2 
ANATID/E, 
the arctic region, Norway, and Asiatic Russia. On the 
approach of severe weather it migrates to the south, and is 
consequently met with on the lakes, rivers, and coasts of 
most countries of Europe, Asia, and the United States of 
America. 
Although the present is considered a maritime species, it 
is more frequently found near the shore, and in the smaller 
bays and inlets than upon the open sea : it seems also very 
partial to fresh water, and is, consequently, not uncom¬ 
mon on inland seas, lakes, rivers, ponds, and even the 
springy sources of rivers, &c. The Smew endures frost 
until it meets with floating ice, which drives it to sheltered 
spots. 
The food of the Smew consists in fish of the smallest 
kinds; Crustacea and small frogs, but very rarely vegetable 
matter. 
The manner in which the Smew obtains its food, is by 
diving, and pursuing it under water, and as the bird is 
enabled to remain a considerable time submerged, it becomes 
a very amusing scene, where a group of Smews can be 
watched in pursuit of their vocation. 
During the breedinff-season the northern shores and rivers 
O O 
of Russia, and the northern parts of America, abound with 
this species. 
The nest, which is composed of dry grasses, and lined 
with the feathers from the bird’s own body, is either 
placed on the ground near the water, on some small 
island, or in a hole in a tree. The eggs, which vary from 
ten to fourteen, are in shape and colour as represented in 
our plate. 
The peculiar form of the head and beak of the Smew 
make this bird sufficiently conspicuous to distinguish it from 
