22. 67 



avoided if possible. It is interesting to notice that a large proportion of 

 the birds which find their way to the reservoir follow the course of the 

 creek down or come ocross the fields from the south. Flocks which have 

 passed high above the buildings returning from the north, pass com- 

 pletely over the reservoir, whirl about, circle a few times, approach the 

 pond from the south-west, whirl around its margin once or twice, then 

 plunge upon its surface with a great splatter and whistling of wings. 

 Such species as come singly or in pairs or very small flocks usually steal 

 in under cover of darkness, or fly low near the woods or hedge, attract- 

 ing little attention. The passing of a train or the sudden appearance of 

 a person above the embankment will usually startle the most courageous 

 birds away. Many return almost at once and many remain even when 

 the reservoir is nearly surrounded by people, provided no sudden dem- 

 onstration is made, It often seems almost marvellous how reluctant the 

 ducks are to leave this small sheet of water. Probably the reason may 

 be found in the prohibition of shooting anywhere near the premises. It 

 is certainly true that the numbers visiting the reservoir are constantly 

 increasing. May this small place always be a secure haven of rest to 

 the moving host. 



Below is a list of the species recorded to date with some remarks upon 

 their occurrence. 



American Merganser, Mcrgayjser aynericauus. — Twice recorded. 

 April, 1896, May 4, 1898. It is one of the most timid species, appearing 

 in the early morning and departing at the first signs of activity on the 

 street. 



Mallard, Anas bosc/nis. — March 26 and 28, 1898. A female which 

 remained all day. 



Bald-pate, A?ias atnericana. — A female seen on the water in the 

 spring of 1896. 



Blue-winged Teal, Anas discors. — There were several seen April 

 3, 1898. 



Pintail, Dafiht acuta. — Visits the place every spring, but is very shy, 

 leaving early in the morning. 



Red-head, Aythya americana. — April, 1896, March 12, 1898. Another 

 very shy bird. 



Canvas-b.\ck, Aythya -ludlisneria. — Recorded by Mr. L. M. Mc- 

 Cormick for the old reservoir 



Americx Scaup Duck, .lythya marila nearctica. — March 24, 1898. 

 One of the less timid ones ; permitting a near approach. 



Lesser Scaup Duck, Aythya afifinis. — One of the commonest and 

 boldest of the visitors ; seen every year. 



