THE VELVET DUCK. 105

these, as for all other wild ducks. They
feed and fly by night, and rest during the
day. The flesh of the old bird is strong,
dark, and sedgy, yet they are much sought,
and when exposed for sale, bring a very
good price. They associate with other
ducks, and are frequently confounded
with the coot. In the spring, they may
be seen, in vast flocks, proceeding north-
ward, to the regions where they breed.
At this time, they fly low, making a
straight course just outside of the land,
and are perfectly silent and intent on
their voyage.