190 
BIRDS OF THE BAHAMA ISLANDS. 
The Ruddy Duck is a common winter visitant. During my stay 
they were abundant in December and January on Lake Cunning- 
ham and Miller’s Pond, in the neighborhood of Nassau, but all 
had left as soon as spring had fairly set in. This species is a very 
expert diver, and will often plunge beneath the surface and swim 
under water until it has concealed itself among the reeds near the 
shore, in preference to taking flight at the approach of some enemy. 
Fig. Aud. Bds. N. A., Vol. VI. pi. 399. 
