200 



NATURAL HISTORY OF THE BITTERN. 



then either to despatch him outright, or if he be 

 merely winged, and it is desired to bring him home 

 alive, to tie liis bill and legs, and cover up his head 

 with a handkerchief. 



Herons are to be met with constantly on the coasts, 

 and in those situations they are more readily ap- 

 proached. They resort to small ponds, and where 

 the banks are steep, are come upon before they can 

 see the shooter. 



THE BITTEKN. 



The Common Bittern {Butor Stellaris, Ardea Stel- 

 laris). This fen-bird is of singular habits, active 



