116 ORNAMENTAL WATERFOWL. 
being found near the sea-coast, but inhabiting fresh-water 
lakes and ponds, being much hunted on account of the 
flesh, which is white and juicy. He states that when 
pursued, this bird dodges through the long grass towards 
water, and when, after diving, it is obliged to return to the 
surface, it keeps the body immersed for fear of detection. The 
first examples of this Tree Duck were obtained by the 
Zoological Society in 1867, other specimens being received 
subsequently. Eight species of Tree Ducks have been exhibited 
in the Society’s Gardens, but the only species which has bred 
is Dendrocycna fulva. Mr. C. Bartlett furnished the following 
note respecting this interesting occurrence, which I extract 
from the P.Z.S. (1880) :— 
‘©The Fulvous Tree Ducks bred in the Gardens in the north pond in 
August, 1872, while under my charge. The nest was upon the ground and 
was domed, the dome being formed of the long grass surrounding the nest. 
This is the only instance I know of any of the waterfowl building a dome 
over its nest. Many of the common waterfowl build in the long grass, but 
do not attempt to forma dome. Two birds were hatched, but unfortunately 
killed by rats.” 
When alarmed or excited, the Fulvous Tree Duck has the 
power of erecting the long feathers of the crest. The price 
of these birds varies from £3 10s. to £5 the pair. 
Male.—Head and neck bright reddish-brown ; top of 
head darker, with a line of deep chestnut down the back of the 
neck ; upper body and wings reddish-brown, shading into black, 
relieved at regular intervals by bars of light fawn colour ; a band 
of pale cream colour passes over the front of the throat; the 
sides of the bird display regular bars of cream colour and black 
feathers ; bill, legs, and feet ash colour; eye very dark brown ; 
wings very long, nearly covering the short tail. 
Female.—Similar, but smaller. 
Young.—In down, yellowish-brown. 
