170 AUDUBON THE NATURALIST. 



tion. Its appearance is beautiful, from tlie fine 

 contrast of its pure white plumage with its 

 raven tipped wings. When at rest it places the 

 bill against the breast, in the manner of the 

 pelican. 



The American flamingo resembling the ibis 

 in some of its traits, frequents the coasts of 

 Florida. It is remarkable for the splendour 

 of its apparel, being entirely scarlet, with the 

 exception of the bill, the half of which, as well 

 as the points of each wing, is of black. Its 

 eyes are blue. 



One of the most curious amidst the feathered 

 tribes of which the New World boasts, is the 

 oyster catcher. It may be considered a con- 

 stant resident in the States, and has an extensive 

 range, being found successively along the coast, 

 from Maryland to the Gulf of Mexico — the 

 shores of the Floridas, the Middles States, North 

 Carolina and Labrador. Eemaining among the 

 sands or rocky shores of streams and bays, it is 

 never found inland. This species is seldom 

 seen in greater numbers than from one to three 

 or four pairs, except indeed in winter, when they 

 assemble cosily in parties of twenty-five or thirty. 

 Eemarkably dignified in its demeanour, this bird 

 is attractive as well as interesting in its appear- 

 ance, from the peculiarity of its long, slender, 

 but powerful bill, and its handsome plumage, 



