686 



THE AMERICAN AVOCET. 



them ever before the eye, tlie observed of all observers. If I were to make for 

 them a claim of uniform gracefulness, some might dispute me on the ground 

 of photograjilis hcrcwilh submitted: but it must be remarked that tlie eye 

 catches onlv the restful nodes of motion, while the unfeeling camera some- 

 times surprises the subject when he is only getting ready to be graceful. 



Tliese birds are not only waders, but swimmers and flyers as well, and 

 they show little preference among these modes of activity. If }'ou approach a 

 little too closely a wading Avocet, he may walk off with dignified carelessness ; 



Tiikcn in Douglas County. 



Photo by the Author. 



.WOCETS T-AKIX(". TO WIXG. 



and if the retreating bottom takes him lieyond his deptli, he is instantly at 

 ease upon the water and swims off, duck-fashion, with keel held low in front, 

 now glancing at }-ou over one shoulder and now over the other. Or else, 

 either from land or water, he takes quickly to wing, letting the long legs first 

 dangle and then straighten out behind him as he progresses. Rising is thus 

 a bit awkward, and in settling, also, the legs must first be brought forward to 

 engage the surface of reef or pool before the wing motion ceases. In flight 

 the motion may be either fairly rapid or quite leisurely, according to whether 

 the bird is frightened or merely curious ; while at sailing he is a passed master. 



