TRAVELS IN THE CALIFORN I AS. 395 
from the far north in the spring, generally as early as April, 
and return in October or November. 
A smaller species of swan frequents the same locality. It 
resembles the last mentioned, except in size, being consider¬ 
ably smaller, and in its note, which is quite different. This 
may be the C. Bewickii. Douglas speaks of a third variety 
found near the Columbia, and which he describes as equal in 
size to the common swan, of a bluish grey on the back and 
white on the belly, and he. states that this color is “ preserved 
in all stages of its growth.” This is probably a mistake. 
That individuals answering this description are found, there is 
no doubt, but they seem to be the young of the first-mentioned 
species. 
Geese are abundant in similar places, and their term of 
residence in the country, and of migration, appears to be the 
same with those of the swan. The species which have come 
under the author’s observation are the Anser albifrons , 
Laughing Goose, A. Canadensis , The common Wild Goose, 
A, hyperboreus, The Snow Goose, and A. bernacla, The Brant 
Pelicanus onocrotalus, The White Pelican, is sometimes 
seen in various places on the coast. A flock of these birds, 
standing in a line on the very verge of the sandy shore, is a 
fine sight; their pure white color and lofty stature making 
them visible at a great distance. The peculiar habits of the 
pelican have often been described, and nothing new can be 
added as having come under the special observation of the 
author. Large numbers frequent the harbors, and resort much 
to the little island of Alcatrasses, which is covered with their 
exuviae. 
Off the Pacific coast may be seen the huge Albatross, so 
well known to seamen, on almost all parts of the deep. 
These can often be taken by throwing a hook over the side 
of the vessel, baited with a piece of pork or other meat. 
Their voracity is so excessive that they will quarrel for pos¬ 
session of the prize which costs its unfortunate captor so 
dear. There are two species, Diomedea exidans and fuli- 
59 
