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In our country the Blue Heron frequents the rocks under the sea-cliffs, and the shores of the 

 sheltered bays and estuaries, where it may be observed moving actively about in search of its 

 food, which consists of small crabs and shell mollusks ; or perched on some prominent point 

 of rock, where its constant vigilance renders it difficult of approach except under cover. When 

 disturbed it rises slowly and rather awkwardly, and makes a detour seaward, returning to a 

 neighbouring station on the rocks, or, if alarmed, wings its way slowly across the bay or to some 

 more remote part of the coast. 



There is a single egg of this species in the Canterbury Museum ; it is of a regular ovoido- 

 elliptical form, measuring 1*9 inch in length by 1*3 in breadth, of a delicate greenish white, and 

 with a finely granulated surface. 



