of so many accurate ob-
servers.

The KitprEer Piover, Charadrius vociferus, is a common
bird, which spends the winter at the south, but returns early
in the spring, leaving the coast and spreading over the inland
country, where it is found in open fields, and on the banks of
streams, and known by the name of kili-dee. It seems to have
sreat sagacity in suspecting danger. In the presence of hor-
ses, cows and sheep, it is perfectly indifferent ; but if a man or
dog appears, it betrays extreme uneasiness and distrust. When
they move in small flocks, they appoint one as sentinel, who
stands on tiptoe, watching all the objects around ; when any-
thing appears, in the least suspicious, it sounds the alarm, and
the place is at once deserted.

The kildeer plover makes its nest on the ground of a field,
or the sand of the downs, sometimes lining it with grass, at
others laying the eggs on the naked earth; they are four in
number, of a cream color, blotched with black ; the young run
about as soon as they are hatched, and the parents are kept in
perpetual agitation by fears for their safety.

The food of the kildeer consists of grasshoppers, crickets,
snails and earth worms. They often strike their bill into the
ground, in search of their prey. In the meadow, they pat the
ground, to force out the worms, and sometimes follow the
ploughman, to seize those which he has turned out from the
sround. They have a peculiar motion of the body, when
about to pick up their food, in order to bring their bills to the
earth to reach their prey. The flesh of this plover is often
eaten in the fall, but at other seasons it is poor and ill flavored ;
indeed, there is hardly any time when it is worth the trouble
of shooting.

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 361

The Srempatmatep Prover, Charadrius semipalmatus, is
not an uncommon bird, and is seen on our coast in the spring,
from the last of April till the end of May; then it goes to high
northern latitudes to spend the breeding season, at which time,
Dr. Richardson assures us, they abound in the arctic regions.
As soon as the young have acquired strength for the journey,
they set out on their return, and early in August they again
make their appearance on our shores. 'They feed on land as
well as marine insects, though they are generally seen playing
before the waves on the beach. They are found in the mar-
kets of our cities at the close of summer, and are well esteemed

for food.

The Buacx-BeLuiep Piover, Charadrius Helveticus, called
sometimes the large Whistling Field Plover, because of its at-
tachment to newly-ploughed fields, where it finds the insects
and berries which compose its food, is found over a large extent
of country, having breeding places from Pennsylvania to the
most distant northern regions known to civilized man. It often
chooses the field for the place of its nest, which is carelessly
made of dry grass, and in which are laid four eggs, of cream
color, dashed with black. Nuttall says, that their nests are of
rare occurrence in New England, but does not say whether he
had ever found them. In the summer they feed on various
berries, and are valued as food. Atthe close of August, they
go down with their young to the borders of the sea, where
they live on such materials as the shores afford them. They
are called the beetle-headed plovers, and sometimes the kildeer,
from their cry, in which they resemble that restless bird, as
well as in their never-resting suspicion. Toward the last of
September they collect in great flocks, preparatory to their mi-
eration, but linger with us for a considerable time before

they go.

The Turnstone, Strepsilus interpres, derives its popular
name from the habit of turning over stones with the bill and
sometimes the breast, to find insects and worms beneath them,

46

362 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

a habit which they are said to retain when in a domesticated
state. ‘They arrive in the spring, and linger on the shores till
the summer, when they hurry away to the desolate coasts of
the northern ocean, where they breed. 'They return in August,
and, as the weather grows cold, move off to the south, extending
their migration over a vast extent of country. The turnstone
flies with a loud twittering note, and runs with its wings low-
ered, but not rapidly. They do not collect in great numbers,
like the sandpipers, but are seen in small parties of three or
four. The bill resembles that of the nuthatch, and is used
with great skill in collecting food. It is strong enough to
break the shells of many small shell fish ; from others, it picks
out the flesh like the oyster catcher.

The Great Biuet Heron, Ardea herodias, is a constant res-
ident in Massachusetts, searching for its prey, in winter, in
springs and ponds, which are not sealed up by the cold. It
seems indifferent to climate, but is not found very far to the
north, though it is seen westward as far as the Rocky Moun-
tains. It is ashy and suspicious bird, with most penetrating
and far-reaching powers of vision, so that it is extremely diffi-
cult to approach it, except in the depth of the wood. Their
principal food is fish ; but they have an extensive bill of fare,
embracing frogs, lizards, meadow mice, young rats, snakes and
birds. It does not refuse insects when it can find nothing bet-
ter ; but it prefers fish, and has been known to expose itself so
much in order to secure it, as to plunder a pond of its gold fish.
It suffered the penalty of its transgression, but not till it had
eaten the last fish. The amount which it will devour exceeds
belief. These birds have great strength and spirit, so as to
make it dangerous even for a man to encounter them, since
they seem to know the points most unguarded, and always aim
at the eye. The blue heron breeds under various circumstan-
ces, sometimes in communities, sometimes apart ; some nests
are in very tall trees, some lower, and others are on the ground.
The eggs are three, of a bluish white color, and larger than
those of a hen. ‘The old ones provide very liberally for the

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 363

young till they are able to shift for themselves, when they turn
them adrift without ceremony, and, from want of experience,
they often suffer for the want of food. 'They take three years
to reach maturity, and even after that period they sometimes
continue to grow.

The Great Wuirr Heron, Ardea egretta, is, according to
Audubon, sometimes seen as far eastward as Massachusetts.

The Wuire Heron, Ardea alba, is inserted on the authority
of Audubon, who, as Dr. Brewer informs me, has ascertained
that it is sometimes found in this State. Its principal resi-
dence is in the southern regions, and when it comes to the
north, it is found on the low marshy shores of rivers and broad
Swamps, where it is open to view, but contrives to escape from
injury by its watchful suspicion. :

The Snowy Heron, Ardea candidissima, is inserted on the
same great authority ; but it seldom comes farther to che north
than New York. It was said to proceed as far as the gulf of St.
Lawrence, but Wilson was probably misled by his informer.
They come from the south in May, and in summer they are
seen along the coast from this State to the gulf of Mexico. It
is a fine looking bird, with animated and graceful motions ; if
wounded, it defends itself vigorously, and sometimes inflicts a
severe wound. he fall of the leaf is che signal for its depar-
ture. This heron is often exposed for sale in the southern mar-
kets, and in the early part of autumn the flesh is said to be
good.

The Nicut Heron, Ardea nycticorar, called the Qua-bird
from its peculiar call, is found in the southern states through-
out the year, but many of them come to the north in spring,
and their breeding places extend as far eastward as Maine.
One of their breeding places is found in a marshy island in
Fresh pond, in Cambridge, where they continue to resort,
though exposed to much persecution. 'Their sight by day is

364 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

imperfect ; but the sense of hearing is so quick, that it is very
difficult to approach them. They have a strong and steady
flight, and seldom alight on the ground, without first resting on
the neighboring trees to examine the spot. On the ground it
walks stooping, and is constantly moving about in search of
food, which consists of frogs, tadpoles, water insects, and fish,
which it wades deep in the water to procure. When satiated
it retires to a tree or aswamp, and there reposes on one leg,
but starts from its slumber on the least alarm. When taken,
it defends itself with its bill, but sometimes uses its claws with
serious effect, making a rough and angry sound, and constantly
attempting to escape.

The nest is formed of sticks arranged on each other so care-
lessly, that it is sometimes overset by the young. The eggs
are four in number, of a light sea green. The young remaina
long time in the nest; as soon as they are able, they climb to
the tops of the trees, and there wait to be fed. ‘Their flesh is
said to be as good as that of the pigeon. They undergo three
annual changes of plumage before they reach their mature
state.

The American Brrrern, Ardea minor, sometimes called the
Night Hen, from its nocturnal habits, is a retired bird, which
remains hidden in the reeds and sedge throughout the day,
never leaving its retreat, except in cases of alarm. It then flies
off with a hollow ery, and as its motions are heavy, it is easily
brought down. ‘They feed mostly in the night, and it is in the
dusk of morning and evening that their booming note is usually
heard. ‘They breed in the northern regions, where their nests
are made in swamps among the coarse grass; the eggs are four,
of a green color. ‘They also breed in this State.

The Green Heron, Ardea virescens, is better known than
any other of the tribe, and, without any reason, is heid in gen-
eral contempt. He cares very little, however, for the scorn or
favor of man, and neither seeks nor fears his society. He pre-
fers the solitude of swamps and marshes, where he can associ-

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 365

ate with birds of habits similar to his own, and there seeks his
subsistence from the waters or the muddy shores. If fishes or
frogs make their appearance, for which he waits patiently, he
seizes them with great adroitness; dragonflies and other in-
sects, also serve to help out his fare. When surprised, he rises
with a hollow scream, but flies only to a little distance, as if
considering just how far it is necessary to go. The nest is
made of twigs, and placed on trees; the eggs four, of a pale
blue. They sometimes breed apart, sometimes in company
with each other, and not unfrequently put themselves under
the protection of the larger herons. They come from the south
in April, and return in October, not in large flocks, but in small
family parties.

The Least Birrern, Ardea exilis, the smallest of this class
of birds, is so slender that it can pass between two books set an
inch apart from each other without displacing them. From
their habit of retiring into extensive marshes, they are but sel-
dom seen, as they rise only in sudden alarm. At such times,
they fly slowly and timidly ; but, like other nocturnal birds,
as the enemy comes on, their flight grows confident and strong.
Its food consists of snails, tadpoles, field mice and moles, which
it collects, sometimes by day, but more frequently at night ;
in the day, they sleep so soundly that they are sometimes ap-
proached and caught in the hand. Their nest is among coarse
grasses, and either on the ground or attached to the stalks a
little way above it. It is formed of dried weeds, and contains
three or four eggs, of a dull yellowish green. Though they
breed here, their nests are seldom found, and no one has yet
given an account of their migrations.

The Bay Isis, [bis falcinellus, is a rare and accidental visi-
ter, inserted on the authority of Nuttall, who says that a single
specimen is sometimes offered for sale in the market at Boston.

The Lone sintep Curtew, Numenius longirostris, is seen
in Massachusetts in the spring, on its way to the north to

366 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

breed; in August they return, to spend the winter in warmer
regions. Dr. Brewer tells me that he has seen large flocks of
them at Nahant, and they are offered for sale in the market in
Boston, at the close of the summer. The name curlew, is an
imitation of their cry of alarm, by counterfeiting which, the
fowler takes advantage of their sympathy, and brings them
within his fatal reach.

The Esquimavux Curtew, Numenius Hudsonicus, passes the
winter at the south, and returns in the spring, on its way to
the north, where it breeds ; but in what place is not known.
Audubon could not find them at Labrador, nor learn that any
had ever been seen in that country. In August and September
they return, and many of them are shot in Boston harbor.
They are found in pastures as well as marshes, feeding on
grasshoppers and berries, till the time of their departure, when
they assemble in large flocks, preparatory to their migration.

The Smatt Esquimmaux Curtew, Numenius borealis, like the
preceding, go to the north inthe spring. ‘Though they abound-
ed at Labrador, Audubon found none remaining to breed there ;
they also proceed beyond Hudson’s Bay ; but Dr. Richardson
succeeded in finding a nest at Point Lake, in the month of
June. At the close of summer, these birds arrive in company
with the preceding, and feed, like them, in marshes and pas-
tures. ‘They are also valued as game. ‘Though sufficiently
common here, this bird is hardly ever seen in the southern
states, which it must pass through or pass over in its annual
flight. Even Audubon, before he went to Labrador, had never
seen more than a single specimen, furnished by Mr. Oakes, of
this State.

The Curtew Sanppirer, Tringa subarquata, is an exceed-
ingly rare bird; inserted here, because Audubon tells us that
of the few specimens which he has ever seen, two were pro-
cured in Boston.

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 367

The Rep gackepD Sanppiper, Tinga alpina, is called in
England the Dunlin, in this country the Red-back, or the Ox-
bird. They make their way to the north in the spring, where
they go far within the arctic circle. In September they re-
turn, and are seen in company with other sand birds, running
gaily before the breaking waves.

Scuinz’s Sanppirer, Tringa Schinzti, has been found by
Mr. Oakes in this State. Bonaparte says it is common in
autumn, on the coast of New Jersey. They resemble other
sandpipers in their habits and food, but even Audubon has
never found them breeding.

The Prectorat Sanppirer, Tinga pectoralis, is more abun-
dant on the shores of Massachusetts Bay than in any other part
of the country. ‘They arrive at the last of August, and remain
till the fall of the leaf, feeding on insects and a kind of sea-
weed. ‘heir northern breeding places are as yet entirely un-
known.

The Burr preasteD Sanppirer, Tyinga rufescens, is not
uncommon in the Boston market, in August and September,
but so rare in other parts of the country, that Wilson never
saw it, and Audubon first met with it in England. He re-
ceived a wing of this bird from Captain Ross, that was picked
up by a sailor on the Arctic expedition, and this is all we know
concerning it in the regions where it must undoubtedly breed.
Here it associates with the preceding species, which it resem-
bles in form, though not in plumage, and feeds with it, on in-
sects, particularly grasshoppers, which abound in the neigh-
borhood of the sea.

The Broap BILLED Sanppirer, T'ringa platyrhinca, is very
rare in the United States, but I am enabled to add it to our
list, on the authority of Mr. 8. Cabot, Jr., who procured a spec-
imen at Nahant, the only one which, te my knowledge, has
been found in Massachusetts.

368 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

The Purrite Sanppirer, Tringa maritima, is another of
these wanderers, which abounds in autumn, and is sold in the
market at Boston, but is less common in other parts of the
United States. They fly in flocks of eight or ten, avoiding
sandy beaches, and alighting on rocky shores ; from which pe-
culiarity in their habits, they are sometimes called rock snipes,
by the fowlers. Audubon did not find them breeding at Lab-
rador, but Dr. Richardson says that they breed abundantly on
the shores of Hudson’s Bay.

The Lirrte Sanppiper, Tringa pusilla, which is, as Dr.
Brewer informs us, the same with Wilson’s Sandpiper, is known
by the name of Peep, and is found, in its season, on all the
shores and in all the markets of the Union. It goes to the
north to breed, like the rest of the tribe; but returns in the
early summer in large flocks, roving from place to place in
search of food. Its bill is pointed and flexible ; and in order to
collect its fare of worms and insects, the bill is inserted in the
~ mud or wet sand, after the manner of the woodcock. This bird
leaves us before the fall of the leaf, and passes the winter in
distant southern regions.

The Kwnor, or AsH-coLoreD Sanppiper, JVringa cinerea,
appears on our coast in May, on its way to the north, whence
it returns before the end of summer, and is seen in large flocks,
collecting small shell fish along the strand, moving with great
adroitness under the edge of the waves. ‘The shell fish are
swallowed whole; but the birds grow fat upon them. While
thus employed the birds are easily approached; nor does the
fate of those that are shot strike any fear into the survivors.

The SemrpatmateD Sanppiper, Tringa semipalmata, is
sometimes confounded with the peep, with which it often as-
sociates; but is obviously distinguished from it by its half-
webbed feet. This habit of keeping company with other birds
has prevented accurate observation of its periods. Wilson says
that it arrives and departs with the sanderling, and associates

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 369

with the red back, though in flocks apart from each other.
They are found in the salt marshes near Boston, and are consid-
ered better eating than any other of the small birds.

The SemrpaLMaTep Snipe, Totanus semipalmatus, is not com-
mon in Massachusetts, though it is found near Boston, and oc-
casionally breeds near New Bedford. Itis known by the name
of Willet, a sound resembling its usual cry. It is a shy and
artful bird, and not approached by the fowler without cunning
equal to its own. It makes its nest on the ground in the
marsh, constructing it with the coarse grass which grows on
the spot ; it contains four eggs, of a yellowish olive, blotched
and speckled with dark umber. In the autumn, the young are
known by their grey color, and are marked out by the fowler
as excellent game. ‘They come to us before the end of April,
and return before winter to the southern states.

The Text Tare, T'otanus vociferus, whose name is given
in consequence of its habit of sounding an alarm to all birds
within reach, whenever the fowler is nigh, and thereby saving
many ducks from the fate that would otherwise await them.
In Massachusetts they are uncommon; though they sometimes
touch upon the capes ‘in considerable numbers, it seems only a
stop for the purpose of resting in their migration.

The Yettow Suanxs, Totanus flavipes, is a common sum-
mer resident in this State. Its breeding place extends from the
middle states to the high northern regions ; but common as the
young birds are, the nest has not yet been found in our borders.
Its breeding place in Nova Scotia is found in the grass on the
edges of ponds and rivers. 'The bird resides chiefly on flats
and marshes, and is seldom seen at any considerable distance
from the sea. Their food consists of small fish, aquatic insects
and worms. It is a shy bird, which often gives an alarm to
others that are less on their guard; but they do not associate
with other birds, though often seen near them. When alarmed
‘they run to some distance before they fly; when they take

AT

370 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

wing, they are known by their long yellow legs, stretched out
behind them to steer their flight. It has been said, that when
one was shot its companions would gather round it; but, like
other creatures, their sympathy is principally vocal, and seldom
indulged at any risk to themselves.

The Sonirary Tartier, Totanus chloropygius, is seen in
Massachusetts in the autumn, on its way from the north where
it breeds. Dr. Richardson says that it makes no nest, but lays
its eggs on the naked beach or the gravel. It is very unsuspi-
cious ; and when it takes wing, returns to the same place after
a wheeling flight, and contents itself with occasional glances at
the observer. The solitary habits, however, from which these
birds derive their name, protect them; since their numbers are
too small to tempt the sportsman. When so wounded as to be
unable to fly, they take to the water to save themselves by
swimming and diving. Nuttall says that two of these little
birds frequented the fish pond in the Botanic garden at
Cambridge, in search of the insects which feed on the water
lily ; these they secured by stepping lightly and with expanded
wings over the leaves which rested on the water.

The Srorren Tatrier, Jotanus macularius, is one of our
most common birds from May to October. From its note, it is
called the Peet-weet, which is its familiar name. It is seen
about creeks and rivers, flying in winding sweeps and sounding
its clear whisile. When the young are added to the company,
they keep up a constant call to each other, so that the whole
region is eloquent with the sound. They usually breed in
meadows, in nests made of the grass, slightly arranged for the
purpose, with a lining of hay. Sometimes they lay directly
on the ground. The eggs are four, cream-colored, with spots
of brown. The female practises the same arts with the quail,
to secure her young, and they, when alarmed, trust to their
color, and remain motionless on the ground.

Bartrram’s Tarriter, Totanus Bartramuus, is a bird first de-

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. STA

scribed by Wilson, who found it on the banks of the Schuyl-
kill, and named it in honor of his friend. It is common on the
sea coasts, but not confined to them; it extends into the coun-
try, where it is called the upland plover, and is seen running
through the grass in search of insects; grasshoppers being its
favorite food. Its breeding range extends from the middle
states to the fur countries; to these it returns in the month of
May, when its nests are made in various parts of the State.
They keep in small parties, and are always suspicious of dan-
ger; when alarmed, they run fast, and make a sharp whistle as
they take wing to fly. Fearful as they are of man, they are
sreat friends to the cattle. ‘They commonly find food in such
abundance, that they grow very fat, and their flesh is consid-
ered a great luxury.

The Marsurp Gopwit, Limosa fedoa, is a visiter in this
State in the spring and autumn, on its way to and from the
north, where its breeding places are but little known. In Au-
sust they appear in large numbers, and many are shot for the
table, though their stay is very short, and their habits are shy.
The fowler has little chance of success, except he resorts to
stratagem, or alarms and confuses them by shooting one of the
number ; in which case they hover round the fallen, with many
complaints of what has been done.

The Hupsonian Gopwitr, Limosa Hudsonica, is not common
here, though it abounds in its northern breeding places; so
that the great proportion must travel and return over land, or
turn away to the northwestern shores. Audubon never saw it,
till he found it in the Boston market, where it is called the
goose bird. Dr. Brewer tells me that he doubts the existence
of L. fedoa in America, and suspects that the bird so called,
will turn out to be the adult of the present species.

The Rep spreastep Snipr, Scolopar grisea, arrives on our
coast, from the south, in April, and spends three or four weeks,
never going far from the shores, and frequenting the flats and

372 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

sand bars, at low water, in search of food; while so engaged,
they can be approached more easily in a boat than on the
shore, and as they often settle very near each other, great num-
bers are shot down. Their breeding places must extend from
the northern shore of Lake Superior to the coast of the Arctic
Sea, but their nest and eggs have not yet been described. In
July, they return with their families, and are considered a great
luxury for the table. ‘They find abundance of food, by insert-
ing their bills in the ground and drawing out the larve of wa-
ter insects, which are hidden below. 'They also make use of
some plants and seeds; and, like many other birds, swallow
gravel to aid in disposing of their food.

The American Snrez, Scolopar Wilsonii, was first shown
by Wilson to be different from that of Europe, and is therefore
honored with his celebrated name. It is well known to sports-
men, who take advantage of its local attachment, and by ascer-
taining its favorite resorts, are able to shoot large numbers.
They arrive early in the spring, from their winter quarters in
the south, and are found on meadows and low grounds, when,
at evening and early in the morning, their peculiar murmur,
which cannot be described by words, is heard proceeding from
these birds, soaring high in the air. It does not seem to be
owing to the beating of the wings, as one might suppose from
the sound ; it is, no doubt, a call of love, since after the time
of incubation ceases, it is heard no more for the season. This
bird breeds in soft marshes, where man cannot easily disturb
it, laying its eggs in a hollow, loosely lined with grass. They
are four in number, of a yellow olive, speckled with light and
dark brown. 'The young leave the nest as soon as hatched.
Their bill is, for some time, soft and easily bent ; meantime
they feed on small insects, such as lie on the surface of the
wet soil; as they grow older, they learn, like their parents, to
strike the bill firmly into the ground. When one of them
alights, it listens to see that all is safe, then strikes its bill into
the ground several times, in quick succession, till it is satisfied,
when it lies close till the evening. ‘Their security and de-

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 373

fence generally consist in lying still. When suddenly start-
led, they fly in a zig-zag course, to elude the aim of the fowler,
and it is so difficult to shoot them, that they are most frequent-
ly caught in snares. ‘Their food consisting of insects, ground
worms, and juicy roots, they grow fat, and are in great demand
for the table. Many epicures are said to eat the bird with all
that is in it when killed, making no selection; but, inasmuch
as leeches are part of its fare, and are not considered luxurious
food for man, it is as well to eat this game with more discrimi-
nation, and less gastronomical taste.

The Amrrican Woopcock, Rusticola minor, is a very com-
mon bird, but not often seen in the fields, except by sportsmen,
because of their nocturnal habits, in which they exceed the
snipe, hardly ever flying in the day time, and travelling and
feeding almost exclusively by night. They remain in woods
and thickets till evening, when they proceed to the broken soil
in search of worms and insects, and leave perforations made by
their bills in the soft ground, showing where they have been.
They have such delicacy of perception, by means of the bill,
that they make but little use of the eyes in feeding ; they
plunge their bills up to the nostrils, and suck up their prey.
The eyes of this bird are placed high, and far back in the
head, probably for the purpose of seeing enemies at a distance,
and watching their motions, without betraying the place where
it les, by any movement on its own part.

The vroodcock returns from the south very early in the
spring, and soon after selects a breeding place in the woods,
where the nest is set on the ground, and formed of dry grass
and leaves. The eggs are four, of a yellowish clay color, and
marked with blotches of purple and dark brown. The young
leave the nest as soon as hatched, but three or four weeks
elapse, before they are able to fly. During the time of incuba-
tion, the male rises in a spiral flight, after the manner of the
snipe, making a hurried sound as he ascends, which increases
as he descends, when it becomes loud and sweet. When he
touches the ground, he makes a bleating sound with a forward

374 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

movement of the body, and then waits to see if his call is an-
swered. ‘The woodcock, unlike the snipe, which never flies
through the woods, often goes into the depth of the. forest, and
turns over the dead leaves with its bill, like the pigeon, in
search of the insects that may lie below.

Toward the last of October, as their food begins to fail, the
woodcocks leave the interior, and move toward the sea, in
preparation for their migration to the south. 'They take the
journey in the evening, not in flocks, but following each other,
in close succession, so as to make almost an unbroken line.
They do not leave the coast, however, till winter begins.
From August till their departure, they are in good order for
the table. and are shot in great numbers by those who are
versed in this kind of sporting. In Louisiana they are killed
by men with torches, which the birds stand gazing upon, till
the fowler knocks them down with a stick.

The Viremiun Ram, Rallus Virginianus, spends the win-
ter in the southern states, and returns to us in May. It hides
in swamps and marshes, in the day time, and only ventures
abroad at night; but it feeds both by night and day, on water
insects, worms and seeds. It is extremely swift in running,
and if pursued by a dog, will change its direction so often, ris-
ing on its wings at times, that he soon loses its track, as it es-
capes among the weeds. When on the wing, it can be shot,
as it flies low and heavily, and only a short distance at a time.
The nest is not easily found, being generally placed in a tuft,
in soft meadows, where it is not easy for aman to go. It is a
little raised by means of the stalks of grasses, with a shallow
cavity, lined with dry weeds, to contain the eggs. ‘These are
from four to seven in number, of a dusky white, with specks
of brown red and pale purple, thickest toward the larger end.
Dr. Brewer succeeded in finding one of these nests in a small
meadow-near Jamaica Plain, and within a few yards of the
Providence rail-road.

The Sora Rait, Rallus Carolinus, which was formerly

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 375

thought to follow the example of the swallow, and bury itself
in the mud for the sake of passing the winter pleasantly, is a
rare bird in Massachusetts. Birds of passage, on their way to
their breeding places in the north, move on with very little de-
lay ; but on their return, having nothing but the fear of winter
to hasten their motions, they linger till their instinct warns
them that the last minute is come. It is, accordingly, in the
autumn only, that this bird has been seen in our State. The
same gentleman who ascertained that the former species breeds
here, suspects that the nests of the other rails will hereafter
be found; they have been discovered on the borders of
Lake Champlain and the North River.

The Yrtiow-BreasteD Raw, Rallus Noveboracensis, is also
rare here, and in most parts of the United States. From May
to September, it is found on the shores of Hudson’s Bay, where
it breeds; and on its return to winter quarters, probably takes an
inland route, the greater proportion avoiding the Atlantic states.
From Audubon, we learn that only a few, comparatively, go to
the north; the great body remain in the extreme southern parts
of the United States throughout the year.

The Purrne Gauimune, Gallinula Martinica, and the
Florida Gallinule, G. galeata, have already been mentioned
as rare and accidental visiters in the State.

LOBE-FOOTED BIRDS.

The Cinereous Coor, Lulica Americana, is found in almost
every part of North America, seeming to have little choice of
climate or temperature, and to regulate its migrations by the
scarcity or abundance of food. ‘They appear among us in early
autumn, and remain till November, when they leave us for the
south by night. Their food consists of seeds, grasses, worms,

376 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

snails and insects, together with such small fish as they catch
upon the edges of the water, to which they add a quanity of
gravel and coarse sand. 'They are not seen to dive, except
when wounded ; then they make their way under water to the
grass or reeds, and then swim for the nearest shore, where, not-
withstanding the awkward appearance of their legs and feet,
they walk with firmness, and run, if necessary, with great ex-
pedition. They probably breed in the State occasionally ;
Nuttall mentions that a pair took up their residence in Fresh
pond in April, and in June were seen accompanied by their
young ; but their nests and eggs have not been found in this,
nor, I believe, in any of the states of the Union.

The Rep PHataroprz, Phalaropus fulicarius, visits us on its
return from the north in autumn; but they are seldom seen in
Massachusetts. Audubon mentions that once, when sailing in
a packet sixty miles from Nantucket, the vessel encountered a
bed of seaweeds and froth, on which were hundreds of red
phalaropes, walking with as much ease and confidence as if on
shore.

The Hyprrergzorean Puatarorrt, Phalaropus hyperboraeus,
is, as its name implies, a northern bird, seldom seen farther
south than New York. Dr. Brewer tells me that he has pro-
cured them here in May, but they are more abundant toward
the Bay of Fundy. None are seen in the interior; and they
are found in the greatest numbers on the banks of seaweed,
floating on the ocean, at great distances from the shore.

Wison’s PHatarore, Phalaropus Wilsonii, is a rare visiter,
which, Dr. Brewer tells me, I may insert on the authority of
Audubon, who has found it in various places along the eastern
coast, from Boston to New Jersey; but it is not sufficiently
common to have its history well understood.

The CresteD Grese, Podiceps cristatus, is a bird which
breeds in the fur countries, and is seen here late in the season

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 377

on its return to the south; but while some proceed by the
coast, more seem to follow the course of the great rivers, since
they are seen in great numbers in the western states, flying at
all hours of the day. From their alertness in diving, by which
they often elude the aim of the fowler, they are called Dippers ;
when pursued, they keep only the bill above water; and Au-
dubon says that they are easily caught when in ponds, by hooks
placed on lines near the ground.

The Rep-neckep Gree, Podiceps rubricollis, is found along
the coast from New York to Maine, in winter. In the fur
countries, they are common in the breeding season. Dr. Brewer
tells me that he has procured them here in the winter, which,
unlike the former, they spend in the eastern states.

The Hornep Gree, Podiceps cornutus, returns from the
north in October, when it is seen in Massachusetts. Dr.
Brewer classes it with those that spend the winter here; but
the greater proportion must go on, since they are common at
that season, on the southern inlets and rivers. While here,
they keep in the salt water, diving with great celerity, and
soon becoming so familiar with the gun, as to hide under water
whenever they hear it. Nuttall mentions that the stomach of
those which he has opened has generally contained quantities
of their own feathers, plucked from the breast and swallowed.
Audubon says the stomach contains hair-like substances rolled
together like the pellets of owls; particulars which require more
explanation than our present acquaintance with their habits
enables any naturalist to give.

The Piep-sittep Grese,or Doscuicx, Podiceps Carolinensis,
comes to us from the north early in autumn, and remains till
the approach of winter. Those found here are generally young.
Their food consists of plants, seeds, water insects and small
fish, together with which they swallow gravel. In the gizzards
of some which Audubon examined, he found collections like
those just mentioned, which consisted of the down of thistles

A8

378 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

and other plants, which had been swallowed together with the
seed. These birds dive with great quickness, and use their
wings under water; they sink so gently as to leave no ripple
showing where they went down, nothing but the small end of
the bill remains above, and this easily escapes observation, par-
ticularly among the bulrushes, to which they resort when
alarmed. Nothing was known of their nests, till Audubon
found one near the banks of the Wabash River. None have
ever been found in this State.

WEB-FOOTED BIRDS.

The Cayenne Tern, Sterna Cayana, is common at the south,
where it breeds. Audubon also found it breeding at Labrador ;
so that, although none have yet been seen here, they must pass
by us, and will probably be found to touch upon the coast of
our State.

The Common Tern, Sterna hirundo, is common on our
coast, where it bears the name of Mackerel Gull, from its being
supposed to announce the arrival of that fish in its summer
quarters. In May, they prepare, if it can be called prepar-
ing, a nest on some rocky islet or sand bar, where their eggs,
are laid, with only a little’sand scraped up to keep them in
place ; and in all pleasant days are left to be warmed by the
sun, the female sitting only at night and in foul weather. The
eggs are of dull yellowish olive, with dark brown specks and
blotches. The parents, though they appear so careless of their
domestic establishment, watch over it with anxious vigilance,
and are very bold in resisting intrusion. They breed at Egg rock
near Nahant. When the young are first hatched, they tear fishin
pieces to feed them; afterwards they drop the fish among
them, where it is seized by the strongest; but they find other

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 379

resources in the insects which they collect for themselves, ram-
bling near the spot, but always attending to the voice of the
old bird, when it warns them that danger is nigh. In winter
they migrate to warmer regions.

The Rosrate Tern, Sterna Dougalli, has received its
popular name from the color of the breast, which, however,
soon fades after death. Audubon found them in great num-
bers, breeding, on the Keys of Florida, and Nuttall procured
one specimen at Chelsea Beach. Its eastern visit was probably
accidental.

The Siutvery Tern, Sterna minuta, the same with the Les-
ser Tern of Wilson, comes to us in the spring, later than the
preceding. It is not uncommon on our shores, where it is
seen dashing into the water, like a little fish-hawk, to secure its
prey, or chasing insects over the pools and marshes. It some-
times goes into the interior, and has been found at a great dis-
tance from the sea. ‘They are generally careless and unsuspi-
cious, and pay little regard to an observer.

Bonaparte’s Guti, Larus Bonapartii, is seen occasionally,
early in autumn, on the coast of this State, and its whistling is
heard in the air, as it proceeds to the south or inland, to feed.

The Kirriwaxe Guuu, Larus tridactylus, is common along
the coast, from New York to Eastport, though never seen in
the interior. Audubon found it in great abundance on some
‘of the islands in Boston harbor. In the air, its motions are
light, bold and graceful, sweeping ‘in broad circles at an im-
mense height in the air, then stooping downwards to rest upon
the waves. It is so awkward on the ground, that it can hard-
ly walk; and it gathers its food, even the shell-fish from the
sands, while on the wing.

The Common Guu, Larus zonorhyncus, is quite abundant
on our coast, but it understands the danger of too near ap-

380 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

proach to man, and keeps, as much as possible, out of his
reach. It floats gracefully in the air, till something attracts its
attention, when it descends in a spiral curve, and seizing a
fish, flies off, alights and swallows it at leisure. When satis-
fied with food, they rest themselves by swimming in parties on
the waves, their white plumage contrasting strongly with the
deep green of the sea. When spring has commenced, the gulls
assemble in flocks, on flats and beaches, and when paired, fly
off to their breeding places, which Audubon found in great
numbers in Labrador, and the eastern part of Maine. Part. of
their food consists of shell-fish, which, being unable otherwise
to break the shell, they are said to carry high into the air, and
to let them fall on the rocks below.

The Sinvery Gui, Larus fuscus, is found on our coasts in
winter, and is said to breed, both in the northern regions, and
in islands near South Carolina.

The Herrine Guii, Larus argentatus, is, according to Dr.
Brewer, the most common species in the State. Audubon
found them breeding at an island in the Bay of Fundy, where
he was assured that, formerly, all made their nests, like other
seabirds, on the ground ; but finding that they were often dis-
turbed by intrusive visiters, they had, many of them, adopted
the practice of building in trees, a reach of sagacity one would
hardly have expected from such a quarter. ‘he younger ones
still build on the earth; but, while those which are hatched
below run about in a few days, those which are in the trees,
do not undertake to leave their nests till they are able to fly. ~
The same distinguished ornithologist saw one of these birds
which had taken avery hard shell-fish, carry it into the air
and let it fall without effect; it tried the experiment again,
and yet a third time, when it succeeded; the gull, after each
failure, carrying it higher than before. Much of their food
consists of herrings, which they catch by following the shoals ;
they sometimes feed on small birds, and suck all the eggs they
can find.

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 381

The Wuite-wincep Guu, Larus leucopterus, is inserted on
the authority of Dr. Brewer, who has obtained it near Boston.
It is not found farther south than New York. Its flight resem-
bles that of the preceding species, but it differs from it in size
and markings, as well as in its greater fearlessness of man. It
breeds in the high northern regions.

The Buack-Backep Guitt, Larus marinus, is inserted on
the authority of the gentleman just mentioned, who has found
it in Boston harbor. It is a large and powerful bird, and
though shy and timid towards man, is very oppressive to other
sea-birds. It devours voraciously all sorts of food except vege-
tables, even in the last stages of decay, but young birds and
fish are its favorite food. The fish are caught as it flies, and
if .not too large, swallowed without suspending its flight. It
makes great consternation among the sea-fowl, by sucking their
eggs, without regard to the remonstrances of the owners.
When young ducks are on the water, they seize them, none
except the eider having courage to resist; they sometimes
plunge after fish in a considerable depth of water, but have no
facility in diving. These birds, powerful as their flight is, do
not go very far to the north to breed, nor are their breeding
places found more toward the south than the eastern extremity
of Maine. ‘They do not go into the interior, except on the
great lakes ; they appear to rejoice in the storms of the ocean,
having power to force their way against the heaviest wind.

The Sxua Gut, Lestris catarractes, called by Linnezus the
cataract yager, from the manner in which it darts down upon
its prey, is a bird belonging to high northern latitudes, but in
the depth of winter it comes as far south as Massachusetts. It
is a strong and daring bird, and though considerably less in size
than the preceding, readily attacks and puts him to flight. If
its nest is disturbed, it is completely insensible to danger, and
gives battle at once, not only to all other animals, but even to
man. WHaving all the rapacious habits of the gulls, with all

382 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

this strength and courage, it is considered by other birds as the
pirate of the shores,

Ricuarpson’s Jacer, Lestris Richardsonii, visits the coast
of Massachusetts and Maine, in the winter season, when it is
seen on the inland bays about Boston, flying in pairs, or sitting
on the water. Its flight is firm and long continued, and it takes
advantage of it to pursue other sea-birds, and force them to
disgorge their prey. It breeds in the fur countries, but, res-
pecting its habits at that season, very little is known. Audu-
bon has doubts whether it is a distinct species from the one
which follows.

The Arctic Jacer, Lestris parasiticus, inhabits the north-
ern sea shores in summer, and in winter is found in Florida.
It resembles the preceding in its habits of plundering other
birds of the fruit of their labors. By means of its long tail, it
can suddenly check its flight or change its direction, so that
the victims of its oppression cannot escape its pursuit.

The Pomarine Jager, Lestris pomarinus, is a bird which
Audubon never had the opportunity of examining till he went
to Labrador, but Dr. Brewer has obtained it in Massachusetts
bay, and thus authorized us to claim it as a visiter of the State.
So far as its habits are ascertained, they are like those of other
gulls, but its history is very imperfectly known.

The Stormy Perret, Thalassidroma Wilsonit, is found on
almost all the Atlantic, and known to seamen, who look upon
it with very little affection, by the name of Mother Carey’s
chicken. It follows the vessel in its course through the deep,
not caring whither it goes, and when the tempest rises, seems
so indifferent to its raging, or rather to enjoy it so much, that
the superstitious formerly believed that this harmless bird had
some agency in raising the storms. It is called the Petrel, from
its walking, like the apostle Peter, on the surface of the water,
where it gathers any food that may be thrown from the vessel

‘ BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 383

which it pursues. After it grows dark it rests on the water for
the night; but on the following morning, easily overtakes the
vessel that has left it behind. In general it is rather silent,
but at times it makes a low sound, as if asking the seaman to
throw it out some food. It usually subsists on resources sup-
plied by its favorite element, the sea.

The Forx tamwep Pretrret, Thalassidroma Leachii, was
said by Bonaparte, to be uncommon on the American shores ;
but Audubon declares that on the coast of Massachusetts, this
is much more abundant than the other species. On approach-
ing land, when returning from Europe, he shot a number of
those that surrounded the vessel, and found among them speci-
mens of all the three. This is the most suspicious, never fly-
ing close to the vessel like the others; it is not known to
alight on the rigging, and rests less frequently upon the water.
But its food is the same, consisting of such small fish and crus-
tacea as it can pick up from floating seaweed on the water, or
oily substances thrown from vessels into the sea. ‘These birds
are able to bear considerable abstinence, but everything which
they swallow, seems to be turned to oil, and their flesh is rank
and unpleasant to the taste. 'They are found breeding in the
fissures of rocks, above the reach of the spray, while the pre-
ceding burrows in the sand on low islands. ‘Though this bird
seems so bound to the ocean, by all its habits and wants, I
have had one brought to me which was taken near Chicopee
river in Springfield, seventy miles from the shore.

The Futmar Petre, Procellaria glacialis, has been found
by Audubon from Long Island to Newfoundland, but I do not
know that any one has, as yet, been taken within the State.
This is the bird so well known as the main dependence of the
singular inhabitants of St. Kilda, one of the western isles of
Scotland.

The Snow Goose, Anser hyperboreus, breeds in Arctic Amer-
ica, resorting to the sandy shores of lakes and rivers. They

384 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. .

are SO cautious as to station one of their number as a sentinel,
to warn them of approaching danger. They return with their
families in September, after which they are occasionally seen
in Massachusetts bay. They are very noisy, and their note is
distinguished from that of the common wild goose, by its
greater shrillness. ‘Their flesh is said to be better than that of
the latter species. As the cold grows severe, they leave us for
their winter quarters.

The Canapa Goosr, Anser Canadensis, is well known in
Massachusetts, as one of the heralds of spring. ‘Their spring
migration appears always determined by the advance of the
season, and the melting of the snow, which discloses a supply
of grass and berries, uninjured by the frost, and ready as a re-
source for food. Their arrival is most welcome in the fur coun-
tries, where the aborigines depend upon them for their subsist-
ence in summer. 'The hunter sets up stuffed birds as a decoy,
and imitates their call; thus bringing them within his reach,
he destroys them in great numbers. But while the great pro-
portion go to the north to breed, Audubon assures us, that
many remain and breed ; some, he says, in pools in the eastern
parts of Maine and Massachusetts, so that he thinks it entitled
to be set down as a permanent resident within the Union.
Farther north, they become more numerous, and in Labrador,
their nests abound in every marshy plain.

When the young have become large, and sufficiently prac-
tised in flying, they prepare for their return. On the first ap-
pearance of snow, the ganders arrange the flocks in order of
flight, the old males in front, the females next, and the young
after them, the weakest behind ; and thus they set forth, some-
times with an extended front, sometimes in single file, but
generally in a sharp angle, with an old gander at the head.
When any one is fatigued, he falls back in the wake of anoth-
er, who cleaves the air before him; the leader at times gives
out aloud cry of encouragement, or command, which is an-
swered from various parts of the line. They fly with great
strength and steadiness, at a great height in the air, if they

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 385.

have far to go; but when doubtful of the season, they fly
lower, and are often bewildered in fogs and snow storms, so as
to come to the ground stupified, and to submit quietly to their
fate. They are so much alive to changes of temperature, that,
when they are seen returning over their line of march, it indi-
cates that a change of weather is nigh.

When they alight in some place where they intend to pass
the night, they crop the grass sidewise, like the domestic
goose, or pat the ground with both feet to force the worms out
of it. Sometimes they alight in corn-fields, where they do
considerable damage ; sometimes in the water, where they
plunge their heads to the bottom in search of food. They al-
ways keep sentinels stationed, who, at the approach of cattle,
are silent ; but if a bear, or panther, or worse than all, a man
comes nigh, the alarm is given, and all glide into the nearest
water and swim to a distance from the shore. Their sense of
hearing is wonderfully quick and discerning ; they can at once
distinguish a sound made by man.

The crossing of the breed of the wild with the tame goose,
as in the case of the turkey, has been attended with much ad-
vantage ; the hybrid being larger and more easily fattened,
brings a higher price than either of the species from which it
is descended. The difficulty in the way of keeping the Cana-
da goose, is, that it does not multiply as in the wild state; but,
though it requires time to effect a considerable change in its
habits, a persevering attempt at domestication would probably
succeed. In some cases, it has succeeded already ; but when
flocks are passing over, it answers their call, and seems strong-
ly tempted to return to the savage state.

The Barnacte Goosr, Anser leucopsis, is said by the gun-
ners.on the coast, to be shot in this State. Audubon never
met with it. Nuttall speaks of it as a straggler on our coast.

Hourcutns’ Goose, Anser Hutchinsit, is inserted on the same
authority. They call it the Flight, or Winter Goose. It re-
sembles the common wild goose, except that it is less in size.

A9

386 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

The Brant Goosr, Anser bernicla, a bird well known in
our markets, breeds on the coasts of Hudson’s Bay and the
northern ocean, and spends the winter in the southern states.
Early in October, they arrive in large numbers, some in order -
of march, others in noisy confusion, and make little more stay
than is necessary for resting, after their long flight. But flocks
continue to follow each other in long succession, and the gun-
ners secure considerable numbers. In spring they return, but
their stay is still shorter, and their flesh very uninviting ; in
winter it is more valued, but has a fishy taste at best.

The Suoveter, Anas clypeata, which is considered one of
the greatest luxuries of the table, belongs to the northern part
of the continent, but sometimes visits our coast, and still more
frequently our lakes and rivers, in the declining year. Were
it not for the great bill, this would be a handsome bird. It
draws in the watery mud through the teeth of its bill, which
fit into each other, forming a sort of sieve, by which it throws
out the water, and retains the worms, seeds, and insects for its
food. It is sometimes found in the Boston market, brought
from the ponds in the vicinity.

The Matiarp Ducx, Anas boschas, is our common duck in
its wild state. It is common at the south, but not so in Mas-
sachusetts, where it is very rare, and beyond Portland it is not
known. ‘The reason is, that this duck, instead of resorting to
the seacoast, is partial to lakes and rivers. ‘They are most
abundant in the western states, where many of them remain,
and breed. As they come from the great lakes, they spread
themselves over those regions, resorting to meadows, swamps,
and thick beech woods. In the wild state, they are strongly
contrasted with the domesticated, in the spirit and animation
of their movements ; their flight is wonderfully swift and well
sustained, while the wings of the common duck hardly lift it
from the ground. The squatters of the Mississippi catch many
of the mallards when young, and they are sufficiently tame by
the end of the first year. 'The young of those thus caught,

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 387

are for a year or two, superior to the wild ones, but soon be-
come like the common ducks of the barnyard. The hybrids
raised between the Mallard and Muscovy, are said to be large
and afford excellent eating.

The mallard has many of the properties of a nocturnal bird,
feeding and travelling more by night than by day. In the
dark, their flight is distinguished by the whistling of their
wings. They generally arrange themselves in the wedge
form to go to any distance, and never alight on any spot till

they have wheeled several times round it, to ascertain whether

it is safe to take possession ; except when under the command
of an experienced leader, who judges at once of the presence
of danger, and if he suspects none, strikes down without
hesitation upon the water. ‘They then begin to bathe and
dress themselves before they go to the shore for food. After
this ceremony is over, some explore the mud for leeches, frogs,
or lizards; others go into the woods for beechnuts and acorns,
moving round with prodigious cackling. If they hear a sound,
they know whether it is made by animals or not; if it is,
they go on with their employment; but if it denotes that man
is at hand, they glide into the water, and put off to what they
consider a safe distance from the shore.

The food of the mallard consists of small fish, snails, water
insects and plants, in fact, hardly anything seems to come
amiss. It delights in nuts and fruits, soon fattens on rice and
other grain, and has an appetite for food which any other bird
would regard as entirely uneatable. The young, when raised,
thrive on chopped fish. The mallard has the habit of patting
the ground with its feet to force worms out of their burrows.

The Grey Duck or Gapwate, Anas strepera, is an inhabi-
tant of northern regions, and is believed to be rare in the United
States. Wilson found it in New York and Kentucky, and
some of the young birds are seen at times in the vicinity of
Boston.

The Pintam Ducx, Anas acuta, is very abundant in some
of the western states, but seldom seen on the coast, and never

388 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

farther eastward than Massachusetts. It breeds in the fur
countries, but on its return, follows the coast of the great wes-
tern rivers, and is so much a stranger to the coast, that it must
be regarded as an inland bird. It arrives from the north in
autumn, in good condition, and resorts to ponds and streams,
where it feeds on tadpoles, leeches, and beechnuts, should they
happen to abound. It is graceful in its motions on the water,
and Audubon says that its notes are soft and pleasant, not re-
sembling those of the mallard, to which they are often com-
pared.

The American WipcEon, Anas Americana, breeds in the
fur countries, and, on its return, is found in most parts of the
Union. About Chesapeake Bay, it is a companion rather than
_ friend of the canvass-back, which dives for the plants on which
it feeds. 'The widgeon, which likes the plant, but not the
diving, watches the moment of the canvass-back’s rising, and
before its eyes are fairly opened, it snatches the plant from
its mouth and makes off with it. The widgeon is found in
the interior, as well as on the coast ; many spend the winter in
the southern states.

The Dusxy Duck, Anas obscura, sometimes called the black
duck, is, as Dr. Brewer informs me, the most common of all
the species in the neighborhood of Boston. 'They are met
with on the coast, from Florida to Labrador, but are not found
in the high northern regions. They frequent salt marshes as -
well as inland waters, and their food consists of small shellfish
and seeds. In the daytime, they are retired and shy; but on
the report of a gun, they rise in great numbers and disperse in
all directions. They fly high in calm weather, and low when
the wind blows hard, when the gunners conceal themselves in
the grass and shoot them down. Their flesh is said to be equal
to that of the other ducks, when they have been well fed, but
it generally has something of the flavor of its food. This bird
breeds in this State in fresh water marshes and on sea islands ;
the eggs are eight or ten in number, resembling those of the

,

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 389

domestic duck. Great numbers however proceed beyond our
borders.

The Woop or Summer Duck, Anas sponsa, is a most beau-
tiful bird, which makes its home in Massachusetts, in quiet
retreats near ponds and rivers, where some of them spend the
winter. ‘They seldom visit the coast, but prefer the fresh
water, their food consisting of grapes, beechnuts, acorns, and
such berries as are found in the vicinity of ponds and streams.
They also eat tadpoles and water insects, reaching their necks
into the water to secure them, after the manner of the mallard.
On the ground they run fast ; they also move with firmness on
the larger branches of trees. 'They swim and dive well, often
stopping near the edge of the water, with nothing except the
bill above ; but often, when alarmed, they run into the depths
of the wood. Their sense of hearing is very delicate, and aids
them to escape from their various enemies. ‘Their flight is
rapid and graceful ; they move through the trees and foliage
as readily as the pigeon.

The wood ducks build in May, in the hollow part of a
branch or the deserted hole of a large woodpecker, which
they enter readily, though the entrance seems much smaller
than their bodies. The eggs, which are from six to fifteen,
of a yellowish green, are laid on dry plants and down plucked
from the parent’s breast, together with the feathers of various
other birds. As soon as the young are hatched, if the nest is over
the water, they spread their little wings and feet, and drop into
the stream; if not, the mother carries them carefully to the
water, in her bill; sometimes she lets them fall on the dry
leaves below, and then conducts them to their favorite element,
where they soon learn to collect flies, moschetoes, and other
insects, for their food. 'The experiment of domesticating this
fine bird has been tried with good success; and after a few
years, they would doubtless give up all desire to return to
their wildness.

The Biur-wincep T'rat, Anas discors, returns early in au-
tumn from the north and west, where it breeds. ‘They are

390 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

easily affected by the cold, and the first frosts are a signal to
them to escape to warmer regions. They are found on our
larger rivers, but seldom visit the sea.

The Green-winceD Traut, Anus crecca, is more common in
the southern states than here. Audubon did not find it in
Newfoundland or Labrador ; but there is reason to suppose that
it breeds in the fur countries, and near the great lakes; those
which are seen here, are said to be mostly females and young
birds, the males pursuing a different route, and not appearing
here till the spring. Being more select in feeding than most
other ducks, they furnish an excellent article of food.

The Ermer Duck, Fuligula mollissima, is well known as
the bird which covers its eggs with down taken from its own
breast. This is now become an important article of commerce,
and the hunters, not satisfied with taking the down, carry away
the eggs also. ‘The female then lays a smaller number of eggs,
and strips herself again to cover them. If the nest is a second.
time robbed, the male bird supplies his down to cover the last
laying ; and thus it is, that many in civilized life feather their
nests, at the expense of this plundered bird. Formerly they
bred in considerable numbers, from Boston eastward ; but they
generally go farther north for that purpose, though in winter
many of them are shot upon our coast. Audubon, while in
Boston, had twenty-one specimens brought him, which two
gunners had shot ina single day. The same high authority
says that the eider would be domesticated with great ease, and
would be invaluable on account of its down, its feathers, and
its flesh for food.

The Kine Ducs, Fuligula spectabilis, is an inhabitant of
the northern regions, living, generally, and finding its food, out
at sea. Covered with its coat of down, it braves the severity
of the arctic season; but sometimes, in the depth of winter,
wanders into our borders. It is said, by old gunners, that for-
merly they were not rare on our coast, and that they used to

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 391

breed in company with the eiders. Now they are seldom
found.

The Surr Ducx, Fuligula perspicillata, breeds in Labrador
and the regions of Hudson’s Bay, and is seen, in spring, bend-
ing its course toward the north. -On their return, some remain
here through the winter ; others extend their migrations as far
as Florida. They feed principally in the sea; and also resort
to shallows and beaches in search of small shell fish, for which
they are constantly diving. Their flesh is sometimes eaten,
but is not recommended.

The Vetver Duck, Fuligula fusca, breeds in Labrador and
the fur countries, and after spending some time about the lakes
in those regions, returns to the south, and reaches us in Sep-
tember. I[tisa sea bird in all its habits; but Nuttall has seen
it in Fresh Pond, in Cambridge. After breeding near the fresh
water lakes, it leaves them for the rest of the year, and prefers
the shores, where its usual food, shell-fish and other articles
which form the subsistence of sea-birds, always abounds. On
the coast, it is called the White-winged Coot; its flesh, though
no great luxury, is in considerable demand.

The American Scorer Duck, Muligula Americana, comes
to us from the shores of Hudson’s Bay, and, while here, asso-
ciates with the other sea ducks, living on similar food. Early
in November, it is found in Boston market, and the flesh of
the young is considered good.

The Ruppy Duck, Fuligula rubida, breeds in the small
lakes of the fur countries, and returns to us in October, pro-
ceeding as far south as the limits of Florida. When it first
arrives, the young are unsuspicious, but the old are difficult to
approach. 'The females and young are seen in our ponds and
about tide waters, and many of them are sold in Boston, under
the name of Dun-Birds.

392 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

The Prev Duck, Fuligula Labradora, is thought, by Nutt-
all, to belong to the western part of the continent, and only
found as a stragegler on the Atlantic shores. It is called the
Sand-shoal Duck, by the gunners of ¥he middle states, from its
resorting to sand bars in search of food. It is rarely found in
this State, and only in winter or spring.

The Canvass-pack Duck, Fuligula valisneria, so well
known as a luxury of the table, never abounds in Massachu-
setts; some are seen in winter near Cohasset and Martha’s
Vineyard, and I learn from Mr. Cabot, that it has been shot in
Fresh Pond. 'The great proportion, however, on returning
from the fur countries, where they breed, establish themselves
on Chesapeake Bay and the neighboring waters, and thence
extend to the south ; some having been seen, in winter, as far
as New Orleans. The fresh water plant, valisneria, from
which they are named, is their favorite food ; it grows in long
narrow blades, with a white root, which is the part that they
eat; they swim about the shoals where it grows, diving and
tearing it up, not discouraged in consequence of the losses
which they suffer from the dishonest arts of the widgeon. But
where this plant is not found, they feed on the eel-grass, as it
is called, which affords a subsistence to the canvass-back, and
other birds of a similar description.

Though these birds, when they first arrive, are lean, in con-
sequence of exhaustion, they are so diligent in collecting food
that they soon are in order for the table ; and the gunner resorts
to a thousand arts to secure them, which is not easy, since they
are shy and watchful, and at night keep sentinels stationed
to guard their slumbers. There seems to be no reason why they
should not be domesticated, if those who make the attempt are
sufficiently persevering. Their subsistence would be easily
provided for, since they eat grain as readily as any other food.

The Rep-HEapED Duck, F'uligula ferina, is the companion
of the canvass-back, feeding on the stems of the same plant
which the other gathers for the sake of the root, and so much

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 393

resembling it, that it often has the honor of being sub-
stituted in the market, and sold for a similar price. They
breed in the fur countries, and make their appearance here
in October. Dr. Brewer tells me, that he has obtained these
birds in our State. Mr. Rennie, in his late edition of Mon-
tague’s British birds, says that he has one of them in his pos-~
session, which, as soon as it was caught, took to feeding on
oats, and is perfectly tame and healthy, at the end of a confine-
ment of three years.

The Scave Duck, Fuligula marila, is said to breed in the
fur countries, whence it returns at the approach of the cold
season, and is found on our sea coast and the great west-
erm rivers. It is said to derive its name from feeding on scaup,
or broken shell fish. Audubon says that he never found any por-
tion of testaceous mollusca in those which he examined, though
the birds might have found them in abundance, had they de-
sired them. They are common here in bays and fresh waters.
They are easily domesticated, but their flesh is of no value for
food. Audubon says that nothing but an epicure could eat
them with satisfaction.

The Rine-necxep Duck, Fuligula rufitorques, is found in
autumn and winter on our Atlantic coast and our western wa-
ters. Its flesh is considered equal to that of any other duck,
in tenderness and flavor. Dr. Richardson speaks of finding it
in the fur countries, but gives no account of its nest. On its
return from the north, it is spread over the whole extent of the
Unica; but much more abundant in some states than in others.
Mr. Cabot obtained a specimen in Fresh Pond, and thus enabled
us to add it to the list of Massachusetts birds.

The Gouven Eve, Fuligula clangula, in an inhabitant of
northern regions, which comes from the fur countries, where it
breeds, and remains till it becomes difficult to obtain food.
In the winter, they are not uncommon in the United States,
but they return very early in the spring. While here, they

50

394 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

are silent, and the name of Brass-eyed Whistler, which they
sometimes bear, is given in consequence of the sound made by
their wings. They fly well, but are so entirely made for the
water, that they are hardly able to walk on the ground. Like
most other birds of the class, they live partly on fish and in-
sects, and partly on vegetable food. As game, they are con-
sidered good, though not of the first order.

‘The Burret-HEapepD or Spirit Duck, Faligula albeola, was
called, by the aborigines, by a name answering to spirit, be-
cause of the wonderful quickness with which it disappears at
the twang of a bow, or the flash of a gun. It breeds in the fur
countries, where it builds on hollow trees, in woods near the
water, a situation favorable to the young, who move with diffi-
culty on the ground. In autumn and winter they are found
in almost all parts of the United States, sometimes on the
coast, but more frequently on the land waters. ‘They are
constantly engaged in diving for their food, and, when wound-
ed with shot, disappear under water, so that it is very difficult
to find them. By the last of April, most of them have return-
ed to their northern home.

The Hartequin Duck, F'uligula histrionica, is a northern
bird, which was found by Captain Ross in the highest lati-
tudes which he visited. It is hardly ever found south of Bos-
ton, and is uncommon here, but [ am assured by Dr. Brewer,
that he has obtained it in our State. Audubon found it breed-
ing along the coast of Labrador and Nova Scotia, where the
male and female are called the Lord and Lady, probably in
consequence of their beauty, and the ornaments on their breast.
It is difficult to obtain, being anxiously watchful, and diving
under water the moment it perceives the flash of the gun.
Like other birds of this class, it provides for its security by sta-
tioning sentinels to sound an alarm on the approach of danger.
The flesh is not much valued.

The Lone-tattep Duck, Fuligula glacialis, is a resident in

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 395

the north, where it associates with the eider and other ducks,
and lingers as long as the cold leaves the waters open; but
when the ice begins to form upon the Arctic seas, it migrates
toward the south in search of food, and is then seen regularly
and abundantly on the shores of Massachusetts ; the young
sometimes resorting to the fresh waters, while the old. birds
keep near the sea. ‘They are lively and animated in their
motions, and so noisy in conversation, that they are sometimes
ealled old wives. ‘They are expert in flying, diving and
swimming ; their food consists partly of the animal and partly
of the vegetable productions of the sea. "The caravans which
pass along our coasts are large, and their noise can be heard at
a great distance, kept up for hours in morning and evening,
and also in calm, foggy weather. This bird is elegant in its
appearance, but not held in much estimation as food. Its down
is said to be equal to that of the eider, but the quantity is not
so great.

The Goosanper, Mergus merganser, is found in winter on
the fresh lakes, rivers, and seacoast of the United States.
They are seen here in small companies, continually diving in
search of food. In April most of them disappear, and do not
return till November. The extent of their breeding range is
not known; but it is ascertained that some of the young are
reared in Pennsylvania, and yet it is evident, from their habits,
that the Arctic regions must be their more familiar home.
Audubon describes the goosander as breeding in Massachusetts,
and entitled to be set down as a constant resident within our
bounds. .

_ The Rep-sreastep Mereanser, Mergus serrator, is another
resident in the north, which, when the waters there are sealed
with ice, comes to the United States in search of food. Wil-
son speaks of it as brought to the Philadelphia market, from
the banks of the Delaware, and as much more common than
the preceding in the United States. Like the former, it has
an extensive breeding range, its nests having been found in the

396 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

rank weeds on the borders of lakes, in Maine and on Lake
Michigan.

The Hoopep Mereanser, Mergus cucullatus, is a northern
bird, found at the utmost limits of the fur countries, and one
of the last to quit those desolate regions, when the frost makes
it impossible for them to remain, by eutting off their supplies
of food. In the winter, it ranges through the United States,
and is found on the ocean and the inland waters. Some of
them remain through the breeding season, and resort to the
lakes, making nests of withered grass and feathers, on their
grassy borders. 'These appear to be their favorite resorts, and
those which frequent the seaside, do it from necessity rather
than from choice. They are expert divers, and so quick in
their motions, that they can take warning from the flash of the
pan, in time to avoid the shot of the gunner; if they chance
to be wounded, they escape under water, so that it is useless
to pursue them. Mr. Cabot and others have found this bird in
our State.

The Cormorant, Phalacrocorax carbo, is abundant in winter
on the islands near Boston and the coast of Massachusetts,
where most of them remain in autumn, winter, and the early
part of spring. Nuttall speaks of them as breeding on the
islands, near the mouth of the harbor. ‘They are never seen
on fresh water, since they subsist entirely on fish taken from
the sea. In taking them, these birds are so expert, that a fish
can hardly escape them; they swim under water with great
rapidity, and almost always rise with their prey in their bill.
If the fish is very large, they beat it to pieces on the shore ; if
they have caught it by the wrong end, they toss it in the air,
and catch it by the head as it falls, so that the fins may pre-
sent no obstacle to its passing down the throat. When thus
employed, and when at rest, they are so constantly on their
guard, that it is very difficult to approach them ; and if the
gunner has succeeded in wounding one, it is useless for him to
pursue, since both old and young sail under water, using their

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 397

wings to propel and their tails to steer them, as in the air. But
their safety is provided for, without exertion on their part,
since their flesh is so poor, tough and fishy that, Audubon
says, not even epicures can eat them.

The Dovste-crestep Cormorant, Phalacrocorax dilophus,
which was first described by Richardson, and has been con-
sidered extremely rare, has been obtained by Dr. Brewer, in
the vicinity of Boston. They are found breeding on low
islands at Labrador, in great numbers, arriving as soon as the
ice is dissolved from the water in the spring. 'They spend the
winter on the coast of the eastern states. At that season, not
many are seen farther east than the Bay of Halifax. No fish
comes amiss to their insatiable appetites; of codlings particu-
larly, they destroy immense numbers. They differ from the
Florida cormorant, described by Audubon, chiefly in their
superior size, and having more of the long feathers behind the
eye.

The Suace, Phalacrocoraxr graculus, is found in most parts of
the United States as far south as Florida, where they breed in
large associations. ‘They appear to make the bays and islands
of the St. Lawrence their northern bounds. In the high north-
ern regions they have not yet been encountered. ‘They live
perpetually near the sea, never wandering inland like the com-
mon cormorant, which has been seen on the Missouri river.
They are expert divers, and collect great quantities of fish.
Near the mouth of Boston harbor, they are found in thick and
numerous flocks, at the approach of winter.

The Gannet, Sula bassana, a bird known on both sides of
the Atlantic, is added to this list on the authority of Dr. Brewer,
who has obtained a specimen. In the summer, they are seen
in vast numbers in the bay of St. Lawrence, where the Gan-
net Rock, as it is called, a large rocky island, is entirely
whitened with the plumage of the females on their nests, while
the crowds hovering over and around it, appear like a driving

398 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

snow storm. While thus engaged, they were easily approached,
and were not alarmed even at the discharge of a gun, the
meaning of which most sea-birds fully understand. ‘They are
seen on our eastern coasts in the autumn, and perhaps at other
seasons of the year. 'They are not observed to dive on any
alarm, nor for the sake of procuring food.

The Loon, or Great Norturrn Diver, Colymbus glacialis,
ir not an uncommon bird. It spends the breeding season in
the fur countries, the British provinces, and probably in the
most northern part of the states. On the approach of win-
ter, they migrate, to escape the severity of the winter, most
of their young going to the south ; but some remaining in the
vicinity of Chesapeake Bay. They are shy and watchful
birds. ‘They breed in the most retired places which they can
find, in rocky islets or the borders of lakes; and as soon as the
young are able to travel, the parent conducts them to the sea.
They are active and unwearied in diving, and have the power
of swimming under water almost as fast as they can fly in the
air. Inthe day time they appear to dislike the bright sun-
shine, and are most active and animated at the approach of
night. ‘Their call is loud and dismal, particularly disagreeable
to seamen, because it is thought to portend a storm ; it is so
powerful that it can be distinctly heard, when the bird is so
distant as to be almost invisible in the air. This bird is offered
for sale in our markets; but its flesh is tough and unpalatable.

The Buack-tHroateD Diver, Colymbus arcticus, is, as its
name denotes, a northern bird, and is more rare on our coast
than the preceding ; but I am assured, on the authority of Au-
dubon, that it is sometimes seen in our State.

The Rep-rHrosatep Diver, Colymbus septentrionalis, is
found on the coast of the United States in autumn, winter, and,
it may be said, in spring; though they retire to the north
before the snows are gone. ‘The old birds are rarely seen at
the south of Boston bay ; but the young, more affected by the

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 399

cold, proceed as far as Maryland. Some of them breed at the
Bay of Fundy, but they abound much more in Labrador, on the
little lakes which are common in that wild country. They are
at all times shy and watchful, alive to every danger, but par-
ticularly uneasy at the sight of man. When he appears, though
at a great distance, they dive and swim under water to the far-
ther part of the lake, but if he continues to approach, they rise
from the water, instead of diving again like the loon. Their
notes, uttered in rapid succession, are harsh and rather loud.
Dr. Richardson says that they cover their eggs with down like
the eider ; but as this was not the case with those seen at Lab-
rador, they probably vary their practice according to the climate
where they make their nests.

The Buiacx Guittemotr, Uria grylle, has been seen, in se-
vere winters, as far south as Maryland ; but is uncommon even
as far south as Massachusetts. A specimen has been procured
at Nahant, by Dr. Brewer; but they do not abound this side of
the Bay of Fundy. At Labrador, they breed in large num-
bers. ‘They are sea-birds in the fullest sense of the term,
hardly ever going inland, except to breed ; and they are so ac-
tive and successful, in procuring food, that they can remain and
thrive, when almost all other birds are driven by the cold from
the northern seas. Like many other sea fowl, they show great
sagacity in preparing a place for their nest. If the fissure in
the rocks where they make it, is dry, they waste no labor upon
it; but if it is likely that any water may run there, in the time
of rain or dissolving snow, they raise it with pebbles to a suf-
ficient height to keep their eggs from being injured. Is this
instinet, or is it reason? Or, rather, who will point out the
boundary that separates the two?

The Foouisn Guittemor, Uria troile, so called, from its pa-
tience in submitting to evils which it cannot help, is a hardy
inhabitant of northern regions. It is said to submit to be killed
in the breeding season, without attempting to escape ; but Au-
dubon, who knows more of their habits than any one else, does
not mention this circumstance in his interesting description.

400 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

The folly of the guillemot seems to consist in its returning to
the breeding places where it is annually disturbed ; but this
appears to be done in despair of going beyond human reach ;
for it once bred in our bay. But it has for many years aban-
doned it, and proceeds to the north in company with the eiders,
early in the spring. Their eggs afford luxurious food, and are
collected in great numbers by those who make it their employ-
ment, to be sent to distant markets. ‘They are so numerous,
that the sailors, who were sent by Audubon to bring him two
or three dozen, returned with twenty-five hundred, which in-
dicates an immense abundance of the birds, since the eggs in
each nest do not exceed three. ‘The white line that encircles
the eye and extends back upon the head, is found only in the
old birds. Like the preceding species, they swim under water
almost as rapidly as they can fly above.

The LarcE-BiLLED Guittemor, Uria Brunnichii, is said, by
Nuttall, to be occasionally found, in winter, on the coast of the
northern states, but I cannot ascertain that any one has been
taken in Massachusetts, except ina single instance ; Dr. Brewer
found one washed up on the beach, in April, 1836. This, how-
ever, is sufficient to give it a place among our birds. The spe-
cimen from which Audubon’s illustration was taken, was sent
him from Eastport in Maine. He found none on the coast of
Labrador, though the preceding species, with which this asso-
ciates, so greatly abounded. ‘They had probably gone farther
into their arctic home.

The Lirrte GuitLtemot, Uria alle, sometimes called the
Little Auk or Pigeon Diver, dwells far within the arctic circle,
and was found by Dr. Richardson at Melville Island. In hardi-
ness and power of enduring cold, no bird exceeds them; in the
depth of winter, when the ice of the ocean is lifted and broken
by storms, they are seen crowding to the fissures, to find a sup-
ply of food. They seem to delight in tempests, which, by
agitating the waters, throw up in greater quantities the marine
productions on which they depend for subsistence. In New-

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 401 -

feundland they are called the Ice-bird, from the presumption
that, unless extreme cold were approaching, they would not
eome so far from home. ‘Those that are found in this State
are generally exhausted by their long flight ; some have quietly
submitted to be taken by the hand. They are not regular vis-
itants, but occasional, solitary wanderers.

The Purrin, Mormon arcticus, commonly called the sea
parrot, has been found in severe winters as far south as Savan-
nah ; but this is unusual; its common range is from Long Is-
land to the Bay of Fundy, where many of them breed. Many
more, however, keep on to Labrador, where Audubon found
flocks, which covered the water to the extent of half an acre.
Those which proceed to that distance, leave the states in April,
and make their way along the shore, never going far from the
sea. They breed in holes, which they make by burrowing three
or four feet in the ground, and feed their young with small
fish. ‘They are very social, and betray strong attachment to
each other ; when any one is shot, some one alights by its side,
swimming round it and stirring it with its bill, as if urging it
to fly or dive; and when man, the only animal savage enough
to torture and kill for pleasure, lifts an oar, to knock it on the
head, it reluctantly leaves its friend, and disappears under the
water. The puffin flies firmly and swims rapidly under water ;
it also dives to the bottom, many fathoms deep, to find shell-
fish and other prey. In his contests with the piratical raven,
the puffin grapples with his antagonist, and both fall into the
water, when the raven is drowned; but if he can seize the
puflin’s neck, the victory inclines to the other side.

The Razor-Bittep Aux, Alca terda, occasionally goes as
far south as New York, in winter; but farther south it is
never seen. It is found from Boston eastward, arriving on the
coast in November, and returning in April. While here, they
are seen fishing far out at sea, and are thought to be able to
dive deeper than even the puffin, in search of their food,
which consists of shrimps, shell-fish, small fishes, and roe.

51

A402 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

They breed in the fissures of the rocky shores of Labrador,
sometimes depositing their eggs where the water can run off
without wetting them; but if there is danger that the water
will touch the eggs, they are laid on pebbles, which are
heaped by the bird, to let the moisture run below. ‘The nests
are very near each other ; it is remarkable, that in the fissures
and caverns, they sit flat upon the egg like common birds; but
in places more exposed, keep an upright position, with their
faces toward the wind. In these places also they lay but one
egg, while in places more sheltered, there are oftentwo. The
eges are considered a great luxury ; the flesh is said to be good
to the taste, though dark and uninviting to the eye.

The following should have been inserted on the 289th page =

The Hupson Bay Tirmouse, Parus Hudsonicus, which has
been hitherto unknown in Massachusetts, has been found by
S. Eliot Greene, Esq. near his house in Brookline.

In the foregoing list of our water birds, I have given the
names, with a short account of the habits of all which reside
with us or visit us, so far as I have been able to ascertain them.
Some, which occasionally visit us, may be omitted ; and if not,
succeeding observations will doubtless make a difference in
the list ; since the accident of a winter unusually severe, may
bring some arctic birds farther south than they have yet been
seen; and a similar cause may make us acquainted with
some residents of the south, which have not yet entered our
bounds. The range of breeding and migration is thus at
times contracted or extended ; but the visits of a stranger, few
and far between, are of but little importance, and if our regu-
lar visitants and permanent residents are set down and
properly described, it is hoped that the purpose of the sur-
vey will be answered.

It is more probable, on the other hand, that some birds which
come to us regularly now, finding what sort of welcome awaits

BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 403

them, will gradually withdraw; for they are by no means
- glow to benefit by experience ; those which at first were tame
and familiar, are many of them growing cautious and distrust-
ful; the character of man stands in low estimation among
them; and as they know him better, they go farther from his
reach. Many birds which formerly raised their young in our
State, now confine themselves to regions of greater security ;
the old gunners on our coast can give more than one history
of such desertion ; and in some cases, the loss has been severe.
Thus, for example, the wild goose is believed to have once
raised its young in the temperate climates of the United States.
The early settlers on the Ohio, testify that they formerly
abounded there at all seasons of the year; it was common,
within the memory of man, to find the young birds on the
ponds of Kentucky ; but, like the deer and the grous, they
have learned that the world is wide, and now, they find, in
the quiet of the northern wilderness, a home, which has the
great recommendation of being out of humanity’s reach! The
eider duck is another example. So lately as Wilson’s time,
the young were reared on our coast; but now, they have
abandoned it; gaining nothing indeed by the exchange, since
there is reason to believe that when it bred in this climate,
it was not compelled to cover its eggs with the down which
tempts so many adventurers to search for and rifle its nest.

I do not mean to say, that these desertions ought to be pre-
vented. In some few instances, the experiment has been tried ;
but it is found, as might have been foreseen, that no human
enactment can suspend the operation of a law of nature. The
statutes on that subject are generally inefficient ; no one cares
to execute them ; the idlers in a community are a privileged
order, who pay little reverence to the law, and the industrious,
beside having other employment than to note down their neigh-
bors’ transgressions, cannot be persuaded that there is any
crime in shooting a wild bird, still less that the act is harmless
at one season of the year, and injurious at another. Nor is it
by any means certain, that it would be desirable, even if it
were possible, to prevent this extermination. It is better for

A404 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS.

the civilized community that the process should go on. The
epicure may lose an indulgence, and his case will doubtless
excite all the commiseration which it deserves; but it will be
public gain, without question, to have the field and forest offer
no bounty to idleness, tempting it away from the serious cares
of life, to engage in pleasures, which no one is the better, in
character, in habits, or in heart, for enjoying.

It is very desirable, that the experiment of domestication,
which has been suggested once or twice in the preceding re-
marks, should be tried on a large scale ; and it might be well if
some inducement should be offered to tempt some competent
persons to engage in such an undertaking. It cannot be de-
spatched in a single season ; it would require time to determine
on what food, and under what circumstances, they would be
likely to thrive best ; and much more time would be necessary
to effect a permanent change in the habits of a wild and wan-
dering race, and to overcome that impulse, which, in the season
of migration, acts so powerfully upon them, that some impris-
oned birds with their wings clipped, have been known to break
from their enclosures, and to set out on foot, for the region
of Hudson’s Bay. In many cases, no doubt, such attempts
would succeed without difficulty ; and in others, what could
not be done by a short experiment, might be accomplished
by successive and persevering trials ; valuable accessions might
thus be made to the number of our domestic birds; many
might come into general use, which now only the sportsman
and the epicure can enjoy, and races of wild birds be preserved,
which will otherwise, in spite of all our game laws, soon dis-
appear, and be lost from our forests and shores.

Respectfully submitted,

WILLIAM B. O. PEABODY.

Springfield, Feb. 11th, 1839.

0 ee ee

SUPPLEMENT

TO THE

ICHTHYOLOGICAL REPORT.

Since the report on the Fishes has passed through the press,
IT have had an opportunity. by the politeness of Mr. John S.
Sleeper, Editor of the ‘ Mercantile Journal,” of examining a
specimen of the “‘ Lophius piscatorius,”’ Sea-Devil ; and as the
account embodied in my report was extracted from Yarrell’s
‘‘ British Fishes,” I would present a description here from a
recent specimen, that the ichthyologist may judge for himself,
as to my correctness in considering our fish the same as the
foreign species.

Length of the specimen before me, two feet and one inch ;
width across, in front of the pectorals, one foot; length of the
head, from the tip of the snout to the occiput, six inches. All
the upper part of the body, is of a dark brown color, caused by
very minute irregular markings; body beneath, white. Nu-
merous fleshy cirrhi beneath the lower jaw, edging it to the
angles ; beyond these, they are continued to the pectoral fins,
and back of them, they are again continued to the tail; these
cirrhi are, beneath the jaw, nearly an inch in length, on the
sides of the body they are much smaller. ‘The vertical gape of
the mouth, when expanded, is five inches; the distance across
from angle to angle of the upper jaw, eight inches ; the tip of the
lower jaw projects nearly two inches, in front of the upper.

406 SUPPLEMENT.

The intermaxillary bones are capable of being protruded nearly
an inch beyond the maxillaries, and are armed with a single
row of small pointed teeth upon each side, and two rows of
much larger teeth in their centre ; one of these rows upon the
edge, the other, within and beneath, very incurved ; upon the
upper jaw, at its tip, isa space of one and a half inches, desti-
tute of teeth ; on each side of this space, is one quite large tooth,
and a second, much smaller; about half an inch outside of
these, a single row of eight or ten teeth, the three or four first
of which, are much the largest. On each side of the pharynx,
are three rows of sharp incurved teeth, about a line in length,
resembling spines ; these rows are arranged directly above each
other, and are double. The lower jaw has a single row of
numerous, very sharp teeth, some of them half an inch long;
the tongue has a broad, bony, triangular plate, upon each side,
armed with two rows of teeth on each side, which are turned
toward the throat. 'The distance from the margin of the upper
jaw to the eye, is equal to the distance between the eyes. Seve-
ral spines are observable upon the head ; two just back of the
snout, on each side; a bifurcated one over the middle of the
eye, and another similar one at its posterior angle; a small one
in a line back of these, at the posterior portion of the head. A
spine pointing forward, is situated at the angle of the jaws,
and three straight spines are seen back of this. The eyes are
nearly circular, half.an inch in diameter; the pupils, black ;
the irides, yellowish brown, with darker rays. One inch back
of the snout, are two elongated tentacula, four inches long, of
the firmness of bristles, with the extremities free ; as the tenta-
cula are lying down, directly at their posterior extremities, is
situated a third, two inches in length, with about half of its
extent only naked ; these tentacula are capable of being ele-
vated at the pleasure of the animal.

The first Dorsal is situated an inch and a half back of this
third tentaculum ; it is composed of three small rays, connected
by a dark colored membrane.

The second Dorsal is two and a half inches back of the first ;
it is composed of eleven rays ; this fin is six inches long, three

SUPPLEMENT. A407

and a quarter inches high at its commencement, and two inches
high at its posterior extremity.

The Pectoral fins are three inches long ; quadrate ; rather
higher than long ; slightly digitated at their extremities, and
ciliated ; width at the extremity, when expanded, six inches ;
composed of twenty-five rays.

The Ventral fins, one inch long, two inches high ; having five
strongly marked digitations.

The Anal fin is five inches long ; as high again at its poste-
rior extremity as at its anterior; it is composed of nine rays.

The Caudal fin is two inches long, four and a half inches
high, and is composed of eight rays.

Squalus. Lin. (Selache. Cuv.) elephas. Le Sueur.

Journal Academy Natural Sciences, et fig.

Two or three weeks since, a large male shark was harpooned
in the harbor of Provincetown, and being towed to Chelsea,
was there exhibited. When I saw it, it was lying upon the
beach, where it was entirely exposed at low tide, and nearly,
if not altogether covered by water when the tide was high;
the tide was flowing in, when I examined it, which compelled
me to make a more rapid survey than could have been wished.
It had been opened, and its viscera were removed. 'The
liver filled eight barrels, and furnished six barrels of oil. The
fish presented the following appearances :

Its entire length was thirty feet three inches. The whole up-
per part of the body, was of a dark slate color ; lighter beneath.
The skin was divided into innumerable ruge, which were cov-
ered with minute sharp points, often collected into groups, resem-
bling the discs of many of the “ E’chini,” upon which are situ-
ated the spines by which they are ornamented ; or, still more,
the tubercles arranged along the lateral line of some of our
“Cott,” causing the skin to be exceedingly rough. Head, small ;

408 SUPPLEMENT.

perfectly smooth, for the most part, in front of the eyes, and
covered with circular and oblong mucous pores, which keep
this portion constantly lubricated. Snout, blunt. Nostrdls, five
inches in front of the eyes, their lower portion upon the edge
of the upper lip. E'yes, very small ; diameter of the eye, three
inches ; largest circumference of the sclerotic coat, when re-
moved from the socket, eight and a half inches. Eyes very move-
able in their orbits ; distance between the eyes, two feet ; dis-
tance between the tip of the jaws, as artificially raised, tvro feet ;
this vertical gap is undoubtedly as much again, at least, in the
living fish, which gives us an opening of four feet. Mouth white,
mottled with fuliginous. Jaws, furnished with a great number
of small, incurved, pointed teeth. Six rows of these in the upper
jaw, and seven rows in the lower jaw; the inner row in this
jaw, are hardly formed ; each of the rows in this jaw, as I count-
ed them in the mouth, contained one hundred teeth, from the tip
of the jaw to the angle of the jaw, or two hundred, as counted
from one angle to the opposite one, or ina word, fourteen hundred
teeth in this jaw. The teeth are conical, sharp, polished, with a
sensible ridge upon each side, often roughened, almost serrated ;
the lower portion of the tooth, striated ; one of the teeth in this
jaw is bifid; the teeth at the angles of the jaws, short and
more compressed. 'The teeth in the centre of the jaw, are three
lines high above the jaw, and their base, or root, about the
same length within the socket. Temporal orifices, small, just
back of the angle of the jaw.

From the tip of the snout to the first branchia, four feet nine
inches. Five very large branchiz, nearly surrounding the
head, as the animal was lying ; by measurement, the first pair
of branchiz were separated, on the neck, from each other, six
inches ; the second pair were separated, at the same situation, nine
inches ; the third pair, one foot three inches ; the fourth pair, one
foot nine inches ; the fifth pair, two feet three inches ; showing
the first to be much the largest. The first Dorsal fin is trian-
cular: two feet ten inches long, four feet four inches high, an-
teriorly, three feet posteriorly ; distance between the first and
second dorsal, six feet ; second dorsal ten inches long, sixteen

SUPPLEMENT. A09

high anteriorly, thirteen posteriorly. Pectorals, falciform ; one
foot nine inches long ; five and a half feet high; distance be-
tween the pectoral and ventral, eight feet. Length of the ven-
trals, one foot eleven inches ; height, two feet nine inches; length
of the claspers, three feet three inches ; width at their base,
eight inches, from which they gradually pass to a point ; they
enclose a strong, bony spine. ‘The commencement of the anal
is directly opposite the middle of the second dorsal ; its length
is eleven inches ; its height, fourteen inches; across the top,
ten inches; distance between the anus and anal fin, three and
a half feet. Anterior to the caudal fin is a lunated depression
above and beneath the posterior extremity of the fish ; at the
base of the tail, a carina upon each side, one foot eight inches
long. The caudal lobes, unequal ; the upper lobe, six feet six
inches in length, measured over its curve, having at its ex-
tremity a small triangular lobe; the lower lobe, four feet two
inches, measured in the same way ; width of the extremity of
the lower lobe, six inches; width at the base, two feet two
inches ; width of the extremity of the upper fluke, or lobe, one
inch ; width of the base, two feet three and a half inches; from
the lunated depression to the middle of the fin, two feet eleven
inches.

Attached to the branchiz, I found a single specimen of the
““ Cineras vittata.”

Under the name of “ squalus elephas,” this shark was admi-
rably described by Le Sueur, in the “ Journal of the Academy
of Natural Sciences,” froma specimen taken on the coast of
New Jersey in 1822; and his figure, when it is remembered
that it was taken from a stuffed skin, is very accurate.

Among our fishermen it is known as the bone shark.

D. H. 8.

52

SUPPLEMENT

TO THE

He RB ETO UL, 0,6 1.C A i) Re POR aii:

Arter my Report upon the Reptiles of Massachusetts had
passed through the press, I met with a paper which had been
long sought for in vain—a “ Report of a Committee of the
Linnean Society of New England.” It will be observed that
I have embodied in my paper all species which have been
recognised by naturalists, whether I have seen them or not.
I should be guilty of great neglect therefore, were I to pass
unnoticed the following species. It appears by this Report,
that in September, 1817, a remarkable serpent was taken near
Gloucester, Cape Aun, which, having been carefully examined
by a committee of the Linnean Society, composed of John
Davis, Jacob Bigelow, and Francis C. Gray, was considered a
nondescript, and the following report was presented by them
to the Society, accompanied by a plate of its external appear-
ance and another of its internal anatomy, under the name of

SCOLIOPHIS ATLANTICUS.

‘‘ EXTERNAL APPEARANCE. ‘The animal had the general
form and external characters of a serpent ; but was remarkably
distinguished from all others of that class known to your com-
mittee, by a row of protuberances along the back, apparently
formed by undulations of the spine. From the back of the

SUPPLEMENT. A11

head to the first of these protuberances, was a distance of three
inches and three-fifths of an inch, during which the spine
was straight. Between this place and the vent, its undulations
were nearly regular, twenty-four of these protuberances, about
equally distant from each other, occupying the space between
the neck and the vent. From the latter to the twenty-fifth
protuberance, the spine formed a straight line, of the length
of one inch and nine tenths ; its undulations there commenced
again, and were continued quite to the extremity of the tail,
forming sixteen more distinct protuberances. The size of
these forty protuberances was proportioned to that of the body
at the places, where they were respectively situated. The body
could be bent with facility upward and downward as repre-
sented in Plate I., a circumstance not common to other ser-
pents.* Those parts of the spine, which were straight, ad-
mitted much less motion in a vertical direction, than those,
which were undulatory.

ft. in.
The length of the head was 1 3-10
From the back of the head to the vent 2 24-5
From the vent to the end of the tail 7 2-5
Whole length 2 111-2

The smallest circumference of the neck, one inch and a half.
The circumference of the body over the largest protuberances,
two inches and four fifths. The circumference of the body
between the two largest protuberances, two inches and nine
twentieths. The size of the body diminished suddenly at the
vent, immediately beyond which the circumference of the tail
was one inch and three fifths. The tail was round, and tapered
very much, terminating in*a point.

The head was rather larger than the neck, flattened, its an-
terior part pyramidal, rounded at the nose ; the upper lip entire.

* Ce mode d’articulation explique trés bien le mouvement du corps des reptiles, qui, en

général, s’exécute sures cotés, et non de haut en bas, comme le répresentent les peintres.
Cuvier Anat. comp. i. 176.

A12 SUPPLEMENT.

The back part of the head was so much bruised that its origi-
nal form was not easily distinguishable. In the fragments of
the upper jaw were seen three slender recurved teeth ; in those
of one side of the under jaw seven similar teeth, and the
sockets of three others. No venomous fangs were found. The
tongue was bifid, each fork being nearly half an inch long.
The nostrils, situated between the second and third plate from
the nose, were large and oval. Between the nostril and the
eye was a longitudinal hollow, bounded beneath by the upper
lip, above by a very prominent superciliary ridge, extending
beyond the eye. ‘The eye was very large, nearly round, its
breadth apparently a little diminished by the superciliary ridge
jutting over it. The whole head was covered with plates,
but those on the top of it were so much broken, that their
number and form could not be perfectly ascertained. The
under jaw was divided by a longitudinal furrow, having a tri-
angular scutella at its anterior extremity, and two rows of
scutelle on each side.

The body was covered with hexagonal flat scales, those
on the back narrowest; the throat with three or four rows of
small scales; the belly with a hundred and eighty plates;
the tail with ninety-three pairs of scutelle. Over the vent
was one pair of scutelle ; at its sides four pair, the scales op-
posite to which were smaller than those on any other part of
the body.

The color of the head and of the upper part of the body
and tail was an uniform deep brown; that of the belly and
under part of the tail a bluish lead color, lightest in the mid-
dle. The whole of the under jaw and throat were white,
which color extended in a clouded streak some way down
under the neck, and fore part of the belly.

In the general disposition of its colors, in the number, form,
and arrangement of the scuta and scutelle, this animal ap-
proaches most nearly to the Coluber constrictor ; from which,
however, it is strikingly distinguished by its undulating back,
by its body being larger in proportion to its length, and dimin-
ishing more suddenly at the vent, the tail shorter, the teeth

SUPPLEMENT. AI3

much larger and more distant, and the color brown instead of
black.

This animal is probably amphibious, although it has not the
flat tail of the Pelamides; nor did the examination of its ex-
terior enable us to discover any thing in its structure, pecu-
liarly adapting it to a residence in the water, excepting only
the remarkable facility of bending in a vertical direction. 'This
motion, which may be observed in the leech, and various other
aquatic animals, is quite as important as a horizontal one to an
inhabitant of the ocean, and comparatively useless in an animal
confined to the land.

Internat Structure. The structure of the spine in this
animal is very singular, and different from that of any serpent
which we have seen, or known to be described. Its course
throughout the greater part of the body is regularly undulating
or flexuous, consisting of successive curves upward and down-
ward. The structure of the different vertebre varies to ac-
commodate itself to this configuration, so that the spine cannot
be extended into a straight line without dislocation of its parts.
In the portion of spinal column which we examined, each
curve consisted of about nine vertebre. Each vertebra was
articulated by a round head on its posterior extremity to a
socket in the anterior extremity of the next.* It had five
principal processes, one a spinous process; two anterior, and
two posterior transverse processes. There were also smaller pro-
cesses articulated with the ribs, and a sharp longitudinal prom-
inence underneath. The spinous processes varied remarkably
in shape and size, according to the part of the spine in which
they were situated. Those occupying the top of the curve
were very broad, and those of the bottom of the curve very
narrow, the latter being not more than half the breadth of the

* This is the reverse of what Cuvier asserts of serpents in general, in his learned work
on comparative anatomy. He states that the tubercle is on the anterior, and the cavity on
the posterior part of the vertebra. ‘“ La partie antérieure du corps de la vertébre présente
un tubercule arrondi demi-sphérique ; et la partie postérieure offre, au contraire, une cavité
correspondante; de sorte que chacune des vertébres est articulée en genou avec celle qui
la suit, et avec celle qui la précéde.”—Le cons d’anatomie comparée. I. 176.—We are in-

duced to believe that in the above passage the terms anterior and posterior must have been
misplaced. The tubercle, we think, always occupies the posterior part of the vertebra.

A1A4 SUPPLEMENT.

former. "The top of the spinous processes in the ascending or
anterior half of each elevation of the back-bone projected con-
siderably backward. In the descending half, on the contrary,
they projected forward, so as to appear as if this part of the
spine were inverted. ‘The space between the spinous processes
was very great, amounting to nearly two thirds of their lon-
gitudinal diameter; a circumstance which contributes very
much to the vertical flexibility of the spine, being much
sreater than it is in the Boa constrictor, one of the most flexi-
ble serpents, as represented by Sir Everard Home, in his com-
parative anatomy; or than it is in the Coluber constrictor,
which your committee have examined. ‘The two anterior
transverse processes are long and sharp, and are received under
or pass within the two posterior transverse processes of the
preceding vertebra. ‘They differ in direction according to the
place which they occupy. ‘Those in the highest vertebre
pass obliquely downwards ; and those in the lowest, obliquely
upwards. The posterior transverse processes also grow broader
and less oblique as the vertebre descend. ‘The whole con-
nexion and proportion of the processes is such, that the greatest
downward flexion takes place at the top of the curve, and
the greatest upward flexion at the bottom; an arrangement
admirably adapted to increase the power of the muscles
which act in the vertical flexion of the spine.

The ribs are articulated by a double cavity to a small double
headed process under the anterior transverse process of each
vertebra. ‘They differ in length and direction, those at the
bottom of the curve being shorter and more spreading than
those at the top, so that the lower extremities of the whole
fall in a right line.

Muscles. The principal muscles on the outside of the trunk
consist of three strong dorsal muscles with oblique fibres con-
tinually arising from the vertebral processes, or ribs, and in-
serted by an aponeurosis into other bones of a similar kind.
Below these is a broad thin lateral muscle or congeries of mus-
cles, connected to the ribs only. ‘These muscles, according

SUPPLEMENT. A15

to their situation, act in performing the various inflexions of
the body.

On the inside of the ribs a series of their muscles was ob-
served, arising from the bodies of the vertebra, passing ob-
liquely downwards and forward under three ribs and over the
fourth, and afterwards inserted into ribs beyond. These mus-
cles, in conjunction with others, according to Sir Everard Home
and other authors, act upon the ribs in serpents to assist their
progressive motion on land.

Viscera. 'The only part of the viscera, which the limited
openings permitted us to examine, were a portion of the lung
and cesophagus with the mesentery and blood vessels, also a
small part of the stomach. The lung was a long cellular and
tubular viscus, as in other serpents, but with this remarkable
peculiarity. It was successively dilated and contracted so as
to adapt itself to the cavities formed by the undulations of the
spine. ‘The csophagus was also unequal, but without relation
to the cavities of the spine, not being in contact with it. In
the stomach was found a mass of scales, also the tail and part
of the skin of a serpent of a different species, having all the
scales carinate.

In regard to the use or final cause of the curvatures in the
back-bone, which give so peculiar a character to this animal ;
it is obvious that two important ends are effected by it. These
are an increase of flexibility and an increase of strength in
vertical motions.

1. The flexibility is increased, because in any given length
of body, there will be more joints in a crooked, than there
would be in a straight spine, composed of vertebrae of the same
dimensions.

2. ‘The strength in vertical motions is increased, since the
fulerum formed by the highest articulation is more remote
from the power applied by the lateral muscles, and the fulcrum
formed by the lowest articulation, is also more remote from

A416 SUPPLEMENT.

the power applied by the dorsal muscles; than they would
be if the spine pursued a straight and intermediate course.

The dorsal muscles, however, being bound down by an apo-
neurosis, so as to pursue nearly the course of the spine, are
nearer their fulcrum and have less of this advantage than the
lateral muscles, which are farther from their fulcrum ; so that
the greatest power is probably that which is exerted in the
forward flexion or extension of the body. This power is the
one which would be most useful to the animal in swimming
at the surface of the water with a motion in any degree vertical.

Your committee, considering this serpent as nondescript, and
as distinct from other genera of serpents in the flexuous struc-
ture of its spine, have deemed it necessary to constitute a new
genus, founded on this peculiarity. 'They have adopted the
descriptive name of Scoliophis, and have added the local specific
name of Atlanticus. Compared with the genera of Linneus
and Lacepede, its character will stand thus :

Sconiopnis. Scuta on the belly, scutelle on the tail, spine
flexuous.” :

That this is a new and very curious animal, is acknowledged
by distinguished foreign naturalists. D. H. S.

D 7

J. Wyman M.D. delt fig. 1. Aspidophoroides monopterysius, Crr.

4. Syngnathius

“-eckianus, Storer.

NOR ARE

ut

ALS nda BSSOLeI

we)

LdA402 0

“CN tema p

419p

uopsog ' yy] S,atoopw fT

me. 1. Orthacor S quo, . Mites

i) 24) y Leetinatayal punctata . Mitchel?

J

(ANT S.aroo yw

wOySog

AUE Tra

Acanthopterygii
Achirus, f
mollis,

Acipenser,

oxyrinchus,
Adder, chequered,
water,

Alauda alpestris,
Albicore,

Alea torda,

Alcedo aleyon,
Alewile, 5

Alosa,

menhaden,
vernalis,
vulgaris,
Aluteres,

moncceros ?
Ammoceetes,

bicolor,

Ammodytes,

Tobianus,

Anarrhicas, :
Lupus,

Anas acuta,
Americana,
boschas,
clypeata,
crecca, .
— discors,
obscura,
—— sponsa, .
sirepera,
Anchovy,
Angler,
Anguillide,
Anser bernicla,
Canadensis,
Hutchinsii,
—- hyperboreus, .
—- leucopsis,
Anthus spinoletta,
Ardea alba, . 6
candidissima,
Egretta,
exilis,
herodias,
minor,
nycticorax,
virescens,
Argentine,
Aspidiphoroides,

—————— monopterygius,
Atherina, : 5 y

Boscii,
53

112,

159

Atherina notata,
Atherine,

Auk, little,
razor-billed,

Barbel, 5
Basse, black,
small American,
Batrachia, .
Basse, striped,
Basse- -fry,
Batrachus,

— varie atus
Belone, iN

Bill-fish,

Birds of Massachusetts,
—- of Prey,

Bittern, American,
—-— least,
Blackbird, cow,

crow,

~ red-winged,

truncata,

Blackfish,

Blennius anguillaris, 3
labrosus,
Blenny, eel- Ee .
Blue- bird,

Blue-fish,

Bob-o- -link,

Bomby cilla Carolinensis,
garrula, .

Bonito,
Bream,
Brit,
Brosmius,
— flavescens,
vulgaris, .
Bucce Loricate,
Bufo, . 5

— Americanus,
Bull-frog, .
Bull-head, .
—_ ‘brazen, 3
Bunting black- throated,
rice, .

snow,

towee,
Butcher-bird,
Butter-fish,

)| (Boece short-winged,

_—.

Calidris arenaria,
Caprimulgus Virginianus,
—— vociferus,

418

Carcharias, . '
obseurus,
Vulpes,
Carp, golden,
Cat-bird, :
Cat-fish,
Catostomus,

Bostoniensis,
gibbosus,
——— tuberculatus,
Cedar-bird, . :
Centopristis, . 6
nigricans,
Certhia familiaris,

varia, .
Charadrius Helveticus,
—— melodus,
pluvialis,
semipalmatus,
vociferus,
Wilsonius,
Chatterer, waxen,
Chelonia, :
Chironectes, , ;
leevigatus,
— smooth,
Chogset, 9 .
Chondropteryg il, .

Cistuda, 5
—- Blandingii,
Blanding’s. .
Carolina, (

Clupea,
—— elongata,
fasciata,
minima,
Clupee,

Coal-fish,

Cocey zus Americanus,

erythropthalmus, .

Cod, American,

bank, .

poor, .

power, .

rock,

shoal,

Tom, 0
Codling, : 3

Coluber, ; 0

amezenus,

constrictor,

eximius,

——— occipito maculatus,

ordinatus, .

——— punctatus, .

saurita,
————-sipedon, .

/ ——_—— sirtalis,
———— striatulus,
————-vernalis, .
Columba Carolinensis,

—— migratoria,

Colymbus arcticus,

——. elacialis, 5

septentrioualis,

Conner, :
Coot, cinereous, 0

—— branchiis Axis
liberis,

INDEX.

Page.
15]
184
181

82
302
69
85
84
83
85
289
9

G3
341
340
361
359
358
361
360
599
290
207
72
73

G3

78
178
181
178
214,
215

(73
214
110
111
112
113
110
129
332
333
120

3

127
“ce
121

3
125
138
221
226
229
221
230
223
225
229
228
221
205
224,
350
‘351
398
“e
oe

78
375

Cormorant,

Corporal, little,
Coryphena hippurus,
Corvus Americanus,
cristatus,

Cotuus,
zeneus,
Greenlandicus,
monopterygius,
octodecimspinosus,
Virginianus,
Cramp- -fish,

Creeper, black and white,
brown,
Crenilabrus

a

Burgall,

Crossbill, common,
—— white-winged,

Crotalus, :

durissus,
Crow, American,
Cryptacanthodes,

Cuckoo, black-billed,
yellow-billed,
Curiew, Esquimaux,
long-billed,

small Esquimaux,
Cusk, ¢ >
Cyclopterus, . 0
Cyprinide, c
Cyprinodon flavulus,

Cyprinus, . .
——_—— auratus,
a caltostomus,

Cypselus pelasgius, .

Dab, rusty, .
sand,

Dace,

Discoboli, s
Diver, black- throated,
great northern,
pigeon,

red- throated,
Dog-fish, picked,
Dove, Carolina turtle,
mourning,
Duck, buffet- headed,
canvass- back,
——- common,

— dusky, 3
—— eider, 5
——- grey, . "i
——- harlequin,

—- king, .

—- long-tailed,
——- mallard,

— pied, .

——- pintail,

——- red- headed,
—- ring-necked,
——- ruddy,

——- scaup,

——- scoter, American,
——- spirit,

——- summer,

——= surf, . °

double-crested,

maculatus,

e) fem e)s ey cet Py eins.

Duck, velvet,
——- wood, . .

Dun-bird,

Eagle, bald,

golden,
Washington, :
Echeneis, F
—— naucrates, .

a quatuordecimlaminatus,

Eel, Massachusetts, .
—— Neshaw,

sand,

— sea,

silver,

Fel-pout,

Emberiza Americana,
——— nivalis,

Emys, :

—— guttata,
picta,
insculpta,

Emysaurus, 3

— serpentina,

Enchelyopus Americanus,

Esoces, . .

Esox, 6
flavulus,
reticulatus,

Exocetus,

Falco esalon,
borealis,
buteoides,
Columbarius,
Cooperii,
cyaneus,
fulvus,
fuscus,
haliztus,

—-_ Harlani,
hiemalis,

—— Islandicus,
lagopus,
Jeucocephalus,
lineatus,
niger, .

palumbarius, .
Pennsylvanicus,
peregrinus,
sancti Johannis,
sparverius,
temerarius,
velox, 3
Washingtonianus,
Falcon, Jer,

rough- legged,
winter, p
File-fish, Massachusetts,
—— Unicorn,
Finch, bay-winged,
pine,

purple,

— sea-side,

— sharp tailed,
Fishes of Massachusetts,
Fistularia, 0

——

serrata,
tabaccaria,

INDEX.

Page.

97,

258,

391
389

391

263
262

Fistularide, .
Elat-fish, New York, |
Flounder , Massachusetts,
—— New York,
—— watery, .
Flycatcher, blue grey,
—— Canada,
great-crested,

——— green black- -cap,

olive-sided,

Pewit,

small- headed,

—— Traill’s, .

Flying-fish, (Exocetus,)

Fringilla ambigua,

cerulea,

——— Canadensis,

— cardinalis, .

— caudacuta,

— cyanea,
erythropthalma,

— graminea, .
hiemalis,
iliaca, 9

— leucophrys,

——— linaria,
Ludoviciana,
maritima, .
melodia,

— palustris,

—— Pennsylvanica,

— pinns,

———— purpurea,

——— pusilla,
Savanna,
savannarum,

— socialis,

— tristis,

Frog, bull,

leopard,

pickerel,

shad,

_ wood,

Frog-fish,
Fulica Americana,
Fuligula albeola,
Americana,
—— clangula,
ferina,
fusca,
glacialis,
——— histrionica,
Labradora,
——— marila,
mollissima,
——— perspicillata,
— rubida,
———— rufitorques,
— spectabilis,
— Valisneria,

Gab, wide,

Gadites,

Gadwale,

Gadus longipes,

Gallinaceous Birds, 0

Gallinula galeata,
Martinica, .

— yellow-throated green,

420 INDEX.

Page.

Gallinule, Florida, 258, 375 | Hawk, great-footed, 270
purple, . < C4) marsh, . ‘e
Gannet, 4 397 | ——— pigeon, 5 261
Gar-fish, ¢ 5 98 | ——— red-shouldered, 269
Gasterosteus, : 4 30 | ——— red-tailed, 268
apeltes, 31 slate-colored, 266
Noveboracensis, 30 sparrow, 260
——_————_ pungitius, 32 | Heath-hen, 359
——————— quadratus, «« | Hemitripterus, : ; 23
Gobioides, . 4 63 Americanus, oe
Godwit, Hudsonian, 371 | Hemdurgan, “ 26
marbled, 371 | Heron, great blue, 362
Golden-eye, 393 great white, . 363
Goldfinch, American, 326 green, 364
Gold-fish, (Cyprinus auratus,) 82 night, 363
Goosander, 6 395 snowy, &
Goose, barnacle, 385 white, ce
brant, 386 | Herring, common, 2 111
Canada, 384 | —— English, a
ight, 385 | —— fasciated, 112
— Hutchins’s, a spring, 114
snow, 383 | Heterodon, 5 931
winter, 385 | —— platirhinos, oC
Goose-fish, 71 | Himantopus nigricollis, 6 8
Goshawk, American, 266 | Hippocampus, 167
Grackle, rusty, OFS |) — brevirostris, &
Granivorous birds, 318 | Hippoglossus vulgaris, 145
Grebe, crested, 376 | Hiruando Americana, 344
horned, S| = bicolor, 346
pied-billed, 4) —————— fulva, 258, 345
red-necked, “| —__—___ purpurea, 343
Grosbeak, blue, 330 | —— riparia, 346
cardinal, 329 serripennis, 347
— pine, 331 | Horse-mackerel, 48, 57
——_——_- rose- breasted, 329 | Humming-bird, 341
Grous, pinnated, 355 | Hydrargira, - . 93
ruffed, 9 354 | —— flavula, 95
Grunter, : 12 nigro-fasciata, 94
web-fingered, 14,| — ornata, Ge
Gudgeon, New York, 96 — tri-fasciatus, ve
Guillemot, black, 399 | Hyla, 94d
— foolish, “ squirella, 242
—-— large-billed, 400 versicolor, 241
——- little, “| Hylodes, 240
Gull, black-backed, 381 — Pickeringii, a
Bonaparte’s, 379
common, «| Ibis, bay, : 365
herring, 380 falcinellus, . a
— kittewake, 379 | Ice-bird, - _ 401
-— mackerel, 378 | Icteria viridis, PINT)
—— skua, 381 yellow- -breasted, se
silvery, . 380 | Icterus agripennis, 284.
white-winged, 381 Baltimore, 280
Gunnel, spotted, 65 pecoris, 283
Gumard, 12 pheeniceus, 282
Gymnodontes, 169 | Indigo-bird, , 320
Insectivorous birds, . 291
Haddock, 124
ie Norway, 26 | Jager, Arctic, 382
Heematopus palliatus, 358 Pomarine, 258, 382
Hake, i 132 Richardson’s, a
——- American, 138 | Jay, blue, . . 287
Halcyons, 342| Jer-falcon, . . - 260
Halibut, 145
Hardhead, 117| King-bird, . 6 292
Harrier, hen, 270 King- fish, 3 : 35
Hawk, brown, 266 Kingfisher, On ayes
Cooper’s, 267 Knot, 368
fish, 265

INDEX.

Page.
Labrax, 4 0 0 ; 6
lineatus, : : 5 7
mucronatus, . 0 _ 8
Labroides, . : : : 76
Labrus, c . 0 5 fe
Americanus, . . os
squeteague, . 33
versicolor, 38
Lamna, 185
punctata, OG
Lamprey, American, 195
——: bluish, 9 6 197
—_—— _ mud, 198
Lanius excubitroides, 292
septentrionalis, 291
Lark, brown, . 317
—- shore, 318
Larus argentatus, 380
—- Bonapartii, 379
——- fuscus, 380
——+ leucopterus, . 6 381
marinus, ; . s a6
——- pomarinus, 258
—-. tridactylus, 379

— zonorhyncus, . 0 . oe

Lestris catarractes, 381
parasiticus, . : 382
pomarinus, . 6 6 is
Richardsonii, : 3 f

Leuciscus, 88

— argenteus, 90

—— atronasus, 3 3 92
——— beautiful, 0 d 91
— crysoleucas, : . 88
pulchellus, 91

—— silvery, 90
Limosa fedoa, 5 6 6 371

Hudsonica, é . : “

Ling, O 67

Linnet, crimson, 4 330

Little Corporal, 258, 261

Lizard, blue-tailed, : 219

Lobe-footed birds,: 375

Loon, . 398

Lophius, ° : 70

—— piscatorius, 71, 403

Lophobranchii, 0 6 162

Lota, : i i 134

— compressa, 0 : : re

Loxia curvirostra, 331

leueoptera, Wy

Lump-fish, 151

Lump- sucker, i

Lumpus, 150

—— vulgaris, 151

Mackerel, horse, 48, 57

——-— Spanish, 45

— spring, 41

Malacopterygii abdominales, 82

—— — apodes, 157

————-— subbrachiati, 120

Martin, purple, : 343

Meleagris ealenayo. 352

Menhaden, . 117

Merganser, hooded, 396

395

Mergus Gueuliacua, 396

merganser, 395

Mergus serrator,
Merlangus,

——_——— carbonarius,
—_—— ee,
Merlin,
Merlucius,

vulgaris, .

Minister,
Minnow, banded,
brook,
ornamented,
Mocking-bird, :
Monocanthus,

Massachusettensis,
Monk-fish, B :
Mormon arcticus,
Morrhua,

—————— Aglefinus,
—_——. Americana,
———— callarias,
—_———. minnta,
———- Tomcodus,
—— vulgaris,
Mother Carey 5 chicken,
Mugiloides, 6
Murena,

eae (mel )

—_—— eet

Meranda
Murenoides, .

—— guttata,
Muscicapa Acadica,

atra,
—_—_____ Borealis,
— Canadensis,
——_—— Cooperii,
pee crimita,

TMS |g
——_—— _rulicilla,

Traillii, .
—___—— tyrannus,

virens, . 0
——_—— Wilsonii,

Night-hawk,
Numenius Borealis,
—— Hudsonicus,
——— fone reste:
Nurse,

Nuthatea, red- ‘bellied,
———— white- breasted,

Omnivorous birds,

Ophidia,

Oriole, Baltimore,

— black,

Omithobgy of Massachusetts,
Orthagcriscus, :

mola,
Osmerus, 0
——-— _ eperlanus, .
———— viridescens,
Ostracion, ;
Otolithus,
———— regalis,
Owl, Acadian,
— Arctic, .

Yalei,

157,

i
)

2

Owl, barred, .

cat,

cinereous,

grey,

hawk,

horned, . ;
little, . .
long-eared,

red,
short-eared,
snowy, . .
Tengmalm’s, .
white-horned,
Oyster-catcher, American,

UT

Pagrus, . :
argyrops,
Parrot, sea,
Partridge,

Parus atricapillus,
Passerine birds,
Pauhagen,

INDEX.

Page.

353,

Peabody, Rev. William B. O. Re-
port on the Crnltpeleeyie of Mas;

sachusetts,
Pectorales pediculati,
Peep, ;
Peewink,
Pelamys,
———— sarda,
Peprilus,
———— three- spined,
——_—— Iracanthus,
Perca,

flavescens,
varia,
Perch, black,
blue,
common,
ond,
sea, (Crenilabrus, )
white,
Percoides,
Perdix Virginiana,
Peirel, fork- tailed,
” fulmar,
stormy,
Petromyzon,

Americanus,
nigricans,

Pewee, small,

wood, ;
Phalacrocorax carho,
—— dilophus,
graculus,
Phalarope, hyperborean,
red,
Wilson’s,
Phalaropus fulicarius,
hyperboreus,
—— Wilsonii,
Pheasant,

Pholis,

sub- bifurcatus,
Phycis, .
— Americana, .-
Pickerel, common,
Picus auratus,

— Carolinus,

cor

258,

275
273
274
cc
270
273
275
274
212
274
271
276
(73

358

Picus erulbrecephalis,
—— pileatus,

—— pubescens,
— tridactylus,
—— varius, .

— villosus,
Pigeon, passenger,

Pimelodus,

— nebulosus,
Pipe-fish, brown,
oo Peck’s,
Plani,

Platessa,

———— dentata,
———— ferruginea,
—— plana,
Plectognathi, -
Pleuronectes aquosus,

—

golden,
kildeer,
—— piping,
semipalmated,
——- whistling field,
Wilson’s,
Podiceps Carolinensis,
—— cornutus,
cristatus,
——_—— rubricollis, .
Pollack, ‘
Pomotis,.

—- vu] aris,
Porgee, big,

Pout, eel,

~ horned,
Prionotus, .
—— Carolinus,
— strigatus,
Procellaria glacialis,
Puffer,

Puffin, ‘
Pyrrhula enucleator,

Qua-bird,

Quail, American,
Quiscalus baritus,
—————. ferrugineus,
——- versicolor,

Raia, .

—— Batis,

—— clavata,
ocellata,

—— radiata,
Raiide,

Rail, Sora,

use ’ vellow-breasted,
—— Virginian,
Rallus Carolinus,
Nov eboracensis,
Virginianus,

Rana,

clamata,

fontinalis,
halecina,
palustris,

mollis, (Achirus,)
Plover, black- bellied, x

129,
ity

“14,
12,

Rana, pipiens,
sylvatica,
Raven, sea,
Ray, ocellated,
starry, .

—— thornback,

Redpole, lesser,
Redstart, American, .
Regulus ‘calendulus, :
tricolor,
Remora, Indian,
fourteen-plated,
Reptiles of Massachusetts,

Rhombus,

aquosus
Roach, q SUN
Robin, American,
ground,
Rose fish,

Rudder -fish,
Rusticola minor,

Salamander, banded,
—_—_— blue-: -spotted,

—_—___—. brown-spotted,
—————. many-spotted,
———_——_ painted, 5
—_——_—— red-backed,
———_—— _ salmon-colored,
——_————_ symmetrical,
———— violet-colored,
Salamandra,
——_ cinerea,
———_—— dorsalis,
—————— erythronota,

—_—_——_ fasciata,
———_—— glutinosa,
Jongicauda,

maculata
— millepunctata,
———_—-_— picta,
——_—__.___-. salmonea,
——_—_—— symmetrica,
—_——_—_ ligrina,
—— ————_ venenosa,
Salmo,

fontinalis,

salar, .
Salmon,
Salmonides,
Sanderling,

Sandpiper, ash- colored,
——— broad- billed,
—_ —__— buff-breasted,
——_——. Curlew,

Jitile,
— pectoral,
————— purple, .
aatbaekeds
——_——— Schinz’s,
semipalmated,

—_——

Sargus,

Ovis,
Sauria,
Scapaug,
Scienoides,
Scincoidea,
Scincus,

INDEX.

104,

Page.
235
239

23
191
201
200
201
328
296
314

1]
153
155
203
146

6c

91
303
328

26

55
373

247
352
(GG
949
251
245
248
246
247
245
206
249
245
QA7
252
206
252
250
951
248
246
206
247
200
106
104

oe

104
357
368
367
ce
3°6
368
367
368
367
a“

368
36
(73

219
38
33

219

ce

Scincus fasciatus,
Sclerodermi, .
Scoliophis Ailanticus,
Scolopax grisea,
Wilsonii,

Scomber,

Colias,
—_——. giex,
———— plumbeus, .
—— vernalis,
Scomberesox,

equirostrum,
Scomberoides,

Scopelus, ; :
Humboldtii,
Sculpin, common,

— deep-water,
— Greenland,

Scup,

Sea-devil,

Sea- -horse, short-nosed,
Sea-robin, :
Sebastes, :
Norvegicus,
Selache elephas,
Selachii,

Serpentia,

Shad, common,

Shag,

Shark, bone,

dusky,

elephant,

fox, .

hammer. headed,
mackerel,
sleeper,

Sheep’s head,

Shiner, New-York,
Shoveler,

Shrike, American,

eee ae oe
Sialia Wilsonii,

Siuride, é ¢ -

Silver-side, small,
Sitta Canadensis,
— Carolinensis,
Skate,

Skip-jack,

Sleeper, :
Slender-billed birds, .
Smelt, : :
sand,

Snake, banded rattle,
black,

chicken,
green,

—— house,

——— little brown, .-
—— milk,
——ratile,

—— red,

——— riband,

——_. ringed,

—— spoited- ~neck,
——— striped,
—— thunder and lightning,
Snapper,

Snipe, American,
red-breasted,

184,

A24

Snipe semipalmated,
Snow-bird, .
Sole, New York,
Somniosus,
Sparoides,
Sparrow, ambiguous,
chippin
aman at &)
fox- -colored,
—-— Savannah,
-~——_—_—- song,
——_———. swamp,
tree, 0
————. white-crowned,
———— white-throated,
yellow-shouldered,
Sparrow-hawk,
Sparus argyrops,
Sphargis,

brevipinna,

—

os

Spinax,

acanthias,

Squeteague, .

Squalus obscurus, . 0

(Selache) elephas, .

Starling, American, . :

Sterna Cayana,

—— Dougalli,

—— hirundo,

—— minuta,

Sternotherus,

———_—— odoratus,

Stickleback, bloody,

———— New York,

ten-spined,

Sult, black-necked,

Storer, Dr. D. H. ‘Report on the
Fishes of Massachusetts, .

——_______-— Report on the
Reptiles of Massachusetts,

Strepsilus interpres,

Strix Acadica,

Arctica,

— asio,

— brachyotus,

cinerea,

—— funerea,

— nebulosus,

—— nyctea, .

olus,

Tengmalmi,

Virginiana,

Stromateus cryptosus,

————— triacanthus,

Sturgeon, sharp-nosed,

Sturionide,

Sturnus Ludovicianus,

Sucker, black,

chub,

— common,

gibbous,

—horned,

lump,

Suctorii,

Sula bassana,
Sun-fish, fresh- -water,
——~—— short,
Swallow, bank,

INDEX.

Page,
369
324,
149
189

“

36
322
325

«

328
323
74
326
324,
321
(73
324,
260
38
216
217
187
14
33
184,
407
279
378
379
378
379
210
(73
31
30
32
358

Swallow, barn,
——_—— chimney,
——.— cliff, 5
— rough- winged,
Ey CS hte. bellied,

Swell-fish,

Swingle- -tail,
Sword-fish,

Sylvia estiva,
agilis,
——— Americana,
auricollis,
autumnalis,
Blackburniz,
— Canadensis,
—— castanea,
—— celata,
——— chrysoptera,
—— coronata,
—— discolor,
icterocephala,
——— maculosa,
——— parus,
——— petechia, 6
—— Philadelphia,
——— pinus, 0
—— Roscoe,
——— tubricapilla,
striata,
——— Swainsonii,
—— trichas,
Trochilus,
——— vermivora,
virens,
Syngnathide,
Syngnathus,

fuscus,

——_———— Peckianus,

——_——__——- typhle,

Tanager, scarlet,
Tanagra rubra,
Tattler, Bartram’s,
———- solitary,
——— spotted,
Tautog, :
Teal, blue-winged,
——- green- -winged,
Tell-tale,
Temnodon, ;
— saltator, .
Tern, Cayenne,
common,

— roseate,

—- silvery,

Testudo Pennsylvanica,
scabra,

Tetrao Cupido,

——— umbeilus,
Tetraodon,

— turgidus, |
Thalassidroma Leachii,
— Wilsonii,
Thrasher, brown,
Thresher,

Thornback,

Thrush, brown,

golden-crowned,

205, 2

Thrush, hermit,
— New York,
——_ Wilson’s,
wood, .
Thynnus, é 0
vulgaris, .
Titmouse, black-cap,
Toad, common,
piping, tree, .
tree, ’. 9
Toad-fish,
‘Tobaceo-pipe-fish,
Tom-cod,
Torpedo, 0 0
Tortoise, alligator, .
Blanding’s box,
box, 0
leather,
—_—_ mud, 0
painted,
snapping,
spotted, |
wood, é
Totanus, Bartramius,
chloropygius,
—— flavipes, .
macularius,
semipalinatus,
vocilerus,
Trachinotus,

ao 0

——_—— argenteus,
Trigla lineata,
palmipes,
Tringa alpina, 0
cinerea,
maritima,
pectoralis, .
platyrhinea,
pusilla, 3
— rufescens,
—_ Scehinzii,
semipalmata,
subarquata,
Trochilus colubris,
Troglodytes edon, .

Americana,
hrevirostris,
——- hiemalis,
— palustris,
Trout, : C
brook,
cousin,
salmon,
Trunk-fish, Yale’s, .
Trygon, . -

Tumy,common, .
T urbot,

"urdus aurocapillus,
felivox,
migratorius, .
ninor, .
mustelinus, .
Noveboracensis,
polyglottus, .
rufas, °
Wilsonii,
Turkey, wild,
Turnstone,

Call

5A

INDEX.

Page.

305
306
6b

304
47

éé

288

244
242
241

74

60
125
201
211
215
214
27
210
28
211
207
209
370

399
370
309

Umbrina, .. 6
— nebulosa, 4
Uria alle, : : ;
Brunnichii,
—— grylle,
—troile, . 0

Vireo flavifrons,

——- Noveboracensis, 6
olivaceus, . 0

—- red-eyed,

—- warbling, . .

— white-cyed, .
yellow-throated,

Wading Birds, - 0
Warbler, autumnal, 6
bay-breasted,
—— Blackburnian,
black-pole,
——— black-throated blue,

—_—— —_—_——. grecn,
— chestnut-sided, ;
——— golden-winged, .
— hemlock,

— mourning, 3 :
——_ Nashville, .

orange: crowned,
orange throated, .
particolored,
———— pine, : c
prairie, 6 ;
spotted,
Swainson’s,
worm-ealing, :
yellow-crowned, .
yellow redpole,
Warrior, black,

Weak-fish, . é
Web-footed birds,
Whipeenwil,

Whistler, brass-eyed,
White- -birds, é

Whiting,

Widgeon, American, .
Willet, 5 4 .
Wolf-fish, 5 é
Woodcock, American, 6

Woodpee ker, downy,
golden- winged,
hairy , 0
—_—— pleated,
red-bellied, —.
——— — red-headed,

—— three-toed, 0

yellow-bellied,

Wren, fiery-erowned, $
fresh-water marsh,

house, C :

in: rsh, d

ruby- -crowned, :
salt-water marsh, 3

ih

willow,

winter, : 5

wood, 6
Wry-mouth, spotted, 3

425

°o 9 © @

Page,
33

73

400
73
399
66

£93
299
298
299
3

sé

298

66

357
310
309
308
309
3il
308
309
312
310
312
313
6s
309
3il
310
311
3018
313
312
307
(73
269
33
378
348
394
319
13%
88
369
69
373
337
333
337
33h
336
335
338
336
31k
315
314
316
3I-b
316
3l2
316
66

23

426 INDEX.

Page
Xiphias, ' ° , - 51 | Yellow-throat, Roscoe’s, _,
- gladius, , ; . sf
Zoareus, A C c c
Yager, cataract, , . c 381 | ———— anguillaris, ;
Yellow-bird, summer, : - 307) Zygena, . : ° .
Yellow-shanks, 369 | Zygodactyli, ; 5 ;

Yellow-throat, Maryland, f po an

DANO

3 9088 01348 86