DUSKY DUCK. 107 



opposite direction. There was nothing visible to create 

 alarm, but their keen scent had warned them of the pres- 

 ence of an influence not accustomed to bring them in- 

 creased happiness and a long life. 



The flight of the Black Duck is performed in a similar 

 manner to that of the Mallard, with quickly repeated 

 beats of the wings, and usually at a considerable height, 

 and as the bird moves speedily along it turns the head 

 Jrom side to side, sharply observing the ground be- 

 neath, and keenly attentive to every object and move- 

 ment. When flying, the white under coverts of the 

 wings show very conspicuously. It is usually on 

 the alert, although at times its suspicions seem to be 

 allayed for the moment, and then it will fly to the de- 

 coys and settle among them as quietly and with as much 

 unconcern as would a tame Duck that was able to fly. 

 These occurrences, however, are rare and not to be 

 counted upon, as this Duck's trust in man is not often 

 exhibited to any considerable extent. It rises from the 

 water with a bound, as if it had been shot up 

 by powerful springs, usually uttering a few quacks as it 

 mounts upwards, scattering showers of spray around 

 by the violence of its movements. 



The Black Duck is very much of a nocturnal bird, 

 moving about a great deal at night, especially if the moon 

 is shining, and it associates with the Mallards and other 

 swamp and marsh Ducks, its watchfulness and ability to 

 detect danger making it a valuable member to any web- 

 footed coterie. Its note is so like the Mallard's that it is 

 difficult to distinguish them apart, and every few moments 

 the quacks are shot forth in abrupt vociferations, as if 

 the bird had just reached the limit of its power for sup- 

 pressing them, and the voice had gained strength and 

 sonorousness by long confinement. This species is a 



