100 ANATIDAG 
The southern coasts are most frequented. Immature birds 
arrive about the end of September, followed about a month 
later by the adults. In April it migrates to more northern 
climes, save a few pairs which remain to breed in Scotland. 
I have repeatedly come across this fine species when 
boating by day, and have noted small and scattered flocks 
drifting on the tidal estuaries, in consort with countless 
hordes of Wigeon. Through a field-glass I have observed 
that while the latter were resting—some_ sleeping—the 
Pintails were actively feeding.' One by one their heads and 
long necks disappeared under water, their tails pointing 
vertically upwards” as they tilted their bodies forwards. 
The Pintail is a shy and vigilant bird, especially when 
in company with other Ducks; as a rule its habits can only 
be studied from a distance with the aid of a field-glass, or 
the observer must be ambushed. 
Food.—lLike other non-diving Ducks, the Pintail quits 
the water at times in search of food. It visits stubbles, 
flooded fields, and marshes. Its diet consists of insects, 
worms, crabs, shrimps, various aquatic vegetables, and 
erasses. 
Flight.——This bird is fast, but not buoyant on the wing ; 
the rapid flutter of its pinions recalls the flight of Diving 
rather than of Surface-feeding Ducks. 
Voice.—The voice is rather peculiar. It seems to me 
to resemble a low muttering. Montagu compares it to the 
crying of a young kitten. 
Like most other Ducks the Pintail is readily tamed. 
Wild hybrids with Wigeon and Mallard have been raised. 
Its flesh is excellent. 
Nest.—The nest is generally built on rather dry soil, 
and fairly well concealed by the surrounding vegetation. 
It is usually placed in the neighbourhood of water. The 
nest is well lined with down. 
The eggs, which number seven to ten, are pale yellowish- 
green. Incubation begins about May. 
We have no conclusive evidence that the Pintail has 
nested in England, but of later years it has bred on several 
! Some authorities are of the opinion that the Pintail feeds chiefly 
at night; others maintain that it seeks its food almost entirely during 
day light. 
? This attitude is not peculiar to the Pintail. Our farm-yard Ducks 
and many other wild species may be seen assuming a similar position 
when feeding under the surface of the water (see footnote p. 97). 
