552 



The Illustrated Book of Poultry. 



in size as they become quite tame and domesticated. Tliis remark applies equally to both sexes ; 

 and I have now (1S73) by me a pair of Carolinas, of which the duck has invariably laid during the 

 last seven years — a strong proof of both longevity and doing well in confinement. These birds are 

 very nearly as large as widgeons. I never in my own knowledge knew a pair of very small wild 

 birds — Mandarins or Carolinas — breed at all, until time had rendered them reconciled to their 

 new situation." 



The surpassing beauty of both varieties renders thorough domestication so desirable that we 

 sincerely trust no prejudice in favour of extra small size will be allowed to interpose difficulties 

 in the way. 



_;>;, l\ '.l, 





White-faced Whistlihg L)uck (£>. Vianatn). 



THE WHISTLING DUCKS.— Some of the varieties known as "Whistling Ducks" are of 

 great beauty, and are not unfrequently seen at shows. Like the Mandarins and Carolinas, they are 

 fond of perching on trees, and are on that account also called " Tree Ducks." Mr. Leno has given 

 us the following description of the two varieties best known : — ■ 



" The Red-billed Tree Duck {Dmidrocygna aiitiamialis) is the prettiest of the Whistlers. It 

 is occasionally exhibited at our poultry-shows, and generally in very fine condition. The head 

 from base of beak is brown, shading into a darker brown stripe over the back of the head and 



