218 ANATID^B. 



according to the latitude they inhabit; and though 

 common in Mexico and the most southern of the States 

 of America, do not appear to venture further north than 

 the latitude of Nova Scotia, leaving again in the be- 

 ginning of winter for the warmer regions. 



Though evidently unable to endure cold, it thrives in 

 even tropical heat, and is found as in Ceylon within a 

 very few degrees of the equator. 



The Wood-duck is frequently domesticated in Canada 

 and is very easily tamed. A more beautiful and 

 interesting bird can hardly be found for such an object, 

 and it is to be regretted that it is not more generally 

 known and introduced on ornamental waters in private 

 grounds, being perfectly hardy in every way. 



We come now to the Fuligulince which principally 

 frequent the sea coast or its vicinity, though many of 

 them are scattered through the interior of the country, 

 and found in the most remote lakes and inland waters. 

 They differ from the foregoing or true ducks, in having 

 the feet larger and the legs placed further back, and in 

 being altogether more especially formed for swimming 

 and diving. We may begin with the Scaup (Fulix 

 marila) which is precisely similar in all respects to that 

 of Europe, and like the latter feeds on shell-fish, 

 sea-weeds of several kinds, young fry, and many other 

 aquatic pickings, the greater part of which are obtained 



