AMERICAN WIDGEON. 259 



curve, c efg, and is then convoluted or coiled in numerous folds. The 

 rectum is 5\ inches long; the cceca 11 inches, their greatest diameter 6 

 twelfths, for 2 inches at the commencement 2 twelfths, towards the end 2\ 

 twelfths, their extremity rounded. 



The trachea, h, is 7|- inches long; its diameter at the upper part 4 twelfths, 

 gradually diminishing to 3|- twelfths; it then enlarges to 5 twelfths, and 

 contracts to 3^ twelfths at the commencement of the dilatation of the inferior 

 larynx, which is extremely similar to that of the Widgeon, but larger; there 

 being an enlargement, i, formed by a number of the low T er rings united, and 

 to the left side a rounded bony tympanum^'; the greatest transverse diameter 

 of this part, from i toj, is 1 inch l" twelfth. The bronchi, k k, are of mode- 

 rate size, covered with a dense layer of adipose matter. 



AMERICAN WIDGEON. 



-fANAs Americana, Gmel. 



PLATE CCCLXXXIX.— Male and Female. 



This lively and very handsome Duck is abundant during winter at New 

 Orleans, where it is much esteemed on account of the juiciness of its flesh, 

 and is best known by the name of Zinzin. In the Western Country, and 

 in most parts of the Eastern and Middle States, it is called the Bald Pate. 

 Early in September it enters the United States by their northern extremi- 

 ties, as well as from Texas; and in both these regions it is now well known 

 to breed in nearly equal numbers. Those which retreat south-westward 

 remain along the coast and in the interior of the Floridas, as well as all that 

 portion of the Gulf of Mexico extending to the mouths of the Mississippi, 

 where they remain until the latter part of April, sometimes even until the 

 middle of May, as they have but a comparatively short journey to perform 

 in order to arrive in Mexico in time to breed. On the coast of the Atlantic 

 they keep in the marshes in company with various species of the same 

 family, being in a manner indifferent as to their associates. During early 

 spring, in Louisiana, they are often seen alighted on extensive plains that 

 have very little water on them. 



