BAY SNIPE. 37 



a variety of insects abounding in such places. Grasshoppers 

 seem to be its favorite fare, and when berries can be obtained, 

 they also contribute to its support. 



" I have occasionally shot it along the shores and about the 

 ponds on the low wet meadows ; but in general it prefers high, 

 dry lands, unencumbered with woods. The Hempstead Plains 

 are well adapted to its habits, and during some seasons it is 

 quire abundant on this miniature prairie. It is better known to 

 our gunners by the name of ' Frost Bird,' so called from being 

 more plentiful during the early frosts in autumn, at which 

 season it is generally in fine condition, and exceedingly well 

 flavored. Commanding a high price in the New York markets, 

 it is eagerly sought after by the gunners, and not requiring the 

 fatigue and exposure attending the shooting of shore birds, it 

 affords much amusement to sportsmen. 



" On the ground, the Golden Plover displays a great deal of 

 activity, and when observed, often runs with considerable rapi- 

 dity before taking wing. It is less timid than the Black-bellied 

 Plover, and is easily decoyed by imitating its peculiar mellow 

 note. I have often observed it, when passing in a different 

 direction from that in which I was lying, check its course, 

 wheel round, and present an easy mark. 



" Its stay with us, as before mentioned, is very short, and as 

 the season advances it returns southward. It associates in 

 flocks, and when migrating, moves off in a regular manner." 



No. 3. Ring Plover — Charadrius Semipalmatus. 



Ringed Plover, Tringa hiaticula, Wils. Amer. Orn. Charadrius Semipalma- 

 tus, Boiiap. Syn. American Ring Plover, Charadrius semipalmatus, Sw. & 

 Rich. Semipalmated Ringed Plover, Nutt. Man. American Ringed Plover, 

 Charadrius semipalmatus, Aud. Orn. Biog. 



" Specific Character. — Bill shorter J;han the head ; base orange 

 color ; toward the point black ; a broad band on the forehead 

 white ; margined below with a naiTOW black band, above with 

 a broad band of the same color ; rest part of the head wood- 



