330 • RURAL BIRD LIFE, 



into the water, and, after plunging about for a few 

 moments, again resume its flight ; but what caused these 

 singular motions in ice-cold water — for the time was 

 midwinter — I know not. 



The bill of the Snipe, if closely examined, will be 

 found a study in itself fraught with interest and wonder- 

 ment. Its length enables him to probe deeply his boggy 

 haunts, and the nerves with which it abounds enable 

 him to feel his prey. His food consists of worms for the 

 most part, although insects are often secured, and doubt- 

 less other animal substances that abound in the soil 

 peculiar to his haunts. 



The Snipe, like his cousin the Jack Snipe, shows a 

 strong love for his haunt, and you may repeatedly disturb 

 and alarm him, yet he still frequents the place as long as 

 food is plentiful, and by a little attention to his habits 

 you are able to find him whenever you wander through 

 his haunt. 



