188 THE HUMAN SIDE OF BIRDS 



the most charming features of brook and pool. 

 Should an unfortunate fish come within sight at 

 such times, our lone fisherman is at once alert 

 enough, craning its neck and looking into the wa- 

 ter, until the proper moment arrives to plunge 

 downward, head first, disappearing out of sight, and 

 usually emerging with a wriggling captive firmly 

 grasped in its biU." It sometimes happens that the 

 kingfisher stays under water for several minutes, 

 and at last returns to the surface without his game. 

 But such is his skill and perseverance that a failure 

 seldom happens. 



One of the most beautiful of the kingfishers is 

 scientifically known as Alcedo ispida. His favour- 

 ite hunting-grounds are along the streams and 

 ponds, and even arovmd small springs. This beau- 

 tiful bird is much sought after because of his ex- 

 quisite plumage. His head and neck are of an 

 emerald green, and the feathers are tipped in bluish- 

 green, while his back is greenish-blue — ^wavering in 

 colour as the light falls upon it. The lower part 

 of the kingfisher's body is of a light brown mingled 

 with dark red. One is reminded of the poet's 

 words: 



"The halcyon flew across the stream, 

 An^ the sUve? brooklet caught the gleam; 



