avilson's snipe. 209 



MEMORANDA. 



1. Snipes are widely distributed over the world, and are equally 

 esteemed in all parts for their game qualities. 



2. To Wilson belongs the honor of describing a marked distinc- 

 tion between the American and English variety. 



3. The snipe is a migratory bird, breeding in the elevated 

 districts of our Northern States, as well as Canada. 



4. They arrive in Pennsylvania about the middle of March, and 

 soon become fat. 



5. Their food consists of worms, insects, larvae, and the tender 

 roots of aquatic plants. 



6. Snipes move farther north toAvards the close of April. 



7. The young brood generally consists of four. 



8. Snipes almost invariably fly against the Avind; therefore 

 hunt them with the wind on your back. 



9. Old and slow dogs are most suitable for this sport when the 

 birds ^xe plenty ; when scarce, a fast but cautious, as well as ex- 

 perienced, dog is most serviceable. Young and heedless animals 

 are far better at home under either contingency. 



10. Snipes fly in "wisps," and not in flocks; therefore say a 

 " wisp of snipes," and not a flock. 



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