THROUGH THE BIG SWAMPS 



119 



of rushes, and lined with grass. There was also a 

 dome of plant stems, so that the two large, greenish- 

 coloured eggs were completely hidden. 



Musk-Ducks are fairly abundant in sheltered 

 bays, and on inland waters. Expert swimmers and 

 divers, they are said to lack the power of flight; all 



NEST (OPENi AND EGGS OF MUSK DUCK. 



observers are not in accord on the point. It is cer- 

 tain that the wings are used chiefly as paddles. Startle 

 a Musk-Duck, and it flaps over the surface, churning 

 up the water like a miniature paddle-steamer. For 

 many years I have observed these birds on the sea 

 near my home, and have yet to see one on the wing. 

 The Musk-Duck derives its name from the fact 

 that it is provided with an oil gland at the base of the 

 tail from which a powerful, musky scent is diffused. 



