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THE

NATURAL HISTORY

QUADRUPEDS

NEW YORK
SIEGEL-COOPER CO,

PUBLISHERS
 

Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1852,
By J. A. & U. P. JAMES,

in the Clerk’s Office of the District Court of the United States,
for the District of Ohio.

 
HISTORY OF QUADRUPEDS.

 

THE MENAGERIE.

Come, let us go to see the Menagerie.
There we may see wild beasts of all kinds,
from the great elephant to the prying
little weasel. Tho animals are kept in
cages which have strong iron bars in front,
so that we can look at the fiercest ones
and yet feel that we are safe. There is
the mighty Lion stretched on the floor of
his cage, like a dog. See, what a thick
mane he has, and how his eyes glare.
His roar seems to shake the building.

(5)
THE ELEPHANT.

Tur Elephant is the largest of quadru-
peds. They are found in the island of
Ceylon from ten to sixteen feet in height,
and weighing from six to eight thousand
pounds. The head is small, in proportion
to the enormous bulk of the animal, and
is rendered lighter by large hollows within
the skull. The eyes are small, but lively
and expressive. In the place of certain
teeth he has two tusks which project from —
the mouth, and frequently attain a great
size. But the Elephant’s most wonderful
feature is his trunk, or proboscis, which
answers every purpose of ahand; with it,

(6)
 

ELEPHANT,
 
THE ELEPHANT. 9

he lifts the heaviest burden, picks up the
smallest pin and carries food and drink
tohismouth. The neck is short and strong
and the legs are stout and massive. His
skin is hard, wrinkled, without hair, and
about an inch thick on the back. The
usual color of the elephant is a dark ash-
brown; but some are found perfectly
white. These white elephants are con-
sidered sacred by the people of Siam, and
are therefore very carefully guarded and
attended. The temper of this great beast
is mild, and his Sagacity is surprising, he
delights in the sound of music and the
fragrance of flowers, The African Elephant
is now only hunted for the ivory of its
tusks,
THE RHINOCEROS.

Tue Rhinoceros is found in Africa, and
South Asia. In size and power, it is in-
ferior to the elephant alone. They are
heavy and clumsy in appearance, not un-
like a monstrous hog, except that the In-
dian has one horn, and the African species
two, in a line projecting from the nose, a
large and a smaller, the longest crooked
backward behind, adhering solely to the
skin, without any bony socket, and hard
as iron. The eyes are small; the ears
erect and pointed; the limbs short and
thick, and the skin capable of resisting
the stroke of a scimetar, or turning a

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THE RHINOCEROS. 13

musket ball, and deeply folded across the
shoulders and thighs in the Indian, but
smooth in the African animal. The senses
of smelling and hearing in both are keen,
and the appetite gluttonous; herbs and
the roots of herbs are their food ; swamps
and marshy plains their favorite haunts,
in which they wander solitary, seldom in
pairs. They are quiet if not disturbed,
but when roused, furious and formidable,
the elephant himself being hardly an
equal foe. A species is found in South
Africa, having its first horn nearly twelve
feet in length, and possessing great
strength and swiftness.
THE LION.

Tue Lion deserves to be valled the
king of beasts. His aspect is grand and
fierce, and his strength, considering his
size, is tremendous. The African Lion
measures from seven to nine feet in
length, with a tail about four, tufted at
the point; the height at the shoulder
from three to five; but when newly
whelped, his size does not exceed that of
a pup dog, and it requires four, or accord-.
ing to some writers, six years, till he at-.
tains his full stature. He lives to a great
but uncertain age. There are three va-
neties described : one of a deep yellowish-

(14)
 
a fag

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.

 
THE LION. 17

prown; the other of a lighter shade; and
the Cape Lion, of which the mane is nearly
black. The appearance of the Lion is
terrible when roused. He has a broad
face, surrounded with long shaggy hair,
and a flowing mane, increasing in length
as his years advance, adorns his neck.
If provoked, this bristles up erect, his
2yes gleam with fire, and his whole coun-
tenance becomes wildly expressive of
rage; his deep roar is broken into short
surly growls, his lips contracting discover
his teeth, and his claws are protruded
beyond their velvet covering. When
pressed by hunger, he attacks furiously
whatever animal crosses his path, and
even breaks into the settlements and
seizes the cattle.
2
THE JAGUAR.

Tue Jaguar holds the same rank among
the animals of the American continent,
as the tiger among those of Asia. On the
upper part of its body it is of a bright
yellowish-fawn color, which passes, on the
throat, breast, and other under parts, into
a pure white. On this ground, the head,
limbs, and under surface are covered with .
full black spots of various sizes, and the
rest of the body with rings, having black
spots in the centre. This animal is found
in the swampy forests of South America,
especially in the neighborhood of large
rivers, which he swims with great ease.

(18)
ANY \

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THE JAGUAR,
 
THE JAGUAR. 21

A Jaguar has been known to attack and
kill a horse, and then, taking hold of it
with his teeth, to swim across a large
river, and secure his prey. Possessed of
such strength and ferocity, this animal is
the dread of the people of the countries
where he is found. When the Jaguar has
made choice of the victim, he springs on
the back, and placing one of his paws on
the back of the head, while he seizes its
muzzle with the other, he twists its head
round with a sudden jerk, thus instantly
depriving it of life. The Jaguar will not
attack a man unless maddened by hunger.
THE BISON. -

Tan Bison i is Sometimes called the Buf-.
falo. He looks very much like a common.
ox, but he has a great bushy mane and a.
very large head. His horns are short and
strong. The skin is covered with a thick
fur, sometimes black and sometimes.
brown. The Bison has a terrible aspect.
when roused, and can do a vast amount
of harm to those who do not know how to.
deal with him. The vast western plains
of the United States are the favorite haunts
of these animals, and the herds sometimes
contain many thousands. Every year,
however, the hunters are thinning the

(22)
 

THE BISON.
 
THE BISON. 25

numbers, and it may not be many years
before it will be rare to find a small herd.
The hides and tongues are considered
very valuable, and it is for these, the
Bisons are killed. Sometimes, a party of
hunters will surround a herd of Bisons and
in a short time slay them all. This kind
of hunting, however, is very dangerous.
It often happens that horses and men are
killed by the furious beasts.
THE COW.

Tue Cow should be well-treated by man,
for without her, he would want for many
things. She is less likely to be diseased
and is easier kept than a horse, for she
improves the field where she grazes,
while the horse injures it. Her milk is
a nourishing and pleasant beverage, and
from it we make butter and cheese. Her
flesh is considered superior to that of
most other animals. Her skin furnishes
us with leather. Her horns and hoofs
are made into many articles of use and
ornament. The very blood is not lost. It
whitens our sugar, and is used in making

(26)
\ IY
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THE COW. 29

a beautiful blue. Is not the cow very
valuable, then? Let her have good care.
Let her graze in the best pasture in the
spring and summer; and during the chill |
winter, let her have a warm house and
plenty of hay. Above all, do not beat
the useful beast. Most cows are mild-
tempered, and if not worried and provoked
are perfectly harmless. Cows have some-
times very beautiful skins. We find them
of nearly all colors and shades; but the
red and white are generally preferred.
Never look at the Cow without thinking
of how much use she is to us.
THE HORSE.

- Tur Horse is one of the most useful
and beautiful of all quadrupeds.. The
symmetry of his form, the freeness and
elegance of his motions, his fleetness,
strength, and spirit, render him one of
the most valuable of those which have
been reclaimed by man. But like all
other domesticated animals, he varies
greatly in his size, color and shape, from
the varied treatment he is exposed to,
and the cross breeds which have been
introduced into the family. Though
spread over almost every region of the
globe, his native country is doubtful, nor
(30)
 
we

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THE HORSE. 33

does he seem to exist at present in a
wild state, except in those places where
domesticated horses have been set at ]j-
berty, as in the vast plains of Great Tar-
tary, or the extensive plains of South
America, where they associate in large
troops, each under the guidance of one
leader. Should any tame animal of their
own kind attempt to claim kindred with
the Tartar horse, it is said that they in-
stantly surround him, and compel him to
provide for his safety by a retreat. On
the contrary the South American steeds,
we are told, use all their efforts to induce
the domestic horse to join them.
THE ASS.

Tus Ass is a well-known drudge among
men. When wild, it isa noble and beau-
tiful animal; but when tamed it loses its
charms of appearance. Of great strength
for his size, he bears fatigue and hunger
with patience, a few thistles or dried
herbs being sufficient for his day’s suste-
nance; but he is peculiarly nice in the
water he drinks, tasting nothing but what
is clear and pure. In northern climates
he degenerates, perhapsfrom the unfeeling,
senseless bad treatment he receives; for
when young he is sprightly; it 1s only as
he grows up that he shows the effects of

(34)
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THE ASS. 37

his education in his stubbornness and
stupidity. If well treated, he is strongly
attached to his master, and no female
shows more fond, steady affection for her
young. The Ass is four years in growing,
and lives twenty-five or thirty. The milk
of the Assis medicinal. The flesh of young
wild asses is said to be delicate. The
skin is manufactured into thick vellum,
and into shagreen. The mule is a creature
springing from an union of the ass with
the mare, which produces large mules, or
of the horse with the she-ass, which pro-
duces small mules. The first is the best,
and most generally used: it has the legs
and shape of the horse, the ears, the tail,
and the cross of the Ass.
THE ZEBRA.

Tun Zebra has a figure like the mule,
but he is a much more beautiful beast.
His body is striped black, or a fawn-co-
lored ground in the male, and white in
the female. The Zebra is strong and
fleet, but almost untameable. Its voice
‘3 said to resemble that of a post-horn.
In the mountain districts of Southern Af-
rica, the Zebras are found in herds. The
hunters capture them with the lasso ; but
as it is found impossible to subdue them
to any kind of toil, they are fit for nothing
but food. There is another animal called
the Quagga, which bears much resem-

(38)
 
 
THE ZEBRA. 4]

blance to the horse as well as the Zebra.
The hair on the neck is brown, with
whitish transverse stripes, the croup of @
reddish-gray, tail and legs whitish. Its
voice resembles the barking of a dog,
The Quagga is a native of the same coun-
try as the Zebra; but is not so fierce. Itg
flesh is much relished by man as well as
by the lion, whose combined depredations
are thinning the ranks of these animals.
The herds of Zebras and Quaggas are
commonly small—each one containing
about twenty animals. They are very
timid and cautious, stationing sentinels
while they are feeding.
THE GNU.

Tur Gnu 1s a curious animal, having
about an equal resemblance to the horse,
buffalo, and stag. It 1s as large as a
middle sized horse. Its neck is rather
larger than that of the buffalo, and is
adorned with a maul. Beneath the
lower jaw, there is a thick shaggy beard.
The legs are long and finely formed, like
those of the stag. The horns are some-
what like those of the butialo, but have
more curve. The Gnu is a lively capri-
cious animal. It is made furious by the
sight of scarlet, like the bull or buffalo.
When worried, the Gnu expresses its an-

(42)
 
 
THE GNU. 4:

ger, oy plunging, curvetting, and tearing
up the ground. When wounded it is
dangerous to the hunter, who then must
either keep out of the way, or quickly put
an end to the beast. These animals feed
in large herds on the plains of South Af-
rica. Their flesh is very juicy, and far
more nourishing and agreeable than beef.
When taken young, the Gnu is readily
tamed; but the people of South Africa
seldom attempt to domesticate them, as
they are said to have a tendency to catch
and communicate a dangerous disease.
The Dutch of Cape Colony call the Gnu,
the Wildebeest. The lion makes this ani-
mal a common prey, lying in wait for it
near the pools where it comes to drink.
THE BROWN BEAR.

Tus Brown Bear is found in various
parts of Europe, Asia, and North Ame-
rica. He is covered with long, soft,
woolly hair, of a deep brown in youth,
which becomes yellowish-gray and griz-
zled in more advanced age; he is about
four feet in length, and nearly two and a
half in height: the length of the head is
about a foot, the fore feet eight inches,
the hinder rather more, and the claws two
inches. He is most lonely in his habits;
he only goes a short time with his female,
and retires to doze out the rest of his ex-
istence in the hollow of a tree, in some ~

(46)
febrtnactiticg,

 

BROWN BEAR.
 
THE BROWN BEAR. 49

natural cavity of the earth, or the cleft
of a rock, which he contrives to line with
moss. Here he remains till the return
of spring, subsisting upon the absorption
of his fat, when he forsakes his lair. The
female remains longer, till she has brought
forth her young, when she sallies forth
with her little family (two or three, ) hun-
gry and savage. Unless provoked, they
never attack man; but when they are,
the assault is dangerous: rising upon
their hind feet, they hug their opponent
between their fore limbs, and he seldom
survives their hug. They are good swim-
mers, and climb well. When tamed, they
seem mild and obedient to their keepers,
and are taught to dance and assume a
variety of attitudes to the sound of music.
4. .
THE GRIZZLY BEAR.

Tus Grizzly Bear is the most ferocious
of all the wild animals of North America.
He is about seven feet in length and four
and a half in height. They have been
found of the enormous weight of two
thousand pounds. The forehead of the
Grizzly Bear is high, and his muzzle nar-
row, flat, and long. His feet are very
large, the breadth of the fore foot exceed-
ing nine inches; and the hind ones are
much larger. The general color of this
animal is a blackish-brown, grizzled with
light grey. He climbs trees and rocks
with great ease. Amid the wooded plains

(50)
 

GRIZZLY BEAR.
 
THE GRIZZLY BEAR. 53

and tangled copses in the neighborhood
of the Rocky Mountains, the Grizzly Bear
reigns supreme. Such is his strength,
that he can overpower the bison and
drag the carcass to his den. He is very
tenacious of life; for, after receiving se-
veral severe wounds in the body, he will
still pursue with swiftness. A shot
through the brain or heait can alone set-
tle him. The Grizzly Bear possesses
great courage, and will fight against all
odds, till completely disabled, or till his
foes are slain or driven from the field.
THE NYL-GHAU.

Tur Nyl-Ghau is sometimes called the
Blue Cow, and the White-footed Antelope.
Ii seems to be confined to the northwestern
provinces of Hindostan, and the countries
situated between them and Persia. ‘The
male is superior in size to the stag; his
head is large, with black horns, seven or
eight inches long; his neck long and
maned; his shoulders are surmounted by
a slight hump. The general color of his
body is a slate-gray, with patches of white.
The Nyl-Ghau eats oats and is fond of
grass, hay, and wheat bread. It is vicious
and fierce in the rutting season, but at

(54)
NYL-GHAU

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THE NYL-GHAU 57

other times tame and gentle. The female
differs much from the male, is shorter
and smaller, resembles the deer and has
no horns. The young Nyl-Ghau is like
a fawn. The flesh of the Nyl-Ghau is
sweet and nourishing, and on this account,
the animal is highly prized by the people
of the country where it is found. It is
hunted in the same manner as the deer
in other parts of the world, and can lead
the hunters a long chase, being very swift
on foot. .
THE MUSMON.

Tus Musmon, or Moufflon of Corsica,
still exists wild in the mountains of Cor-
sica and Sardinia: a similar species is also
scattered over European Turkey and some
of the islands of the Archipelago. They
are about the size of sheep, and breed with
the domestic races. The head is long,
with the muzzle shallow, the nose some-
what raised, and the forehead swollen ;
the horns of the male (the female is
without) are large, long, and triangular,
bending backward like a half circle,
around from the base to the tip, which is
ybtuse; the body is large and muscular,

(58)
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MUSMON.
 
THE MUSMON. .

the tail short, and bare on the inside; the
legs are pretty long, and the hoofs short.
The color of the body is a yellow-chestnut ;
the head ash-grey, whitish on the muzzle
and about the eyes; the belly, inside of
the thighs, and tip of the tail, is white:
the fleece owes its tints to the long hair,
which exceeds the wool. They wander
in flocks of about a hundred, led by some
old courageous male. Their habits are
like those of our own sheep, docile and
gentle, though sometimes a churlish old
ram will butt down a child, a woman, or
a man, who may happen to stand in his
road, when the fit is upon him.
THE IBEX.

Tur Ibex has large knotted horns, lean-
ing backwards, a small head, large eyes,
a thick, short, strong body, strong legs,
very short hoofs, and a short tail. Its
body is a deep brown color, with a mixture
of gray hairs; the legs are partly black.
The hair is harsh, and the male is fur-
nished with a beard. These animals are
found in the most lofty mountains.in Ku-
rope and Asia, where they move in small
flocks. They are very swift and display
amazing skill in leaping. They are not
often hunted. The Ibex hunter must
have a head that can bear to look down

(62)
 

IBEX.
 
THE IBEX. 65

the most tremendous precipices without
fear, besides much strength, vigilance,
and activity. Sometimes, when hard-
pressed, the Ibex will turn on the pur-
suer and tumble him down the precipice.
They always strive to gain the summit
of the mountain when alarmed. Their
voice is a sharp and short whistle, like
that of the chamois. The Ibex is said to
throw itself down steep precipices, and
fall on its large horns, and thus escape
injury. The young are defended with
great courage by their parent.
THE LLAMA.

Tur Llama is as useful to the inhabi-
tants of South America as the camel is to
the Arabs; but it is a more graceful and
beautiful animal. Its legs are slender
and well-formed; the neck is held erect,
and the head looks lively and spirited.
‘The Llamas inhabit the Cordilleras of the
Andes mountains, but are most numerous
in Peru and Chili. They move about in
large herds, and feed on a kind of grass
called ycho. As long as they can pro-
cure green herbage, they are never known
to drink. The ancient inhabitants of
Peru killed vast numbers of Llamas for

(66)
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THE LLAMA. 69

their flesh and skins, and used them as
beasts of burden. From the form of their
feet they are well-fitted for travelling in
mountainous countries, and are therefore
preferred to mules. They are also kept
at a trifling expense. If let loose when
their day’s work is done, they will seek
their own food, and return in the morning
to renew their toil in the service of man.
Their flesh is esteemed very wholesome
and savory. Their wool is made into gar-
ments, ropes, and bags, by the native In-
dians. When provoked, the Llama, spits
at its tormentor. These animals cannot
carry very heavy burdens for any great
distance; but they are patient and can
be made very useful.
THE ALPACA.

Tue Alpaca, Paco, or Vicugna, is @
species of llama found in South America,
and highly prized for its wool and flesh.
The wool of the Alpaca is much longer
than that of the common llama, and is
capable of being manufactured into a very
fine cloth. Alpaca is a common stuff for
clothing in America and Europe, and is
particularly used for dresses for females.
The animal possesses all the mildness and
patience of the llama, but is not so large
and strong. The inhabitants of the coun-
tries where the Alpaca is found think it
too valuable to reduce to a beast of bur-

(70)
 

c

THE ALPACA,
 
THE ALPACA.. 73

den. They pursue it among the moun-
tains, with guns and dogs. The Alpacas
have habits similar to those of the un-
tamed llamas; going in herds and feed-
ing on the grass peculiar to the moun-
tains. Their flesh is esteemed superior
to that of the other species.
THE ORYX.

Tur Oryx, or Gemsbok, is a species of
antelope. It is a heavy, stout animal,
about five feet in length, and three feet
two inches high at the shoulder; the
length of the horns is from two feet to
two feet and a half; that of the ears,
seven inches, and that of the tail thir-
teen inches. The horns are almost straight.
The general color of the body is a dark,
rusty iron-gray on the upper parts, and
white on the under, the two being sepa-
rated on the flanks by a broad band of
brown or black. The head is white.
marked with two bands of black. The

(74)
 
THE ORYX. 77

black and white colors are distinctly se-
parated, and the boldness of their con-
trast produces a very singular effect on the
appearance of the animal. The Oryx
inhabits the plains of South Africa; it
is never found in the woods, but keeps
on the open plains, and lives in pairs or
small families. It is very dangerous to
approach this animal when it is wounded,
as It can make a terrible use of its horns.
It is said that the lion himself is afraid
to attack this powerful and courageous
beast, and that sometimes when pressed
to do so by famine, he has been beaten
off with disgrace, or killed.
_ THE COMMON GOAT. —

Tux Goat which is to be seen domesti-
cated in many parts of the United States
and other countries was tamed from the
common wild species. It is very swift
and active, climbing the most rugged
mountains, and fearlessly browsing at the
edge of the steepest precipices. The kids
are generally produced early in the spring.
The buck has a rank, nauseous smell,.
which proceeds from ‘his skin. Though
fond of the summits of bleak and lofty.
mountains, the Goat cannot bear severe
cold. The flesh is much e&teemed by some
nations, though it is inferior to mutton.

(78)
 

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COMMON GOAT.

 
 
THE COMMON GOAT. 8]

The milk is excellent, and has been very
beneficial to consumptive persons. But
the skin is the most valuable part of the
animal. It is prepared for a number of
purposes, and takes the name of morocco.
The tallow of the Goat is also very impor-
tant, and it is preferred to that of the ox
or sheep. There are various species of
Goats. The Cashmere Goat is found in
the kingdom of Cashmere, and has long,
fine, silky hair. The Rocky Mountain
Goat is a very hardy species, about the
size of a common Goat.
THE HY AN».

‘Tue ferocious Hyzna bears some re-
semblance to a large dog. The common
or Striped Hyzena, is found in Western
Asia. It is of a brownish-gray color, and
marked with bands of dark brown. The
hair upon the back is thick and strong,
forming a sort of mane. These animals
are very bold and rapacious. They will
kill dogs and asses, even within the en-
closures of houses, and never fail to col-
lect where dead beasts of any kind are
placed; nor are they much alarmed at
the report of fire-arms. If one of their
number is wounded, they instantly tear

(82)
 
 
THE HY ENA 85

him in pieces and devour him. It is re-
markable that when the Hyzna is forced
to run, he will always appear lame for a
considerable distance; but after running
for some time, this halting disappears,
and he proceeds on his course very swiftly.
The African Hysena is sometimes tamed.
This animal is spotted, and is larger than
the Hyzena found in Asia. It devours
every kind of carrion, and is, therefore,
useful in the warm climates, when, with-
out them the air might become infected.
‘THE COMMON HOG.

In grossness of manners, the Hog has
ho equal. among quadrupeds. The mud
is its favorite bed and the foulest gutter
its place of search for food. The Wild
Boar-and the Common Hog are the same
animal, the difference. between them
arising fromthe long tame life of the latter.
The Hog is found in nearly every quarter
of the world. In the forests of South
America, it is found in vast droves, derived
from the European kinds, which have
again fallen into a state of nature. Hogs
are delicate in the choice of herbs, but they
will devour, with voracity the most putrid

(86)
 

THE COMMON HOG.
 
THE COMMON HOG. 89

carrion. At times, they even satisfy their
appetites with their own young; and they
have been known to attack and mangle
children. The form of the Hog is uncouth,
and his motions are clumsy and un-
graceful. His appearance is always
stupid, and if not disturbed, he would
sleep most of the time that is not devoted
to eating. Thus his whole life is a suc-
cession of torpor and gluttony. But the
Hog is a great benefit to mankind. His
flesh is pleasant and nutritious, and par-
ticularly relished by persons who perform
hard bodily labor.
THE DEER.

THERE are several varieties of Deer ‘
known as the moose, reindeer, elk, com-
mon deer, black-tailed deer, long-tailed
deer and the Mexican deer. They are
beautiful quadrupeds. They are distin-
guished from the antelopes by their horns,
which fall off annually, and are always
renewed of a larger size. These horns
always exist on the heads of the male, and
sometimes on that of the female. Some-
times, the horns have many small
branches, and again they are simple and
straight. The reindeer, which is found in
the cold northern countries of the world,

(90)
 
 
THE DEER. 93

is the most useful of the deer kind. The
people of Lapland would want for most
of the comforts of life if they had not this
fine, patient and active animal. They
furnish food, clothing and the means of
travelling in regions where the ground is
nearly always covered with snow.

The Common Deer of the forest, of the
United States, is a swift and elegant
creature, and is much hunted for the
Sweetness and delicacy of his flesh. In
winter, the markets of some of the chief
cities are well supplied with venison of a
fine quality.
‘THE LONG-TAILED DEER.

_ Tur Long-tailed Deer is found in the
neighborhood of the Rocky Mountains,
and in the countries west of them. In
the districts about the Columbia river,
these animals are numerous, and the In-
dians as well as the white settlers find
great sport in hunting them at certain
seasons. The gait of the Long-tailed
Deer consists of two ambling steps and a
bound twice the length of the step. In
running the tail is erect, wagging from
side to side, and from its length is the
most striking feature of the animal. These
Deer go in herds until the breeding sea-
94.
       

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LONG-TAILED DEER.
 
THE LONG-TAILED DEER. 97

son, which is about the month of May.
The young are spotted with white until
the middle of the first winter, when they
change to the same color as the most
aged. The horns of this Deer are often
large and full of branches, giving it the
appearance of being crowned. It is a
beautiful sight to behold a herd of them
feeding in their native woods, and play-
ing with each other among the bushes.
The young Deer are especially pleasing
to the view.
THE PORCUPINE.

Tuis is one of the most curious of quad-
rupeds. When full grown, it measures
two feet in length. Its general color is
a grizzled, dusky black. The upper part
of its head and neck is furnished with
Jong light-colored hairs, capable of being
raised or depressed at pleasure. Most
parts of the back and sides are armed
with spires, which are longest on the
centre of the back. When the animal is
excited, these spires, which are its wea-
pons of defence, are raised. The Porcu-
pine generally sleeps through the day,
and only leaves its burrow in the evening,

(98)
YB

 

PORCUPINE.
 
THE PORCUPINE. 101

in search of its food, which is almost en-
tirely composed of vegetables. In cap-
tivity, it is quiet, but shows no marks of
attachment. The Canada Porcupine is a
very formidable little animal, of a brown-
ish color, mixed with white, The spires
are loose and may be driven into the flesh
of an enemy so as to cause its death.
Dogs and wolves have been killed by
these natural spears. The Porcupine is
not palatable.
THE OTTER.

Tur Otter is found by the lakes and
streams of the cold portions of Europe
and America. The American Otter is
about five feet in length, including the
tail, which is eighteen inches. The color
of the whole body, except the chin and
throat, which are a dusky white is a
glossy brown. The fur is very dense and
fine, and is much esteemed. They live
almost constantly in the water, are excel-
lent swimmers, and feed almost entirely
on fish. The otter can be tamed, but not
without the greatest trouble, on account
of its fierce disposition. When properly

(102)
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THE OTTER. 105

trained, they become very useful, one of
these animals being able to supply a
large family with fish. When the otter,
in its wild state, has taken a fish, he car-
ries it on shore, devours the head and
upper parts, and rejects the remainder.
It is destructive, killing more than it can
eat. The female produces four or five
young in the spring of the year. The
Otter fights obstinately when hunted,
often giving the dogs severe wounds. There
are several species of these animals—the
Sea Otter being the largest. This Otter
sometimes weighs from seventy to eighty
pounds and is of a perfectly black color.
THE ALPINE MARMOT.

Tuz Marmots are small quadrupeds
somewhat resembling rats. There are
several species —the most curious of
which are the Alpine Marmots. They
are about the size of a rabbit, with a short
tail; of a grayish-yellow color, approach-
ing to brown towards the head. This
species inhabits the mountains of Europe,
just below the region of perpetual snow,
and feeds on insects, roots, and vegetables.
When these animals (which live in socie-
ties) are eating, they post a sentinel, who
gives a shrill whistle on the approach of
any danger, when they all retire into

(106)
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THE ALPINE MARMOT. 109

their burrows, which are formed in the
shape of the letter Y, and well lined with
moss and hay. They remain in these re-
treats, in a torpid state, from the autumn
till April. They are easily tamed. The
Quebec Marmot inhabits the northern
part of the American continent. It ap-
pears to be a solitary animal, dwells in
burrows in the earth, but has no faculty
of climbing trees. Its burrows are almost
straight, and situated in dry spots, at
some distance from the water. When fat,
it is sometimes eaten. Its fur is of no
value.
THE JERBOA.

Tue Jerboa is a singular little animal,
which is found in many parts of Africa
and Asia. It is of a pale yellowish fawn
color on the upper parts, and white be-
neath; the length of the body is about
eight inches, and of the tail ten. The
jerboas inhabit dry, hard, and clayey
ground, in which they make their bur-—
rows. These are long, and run oblique.
and winding; at about half a yard below
the surface of the ground, they terminate
in large holes or nests; they are usually
provided with but one opening, though
the animals are careful enough to make

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THE JERBOA. 113

another passage, to within a short dis-
tance from the surface, through which
they can escape. It is almost impossible
to kill them, except by coming on them
unawares. The Arabs, however, take
them alive, by stopping up all the out-
lets of the different galleries belonging
to the colony, with the exception of one,
through which they force them out. They
keep within their holes during the day.
sleeping rolled up, with their heads be-
tween their thighs. At sunset they come
out, and remain abroad till morning.
They go on their hind legs only, the fore
legs being very short; their motion is
nevertheless, very rapid, being effected by
leaps of six or seven feet, so rapidly that

it is almost impossible to overtake them.
8
THE RABBIT.

Most of our young readers have seen the
Rabbit. In its wild state, the color of its
fur is brown; its tail black above, and
white beneath; but when domesticated,
the colors vary much, being white, ash-
colored, black, &c. In England, Rabbits
are reared either in warrens or in hutches;
the best situation for the former are sandy
hills, on which the juniper is thickly
planted, as the leaves of this shrub are
eagerly eaten by Rabbits, and impart a
delicate and aromatic flavor to their flesh.
If Rabbits are kept in hutches, these
places should be kept perfectly clean, or

(114)
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RABBIT.
 
THE RABBIT. 117

otherwise these animals will be sickly.
They are extremely prolific, beginning to
breed when about six months old, and
producing young seven times a year, the
litter usually consists of eight. Rabbits
are subject to two disorders, which often
prove fatal to them,—the rot and a kind
of madness. They are taken either by
snaring them, or smoking them from their
holes by the fumes of sulphur. Their fur
is extremely useful in the manufacture of
hats, and their flesh is more juicy than
that of the hare.
THE GROUND SQUIRREL.

Tue Squirrels are among the most in
teresting inhabitants of the woods. Their
light and graceful motions, their beauty,
and extreme neatness have made these
little animals general favorites. When
on the ground they move by successive
leaps, with the tail extended and undu-
lating; but the forest is their home, and
they display wonderful agility in leaping
from branch to branch, sometimes stop-
ping to listen, sitting erect upon their
hinder limbs, with the tail raised like a
plume. In the same posture they take
their food, using their fore feet like hands.

(118)
 

THE GROUND SQUIRREL.
 
THE GROUND SQUIRREL. 121

The Ground Squirrel is commonly seen
running along fences and walls; but it
sometimes ascends trees. It is a very |
pretty and lively animal. On the back
are fine, long black bands, separated on
each side by two white ones. It has
cheek pouches, which are not found in
other squirrels. The Ground Squirrel
makes a burrow, commonly about the
roots of trees, or by the side of fences.
This is a well-constructed house, having
several chambers and two openings, so
that the Squirrel has every chance to
escape if disturbed.
THE MALABAR SQUIRREL.

Tuis Squirrel is so named because it is
found on the Malabar coast of India. It
is of a reddish-brown color on the upper
parts ; the under parts and tail are black;
the ears are slightly tufted. It is one of
the largest of squirrels, being about the
size of a cat. It has small ears, long
hair, strong black claws, and a small
thumb on the fore paw, with a flat nail.
The Malabar Squirrels feed chiefly on the
milk of the cocoa-nut, and have a loud,
ringing voice.

(122)
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THE BLACK SQUIRREL.

Tue Black Squirrel is found in the
porth of Asia and North America. The
tirst are taken near the Lake Baikal, in
the cold region of Siberia. These Squir-
rels are sometimes wholly black; but.
commonly they are marked with white on
the nose, the neck, or the end of the tail.
They are about the size of a half-grown
rabbit. The tail is shorter than that of
the well-known Gray Squirrel. The Black
Squirrels collect in troops and do great
damage to the plantations of Indian corn,
or maize. In some places a reward is
given for every one that is killed. They

(127)
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BLACK SQUIRREL.
128 THE BLACK SQUIRREL.

make their nests in hollow trees, with
moss, straw, wool, and other articles, and
feed on maize, pine-cones, acorns, and
nuts of all kinds. They scratch holes in
the ground, and there secure a large stock
of provisions for winter. These hoards
are often destroyed by the hogs. When
these holes are covered with snow for any
length of time, the Squirrels sometimes
perish for want of food. They are not
easily shot, as they nimbly change their
places when they see the gun levelled.
 
NO
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RED FLAMINGO.

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THE

“NATURAL HISTORY

OF

WATER BIRDS

NEW YORK
SIEGEL-COOPER CO.

PUBLISHERS
i sssesieemsiealiiemebenelnDbisaaielintemcetiiiiiaantanaiaiatamaniaitinnaneaiedatinpiei
Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1852,
By J. A. & U. P. JAMES,

in the Clerk’s Office of the District Court of the United States,
for the District of Ohio.

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HISTORY OF WATER BIRDS.

 

THE RED FLAMINGO.

Tue Flamingo is an ungraceful bird.
See! what a long, crooked neck, heavy
bill, and long legs! But the feathers are
of a beautiful red color, and this prevents
the Flamingo from being entirely ugly.
The Flamingoes breed in the West India
Islands, and then visit the coasts of the
United States. When seen at a distance
such is the brilliancy of their dress, that
they seem like a troop of soldiers, being
arranged alongside of each other, in lines,
while they search for food near the sea.

(5)
GREAT NIGHT HERON OF AMERICA.

Tue Night Heron is one of the largest
of the water-birds. It sometimes grows
to be two feet in length. Its legs are
long, and its bill is sharp. The back is
of a dusky green color, and the rest of the
bird is white, giving the heron a strange
appearance. The heron is found in nearly
every part of the United States, where
there are groves of swamp oaks or gloomy
marshes, near ponds or streams. It builds
its nest in the highest trees, and will not
forsake the place unless it is constantly
disturbed. There are heronries in some
swamps in the southern states hundreds
of years old. The crow is the constant

(6)
 

GREAT NIGHT HERON OF AMERICA.
THE RED SPOONBILL.

By looking at a picture of the Spoonbill.
the little reader will know why the bird
is so named. When full grown, the bill
is six inches in length, and two inches in
width at the end. The bird itself grows
to the length of two feet six inches. The
American Spoonbill is chiefly found in the
warm regions of the continent, and is very
common in the West India Islands. The
plumage is brillant, the upper parts
being red and the under portions white.
The Red Spoonbill is a water-bird, and is
generally found on the sea coast, where it
wades about searching for shell-fish, ma-

(10)
 

RED SPOONBILL.
 
THE RED SPOONBILL. 13

rine insects, and small crabs. It can swim
and dive with great ease. The nests are
made in trees or bushes near the sea coast.
The eggs are about the size of those of
the hen, and spotted. The flesh of the
Spoonbill is said to resemble that of the
tame goose in taste, and the young are
esteemed as good food. The Spoonbill of
Europe has plumage of a white color, and
appears to reside in much cooler climates
than the American, being abundant in
Holland, and sometimes visiting the
southern shores of England. They are
birds of passage.
THE WOOD IBIS.

Tux Wood Ibis is a wading bird of great
size, being sometimes found three feet in
length. The bill of the full grown Ibis
is about nine inches in length. The whole
body, neck and lower parts are of a white
color, while the legs and thighs are dusky
green. They are solitary and indolent
birds, seldom going in flocks, and usually
frequenting the banks of the principal
rivers, marshes and savannahs, as well as
the deserted rice plantations upon the sea-
coast of the southern states. Here, alone,
the Ibis stands, listless, on the topmost
limb of some decayed cypress. His neck

(14)
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THE WOOD IBIS. 17

is drawn in upon his shoulders, and his
great bill resting like a scythe upon his
breast. He has a sad aspect. In this
position, he spends the greater portion of
his time only moving when awakened by
the calls of hunger. They feed on snakes,
young alligators, fish, frogs and other rep-
tiles. They may be easily approached and
shot, and are by many persons, considered
excellent food. |
THE PELICAN.

Tue Pelican is the largest of web-footed
water-fowls. It is found in nearly all cli-
mates, but the flocks are most numerous
in the warm regions of the world. Along
the shores of the rivers of Africa, a vast
number of these birds may be seen. They
fly low and heavily, sometimes abreast,
and at others in an oblique line. They
are often seen to pass close over a building
or within a few yards of a party of men,
without showing any signs of fear. For
the purpose of surprising their prey, the
Pelicans haunt eddies near falls, and de-
vour great quantities of crabs and other

(18)
 

PELICAN.
 
THE PELICAN. 21

fish. They can only swallow when opening
the mouth sideways like the shark. When
gorged with food, they doze on the water,
or on some sand-shoal projecting into it,
where they remain a great part of their
time, digesting their overgorged meal. At
such times they may be captured, as they
find it difficult to start when the pouch is
full of fish. The Pelican is very much
attached to its offspring, and labors hard
to give them a full supply of food. The
length of the Pelican is about six feet.
The general color of the plumage is white.
THE GLOSSY IBIS.

Tur Glossy Ibis, or Liver, is found in
almost every part of the world. In Egypt,
where they are numerous at certain pe-
riods, these birds. are considered very
valuable, as they destroy many dangerous
and destructive reptiles. In ancient times,
the Egyptians forbade their destruction
under penalty of death. The birds were
kept in temples, and when they died, were
embalmed and inurned, and placed with
the mummies in the sacred tombs. Thus
accustomed to favor, these birds advanced
without fear into the midst of cities. At
present, however, they are shot by the

(22)
 

 

 

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THE GLOSSY IBIS. 25

Arabs, and the markets of the sea-coast
are abundantly supplied with the game.
The Ibises dwell together in flocks, in
marshy grounds, exploring for their food
in extended lines, and advancing like
regular troops. For hours they are ob-
served to bore in the same spot with their
long bills, when their prey is abundant.
They are slow and solemn in their move-
ments, and seem to measure every step.
When alarmed, they rise high, and utter
loud cries. The Glossy Ibis has plumage
of a dark, glossy brown color, varied with
dusky green.
THE MARBLED GODWIT.

Tue Marbled Godwits are large birds,
with long bills and legs, dwelling chiefly
in marshes, and frequenting the muddy
banks of rivers not far from the sea. They
are called marbled on account of their
barred and spotted backs. Their sight is
weak, and they generally move about at
night, or at twilight. They thrust their
bills into mud or wet sand in search of
food. Being shy and timid, they live in
flocks hiding by day among the grass and
reeds. When they go in search of food,
their hoarse and shrill voice is heard from
the depths of the marsh, and has, from

(26)
 

MARBLED GODWIT.
 
THE MARBLED GODWITS. 29

its harshness, been compared to the cry
of a goat. When discovered, the Godwits
run out rapidly without taking the wing.
They breed among the reeds and grass.
Like some other birds, they migrate at
night, particularly when it is moonlight,
and may at such times, be heard, and
sometimes seen, passing along, high in the
air. The sportsmen make sad havoc
among the Godwits. <A flock becomes
confused when one of the number falls,
and makes repeated circles around the
wounded bird, before they take to flight.
The flocks are, however, difficult to
approach.
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

(30)
 

AMERICAN AVOSET.
 
THE AMERICAN AVOSET. 33

and spawn which they often seize by
beating the water as well as by probing
the mud. Their nests are usually small
holes in the earth, lined with a few weeds,
or merely the bosom of the bare sand.
The Avosets, near their breeding-places,
are very noisy; flying around in circles
near their invaders, and in a sharp tone,
uttering “click, click |?
THE BLACK-NECKED STILT.

Tur Stilts are sometimes called Long-
legged Plovers. Vast flocks of them may
be seen on the borders of the sea and the
salt lakes, as well as upon the banks of
rivers. They fly with great rapidity, but
when running, appear to stagger in
balancing their long legs. Their food
consists of small worms, flies, shell-fish,
and insects. They move about in small
flocks. From the extraordinary length
of their legs, it is believed that they are
obliged to hatch the. eggs in a standing
posture. While the females are sitting,
their mates are either wading in the ad-

(34)
 
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THE BLACK-NECKED STIL, 37

joining ponds, or traversing the marshes
in the immediate Vicinity; but on the
approach of danger, the whole flock rises
in the air, and they fly steadily, with their
long legs extended behind them, and keep
up a constant yelping note of « click, click,
click.” The legs of the Stilt are longer,
in proportion, than any other known bird,
and from this peculiarity, it derives its
name.

The Black-Necked Stilt is common in
many parts of North and South America,
Its. flesh is regarded ag very fine eating,
THE GOLDEN PLOVER.

Wao lives near the coast of the middle
and northern states and does not know
the call of the Golden Plover? This beau-
tiful bird is the favorite of the sportsmen
as well as of those who love to see and
hear the sprightly visitors of the meadow
and the river-shores. The Plovers live
chiefly upon land-insects, or the worms
they meet with in the salt marshes, and
appear very fond of grasshoppers. It is
a fine sight to see them about the time of
their departure for the south. Early in
the morning they assemble in great flocks,
and as the sun rises, they fly high in the

(38)
 

GOLDEN PLOVER,
 
THE GOLDEN PLOVER. 4]

air, and disperse for the season. They
usually go about, however, in small flocks,
and when alarmed, while on the wing, or
giving their call to those feeding round
them, they have a wild, shrill, and whis-
tling note, and are at times timid, watchful
and difficult to approach. In the evening,
they disperse and repose apart from each
other. At daybreak, however, the feeling
of solitude again returns, and the early
sentinel no sooner gives the shrill call,
than they assemble in their usual com-
pany. At this time they are often caught
in great numbers, by the fowler, with the
ald of a clap-net, stretched before dawn,
‘n front of the place where they pass the
night. |
YELLOW SHANKS TATLER.

Tur Yellow Shanks Tatler is a bird very
common in the United States. It belongs
to the wading family, and is usually found
on the banks of rivers and lakes and in
marshes. The salt marshes are favorite
places of resort for these birds. After a
heavy storm, they may be seen as far in-
land as the extent of tide-water. The
Yellow Shanks has a sharp whistle of two

or three notes, which it repeats, when

alarmed, and when flying, and sometimes

utters a simple, low, hoarse call, when

starting upon the wing. It is a very timid

bird, and as it is easily alarmed, and
(42)
 

YELLOW SHANKS TATLER,
 
YELLOW SHANKS TATLER. 45

communicates its alarm to other birds, it
is much disliked by sportsmen, though its
flesh is considered very good eating. Some-
times, and most commonly at the approach
of stormy weather, they are seen in small
restless bands, roving over the salt
marshes and along the banks of the rivers.
The glittering of their wings and snow-
white tails, make them a brilliant sight
as they mount in the air. Like Plovers
they may be called around a sportsman
by an imitation of their whistle.
THE UPLAND PLOVER.

Tae Upland Plover or Bartram’s Tatler,
is very common along the sea-coast of New
England, making its appearance, with its
well-fed brood, as early as the twentieth
of July and becoming more abundant
about the middle of August. At that time
the market of Boston is amply supplied
with this game. According to the season
of the year, the Tatler’s are found
throughout the continent. They feed
much upon grasshoppers, and become so
plump as to weigh upwards of three
quarters of apound. They keep together
in broods, or small flocks, and when ap-

(46)
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THE UPLAND PLOVER. 49

proached, are like the other Plovers, silent,
shy and watchful, so that it requires some
skill for the sportsman to get within gun-
shot. They run fast, the older birds some-
times dropping their wings and spreading
the tail, as if trying to divert a spectator’s
attention from their brood. On alighting,
they stand erect, remain still, and on any
alarm, utter three or four sharp, whistling
notes as they mount to fly. In the pas-
tures they familiarly feed around the
cattle.
THE STILT-LEGGED SANDPIPER.

Tue Sandpipers are amongst the
smallest wading birds. Some species are
“common on the shores and in the marshes
of the whole continent of America. In
the summer, the Peeps, as the smallest
Sandpipers are called, are very abundant
in the northern states, particularly where
there are salt marshes. The sportsmen
shoot them with the greatest ease, as they
will not forsake a wounded companion.
When alarmed, they give a sort of whistle,
like the word peet or peep. On seeing
the larger marsh birds feeding, the Peeps
will fly down among them, and when the

(50)
 

STILT-LEGGED SANDPIPER,
THE STILT-LEGGED SANDPIPER. 53

sportsman approaches, they give the
alarm. Towards evening, in fine weather,
the marshes almost re-echo with their
shrill piping. At most times, except in
the spring, they are fat and well-flavored.
The Stilt-legged Sandpiper is only found
in the cold regions of the far north. It is
more than ten inches in length. The legs
are very long in proportion to the size of
the bird, and the bill is slim and weak.
In the autumn, flocks of them may be
seen about the shores of Hudson’s Bay.
THE RED PHALAROPRE.

Tue Phalaropes are small but beautiful
birds. They glide over the water swiftly
and easily, and are able to withstand the
heaviest waves, like stormy petrels. They
are too light and buoyant to dive. They
can walk and run quickly, but are seldom
seen on the ground. Their flight is easy
and elegant. The nests of the Phalaropes
are among the grass or reeds. The young
birds run about and swim as soon as they
are hatched. The Phalaropes inhabit the
Arctic seas, whence they migrate, at the
approach of winter, into the warmer re-
gions. The Red Phalarope has a fine
(54)
t
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RED PHALAROPE.
THE RED PHALAROPRE. 57

plumage of mingled black, red and white
colors. They abound in the northern
seas. Not being easily alarmed, they are
shot without difficulty. When seen swim-
ming in pools, they are constantly dipping
their flat bills into the water as if feeding
on some insects, and while thus engaged
they will allow the sportsmen to come
very near them. The Red Phalarope is
about seven inches in length. The bill
is rather flat, and from this feature these
birds are often called the Flat-billed Pha-
laropes. About the month of September,
a few stragglers visit the United States,
where they have occasionally been shot
in the neighborhood of Boston and
Philadelphia.
THE TURNSTONE.

Tue Turnstone, or Sea Dotterell, is a
singular marine bird, which is found in
nearly every part of the world. Its fa-
vorite breeding resorts, however, are in
the far north. It is of a wild and solitary
disposition, coursing along the shore in
pairs or in small families, which have
been bred together. In a mere depression
of the sand along the sea-coast, the Turn-
stone drops its eggs, which are four in
number, and of an olive green color,
spotted with brown. While flying, this
bird utters a loud, twittering note. It is
not so swift in its movements as most of

(58)
 
 
THE TURNSTONE. 61

the sandpipers, but is more patient and
industrious. Like the woodpecker, the
Turnstone will search over the Same place
until every particle of food is obtained.
Its bill is well-fitted for this purpose, and
the bird is often seen turning over stones
and pebbles, in quest of worms and in-
sects. The young Turnstones feed upon
shrimps and different kinds of smal] shell-
fish. The Turnstone is about ten inches
in length. The upper plumage is of a
chestnut brown color, spotted with black.
The under portions are white. The bill
is black, and the legs, orange, so that the
Turnstone has a beautiful appearance,
THE DUNLIN, OR OX-BIRD.

Tue Dunlin belongs to the numerous
tribe of Sandpipers. In the Middle States
the Dunlins arrive on their way to the
north, in April and May; and in Septem-
ber and October, they are again seen
pursuing their route to the south. At
these times they often mingle with the
flocks of other strand birds, from which
they are easily distinguished by the red
color of their upper plumage. They fre-
quent the muddy flats and shores of the
salt marshes, feeding on the worms and
insects such places generally afford. They
are also very nimble on the strand, run-

(62) |
nO a

 

DUNLIN, OR OX-BIRD.
 
THE DUNLIN, OR OX-BIRD. 65

ning and picking up their prey, with great
activity. These birds collect together in
such flocks as to seem, at a distance, like
a moving cloud, varying in form every
instant. At such times, the keen gunner
makes prodigious slaughter. When great
numbers of the birds fall, the flock de-
scends with them, and so the sportsman
has a fine chance for their destruction.
The length of the Dunlin is about eight
inches. In the summer, the plumage has
a beautiful mixture of black, red, and
white colors. In winter, these change
to brown, ash, and white.

5
THE ALBATROSS.

Tue Albatross is a very large marine
bird, being from three to four feet long.
It is believed that it passes from one end
of the globe to the other in search of food.
They feed chiefly upon flying-fish; and
when these fail, they eat shell-fish. These
birds are very abundant at the Cape of
Good Hope. Their arrival is considered
by the natives of Kamtschatka as the
sure sign of the approach of shoals of fish,
which they follow from the remotest seas.
Their gluttony is almost unequalled. It
is not uncommon to see one swallow a
salmon of four or five pounds weight ; but

(66)
O86 ame mn

 

ALBATROSS,
 
THE ALBATROSS. 69

as the gullet cannot contain the whole at
once, part of the tail will often remain
out of the mouth. They become so stupi-
fied by their enormous meals, as to allow
the natives to knock them on the head,
without offering to resist. They are often
taken by means of a hook baited with a
fish, but not for the sake of their flesh,
which is hard and unsavory, but on ac-
count of the intestines, which the Kamt-
schatdales use as a bladder to float the
buoys of their fishing-nets. Sometimes,
the Albatross will defend itself with its
stout bill, at the same time uttering a
harsh ery. But it is a cowardly bird,
and flies from the smaller gulls.
THE CORMORANT.

Tus large, uncouth and gluttonous
bird is abundant in the warm and tem-
perate regions of the globe, though sel-
dom found far inland. It is a skilful and
voracious fisher, committing great havoc
when it visits pools and lakes. Swim-
ming beneath the water with great swift-
ness, and remaining a long time sub-
merged, its prey scarcely ever escapes.
On rising with a fish in its bill, the Cor-
morant employs the expedient of tossing
it in the air, catching the head in its de-
scent, so that the fins lie flat, and thus
favor the passage down the throat. The

(70)
 

CORMORANT,
yf. See
ane

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+ DG on

co.

 
THE CORMORANT. 13

small pouch at the same time stretches
so as to admit the whole body of the fish,
which is often very large in comparison
with the size of the neck of the bird. In
some countries, the skill of the Cormorant
in fishing is turned to profit. On the
rivers of China, Cormorants, having rings
buckled around their throats to prevent
them from swallowing, are perched on
the prows of boats; and at a signal, they
plunge into the water, and soon rise with
a fish, which the master takes. After he
is satisfied, the bird is allowed to fish for
itself. When glutted with its meal, the
Cormorant becomes indolent, and dozes
away the greater part of the time, perched
in solitude, in places where it cannot
easily be approached.
THE GANNET.

Ganners are large sea-birds, which are
very abundant along the rocky coasts of
northern Europe, and on the bleak islands
adjacent. Bass Island, not more than a
mile in circumference, has, 1 the months
of May and June, its surface almost co-
vered with nests, eggs, and young birds,
so that it is scarcely possible to walk
without treading on them ; and the flocks
of birds are so immense, when in flight,
as to darken the air like clouds ; and the
noise is like heavy thunder. Looking
down towards the sea, from the top of
the precipice, you see it on all sides co-

(74)
 

GANNET.
 
THE GANNET. 71

vered with multitudes of birds, swimming
and chasing their prey ; and if, in sailing
round the island, you observe the hanging
cliffs, you may see crowds of birds on
every crag, and in every fissure. Qther
islands seem like the hives of bees, so
numerous are the flocks. The young
Gannets are favorite food of the North
Britons. The Gannet is about three feet
long. The whole plumage is white, ex-
cept on the crown of the head, which is
yellow.
THE BLACK-BELLIED DARTER.

Tur Black-bellied Darter is sometimes

called the Snake Bird. It is found in the ~

warm parts of America, on the banks
of retired and shady streams. No bird
can display a more sinister front than
this Darter. Its small head, and long,
dark and curved neck, present entirely
the appearance of a snake, whether seen
through the foliage of a tree, or rising
from the sluggish stream in which it often
swims, with the body wholly in the water ;
and on being startled even the neck is
drawn down, and the bird sweeps away
beneath the flood in perfect silence. The
(78)
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BLACK-BELLIED DARTER.
 
THE BLACK-BELLIED DARTER. 8)

Darter grows to the length of two feet
ten inches. The head, neck, and whole
hedy above and below are of a deep,
shining black, with a greenish reflection.
The Darter usually builds in low trees
stretching over the water, and sometimes
selects shady islands. When approached,
they glide into the stream as noiselessly
as an eel. They watch for fish and dart
upon them with unerring aim. The
smaller ones they swallow at a gulp—the
others they break to pieces.
THE WILD GOOSEH.

Tur common wild Goose of America is
well known in every part of the United
States as a bird of passage. It is some-
times called the Canada Goose, because
it breeds in Canada and the regions north
of that country. The wild goose some-
times grows to the length of three feet
and ahalf. The upper plumage is black
and brown—the under portions, gray and
white. In autumn, the geese, knowing
by instinct that winter 1s approaching,
and fearful of starvatian, assemble on the
sea-coast of British America and prepare
to fly southward. Like the rest of their

(82)
 

WILD GOOSE.
 
THE WILD GOOSE. 85

gabbling tribe, at the call of their leader,
they ascend with loud cries, and fly in
the form of the letter >. Early in Octo-
ber, they arrive on the coast of the Eastern
and Middle States. The inhabitants of the
shores of Hudson’s Bay depend upon the
geese for a supply of winter provisions,
and they kill a great number. These are
obtained chiefly by ambuscade and decoy;
bough huts being made by the Indians
in lines over the marshes they frequent
to feed. By mimicking their call, the
geese are brought within the gunner’s
range. The deception is often carried out
still further by setting dead birds on
sticks. Thus in a single day, a native
will kill two hundred geese.
THE BRENT GOOSE.

Taz Brent is one of the hardy water-
birds found in the northern countries of
the world, and at certain seasons, seen
in the warmer climates. It is sometimes
found two feet in length. The upper
plumage is generally black, and the lower,
white, and partially mottled. In winter,
flocks of these geese may be seen on the
coasts of the Atlantic states. The Brent
usually feeds on the bars, at low water,
and now and then, also, in the marshes.
Their common food consists of tender sea-
plants and small shell-fish. In the spring,
the old birds are lean and badly flavored,

(86)
 

THE BRENT GOOSE.
THE BRENT GOOSE. 89

but in the winter their flesh is esteemed
a great delicacy. They never dive, but
wade about in quest of their food, at the
recess of the tide. At the time of high
water, they swim out at their ease, ranged
in long lines, particularly during calm
weather. The voice of the Brent is hoarse,
and clanking, and when they gabble in
company, about equals the yell of a pack
of hounds. When pursued, the Brent
hisses like the common coose.
THE MALLARD.

Tue Mallard, or common wild Duck is
a bird of passage well known in every
part of the United States, where it is seen
in the spring and autumn. The Mallards
rest generally on the borders of rivers and
lakes, sometimes at a considerable dis-
tance from water, among the reeds or grass,
and often upon trees. For their ‘ests,
they scrape together a small quantity of
such dry weeds as happen to be conti-
euous. The female plucks the down from
her breast to line the nest, when the eggs
are ready for hatching. The ducklings
soon learn to swim and dive with the

(90)
 

MALLARD.
 
THE MALLARD. 93

greatest skill, and contrive to pick up
their own food. The wild ducks feed
and migrate usually in the night. About
dusk, the rustling wings often mark
their progress. Their flight is generally
in the form of a wedge, and being very
cautious, they never alight until they
have wheeled several times around a spot.
During the day, they roam at large on
the lakes or rivers, far from the shores,
resting or sleeping till twilight. In a
domestic state, though their habits awe
much changed, they are very watchful
and noisy in the evening and at dawn.
THE CANVASS-BACKED DUCK.

No game 1s more highly valued by
sportsmen than the Canvass-Backed Duck.
Its flesh is esteemed a great delicacy, and
they frequently sell for two dollars a pair.
About the middle of October, vast flocks
of them visit Delaware and Chesapeake
Bays, and the numerous streams that run
into those bodies of water. Their prin-
cipal food is a kind of sea-wrack, known
as eel-grass, and the insects and shell-fish
to be found along the shores. On their
arrival the Canvass-Backs are lean, but
by the beginning of N ovember, they are
in good order for the table. They are ex-

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CANVASS-BACKED DUCK.
 
THE CANVASS-BACKED DUCK. 97

cellent divers and swim with speed and
ease. They sometimes collect in flocks
of thousands, and rising suddenly on the
wing, cause a noise like thunder. When
wounded in the wing, they dive to a great
distance and pursuit is almost hopeless.
The gunners practise various plans to
obtain these ducks. Sometimes, by moon-
light, the sportsman directs his skiff
towards a flock, and keeping within the
shadow of a wood or headland, gets within
reach of many thousands among whom he
makes great havoc. In winter, when their
food is scarce, they are decoyed by holes
made in the ice, near which the sportsman
stations himself. This duck derives its
name, from the greyish-white color of the
middle of its back, resembling canvass.
THE HARLEQUIN DUCK.

Tus beautiful Duck is almost a con-
stant resident in the far north. It is con-
sidered a game superior in flavor to the
common wild duck. The general color of
the male is bluish-plumbous. which is
varied by cresent-shaped lines and marks
of other colors, giving the bird a very
attractive appearance. The flight is high
and swift; and it swims and dives with
much skill and ease. On the report of a
cun reaching it, this duck dives at once
and remains a considerable time beneath
the surface of the water. It is said to have
a voice like a whistle, and to be very

(98) a
————

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ILARLEQUIN DUCK.
THE VELVET DUCK.

Tur Velvet Duck is so called on ac-
count of the glossy and velvety appear-
ance of its black plumage. It is over two
feet in length. They breed along the cold
Arctic coasts and around Hudson’s Bay,
nesting adjacent to small fresh-water
pools, in the shelter of pine or juniper
bushes, and laying from eight to ten
white eggs. The young are guarded by
the mother until they are ready to fly.
These ducks are abundant in the northern
regions of the world, and at a certain sea-
son, visit the temperate countries. The
Chesapeake Bay is a favorite resort of

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VELVET DUCK
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.
THE GOOSANDER.

- Tue Goosander is frequently seen upon
the coasts of the United States in the
depth of winter. In its remote resorts in
the north, it fears the cold much less than
the ice, as in that condition, its supply
of food is cut off. They are very glut-
tonous, and, like the Albatross, some-
times swallow a fish too large to enter
whole into the stomach. The Goosander
is said to lay twelve to fourteen whitish
egos, almost equally pointed at both ends ;
and to nest among the bushes or grass.
They generally breed in the northern re-
gions, but have been found as far south
(106)
 

GOOSANDER.
 
THE GOOSANDER. 109

as Pennsylvania in summer. The Goosan-
der sometimes has a length of thirty-one
inches. The female is smaller than the
male. The head and upper part of
the neck are of a greenish-black color—
the top of the back a deep black, and
the under portions pure white. The bill
and tegs are of a bright red hue, and add -
much to the beauty of the bird. The
colors of the female are duller, and she ig
not near as attractive in appearance.
The young scarcely differ from the mother
in their plumage.
THE AMERICAN WIDGEON.

Tur Widgeon, or Bald-pate Duck, is a
frequent attendant on the canvass-back,
and often profits by this company. Not
being accustomed to diving, the widgeon
watches the motions of its laborious
neighbor, and as soon as the canvass-back _
rises with a root, on which they both feed
greedily, the Bald-pate snatches the mor-
i3el and makes off with it. They are al-
ways very quick and lively, feeding and
swimming out into the ponds and rivers
a I hours of the day; but are extreme-
ly watchful, sheltering in caves and be-
bind banks; and on the slightest attempt

(110)

 
 

AMERICAN WIDGEON.
 
THE AMERICAN WIDGEON. 11]

to steal upon them, start out into the
stream, beyond gun-shot. They only take
to the wing when much disturbed. In ©
Carolina and the West Indies, they fre-
quent the rice-fields in flocks, and in
Martinico are said to do considerable da-
mage tothe; crops. When feeding in
company, they ‘have a sentinel on the
watch. At times they keep in covert
until twilight, and are then traced by
their low, guttural whistle, which is often
imitated to lure them within gun-shot.
In the Middle States, these birds are fre-
quently brought to market, and are much
esteemed as food.
THE FULMAR PETREL.

Tue Petrels are large birds, living
mostly far out at sea, or on barren islands,
among rocks and icebergs, in the coldest
regions of the Arctic and Antarctic circles.
They venture further on the ocean than
any other birds, and seem aroused to
greater activity on the approach of the
tempest. They fly, rest, and walk upon
the waves. Steadily driven by the blast,
their wide-spread wings seem scarcely to
require any exertion. Their food is fish,
shell-fish, and sea-wrack. The Petrels
associate in great flocks to breed in the
clefts of rocks, or in holes burrowed in the

(114)
 

THE FULMAR PETREL.
 
THE FULMAR PETREL. 117

earth, where they hide themselves while
hatching, and never come to land at any
other time. The Petrel lays one large
egg, and will fight in defence of its young.
The Fulmar Petrel is one of the largest
of these birds, being sometimes seventeen
inches in length. The upper plumage
is of a bluish-ash color, the lower is pure
white. The feathers are close and full,
and have a fine down beneath. The Ful-
mar is sometimes seen on the coast of the
United States, but these occasions are
very rare.
‘THE STORMY PETREL.

Tue sailors have a strong dislike of the
Stormy Petrel, looking upon it as the un-
failing herald of a tempest. They call
them Devil’s Birds and Mother Carey’s
Chickens. In nearly all seasons of the
year, these birds are seen wandering in
small flocks, over the dreary waste of the
ocean. On the edge of soundings, as the
vessel loses sight of the land, flocks of
these dark messengers begin to shoot
round her and finally take their station
in her foaming wake, watching for food.
On discovering a small morsel, they stop in
their whirling and skimming flight; and

(118)
 

THE STORMY PETREL.
RICHARDSON’S JAGER.

Tue Jagers are bold and destructive
birds. Except in the breeding season and
during migration, they are almost con-
stantly at sea. Their flight is high, easy,
and majestic, describing circles round the
object of which they are in quest. They
are usually seen in pairs. They are very
voracious, seizing their prey from other
birds, particularly the Ferns and Gulls,
and sometimes forcing the gigantic Alba-
tross to yield its tribute. They attack
their providers while on the wing, force
them to disgorge their prey, and then
seize it before it can reach the water. The

(122)
 

RICHARDSON’S JAGER.
 
RICHARDSON’S JAGER. 125

Jagers breed in the cold regions, nesting
on rocks, or on the sand of the shore. They
will fight bravely in defence of their
young, no odds being sufficient to dampen
their courage. The Cataract Jager is
considered as formidable as the eagle. The
Jager discovered by Dr. Richardson is
one of the largest and most active of the
family. It is about twenty-two inches in
length. The plumage is of a brownish
color. These Jagers breed in great
numbers at the Barren Grounds, and may
sometimes be seen in the vicinity of Boston.
They harass the Gulls in the same way
as others of the tribe.
THE GREAT AUK.

Tue Great Auk is sometimes called the
Northern Penguin. It choses the coldest
regions of the globe for its residence, and
is commonly found upon the floating
masses of the frozen ocean, far from land.
‘The length of this singular bird is about
three feet. The upper plumage is black,
and all the lower parts pure white. On
each side of the bill, in front of the eyes,
there is a large white spot. The Auk
feeds on fish, and also on some marine
plants. The older Auks are very shy,
and but rarely venture to the shore, on
which they walk badly.

(126)
 

GREAT AUK.
 

GOLDEN EAGLE.
THE
NATURAL HISTORY

OF

LAND BIRDS

NEW YORK
SIEGEL-COOPER CO.

PUBLISHERS
iene
Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1852,
By J. A. & U. P. JAMES,

in the Clerk’s Office of the District Court of the United States,
for the District of Ohio.

a ceeinamliaaei nae
HISTORY OF LAND BIRDS.

 

- THE GOLDEN EAGLE.

Tar Golden Eagle is called the monarch
of birds, on account of its courage, strength
and swiftness. It is found in the north
of Europe, Siberia, and North America.
When full grown, the Golden Kagle mea-
sures three feet in length—the female
being generally the largest. Very rarely,
Eagles of this species occur almost white.
Their fire-flashing eyes, lowering brows,
flat foreheads, and powerful beaks and ta-
lons, give these birds a fierce appearance.

(5)
THE CONDOR.

Tur Condor is the largest bird that
flies. Its favorite residence is the great
chain of the lofty Andes mountains of
South America, and they are sometimes
seen among the mountains of Mexico.
At the immense height of nearly six
miles, the Condor is seen through the air,
watchfully surveying the vast region be-
low, in quest of its accustomed prey. When
impelled by hunger, it descends to the
plains, and will often attack large beasts.
Sometimes, two Condors will make a joint
attack upon a deer, and follow and wound
it until it falls, when these birds will

(6)
On
Rae 1S
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CONDOR.
 
THE CONDOR. 9

gorge themselves. They will approach
dwellings, when lured by the scent of
food, and a dead animal will draw down
a crowd of these gluttons, where none
were ‘previously visible. They make no
nests, but deposit their eggs upon the
naked rock. The female remains with
the young birds for about a year. The
length of the full-grown Condor is about
three feet, and the extent of its wings ‘s
often ten feet. The general color of the
plumage is blackish. The wines are
varied with white. There is a white ruff
around the neck, and the head has a fleshy
crest. :
THE OSPREY

Tus Osprey, or Fish Hawk, 1s common
in various parts of Kurope and America ;
the length is about two feet, and the
breadth upwards of five, the wings, when
at rest, reach beyond the tail; the bill is
black, the cere and legs blue, the irides
yellow. Beneath the eye is a band of
brown, reaching almost to the shoulder ;
the tail is composed of twelve equal fea-
thers, the two middle ones dusky, the
others barred with brown and white. It
builds on trees, or on the ground, among
reeds, and the female lays three or four
eggs. Its usual haunts are the margins

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THE OSPREY.
 
THE OSPREY. 13

of large rivers and lakes, and it feeds
chiefly on fish, which it is very expert at.
catching, by darting upon them in the
water. This bird has an unsparing enemy
in the bald-headed eagle, which watches
until the Fish Hawk takes its prey, and
then forces it to let the fish drop. This
pirate eagle thus obtains an easy sub-
sistence. Still, such is the industry and
perseverance of the Osprey, that it always
has an abundance of food for itself and
its young. -
THE GREAT HORNED OWL.

Tue Owl seems to hold the same place
among birds that the cat holds among
quadrupeds. Like cats, many of them
are only able to hunt their prey in the
evening, or morning twilight, or aided by
the dim light of the moon. The pupil of
the eye is so large, and admits so many
tays that the owls are dazzled by the
light of day. In consequence of this pe-
culiarity, they seek, during the day, the
gloomiest part of the thickest forest, the
cranies of the desolate ruin or the humble
retreat of a hollow and decayed tree. At
times, routed from their refuge, they may

(14)
 

GREAT HORNED OWL.
ind TO Face Re ad

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nny a ay.
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THE GREAT HORNED OWL. 17

be seen dozing on the branch of a tree.
They prey upon small birds and mice,
stealing upon them in the night. They
have a boding cry. The Great Horned,
or Cat Owl, is found in every part of the
United States. The female is about two
feet in length—the male smaller. Their
plumage is mottled. The face has much
of the appearance of that of the cat. This
owl utters a very dismal cry, somewhat
resembling the sound of the words, hoo-
hoo, or boo-hoo! It makes other very
disagreeable noises.
AMERICAN STARLING, OR MEADOW
LARK.

Tue Starling, or Meadow Lark, is a well-
known inhabitant of the fields and mea-
dows of the United States. These birds
are sociable and go about in flocks. Their
food consists of the eggs of various in-
sects, worms, beetles, and grass seeds;
to aid their digestion, they swallow a con-
siderable amount of gravel. The nest of
of the Meadow Lark is commonly made
in a tuft of grass, in the open field. It
has a covered entrance, and is so well con-
cealed, that it is .vly to be found when
the bird is flushed. The length of this bird

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AMERICAN STARLING.
 
THE AMERICAN STARLING. 21

is about ten inches. The under plumage
is of a bright yellow color. On the breast
there is a black crescent. The upper
plumage is variagated with black, bright
bay, and ochre. The flesh of the Meadow
Lark is white and is considered very fine
eating. Its flight is steady and laborious.
It often alights on trees, and selects
usually the main branches, or topmost
twigs on which to perch, though its food
is commonly collected from the ground.
At various times of the day, the lisping,
long, and melancholy note of the Meadow
Lark is heard in the fields. It is a beau-
tiful as well as an innocent bird, and isa
favorite with sportsmen.
THE COW BLACn BIRD.

No hirds are better known in the United
States than the Cow Blackbirds. They
pass the winter in the Southern States,
where they may be seen following the
plough, and picking up worms and in-
sects from the furrows. Sometimes, they
visit the margins of ponds, in quest of
water insects and shell-fish, and they may
be seen turning over the leaves of the
water-plants to which they adhere. These
birds are not so injurious to the farmer
as some others of the Blackbird kind. They
are remarkable for the manner of rearing
their young. After the eggs are laid, they

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COW BLACKBIRDS.
 
THE COW BLACK BIRD. 25

are committed to the charge of the red-
eyed fly-catcher, the Maryland yellow
throat, the blue-bird, the sparrow, and the
thrush, and these birds act as foster-
parents and nurses. When fully fledged,
the Cow Black Birds quickly desert their
foster-parents, and join those of their own —
species. They are the most faithless of
birds, having no lasting attachments for
each other. -The song of the Cow Bird is
cuttural and unmusical, and is accompa-
nied by a bristling of the feathers and a
swelling of the body, in the manner of the
Turkey. The length of this bird is seven
~ inches. The plumage of the head and
neck is a blackish-brown; the rest black,
glossed with green. The legs and claws
are black.
THE COMMON CROW BLACKBIRD.

Tue Crow Blackbird, of which vast
numbers visit our cornfields, is about ten
inches in length. The prevailing black
of the plumage is relieved by glossy re-
flections of steel-blue and violet. The
male is larger than the female. They
arrive in the states north of Virginia, in
April, and continue to increase in num-
ber until they wholly overrun the warmer
maritime regions. Wilson relates that
he met with a prodigious army of Black- |
birds on the banks of the Roanoke, in
Virginia, which, as he approached, rose
from the fields with a noise like thunder,

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COMMON CROW BLACKBIRD.
 
THE COMMON CROW BLACKBIRD. 29

and descending on the stretch of road
before him, covered it and the fences com-
pletely with black; rising again, after a
few circlings, they descended on the skirt
of a leafless wood, so thick, as to give the
whole forest the appearance of being
shrouded in mourning. Their notes and
screams resembled the distant sounds of
a mighty cataract. Their depredations
on the maize crop commence almost as
soon as it is planted. The gun, notwith-
standing the havoc it makes, has no other
effect than to chase the flock from one
part of the ficld to another, and the maize
is often almost destroyed.
THE RAVEN.

Tus bird measures twenty-eight in-
ches in length, of which the tail is one
half; the wings are large, and, when ex-
tended, the breadth from tip to tip is
forty-eight inches; the weight is nearly
three pounds. The plumage is black,
with a blue gloss; the irides consist of
two circles, the outer brown, the inner
gray; the bill and legs are black. It builds
its nest in high trees or rocks, composed
of sticks, lined with wool, and has five
pale-green eggs, with brown and gray
spots. This species feeds on carrion,
birds, young lambs, and weakly sheep,

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pivemadianneee

Ne

 

  
      

RAVEN.
 
THE RAVEN. 33

which he first attacks by picking out
their eyes. In the northern regions, he
Joins in the plundering excursions of the
white bear, the arctic fox, and the eagle.
His scent is remarkably acute. He is by
nature a glutton, and by habit a thief;
yet with his mischievous he possesses
many diverting qualities, and there is no
bird that exemplifies more the necessity
and advantage of a good education. He
is easily tamed, and may be taught to
fowl like a hawk, fetch and carry like a
spaniel, speak like a parrot, and sing
like a man. The raven can never be
cured of pilfering, especially bright toys,
or shining metal rings, or money.
THE CEDAR BIRD.

Wuo does not love to see the pretty
and sprightly little Cedar Birds, hopping
from branch to branch, in their favorite
tree? Go, watch them, when they visit
the cedars, in the spring, and see how
lovingly, and how industriously they work
for each other. They like the cherries
and mulberries, and eat an abundance
of them; but they repay the farmer, by
ridding his trees of caterpillars, beetles,
and other insects, which infest them.
After feeding plentifully, the Cedar Birds
may be seen to the number of five or six
on the same branch, dressing their fea-

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CEDAR BIRD.
 
THE CEDAR BIRD. 37

thers. As the season advances, they may
be observed pluming each other, and ca-
ressing with most gentle fondness. So
sociable are these birds, that the wanton
and reckless sportsman has an opportu-
nity of committing great havoc among
them. A young Cedar Bird that fre-
quented the front of Mr. Winship’s house;
in Brighton, in quest of honey-suckle ber-
ries, on receiving food, threw itself wholly
on that gentleman’s protection. At large,
day and night, the bird regularly attended
the desert of the dinner-table, for its por-
tion of the fruit, and remained steadfast
in its attachment to Mr. Winship, till
killed by an accident, being trodden under
foot. |
THE BOHEMIAN CHATTERER.

Tur Waxen-wing Chatterer of Bohemia,
is a beautiful bird, about the size of a
large lark. It is crested on the head,
and the plumage is of a reddish-ash color,
with a black band over the eyes; and the
throat, the bill, and toes are black; the
irides are vermilion red, and the tail
black, tipped with yellow. This bird is
remarkable for the hardened appendages
at the tips of seven of its flag feathers.
It migrates in flocks, and is often seen in
the neighborhood of Edinburgh, Scotland,
in the month of February. It feeds on
insects and those berries which remain

(38)
GY

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BOHEMIAN CHATTERER,
!
|
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THE BOHEMIAN CHATTERER. 41

on trees during winter in more genial cli-
mates, although decidedly insectivorous.
Like the well-known cedar bird of Ame-
rica, it delights in early cherries in the
spring, and juniper berries in the autumn.
It is said to nestle in holes of the rocks.
The flesh of the Bohemian Chatterer is
considered very delicate, and the sports-
men of Kurope hold the bird in high es-
teem. It is called the Chatterer from its
peculiar voice, and the Waxen-wing from
those remarkable waxen appendages at
the tips of the flag-feathers. Many of
the birds, however, are without these
ornaments during their whole lives.
THE SHRIKE, OR BUTCHER BIRD.

Tue flesh-loving propensities of the
Shrike have procured for it the name of
the Butcher Bird. This bird is about the
size of a thrush, ten inches in length, and
fourteen across the wings. The bill is
curved and strong, of a black color, as
are the legs, which, together with the toes
are slender ; the head, neck, and back
are of an ash color, having a black band
under the eyes reaching the ear-covers;
the breast is Crossed with darkish lines,
and the belly is white; the tail is wedge-
shaped, and white at the edges. Its chief
prey consists of small birds, frogs, and

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SHRIKE OR BUTCHER-=BIRD.
 
THE SHRIKE, OR BUTCHER BIRD. 45

insects, several of which it spits at a time
upon a thorn, that it may devour and eat
them at its leisure, or keep in reserve for
some future occasion; but such is its ap-
petite for flesh, that it will attack birds
of three times its own size, as the crow
and the magpie, and often comes off vic-
tor, though sometimes it perishes in the
conflict, and falls together with its victim.
In spring and summer, it imitates the
notes of the smaller feathered tribes, to
allure them to their destruction, but at
other times it is mute. It builds on trees
in mountainous districts, and makes its
nest with moss and dry grass, lined with
wool. They have a singular mode of fly-
ing, rising and falling vertically, seldom
moving straight forward.
THE KING BIRD.

Tue King Bird, or Tyrant Fly Catcher,
is a wanderer over the American conti
nent, visiting the United States in the
spring, where it spends the summer, re-
turning to the south on the approach of
autumn. It is about eight inches in
length; dark bluish-gray on the upper
parts; chest grayish white, becoming pure
on the throat and under surface. The
names of King and Tyrant have been
bestowed on this bird for its extraordinary
conduct, and the authority it assumes
over all others during the time of breed-
ing. At this time, his extreme affection

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KING-BIRD.
 
THE KING BIRD. 49

for his mate and for his young, makes
him suspicious of every bird that happens
to pass near his nest, so that he attacks
without discrimination. In the months
of May, June, and part of July, his life
is one continued scene of broils and bat-
tles, in which he generally comes off con-
queror. Hawks and crows, the bald-eagle
and the black-eagle, all equally dread an
encounter with this little champion, who,
as he perceives the last approaching,
launches into the air to meet him. He
builds on trees, at no great distance from
the ground; the eggs are five or six,
reddish-white, spotted.
THE PEWIT FLY CATCHER.

Tuis faithful herald of spring arrives in
the Middle States in the first week in
March and remains till October. The
favorite resort of these birds, is near
streams, ponds, or stagnant waters, about
bridges, caves, and barns, where they
choose to breed; and in short, wherever
there is a good prospect for obtaining their
insect food. Near such places, the little
hunter sits on the roof of some out-building
or on a projecting branch, calling out, at
short intervals, and in a rapid manner,
‘“pee-weet, pee-weet.”’ This monotonous
ditty is only interrupted for a few seconds

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Se SSS

POTS: SS

 

PEWIT FLY CATCHER,
 
THE PEWIT FLY CATCHER. 53

as-the bird darts after its prey of flies.
These birds form attachments which seem
to last through life, like those of the blue-
birds. They have a remarkable affection
for particular places, and even after their
nests have been torn away, will build
again in the same place. The Pewit is
seven inches in length. The upper plu-
mage is dark olive-brown; darker on the
head; beneath, pale yellowish. The tail
extends an inch and a half beyond the
closed wings. The head is crested, like
that of all the Fly Catchers. The legs and
pill are wholly black.
THE AMERICAN REDSTART.

Tus bird is about the size of a robin,
is of a bluish-gray color above, whitish
beneath, with a throat black in the male, -
but white in the female; the breast,
rump, and side tail feathers, are red; the
eyes are hazel; the bill and legs black,
and the mouth yellow. It is distinguished
by a peculiar quick horizontal motion of
its tail on :alighting. It nestles in the
hollow of trees, in old walls, and ruined
edifices ; its little habitation is composed
of moss, lined with hair, and the female
produces five or six eggs, of a fine blue
color. It feeds on flies, spiders, the eggs

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AMERICAN REDSTART.
 
THE AMERICAN REDSTART. 57

of ants, small berries, and soft fruits.
When taken young it is easily trained,
and will pour forth its song by night as
was well as day, with great swiftness and
freedom. It also imitates the notes of
other birds. The notes of the male are
highly musical, and at times agreeably
varied. The Redstart is a favorite cage-
bird, being doubly recommended by its
beauty and song. Both parents display
great concern for the safety of their nest,
whether containing eggs or young, and
on being approached, the male will fly
about within a few feet of the invader,
regardless of his personal safety.
THE MOCKING BIRD.

Tue wonderful Mocking Bird of Ame-
rica, is a native of Virginia and other
Southern States. It is about the size
and shape of a thrush, or shrike. Its
color is gray, with a reddish bill. It is
celebrated for its imitative powers, assum-
ing the tone of almost every animal of the
forest, whom it seems to delight in quiz-
zing, alluring at one time the smaller
birds by the call of their mates, terrifying
them when they come near with the
screams of some bird of prey; but its own
natural music is the most enchanting.
In his native groves, mounted upon the

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MOCKING BIRD.
 
THE MOCKING BIRD. 61

top of a tall bush, or half-grown tree, in
the dawn of a dewy morning, while the
woods are vocal with a multitude of war-
blers, his song rises above every compe-
titor. The ear can listen to his music
alone, to which that of all the others
seem merely an accompaniment. Neither —
is this strain altogether imitative; his
own native notes, which are easily dis-
tinguishable by such as are acquainted
with those of our various song birds, are
bold and full, and varied beyond all limits.
They consist of short expressions of two,
three, or, at the most, of five or six sylla-
bles, generally interspersed with imita-
tions, and all of them uttered with great
emphasis and rapidity, and continued for
an hour at a time. ~
THE CAT BIRD.

Tue Cat Bird is well-known in nearly
every part of the United States. It is
about nine inches in length, of a dark
slate color, paler beneath ; the crown and
tail are usually black. The Cat Bird often
tunes his quaint but cheerful song before
the break of day, hopping from bush to
bush with great quickness, after his in-
sect prey, while it is scarcely to be seen
by other birds. This bird is commonly
known by the cat-like notes it occasion-
ally gives out, but it can imitate many
other songsters, and sometimes sings
equal to the thrush. But in all its me-

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CAT BIRD.
 
THE CAT BIRD. 65

lody, there is a seeming effort which de-
tracts from its charms. When angry, the
Cat Bird mews and screams incessantly,
and from this cause, it is common to treat
the bird with contempt. But those who
have watched it long and closely, say
that the contempt is not deserved—and
that this suspicious bird is not only grace-
ful in its movements, but when not dis-
turbed, delightful in its song. It is
very mischievous, annoying the other
birds by mocking their calls, stealing bits
of every thing it can carry to build and
strengthen its nest. The eggs are com-
monly four, of a deep emerald green, with-
out spots. The Cat Birds sometimes
raise two and even three broods in a
season. |
5
THE AMERICAN ROBIN.

Tur familiar and welcome Robin is
found in summer, throughout North Ame-
rica. It is about ten inches in length.
Dark ash is the prevailing color of the
upper plumage; beneath, it is red or
orange. The head and tail are black.
The Robin’s song is not so charming and
varied as that of other birds, but there
are few persons who are not pleased with
its simple melody. Early in the spring,
he visits the gardens and orchards in
search of food. The nest of this bird 1s
often built on the branch of an apple
tree, and is so large as to be scarcely ever

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AMERICAN ROBIN.
 
THE AMERICAN ROBIN. 69

concealed. The eggs are of a bluish-green,
and are without spots. So domestic are
the habits of the Robins, that an instance
is known where they raised two broods
out of the same nest. They show much
anxiety and considerable courage in de-
fending their young. They will peck at
the hand or fly in the face of the intru-
ders; and they have often serious con-
flicts with the cuckoo, who slyly watches
the absence of the parents to devour the
eggs. In the autumn, the Robins are
often seen in flocks. Being then quite
fat, they are shot in great numbers, and
are much esteemed as food.
‘THE SUMMER YELLOW BIRD, OR
eon WARBLER.

[ax Common Warbler of Summer is a
prilliant and charming little bird, which
all must have seen or heard in the gardens
and orchards during the warm days of
June and July. Its bright golden color
renders it conspicuous, as in pursuit of
flitting insects, it pries and darts among
the shrubs and flowers. The Warbler is
particularly attached to willow trees and
other kinds, in moist and shady situations,
which afford caterpillars and small larvee,
on which they delight to feed. While em-
ployed in searching for food, the War-
(

70)
 

SUMMER YELLOW BIRD, OR WARBLER.
THE SUMMER YELLOW BIRD. 73

bler sometimes mounts a twig, and with
a loud, shrill, and almost piercing voice,
it utters, at short intervals, “tsh, tsh, tsh,
tsh, tshaia.” The female sometimes sings
nearly as well as the male. The Summer
Yellow Bird, to attract attention from its
nest, when sitting, or when the nest con-
tains young, will often feign lameness,
hang its head and flutter feebly along.
Towards the latter end of summer, the
young and old feed much on juicy fruits,
as mulberries, correlberries, and other
kinds.
THE TUFTED TITMOUSE.

- Jue Titmouse is a familiar, active, rest-
less bird, of a peevish and courageous
disposition, and a great enemy of insects.
It moves by short and sudden leaps, from
branch to branch. During the autumn
and winter, the Titmice approach gar
dens and orchards, in search of food. They
feed on grain, fruits, insects, and larve,
which they pick out from every crevice.
In pursuit. of insects they sometimes in-
jure the trees. Sometimes they carry
their depredations so far as to attack —
sickly birds, even of their own species,
commencing by piercing the skull and

(74)
 

TUFTED TITMOUSE,
a oe ad r
Ee eS TLS
TEP

 
THE TUFTED TITMOUSE. 17

devouring the brain. They are of a quar-
relsome disposition, and often attack
larger birds, when defending their young.
Their voice is harsh, and their flesh
scarcely any better than that of the crow.
The Tufted Titmouse is the most beauti-
ful of the tribe. It is six inches and a
half long; crested; dark bluish-ash color ;
beneath, whitish; front, black. It is
sometimes called the Peto, on account of
its singular call, “ peto, peto.” The Tit-
mouse may be made very familiar in a
cage. It is fed on hemp-seed, cherry
stones, apple-pippins, and hickory nuts.
‘THE FIERY-CROWNED RINGLET.

Tue little Ringlet is found in evory part
of the United States. It resembles the
fiery-crested wren in appearance, having
the same-golden crown, and being nearly
of the same size. The plumage is brilliant
and varied, the prevailing color being
yellowish-olive. During their visits to the
Southern States, these birds are very
active in gleaning up insects and lurking
larves; for which they search the. gardens
and orchards. They may be seen hopping
from twig to twig, sometimes in company
with the lively chickadee, and occasionally
giving a feeble chirp. About the first of

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FIERY-CROWNED KINGLET.
 
THE FIERY-CROWNED RINGLET. 81

May they make their appearance in the
Middle States. At this time, they dart
among the elm and maple blossoms, and
appear actively engaged in seizing flies
on the wing and hunting young caterpil-
lars. At the period of breeding, they sing
melodiously, but weaker than the common
wren. The nests are usually built towards
the extremities of the branches of trees.
It is round and has a small entry at the
side.
THE BULLFINCH.

Turs bird is about the size of a spar
row, has a head and neck larger in pro-
portion to its body than any other small
bird, and thence it has obtained its name.
It has a short black bill, thick and hooked.
In the male, the cheeks, breast, belly,
and flanks, are of a bright red; the back
is gray or lead-colored, the rump white,
and the crown of the head and the tail
are black. The female is bluish-gray
above, and brown below, and less brightly
marked on the othe: parts of the body
than the male. They pair in April, and
make their nests, in hedges, of dry twigs,

(82)
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BULLFINCH.
 
THE BULLFINCH. 85

lined with fibrous roots: the eggs are
five, bluish-white, spotted with brown. In
a state of nature, it is not very remark-
able for its music; but it is a very docile
bird, easily trained to imitate the sound
of a pipe, or whistle of a man, in a fine
mellow tone, and will continue its exer-
tions even when candles have been
brought into the room. In summer,
.t seeks the woods and more sequestered
retreats; but in winter it approaches
gardens and orchards, where in spring it
makes sad havoc among the buds.
THE FLICKER, OR GOLDEN-WINGED
WOODPECKER.

—

Tunis bird, so named from its picking
holes in trees to procure the insects whick
form its food, has a long straight beak
adapted for piercing the bark ; and a lon;
slender tongue, bony and hard at the
point. The legs are short and strong;
the toes are two before and two behind ;
and their tail is composed of two hard
and elastic feathers, which acts as a prop
to aid them in climbing. They wander
over trees in every direction, striking the
bark on hollow or decayed places with
their beaks, and thrusting their tongues

(86)
 

FLICKER.
aN

“ ry: +x

A ee

nt

 
THE FLICKER. 89

into its crevices in search of the insects
or their larvee, on which they feed. The
(colden-Winged Woodpecker is not so
so large as some other species, but it has
a splendid plumage. The prevailing colors
are umber-brown, and yellowish-white,
spotted and barred with black. They are
often shot by sportsmen, but are not es-
teemed as highly as most other game-
birds. Instead of a nest, it forms a cir-
cular hole in decayed parts of trees; there
the eggs, five or six, pure white, are de-
posited, without any thing to keep them
warm except the heat of the body, and
the male and female sit alternately.
THE BLACK-THROATED GREEN
WARBLER.

Tus is a very rare, but beautiful species
of warbler. It is about four inches and a
half in length. The chin and throat to
the breast are black; sides under the wings
spotted with the same ; breast and belly
white, tinged with pale yellow ; the wings
dusky with two white bars, there are
white spots on the tail. The legs and feet
are brownish-yellow ; the bill black. In
the spring this bird may be seen searching
for its food amid the white blossoms of
the apple-tree. It is so familiar, that it
does not seem alarmed if a man stands

(90)
 

BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLER.
 
BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLER. 93

within a few feet of it, at the foot of the
tree, on which it is gathering its food.
Early in October these birds are seen
roving restlessly through the woods, pre-
paratory to their departure for the south.
They have a simple, plaintive, and some-
what drawling song, resembling the syl-
lables “ te de teritsca,” pronounced pretty
loud and slow. They often build their
nests in the juniper tree, using strips of
juniper bark for that purpose. The eggs
are usually four in number, white, spotted
with purple and brown.
_ THE HOUSE WREN.

Tur lively little Wren, is always wel
come to the gardens and ont-houses ¢°
the farmers. Young and old delight te
see the busy little bird searching for food
and building its home, and the Wren
seems to find particular pleasure in keep-
ing near human beings. It builds its
nest beneath the eaves, in som remote
corner under a shed, out-house, barn, or
in a hollow orchard tree; also in the de-
serted cell of the woodvecker, and in
wooden boxes along with martins and
blackbirds. There are instances of Wrens
making their nests in old hats nailed on

(94)
 

HOUSE WREN.-
 
THE HOUSE WREN. 97

a pole, and in the skulls of oxen, which
were thrown on old sheds. It is said that
a House Wren once built its nest in a
mower’s coat, which was hung up near a
barn. The song of the bird is loud,
sprightly, and rapidly repeated, and the
strain is continued even during the sultry
noon of the summer’s day, when most o1
the feathered songsters seek repose and
shelter from the heat. The Wren serves
the farmer by destroying many injurious
insects, and is therefore entitled to pro-
tection. The House Wren is four and a
half inches in length. The upper plumage
is a dark brown, banded with blackish:
beneath, there is a dull, pale green, slightly
barred. The tail is rather long and
rounded. :
THE MAGPIE.

Tux Magpie is much more common in
furope than in America. But wherever
‘t is known it has the reputation of be-
ing a very cunning and mischievous bird.
The Magpie grows to the length of eighteen
inches. The prevailing color of the
plumage is a deep, glossy black ; beneath,
there is a patch of white. The tail is
about ten inches long, and greenish-black
The Magpie is extremely active and rest
less while on the ground, over which he
leaps with antic gait His commo:
prate is like that of the crows, but he can
imitate various apire Us, as well as human

(98)
 

MAGPIE.
 
THE MAGPIE. 101

speech. Like the crow, the Magpie has
the halit of stealing and hiding provi
sions and pieces of money in such a man
ner that they are not easily detected. In
the construction of the nest, this. bird
displays much sagacity. A high tree or
a close bush is usually chosen Bota
vexes unite in the labor, and, having for-
tified the nest externally with twigs,
turf, and clay, cover it with a canopy or
defence of thorny branches, having an
entrance in the least accessible side.
The Magpies defend their nest with great
courage against the crow, the falcon, and
even the eagle, and in the conflict their
activity gives them a great advantage.
THE HUMMING BIRD.

Tuts brilliant and lively little bird may
be seen in the gardens during the spring
and summer, gathering honey from every
flower, like the bee. Its flight is very
rapid, with the wings constantly moving
with a humming sound, and producing a
balancing suspension in the air while
sipping its delicious nourishment. There
are said to be a hundred different species
of the Humming Bird. Some of them are
not much larger than a full-grown bee.
Their colors are brilliant beyond all com-
parison. While fluttering near a flower,
they seem but a concentration of dazzling

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HUMMING BIRD.
 
THE HUMMING BIRD. 105

hues. The Northern Humming Bird
which is very common during the sum
er, in the Middle States, is about three
inches and a half in length. The bill
legs, feet, and eyes are black. The fea-
thers of the breast vary from a deep
brownish-black to a fiery crimson ot
orange. The Humming Bird seems to over-
flow with spirit. Sometimes, for mere
sport, it will pursue the larger birds, such
as the yellow bird and spalrow, being
sure of safety in its lightning-like flight
To man it shows but little aversion. fre
quently entering the windows of green
houses, or dwellings, where flowers are
kept.
THE BARN SWALLOW.

‘ue swift and busy Barn Swallow is
well-known to all who reside in the
country, and is a general favorite. Karly
in May, these birds begin to build against
a beam or rafter, usually in the barn.
The external portion of the nest is made
of pellets of mud, having fine hay mixed
with them, and rendered like a cement
by the saliva of the little workmen; the
lining is made of loosely arranged fea-
thers. The eggs are five, white, spotted
over with reddish-brown. The bai
swallows usually produce two broods in a
season. When the young are fledged,

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San

 

BARN SWALLOW.
 
THE BARN SWALLOW. 109

the parents, by their actions and twitter-
ings, entice them out of the nest, to ex-
ercise their wings within the barn, where
they sit in rows amid the timbers of the
roof, or huddle closely together in cool or
rainy weather for warmth. At length they
venture out with their parents, and may
be seen on trees, bushes, or fence-rails,
near places where they can obtain food.
They are often fed while on the wing,
without either bird alighting. The Barn
Swallow is about seven inches in length.
The upper plumage and a band on the
breast are steel-blue in color; beneath it
is a chestnut-brown. The tail is forked.
THE PASSENGER PIGEON.

Tue Wild Pigeons of America are chiefly
remarkable for the immense flocks in
which they move, which sometimes re-
semble vast gloomy clouds. A flock has
been seen at a noted roosting-place, in
Kentucky, numbering many hundred mil-
lions. Their migrations only take place
when a scarcity of food obliges them to
remove. When they have long frequented
one of their roosting-forests, the appear-
ance of the place is astonishing :—the
ground is covered to the depth of several
mches with their dung; all the tender
grass and underwood is destroyed; the

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PASSENGER PIGEON.
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THE PASSENGER PIGEON. 113

surface strewed with large limbs of trees,
broken down by the weight of the birds
collecting one above another—a single
tree often containing one hundred nests—
and the trees themselves, for thousands
of acres, killed as completely as if girdled
with an axe. When these roosts are first
discovered, the inhabitants, from conesi-
derable distances, visit them in the night,
with guns, clubs, long poles, sulphur-pcts,
and various other engines of destruction,
and thus in a few hours fill sacks and
load horses with them. They commence
breeding early in the spring, and produce
two or three families in a year, of two
zach, and it is asserted they consist always
x; a male and a female.

8
THE AMERICAN PARTRIDGE, OR
QUAIL.

Tue call of the Partridge or Quail, is
well-known in parts of the United States,
and bears much resemblance to the sound
of the words “ Bob White.” This bird is
the favorite of sportsmen and is considered
excellent eating. The Partridges are par-
tial to the depths of the forest; but they
sometimes seek the shelter of trees and
perch on the low branches, or hide among
the brush and underwood. Their favorite
food, however, eften conducts them to the
open fields, where they glean up various.
kinds of grain, and are especially fond of

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AMERICAN PARTRIDGE.
 
THE AMERICAN PARTRIDGE. 117

rye and buckwheat. When not too much
annoyed by sportsmen, the small flocks
will assemble along the most public roads
or around the barn and stab'e, in search
of a scanty pittance among the domestic
fowls. The Partridges often suffer from
the severity of winter, and are found
buried in the snow. From the latter end
of August to the month of March, the
markets of all the principal cities are often
stocked with this favorite game. The
Partridge is about nine inches long. The
prevailing hue of the plumage is a cinna-
mon brown, varied with black and white.
THE GROUSE.

Many sportsmen esteem the Grouse,
or Prairie Hen, as the chief of all game-
»irds. It is found in many parts of the
United States and territories. The Grouse
‘s about nineteen inches long. It is
partly crested and mottled; the tail is
rather short, much rounded, formed of
eighteen dusky feathers, tipped with
white. The neck of the male is furnished
with wing-like appendages. The female
is considerably smaller than the male.
Dislike of moisture, as with the Turkey,
but principally the nature of their food,
appears to influence them in the choice

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GROUSE.
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THE GROUSE. 12}

of their resort. The small acorns of the
dwarf oaks, and various kinds of wild
fruits, as strawberries, whortle-berries,
and partridge berries, with occasional in-
sects, abounding in wooded thickets, ap-
pear to be the principal inducement to
their residence; from which they rarely »
wander at any season, unless compelled
by a failure of their usual food, and so
become, notwithstanding the almost in-
accessible nature of the ground, a sure
prey to the greedy and exterminating
hunter. In the western states, where
they appear as an abundant species, they
are, at times, observed to traverse the
plains and even cross extensive rivers in
quest of the means of subsistence.
THE BIRD OF PARADISE.

Tus bird has obtained its name from
the splendor of its plumage. The wings
_are large, compared with its body. The
front of the head, throat, and neck, are
of a shining yellow; the hinder part of
the head is of a brilliant green, mixed
with gold; and the body and wings are
beautifully variegated with brown, purple,
and gold. These birds are gregarious,
always seen in large flocks, and perching
at night upon the same tree. They live
on fruits, and are said to be particularly
fond of aromatics. It has a cry like that
of the starling.

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BIRD OF PARADISE.
 

PEACOCK.
THE PEACOCK.

THE common peacock is universally
known, and its matchless plumage seems
to combine all that delights the eye in
the soft and delicate tints of the finest
flowers, all that dazzles it in the spark-
ling lustre of the gems, and all that asto-
nishes it in the grand display of the rain-
bow. The ordinary length of the peacock,
from the tip of the bill to that of the tail,
is about four feet. Its finely shaped head
is adorned with a tuft, consisting of
twenty-four feathers, whose slender shafts
are furnished with webs only at the ends,
painted with the most exquisite green,

(127)
128 THE PEACOOK.

edged with. gold; the head, throat, neck,
and breast are of a deep blue, glossed
with green and gold; the back of the
same tinged with bronze. The tail, which
is of a grayish-brown, 18 hidden beneath
that which constitutes the distinguishing
character of this beautiful bird—its mag-
nificent train, which rises above it, and,
when expanded, forms a superb fan of
the most resplendent hues. When pleased
or delighted, and in the sight of his fe-
males, the peacock erects his train, and
displays the majesty of his beauty; all
his movements are full of dignity ; his
head and neck bend nobly back, his pace
is slow and solemn, and he frequently
turns slowly and solemnly round, as if te
catch the sun beams in every direction.
 
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