THE AMERICAN AVOSET.

Tur Avoset may be seen about the coasts
and rivers of the Middle States during
_thesummer. They have a very awkward
appearance. The bill is long, slim and
weak, as are the legs. The plumage is
rather thick and close, and well provided
with down. The Avosets live in pairs or
small flocks, in marshes where they are
constantly obliged to wade. They run
with rapidity in or out of the water, but
do not often swim, though their feet are
webbed. Their flight is swift and long,
and they are naturally, shy and timid, yet
noisy. They feed on small fish, insects

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