OF THE BEITISH ISLANDS. 379 



Genus ANAS, or Typical Ducks. 



Type, ANAS BOSCHAS. 



Anas, of Brisson (1760). — The birds comprising the present genus are 

 characterised by having the tarsus scutellated in front, the tail feathers graduated 

 and pointed at the tips, and the carpal region dull grey. The wings are long and 

 pointed. The bill is broad, but not spatulate, and about the same length as the 

 head. Three toes in front webbed ; hind toe small and unlobed. Sexes different 

 in colour. 



This genus contains about eighteen species and subspecies, and is almost 

 cosmopolitan. One species is British, breeding in our Islands. 



The Non-diving Ducks are dwellers near inland waters and in fens and marshes 

 in summer, but during their seasons of passage and in winter they are more 

 maritime. They are birds of rapid if somewhat laboured flight, swim well, rarely 

 if ever dive, and walk awkwardly with a waddling gait. Their notes are loud and 

 unmusical. They subsist on both vegetable and animal substances, being practi- 

 cally omnivorous. They make somewhat bulky nests, lined with down, upon the 

 ground, or in holes of trees. Their eggs are numerous, and range from buff to 

 pale greenish in colour, unspotted and smooth. They are monogamous, and 

 probably pair for life ; the male taking no part in the rearing of the young. They 

 are more or less gregarious, except in the breeding season. Their flesh is esteemed 

 for the table. 



