. . ks (see Fig. 6 on page 111). They are noted for theirstrength, vitality and diving power. The Mergansers are commonly known as Sheldrakes. Agood field glass or telescope will enable the observer to dis-tinguish them from all other Ducks, at a considerable distance,by the long slim bill and the (usually) crested head. Theyall show a greater or less white patch on the wing in flight,and should not be confounded with the white-winged Scoteror Coot, which is darker below than the Sheldrakes. Inthe field it is difficult for the novice
. . ks (see Fig. 6 on page 111). They are noted for theirstrength, vitality and diving power. The Mergansers are commonly known as Sheldrakes. Agood field glass or telescope will enable the observer to dis-tinguish them from all other Ducks, at a considerable distance,by the long slim bill and the (usually) crested head. Theyall show a greater or less white patch on the wing in flight,and should not be confounded with the white-winged Scoteror Coot, which is darker below than the Sheldrakes. Inthe field it is difficult for the novice to distinguish the femalesand young of one species of Merganser from those of another:but they may be identified, if seen in a good light, by onewho is well acquainted with the peculiarities of the differentspecies. 60 GAME BIRDS, WILD-FOWL AND SHORE BIRDS. MERGANSER (Mcrgus nmcricanus). Common or local New England names: Sheldrake; Poud Sheldrake; FreshwaterSheldrake; Break Horn; Winter Sheldrake (Maine and New Hampshire); Ruff-breasted Merganser; Female. Male. Lemjtk. — 23 to 27 inches. Adult Male. — Head and upper neck glossy dark green (appearing blackat a distance); scarcely crested; middle of back black; rump and tailgray; most of neck, sides of upper back and entire under parts white(tinged below with light buff or salmon); wings white, showing blackquill feathers and a black bar when spread; bill red with black ridge,and feet red; iris carmine. Adult Female and Young. — Much smaller than male; chin and throatwhite; rest of head and neck, with a long single crest on hind head,reddish brown; most of upper parts, sides and tail gray; wings largelyblack, with a white patch; below white, sometimes with slight salmontinge; bill reddish brown; feet reddish orange; iris yellowish. Field Marks. — Mainly in fresh water. The largest of the appears black and white at a distance; the head very slightlycrested in male; more so in female, but witho
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Keywords: ., bookauthorjobherbe, bookcentury1900, bookdecade1910, bookyear1912
