SWANS. 365 



structure, and the extreme buoyancy of their plumage, they are 

 unable to dive, but often feed in the water, by means of their ex- 

 tended necks, which allow them in shallows to reach the bottom. 

 Their food is chiefly vegetable, but they also devour reptiles, espe- 

 cially frogs, and otlier small aquatic animals, for which they search 

 in the mud beneath tlie water, scarcely ever preying on fish, but 

 rather protecting them by feeding on the enemies of the fry : and 

 hence for tJieir unparalleled beauty and elegance, are among the 

 choicest decorations of artificial water pieces. They are strictly 

 monogamous ; building on the ground in the vicinity of water, or in 

 secluded islets. The nest is composed of a pile of marsh plants, or 

 any other loose materials in the vicinity, raised into a mound. The 

 male is very vigilant in protecting his mate while sitting, he 

 shares with her all the parental cares ; and if attacked while swim- 

 ming, without other convenient means of escape, he is capable of 

 inflicting severe blows with his wings. They walk badly ; and at 

 rest place one foot on the back. Their flight, when elevated, is rapid 

 and protracted, and they seldom alight but in the water. 



The species are few, but distributed over the whole world. They 

 appear to hold an intermediate character between the Geese and 

 Ducks, but are more closely allied to the latter. 



31* 



