180 



Order XII 



but specially in the sedge-beds of the Fens and Broads. 

 It is with us aU the year, though its numbers are 

 increased from abroad in the cold season ; in summer 

 it ranges from the Arctic Circle in Europe and Asia to 

 north Africa and Turkestan. It is a darker bird than 

 the Land-rail and of a more oHve colour, the cheeks 

 and under parts are bluish grey, the bill is red, and the 



Water-rail on nest 



flanks are heavily barred with black and white. The 

 food is of the same nature as that of the last species, 

 allowing for the aquatic habits, but the flight is more 

 feeble, while the spring cry resembles a groan, and is 

 called in Norfolk " sharming." The nest, placed in 

 very thick sedge, generally where there is standing 

 water, is made of the broad leaves of water plants — 



