CANVAS-BACK 



147. Marila vallisneria. 21 in. 



Differs from the Redhead in the shape of its black 

 bill, its blackish forehead, very light back and red eyes. 

 The female has the back grayish-brown, finely barred 

 with black. Like the last species, Canvas-backs are 

 excellent swimmers and divers, and can secure their 

 food from a considerable depth. In winter they are 

 found in great abundance on the Atlantic coast from 

 Maryland southward, and are one of the most persist- 

 ently hunted birds, for their flesh is much esteemed, 

 and they have a high market value. They are seen in 

 large flocks, and are difficult to approach, but are said 

 to decoy as easily as any other. 



Notes. Harsh croaks, little different from those of 

 the Redhead. 



Nest. On the ground in marshes or sloughs, the 

 hollow being lined with grasses and feathers from the 

 breast of the female; 6 to 10 eggs (2.40x1.70). 



Range. Breeds in the interior from Minnesota and 

 Dakota northward; winters from Maryland and British 

 Columbia southward. Rare in New England. 



