20 



AVIFAUNA OF LAYS AX 



According to Palmer's observations, this Duck was generally seen in pairs, but some- 

 times a dozen or more would sit round a freshwater well. They are very tame, often walking 

 up to the front of the house. They were never observed in the water, though often on the 

 beach. They frequented the scrub all over the island, but were not very plentiful. June 

 seems to be their breeding-season. 



The only near ally of Anas laysanensis is Anas wyvilliana, Scl., from the Sandwich 

 Islands, which, however, is one third larger, and the adult male of which is very different in 

 colour. 



