st> 



SCOLOPACID.E. 



close to the ground along the sea-shore, or high in the air 

 across the water, flying in a straight line at a quick pace. 

 When the flock is put up by the approach of an enemy, it 

 only flies to a little distance, and presently returns again, 

 provided the spot affords food in plenty. The locality best 

 suited to the habits of the Dunlin, is flat, soft, slippery, and 

 muddy ground close to the water's edge, either of sea, lake, 

 or river, but the larger numbers will at most times be found 

 along the sea coast. 



It seems that the Dunlin has an aversion for trees, grass, 

 or cover of any kind, although not apparently from any 

 feeling of fear or distrust, since we know that it frequents 

 shores close to cottages, where the country possesses the usual 

 attraction of being open and bleak. 



It is worthy of observation that the old and young birds 

 of this species are hardly ever known to migrate in mixed 

 groups, but always keep each to themselves ; the old birds 

 may be known by their uniform plumage, whereas the young 

 differ in plumage very greatly, which may be owing to differ- 

 ently advanced states of moulting, and thus form a motley 

 group. 



The general appearance of a flock of Dunlins in spring 

 plumage, is exceedingly beautiful, whether on the wing or 

 on the ground, particularly in consequence of their motions 

 being simultaneous, as if by command of a leader. When 

 the Dunlin is in the act of feeding on the ground, it carries 

 its body in a horizontal direction, and its head in unison, 

 with a short neck, advancing all the while with ease and 

 grace, and is able to run very fast if urged to speed. The 

 flight of this species has nothing peculiar in it, and only 

 shews its affinity to its family. 



This bird is not shy, and can easily be kept in con- 

 finement, the required food is, however, a drawback to 



