We A NATURALIST IN THE MAGDALEN ISLANDS. 
93. MERGUS SERRATOR, L. 
(RED-BREASTED MERGANSER.) 
A rather common summer resident. While walking along 
the shore of a small inlet we suddenly came upon a female 
with a brood of young birds. Upon perceiving us she 
seemed greatly troubled, and swam away, Closely followed by » 
her offspring, with the exception of one weakly little fellow 
which was apparently unable to keep up. Observing this, 
the old bird swam back and seemed to give some directions 
to the little one, for he scrambled upon her back and nestled 
snugly down behind her neck. As soon as he had fairly 
settled himself comfortably, away she went, this time closely 
followed by her brood. We watched her until she disap- 
peared around a point, unharmed, and bearing the little one 
still upon her back, to a place of safety. 
Breeds. 
4. SULA BASSANA, ZL. 
(GANNET.) 
Thousands of these birds breed upon Bird Rock each 
year. They are in such numbers that oftentimes it gives the 
