RED-BREASTED MERGANSER. 
130. Mergus serrator. 22 inches. 
This species is more abundant than the preceding, and is 
found commonly on our large ponds, lakes and rivers, more 
than on the coast. The male has the head, neck and crest 
iridescent greenish black, breast brownish with black spots. 
The female has the head, neck and crown a deep chestnut 
color and the upper parts and tail a gray in place of the 
black found on the males. 
Nest. —They lay from seven to ten eggs of a creamy buff 
color, making their nest of moss and grasses, placed under or 
in tufts of grass or in crevices of rocks; usually lining the nest 
with feathers (2.50x 1.70). 
Range. —Whole of North America, breeding from central 
United States to British America. 
HOODED MERGANSER. 
131. Lophodytes cucullatus. 17 inches. 
Bill short, compared with the preceding. The large crest 
with which both sexes are adorned will easily distinguish this 
from the others. The male having the crest black with a 
large white patch, and that of the female plain brown. 
Nest. —In holes of trees; 8 to 12 eggs, grayish white (2.15x1.70). 
43 
