RUFF. 
151 
side of the Atlantic that the bird’.s claim to consideration in the 
present connection cannot be ignored. Yet it must be considered 
as a straggler only, — an accidental wanderer. It.s breeding- area 
lesamid the desolate tundras of northern Siberia, and southward 
to the fountains of the Danube and the upper valley of the Amoor. 
From there ti migrates in the autumn into Africa and southern 
Asis. 
The examples that have been obtained in America were taken 
chiefly along the Atlantic shore between Long Island and the Bay 
ot t undy. There is only one specimen recorded from the Great 
Lake region, — taken near Toronto. 
The Ruff differs from all others of the Waders in appearance 
and m habits. The long feathers of the male render him easily 
distinguished, and his polygamous habits quite as thoroughly sep- 
arate him. Instead of wooing a mate after the manner of their 
congeners these wild libertines fight for a bevy of mistresses, the 
pluckiest hghter winning the largest harem. 
These contests are not rough-and-tumble tniUes, but orderly 
conducted duels. They occur on a common battle-ground, where 
generation after generation of the birds assemble to do combat for 
the possession of the females, -called Reeves, -and these gather 
within sight and urge on their favorites. The battle-grounds are in 
the midst of a swamp, and usually on an elevated knoll in an open 
Space. 
During the encounter the combatants appear intensely excited 
and act as if in desperation, and the excitement of the occasion is 
increased by the wild screams of the Reeves. The duels are not 
to the death, however, nor are they in the least degree bloody 
affairs. These birds have sense enough to spar for points • slug- 
ging is barred. The attack is made wholly with the bill - they 
never strike with the foot, like a game-cock, as some writers have 
stated, — and a few rounds end the affray, with no more harm to 
the participants than an encounter with foils to human rivals. The 
weaker bird retires, and the victor awaits another adversary. Occa- 
sionally two or three duels are in progress at one time. 
As might be expected, such habits are not conducive to domestic 
felicity. The Reeve is soon abandoned by her temporary lover 
and when nesting-time arrives she is forced to build her nest alone’ 
and alone she rears her barbaric brood. ’ 
