552 
The Illustrated Bock of Poultry. 
in size as they become quite tame and domesticated. This remark applies equally to both sexes ; 
and I have now (1873) by me a pair of Carolinas, of which the duck has invariably laid during the 
last seven years— a. strong proof of both longevity and doing well in confinement. 1 hese birds are 
very nearly as large as widgeons. I never in my own knowledge knew a pair of very small wild 
birds — Mandarins or Carolinas — breed at all, until time had rendered them reconciled to their 
new situation.” 
The surpassing beauty of both varieties renders thorough domestication so desirable that we 
sincerely trust no prejudice in favour of extra small size will be allowed to interpose difficulties 
in the way. 
WHITE-FACED WHISTLING. DUCK [D. Vidimta). 
THE WHISTLING DUCKS. — Some of the varieties known as “Whistling Ducks” are of 
great beauty, and are not unfrequently seen at shows. Like the Mandarins and Carolinas, they are 
fond of perching on trees, and are on that account also called “Tree Ducks.” Mr. Leno has given 
us the following description of the two varieties best known : — 
“ The Red-billed Tree Duck ( Dendrocygna autnmnalis) is the prettiest of the Whistlers. It 
is occasionally exhibited at our poultry-shows, and generally in very fine condition. The head 
from base of beak is brown, shading into a darker brown stripe over the back of the. head and 
