72 A NATURALIST IN THE MAGDALEN ISLANDS. 



93. MERGUS SERRATOR, L. 

 (Red-breasted Merganser.) 



A rather common summer resident. While walking along 

 the shore of a small inlet we suddenly came upon a female 

 with a brood of young birds. Upon perceiving us she 

 seemed greatly troubled, and swam away, closely followed by 

 her offspring, with the exception, of one weakly little fellow 

 which was apparently unable to keep up. Observing this, 

 the old bird swam back and seemed to give some directions 

 to the little one, for he scrambled upon her back and nestled 

 snugly down behind her neck. As soon as he had fairly 

 settled himself comfortably, away she went, this time closely 

 followed by her brood. We watched her until she disap- 

 peared around a point, unharmed, and bearing the little one 

 still upon her back, to a place of safety. 



Breeds. 



94. SULA BASSANA, L. 

 (Gannet.) 



Thousands of these birds breed upon Bird Rock each 

 year. They are in such numbers that oftentimes it gives the 



