THE MALLARD. 199 



During winter we observe this species in Dublin Bay in 

 flocks varying in numbers from ten to one hundred. Ex- 

 tremely restless, they impart considerable animation to the 

 appearance of the bay by their constantly varying appearance 

 in flight. Rising, when not alarmed, from the surface of the 

 water in a " long string," regular in order, one never attempts 

 to rise until the preceding bird is on the wing, when they form 

 a beautiful appearance, either in the long extended line, or 

 the V-shape which is frequently assumed. One flock of these 

 birds observed flying over the Pigeon House Wall, at a very 

 moderate distance from the road, exhibited a very beautiful 

 sight ; each bird seemed, from its closeness to the one pre- 

 ceding, as if its bill rested on the tail of the other. On our 

 proximity being observed, the effect was singularly fine : the 

 entire flock, without the slightest break, shooting upwards, 

 and the call-note of danger ringing out clearly from the first 

 old mallard, and passing in regular succession along the line. 



Retiring inland on the approach of spring, they occupy 

 bogs, or any deserted locality affording them protection for 

 their young. In those places they obtain food by the river- 

 side, or on the lakes of the interior, where their appearance 

 adds highly to the picturesque : 



" Oft as the sun's last lingering ray 



Gleams faintly o'er the fading scene, 

 By some still lake I bend my way, 

 Where, decked in plumage brown and gray, 



The mallard oft is seen ; 

 With glossy neck of emerald hue, 

 And wings barr'd with the deepest blue 

 That sapphire gives ; and ruddy breast, 

 By the clear, dimpling waters prest ; 



To sedgy covert, swimming near, 

 Where, on her nest, of rushes made, 

 His mate, in humbler garb arrayed, 



Broods o'er her eggs, with anxious care." 



More observable when the cares of the breeding season are 

 concluded, the young are captured in considerable numbers, 

 and are designated u flappers." This species is also observed 

 frequenting ditches and drains in the enclosed country during 

 severe weather ; and in the county of Dublin, both in winter 

 and in autumn, they are obtained by dogs trained for the 

 purpose. 



Indigenous. 



