BIRDS OF THE HUMBER DISTRICT.. 145 



a few feet, dropping again into the reeds, where, assisted 

 by my setter, I only just missed capturing it by 

 hand. 



194. EALLUS AQUATICUS, Linnaeus. Water-Rail. 



Common in all suitable localities, but more fre- 

 quently observed during the winter season, particu- 

 larly in severe weather, when they resort to the open 

 springs and drains. From their shy and retiring habits, 

 it is difficult to form a correct estimate of the number 

 at any time frequenting a district. I have no reason 

 for supposing the ranks of our resident birds are in- 

 creased in any appreciable degree in the spring and 

 autumn by migratory flocks, which is the case in the 

 neighbouring county of Norfolk, where this species 

 is undoubtedly partially migratory*. 



Although naturally shy and shunning observation, 

 the Water-Kail when in captivity is both bold and 

 pugnacious. One, which I kept for a short time in the 

 house, assumed a most defiant attitude on any one 

 approaching ; and an attempt to take it up always 

 resulted in a fight and a fierce onslaught upon the 

 extended hand. It ran about the house in the most 

 fearless manner, searching every hole and corner, and 

 perching on the arms and backs of the chairs. When 

 not at large it was kept in a basket with folding lids, 

 closing in the centre; from this, however, it constantly 



* See Mr. Stevenson's 'Birds of Norfolk/ vol.ii. p. 404. 



H 



