RUFF. 151 



side of the Atlantic that the bird's claim to consideration in the 

 present connection cannot be ignored. Yet it must be considered 

 as a straggler only, — an accidental wanderer. Its breeding area 

 lies amid the desolate tundras of northern Siberia, and southward 

 to the fountains of the Danube and the upper valley of the Amoor. 

 From there it migrates in the autumn into Africa and southern 

 Asia. 



The examples that have been obtained in America were taken 

 chiefly along the Atlantic shore between Long Island and the Bay 

 of Fundy. There is only one specimen recorded from the Great 

 Lake region, — taken near Toronto. 



The Ruff differs from all others of the Waders in appearance 

 and in habits. The long feathers of the male render him easily 

 distinguished, and his polygamous habits quite as thoroughly sep- 

 arate him. Instead of wooing a mate after the manner of their 

 congeners, these wild libertines fight for a bevy of mistresses, the 

 pluckiest fighter winning the largest harem. 



These contests are not rough-and-tumble fnelee, but orderly 

 conducted duels. They occur on a common battle-ground, where 

 generation after generation of the birds assemble to do combat for 

 the possession of the females, — called Reeves, — and these gather 

 within sight and urge on their favorites. The battle-grounds are in 

 the midst of a swamp, and usually on an elevated knoll in an open 

 space. 



During the encounter the combatants appear intensely excited 

 and act as if in desperation, and the excitement of the occasion is 

 increased by the wild screams of the Reeves. The duels are not 

 to the death, however, nor are they in the least degree bloody 

 affairs. These birds have sense enough to spar for points ; slug- 

 ging is barred. The attack is made wholly with the bill,— ^ they 

 never strike with the foot, like a game-cock, as some writers have 

 stated, — and a few rounds end the affray, with no more harm to 

 the participants than an encounter with foils to human rivals. The 

 weaker bird retires, and the victor awaits another adversary. Occa- 

 sionally two or three duels are in progress at one time. 



As might be expected, such habits are not conducive to domestic 

 felicity. The Reeve is soon abandoned by her temporary lover, 

 and when nesting-time arrives she is forced to build her nest alone, 

 and alone she rears her barbaric brood. 



