88 



GREAT NORTHERN DIVER 



but none of those markings on the neck which distinguish the full 

 grown male. 



The conformation of the ribs and bones of this species is re- 

 markable, and merits particular examination. 



In the account which the European ornithologists give of 

 their Northern Diver, we presume there is some inaccuracy. 

 They say it measures three feet six inches in length, and four feet 

 eight in breadth ; and weighs sixteen pounds. If this be a correct 

 statement, it would lead to the surmise that our Diver is a differ- 

 ent species ; for of several specimens which we have examined, 

 the best and largest has been described for this work, the admea- 

 surement of which bird comes considerably short of that of the 

 European ; the weight we neglected to ascertain. The common 

 Wild Goose of our country. A, Canadensisj when in good condition 

 will seldom weigh more than twelve pounds. In order to deter- 

 mine this point, we personally exerted ourselves, and commission- 

 ed some of our friends, to procure a good specimen of the Loon 

 during the past season, but without success. 



