bf the Island of Hayt'i. 1 9 



Mons. L. E. Moreau de St. Mery does, indeed, men- 

 tion some quadrupeds as being natives, especially a wild 

 species of Hog, but which, he says, has nearly disap- 

 peared. I observed a species of Vespertilio. This v/as 

 in January. These animals do not, it is probable, pass 

 into the torpid state. 



The birds, in general, appear to possess but a few 

 simple or distinct notes ; or rather, I should say, that 

 they have not learned to vaiy or modulate them to any 

 thing like music, or song. A few, however, do sing, 

 but not elegantly. Some sing much like our Turdus 

 rufus (Thrush), of which family they, certainly, are 

 species. 



Permit me to observe, that the language and peculiar 

 mode of flight of birds are, in my opinion, worthy of 

 attention, in distinguishing the families. Thus, I know, 

 from repeated observation, that the language and pecu- 

 liar mode of flight of the difterent species of the genera 

 Columba, Picus, Ardea, Hirundo, &c., that are known to 

 me, have the greatest similitude : and than these genera 

 none, perhaps, are more natural assemblages of the fea- 

 thered race. On this subject, much might be said, and 

 I regret the void in this interesting pait of the natural 

 history of these animals. 



One species of Haytian duck is, probably, the Anas 

 ccei ulescens. Body brown, wing-coverts alone pale- 

 blue. White stripe under the eyes. Size of the do- 

 mestic duck. 



