4IO SEVENTH REPORT OF THE FOREST, FISH AND GAME COMMISSION. 



found it common in brackish waters near New York, where it occurs all the year; 

 he had it also from fresh water. Mearns states that it remains in the Hudson 

 throughout the year and is taken in abundance in winter in nets set through the ice. 

 In Oscawana Lake, Putnam County, individuals weighing 2 or 3 pounds were 

 reported to him. 



In the vicinity of Woods Hole, Mass., the fish is abundant in fresh-water ponds 

 connected with salt water. 



It is said that the White Perch formerly extended south to Florida and the Gulf 

 of Mexico, but this is discredited by competent observers. The Perch of Lake 

 Ponchartrain is very likely the species now known in many portions of the Western 

 States as the Fresh-water Drum, Aplodinotiis gruiinicns. 



The average length of the White Perch is about 9 inches and its weight '> pound 

 or less, but numerous specimens measuring 14 inches and weighing 2 pounds or more 

 have been taken, especially in New England waters. 



WHITE PERCH. 



At the time of Dr. Mitchill's writing the species was a favorite in New York 

 markets, and it is now one of the best known species although probably not ranking 

 among the choicest kinds. 



Thad. Norris was one of the most earnest supporters of the White Perch, and 

 has published interesting observations concerning its habits. Comparatively little, 

 however, is known about its life. It is an associate of the Striped Bass, and, accord- 

 ing to Dr. Abbott, resembles this species in its feeding habits. It differs from the 

 Striped Bass in its tendency to seek warm waters. 



The White Perch is a lover of brackish water, and may be found in tidil creeks 

 in vast numbers associated with Mummichogs, Silversides' and Eels, feeding upon 

 .Shrimp and Minnows. Spawning takes place in May and June. According to Pro- 



