Co 



in 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 AYigeon 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, with a 

 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, &c. 



ANAS BKOCHAS, 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, being 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, 

 grasses, roots, insects, &c. It builds its nest on 



p 



