65 
m the end of March or beginning of April. They 
are generally dispersed, but are particularly abun- 
nant in the southern parts of the island, where they 
frequent rivers, lakes, estuaries, and the open 
coasts. In March and April the Wigeon again 
moves northwards for the breeding season, only a 
. few remaining in the north of Scotland to breed. 
The nest, composed of dry rushes and reeds, witha 
lining of down, has been found in Sutherlandshire, 
placed in the middle of a large rush bush, and 
containing seven eggs of a cream white colour. 
Their food consists chiefly of vegetable substances, 
and their flesh is highly esteemed. 
DUCK, WILD DUCK, MALLARD, é&c. 
Anas BRocHas, Lin. 
This species, the original of our domestic Duck, 
is found extensively dispersed in North America as 
well as in Europe. It occurs in variable numbers 
in all parts of this country, bemg more abundant 
in marshy and thinly peopled districts. As it is 
more numerous in winter than in summer, it is sup- 
posed that there is an autumnal immigration from 
the Continent. It removes in frosty weather to the 
shores and open seas. It is chiefly at night that 
it searches for its food, which consists of seeds, 
erasses, roots, insects, &c. It builds its nest on 
F 
