252 Mr. Peabody on the 
The Burrzr-HEApED or Spirtr Duck, Fuligule 
albeola, was called, by the aborigines, by a name 
answering to spirit, because of the wonderful quick- 
ness with which it disappears at the twang of a 
bow, or the flash of a gun. 1t 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 difficulty on the ground. Inautumn 
and winter they are found in almost all parts of the 
United States, sometimes on the coast, but more 
irequently on the inland waters. They are con- 
stantly engaged in diving for their food, and, when 
wounded with shot, disappear under water, so that it 
is very difficult to find them. By the last of April, 
most of them have returned to their northern home. 
The Harteauin Deck, Fuligula histrionica, is a 
northern bird, which was found by Captain Ross in 
the highest latitudes which he visited. It is hardly 
ever found south of Boston, and is uncommon here, 
but I am assured by Dr. Brewer, that he has ob- 
tained it in our State. Audubon found it breeding 
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 or- 
naments on their breast. It is difficult to obtain, being 
anxiously watchful, and diving under water the mo- 
ment 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. 
