176 THE DABCHICK. 



of a bird's nest. On this filthy arrangement are placed 

 some six or eight eggs, about 1.25 X -8V, white, tinged 

 or waved with light green, the surface being rather rough 

 or granulated. They are soon soiled from contact with the 

 nest. The birds are exceedingly on the alert, leaving the nest, 

 and partially covering the eggs with the wet material, and 

 getting entirely out of sight before the nest is discovered. 

 On examining the nest, however, there can be no doubt as 

 to the method of incubation. The eggs are quite warm, 

 and there is nothing in the condition or temperature of the 

 nest that will at all account for the warmth. The newly 

 hatched young, jet-black, with six narrow, white stripes over 

 the back extending up on the neck, and red or reddish 

 markings about the head, underneath white, bill red, and 

 feet black, are truly beautiful; and so keen is their instinct 

 of fear as soon as they are out of the shell, that they will 

 scramble off the nest and hide among the rushes before one 

 can detect the nest; and but for their chicken-like peeping, 

 their presence would not be suspected. Meanwhile the 

 plaintive whistle of the parent bird may be heard in the 

 vicinity, now here, now there, but seldom, indeed, does she 

 allow herself to be seen. Now ensconce yourself away and 

 remain quiet for a few minutes, and this mother diver will 

 make her appearance, looking sharply in every direction, 

 and softly whistling together her scattered brood. Well 

 understanding these coaxing notes, the little ones gather 

 around her from among the rushes and sedges, and, as she 

 swims deeply, mount on her back for a ride. This is truly 

 a pretty sight, as well calculated to soften the heart as is 

 the cooing of the Dove. Occasionally you will see this bird 

 take her young under her wings, when alarmed, and dive 

 with them, the little ones remaining under for some time, 

 but generally coming up before the parent. 



