BIRDS. 361 



They are cliiefly, in this country, seen to frequent the meres 

 of Shropshire and Cheshire ; where they breed among reeds and 

 flags, in a floating nest, kept steady by the weeds of the margin. 

 The female is said to be a careful nurse of her young, being ob- 

 served to feed them most assiduously with small eels ; and when 

 the little brood is tired, the mother will carry them either on her 

 back or under her wings. This bird preys upon fish, and is al- 

 most perpetually diving. Jt does not show much more than the 

 head above water ; and is very difficult to be shot, as it darts 

 down on the appearance of the least danger. It is never seen on 

 land ; and, though disturbed ever so often, will not leave that 

 lake, where alone, by diving and swimming, it can find food and 

 security. It is chiefly sought for the skin of its breast, the plu- 

 mage of which is of a most beautiful silvery white, and as glossy 

 as satin. This part is made into tippets ; but the skins are out 

 of season about February, losing their bright colour ; and in 

 breeding.time their breasts are entirely bare. 



III. 'J H 



