FLORIDA GALLINULE. 
135 
and lively, being born with a thick down of a beautiful velvet 
black colour, whatever else it may finally become. Those that 
migrate travel by night: owing to their short rounded wings, 
composed of flaccid feathers, their flight is slow and limited, and 
by no means rapid, so that they only have recourse to it in the 
last extremity, when it is performed with the legs hanging down 
in a way peculiar to themselves, and not stretched out as in the 
other Waders, or drawn up to the belly as in the generality of 
birds. It is in running that they excel, and with their long com¬ 
pressed body they make their way so adroitly and swiftly amongst 
the grass or weeds, that their pursuers are left far behind. They 
also swim well, and even dive occasionally when there is necessity 
for it. Their flight is however rapid when elevated, and fairly 
started. Their voice is strong but hoarse. Their flesh is well- 
flavoured. 
