222 
TRUMPETER SWAN. 
consequence of our frequently crossing the ice ; but then they all rose on 
their feet, stretched their necks, shook their heads, and manifested strong 
symptoms of apprehension. The gunners meanwhile advanced, and one of 
the guns going off by accident, the Swans were thrown into confusion, and 
scampering off in various directions took to wing, some flying up, some down 
the stream, others making directly toward the shores. The muskets now 
blazed, and about a dozen were felled, some crippled, others quite dead. 
That evening they alighted about a mile above the camp, and we never 
went after them again. I have been at the killing of several of these 
Swans, and I can assure you that unless you have a good gun well loaded 
with large buck-shot, you may shoot at them without much effect, for they 
are strong and tough birds. 
To form a perfect conception of the beauty and elegance of these Swans, 
you must observe them when they are not aware of your proximity, and as 
they glide over the waters of some secluded inland pond. On such occa- 
sions, the neck, which at other times is held stiffly upright, moves in graceful 
curves, now bent forward, now inclined backwards over the body. Now 
with an extended scooping movement the head becomes immersed for a 
moment, and with a sudden effort a flood of water is thrown over the back 
and wings, when it is seen rolling off in sparkling globules, like so many 
large pearls. The bird then shakes its wings, beats the water, and as if giddy 
with delight shoots away, gliding over and beneath the surface of the liquid 
element with surprising agility and grace. Imagine, reader, that a flock of 
fifty Swans are thus sporting before you, as they have more than once been 
in my sight, and you will feel, as I have felt, more happy and void of care 
than I can describe. 
When swimming unmolested the Swan shews the body buoyed up ; but 
when apprehensive of danger, it sinks considerably lower. If resting and 
basking in the sunshine, it draws one foot expanded curiously towards the 
back, and in that posture remains often for half an hour at a time. When 
making off swiftly, the tarsal joint, or knee as it is called, is seen about an 
inch above the water, which now in wavelets passes over the lower part of 
the neck and along the sides of the body, as it undulates on the planks of a 
vessel gliding w T ith a gentle breeze. Unless during the courting season, or 
while passing by its mate, I never saw a Swan with the wings raised and 
expanded, as it is alleged they do, to profit by the breeze that may blow to 
assist their progress; and yet I have pursued some in canoes to a considerable 
distance, and that without overtaking them, or even obliging them to take 
to wing. You, reader, as well as all the world, have seen Swans labouring 
away on foot, and therefore I will not trouble you with a description of 
their mode of walking, especially as it is not much to be admired. 
