NOTES. : ATT 
This species is more abundant in the early spring and 
autumn than in the rest of the season; and I infer from 
this, that it breeds principally in the northern countries. 
Wilson describes its general habits in the following lan- 
guage : — 
“This species makes its appearance in Pennsylvania about the 
first of October. Among the muddy flats and islands of the river 
Delaware, which are periodically overflowed, and which are over- 
grown with the reed, or wild oats and rushes, the Coots are found. 
They are not numerous, and are seldom seen, except their places 
of resort be covered with water: ih that case, they are generally 
found sitting on the fallen reed, waiting for the ebb of the tide, 
which will enable them to feed. Their food consists of various 
aquatic plants, seeds, insects, and, it is said, small fish. The Coot 
has an aversion to take wing, and can seldom be sprung in its 
retreat at low water: for, although it walks rather awkwardly, yet 
it contrives to skulk through the grass and reeds with great speed ; 
the compressed form of its body, like that of the Rail genus, being 
well adapted to the purpose. It swims remarkably well; and, 
when wounded, will dive like a duck. When closely pursued in 
the water, it generally takes to the shore, rising with apparent 
reluctance, like a wounded duck, and fluttering along the surface, 
with its feet pattering on the water. It is known in Pennsylvania 
by the name of the Mud-hen.” 
NOTES. 
I continue Mr. Couper’s valuable notes, made at Quebec, 
Lower Canada : — 
ARDEA HERODIAS, — The adult is never seen in this latitude. However, 
in the fall, the young pass this way to the Atlantic States. They breed near 
Rice Lake, in Upper Canada. 
BOTAURUS LENTIGINOSUS. — The Bittern breeds here, and appears to 
be common. It prefers savannas to lakes; and, as plenty of food is found on 
the latter, probably this species may visit higher latitudes. 
NYCTIARDEA GARDENI.— Common. Breeds on the island of Orleans, 
east of Quebec, and in the woods adjoining the St. Lawrence. This bird 
Fi 
re 
