(315 ) 



is wanting as is the white band before the wings, the conspicuous 

 spot on the wings is less extensive. Its short and narrow bill is at all 

 times a strong specific character. Length fifteen inches, wing se- 

 ven inches and a half. 



This bird, peculiar to America, was for a long time considered 

 identical with the Green-Winged Teal of Europe. At the presen 1 

 day, I believe it is very generally understood, at least on this side of 

 the water, to be a distinct species, as the difference in markings be- 

 tween those procured in Europe and America, fully authorise. 



The Green-Winged Teal arrives among us, (from its breeding- 

 place at the North,) in the latter part of October. Many remain 

 quite late in the Winter. Associated usually in flocks, they frequent 

 the streams and ponds, where they feed on insects and tender plants. 

 In the early part of the season, they sometimes visit the ponds on 

 the beach, though generally confined to creeks and mill-ponds. At 

 the South, during Winter they are very abundant, and resort to rice- 

 fields in company with the Mallard. Their flesh is highly esteem- 

 ed, being tender and juicy, and always commands a high price in 

 otir markets. In many parts of South America, it is also said lobe 

 very abundant. 



ANAS DISCORS— LINN. 



CLUE-WINGED TEAL. 



Blue-Winged Teal, Anas disccis, Wilf. Amcr. Orn. 



Anas diM-ur?, Bonap. Svn. 



Anas.liscors, Uluc-winge'd Teal, Sw. & Rich. 



Blue- Winged Tea', Nun. MUn. 



Blue- Winged Teal, Anas dbcor?, Aud. Orn. Biog. 



Specific Character — Bill bluish-black, and long in proportion with 

 the other dimensions of this species, smaller wing coverts, light blue, 

 speculum purplish-green. Adult male with the upper part of the 

 head black ; a broad band of white on the sides of the head, before 

 the eye, margined with black ; rest part of the head, and upper part 

 of the neck grayish-brown, with purple reflections en the hind-neck; 

 chin black ; lower parts reddish-brown ; lower part of the fore-neck 

 and sides of the body, spotted with blackish-brown; breast and ab- 

 domen barred with the same color; lower tail-coverts blackish-brown 



