ORNAMENTAL WATERFOWL. 155 
GENUS MARECA. 
Three species of Wigeon are comprised in this genus. 
Mareca americana has been imported, and was bred last year 
in England. 
The Wigeon are closely allied to the Pintails, both genera 
exhibiting the delicate narrow bill of which the sides are parallel, 
slightly broader towards the tip; the legs short, with free hind 
toe; the wings rather long and pointed, and the tail wedge- 
shaped. The food of the Wigeon consists of fresh water and 
marine insects, grass, and other vegetable substances. ‘The 
males undergo a summer change of plumage, at which time the 
sexes somewhat resemble each other. The young Wigeon do 
not attain adult plumage until the spring following their birth. 
COMMON WIGEON. 
(Mareca penelope). 
These birds are known by a variety of names, such as 
* Baldpate,” “Whim,” ‘ Whem-duck.” They arrive in Britain 
in the autumn, and begin to pair by the middle of February, 
migrating northward to breed. ‘They are most abundant on 
our southern coasts, and are seen in large flocks near the sea 
shores. The Wigeon are less timid than the Teal or Pochard, 
being easily tamed. ‘Their food consists almost entirely of 
vegetable substances, but they will also devour worms and 
water-insects, seeking their food during the day, chiefly at early 
morning and evening ; they are rapid walkers, and swift on the 
wing, being shot or decoyed in large numbers for the markets, 
The drake undergoes the summer change of plumage about 
March, and is not again in full beauty until the autumn. 
The Wigeon breeds in May and June, the nest being 
usually placed near water, and consisting of a hole scratched in 
the ground, lined with dry grass and feathers. During February 
