394 BIRDS OF MASSACHUSETTS. 



are silent, and the name of Brass-eyed Whistler, which they 

 sometimes bear, is given in consequence of the sound made by 

 their wings. They fly well, but are so entirely made for the 

 water, that they are hardly able to walk on the ground. Like 

 most other birds of the class, they live partly on fish and in- 

 sects, and partly on vegetable food. As game, they are con- 

 sidered good, though not of the first order. 



The BUFFEL-HEADED or SPIRIT DUCK, Faligula albeola, was 

 called, by the aborigines, by a name answering to spirit, be- 

 cause of the wonderful quickness with which it disappears at 

 the twang of a bow, or the flash of a gun. It breeds in the fur 

 countries, where it builds on hollow trees, in woods near the 

 water, a situation favorable to the young, who move with diffi- 

 culty on the ground. In autumn and winter they are found 

 in almost all parts of the United States, sometimes on the 

 coast, but more frequently on the inland waters. They are 

 constantly engaged in diving for their food, and, when wound- 

 ed with shot, disappear under water, so that it is very difficult 

 to find them. By the last of April, most of them have return- 

 ed to their northern home. 



The HARLEQUIN DUCK, Fuligula histrionica, is a northern 

 bird, which was found by Captain Ross in the highest lati- 

 tudes which he visited. It is hardly ever found south of Bos- 

 ton, and is uncommon here, but I am assured by Dr. Brewer, 

 that he has obtained it in our State. Audubon found it breed- 

 ing along the coast of Labrador and Nova Scotia, where the 

 male and female are called the Lord and Lady, probably in 

 consequence of their beauty, and the ornaments on their breast. 

 It is difficult to obtain, being anxiously watchful, and diving 

 under water the moment it perceives the flash of the gun. 

 Like other birds of this class, it provides for its security by sta- 

 tioning sentinels to sound an alarm on the approach of danger. 

 The flesh is not much valued. 



The LONG-TAILED DUCK, Fuligula glaciates, is a resident in 



