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The Wild Duck (Anas boschas). 
Abundant everywhere. We have seen very large flocks coming 
up from the coast at twilight to the potato pits on some Ayrshire 
farms, where they committed much mischief. On the private 
ponds they take up their quarters throughout the winter months, 
and, if unmolested, often remain to breed in the vicinity. 
The Garganey (Anas querquedula). 
We have been informed by the Eev. George Wilson of Glen- 
luce, that a specimen of this beautiful duck, which he had an 
opportunity of examining, was shot in the Bay of Luce 
in 1867. 
The Teal (Anas crecca). 
Also common. In hard winters it ascends the course of the 
frozen rivers, and is often taken in the neighbourhood of mill¬ 
ponds where the water is kept running. Dr Anderson procured 
several beautiful males, by making an opening in the ice, a few 
winters ago, and keeping a look-out for the birds as they halted 
in their flight before alighting at the spot. 
The Wigeon (Anaspenelope). 
A very common winter visitant, appearing in September or 
October, and leaving in March or April. This species sometimes 
pairs early, and in these particular seasons they disappear sooner. 
The Eider Duck (Somateria mollissima). 
This large and conspicuous bird is very seldom procured. It 
may occur much oftener than we suppose, but being strictly of 
marine habits, few persons have an opportunity of shooting it. 
So far as we can learn, it does not breed anywhere in our district. 
The Velvet Scoter (Oidemia fused). 
Very rarely observed on the coast, and very few specimens are 
ever obtained. It is better known as a winter visitant to the 
eastern shores of Scotland. 
The Common Scoter (Oidemia nigra). 
Equally scarce with the preceding, and almost never procured, 
although readily enough distinguished when seen. 
