78 Bird-Life in Labrador. 



AMERICAN BLACK SCOTER 



(Edeiaia. americana. — (WiLS.) Sw. 



This and the two succeeding species are abundant every- 

 where ak)no; tiie coast of Labrador. There are many points 

 of similarity in habits of all three with those of the common 

 eider duck, especially in regard to their feeding habits. 

 These ducks assemble in large flocks, over some low shoal, 

 just oif land, to feed. They usually remain at some distance 

 from land, but are easily decoyed by the voice. The gunner 

 must remain perfectly still, as they notice the least movement 

 and are oif at once. The present species is said to breed 

 abundantly in the inland ponds and lakes, as it no doubt does. 

 I obtained specimens of all three species. 



WHITE-WINGED COOT SCOTER 

 VELVET DUCK 



(LJdemia fusca. — (L.) Sw. 



Common in Spring and Fall. I did not find it in the 

 breeding season and do not know as it breeds. Several au- 

 thorities give it as breeding, and it doubtless does in limited 

 numbers though much less so than the ])reccding species. I 

 do not recollect an authority that found its eggs in Labrador, 

 though the young birds are frequently obtained. The S|)ring 

 and Fall migrants are often found in large flocks, and I have 

 seen them alight Uj)on some is(»lated rock, some distance from 

 land in the water, and blacken its entire apparent surface. 

 They are very difficult to approach and quick at diving; hard 

 to kill and not especially good eating. They are decoyed 

 from shore by the voice and shot like other sea ducks. It is 

 known bv the naiue of" brass-winged diver." 



SURF DUKE SEA COOT 



(Edcmia perxpiciUafa. — (L.) Stki'H. 



Nearly the same remarks which apply to the other two 



