144 BIRDS 



In color, at least, the Black Swan (Chenopsis atrata) 

 is contrary to all tradition, and its discovery in Australia, 

 in 1697, must have been a sad blow to lovers of proverbs. 

 Its somber, brownish-black plumage, set off with a coral 

 beak, is attractive, and in grace it far excels any of the 

 other species. The primary feathers are white and the 

 wing coverts are curiously curled. li 



This swan is a very free breeder, the greatest trouble 

 lying in the fact that the birds fail to change their calendar 

 when introduced into the Northern Hemisphere, and are 

 as likely to nest in January as any other time. They are 

 the best of parents, however, and frequently rear the cygnets 

 in spite of the greatest difficulties. 



