GOOSANDER, 



133 



the tertials on the outer vanes are edged with black ; the legs and 

 feet are of a rich orange; the toes are long, middle one somewhat 

 the longest^ claws flesh colored. The whole plumage is of a silky 

 softness, particularly that of the head and neck, which feels like 

 the most delicate velvet. 



Both Bewick and Wilson represent the feet and legs of this 

 species as of the color of red sealing wax. This is an error which 

 arose from the circumstance of their having seen their specimens 

 some time after they had been killed. When the bird is alive 

 these parts are of a beautiful orange, which changes after death 

 to the color they mention. 



It is conjectured by the ornithologists of Europe that the 

 Goosander commonly breeds in hollow trees. I have little doubt 

 that this is the case. In the month of August, 1813, being but a 

 short distance from lake Erie, I saw several Mergansers, either of 

 the present species, or of the Red-breasted, in a creek ; and was 

 informed that they were common throughout the summer in those 

 parts, and bred, like the Wood Duck, in hollow trees. 



VOL. IX, l1 



THE END. 



