Birds of Massachusetts. 251 
abundance, had they desired them. They are com- 
mon here in bays and fresh waters. They are easily 
domesticated, but their flesh is of no value for food. 
Audubon says that nothing but an epicure could 
eat them with satisfaction. 
The Rine-necxep Duck, Fuligula rufitorques, is 
found in autumn and winter on our Atlantic coast 
and our western waters. Its flesh is considered 
equal to that of any other duck, in tenderness and 
flavor. Dr. Richardson speaks of finding it in the 
fur countries, but gives no account of its nest. On 
its return from the north, it is spread over the whole 
extent of the Union; but much more abundant in 
some states than in others. Mr. Cabot obtained a 
specimen in Fresh Pond, and thus enabled us to add 
it to the list of Massachusetts birds. 
The Gorpew Eye, Fuliguia clangula, is an in- 
habitant of northern regions, which comes from the 
fur countries, where it breeds, and remains till it 
becomes difficult to obtain food. In the winter, 
they are not uncommon in the United States, but 
they return very early in the spring. While here, 
they 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 considered good, though not of the first order. 
